2009 Survey for Residents

[aln]

Just got my notice about the 2009 Residents Survey.

I just thought it would be a good idea for the TOTV'ers to accumulate ideas for us ALL to put in the section they allow for us to be creative.

One thing I'd like to see everyone ask for is related to Men's day golf. (if you agree)

First - Allow the credits earned to be used in the Country Club restaurants as well as the Pro shops.

Second - Allow non-priority golfers the chance to sign up for Championship events on men's day that remain open after the priority golfers sign up.


ANY others ?

I'm sure we can speak with some extra VOLUME from the ideas on this site !:super:

[golfnut]

Move the train tracks 2 miles to the west................GN

[Muncle]

Okay, time for one of my favorite complaints, and it fits the survey comment format, so:

Why do I, as a single, sole owner of a residence, pay $141.24 a year to entitle me, and me alone, to use my cart on the Exec courses, while 4 golf playing co-residents of a unit jointly pay the same $141.24 that entitles all four of them to use pour separate carts on these same courses? As I've said before, I really don't begrudge the bucks and if this were the biggest complaint I had in life, I'd consider myself real lucky. But it just ain't right and fair!!!






`

[aln]

golfnut: ... great idea and when it comes to BRAINSTORMING... "ain't no bad ideas"
muncie: ... I'm sure we'll get a FEW other residents that feel the same !

more MORE MORE !:pepper2:

[JohnN]

I look forward to the survey!!

[Sandy222]

Sure would like to see more exercise classes at The Savannah Center.

[SteveZ]

A dog park on he "south side" (south of 466)

[Jullie]

Comfortable seating at the Savannah Center.

Increase the size of golf cart path going across Lake Sumter Bridge.

Thanks!

[Barefoot]

Currently, there is only one Village-provided dog park, located in the historical area east of 441.

If you are in favor of more dog parks for our huge dog population, please don't forget to WRITE IN a comment.

More dog parks would benefit not only dog owners, but also the Fumars of the world who don't want the pesky little devils anywhere near their houses! :laugh:

[captain1202]

I second Jullie's comment about the Savannah seating. It is positively miserable. Unfortunately, the concert (or whatever) experience is greatly diminished by the seating arrangements. Maybe this is why everyone leaves at intermission and all times in between. Never been able to figure that one out(?????):shrug:

[784caroline]

How about living in 2009 with access to free WI-FI throughout the Villages not just at the rec centers.

[Fourpar]

Currently, there is only one Village-provided dog park, located in the historical area east of 441.

If you are in favor of more dog parks for our huge dog population, please don't forget to WRITE IN a comment.

More dog parks would benefit not only dog owners, but also the Fumars of the world who don't want the pesky little devils anywhere near their houses! :laugh:

...unless the dog park is near his (or my) house!

I don't care to hear a continuous chorus of yelping canines all day, and I am pretty sure there are more than a few others that feel the same way. Enjoy your dogs, but don't subject the rest of us to their noise, and "leavings".

[nitehawk]

I am all for the WI-FI and maybe a we could all use the online golf reservation system without paying money to some web site the is not worth a ---

[JohnN]

free wifi would be great

where do these surveys come, in the mail?

[Indy-Guy]

The Villages sends you a letter with an access code then you go to thevillages.net to access the survey. The letter states that you go to the Survey Icon and enter your access code. However I went to thevillages.net and don't see the icon to enter the survey. Has anyone else found it if so let me know where it is. It is all done over the net.

[bebemary]

The Villages Survey doesn't activate until March 10 and runs until midnight March 30.

[spk7951]

I can add a suggestion and echo a previous comment.

I also do not agree with the trail fees. We can have choices for priority golf memberships but the trail fees are all the same.

My addition would be for one if not two indoor pools. Can not believe we are going to lose our indoor pool, a decision which has caused us not to join the Wellness Center. Have to wonder about the powers to be on that one.

[F16 1UB]

We need a dog park near 466A.

[rshoffer]

One gym that has a free-weight room for serious bodybuilders and lifters. Lots of free weights, dumbells and benches, rubber matted floors, HammerStrength equipment and LOUD 80's hair band music.

[jojo]

:laugh:Agree with rshoffer about the fitness center - except for the music. I'd like a little Mozart!

[SABRMnLgs]

They won't do anything to increase or fix the seating at SC. That would cost money. Another recent question on TOTV was, what do you miss most living in TV? My 1st answer was a decent Performing Arts Centre. Geez, even my old high school had a 1500+ seating capacity in the auditorium. (and that building was built in 1904)

:bowdown: :shrug:

[Hancle704]

These services are no longer provided by The Villages because they were sold to a private company, it seems fair to:

A. End billing residents for months they are not using the service. (You can put a billing hold on other services not used)

B. Reduce charge for trash pick up since recyclables have been removed from trash and are no longer sent to tipping station and landfill.

C. Stop charging for recycling as it should pay for itself.

[Barefoot]

A. End billing residents for months they are not using the service. (You can put a billing hold on other services not used)

I am a seasonal resident and leave for six months from April to October. I can put Comcast "asleep" and the Daily Sun "on hold" until I return.

I understand TV can't suspend Garbage billing for days or weeks that people are absent ... too much admin. But surely for a long period, it could be done?

[KathieI]

This is a vote for my whole neighborhood:
A golf cart path from the end of Ellenton Run, around the pond, to Colony Plaza so that we don't have to drive all around the hood, so we can get bagels in the morning. :mornincoffee:

Totally lazy and self serving, but what else is new. :throwtomatoes:

[PR1234]

How about a PEOPLE park? We just got home from two months in TV and I would have LOVED to had spent time outside reading (wasn't possible in our rental). The pools had too much talking going on.

[Barefoot]

We need a dog park near 466A.

What a great idea F16 .. a dog park near 466A!

[chelsea24]

We need a dog park near 466A.

I third this! :agree:

[GMONEY]

One gym that has a free-weight room for serious bodybuilders and lifters. Lots of free weights, dumbells and benches, rubber matted floors, HammerStrength equipment and LOUD 80's hair band music.

Although this is on the outside of The Villages. There is a new Fitness Center that just opened up. It is at 301 and cr-472 (Rainey Trail). It was in the Daily Sun the other day. Owned buy Josh and Summer Yoder. They have lots of wieghts and machines. Plus they teach MMA I beleve. Not sure of the price to join, but I hear it is very reasonable. Again I know it is not actually in "The Villages", but right next to it. If you go south on 301 from 466, it is on the right side of the road where 472 aka. Rainey Trail meets 301.
Just a thought to help.

[rshoffer]

Although this is on the outside of The Villages. There is a new Fitness Center that just opened up. It is at 301 and cr-472 (Rainey Trail). It was in the Daily Sun the other day. Owned buy Josh and Summer Yoder. They have lots of wieghts and machines. Plus they teach MMA I beleve. Not sure of the price to join, but I hear it is very reasonable. Again I know it is not actually in "The Villages", but right next to it. If you go south on 301 from 466, it is on the right side of the road where 472 aka. Rainey Trail meets 301.
Just a thought to help.Thanks

[BUC]

How about allowing fences at houses , not just at courtyard villas! Besides it will stop alot of whineing by those who don't care to be reminded of pets

[JUREK]

One gym that has a free-weight room for serious bodybuilders and lifters. Lots of free weights, dumbells and benches, rubber matted floors, HammerStrength equipment and LOUD 80's hair band music.

Don't forget to throw in a locker room with sauna or steam room.
Also how about a real hot tub.

:agree::agree:

[Barefoot]

Don't forget to throw in a locker room with sauna or steam room. Also how about a real hot tub.

Ahhhh, a health facility with sauna or steam room and real hot tub. Sounds great. I was so naive when we moved to TV. I just assumed every Rec Centre would have a pool, hot tub and sauna.

Folks .. this is our yearly chance to make our thoughts known to Village management. Please take this opportunity to use the "comments" section!

And I really don't want to mention dog parks again. So I won't. But you dog owners know what to do .... ;)

[Muncle]

Ahhhh, a health facility with sauna or steam room and real hot tub. Sounds great. I was so naive when we moved to TV. I just assumed every Rec Centre would have a pool, hot tub and sauna.

Folks .. this is our yearly chance to make our thoughts known to Village management. Please take this opportunity to use the "comments" section!

And I really don't want to mention dog parks again. So I won't. But you dog owners know what to do .... ;)

Do you really want to put a dog run in the middle of 466A? I don't think the grassland in the road divider is nearly big enough. Sure, it's a mile or more long, but it's only a few feet wide. That's way too dangerous for a puppy park!



`

[Canabarrybarb]

I would like to see more competition and lower rates for high speed internet access in the villages.

Perhaps most important however, is a resolution to the current IRS audit of the CDD bonds issued to buy facilities from the developer. As reported in the Orlando Sentinel http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/lake/orl-lk-lauren-ritchie-irs-bonds-030409,0,4865936.column, this could become a very onerous financial burden on everyone living in The Villages.

[FITZIE]

I agree with Julue as well. The seating in the Savannah Center is really poor. The Balcony is better to see with but the Orchestra is less crammed. But I can't see when I sit in the Orchestra because someone taller always sits right in from of me!! They should re do the center with stadium seating. Thanks Fitzie DiBernard

[FITZIE]

I agree with Julie too. If I sit in the Orchestra section I can't see, if I sit in the Balcony I can see but seats are uncomfortable. I think they should re do the Savannah Center and put in Stadium Seating. The bleechers are too unsafe for older people. Thanks Fitzie

[roadwarrior]

I believe that seat cushions should be banned from use at the Savannah center. If not completely, at least the seating on the floor. (orchestra)

[blueeagle65]

Perhaps if we all complained about having to pay for access to thevillages.net when all we want it for is to make tee times it might carry some weight. I seriously doubt if anyone uses it for e-mail of anything else. After all sites like hotmail, g-mail, etc. are all free.... Let them sell advertising on the tee time site to cover the minimal costs.

I would also like to have another cable company other than Comcast from which to select as well. We went with Clearlink till they were gobbled up by Comcast now we're stuck with mediocre service. This goes for internet as well as television service.

No matter what you want -or- don't want, be sure and submit your survey.

This thread is a good idea - there is strength in numbers!

[zummy]

Lets make the renters pay for golf and limit the number of times they can play in a month. It will give the residents more available tee times.

Also limit the developers tee times for life style previews as well.

[rshoffer]

I third this! :agree:
For the moment I take Maverick (100+ lb lab) for runs in the wide open spaces off Buena Vista south off 466A where the new town square will presumably be built some day... he loves it!

[Barefoot]

For the moment I take Maverick (100+ lb lab) for runs in the wide open spaces off Buena Vista south off 466A where the new town square will presumably be built some day... he loves it!

Sorry to be such a PITA about dog parks. But with two dogs permitted per household, I think this is a huge issue.

Hopefully if they add some dog parks south of 466, we'll all be able to take our dogs to run and play together in a safe and fenced area.

There have been so many discussions on TOTV with people complaining about dogs being walked in their neighbourhoods. If we all write in "DOG PARKS" on the survey, I think it will benefit everyone .. dog owners and also those people who would prefer not to see dogs on their streets or at the postal station!

[msdale]

With all the building going on here in TV, you think they would build a theatre for
shows, concerts, with real theatre seats and NOT right on top of each other! We used to go to American Player's Theatre in Spring Green, WI in the woods, open air, under the stars and it was glorious! Mostly Shakesperean (sp?) plays and even if we didn't know everything that was going on, we didn't care! It was magical. Why can't The Villages come up with something like that? That's what's going on MY survey!

[rshoffer]

Although this is on the outside of The Villages. There is a new Fitness Center that just opened up. It is at 301 and cr-472 (Rainey Trail). It was in the Daily Sun the other day. Owned buy Josh and Summer Yoder. They have lots of wieghts and machines. Plus they teach MMA I beleve. Not sure of the price to join, but I hear it is very reasonable. Again I know it is not actually in "The Villages", but right next to it. If you go south on 301 from 466, it is on the right side of the road where 472 aka. Rainey Trail meets 301.
Just a thought to help.Rode my bike there today.... 1/2 hr ride from Duval.... kinda dark inside.... nothing special.... The villages wellness center needs to put a weight room in the new place.

[GINSKI]

As a dog owner....I agree. More dog parks are needed.

[macgolfnut]

I would also like to support the idea of building a decent performing arts center. We looked at a lot of places to retire before selecting TV, and a lot of them had beautiful theaters. I think the largest theater in the LSL movie complex is an example of quality seating. With a population of eventually 100,000 and a lot of excellent entertainment we sometimes have and eventually could certainly attract, it would be a welcomed addition. The events at SC are very popular, but we should be able to both see and be comfortable.

[Cassie325]

I am sorry if this is already a known fact....just wondering who it is that sets up the survey...

The Villages or the CDD? I also was wondering if all residents can submit a survey or just one per household? Are full time renters allowed to take it or just the actual home owner? Just a few questions.

PS...is the 2 pet limit rule in the covenant that are signed? A friend has three dogs and is concerned that she can not have them all when and if they choose to move here.

[zcaveman]

I am sorry if this is already a known fact....just wondering who it is that sets up the survey...

The Villages or the CDD? I also was wondering if all residents can submit a survey or just one per household? Are full time renters allowed to take it or just the actual home owner? Just a few questions.

PS...is the 2 pet limit rule in the covenant that are signed? A friend has three dogs and is concerned that she can not have them all when and if they choose to move here.

This is a Villages survey. One per household but you can collaborate on your answers. I believe it is only the home owner since that will be the addressee on the letter.- but not sure.

My understanding is that you can bring the three pets down but cannot replace them after they pass away - beyond the 2 limit.

[MnGirl]

I'm in agreement with better seating at the SC, a need for a dog park, and better cart paths N. of 466.
Muncle, if you don't want to pay so much, there is a way.
Add more people to the title, and have them contribute. I'll take 1/4th.:laugh:
P.S. If moving the train tracks is on the table, I'm for that too.

[Army Guy]

Yes, on our recent Life Visit we inquired since we have a dog and told two dog limit.

Army Guy

[Barefoot]

PS...is the 2 pet limit rule in the covenant that are signed? A friend has three dogs and is concerned that she can not have them all when and if they choose to move here.

I know a few people with three dogs, and some with a whole bunch of cats. Even though the covenant says two domestic animals per household.

I think if the animals are quiet and well behaved, and the owners are responsible and respectful, the neighbors won't complain.

(Oh, and don't buy next door to Fumar).

[KathieI]

My understanding is that you can bring the three pets down but cannot replace them after they pass away - beyond the 2 limit.

As far as I know, Z is correct. I was told I can bring down 3 but cannot replace one after it passes away. Its sort of an unofficial "grandfathered" rule.

[Cassie325]

:shrug:

I personally don't care how many pets someone has....the neighbors may have something to say....BUT my concern for my friend is all the people that are very strict about the covenants everyone signed.

I guess if most are a little forgiving about the pet rule....then people are free to break other ones....whether one signed a covenant or not. Some rules can't be ignored and then others enforced....

For instance....yard decorations....grandkids....the guest passes....all sorts of stuff.

I am only playing devils advocate and would worry that some would get a little strict about breaking the covenant that was signed. I wouldn't want to leave behind one of my pets either....

The last the time covenants were discussed it seemed that some thought you should sell your home or not buy in TV's if you could not/would not abide by ALL the rules.


Does this part of the covenant not mean as much as others? Just wondering....

[Dirigo]

These services are no longer provided by The Villages because they were sold to a private company, it seems fair to:

A. End billing residents for months they are not using the service. (You can put a billing hold on other services not used)

B. Reduce charge for trash pick up since recyclables have been removed from trash and are no longer sent to tipping station and landfill.

C. Stop charging for recycling as it should pay for itself.

I contract services to a small town in Maine. The town manager told me the other day that, in this economy, recycling no longer pays for itself. The municipality has to pay recycling companies to take the materials. Don't know if this holds true all over, but it may.

Dirigo

[Dirigo]

Comfortable seating at the Savannah Center.

Increase the size of golf cart path going across Lake Sumter Bridge.

Thanks!

We drove across that bridge and back once during our LSP last week. Once was enough for us.

[Muncle]

Originally Posted by Jullie
Comfortable seating at the Savannah Center.

Increase the size of golf cart path going across Lake Sumter Bridge.

Thanks!



We drove across that bridge and back once during our LSP last week. Once was enough for us.


Yes, it would be great if the cart paths on the bridge were 2 or 3 feet wider each, but consider the options. One solution would be to take 4-6 feet off the pedestrian walkway, not at all a feasible alternative. A second alternative would be to take the space from the traffic lanes. Don't know this for sure, but I expect the four lanes now in place don't have much if any superfluous width beyond what is required by law. (Aside -- more than once, I've been a tad shook up by some idiot flying over the bridge, normally northbound, straddling the center line at least twice the speed limit)

So this leaves the only obvious alternative of widening the bridge itself. Now we're talking really big money, I expect in the millions but really have no idea. Since Morse is county-owned and the cart paths are TV, I have no idea who would ultimately have the responsibility of any such action. There may be some other more viable solutions out there, but none come readily to mind. I expect the developer and VCDD folks have been hashing this over for several years, like maybe since the day the bridge opened and had real traffic and somebody said, "Ah hell, we blew it!" :cus: I would think unless a buffalo were killed by a cart, nothing is going to change too soon.





`

[Bryan]

All the comments about the developers survey are good, even if I don't agree with each. I only wanted to point out that there is more than one survey around concerning life in TV. If you read the POA (Property Owners Association) Bulletin, you will see that they are also doing their annual survey. Not being as well funded as that other survey, you have to cut this one out of the paper and mail it in. I like to participate in both (for all the good it does me!). At least I feel better after I vent a little!

[Army Guy]

Although I am not a resident yet, let me put my two cents in on the cov. rules. The strict rules of TV is one of the main reasons we are buying there. We have been all over the world, and when you don't have rules, things can go to h@ll in a hand basket real quick. Since your home is your biggest outlet of money it only makes sense to do everything you can to keep its value up, and that includes the neighborhood and area which all factor into the resale price or equity growth. I have seen super nice sub-divisions go to pot, when there are no rules, so it does effect everyone.
As has been stated, if you don't like the rules, DON'T BUY/MOVE/LIVE in TV!

Army Guy

[Julie]

Although I am not a resident yet, let me put my two cents in on the cov. rules. The strict rules of TV is one of the main reasons we are buying there. We have been all over the world, and when you don't have rules, things can go to h@ll in a hand basket real quick. Since your home is your biggest outlet of money it only makes sense to do everything you can to keep its value up, and that includes the neighborhood and area which all factor into the resale price or equity growth. I have seen super nice sub-divisions go to pot, when there are no rules, so it does effect everyone.
As has been stated, if you don't like the rules, DON'T BUY/MOVE/LIVE in TV!

Army Guy

EXACTLY!!! :police:

[BUC]

Friendliest village? OK:shrug:

[bestmickey]

Not a resident yet, but I still have an opinion I'd like to put on the survey, if only I could.

I am a single person and will be living alone. Since my monthly amenities fees will cost the same as all of my neighbors, most of whom are couples, I want to receive the same amount in benefits. (Meaning, I want two resident passes.) Therefore, I suggest/request that I be given a second residents pass, which I can then give to my "special friend" for when he visits me....whether he is local or from far away. My second/named resident pass should not be limited to only 30 days per year. I think this is only fair, since I pay as much for my amenities as a family of two pays for theirs.

Alternatively, if the Developer wants to give my household only one resident pass, then only charge me one-half of the amenities fees charged to a two-person household.

[aln]

Well here it is MARCH 9th and the survey should be activated tomorrow the 10th.

As of 9PM Monday there’s 59 posts, here’s a synopsis in no particular order other than 1st come – 1st served.

The dog park issue was very big as was the seating at the Savannah Center. Also generating much comment was fitness centers.

Now, ‘seed your interest but also fertilize your neighbors’..

1. Allow the credits earned to be used in the Country Club restaurants as well as the Pro shops.
2. Allow non-priority golfers the chance to sign up for Championship events on men's day that remain open after the priority golfers sign up.
3. Move the train tracks 2 miles to the west
4. Amenities and trail fees should be PER PERSON rather than per home.
5. More exercise classes at The Savannah Center.
6. Dog park south of 466
7. Comfortable seating at the Savannah Center.
8. Widen cart paths north of 466 plus the Morse bridge south of 466
9. Free WI-FI throughout the Villages
10. Free online golf reservation system
11. INDOOR POOLS
12. One gym that has a free-weight room for serious bodybuilders and lifters. Lots of free weights, dumbells and benches, rubber matted floors, HammerStrength equipment and LOUD 80's hair band music. with sauna or steam room. Also how about a real hot tub.
13. A decent Performing Arts Centre.
14. End billing residents for months they are not using the service. (You can put a billing hold on other services not used)
15. Reduce charge for trash pick up since recyclables have been removed from trash and are no longer sent to tipping station and landfill.
16. Stop charging for recycling as it should pay for itself
17. A golf cart path from the end of Ellenton Run, around the pond, to Colony Plaza so that we don't have to drive all around the hood, so we can get bagels in the morning
18. How about a PEOPLE park?
19. Allow fences at houses
20. Lets make the renters pay for golf and limit the number of times they can play in a month. It will give the residents more available tee times.
Also limit the developers tee times for life style previews as well.
21. And last buy certainly NOT LEAST is Canabarrybarb’s comment about a resolution to the IRS issue. I think BETTER OVERALL COMMUNICATION FROM THE DEVELOPER OUT TO BE IN EVERYONE’S BEST INTEREST.



I don't agree with all but give all serious thought in how it MIGHT be related to ammenities and future growth of TV.

[downeaster]

Although I am not a resident yet, let me put my two cents in on the cov. rules. The strict rules of TV is one of the main reasons we are buying there. We have been all over the world, and when you don't have rules, things can go to h@ll in a hand basket real quick. Since your home is your biggest outlet of money it only makes sense to do everything you can to keep its value up, and that includes the neighborhood and area which all factor into the resale price or equity growth. I have seen super nice sub-divisions go to pot, when there are no rules, so it does effect everyone.
As has been stated, if you don't like the rules, DON'T BUY/MOVE/LIVE in TV!

Army Guy

You are absolutely right, Army Guy. I was in real estate and nothing would kill a sale quicker than a neighborhood with no or poorly enforced restrictions.
I am a resident here and one of the reasons is there are sensible restrictions. They are easy to live with and serve us all well.

[downeaster]

Not a resident yet, but I still have an opinion I'd like to put on the survey, if only I could.

I am a single person and will be living alone. Since my monthly amenities fees will cost the same as all of my neighbors, most of whom are couples, I want to receive the same amount in benefits. (Meaning, I want two resident passes.) Therefore, I suggest/request that I be given a second residents pass, which I can then give to my "special friend" for when he visits me....whether he is local or from far away. My second/named resident pass should not be limited to only 30 days per year. I think this is only fair, since I pay as much for my amenities as a family of two pays for theirs.

Alternatively, if the Developer wants to give my household only one resident pass, then only charge me one-half of the amenities fees charged to a two-person household.

I understand your logic, bestmickey and I am sure this was taken into consideration when the rules were established. Making such an exception would open the door to other exceptions.

I don't use any amenities so why should I pay any fee?
I use amenities but my wife doesn't so why can't I pay half?
I only live here 6 months per year so why can't I pay half?
I only play shuffleboard so why should I subsidize golf?
I play golf once a week and my neighbor plays four times. Why should I pay the same as him?
Ad infinitum.

Like taxes, amenity fees tend to take from some and subsidize others. Unfortunately, due to health issues, I am a subsidizer.

[Cassie325]

What about "HOW" the amenity fee increases are calculated. Based solely on the CPI compared to the prior year.

Some people are getting huge increases, where others are getting less than 1%.

Just wondering if this issue is going to be addressed. Perhaps I just opened another can of worms...but I am surprised no one else brought it up.

[Muncle]

What about "HOW" the amenity fee increases are calculated. Based solely on the CPI compared to the prior year.

Some people are getting huge increases, where others are getting less than 1%.

Just wondering if this issue is going to be addressed. Perhaps I just opened another can of worms...but I am surprised no one else brought it up.



Can you further explain? I assume you are referring to the monthly amenity fee that one pays to North Sumter Utility Company. Everyone I know has a similar charge (within 10 bucks) and no one has gotten a big increase. Am I missing something?






`

[villages07]

The only plausible explanation I know is that some of the older areas only see amenity inrease every 3 yrs, so, they get hit with 3 yrs of cpi calcs at once and it is cumulative.


Also, those of us with annual increases see it for the month in which we puchased. So, cpi increase in aug 08 was diff than oct 08...the wild increase in oil back then probably had the numbers all over the place. My aug08 increase was about 5%.

[The Great Fumar]

What a great idea F16 .. a dog park near 466A!

ACTUALLY TO PUT ONE NEAR 44A WOULD BE EVEN BETTER !!!
I'M SURE THE TURNPIKE WOULD BE OUT OF THE QUESTION !!!!

woof in the distance .....Fumar ..:evil6:

[Bubbalarry]

Little late getting in here but I think that all new home buyers and renters must go for a 15 minute video on how to go in and around roundabouts.

To sign off as attending.

Yesterday while heading into a roundabout I had a car from the right enter the roundabout and cut in front of me to go to the next exit.

This guy was so convinced he was right he was willing to pay the price of getting directly sideswipped by me had my vehicle not had superior brakes.

He started screaming at me like it was my fault. This issue is getting sickening with me as I very carefully approach these circles. One day I just might accept the threatening challenge and deck one of these A holes regardless of the consequences I might have to pay.

[Dynasty]

How about some rock music at the town square? Or better yet I'm sure we would all support a mini-Woodstock type festival at the polo grounds, maybe 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM on any day but Sunday.

[Muncle]

How about some rock music at the town square? Or better yet I'm sure we would all support a mini-Woodstock type festival at the polo grounds, maybe 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM on any day but Sunday.


They've had similar. Rocky (of the Rollers) put together an all-day event at Savannah a couple years ago. It was a benefit either for our tornado folks or the Katrina damage in our little sister city in Mississippi, can't remember which. Rocky got some fairly big name touring oldies groups and some of the better known locals to pitch in and they performed all day with people coming and going. Reviewed well, big crowds, lots of charity money raised.

Re an actual mini-Woodstock, there are a lot of old hippies around here that I'd rather not see partying naked and with our abundance of prescription meds, we likely don't need the magic mushrooms to escape reality.

:pepper2:


`

[Army Guy]

Muncle, I so agree! We lived through the 60's and survivied. I don't want to go back!

Army Guy

[Army Guy]

downeaster. Thanks!!!
I could tell folks stories that would astound them about what I have seen happen in someneighborhoods with no-rules. It is appauling.............

Army Guy

[RStoller]

I think the one area where The Villages comes off badly in comparison to other retirement communities is the lack of fitness areas in the rec centers. We have looked at several Del Webb Sun City properties. All have an indoor pool, exercise machines and free weights as part of their monthly ammenity fee. By comparison, The Villages has big facilities with mostly empty rooms. I would think that the developer would see the marketing advantage to have similar ammenities to the competition.

[donaldlmiller]

I would like to see some type of lighting by cart paths in some of the areas that are extremely dark at night. If you are not familiar with the paths and the area is surrounded by trees etc. it is difficult to navigate in these dark areas. If you are here all of the time and know the area it is no problem but many of us are not here all of the time and it can be a problem at times. Just a personal issue I put on my survey.

[Army Guy]

Rstroller, I agree. That is the one thing we noticed on our visit. But we really didn't think it that big of a deal since we already pay for a gym membership, so joining the ones at TV didn't seem a disadvantage. Plus we felt the price other then the Wellness Center, very reasonable. BUT will agree it would be nice to have them with the monthly fee.

Army Guy

[rshoffer]

Rstroller, I agree. That is the one thing we noticed on our visit. But we really didn't think it that big of a deal since we already pay for a gym membership, so joining the ones at TV didn't seem a disadvantage. Plus we felt the price other then the Wellness Center, very reasonable. BUT will agree it would be nice to have them with the monthly fee.

Army GuyDepends what you mean by "gym" or "fitness center". For example, The Wellness Center does not have a single flat bench where one can do barbell bench presses. There are no power racks, squat racks etc anywhere in TV fitness centers. The best equipped weight training facility in the area is Anytime Fitness (which happens to also be the fastest growing fitness franchise in AMERICA). So, depending on your training interests and what you are used to in a fitness facility, you may be disappointed in what TV has to offer. Anytime is well priced, open 24/7 and is just north of the hospital on 441 (on the left) before you get to Summerfield.

[Army Guy]

rshoffer, thanks! Will check that out in May on next visit.

Army Guy

[SABRMnLgs]

Today is March 12th 1:05 PM......... We have received no survey.



:shrug:

[Muncle]

Today is March 12th 1:05 PM......... We have received no survey.



:shrug:

Call Monica Anderson at 751-6719



`

[Stantheman]

Dear MSLDALE, Please use the language, Performing Arts Center needed .... in both the Developer Section and the Community Development Distrit section as i had suggested for the comments regarding new Performing Arts Center. If you use the language precisely when the comments are sorted, as they do, it will tally up and have more of an effect. If you propose other language your comments will be lost at the bottom. Thanx and tell your friends.

[jim1941]

Survey suggestion: Put the starter shack phone number at the bottom of all scorecards. The second call, after 911, should be to the starter shack to inform them of the emergency situation.

[Dynasty]

I would like to see radio speakers banned from the pool area. Just like some people are annoyed by cigarette/cigar smoke or heavy perfume, I don't like having to listen to radios at the pool. I am at the pool to relax and read. Seems like people could use some headphones.

So that would be my survey request radios with headphones only at the pool.

[nova12]

It would be nice to have a New Year's Eve party at the Polo Grounds.

[SABRMnLgs]

We need your help…
Express interest for a new, state-of-the art Performing Arts Center on your survey:

The Villages is a wonderful place to live…but we are missing a true Performing Arts Center. We, as residents, will have an opportunity to comment when we complete the “2009 Villages Survey” between March 10 and March 31. As in 2008, this year’s survey will be in two parts:
1. The Community Development District section
2. The Developer section

It is essential that each household complete their survey and re-affirm their wishes by
“writing in” comments in BOTH SECTIONS. The first line of comments must begin: Performing Arts Center is needed…! This standardized response will allow these write in comments to be tallied.

Thank you.

More information about this project
VPAA (Volunteers Performing Arts Alliance), a non-profit organization, was formed by a number of residents of The Villages who want to build a new state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center to serve The Villages and the surrounding tri-county area. We request that all Village residents participate in the “2009 Villages Survey”. The building of a new performing arts center is a complex issue involving securing land, obtaining funding, and resolving interrelationships between the Villages developer, the Community Development Districts, and the local and county governments of Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. In order to move to the next step of resolving these issues, it is necessary for the Villages community to speak up and voice their desire for a new, larger, comfortable, and more technically able Performing Arts Center. Our growing community deserves this new facility. The “2009 Villages Survey” is presently the only vehicle for us to make our wishes known.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the VPAA?
The Volunteers Performing Arts Alliance (VPAA) is a non-profit corporation formed under IRS Section 501C3 that was established to raise funds, secure land, and design/construct/maintain a new performing arts center. Members of the Steering Committee of VPAA have no connection to the developer, any political party or any government organization. Volunteers are people with backgrounds in theatre and communication, education, and many other kinds of work. An astonishing amount has been accomplished by the volunteers.

To date, VPAA has achieved the following:
Arranged for a 1,200 person on-line resident survey ( November 2007) to assess community interest in construction of a new performing arts center.
Contracted with a consultant for in-depth interviews with 50 plus local business and government leaders to determine feasibility of building a new and larger performing arts center (October-December,2007).
Prepared with assistance of an architect a preliminary design for the new performing arts center.
Compared performing arts facilities in areas similar to The Villages area as to number and types of events, on-going funding, and potential cash flow.
Prepared a pro-forma budget with assistance of AMS Planning and Research Corp for the Arts and Entertainment Industries (October,2008).
Published a monthly newsletter to inform community about work of Steering Committee. View past issues of newsletter at www.VPAA.org.
Presented information to Village community through booth at both Squares in November and December 2008.

Private donations from interested Village residents have allowed the above various activities to take place.

What are the benefits of the proposed new Performing Arts Center?
Benefits would include:
Involvement of Acoustical Engineers in design to assure state-of-the-art sound, and acoustics in the building.
Comfortable seating with good views of the stage for all audience members
Lighting design incorporated in planning process.
Fly Space to facilitate creation of multiple scenes for plays, musical theatre, etc.
Handicap seating and viewing locations.
Larger seating capacity enabling presentation of profitable Broadway-type road shows and other cultural events.
Refreshment area.
Areas for viewing paintings and other visual arts created by Village residents and other local talent.
Adequate toilet facilities to accommodate needs of older patrons.
Dressing rooms for entertainers.
Comfortable venue for the artistic talents of Village residents.


Why the Need for Community Input:

Despite the fact that the proposed new performing arts center would be built and maintained by an independent non-profit corporation (independent from Villages government organizations and not funded by Villagers amenity fees), the issue of building a performing arts center is a complex issue involving a myriad of different stakeholders. The persons would include the Developer, the Sumter Landing and Village Community Development Districts, local officials of neighboring towns, county officials of Sumter, Marion and Lake Counties, and other interested parties. With all these parties, no one at this time is willing to proceed with the next steps without knowing if Village residents actually support construction of a new facility.

The “2009 Villages Survey” provides a vehicle for residents to express their desire for the performing and visual arts. It is important to acknowledge, however, that your positive comments do not guarantee a facility will be built or even that discussions between the various stakeholders can commence…but your comments do demonstrate that the community wants a new, TRUE performing arts center. The hope of VPAA is that this demonstration of support will encourage the necessary discussion and planning steps to begin.

It is also important to realize that if there is no substantial interest expressed in building the proposed performing arts center, it will be very difficult to generate any interest from the Developer, local officials and public or private funding to help build this project.

Who will pay for construction and operation costs?
The facility will be built with private donations, corporate grants, matching donations, and state/federal funds that are presently available for building and maintaining such facilities.

Who pays for on-going costs?
On-going costs would come from ticket prices, corporate sponsorships, private endowments and rental fees.

Will Village amenity fees be used to support the facility?
No! VPAA recommends that the proposed Performing Arts Center be built and maintained by a non-profit corporation with no connection or support from Village resident amenity fees.

Why don't The Village developers build the new performing arts center?
The Village Developers have indicated that owning and maintaining a Performing Arts Center is a business they do not see as part of their “expertise”. However, as VPAA has explored possibilities with business and investors outside of The Villages, it has become apparent that no one is willing to work with us until they are assured the Developer is not opposed to this venture. It is hoped that a strong showing on the “2009 Villages Survey” will enable us to open such dialogue..

What help from you is needed?

To reiterate, if you feel that the Villages community should have a state-of-the-art performing arts center, then you should enter on the first line of your comments of both the Community Developments Districts section of the survey and the Developer’s section of the survey the following statement: Performing Arts Center is needed….

If you agree, please forward this message to your fellow Village residents. Thank you.

[Barefoot]

As a dog owner....I agree. More dog parks are needed.


If you agree that more dog parks are needed, please don't forget to add this to your survey comments!

:mademyday:

[golferling]

Please get the great bands, New Horizon, and The Villages band, out of the Savannah Center. have them where they can be enjoyed by more people.
Football field? Polo Field? Large open area accessible by golf carts...then have collections by volunteers. These are wonderful bands, entertaining, and should be heard more. We won't go to the SAvannah Center because of the seating, but we would be happy to attend an outdoor concert, or??? Anyone have any suggestions?