Goodbye Spanish Springs

[refeik]

Three restaurants on the Spanish Springs square have gone out of business. Plans are to transform these facilities and other future closures into apartments. In the near future I totally expect the entire Spanish Springs to be nothing more than apartments and shops. Also I find it strange that the district approved the Developer getting amenities for these apartments.

[Nucky]

Not.

[Laker14]

Three restaurants on the Spanish Springs square have gone out of business. Plans are to transform these facilities and other future closures into apartments. In the near future I totally expect the entire Spanish Springs to be nothing more than apartments and shops. Also I find it strange that the district approved the Developer getting amenities for these apartments.

I find your post interesting, and I can see it happening that way to a point. Is it possible that as the transformation towards apartments happens that a market will appear for more shops and restaurants?
I have no idea how many units of apartments might be created, but at some point those folks would love to have a nice square, with some food and music right in the neighborhood. Such a demand could turn into a pleasant equilibrium between local foot traffic and services. This could be a better working model going forward than what has been going on there lately. I'm not trying to be contentious, just suggesting that this could work out well for everyone.

[JoMar]

Demshar's did not go out of business, they closed temporarily. TooJays filed for bankruptcy months ago and I suspect this is part of expense reduction since the other two are still open. Katie Belle's is the only one that actually closed with no plans to reopen .

[EdFNJ]

I believe that once this pandemic is behind us everything will come back stronger than ever. Might take another year and some places will disappear but others will take their place. In the end, a "shakeout" may be a good thing.

[JohnN]

"Also I find it strange that the district approved the Developer getting amenities for these apartments."

Always follow the money, it's no surprise at all. Time are a-changin'

[Stu from NYC]

I believe that once this pandemic is behind us everything will come back stronger than ever. Might take another year and some places will disappear but others will take their place. In the end, a "shakeout" may be a good thing.

think your right

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Demshar's did not go out of business, they closed temporarily. TooJays filed for bankruptcy months ago and I suspect this is part of expense reduction since the other two are still open. Katie Belle's is the only one that actually closed with no plans to reopen .

Demshar's closed permanently. They have signs outside their restaurant stating so, posted by them.

[pauld315]

As The Villages empties out the office space they use in SS, they will transform, that space to apartments. Most of the second floor occupancy is now used by The Villages and they are consolidating operations down in the new headquarters they built in Brownwood. I would guess the first floor space will remain as commercial property

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

As The Villages empties out the office space they use in SS, they will transform, that space to apartments. Most of the second floor occupancy is now used by The Villages and they are consolidating operations down in the new headquarters they built in Brownwood. I would guess the first floor space will remain as commercial property

If they continue to have it part of the 55+ community, and not open it to under 55+, and manage it as the landlord as such with no sublets allowed - then it could be a very good thing.

Imagine some of the homeowners who want to downsize, who are still 100% independent, but want less responsibility that goes into homeownership. Living in the apartments. They no longer need to drive to the squares since they already live there. Since it's only 2 blocks away from the supermarket, they could probably get rid of their cars entirely, rely only on golf carts to get to doctors' offices or whatever else.

If they just need a quart of milk - it's no big deal for them to just walk the two blocks. Or they could even just go downstairs and order a cup of coffee from Dunkin Donuts, no need to buy a quart til shopping day.

But - I lived for 7 years in Boston, so I understand the joys of "city life" as an actual resident, not just a visitor.

If I was single I'd probably jump at the chance to live "downtown" in the Villages square in a little 1-bedroom apartment.

[Northwoods]

If they continue to have it part of the 55+ community, and not open it to under 55+, and manage it as the landlord as such with no sublets allowed - then it could be a very good thing.

Imagine some of the homeowners who want to downsize, who are still 100% independent, but want less responsibility that goes into homeownership. Living in the apartments. They no longer need to drive to the squares since they already live there. Since it's only 2 blocks away from the supermarket, they could probably get rid of their cars entirely, rely only on golf carts to get to doctors' offices or whatever else.

If they just need a quart of milk - it's no big deal for them to just walk the two blocks. Or they could even just go downstairs and order a cup of coffee from Dunkin Donuts, no need to buy a quart til shopping day.

But - I lived for 7 years in Boston, so I understand the joys of "city life" as an actual resident, not just a visitor.

If I was single I'd probably jump at the chance to live "downtown" in the Villages square in a little 1-bedroom apartment.

I agree with you. I've heard (I know that's dangerous) that the Brownwood apartments cannot be sublet. So... maybe that's a precedent.

[tvbound]

Small neighborhoods that have all the necessary amenities and entertainment, within walking distance, have become popular in many cities. I'm sure the developers are aware of this and it wouldn't surprise me to learn, that this is a first test to see if that type of development would work and make money for TV.

[chet2020]

I believe that once this pandemic is behind us everything will come back stronger than ever. Might take another year and some places will disappear but others will take their place. In the end, a "shakeout" may be a good thing.

Agreed. The apartment dwellers will want to dine out. Restaurants will open to meet demand.

[Two Bills]

I can see nothing wrong in using vacant space as appartments around SS. Square.
Unlike the HH proposed development, no one is going to lose a view, and apart from the fact people will know there are apartments around the square, little or no intrusion or change to the area should be noticed
Could be a good move to revitalise the whole place.

[Rollie]

Demshar's closed permanently. They have signs outside their restaurant stating so, posted by them.

I talked the owner on Friday. A decision to permanently close has not been made. No where on the sign does is state this.

Rollie

[Rwirish]

No, the closure is temporary per The Daily Sun yesterday.

[Eebnhab]

This is incorrect. The sign says they are closed temporarily due to slow business due to the pandemic and The Sharon and town square entertainment being closed. The note in its entirety is included in the highly misleading news story that implies in the first sentence this temporarily closed restaurant will be turned into apartments. This is not reporting, it’s fostering gossip and fear. http://www.**************.com/2020/09/10/third-spanish-springs-restaurant-shuts-down-amid-covid-19-and-turmoil/

[Leadbone1]

I believe that once this pandemic is behind us everything will come back stronger than ever. Might take another year and some places will disappear but others will take their place. In the end, a "shakeout" may be a good thing.

Paranoia and overreaction has caused a lot of this. COVID-19 should already be in the rearview mirror as the cases and the death rate have dropped below the pandemic stage a long time ago. That said, I sold food to restaurants for over 20 years of my sales career. Restaurants closing and reopening under new ownership and new names happened constantly.
Time will tell, but I believe other restaurants will move in to those spaces. The catch is they need people to support them. That’s not gonna happen if people are running around in a panic with masks over their faces afraid to go anywhere! I was at too jays SS a couple weeks ago and will miss it.

[RonI46]

I believe that once this pandemic is behind us everything will come back stronger than ever. Might take another year and some places will disappear but others will take their place. In the end, a "shakeout" may be a good thing.

We residences need to patronize the businesses that therremain open until the others are able to get back to business. Spanish Springs will come back maybe not like it is now but however people will show up. The music scene is a selling point for future residents, where else can you find towns around the country with outside music/ entertainment there are probably some places but not many.

[graciegirl]

Three restaurants on the Spanish Springs square have gone out of business. Plans are to transform these facilities and other future closures into apartments. In the near future I totally expect the entire Spanish Springs to be nothing more than apartments and shops. Also I find it strange that the district approved the Developer getting amenities for these apartments.

There is no conspiracy here. Restaurants are closing here and all over this country and all over the world because many, many, many people are afraid of dining indoors or being with crowds.

[Pamelah]

If nightly entertainment returns to the squares at full blast, as a potential apartment dweller in SS , I’d not rent until both ears went south so I could remove my hearing aids and not be bothered by the nightly noise.

[HoosierPa]

Three restaurants on the Spanish Springs square have gone out of business. Plans are to transform these facilities and other future closures into apartments. In the near future I totally expect the entire Spanish Springs to be nothing more than apartments and shops. Also I find it strange that the district approved the Developer getting amenities for these apartments.

Show me the plans in writing you mentioned. Are you sure you aren’t just complaining as exaggerating because you are upset about Katie Belles ?

[Timothyimitchell]

Over 120000 people live in The Villages. Most enjoy it. Like anywhere else there are some that may be unhappy. Let's see what happens when it all shakes out. Lots of factors involved here. Most decisions made by the developer have been good.

[oneclickplus]

I agree with you. I've heard (I know that's dangerous) that the Brownwood apartments cannot be sublet. So... maybe that's a president.

Bringing the "president" into this is only going to start a political conversation which we all know is prohibited. <wink>

[trinow]

I read here that Demshares recently received a small business covid19 disbursement of over $150,000 to cover employees salaries and other expenses. Then they close and no employees have jobs. How exactly does that work. Is this reimbursement for monies spent or is the just another way to play the system. Just doesn't sound right. Shouldn't they maybe give the money back? It seems a lot of different small businesses received funds that I believed were for continuing operations and were then used instead for other things

[vintageogauge]

I read here that Demshares recently received a small business covid19 disbursement of over $150,000 to cover employees salaries and other expenses. Then they close and no employees have jobs. How exactly does that work. Is this reimbursement for monies spent or is the just another way to play the system. Just doesn't sound right. Shouldn't they maybe give the money back? It seems a lot of different small businesses received funds that I believed were for continuing operations and were then used instead for other things

That money would have been used to pay their employees for the last 6 months and I believe it was also allowed to be used for rent. There will be no paying it back.

[Pdesensi]

I’m sure that if and when they build apartments on this square we will lose the nightly music and dancing because of the noise. Just my opinion

[graciegirl]

I’m sure that if and when they build apartments on this square we will lose the nightly music and dancing because of the noise. Just my opinion

I would like to see all people who will be proven to have made exaggerated posts and posted unfounded rumors about the apartments to run naked around Spanish Springs Square.

But then...maybe I wouldn't like to see that.

[edp411@yahoo.com]

Which member of the Morse/Schwartz family wrote this

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Demshar's closed permanently. They have signs outside their restaurant stating so, posted by them.

That's not what it says on their website. Scroll down to see.

Whats Happening | Demshars (https://www.demshars.com/whats-happening)

[Girlcopper]

Demshar's did not go out of business, they closed temporarily. TooJays filed for bankruptcy months ago and I suspect this is part of expense reduction since the other two are still open. Katie Belle's is the only one that actually closed with no plans to reopen .
All 3 are out of business permanenetly. The TooJays in Ft Lauderdale has also closed. And none of them has plans to reopen

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I read here that Demshares recently received a small business covid19 disbursement of over $150,000 to cover employees salaries and other expenses. Then they close and no employees have jobs. How exactly does that work. Is this reimbursement for monies spent or is the just another way to play the system. Just doesn't sound right. Shouldn't they maybe give the money back? It seems a lot of different small businesses received funds that I believed were for continuing operations and were then used instead for other things

Those government subsidies were issued months ago. They probably went through the $150,000 and now they can't afford to stay open. I would guess that they are negotiating with the landlord to find a way to stay in place until it's feasible to reopen.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I would like to see all people who will be proven to have made exaggerated posts and posted unfounded rumors about the apartments to run naked around Spanish Springs Square.

But then...maybe I wouldn't like to see that.

Definitely would not like to see that.

[NJSonja]

yes, I'm concerned about the traffic if everything becomes apartments...I live in Spanish Springs...I'm aggravated about broken promises too....it is what it is...

[FromNY]

If they continue to have it part of the 55+ community, and not open it to under 55+, and manage it as the landlord as such with no sublets allowed - then it could be a very good thing.

Imagine some of the homeowners who want to downsize, who are still 100% independent, but want less responsibility that goes into homeownership. Living in the apartments. They no longer need to drive to the squares since they already live there. Since it's only 2 blocks away from the supermarket, they could probably get rid of their cars entirely, rely only on golf carts to get to doctors' offices or whatever else.

If they just need a quart of milk - it's no big deal for them to just walk the two blocks. Or they could even just go downstairs and order a cup of coffee from Dunkin Donuts, no need to buy a quart til shopping day.

But - I lived for 7 years in Boston, so I understand the joys of "city life" as an actual resident, not just a visitor.

If I was single I'd probably jump at the chance to live "downtown" in the Villages square in a little 1-bedroom apartment.
Would be nice if they build condos. Not everyone wants to rent.

[airstreamingypsy]

I have always said I think The Villages should offer condos. Then widows and widowers, and married people, could downsize and not worry about lawn and exterior maintenance of their home. Apartments, will appeal to non Villagers, more than people who understand the benefits of having equity in their home. I think it's a great idea for Spanish Springs, it needs something to draw people to it.

[ficoguy]

The Developer is behind an Iron Curtain and cannot be penetrated by our harping and whining.

[Alaska Butch]

I suspect as tge square loads up with apartments complaints for noise will force the square music to be ahut down permanently.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

That's not what it says on their website. Scroll down to see.

Whats Happening | Demshars (https://www.demshars.com/whats-happening)

Ah actually I went to the website that for whatever dumb reason can't be linked here - that EVERYONE refers to as a source of information anyway...
And read the sign. You're right. It's "temporarily" closed. But I'm not counting on it ever re-opening. And the sentiment I expressed is the same, because of the wording of the sign. Saying that they can't encourage people to come to the square.

Well of course they can't encourage people to come to the square. They're closed. Closed businesses DIScourage business, they don't ENcourage business. Plus I wasn't impressed with their food and it was overpriced. They had really good italian bread. That's my "best" memory of their food. It just came off as very snippy, that sign. Like they're cutting off their nose to spite their face.

Good luck to them in their new Stonecrest location, and I'm sure the Developer will find a good replacement once commerce gets a little smoother in the coming months.

[asianthree]

I would like to see all people who will be proven to have made exaggerated posts and posted unfounded rumors about the apartments to run naked around Spanish Springs Square.

But then...maybe I wouldn't like to see that.

Ok vomiting on someone’s shoes, now You want to see people run around SS naked, you have jumped the shark. Why let post get the better of you, and come to their level

[PugMom]

I talked the owner on Friday. A decision to permanently close has not been made. No where on the sign does is state this.

Rollie

yes. i had a conversation with someone saying it was forever closed, but i didn't see that mentioned anywhere in a news article. however, if they do have a sign on the door that someone personally saw, it's hard to disagree.

[FredJacobs]

When I was in basic training in the Army, there was a fellow we nicknamed, "Arnie The Sweat." Every time he heard something, the first words out of his mouth were, "Is that a true rumor or a false one?" The developer owns the property - why can't he do to it as he sees fit? It doesn't surprise me that they are considering apartments. Right now, there is a boom in building Assisted Living and Independent Living facilities. Many homeowners are down-sizing as they get older. He sells Villas for people who don't want large homes or large areas of land to maintain. Many people over 65, who come from rented apartments and never had to worry about maintanence would like to live in The Villages. I view this as a smart business move. He's competing with all of the Independent Living Senior facilities that have sprung up and he has the advantage of Village's amenities.

[davem4616]

I believe that once this pandemic is behind us everything will come back stronger than ever. Might take another year and some places will disappear but others will take their place. In the end, a "shakeout" may be a good thing.


IMHO much of what we know will survive in some form however a large number of small businesses will not survive...small businesses have shallow pockets and depend upon maintaining a constant flow of revenue to meet 'the nut'...closing down for months on end will result in many of them going under....something else will move into the location if it was a desirable location...

some aspects of the economy will certainly immediately experience a 'boom' once it is believed that this pandemic is behind us....we're all tired of being shut in...others will have a longer ramp up

many of those businesses that do survive will have modified their business model...a return to exactly 'what it was' just isn't going to happen IMO

the huge unknown is: with so many out of work and so many businesses going' belly up', what's the approach that various governments will use to continue to meet their ongoing fiscal obligations and begin to pay down the huge debt that cities, states and the Feds are all incurring during this pandemic...

years ago someone estimated that 50% were supporting the other 50%....then I heard a rumor that it was closer to 40% supporting the other 60%....

I'm wondering if I should start stocking up on TP now, cuz if it ever gets to 30% supporting 70% the increased sales and property taxes are going to be crippling

[Lottoguy]

I'll put this into my "crazy rumor" file. It is very large and fun to read.

[davem4616]

When I was in basic training in the Army, there was a fellow we nicknamed, "Arnie The Sweat." Every time he heard something, the first words out of his mouth were, "Is that a true rumor or a false one?" The developer owns the property - why can't he do to it as he sees fit? It doesn't surprise me that they are considering apartments. Right now, there is a boom in building Assisted Living and Independent Living facilities. Many homeowners are down-sizing as they get older. He sells Villas for people who don't want large homes or large areas of land to maintain. Many people over 65, who come from rented apartments and never had to worry about maintanence would like to live in The Villages. I view this as a smart business move. He's competing with all of the Independent Living Senior facilities that have sprung up and he has the advantage of Village's amenities.


well said Fred

"Arnie the Sweat"...now that's funny!

Somehow we all remember 'that guy' in the unit. In my basic training unit we had "Rodney Rout-step"...if anybody was going to screw up it was him. When we all moved on to AIT assignments he was left behind, still cleaning out the grease pit waiting for the next BT cycle to begin in a few weeks

In hindsight...maybe he wasn't as dumb as he made out...he was a 2 year draftee, never gave them a hassle about the punishment they handed out and being held over and recycled reduced his chances of heading to Nam....hmmm I wonder if the guy managed to stay in, receive an honorable DD-214 and ended up getting a PhD fully paid for on the GI Bill's dime ????

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

How many people that complain about the SS restaurants closing bypass these restaurants and travel 5 minutes away to any number of restaurants because there either cheaper, better or for more variety . The SS restaurants need to be more interesting to compete with the highway . I go to almost every show at the Sharon , you would think too jays would stay open on the nights the Sharon has entertainment, many of us are used to having something after the theater, but no there closed and please don’t tel me we are all dying to get home to bed,I’m 81 know lots of people who are not in bed at 10 pm .

[Dilligas]

Three restaurants on the Spanish Springs square have gone out of business. Plans are to transform these facilities and other future closures into apartments. In the near future I totally expect the entire Spanish Springs to be nothing more than apartments and shops. Also I find it strange that the district approved the Developer getting amenities for these apartments.
Is this a guess or do you have facts to back up your apartment statements (Demshar's & Toojays)?

[Holpat39]

All this speculation on what will happen to SS shopping area regarding apartments. Why not take the wait and see approach?

[Marshaw]

Is this your personal thought or are they facts other that Katie's?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

When I was in basic training in the Army, there was a fellow we nicknamed, "Arnie The Sweat." Every time he heard something, the first words out of his mouth were, "Is that a true rumor or a false one?" The developer owns the property - why can't he do to it as he sees fit? It doesn't surprise me that they are considering apartments. Right now, there is a boom in building Assisted Living and Independent Living facilities. Many homeowners are down-sizing as they get older. He sells Villas for people who don't want large homes or large areas of land to maintain. Many people over 65, who come from rented apartments and never had to worry about maintanence would like to live in The Villages. I view this as a smart business move. He's competing with all of the Independent Living Senior facilities that have sprung up and he has the advantage of Village's amenities.

The Villages Holding Company owns most of the property where those other facilities are located. They lease the property, so TVHC profits - it's no competition to him whatsoever.

As for why he can't do whatever he wants: the properties are not sovereign land. They exist within a municipality. Municipalities get to decide what can and cannot be built in the different segments of their boundaries. Something that is zoned for commercial, cannot have a residential dwelling built on it without either a) an exception made, or b) a re-zoning. Vice versa: if it's zoned residential, they can't build a store there, or a rec center.

Not without exceptions through what should be a lengthy process, or a re-zoning of the property, which would (in most of the rest of the country) involve mandatory public hearings since it directly affects property values of homeowners located on the perimeter of the property in question.

No idea what the zoning laws are in the towns and counties where these properties are located, but no - the Developer can't just arbitrarily designate a commercial property as a residential multi-plex without a lot of red tape.

UNLESS - the elected officials in those municipalities are cronies, allies, or directly placed by the Developer. And then, he basically ends up with carte blanch to do whatever he damned well pleases - until those elected officials are voted out by someone OTHER than the Developer.

[KRM0614]

You must be thinking in la la land.
The Morse group need constant streams of revenue. They aren’t happy with that area which is targeted as for a much older consumers. My “realtor” stated they there was an area she wouldn’t sell in. It’s going to gradually transition to target younger people to spend more money

[Skip]

Show me the plans in writing you mentioned. Are you sure you aren’t just complaining as exaggerating because you are upset about Katie Belles ?

The plans to build apartments and close stores and restaurants extends to
"Spanish Springs Town Square, Lake Sumter Landing Market Square, Brownwood Paddock Square, Hacienda Hills & Buffalo Crossing."

Skip

[Mfrench]

I believe that the Morse kids are trying to generate a steady income stream that will look good to future buyers if the Villages. It would be great to see them get out of our lives!!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You must be thinking in la la land.
The Morse group need constant streams of revenue. They aren’t happy with that area which is targeted as for a much older consumers. My “realtor” stated they there was an area she wouldn’t sell in. It’s going to gradually transition to target younger people to spend more money

Yes, I'm one of those younger people. Under 60 and still working part time. And living in the Historic section and absolutely in love with the Spanish Springs area. I can't imagine living in any other part of the Villages, though perhaps very close to Sumter Landing some day (within 5 minutes via golf cart).

There are plenty of homes up here for sale by well-known realtors (including the Villages themselves). A few of them are pretty run down and I don't have hope that they'll sell until they foreclose and go for a fraction just to raze the ground and re-build a site-built. But the rest all get sold in a reasonable time (a few days to a couple of months after being listed).

The "younger" folks are already moving in. And we are basically the same age that the first residents were, when THEY moved in, in the 1980's.

[Jayhawk]

yes, I'm concerned about the traffic if everything becomes apartments...I live in Spanish Springs...I'm aggravated about broken promises too....it is what it is...

Wouldn't there be traffic if the businesses all succeed? How are 1 or 2 people in a few apartments going to ruin the area?

[mtlee024]

Demshar's did not go out of business, they closed temporarily. TooJays filed for bankruptcy months ago and I suspect this is part of expense reduction since the other two are still open. Katie Belle's is the only one that actually closed with no plans to reopen .

I hope they get a better menu and better prepared food. Twice I have eaten there and was very disappointed in the food I ordered and the price I had to pay for it.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Wouldn't there be traffic if the businesses all succeed? How are 1 or 2 people in a few apartments going to ruin the area?

I think it'd improve the area. It'd mean fewer cars coming IN to the Squares - since they're already there. Less traffic, because some of the people who would visit it, already live right there.

This ALSO means a much more vibrant "feel" - with people sitting on balconies at night or hanging out on the front stoop early in the morning to watch businesses open up, the "sleepless" types sitting on the sales office porch enjoying a cup of tea late at night, etc. etc.

[jimjamuser]

I find your post interesting, and I can see it happening that way to a point. Is it possible that as the transformation towards apartments happens that a market will appear for more shops and restaurants?
I have no idea how many units of apartments might be created, but at some point those folks would love to have a nice square, with some food and music right in the neighborhood. Such a demand could turn into a pleasant equilibrium between local foot traffic and services. This could be a better working model going forward than what has been going on there lately. I'm not trying to be contentious, just suggesting that this could work out well for everyone.
Increased population density will require more medical services - Doctors, Dentists and other professionals - more firefighters trained and equipped to fight fires in multiple stories of higher-rise apartments - more police. To offset those additional costs TV Land will be REQUIRED to cultivate diverse businesses there in SS. So, I believe that the square will have a commercial comeback if and when the apartments are successful and filled. Increased sales tax collection will be needed, so the square NEEDS to be a commercial success. One downside MAY (?) be a possible add-on sales tax? It must be hard for the developers to predict all the demographic trends and cross-currents that future predictons demand.

[Gulfcoast]

When I was in basic training in the Army, there was a fellow we nicknamed, "Arnie The Sweat." Every time he heard something, the first words out of his mouth were, "Is that a true rumor or a false one?" The developer owns the property - why can't he do to it as he sees fit? It doesn't surprise me that they are considering apartments. Right now, there is a boom in building Assisted Living and Independent Living facilities. Many homeowners are down-sizing as they get older. He sells Villas for people who don't want large homes or large areas of land to maintain. Many people over 65, who come from rented apartments and never had to worry about maintanence would like to live in The Villages. I view this as a smart business move. He's competing with all of the Independent Living Senior facilities that have sprung up and he has the advantage of Village's amenities.

To compete with the Independent Living/Assisted Living models, the apartments would need to be more than just 55+ restricted. They would need to offer scheduled shuttle service to appointments and to golf/rec centers, light house keeping, in house dining w/room service available, laundry service, in house activities and hair salon. They don't provide healthcare but they have representatives from home health agencies available to assist the residents in contracting the assistance that they might need.

Residents moving into a standard apartment setting (not IL/AL) would be doing so mainly to have the convenience of living in a walkable town. These types of apartments would be geared towards generally active, independent people who simply no longer want the hassle of home maintenance/ownership anymore. From what I gather, these are the types of apartments being considered for Spanish Springs.

[Laker14]

I would like to see all people who will be proven to have made exaggerated posts and posted unfounded rumors about the apartments to run naked around Spanish Springs Square.

But then...maybe I wouldn't like to see that.

I believe that lands squarely in the box labeled, "Be Careful What You Wish For".

[Gulfcoast]

Yes, I'm one of those younger people. Under 60 and still working part time. And living in the Historic section and absolutely in love with the Spanish Springs area. I can't imagine living in any other part of the Villages, though perhaps very close to Sumter Landing some day (within 5 minutes via golf cart).

There are plenty of homes up here for sale by well-known realtors (including the Villages themselves). A few of them are pretty run down and I don't have hope that they'll sell until they foreclose and go for a fraction just to raze the ground and re-build a site-built. But the rest all get sold in a reasonable time (a few days to a couple of months after being listed).

The "younger" folks are already moving in. And we are basically the same age that the first residents were, when THEY moved in, in the 1980's.

We're in our mid 50's and we'll be looking at both the Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter areas. I don't want to rent an apartment, I want to buy a house and I would love to be close enough to be able to walk to the squares for dining and entertainment.

We'll be looking at the newer areas, too, but the older areas have a definite appeal. No doubt about it.

[jimjamuser]

If nightly entertainment returns to the squares at full blast, as a potential apartment dweller in SS , I’d not rent until both ears went south so I could remove my hearing aids and not be bothered by the nightly noise.
That's pointing out a big problem. As you age you tend to move toward instrumental jazz, classical music, mood music, and relaxing music. You joke about "elevator music" when you are age 50 or under, then you age into more mellow music as you drift away from the hard beat of rock and pop as a steady diet. The music at the squares may stay loud and proud of hard-beat dance music. So, the only solution for the apartments is for the architects to have great insulation in the floors and walls and "sound-proof" windows.

[jimjamuser]

I would like to see all people who will be proven to have made exaggerated posts and posted unfounded rumors about the apartments to run naked around Spanish Springs Square.

But then...maybe I wouldn't like to see that.
Good idea, bring back streaking. And maybe hula hoops.

[Gulfcoast]

That's pointing out a big problem. As you age you tend to move toward instrumental jazz, classical music, mood music, and relaxing music. You joke about "elevator music" when you are age 50 or under, then you age into more mellow music as you drift away from the hard beat of rock and pop as a steady diet. The music at the squares may stay loud and proud of hard-beat dance music. So, the only solution for the apartments is for the architects to have great insulation in the floors and walls and "sound-proof" windows.

This has not happened to us, yet, and I'm not sure that it will happen. We enjoy classical symphony and jazz but last night we were cranking the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, The Cult, Clapton....and, of course, Jimmy Buffet.

I think that older people often still enjoy a wide range of music. Their concerts tend to be earlier in the day/evening. I'm not sure when the squares shut down shop but I'm guessing it's a lot earlier than, say, a college town would.

[jimjamuser]

This has not happened to us, yet, and I'm not sure that it will happen. We enjoy classical symphony and jazz but last night we were cranking the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, The Cult, Clapton....and, of course, Jimmy Buffet.

I think that older people often still enjoy a wide range of music. Their concerts tend to be earlier in the day/evening. I'm not sure when the squares shut down shop but I'm guessing it's a lot earlier than, say, a college town would.
More power to Ya. Kudos! Different folks for different strokes.

[Gulfcoast]

More power to Ya. Kudos! Different folks for different strokes.

I think that there is room for all sorts of musical tastes in a place as big as TV. I'm not sure what the proximity of the live entertainment venues to the apartments going in will be, but it would be cool if you could enjoy a concert from your balcony while having the comfort and convenience of your own bathroom, kitchen, etc right there.

[CrabCake]

If they continue to have it part of the 55+ community, and not open it to under 55+, and manage it as the landlord as such with no sublets allowed - then it could be a very good thing.

Imagine some of the homeowners who want to downsize, who are still 100% independent, but want less responsibility that goes into homeownership. Living in the apartments. They no longer need to drive to the squares since they already live there. Since it's only 2 blocks away from the supermarket, they could probably get rid of their cars entirely, rely only on golf carts to get to doctors' offices or whatever else.

If they just need a quart of milk - it's no big deal for them to just walk the two blocks. Or they could even just go downstairs and order a cup of coffee from Dunkin Donuts, no need to buy a quart til shopping day.

But - I lived for 7 years in Boston, so I understand the joys of "city life" as an actual resident, not just a visitor.

If I was single I'd probably jump at the chance to live "downtown" in the Villages square in a little 1-bedroom apartment.

Yes, please!

[coffeebean]

If nightly entertainment returns to the squares at full blast, as a potential apartment dweller in SS , I’d not rent until both ears went south so I could remove my hearing aids and not be bothered by the nightly noise.

I was just about to say the same thing. The music will be a factor to contend with for anyone with good hearing. I would not ever live so close to live music every night and that music is LOUD.

[coffeebean]

I read here that Demshares recently received a small business covid19 disbursement of over $150,000 to cover employees salaries and other expenses. Then they close and no employees have jobs. How exactly does that work. Is this reimbursement for monies spent or is the just another way to play the system. Just doesn't sound right. Shouldn't they maybe give the money back? It seems a lot of different small businesses received funds that I believed were for continuing operations and were then used instead for other things

Just came from Stonecrest Country Club which has been taken over by Demshars. Bought tickets to see Johnny Wild's dinner show. The manager told us that all the employees from the Demshars Spanish Springs location are employed at the new location at Stonecrest.

[coffeebean]

I’m sure that if and when they build apartments on this square we will lose the nightly music and dancing because of the noise. Just my opinion

I surely hope that this is not in the plans. The squares are jammed packed when they feature popular bands. The population of The Villages keeps growing. It does not seem like a good decision to take away entertainment at one of the squares.

[Gulfcoast]

I was just about to say the same thing. The music will be a factor to contend with for anyone with good hearing. I would not ever live so close to live music every night and that music is LOUD.

If they used the apartments as a reason to stop the live entertainment in the squares, that would be a shame. You would think that a person choosing to live right next to a live music venue would be living there because they want to be close to the live music and all of the action in the town.

I, personally, would prefer to live within a reasonable walking distance of the squares but not actually right there next door to a live entertainment venue. If I could hear the music from a distance at my house, that would be fine. But that's me. I'm sure others would love to listen to a concert below every night.

[rustyp]

Here is the entertainment calendar for Cheer's (Demshar's) at Stonecrest. Does one believe if they offered this entertainment at Demshar's Spanish Springs they would not draw as large a crowd as at Stonecrest ? Something smells fishy.

Saturday 19th
- Joe Carter at the keyboard 4:30-7pm
Tuesday 22nd - Clark Barrios Dinner Show 4-7pm
Thursday 24th
- Dunning Shaw Dinner Show 4-7pm
Saturday 26th
- Afternoon Tea with the Queen 1pm and
Joe Carter at the keyboard 4-7pm
Tuesday 29th
- Wine Pairing Dinner 5-7pm
Coming in October
Wednesday 7th
- Stonecrest Homecoming Dance 4-7pm
Wednesday 14th
- Chef’s Cooking Class Demo 12noon
Tuesday 20th
- Johnny Wild & The Delights Dinner Show 5-7pm
Tuesday 27th
- The Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra Dinner Show
Wednesday 28th
- Wine Pairing Dinner 5pm
Thursday 29th
- Chef’s Cooking Class Demo 12noon

[Gulfcoast]

Here is the entertainment calendar for Cheer's (Demshar's) at Stonecrest. Does one believe if they offered this entertainment at Demshar's Spanish Springs they would not draw as large a crowd as at Stonecrest ? Something smells fishy.

Saturday 19th
- Joe Carter at the keyboard 4:30-7pm
Tuesday 22nd - Clark Barrios Dinner Show 4-7pm
Thursday 24th
- Dunning Shaw Dinner Show 4-7pm
Saturday 26th
- Afternoon Tea with the Queen 1pm and
Joe Carter at the keyboard 4-7pm
Tuesday 29th
- Wine Pairing Dinner 5-7pm
Coming in October
Wednesday 7th
- Stonecrest Homecoming Dance 4-7pm
Wednesday 14th
- Chef’s Cooking Class Demo 12noon
Tuesday 20th
- Johnny Wild & The Delights Dinner Show 5-7pm
Tuesday 27th
- The Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra Dinner Show
Wednesday 28th
- Wine Pairing Dinner 5pm
Thursday 29th
- Chef’s Cooking Class Demo 12noon

I would be among the younger demographic moving into TV (later 50's when we get there). The above musical lineup looks like something that would be offered, and very popular, at my 85 year old mom's Independent Living facility and not something that I would go out of my way to see, myself. There is a definite audience for that entertainment, it is just skewed for an older demographic who grew up listening to it which is fine. So the answer is - my mom and friends would go, but my husband and I would not.

A younger crowd of retirees would rather have: Craft beer/wine/whiskey tastings. Comedy shows. Bands playing oldies from the 70's/80's. Current country music hits. Cooking classes could be fun. Maybe trivia games and other interactive types of entertainment. Football/baseball game or special events like the Kentucky Derby parties.

[rustyp]

I would be among the younger demographic moving into TV (later 50's when we get there). The above musical lineup looks like something that would be offered, and very popular, at my 85 year old mom's Independent Living facility and not something that I would go out of my way to see, myself. There is a definite audience for that entertainment, it is just skewed for an older demographic who grew up listening to it which is fine. So the answer is - my mom and friends would go, but my husband and I would not.

A younger crowd of retirees would rather have: Craft beer/wine/whiskey tastings. Comedy shows. Bands playing oldies from the 70's/80's. Current country music hits. Cooking classes could be fun. Maybe trivia games and other interactive types of entertainment. Football/baseball game or special events like the Kentucky Derby parties.

You better think twice before moving here because those are the top entertainers that play The Villages when it is open for entertainment. Plenty of bowling leagues here also.

[Gulfcoast]

You better think twice before moving here because those are the top entertainers that play The Villages when it is open for entertainment. Plenty of bowling leagues here also.

Bowling leagues sound like fun and I don't dislike 50's/60's music, I would just rather hear the oldies that I grew up listening, too. My age group is now beginning to retire now so I don't think that's it's unreasonable to want some entertainment options geared more towards my age group. TV is a big place, I really do think that there is room for variety.

A craft beer bar with dart boards and pool tables, maybe outdoor corn hole, would be fun. A restaurant offering low carb appetizers and low sugar drinks would be a hit.

Maybe a fashion show with popular styles in the Villages.

[JoMar]

Bowling leagues sound like fun and I don't dislike 50's/60's music, I would just rather hear the oldies that I grew up listening, too. My age group is now beginning to retire now so I don't think that's it's unreasonable to want some entertainment options geared more towards my age group. TV is a big place, I really do think that there is room for variety.

A craft beer bar with dart boards and pool tables, maybe outdoor corn hole, would be fun. A restaurant offering low carb appetizers and low sugar drinks would be a hit.

Maybe a fashion show with popular styles in the Villages.

You may have found your calling when you get here by organizing a movement. If you have a large enough peer group that can provide the revenue needed you could make it happen.

[Gulfcoast]

You may have found your calling when you get here by organizing a movement. If you have a large enough peer group that can provide the revenue needed you could make it happen.

I mean, if TV is going to survive then it will require my age group to buy in. I'm not really seeing a way around that. It's less of a movement and more of a cycle of life sort of thing. Only 18 years ago I was 8 months pregnant and had a 2 year old. Now I'm planning my not so distant retirement. Time truly does fly.

I'm not looking to take over TV, I just would like to see some entertainment geared towards my age group which seems reasonable given the investment that we all make to live in TV.

[rustyp]

I mean, if TV is going to survive then it will require my age group to buy in. I'm not really seeing a way around that. It's less of a movement and more of a cycle of life sort of thing. Only 18 years ago I was 8 months pregnant and had a 2 year old. Now I'm planning my not so distant retirement. Time truly does fly.

I'm not looking to take over TV, I just would like to see some entertainment geared towards my age group which seems reasonable given the investment that we all make to live in TV.

What investment have you made ?

[EdFNJ]

Bowling leagues sound like fun and I don't dislike 50's/60's music, I would just rather hear the oldies that I grew up listening, too. My age group is now beginning to retire now so I don't think that's it's unreasonable to want some entertainment options geared more towards my age group. TV is a big place, I really do think that there is room for variety.

A craft beer bar with dart boards and pool tables, maybe outdoor corn hole, would be fun. A restaurant offering low carb appetizers and low sugar drinks would be a hit.

Maybe a fashion show with popular styles in the Villages.

Nahhh, just give me Rocky and the Elders every night. LOL NOT! I agree, the demographic here isn't mostly age 70-80 any more. They need to drop the music era a decade or 2. :) Right now and for the foreseeable future the discussion is moot.

As for restaurants, it seems half of them are owned by the same 1 or 2 groups so if one is lousy the rest usually follow and since T.V. takes a chunk of the business they have to make up for it in higher prices which makes it worse. Sadly, as many of the small restaurants disappear maybe we'll get some variety. My wife is a vegetarian and she can only eat so many sides of steamed broccoli or a veggie pizza as her dinner in restaurants around here and I HATE vegetables so it's tough for us to go out to eat. I think TPTB need to find a better arrangement for stores and restaurants to make an easier living or every building in the squares will be apartments since no one will be able to successfully run a business. It amazes me how some of the retail businesses here survive.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Nahhh, just give me Rocky and the Elders every night. LOL NOT! I agree, the demographic here isn't mostly age 70-80 any more. They need to drop the music era a decade or 2. :) Right now and for the foreseeable future the discussion is moot.

As for restaurants, it seems half of them are owned by the same 1 or 2 groups so if one is lousy the rest usually follow and since T.V. takes a chunk of the business they have to make up for it in higher prices which makes it worse. Sadly, as many of the small restaurants disappear maybe we'll get some variety. My wife is a vegetarian and she can only eat so many sides of steamed broccoli or a veggie pizza as her dinner in restaurants around here and I HATE vegetables so it's tough for us to go out to eat. I think TPTB need to find a better arrangement for stores and restaurants to make an easier living or every building in the squares will be apartments since no one will be able to successfully run a business. It amazes me how some of the retail businesses here survive.

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.

Could have a taco stand, a shawarma place, a gyro joint, pizza-by-the-slice, oyster/raw bar, hotdog specialty place, a curry cafe, local-roast coffee bar, fresh-made chocolate chip cookies right off the conveyor belt-oven (if anyone remembers the Boston Chipyard, that's what I mean - THE BEST EVER). Another place that specializes in seafood, such as an order of whole-belly clams, or a lobster roll, breaded fried shrimp, and so on. Fresh-filled cannolis with your choice of flavors or dip-ins.

Each booth or stand or bar would be individually owned, and they'd all pay a share of the rent. It'd be like a permanent food truck festival without trucks, and all under a roof to protect from the elements.

[billethkid]

Very narrow view of what is being presented and available then calling it what is the typical fare of TV.
There are many more entertainment groups that perform at the 3 town squares that are not mentioned.

My personal opinion....one cannot portray what one in their 80's like vs one in their 50's........

The entertainment venues are wide ranging....TV is NOT anybody's "typical" retirement living environment.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Very narrow view of what is being presented and available then calling it what is the typical fare of TV.
There are many more entertainment groups that perform at the 3 town squares that are not mentioned.

My personal opinion....one cannot portray what one in their 80's like vs one in their 50's........

The entertainment venues are wide ranging....TV is NOT anybody's "typical" retirement living environment.

Agreed. The Villages has the Hooligans, which plays a pretty decent couple of Led Zeppelin tunes (among other things). They also have a couple of groups that do some kick-butt R&B, Soul, and Funk - which in my opinion is timeless and not really generation-specific.

[FishnFool]

Love the Hooligans! I agree music can and should vary quite a bit here, from Rocky to Uncle Bobs!

While I would have prefered the following to be correct “Right now, there is a boom in building Assisted Living and Independent Living facilities”, actually I believe VLS wasn’t able to utilize those 286 amenities for “restricted to residents of independent living or assisted living facilities (ALF/ILF) “ and changing them to “utilize the unused amenity rights for age-restricted units” was the main motive for the VLS to pursue the recent change to the 2015 amenity agreement and they will be the occupants of any new apartment dwellings in The Villages.

[Northwoods]

Bringing the "president" into this is only going to start a political conversation which we all know is prohibited. <wink>

Oh my!!! It must have been late at night... precedent! Where is spell check on this thing. (you know I'm going to go back and fix it)).

[rustyp]

Very narrow view of what is being presented and available then calling it what is the typical fare of TV.
There are many more entertainment groups that perform at the 3 town squares that are not mentioned.

My personal opinion....one cannot portray what one in their 80's like vs one in their 50's........

The entertainment venues are wide ranging....TV is NOT anybody's "typical" retirement living environment.

Number one highest paid group in the town squares - Rocky $1650
Number two group Johnny Wild - $1550

And let's not forget all those has beens at The Sharon - if they have a big name look for for the word "tribute".

[Topspinmo]

I would like to see all people who will be proven to have made exaggerated posts and posted unfounded rumors about the apartments to run naked around Spanish Springs Square.

But then...maybe I wouldn't like to see that.

Don’t encourage them, you know there electrical boxes around there and we know what happens when drunk “ “horror” Mongers get lost to sex magnets 🧲?

[Gulfcoast]

What investment have you made ?

Fair question and none - yet. I'm only stating what I, as a prospective new Villager, would hope to see in TV.

[vintageogauge]

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.

Could have a taco stand, a shawarma place, a gyro joint, pizza-by-the-slice, oyster/raw bar, hotdog specialty place, a curry cafe, local-roast coffee bar, fresh-made chocolate chip cookies right off the conveyor belt-oven (if anyone remembers the Boston Chipyard, that's what I mean - THE BEST EVER). Another place that specializes in seafood, such as an order of whole-belly clams, or a lobster roll, breaded fried shrimp, and so on. Fresh-filled cannolis with your choice of flavors or dip-ins.

Each booth or stand or bar would be individually owned, and they'd all pay a share of the rent. It'd be like a permanent food truck festival without trucks, and all under a roof to protect from the elements.

That would be great but it won't happen as it will take business away from the restaurants that are paying high rents.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

That would be great but it won't happen as it will take business away from the restaurants that are paying high rents.

I don't agree. Restaurants have indoor seating for individual parties (one party per table, whether one person or 10 people), something a "food truck-esque" place wouldn't have. I imagine more on the order of a few long communal picnic tables and benches where anyone can sit at them right in the center of the hall, surrounded by these food booths or bars or niches. It'd be noisy and busy, not suitable for "relaxing" but more for the moviegoers to grab a bite on their way to or from the movie, or for dancers in the square to grab a dog and a soda inbetween sets of their favorite band, etc.

[Scott O]

That’s not what we read, it said closed due to slow business and it didn’t say permanently..

[graciegirl]

I mean, if TV is going to survive then it will require my age group to buy in. I'm not really seeing a way around that. It's less of a movement and more of a cycle of life sort of thing. Only 18 years ago I was 8 months pregnant and had a 2 year old. Now I'm planning my not so distant retirement. Time truly does fly.

I'm not looking to take over TV, I just would like to see some entertainment geared towards my age group which seems reasonable given the investment that we all make to live in TV.

All successful business is market driven. I am sure that what is nostalgic will change too. At this point, the average age of a Village home owner is 71. The Entertainment is paid for by the merchants on the square augmented by some tax monies from the Florida entertainment tax.

Lobbying for a change in this situation will be decided and controlled by the merchants on the squares. They pay the entertainers through the entertainment committee which is now privately owned. Just like all things it began as a developer owned entity. But like a lot of other things, it appears their business plan is to establish it and then sell the business. Like Transportation, The Furniture Store, many restaurants, etc.

As life continues here, after time, your group will be the group longing for nostalic nineties music. And then pouf, we are all gone. Someone else will be running the railroad.

Good morning. It is another beautiful day in The Villages.

[cegallup]

I personally found nothing impressive re. to Demshars or TooJays.

All restaurants in The Villages, especially Katy Belles, are at the behest of "The Developer".

With no disrespect, the success of almost all commercial businesses is controlled by the Lease Provisions (cost).

[graciegirl]

I mean, if TV is going to survive then it will require my age group to buy in. I'm not really seeing a way around that. It's less of a movement and more of a cycle of life sort of thing. Only 18 years ago I was 8 months pregnant and had a 2 year old. Now I'm planning my not so distant retirement. Time truly does fly.

I'm not looking to take over TV, I just would like to see some entertainment geared towards my age group which seems reasonable given the investment that we all make to live in TV.

I just read that you have not ever been to The Villages.

It is the fastest growing community of it's kind in The United States. EVEN during the Pandemic. It is more than twenty miles long and six miles wide. It has more than 130,000 residents. Only two sit in rocking chairs on their front porch. It has the highest credit rating of any community in the U.S. It has low crime. Over 50% pay cash for their homes. It has a great mix of all priced homes, from over 100K to several million dollars. Forbes rated it the number one community of it's size in the U.S.

Florida’s New-Home Communities Seen Leading The Nation Amid “Amazing” Rebound (https://www.forbes.com/sites/bradhunter/2020/07/31/floridas-new-home-communities-seen-leading-the-nation-amid-amazing-rebound/#3ebc5d5044c8)

[GreySkies]

If nightly entertainment returns to the squares at full blast, as a potential apartment dweller in SS , I’d not rent until both ears went south so I could remove my hearing aids and not be bothered by the nightly noise.

Here is an idea!

if you do not like the sounds produced by people living and enjoying life to the fullest...

DO NOT BUY / RENT THERE...

[Girlcopper]

Demshar's closed permanently. They have signs outside their restaurant stating so, posted by them.
TooJays in Ft Lauderdale just closed and it had only opened about a year ago. They are ALL closing

[dbressette1]

Demshars has a sign on the door that says it's being rezoned

[villager1114]

Don't ever be suprised by what the developer is allowed to do

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I would be among the younger demographic moving into TV (later 50's when we get there). The above musical lineup looks like something that would be offered, and very popular, at my 85 year old mom's Independent Living facility and not something that I would go out of my way to see, myself. There is a definite audience for that entertainment, it is just skewed for an older demographic who grew up listening to it which is fine. So the answer is - my mom and friends would go, but my husband and I would not.

A younger crowd of retirees would rather have: Craft beer/wine/whiskey tastings. Comedy shows. Bands playing oldies from the 70's/80's. Current country music hits. Cooking classes could be fun. Maybe trivia games and other interactive types of entertainment. Football/baseball game or special events like the Kentucky Derby parties. things here also

[jet10s]

if they continue to have it part of the 55+ community, and not open it to under 55+, and manage it as the landlord as such with no sublets allowed - then it could be a very good thing.

Imagine some of the homeowners who want to downsize, who are still 100% independent, but want less responsibility that goes into homeownership. Living in the apartments. They no longer need to drive to the squares since they already live there. Since it's only 2 blocks away from the supermarket, they could probably get rid of their cars entirely, rely only on golf carts to get to doctors' offices or whatever else.

If they just need a quart of milk - it's no big deal for them to just walk the two blocks. Or they could even just go downstairs and order a cup of coffee from dunkin donuts, no need to buy a quart til shopping day.

But - i lived for 7 years in boston, so i understand the joys of "city life" as an actual resident, not just a visitor.

If i was single i'd probably jump at the chance to live "downtown" in the villages square in a little 1-bedroom apartment.
by jimmy clanton -- dream , dream , dream

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

People who complain about apartments , should be more concerned about how many Airbnb there are operating here in the villages The apartments which I think are another good option for living here are set in one zone. The Airbnb rentals pop up everywhere you could have one next to you overnight

[Aloha1]

TooJays in Ft Lauderdale just closed and it had only opened about a year ago. They are ALL closing

Not at all true. TooJays has been sold and the new owners are doing what they should - closing unprofitable locations. So many unsubstantiated postings here. SMH

[donfey]

Demshar's did not go out of business, they closed temporarily. TooJays filed for bankruptcy months ago and I suspect this is part of expense reduction since the other two are still open. Katie Belle's is the only one that actually closed with no plans to reopen .

AND, Demshar's 2nd location - Cheers at Stonecrest Country Club (North of Wal-Mart off 441) - is doing well. Just stop at the gate and tell them you're going to the restaurant. We go for their Friday Fish Fry most weeks, and their Sunday brunch is great.

[JSR22]

TooJays in Ft Lauderdale just closed and it had only opened about a year ago. They are ALL closing

Not true. They were sold and the buyers did not purchase the stores that were under performing.

[asianthree]

A younger crowd of retirees would rather have: Craft beer/wine/whiskey tastings. Comedy shows. Bands playing oldies from the 70's/80's. Current country music hits. Cooking classes could be fun. Maybe trivia games and other interactive types of entertainment. Football/baseball game or special events like the Kentucky Derby parties.

Well since you have never been here what you think We should have is already established.And yes we have many here who are younger than you.

We have more than 20 wine clubs with Three Sommelier that live in TV. I personally know five master Sommelier and spend a great deal of time gaining experience for exams. Pairing, blind tasting happens monthly. Beer clubs-that brew their own style.

As far as a whiskey tasting there are certified people who host tasting parties.

Hands on cooking clubs, are full every month. As far as Kentucky derby parties those happen too. TV has more than a thousand clubs here.

So before you think what TV should have for incoming new residents, one might want to visit TV to understand That we have those things, and many more.

[waverly51]

Demshar's did not go out of business, they closed temporarily. TooJays filed for bankruptcy months ago and I suspect this is part of expense reduction since the other two are still open. Katie Belle's is the only one that actually closed with no plans to reopen .
Actually in yesterday’s paper it said that Demshars is closing permanently. Anyone else see it?

[Gulfcoast]

Well since you have never been here what you think We should have is already established.And yes we have many here who are younger than you.

We have more than 20 wine clubs with Three Sommelier that live in TV. I personally know five master Sommelier and spend a great deal of time gaining experience for exams. Pairing, blind tasting happens monthly. Beer clubs-that brew their own style.

As far as a whiskey tasting there are certified people who host tasting parties.

Hands on cooking clubs, are full every month. As far as Kentucky derby parties those happen too. TV has more than a thousand clubs here.

So before you think what TV should have for incoming new residents, one might want to visit TV to understand That we have those things, and many more.

I've been waiting for things to reopen more before we make a visit there. I knew that there were a large number of clubs in TV and that is one of the reasons TV seems like such a great choice for us.

An earlier poster had mentioned a specific entertainment lineup and I just gave my honest opinion about that lineup. Some others posted that the entertainment mentioned was pretty much standard fare for TV. I would think that in a place as big as TV that there would be a good variety of entertainment and something for everyone.

I apologize if I came across as a bit presumptuous that was certainly not my intention.

[kathyspear]

I would think that in a place as big as TV that there would be a good variety of entertainment and something for everyone.


There is actually a variety of types of music played at the squares and the schedules are published monthly. Once things get back to normal (please, God?) and you can visit I think you will enjoy the entertainment.

Good luck with your plans.

kathy

[Stu from NYC]

Well since you have never been here what you think We should have is already established.And yes we have many here who are younger than you.

We have more than 20 wine clubs with Three Sommelier that live in TV. I personally know five master Sommelier and spend a great deal of time gaining experience for exams. Pairing, blind tasting happens monthly. Beer clubs-that brew their own style.

As far as a whiskey tasting there are certified people who host tasting parties.

Hands on cooking clubs, are full every month. As far as Kentucky derby parties those happen too. TV has more than a thousand clubs here.

So before you think what TV should have for incoming new residents, one might want to visit TV to understand That we have those things, and many more.

Well said. Cant wait for everything to reopen

[Gulfcoast]

There is actually a variety of types of music played at the squares and the schedules are published monthly. Once things get back to normal (please, God?) and you can visit I think you will enjoy the entertainment.

Good luck with your plans.

kathy

Thanks. Right now, we're planning a visit for early/mid January. I am really hoping that things will be more back to normal by then.

[Kenswing]

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.

Could have a taco stand, a shawarma place, a gyro joint, pizza-by-the-slice, oyster/raw bar, hotdog specialty place, a curry cafe, local-roast coffee bar, fresh-made chocolate chip cookies right off the conveyor belt-oven (if anyone remembers the Boston Chipyard, that's what I mean - THE BEST EVER). Another place that specializes in seafood, such as an order of whole-belly clams, or a lobster roll, breaded fried shrimp, and so on. Fresh-filled cannolis with your choice of flavors or dip-ins.

Each booth or stand or bar would be individually owned, and they'd all pay a share of the rent. It'd be like a permanent food truck festival without trucks, and all under a roof to protect from the elements.
I kinda like this idea. When we visited London one of our favorite things to do was go to the various street markets for the great variety of food we could get. Basically a food court on steroids.

[oldtimes]

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.

Another place that specializes in seafood, such as an order of whole-belly clams, or a lobster roll, breaded fried shrimp, and so on.


I would love this. I so miss the Cousins Maine Lobster truck.

[coffeebean]

Here is an idea!

if you do not like the sounds produced by people living and enjoying life to the fullest...

DO NOT BUY / RENT THERE...

I lOVE the sounds of people living and enjoying life to the fullest. I just want to be able to "turn off" that sound by not living near by. I prefer to hop in my golf cart and drive home, away from those lovely sounds. But.......that's just me.

[coffeebean]

TooJays in Ft Lauderdale just closed and it had only opened about a year ago. They are ALL closing

Oh no!!! Anyone know who has great Rugelach, as good as Toojays?

[JSR22]

Oh no!!! Anyone know who has great Rugelach, as good as Toojays?

TooJays emerged from Chapter 11 and was sold. The new owners decline to purchase the stores that were under performing. I don't know why they opened in Ft. Lauderdale. That area has real Jewish delis that are much better then TooJays.

[champion6]

Actually in yesterday’s paper it said that Demshars is closing permanently. Anyone else see it?No. Go back at find what you think you saw.

Attached is a picture that is in a Sept. 10 article in the online news site. The sign posted at Demshar's indicates TEMPORARY closing.

[EdFNJ]

No. Go back at find what you think you saw.

Attached is a picture that is in a Sept. 10 article in the online news site. The sign posted at Demshar's indicates TEMPORARY closing. While it might not be written as one it sure SOUNDS like a "farewell." They still have to pay rent and insurance and like most restaurants around here they have outside seating and can still serve some inside and can now open their bar and have less employees. While I do feel sorry for them my first (and final) experience there was horrendous so I won't miss them.

[EdFNJ]

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.. Yea, not likely. They can't get that right anywhere but where is began. My wife is from Boston (actually Newton) and Faneuil Hall was the first place I ever got shat upon by a pigeon. I have fond remembrances. Also the first (and last) place I ever ate a smelt sandwich. :D

[Dana1963]

The Villages is not the demographics that would support something like a Faneuil Hall or the population diversity Boston area has to offer. Whereas Boston has constant tourism 12 months a year. We have golf and loose about 40% of out population for 8 months.

[Dana1963]

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.

Could have a taco stand, a shawarma place, a gyro joint, pizza-by-the-slice, oyster/raw bar, hotdog specialty place, a curry cafe, local-roast coffee bar, fresh-made chocolate chip cookies right off the conveyor belt-oven (if anyone remembers the Boston Chipyard, that's what I mean - THE BEST EVER). Another place that specializes in seafood, such as an order of whole-belly clams, or a lobster roll, breaded fried shrimp, and so on. Fresh-filled cannolis with your choice of flavors or dip-ins.

Each booth or stand or bar would be individually owned, and they'd all pay a share of the rent. It'd be like a permanent food truck festival without trucks, and all under a roof to protect from the elements.
The Villages is not the demographics that would support something like a Faneuil Hall or the population diversity Boston area has to offer. Whereas Boston has constant tourism 12 months a year. We have golf and loose about 40% of out population for 8 months.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The Villages is not the demographics that would support something like a Faneuil Hall or the population diversity Boston area has to offer. Whereas Boston has constant tourism 12 months a year. We have golf and loose about 40% of out population for 8 months.

Actually - the whole point of this thread (and several others including the recent thread about the entertainment schedule) is to remind people that if you're over 70 years old, your generation is done "moving in" to the Villages. The generation moving in now, grew up on rock and roll, hip-hop, new wave, punk, psychedelic and album-oriented rock. The generation moving in now from the greater New England area cut their teeth on places like Faneuil Hall, and the generation moving in now has experienced more diversity in their most recent 30 years than the 80-year-olds have experienced in their lifetimes.

It might really suck to be 80+ living in the villages currently, because the new kids on the block want to hear the New Kids on the Block. But it's coming whether they like it or not. And some day, MY generation will be the 80-year-olds whining about why things can't stay perfect, like how it was when WE moved in 30 years ago.

[Northwoods]

I'd give my left pinky for Demshar's to turn into an open "food court" type place, a la Faneuil Hall in Boston.

Could have a taco stand, a shawarma place, a gyro joint, pizza-by-the-slice, oyster/raw bar, hotdog specialty place, a curry cafe, local-roast coffee bar, fresh-made chocolate chip cookies right off the conveyor belt-oven (if anyone remembers the Boston Chipyard, that's what I mean - THE BEST EVER). Another place that specializes in seafood, such as an order of whole-belly clams, or a lobster roll, breaded fried shrimp, and so on. Fresh-filled cannolis with your choice of flavors or dip-ins.

Each booth or stand or bar would be individually owned, and they'd all pay a share of the rent. It'd be like a permanent food truck festival without trucks, and all under a roof to protect from the elements.

I love this idea... but did you read the comments from people when they opened up the food trucks down in "Fenney?" People went nuts! They were insulted.
Can you imagine what people will say if they put a food court in Spanish Springs??? "We used to have nice indoor restaurants in Spanish Springs, but THE DEVELOPER didn't want to invest so now they're giving us cheap outdoor fast food because it costs less to maintain. Next they're going to cancel entertainment in the square so they can add more fast food stands. Oh.. and more apartments."

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I love this idea... but did you read the comments from people when they opened up the food trucks down in "Fenney?" People went nuts! They were insulted.
Can you imagine what people will say if they put a food court in Spanish Springs??? "We used to have nice indoor restaurants in Spanish Springs, but THE DEVELOPER didn't want to invest so now they're giving us cheap outdoor fast food because it costs less to maintain. Next they're going to cancel entertainment in the square so they can add more fast food stands. Oh.. and more apartments."

Read my post above for my opinion of how those food snobs feel about food trucks. My sentiment applies to that - only a few clicks more snide.

The tl;dr version: old folks gonna keel some day and us whippersnappers will be calling the shots. Move over, or get plowed over.

[graciegirl]

Read my post above for my opinion of how those food snobs feel about food trucks. My sentiment applies to that - only a few clicks more snide.

The tl;dr version: old folks gonna keel some day and us whippersnappers will be calling the shots. Move over, or get plowed over.

No one on this earth can stop being older or explain how it happened.

I don't see anyone needing to move over. There is plenty of space and plenty of people for all of us to enjoy our own music and our own style and our own views with people who look at the world similarly. It makes me sad to see issues being made of age. Not one person who lives here thinks of themselves as old or has ever thought others would want them to be "plowed over". That just isn't nice or kind.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

No one on this earth can stop being older or explain how it happened.

I don't see anyone needing to move over. There is plenty of space and plenty of people for all of us to enjoy our own music and our own style and our own views with people who look at the world similarly. It makes me sad to see issues being made of age. Not one person who lives here thinks of themselves as old or has ever thought others would want them to be "plowed over". That just isn't nice or kind.

It would be really helpful if you were to read entire threads, or at least entire sub-conversations within threads, so you can understand context before responding.

Thanks.

[GoPacers]

Actually - the whole point of this thread (and several others including the recent thread about the entertainment schedule) is to remind people that if you're over 70 years old, your generation is done "moving in" to the Villages. The generation moving in now, grew up on rock and roll, hip-hop, new wave, punk, psychedelic and album-oriented rock. The generation moving in now from the greater New England area cut their teeth on places like Faneuil Hall, and the generation moving in now has experienced more diversity in their most recent 30 years than the 80-year-olds have experienced in their lifetimes.

It might really suck to be 80+ living in the villages currently, because the new kids on the block want to hear the New Kids on the Block. But it's coming whether they like it or not. And some day, MY generation will be the 80-year-olds whining about why things can't stay perfect, like how it was when WE moved in 30 years ago.

OrangeBlossumBaby, while you may be the generation on the way "out," I love your posts. The Villages are getting younger and that's a good thing. it means the concept is working thanks to folks like you. Hopefully newcomers don't let the "haters" scare them away. While I wish for 8-tracks and rotary telephones with party lines I know that tomorrow's retirees have no idea what those are. To survive The Villages must evolve. Spanish Springs is a great square and when Covid is over I'm sure it will still be a great destination for all. Most of the people complianing are likely in bed by 8pm anyway.

[2Jays]

Sadly the plan is now changing- Apartments were never part of the plan of The Villages- There were to be no rentals, condos -just homes. This would insure that The Villages would remain as planned by Schwartz and Gary Morse. Obiously the kids and grandkids have decided that there is never enough money. We moved here with the understanding as previously stated. I fear they will ruin what we had and have now. It certainly has been a great formula that has worked quite well. Many are concerned about this. From what I was told from the meeting, the residents have no voice. Not good!

[twinklesweep]

.... Always follow the money, it's no surprise at all. Time are a-changin'

In a way this can be seen as a contradiction. “Always follow the money” is not only not new, it sure “ain’t” changing....

[Mrprez]

No rentals? That’s a joke right?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Sadly the plan is now changing- Apartments were never part of the plan of The Villages- There were to be no rentals, condos -just homes. This would insure that The Villages would remain as planned by Schwartz and Gary Morse. Obiously the kids and grandkids have decided that there is never enough money. We moved here with the understanding as previously stated. I fear they will ruin what we had and have now. It certainly has been a great formula that has worked quite well. Many are concerned about this. From what I was told from the meeting, the residents have no voice. Not good!

Rentals in the Villages are COMMON. I don't know of any section of the Villages that doesn't have a few, at the very least. There are three just on my block alone (that I know of). There are people who buy as an investment, and rent the properties out for profit.

Take a look on the internet, you can search for The Villages For Rent, or Villages Florida rentals and find hundreds of them. Most are available seasonally.

I'd be much happier if short-term rentals weren't even allowed in the Villages at all, but I knew it was a thing when we moved in, and so far my experience with short-term tenants has been neutral (not positive, but not negative either).

My wish for actual apartments, rather than house rentals, is that they require long-term leases, no one under 50 occupying (not just renting, but occupying), and no sub-letting allowed. If they keep it 50 and over instead of 55 and over they'd satisfy the 55+ community rule without having to accept children at all.

[graciegirl]

Rentals in the Villages are COMMON. I don't know of any section of the Villages that doesn't have a few, at the very least. There are three just on my block alone (that I know of). There are people who buy as an investment, and rent the properties out for profit.

Take a look on the internet, you can search for The Villages For Rent, or Villages Florida rentals and find hundreds of them. Most are available seasonally.

I'd be much happier if short-term rentals weren't even allowed in the Villages at all, but I knew it was a thing when we moved in, and so far my experience with short-term tenants has been neutral (not positive, but not negative either).

My wish for actual apartments, rather than house rentals, is that they require long-term leases, no one under 50 occupying (not just renting, but occupying), and no sub-letting allowed. If they keep it 50 and over instead of 55 and over they'd satisfy the 55+ community rule without having to accept children at all.

This is a designated age restricted community. Why would there be children allowed? Even in rented apartments? I am sure the same rules apply to children under 19 can visit for a total of thirty days in a calendar year.

[Jayhawk]

It certainly has been a great formula that has worked quite well. Many are concerned about this.

Many? If you think 50 out of 130,000 is many.

[tophcfa]

Many? If you think 50 out of 130,000 is many.

Apparently you have not gone to any of the public meetings in the last couple of years.

[Jayhawk]

Apparently you have not gone to any of the public meetings in the last couple of years.

Keep wishing, that won't make it happen.

:ohdear:

[Topspinmo]

I think that there is room for all sorts of musical tastes in a place as big as TV. I'm not sure what the proximity of the live entertainment venues to the apartments going in will be, but it would be cool if you could enjoy a concert from your balcony while having the comfort and convenience of your own bathroom, kitchen, etc right there.

And it probably changes every 10 years? Another 20 I could imagine what it will be When baby boomers die off?

[ficoguy]

Theres a rezoning sign on the door

[champion6]

Theres a rezoning sign on the doorThe rezoning hearing was last night -- voted down.