Well, this is a real mystery. It is really troubling.

[Talk Host]

I attempted to place a Talk of The Villages ad in the Villages Daily Sun. The ad was to thank all of you for being patient during our server problems and invite others to join the forum. They have flatly refused to accept it.

The advertising deparmtnet responded by saying "we decline to accept your advertising."
I called and talked to several managers. The only thing they would say, in answer to every one of my questions was "we decline to accept your advertising."

I ask why. Same answer. I said it was neither obscene or controversial. Same answer. I said it was unfair to our 3,000 members. Same answer. I asked what I could change in the ad to make it acceptable. Same answer.

What could be the reason? Is it because people on Talk of the Villages are free to voice opinions and that freedom of speech is not part of the master plan? I hope I am wrong.

This is really troubling. If anybody can find out what the reason is, I would love to know. We are all Villages residents and the Villages is located in the USA as far as I know.

[redwitch]

Sounds like a lot of insecurity and probably a fear that you might start an uprising with your site. It truly is a sad statement that they would be afraid to accept an innocuous advertisement even if they disagreed with the basic premise of the advertiser.

I have made the comment more than once that the Sun makes any paper I've ever seen in Orange County, California, look extremely liberal! And if you know anything about OC, you'd understand what a strange statement that is. Let's face it, any county that has one of its main airports named "John Wayne Airport" has to be this side of extremely Republican, wouldn't you say?

[efrahin]

I will recommend to every TV resident to boycot the Sun. That is free enterprise and democracy working at the same time.

[Russ_Boston]

The right of fairness is neither Republican or Democrat.

Let's hope their hesitancy stems from a competitive point of view rather than one of control.

[Bryant]

Declining the advertising. Wow! What are they afraid of? The truth. I advertise "talkofthevillages" at every opportunity. None of my neighbors have ever heard of it. In fact, I found out about it through a non-resident (an acquaintance who did the lifestyles visit in May.) I will keep promoting it whenever I can.

[Talk Host]

I will recommend to every TV resident to boycot the Sun. That is free enterprise and democracy working at the same time.


NO NO NO. I don't want to boycott the Sun. It's not fair to the advertisers. I never want to be accused of doing anything that might hurt their business. I just wish they would do the same for us

[villager99]

seems to me that there was an ad for totv in the daily sun just prior to our server problems so what has changed about their policy?

[beady]

Wow! That is really disturbing. I am as curious as you about the real reason to decline your advertisement.
Thing is I would defend their right to do so, but at the very least give a better answer than "we decline to accept your advertising"
I suspect they are feeling somewhat threatened by the success of the site , and the potential for an even bigger forum ,membership and influence.
I will not boycott the paper that is counterproductive and I like reading it. Boycotting will only lead to more animosity. But I will speak to people about the forum at TOTV and the shortsightedness of the Daily Sun.

[Aurora]

Wow, are we living in a town like that in "The Truman Show" or "Stepford" where you read only what the power behind the Sun decides? Scary indeed.

[RCT]

Wow, are we living in a town like that in "The Truman Show" or "Stepford" where you read only what the power behind the Sun decides? Scary indeed.
Remember, though, we DO have options, with other hard copy papers, and, thank goodness, the capability do go online. As far as the legalities, they do have the right to do biz with whomever they want, and no, I am DEFINITELY not condoning their responses, just looking at it from all sides.

[Talk Host]

I whole heartedly support their right to pick and choose from whom they accept advertising. I just wish they would tell me why they have chosen us to shut out. We like the Daily Sun and the Villages.

A friend of mine in the Villages Media Group called this afternoon and said the order came directly from the top of the Villages managment. I have no way of knowing that for sure. Some time ago, I was approached by a reporter who wanted to do a story about Talk of The Villages, but told me the idea was rejected by the "boss."

I want all of our members to know that we hold absolutely no animosity toward the Daily Sun or anybody else. We think The Villages is big enough, with enough free thinking people that everybody can "just get along." We are not a threat to them, I don't think.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

I read this thread and must admit I had a hard time believing what I was reading. I then went to the Daily Sun and did a search for Lyle Grant Realtor, as I know he has a site on his web page for TOTV.

When I did a search, and then the Archive Search, his name did not come up - no information.

I know the paper is privately owned, and will represent what its view points are, but I can not imagine why they would not accept an ad from TOTV.

If you did a Letter To The Editor thanking everybody, (please excuse my lack of knowledge, we do not live in TV yet, and I am assuming they have this section), would they print a letter?

Hyacinth Bucket

[zcaveman]

I know I saw a TOTV ad in the Daily Sun. So it must be that they are screening the TOTV site and do not like the negative posts that they read.

I sent them a poem a couple of years back that was not Villages happy and they would not publish it. And when I asked why I got no answer.

[Talk Host]

I know I saw a TOTV ad in the Daily Sun. So it must be that they are screening the TOTV site and do not like the negative posts that they read.

I sent them a poem a couple of years back that was not Villages happy and they would not publish it. And when I asked why I got no answer.


Yes, we did run two ads several weeks ago. Apparently they came and took a look at us after the ads appeared. I am still at a loss.

[Midge538]

H. Gary likes to control his 'sheep' in TV. You: will support 'retail;' you will hate Hillary; you will love Rom; you will line up for 'openings' at 4:00 A.M; you will behave 'or else.' There is no room for dissent ... just try it!

[Renee]

It does appear that TV is concerned about any negative comments that might appear on the forums. Maybe they think it will hurt new sales. They give the impression of trying to control everything. Just look at what happened to the resale’s they sell. No outside realtors allowed. I say we find a way to get the word out about TOTV to the thousands that don’t know it exists yet.

[nanci2539]

Maybe people who are planning on moving to TV shared the information on this site with the TV sales rep. Just a thought but it seems to me that the Sun or TV management may have issues with this site and it's a control issue with them.

I think it's a wonderful site and i don't interpret anything posted as negative - just helpful.

[gfmucci]

I would suggest scheduling an appointment with the owner/publisher of the paper and send a delegation representing the interests of this site to have a sit-down chat to dialogue about the purpose of your site and the basis for their fears and go on from there.

[jtdraig]

Oh, please....The Daily Sun is like the daily activities sheet at Camp Happiness & Joy. The editorial page is somewhere to the right of Ann Coulter. You have to get The Sun because like all community papers it is the only game in Town. It is nothing more than reflective of the Developer's organization and the predominance of political thought in this area. They shouldn't be restricting advertising but this website does allow for a free exchange of opinions on a variety of subjects including what's good and bad about The Villages. The key word here is "bad" about the Villages (or offering/evaluating other alternatives) so like being in steerage on the Titanic your chances of being allowed to advertise in the Sun are doomed.

[handieman]

Quote from the Home page:
The forum is getting more than 300,000 page views a month, and about 10 new members sign up each day

???
So I'm saying to myself, if it ain't broke why are we trying to fix it??
Of course the SUN newspaper wants to ignore the fact that TOTV exists, they have no editorial control over it and also TOTV is sapping some of their advertising revenue. But hey the SUN does a great job in making us "feel good" and giving us the information we crave for. Someone said the SUN is slightly more "right" than Ann Coulter ( now thats funny ;D) The highlight of my stay in TV is to ride (or walk) to the post office to get the morning paper. Let them be and get over it, the TOTV website is growing like wildfire and if you insist, there are other means of attracting attention.
Lets move on and smell the roses, remember were "old" and it's time to laugh and have fun
Handie :joke:
Said that :bigthumbsup:

[GERALDINE]

On the same note let me say that I opened up TOTV to voice my personal complaint about the Daily Sun and lo and behold you beat me to the punch!!!

I called yesterday to place an ad for our for sale by owner home and we have it on 2 websites and I wanted (needed) to put those websites in for people to go to to get more information and look at pictures. They said, "...we're sorry we cannot print websites for For Sale By Owner websites..." I said, "WHAT...whatever happened to Freedom of the Press...?" Her reply was, "...this is THE VILLAGES and "they" made the decision not to print those websites..." I was shocked!!! I put the ad in the way "they" wanted it and paid big bucks to do it...but in hindsight I should have told them to "stuff it"!! :edit: We won't be renewing our subscription to "their" paper.

Is this Un-American or what???? Just goes to show that "THEY" (...ie: The Family) are in this for the $$$$ and want to sell only THEIR listings.

I'm really disgusted with both their refusal to print your ad and mine!!! >:(

[GERALDINE]

I will recommend to every TV resident to boycot the Sun. That is free enterprise and democracy working at the same time.


AMEN...and Nuff Said !!! :agree:

[RCT]

On the same note let me say that I opened up TOTV to voice my personal complaint about the Daily Sun and lo and behold you beat me to the punch!!!

I called yesterday to place an ad for our for sale by owner home and we have it on 2 websites and I wanted (needed) to put those websites in for people to go to to get more information and look at pictures. They said, "...we're sorry we cannot print websites for For Sale By Owner websites..." I said, "WHAT...whatever happened to Freedom of the Press...?" Her reply was, "...this is THE VILLAGES and "they" made the decision not to print those websites..." I was shocked!!! I put the ad in the way "they" wanted it and paid big bucks to do it...but in hindsight I should have told them to "stuff it"!! :edit: We won't be renewing our subscription to "their" paper.

Is this Un-American or what???? Just goes to show that "THEY" (...ie: The Family) are in this for the $$$$ and want to sell only THEIR listings.

I'm really disgusted with both their refusal to print your ad and mine!!! >:(
Although I agree with you being upset, I don't agree with your saying this is "un-american". It is actually about as American as you can get, the freedom to do biz with someone or not. Now, I don't agree with their decision, but, I do agree with their right.

[Peggy D]

Maybe people who are planning on moving to TV shared the information on this site with the TV sales rep. Just a thought but it seems to me that the Sun or TV management may have issues with this site and it's a control issue with them.

I think it's a wonderful site and i don't interpret anything posted as negative - just helpful.


Nanci,
I agree with you. I don't feel there are "nagative" comments on this site. I would call them "informed". As a future Villager, I appreciate everyone's honest replies to my (and many others) questions concerning TV. I haven't found any "deal breakers" that would change my mind about wanting to move there. I feel I am better informed when I meet with TV sales rep,and I know what to expect in way of response from them--thanks to ALL of you.

Sounds to me The Daily Sun is feeling alittle threatened. Not a biggie

[mzmom3]

Friends- this is THE VILLAGES. It's the way they've operated since Gary Morse and family took over and the way they run this huge retirement city. As THE VILLAGES like to say, "if you don't like it, leave." Pretty nice, huh?

To be happy here, you have to learn to ignore and accept or it'll drive ya nuts.

[GERALDINE]

Although I agree with you being upset, I don't agree with your saying this is "un-american". It is actually about as American as you can get, the freedom to do biz with someone or not. Now, I don't agree with their decision, but, I do agree with their right.


EXCUSE ME???? Does our American Constitution NOT give us the right to Freedom of Speech and Freedom of the Press??? If you don't call not allowing ads that might be "competition" to them a breach of this freedom...A Freedom that our forefathers fought and died for, then I guess I don't know what Un-American is.

Everyone is right in saying people have the RIGHT to do business or not do business with whomever they please, but if you're going to own, run, print and sell a community newspaper then you should let it be just that....Community...and not a dictatorship. "King of the Hill" was fun to play as kids but it's not fun when you're trying to pay good money to place a legitimate ad for your home for sale and you're not the King :joke:

[Taltarzac]

Is there not some other way to get the message about TOTV out without advertising in the Villages Daily Sun?

Postcards to some of the people in various Villages? Mass mailings to Villagers about TOTV. Do you need permission to use the US mails in the Villages about TOTV? Local TV station ads? Probably way too pricey? Other local newspapers like the ones in Orlando, Leesburg, and Ocala?

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Since we do not live in TV yet, my lack of knowledge will be showing here.

1. If clubs have an email address you can do a mass email mailing, no charge, and ask to speak to that group - this I think on one of the Sticky subjects.

2. The next least expensive thing to get the word out would be mailing an informative postcard to each club and requesting to speak to the club members, at a meeting.

3. More expensive, send a letter to each club, to have them place an insert in there letters to members about TOTV

Question - if there is a large positive response, can the Administrators handle it? They are all volunteering their time.

Mystery - boycott - yes advertisers in the Sun would get hurt, but that is a way of changing things that people are unhappy about. If the advertisers are aware that there may be a boycott, they themselves could say something to the owners.

This has been done on Television, when a program has fallen in disfavor, the advertisers threaten to pull out, if the show is not changed or taken off the air.

Without advertisers many papers, television stations, etc. would not be able to exist.

Hyacinth Bucket

[opbob77]

The number one priority of any dictatorship is control of the media and to keep the rabble in the dark as to what is really happening. Now let's see? Here in TV the developer owns the newspaper, the tv station, the radio station, and the magazine. The only 'outside' view is in the Star Banner Reporter which is mailed becuase I understand TV will not allow it to be delivered. Given the 100's of views of TOTV, it seems that TV would embrace the opportunity. Instead they reject it and hope no one reads a thread like this one. How stupid is that? ???

[GERALDINE]

Hyacinth Bucket:

Great reply :agree:

[LG]

Along the same lines, Realtors get shafted too.. by ad placements... A lot of realtors have quite advertising in the SUN and started their own retirement community magazine. Now The Villages delivers their inserts to the boxes and puts them on top to try to trump the effort.

[RCT]

EXCUSE ME???? Does our American Constitution NOT give us the right to Freedom of Speech and Freedom of the Press??? If you don't call not allowing ads that might be "competition" to them a breach of this freedom...A Freedom that our forefathers fought and died for, then I guess I don't know what Un-American is.

Everyone is right in saying people have the RIGHT to do business or not do business with whomever they please, but if you're going to own, run, print and sell a community newspaper then you should let it be just that....Community...and not a dictatorship. "King of the Hill" was fun to play as kids but it's not fun when you're trying to pay good money to place a legitimate ad for your home for sale and you're not the King :joke:
Yes, but freedom of the press does NOT mean that you have a right to force an owner of a paper what YOU want them to print. It is their bizness to run. Now, if you would like to start your own paper, then freedom of the press will protect you in the same manner. Remember, I not not agreeing with what their choices might be, but I am defending their right to make them, wether we deem them positive or negative.

[golfnut]

Ithink that if, oh nevermind.

[Sidney Lanier]

Yes, but freedom of the press does NOT mean that you have a right to force an owner of a paper what YOU want them to print. It is their bizness to run. Now, if you would like to start your own paper, then freedom of the press will protect you in the same manner. Remember, I not not agreeing with what their choices might be, but I am defending their right to make them, wether we deem them positive or negative.


I agree with muscles 59--but take it one crucially important step further. I swear by what has evolved as the good old American tool called BOYCOTT. I understand the point made by an earlier post on this thread about not wanting to step on the toes of the advertisers in The Daily Sun. The way to handle this is to let these advertisers know what the boycott is about, and then the ball is in their side of the court to decide how--and where--they want to spend their advertising dollars knowing that x number of anticipated readers no longer are. Yes, as muscles 59 says, we cannot force a newspaper owner what ads to print, but if he/she will not print a TOTV ad, no matter what the reason, it is that newspaper owner's right to reject the ad--and at the same time it is our right to choose to buy that newspaper or another--or no newspaper at all. IMHO....

[GERALDINE]

Yes, but freedom of the press does NOT mean that you have a right to force an owner of a paper what YOU want them to print. It is their bizness to run. Now, if you would like to start your own paper, then freedom of the press will protect you in the same manner. Remember, I not not agreeing with what their choices might be, but I am defending their right to make them, wether we deem them positive or negative.


OK Muscles...I get your point....BUT...I guess we'll just have to agree to disgree. Ok?

[jjdees]

It's interesting to read the comments on this thread regarding the Sun and it's apparent bias. Now maybe those complaining may realize what a lot of us feel when we read the major newspapers in the majority of the US cities that are left of Dennis Kucinich. And the major networks who cleanse the news and broadcast what THEY want us to hear, not what the actual news is. I for one enjoy the Sun because I'm sick and tired of hearing the biased news in the main stream media. That's the news or lack thereof that can hurt us and the country. Not the nits the Sun is involved in. For me it's a refreshing change.

[bestmickey]

Where are those TOTV T-shirts, golf shirts and sweatshirts? I want [color=orange]ORANGE or LIME GREEN and a button down or zip up collar. That's one way to get the word out...and to easily locate each other at gatherings. Don't just use "TOTV", you need to put the entire website address on the items.

Another way to advertise....Talk Host, if you're so inclined, you could paint TOTV's website address all over your golf cart so it's visible for all to see. Or, have Russ (I think it's Russ) create one of those screens for your buggy.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

bestmickey - :bigthumbsup: :agree:

Hyacinth Bucket

[Talk Host]

Where are those TOTV T-shirts, golf shirts and sweatshirts? I want [color=orange]ORANGE or LIME GREEN and a button down or zip up collar. That's one way to get the word out...and to easily locate each other at gatherings. Don't just use "TOTV", you need to put the entire website address on the items.

Another way to advertise....Talk Host, if you're so inclined, you could paint TOTV's website address all over your golf cart so it's visible for all to see. Or, have Russ (I think it's Russ) create one of those screens for your buggy.


We are in the process now of getting those shirts ready.
In the event you don't think that we have used other forms of advertising, I can tell you this. I personally have distributed 10,000 printed fliers to individuals in the past six months. We have placed 3 X 5 cards in dozens of business around the area. We have driven 'round and 'round with huge signs on trailers. There have been TOTV signs on my golf cart for nearly a year. We tried visiting with people at some events downtown, but were told by the Villages to leave. We went to the "cruise in" events and talked to people, took pictures and posted them here. We have gone to parades, taken pictures and posted them here. A reporter from Ocala "Style" magazine did an interview with me and took pictures about 4 months ago. They said they were all enthused about the story. I have never heard anyting since then. They said they were all enthused about the story.

I would say that I personally have invested well over 600 hours in personal contact with Villages residents promoting the site.

I really appreciate your suggestions and want you to know that we have been making a major effort for a year.

[Taltarzac]

We are in the process now of getting those shirts ready.
In the event you don't think that we have used other forms of advertising, I can tell you this. I personally have distributed 10,000 printed fliers to individuals in the past six months. We have placed 3 X 5 cards in dozens of business around the area. We have driven 'round and 'round with huge signs on trailers. There have been TOTV signs on my golf cart for nearly a year. We tried visiting with people at some events downtown, but were told by the Villages to leave. We went to the "cruise in" events and talked to people, took pictures and posted them here. We have gone to parades, taken pictures and posted them here. A reporter from Ocala "Style" magazine did an interview with me and took pictures about 4 months ago. They said they were all enthused about the story. I have never heard anyting since then. They said they were all enthused about the story.

I would say that I personally have invested well over 600 hours in personal contact with Villages residents promoting the site.

I really appreciate your suggestions and want you to know that we have been making a major effort for a year.


Jan? My introduction to TOTV was through your showing up at a Villages Computer Club meeting on July 27, 2007. That seemed to go over well. Maybe you should try the VCC again in a few months? The snowbirds are back more or less from the number of people showing up at the VCC meetings I attend.

[joanmcdonald]

Have you thought of advertising in "The Reporter." It comes out every Thursday and distributed widely in the Villages. They might even do a story on the fact that the Daily Sun won't let you advertise. Also, the POA might put something in their paper to reach people with your website.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi,

I think the idea of a feature story in other newspapers would be great. If that doesn't work members of TOTV, if they choose to, can write a letter to the Letters to the Editor column. Once again, we haven't had our closing yet, date unknown, and I am assuming these papers have such a feature.

The above two are free ways of getting the word out and publicizing TOTV. The responsibility would fall on the members of TOTV and also an administrator would need to be interviewed.

From my local experience, where I live, there are writers on a paper who do feature stories. Perhaps a member of TOTV could contact them and inform them of all the positive reasons why an article should be written. That is how we publicize events, at no cost.

If there are other members of TOTV who would like to do this, I would be willing to write letters, we could start a new topic, and post ideas there.

As far as mentioning what happened with the Sun, I would definitely leave that out. The focus should be on TOTV and inform the public of all the positive attributes of TOTV.

Once again, IMHO.

Hyacinth Bucket ( I don't think Our Dear Hyacinth was ever humble :))

[bestmickey]

TalkHost, since I'm not yet living in TV, I hadn't realized how much you've already done to get the word out. I've two last suggestions, that will require support from other TOTV members. I for one would be willing to send you a $10 or $20 check in order to allow you to do a one page mass mailing to all residents of TV. I have no idea what this would cost nor whether or not enough members would support the effort.

Perhaps you could start a new thread telling why you want/need to do this mailing, explain TV's Daily Sun refusal to run your ad and the fact "...We tried visiting with people at some events downtown, but were told by the Villages to leave..." and ask for donations. I'm a member of another board who asked for members' support to keep the board going and they got a very good response.

I'd even be willing to instead let you use the money to go directly to supporting this site. While we all love free, I would personally pay $10 or $20 annually to keep this site operational. I've learned much from the members here and greatly value the information. The info will save me many dollars (and much grief) in the long run. An annual fee for TOTV may ultimately end up being a necessity. My fear is that The Villages developer will get to all of the business owners who currently advertise here that if they continue to advertise on this site, they will be blocked from advertising in the Daily Sun. The latter likely provides them with more exposure, so TOTV could suffer. You shortly may have no alternative than to charge a fee and allow access to only those people who provide financial support to keep TOTV operational.

[tbsoccer]

Is there a financial link between the "Developer" and the Daily Sun? As an future TV resident, I knew upfront that the DS only printed "Happy News" which is why I was happy to find TOTV. So many points of view on so many subjects generates a more balance view.

What is the name of the developer? Is this a publicly traded company? Who is Gary?

[chuckster]

Listen to youselves, way too many of you nonresidents I'm sure. Are you planning to overthrow an evil dictator? I don't think so. This is absurd. Are we here to retire or start an insurrection. Relax, enjoy life, golf, dance or whatever and if you don't or can't enjoy retirement, I'm sure there are many other "islands of opportunity" awaiting your conquest. My suggestion is to move on................and be happy elsewhere.

[Hancle704]

Listen to youselves, way too many of you nonresidents I'm sure. Are you planning to overthrow an evil dictator? I don't think so. This is absurd. Are we here to retire or start an insurrection. Relax, enjoy life, golf, dance or whatever and if you don't or can't enjoy retirement, I'm sure there are many other "islands of opportunity" awaiting your conquest. My suggestion is to move on................and be happy elsewhere.

Gee, I thought Pete Wahl had retired.

[chuckster]

Nope, just a "full-time" 5 year resident who loves to hear you Nattering Nabobs of Negativism.............Whiners.

[bamafan]

Jan, Just finished reading your post concerning all your efforts to advertise TOTV ie; shirts, 3x5 cards, signs, etc. I wil proudly pay for and wear a TOTV shirt. I have a thought and I am sure you guys have thought of it already, BUMPER STICKERS. Put em on Golf Carts, Cars, anything that moves. They also stick to Daily Sun Paper Boxes. Not that I am advocating that.

[Bubbalarry]

You asked for a good reason and I think That I have found a couple.

1. The name talk of the villages is synonymous with there apparent "The villages" corporate name and logo and it ****es them off. It may seem small and ludicrous to some but not the current hierarchy that are in control.

2. Now since they seem to own/operate or control everything we eat, sleep and if they could harness it the air all around us. We are no different then corporate America where there slogan is it's our way or the highway.

3. Also I viewed some comments here about the sales of new vs. used homes through this site by members and guests. Things I don't think they want the general public (US) to know. Right now they are hurting with the slow sales market as others are around the USA. Except they have the heads up market right now that nobody else has in the USA and thats all this available land they got and people to buy into there concept and it sells itself.

4. Baby boomer's`are coming and they know it and want the full share not a split with local Realtors who are getting ripped off by TV and are getting away with it everyday.

5. By allowing advertising with this site it may look like to buyers that they are endorsing things being said and done here. They absolutely do not want that to ever, ever happen.

6. Finally did you go out with anyone from there family, maybe you forgot and don/t know it.

[Talk Host]

We, the administrators, do not want to consider any kind of assessment to our members. This is a free board and we want to keep it that way. Our membership continues to grow each day. Our page views also continue to grow. We will be okay. Each day I receive at least two inquiries about advertising here.

Bumper stickers always seem like a good idea. Experience tells us that people do not put bumper stickers on their vehicles (only a few do). We are working on the logo shirts. I hope you all understand that there is a considerable up front investment on the part of the administrators. Printing companies do not do one shirt at a time, on demand. There has got to be a large order, in all sizes, costing sometimes a thousand or more dollars. Colors and sizes are all considerations as well.

All in all, TOTV is great. The members are great and we'll be okay.

I would just like to say to the Daily Sun that regardless of why you will not let us advertise, we still like you. We hope that you will reconsider and let us be part of this community. We're good people. Our members are good people. Please give us a chance, OKAY? Even if you won't let us advertise in your paper, would you at least tell us why so we can try to correct whatever it is that you see as a problem. :dontknow:

[jjdees]

Bubbalarry, Help me with the logic behind the following comment of yours.

"4. Baby boomers are coming and they know it and want the full share not a split with local Realtors who are getting ripped off by TV and are getting away with it everyday"

How are the local realtors getting ripped off?

[aford]

It comes down to this......they don't like competition.

Plain and simple.

Put an ad in The Reported.....it is mailed.

[diskman]

:edit: (This thread is really a disturbing story.
Here is an idea for you Jan.

I am thinking all the Sun's competitors would like to write a story about this repressive issue.
Since we are not in TV yet we are not familiar with the names of other area papers but, I am sure you and your partners know where to go.
Larry & Bev

[beady]

Just a thought regarding bumper stickers. You are right , most people do not like to put them on their vehicle, myself included.
How about the peel off variety, like the sticker they put on my windshield after every oil change. Point is it can be put on a vehicle window and then peeled off or transfered to another vehicle at will. Just the logo would be enough , making it a smaller sticker. People will ask what it stands for, and then we can make the pitch for the forum.
This forum is such a incredible resource and I appreciate all the administrators hard work. I would love to advertise for you with something beyond word of mouth. :clap2: :clap2:

[captain1202]

OK, it's the age of the internet. How about a "viral" marketing program:

All the 3000+ TOTV members send up to 10 emails to their friends in TV or interested in TV making them aware of this forum. Also, we all talk it up in person.

If each of those recipients in turn mail to 10....you get the idea.

I wouldn't consider is SPAM because it would be coming fom a friend informing me of a GREAT resource.

How about it?

Another plus...no cost to TOTV. Ya gotta love the net!!

[Talk Host]

The email network idea is a good one. I wonder if people would do it. Even if 10% did it, that would be 3,000 emails. We could give it a try.

[villager99]

not against an email campaign but i think most of us totv members have probably already told our village friends about totv. i'd focus equal attention to the fact that folks visit but don't necessarily post and stay.

[Peggy D]

I really think the tee shirts are going to get the word out and make a difference.

Can you imagine MASSES of gren, yellow...whatever color, being worn at the town squares--especially on Cruise Nite ? Someone is bound to ask what "TOTV" stands for!!

[Taltarzac]

I really think the tee shirts are going to get the word out and make a difference.

Can you imagine MASSES of gren, yellow...whatever color, being worn at the town squares--especially on Cruise Nite ? Someone is bound to ask what "TOTV" stands for!!


TOTV t-shirts. I'd buy that for a dollar! Actually, I would be willing to spend up to $11 or so. Some of my I donated blood T-shirts are wearing out.

[joe kaelin]

I agree with all who said send your story to The Reporter. I remember a year or so ago there was a string of burglaries in The Villages and I was curious as to why The Sun didn't run the story. A neighbor said to me, "Don't be surprised! You will never see anything in the Sun that would be detrimental to The Villages image of Pleasantville, USA." P.S: The Reporter In The Villages can also be accessed on line. I read it all the time to keep up on the news that's not in The Sun.

[chuckster]

Okay.Okay, I've seen the error of my ways and with a lot of egg on my face, sign me up for a t-shirt and/or bumper sticker.........The kool aid was good though!!! :agree:

[rsetterlund]

Reading this tread has been interesting. But it concerns me more than the Sun not accepting an ad.

If I understand it correctly, and please someone correct me if I am wrong as I am a TV hopeful. When a person buys a home in TV they purchase the land as well. Correct? Is there an annual agreement that has to be signed allowing you to stay another year? If "the family" gets really mad at you can they force you to sell and move out? Is there any type of elected directors that manage the business of TV? It seems to me with over 40K homes the Villages could be come its own town with a fully elected government. How much control does the family have over the residents? If the residents do not like something that the family is doing is there anyway to fix the problem? I currently own in a similar development and I have seen a number of times where things start going bad and no one takes notice until it has gone really bad. Most of the people just want to have a good time and do not worry about things until it is almost to late.

[Talk Host]

Reading this tread has been interesting. But it concerns me more than the Sun not accepting an ad.

If I understand it correctly, and please someone correct me if I am wrong as I am a TV hopeful. When a person buys a home in TV they purchase the land as well. Correct? Is there an annual agreement that has to be signed allowing you to stay another year? If "the family" gets really mad at you can they force you to sell and move out? Is there any type of elected directors that manage the business of TV? It seems to me with over 40K homes the Villages could be come its own town with a fully elected government. How much control does the family have over the residents? If the residents do not like something that the family is doing is there anyway to fix the problem? I currently own in a similar development and I have seen a number of times where things start going bad and no one takes notice until it has gone really bad. Most of the people just want to have a good time and do not worry about things until it is almost to late.


I think you should copy this question and paste it into a new topic thread. I would do it for you, but it is your question.

[Frangyomory]

The Daily Sun is, in my opinion, nothing like any newspaper I have seen before. It is wholly controlled by the developer/family and won't publish anything that could possibly tarnish the "image" they have developed for the Villages. Since we on TOTV freely discuss our likes and dislikes and how we find it difficult to trust all the representatives of the developer, I am guessing that they don't want to give you a foot in th door.

It is sad, but don't expect to see much "real news"in the Daily Sun.......or as I like to call it the "flower power non-news". Guess they don't want us "old folks" having cardiac arrest if we find out the world "outside" isn't all honey and chocolate!!!!!

[Bubbalarry]

Bubbalarry, Help me with the logic behind the following comment of yours.

"4. Baby boomers are coming and they know it and want the full share not a split with local Realtors who are getting ripped off by TV and are getting away with it everyday"

How are the local realtors getting ripped off?

These comments from a Realtor came my way in August when I was buying.

1. Something to do with the MLS vs the Villages VHS. If I can recall the exact rule.
I think with the VHS, which is basically a Villages resale listing. A Realtor can't show you the buyer that home since the seller signed up with TV for resale. So the local realtor shares no commision along with anyone because they can't sell it. They can't sell what they can't see.

2. This should not be allowed but TV have pull and get away with it. It's unfair Real Estate practices but it keeps you the buyer locked in with them both new and used. If you try to sell within the first year of purchase without going thru them you will get another visit.

3. Now as mentioned they control new and resale of used. If the house is under the MLS, they still make it tough on eal Estate agents.

a. They don't allow signes.
b. They make it very difficult for a buyer to view all thats available for sale.

[jjdees]

Hey Bubba, correct me if I'm wrong but the resale within one year is a contractual item agreed to by both signatories. The sign issue is a county issue, not a Villages issue. if you check resales in all 3 counties, you'll see signs in Lake, and I believe Sumter, but not Marion. I may have Marion and Sumter mixed up but I know Lake resales in TV have signs from outside realtors. As far as VHS vs MLS, it's not "pull". It's business, clear and simple. I had experience with properties on Lake Martin in Alabama right by Tommy Tuberville's place. The builders were contractually committed to list the new homes for the first 18 months after completion. The realtor chose not to place the homes on the local MLS and held them captive for the eighteen month period including any resale of the property. Didn't make anyone happy but the realtor and developer, but it was known on the front end. Take it or leave it.

[garsha]

WOW!!! This site has my attention for someone who has already bought in "Paradise" but waiting for the real estate market to make a comeback in CA so our house will sell and we can retire to TV.

Within my first visit at TV, I was very aware of "big brother". Not unlike many in their 50s, I am opionated, know what I like and what I don't, have worked hard for a living, and don't want anyone telling me what and when I can do anything.

On my second visit without my husband, I returned to CA to tell him that the first feelings are right. "Big brother" does exist, I didn't know who he was, where he was, what powers he has, BUT HE KNOWS WHAT I LIKE!!! Completely alone in a city without any friends, wandering around looking for a house for the two of us to retire; going to happy hour and listening to music by myself; looking for big bugs and alligators; I felt completely safe and comfortable where ever I went in TV.

I fell in love with a place I look forward to calling home someday. I can't think of too many things that are controlled that I can't live with and most things are a plus.

So what am I missing? I love the Daily Sun and TV Radio station for the very reason it is the "paper and music from Paradise". I can always listen to CNN, MSNBC, blah, blah, blah if I need my negative fix. I also enjoy this website for the information we all share. Is there a reason we all can't exist in the same city?

Am I missing something here? :dontknow:

[Barefoot]

3. Now as mentioned they control new and resale of used. If the house is under the MLS, they still make it tough on eal Estate agents.

a. They don't allow signes.
b. They make it very difficult for a buyer to view all thats available for sale.


Sorry Topicop :cop: I know it's off topic; but I can't resist responding to this post!

Wow, I think you somehow have been misinformed (pertaining to resales only)!

jjdees is correct: Signage is not controlled by the Villages to benefit themselves; in some counties you can put MLS or VLS signs, in others you cannot.

How on earth do you think The Villages Agents can make it tough on buyers to view MLS listings? If a buyer contacts a VLS agent they can see all the VLS listings they want. If a buyer contacts a MLS agent they can see all the MLS listings they want.

We bought a resale through MLS, not VLS, no problem at all!

[jadebox]

WOW!!! This site has my attention for someone who has already bought in "Paradise" but waiting for the real estate market to make a comeback in CA so our house will sell and we can retire to TV.

Within my first visit at TV, I was very aware of "big brother". Not unlike many in their 50s, I am opionated, know what I like and what I don't, have worked hard for a living, and don't want anyone telling me what and when I can do anything.

On my second visit without my husband, I returned to CA to tell him that the first feelings are right. "Big brother" does exist, I didn't know who he was, where he was, what powers he has, BUT HE KNOWS WHAT I LIKE!!! Completely alone in a city without any friends, wandering around looking for a house for the two of us to retire; going to happy hour and listening to music by myself; looking for big bugs and alligators; I felt completely safe and comfortable where ever I went in TV.

I fell in love with a place I look forward to calling home someday. I can't think of too many things that are controlled that I can't live with and most things are a plus.

So what am I missing? I love the Daily Sun and TV Radio station for the very reason it is the "paper and music from Paradise". I can always listen to CNN, MSNBC, blah, blah, blah if I need my negative fix. I also enjoy this website for the information we all share. Is there a reason we all can't exist in the same city?

Am I missing something here? :dontknow:


:agree: I think Big Brother is doing his job well. Before moving here you should know the rules and if you don't agree then look for a place that fits your needs.

[Frangyomory]

You are right Donna Lee. I love living here. I really don't like all the crap the developer causes BUT there is no other place like this so I am here to stay.

You have to decide what you can live with and if you can't take the "big brother" issues and having no real newspaper, then you really won't be happy here.

However, if you are looking for a place to make new friends; enjoy the later years of life and maintain a healthy and happy attitude, sign on the dotted line!!!!

I looked and looked for years because I was retired for 4 years before my husband. Take my word for it. NO ONE will ever be able to duplicate what we have in today's market. There just isn't enough money for this type development any more!!! :#1: :agree:

[784caroline]

TALK HOST
I am sure we have all seen the recent reports of the dramatic circulation decline of some of the biggest "Print media" newpapers. The Village Sun must view TOTV as competition for not only readers but advertising dollars and moreso unbiased "opinions". I know when I went to Golf Cart Connection I asked my sales person if she heard of TOTV and she did and said she reads it frequently but did not participate in any discussion. I flat out told her I was there because of TOTV and GOLF CART CONNECTION was missing a BIG opportunity if they did not advertise or somehow recognize TOTV members who came to their store and bought a golf cart. She said the problem is they get alot of inquiries to buy advertising from media or internet sources and most never produce viable clients. HOwever they are recognizing a trend from customers mentioning TOTV and I told her she could pass my name to "the boss" if she needed a first hand reference of how I got to their location.

[tony]

:bow: thanks a lot!

[Bubbalarry]

Sorry Topicop :cop: I know it's off topic; but I can't resist responding to this post!

Wow, I think you somehow have been misinformed (pertaining to resales only)!

jjdees is correct: Signage is not controlled by the Villages to benefit themselves; in some counties you can put MLS or VLS signs, in others you cannot.

How on earth do you think The Villages Agents can make it tough on buyers to view MLS listings? If a buyer contacts a VLS agent they can see all the VLS listings they want. If a buyer contacts a MLS agent they can see all the MLS listings they want.

We bought a resale through MLS, not VLS, no problem at all!


If a buyer wants to see a VLS listing with a outside agent they prefer he/she must go through TV, not an agent of an outside the villages agent. Since they have no info at hand to talk about it. The Village sales reps have no license to sell MLS.

Now when I talk of signs was told that the Villages do not want outside signs of homes for sale. In some cases people have them up anyway, but the Realtor who told me this claimed its part of dealing with TV. As I have mentioned here on a previous post TV sales agents push you into new and provide as little as possible for resale. Thats VLS resale.They are instructed by management to push new.

I personally had to find VLS homes for resale and demand that my questions about them and to view the properties was very frustrating. Only when I said forget me buying a new home did they try at all. I could not find anything we wanted in both VLS or MLS and finally said to heck with it.

Then less than 2 weeks later bam. They, TV sales rep come up with a deal we couldn't refuse in Hadley Villages. The wife is happy I am happy and the MLS sales girl isn't.

[RCT]

If a buyer wants to see a VLS listing with a outside agent they prefer he/she must go through TV, not an agent of an outside the villages agent. Since they have no info at hand to talk about it. The Village sales reps have no license to sell MLS.

Now when I talk of signs was told that the Villages do not want outside signs of homes for sale. In some cases people have them up anyway, but the Realtor who told me this claimed its part of dealing with TV. As I have mentioned here on a previous post TV sales agents push you into new and provide as little as possible for resale. Thats VLS resale.They are instructed by management to push new.

I personally had to find VLS homes for resale and demand that my questions about them and to view the properties was very frustrating. Only when I said forget me buying a new home did they try at all. I could not find anything we wanted in both VLS or MLS and finally said to heck with it.

Then less than 2 weeks later bam. They, TV sales rep come up with a deal we couldn't refuse in Hadley Villages. The wife is happy I am happy and the MLS sales girl isn't.
You know, my experiences with TV rep that i have has not been that. Three trips up there, she has PUSHED nothing, just has spent time showing me places I wanted to look at, and showed me ONE new house, that I recall. I am sure some are different, but I have been nothing but pleased with her, and will stay loyal when I do buy. Also, i have said on here before, that most of the listings outside agents have in TV initial asking price has, for the last year and a half, been considerably higher than comparable homes through TV resales. now, maybe the outside listing are willing to negotiate on that price more than TV inside sales, I don't know. If anyone has any info on that, would appreciate some input.

[jjdees]

We've been out several times with a Villages sales rep, Michele Halloy and have not had an experience like Bubba's. She showed us a few new ones, lots of resales without an ounce of pressure either way. She was very professional and We won't hesitate to work with her again. As far as an outside sales rep showing a Villages listing, ain't going to happen and it has nothing to do with info, it's because they will not get a commission.

[Indy-Guy]

I agree with jjdees no commission no show. I have told people for years if you want your house sold list it at 8% and watch all of the realtors bring the prospects to their house. List it at 4% and wonder why no one is showing your home.

I like the idea of 3X5 cards that we, as TV residents, can put out around town. I would personally drop them in the best places for exposer.

As for people who knock The Villages Daily Sun. If you live in TV when you get your mail you can purchase a newspaper that will give you all of the bad news that you are seeking. I chose not to read that news since I watch the news on the television for about 4 minutes and remember why I moved to The Villages and walk around with a smile on my face everyday.

[bamafan]

Amen on the news Indy. I too am tired of hearing who shot what and then killed him where.

[jjdees]

I have a friend who had some experience in the family with depression. The first thing the doctor told the person to do was to turn off the TV

[darbyduff]

STOP IT..... STOP IT.... STOP IT!

At the risk of sounding Pollyannia, and I ,admit to that about myself.

People of the Villages.... Look around you.... Did it occur to you... "What did we do in our {former} life to deserve all that we have here in the Villages?". Now don't you dare accuse me of being anyone connected to "the family" but we live in the most beautiful place on earth, all of our needs are met and you all want to complain about the Village Sun not posting a "Thank you" ad from Jon. I love you Jon and can't thank you more for providing us with this WONDERFUL web site but Jon...... Please honey child, GET OVER IT! And thank your britches we all live here!

[smalldog]

:arrow :dont know:
No grapes but lots of WHINE ........... they don't want your business then go elsewhere ......... if I'm in business do I have to do business with every one who walks in the door ......... I HOPE NOT :dont know:

[Talk Host]

Now don't you dare accuse me of being anyone connected to "the family" but we live in the most beautiful place on earth, all of our needs are met and you all want to complain about the Village Sun not posting a "Thank you" ad from Jon. I love you Jon and can't thank you more for providing us with this WONDERFUL web site but Jon...... Please honey child, GET OVER IT! And thank your britches we all live here!


I worked hard all my life. I earned everything I have. The "family" (Villages developer) did nothing for me. I paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for my land and house. I owe them nothing. They owe me everything. IF it were not for you and me, the Villages would not exist. I could have lived anywhere I wanted, I chose the Villages based on the information (or lack of it) that was provided. Just because you chose to live here, does not mean that you can give up your obligation to society. We are still responsible citizens of America. We are not "subjects" of the Villages. If you wish to wear rose colored glasses and just be an "inhabitant" of The Villages, be my guest. I am, and always have been, a free thining, member of society. When I see a wrong, I feel the need to make it right. You may choose to "give up your freedom" in retirement. I don't. Don't ask me to and don't expect me too. "Get over it," is the battle cry of cowards.

BTW it's Jan not Jon.

[gowens1]

As a non resident, let me add something to this (I know some don't want non residents adding anything.) We all make our own choices, and we have to live with them. But things change. When I moved to Florida 14-15 years ago, I chose Deltona, as it was a medium sized neighborhood with good schools, and not a city. Now its a bloated, blighted, bureaucratic monster of a city, and I feel its time to move on. We went to meetings, tried to preserve what we had, but the majority was against that. Just because TV is perfect now, doesn't mean it will stay that way. You can't just sit and wait until the changes happen, then complain and try to change it back, it just won't happen.
BTW Jan, you said in an earlier post that T-shirts have a upfront cost, there are many compies on the web, (Cafe press is one http://www.cafepress.com) that will print 1 up shirts with your artwork, without money up front.
gary

[Talk Host]

:arrow :dont know:
No grapes but lots of WHINE ........... they don't want your business then go elsewhere ......... if I'm in business do I have to do business with every one who walks in the door ......... I HOPE NOT :dont know:



I have been a long time customer of the Villages Daily Sun. I am a resident of the Villages and like everybody else, I pay my monthly fees. I try to be a good and productive member of the community. When the newspaper suddenly cancelled my ad, they refused to tell me why. I asked what had happened. They refused to answer. I asked if there will be a time when they will accept my ad, they refused to answer. I asked if there was anything in the ad that I could change to make it acceptable, they refused to answer. I guess that's their right. It's an aweful way to treat a good customer and resident, but it's their right.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

This is a forum. It is a place to discuss issues, exchange ideas, ask for information etc., as has been stated by others, it is a place also to agree to disagree.

Many interesting responses have come up on this thread. One has the choice to continue reading postings on this thread or not.

If you feel, you have read enough on this thread then you have the right to stop reading this thread, for all others who have found this thread worthwhile, then they will continue reading this thread.

My personal feeling is that something happened, folks have a right to know about it, and then decide if they want to comment or not.

For me, and I am speaking only for myself, I want to know what is happening. It helps me make a better decision.

Hyacinth Bucket

[The Great Fumar]

Another way to advertise....Talk Host, if you're so inclined, you could paint TOTV's website address all over your golf cart so it's visible for all to see. Or, have Russ (I think it's Russ) create one of those screens for your buggy.



now thats a couple of good ideas.......the golf carts are everywhere.... ;D ;D ;D ;D


fumar

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Great Fumar that is a good idea.

Now if he would park the golf cart in front of the entrance to TV's real estate office old, new and wannabe residence would see it.

I wonder what the reaction would be.

Hyacinth Bucket

[jtdraig]

Rock and Roll, Jan....perfect....the koolaid wears off after a bit...Keep it up!

[zcaveman]

Aren't some of us getting a little paranoid here?

The Daily Sun has a prerogative to print what it wants and to not print what it does not want to print. We have known this for years. Read the Orlando Sentinel and the Ocala Star Banner and compare it to the Daily Sun to figure that out.

Morse owns the newspaper and is not going to let any adverse advertisement get into the paper.

Based on this post and some of the other rants in the TOTV against the Villages, I can only assume that he is making sure that we are not in his list of advertisers.

Don't get me wrong - I love the TOTV and think that it does a great service to those that read and respond to it.

I just think that some of these posts dwell too much on what we do not need. And that is adverse publicity about the Villages.


I now put up my shield and wait for the rebuttal. :realmad:

[concernedvillager]

TV Rule Number 1: The number one goal of the developer of TV is to sell new homes.

TV Rule Number 2: When making any decision relative to TV refer to Rule Number 1.

TV Daily Sun
The Daily Sun strictly adheres to Rule Number 1. Publish no stories that would be adverse to selling new homes. Publish no information in stories that would be adverse to selling new homes. This also applies to advertising sales. TOTV is seen as a threat to Rule Number 1. Therefore no more ad sales to TOTV. You would probably run into the same problem if you tried to advertise with TV Radio Station or TV Cable Channel.


Resales
The only reason TV is in the home resale business is to get access to buyers so that they can sell them new homes. They make lots more money selling new homes than they do selling resales. They also have a lot of money tied up in new homes and land so they need to sell those homes. They don't want outside real estate agencies getting in the middle of their efforts to sell new homes. Therefore they compete with them in the resale market.

A few years ago TV shut down their 2 real estate agencies, 1stVillage and Suncentral so that they could take their 92% market share of the resale market in TV and place it under the control of the new homes sales operation. The reason for doing this was very simple - to have more control of the buyer so that they can get a chance to sell them a new home. A side benefit was reducing competition with outside real estate agencies for access to buyers. They thought if the outside real estate agencies couldn't sell the 92% of the resales TV's controlled, they would have to go elsewhere to make a living. The good news is that the outside agencies market share has increased substantially. The bad news is that a buyer has to deal with multiple sales reps when buying a resale.


Sign Restrictions
Real Estate Signs are controlled by the deed restrictions that were created by the developer of TV. It is not an accident that no For Sale signs are allowed south of 466. Refer to Rule Number 1.


TV is a wonderful place to live. There is nothing wrong with understanding the dynamics of how and why decisions are made...especially decisions that could affect your quality of life in TV.

[Barefoot]

Concerned Villager :agree:

What a pleasure to see such a sensible, unemotional and accurate portrayal of the TV real estate dynamics.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Concerned Villager - I really liked the way you simplified everything. :#1: :agree:

For those who want to understand this better, I would strongly suggest you watch THE CORPORATION.

This DVD informs you how corporations work.

Hyacinth Bucket

[teekart]

Dear concerned villager,

You are absolutely right on target. This is our third year renting at the villages, I didn't want to go home, but hubby was not sure about running two homes and the cost.

Due to the housing market we thought we might find some lower priced "used" homes, but what we did find to our astonishment was that the new homes with a "warranty" and never lived in were MUCH cheaper than anything being resold. So we bought. Are very happy and excited. Am sure the market will turn around again. So will just enjoy our warm sunny days in the villages.

I hope all of the resellers can afford to sit on their properties until the market rebounds.

teekart

[Talk Host]

Concerned Villager :agree:

What a pleasure to see such a sensible, unemotional and accurate portrayal of the TV real estate dynamics.


1. You are absolutely right
2. (Concerned Villager) What are you conerned about?

[Taltarzac]

Concerned Villager :agree:

What a pleasure to see such a sensible, unemotional and accurate portrayal of the TV real estate dynamics.


This description could almost go in a flow chart! What happens when they sell that last house though? Think someone brought up this issue a few months back??

[golfnut]

good post concerned villager, I am curious, do you live in TV, no special reason, just curious.

[lm01]

STOP IT..... STOP IT.... STOP IT!

At the risk of sounding Pollyannia, and I ,admit to that about myself.

People of the Villages.... Look around you.... Did it occur to you... "What did we do in our {former} life to deserve all that we have here in the Villages?". Now don't you dare accuse me of being anyone connected to "the family" but we live in the most beautiful place on earth, all of our needs are met and you all want to complain about the Village Sun not posting a "Thank you" ad from Jon. I love you Jon and can't thank you more for providing us with this WONDERFUL web site but Jon...... Please honey child, GET OVER IT! And thank your britches we all live here!


Amen to that and to be honest with you... some of the other topics on this site are just adding fuel to the fire why others are questioning should they or should they not move to the Villages. This site and freedom of speech is hurting the Villages goal to keep selling and growing.

[DENNIS G]

I attempted to place a Talk of The Villages ad in the Villages Daily Sun. The ad was to thank all of you for being patient during our server problems and invite others to join the forum. They have flatly refused to accept it.

The advertising deparmtnet responded by saying "we decline to accept your advertising."
I called and talked to several managers. The only thing they would say, in answer to every one of my questions was "we decline to accept your advertising."

I ask why. Same answer. I said it was neither obscene or controversial. Same answer. I said it was unfair to our 3,000 members. Same answer. I asked what I could change in the ad to make it acceptable. [u]Same answer.[/u

What could be the reason? Is it because people on Talk of the Villages are free to voice opinions and that freedom of speech is not part of the master plan? I hope I am wrong.

This is really troubling. If anybody can find out what the reason is, I would love to know. We are all Villages residents and the Villages is located in the USA as far as I know.


There is a way of getting the word out about TOTV. If everyone that is a member of TOTV would send out an E-Mail to all their friends and neighbors, then they also send to their friends and so on, it pyramids, soon everyone would know.

[Alex]

I just found this old thread and found it quite interesting. Scary about banning an ad. Is there anything new to this story?

[Talk Host]

Alex. Alex. Alex.

Did I hear that the top slot, The presidency of POA is open?


Why would his curiousty about this matter cause you to take this position? His question is a good one, and one that I am keenly interested in. The answer to his question is "no" there is nothing new to report. TOTV is still banned from advertising in The Daily Sun and they still refused to give us a reason. They simply say, "it is within their rights to do so." If anybody can shed any light on this I would be pleased. We are good people, trying to give the residents and would be residents a way to talk to each other. We work hard at this. We like the Villages. Talk of The Villages is just a little enterprise and we are no threat to the GIANT villages machine. I don't know why they are taking the position they have taken.

Being interested in this, is not "anti Villages" as some would want to believe.

[Alex]

Thanks Talk Host.

[Barefoot]

TOTV is still banned from advertising in The Daily Sun and they still refused to give us a reason.

Jan, I find this really hard to understand. They obviously have the wrong idea about TOTV. I think most readers of the posts on this site are left with the impression that most of the posters are estatic about living in TV and would recommend it highly to others. I think we're a great sales tool for the Developer.

A Villages Sales Rep sent me an e-mail yesterday updating me on the inventory being built over by LSL. And she said "Why don't you post it on TOTV". So obviously some of the Village Sales Agents are well aware of the site and friendly towards it.

[villages07]

Jan,

I guess I'm a little confused about this too. Do you think it is personal against you because of the train issue? I ask this because the Daily Sun takes and prints advertisements from realtors, developers, and lawyers who might be considered competitors or adversaries to TV's developers. So, I don't see where they would consider TOTV itself as a negative on TV or a competitor to the developer...quite the contrary, in fact.

[Peachie]

Villages 07:
"So, I don't see where they would consider TOTV itself as a negative on TV or a competitor to the developer...quite the contrary, in fact."

For the most part that's very true, V07, but this is primarily a blog sight, and as we have seen, some people have perpetual axes to grind. The Sun is a paper "commercial" for The Villages and they are exercising their ability to keep potential gripers from harming the image they want to portray through blogs of innuendo, half facts and I'm certain, some real facts they do not want aired via the internet. Also, how does discrimination affect the Sun's decision? If they let one blog sight advertise, do they have to let the POA advertise also if they want to advertise a blog sight? I don't know how that works... :dontknow:

[saratogaman]

This no-ad thing comes from the same close-minded folks who tried to shut down the Obama rally featuring former Sen. Chaffee, in a privately owned restaurant in Spanish Springs. The higher-ups are afraid of any point of view other than that of THE MAN.

[serenityseeker]

O.K., I'm really a little confused here. I kind of fail to see any threat per se from TOTV. The overwhelming attitude on this site is one of pride in The Villages in general. I feel fairly confident in assuming that a lot of people like me found such broadspread support for The villages from those living and posting here that it helped us make a decision to buy here. How is that possibly negative or threatening to the powers that be?
I have no problem with privately owned businesses making their own choices about advertising and such, but what is the point here? I really am curious. Perhaps I am a little naive and don't see the big picture, but I just don't get it.