What the Heck?? -- town square behavior

[wudda1955]

What is going on at The Villages Town Squares? Went to see Rocky and the Roller's tonight. One group decided to create their own front row and brought not one, but two coolers. I was under the impression that wasn't allowed, but okay, I'm over it. Next thing you know some guy has a miniature pony out on the dance floor. Supposedly, it was a service animal. Poor animal looked very unhappy to me. He proceeded to put the poor thing around the dance floor to show off it's dancing skills.

There was no one--and I mean no one--monitoring anything at the square. No security. No Community Watch. There were two police officer's who informed me that it wasn't illegal for the guy to bring the horse on the square. Really? They proceeded to tell me that it was like some people believe that spanking kids is okay, while others do not. What that had to do with anything is beyond me. Besides, if they saw someone spanking a child, they'd probably arrest them! We left.

To top it off, the band welcomed back the snowbirds. No big deal, but did they thank those who are here supporting them year 'round? Nope. Not a word.

I guess I'm just getting old and cranky.

[tomwed]

tell me about yourself

[tomwed]

I guess I'm just getting old and cranky.
Nope - Guess again.

[NYGUY]

What is going on at The Villages Town Squares? Went to see Rocky and the Roller's tonight. One group decided to create their own front row and brought not one, but two coolers. I was under the impression that wasn't allowed, but okay, I'm over it. Next thing you know some guy has a miniature pony out on the dance floor. Supposedly, it was a service animal. Poor animal looked very unhappy to me. He proceeded to put the poor thing around the dance floor to show off it's dancing skills.

There was no one--and I mean no one--monitoring anything at the square. No security. No Community Watch. There were two police officer's who informed me that it wasn't illegal for the guy to bring the horse on the square. Really? They proceeded to tell me that it was like some people believe that spanking kids is okay, while others do not. What that had to do with anything is beyond me. Besides, if they saw someone spanking a child, they'd probably arrest them! We left.

To top it off, the band welcomed back the snowbirds. No big deal, but did they thank those who are here supporting them year 'round? Nope. Not a word.

I guess I'm just getting old and cranky.

Not being old and cranky at all....just a man with some common sense..:wave:

[tomwed]

Not being old and cranky at all....just a man with some common sense..:wave:
He made the suggestion. I thought and still think he is a twelve year old boy making fun of us, not a peer.

[wudda1955]

Number one, I'm not a guy. Number two, I'm certainly way older than 12, hence, the getting old and cranky comment. Number three, I live in The Villages full time and have for two years. Number four, why am I trying to justify myself to you? Who are you, the TOV police? Thank goodness someone is monitoring something going on around this place because they sure are missing the mark at the squares (well, at least Brownwood Square)!

I saw some things at the square that were out of line. They even announce at the beginning, and throughout the evening, that coolers aren't allowed at the square "according to Florida state law." Some people, however, are more special than others. I found the miniature pony on the dance floor to be really hard to take. It was there during the break, but the owner kept it there when the music started. There was no need for it to be there. I don't even like it when dogs are in the middle of the square when people are dancing. Around the square--no problem. On the dance floor? No way. Keep the poor animal comfortable and safe.

What was most disturbing, was that The Villages provided absolutely no security or anyone to enforce The Villages rules. There were two police officers standing off to the side and chatting. They don't enforce The Villages rules, however. Only the law.

It's only going to get worse as the winter wears on. I think my best bet is to stay away from the squares until spring. Someone is going to get hurt because of the actions of someone else, and I don't want it to be me or my husband.

[Down Sized]

Looks like the nightly entertainment is going to the bullies, dogs, and horses! HOW SAD. It used to be fun going to the town entertainments at night before all the craziness started (we all know what that is without listing). Now we and most of our neighbors stay away.

[Mr.Big]

Dancing ponies, fighting line dancers, drunk cart drivers, and seat savers. We want our country back!

[outlaw]

A service PONY! Now that's a good one. Hope he takes it to a restaurant. Just another abuse of the special category people.

[bagboy]

Well, I can't imagine that pony riding to the square in a car or golf cart. So I wonder who and why would someone go to the trouble of taking that animal to the square. I'll just have to shake my head on this one...

[asianthree]

Well, I can't imagine that pony riding to the square in a car or golf cart. So I wonder who and why would someone go to the trouble of taking that animal to the square. I'll just have to shake my head on this one...

Maybe he lives in a CYV.:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[jblum315]

Maybe pony boy is not a Village resident. Anyone can come to the squares anytime

[looneycat]

What is going on at The Villages Town Squares? Went to see Rocky and the Roller's tonight. One group decided to create their own front row and brought not one, but two coolers. I was under the impression that wasn't allowed, but okay, I'm over it. Next thing you know some guy has a miniature pony out on the dance floor. Supposedly, it was a service animal. Poor animal looked very unhappy to me. He proceeded to put the poor thing around the dance floor to show off it's dancing skills.

To top it off, the band welcomed back the snowbirds. No big deal, but did they thank those who are here supporting them year 'round? Nope. Not a word.

I guess I'm just getting old and cranky.

the question to the man is what special training did the horse get and by whom was it trained. a service animal must be trained to serve a purpose supporting it's owner by a third party, if they did not receive such third party training they are not service animals and don't belong where pets are not allowed.
living here year round does not mean you support anything here more than snowbirds who graciously pay their fees year round without being here to use the facilities.
ponies in the square? the sky is falling!

[wudda1955]

. . . living here year round does not mean you support anything here more than snowbirds who graciously pay their fees year round without being here to use the facilities.

I never said it did. The band welcomed back the snowbirds. I thought it was odd that they band gave them special recognition, that's all. Snowbirds are no more special than the rest of us. I graciously pay my amenities fees year round as well, so what?

Now that I think about it, yes, I do provide more support to everything. I'm there while you're away. I support the restaurants and stores. I support the movie theaters while you're away. I support my neighbors by keeping an eye on their homes while they're away. So, yes, I do provide more support. I may not appreciate The Villages any more than you do, but my support is full time.

[Bonny]

:popcorn: :beer3: :faint:

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Number one, I'm not a guy. Number two, I'm certainly way older than 12, hence, the getting old and cranky comment. Number three, I live in The Villages full time and have for two years. Number four, why am I trying to justify myself to you? Who are you, the TOV police? Thank goodness someone is monitoring something going on around this place because they sure are missing the mark at the squares (well, at least Brownwood Square)!

I saw some things at the square that were out of line. They even announce at the beginning, and throughout the evening, that coolers aren't allowed at the square "according to Florida state law." Some people, however, are more special than others. I found the miniature pony on the dance floor to be really hard to take. It was there during the break, but the owner kept it there when the music started. There was no need for it to be there. I don't even like it when dogs are in the middle of the square when people are dancing. Around the square--no problem. On the dance floor? No way. Keep the poor animal comfortable and safe.

What was most disturbing, was that The Villages provided absolutely no security or anyone to enforce The Villages rules. There were two police officers standing off to the side and chatting. They don't enforce The Villages rules, however. Only the law.

It's only going to get worse as the winter wears on. I think my best bet is to stay away from the squares until spring. Someone is going to get hurt because of the actions of someone else, and I don't want it to be me or my husband.

I'm a bit confused. You say that coolers are prohibited "according to Florida State Law" yet the police are only enforcing the law, but they are not enforcing the no cooler law. If no coolers is indeed a FL State Law then shouldn't the police be enforcing it?

[eremite06]

WHAT!!!!.......,a dog AND PONY show???

[redwitch]

We frogs have the luxury of being here as long we want in a year. We get the benefit of great restaurant deals during the low season. Snowbirds pay amenity fees and taxes year round to the benefit of the frogs. They show an exuberance for TV activities that we frequently take for granted. So, I welcome the snowbirds and I'm glad that the entertainers see their value.

As to the pony, it would be allowed regardless of whether it was a service animal or not. Who knows, maybe it is used in instances where there is a lot of noise and crowds, such as special needs schools? Seems like the squares might be a good place to train it -- noise and crowds and people that would not try to unintentionally harm it. Not great for those enjoying the squares but not a bad idea for the animal. I just hope the man would clean up any accidents.

As to the coolers and lack of enforcement, I seriously resent TV forcing residents to be enforcers. You make the rules, you enforce those rules!

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

We frogs have the luxury of being here as long we want in a year. We get the benefit of great restaurant deals during the low season. Snowbirds pay amenity fees and taxes year round to the benefit of the frogs. They show an exuberance for TV activities that we frequently take for granted. So, I welcome the snowbirds and I'm glad that the entertainers see their value.

As to the pony, it would be allowed regardless of whether it was a service animal or not. Who knows, maybe it is used in instances where there is a lot of noise and crowds, such as special needs schools? Seems like the squares might be a good place to train it -- noise and crowds and people that would not try to unintentionally harm it. Not great for those enjoying the squares but not a bad idea for the animal. I just hope the man would clean up any accidents.

As to the coolers and lack of enforcement, I seriously resent TV forcing residents to be enforcers. You make the rules, you enforce those rules!

Ah.. but what about the pony poop?

Oh no!!! Another poop thread!

[Bonny]

We frogs have the luxury of being here as long we want in a year. We get the benefit of great restaurant deals during the low season. Snowbirds pay amenity fees and taxes year round to the benefit of the frogs. They show an exuberance for TV activities that we frequently take for granted. So, I welcome the snowbirds and I'm glad that the entertainers see their value.

As to the pony, it would be allowed regardless of whether it was a service animal or not. Who knows, maybe it is used in instances where there is a lot of noise and crowds, such as special needs schools? Seems like the squares might be a good place to train it -- noise and crowds and people that would not try to unintentionally harm it. Not great for those enjoying the squares but not a bad idea for the animal. I just hope the man would clean up any accidents.

As to the coolers and lack of enforcement, I seriously resent TV forcing residents to be enforcers. You make the rules, you enforce those rules!
:clap2::clap2:

[Cedwards38]

Ah.. but what about the pony poop?

Oh no!!! Another poop thread!

You won't be picking that up in a plastic grocery bag! :icon_wink:

[golfing eagles]

I wonder if I can get my granddaughter a pony ride

[wudda1955]

We frogs have the luxury of being here as long we want in a year. We get the benefit of great restaurant deals during the low season. Snowbirds pay amenity fees and taxes year round to the benefit of the frogs. They show an exuberance for TV activities that we frequently take for granted. So, I welcome the snowbirds and I'm glad that the entertainers see their value.

As to the pony, it would be allowed regardless of whether it was a service animal or not. Who knows, maybe it is used in instances where there is a lot of noise and crowds, such as special needs schools? Seems like the squares might be a good place to train it -- noise and crowds and people that would not try to unintentionally harm it. Not great for those enjoying the squares but not a bad idea for the animal. I just hope the man would clean up any accidents.

As to the coolers and lack of enforcement, I seriously resent TV forcing residents to be enforcers. You make the rules, you enforce those rules!

I think that's where we differ. I do not see the snowbirds as any more special or important than frogs because of their personal choice. I made a choice to live here full time simply because I could not afford to keep two homes. They made a choice to maintain two homes. I'm very happy for those who can, but it doesn't make them any better than I am. Some of them (not all, but a few who make it quite clear to the rest of us) do believe they are better and entitled to more.

I resent when entertainment or establishments add to that attitude of entitlement. The message of "Why, thank you snowbirds, this place was awful without you," is very unfair to those of us who ARE here supporting them twelve months out of the year.

Yeah, the police did tell me that he could have the pony there. It wasn't illegal and as long as the animal wasn't in distress there wasn't anything they could do. We'll never know if the animal was in distress because, well, they can't talk. I do know the poor thing didn't want to "dance," which pretty much consisted of the owner pulling it around the dance floor on a leash. I just felt bad for the pony. Then again, I'm not a fan of the circus or zoo's for that matter.

[wudda1955]

I'm a bit confused. You say that coolers are prohibited "according to Florida State Law" yet the police are only enforcing the law, but they are not enforcing the no cooler law. If no coolers is indeed a FL State Law then shouldn't the police be enforcing it?

That's what the message at the beginning says or words to that affect. The police were not in the square, they were on the outskirts so they didn't see it. Like I said, there was no one monitoring what was going on in the square. To be honest, I never even thought to report it, but you know what? I definitely will, next time.

Even so, The Villages made the rules. They need to have someone there to enforce them!

[tomwed]

I think I owe Wudda1955 an apology for mistaking her with a 12 year old prankster. Having been a 12 year old prankster for a very long time I thought the post had hit all the "trigger" words that fire up some of my peers like coolers, chairs, spankings, snowbirds.
The pony was just a kicker. Who wouldn't love a pony?
v=0RDLqb3umsw

[cquick]

A HORSE! REALLY! That's just nuts.

[cquick]

so this is all just an April Fool's Day Joke. I fell for it hook line and sinker!:laugh:

[wudda1955]

Nope. It's not a joke. I wish I had a video, or at least a picture, of it. It was a miniature pony.

[DougB]

What is going on at The Villages Town Squares? Went to see Rocky and the Roller's tonight. One group decided to create their own front row and brought not one, but two coolers. I was under the impression that wasn't allowed, but okay, I'm over it. Next thing you know some guy has a miniature pony out on the dance floor. Supposedly, it was a service animal. Poor animal looked very unhappy to me. He proceeded to put the poor thing around the dance floor to show off it's dancing skills.

There was no one--and I mean no one--monitoring anything at the square. No security. No Community Watch. There were two police officer's who informed me that it wasn't illegal for the guy to bring the horse on the square. Really? They proceeded to tell me that it was like some people believe that spanking kids is okay, while others do not. What that had to do with anything is beyond me. Besides, if they saw someone spanking a child, they'd probably arrest them! We left.
To top it off, the band welcomed back the snowbirds. No big deal, but did they thank those who are here supporting them year 'round? Nope. Not a word.

I guess I'm just getting old and cranky.

Did you ask the poor unhappy horse, "Why the long face?"

[looneycat]

I never said it did. The band welcomed back the snowbirds. I thought it was odd that they band gave them special recognition, that's all. Snowbirds are no more special than the rest of us. I graciously pay my amenities fees year round as well, so what?

Now that I think about it, yes, I do provide more support to everything. I'm there while you're away. I support the restaurants and stores. I support the movie theaters while you're away. I support my neighbors by keeping an eye on their homes while they're away. So, yes, I do provide more support. I may not appreciate The Villages any more than you do, but my support is full time.

I am a full time resident you do no more than I

[PennBF]

There are those who feel a sense of entitlement. I really like the ones who bring a radio or music to the pool and set it up for all to hear. That is reaching the limits of "self entitlement". The ones at the Squares are just another group that don't respect others. We have been here over 8 years and are year around and don't see a difference between snowbirds and year around residents. I think it is great to see the many enjoying themselves at the squares and find it hard to find fault with 99.9% who are enjoying themselves. It is that lousy 1% who have selfish entitlements that are the ones that should be given the back door.:ohdear:

[newguyintv]

What is going on at The Villages Town Squares? Went to see Rocky and the Roller's tonight. One group decided to create their own front row and brought not one, but two coolers. I was under the impression that wasn't allowed, but okay, I'm over it. Next thing you know some guy has a miniature pony out on the dance floor. Supposedly, it was a service animal. Poor animal looked very unhappy to me. He proceeded to put the poor thing around the dance floor to show off it's dancing skills.

There was no one--and I mean no one--monitoring anything at the square. No security. No Community Watch. There were two police officer's who informed me that it wasn't illegal for the guy to bring the horse on the square. Really? They proceeded to tell me that it was like some people believe that spanking kids is okay, while others do not. What that had to do with anything is beyond me. Besides, if they saw someone spanking a child, they'd probably arrest them! We left.

To top it off, the band welcomed back the snowbirds. No big deal, but did they thank those who are here supporting them year 'round? Nope. Not a word.

I guess I'm just getting old and cranky.

Just Villagers doing what Villagers do!

[rexxfan]

Some of them (not all, but a few who make it quite clear to the rest of us) do believe they are better and entitled to more.

As a recent new owner/snowbird I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all you year-round residents. Without you, The Villages simply wouldn't BE there for us to come back to. I'm very grateful to you all for that. Anyone who feels entitled to special treatment simply because they can afford to keep two homes is simply not worth worrying about. When someone insists on acting stupidly, I've found its often best to just let them. That said, if I had been away for the Summer and someone at the square welcomed me back, it would make me smile and feel like I was home again.

As to the pony, it does sound a bit out of place for a town square. If the appearance was pre-planned by someone, I'd certainly question their judgement as to the sort of entertainment appropriate for such a venue. But as to whether or not it was legal, I'd have to defer to someone more knowledgeable on the subject. I do cringe a bit when I observe crass exploitation of unfortunate animals for entertainment purposes, but unless there's obvious cruelty involved I doubt there's much that can be done from a legal standpoint. I don't see anything wrong with voicing your opinion though. If enough feel the same way and express theirs as well, maybe something can be done about it going forward. Good for you for speaking up.

Regarding statements about no coolers, seat saving and all the other behaviors that are generally frowned upon at the squares, I've never thought of them as laws per se (i.e. things that can result in fines or other penalties, that are "enforceable" in some official way), but rather more like standards of courteous, civilized behavior that we all wish everyone would observe. Sadly, there are always those who don't (and worse, the ones who don't are exactly the sort that might try to pick a fight with you if you try to convince them otherwise). To me, its just not worth the bother to try to rehabilitate them.
--
bc

[golfing eagles]

As a recent new owner/snowbird I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all you year-round residents. Without you, The Villages simply wouldn't BE there for us to come back to. I'm very grateful to you all for that. Anyone who feels entitled to special treatment simply because they can afford to keep two homes is simply not worth worrying about. When someone insists on acting stupidly, I've found its often best to just let them. That said, if I had been away for the Summer and someone at the square welcomed me back, it would make me smile and feel like I was home again.

As to the pony, it does sound a bit out of place for a town square. If the appearance was pre-planned by someone, I'd certainly question their judgement as to the sort of entertainment appropriate for such a venue. But as to whether or not it was legal, I'd have to defer to someone more knowledgeable on the subject. I do cringe a bit when I observe crass exploitation of unfortunate animals for entertainment purposes, but unless there's obvious cruelty involved I doubt there's much that can be done from a legal standpoint. I don't see anything wrong with voicing your opinion though. If enough feel the same way and express theirs as well, maybe something can be done about it going forward. Good for you for speaking up.

Regarding statements about no coolers, seat saving and all the other behaviors that are generally frowned upon at the squares, I've never thought of them as laws per se (i.e. things that can result in fines or other penalties, that are "enforceable" in some official way), but rather more like standards of courteous, civilized behavior that we all wish everyone would observe. Sadly, there are always those who don't (and worse, the ones who don't are exactly the sort that might try to pick a fight with you if you try to convince them otherwise). To me, its just not worth the bother to try to rehabilitate them.
--
bc

:bigbow:
But be careful---you are far too articulate and sensible for most TOTV threads (definitely stay away from the political forums). So what do you think of dog poop, path striping and coyotes?:1rotfl:

[gerryann]

I believe the miniature horse was "Bunny". She belongs to a beautiful young gal from Summerfield by the name of Nancy. She has a disability and Bunny is a trained therapy horse. I could be wrong. I just know that Nancy does take Bunny to the squares from time to time. Most people do enjoy her. Sorry the OP did not.

[Patty55]

It probably wasn't a pony, it was likely a miniature comfort horse. Miniature horses are becoming popular as an alternative to dogs. They can be housebroken, live in the house and have a longer life span than dogs.

If you google it you will see there is a growing market for them but you really can't do more than play with them. I knew a couple of people in NY that bred them. They can be taught to free-jump, get judged in shows on conformation classes and movement but cannot be ridden even by children.

You often see them wearing sneaker things, I think maybe because regular farriers don't carry shoes that small and they really don't need shoes unless it's for corrective reasons.

I had heard from a reliable source that there was a mini mare here in TV, but haven't been lucky enough to see her, IIRC, her name is Ethel or Ester or something with an E-can't wait to see her, I think the whole thing is cool, wouldn't it be great if our dogs could live 30+ years?

[graciegirl]

As a recent new owner/snowbird I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all you year-round residents. Without you, The Villages simply wouldn't BE there for us to come back to. I'm very grateful to you all for that. Anyone who feels entitled to special treatment simply because they can afford to keep two homes is simply not worth worrying about. When someone insists on acting stupidly, I've found its often best to just let them. That said, if I had been away for the Summer and someone at the square welcomed me back, it would make me smile and feel like I was home again.

As to the pony, it does sound a bit out of place for a town square. If the appearance was pre-planned by someone, I'd certainly question their judgement as to the sort of entertainment appropriate for such a venue. But as to whether or not it was legal, I'd have to defer to someone more knowledgeable on the subject. I do cringe a bit when I observe crass exploitation of unfortunate animals for entertainment purposes, but unless there's obvious cruelty involved I doubt there's much that can be done from a legal standpoint. I don't see anything wrong with voicing your opinion though. If enough feel the same way and express theirs as well, maybe something can be done about it going forward. Good for you for speaking up.

Regarding statements about no coolers, seat saving and all the other behaviors that are generally frowned upon at the squares, I've never thought of them as laws per se (i.e. things that can result in fines or other penalties, that are "enforceable" in some official way), but rather more like standards of courteous, civilized behavior that we all wish everyone would observe. Sadly, there are always those who don't (and worse, the ones who don't are exactly the sort that might try to pick a fight with you if you try to convince them otherwise). To me, its just not worth the bother to try to rehabilitate them.
--
bc



Welcome home.


Sit right down and type more. You are a great addition to this forum.

[NotGolfer]

Been here 6 yrs...never have seen the horse. My thought was "what do they do when it 'goes'?" Miniature horse or not...it probably makes a pretty big 'mess' when it does. Plastic bag??? Pooper-scooper???

[gerryann]

Been here 6 yrs...never have seen the horse. My thought was "what do they do when it 'goes'?" Miniature horse or not...it probably makes a pretty big 'mess' when it does. Plastic bag??? Pooper-scooper???

In some cases they are trained to not go in public.(since they are therapy horses) And sometimes they wear a strapped on bag like the horses used for horse and buggy.

[justjim]

Rexxfan: A nice common sense post. The fact is that the full-time residents and the snowbirds need each other.

Im certain the band didn't mean to "slight" full-time supporters they just thought it would be nice to mention some of the snowbirds were back. Our Church Pastors do the same when they see snowbirds have returned.

As far as what happens on the Squares----it is what it is. Would you rather have armed security to enforce all the so called rules. I think not.

[rexxfan]

Thanks gg, I'll be back in TV in 10 days or so.
--
bc

[Patty55]

Been here 6 yrs...never have seen the horse. My thought was "what do they do when it 'goes'?" Miniature horse or not...it probably makes a pretty big 'mess' when it does. Plastic bag??? Pooper-scooper???

Mine were always very shy about "GOING" in public. We had one pony for about three years, never saw or heard him pee. One time he was being drug tested, they stood around for hours and finally just drew blood.

The only exception I've had was an off the track TB, I think they're trained to pee before they race.

Minis are very small, I think 36" is the cutoff.

[graciegirl]

Mine were always very shy about "GOING" in public. We had one pony for about three years, never saw or heard him pee. One time he was being drug tested, they stood around for hours and finally just drew blood.

The only exception I've had was an off the track TB, I think they're trained to pee before they race.

Minis are very small, I think 36" is the cutoff.




Did you have trouble with him eating grass, or did he smoke it?

[golfing eagles]

Did you have trouble with him eating grass, or did he smoke it?

I think the people at the square at the time must have thought they were smoking SOMETHING

[rexxfan]

:bigbow:
(definitely stay away from the political forums).:
I do look in there from time to time but not very often as they just make me sad. I wish we would spend more time trying to find common ground, things we can all agree on rather than things that divide us. Especially now.
--
bc

[Duckfinger2]

WOW .... a pony isn't Brownwood a ranch and farm theme, and after all there are life size bronze cows and horses there.

Maybe they thought a live pony would add to the experience,

Cooler those people just needed a little something extra to clam their nerves, because they couldn't believe what they were seeing.

Front row seats they just didn't want to miss any of the show pony and all !:

[Patty55]

Did you have trouble with him eating grass, or did he smoke it?


LOL, no actually he won, they always test the winners.:0000000000luvmyhors

[golfing eagles]

Since the pony seems to be quite intelligent, could it be trained to deal with the seat savers and the line dancers, not to mention the women that are "packing"?

[Barefoot]

The band welcomed back the snowbirds. I thought it was odd that they band gave them special recognition, that's all. ....... I resent when entertainment or establishments add to that attitude of entitlement. The message of "Why, thank you snowbirds, this place was awful without you," is very unfair to those of us who ARE here supporting them twelve months out of the year.
The band was obviously just graciously welcoming back the snowbirds and seasonal residents. A nice thing to do.
I think you are blowing this out of perspective, and that no "insult" was intended toward full-time residents.

[gerryann]

Since the pony seems to be quite intelligent, could it be trained to deal with the seat savers and the line dancers, not to mention the women that are "packing"?

Hey, I think you might be on to something....

[golfing eagles]

Hey, I think you might be on to something....

Either that or I'm just ON something:1rotfl:

[gerryann]

Either that or I'm just ON something:1rotfl:

That too ;)

[golfing eagles]

That too ;)

lol

[Fredwms]

Seeing a pony on the dance floor is something different to observe. Personally I would find it more interesting that watching 50 people line dancing but that is my personal opinion. As far as bringing coolers to the squares, how could anyone complain about beer prices at the squares? Getting two beers during happy hour for under three bucks is a bargain in my opinion. That's my two cents on the subject.
:0000000000luvmyhors

[golfing eagles]

Seeing a pony on the dance floor is something different to observe. Personally I would find it more interesting that watching 50 people line dancing but that is my personal opinion. As far as bringing coolers to the squares, how could anyone complain about beer prices at the squares? Getting two beers during happy hour for under three bucks is a bargain in my opinion. That's my two cents on the subject.
:0000000000luvmyhors

Actually, we could start a whole new tradition of a mascot for each dance. A bunch of rabbits for the bunny hop, some foxes (the animal, not the women) for the fox trot, and some stray kitties for the alley cat. God help us if anyone wants to do the locomotion

[ahayward65]

Dancing ponies, fighting line dancers, drunk cart drivers, and seat savers. We want our country back!

Guess the place is changing!:sad:

[graciegirl]

Guess the place is changing!:sad:





No, actually.


It's the same ole dog and pony show.

[Greg Nelson]

giddy up!

[virgind]

When people get old,in some cases,they regress to adolescence as does their intelligence. And hence you end up with horses ass in the square.

[nova12]

55260

[Jima64]

Actually, we could start a whole new tradition of a mascot for each dance. A bunch of rabbits for the bunny hop, some foxes (the animal, not the women) for the fox trot, and some stray kitties for the alley cat. God help us if anyone wants to do the locomotion

Thank you for my laugh of the day.

[gomoho]

At the risk of being attacked I would just like to say "this thread is the exact reason 100k seniors under one umbrella probably ain't such a good idea'

[FosterMomma]

There actually are service ponies... they have started using them because of their longevity versus that of a dog.

[Callaway Guy]

As a recent new owner/snowbird I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all you year-round residents. Without you, The Villages simply wouldn't BE there for us to come back to. I'm very grateful to you all for that. Anyone who feels entitled to special treatment simply because they can afford to keep two homes is simply not worth worrying about. When someone insists on acting stupidly, I've found its often best to just let them. That said, if I had been away for the Summer and someone at the square welcomed me back, it would make me smile and feel like I was home again.

As to the pony, it does sound a bit out of place for a town square. If the appearance was pre-planned by someone, I'd certainly question their judgement as to the sort of entertainment appropriate for such a venue. But as to whether or not it was legal, I'd have to defer to someone more knowledgeable on the subject. I do cringe a bit when I observe crass exploitation of unfortunate animals for entertainment purposes, but unless there's obvious cruelty involved I doubt there's much that can be done from a legal standpoint. I don't see anything wrong with voicing your opinion though. If enough feel the same way and express theirs as well, maybe something can be done about it going forward. Good for you for speaking up.

Regarding statements about no coolers, seat saving and all the other behaviors that are generally frowned upon at the squares, I've never thought of them as laws per se (i.e. things that can result in fines or other penalties, that are "enforceable" in some official way), but rather more like standards of courteous, civilized behavior that we all wish everyone would observe. Sadly, there are always those who don't (and worse, the ones who don't are exactly the sort that might try to pick a fight with you if you try to convince them otherwise). To me, its just not worth the bother to try to rehabilitate them.
--
bc

Welcome to The Villages; it really is a great place to live.

[Hancle704]

Things have sure changed over the years. Folks used to go to square to be entertained and to enjoy a sociable evening with friends, neighbors and visitors. Now it seems that there is a small percentage of folks who believe they are special, deserve more, think they are different from everyone else and who somehow are convinced they are the entertainment. "Hey look at me, I'm an idiot."

[LI SNOWBIRD]

There actually are service ponies... they have started using them because of their longevity versus that of a dog.

Many years ago in another lifetime I interviewed applicants for public assistance and Food Stamps. One day I had a young man who was blind applying for Food Stamps for his service dog. Yes that exists. He said that he would rather have a trained horse because 1). He could ride it instead of walking everywhere and 2). he was allergic to dogs
that kinda made sense.

[golfing eagles]

Many years ago in another lifetime I interviewed applicants for public assistance and Food Stamps. One day I had a young man who was blind applying for Food Stamps for his service dog. Yes that exists. He said that he would rather have a trained horse because 1). He could ride it instead of walking everywhere and 2). he was allergic to dogs
that kinda made sense.

FOOD STAMPS FOR DOGS!!!!! I am not even going to type what I think of THAT. But I will pose the following question---since the number of people on disability has increased from 3.5 million to 11 million in the last 20 years, has the number of dogs eating on my dime increased proportionately? On second thought, I really don't want to know. But being better fed (by the taxpayer) do they contribute to the "dog poop" issue?:1rotfl:

[rexxfan]

Things have sure changed over the years. Folks used to go to square to be entertained and to enjoy a sociable evening with friends, neighbors and visitors. Now it seems that there is a small percentage of folks who believe they are special, deserve more, think they are different from everyone else and who somehow are convinced they are the entertainment. "Hey look at me, I'm an idiot."

I think the percentage of the human population that exhibit that behavior is small, but fairly constant. So, as a particular population grows, you're just going to run into more or them. There's nothing to be done about it but move on and enjoy your life. You're not going to change them.
--
bc

[goodtimesintv]

Once again, no grownups in the picture. Instead, people make excuses that will encourage more people to bring farm and zoo animals, for the owners to get attention for themselves.

The problem is this quoted paragraph below. But here in TV the problem will be that nobody exercises authority to do what's right for the other 99.9% of people present, as the airline did in the linked article:

“If you ask one too many questions, you’re in legal trouble for violating the Americans with Disabilities Act and could face fines of up to a hundred thousand dollars,” Kain said. “But, if you ask one too few questions, you’re probably not in trouble, and at worst will be given a slap on the wrist.”

‘Emotional support’ pig removed from airplane after defecating

‘Emotional support’ pig removed from airplane after defecating - The Washington Post (http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2014/12/01/emotional-support-pig-ejected-from-airplane-after-defecating/)

[genobambino]

I avoid the squares like the plague. I especially never go to one during the snowbird season.. It's ridiculous what goes on.

[Polar Bear]

I avoid the squares like the plague. I especially never go to one during the snowbird season.. It's ridiculous what goes on.
Meh.

The weirdness is minimal, rare, easily ignored, and far outweighed by the fun.

[tomwed]

I avoid the squares like the plague. I especially never go to one during the snowbird season.. It's ridiculous what goes on.I agree. Plagues are no fun at all.

[GrandmaP]

And besides the transportation issue, do you suppose he brought a shovel to clean up after the pony? That kind of mess would be fun to dance around!

[Barefoot]

I avoid the squares like the plague. I especially never go to one during the snowbird season.. It's ridiculous what goes on. The weirdness is minimal, rare, easily ignored, and far outweighed by the fun.
Or we can look at Geno's post in a positive way, one more seat for a Snowbird. :pepper2:

[Sandtrap328]

I avoid cliches like the plague!

[perrjojo]

:crap2::crap2:So people don't like dog poop. Can you imagine what even a miniature horse poop is like.

[kstew43]

Meh.

The weirdness is minimal, rare, easily ignored, and far outweighed by the fun.

absolutly.....:agree:

[Chi-Town]

:crap2::crap2:So people don't like dog poop. Can you imagine what even a miniature horse poop is like.
Miniature road apples.

[TheVillageChicken]

:crap2::crap2:So people don't like dog poop. Can you imagine what even a miniature horse poop is like.

I wouldn't go near dog poop with a ten foot vaccinated pole with a condom on the end, but I have picked up horse turds and hurled them at my little brother...many times. Must have done irreparable harm, as he became a Baptist Minister.

[justjim]

I avoid the squares like the plague. I especially never go to one during the snowbird season.. It's ridiculous what goes on.

Since they have sex on the Square, I don't go there either. Its ridiculous what goes on. Yogi would say "No one goes there nowadays, it's too crowded." barf

[tomwed]

Since they have sex on the Square, I don't go there either. Its ridiculous what goes on. Yogi would say "No one goes there nowadays, it's too crowded." barf
You do know they don't have sex on the square while the band is performing. Even the ridiculous wait until they put away the amplifiers and microphones. It's not nearly as bad as you imagine.

[Ckazules]

I must be getting old and cranky too because I fear for my life when the trash and recycle guys come barreling down my short street doing 45-50 mph. Where is the securit we are supposedly paying for???

[Barefoot]

You do know they don't have sex on the square while the band is performing. Even the ridiculous wait until they put away the amplifiers and microphones. It's not nearly as bad as you imagine. It's true, the ridiculous don't get their act together until after the band packs up and the spotlights are dimmed. :shocked:

[DougB]

I must be getting old and cranky too because I fear for my life when the trash and recycle guys come barreling down my short street doing 45-50 mph. Where is the securit we are supposedly paying for???

Who are you paying for security?

[Barefoot]

Who are you paying for security?
The guy throwing rocks at the gator?

[tomwed]

I must be getting old and cranky too because I fear for my life when the trash and recycle guys come barreling down my short street doing 45-50 mph. Where is the securit we are supposedly paying for???
I think garbage trucks are allowed to go 50 mph on short streets if they are running late. You might want to double check and call The Village Security Department.

[Callaway Guy]

:crap2::crap2:So people don't like dog poop. Can you imagine what even a miniature horse poop is like.

Probably like a mastiff or a great dane....

[Bonny]

I must be getting old and cranky too because I fear for my life when the trash and recycle guys come barreling down my short street doing 45-50 mph. Where is the securit we are supposedly paying for???
What security are we paying for?

[dbussone]

I think garbage trucks are allowed to go 50 mph on short streets if they are running late. You might want to double check and call The Village Security Department.


Tom - I hope you are pulling someone else's leg. Mine won't stretch any further.

[Barefoot]

What security are we paying for?
We are paying for The Villages Security Department. Tomwed will explain.

[Bonny]

We are paying for The Villages Security Department. Tomwed will explain.
:clap2: :thumbup:

[graciegirl]

What security are we paying for?


Social Security? Or is that a gift given to us by the millenials?


I want you to know that I am against sex on the bandstand. I hurt my back. I think people should just stay home and get a trapeze. I tore the heck out of my Achilles tendon jumping off the dresser.

[golfing eagles]

I want you to know that I am against sex on the bandstand. I hurt my back. I think people should just stay home and get a trapeze. I tore the heck out of my Achilles tendon jumping off the dresser.

OK, here's a laugh for your recovery

About 20 years ago a guy came into the ER dressed in a "Superman" costume. Apparently he was at the Holiday Inn with a female companion other than his wife. Since he wanted a "flying start", he climbed on the dresser and leaped toward the bed, but he missed, fracturing his , well, private part in the process. It does not require surgical repair, so the urologist tied a piece of gauze in a bow on it and sent him home to his wife. Would have loved to hear his "explanation" to her.

[tomwed]

I was approached at the square last night by a woman I had never met. She asked me if I would like some super sex. I said, "I'll take the soup".

[dillywho]

I was approached at the square last night by a woman I had never met. She asked me if I would like some super sex. I said, "I'll take the soup".

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause: Good answer!

[Mathmarm]

Thanks tomwed for lightening things up :)

[Sandtrap328]

I was approached at the square last night by a woman I had never met. She asked me if I would like some super sex. I said, "I'll take the soup".

Old joke - but still funny.

[Bruiser1]

OK, here's a laugh for your recovery

About 20 years ago a guy came into the ER dressed in a "Superman" costume. Apparently he was at the Holiday Inn with a female companion other than his wife. Since he wanted a "flying start", he climbed on the dresser and leaped toward the bed, but he missed, fracturing his , well, private part in the process. It does not require surgical repair, so the urologist tied a piece of gauze in a bow on it and sent him home to his wife. Would have loved to hear his "explanation" to her.

"Lucy ...I got some 'splaining to do!"

[tomwed]

Old joke
from an Old HS teacher