Controversial Question - Class differences or hatred?

[gratefulparrot]

Hey all.

I've been trolling this site for a couple weeks now. I plan on buying a house and moving to TV next year some time. Have to work out some personal issues first. Most is that my wife has spent most of my money through the years and I'll be moving on a limited budget.

The houses I'm looking at are in the historical district. I kind of remember when my mother lived there years ago, that a neighbor of hers would always say the people in the big houses don't care for the people in the manufactured homes. Is that true?

Not trying to call a big stink here, but more preparing myself for what's in store. I realize most who get to know me will like me as I get along with everyone. Yeah, I'll be a little younger, but I'm going to have the time of my life.

[Bonny]

Hey all.

I've been trolling this site for a couple weeks now. I plan on buying a house and moving to TV next year some time. Have to work out some personal issues first. Most is that my wife has spent most of my money through the years and I'll be moving on a limited budget.

The houses I'm looking at are in the historical district. I kind of remember when my mother lived there years ago, that a neighbor of hers would always say the people in the big houses don't care for the people in the manufactured homes. Is that true?

Not trying to call a big stink here, but more preparing myself for what's in store. I realize most who get to know me will like me as I get along with everyone. Yeah, I'll be a little younger, but I'm going to have the time of my life.
Most could care less what kind of house others live in. We all spend our money different. I have several friends that live over there.
There are always those small amount of people that think they are better than others, but they are few and far between.
Just come on down and join us and have the time of your life !!!
The Villages is an awesome place !!

[redwitch]

From what I've experienced, most don't care where you live. Actually, I've been known to make folks in premier houses jealous of my view of Silver Lake from my bedroom and the beautiful oak that provides such wonderful shade. Relax and enjoy living here. The vast majority will accept you as you are. Those that don't aren't worth knowing.

[tomwed]

Free golf, Separate Checks are What's Expected, Most Club Dues are $10/yr
How can you beat that?

No one really knows what you are worth. The have's and the have not's share the same facilities. It's not like home where the have's play the $100 courses or join the $5k country clubs and the have not's golf after 3pm on the cheap courses on weekdays.

I live in the south end of town but I don't know if I made the best decision. All the offbeat things are up north like archery, woodshop, lawn bowling, croquet, air rifles, bowling, and more that I can't think of. The food stores I like Aldi's and Fresh Market are up there too. I also like the idea that the executive courses up there are mature and I think easier to get on.

PM me and I'll tell you how you can beat the cost of a a golf cart and ride in style.

Then again if you have been trolling for a while and see a lot of uncaring people on this site, or people that seem snobbish I have to wonder how I missed that. If you are looking for hatred and class distinction you may not be happy here at all.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Take everyone with a grain of salt. There will always be people that feel like they are entitled and there will always will be people that enjoy life and can get along with everyone. I've met very few of the entitled in TV but I've also met A LOT of the most genuine, friendliest people there is.

People outside of "the bubble" seem to think that all residents in TV are flush with money, and the average income of Villagers is about double what other Florida residents are, so take this into account when purchasing big ticket items.

Again, enjoy life here, no matter where you live. TV about as close to paradise as you can get. I always thought that when I crossed the state line from MO to AR that I was back in God's country - no more; TV is it. As I said in another thread, this place is in-freaking-credible.

[gratefulparrot]

Free golf, Separate Checks are What's Expected, Most Club Dues are $10/yr
How can you beat that?

No one really knows what you are worth. The have's and the have not's share the same facilities. It's not like home where the have's play the $100 courses or join the $5k country clubs and the have not's golf after 3pm on the cheap courses on weekdays.

I live in the south end of town but I don't know if I made the best decision. All the offbeat things are up north like archery, woodshop, lawn bowling, croquet, air rifles, bowling, and more that I can't think of. The food stores I like Aldi's and Fresh Market are up there too. I also like the idea that the executive courses up there are mature and I think easier to get on.

PM me and I'll tell you how you can beat the cost of a a golf cart and ride in style.

Then again if you have been trolling for a while and see a lot of uncaring people on this site, or people that seem snobbish I have to wonder how I missed that. If you are looking for hatred and class distinction you may not be happy here at all.

Yeah I get all the benefits, because I fell in love when we would visit my mom. I'm crazy of the place and can't wait to get there. Most of this discussion was based off of something my mom's neighbor said, but I kind of figured that was what SHE felt. I won't have any problems making friends in an out of TV. I'll be getting a divorce next year and am looking forward to a smaller home without a freaking magnolia that sheds 52 weeks a year. I haven't played golf in a couple years due to the cost here. I could probably afford the cost, but they move you like cattle and I don't feel I get my money's worth. So heck yeah, I'm looking for the free golf and will probably join a couple clubs. I just have to see what the budget is. I'm only 53 so I'll still be working. Won't be a problem finding a job as I am a high end computer geek. Looking forward to get there.

[redwitch]

Finding a job is not an issue here. Finding a job that pays a living wage is nigh on impossible. Be prepared for exceedingly low wages unless you can tele-commute.

[firebiker]

Jim is this you ? Don F.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I live in a manufactured home in the historic district and I have many friends in $500,000 homes. I'm sure that there are some people here who look down upon us on this side but I've never met any.

In fact, I see mixing of financial classes here more so than any place I've ever lived.

I have met some people who are clueless as the the historic district. I was once told that the historic district is not really part of The Villages. Another person once asked why they let the historic district "join" The Villages.

Those people really should read up on their Villages history. Harold Schwartz lived here as did Gary Morse and his grown children when they first came to work in the business. The first rec center, golf course, swimming pools and country clubs were established here. The first town square is still here. It's the plaza behind the Circle K at the beginning of Griffin. Everyone should walk around there sometime and see where nightly entertainment was first performed, I've spoken to residents over here that can remember when there was nothing on the other side of 441/27. There were some cows grazing and little else.

And now, the historical district is undergoing a long term comprehensive rehabilitation program. Manufactured homes are being bought up and removed by the developer. They are putting affordable cottage homes in their place.I would wager that in twenty years, these attractive, roomy site built homes will be in the majority.

[joldnol]

no snobbery from me.....no one knows what kind of home you live in outside of your neighborhood. We just feel blessed to be here. The Good Lord was looking out for this fool. I enjoy being in the south in a new village. Demographically it's seems younger and because we are all new no preexisting relationships exist. We looked at all villages before we were able to buy. Many, many plus sides to living in the historic district just as all villages. Have fun and don't worry about anyone looking down on you. It's their problem and not yours.

[cattywampus]

I'm only 53 so I'll still be working. Won't be a problem finding a JOB as I am a high end computer GEEK Looking forward to get there.

Welcome and hurry down.

IMHO, the people who concern themselves with where people
live are not worth knowing.

Deloitte at Lake Mary, FL may be looking for your talents.
The new tech- center will have ONE THOUSAND Employees.

Degreed ? Certified? Drug-Free and Zero Felonies...
...with VERIFIABLE work history...$100,000 and up possible---TODAY !!!!.

There are literally HUNDREDS of 100K + jobs available right
now near Orlando for people like You,
who are prepared for today's job market.

[graciegirl]

Most people who live here and have a few extra bucks didn't start out that way. The people who are wealthy and want to have people know it ,live in neighborhoods with Tiger Woods and a lot of other people who hire someone who counts their money.

I think we are the most classless town in the world, and I mean that with all kindness and pride. I personally know of people here who have owned or run companies that employed thousands and thousands of people and I personally know people who have carefully managed to not go under, despite illness, and true bad luck and because of careful management and sacrifice and planning very carefully are able to retire and they chose here to do it, because it is affordable

People are people. I consider rich to be a state where you have no bills a roof over your head, and enough money to weather the storms and pitfalls for the rest of your life and not worry too much.. Wealthy is having that and good health. Mega rich is having all that and a family and friends who love you. And well money is good but it can't buy health or happiness. But money isn't bad, if you have worked to get it.

My husband is still working part time, because he wants to. We are both in our mid seventies and we will see our last grandson graduate college in June.

Sweetie works because he can do it easily, fairly easily and use the phone and the computer and occasionally the airplane, and he has done it so long it isn't stressful. And old habits die hard. At least that is what he says.

I have found very few people here that it matters at all, what you did, what you have or how many square feet is your roof.

At the square you can sit next to a billionaire and a guy who is carefully making it on his social security.



The historical section is a place where many of my treasured friends live. They also live in other villages too. There isn't a bad place here to choose.

[gratefulparrot]

Welcome and hurry down.

IMHO, the people who concern themselves with where people
live are not worth knowing.

Deloitte at Lake Mary, FL may be looking for your talents.
The new tech- center will have ONE THOUSAND Employees.

Degreed ? Certified? Drug-Free and Zero Felonies...
...with VERIFIABLE work history...$100,000 and up possible---TODAY !!!!.

There are literally HUNDREDS of 100K + jobs available right
now near Orlando for people like You,
who are prepared for today's job market.

LOL. Yes Degreed and Certified (though I haven't kept up with certs). There hasn't been a city where I can't get a job. :) . But I'm getting old and am trying to gear down. The top of the chain is not fun for me anymore. I miss the old sys admin days where I loved. Since I specialize in network security, I might open my own small little business. But GOD's gift of geek hasn't really given me the profit of salespeople, so budget is kind of low, but I've known many people who make far less than me, still be happy.

And also again, I just wanted to know how you guys felt about someone in the "historical" district. I'm confident if you met me on the street, you could feel less of where I live, as long as I'm living HERE!!! :)

OMG. I can't wait to get there.

[Madelaine Amee]

LOL. Yes Degreed and Certified (though I haven't kept up with certs). There hasn't been a city where I can't get a job. :) . But I'm getting old and am trying to gear down. The top of the chain is not fun for me anymore. I miss the old sys admin days where I loved. Since I specialize in network security, I might open my own small little business. But GOD's gift of geek hasn't really given me the profit of salespeople, so budget is kind of low, but I've known many people who make far less than me, still be happy.

And also again, I just wanted to know how you guys felt about someone in the "historical" district. I'm confident if you met me on the street, you could feel less of where I live, as long as I'm living HERE!!! :)

OMG. I can't wait to get there.

I think there is a huge need here for someone who has the patience to help dinosaurs such as myself handle today's technology in both phones, tablets and computers. I worked with technology, but since retiring things have gone far beyond me and I would absolutely love to have someone I could call in, or go to, for help with my problems. I have a great computer guy, but he is a real geek and does not have the time for one on one help, which is what I need to handle the new "toy" I am going to buy!

As for living in the Historic Side of TV. I have friends who live there and would not give you a thank you to live anywhere else.

[quietBern]

Our first house in The Villages was a Patio Villa. One day not long after moving there, my husband was golfing with a group of men who lived in Designer houses. When they were discussing where they each lived and found out he lived in a Villa they began laughing and were very condescending toward him.

Since that time we have met very very nice people and some not so nice for various reasons while living here, but for the most part it's been great:)

[eweissenbach]

[QUOTE=tomwed;982697]Free golf, Separate Checks are What's Expected, Most Club Dues are $10/yr
How can you beat that?

No one really knows what you are worth. The have's and the have not's share the same facilities. It's not like home where the have's play the $100 courses or join the $5k country clubs and the have not's golf after 3pm on the cheap.

This is one of the real attractions of TV IMO. THERE ARE NO "exclusive" clubs as there are in most places. Tom references $5k country clubs, but these days many CCs in the country cost that much annually while requiring $50k or more in initial fees or stock. Often times those clubs offer advantages for members in business as well as advantages for their children in lessons and access. Some people join those clubs simply for the snob appeal. In TV everyone that goes to Lopez, or Palmer or any other CC, or Katie Belles/Cattle Baron as a resident is a member in good standing and the person getting by on Social Security is indistinguishable from the person drawing on a huge trust fund, or a retired CEO. In a post two or three years ago I rhapsodized about the "rich" lifestyle in TV, where one can attend live concerts, enjoy dancing nightly at three outdoor venues as well as KBs, be a member of more than a dozen country clubs, have exclusive privileges at thirty or so beautiful executive golf courses, dozens of pools and on and on, all on a modest retirement budget. I think I have visited, played, and dined with people from the historic side as well as some from the finest Premier villages, I just don't know which were which.

[The Mountaineer]

My experience has been that people get what their mindset prepares them to get. Two people can be in identical situations and one sees the positives and the other the negatives. In reality, both exist, in everything. It's the total package that counts. In traveling around the world I've found that there are more similarities by far than differences in people. I always remember that I'm a coal miner's son even though I've been to 52 countries. So that doesn't make me any better than someone who hasn't been more than 200 miles from their birthplace. We'll all the same, once you get beyond the superficial. I can't wait for our 3 months in The Villages -- off No. 5 fairway of Silver Lake Country Club -- to begin Jan. 1!

[Bruiser1]

Hey all.

I've been trolling this site for a couple weeks now. I plan on buying a house and moving to TV next year some time. Have to work out some personal issues first. Most is that my wife has spent most of my money through the years and I'll be moving on a limited budget.

The houses I'm looking at are in the historical district. I kind of remember when my mother lived there years ago, that a neighbor of hers would always say the people in the big houses don't care for the people in the manufactured homes. Is that true?

Not trying to call a big stink here, but more preparing myself for what's in store. I realize most who get to know me will like me as I get along with everyone. Yeah, I'll be a little younger, but I'm going to have the time of my life.

People that promote class envy are "classless People".

This is the great melting pot! It is the triumph of the American Dream. It is the culmination of years of struggle (financially, physically and emotionally).

When someone starts out by saying "I used to be a big deal.......
they are living in the past.

Dare I come and live in the Villages? Of course you should! Often I hear "I should have come years ago". Come for the weather! Come for the golf, swimming recreational facilities. Come for the seasonal merriment.

I can almost hear Johnny Mathis singing "It's beginning to look like a ....Beatlemaniac Christmas

Seabreeze Rec Center 12/19/14
6-9 pm

[eweissenbach]

To my previous post I would add that TV is made up entirely of people from somewhere else. In some residents previous communities they were known as, the owner of the hardware store, the insurance salesperson, the school principal, the town council or school board member, the firefighter, the parents of the high school football star, the parents of the juvenile delinquent......................you get the picture. In TV those same folks are just Jim and Mary who came here from Pennsylvania. Like I said the first time my wife and I went to one of the Town Squares - I feel like a freshman in college again!

[tedquick]

LOL. Yes Degreed and Certified (though I haven't kept up with certs). There hasn't been a city where I can't get a job. :) . But I'm getting old and am trying to gear down. The top of the chain is not fun for me anymore. I miss the old sys admin days where I loved. Since I specialize in network security, I might open my own small little business. But GOD's gift of geek hasn't really given me the profit of salespeople, so budget is kind of low, but I've known many people who make far less than me, still be happy.

And also again, I just wanted to know how you guys felt about someone in the "historical" district. I'm confident if you met me on the street, you could feel less of where I live, as long as I'm living HERE!!! :)

OMG. I can't wait to get there.

Your comment about getting old has me LOL. Age is just a number. Attitude is ALL the difference between you being accepted or not, regardless of where you live. Based upon your writings included herein you’ll fit in very nicely. As has already been said, by far, most people are accepting of all others. The snobs aren’t worthy of your concern or time. The truth is I haven’t met any of them yet, but I’m sure there’re a few hiding out somewhere. Just get yourself down here ASAP and start living.

[gratefulparrot]

Your comment about getting old has me LOL. Age is just a number. Attitude is ALL the difference between you being accepted or not, regardless of where you live. Based upon your writings included herein you’ll fit in very nicely. As has already been said, by far, most people are accepting of all others. The snobs aren’t worthy of your concern or time. The truth is I haven’t met any of them yet, but I’m sure there’re a few hiding out somewhere. Just get yourself down here ASAP and start living.

Hey Ted. I really didn't mean old in a physical way, but more of a work mental way. My GOD's gift is I remember everything I've done on computers and I was there when computers started. I love working on the hardware and software aspect. After a while you grow into a position where it's all meeting, responsibilities, and enforcing policies. That crap is not fun. I want to get back to working on the systems, because I think those challenges are what kept me happy and engaged.

Amee. I've love to work on you system. That's what fun is for me. Since my specialty is in network security now, I've given classes at my church on how to protect yourself, especially in wireless. Too many people just have X-company come in an set it up. Yeah, No, That's not the end of it. They care less about your security and more on your monthly bill. I really try to help alot of people with that. We are in a different world now and should protect our information. Ok, done with the sales pitch. LOL

[rubicon]

I agree with the sentiment that folks are folks and most folks are humble or at least act humble. However I do not agree that one can't see the difference between the have and have nots that live here because you can, by where the live, what they drive, where they eat, where they travel to, what they wear and the fact that they do this on a continuum. Many will play down their wealth

I also don't buy into this we are all one big happy family, money draws money
power draws power

[tedquick]

[QUOTE=gratefulparrot;983082]Hey Ted. I really didn't mean old in a physical way, but more of a work mental way. My GOD's gift is I remember everything I've done on computers and I was there when computers started. I love working on the hardware and software aspect. After a while you grow into a position where it's all meeting, responsibilities, and enforcing policies. That crap is not fun. I want to get back to working on the systems, because I think those challenges are what kept me happy and engaged.

I can readily identify with your position. I was in real estate for 41 years. There was a short time that I was a minor partner in a growing and successful firm (after owning my own for a miserable 1.5 years). I quickly got tired of training, managing and taking the responsibilities for others' results. I couldn't wait to get back to simply "working the streets", which is where I was for the last 20 plus years. Good luck in returning to "your roots". :) Oh, and get your bod down here.

[Lauren Sweeny]

Individuality makes life interesting . Life styles here in TV means that everyone can find their niche,just takes time and patience . The words ; quaint,stylish,McMansion , elegant,homey,cottage-like ,can be used to describe many of our homes here. The old saying" Never judge a book by its cover" applies to the facade of our homes. I hope you take all the above posts comments into consideration when you move to TV? Your job skills might be needed at the high school, hospital, or within T V 's vast organizational networks. Good luck !

[graciegirl]

Please hurry down. Now that I have read you more, I can understand you better. You will fit right in.


And you will love it.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

It's not like home where the have's play the $100 courses or join the $5k country clubs and the have not's golf after 3pm on the cheap.
Wellll.... yes it sort of is.

The country club green fees are fairly expensive and people who cannot afford to play on them play on the par three courses for free. I was told when I came here that there were 30 odd "Executive Courses". These are actually nine hole par three courses. The definition of executive course that I learned was simply a shorter course with par threes, fours and fives. What they call executive courses here are actually nine hole par threes with in some cases one or two very short par fours. This is the free golf for life that is advertised.

The "championship" courses, (another term that is often misused) have a green fee of somewhere around $50.00. Not bad in today's world, but if someone wants to play full sized golf every day, that $350 a week or over $18,000 per year. That's dues for some of the finest most expensive private country clubs in the world and a lot of money to play public golf courses. Albeit very good public golf courses.

I no longer play golf because of physical issues, but I have friends who play down here and go outside The Villages when they want to play full size courses. I find that kind of sad.

What surprises me down here is that there are no full size golf courses that offer golf for an annual dues like back home. What they call country clubs here, (another misused and deceptive term) are actually just restaurants located near the "championship" golf courses. Again, these restaurants are open to the general public. You don't even have to be a Villages resident to eat in them.

Where I come from, championship golf courses are 7,000 yards long and have usually had some kind of national championship or PGA tour event played on them. A country club is usually a private, member's only club where one pays an annual dues and possibly an initiation fee for the privilege of playing unlimited golf. None of that seems to exist around here.

Now, please don't get me wrong. I love The Villages and if I played golf, I'd be happy playing the free golf courses and maybe one of the championship courses once or twice a month. But, to me this is one of the few things that is not as advertised.

Getting back to the post that I quoted; there are a lot of people that cannot afford to play the championship courses and play the executive courses all the time. It's not a case where everyone has equal golf opportunities. If you don;t have a lot of money, you are not going to play with the wealthy people on the championship courses. If you are, it might be once is a while.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Our first house in The Villages was a Patio Villa. One day not long after moving there, my husband was golfing with a group of men who lived in Designer houses. When they were discussing where they each lived and found out he lived in a Villa they began laughing and were very condescending toward him.

Since that time we have met very very nice people and some not so nice for various reasons while living here, but for the most part it's been great:)

Wow! Seriously? I'm not sure how I would have handled myself in that situation. That is disturbing that someone would do that; hope your husband doesn't play with those pr**ks anymore.

I'm glad y'all have learned to overlook those "entitled" few and have met some nice people. We moved in Thanksgiving week and we have met a LOT of super nice people and a few that were NOT SO NICE. Those, I will smile at in my own little way and in about 10 seconds they'll realize how entitled they are not.

[tomwed]

Hey Ted. I really didn't mean old in a physical way, but more of a work mental way. My GOD's gift is I remember everything I've done on computers and I was there when computers started. I love working on the hardware and software aspect. After a while you grow into a position where it's all meeting, responsibilities, and enforcing policies. That crap is not fun. I want to get back to working on the systems, because I think those challenges are what kept me happy and engaged.

Amee. I've love to work on you system. That's what fun is for me. Since my specialty is in network security now, I've given classes at my church on how to protect yourself, especially in wireless. Too many people just have X-company come in an set it up. Yeah, No, That's not the end of it. They care less about your security and more on your monthly bill. I really try to help alot of people with that. We are in a different world now and should protect our information. Ok, done with the sales pitch. LOL
Security Specialist? I heard Sony is hiring.

[Bogie Shooter]

Wellll.... yes it sort of is.



Where I come from, championship golf courses are 7,000 yards long and have usually had some kind of national championship or PGA tour event played on them. A country club is usually a private, member's only club where one pays an annual dues and possibly an initiation fee for the privilege of playing unlimited golf. None of that seems to exist around here.


.

Village courses are close to the courses where you came from.

Belle Glade 6992
Bonifay 7090
Cane Garden 7000
Evans Prairie 7052
Glenview 6843
Hacienda Hills 6446
Havana 7070
Lopez Legacy 6906
Mallory Hill 6984
Orange Blossom 6213
Palmer Legends 7180
Tierra del Sol 6800

[Miles42]

Living in The Villages is not a cure for stupid or arrogance.

[graciegirl]

When we moved into our first home here we met a lot of people, ordinary people, folks like we used to know. One day while chatting with a charming woman neighbor, very like the folks I had always known... I found out that she had been one of the first women navigators with the Air Force and her husband was a retired Air Force pilot. They both retired with the rank of Colonel.

I asked her to tell me one thing that was the most different between her life before and after serving in the Air Force. ( She had never brought it up)


She thought about it for awhile and told me that before she retired, that if there was a national crisis, she was on the team who would take the president aloft and that she had access to what we used to call "the red phone".

After she retired, she joined a church here in The Villages and waited while a committee discussed whether she should be on the cookies committee for Sunday School.

This amazing and very humble woman had raised two lovely children and kept a beautiful marriage going while serving our country doing something truly amazing.

You never know what people have done who live here... and most of them are too humble to tell you.

[tomwed]

Wellll.... yes it sort of is.

The country club green fees are fairly expensive and people who cannot afford to play on them play on the par three courses for free. I was told when I came here that there were 30 odd "Executive Courses". These are actually nine hole par three courses. The definition of executive course that I learned was simply a shorter course with par threes, fours and fives. What they call executive courses here are actually nine hole par threes with in some cases one or two very short par fours. This is the free golf for life that is advertised.

The "championship" courses, (another term that is often misused) have a green fee of somewhere around $50.00. Not bad in today's world, but if someone wants to play full sized golf every day, that $350 a week or over $18,000 per year. That's dues for some of the finest most expensive private country clubs in the world and a lot of money to play public golf courses. Albeit very good public golf courses.

I no longer play golf because of physical issues, but I have friends who play down here and go outside The Villages when they want to play full size courses. I find that kind of sad.

What surprises me down here is that there are no full size golf courses that offer golf for an annual dues like back home. What they call country clubs here, (another misused and deceptive term) are actually just restaurants located near the "championship" golf courses. Again, these restaurants are open to the general public. You don't even have to be a Villages resident to eat in them.

Where I come from, championship golf courses are 7,000 yards long and have usually had some kind of national championship or PGA tour event played on them. A country club is usually a private, member's only club where one pays an annual dues and possibly an initiation fee for the privilege of playing unlimited golf. None of that seems to exist around here.

Now, please don't get me wrong. I love The Villages and if I played golf, I'd be happy playing the free golf courses and maybe one of the championship courses once or twice a month. But, to me this is one of the few things that is not as advertised.

Getting back to the post that I quoted; there are a lot of people that cannot afford to play the championship courses and play the executive courses all the time. It's not a case where everyone has equal golf opportunities. If you don;t have a lot of money, you are not going to play with the wealthy people on the championship courses. If you are, it might be once is a while.

Where do you come from?

[eweissenbach]

With all due respect Dr. boogie, you make it seem that TV is all about golf. I cannot imagine anyone playing country club courses every day. The first year I retired I belonged to a local cc and played 180 rounds, and can't imagine playing more than that. I have not approached that amount of play since, and I love to play. When we are in TV we (my friend and I, our wives don't play) play the execs about five times a week on average, a CC course once a month, and off campus once a week. I never have thought of it as sad that we play so often off campus - we like several of the nearby courses, they're easy to get on, affordable, and we meet some nice folks from TV and other nearby retirement communities. The execs in TV are mostly well designed and maintained, and challenging tracks that satisfy our golfing needs on a regular basis, and we usually play only the hardest rated tracks. For most people here golf is probably a part, but a small part, of the attraction, and I still say that people at all ends of the affluence spectrum meld together more seamlessly in TV than anywhere else I have lived - and I have lived a lot of places.

[graciegirl]

///

[kstew43]

I agree with the sentiment that folks are folks and most folks are humble or at least act humble. However I do not agree that one can't see the difference between the have and have nots that live here because you can, by where the live, what they drive, where they eat, where they travel to, what they wear and the fact that they do this on a continuum. Many will play down their wealth

I also don't buy into this we are all one big happy family, money draws money
power draws power

exactly.......sometimes the difference is apparent, sometimes not......dressed to the nines and live in a manufactured home spending money on the fun instead of there home and then the dressed like there one step from the poor house and live in a premier spending every dime on the mortgage......you just never know...

there most definatly is a class structure, otherwise why would everyone I meet ask me where I live and what model home I have.....

[eweissenbach]

exactly.......sometimes the difference is apparent, sometimes not......dressed to the nines and live in a manufactured home spending money on the fun instead of there home and then the dressed like there one step from the poor house and live in a premier spending every dime on the mortgage......you just never know...

there most definatly is a class structure, otherwise why would everyone I meet ask me where I live and what model home I have.....

EVERYONE you meet asks you that? Apparently, we've never met because I have never asked anyone that, or been asked that for that matter.

[eweissenbach]

///

Curious, does that comment have a meaning?

[kcrazorbackfan]

Curious, does that comment have a meaning?

When my wife and I are asked where we live and what type of home we have, we'll say, "We live in The Village of St. James and it's a home that's just the right size for us". :lipsrsealed:

[Cisco Kid]

:plane:

[graciegirl]

I was trying to say what I felt in my heart and it sounded like preaching.

The people I love most don't care how much money people have.

I believe that every person on this earth has some redeeming quality that maybe only God can see. I believe it is my work to try to see what God can see.

I fail all of the time.

I think that this place was fashioned pretty fairly with all kinds of big and small houses to choose. There are all kinds of people with all kinds of money levels living in all kinds of houses. There is a fair share of hatred and bitterness here, but much more acceptance and tolerance and kindness and patience coming from a lot of life experience. .

[Bogie Shooter]

exactly.......sometimes the difference is apparent, sometimes not......dressed to the nines and live in a manufactured home spending money on the fun instead of there home and then the dressed like there one step from the poor house and live in a premier spending every dime on the mortgage......you just never know...

there most definatly is a class structure, otherwise why would everyone I meet ask me where I live and what model home I have.....

Everyone, really? really?

[Bonny]

exactly.......sometimes the difference is apparent, sometimes not......dressed to the nines and live in a manufactured home spending money on the fun instead of there home and then the dressed like there one step from the poor house and live in a premier spending every dime on the mortgage......you just never know...

there most definatly is a class structure, otherwise why would everyone I meet ask me where I live and what model home I have.....
Everyone asks you that ?? I know some people ask that, but I think it's more to get a conversation going than thinking about how much money they spent on a house. I ask almost everyone where they live just because I wonder where they live. It has nothing to do with money. The conversation usually leads to things such as you live around the corner from me or I find out one of my friends live near them.

[CFrance]

Everyone asks you that ?? I know some people ask that, but I think it's more to get a conversation going than thinking about how much money they spent on a house. I ask almost everyone where they live just because I wonder where they live. It has nothing to do with money. The conversation usually leads to things such as you live around the corner from me or I find out one of my friends live near them.
I agree. It's never been the first question asked and is usually during a conversation about house plans and how you deal with your particular model/yard/garage/lanai, etc. I have to say we have never even been asked what we did for a living when meeting new people. I don't usually find out much about people's backgrounds until we're sitting around on the pickle ball court waiting for our next game, and people start chatting.

[observer]

People are people, most realize what we are what we did are more important than what we own,what what we earned is not a measure of what of who we are.my guess is if you move here,you will be like my wife and I best decision ever.

[gratefulparrot]

Everyone, really? really?

I named the title "controversial issue". I knew it would bring the best out of people. :jester:

Gracie. Can't wait to get there and I would enjoy meeting you both.

I know this is the place for me to be, and I knew my mom felt it to when she lived there. We were also coastal people, and even though your inland Florida, it's not as bad as being in TN. I like TN, but just don't feel like it's home and I've been here for 27 years.

As far as Sony hiring. That's a big LOL. Their people are obvious slackers, because it really doesn't take that much to protect yourselves. It's always more of trying to convince the unknowns to tie down the system. Most exec's always think "it will never happen to us" and don't want to drop the dime or follow proper procedures.

[kstew43]

possibly not the first opening question, but people being curious almost always ask where do you live before the end of the conversation....
I do the same thing....

[graciegirl]

possibly not the first opening question, but people being curious almost always ask where do you live before the end of the conversation....
I do the same thing....


Well I am gonna say that isn't the feeling I get at all.

Some people love to dress well, and some people love to dress casual but almost every single person I have met in The Villages smell nice and clean when I hug them.

AND there are now lots of designers that cost more than premiers and who CARES? All of our kitchens are part of our living rooms, just like a camper or a trailer....and there is NOTHING wrong with a TRAILER.

Another thing. What we used to do must have made us smart enough to choose here to live. There are quite a few people who could live in the vastly rich parts of Florida if they chose to, if they wanted to show off their money but they chose here. AND things and possessions are just things and possessions. None of us are pushing buttons to drop bombs or picking up red phones or making decisions that affect thousands or being followed by scouts for the film industry, or NFL MLB or NBA.

As I say and say again, this is as close to a classless city as any in the country, the only thing lacking is slums or mega mansions. We have neither.

We do have people who think their fannies weigh a ton, we have some from the OLYMPIC drinking team who get smarter as they imbibe, just ask them.

But most of the folks here are like the folks back home.

OH, another thing. Has anyone noticed how many older people live here????

omg the wrinkles.

[gratefulparrot]

Well I am gonna say that isn't the feeling I get at all.

Some people love to dress well, and some people love to dress casual but almost every single person I have met in The Villages smell nice and clean when I hug them.

AND there are now lots of designers that cost more than premiers and who CARES? All of our kitchens are part of our living rooms, just like a camper or a trailer....and there is NOTHING wrong with a TRAILER.

Another thing. What we used to do must have made us smart enough to choose here to live. There are quite a few people who could live in the vastly rich parts of Florida if they chose to, if they wanted to show off their money but they chose here. AND things and possessions are just things and possessions. None of us are pushing buttons to drop bombs or picking up red phones or making decisions that affect thousands or being followed by scouts for the film industry, or NFL MLB or NBA.

As I say and say again, this is as close to a classless city as any in the country, the only thing lacking is slums or mega mansions. We have neither.

We do have people who think their fannies weigh a ton, we have some from the OLYMPIC drinking team who get smarter as they imbibe, just ask them.

But most of the folks here are like the folks back home.

OH, another thing. Has anyone noticed how many older people live here????

omg the wrinkles.
Hey Gracie. Thanks for posting that. I can't wait to get there an meet you. My wife is materialistic, and I'm far from it. Could I buy nicer shirts? Heck yeah, but I prefer t-shirts and shorts. I already live in a big house and I can't stand it. I want smaller with a smaller yard. Do I shop at Aldi vs. Whole foods, heck yeah, because when I cook, you can't tell the difference. Do I drive a new car and want the finance? No, I've driven the same Jeep for 15 yrs and do all the repairs myself. Now I do spend more on my computer than everyone else, but hey, that's where my GOD's gift is...a computer geek.

[DonH57]

I think the " What village do you live in " question is usually for conversation and is normally followed by " Why did you decide that village" question. I'm sure there are people who may be like that here in TV and more than likely are small in number but I try to avoid people who think that way.

[kstew43]

not that it matters in the scheme of things.......if everyone had the same income, lived in the same home, wore the same clothes, shopped at the same place, drove the same car, ect ect.....this world would be a boring place.....

we are all different....and be it right or wrong I for one notice it.....but I don't dwell on it...

personality and integrity is much more important than finances to me....

[gratefulparrot]

I think the " What village do you live in " question is usually for conversation and is normally followed by " Why did you decide that village" question.

And that's one of the questions I don't understand. When I move there, it's going to be based on what budget I have and what can I afford. When we visited my mom's house, all the villages looked the same to us. Yeah, some had bigger houses, some bigger houses with brick, but essentially they were all the same to us. With everything being just a cart ride away, it didn't seem to matter what village you were in. I would more ask, which are the better golf courses and restaurants. Looking how things look at the moment, I'll probably be moving to country club or silver lake, as I don't want to be strapped until I gain employment and see what the budget is. But I doubt I'll look for anything else because I don't need much.

[Chi-Town]

A natural question is where are you from? I hear it all the time here. If two people are from Brooklyn it's which neighborhood. If it's Chicago it's is it North Side or South Side. If its Michigan it's what part of the state. Then it segues into which Village. But never do I feel that there is any sense of class distinction. And nobody asks what did you do for a living? Maybe who's your daddy? [emoji6]

[Sandtrap328]

And that's one of the questions I don't understand. When I move there, it's going to be based on what budget I have and what can I afford. When we visited my mom's house, all the villages looked the same to us. Yeah, some had bigger houses, some bigger houses with brick, but essentially they were all the same to us. With everything being just a cart ride away, it didn't seem to matter what village you were in. I would more ask, which are the better golf courses and restaurants. Looking how things look at the moment, I'll probably be moving to country club or silver lake, as I don't want to be strapped until I gain employment and see what the budget is. But I doubt I'll look for anything else because I don't need much.

Not to be a discouraging word here, but - I would definitely get positive leads on actual employment or get an actual job offer BEFORE moving anywhere. The job market - even in IT- is very tight and does not pay well in this immediate area. It would be worthwhile to explore other Florida cities such as Orlando or Jacksonville for jobs. Maybe work for a few years in a city with a good job market, save money, and move to an active retirement community when you do not have to work and can enjoy all your time.

Even for modest homes in Country Club or Silver Lake, you will be paying $110,000 to $150,000. If you have to have a mortgage payment, plus insurance, utilities, amenity fee, and taxes, you have to have a cushion, getting a job before moving sounds like a good idea, doesn't it?

[graciegirl]

not that it matters in the scheme of things.......if everyone had the same income, lived in the same home, wore the same clothes, shopped at the same place, drove the same car, ect ect.....this world would be a boring place.....

we are all different....and be it right or wrong I for one notice it.....but I don't dwell on it...

personality and integrity is much more important than finances to me....


I knew that. You are a good person.

[tomwed]

A natural question is where are you from? I hear it all the time here. If two people are from Brooklyn it's which neighborhood. If it's Chicago it's is it North Side or South Side. If its Michigan it's what part of the state. Then it segues into which Village. But never do I feel that there is any sense of class distinction. And nobody asks what did you do for a living? Maybe who's your daddy? [emoji6]
I ask what did you do for a living very often. I'm always hoping someone says teacher. It's not like they are from my home town, but their is a special connection between teachers.

And I like to learn about other careers too.
I would not ask someone their religion or politics. But if I find out I'm golfing with a chef or a photographer, and trying real hard not to be too nosy, I may pick their brain.

[gratefulparrot]

Not to be a discouraging word here, but - I would definitely get positive leads on actual employment or get an actual job offer BEFORE moving anywhere. The job market - even in IT- is very tight and does not pay well in this immediate area. It would be worthwhile to explore other Florida cities such as Orlando or Jacksonville for jobs. Maybe work for a few years in a city with a good job market, save money, and move to an active retirement community when you do not have to work and can enjoy all your time.

Even for modest homes in Country Club or Silver Lake, you will be paying $110,000 to $150,000. If you have to have a mortgage payment, plus insurance, utilities, amenity fee, and taxes, you have to have a cushion, getting a job before moving sounds like a good idea, doesn't it?
Not discouraging. I understand the risks that are involved and have done some homework. I'm not one to rent, but I'll be able to put a bunch down, leaving my mortgage payment pretty good. I've checked the jobs in the immediate area and they're kinda of low, but very doable based on what I'll be paying for mortgage. There's a couple other factors, but that would be for a different thread. My only downfalls that I can see at this point is the cost of a golf cart and I probably won't be able to join the country clubs for a couple of years. But thanks for your advice and I'm taking all the advice I can.

[2BNTV]

Most people who live here and have a few extra bucks didn't start out that way. The people who are wealthy and want to have people know it ,live in neighborhoods with Tiger Woods and a lot of other people who hire someone who counts their money.

I think we are the most classless town in the world, and I mean that with all kindness and pride. I personally know of people here who have owned or run companies that employed thousands and thousands of people and I personally know people who have carefully managed to not go under, despite illness, and true bad luck and because of careful management and sacrifice and planning very carefully are able to retire and they chose here to do it, because it is affordable

People are people. I consider rich to be a state where you have no bills a roof over your head, and enough money to weather the storms and pitfalls for the rest of your life and not worry too much.. Wealthy is having that and good health. Mega rich is having all that and a family and friends who love you. And well money is good but it can't buy health or happiness. But money isn't bad, if you have worked to get it.

My husband is still working part time, because he wants to. We are both in our mid seventies and we will see our last grandson graduate college in June.

Sweetie works because he can do it easily, fairly easily and use the phone and the computer and occasionally the airplane, and he has done it so long it isn't stressful. And old habits die hard. At least that is what he says.

I have found very few people here that it matters at all, what you did, what you have or how many square feet is your roof.

At the square you can sit next to a billionaire and a guy who is carefully making it on his social security.



The historical section is a place where many of my treasured friends live. They also live in other villages too. There isn't a bad place here to choose.

:agree: as usual but i would like to add the following:

1, I care more about what is in a person's heart, than what's in their wallet.
2. "Nobody cares what you did for a living", in that we are all retired with little to prove our worth, to other people.
3. I suspect people who are snobs, were the same way, before they moved here.
4. I think when people ask what you did for a living or where you live are seeking to find a commonality, to talk about. Just like when we kids and ask someone what kind of music, they liked.
5. Most people should be more concerned for their health and people that enjoy another's company. Sharing their concerns and wanting to get to know one another in a meaningful way. Finding people who are genuine in their concerns and wiling to help another person, get through some challenges.
6. Bigger houses to me, mean they are harder to clean or one must spend more money to hire someone, to clean for them. How much room does one or two people really need?
7. As far as money goes, "whether you die with 10 million or 10 cents, you are just as dead". A co-worker had a sign in his cube, "those who dies with the most toys, wins"!!!! I think those who die with the most toys, have more toys that will get rusty".
8. If one wants to go out and have a good time, I'll be the first to volunteer.
Those who want to make other people miserable, do everyone a favor and stay home.

Those who have decided to be a cranky pants are to be avoided. Like the joke says, "some people think they have earned to right to be cranky when they reach the age of 65". I'm sure glad I'm not one of those. :D

[mulligan]

Not discouraging. I understand the risks that are involved and have done some homework. I'm not one to rent, but I'll be able to put a bunch down, leaving my mortgage payment pretty good. I've checked the jobs in the immediate area and they're kinda of low, but very doable based on what I'll be paying for mortgage. There's a couple other factors, but that would be for a different thread. My only downfalls that I can see at this point is the cost of a golf cart and I probably won't be able to join the country clubs for a couple of years. But thanks for your advice and I'm taking all the advice I can.

One of the beauties of this place is that by merely purchasing a home, you are automatically a member of all the country clubs.

[Sandtrap328]

Mulligan is right when he says you are automatically a country club member. This really just covers the restaurant part. Golf on the championship courses costs extra per round and use of the swimming pools are limited to those who are priority golf and pool members - which is a considerable extra cost per year.

[Topspinmo]

Plenty of used golf carts around for as little as 1700 bucks (elect). Used gas can be a little more. Some times you get lucky and one comes with the house. usually no older than 2002 or so, but you have to be able to determine if they are worthy or worn out.

[jebartle]

, living here in TV was one of the BEST decisions that we made...I've met some of the most wonderful people and I know that we will all be grateful that gratefulparrot joined our Village family NO MATTER where you live!




Hey all.

I've been trolling this site for a couple weeks now. I plan on buying a house and moving to TV next year some time. Have to work out some personal issues first. Most is that my wife has spent most of my money through the years and I'll be moving on a limited budget.

The houses I'm looking at are in the historical district. I kind of remember when my mother lived there years ago, that a neighbor of hers would always say the people in the big houses don't care for the people in the manufactured homes. Is that true?

Not trying to call a big stink here, but more preparing myself for what's in store. I realize most who get to know me will like me as I get along with everyone. Yeah, I'll be a little younger, but I'm going to have the time of my life.