Noise

[Mpappie]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

[JohnN]

We're in a courtyard villa. This is actually the quietest place we've ever lived. We have owned both a vinyl siding and a CBS (stucco) home here, and the CBS is significantly quieter.

[EdFNJ]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors? With 120,000+ people living here every home has it's own special neighbors. Most are quiet some are not, some are part-time renters who party, some play loud music, some have noisy wind chimes or yappy dogs. :D Very difficult question to answer. :)

[Mortal1]

There will always be neighbors that don't have much consideration for others. I'm from a small town in Maine and it was 10x noisier than here. New Years and the 4th of July can have some noise, but most people know that any outside noise should cease about 9pm. As to dogs and stereos just call the police. They don't mind taking care of noisy neighbors and just like anywhere else you have to do what's right to get some others to do what's right. Like the other poster said it's extremely quiet here 99% of the time.

[valuemkt]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal

[Stu from NYC]

I would call it too quiet in our neighborhood at night. Nobody is out and about.

[Mpappie]

We're in a courtyard villa. This is actually the quietest place we've ever lived. We have owned both a vinyl siding and a CBS (stucco) home here, and the CBS is significantly quieter.
thank you

[Mpappie]

With 120,000+ people living here every home has it's own special neighbors. Most are quiet some are not, some are part-time renters who party, some play loud music, some have noisy wind chimes or yappy dogs. :D Very difficult question to answer. :)
thank you

[Mpappie]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal thank you

[villagetinker]

Do search on noise, there have been threads about golf cart paths, the turnpike, pickleball courts, rec centers, etc., so you will need to do your homework if you want quiet, and cross your fingers with your neighbors. Interior homes have kissing lanais (you may be within 10 feet of your neighbors lanai, take this into consideration if you are after quiet. Also you may want to avoid golf courses, early lawn mowing, lots of golf carts and possible conversations depending on where you are located along the course. I am sure there will be some additional comments, but in general, the villages is a very quiet place.

[dnobles]

8 years no problems

[akerwin1909]

I recently moved here from
a family neighborhood and
could not be happier on all levels.
It is very quiet and friendly and mostly peaceful!
I own a courtyard villa with a fenced yard that is just lovely.
You will not regret your decision!

[Scott O]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal
Where in the world did you see everyone has to have their cars in the Garage by 8....lights out by 9...lol

[drgoofy]

When looking, pay attention to dog parks and pickleball courts in addition to what has been noted.

[La lamy]

As you can read there's a small percentage of grumpy old people that may tell you to stay away because you want quiet!!! All behind anonymity handles of course.
:ohdear:

They are in the minority, so please don't let it ruin your excitement to move here.

[Imadreamer]

Choose your home location carefully. We rarely hear noise, but friends who have their lanais close to back neighbors may hear dogs barking and/or smell cigarette smoke. Also pickleball courts have noise. So, remember location, location, location. You’ll love it here.

[blueash]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal

Thanks for that laugh. But as you can see, some people don't recognize humor.

[bowlingal]

Are you kidding me?? cars in garage by 8?lights out by 9? where in the world did you get this misinformation? DO NOT post incorrect information. What is wrong with you??

[Rwirish]

No, there is not one noisy neighbor in TV. All 125,000 are extremely quiet.

[am.zinger@aol.com]

Every so often, a noisy neighbor is going to buy here. I have no noisy neighbors, fortunately. However, I do have a nosy neighbor that I wish would mind his own business instead of mine! But, I guess I got off topic here. Sorry. :shocked:

[NY2TV]

It is like any other place. Some neighborhoods quiet. Others are not. Need to do your research. Best advice I was given was to make sure I didn't buy a house near a pickleball court! Oh, and don't believe the guy who made up the answer about cars required to be in garage at 8. Some people make stuff up.

[sallyg]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

Most folks are pretty good neighbors, but there are no guarantees. We have had both great and not so great in the last five years. One thing about this community it pretty much closes down by 9pm every night.

[pcacace]

That’s the first I heard of parking your car by 8 pm and lights out by 9. You must have different deed restriction than our village, unless you are joking.

[VApeople]

Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

Yes, noise is a big problem in The Villages. We have a close neighbor who is terribly noisy.

[meme5x]

Very quiet .. have luxurious 3 bedroom court yard villa going to sell.. getting to old to make drive from MO.. if interested, reply

[Indiana Randy]

What's it like where you now live?

That's about what it's like here, too.

[asianthree]

Are you kidding me?? cars in garage by 8?lights out by 9? where in the world did you get this misinformation? DO NOT post incorrect information. What is wrong with you??

That’s the first I heard of parking your car by 8 pm and lights out by 9. You must have different deed restriction than our village, unless you are joking.

This is why we need a sarcasm emoji sign. Some like Sheldon have difficulty recognizing such wit.
Seriously you really took that post as gospel.

[Terriy]

There will always be neighbors that don't have much consideration for others. I'm from a small town in Maine and it was 10x noisier than here. New Years and the 4th of July can have some noise, but most people know that any outside noise should cease about 9pm. As to dogs and stereos just call the police. They don't mind taking care of noisy neighbors and just like anywhere else you have to do what's right to get some others to do what's right. Like the other poster said it's extremely quiet here 99% of the time.

Why wouldn't you speak with the neighbor first before calling the police?

[valuemkt]

This is why we need a sarcasm emoji sign. Some like Sheldon have difficulty recognizing such wit.
Seriously you really took that post as gospel.

Thank you .. I'll use an emoji next time :1rotfl:

[genobambino]

Some people forget where they moved to, ie a retirement community. Why some people move here with their motorcycles and take off the mufflers and rip up and down the roads, with no consideration for the people that live here, is beyond me. No respect for their neighbors.

[wjearly]

Depends on your political party.

[Almanurse1]

I read on here once to avoid buying where a bedroom might be near a neighbor’s pool filter.

[Psa1000]

haha - love that answer.

[Psa1000]

It is extremely quiet in our neighborhood - everyone is friendly and kind, waves when you pass on your golf cart. Usually there is a card party, driveway party etc. that everyone is offered to be part of. Group golf outings are offered two days a week. If anything - maybe a little too quiet. Enjoy the Villages - it is what you make of it.

[nevjudbaker]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

At 9 PM the music at the squares shutdown. It is time for the seniors to wind down. Neighborhoods are very quiet.

We rented a Villa in Collier while waiting for the Loft apartments to be built. The neighbors at the end of our block had a live band in their driveway for the neighbors & their friends. People weren’t noisy but the band was heard throughout the area. Security did come & make them tone the music down. The base music rumbled through the Villa. It happened twice in 3 mos and it was during the COVID lockdown..But it all stops at 9 PM.

We moved to the Lofts and we do not hear the music from the squares. The apartments have quality windows so noise from outside is limited.

I guess noise would depend on who lives in your neighborhood.

The noise in the Villas was lawnmowers. The lawns & areas between the homes is small. It seemed like someone was getting their lawn mowed every day.

As far as overall noise it is quieter here than other areas in FL. After 9 PM it seems like they roll up the sidewalks. I love it.

[davem4616]

Are you kidding me?? cars in garage by 8?lights out by 9? where in the world did you get this misinformation? DO NOT post incorrect information. What is wrong with you??


lighten up....the poster was having some fun

[JerryLBell]

The Villages is essentially a large collection of neighborhoods, some of which are very likely more noisy than others. There is no guarantee of silence in any neighborhood. Some of the noise can be from the neighbors partying or whatever and some will come from the normal activities supporting a neighborhood, such as construction, remodeling, lawn maintenance, etc.

That said, our neighborhood is very, very quiet, as are basically every other neighborhood we've visited friends in. People visiting us have commented that despite The Villages being known for live music every night in the squares and an incredibly active lifestyle, that the neighborhoods are amazingly quiet.

During the pandemic we've had a couple driveway concerts, but those weren't that terribly loud and let out fairly early. As ours is an established neighborhood at the ripe old age of about six years, we don't get new construction noise but do get occasional remodeling noise (including at our own house). Waste pickup trucks come through twice a week, lawn work might be done on almost any day, delivery trucks come and go and once in a while the trucks come through that spray for mosquito control (very effective, by the way).

[Bill Torres]

I live behind a dog park and I've yet to have any noise from those beautiful, playful, enjoying, dogs who come and feel free to meet with their "pals". They are as happy as we are residents to a wonderful community.

Would not change my scenery each morning sipping my coffee in my lanai.

So scratch off "dog parks" from the list of concerns....

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Come down and doo a lifestyle visit and find out for yourself. Although, The Villages is huge and different areas are very different.

It is very quiet where I live. I live about three quarters of a mile from a town square and if I go out at night I can faintly hear the music. If you live close to a town square you may hear the music. But unless you are in the new apartments I doubt that you can hear it from inside your residence.

[ts12755]

Move to the mountains in N Carolina.... very quiet.

[Tom M]

I've heard homes near the turnpike can hear some noise and some on the west side can hear some train noise. I don't live in either of those areas (nor near pickleball, golf). You might also consider possible noise of a house that backs up to a major cart path (particularly where there is acceleration).

I've found the villages amazingly quiet.

[airstreamingypsy]

It can be a bit noisy late at night when it's alligator breeding season.

[martysuki]

thank you....I needed a good laugh! Have an absolutely fantastic day!

[OhioBuckeye]

Mpappie, TV isn’t perfect so yes they’re are some people that are noisy! TV is just another town or city. But get used to going to bed at 9:00.

[daveac83]

Don't buy a home that backs up to a road, a golf cart path, or adjacent to a golf course tee, or within the range of an errant golf tee shot. In the new Villages sections, don't be near the turnpike, the Coleman prison, or too close to the quarry.

[macawlaw]

Do search on noise, there have been threads about golf cart paths, the turnpike, pickleball courts, rec centers, etc., so you will need to do your homework if you want quiet, and cross your fingers with your neighbors. Interior homes have kissing lanais (you may be within 10 feet of your neighbors lanai, take this into consideration if you are after quiet. Also you may want to avoid golf courses, early lawn mowing, lots of golf carts and possible conversations depending on where you are located along the course. I am sure there will be some additional comments, but in general, the villages is a very quiet place.


Good answer. Another point about the lanais. We bought where our lanai is in the back, but our back yard neighbors' lanais are on their front. This makes a big difference for privacy.

[dadoiron]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

Much noisier than back North due to houses being so close and most using commercial lawn companies. Their machines are much louder than normal homeowners equipment. Sometimes it's nonstop 8am to 2pm till all the lawn's are done. Seems quieter in villa neighborhoods.

[xcaligirl]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?
It's quieter than other places we have lived but I would say that it's pretty much like living anywhere, you just have no idea who your neighbor is going to be. Look out for living too close to a "fire station", too many sirens all the time! Pickle ball courts do not bother me at all and it's not past dark! We live close to a grocery store and they have deliveries at all hours which can be very noisy! You can help reduce the noise if you just concentrate on the location. Neighbors are difficult to predict. Yes, seems like renters and 'SOME' snowbirds (as well as full time residents) can be noisy. I just look at it as 'temporary'. Some people do not look forward to the snowbirds returning, I enjoy seeing people having fun and enjoying life! No different than going to any other place, the snowbirds arrive and they just can't wait to see old friends and let the party begin! They make me smile!

[KRM0614]

We're in a courtyard villa. This is actually the quietest place we've ever lived. We have owned both a vinyl siding and a CBS (stucco) home here, and the CBS is significantly quieter.
Not true I can hear neighbors vacuum and those behind my near my house not Villa never pipe down

[Pairadocs]

With 120,000+ people living here every home has it's own special neighbors. Most are quiet some are not, some are part-time renters who party, some play loud music, some have noisy wind chimes or yappy dogs. :D Very difficult question to answer. :)

Agree ! Hard to tell and it changes ALL the time. Your neighbors may be lovely and the next thing you know, they move but decided to keep the house as a rental. Some will get a long term rental, other times your new neighbors will be short term folks here for a good time. Same with dogs, constant barking never stops, then those folks move and the house is empty for long periods. It is surprising here how many people own LARGE homes only to use a total of maybe 4 weeks a year. Thought buying in a designer neighborhood as they call it would eliminate that.... but not at all ! On our small block two of the largest designers are seldom occupied. Others are used as rentals when owners are not here. The one with the pool is VERY popular rental as you can imagine in these virus days ! But how to predict what your neighborhood might be..... changes so much while others seldom change at all. Does not seem to be tied to the price of the homes in the neighborhood either ! ?

[Curtisbwp]

Have you not visited?

[KRM0614]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal
No they don’t ! People leave their cars out all the time.

[KRM0614]

Don't move here. We live our lives, we enjoy our retired freedoms, and sometimes we make noise. We are respectful of others.
Asking that question shows you only want to impede on others freedoms.
That’s not your choice ! Awful

[Pairadocs]

Some people forget where they moved to, ie a retirement community. Why some people move here with their motorcycles and take off the mufflers and rip up and down the roads, with no consideration for the people that live here, is beyond me. No respect for their neighbors.

Maybe because it is aggressively marketed as an "ACTIVE LIFESTYLE" community. When we first bought and used the word "retirement", we were nicely and friendly like reminded, "this is really not classified as a retirement community, there is a difference, maybe you have visited some of them here in Florida. If you have, you know our residents boat, kayak, scuba, and we have many motorcycle and flying clubs."

People definitely are given the idea that if you are looking for a "sleepy little retirement village with a pool and a community bingo parlor that closes up at 9 sharp, this is not that place". Actually I think there are MORE toys (classic cars, working on them, motorcycles, etc.) than one would ordinarily find in a mixed community.... more time to play !

[ML Smith]

We just moved into the villages over the Fourth of July weekend. We are over in Monarch Grove and it is quiet. You will hear the occasional dog bark when someone has the audacity to walk past their house, and the neighbors say hi, but for the most part it is very quiet.

[Pairadocs]

I feel like I am isolated from noise by being on an inside street. Only thing I ever hear is lawn mowers. Be careful where you buy, there is road noise. In the new area it can be turnpike noise. Also stay away from pool or courts backing your house. May seem private but there will be noise.

Andrea Bonivich, Sellstate Superior Realty 281-513-1250

Good advice ! The sound of tennis and pickle ball EARLY in the morning really drives many people absolutely crazy. They did not realize what it would be like to be right beside or behind on the the rec center's courts. Nothing much you can do about the mowing, unlike some communities like this that do have restrictions, here they can mow all day ANY day including Saturday and Sunday. If you and your neighbors have different lawn people, it can go on every day. Nothing you can do to prevent that noise, but chose location carefully. Have friends who bought a villa near the high school, NIGHTMARE. Giant lights on for all games, different sports every season, band music, roars and cheers, they can't even use their lanai to entertain. Those kinds of things can be avoided as mentioned here by others. Choose carefully !

[crydzanich]

Duh!

[Pairadocs]

Are you kidding me?? cars in garage by 8?lights out by 9? where in the world did you get this misinformation? DO NOT post incorrect information. What is wrong with you??

Good grief, didn't think it was possible for someone not to recognize a fun post, and very cleaver post !

[Nick B]

Have you seen the trump parades ? It makes perfect sense.

[graciegirl]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?
.

Than there is this to consider. About a third of all of us Villagers have age related hearing loss.

Presbycusis (also spelled presbyacusis, from Greek presbys "old" + akousis "hearing"[1]), or age-related hearing loss, is the cumulative effect of aging on hearing. It is a progressive and irreversible bilateral symmetrical age-related sensorineural hearing loss resulting from degeneration of the cochlea or associated structures of the inner ear or auditory nerves.

The cause of presbycusis is a combination of genetics, cumulative environmental exposures and pathophysiological changes related to aging.[2] At present there are no preventive measures known; treatment is by hearing aid or surgical implant.

Presbycusis is the most common cause of hearing loss, afflicting one out of three persons by age 65, and one out of two by age 75. Presbycusis is the second most common illness next to arthritis in aged people.


Obviously, the O.P.s hearing works. Some people have hyperacusis and respond negatively to noise. I suggest you buy a block and stucco home.

In Nevada.

[Pairadocs]

No they don’t ! People leave their cars out all the time.

That is true, also know personally of three people (all in different parts of The Villages) who have had squirrel damage (yes, squirrel damage !) to their cars leaving them out constantly. Retired neighbor who taught auto mechanics said definitely a nuisance, we have a lot of squirrels and other wild animals. They actually get into engine compartment and CHEW the wires ! I started putting mine in the garage when I heard the price of the damage...LOL !

[issat]

When we had a courtyard villa, we had a problem with dogs barking all hours of the night. CV’s tend to attract dog owners due to the walled in backyard.

Now that we have a house, we only experience noise when lawns get mowed around us. Luckily it’s a predictable day of the week. We just button up during that brief time. So not a big worry.

[Pairadocs]

Where in the world did you see everyone has to have their cars in the Garage by 8....lights out by 9...lol

What ? Did you not enjoy this funny post ? Not see the LOL, LOL ? Oh well, always someone with no sense of humor, probably will be others, still nice to see a funny post now and again and NOT a nasty one..

[ddawson922]

No, very quiet!!!!😄😄

[jimjamuser]

Do search on noise, there have been threads about golf cart paths, the turnpike, pickleball courts, rec centers, etc., so you will need to do your homework if you want quiet, and cross your fingers with your neighbors. Interior homes have kissing lanais (you may be within 10 feet of your neighbors lanai, take this into consideration if you are after quiet. Also you may want to avoid golf courses, early lawn mowing, lots of golf carts and possible conversations depending on where you are located along the course. I am sure there will be some additional comments, but in general, the villages is a very quiet place.
I feel that The Villages are extremely noisy. The worst offenders, for me, are the extremely loud UNMUFFLED noise from the commercial lawnmowers. I am amazed that there is NO outcry from The Villages property owners to the developers to correct this problem. Surely, there are quieter commercial lawnmowers that could be REQUIRED by the Villages developers. It SHOULD be a simple matter to require that a noise abating muffler be required throughout The Villages. It would also help the lawnmower operators from becoming deaf and having ear ringing and other health issues as they get older. (they often do NOT even wear ear defenders). It is like the wild West here when it comes to lawnmower noise. The Villages would even have the clout to demand ONLY electric lawnmowers be used here. That won't happen because The Villages automatically rejects any progressive ideas!

The 2nd worst problem is aggravated by the SMALL lot sizes, especially on the sides. You are very dependant on your neighbor maintaining a quiet, conscientious profile. This can't be controlled. If you live long enough, you may go through several different neighbors living too close to you. Many Villagers have hearing problems - so they talk VERY loudly (actually shout) - they think that they are normal. It is like a mental aberration - they don't realize that they are doing it. Even young people think that ALL older people are deaf, so they automatically RAISE their voice for all the older ones.......I would recommend buying a house on a cul-de-sac or being on a lake. I sincerely hope that this helps.

[Bogie Shooter]

I feel that The Villages are extremely noisy. The worst offenders, for me, are the extremely loud UNMUFFLED noise from the commercial lawnmowers. I am amazed that there is NO outcry from The Villages property owners to the developers to correct this problem. Surely, there are quieter commercial lawnmowers that could be REQUIRED by the Villages developers. It SHOULD be a simple matter to require that a noise abating muffler be required throughout The Villages. It would also help the lawnmower operators from becoming deaf and having ear ringing and other health issues as they get older. (they often do NOT even wear ear defenders). It is like the wild West here when it comes to lawnmower noise. The Villages would even have the clout to demand ONLY electric lawnmowers be used here. That won't happen because The Villages automatically rejects any progressive ideas!

The 2nd worst problem is aggravated by the SMALL lot sizes, especially on the sides. You are very dependant on your neighbor maintaining a quiet, conscientious profile. This can't be controlled. If you live long enough, you may go through several different neighbors living too close to you. Many Villagers have hearing problems - so they talk VERY loudly (actually shout) - they think that they are normal. It is like a mental aberration - they don't realize that they are doing it. Even young people think that ALL older people are deaf, so they automatically RAISE their voice for all the older ones.......I would recommend buying a house on a cul-de-sac or being on a lake. I sincerely hope that this helps.

Most mowing crews are in and out so fast if you blink you will miss that they even are around.
Noise is a county issue, go to their web sites for ordinances.

[shut the front door]

Thank you .. I'll use an emoji next time :1rotfl:

No, don't! It's actually hilarious to watch the outrage!

[jimjamuser]

Don't move here. We live our lives, we enjoy our retired freedoms, and sometimes we make noise. We are respectful of others.
Asking that question shows you only want to impede on others freedoms.
I think that they are just being prudent and intelligent in planning a move to a NEW community. They are just seeking information - and what better way to get it than at THIS forum.? There is NO reason to "throw shade" on their legitimate outreach. They do NOT deserve to be demonized! I gave them my answer in a conscientious manner. That is The Village's ideal way to treat potential neighbors. I think that they need to rent here 1st - to get a proper "lay of the land".

[jimjamuser]

No, there is not one noisy neighbor in TV. All 125,000 are extremely quiet.
I hope that was sarcasim?

[Villagesgal]

Go to the house you are thinking of buying at various different times of the day and night and hear for yourself if there are loud neighbors or yapping dogs, but know that at any time other new people could move in. Been here 19 years on a championship golf course and very quiet. They mix my course afternoons on days the course is closed, so don't believe all the people who say early morning mowing, not true for all courses and wonderful with no neighbors behind, no kissing lanai. You'll love it here.

[jimjamuser]

Some people forget where they moved to, ie a retirement community. Why some people move here with their motorcycles and take off the mufflers and rip up and down the roads, with no consideration for the people that live here, is beyond me. No respect for their neighbors.
I wonder why we pay the community watch people if they don't control obvious things like motorcycles with loud mufflers - and commercial lawn service with excessively LOUD mufflers? This ALL should be easy to control. WE paid for quality of life here. The developers need to INSURE that it is delivered to us!

[Fred2016]

[QUOTE=Mpappie;1858642]We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

Better rethink your move

[CWGUY]

I wonder why we pay the community watch people if they don't control obvious things like motorcycles with loud mufflers - and commercial lawn service with excessively LOUD mufflers? This ALL should be easy to control. WE paid for quality of life here. The developers need to INSURE that it is delivered to us!

:ho: It's very easy to educate yourself on how things work around here..... FROM THE DISTRICT WEB SITE:

"Community Watch is a division of The Villages Public Safety Department. We are on-duty 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Our mission is to provide a safe community for our residents and visitors by being the watchful eyes of the community. Although we are not a law enforcement agency, we work very closely with the local law enforcement agencies that service The Villages community. As an “observe and report” agency, Community Watch plays a vital role in deterring crime and assisting law enforcement to solve crimes when they happen.

Although our primary responsibility is to be the “watchful eye”, Community Watch has evolved into so much more as our community has grown. Community Watch serves the residents and visitors of The Villages by providing assistance in four disciplines:

Patrols
Dispatch / Communications Center
Gate Attendants
Gate Operations

To find out more about the duties and responsibilities of these areas, please take a moment to explore our webpages.

To learn more about the functions of Community Watch, please click on the link below.
Community Watch Functions

Community Watch is also vital to the overall District Government operation. We work closely with the other District Departments to assist them in providing their functions and services. Over 35% of the service actions performed by Community Watch personnel during FY 2016 were related to assisting other District Departments.

If you have any questions as you review the information on Community Watch, please feel free to contact Nehemiah Wolfe, Division Chief of Community Watch, at 352-750-8201 during office hours of 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.

[jimjamuser]

It is extremely quiet in our neighborhood - everyone is friendly and kind, waves when you pass on your golf cart. Usually there is a card party, driveway party etc. that everyone is offered to be part of. Group golf outings are offered two days a week. If anything - maybe a little too quiet. Enjoy the Villages - it is what you make of it.
A card party and a driveway party.....yuk, yuk.....a good way to spread a virus. I don't know about you, but I hear that there is one spreading around unchecked. Live free and die painfully!

[jimjamuser]

At 9 PM the music at the squares shutdown. It is time for the seniors to wind down. Neighborhoods are very quiet.

We rented a Villa in Collier while waiting for the Loft apartments to be built. The neighbors at the end of our block had a live band in their driveway for the neighbors & their friends. People weren’t noisy but the band was heard throughout the area. Security did come & make them tone the music down. The base music rumbled through the Villa. It happened twice in 3 mos and it was during the COVID lockdown..But it all stops at 9 PM.

We moved to the Lofts and we do not hear the music from the squares. The apartments have quality windows so noise from outside is limited.

I guess noise would depend on who lives in your neighborhood.

The noise in the Villas was lawnmowers. The lawns & areas between the homes is small. It seemed like someone was getting their lawn mowed every day.

As far as overall noise it is quieter here than other areas in FL. After 9 PM it seems like they roll up the sidewalks. I love it.
Yes, lawnmowers without high-quality mufflers. and yes ANY time of the day.

[jimjamuser]

Much noisier than back North due to houses being so close and most using commercial lawn companies. Their machines are much louder than normal homeowners equipment. Sometimes it's nonstop 8am to 2pm till all the lawn's are done. Seems quieter in villa neighborhoods.
Yes, the lawnmower noise IS excessive and annoying!

[jimjamuser]

I feel like I am isolated from noise by being on an inside street. Only thing I ever hear is lawn mowers. Be careful where you buy, there is road noise. In the new area it can be turnpike noise. Also stay away from pool or courts backing your house. May seem private but there will be noise.

Andrea Bonivich, Sellstate Superior Realty 281-513-1250
yes, the lawnmower noise is excessive!

[jimjamuser]

Good advice ! The sound of tennis and pickle ball EARLY in the morning really drives many people absolutely crazy. They did not realize what it would be like to be right beside or behind on the the rec center's courts. Nothing much you can do about the mowing, unlike some communities like this that do have restrictions, here they can mow all day ANY day including Saturday and Sunday. If you and your neighbors have different lawn people, it can go on every day. Nothing you can do to prevent that noise, but chose location carefully. Have friends who bought a villa near the high school, NIGHTMARE. Giant lights on for all games, different sports every season, band music, roars and cheers, they can't even use their lanai to entertain. Those kinds of things can be avoided as mentioned here by others. Choose carefully !
It would actually be easy to ENFORCE noise requirement on the mufflers of the commercial lawn people. I would require electric mowers to be used, but I AM dreaming. Noise is a HEALTH hazard, but most people here are already hard of hearing and are NOT tuned into "quality of life" issues.

[Rich42]

Which one of our 130,000 neighbors are you curious about?

[jimjamuser]

That is true, also know personally of three people (all in different parts of The Villages) who have had squirrel damage (yes, squirrel damage !) to their cars leaving them out constantly. Retired neighbor who taught auto mechanics said definitely a nuisance, we have a lot of squirrels and other wild animals. They actually get into engine compartment and CHEW the wires ! I started putting mine in the garage when I heard the price of the damage...LOL !
That is true. Most modern car wires have a soybean filler in the composition so squirrels, mice and other rodents like to eat the wires and nest in cars.

[jimjamuser]

When we had a courtyard villa, we had a problem with dogs barking all hours of the night. CV’s tend to attract dog owners due to the walled in backyard.

Now that we have a house, we only experience noise when lawns get mowed around us. Luckily it’s a predictable day of the week. We just button up during that brief time. So not a big worry.
Lawnmowers are pretty constant in the homes near me. Loud and terrible.

[Fredster]

Personally I kind of like the sound of occasional lawn mowing,
because it reminds me that in retirement
I am fortunate to not have to do it!
:a040:
“Always look for the silver lining,”

[jimjamuser]

Personally I kind of like the sound of occasional lawn mowing,
because it reminds me that in retirement
I am fortunate to not have to do it!
:a040:
“Always look for the silver lining,”
It could be "occasional" to some in TV Land, but not where I live. And I do NOT enjoy it. And it is unnecessary because it could be fixed with just LOCAL regulation on mufflers and noise. Then you might have to get a CD of all lawn moving to relax you to sleep.

[NavyVet]

Well, this has been an interesting and entertaining thread (as most are.) Some people apparently do not 'get' sarcasm. LOL
That said, it was a good question with many helpful points being brought up. People can be bothered by different types of noise, so noise is subjective. My observations; If you are not an early riser, do be aware that lawn/landscaping, other vendors, power tools, etc. start at asshat o'clock and zero-dark-thirty (as in before 8 a.m.) especially in the summer to beat the heat and typically afternoon thunderstorms. So it's understandable, but we can never leave our windows open overnight on a nice cool winter night.
If you like to spend time outside on your lanai and road noise bothers you, you probably won't want your home to back up to a street or golf cart path. Also, most homes are interior lots with 'kissing' lanais and very close together. Keep in mind you will be able to hear every conversation from your neighbors' lanais and they can hear yours. So it's not just noise, also an issue of lack of privacy. Loud TVs or music could be an issue as well. I haven't found dogs barking to be much of a problem. Most residents don't leave them alone outside, so it's just a few minutes here and there when they are being walked or out on the lanai with their owners. Even courtyard villas, I can't imagine leaving a little dog outside. We have eagles, hawks, bobcats, etc. that can swoop in. There were a couple cases of coyotes snatching little dogs right out of their yards. Scary! If our dog is outside with us and yips, we shush her immediately as we don't want to disturb our neighbors. Night time is usually pretty quiet, the occasional siren or neighborhood party. Can barely hear anything if inside with the a/c running. I agree that CBC/stucco has better insulation than 2x4/vinyl homes. If you can get on a dead-end street, no through traffic is really nice.
If you are close to the squares, you will hear music in the evenings, but ends at 9. If you live close to rec centers and pools, you will hear pickle ball and other noise. Construction, lawn maintenance, and road noise are inevitable in any community and have a purpose. Neighbors are unpredictable; most are kind and thoughtful. There will always be some who are rude or obnoxious like anywhere else. Just hope you don't end up on a street near those who have drumming circles on their driveways at asshat o'clock in the mornings! (Yes, a real thing!)
Hope this has helped and best of luck on your journey. :-)

[jimjamuser]

:ho: It's very easy to educate yourself on how things work around here..... FROM THE DISTRICT WEB SITE:

"Community Watch is a division of The Villages Public Safety Department. We are on-duty 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Our mission is to provide a safe community for our residents and visitors by being the watchful eyes of the community. Although we are not a law enforcement agency, we work very closely with the local law enforcement agencies that service The Villages community. As an “observe and report” agency, Community Watch plays a vital role in deterring crime and assisting law enforcement to solve crimes when they happen.

Although our primary responsibility is to be the “watchful eye”, Community Watch has evolved into so much more as our community has grown. Community Watch serves the residents and visitors of The Villages by providing assistance in four disciplines:

Patrols
Dispatch / Communications Center
Gate Attendants
Gate Operations

To find out more about the duties and responsibilities of these areas, please take a moment to explore our webpages.

To learn more about the functions of Community Watch, please click on the link below.
Community Watch Functions

Community Watch is also vital to the overall District Government operation. We work closely with the other District Departments to assist them in providing their functions and services. Over 35% of the service actions performed by Community Watch personnel during FY 2016 were related to assisting other District Departments.

If you have any questions as you review the information on Community Watch, please feel free to contact Nehemiah Wolfe, Division Chief of Community Watch, at 352-750-8201 during office hours of 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.
All that information (lots of words with little or no relevance to my point) - did not touch my point that NOISE is detrimental to "quality of life". Life quality should be a goal of the TV Land developers or owners or Gods or Kings of The Villages, whoever. Maybe instead of a community watch system, there should be a quality of life Commission that looks out for things like the loud mufflers on commercial lawnmowers in TV Land. They should be able to handle details like this. As you may have noticed, many Villagers, beside myself, complained about the noisy mufflers on the lawn vehicles. They all ACCEPTED it because it "is the way it is". I do NOT accept that! - OK! Many things like NOISE could be better in TV Land if only we property owners did not accept the mediocre status quo. And the Owners gave a hoot (or a good defication) about our "quality of life". Which incidentally, is greatly superior in the Scandinavian Countries.

[vintageogauge]

One thing is certain, noise comes and goes but the smell from a sewage treatment plant lingers forever. How near to a treatment plant should be the first question you ask when buying a home.

[jimjamuser]

Well, this has been an interesting and entertaining thread (as most are.) Some people apparently do not 'get' sarcasm. LOL
That said, it was a good question with many helpful points being brought up. People can be bothered by different types of noise, so noise is subjective. My observations; If you are not an early riser, do be aware that lawn/landscaping, other vendors, power tools, etc. start at asshat o'clock and zero-dark-thirty (as in before 8 a.m.) especially in the summer to beat the heat and typically afternoon thunderstorms. So it's understandable, but we can never leave our windows open overnight on a nice cool winter night.
If you like to spend time outside on your lanai and road noise bothers you, you probably won't want your home to back up to a street or golf cart path. Also, most homes are interior lots with 'kissing' lanais and very close together. Keep in mind you will be able to hear every conversation from your neighbors' lanais and they can hear yours. So it's not just noise, also an issue of lack of privacy. Loud TVs or music could be an issue as well. I haven't found dogs barking to be much of a problem. Most residents don't leave them alone outside, so it's just a few minutes here and there when they are being walked or out on the lanai with their owners. Even courtyard villas, I can't imagine leaving a little dog outside. We have eagles, hawks, bobcats, etc. that can swoop in. There were a couple cases of coyotes snatching little dogs right out of their yards. Scary! If our dog is outside with us and yips, we shush her immediately as we don't want to disturb our neighbors. Night time is usually pretty quiet, the occasional siren or neighborhood party. Can barely hear anything if inside with the a/c running. I agree that CBC/stucco has better insulation than 2x4/vinyl homes. If you can get on a dead-end street, no through traffic is really nice.
If you are close to the squares, you will hear music in the evenings, but ends at 9. If you live close to rec centers and pools, you will hear pickle ball and other noise. Construction, lawn maintenance, and road noise are inevitable in any community and have a purpose. Neighbors are unpredictable; most are kind and thoughtful. There will always be some who are rude or obnoxious like anywhere else. Just hope you don't end up on a street near those who have drumming circles on their driveways at asshat o'clock in the mornings! (Yes, a real thing!)
Hope this has helped and best of luck on your journey. :-)
A good thorough and comprehensive answer to that inquiry. Should be very helpful.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Our area is pretty quiet at night. In the mornings there's usually a lawnmower or leaf-blower or electric hedge trimmer making some noise somewhere but it's only annoying for that scant 15 minutes once a week when it happens on the side of your own house.

The only other time it gets noisy, is when someone up the road has some outdoor entertainment in the form of some guy singing to canned music with a microphone and speakers in the driveway. That is -one- of the reason why I can't stand that song Proud to be an American. Just WAY too many people singing off-key to that song has turned me off to it permanently.

[stanley]

That is -one- of the reason why I can't stand that song Proud to be an American. Just WAY too many people singing off-key to that song has turned me off to it permanently.

The song title is actually "God Bless The USA"
It always brings a tear to my eye no matter how or who sings it.

If tomorrow all my things were gone
I'd work for all my life.
And I had had to start again,
With just my children and my wife.
And I'd think my lucky stars to be livin' here today,
Cause the flag still stand for freedom and they can't take that away

And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the ones who died who gave that right to me
And I'll gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land, God Bless the USA.

From the lakes of Minnesota, to the hills of Tennessee,
Across the plains of Texas, from sea to shining sea.
From Detroit down to Houston and New York to LA,
Well there's pride in every American heart and it's time we stand and say

And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the ones who died who gave that right to me
And I'll gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land, God Bless the USA.

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA!

[Dennys37Packard]

I agree with Villagetinker, he makes good points. I would drive around the neighborhood you are looking to buy in, ask a few neighbors, and park, sit and listen. Pickle ball courts are noisy, Lanais that back up to a highway or cart path can be annoying for some. Close to an entrance gate, mail station, or sports complex can also have its share of noise. Avoid a south facing lanai if you can, a home that sits directly across from an oncoming street ( headlights coming into your home at night, ) Most of TV is quiet and peaceful. Each area has its share of plus or minus points. Best of luck and enjoy paradise

[Art Gariepy]

After 9 PM you can shoot off a cannon! Action in Sumpter Landing - if you want it.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The song title is actually "God Bless The USA"
It always brings a tear to my eye no matter how or who sings it.



...whatever. It's the Hallmark card of pseudo-religious patriotic glurge. That's the second reason I can't stand it. The first reason though, is that it's over-played and so BADLY sung every time I hear someone singing it live, that it makes proud to be an American - where at least I know I'm free to tell you how much I can't stand that song :)

[stanley]

...whatever. It's the Hallmark card of pseudo-religious patriotic glurge. That's the second reason I can't stand it. The first reason though, is that it's over-played and so BADLY sung every time I hear someone singing it live, that it makes proud to be an American - where at least I know I'm free to tell you how much I can't stand that song :)

To each his own.

[Topspinmo]

No they don’t ! People leave their cars out all the time.

Lots can’t get car in garage due to the junk, especially the dinky 1 1/4 garages. Some move into CYVs or PVs and have two cars, cart, motorcycle. And can’t get none of them In The garage cause it full of junk. So the line the street which not wide enough for street parking.

[asianthree]

A card party and a driveway party.....yuk, yuk.....a good way to spread a virus. I don't know about you, but I hear that there is one spreading around unchecked. Live free and die painfully!

Previous post put in check how community watch works, so I will take this one.

If you die on a vent and are in pain someone is doing it wrong. So no worries you can attend those parties and should be pretty much guaranteed not to be in pain. Unless coming from the party you fall, and fractured something :popcorn:

But looking at your 9 previous posts, it looks like you really have an issue with lawn companies. For you that might be your painful death by mower noise

[gregcharlesnelson@gmail]

The 'Frogs' call the northern part of TV near Mulberry 'The Country'....very quiet

[nhtexasrn]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal

This is a joke, right?

[Girlcopper]

Some people forget where they moved to, ie a retirement community. Why some people move here with their motorcycles and take off the mufflers and rip up and down the roads, with no consideration for the people that live here, is beyond me. No respect for their neighbors.
Its not illegal

[johnbarnon]

You can pick your house, but you can"t choose your neighbors and they can change at any time, this is a wonderful place for Seniors, just turn down your hearing aid and ask any noisy neighbors to turn theirs up. That should do the trick.

[johnbarnon]

love it.

[Rick13994]

We live in a courtyard villa in McClure south of 44 and after moving in it was eerie how quiet our neighborhood was. This is the quietest place we have lived. In fact, we are probably the noisiest people in the neighborhood lol. But we keep it to a low level and honor the 10:00 pm noise cutoff.

[greenflash245]

there will be noise. accept it

[Bill1701]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

The main noise sources here are the landscapers. They can show up anytime after about 7:30 am and before about 6 pm. Usually the noise lasts only about 5 minutes.

[Marathon Man]

Some people forget where they moved to, ie a retirement community. Why some people move here with their motorcycles and take off the mufflers and rip up and down the roads, with no consideration for the people that live here, is beyond me. No respect for their neighbors.

This is an active community. I certainly do not think of it as a "retirement community" simply because most of us are retired. People are living their lives, emphasis on "living".

[bobnyce]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?

Worst noise in The Villages is from lawn mower trucks with extremely loud mufflers on our main roads and side streets. Between them revving their engines and blasting music so loud we can hear it in our house, there is no relief.

This situation is compounded by the fact that everyone has a different service so it is every day, in every neighborhood, even Sundays. We ought to have at least one day of peace and quiet but not so here in Florida's Friendliest Hometown.

Oh yes, and the pool radio battles. Several fools will bring radios to the pools blast them and then go to the other side of the pool. Then another inconsiderate swimmer will do the same thing and we end up with dueling radios which is not allowed at the pools. Feel free to check with the Recreation Department - I did. You want to listen to music at the pool get a set of bluetooth ear buds - please!!!

I forgot about the golf cart drivers and motorcycles with no mufflers and blasting their music. Didn't anyone ever hear of bluetooth speakers.

[Two Bills]

Reading some of these replies, I realise my hearing loss is sometimes a huge bonus in life!:icon_wink:

[Joanne19335]

Don't move here. We live our lives, we enjoy our retired freedoms, and sometimes we make noise. We are respectful of others.
Asking that question shows you only want to impede on others freedoms.

Unnecessary, selfish and inconsiderate response to a simple question. You should be ashamed of yourself.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Maybe we owners accept the TV noise because frankly there’s not much . I’ve never given a second thought about noise from lawn guys. I sleep most nights with windows open unless I have a guest and don’t usually get up before 9am , 2 of my homes here were on golfcourse, did I wake up sometimes from mower , yes I did but went right back , I lived over 30 years outside USA and before virus spent jan / March in either Miami Beach , Hawaii or Thailand and summers in Boston this is the quietest place on earth I think outside of grave

[meme5x]

Love my courtyard villa..quiet, peaceful and close to everything

[VApeople]

I forgot about the golf cart drivers and motorcycles with no mufflers and blasting their music.

One of our neighbors has his music blasting even when he rides his bike.

[talleyjm]

The song title is actually "God Bless The USA"
It always brings a tear to my eye no matter how or who sings it.

If tomorrow all my things were gone
I'd work for all my life.
And I had had to start again,
With just my children and my wife.
And I'd think my lucky stars to be livin' here today,
Cause the flag still stand for freedom and they can't take that away

And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the ones who died who gave that right to me
And I'll gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land, God Bless the USA.

From the lakes of Minnesota, to the hills of Tennessee,
Across the plains of Texas, from sea to shining sea.
From Detroit down to Houston and New York to LA,
Well there's pride in every American heart and it's time we stand and say

And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the ones who died who gave that right to me
And I'll gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land, God Bless the USA.

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA!

Thank you for your post. Made my day. I am always moved emotionally when I hear the words to this song.

[Curtisbwp]

Now that is a question that is hard to answer. I do not know where you hail from, im from Boston mass (bigger than TV) and i liken your question to asking me if there are noisey people.

[Jean G]

Do t get a 2br villa. They are too close together if you don’t want to hear anyone. 3 br and up should be good

[CALiz]

My husband and I have been living here since early September. We are in Monarch Grove and you can hear the turnpike road noise, more so on some days...just something to be aware of. The house next door and across the street are unsold, so no noise there. For the other neighbor sometimes can hear music playing in the house, but they are very respectful about keeping doors and windows closed when playing their music. We do the same.

[jimjamuser]

...whatever. It's the Hallmark card of pseudo-religious patriotic glurge. That's the second reason I can't stand it. The first reason though, is that it's over-played and so BADLY sung every time I hear someone singing it live, that it makes proud to be an American - where at least I know I'm free to tell you how much I can't stand that song :)
GLURGE - I feel like I am swimming in a cesspool of glurge. Glurge to the left, glurge to the right, swimming in a cesspool at night, it feels good, it feels alright, the world is a blight, but for now, it is out of sight, I feel empowered, I possess all might - it feels like a vitamin infusion - swimming in a cesspool of glurge!

[jimjamuser]

Previous post put in check how community watch works, so I will take this one.

If you die on a vent and are in pain someone is doing it wrong. So no worries you can attend those parties and should be pretty much guaranteed not to be in pain. Unless coming from the party you fall, and fractured something :popcorn:

But looking at your 9 previous posts, it looks like you really have an issue with lawn companies. For you that might be your painful death by mower noise
I can feel the LOVE and it is so true that many Villagers have commented on an aversion to unnecessary noise emanating from those air-polluting commercial lawnmowers. Good to keep pointing that out, a real local problem.

[jimjamuser]

The main noise sources here are the landscapers. They can show up anytime after about 7:30 am and before about 6 pm. Usually the noise lasts only about 5 minutes.
10 or more minutes to cut. Then at least 5 minutes to edge. Then, they do 5 or more minutes of LOUD leaf blowers. .......And incidentally, they and the owners that do their own yards, blow the grass clippings into the nearest street. Where they THINK that it magically disappears. When in reality, it is ground up into dirt particles that make it back into their house AND their neighbors. AND where are the Community Watch people to give them tickets for littering?

[Velvet]

Before buying my home in TV, I checked out the house I wanted to buy; the pool, the street, the neighborhood. I checked the area out at different times of the day, and talked to the various neighbors. It seemed quiet, it still is today. Neighbors can change but not all of them. If you find a particular house you like it is worth the effort to check it out.

You can ask the lawn mower to use the hand push mower, I didn’t, the few minutes in the middle of the day every two weeks doesn’t bother me. My mower guy does the neighbors all the same time, we coordinated.

[Bogie Shooter]

Someone who obsesses about lawn mower noise should take up a less controversial cause like "dog poop".:duck:

[Back9]

Quiet as a church mouse. People must have their cars in the garage by eight, and lights out at 9 .. There was a proposal to make everyone go home once the street lights came on, but that was defeated by a narrow margin. People living above Rt 44 blamed the young whipper snappers that have moved into Southern oaks for defeating the proposal

Ha!
Very funny.

(But you never know - people unfamiliar with TV might take you seriously. )

[yanksansky]

We hope to move to the villages soon. Is it quiet? Do you ever have any problems with noisy neighbors?
Its mostly quiet where we live in Monarch Grove..however, for quiet, look into buying the new Verandas which are designer homes with enclosed yards.

[Barborv]

When I was looking at the house I wound up purchasing, I asked the next door neighbor about the neighborhood and the block and was their a lot of traffic noise from the road that our houses( which has a concrete wall) backed up to. He said it was just white noise. He actually loved it. Said he was living in a different area in the villages and he kept hearing the neighbors to the left of him and to the right of him, and knew they probably heard everything from his lanai also. So , all depends where you wind up buying.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Every time somebody plays god bless the USA and people have that I’ve seen the light look I gets sick to my stomach

[Dgodin]

I live on a street away from a town square or main road where most traffic is local as it isn't on the way to a golf course, rec center or pool, and it is very quiet. 9pm is the new midnight. very little traffic after 9.

[sallybowron]

Our Village is quiet. Osceola Hills at Soaring Eagle.

[Fredman]

Do search on noise, there have been threads about golf cart paths, the turnpike, pickleball courts, rec centers, etc., so you will need to do your homework if you want quiet, and cross your fingers with your neighbors. Interior homes have kissing lanais (you may be within 10 feet of your neighbors lanai, take this into consideration if you are after quiet. Also you may want to avoid golf courses, early lawn mowing, lots of golf carts and possible conversations depending on where you are located along the course. I am sure there will be some additional comments, but in general, the villages is a very quiet place.

Good advise

[John41]

...whatever. It's the Hallmark card of pseudo-religious patriotic glurge. That's the second reason I can't stand it. The first reason though, is that it's over-played and so BADLY sung every time I hear someone singing it live, that it makes proud to be an American - where at least I know I'm free to tell you how much I can't stand that song :)

Your first statement is just an emotional rant without facts to which you’re entitled because at least you know you’re free

God Bless The USA