Trigger Pulled Too Soon

[Kahuna32162]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

[geofitz13]

Nope. With all the uncertainty about the track of the storm, I feel that if they erred, it was on the side of caution. A few days without golf and rec centers may be an inconvenience, but not that big a deal. I'd rather be careful than sorry.

[kansasr]

Considering that 24 hours ago, most of the hurricane models still had Dorian heading towards us and that The Villages is now a bit too large for just a couple of people to go out and shut things down, they made the right decision. Hopefully they will pull back on some of the plans and we'll get back to normal more quickly. Enjoy your time off everyone. Visit a friend. Call a relative up north. Take a walk.

[olliedog1950]

Better than waiting to long to pull the trigger. Hat's off to being proactive.

[vintageogauge]

The direction can change tomorrow, better safe than sorry.

[Polar Bear]

No.

[New Englander]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

No! These storms have a mind of there own and can change direction in a heartbeat.

[Mleeja]

No, but they should start reopening things if we are not having hurricane related issues. The good news is the greens can use a couple of days off.

[CWGUY]

No.

:icon_wink: Says it all!

[karostay]

Old say'n It ain't over till the { I'll be politically correct.}. weight challenged lady sings

[Nucky]

Whichever way they went, delayed till closer to landfall or doing the best thing as they have, they would be questioned by someone.

We are adults? No? Chill Out!

Listen to Polar Bear and CWGUY!

[EdFNJ]

But geeeeezzzzz Starbucks is closing tomorrow at noon! :cryin2: :censored:

[Marathon Man]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

You go fiirst.

[Topspinmo]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

No, they should of pulled the trigger when it left the coast of Africa!.:ohdear: I mean damn, gotten listen to weather frenzy week before it even close

[Topspinmo]

The direction can change tomorrow, better safe than sorry.

So it’s still days form the coast

[C4Boston]

Right decision made. Thank you Villages for being proactive.

[Trayderjoe]

Not at all. Consider that the people working for the Villages who are doing the prep have their own families/homes to worry about. Better that the preparation work is done proactively while giving the workers time to make sure that they and their families are as prepared as they can be.

I was in the direct line of a hurricane years ago and the hurricane took a literal "last minute" turn so that we ended up being brushed by the hurricane versus taking a direct hit. Mother Nature is going to do what she wants, and until Dorian dissipates, don't assume anything.

[dnobles]

Yes

[Kenswing]

Pretty easy playing Monday Morning Quarterback..

[thelegges]

I respect any tropical storm, including hurricanes. Since there is not an exact science, on path TV did the right thing.
If they hadn’t and hurricane takes a last minute turn, image how many would say TV was not prepared and put many at risk

[Martian]

Don't be surprised if it changes it's mind and comes back - it has happened before.

And better safe than sorry.

[eyc234]

I would say not, with 400 mile swath, being 50-60 mile offshore that's 175 miles of winds, rain and water. We are not 150 mile from the coast. Could still be more than most are willing to admit or realize. Better safe than sorry, plan for the worst hope for the best etc..... Can never be too safe and plan ahead. Be safe and hunker down.

[Two Bills]

Damned if you do, and damned if you don't.

[rjn5656]

No. Cautious is the best direction. We can always reopen.

[NotGolfer]

I think on another social media site someone posted photos of IRMA and the model back then was it was going to stay east of FL or looked similar to Dorian right now. BUT then it came around to the tip of the peninsula affecting t

****Update to my post...just heard a weather report on the radio and Dorian has been upgraded to a 5 and may be around for days. I get tired as much as the next person of hearing about hurricanes (or any other weather event). We have a choice and that's to be just check it out a couple of times throughout the day. You don't have to listen to the "news". BUT it's a good thing to be kept apprised. I still think we'll have some sort of affects from this one.

[perrjojo]

We have lived in hurricane territory for many years. We have prepared many times and nothing happened. We have prepared many times and we Happy we did. The biggest worry is getting complacent. If you prepare and nothing happens...be grateful.

[Bay Kid]

Hurricanes are like a drunk walking home.

[Two Bills]

Hurricanes are like a drunk walking home.

That's why I always drive! :icon_wink:

[DeanFL]

I went out and bought new wiper blades for the car in case we need to drive during Dorian.

Damn those forecasters - I may just return them next week.

[Topspinmo]

What beautiful day in the villages.

[KeithDB]

If the forecast earlier had been what it is now nothing would have been closed, even with the remaining uncertainty. They should go ahead and reopen things.

[kansasr]

If the forecast earlier had been what it is now nothing would have been closed, even with the remaining uncertainty. They should go ahead and reopen things.

Or at least post an update once in a while so we know what's going on!

[Marathon Man]

If the forecast earlier had been what it is now nothing would have been closed, even with the remaining uncertainty. They should go ahead and reopen things.

And then what? Hurry up and get all the needed work done at the last possible minute after the rain has started. I closed my yard on Friday. Could have waited, but decided that early was better than late.

Imagine if waiting too long resulted in avoidable damage to some of the facilities. The outcry would be so loud that they would be forced to give it a name.

[Bogie Shooter]

If the forecast earlier had been what it is now nothing would have been closed, even with the remaining uncertainty. They should go ahead and reopen things.

Why?

[Bogie Shooter]

Or at least post an update once in a while so we know what's going on!

Are you signed up for E-Notifications?

[kansasr]

Are you signed up for E-Notifications?

Yes, haven't seen anything. Have you?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

Yup. It's ridiculous that they closed all the rec centers and pools on Saturday when, if it did hit us, they were talking about Tuesday or Wednesday.

I had some guy from the district walking around my neighborhood handing out papers and refrigerator magnets on how to prepare for a hurricane on Saturday. My first thought was, "What a waste of money." Four to five days before this thing might have hit they are doing things like this. In addition, if people don't know how to prepare for a hurricane I don't know what they've looking at. It's all over television, radio and the internet.

People were lining up for gas on Thursday and stores sold out of bottled water and bread on Friday.

Impact was predicted (possibly) Tuesday or Wednesday and not the thing has moved north which was always a possibility.

Yesterday the weather channel revised their forecast to have the thing loving more north and everything returned to normal.

I've been living in The Villages for over seven years now. In that time we've had about ten hurricanes that could have possibly hit us bad. The only one that did was Irma in 2017 and the damage and effect was really minimal. We lost power for about three days. A few street were impassable for about a week but there is always alternate routes in TV. In may neighborhood there are a lot of manufactured homes and some did lose their carports and sustained damage to their lanais. But there was no widespread serious damage. The fact is that hurricanes seldom impact areas this far inland. I would much more concerned if I lived near the coast.

That being said, everyone should be prepared so that they don't have to run out at the last minute to buy bread. (Why bread by the way?). You're better off having a bunch of non perishable food items.


We have battery powered lights and radios and plenty of spare batteries. We have a propane grill to cook on and I always have two bottles of propane. I make sure the cars a filled up and I usually have five gallons cans of gas on hand for the mower. I charged my iPad and Laptop with the car. We never lost water, but we always have three or four days worth of bottled water. If the forecast shows the storm really heading toward us a day or two before, we fill up a bunch of buckets with water to flush the toilets and clean up. We also have a plastic bin full of canned food and first aid supplies on hand all the time.

In 2017 we were fortunate that a friend who has a generator allowed us to borrow it. I thought about buying one and even tried to buy one a few times when we had warnings. Then I think, seven years, one storm that impacted us, I don't know if spending $500 to $1,000 on a generator that we may never use is worth the gamble.

Yes, I think that they pulled the trigger way too early and they cause widespread panic every time there is a little tropical depression in the South Atlantic. Every year a hurricane seminar is held and everyone should go to that when they first get here. If you do, you'll learn to be 90% prepared all the time and don't have to go crazy if one actually does hit us.

As I said, I have lived through a lot of warnings and seen the panic when we were never impacted. Hurricanes don't like land. They need to suck up water to when there is a large land mass in the way, they usually turn to avoid it or weaken when they hit is. I feel that although we are pretty safe this far inland, we need to be a bit prepared, but we shouldn't be closing pools, rec centers and golf course 4-5 days before impact is expected.

It's a beautiful sunny day right now and the next couple of days are supposed to have a little bit of rain and wind. Yet several of the resident clubs that I attend are not meeting because the rec centers are closed. So yes, they pulled the trigger WAY too early.

Sorry for the rant. It's just my take on the whole thing.

[njbchbum]

Or at least post an update once in a while so we know what's going on!

Are you signed up for E-Notifications?

Yes, haven't seen anything. Have you?

Well that sounds to me that there is nothing to update! :)

[John_W]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EDYT8vfXYAAaP7a?format=jpg&name=small

[Bogie Shooter]

Yes, haven't seen anything. Have you?

Severe Weather Preparations – UPDATED 8/30/2019
While emergency management continues to be a function of the county in which you reside, the District works extremely hard in ensuring the safety of District staff, residents of The Villages and District facilities. In preparation of the potential for severe weather, you may see some of the following preparations occurring throughout the community.
ALL indoor and outdoor Recreation Facilities, including swimming pools, will be closed beginning Saturday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m. It is currently anticipated that recreation centers & outdoor facilities will remain closed Sunday, September 1st through Tuesday, September 3rd (dates are subject to change). For your health, safety and well-being please DO NOT ENTER any facility or park vehicles in the parking lots until it has been cleared and opened by The Villages Public Safety Department.
All Executive Golf Courses will be closed Sunday, September 1st through Friday, September 6th to safely assess all conditions.
In addition, the following preparations may be taking place:
· Certain wind screens will be removed from outdoor court areas.
· Outdoor furniture may be secured or placed indoors.
· District administrative offices may close.
· If there is a potential for strong winds, gate arms may be removed. If you approach a gate in which the gate arm has been removed, please use extreme caution and make sure to stop before proceeding.
· Irrigation may run along common areas and roadways to lower the water levels in water retention areas. This is done to ensure adequate capacity of the storm water management system.
We will continue to post updates as we begin some (or all) of the preparations mentioned above. If it is determined that preparations need to be made for the safety of this community, please understand that it may take days to complete these preparations. Facilities will be re-opened after it has been determined that the area and facilities are safe to do so by The Villages Public Safety Department or other appropriate agency. We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience.
Please stay tuned to Village Community Development Districts (http://www.DistrictGov.org) for additional information and updates. For additional information, please contact the District Customer Service Center at 352-753-4508.
To obtain information for your specific county, please visit the links below or contact the county in which you live for additional information.
Lake County - Emergency Management: (352) 343-9420 or visit Office of Emergency Management Home (http://www.lakecountyfl.gov/offices/emergency_management) or
AlertLake - Emergency Notification System - AlertLake (http://alertlake.com/)
Marion County - Emergency Management: (352) 732-8181 or
visit EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT — Marion County Sheriff's Office (http://www.marionso.com/emergency-management) and Alert Marion (http://www.alertmarion.com)
Sumter County—Emergency Management: (352) 689-4400 or
visit http://sumtercountyfl.gov/718/Emergency-Management and www.sumterprepares.com

[Velvet]

Yep, I got that in my email.

[maybe]

I am all for safety too, but I have seen no reason the p-ball courts, etc, could not be open today. The worst we could get today from Dorian would be less than what we could get nearly any summer day from thunderstorms. Good management would be adept at making quick changes. I am fine with them removing the water carts, folding sun screens, etc, but the courts could be as safely open today as any other summer day.

[billethkid]

Sometimes it sounds like folks are disappointed they, their neighbors and loved ones have been spared.

As in...."all this preparation for nothing..."

And there are some who have concluded those who run and operate TV facilities are standing by.....just in case.

A little inconvenience....no big deal!!

A major sigh of relief and a big thank GOD for those of us here in TV.

Keep in mind the thousands who are at this moment......where their prediction came to pass!!!!!!
While some complain it did not happen....on time yet!!!

[Daddymac]

:a040:Old say'n It ain't over till the { I'll be politically correct.}. weight challenged lady sings

:a040::a040::a040::a040::a040:
:bigbow::bigbow:
:mademyday:

[Marathon Man]

There is a CAT 5 hurricane headed toward Florida. And folks want to debate keeping the courts open one more day. How about we give the folks at Property Management a break and trust that there are things we don't know about that drive their decisions.

[Marathon Man]

Those making the decision to close the rec centers have a thankless job for sure. Had the storm arrived when originally predicted, how many on here would have said "well done".

[kansasr]

Severe Weather Preparations – UPDATED 8/30/2019
While emergency management continues to be a function of the county in which you reside, the District works extremely hard in ensuring the safety of District staff, residents of The Villages and District facilities. In preparation of the potential for severe weather, you may see some of the following preparations occurring throughout the community.
ALL indoor and outdoor Recreation Facilities, including swimming pools, will be closed beginning Saturday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m. It is currently anticipated that recreation centers & outdoor facilities will remain closed Sunday, September 1st through Tuesday, September 3rd (dates are subject to change). For your health, safety and well-being please DO NOT ENTER any facility or park vehicles in the parking lots until it has been cleared and opened by The Villages Public Safety Department.
All Executive Golf Courses will be closed Sunday, September 1st through Friday, September 6th to safely assess all conditions.
In addition, the following preparations may be taking place:
· Certain wind screens will be removed from outdoor court areas.
· Outdoor furniture may be secured or placed indoors.
· District administrative offices may close.
· If there is a potential for strong winds, gate arms may be removed. If you approach a gate in which the gate arm has been removed, please use extreme caution and make sure to stop before proceeding.
· Irrigation may run along common areas and roadways to lower the water levels in water retention areas. This is done to ensure adequate capacity of the storm water management system.
We will continue to post updates as we begin some (or all) of the preparations mentioned above. If it is determined that preparations need to be made for the safety of this community, please understand that it may take days to complete these preparations. Facilities will be re-opened after it has been determined that the area and facilities are safe to do so by The Villages Public Safety Department or other appropriate agency. We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience.
Please stay tuned to Village Community Development Districts (http://www.DistrictGov.org) for additional information and updates. For additional information, please contact the District Customer Service Center at 352-753-4508.
To obtain information for your specific county, please visit the links below or contact the county in which you live for additional information.
Lake County - Emergency Management: (352) 343-9420 or visit Office of Emergency Management Home (http://www.lakecountyfl.gov/offices/emergency_management) or
AlertLake - Emergency Notification System - AlertLake (http://alertlake.com/)
Marion County - Emergency Management: (352) 732-8181 or
visit EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT — Marion County Sheriff's Office (http://www.marionso.com/emergency-management) and Alert Marion (http://www.alertmarion.com)
Sumter County—Emergency Management: (352) 689-4400 or
visit http://sumtercountyfl.gov/718/Emergency-Management and www.sumterprepares.com

Yes, I've seen that...not a peek out of the district government since.

[Arlington2]

The weather models have been predictably unpredictable for the past weeks. Now that they show the hurricane to be headed north we suddenly have great faith in the model. Monday if the hurricane decides to keep heading west rather than making a sharp turn north we will all be grateful the preparations are in place. If not, many will be saying it was crying wolf.

[ColdNoMore]

Not at all. Consider that the people working for the Villages who are doing the prep have their own families/homes to worry about. Better that the preparation work is done proactively while giving the workers time to make sure that they and their families are as prepared as they can be.

I was in the direct line of a hurricane years ago and the hurricane took a literal "last minute" turn so that we ended up being brushed by the hurricane versus taking a direct hit. Mother Nature is going to do what she wants, and until Dorian dissipates, don't assume anything.

Fantastic and excellent post...plus DEAD ON!! :bigbow:

And NO, TV didn't take precautions too early.

Particularly given the consequences...of waiting too late.

And yeah, everyone will be an Einstein/Nostradamus...after the fact. :oops:

Might I suggest for all of the whiners, fer cripes sake, it's simply a few extra days of inconvenience...deal with it. :ohdear:

[Bogie Shooter]

Yes, I've seen that...not a peek out of the district government since.

What are you expecting? A new track?

[Bogie Shooter]

Fantastic and excellent post...plus DEAD ON!! :bigbow:

And NO, TV didn't take precautions too early.

Particularly given the consequences...of waiting too late.

And yeah, everyone will be an Einstein/Nostradamus...after the fact. :oops:

Might I suggest for all of the whiners, fer cripes sake, it's simply a few extra days of inconvenience...deal with it. :ohdear:

You are right.
I don't even call it an inconvenience...…………………...

[JoMar]

I am all for safety too, but I have seen no reason the p-ball courts, etc, could not be open today. The worst we could get today from Dorian would be less than what we could get nearly any summer day from thunderstorms. Good management would be adept at making quick changes. I am fine with them removing the water carts, folding sun screens, etc, but the courts could be as safely open today as any other summer day.

Apparently not......seems you are only for safety when it doesn't inconvenience you...it's ok to inconvenience those that will need to check the courts and equipment after you are done. Why should they have to prepare their homes or family....don't they know that you want to play PB? How dare they!

[ColdNoMore]

Apparently not......seems you are only for safety when it doesn't inconvenience you...it's ok to inconvenience those that will need to check the courts and equipment after you are done. Why should they have to prepare their homes or family....don't they know that you want to play PB? How dare they!

Well said. :thumbup:


Not that it will register with those, who have the attitude of..."It's ALL about ME!" :oops:

[perrjojo]

We were in Hurricane Camille in 1969. Went to bed at midnight with 110 mph winds. Woke up next morning and the hurricane had 165 mph winds and had moved about 100 miles west. 256 lives were lost. Never trust a hurricane until it’s blown out. We learned the hard way.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

There is a CAT 5 hurricane headed toward Florida. And folks want to debate keeping the courts open one more day. How about we give the folks at Property Management a break and trust that there are things we don't know about that drive their decisions.

That would make sense if the models showed it heading to the middle of the state today. Landfall is still a day away and the predictions are that even if it was headed toward the middle of the state, which it probably is not, we'd be wouldn't be really impacted on Tuesday and perhaps Wednesday.

The question is not should we be prepared, should the local governments not getting prepared, it's how much are they doing and how far in advance. This call to close facilities was made on Thursdays. So much can, and has, happened between then and this coming Tuesday. Sure being prepared to close facilities should have been a logical action, but actually closing them that far in advance was absurd.

[Velvet]

I realize some people really miss the recreation etc. However, I respect that management considered our workers’ situation too. Everyone needs to feel safe and secure, and probably those workers are the ones that would be called upon to clean up if the hurricane left damage.

I can’t believe that anyone would actually consider seeing them in possible danger just so they provide another day or two of fun for us.

[HIgolfers]

YES. I agree that TV should be prepared but there was no reason to close rec centers starting Sat at 5 pm when the models indicated the storm wouldn't hit till Tuesday at the earliest. I understand that rec employees need to get their homes prepared but folks that does not take 3 days! For example sports pools: there is very little furniture in sports pools- might take 2 people about 10 minutes to secure it all. Rec center buildings- don't understand what preparation has to be done to these. OK let employees go home early on Monday- problem solved. Pickleball courts- if you want to take down the nets on the fences, OK but leave the courts open for people to play at their own risk- that's what we do evey other day isn't it? No one chases you off the golf course or out of pools when there is lightning- you are told to play at your own risk. In my opinion closing all these venues so early is just making residents more anxious because they are out of their normal routine and have nothing better to do than worry about the hurricane. Notice that many surrounding businesses are still open? (GOLFERS: driving range behind Walmart on 466 is open!) Gas stations outside of TV have no lines (had to drive to Gainesville Friday afternoon and saw no lines anywhere!) I am all for being prepared but TV definitely pulled the trigger too soon on this one.

[ColdNoMore]

That would make sense if the models showed it heading to the middle of the state today. Landfall is still a day away and the predictions are that even if it was headed toward the middle of the state, which it probably is not, we'd be wouldn't be really impacted on Tuesday and perhaps Wednesday.

The question is not should we be prepared, should the local governments not getting prepared, it's how much are they doing and how far in advance. This call to close facilities was made on Thursdays. So much can, and has, happened between then and this coming Tuesday. Sure being prepared to close facilities should have been a logical action, but actually closing them that far in advance was absurd.

And by being extra cautious (and thinking of the employees who have to work to keep facilities open), exactly what major impact to your life...has a few extra closed days caused?

[Bogie Shooter]

Yes, I've seen that...not a peek out of the district government since.

Here is the latest peek(sic) for your perusal...
---------
e-Notification
Subject: Administrative Message - Special Notification to All Newsletter Subscribers
Date: 9/1/2019


Hurricane Dorian Update – 9/1/2019
The District thanks you for your continued patience and preparedness as we all monitor what is being described as the largest hurricane in modern times. Your safety, and the safety of District staff, is of paramount importance and, as such, our facilities will remain closed as meteorologists ascertain the trajectory of this Category 5 Hurricane. Please continue to check Village Community Development Districts (http://www.DistrictGov.org) for additional information and update

[Graspher]

TV made the appropriate decision

[Polar Bear]

And by being extra cautious (and thinking of the employees who have to work to keep facilities open), exactly what major impact to your life...has a few extra closed days caused?
This must be an extreme event!! CNM and I agree again!! :)

[Two Bills]

As I said before, damned if you do, damned if you don't!
20-20 Hindsight is a wonderfull thing.
......and I bet the ones bitching about early precautions now, would be leading the charge, if the measure were taken too late!:)

[perrjojo]

Those who think planing was too early most likely have never been trapped in a horrific hurricane..I have. I also know that when waiting you may find yourself prepping in the rain.

[vintageogauge]

This was a great day to go out and do other stuff. Scooter was at the Cattail Rec. Area from 1:00 until 4:00 with the food trucks open as well as the Bar at Edna's, most if not all of the restaurants and stores were open. We took a drive though Leesburg to see what we haven't seen before, also went up to Sams and Lowes to look around. Now we're tired and time to relax. We'll figure out what to do tomorrow when it gets here.

[JoMar]

That would make sense if the models showed it heading to the middle of the state today. Landfall is still a day away and the predictions are that even if it was headed toward the middle of the state, which it probably is not, we'd be wouldn't be really impacted on Tuesday and perhaps Wednesday.

The question is not should we be prepared, should the local governments not getting prepared, it's how much are they doing and how far in advance. This call to close facilities was made on Thursdays. So much can, and has, happened between then and this coming Tuesday. Sure being prepared to close facilities should have been a logical action, but actually closing them that far in advance was absurd.

Absurd?....you have no idea the manpower required to close facilities, although you do know it doesn't involve you. I have talked to, and we have people in our neighborhood, who are working long hours over several days to prepare this place for what could be. While they are doing that, they need to prepare their own homes and family. I normally agree with your but, using absurd when you have no skin in the game and no view to the enormity of the task...well absurd is a tad harsh.

[Martian]

I recall just a couple days ago a lot of people wondering WHY no one had called for a mandatory evacuation and were going on about how they were going to wait until the last minute and cause major traffic jams with people fleeing for their lives.

Now, people are complaining that they can't get out and play a little golf because TV made a conservative judgement call...

Damned if you do, and Damned if you don't.

[pooh]

Was it too early a call to shut down facilities? No, because at the time, weather reports indicated danger soon. This storm is a monster and truly predictions are just that, though scientific evidence helps in making those predictions, but again, they’re predictions.
Things are changing minute to minute and what’s the problem with being prepared earlier than regretting not being prepared. Villages employees also must ready their own homes, their families. Sometimes these things take longer than expected and who are we to put anyone’s life or that of their families, in danger just so we aren’t inconvenienced! Need something to do? Clean out closets, dressers, rid your home of things you no longer need....you’ll get plenty of exercise, find items you can donate that might benefit others and soon, this “nightmare” of being “without” will be over.

[John_W]

Live Webcam the Bahamas

*LIVE* Hurricane Dorian LANDFALL IN MARSH HARBOUR (Category 5 WINDS 185+) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RuhYgn41ms&feature=youtu.be)

[EdFNJ]

live webcam the bahamas

*live* hurricane dorian landfall in marsh harbour (category 5 winds 185+) - youtube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ruhygn41ms&feature=youtu.be)




wooooooow!

[thelegges]

I am grateful that TV started early to keep us safe. Think how long it takes to remove all the chairs, tables, and pool stuff. And that TV is making sure all employees are home with their families.
if one thinks that will ruined their plans for starting to close things down early it’s a shame.
Then again you probably won’t be one of the hundreds of volunteers to pack supplies for those who lost everything.
Some choose to think of others first, some choose to think of only themselves.

[ColdNoMore]

I am grateful that TV started early to keep us safe. Think how long it takes to remove all the chairs, tables, and pool stuff. And that TV is making sure all employees are home with their families.
if one thinks that will ruined their plans for starting to close things down early it’s a shame.
Then again you probably won’t be one of the hundreds of volunteers to pack supplies for those who lost everything.

Some choose to think of others first, some choose to think of only themselves.


:bigbow:...:bigbow:...:bigbow:

[GoodLife]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

As they say, don't count your chickens before they are hatched. The high pressure north of Dorian that was supposed to start weakening and allow a sharp turn to the north has remained stronger than expected. Some of the models are nudging the storm track further west. Hurricane tracking lists are very difficult and historically can be off by 70 miles 48 hours out. Remember Irma? Expert opinions were all over the place. A delay of several hours for the turn north are just a few degrees in the angle of turn can make a world of difference. This ain't a done deal by any means.

[Martian]

As they say, don't count your chickens before they are hatched. The high pressure north of Dorian that was supposed to start weakening and allow a sharp turn to the north has remained stronger than expected. Some of the models are nudging the storm track further west. Hurricane tracking lists are very difficult and historically can be off by 70 miles 48 hours out. Remember Irma? Expert opinions were all over the place. A delay of several hours for the turn north are just a few degrees in the angle of turn can make a world of difference. This ain't a done deal by any means.

But! But! GOLF!

[drcar]

Yup. It's ridiculous that they closed all the rec centers and pools on Saturday when, if it did hit us, they were talking about Tuesday or Wednesday.

I had some guy from the district walking around my neighborhood handing out papers and refrigerator magnets on how to prepare for a hurricane on Saturday. My first thought was, "What a waste of money." Four to five days before this thing might have hit they are doing things like this. In addition, if people don't know how to prepare for a hurricane I don't know what they've looking at. It's all over television, radio and the internet.

People were lining up for gas on Thursday and stores sold out of bottled water and bread on Friday.

Impact was predicted (possibly) Tuesday or Wednesday and not the thing has moved north which was always a possibility.

Yesterday the weather channel revised their forecast to have the thing loving more north and everything returned to normal.

I've been living in The Villages for over seven years now. In that time we've had about ten hurricanes that could have possibly hit us bad. The only one that did was Irma in 2017 and the damage and effect was really minimal. We lost power for about three days. A few street were impassable for about a week but there is always alternate routes in TV. In may neighborhood there are a lot of manufactured homes and some did lose their carports and sustained damage to their lanais. But there was no widespread serious damage. The fact is that hurricanes seldom impact areas this far inland. I would much more concerned if I lived near the coast.

That being said, everyone should be prepared so that they don't have to run out at the last minute to buy bread. (Why bread by the way?). You're better off having a bunch of non perishable food items.


We have battery powered lights and radios and plenty of spare batteries. We have a propane grill to cook on and I always have two bottles of propane. I make sure the cars a filled up and I usually have five gallons cans of gas on hand for the mower. I charged my iPad and Laptop with the car. We never lost water, but we always have three or four days worth of bottled water. If the forecast shows the storm really heading toward us a day or two before, we fill up a bunch of buckets with water to flush the toilets and clean up. We also have a plastic bin full of canned food and first aid supplies on hand all the time.

In 2017 we were fortunate that a friend who has a generator allowed us to borrow it. I thought about buying one and even tried to buy one a few times when we had warnings. Then I think, seven years, one storm that impacted us, I don't know if spending $500 to $1,000 on a generator that we may never use is worth the gamble.

Yes, I think that they pulled the trigger way too early and they cause widespread panic every time there is a little tropical depression in the South Atlantic. Every year a hurricane seminar is held and everyone should go to that when they first get here. If you do, you'll learn to be 90% prepared all the time and don't have to go crazy if one actually does hit us.

As I said, I have lived through a lot of warnings and seen the panic when we were never impacted. Hurricanes don't like land. They need to suck up water to when there is a large land mass in the way, they usually turn to avoid it or weaken when they hit is. I feel that although we are pretty safe this far inland, we need to be a bit prepared, but we shouldn't be closing pools, rec centers and golf course 4-5 days before impact is expected.

It's a beautiful sunny day right now and the next couple of days are supposed to have a little bit of rain and wind. Yet several of the resident clubs that I attend are not meeting because the rec centers are closed. So yes, they pulled the trigger WAY too early.

Sorry for the rant. It's just my take on the whole thing.

WOW, a few days without golf, pools, etc., staff are staff and had time to prepare. I think they did a great job! The plan was put in place when the impact was 72 hours away. Again staff are safe, I can live without a few days of Rec and golf.

[Henryk]

Considering that 24 hours ago, most of the hurricane models still had Dorian heading towards us and that The Villages is now a bit too large for just a couple of people to go out and shut things down, they made the right decision. Hopefully they will pull back on some of the plans and we'll get back to normal more quickly. Enjoy your time off everyone. Visit a friend. Call a relative up north. Take a walk.

Invite your neighbors for a little wine and cheese.

TV is not overreacting; it is being prepared.

[Martian]

Invite your neighbors for a little wine and cheese.

TV is not overreacting; it is being prepared.

:bigbow:

[600th Photo Sq]

3 - 4 days or so out of anyone's routine is ridiculous considering the forecast. Be sensible the decision was made by not one or two but many...Deal With It !

[B-flat]

TV made the right decision in my opinion, as others have said better safe than sorry.

The way I see it some of negative remarks about too soon are probably from the same people who would complain about winning a million dollars if it were given to them in 10s and 20s but they wanted it in 50s and 100s.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Nope. With all the uncertainty about the track of the storm, I feel that if they erred, it was on the side of caution. A few days without golf and rec centers may be an inconvenience, but not that big a deal. I'd rather be careful than sorry.

It's called protecting their assets. They are damned if they do and damned if they don't.

[patfla06]

No. Hurricanes are very unpredictable.
I think T.V. reacted responsibly.

The Summer has had a lot of rain where you couldn’t use the facilities anyway.

We should be thankful, so far, this dangerous storm is not hitting us directly.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Can anyone tell me the last time that a hurricane had serious widespread damage to The Villages or the surrounding area?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

And by being extra cautious (and thinking of the employees who have to work to keep facilities open), exactly what major impact to your life...has a few extra closed days caused?

So why not be extra extra cautious and close everything as soon as a tropical depression, that could turn into a hurricane that could hit Florida occurs. Or better yet, since this is hurricane season, why not just close everything beginning in mid August until the snowbirds all come back.

Again, the question is how cautious have they been and how cautious should they be. No one is saying that facilities shouldn't be closed at some point, but we all moved here because of the lifestyle. We pay for these facilities and should be able to use them as much as possible. No one has had major impact on their lives by closing them but that is not the question. The question is were they closed to early and I believe that they were.

The only thing gained by closing a pool and rec center is that The Villages didn't have to pay employees for those days. Someone mentioned giving the employees time off to prepare for the storm. Has anyone considered that some of these employee might need the extra five days pay that they're going to lose?

And how long does it take to prepare for these things anyway. We should all be 80% prepared anyway. Pull the lawn furniture inside. That's got to take whole hour. Fill the cars with gas. Another hour. What else does anyone do?

[jg29566]

NO! You can’t fool or 2nd guess Mother Nature. Being thru many hurricanes (SC & FL) you prepare for the worst and hope for the best. What a true blessing if this monster ends up never making landfall

[D.Lawrence]

It's all good, they made the correct moves to protect the facilities, they can start to re open on Tuesday, enjoy some calming time and rest.

[bigallis1]

Hats off to The Villages management for making the right move early on! :BigApplause:

[TimeForChange]

Since none of the weather experts know, or still don't know the exact direction the storm will take then TV did the right thing. On Thursday one report said the "storm could hit anywhere between Key West and Jacksonville".

[coffeebean]

..... Pull the lawn furniture inside. That's got to take whole hour. Fill the cars with gas. Another hour. What else does anyone do?

I've been thinking about this too. Preparing for the storm, basically all we plan to do is bring in the lanai furniture and our two potted plants. That should take about 20 minutes tops.

Time and money spent purchasing bottled water is really not necessary. We all have perfectly good tap water that we can stock pile before the storm. I would imagine most everyone has empty receptacles to put tap water in to. Fill the tub with water to use for flushing toilets.

We don't plan to board up windows. Should we? We don't have hurricane shutters on our home. How many people in TV do? The Villages doesn't board up windows on rec centers and such so I would imagine it really isn't necessary.

We gassed up the car already so that was done a few days ago when everyone else was at the gas stations. I know now we could have waited to do that and that took about 20 minutes. Gas lines during Andrew were MUCH worse and folks were running out gas in their cars as they waited in line. Their cars had to be pushed to the pumps.

We always have plenty of batteries so no need there to spend any time trying to find batteries on empty store shelves.

Total hurricane preparation for us is less than an hour. Is there something we should be doing that I haven't mentioned?

Our home was 60 miles from the eye of Andrew when it came ashore in south Florida. Our community suffered downed palm fronds and that was all. Hope that is all we have here as a worse case scenario.

[skip0358]

Who cares when they pulled the trigger? If it wasn't done soon enough you'd hear they should of done it sooner, now it being said they did it too early. It's over and done err on the side of caution period. So you couldn't play golf or swim or use the rec center big deal. Oh you pay a fee to use this stuff so what, Guess you never go on vacation or leave the villages or get sick. What about those who never golf, play tennis or pickleball. They still pay for it. You had plenty of time to get ready just in case the Stuff hit the fan and I'll bet if the storm changes course again and heads for us there will be another panic shopping at the supermarkets. Chill and be thankful we don't look like the Abaco Island area. JMO now you can bash my comment.

[ladybugsmom]

Closed way to quickly. Everything closed for a week is ridiculous.

[JimJohnson]

The Villages has little to fear from a hurricane due to are large distance from either coast. Tornadoes are a danger to us, but not hurricanes.

[Marathon Man]

So why not be extra extra cautious and close everything as soon as a tropical depression, that could turn into a hurricane that could hit Florida occurs. Or better yet, since this is hurricane season, why not just close everything beginning in mid August until the snowbirds all come back.

Again, the question is how cautious have they been and how cautious should they be. No one is saying that facilities shouldn't be closed at some point, but we all moved here because of the lifestyle. We pay for these facilities and should be able to use them as much as possible. No one has had major impact on their lives by closing them but that is not the question. The question is were they closed to early and I believe that they were.

The only thing gained by closing a pool and rec center is that The Villages didn't have to pay employees for those days. Someone mentioned giving the employees time off to prepare for the storm. Has anyone considered that some of these employee might need the extra five days pay that they're going to lose?

And how long does it take to prepare for these things anyway. We should all be 80% prepared anyway. Pull the lawn furniture inside. That's got to take whole hour. Fill the cars with gas. Another hour. What else does anyone do?

This is pretty ridiculous.

First off, TV has a resposibility to get the work done and the workers out of harms way before the storm hits. Not everything in life is about money.

Second, if staff did not make decisions erring on the side of caution, many of the same people complaining about early closures would be criticizing their lack of judgment.

They have a thankless job. How about giving them a break.

[biker1]

The rec centers will only be closed for 3 days (sun, mon, tues). I would guess that it simply isn't worth the effort to reverse course and reopen any earlier and shutting down starting Sunday was the prudent thing to do considering the forecast when they made the announcement. There is obviously some planning that took place and employees have probably made plans based on the announced 3 day closure. They clearly pulled the trigger based on the best available information and will see their plans through and you really can't fault the management for this.

The announcement to keep the executive courses closed through Friday is a good one. We may see up to 5 inches of rain and keeping people off the courses is a good idea.

So why not be extra extra cautious and close everything as soon as a tropical depression, that could turn into a hurricane that could hit Florida occurs. Or better yet, since this is hurricane season, why not just close everything beginning in mid August until the snowbirds all come back.

Again, the question is how cautious have they been and how cautious should they be. No one is saying that facilities shouldn't be closed at some point, but we all moved here because of the lifestyle. We pay for these facilities and should be able to use them as much as possible. No one has had major impact on their lives by closing them but that is not the question. The question is were they closed to early and I believe that they were.

The only thing gained by closing a pool and rec center is that The Villages didn't have to pay employees for those days. Someone mentioned giving the employees time off to prepare for the storm. Has anyone considered that some of these employee might need the extra five days pay that they're going to lose?

And how long does it take to prepare for these things anyway. We should all be 80% prepared anyway. Pull the lawn furniture inside. That's got to take whole hour. Fill the cars with gas. Another hour. What else does anyone do?

[Bogie Shooter]

Closed way to quickly. Everything closed for a week is ridiculous.

And what are you missing?

[nancyesanford]

Agree. Also- this is Labor Day weekend. Getting things taken care of before people have a long weekend off work was the way to go. We didn't know on Friday what we know now. Not everyone who works here lives here. And even if they do-employees had properties of their own to think about. I think it was a thoughtful and courteous decision for them. But- if you want to know for sure, call Customer Service. They'll direct your questions.

[bargee]

Fail to plan is a plan to fail

[ColdNoMore]

So why not be extra extra cautious and close everything as soon as a tropical depression, that could turn into a hurricane that could hit Florida occurs. Or better yet, since this is hurricane season, why not just close everything beginning in mid August until the snowbirds all come back.

Again, the question is how cautious have they been and how cautious should they be. No one is saying that facilities shouldn't be closed at some point, but we all moved here because of the lifestyle. We pay for these facilities and should be able to use them as much as possible. No one has had major impact on their lives by closing them but that is not the question. The question is were they closed to early and I believe that they were.

The only thing gained by closing a pool and rec center is that The Villages didn't have to pay employees for those days. Someone mentioned giving the employees time off to prepare for the storm. Has anyone considered that some of these employee might need the extra five days pay that they're going to lose?

And how long does it take to prepare for these things anyway. We should all be 80% prepared anyway. Pull the lawn furniture inside. That's got to take whole hour. Fill the cars with gas. Another hour. What else does anyone do?
So a few people have lost a couple of extra days of amenities that they "paid for" (plus of course, ALL those other things that are part of those amenity fees...that are unaffected)...yet you admit it hasn't had a major impact on anyone.

What it really boils down to then, is the fact that none of the complainers have a clue as to the logistics/planning/contingencies needed to make those changes, much less the same to reverse them...and then implement a couple of days later instead. :ohdear:

Having made a career of planning large projects, with a plethora of moving parts, I can tell you...that it doesn't work nearly as easy as you wish it did.

TV made the decision based on the best info they had at the time and now that the projection has changed...the 'experts' come out and play Monday morning quarterback. :oops:

You'll live with missing a couple of days of free executive golf...so chill. :ho:

[KEP721]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?
Absolutely not.... I think they do a great job and as a person who is watching the ongoing’s from New York State it gives me great comfort knowing they’re doing the best they can in preparing for the worst scenario.

[Bogie Shooter]

The Villages has little to fear from a hurricane due to are large distance from either coast. Tornadoes are a danger to us, but not hurricanes.
Based on...…………?

[merrymini]

Sorry to have stuff cancelled but good to be safe and lucky dogs to miss the action

[pooh]

Winds can topple trees, and it doesn’t have to be a very strong wind...trees falling have been known to destroy homes, injure and even kill people, the upper right quadrant of a hurricane is where tornado formation can take place. Any hurricane going up the state may not be a CAT 4 or 5, but it could be rain maker and flooding is not beyond the realm of possibility. Winds can cause objects to become fast moving projectiles. It’s probably better to never make any statement about since it’s never happened, why should it happen now. Mother Nature has a mind of her own and sometimes she can be nasty.

Getting ready might be easy for many, but there are some individuals living in our community who are less able to prepare in a short time. While many might always have plenty of food available to carry them over for an extended period, not all do or can do. Some older individuals might not totally comprehend potential or impending danger.

What does this have to do with the topic...did TV act too soon? They didn’t. Workers may need to help their family, neighbors, friends prepare. It is NOT the fault of TV that this particular storm is being so slow in its trek.

[OhioBuckeye]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?

Pulling the trigger to fast. I think we should think pulling the trigger a little fast is a little better than to late. Could you wonder if they would of said nothing or just a day in advance. There would of been a lot of upset people.

[rmd2]

Yes! They could have waited until later like other companies/stores have done, but then again they wouldn't have had a 5 day vacation. Now we know we are not having any issue and everything is closed.

[Bogie Shooter]

Yes! They could have waited until later like other companies/stores have done, but then again they wouldn't have had a 5 day vacation. Now we know we are not having any issue and everything is closed.

And what is it you are implying?

[rmd2]

The Federal Government gives their employees notice late the night before as to whether they are to come in to work the next day or not in situations like this.

[John_W]

The Federal Government gives their employees notice late the night before as to whether they are to come in to work the next day or not in situations like this.

Same way with schools. I remember my senior year at St. Petersburg High in '68 we got a day off for a hurricane. It was probably the nicest day of the year, those with cars went to the beach.

[juscause]

Totally agree. Begin to open things now.

[Nucky]

What would have come of us if the people who removed Garbage Cans, Benches, Signs, Gates and did all the things we don't even realize that need to be done didn't show up for work because the Brains of the Operation Waited Until It Was to LATE?

What if the staff didn't show up for a Vast Variety of reasons and Risk Their Hide for $8 to $9 big ones an hour. Maybe some of them bailed out already.

Count me as Totaly in for those who made an Unquestionably Fine and Prudent Decision to act when they did instead of waiting One Minute longer than they did. Bravo. To those that question their judgment, I'm speechless and only because of the rules of our Forum. Best of luck to all and to all the people who keep us safe during the storm and Thank You.

[CWGUY]

Yes! They could have waited until later like other companies/stores have done, but then again they wouldn't have had a 5 day vacation. Now we know we are not having any issue and everything is closed.

:icon_wink: I have emailed the District Government. I gave them your name and the the name of several others who want to be in charge and make the important calls in the future when the well being of residents may be on the line. I am sure this will take a large load of responsibility off their shoulders and make them happy. Thank you for volunteering. :coolsmiley: And thanks for your expertise...... I had no idea safeguarding a development of over 65,000 homes and related infrastructure is no different than closing a store. :undecided:

[Polar Bear]

Yes! They could have waited until later like other companies/stores have done, but then again they wouldn't have had a 5 day vacation. Now we know we are not having any issue and everything is closed.
Don’t you even listen to the weather experts?? We “know” for 100% certain absolutely nothing as of right now. That speaks to the total absurdity of your post.

[captainlady]

Did not jump the gun, think of how many rec centers, pools, etc that need to be prepared by putting in outdoor furniture and outside rec items. also remember that those who work those places also have their own and family homes they need to secure.....it all takes time. Storms are unpredictable and I would rather have them prepared early rather than risking their lives at the last minute. Thank goodness we have people who care about all of us.

[New Englander]

Some people will go out of their way to find things to complain about. :ohdear:

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

This is pretty ridiculous.

First off, TV has a resposibility to get the work done and the workers out of harms way before the storm hits. Not everything in life is about money.

Second, if staff did not make decisions erring on the side of caution, many of the same people complaining about early closures would be criticizing their lack of judgment.

They have a thankless job. How about giving them a break.

I was addressing the response that some people had saying that closing the amenities gave the employees time to get their homes prepared. This hurricane was predicted to impact our area on Monday or Tuesday. Now they're saying Wednesday. It has been one of the slowest moving storms in history to those predictions were pretty accurate.

I have friends who had all of their outside stuff pulled in last Thursday. That's pretty ridiculous IMHO. Again, how long does it take to prepare your house? If it takes days, you're not preparing properly to begin with.

Yes, closing up the rec centers and pools takes a bit longer but 4-5 days? I would think that if they kept them open until they had a better idea of what was going to happen, closing them down could be accomplished in a day. They might even ask employees who were off to come in and assist with the closing up operation since they are going to miss out on several days pay.

[Aloha1]

Regarding all the previous comments, I am reminded of the wisdom of the old adages, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". and also, "Better safe than sorry."

We are NOT out of the woods yet.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Live Webcam the Bahamas

*LIVE* Hurricane Dorian LANDFALL IN MARSH HARBOUR (Category 5 WINDS 185+) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RuhYgn41ms&feature=youtu.be)

Yup, and if I lived on an island out in the middle of the ocean or near the east coast of Florida, I'd be very concerned. In fact, I'd probably have evacuated to someplace inland like The Villages by now.

I'll ask again. When was the last time the area of The Villages had serious widespread damage from a hurricane? I haven't been able to find an answer.

I know tornadoes hit in 2007 but that's not a hurricane.

We had the eye of Irma go directly over us in 2017 and it was not a big deal. We lost power in my area for about three days, but had no damage to the house and never lost water. Several manufactured homes had some damage, but it was mostly to carports and lanais. We also had a few roads that were impassable for a few days, but again, nothing that impacted most of us all that much.

Irma was a CAT 5 and the largest storm ever to make landfall in Florida. As it progressed up the middle of the state however it weakened and was a CAT 3 (I think) when it got here.

Here is what happened in Florida a few days in advance of Irma.
"An estimated 6.5 million Floridians were ordered to evacuate, mostly those living on barrier islands or in coastal areas; in mobile or sub-standard homes; and in low-lying or flood prone areas."

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Did not jump the gun, think of how many rec centers, pools, etc that need to be prepared by putting in outdoor furniture and outside rec items. also remember that those who work those places also have their own and family homes they need to secure.....it all takes time. Storms are unpredictable and I would rather have them prepared early rather than risking their lives at the last minute. Thank goodness we have people who care about all of us.

The question really is how much times does it take. All of those rec centers have staff. I can't imagine it taking more than a day to put away all of the outdoor furniture and other items. And like I said, many of the employees are going to miss several days pay. I'm sure that many of them would have been willing to come in and assist with whatever had to be done.

[drcar]

I was addressing the response that some people had saying that closing the amenities gave the employees time to get their homes prepared. This hurricane was predicted to impact our area on Monday or Tuesday. Now they're saying Wednesday. It has been one of the slowest moving storms in history to those predictions were pretty accurate.

I have friends who had all of their outside stuff pulled in last Thursday. That's pretty ridiculous IMHO. Again, how long does it take to prepare your house? If it takes days, you're not preparing properly to begin with.

Yes, closing up the rec centers and pools takes a bit longer but 4-5 days? I would think that if they kept them open until they had a better idea of what was going to happen, closing them down could be accomplished in a day. They might even ask employees who were off to come in and assist with the closing up operation since they are going to miss out on several days pay.

Your opinion is noted, but unless you work, run, manage any of the areas closed, your opinion is only noted and useless. I work for, Manage, one of the closed areas. Our employees were grateful and relieved for the quick action. Work was one less thing to worry about. Some staff left the area, their choice, but it gave them the ability to leave in a timely fashion. You are correct that this is a slow moving storm, BUT what if it speeds up and turns west?

Again we can live without a few days of Rec Centers, golf pools etc. But I know my staff has the peace of mind that they have time to make their personal choices.

[bagboy]

Your opinion is noted, but unless you work, run, manage any of the areas closed, your opinion is only noted and useless. I work for, Manage, one of the closed areas. Our employees were grateful and relieved for the quick action. Work was one less thing to worry about. Some staff left the area, their choice, but it gave them the ability to leave in a timely fashion. You are correct that this is a slow moving storm, BUT what if it speeds up and turns west?

Again we can live without a few days of Rec Centers, golf pools etc. But I know my staff has the peace of mind that they have time to make their personal choices.

Kudos to you, your staff, and district management for taking quick, decisive action. Over time, we realize some posters are experts on just about everything: golf course operations, golf course turf management: facility operation and management, and now hurricane preparedness. I wonder why we pay people when there is so much free expert advice available.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I think that even if the storm was on the original schedule to hit the Villages on Tuesday, they could have waited at least one more day to start preparations. It would still have given all employees time to prepare their offices, rec centers, pools, other amenities, with plenty left over to attend to their personal property and family plans to evacuate if that's what they chose.

Having said that, a day isn't going to make or break the Villages. If you're inconvenienced by "over-cautious" planning, I can't imagine the tirade you'd go into, if the storm hits and the Villages can't be back up and running for another three weeks (or longer). Remember all those stores where you buy milk, they have employees too and they will be doing whatever it is THEY do when a hurricane hits. So you might not be getting more cigarettes, or milk, or lottery cards, or bread, or ground chuck, or Wendy's burgers, for a long time if this hurricane happens to interrupt the power supply longer than a couple of days.

Relax. You're retired. What's the rush? You can play golf next week. You don't have to play it this week.

or does that only apply when it's someone other than you with a concern?

[Bogie Shooter]

Same way with schools. I remember my senior year at St. Petersburg High in '68 we got a day off for a hurricane. It was probably the nicest day of the year, those with cars went to the beach.

51 years ago, I wonder if their policy has changed?

[Bogie Shooter]

Your opinion is noted, but unless you work, run, manage any of the areas closed, your opinion is only noted and useless. I work for, Manage, one of the closed areas. Our employees were grateful and relieved for the quick action. Work was one less thing to worry about. Some staff left the area, their choice, but it gave them the ability to leave in a timely fashion. You are correct that this is a slow moving storm, BUT what if it speeds up and turns west?

Again we can live without a few days of Rec Centers, golf pools etc. But I know my staff has the peace of mind that they have time to make their personal choices.

:boom::boom::boom:

[Polar Bear]

Your opinion is noted, but unless you work, run, manage any of the areas closed, your opinion is only noted and useless. I work for, Manage, one of the closed areas. Our employees were grateful and relieved for the quick action. Work was one less thing to worry about. Some staff left the area, their choice, but it gave them the ability to leave in a timely fashion. You are correct that this is a slow moving storm, BUT what if it speeds up and turns west?

Again we can live without a few days of Rec Centers, golf pools etc. But I know my staff has the peace of mind that they have time to make their personal choices.
Ditto what Bogie Shooter said. :)

[Marathon Man]

I was addressing the response that some people had saying that closing the amenities gave the employees time to get their homes prepared. This hurricane was predicted to impact our area on Monday or Tuesday. Now they're saying Wednesday. It has been one of the slowest moving storms in history to those predictions were pretty accurate.

I have friends who had all of their outside stuff pulled in last Thursday. That's pretty ridiculous IMHO. Again, how long does it take to prepare your house? If it takes days, you're not preparing properly to begin with.

Yes, closing up the rec centers and pools takes a bit longer but 4-5 days? I would think that if they kept them open until they had a better idea of what was going to happen, closing them down could be accomplished in a day. They might even ask employees who were off to come in and assist with the closing up operation since they are going to miss out on several days pay.

Enough already. Apparently, you should be in charge.

[rrb48310]

Nope. With all the uncertainty about the track of the storm, I feel that if they erred, it was on the side of caution. A few days without golf and rec centers may be an inconvenience, but not that big a deal. I'd rather be careful than sorry.

:agree: :BigApplause:

[Pickbent]

weather forecasts seem to change on a dime. better safe than sorry. taking precaution was wise and still holds until danger well past/

[EdFNJ]

WHEW! Now we can go back to posting about important stuff like golf carts going over 20mph, dogs pooping on lawns, where the next Costco will or won't be and mean people in supermarket parking lots. :D

Oh, and the damned love bugs are back for part deux 2019. Was hoping the storm might blow them out to sea.

[Miss Daisy]

Looks like Dorian is turning East and will only skim the Florida coast sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. With Rec centers, golf courses, pools and entertainment all cancelled, do you think TV pulled the trigger too soon?
Better to be cautious first than to regret.
Be prepared. If it doesn’t happen, Thank God.

[Bobbusch]

Hope for the best, plan for the worst. They made the right call given what we knew at that time.
I assume that staffing is the biggest challenge, and they needed to get ready for the storm, too.
Would have been nice if they kept some things open a little longer:)

[Mommabear]

Yes, the airports changed their closure times to later based on updated reports. Pools could have remained open the past 2 days. The chairs could have remained stacked and tied down. However, I do see the validity of others’ views!

[ColdNoMore]

:boom::boom::boom:

Ditto what Bogie Shooter said. :)

I find myself, reluctantly and sheepishly, saying...DITTO, DITTO! :D


I also find that a number of posters, are simply reinforcing my belief that a lot of people live by the motto of..."I have the right not to be inconvenienced." :ohdear:

[thelegges]

Yes! They could have waited until later like other companies/stores have done, but then again they wouldn't have had a 5 day vacation. Now we know we are not having any issue and everything is closed.

Since this is a mandatory closure, the employees may have a 5 day weekend, but they will not get paid. As in any large facility hospital that is shut down, you get time off without pay. Many of these employees could use a full paycheck.
When TV is no longer in danger and the CAT 5 has moved on, I get to wonder if where our oldest is north of Wilmington on a barrier island, will be safe.

[Polar Bear]

Enough already...
:thumbup:

...Apparently, you should be in charge.
WHAT!!??!! :eek:

[graciegirl]

Since this is a mandatory closure, the employees may have a 5 day weekend, but they will not get paid. As in any large facility hospital that is shut down, you get time off without pay. Many of these employees could use a full paycheck.
When TV is no longer in danger and the CAT 5 has moved on, I get to wonder if where our oldest is north of Wilmington on a barrier island, will be safe.

This is where "SAVE YOUR money for a rainy day" becomes valuable information.

[drcar]

Yup, and if I lived on an island out in the middle of the ocean or near the east coast of Florida, I'd be very concerned. In fact, I'd probably have evacuated to someplace inland like The Villages by now.

I'll ask again. When was the last time the area of The Villages had serious widespread damage from a hurricane? I haven't been able to find an answer.

I know tornadoes hit in 2007 but that's not a hurricane.

We had the eye of Irma go directly over us in 2017 and it was not a big deal. We lost power in my area for about three days, but had no damage to the house and never lost water. Several manufactured homes had some damage, but it was mostly to carports and lanais. We also had a few roads that were impassable for a few days, but again, nothing that impacted most of us all that much.

Irma was a CAT 5 and the largest storm ever to make landfall in Florida. As it progressed up the middle of the state however it weakened and was a CAT 3 (I think) when it got here.

Here is what happened in Florida a few days in advance of Irma.
"An estimated 6.5 million Floridians were ordered to evacuate, mostly those living on barrier islands or in coastal areas; in mobile or sub-standard homes; and in low-lying or flood prone areas."

Irma was a CAT 1 by the time it hit the Villages, and if I remember correctly you were most worried about the golf courses being closed to long.

[HoosierPa]

Management blew it

[billethkid]

The greater good and the big(ger) picture is a non existent consideration for some folks. Who have no knowledge what so ever what it takes to cancel and then restart.
It ain't a light switch folks!!!
Plus out predicting the experts of when it is safe to resume anything.

Those of us in the majority appreciate the call to action and decisions made.

You know the old saying you can't please everybody.....doing what is right and let the chips fall where they may is always a winner.

[Dennys37Packard]

Not in the least,

[JoMar]

Management blew it

Short sighted comment.

[ColdNoMore]

Irma was a CAT 1 by the time it hit the Villages, and if I remember correctly you were most worried about the golf courses being closed to long.

I believe...you are correct. :ho:

[coffeebean]

///

[skipbrown2002@yahoo.com]

I feel that they did the right thing! There is a lot of prep work that needs to be done that most people don’t see. It is better to error ion the side of caution, rather than trying to get it done at the last minute. Ask, hurricanes can change direction at anytime! Relax and get your property hurricane ready!

[justjim]

This is where "SAVE YOUR money for a rainy day" becomes valuable information.

I agree everybody should have a “rainy day fund”. However, I recently read that 40% of Americans cannot come up with $400 when a need occurs and they live from paycheck to paycheck. The 40% represents approximately 131,600,000 people.

[ColdNoMore]

I agree everybody should have a “rainy day fund”. However, I recently read that 40% of Americans cannot come up with $400 when a need occurs and they live from paycheck to paycheck. The 40% represents approximately 131,600,000 people.

Yep.

Analogous to that, is the fact that just a little less than half (+-48%) of all Americans do not own any stocks whatsoever (individual stocks/in a pensions/tax-deferred/Etc.), so any movements of the stock markets...do not affect them in the least.

That sure leaves a lot of good, hard-working, fellow Americans...in a tough situation. :(

[Red Rose]

I'll tell you one thing, it's been pretty darn boring around here the last few days. Miss my activities. Especially the pool and Samba.

[geofitz13]

So, if I get this right, there are some folks who believe that nothing should be done until the last possible moment, just so they can continue to golf or use a pool? The first few forecasts called for the storm to be going up the Florida peninsula on Sunday or Monday. Forecasts change. Storms that are predicted to go one way, go another. (Andrew, for example). I miss playing golf, miss going to the pool ever day. I'm glad that management had the courage to be proactive about this.

[Marathon Man]

Management blew it

Another expert who should be in charge.

Yes, both of my 'in charge' comments were sarcasm. Please forgive.

[Dilligas]

Unfortunately, even with all the hype and TV closing early, we still have too many residents that do not respond. If we get the hurricane force winds, many of your neighbor's lanai and yard items will be blown away, hoping not as missiles into your lanai glass door.

[Marathon Man]

:thumbup:


WHAT!!??!! :eek:

Sorry. I tend to get a little sarcastic when speaking logically to someone seems to fail.

[Dilligas]

We all forget, those who work in TV also need to prepare for the Cat 5 storm ..... some more than we do as they may live in trailers or manufactured homes, or worse yet, closer to the East coast of Florida.

[Dilligas]

What if the employees have to get lumber and board up their homes because they are too close to the East coast? What if the storm had sped up and bypassed the Bahamas and gotten here in 24 hours, and going that fast, not turned north? We could have had a Cat 5 hit landfall and endured a Cat 3 or Cat 4 here in TV. Don't every complain because someone was too cautious with a Cat 5. ps Only 4 Cat 5 hurricanes have made US landfall in history.

[skip0358]

Big deal they closed things down a little early because of what the forecast was predicting can’t swim,golf, use the rec centers, music was cancelled so what. Your still alive the storm has decreased we get to live another day. That’s all that matters. Had nothing been done and the stuff hit the fan the powers to be would be getting beat up for not reacting. Qqq

[Dilligas]

Glad you could prepare in one hour. Have you offered to help your neighbors who physically can't bring in the lanai furniture? Do you have snowbirds or vacationing neighbors who can prepare, so you can offer to help them. We do have all the above, and help all the above. It took 2 hours to clear snowbird neighbor lanai and pool area. That's what people in Florida do in preparation for major Hurricanes.....then get together with the neighborhood for a 'hurricane party' while the storm passes.

[Topspinmo]

I am all for safety too, but I have seen no reason the p-ball courts, etc, could not be open today. The worst we could get today from Dorian would be less than what we could get nearly any summer day from thunderstorms. Good management would be adept at making quick changes. I am fine with them removing the water carts, folding sun screens, etc, but the courts could be as safely open today as any other summer day.

Same with asphalt tennis courts, no reason to lock them out. Nobody need to manage these courts. People bring there own balls and water. I play with two groups that don’t even use rec center Pickleballs. I imagine the locked them out for fear of law suits if someone got hurt and no one around. With all these sue happy lawyers and fake injuries I could see why they done it.

[Topspinmo]

Glad you could prepare in one hour. Have you offered to help your neighbors who physically can't bring in the lanai furniture? Do you have snowbirds or vacationing neighbors who can prepare, so you can offer to help them. We do have all the above, and help all the above. It took 2 hours to clear snowbird neighbor lanai and pool area. That's what people in Florida do in preparation for major Hurricanes.....then get together with the neighborhood for a 'hurricane party' while the storm passes.

Nobody working 24 hours day.

[Topspinmo]

We all forget, those who work in TV also need to prepare for the Cat 5 storm ..... some more than we do as they may live in trailers or manufactured homes, or worse yet, closer to the East coast of Florida.

Yep, I sure they drive from east coast for little above or minimum wage jobs.

[Nucky]

Same with asphalt tennis courts, no reason to lock them out. Nobody need to manage these courts. People bring there own balls and water. I play with two groups that don’t even use rec center Pickleballs. I imagine the locked them out for fear of law suits if someone got hurt and no one around. With all these sue happy lawyers and fake injuries I could see why they done it.

Topspinmo, I really enjoy the things you post. I'm not kidding. The question is why can't people just go with the flow? Things am closed! Period! They, the big decision-makers made their decision. I'm glad they had their Own Balls! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl: God willing it will be over in a couple of days. Peace Out!

[coffeebean]

Glad you could prepare in one hour. Have you offered to help your neighbors who physically can't bring in the lanai furniture? Do you have snowbirds or vacationing neighbors who can prepare, so you can offer to help them. We do have all the above, and help all the above. It took 2 hours to clear snowbird neighbor lanai and pool area. That's what people in Florida do in preparation for major Hurricanes.....then get together with the neighborhood for a 'hurricane party' while the storm passes.

I have a feeling you directed your comment to me about helping neighbors to prepare for the storm. Yes, hubby and I have offered help to neighbors and also to friends who are snowbirds. I would imagine that is normal with folks here in The Villages.

[drcar]

:boom::boom::boom::boom::boom:Big deal they closed things down a little early because of what the forecast was predicting can’t swim,golf, use the rec centers, music was cancelled so what. Your still alive the storm has decreased we get to live another day. That’s all that matters. Had nothing been done and the stuff hit the fan the powers to be would be getting beat up for not reacting. Qqq

[CWGUY]

Topspinmo, I really enjoy the things you post. I'm not kidding. The question is why can't people just go with the flow? Things am closed! Period! They, the big decision-makers made their decision. I'm glad they had their Own Balls! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl: God willing it will be over in a couple of days. Peace Out!

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[rmd2]

Yep, and now it is stalled over the Bahamas for about 3 days so what to they want to do now, keep everything closed for 4 or 5 more days?

[CWGUY]

Yep, and now it is stalled over the Bahamas for about 3 days so what to they want to do now, keep everything closed for 4 or 5 more days?

:faint: As long as necessary! What "they" feel is necessary..... not the other 125,000 opinions. :ho:

[HIgolfers]

Who makes the decision to close rec centers, ballfields, pools, country club pools, pickleball/tennis courts, golf courses- exec and champ? The same person? I have watched GOLDWINGNUT's videos explaining amenity fees (and Kudos to him for explaining bond v maintenance fee v amenity fee) so I understand the monetary part a bit better. But I still am unclear on who makes a decision as to what and when things are closed. Since amenity fees pay for upkeep of rec centers, pools, courts, I would think District Board of Supervisors have input but with so many Districts the idea that they would all agree on closure seems unlikely. So is it John Rohan, Director of Recreation? And then presumably someone else decides on golf courses. But who is that person? Kind of curious now.

Also I find it somewhat ironic that the Sales Trolleys and Open Houses continue. So Village employees can drive the trolleys and narrate the tours but they can't staff rec centers? Hmmm.

[CWGUY]

Who makes the decision to close rec centers, ballfields, pools, country club pools, pickleball/tennis courts, golf courses- exec and champ? The same person? I have watched GOLDWINGNUT's videos explaining amenity fees (and Kudos to him for explaining bond v maintenance fee v amenity fee) so I understand the monetary part a bit better. But I still am unclear on who makes a decision as to what and when things are closed. Since amenity fees pay for upkeep of rec centers, pools, courts, I would think District Board of Supervisors have input but with so many Districts the idea that they would all agree on closure seems unlikely. So is it John Rohan, Director of Recreation? And then presumably someone else decides on golf courses. But who is that person? Kind of curious now.

Also I find it somewhat ironic that the Sales Trolleys and Open Houses continue. So Village employees can drive the trolleys and narrate the tours but they can't staff rec centers? Hmmm.

:ohdear: Do you live here? You don't have to answer. Here's some info. for you. There are lots of ways to learn how things work here. I looked into it before buying 15 years ago.

VCDD Administration (https://www.districtgov.org/departments/Administration/administration.aspx)

[Marvic 1]

It took 2 hours to clear snowbird neighbor lanai and pool area. That's what people in Florida do in preparation for major Hurricanes.....

Why do "Snowbirds" that leave their homes in the Villages for months at a time are leaving all those potential missile sitting out in their lanai knowing Florida is a hurricane state, then have someone go around picking it up for them? :shrug:

[Sheila Fisher]

No - I don’t.

[EdFNJ]

No - I don’t.
Obviously not.


:welcome:

[tophcfa]

Always better to be safe than sorry. Sometimes I push myself so hard everyday that having a few unscheduled days off from normal activities can be a good thing in the long run.

[CWGUY]

No - I don’t.

Obviously not.


:welcome:

:ohdear: I think she was answering the OP. I may be wrong. She has made only one post "No - I don’t" Your reply to her has me confused. :shrug:

[coffeebean]

Why do "Snowbirds" that leave their homes in the Villages for months at a time are leaving all those potential missile sitting out in their lanai knowing Florida is a hurricane state, then have someone go around picking it up for them? :shrug:

Why? One word....stupidity.

When we were seasonal home owners, we left nothing on the outside of our home that could become a potential missile. Everything, including hoses and hose reels, was stored inside while we were gone 9 months of the year.