Article in Buzzfeed about The Villages

[Wandatime]

I just read this article in BuzzFeed News and am amazed at how little the writer got correct. At one point he starts a sentence with a man asking a question and by the end of the sentence the man has become a woman. Plus all the usual hoop-de-do regarding STD's, swinging, nymphomaniac women, etc. I have no idea where all this is happening, but if it is happening in The Villages it must be .0001% of the population. It is a rather long article but I had fun mentally listing all the inconsistencies.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/likethebreadorthedressing/seven-days-and-nights-in-the-worlds-largest-rowdiest-retirem#3ynnowh

[dewilson58]

Very long.............I think I napped.

They have to sell paper some how.

[Bogie Shooter]

Another cut and paste article.
How do they get away with doing this and get paid to contribute to another outlet?

[ROCKETMAN]

I am sure a lot of villagers will say there are a lot of untruths in this article but 95 per cent of the population is off the street and bars by 7 o'clock because happy hour is over. I have many single friends who would agree with his views on the night-life in the villages. Just more free advertising for the villages.

[njbchbum]

A bit of background on Buzzfeed News:
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/how-buzzfeed-makes-money-090822620.html

Seems no better than tabloid.

[redwitch]

I dunno, I found it to be pretty accurate and unbiased. The author liked TV enough to tell his parents to move here. He talked to all kinds of people, gave some cons but a lot pros. Sounds like he had a great time in his seven-day stay.

[Wandatime]

I loved the part where people put a loofah sponge on their antennae to indicate they swing! Now I'll be completely obsessed with trying to spot loofah sponges!

[rubicon]

Looking at the bigger picture if you consider how unethical or totally partisan many of the national journalist are it is easy to understand how easy it is for a reporter in a smaller setting to violate every ethical principle .

In fact there seems to be only a few avenues of honest to goodness journalistic investigation and reporting.

[Bob McKeever]

I guess I'll never get lucky because I don't have an antenna on my golf cart!

[Wandatime]

Looking at the bigger picture if you consider how unethical or totally partisan many of the national journalist are it is easy to understand how easy it is for a reporter in a smaller setting to violate every ethical principle .

In fact there seems to be only a few avenues of honest to goodness journalistic investigation and reporting.

I was discussing this very subject with a friend at lunch yesterday. It does seem as if journalism has degraded to infotainment. There was "breaking news" this past week about an active shooter at Fort Lee, Virginia and the base was put on lock down. Turns out a female soldier had committed suicide.

Unfortunately, when vehicles (newspapers, radio, television, internet) for news rely on ratings/money to push their priorities, integrity, fact finding and truth will give way to getting the next big story out there, whether it is factual or not.

And I'm betting the same concerns about the news were raised in the 1700's and the 1800's and the 1900's. I try to be discerning about the news I see, but sometimes the thread of truth is very hard to find.

[ROCKETMAN]

I dunno, I found it to be pretty accurate and unbiased. The author liked TV enough to tell his parents to move here. He talked to all kinds of people, gave some cons but a lot pros. Sounds like he had a great time in his seven-day stay.

I agree with you. Another thing people forget is that residents of leesburg, fruitland park, wildwood, and lady lake also frequent our night spots. As far as katie bells, it is easy for a non resident to get in. You just walk behind when a large group goes in and point to the people in front and just mouth were with them and you will get in. There not that fussy.:welcome::welcome:

[manaboutown]

It reads like he had a great time!

[Bogie Shooter]

More views.
Fastest-Growing Metro Area in U.S. Has No Crime or Kids - Bloomberg (http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-27/fastest-growing-metro-area-in-u-s-has-no-crime-or-kids.html)

http://www.slate.com/articles/life/florida/features/2013/oh_florida/the_villages_scandals_irs_stds_golf_carts_and_made _up_history.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2657325/Ten-women-man-black-market-Viagra-thriving-swingers-scene-Welcome-The-Villages-Florida-elderly-residents-Sex-Square-cocktail-honor-woman-68-arrested-public-sex-toyboy.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/01/books/review/Leland-t.html?_r=0

[Sophie11]

True story - we were in NY last week and my husband was talking to a patron in the deli about how great it was to love in the villages and another customer comes in on the conversation and said the villages has the highest cases of STDs in the nation and she continued with " we own a home in West Palm beach and are in the process of trying to rent it out so we can spend this winter in …..The Villages" LOL

[janmcn]

For those that don't understand the IRS investigation, this article gives a good overview of what's going on in easy to understand language, not legal mumbo-jumbo.

[graciegirl]

Sometimes I wonder why some people ONLY post negative things and why some people ONLY post positive things.

And when something negative about The Villages comes up, some people practically drool.

[Happydaz]

Sometimes I wonder why some people ONLY post negative things and why some people ONLY post positive things.

And when something negative about The Villages comes up, some people practically drool.

Many people do not share the joy of other people's good fortune. Many younger people do not like to see older people enjoying life and doing many of the things they wish they could do. Let's face it, starting your day with a newspaper and a cup of coffee, then going for a bike ride, maybe some pickle ball or attending a favorite club, then lunch, a swim in the pool, maybe some golf, dinner, maybe with friends and then a walk around the block, or a night of dancing at the squares, or a concert at the Savannah Center sounds too good to be true and many people get very resentful when you talk like this. I remember how much I ate in New England and how lethargic I was all winter. It even started going down hill in the fall. Limited physical activity even in the summer, as you couldn't walk on the country roads as cars would run you down. Life was not much fun and I felt old. No more! I moved to the Villages! I know a good deal when I see one!

[redwitch]

Sometimes I wonder why some people ONLY post negative things and why some people ONLY post positive things.

And when something negative about The Villages comes up, some people practically drool.

Gracie, I hope you read the whole article. He really liked TV and it showed. Yes, he mentioned some of the negatives and some of the stereotypes but all in all, it was a very fair piece. Had I not lived here and read this piece, I would definitely want to visit.

[Patty55]

I guess I'll never get lucky because I don't have an antenna on my golf cart!

Whoa, I don't have one either. What's with the loofah? Is there some sort of a dirty joke here that I'm missing?

[NECHFalcon68]

to NJBCHBUM

A little off topic, but I find your signature humorous,,,
"Why do I use valet parking?......Because the valet never forgets where they parked my car!"

Especially in Philly, when they park it in a towaway zone....

[Ruthtomnorma3]

To all of the previous Bloggers. ...I agree....Walter Cronkite would really have a fit viewing what is put out there now...
"Breaking News" has been over used ......like "you saw it first,".....
Back to the drawing board...

[zcaveman]

Whoa, I don't have one either. What's with the loofah? Is there some sort of a dirty joke here that I'm missing?

I guess I am confused also. I was always told that people put loofahs and tennis balls on their antennas so they could find their cars in the parking lot.

Z

[Halibut]

I dunno, I found it to be pretty accurate and unbiased. The author liked TV enough to tell his parents to move here. He talked to all kinds of people, gave some cons but a lot pros. Sounds like he had a great time in his seven-day stay.

Me, too. I thought it was one of the better articles I've read about TV. His death-match pickle ball game made me laugh.

[JRichm369]

The whole article was kind of hilarious, The Villages is a community that represents over 100.000 residents. I have traveled most of the world and in any community that has that many people you can find what ever you are looking for the good, the bad, the ugly, they are all there. I have also been able to observe what is provided for the residents as well as what is expected "TAXES AND FEES" from the residents, my conclusion is that the 100,000 plus residents including myself get more bang for their buck from the "Developer" than the dictator of other less benevolent societies provides for their communities.

[asianthree]

I guess I am confused also. I was always told that people put loofahs and tennis balls on their antennas so they could find their cars in the parking lot.

Z

So that's why everyone has their name on the golf cart. Easy to find or new signal for fun

[Deseylou]

I found it entertaining
But I found ten use of the F-bomb unnecessary
Debbie

[MikeV]

I was entertained by the article. Lots of untruths but some accuracy too.

[graciegirl]

I was entertained by the article. Lots of untruths but some accuracy too.

I agree with you Mike and Redwitch.


I am wondering what his hosts, the Ozbolts, feel about his portrayal of them. I wonder if they post on here?

The only thing that I thought was waaaaay out there was his section on the sexual behavior of villagers and his resource was a server???????

I think I recognized some people that I know from this forum that might be seen in a different light by someone who didn't know them well or care about them.

It makes me feel a LITTLE TINY bit defensive and spied upon because as anyone who knows me at all, knows I love this place.
I know this; a lot of savvy, spicy, warm, funny, caring, and full of life people chose this place to live out their retirement years and I am glad to be here with them.

I had to look up Buzzfeed.

[ROCKETMAN]

How can anyone comment about the sexual behavior in the villages unless your around late at night and actually observe or talk to the late night crowd. I wish some of the posters who are think nothing other than the norm goes on would of gone to the waterfront hotel on thursday nights when petrina was there. It was very entertaining to say the least, everyone just having a good time and not shy about it.

[manaboutown]

Actions say more than words. He wrote that he called his parents and encouraged them to sell their home up north and move down to The Villages. That says a lot about his true feelings about The Villages.

Of course, his publisher wanted to see some exciting revelations about the personal lives of some of the more out-there folks to get and hold reader interest. That is the name of the journalism game.

[The Mountaineer]

I am sure a lot of villagers will say there are a lot of untruths in this article but 95 per cent of the population is off the street and bars by 7 o'clock because happy hour is over. I have many single friends who would agree with his views on the night-life in the villages. Just more free advertising for the villages.

This will draw more people to The Villages hoping for happy, endless euphoria. But isn't that what we saw when we were there in December for two weeks. Which explains why we're coming for three months, starting in January. We want to join in the fun. It may not be Sodom and Gomorrah, but there is plenty to enjoy in The Villages. That's good enough for me, even if I don't get lap dances from all the women. :smiley:

[tippyclubb]

I loved the part where people put a loofah sponge on their antennae to indicate they swing! Now I'll be completely obsessed with trying to spot loofah sponges!


Don't forget to look for women at City Fire in LSL wearing gold shoes.

Before we sold our house the 16 year old neighbor asked where we were moving. When we told him his reply was you mean that place where all the old people have STD. I was shocked and told him the truth about TV.

That was not the first time someone has said that about TV to us, and I had to tell them the truth too. Unfortunately, it seems it's a stigma that can't be changed. Such a shame outsiders focus on the negative. It upsets me to hear it, but I know what a wonderful place TV is and plan on spending the rest my life having fun there. Let them say what they will, we know the truth.

[sunnyatlast]

I wonder why the writer doesn't do a similar lifestyle stay at Martha's Vineyard, to analyze and write about all the rich white people "doing it" in their millionaires' club playground THERE.

But the answer is obvious: He or his father and 99% of TV residents could not afford to live or even vacation in Martha's Vineyard.

[Bogie Shooter]

I wonder why the writer doesn't do a similar lifestyle stay at Martha's Vineyard, to analyze and write about all the rich white people "doing it" in their millionaires' club playground THERE.

But the answer is obvious: He or his father and 99% of TV residents could not afford to live or even vacation in Martha's Vineyard.

I bet more than you think could vacation there...........maybe even more than you think could live there.

[sunnyatlast]

I bet more than you think could vacation there...........maybe even more than you think could live there.

Actually, you're probably right about that. But here, we don't know who the millionaires among us are because they don't flaunt it.

[Patty55]

So that's why everyone has their name on the golf cart. Easy to find or new signal for fun

I guess having only one name signals "I'm open for business".

[Laurie2]

About the tedium of that STD remark we keep hearing from people who never have been here, I just make 'em do math in their heads.

It was always about percentage.

I say, "Let's say there are two cases and then two more show up. What is the percentage increase? Huh? Huh? So what is it?"

Then I follow up by making them tell me the actual number of cases that would be.

And then I ask them if they know how many people live here.

Then I ask them if that raw number would grab headlines like that percentage.

It's elementary.

[gerryann]

Seriously.....you folks that like this trash article....did you really read this garbage? I for one am embarrassed by it. Is this paragraph from the article the truth? .....Really??

A waitress tells me about key parties at an Italian restaurant on Sumter Landing: “Golf cart keys get put in a fishbowl in the middle of the table, wives wait in the parking lot for their mystery dates.” I’m told about a prostitution ring that has recently been broken up. Orgies are said to be a regular occurrence. I am warned about women prowling around bars indiscriminately offering oral sex. There is reportedly a black market for Viagra. One of Bob’s buddies confesses to watching a couple **** in a golf cart on a dead-end street. I’m told that sticking a loofah on your cart antenna signifies you’re into swinging. So does wearing a crimson button. According to multiple people, wearing gold shoes or letting your shirt tag stick out in the back signals you’re on the prowl. I hear a story about a scorned woman painting “YOU ****ING PRICK YOU GAVE ME HERPES!” in red letters

[BarbaraM]

I just saw a car at Colony Plaza today with one on their car. I was wondering why they did that.

[sunnyatlast]

About the tedium of that STD remark we keep hearing from people who never have been here, I just make 'em do math in their heads.

It was always about percentage.

I say, "Let's say there are two cases and then two more show up. What is the percentage increase? Huh? Huh? So what is it?"

Then I follow up by making them tell me the actual number of cases that would be.

And then I ask them if they know how many people live here.

Then I ask them if that raw number would grab headlines like that percentage.

It's elementary.

Add to that:

Nobody is from here (TV). All STDs were brought from the pool of them in the carrier's former bar scene or swingers' group.

[logdog]

Seriously.....you folks that like this trash article....did you really read this garbage? I for one am embarrassed by it. Is this paragraph from the article the truth? .....Really??

A waitress tells me about key parties at an Italian restaurant on Sumter Landing: “Golf cart keys get put in a fishbowl in the middle of the table, wives wait in the parking lot for their mystery dates.” I’m told about a prostitution ring that has recently been broken up. Orgies are said to be a regular occurrence. I am warned about women prowling around bars indiscriminately offering oral sex. There is reportedly a black market for Viagra. One of Bob’s buddies confesses to watching a couple **** in a golf cart on a dead-end street. I’m told that sticking a loofah on your cart antenna signifies you’re into swinging. So does wearing a crimson button. According to multiple people, wearing gold shoes or letting your shirt tag stick out in the back signals you’re on the prowl. I hear a story about a scorned woman painting “YOU ****ING PRICK YOU GAVE ME HERPES!” in red letters

That was only one small paragraph out of a 25 page article. I thought it was presented as more humorous than derogatory. I've heard most of those rumors myself... but not about the loofah (probably explains why they can't keep them in stock at Walmart).

Anyway, I found few inaccuracies and the piece was overall complimentary to The Villages. He did wind up recommending this place for his folks.

[gerryann]

That was only one small paragraph out of a 25 page article. I thought it was presented as more humorous than derogatory. I've heard most of those rumors myself... but not about the loofah (probably explains why they can't keep them in stock at Walmart).

Anyway, I found few inaccuracies and the piece was overall complimentary to The Villages. He did wind up recommending this place for his folks.

Well, I guess it's true then.

[Tennisnut]

Seriously.....you folks that like this trash article....did you really read this garbage? I for one am embarrassed by it. Is this paragraph from the article the truth? .....Really??

A waitress tells me about key parties at an Italian restaurant on Sumter Landing: “Golf cart keys get put in a fishbowl in the middle of the table, wives wait in the parking lot for their mystery dates.” I’m told about a prostitution ring that has recently been broken up. Orgies are said to be a regular occurrence. I am warned about women prowling around bars indiscriminately offering oral sex. There is reportedly a black market for Viagra. One of Bob’s buddies confesses to watching a couple **** in a golf cart on a dead-end street. I’m told that sticking a loofah on your cart antenna signifies you’re into swinging. So does wearing a crimson button. According to multiple people, wearing gold shoes or letting your shirt tag stick out in the back signals you’re on the prowl. I hear a story about a scorned woman painting “YOU ****ING PRICK YOU GAVE ME HERPES!” in red letters

Actually, I thought I was reading an excerpt from one of the tabloids in the grocery store cashier line. I doubt there is very little semblance of any fact checking by the author. I thought he was going to say that a few aliens from outer space also live here.

[gerryann]

Actually, I thought I was reading an excerpt from one of the tabloids in the grocery store cashier line. I doubt there is very little semblance of any fact checking by the author. I thought he was going to say that a few aliens from outer space also live here.

True....so, why are so many defending it as if they are proud to live in a place described in this article? Not everyone has friends and family that think the villages is a good retirement spot. Some have had to boast about TV to friends and family and hope they get the correct picture of what it's all about. Some have had to listen to the garbage about STD's, and defend their new hometown. Then we have folks who keep referring to this stupid article. Someone decided that we haven't seen enough about the article so posted it on Facebook today. Ridiculous!!!! Sorry Tessinut, this rant is not geared at you :)

[Doro22]

That was only one small paragraph out of a 25 page article. I thought it was presented as more humorous than derogatory. I've heard most of those rumors myself... but not about the loofah (probably explains why they can't keep them in stock at Walmart).

Anyway, I found few inaccuracies and the piece was overall complimentary to The Villages. He did wind up recommending this place for his folks.

We have two golf carts & no antennas. As I drive around from Brownwood to Bonifay to Sumter Landing & points beyond...I don't see any golf carts with antennas. Lol! :p

[2BNTV]

The article painted a somewhat more accurate picture than Andrew Bleckman's "Leisureville" which makes a good door stop. :D

I for one would like to see these type of journalists spent a decent amount of time in TV, before they write hearsay, of some people opinions.

The amount of sex going on is so comical. He makes it sound like all men/women say hello, and ask if they can have sex with you in the same sentence. The people I hang out with are the complete opposite, of this exaggerated portrayal.

The STD article was irresponsible journalism, in that it didn't mention the rise of STD in TV, was no higher than the nations average.

Some people don't bother to check things out for themselves but become sheep in following other unsubstantiated statements.

[Halibut]

How can anyone comment about the sexual behavior in the villages unless your around late at night and actually observe or talk to the late night crowd. I wish some of the posters who are think nothing other than the norm goes on would of gone to the waterfront hotel on thursday nights when petrina was there. It was very entertaining to say the least, everyone just having a good time and not shy about it.

I don't know about any of it from first hand experience, but why wouldn't there be swingers groups here, just like there are lesbians? Neither group is the majority, but the writer never claimed otherwise. Seemed clear to me that he was describing both his own experiences as well as relaying some of what he was told by various people he met here. Does everyone also doubt his experience in OBG with those residents or is it just the "embarrasing" sex parts that you call into question?

[graciegirl]

I think a lot of it was exaggerated in order to sell it to Buzzfeed. There is no doubt in my mind that Leisureville was written to sell. Sex sells.

I personally haven't seen a lot of what he describes, but it could be going on. I don't stay out and drink late.

We all know what our own reality is here.

We were driving home just now from a friends house where we played cards, I again said that not even the mega rich in the past; the Vanderbilts and the Rockefellers, could have a ten mile drive with such beauty as we see here, miles of no trash, beautifully groomed bushes and lovely trees and flowers and well maintained homes and lawns and people tooting along in their cute golf carts. We all live like we are very wealthy

and we all act like we always have.

[gerryann]

I think a lot of it was exaggerated in order to sell it to Buzzfeed. There is no doubt in my mind that Leisureville was written to sell. Sex sells.

I personally haven't seen a lot of what he describes, but it could be going on. I don't stay out and drink late.

We all know what our own reality is here.

We were driving home just now from a friends house where we played cards, I again said that not even the mega rich in the past; the Vanderbilts and the Rockefellers, could have a ten mile drive with such beauty as we see here, miles of no trash, beautifully groomed bushes and lovely trees and flowers and well maintained homes and lawns and people tooting along in their cute golf carts. We all live like we are very wealthy

and we all act like we always have.

Good post Gracie......you tell it like it REALLY is.

[Barefoot]

.... why wouldn't there be swingers groups here, just like there are lesbians?

Perhaps because being a swinger is a lifestyle choice that takes a lot of time, effort, planning, energy and testosterone. (Or so I'm told). :angel:

[Irish Red]

I would hardly qualify the writer's ramblings as journalism. It wasn't researched, it was crude in parts, and contained numerous inaccuracies.
Also it was too long.
Today, anybody can write anything they are propelled to and post it on a blog on the internet.

[redwitch]

So what if there are swingers here (and I'm sure there are -- population too big to not have a little of everything). Those that know and love you, know your choices and accept you warts and all. Those who imply you will change because of where you live don't know you, don't love you and don't deserve more than a shrug of the shoulders and a "So what?"

I'm tired of people thinking they have to defend their choices and TV. Had any of my friends commented on the sexual mores here, I might have replied "not my style"and continued with my planned move. It is a beautiful place to live with many things to do, all geared to keep us as happy and busy as we choose. What more needs to be said?

[KathieI]

As I think you all know, I, for one, do stay out late most nights, not necessarily drinking but dancing and having a great time, and I do not see any of these activities going on. I agree with GG that every night while driving home, I'm so thankful that I live in such a lovely place where I can drive late in the night and not be afraid and enjoy all the beauty around me. I am definitely not a "swinger" but enjoy people having fun, where else can you do this and feel so safe?

[Halibut]

Perhaps because being a swinger is a lifestyle choice that takes a lot of time, effort, planning, energy and testosterone. (Or so I'm told). :)

Right, Bare? So much maintenance and upkeep! More power to them, but it makes me tired just thinking about it. Probably they all eat a whole food, plant-based diet. ;)

[Barefoot]

Right, Bare? So much maintenance and upkeep! More power to them, but it makes me tired just thinking about it. Probably they all eat a whole food, plant-based diet. ;)

:a20: I think most Wrinklies probably prefer playing golf to Swinging!
But there one guy in pristine good health that might have the energy and I think he is single ....

[graciegirl]

Right, Bare? So much maintenance and upkeep! More power to them, but it makes me tired just thinking about it. Probably they all eat a whole food, plant-based diet. ;)


omg! I think I know who Mr. Midnight is.

[manaboutown]

When Blechman visited him Mr. Midnight had several take out food containers on his kitchen counter and a refrigerator magnet that read something like "If we are what we eat I'm cheap, fast and easy".

By the way, a lady friend of mine's parents were swingers...in Miami, Florida. Her father is still alive. Recently, well into his eighties, he required surgery. When the doctor was instructing him what he could and could not do the night before surgery the gentleman asked the physician if he could have sex. The doctor thought he was kidding but he was not!

[Barefoot]

omg! I think I know who Mr. Midnight is.

I'm sure we'll hear from him shortly. :icon_twisted:

[Wandatime]

With the population in TV being what it is, of course there are some swingers and some orgies and too much alcohol on occasion and some bad judgements at times. However, in my opinion, and it is just an opinion, the article implied all of this and more was occurring in many places by many people and it was so overt that it was worth writing about in a most salacious manner.

I would give the author more journalistic credit if he had written that, like any mid-sized town, we have our share of swingers, druggies, alcoholics, etc. and that age apparently doesn't stop one from engaging in those behaviors. Of course, that wouldn't have sold as well.

At any rate, I need to go now -- I have to make a shaker of martinis and get out the loofah pads . . . I've got company coming over later. :icon_wink:

[CFrance]

///

[Barefoot]

At any rate, I need to go now -- I have to make a shaker of martinis and get out the loofah pads . . . I've got company coming over later. :icon_wink:

Sorry Wanda, we'll have to reschedule, we can't make tonight's group meeting! :icon_wink:

[Stitcher girl]

In general I found the article positive about TV. He was very impressed with the ambiance of the Villages, clearly saw the level of activity available and for golfers the paradise of playing endlessly. He also managed to interject the diversity and cultural differences we enjoy. I found his comment about the recreation centers being so elaborate very amusing. I have always felt their decorated themes are over the top. Just like the signs on the "historic" building in the town squares.....the stuff of theme parks and very quirky.
Then he spoke about the underside of the Villages which most certainly exists. We do not live in a bubble, much as we would like to believe it. I do believe there are men and women cruising the town squares looking for "companionship". We have folks who drink to much and drive, there are robberies and domestic squabbles, neighborhood disputes and rule breakers in every village. That's life in the city, and that is exactly what we are ...... a small city.

[missypie]

Just didn't care for the F word used as the writer did. It is used as a shock value. I have always felt that writers that can not express themselves adequately use these words.