snowbirds

[dave harris]

Why are there so many derogatory remarks about snowbirds? In a comment today I saw this one for example, "as the snow starts to fly up North there will be more traffic everywhere and I wonder how long before the next inebriated driver blows through the gate again."

[redwitch]

Some people like the quiet of the summer. Snowbirds bring a vibrancy. Lines increase, traffic becomes interesting to say the least, preferred tee times are taken. To me, the only truly negative to snowbirds is that it takes many of them a week or two to remember they don't need to rush everywhere.

We need the snowbirds. They shop a lot. They eat out a lot. They pay amenities year round. We frogs get the benefits of this. No snowbirds equals no stores, no restaurants, less rec centers. More importantly, they remind us how wonderful TV truly is. Their joy at being here is palpable and contagious.

Have no idea why some blame everything on snowbirds. Drunks are here year round. Gates are knocked down year round. Speeders are here year round. Guess it is easier to blame things on part-timers than it is to look in the mirror and realize the problem is you, your neighbor, your friend.

[tomwed]

I think he means that when the snowbirds come down the rest of us do a lot more drinking because we can't get on the course.

[2BNTV]

Some people like the quiet of the summer. Snowbirds bring a vibrancy. Lines increase, traffic becomes interesting to say the least, preferred tee times are taken. To me, the only truly negative to snowbirds is that it takes many of them a week or two to remember they don't need to rush everywhere.

We need the snowbirds. They shop a lot. They eat out a lot. They pay amenities year round. We frogs get the benefits of this. No snowbirds equals no stores, no restaurants, less rec centers. More importantly, they remind us how wonderful TV truly is. Their joy at being here is palpable and contagious.

Have no idea why some blame everything on snowbirds. Drunks are here year round. Gates are knocked down year round. Speeders are here year round. Guess it is easier to blame things on part-timers than it is to look in the mirror and realize the problem is you, your neighbor, your friend.

:BigApplause:

A couple of my friends are snowbirds and I am delighted when they return for the short time, they are here.

[TomH]

Some people like the quiet of the summer. Snowbirds bring a vibrancy. Lines increase, traffic becomes interesting to say the least, preferred tee times are taken. To me, the only truly negative to snowbirds is that it takes many of them a week or two to remember they don't need to rush everywhere.

We need the snowbirds. They shop a lot. They eat out a lot. They pay amenities year round. We frogs get the benefits of this. No snowbirds equals no stores, no restaurants, less rec centers. More importantly, they remind us how wonderful TV truly is. Their joy at being here is palpable and contagious.

Have no idea why some blame everything on snowbirds. Drunks are here year round. Gates are knocked down year round. Speeders are here year round. Guess it is easier to blame things on part-timers than it is to look in the mirror and realize the problem is you, your neighbor, your friend.

Well done - enough said.

[ajbrown]

Two of our favorite people are snow birds... 'right honey'?

[Blessed2BNTV]

Some people like the quiet of the summer. Snowbirds bring a vibrancy. Lines increase, traffic becomes interesting to say the least, preferred tee times are taken. To me, the only truly negative to snowbirds is that it takes many of them a week or two to remember they don't need to rush everywhere.

We need the snowbirds. They shop a lot. They eat out a lot. They pay amenities year round. We frogs get the benefits of this. No snowbirds equals no stores, no restaurants, less rec centers. More importantly, they remind us how wonderful TV truly is. Their joy at being here is palpable and contagious.

Have no idea why some blame everything on snowbirds. Drunks are here year round. Gates are knocked down year round. Speeders are here year round. Guess it is easier to blame things on part-timers than it is to look in the mirror and realize the problem is you, your neighbor, your friend.

What she says:agree::agree:

Thanks for saying it so well!

[pooh]

Some people like the quiet of the summer. Snowbirds bring a vibrancy. Lines increase, traffic becomes interesting to say the least, preferred tee times are taken. To me, the only truly negative to snowbirds is that it takes many of them a week or two to remember they don't need to rush everywhere.

We need the snowbirds. They shop a lot. They eat out a lot. They pay amenities year round. We frogs get the benefits of this. No snowbirds equals no stores, no restaurants, less rec centers. More importantly, they remind us how wonderful TV truly is. Their joy at being here is palpable and contagious.

Have no idea why some blame everything on snowbirds. Drunks are here year round. Gates are knocked down year round. Speeders are here year round. Guess it is easier to blame things on part-timers than it is to look in the mirror and realize the problem is you, your neighbor, your friend.

:BigApplause: :BigApplause: :BigApplause:

[Erijo]

Well said Redwitch!

[graciegirl]

Here is my poem again;

Welcome Home Snowbirds.
The traffic is denser
The long lines are tenser
The northern birdies are back

The wait is much longer
The accents are stronger
The northern birdies are back

The squares are more dancey
Tee times are more chancey
The northern birdies are back.

Old friends are returning
The night oil is burning
The northern birdies are back.

There's more entertaining
And much more complaining
The northern birdies are back.

Not much room at the market
And no where to park it
The northern birdies are back

Rookies on the roadways
Folks driving in strange ways
The northern birdies are back.

New ones and old ones
younger ones and older ones
The northern birdies are back.

Welcome HOME! We missed you.

[njbchbum]

Why are there so many derogatory remarks about snowbirds? In a comment today I saw this one for example, "as the snow starts to fly up North there will be more traffic everywhere and I wonder how long before the next inebriated driver blows through the gate again."

Some people simply have no respect.

[manaboutown]

Think of snowbirds as money couriers, bringing "the green". Eventually many of them turn green in that they become frogs. Just don't let oneself become green with envy.

Seriously, I have resided in several tourist destinations. In some areas the locals resent the tourists' presence which drives prices up, crowds the roads and restaurants and so on. Yet the locals love the tourists' money, especially where the locals are not as materially well off as the tourists.

All in all it is what it is. Florida in the winter is a crowded state.

[rubicon]

Well I have two thoughts. First I suppose seasonal residents (snowbirds) might just be complaining that full time residents have had their turn in the sun and are crowding them with their presence.

some full time residents view seasonal residents (snowbirds) with the same varying views that they did with snow. The hate to see it coming because its in their way of enjoying themselves. I love to play in the snow or in this case I love that my snowbird friends are back and we can play. Finally we have the full time residents who just blink and deflate and say Cést la vie.

Cést la vie

[JoMar]

Do you notice that when arguments are presented that don't agree with the OP's...they go away and won't defend their opinion. Wonder why?

[Wandatime]

I love Snowbirds! More potential friends! And they are so danged happy to be here.

I can remember my first visit to The Villages; I had the best time even though we got screwed up using the golf cart and WENT OVER THE JOHN E PARKER BRIDGE ON THE CAR SIDE! They really should have some sort of emergency crossover, LOL! We were absolutely mortified but people in golf carts kept laughing and calling out, "Don't worry, it happens all the time!" I only hope I can make a newbie or Snowbird as welcome as those folks did.

[golf2140]

I'm not so sure it's the snow birds that cause traffic issues, etc. My issue is with all the renters, their here on vacation and who cares about anything else.
( Just my two cents)

[boomerbaby]

Gracie that was great and very true.

[Barefoot]

Some people like the quiet of the summer. Snowbirds bring a vibrancy. Lines increase, traffic becomes interesting to say the least, preferred tee times are taken. To me, the only truly negative to snowbirds is that it takes many of them a week or two to remember they don't need to rush everywhere.

We need the snowbirds. They shop a lot. They eat out a lot. They pay amenities year round. We frogs get the benefits of this. No snowbirds equals no stores, no restaurants, less rec centers. More importantly, they remind us how wonderful TV truly is. Their joy at being here is palpable and contagious.

Have no idea why some blame everything on snowbirds. Drunks are here year round. Gates are knocked down year round. Speeders are here year round. Guess it is easier to blame things on part-timers than it is to look in the mirror and realize the problem is you, your neighbor, your friend.

:mademyday: As Seasonal Residents, we've found that most Frogs are welcoming and unselfish.

[marianne237]

Gracie, your poem says so much with so few words. Thank you.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Why are there so many derogatory remarks about snowbirds? In a comment today I saw this one for example, "as the snow starts to fly up North there will be more traffic everywhere and I wonder how long before the next inebriated driver blows through the gate again."

Some people can't afford two homes and have to suffer through the hellish heat in FL all summer.... may be those are likely the ones making the remarks. :blahblahblah:

[bettymg1866]

the "birds" pay their taxes and their ammenities and we full timers would not live as nicely as we do without their help.... BUT they are unaware of how to drive in the Villages (roundabouts) and for some reaseon they are extremely nasty to the working class in the villages. I work full time and have been yelled at and cussed at and called derogotory names by the "birds" because they are used to a different lifestyle up north. This is not New York City or Chicago or Boston... The Villages has an "extreme Customer Service Policy" year round and we treat those as we wish to be treated. I live in the Villages, Work in the Villages and Shop and Dine in the Villages.... I deserve some respect too.. I just wish i could get that across to some of those who feel as if we owe them something.

[fb32162]

Many rude people are clueless they are being rude. They often think they are being "assertive" or expressing "facts". Others simply don't care. When I first moved to the deep south from the east coast, I was struck by how many people disliked "Yankees". After living there a while, I came to realize that many newcomers from the north often acted a bit superior to the local folks. They acted as if how things were done back home was the "right way" and if it was done differently in the south, it was "wrong". My local auto repair shop had a little sign at their counter that always cracked me up. It said "We don't care how Y'all did it up north"

[njbchbum]

bettymg1866 - It is most unfortunate that you choose to paint all of us snowbirds as "nasty to the working class in the villages." And those of us who do come from the northern States where navigationg traffic circles is a daily occurance most certainly do know how to navigate them - and we do it safely!

As far as your deserving respect...remember... respect is something that is earned. Manners are learned - and many of us learn better than others.

[sunnyatlast]

Why are there so many derogatory remarks about snowbirds? In a comment today I saw this one for example, "as the snow starts to fly up North there will be more traffic everywhere and I wonder how long before the next inebriated driver blows through the gate again."

Because they are small-minded and can't find anything else to b*tch about.

We and our whole neighborhood are thrilled to see our feathered friends come back in Oct. and Nov. We miss them while they're gone!

[Happinow]

For me, I see that when the snowbirds come back its a given that the traffic increase, which I can handle. But, they seem to be going around with their hair on fire. Some come from larger cities and are accustomed to getting from point A to point B fast and without much care of who else may be on the roadway. And, they do seem a bit pushy in the restaurants, stores and out and about in general. Again, that probably goes along with the more aggressive lifestyle where they came from. We, here in the villages, for the most part, like to take our time and appreciate all that life has to offer here. We may drive slower, take our time in the stores and probably say excuse me when we cut in front of of another person while walking. I see a lot of a " get out of my way" attitude when they arrive and like they have priority over those who live here full time. I really wish they would slow down, be more courteous and enjoy all that The Villages has to offer wothout being aggressive. It's just my observation and I'm sure not all snowbirds are in this category.

[Barefoot]

the "birds" pay their taxes and their ammenities and we full timers would not live as nicely as we do without their help.... BUT they are unaware of how to drive in the Villages (roundabouts) and for some reaseon they are extremely nasty to the working class in the villages. I work full time and have been yelled at and cussed at and called derogotory names by the "birds" because they are used to a different lifestyle up north. This is not New York City or Chicago or Boston... The Villages has an "extreme Customer Service Policy" year round and we treat those as we wish to be treated. I live in the Villages, Work in the Villages and Shop and Dine in the Villages.... I deserve some respect too.. I just wish i could get that across to some of those who feel as if we owe them something.

For me, I see that when the snowbirds come back its a given that the traffic increase, which I can handle. But, they seem to be going around with their hair on fire. Some come from larger cities and are accustomed to getting from point A to point B fast and without much care of who else may be on the roadway. And, they do seem a bit pushy in the restaurants, stores and out and about in general. Again, that probably goes along with the more aggressive lifestyle where they came from. We, here in the villages, for the most part, like to take our time and appreciate all that life has to offer here. We may drive slower, take our time in the stores and probably say excuse me when we cut in front of of another person while walking. I see a lot of a " get out of my way" attitude when they arrive and like they have priority over those who live here full time. I really wish they would slow down, be more courteous and enjoy all that The Villages has to offer wothout being aggressive. It's just my observation and I'm sure not all snowbirds are in this category.

:eek: Whoa nelly, there are some sweeping generalizations going on here!
Do you think it's possible that some people may have the same impression of Frogs, similar to the things you are saying about Snowbirds? :confused:

[lynxville]

There is a development by me that has a sign that says "1000 happy homeowners and one grouch." Some people are miserable in there own life and just complain about everything. Try to imagine what Tv would be without Northerners?

[2BNTV]

I'll speak for myself in that I know when I used to come for a lifestyle visit, I use to rush around to get to see everything, in a short period of time. I didn't want to miss anything. Possibly, some snowbirds feel the same way.

Once you are here full-time, there is no need to rush around and one can develop a more relaxed lifestyle!!!

Some people are genuinely nice, and others can behave badly, in certain situations. For those who think they have earned to right to be rude and obnoxious, please stay away from me.

I have found that the great majority of people to be friendly and welcoming. For those that aren't, I reserve the right to walk away, and continue to enjoy myself with the people I do like.

Snowbirds bring a lot of revenue to TV and are needed. The one's I know are great people!!!

[PugLover]

Dear Redwitch - Well said and thank you!

Unlike some of fortunate folks who were able to retire immediately to TV, some of us have to be Snowflake and Snowbird first before we experience the "Good Life" with the rest of you.

[Madelaine Amee]

For those of us who choose to live in the "sun belt" we know and accept that the winter will be crowded. Anywhere the sun shines in the winter is crowded. We used to winter on the Gulf Coast between Clearwater and St. Pete and I can assure you the locals really did not want us there. I was behind a white Caddy with a bumper sticker that read "When I get old I'm going to die my hair yellow and drive real slow".

If you think it is busy here in the winter, try driving Gulf Blvd, try getting into any of the restaurants (even for breakfast) - there is one in Reddington Shores, I believe it is called The Green Frog, where the breakfast wait is two hours in the winter, try going to John's Pass and getting into a restaurant for lunch.

Anywhere that is warm in the winter is going to be overcrowded.

Oh, and to the poster who said Florida summer heat is hellish - you are so very wrong! Florida is absolutely gorgeous in the summer .................. many of us love it. Many of us have done the "two homes" routine and grew to hate it and not because we could not afford two homes either!

[Cisco Kid]

:mademyday: As Seasonal Residents, we've found that most Frogs are welcoming and unselfish.


Instant a frog really just a toad ?

[Steve9930]

Why are there so many derogatory remarks about snowbirds? In a comment today I saw this one for example, "as the snow starts to fly up North there will be more traffic everywhere and I wonder how long before the next inebriated driver blows through the gate again."

I do not see snowbird mentioned anywhere in that comment.

[dewilson58]

:eek: Whoa nelly, there are some sweeping generalizations going on here!
Do you think it's possible that some people may have the same impression of Frogs, similar to the things you are saying about Snowbirds? :confused:

:BigApplause:

[dbussone]

Our seasonal friends are welcome here. I can always tell when they start arriving...our church explodes with increased attendance. Then I search out friends I've not seen for months.

[Mikeod]

I always chuckle when I see these threads. In our neighborhood, we look forward to the return of our seasonal friends. They don't cause any problems. It's those "other" seasonal residents that clog up the golf courses and restaurants, LOL. As an example, our weekly golf group has increased from about 12 players per week to 24, and more friends are on the way.

I always find it better to consider the high season as normal, and the summer to be the exception.

[dillywho]

We have many "snowbird" friends and totally enjoy them and look forward to their return every year. We lost one couple of neighbors who were snowbirds and all who knew them miss them dearly (RIP). Another couple, a few doors down from them who were "frogs", moved back home and nobody misses them.

That being said, there are people that would not be enjoyable given any setting. They could be frogs, snowbirds, renters, or whatever and still would be people that others would wish to have "just go away".

We have so much to enjoy here that there is something for everyone...even those who just wish to hang out at home and not do any activities. We all have choices and not all our choices are the same, unlike some other "retirement" places.:BigApplause:

[Steve & Deanna]

We are snow birds and proud to be part of TV. We own, we pay more in property taxes and certainly contribute to the economy.....and will soon be back. Starting to get a bit chilly up here and the leaves are just about gone. Villages, here we come !!!

[bettymg1866]

bettymg1866 - It is most unfortunate that you choose to paint all of us snowbirds as "nasty to the working class in the villages." And those of us who do come from the northern States where navigationg traffic circles is a daily occurance most certainly do know how to navigate them - and we do it safely!

As far as your deserving respect...remember... respect is something that is earned. Manners are learned - and many of us learn better than others.
njbchbum: so u are saying that I should have to work to gain someone's respect right off the bat? dont you automatically show respect for people until they show you differently? Let me give you an example... I worked as a hostess at one of our busy country clubs. It was mid October and it was obvious that the snowbirds were starting to return due to the number of guests. There was a sign stating that all guests should see the hostess for to be seated. i brought a table of 4 to the back of the restaurant when 4 men sat down right in front of me and i "respectfully" asked the gentlemen to see the hostess to get on the list for a table, as this couple had already waited 30 minutes for a table. the response was "Listen sweety... dont even f-ck with me, i just got back yesterday and i am not gonna take any **** from some one like you. i am a resident and you can tell your Hostess to find them another table..." They were snowbirds as they were joking about how the full timers think they should get a table before them... I was doing my job and was embarrassed for myself and the guests. Think about this njbchbum..... what would you say if this was your wife.... this is not the first time i have been put in this position so you can see why i feel the way i do.. I have respect for most snowbirds and my dearest friends here in the Villages are snowbirds. Just saying that some need a little "attitude adjustment"....

[manaboutown]

njbchbum: so u are saying that I should have to work to gain someone's respect right off the bat? dont you automatically show respect for people until they show you differently? Let me give you an example... I worked as a hostess at one of our busy country clubs. It was mid October and it was obvious that the snowbirds were starting to return due to the number of guests. There was a sign stating that all guests should see the hostess for to be seated. i brought a table of 4 to the back of the restaurant when 4 men sat down right in front of me and i "respectfully" asked the gentlemen to see the hostess to get on the list for a table, as this couple had already waited 30 minutes for a table. the response was "Listen sweety... dont even f-ck with me, i just got back yesterday and i am not gonna take any **** from some one like you. i am a resident and you can tell your Hostess to find them another table..." They were snowbirds as they were joking about how the full timers think they should get a table before them... I was doing my job and was embarrassed for myself and the guests. Think about this njbchbum..... what would you say if this was your wife.... this is not the first time i have been put in this position so you can see why i feel the way i do.. I have respect for most snowbirds and my dearest friends here in the Villages are snowbirds. Just saying that some need a little "attitude adjustment"....

Hopefully you did not serve them and had them removed, refusing them any future service.

[tommy steam]

njbchbum: so u are saying that I should have to work to gain someone's respect right off the bat? dont you automatically show respect for people until they show you differently? Let me give you an example... I worked as a hostess at one of our busy country clubs. It was mid October and it was obvious that the snowbirds were starting to return due to the number of guests. There was a sign stating that all guests should see the hostess for to be seated. i brought a table of 4 to the back of the restaurant when 4 men sat down right in front of me and i "respectfully" asked the gentlemen to see the hostess to get on the list for a table, as this couple had already waited 30 minutes for a table. the response was "Listen sweety... dont even f-ck with me, i just got back yesterday and i am not gonna take any **** from some one like you. i am a resident and you can tell your Hostess to find them another table..." They were snowbirds as they were joking about how the full timers think they should get a table before them... I was doing my job and was embarrassed for myself and the guests. Think about this njbchbum..... what would you say if this was your wife.... this is not the first time i have been put in this position so you can see why i feel the way i do.. I have respect for most snowbirds and my dearest friends here in the Villages are snowbirds. Just saying that some need a little "attitude adjustment"....
The first time he used foul language was the key to get your manager and have that loud mouth removed from the resturant. You do not deserved to be talked to like that.

[Bonanza]

Many rude people are clueless they are being rude. They often think they are being "assertive" or expressing "facts". Others simply don't care. When I first moved to the deep south from the east coast, I was struck by how many people disliked "Yankees". After living there a while, I came to realize that many newcomers from the north often acted a bit superior to the local folks. They acted as if how things were done back home was the "right way" and if it was done differently in the south, it was "wrong". My local auto repair shop had a little sign at their counter that always cracked me up. It said "We don't care how Y'all did it up north"

I am a Yankee and have lived in the south. Southerners are very hospitable, cordial, friendly and whatever other nice adjectives you would like to apply to the way they are.

However . . . if you aren't a southerner and weren't born there, you will never be truly accepted. In short, you simply aren't one of them.

[Bonanza]

njbchbum: so u are saying that I should have to work to gain someone's respect right off the bat? dont you automatically show respect for people until they show you differently? Let me give you an example... I worked as a hostess at one of our busy country clubs. It was mid October and it was obvious that the snowbirds were starting to return due to the number of guests. There was a sign stating that all guests should see the hostess for to be seated. i brought a table of 4 to the back of the restaurant when 4 men sat down right in front of me and i "respectfully" asked the gentlemen to see the hostess to get on the list for a table, as this couple had already waited 30 minutes for a table. the response was "Listen sweety... dont even f-ck with me, i just got back yesterday and i am not gonna take any **** from some one like you. i am a resident and you can tell your Hostess to find them another table..." They were snowbirds as they were joking about how the full timers think they should get a table before them... I was doing my job and was embarrassed for myself and the guests. Think about this njbchbum..... what would you say if this was your wife.... this is not the first time i have been put in this position so you can see why i feel the way i do.. I have respect for most snowbirds and my dearest friends here in the Villages are snowbirds. Just saying that some need a little "attitude adjustment"....

Betty -- In my mind you went the extra mile. No one needs to take the verbal abuse you described, under any circumstance. If those men would not get up from that table, I would have told the server not to wait on them. They were arrogant and their attitude negated any kind of service whatsoever. I hope your manager handled the situation in such a way that it showed them you were a respected employee. They should have been asked to leave.

Although they were snowbirds, I have seen the same kind of ignorant behavior from full time residents.

[EnglishJW]

Hopefully you did not serve them and had them removed, refusing them any future service.

I fully agree (and I am a snowbird). Any attitude like this is deplorable. On the other hand, it isn't fair to assume other people share it. The group you describe were jerks.

[George Bieniaszek]

Many people would be absolutely miserable if they didn't have anything to complain about!!

[Walter123]

The first thing that comes to my mind is they are trying to fit 10 lbs of you-know-what into a 5 lb bag. I'd probably do the same thing if I was a snowbird. It must be very exciting for the snowbirds to be here so give them some slack. I'm full time but I do hate it when people on the golf course ask though.

[Campbell soup]

Great Poem....Thanks Gracie.

[Greg Nelson]

Actually we are arriving in TV for the first time to rent the month of December. I too find this subject interesting. The other side of the coin is what we hear up north. TV has rampant VD, and is a big drunk. Where is the AA meeting..I'd bet there are a few, I'll look around. We are looking forward to coming. We just sold our home in Mexico after 12 years there. But no medical and being robbed 3 times was enough. I'm also aretro Thunderbird owner and looking to find the others there that belong to Thunderbirdnest.com....we are excited! Our rental comes with a golf cart! Greg

[redwitch]

VD exists but I wouldn't say is rampant. Alcoholism seems to be a much bigger problem. There is at least one AA meeting daily, frequently more here. Just remind your northern neighbors that for every partygoer here there are at least twenty that simply enjoy living the good life and do so respectfully and legally.

[Indydealmaker]

Betty -- In my mind you went the extra mile. No one needs to take the verbal abuse you described, under any circumstance. If those men would not get up from that table, I would have told the server not to wait on them. They were arrogant and their attitude negated any kind of service whatsoever. I hope your manager handled the situation in such a way that it showed them you were a respected employee. They should have been asked to leave.

Although they were snowbirds, I have seen the same kind of ignorant behavior from full time residents.

People with these kinds of "attitudes" are not conducive to a hospitality environment anyway. Managers would get a standing ovation by evicting them.

[Bonanza]

VD exists but I wouldn't say is rampant. Alcoholism seems to be a much bigger problem. There is at least one AA meeting daily, frequently more here. Just remind your northern neighbors that for every partygoer here there are at least twenty that simply enjoy living the good life and do so respectfully and legally.

Funny you mention alchoholism.

Any time my husband and I are driving in TV past 9:00 p.m.,
we are sure that everyone who lives here is either in bed already or drunk!

That's our joke between one another.

[bettymg1866]

People with these kinds of "attitudes" are not conducive to a hospitality environment anyway. Managers would get a standing ovation by evicting them.
Thank you all for your support on this subject.. (some dont agree with you and one sent me a personal email asking me to apologize, he says he doesnt get angry, he gets even... That says alot...). There will always be some jerks who try to show some "muscle" and for the most part most snowbirds are happy to be here and respectful of the workers but there are those who feel like they are entitled. My manager asked the gentleman to wait for another table and 3 gentleman got up without argument and the one man who was so disrespectful sat in his chair until the manager asked him to leave. But why oh why does it have to come to that? Cant we all just try to treat each other with respect and enjoy the wonderful lifestyle that the Villages has to offer?

[Indydealmaker]

bettymg1866 - It is most unfortunate that you choose to paint all of us snowbirds as "nasty to the working class in the villages." And those of us who do come from the northern States where navigationg traffic circles is a daily occurance most certainly do know how to navigate them - and we do it safely!

As far as your deserving respect...remember... respect is something that is earned. Manners are learned - and many of us learn better than others.

I am absolutely positive that Betty did not intend to paint "all" snowbirds as nasty. However, keep in mind that the only reality is the one that is perceived. If many in a given group or class or busload, or whatever, act badly it is quite common to see a generalization occur. Sometimes that means that the better side of that group may need to over-compensate for the bad dudes negative impact. Regardless, don't be so sensitive. You know you have seen for yourself the behaviour that Betty described.

[Barefoot]

Regardless, don't be so sensitive. You know you have seen for yourself the behaviour that Betty described.

I think she is sensitive because that behavior can be displayed by Frogs as well as Snowbirds. It's not about how much time a person spends in The Villages.
It's about some people having an out-of-whack sense of entitlement.

[njbchbum]

Thanx, Barefoot. And Indydealmaker, I am sensitive to the negative, disparaging comments of those Frogs who believe they are better/deserve more and/or better than we snowbirds are/deserve. The fact that those negative, disparaging comments are displayed here and other posting sites is evidence of the bad manners and holier-than-thou attitudes that some harbor toward us. Sensetivity is a trait that enables many to step back and think 'There but for the grace of an almighty power, go I".

[bettymg1866]

I am absolutely positive that Betty did not intend to paint "all" snowbirds as nasty. However, keep in mind that the only reality is the one that is perceived. If many in a given group or class or busload, or whatever, act badly it is quite common to see a generalization occur. Sometimes that means that the better side of that group may need to over-compensate for the bad dudes negative impact. Regardless, don't be so sensitive. You know you have seen for yourself the behaviour that Betty described.
well said Indydealmaker!

[onslowe]

I am full time in TV. There are rude people and "I am entitled" jerks here in the off season so 'snowbirds' aren't the only group with very bad apples. This summer,while at Ricky's, I witnessed several women giving the waitress a hard time over their breakfast order. Breakfast! And yes, their very audible conversation revealed they were fellow residents in TV. The waitress later said that if she had a wonderful opprtunity to live in TV and woke up like them every morning, she'd shoot herself. :)

The sheer increase in numbers and the law of averages is what is jarring, I think. And you know what? In a week or two, it's gone from my mind. We chose to live in TV with all its rhythms and all of its quirks…. and so did everyone else - frogs or snowbirds.

[bettymg1866]

I am full time in TV. There are rude people and "I am entitled" jerks here in the off season so 'snowbirds' aren't the only group with very bad apples. This summer,while at Ricky's, I witnessed several women giving the waitress a hard time over their breakfast order. Breakfast! And yes, their very audible conversation revealed they were fellow residents in TV. The waitress later said that if she had a wonderful opprtunity to live in TV and woke up like them every morning, she'd shoot herself. :)

The sheer increase in numbers and the law of averages is what is jarring, I think. And you know what? In a week or two, it's gone from my mind. We chose to live in TV with all its rhythms and all of its quirks…. and so did everyone else - frogs or snowbirds.
Agreed!

[Indydealmaker]

Thanx, Barefoot. And Indydealmaker, I am sensitive to the negative, disparaging comments of those Frogs who believe they are better/deserve more and/or better than we snowbirds are/deserve. The fact that those negative, disparaging comments are displayed here and other posting sites is evidence of the bad manners and holier-than-thou attitudes that some harbor toward us. Sensetivity is a trait that enables many to step back and think 'There but for the grace of an almighty power, go I".

You missed the point. Why be sensitive to the remarks made by those whose message is shallow, pointless, wrong, and mean-spirited? Why give them the satisfaction of having baited you into a reply?

[njbchbum]

You missed the point. Why be sensitive to the remarks made by those whose message is shallow, pointless, wrong, and mean-spirited? Why give them the satisfaction of having baited you into a reply?

Are you saying bettymg1866's remarks were shallow? Or that I should not express my disgust at the negative and disparaging remarks made by frogs...and allow a frog to think that no one disapproves of their "...shallow, pointless, wrong, and mean-spirited"? I think you missed my point.

[bettymg1866]

njbchbum: Indydealmaker is only saying dont be so sensative, he is NOT saying that I am shallow etc.... he is quite understanding in this regard. You are angry that I commented on a situation, and I NEVER said that it applied to ALL snowbirds. Let it go NJbchbum... you tried to make your point but your anger is speaking loudly.... you are over reacting... Geez... chill out!

[birdawg]

Snowbirds not so much, Don't get me started on the Snowdogs

[njbchbum]

njbchbum: Indydealmaker is only saying dont be so sensative, he is NOT saying that I am shallow etc.... he is quite understanding in this regard. You are angry that I commented on a situation, and I NEVER said that it applied to ALL snowbirds. Let it go NJbchbum... you tried to make your point but your anger is speaking loudly.... you are over reacting... Geez... chill out!

bettymg1866 - I will never 'chill out' when I and my friends have been insulted. I could give a hoot that you posted a comment. I give a hoot because of what you said about snowbirds. You might not have said all snowbirds are such, but neither did you indicate that your emotions apply to some, a few, not many, several, etc.

I hope our 'conversation' has opened your eyes as to just how what you say can offend others; and that you will think twice before you speak and/or hit the 'post'button...unless, of course, you are intending to offend. Ciao!

[dbussone]

Actually we are arriving in TV for the first time to rent the month of December. I too find this subject interesting. The other side of the coin is what we hear up north. TV has rampant VD, and is a big drunk. Where is the AA meeting..I'd bet there are a few, I'll look around. We are looking forward to coming. We just sold our home in Mexico after 12 years there. But no medical and being robbed 3 times was enough. I'm also aretro Thunderbird owner and looking to find the others there that belong to Thunderbirdnest.com....we are excited! Our rental comes with a golf cart! Greg


You'll. enjoy it here and find many new friends. The blown up comments about VD are just that. As to AA meetings, there are many as you would expect in any community now exceeding 100,000.

[dbussone]

bettymg1866 - I will never 'chill out' when I and my friends have been insulted. I could give a hoot that you posted a comment. I give a hoot because of what you said about snowbirds. You might not have said all snowbirds are such, but neither did you indicate that your emotions apply to some, a few, not many, several, etc.



I hope our 'conversation' has opened your eyes as to just how what you say can offend others; and that you will think twice before you speak and/or hit the 'post'button...unless, of course, you are intending to offend. Ciao!


I don't believe there was any intent to offend in those comments. I used to be a Maine and Boston Yankee so I completely understand your concern. Having said that I appreciate our seasonal visitors very much. Two of our best friends arrived today.

Welcome!

[bettymg1866]

You'll. enjoy it here and find many new friends. The blown up comments about VD are just that. As to AA meetings, there are many as you would expect in any community now exceeding 100,000.
its a wonderful place to retire! Those silly stories about VD and such are just that... stories.. I have been here for 7 years from NY and love living here. You will find that there are some people who expect more but you will find that anywhere...WELCOME!

[Matzy]

Thank you graciegirl for your poem. Well, I don't know if I am a snowbird or not because we are traveling so much so we are a lot of time out of TV. Anyway, I enjoy your welcoming poem.

[dbussone]

Thank you graciegirl for your poem. Well, I don't know if I am a snowbird or not because we are traveling so much so we are a lot of time out of TV. Anyway, I enjoy your welcoming poem.


You belong to TV in your heart that is all that counts.

[dbussone]

I think she is sensitive because that behavior can be displayed by Frogs as well as Snowbirds. It's not about how much time a person spends in The Villages.

It's about some people having an out-of-whack sense of entitlement.


Kind of like some women my group was playing golf behind the other day. They kept hitting into sand traps but did not rake them. I mentioned this to the ambassador so he tracked them for several holes. He finally spoke to the group and then drove toward us. He said: 'well that's a first. They told me they paid to play and it was my job to rake the traps ."

[tomwed]

For God's sake, can't we all agree to rake the traps. There are people in China that don't even have sand traps.

[Indydealmaker]

Are you saying bettymg1866's remarks were shallow? Or that I should not express my disgust at the negative and disparaging remarks made by frogs...and allow a frog to think that no one disapproves of their "...shallow, pointless, wrong, and mean-spirited"? I think you missed my point.

Betty did not make any remarks to evoke disgust. I did get your point except that you apparently continue to ignore the fact that when you poke back verbally, you only stir up further disquiet. You are not going to change anybody's mind with your words. Only positive actions can be sufficient to dilute the perception of the "ugly american snowbird". Verbal confrontations are ALWAYS non-productive.

[bettymg1866]

Kind of like some women my group was playing golf behind the other day. They kept hitting into sand traps but did not rake them. I mentioned this to the ambassador so he tracked them for several holes. He finally spoke to the group and then drove toward us. He said: 'well that's a first. They told me they paid to play and it was my job to rake the traps ."
OH MY!! That is not nice.... they obviously dont know the proper rules....

[bettymg1866]

Betty did not make any remarks to evoke disgust. I did get your point except that you apparently continue to ignore the fact that when you poke back verbally, you only stir up further disquiet. You are not going to change anybody's mind with your words. Only positive actions can be sufficient to dilute the perception of the "ugly american snowbird". Verbal confrontations are ALWAYS non-productive.
Well said Indy... and thanks for standing up for me..

[Indydealmaker]

Kind of like some women my group was playing golf behind the other day. They kept hitting into sand traps but did not rake them. I mentioned this to the ambassador so he tracked them for several holes. He finally spoke to the group and then drove toward us. He said: 'well that's a first. They told me they paid to play and it was my job to rake the traps ."

With that level of golf knowledge, I assume they were not on a championship course and if they were they were wasting their money.

[bettymg1866]

Betty, I don't think you are exchanging posts with a man. Men, usually, refrain from silly name calling. Women tend to get their backs up more easily from an insult, even if it is obvious that no insult was intended. (Whoops! Now I guess I am insulting women. Sorry I am a charter member chauvenist) I am pretty sure you did not even know this person even existed, let alone direct an insult.
you know what happens when you ASSUME!! I just assumed it was a man, but you may be right, could be a woman.. either way I dont think I deserved the thrashing he/she gave me... i wont continue to spar at this point, it's fruitless... Enjoy this beautiful weather here in the Villages!!

[Moderator]

This thread has deteriorated into personal remarks and strayed far off topic.

Thread closed.