Demographics Two

[Tennisnut]

Coming from California where we have a lot of diversity, I was wondering what the ethnic diversity is in The Villages. It appears that it is a lot less than the National average and far less than in California. I know it makes life life a lot more interesting to experience different cultures and to have those exchanges. After all, that diversity has helped America be who it is today. Hopefully, that old saying will be true, " If we build it, they will come." Do you think the Villages will become more ethnically diverse in the future?

[Bizdoc]

In some ways, we may be more diverse than the average American city of the same size given the number of international residents.

As to the exact percentages, I don't bother counting. Ethnic background just isn't all that important to me... Of course, I do see some folks with college stickers and flags on their golf carts which are pretty suspect places that I was told many many years ago to avoid. <smile>

[Tennisnut]

In some ways, we may be more diverse than the average American city of the same size given the number of international residents.

As to the exact percentages, I don't bother counting. Ethnic background just isn't all that important to me... Of course, I do see some folks with college stickers and flags on their golf carts which are pretty suspect places that I was told many many years ago to avoid. <smile>

I believe you are correct about international residents, however, the majority of those residents are from Canada and England which does not diversify the ethnicity of The Villages. I did a check at the US Commerce census which shows that the Villages for 2010 was 96.9% white alone (not mixed)
and Asians, blacks and Hispanics or mixed the balance. California is 39.4% white alone not mixed, a significant difference! Personally, I know several blacks, Filipinos, Chinese, Japanese, Hispanics, and Iranians in California which allow me the opportunity to experience cultural diversity. That currently doesn't exist here in the Villages. I guess we have two different bubbles, one in The Villages and another in California!

[perrjojo]

I believe you are correct about international residents, however, the majority of those residents are from Canada and England which does not diversify the ethnicity of The Villages. I did a check at the US Commerce census which shows that the Villages for 2010 was 96.9% white alone (not mixed)
and Asians, blacks and Hispanics or mixed the balance. California is 39.4% white alone not mixed, a significant difference! Personally, I know several blacks, Filipinos, Chinese, Japanese, Hispanics, and Iranians in California which allow me the opportunity to experience cultural diversity. That currently doesn't exist here in the Villages. I guess we have two different bubbles, one in The Villages and another in California!
It's true that there is not much ethnic diversity here but there is certainly a lot of cultural diversity. We have residents from all backgrounds and all parts of the country. We all have different customs and ways of thinking. I have no idea why there is not more ethnic diversity because they would be welcomed here. Maybe it's because golf is our major draw and golf seems to be more of an Anglo sport. Certainly others play but not in the same numbers

[Bogie Shooter]

It doesn't make any difference, all are welcome.

[SantaClaus]

I hate to generalize, but I believe that other cultures tend to put a greater emphasis on multi-generational family units. WASPs tend to place a premium on independence. So, there's little wonder that an independent living senior community might have a high concentration of WASPs.

[Tennisnut]

I hate to generalize, but I believe that other cultures tend to put a greater emphasis on multi-generational family units. WASPs tend to place a premium on independence. So, there's little wonder that an independent living senior community might have a high concentration of WASPs.

I think you are mis-generalizing. None of ethnic minorities that I know live in multi-generational housing. However, several of my WASP friends have 20 and 30 somethings living at home. One could deduce from that these ethnic minorities instill a greater drive to succeed than their WASP neighbors. Or possibly they still have that immigrant desire to build a better life for them and their children that Europeans had when they all first immigrated to the USA. Of course, that all could be a generalization.

[perrjojo]

I hate to generalize, but I believe that other cultures tend to put a greater emphasis on multi-generational family units. WASPs tend to place a premium on independence. So, there's little wonder that an independent living senior community might have a high concentration of WASPs.
Yes, it is a generalization, but I think you are onto something. I was thinking the same. Maybe not living together but keeping the unit close.

[SantaClaus]

I think you are mis-generalizing. None of ethnic minorities that I know live in multi-generational housing. However, several of my WASP friends have 20 and 30 somethings living at home.


That's the problem with experience, it's a very narrow window. I know quite a few black and Asian families that have grandma and grandpa living with them instead of going to a "home". I get the sense that the same is true in Hispanic society, though I don't have any first hand knowledge. That's the view through my porthole, at least. I don't claim that it's widely applicable.

[perrjojo]

Coming from California where we have a lot of diversity, I was wondering what the ethnic diversity is in The Villages. It appears that it is a lot less than the National average and far less than in California. I know it makes life life a lot more interesting to experience different cultures and to have those exchanges. After all, that diversity has helped America be who it is today. Hopefully, that old saying will be true, " If we build it, they will come." Do you think the Villages will become more ethnically diverse in the future?
I find your post interesting but it gives me a lot of questions. Do you live in TV? Are you considering living in TV? Have you lived in other areas than California? We are originally from Texas and have lived in Georgia, Oklahoma and Florida. We have traveled the USA and world extensively due to my husbands work. My husbands family moved to Orange County, CA in 1962. We have visited there at least 2 times a year for 52 years. I find the diversity in TV amazing. People from all parts of the USA and other countries live here. People from other regions have many diverse backgrounds. I find our cultural differences interesting. People from different geographic origins, religions, etc have many cultural differences. Heck, we can't even understand each other's accents sometimes. Do you feel it necessary to have TV be like California? If so, you will be disappointed. New York is not Florida just as Florida is not California. Florida is not Texas but I love all of the places I have lived including Paris, London and Brussells. No, we don't have a lot of Hispanics (btw, my daughter in law is Hispanic) blacks, Asians or Muslims but that does not mean they would not be welcomed here. Would you be happy here? I don't know how adaptable anyone is. Will TV change over time? Of course it will but will it ever be California? I doubt it very much. We don't have state income tax, high property tax, over crowded freeways, and 1200 sq feet homes priced at $600,000. Oh, and we don't have smog!

[perrjojo]

Coming from California where we have a lot of diversity, I was wondering what the ethnic diversity is in The Villages. It appears that it is a lot less than the National average and far less than in California. I know it makes life life a lot more interesting to experience different cultures and to have those exchanges. After all, that diversity has helped America be who it is today. Hopefully, that old saying will be true, " If we build it, they will come." Do you think the Villages will become more ethnically diverse in the future?
I find your post interesting but it gives me a lot of questions. Do you live in TV? Are you considering living in TV? Have you lived in other areas than California? We are originally from Texas and have lived in Georgia, Oklahoma and Florida. We have traveled the USA and world extensively due to my husbands work. My husbands family moved to Orange County, CA in 1962. We have visited there at least 2 times a years for 52 years. I find the diversity in TV amazing. People from all parts of the USA and other countries live here. People from other regions have many diverse backgrounds. I find our cultural differences interesting. People from different geographic origins, religions, etc have many cultural differences. Heck, we can't even understand each other's accents sometimes. Do you feel it necessary to have TV be like California? If so, you will be disappointed. New York is not Florida just as Florida is not California. Florida is not Texas but I love all of the places I have lived including Paris, London and Brussells. No, we don't have a lot of Hispanics (btw, my daughter in law is Hispanic) blacks, Asians or Muslims but that does not mean they would not be welcomed here. Would you be happy here? I don't know how adaptable anyone is. Will TV change over time? Of course it will but will it ever be California? I doubt it very much. We don't have state income tax, high property tax, over crowded freeways, and 1200 sq feet homes priced at $600,000. Oh, we don't have smog either.

[Blessed2BNTV]

I find your post interesting but it gives me a lot of questions. Do you live in TV? Are you considering living in TV? Have you lived in other areas than California? We are originally from Texas and have lived in Georgia, Oklahoma and Florida. We have traveled the USA and world extensively due to my husbands work. My husbands family moved to Orange County, CA in 1962. We have visited there at least 2 times a years for 52 years. I find the diversity in TV amazing. People from all parts of the USA and other countries live here. People from other regions have many diverse backgrounds. I find our cultural differences interesting. People from different geographic origins, religions, etc have many cultural differences. Heck, we can't even understand each other's accents sometimes. Do you feel it necessary to have TV be like California? If so, you will be disappointed. New York is not Florida just as Florida is not California. Florida is not Texas but I love all of the places I have lived including Paris, London and Brussells. No, we don't have a lot of Hispanics (btw, my daughter in law is Hispanic) blacks, Asians or Muslims but that does not mean they would not be welcomed here. Would you be happy here? I don't know how adaptable anyone is. Will TV change over time? Of course it will but will it ever be California? I doubt it very much. We don't have state income tax, high property tax, over crowded freeways, and 1200 sq feet homes priced at $600,000. Oh, we don't have smog either.

Well said!

[Tennisnut]

I find your post interesting but it gives me a lot of questions. Do you live in TV? Are you considering living in TV? Have you lived in other areas than California? We are originally from Texas and have lived in Georgia, Oklahoma and Florida. We have traveled the USA and world extensively due to my husbands work. My husbands family moved to Orange County, CA in 1962. We have visited there at least 2 times a years for 52 years. I find the diversity in TV amazing. People from all parts of the USA and other countries live here. People from other regions have many diverse backgrounds. I find our cultural differences interesting. People from different geographic origins, religions, etc have many cultural differences. Heck, we can't even understand each other's accents sometimes. Do you feel it necessary to have TV be like California? If so, you will be disappointed. New York is not Florida just as Florida is not California. Florida is not Texas but I love all of the places I have lived including Paris, London and Brussells. No, we don't have a lot of Hispanics (btw, my daughter in law is Hispanic) blacks, Asians or Muslims but that does not mean they would not be welcomed here. Would you be happy here? I don't know how adaptable anyone is. Will TV change over time? Of course it will but will it ever be California? I doubt it very much. We don't have state income tax, high property tax, over crowded freeways, and 1200 sq feet homes priced at $600,000. Oh, we don't have smog either.

You asked a lot of questions so I hope this will answer them. It is apparent you have prejudged me. I have lived in the Villages for 4 years and still have a home in California and find it amazing the differences in between the two. I have spent time in almost every state in the Union as well as 50 foreign counties traveling independently in Europe, Central and South America, Asia and the Middle East. I appreciate the cultural diversity of the world as well as the diversity in the USA. In fact, some parts of the US, I have often wondered why I did not need a passport to enter that region! I think I am very adaptable. You are right about Florida not having a state income tax, however, the property tax rate is higher for a similarly priced home. Also, in certain parts of Florida as well as California, it is possible to find over priced homes. How about 2 BR condos in Orlando for $600k or multi-million dollar homes in Miami (as well as the Villages). Actually, the cost of living in The Villages is very comparable to where I live outside of Sacramento. I have also experienced the overcrowded freeways of the bay area, meaning Tampa-St Pete as well as San Francisco-Oakland. I spent the last week in the Redwoods and North Coast along Highway 1 having a glass of Russian River Pinot Noir and fresh caught wild king salmon with no air pollution in site. It sounds like you have not experienced California to the extent I have. My intention not question whether you and I welcomed people of different ethnicity in the Villages nor whether California and Florida will ever be similar. I enjoy California as well as the Villages and wondered why others of different ethnicity do not find The Villages an attractive place to live.

[perrjojo]

You asked a lot of questions so I hope this will answer them. It is apparent you have prejudged me. I have lived in the Villages for 4 years and still have a home in California and find it amazing the differences in between the two. I have spent time in almost every state in the Union as well as 50 foreign counties traveling independently in Europe, Central and South America, Asia and the Middle East. I appreciate the cultural diversity of the world as well as the diversity in the USA. In fact, some parts of the US, I have often wondered why I did not need a passport to enter that region! I think I am very adaptable. You are right about Florida not having a state income tax, however, the property tax rate is higher for a similarly priced home. Also, in certain parts of Florida as well as California, it is possible to find over priced homes. How about 2 BR condos in Orlando for $600k or multi-million dollar homes in Miami (as well as the Villages). Actually, the cost of living in The Villages is very comparable to where I live outside of Sacramento. I have also experienced the overcrowded freeways of the bay area, meaning Tampa-St Pete as well as San Francisco-Oakland. I spent the last week in the Redwoods and North Coast along Highway 1 having a glass of Russian River Pinot Noir and fresh caught wild king salmon with no air pollution in site. It sounds like you have not experienced California to the extent I have. My intention not question whether you and I welcomed people of different ethnicity in the Villages nor whether California and Florida will ever be similar. I enjoy California as well as the Villages and wondered why others of different ethnicity do not find The Villages an attractive place to live.
I am sorry if it seemed I judged you. It was not my intent. Your original post left me with a lot of questions. I suppose it is correct that there are many places in Florida that have problems similar to California but we were talking about TV, not all of a Florida. As to why others of different ethnicity do not find TV attractive, I go back to my original post. The major attraction for most here is golf. That is not as major an attraction to the other ethnic grups you mentioned.
What do YOU think?

[ilovetv]

Maybe they've been told things about TV that are not true!

[CFrance]

I think another part of the equation is the fact that there will always be a great deal more diversity in NY and CA due to their being (and have been for eons) such large ports of entry for foreigners.

[perrjojo]

[QUOTE=CFrance;883020]I think another part of the equation is the fact that there will always be a great deal more diversity in NY and CA due to their being (and have been for eons) such large ports of entry for foreigners.[/QUOTE
Good point.

[Tennisnut]

I am sorry if it seemed I judged you. It was not my intent. Your original post left me with a lot of questions. I suppose it is correct that there are many places in Florida that have problems similar to California but we were talking about TV, not all of a Florida. As to why others of different ethnicity do not find TV attractive, I go back to my original post. The major attraction for most here is golf. That is not as major an attraction to the other ethnic grups you mentioned.
What do YOU think?

I do know that 11 out of top 25 women golfers in the world are Korean. The top male golfer since like it seems forever, is black. Maybe in the future, there will be a lot of Koreans here? I really don't know why they haven't moved here and thought it was an interesting observation and that is why I asked the question.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

No, we don't have a lot of Hispanics (btw, my daughter in law is Hispanic) blacks, Asians or Muslims but that does not mean they would not be welcomed here.

Actually, there is a very large Filipino population here. There's even a Filipino Club.

[perrjojo]

I do know that 11 out of top 25 women golfers in the world are Korean. The top male golfer since like it seems forever, is black. Maybe in the future, there will be a lot of Koreans here? I really don't know why they haven't moved here and thought it was an interesting observation and that is why I asked the question.
What you say is correct but how popular is the sport among the general population? I guess they just don't
know about TV or they certainly would want to live here.

[DougB]

No alligators on the golf courses in Korea.

[bluedog103]

The top male golfer since like it seems forever, is black.
If you're referring to Tiger Woods, I'm surprised that you don't know that Tiger had a problem with an irate wife in 2009 and hasn't been anywhere near his top form since then.

[billethkid]

That certainly was not an item/issue of concern on my list of considerations for moving here or not. Just like it did not and still doesn't matter what politics or religion are here.
Some things just don't figure into most of us when making decisions on moving.

If one wants diversity they can go look for it...not necessary to live next to it or within it.

To each his own......for most of us TV is just fine like it is and will be......

[CFrance]

If you're referring to Tiger Woods, I'm surprised that you don't know that Tiger had a problem with an irate wife in 2009 and hasn't been anywhere near his top form since then.

Off topic, but actually, I would not say Tiger had a problem with an irate wife. That makes it sound like he was innocent. I would say the wife became irate due to problems with Tiger... and his infidelity.

The way it was stated set off my feminist radar. Sorry if you didn't mean it that way.:pray:

[PJOHNS2654]

[QUOTE=perrjojo;882797]It's true that there is not much ethnic diversity here but there is certainly a lot of cultural diversity. We have residents from all backgrounds and all parts of the country. We all have different customs and ways of thinking. I have no idea why there is not more ethnic diversity because they would be welcomed here. Maybe it's because golf is our major draw and golf seems to be more of an Anglo sport. Certainly others play but not in the same numbers[/QUOTEI\\

I lived in Southern Calf. for over forty years and in an area with a large Korean population. The koreans were very evident at the local golf courses. In the 80's and early 90's I can remember visiting a driving range that was double decker and lighted. Betweem 8:00 and 10:00 P.M. it would be full with about 80-90% being young Koreans. I think when that generation retires many will call TV home.

[ilovetv]

We've never moved to a particular place to live because of the ethnic mix. We moved there because of jobs.

People move here to TV mostly because they're retiring. Are there any "ethnic-majority" retirement communities like TV or Del Webb? I don't think so.

And as for golfers, I think Californians hear/know a lot more about golf communities much closer to them in CA, AZ, and NV than they hear/know about Florida which is much farther away and has high humidity.

What I see is that large ethnic populations seem to concentrate more in major cities and their metro areas. The Villages is neither of these. It's a totally unique community.

[billethkid]

a lot of this thread has an oh so familiar ring to it....including the tone of the deleted posts.....nice diversity of replies in any event

[bluedog103]

Off topic, but actually, I would not say Tiger had a problem with an irate wife. That makes it sound like he was innocent. I would say the wife became irate due to problems with Tiger... and his infidelity.

The way it was stated set off my feminist radar. Sorry if you didn't mean it that way.:pray:
Was his wife irate or not? The cause was not mentioned in my post. Guilt or innocence is of no value in this discussion.You are free to determine whatever cause suits your needs or beliefs.

...

[CFrance]

Was his wife irate or not? The cause was not mentioned in my post. Guilt or innocence is of no value in this discussion.You are free to determine whatever cause suits your needs or beliefs.

...
I disagree with you and stand by my comment.

[CFrance]

Okay, commence bashing me... I do believe that the majority of TV is very conservative.

But I do not agree with Tennisnut's opinion quoted in ilovetv's post that left-center is non existent. There are left-centers and liberals here, for sure. I've found some, and there is even a club. It is something to consider that they are not the majority, but my husband and I (moderate and liberal) are not politically active and quite happy to concentrate on other things and ignore political view contrary to our own. It's not a deal breaker. We don't talk politics very often with friends.

BTW, there are some super extremely conservative parts of California that would put TV to shame.

This may be getting too political for the mods. Back to the original topic, I believe if you really want to be immersed in true ethnic diversity, you need to be in a big city, or on either the CA coast or NY coast and vicinity. We purposely sent our sons off to big city eastern colleges to get them out of the cloistered, narrow atmosphere of the small religiously conservative city they spent a good chunk of their upbringing in due to our job situation.

[Tennisnut]

a lot of this thread has an oh so familiar ring to it....including the tone of the deleted posts.....nice diversity of replies in any event

I agree with you, it is nice to have some diversity! The Villages will change in the future. They are even playing some music from 80's and 90's in the square. Still waiting for some Bob Marley though.

ONE LOVE!

[dirtbanker]

I have lived in the Villages for 4 years and still have a home in California and find it amazing the differences in between the two. Probably the first thing you noticed was real estate at 1/3 or less of the value than in "the land of fruits and nuts".:throwtomatoes:

I did a check at the US Commerce census which shows that the Villages for 2010 was 96.9% white alone (not mixed)
If this disappoints you, and is that important to you, why did you buy in The Villages? Obviously nobody else cared, including the other ethnicity groups that did buy.

I know several blacks, Filipinos, Chinese, Japanese, Hispanics, and Iranians in California which allow me the opportunity to experience cultural diversity.
When you asked them why they are not buying in The Villages, how did they respond? Would that not be more informative than asking this forum why they don't buy? Possibly they wish to be far from you??

I agree with you, it is nice to have some diversity! The Villages will change in the future. They are even playing some music from 80's and 90's in the square. Still waiting for some Bob Marley though.

ONE LOVE!

I don't believe you agree...there is already some diversity, evidently it is not enough for your liking. They have been playing music from the 80's and 90's and some more current music for quite awhile now, I recently watched line dancing to "Talk Dirty" (these Villagers can line dance to anything!!)

One Love?? Bob Marley's best song is NO WOMAN NO CRY!:a040:

[EnglishJW]

As many people who have responded have already pointed out, maximum diversity tends to occur in certain areas for a variety of factors (immigration patterns, availability of work, economics, housing, etc.). Coming from New Jersey and having worked in Manhattan for 32 years, this is a great example of a real melting pot. Move on up here if that is what you are looking for! I don't see these same patterns present in TV. I think a significant contributor to the mix of people here is a function of how they learned about TV. We may have seen ads but never paid any attention to Florida in general or TV in particular. We dance. We met a charming couple at a ballroom dance in NJ. They lived in TV and raved about it. Many months later, a relative who lived in Florida passed away but there was a funeral in NJ. Someone we met at the funeral lived in TV and, you guessed it, raved about TV. It was only after those two events that we began to learn more about the place. I would assume HOW people learn about TV plays a significant role in WHO is here.

[billethkid]

I also think CA is what it is because it happens to be the entry point for south of the border as well as Asia Pacific arrivals, hence many stay!

I personally do not think it is what it is because anybody set out to make it so....my opinion.

Anyway I do not believe many go around looking for a place to live based on select demographics....it is more what they like when they find it and the resultant demographics follow.

[TheVillageChicken]

I think folks from the Midwest and Northeast make up most of the population of TV. I rarely hear a Southern accent. In fact, I have only met three Southerners since January. If I had to make a guess, based on meeting people, observing license plates and college decals on cars and carts, I would say that Ohio, New York, Michigan, and Wisconsin supplied the most residents. I live north of 466, and many of the names on the signs are Italian and Polish, so, at least for the northern reaches of TV, I'm thinking Catholicism is the religion of many residents. None of this is important to me, and I think the primary manifestation of the "melting pot" phenomena is complaints about how pizza and Chinese food are prepared here.

[Tennisnut]

[quote=billethkid;883218]That certainly was not an item/issue of concern on my list of considerations for moving here or not. Just like it did not and still doesn't matter what politics or religion are here.
Some things just don't figure into most of us when making decisions on moving.

If one wants diversity they can go look for it...not necessary to live next to it or within it.

To each his own......for most of us TV is just fine like it is and will be

Please explain the lack of pretense? Reasonable?

[billethkid]

[quote=billethkid;883218]

Please explain the lack of pretense? Reasonable?

and just what is it about my straight forward commentary that could possibly raise a question of pretense issue?

This stretching of ones intent to further a personal agenda is way too familiar mode of communicating!!

Just read, again what I stated. Face value....no between the lines....no oblique messaging....just stating what I think/do/say on the subject....no interpretation/re-stating thereof needed, as usual!!

[Tennisnut]

I really think the Moderator should close this post. Asking the question regarding the lack of ethnicity in the Villages has resulted in denigration of California as well as myself. Sorry I touched such a nerve. apparently, as one poster said

"If one wants diversity they can go look for it...not necessary to live next to it or within it.

To each his own......for most of us TV is just fine like it is and will be......"

I really do not understand that attitude, however, the animosity is understood.

[gomoho]

Get ready my friend - this is just the beginning.

[perrjojo]

To welcome diversity is honest. To diliberty seek diversity is...well...it seems insincere to me. When one asks hard questions, one must be prepared for ALL of the answers.

[Rags123]

Xxx

[buggyone]

What makes The Villages a great place to live are the great friends we find. Status of wealth does not mean much here. We all enjoy the town squares, the social clubs, the golf courses, and, naturally, hoisting an ice-cold Yeungling with new and old friends.

[dewilson58]

What makes The Villages a great place to live are the great friends we find. Status of wealth does not mean much here. We all enjoy the town squares, the social clubs, the golf courses, and, naturally, hoisting an ice-cold Yeungling with new and old friends.

Yepper

[Tennisnut]

What makes The Villages a great place to live are the great friends we find. Status of wealth does not mean much here. We all enjoy the town squares, the social clubs, the golf courses, and, naturally, hoisting an ice-cold Yeungling with new and old friends.

I guess it would be dishonest to want to go to a Vietnamese restaurant and have some fresh spring rolls. Sorry if that offends anyone!

[Tennisnut]

Get ready my friend - this is just the beginning.

Beginning of what? Please explain!

[buggyone]

I guess it would be dishonest to want to go to a Vietnamese restaurant and have some fresh spring rolls. Sorry if that offends anyone!

There is a very good Thai restaurant at Lake Sumter Landing. Ask for medium heat and it will be great.

There are some good Vietnamese restaurants in Orlando.

[VT2TV]

Why is this topic even important, or being discussed. People live where they want to live, and don't live where they don't want to live. Discussing it on this site will change nothing. Everyone has the right to live here and everyone has the right to leave-the whys and wherefores are no one's business but their own. Simple.

[Tennisnut]

There is a very good Thai restaurant at Lake Sumter Landing. Ask for medium heat and it will be great.

There are some good Vietnamese restaurants in Orlando.

THANK YOU!!:BigApplause:

A civil response!

[graciegirl]

I grew up in Ohio. I was in my late twenties before I took my first airplane ride and also in my twenties when I first met and talked to an Asian person and a Native American person. When I did I found that they were people no different than the ones I had known all of my life. People are people. They may have different customs and national origins and skin tones but we drift toward and feel comfortable with those who have a similar value system and way of living.


We may like people best who are family oriented, who we meet in church, or in a garden club or investment club or art class. When I was young I drifted toward those who enjoyed parenting classes and cooking and even those who belonged to a homemakers club. That is what I was focused on at the time. I feel most comfortable toward those who have like ideas about respecting others and working hard. I am not into swinging, singing, or bell ringing but as long as people don't try to get me to swing, sing or ring, I am fine with their doing it.


As we get older we are most comfortable with people who see the universe the way we do and I find that people do form friendships here based on immediate comfort and seeing the joy of life in others and recognizing that they have a similar attitude toward the world.


I am delighted that some folks here like an older, not skinny, white haired woman who enjoys people. I came here hoping that I would finds folks like that.


Yesterday I met a new friend who was so delightful that I immediately told her that I hoped we could be friends for a thousand years. She was younger than me, smarter than me, shorter than me and far superior to me in every way.


I think she had a pink complexion. But if she was purple with green spots and played the bassoon which she carried with her, I would have just loved her. I hope she reads this and knows that I was very sincere in my hope that we could be friends for a thousand years. Or fifteen would be nice.

[dirtbanker]

THANK YOU!!:BigApplause:

A civil response!

The first 3 pages had many civil responses, but that is not what you are looking for is it?

I really think the Moderator should close this post. Asking the question regarding the lack of ethnicity in the Villages has resulted in denigration of California as well as myself.

I believe you meant to use the word "thread" in lieu of the word "post"...

As many have pointed out several times now; there is ethnicity in the Villages, apparently it just is not enough percentage wise for your liking.

Nobody on here caused the denigration of California, you would have to put blame for that to the residents of California, so stop whining about California's problems on a TV forum. I highly doubt anyone on here wants to hear about your personal denigration either.

Beginning of what? Please explain!

I asked you 2 or 3 questions (page 4 of this thread) that you totally ignored, why should anyone on here answer your questions?

I guess it would be dishonest to want to go to a Vietnamese restaurant and have some fresh spring rolls. Sorry if that offends anyone!

What offends me is you putting words in other people's mouths. I have reread the posts by Buggyone in this thread and I can't find one that suggests "it would be dishonest to want to go to a Vietnamese restaurant and have some fresh spring rolls". In fact, I am unable to find any post that suggests that, other than yours.

It appears after 5 pages you are still unhappy with the responses on this subject, if you want TV to be more like California with regard to diversity, go ask the "several blacks, Filipinos, Chinese, Japanese, Hispanics, and Iranians" you know in California why they have not bought here. I still stand by my assumption it has more to do with you than TV.

[TheVillageChicken]

Coming from California where we have a lot of diversity, I was wondering what the ethnic diversity is in The Villages. It appears that it is a lot less than the National average and far less than in California. I know it makes life life a lot more interesting to experience different cultures and to have those exchanges. After all, that diversity has helped America be who it is today. Hopefully, that old saying will be true, " If we build it, they will come." Do you think the Villages will become more ethnically diverse in the future?

A large component of ethnic diversity shift is birth rate. So, do I think the Villages will become more ethnically diverse in the future? Not much. Another contributor to ethnic diversity is illegal immigration which is also never going to be a significant factor in The Villages.

[rp001]

Okay, commence bashing me... I do believe that the majority of TV is very conservative.

But I do not agree with Tennisnut's opinion quoted in ilovetv's post that left-center is non existent. There are left-centers and liberals here, for sure. I've found some, and there is even a club. It is something to consider that they are not the majority, but my husband and I (moderate and liberal) are not politically active and quite happy to concentrate on other things and ignore political view contrary to our own. It's not a deal breaker. We don't talk politics very often with friends.

BTW, there are some super extremely conservative parts of California that would put TV to shame.

This may be getting too political for the mods. Back to the original topic, I
believe if you really want to be immersed in true ethnic diversity, you need to be in a big city, or on either the CA coast or NY coast and vicinity. We purposely sent our sons off to big city eastern colleges to get them out of the cloistered, narrow atmosphere of the small religiously conservative city they spent a good chunk of their upbringing in due to our job situation.

Be proud of your beliefs as all are. There are many more with the same beliefs than " they" can imagine. I see this change more and more as younger folks move in. It is much more apparent south of 466a.

[ilovetv]

Be proud of your beliefs as all are. There are many more with the same beliefs than " they" can imagine. I see this change more and more as younger folks move in. It is much more apparent south of 466a.

Since this thread from the beginning has really been about "improving" the voting blocs here (as if actual constituents here need fixing by superior thinkers), here are the voter registration numbers shown on the front pages of TV's three counties' board of elections.

I think it's a pretty good balance, especially when considering the number of people who remain independent and open-minded to learning what's right/wrong on both sides.

Marion County: (Northern part of TV)
Active registered voters:

Democrat:77,909

Republican:92,456

Other:46,483

Total:216,848

Marion County Supervisor of Elections > Home (http://marion.electionsfl.org)

Sumter County Active registered voters:

Democrats:23,545

Republicans:40,139

Others:16,652

Total:80,336

Sumter County Supervisor of Elections > Home (http://www.sumterelections.org)

Lake County Active registered voters:

Total: 203,636

Democrats: 67,311

Republicans: 88,862

NPA: 37,700

Other: 9,763

Welcome to the Lake County Supervisor of Elections Website (http://elections.lakecountyfl.gov)

[graciegirl]

Most of us are old enough and wise enough that we don't let a political group define us. There are many Republicans who aren't Tea Partiers and Many Democrats who are moderate liberals. We are a little bit of this and a little bit of that based on our life experiences. We are mostly rule followers with a lot of creativity and tons of gumption. We are resting firmly on our laurels after having spent most of our lives doing the "right stuff" and a bit of the wrong stuff too.


We are enjoyable and alive people. We are VILLAGERS.

[Tennisnut]

How did my post get to be about liberals, conservatives, Republicans or Democrats? It was about the fact that The Villages is over 98% white and the lack of cultural diversity that is apparent in other parts of the States. I used California, from where I spend the summers as a comparison. Other states such as New York demonstrate this diversity. I also saw a show last night on Atlanta, Bizarre Foods, which addressed the many ethnic people and their foods. Although I love spending my winters here, I do miss that kind of diversity. Now does anyone want to bash New York, Atlanta as well as me for this comment?

[TexaninVA]

Okay, commence bashing me... I do believe that the majority of TV is very conservative.

But I do not agree with Tennisnut's opinion quoted in ilovetv's post that left-center is non existent. There are left-centers and liberals here, for sure. I've found some, and there is even a club. It is something to consider that they are not the majority, but my husband and I (moderate and liberal) are not politically active and quite happy to concentrate on other things and ignore political view contrary to our own. It's not a deal breaker. We don't talk politics very often with friends.

BTW, there are some super extremely conservative parts of California that would put TV to shame.

This may be getting too political for the mods. Back to the original topic, I believe if you really want to be immersed in true ethnic diversity, you need to be in a big city, or on either the CA coast or NY coast and vicinity. We purposely sent our sons off to big city eastern colleges to get them out of the cloistered, narrow atmosphere of the small religiously conservative city they spent a good chunk of their upbringing in due to our job situation.

There are plenty of Left-leaning Villagers ... just go to a Civil Discourse meeting sometime and it's pretty easy to figure out who is on what side of an issues. I would say they are actually a majority at most of the CD presentations I've been to where something has a political bent to it.

[TexaninVA]

That certainly was not an item/issue of concern on my list of considerations for moving here or not. Just like it did not and still doesn't matter what politics or religion are here.
Some things just don't figure into most of us when making decisions on moving.

If one wants diversity they can go look for it...not necessary to live next to it or within it.

To each his own......for most of us TV is just fine like it is and will be......

I agree with the gist of what you are saying BTK. Diversity in the contemporary sense (ie quotas, skin color) is not high on my list of things that would make me move to TV. Things are also pretty diverse already in terms of accents (maybe too many Yankees :) ) , past occupations, and income. In many ways, TV is the most Jeffersonian place I've ever lived in the classical meaning. It's not who you were or what you used to do ... it's what you do now. In that sense, it's quite meritocratic

[Tennisnut]

I agree with the gist of what you are saying BTK. Diversity in the contemporary sense (ie quotas, skin color) is not high on my list of things that would make me move to TV. Things are also pretty diverse already in terms of accents (maybe too many Yankees :) ) , past occupations, and income. In many ways, TV is the most Jeffersonian place I've ever lived in the classical meaning. It's not who you were or what you used to do ... it's what you do now. In that sense, it's quite meritocratic

I don't think of diversity in the sense of skin color or quotas and I don't think it has anything to do with past occupations nor income. Although skin color is a measure of race, there are several different cultures that are white. Most Chinese would be offended if you thought they were Japanese and vice versa. They both have a very different culture. In addition, it has nothing to do with meritocracy which is very much multi-cultural. But it does have a lot to do with foods , music, style of dress, and language. Those differences make the world a very interesting place to visit in our lifetime.

[Cisco Kid]

I hope The Villages stays like it is.

Why mess with perfection ?

[ilovetv]

Here's an interesting breaking news article on CA.....I think TV's natural cultural diversity surely would prevent this:

Voters in California contemplate forming new state (http://news.yahoo.com/voters-california-contemplate-forming-state-165502069.html;_ylt=AwrBJR9UHoZTrzgAiDnQtDMD)

[perrjojo]

Coming from California where we have a lot of diversity, I was wondering what the ethnic diversity is in The Villages. It appears that it is a lot less than the National average and far less than in California. I know it makes life life a lot more interesting to experience different cultures and to have those exchanges. After all, that diversity has helped America be who it is today. Hopefully, that old saying will be true, " If we build it, they will come." Do you think the Villages will become more ethnically diverse in the future?

So, back to your original question. Do I think TV will become more ethnically diverse in the future? Yes. Do I think it will happen in the near future? No.

[graciegirl]

I don't think of diversity in the sense of skin color or quotas and I don't think it has anything to do with past occupations nor income. Although skin color is a measure of race, there are several different cultures that are white. Most Chinese would be offended if you thought they were Japanese and vice versa. They both have a very different culture. In addition, it has nothing to do with meritocracy which is very much multi-cultural. But it does have a lot to do with foods , music, style of dress, and language. Those differences make the world a very interesting place to visit in our lifetime.


This is really a RESTAURANT discussion???? Now I get it. That is why east and west coast people complain frequently about the food. They are used to more diversity.

[Tennisnut]

This is really a RESTAURANT discussion???? Now I get it. That is why east and west coast people complain frequently about the food. They are used to more diversity.

As well as music, dress and language. However, I also grew up in Ohio as you did Gracie until I left in 1969 so I know where you are coming from as regard to food! What an eye opening experience that was!

[gomoho]

How did my post get to be about liberals, conservatives, Republicans or Democrats? It was about the fact that The Villages is over 98% white and the lack of cultural diversity that is apparent in other parts of the States. I used California, from where I spend the summers as a comparison. Other states such as New York demonstrate this diversity. I also saw a show last night on Atlanta, Bizarre Foods, which addressed the many ethnic people and their foods. Although I love spending my winters here, I do miss that kind of diversity. Now does anyone want to bash New York, Atlanta as well as me for this comment?

Now you're getting it - we're all nuts!!!:throwtomatoes:

[justjim]

OP, with all due respect to Folks from California, I'm really glad TV is not California. I have several friends and relatives living in California and have visited there several times but no desire to live there. I love to visit San Francisco. Growing up in a small midwest town, maybe California is a bit too diverse for my liking. That said, We have met some very interesting residents here in TV from all over the U.S. and the world.

I understand that about half the sales are to Florida residents. The Midwest and Northeast are well represented in TV. California already has a warm climate and it's a long way to Florida so why would they retire to TV?

Many residents I talk to came here for the warm climate and many (not all) for the golf. While working at a State University I met people from many countries and cultures, they are all welcome here in TV if they wish to relocate.

[justjim]

Most of us are old enough and wise enough that we don't let a political group define us. There are many Republicans who aren't Tea Partiers and Many Democrats who are moderate liberals. We are a little bit of this and a little bit of that based on our life experiences. We are mostly rule followers with a lot of creativity and tons of gumption. We are resting firmly on our laurels after having spent most of our lives doing the "right stuff" and a bit of the wrong stuff too.


We are enjoyable and alive people. We are VILLAGERS.

:thumbup: a very good post.

[Tennisnut]

OP, with all due respect to Folks from California, I'm really glad TV is not California. I have several friends and relatives living in California and have visited there several times but no desire to live there. I love to visit San Francisco. Growing up in a small midwest town, maybe California is a bit too diverse for my liking. That said, We have met some very interesting residents here in TV from all over the U.S. and the world.

I understand that about half the sales are to Florida residents. The Midwest and Northeast are well represented in TV. California already has a warm climate and it's a long way to Florida so why would they retire to TV?

Many residents I talk to came here for the warm climate and many (not all) for the golf. While working at a State University I met people from many countries and cultures, they are all welcome here in TV if they wish to relocate.

I also love TV and why did I buy here? I am a "rainbird" from Northern California from a city about the size of TV. We have very dry summers and rainy winters (normally but not last winter!) I love that TV has dryer and warmer winters than my home in California. We have 50 tennis courts in TV and great group of ex-college tennis players to bang heads with. Took up golf 5 years ago so I can rest those knees a few days a week. My wife has her days on the court and also her frustrating days on the golf course. We both lose more golf balls than tennis balls! Lots of rec centers to do some Zumba, and yoga and a few clubs to share similar interest. I expressed a question why others of ethnic background have not found it so appealing. Some on this thread have expressed they like it the way it is but I think the Villages would a be more interesting place to live with some diversity.