[Topspinmo]

Originally Posted by Midnight Cowgirl

From what you've said in your comment, it seems the things that most impress you are what I refer to as "eye candy" -- the decor and furnishings in rec centers and the upscale quality which you equate with what the "Vanderbilts and an Upper Class" might have. I think that's stretching it but nevertheless, while lovely and impressive, I've always thought these things were done mainly for attracting and impressing would-be new residents, i.e., potential buyers. I will include all the wonderful flower displays which are changed seasonally in that, as well. As residents, we are very fortunate to have these things because we have the full enjoyment of these things all the time, but I truly believe it is a very clever marketing move.

I think An Evening with the Developer is a joke. He doesn't touch on things that are important to residents and it's as though all it is, is his annual cameo appearance. I think he should do this quarterly and respond to suggestions and complaints of the residents. If he would meet with residents of even combined districts and hold Q & A type meetings, that would be great, but of course, that's wishful thinking and will never happen.

I do believe he and the others in the family should be more visible. Most residents wouldn't know any of them if they fell over them, but that doesn't seem to be a concern. No, they don't need to be applauded or seek applause, but it's not because they are humble. This is their business and the bottom line is they're in it to make money and don't care about spreading goodwill. And no -- they are not ordinary people; we -- the residents are the ordinary people!

What do I think the Morses "should" do? I think all along, they should have taken a proactive position in the sinkhole issues in Calument Grove. My heart goes out to the residents there; they have suffered far too long without much help. I think the fact that residents from certain geographical areas only must pay for the Morse bridge repair is ridiculous and unfair. The road is owned by the county and the land is owned by the Morses. And only specific residents have to pay for this repair when millions of people from parts unknown use this bridge every day? And then there was the tree incident a few years ago -- the trees which were mysteriously chopped down by a resident's landscaper. The Morses need to step up to the plate and be more involved and more attentive to serious issues within The Villages, instead of ignoring problems and turning the other cheek.