Bogie, Gracie, BTK, Tal, 2BNTV, John W, other long time posters question.

[eweissenbach]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

[graciegirl]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

I wonder that myself. I think we had a stint of moderators being very quick to stop certain kinds of discussions. It must be very tricky and hard to be a moderator, because what one person thinks is interesting, another might find controversial and on this forum there are heavy opinions about politics based on the population that almost always overwhelms one side. I know I have been puzzled sometimes after being deleted or worse. I usually TRY to be a rule follower.

[Toymeister]

I find most posts are not that interesting anymore.

[Taltarzac725]

Many of the more interesting posters were kicked off or just left for Facebook or some other site.

And, unfortunately, there have been a lot of passings of Talk of the Villagers since I got on here in July of 2007.

[Two Bills]

Look at society in general.
Whole groups of the population waiting to be offended.
Consequently you finish up with nanny type moderation.
Therefore nothing with a subject to get your teeth into gets very far.
It's a shame.

[coffeebean]

I'm most interested in politics right now and our voices can not be heard on this forum regarding this subject. I get it....the rules and that sort of thing. I have checked the "Current Events and News" sub-forum each day and there have been as many as four days go by without one single post. That is just ludicrous considering the political climate we are dealing with currently. I go elsewhere for politics discussion and guess what? People can be very civil discussing this most toxic subject.

As far as other subjects and forums on this site, I do find enough to keep me interested so I continue to come back each day. The pandemic is one subject that usually can get by with decent discussion before the treads are closed. I really like to keep up with the pulse of what Villagers are up to.

[Bucco]

I'm most interested in politics right now and our voices can not be heard on this forum regarding this subject. I get it....the rules and that sort of thing. I have checked the "Current Events and News" sub-forum each day and there have been as many as four days go by without one single post. That is just ludicrous considering the political climate we are dealing with currently. I go elsewhere for politics discussion and guess what? People can be very civil discussing this most toxic subject.

As far as other subjects and forums on this site, I do find enough to keep me interested so I continue to come back each day. The pandemic is one subject that usually can get by with decent discussion before the treads are closed. I really like to keep up with the pulse of what Villagers are up to.

My opinion only, and take it for what its worth.

First I share your interest in politics, but as you say...not allowed.

Over the past years....everything has become politicized. Our government has an opinion on not only political folks, but football, baseball, basketball, and all leagues, rap star, movies, state law, city law, the virus, the flu, any pandemic, social media, news networks, news commentators, law, some city crime, internal politics of any country, military strategy, newest and oldest conspiracy theories, cable news rankings, television shows, etc., etc.

Our government has spent more time discussing that and other things....THUS,

Not much left that is not considered political any more, OR can be switched to political with ease.

Of course, the discussions on legislation, issues, taxes, infrastructure, etc. etc are lost in the verbage that some consider politics.

Moderators thus will face that decision every day, every hour. We don't discuss politics anymore.

For the record, we did have a decent political discussion area about 12/13 years ago, manned with differing opinions on ISSUES, opinions given with credible solid links, and heated, but respectful discussion.

Very first "political thread (it prompted the establishment of an area to discuss such things) was concerning a group that wanted to locate a horse track in 301 and prompted heated discussion. TALKHOST saw an opportunity to allow that kind of talk and it flourished for quite awhile. Of course that was before a lot of internet interference, or involvement in everything, and posters who cared about policy, not individuals

[John41]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

I thought in the past TOTV was pretty boring and never posted except for classified until the mods let up a little about a year ago. I liked people with different opinions from mine like Bucco as long as it stayed somewhat civil. In England debating style is much more oriented to personality than to facts than in the United States. There was a TV show years ago where someone from England and someone from the US would debate a topic and the difference in styles was very apparent.

I’m not one of the older members you referred to but thought I’d offer my 2 cents anyway.

[JohnN]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

I agree 100%. It iss less interesting and moreso, seems to be more mean-spirited with plenty of snarky posts. And that's not even going into the political stuff.
I don't think it's just this forum, it seems like the world is becoming that way.
It's sad, but I just make the best of it, I'm blessed and pretty happy in life.

[Bogie Shooter]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

I have never thought of TOTV as boring. As time passes and new members join the posts tend to move to different topics or return to ones heavily covered in the past.
In the early days we didn't seem to have posters being so critical of new areas of construction. There was more speculation at that time of what was going to happen and discussion of rumors. Also in our early days we didn't know everything about TV, so threads providing what was happening or going on made it more interesting.
Recently in the past 6-8 months a number of posters began instilling political statements both direct and subtle. I thought this degraded what others were posting. It wasn't interesting to see these posters feed off each others posts. This led to the new forum.
If someone wants political chatter they should find another forum, there must be many out there.
The moderators do have a tough job to keep everything within site rules. And deletions will not please everyone.
I will keep reading.....after all there may be a Costco showing up any day.

[JimJohnson]

I find it much better now than back a few years. Back then there was a posey that would gang up on individuals that had different opinions. The monitors of today do not play favorites and will delete harsh posts from old timers and new folks equally. A few years ago, high count posters had power, today, it’s fair and balanced. Thanks to the moderators and thanks to the old timers that have stepped up to follow the rules of this site.

[Aloha1]

I suggest everyone, if they haven't already, watch "The Social Dilemma" on Netflix. It will open your eye to online discourse and participation on sites such as Facebook, Twitter, etc.

TOTV sometimes has a hair trigger and is quick to pull it on minor "political" comments. But all in all, I would much rather have discussions about life here, good restaurants, events, etc, than name calling.

[tophcfa]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

Totally agree.

[John_W]

I didn't post at all from July 5th until November 5th, four months. I've felt somewhat less inclined to post because many of the questions I've answered before in the past ten years I've been on this board. It doesn't seem like anyone knows how to search, or wants to search. When I moved here I had a legal pad filled with info about contractors, restaurants, the squares, bonds and taxes, areas and the different villages, shopping and stores, etc. I joined about six months before I moved in and I don't think I asked one question, I only read and searched and really didn't need to ask. Also many of the questions are in reference to the new areas south of 44, and I've never even been across 44, therefore I can't really help the new people anyway in that area. If there is a discussion about golf courses, golf carts, MVP gym, the bands and music, things that still pertain to me I'll jump in.

Here's something for new people, they say a Yamaha gas cart will last you a lifetime. These photos I took a month ago of my Yamaha golf cart. It's a 2011 model I bought new 9 years ago this past July. I wax and clean it myself, it really doesn't take much work if you clean everytime you come from the course. I just use the spray on Meguiars wax and wipe off, that's all you need to do. What I also did this year was I spent over a $1000 on the cart improving it plus I bought a new Ogio Convoy Golf Bag in mustard. I bought a new battery at Rural King in Leesburg, look for a 24F in the upper right corner when looking at the top of the battery, it was $54.99 plus tax, the clerk in the battery department had no clue. I also removed all my NFL team decals because of their attitude and only have the NHL Tampa Bay Lightning decals on my cart. I only use non-ethanol gas since 2015 when the Marathon station on 466A opened, my cart is not fuel injected, that wasn't offered by Yamaha until 2012-1/2.

I added the deluxe cooler, the deluxe Liquid Lights package, a Striker Speedometer, an overhead AM/FM radio console with speakers, seat belts, overhead shelf which I use for towels, a fan and previously I had added a ball and club washer. I threw out the old door mat floor mats that came with the cart and bought a solid rubber floor mat, and it also came with big side mirrors, a black roof, SS wheels, Ultimate Seats and 2 sand bottles. I also painted the Yamaha letters on the side, the earlier models were not silver colored like they are now. For comparison of today's prices, this cart from TV at LSL with the options I listed was $10,300 new.

https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/107826576_1669610186536840_8174982791199612765_o.j pg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=2&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=LnpEjjhztHoAX9fchoC&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=3c43f80f145049ae0d97fc471fe86143&oe=5FE65BEE

https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/106393750_1669610409870151_411768591070984932_o.jp g?_nc_cat=103&ccb=2&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=b1P7Q6ENIWQAX_qOZLN&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=cb27af19bade68ec5b6f4c62e12e5b43&oe=5FE7F2CB

https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/107148160_1669610786536780_6603539704366646150_o.j pg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=2&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=SQs2Hao99igAX-_JMkc&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=847cdd880b9a8ccde355a9830418c074&oe=5FE8211F

https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/107423326_1669611946536664_836235110883890083_o.jp g?_nc_cat=102&ccb=2&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=oRzvnkk6LKkAX9IPL_e&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=a8cb3dac31aa3e9c69d0473584371626&oe=5FE885FF

[CFrance]

A few years ago, there were a number of new posters who were downright nasty. I think they were used to the uninhibited forums like Reddit or some newspaper comment sections (WAPO comes to mind) where people said exactly what they felt using no filters. Some of those posters are still here but have changed their ways; others have fallen away. I keeps reading to keep up with the pulse of the posters. I don't agree with a lot of what people say, but as long as they're not vindictive, name calling, or snarky, I appreciate hearing the different views.

I felt there were just a few people on the old political forum who were true debaters. Threads quickly deteriorated, and I quit visiting it.

[red tail]

I find it much better now than back a few years. Back then there was a posey that would gang up on individuals that had different opinions. The monitors of today do not play favorites and will delete harsh posts from old timers and new folks equally. A few years ago, high count posters had power, today, it’s fair and balanced. Thanks to the moderators and thanks to the old timers that have stepped up to follow the rules of this site.

There used to be a group that called themselves a 'posse' that always had comments to keep posters under their way of thinking.

[Madelaine Amee]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

It could be that many of the older posters, such as me, have reached a point where TOTV is no longer relevant to our interests. Plus, the polarization of the past four years has been a strain and I, for one, have found other interests. I still check in early every morning, but rarely offer a comment.

[Bucco]

There used to be a group that called themselves a 'posse' that always had comments to keep posters under their way of thinking.

If you speak of the group that used to be summoned at time by another poster to "swing" the conversation, then some still exist. My wife was verbally assaulted by that group, simply because she was my wife.

[Bucco]

It could be that many of the older posters, such as me, have reached a point where TOTV is no longer relevant to our interests. Plus, the polarization of the past four years has been a strain and I, for one, have found other interests. I still check in early every morning, but rarely offer a comment.

The last years have changed me in ways I never thought possible, but then again, I never thought anything like the last four years could happen in my country.

[Bucco]

I suggest everyone, if they haven't already, watch "The Social Dilemma" on Netflix. It will open your eye to online discourse and participation on sites such as Facebook, Twitter, etc.

TOTV sometimes has a hair trigger and is quick to pull it on minor "political" comments. But all in all, I would much rather have discussions about life here, good restaurants, events, etc, than name calling.

It was a terrific documentary.

I started a thread on that....

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/talk-television-338/social-dilemma-netflix-311119/?highlight=Social+dilemmA

Some posts have been deleted or modified, but it quickly turned into trashing me for knowing nothing of what I spoke, and the media.

But as regards that doc, watch it if you can, and note, your mind can be "played with" by an onslaught of disinformation.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Look at society in general.
Whole groups of the population waiting to be offended.
Consequently you finish up with nanny type moderation.
Therefore nothing with a subject to get your teeth into gets very far.
It's a shame.

You hit the nail on the head. We can’t delve into anything with any degree of controversy without some not wanting others to get offended.

[Kenswing]

And you also read my mind ? Incredible.

To one of the points being made.....over the past years, everything in our society has been made a part of the political climate from football to rap music and beyond.

Not about infrastructure, or actually anything to do with actual government.
I thought this thread was talking about the changes in this forum. How come it got changed into a discussion about our country, society and government? :shrug: That's commonly called a thread hijack.. :popcorn:

[wereback]

I originally moved to the Villages in 2000 didn't join till 09 and have watched this thread very quickly go from a simple question to what it has become in 2020. e Everyone now has become so not nice so quickly.

[Bogie Shooter]

I thought this thread was talking about the changes in this forum. How come it got changed into a discussion about our country, society and government? :shrug: That's commonly called a thread hijack.. :popcorn:

Agree....

[villagetinker]

I have and will continue to avoid discussions that go off topic. As you may have noticed I tend to try and be a problem solver, something I have been most of my life, and to provide help to others. I deliberately avoid getting involved with personal opinions unless they are with a specific service, product, or item that I have actually used. As long as i can continue to do that you will find me on this site, as I enjoy what I do, and I believe others do also.
Have a great day, VT member since 2013.

[Topspinmo]

I have and will continue to avoid discussions that go off topic. As you may have noticed I tend to try and be a problem solver, something I have been most of my life, and to provide help to others. I deliberately avoid getting involved with personal opinions unless they are with a specific service, product, or item that I have actually used. As long as i can continue to do that you will find me on this site, as I enjoy what I do, and I believe others do also.
Have a great day, VT member since 2013.

Problem solver? Got you work cut on here:coolsmiley:

[tophcfa]

I have and will continue to avoid discussions that go off topic. As you may have noticed I tend to try and be a problem solver, something I have been most of my life, and to provide help to others. I deliberately avoid getting involved with personal opinions unless they are with a specific service, product, or item that I have actually used. As long as i can continue to do that you will find me on this site, as I enjoy what I do, and I believe others do also.
Have a great day, VT member since 2013.

And that’s what makes you my favorite TOTV poster, always trying to help others solve problems. Many people, including myself, need to take note of your rule about keeping on topic. Thanks and have a great day.

[Love2Swim]

I'm reading posts about how people are glad this person or that person is not around or posting anymore, and I'm appalled. How hurtful that must be for the person to be publicly attacked. That is one of the reasons I rarely post anymore, because of the snakiness and meanness I see on some of these threads.

[Two Bills]

Funny how it it is always the 'other' person, or anyone who disagrees with a post, who is the troublemaker, the one turning the thread off subject, or political!

"My way or the highway" rules!

[Scott O]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.
Well so far since we have moved here this past year and I’ve joined, I would say masks and CCP (communist Chinese plague) has pretty much been the choice of discussion...over and over and over....yeah not very interesting

[La lamy]

I have and will continue to avoid discussions that go off topic. As you may have noticed I tend to try and be a problem solver, something I have been most of my life, and to provide help to others. I deliberately avoid getting involved with personal opinions unless they are with a specific service, product, or item that I have actually used. As long as i can continue to do that you will find me on this site, as I enjoy what I do, and I believe others do also.
Have a great day, VT member since 2013.

:coolsmiley::bigbow::clap2:

[Rwirish]

Disagree

[fifilebon]

I am new in TV and have been reading TOTV for about one month. I have no knowledge of how it used to in the good old days, but I am certainly enjoying it today. I skip the posts that get political in nature; never in the history of social media has someone changed their political point of view based on another’s post. I particularly enjoy the silly statements that spawn hilarious responses. Please don’t stop posting. This is free entertainment.

[MandoMan]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

Perhaps the reason is that in eleven years, you have only thanked posters 47 times. They have given up trying to win your praise. (Grinning) Writing thoughtful, interesting responses to questions and comments takes time and effort, and the only payment is thanks from grateful readers.

[Girlcopper]

Look at society in general.
Whole groups of the population waiting to be offended.
Consequently you finish up with nanny type moderation.
Therefore nothing with a subject to get your teeth into gets very far.
It's a shame.
True. Nowadays everyone finds something to be offended by. What happened to the generation??

[riley2011]

They only let you discuss what suits them. Boring. I barely come here to read anything.

[jbrown132]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

Absolutely

[Smitty2022]

I have been lurking for quite some time as I hope to be there soon. I am trying to gather as much info as possible so I don't miss anything. With the exception of a few people like villagetinker it has become mostly just a bitch seesion. Really not much usefull info being discussed. Just my 2 cents. See you soon!

[rmd2]

Somewhat off topic but have others here been permanently stopped from commenting on thevillagesnews.com? I have never written anything that has been censored in any way but I cannot comment anymore. I have noticed WAY less comments from others so are they stopping people from commenting? Are they only letting paid members comment? What is going on? Also just in the last few days I cannot even access the additional comments section to continue looking at more comments. Any info on this??

[Bogie Shooter]

Somewhat off topic but have others here been permanently stopped from commenting on thevillagesnews.com? I have never written anything that has been censored in any way but I cannot comment anymore. I have noticed WAY less comments from others so are they stopping people from commenting? Are they only letting paid members comment? What is going on? Also just in the last few days I cannot even access the additional comments section to continue looking at more comments. Any info on this??

Really way off topic.
Who really cares what happens on that rags site..........

[Two Bills]

Somewhat off topic but have others here been permanently stopped from commenting on thevillagesnews.com? I have never written anything that has been censored in any way but I cannot comment anymore. I have noticed WAY less comments from others so are they stopping people from commenting? Are they only letting paid members comment? What is going on? Also just in the last few days I cannot even access the additional comments section to continue looking at more comments. Any info on this??


That site is so slow and clunky to navigate, due to all the peripheral "stuff" loading.

It started going that way a while ago, when it upgraded to its present format.

Think most of the comments, if you actually are able to navigate that far, are from students in local schools, and the remainder from psychiatric homes.
Some of the local Karens vent as well.:icon_wink:

[Happinow]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

I think part of what’s happened is when new posters come on and ask a question they are met with snarky, smart ass responses. People, in general on this forum aren’t kind any more. An OP is asks a question or is giving their account of what happened, or their experience, and the responder answers with a question.......ie....our experience at such and such place wasn’t good. Responder.....did you talk to a manager, did you send the food back? A lot of times people come on this forum to vent or to save others from having a bad experience. They don’t want to be met with controversy. An OP comes on this forum to get advice, recommendations or to share their experience. If we could get back to answering their questions with kind responses and having a little sympathy when they have a bad experience, more people would stay on here. It has been my experience that when I post, I get nasty remarks, so I stopped posting. This forum is what you make it and it’s been turned into a battle ground! Let the battle begin!

[Worldseries27]

not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on totv than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because i have been on here so long that i’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because i’m less interested in what happens in tv than i used to be. Whatever it is i just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as i once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.
there was a popular saying that newspapers and news shows were the same stories just different dates.
Why would this forum be any different?
People come here with problems and solutions.
Some come for entertainment and to be a little less lonely.
Whatever the case a great movie starring olivia de havilland, 1946 best actress, comes to mind.
"to each his own"

[NotGolfer]

I've been a member of this site for a number of years. I would say most social media "conversations" in the past year or so have become not so interesting anymore. People seem to be nastier and the content of the "conversations" is the same. There are way too many who criticize and complain and it just feeds on one another, It's like the "same song, different verse" over and over and over again. I mostly use social media (ie FB and insta.) to be in touch with family and friends. I use this site for information, locally---and mostly just for something to do. I'm not on here very much anymore....generally come by 1st thing in the morning if there seems to be something of interest. I don't read every post and ALL the 'conversations'. As someone else said too---the moderators don't seem as vigilant as they once were. Maybe the sites gotten too big.

[billethkid]

While it has always been present, it seems like patience, tolerance, respect for differing positions/opinions is challenged more often.

Most likely the reality of some of us aging and the increasing presence of newer (younger) members.

There is a need for an ability to discuss so much of what is going on in the world that affects us all...unfortunately too much of which gets labeled political.

I still find TOTV a welcome source of information and at times "entertaining". Generally a good site to seek opinion/help/suggestions.

[Gizemo33]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

It could be and probably is that constant censorship over the past couple of years has driven people away from commenting.

I for one have stopped commenting until just now. Way too many articles are removed, Messages are issued by "the company" that your post was reported or that it is too confrontational and you could be denied the privilege of commenting.

It is situations like this that drives people away.

Censorship censorship censorship censorship.

[jojo]

I started posting in 2007. I made friends before we moved here. The forum was "lighter" - more fun and easy-going. It was incredibly helpful to a newbie. Not sure if we can ever return to the non-divisiveness of the most recent years. My hope for the new year is kinder and gentler.

[oldtimes]

It could be and probably is that constant censorship over the past couple of years has driven people away from commenting.

I for one have stopped commenting until just now. Way too many articles are removed, Messages are issued by "the company" that your post was reported or that it is too confrontational and you could be denied the privilege of commenting.

It is situations like this that drives people away.

Censorship censorship censorship censorship.

I disagree, I know some who have been driven away by the bullying of some of the posters. It is fine to disagree but to personally attack and belittle people for their opinions turns people away. I have noticed that many of the really witty and interesting people are no longer or rarely posting.

[CFrance]

I thought this thread was talking about the changes in this forum. How come it got changed into a discussion about our country, society and government? :shrug: That's commonly called a thread hijack.. :popcorn:
And therein lies the problem.

[Marywhite630]

Being new to TV, I find TOTV very interesting. It has been very informational and sometimes just quite entertaining! Just an opinion from a newbie.

[KRM0614]

I'm most interested in politics right now and our voices can not be heard on this forum regarding this subject. I get it....the rules and that sort of thing. I have checked the "Current Events and News" sub-forum each day and there have been as many as four days go by without one single post. That is just ludicrous considering the political climate we are dealing with currently. I go elsewhere for politics discussion and guess what? People can be very civil discussing this most toxic subject.

As far as other subjects and forums on this site, I do find enough to keep me interested so I continue to come back each day. The pandemic is one subject that usually can get by with decent discussion before the treads are closed. I really like to keep up with the pulse of what Villagers are up to.
Why waste your time about politics, it’s all a joke !

[justjim]

OP, You ask an interesting question and one that the Moderators/Owners of this site likely ask themselves from time to time. I still find TOTV interesting and sometimes even entertaining. For example I find information regarding the expansion south of 44 very interesting. That said, I know there is a “search engine” but I find it difficult to get certain information we might want quickly and for it to be current. There are other so called “Neighborhood Sites” that my wife is on and she seems to be able to get the name and phone number of a good Plumber, Electrician, Carpenter or Mechanic faster than I can search or ask for one on TOTV. Sometimes there are many more negative comments than positive when a new Thread is started. Posters are quick to shoot the Messenger if they don’t agree and in subtle ways offend the OP. IMHO it is not “funny” to belittle someone just because you disagree with their comment. Overall we can do better - whether we are “new”or “old” to TOTV. Overall, I think the Moderators do a good job on this site.

[Stu from NYC]

We are just hear almost a year now and was not going to comment but decided to do so.

This place is great for finding vendors of all kinds as well as advise on how to fix a problem. I do not start many threads but two that I did worked very well.

One was on protection from lightning and another finding an appliance repairman.

Also several people reached out to us as having similar backgrounds and have become very good friends.

What I avoid these days are threads on politics and most about the virus. They have become boring and often are disappeared.

As a result a lot less posts from me these days.

For those who like to keep tract of how many posts I do my daily post count is way down.

[Boomer]

I started posting in 2007. I made friends before we moved here. The forum was "lighter" - more fun and easy-going. It was incredibly helpful to a newbie. Not sure if we can ever return to the non-divisiveness of the most recent years. My hope for the new year is kinder and gentler.

Thank you, jojo. I, too, have been around here since 2007.

I don’t know how the moderators stand it. There is a predicable, insidious toxicity that has become a part of TOTV.

There are posters who gang up on anyone who thinks differently and are blatant about it while others are more subtle. Because it is TV, the “Us vs. Them” is uneven. Even that “thank you” feature is often used as a tool of the tribal.

The last time I started a thread, it was to ask for info on the Apple Watch. I got excellent information — and I said, “Thank you.” But I also got a condescending snark which caused me to snark back. (I apologized.)

BUT THEN, another poster showed up to take a political hit. It was a thread about an Apple Watch fer gawd’s sake! Don’t those people ever think about anything else. Why are they always waiting to pounce. (rhetorical questions)

That thread was a classic example of what is good and what is bad about the current TOTV. (Yes. I know it was a tame example when compared to the hateful stuff on other internet sites.)

I have posted for all these years like some people might do crossword puzzles or knit. I have written posts to try to help someone. I have had some fun along the way. And sometimes TOTV is theater.

But for the past few years, too much of this place has devolved, turning into a microcosm of what we are seeing everywhere. A lot of people have been manipulated into turning on each other and that behavior carries over into almost everything. Ugly stuff.

Every room full of people has a feel — a tone. TOTV is a room full of people and the feel of the room has changed, especially for those of us who remember how it once was. It will never be like the early days when the “room” was small, but maybe it can get better — depending on who decides to stick around — and why.

Boomer

[STLRAY]

I have found this message board to be very helpful in my plan to relocate to TV in the near future. I thank all those who have responded to my questions in a positive way. I have also noticed that I could post a pot roast recipe and some would find a way to make it political. I just ignore those posts.

[jimjamuser]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.
There are too many boring and mundane threads started here. It's like a sewing club circle discussion of simplistic gossip. There have been threads like, "what is your favorite candy bar?". Someday soon we will get one like, "who likes the color blue and why?" I could take one or two mundane ones every day? But, sometimes they are all simplistic. We have a "Happy Newspaper" that can handle all the liberal arts- type of subjects and pushes propaganda of "Happy Days".

WE should NOT be AFRAID of hard-hitting, controversial subjects that are part and parcel of current events. It is obvious that it is what the community is BEGGING for. ( by the large numbers of pages when we are ALLOWED to finish). WE are in a CRITICAL period of modern History in America. To try to avoid that is to avoid REALITY. Reality will be discussed among small groups here in TV Land anyway. So, why not have 2 or 3 topics on IMPORTANT stuff right here, in the open air, of a popular community forum. The community here is BEGGING for more REALITY - life-saving changes and alterations of behavior must be contemplated in today's dangerous environment. And information is NEEDED to make appropriate and rational decisions. A balance in all things is desirable! Why NOT encourage it here?

[PugMom]

I'm most interested in politics right now and our voices can not be heard on this forum regarding this subject. I get it....the rules and that sort of thing. I have checked the "Current Events and News" sub-forum each day and there have been as many as four days go by without one single post. That is just ludicrous considering the political climate we are dealing with currently. I go elsewhere for politics discussion and guess what? People can be very civil discussing this most toxic subject.

As far as other subjects and forums on this site, I do find enough to keep me interested so I continue to come back each day. The pandemic is one subject that usually can get by with decent discussion before the treads are closed. I really like to keep up with the pulse of what Villagers are up to.

if my opinion matters, i would like to discuss current events, but it always brings some kind of resentment. if we could manage to be polite & stick to topics, it might help. but this situation is very divided & brings many raw feelings

[oldtimes]

There are too many boring and mundane threads started here. It's like a sewing club circle discussion of simplistic gossip. There have been threads like, "what is your favorite candy bar?". Someday soon we will get one like, "who likes the color blue and why?" I could take one or two mundane ones every day? But, sometimes they are all simplistic. We have a "Happy Newspaper" that can handle all the liberal arts- type of subjects and pushes propaganda of "Happy Days".

WE should NOT be AFRAID of hard-hitting, controversial subjects that are part and parcel of current events. It is obvious that it is what the community is BEGGING for. ( by the large numbers of pages when we are ALLOWED to finish). WE are in a CRITICAL period of modern History in America. To try to avoid that is to avoid REALITY. Reality will be discussed among small groups here in TV Land anyway. So, why not have 2 or 3 topics on IMPORTANT stuff right here, in the open air, of a popular community forum. The community here is BEGGING for more REALITY - life-saving changes and alterations of behavior must be contemplated in today's dangerous environment. And information is NEEDED to make appropriate and rational decisions. A balance in all things is desirable! Why NOT encourage it here?

Is that a FACT? Do you have a LINK to support it? In my observations these discussions do nothing to change anyone’s mind and are just an opportunity for posturing from users who think their knowledge is superior to everyone else’s.

[Bogie Shooter]

There are too many boring and mundane threads started here. It's like a sewing club circle discussion of simplistic gossip. There have been threads like, "what is your favorite candy bar?". Someday soon we will get one like, "who likes the color blue and why?" I could take one or two mundane ones every day? But, sometimes they are all simplistic. We have a "Happy Newspaper" that can handle all the liberal arts- type of subjects and pushes propaganda of "Happy Days".

WE should NOT be AFRAID of hard-hitting, controversial subjects that are part and parcel of current events. It is obvious that it is what the community is BEGGING for. ( by the large numbers of pages when we are ALLOWED to finish). WE are in a CRITICAL period of modern History in America. To try to avoid that is to avoid REALITY. Reality will be discussed among small groups here in TV Land anyway. So, why not have 2 or 3 topics on IMPORTANT stuff right here, in the open air, of a popular community forum. The community here is BEGGING for more REALITY - life-saving changes and alterations of behavior must be contemplated in today's dangerous environment. And information is NEEDED to make appropriate and rational decisions. A balance in all things is desirable! Why NOT encourage it here?

Since you asked....
No WE don’t want those controversial subjects like the board experienced last summer.
I don’t think the community is begging for reality.....only a few, and they almost destroyed the board last summer.
Like I said if you want controversy go elsewhere to find it.

[Pairadocs]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

You are absolutely right ! This was NOTHING like this when it first began. People "chatted" about things going on (like the progress on Sumter Landing; what was to be our "new" town !), shared and asked for recommendations on various projects. This near "domination" by some folks, always with some kind of insult or put down to people who ask innocent questions. Can the "virus" be effecting people's minds ? Actually fear can be a powerful change agent and we have some very fearful people which, unfortunately, are only made more so by the selected way statistics are presented to them daily. It's a sad commentary, but fortunately, some people have continued to not allow such circumstances to change their personality or character. Thoughts=Character ! May all have a happier holiday season free of fear and vitriol.

[Pairadocs]

I find most posts are not that interesting anymore.

So true ! Didn't even have my morning coffee & TOTV;s for awhile, was just getting like FB and the keyboard "warriors" who seem to get some kind of ego boost out of making fun of others was getting to be too much. Been "tuning in" in again and not a lot of change, thought maybe once the election was over but the "mask thing" is just so too much sometimes and the "logic" some people use does not seem well thought out or even checked as to accuracy many times. Others seem determined to force others to do as they do; for instance have you noticed those who live in utter fear seem unhappy unless everyone does ? It's fine if you don't like to eat out, or play cards with friends, that should be a personal choice and NO ONE should force you, but some "seem" (??) to want others as miserable and fearful as they are, can't figure out what they get out of it. Kind of like some of these governors and mayors who come up with these outrageous "rules" ? Can have 3 families for dinner but not 4, can dine outside from 4 to 8, but NOT after, crazy !

[jimjamuser]

The last years have changed me in ways I never thought possible, but then again, I never thought anything like the last four years could happen in my country.
Amen, brother!

[jimjamuser]

Well so far since we have moved here this past year and I’ve joined, I would say masks and CCP (communist Chinese plague) has pretty much been the choice of discussion...over and over and over....yeah not very interesting
I disagree - any US-wide matter of life and death is, by its very definition, INTERESTING!

[Nevermore]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.


I agree 100%. It irks me that the most important issue of our time right now is gagged. Our democracy is being destroyed but we are viewed as unable to discuss it. Why can’t we have a forum to discuss politics. If you are offended by opinions you disagree with, stay out of the forum.

[manaboutown]

In my earliest days on TOTV in 2009 I had yet to even visit The Villages which was just a place on a list of 55 and over communities I planned to visit in Florida. Somehow I stumbled upon this forum, posted some questions I had, received a number of helpful responses and made internet friends with a few folks who met me in person after I arrived on my first visit. It was a warm and welcoming experience overall. I also benefitted from reading through many threads prior to my first visit. TOTV continued to remain helpful to me in many ways as I returned a couple more times before finally moving. IMHO TOTV seems to have lost its warm, welcoming and helpful feel to a great degree yet some posters remain very helpful in many ways and I sincerely thank them for their thoughtfulness and time.

P.S. I love the "Ignore List" feature which helps me avoid seeing many snarky posts.

[jimjamuser]

Is that a FACT? Do you have a LINK to support it? In my observations these discussions do nothing to change anyone’s mind and are just an opportunity for posturing from users who think their knowledge is superior to everyone else’s.
What would be so important about a LINK? I expressed MY opinion. I am entitled to have my opinion without a LINK to someone else's opinion in some news media. Today's current events are rapidly changing, so opinions change with these changes. And these changes are tempered by BOTH facts and opinions. To me, I come to a forum trying to know and understand opinions. I would go to Google or TV news for my facts. Then from those, I form MY opinions. I come to THIS forum to hear the OPINIONS of my fellow neighbors.

[oldtimes]

What would be so important about a LINK? I expressed MY opinion. I am entitled to have my opinion without a LINK to someone else's opinion in some news media. Today's current events are rapidly changing, so opinions change with these changes. And these changes are tempered by BOTH facts and opinions. To me, I come to a forum trying to know and understand opinions. I would go to Google or TV news for my facts. Then from those, I form MY opinions. I come to THIS forum to hear the OPINIONS of my fellow neighbors.

FACTS and LINKS were the benchmark of these discussions and why they ultimately got shut down.

[Kenswing]

This forum has been invaluable to me in my research about moving to The Villages. For the most part when asking a direct question about living, moving, building in, or activities to do in The Villages, people have been more than gracious with relaying their experience and recommendations.. Like a previous poster mentioned. I keep a notepad near my computer. I have a list of vendors/contractors that come highly recommended here. This forum CAN be a great resource.

Yes, there are some topics that get out of control and some posters that like to dominate certain topics. But by and large I feel that the moderators do a pretty good job. When people on both sides of the issue feel like the mods are treating them unfairly it says to me that both sides are being treated equally -lol.

I TRY to stay away from the contentious topics because I know I'm pretty much just talking to myself. I'm not going to change anyone's mind. If I want to talk politics there are plenty of other online venues to fill that need if I so wish.

[jimjamuser]

Since you asked....
No WE don’t want those controversial subjects like the board experienced last summer.
I don’t think the community is begging for reality.....only a few, and they almost destroyed the board last summer.
Like I said if you want controversy go elsewhere to find it.
But, for contemplation's sake, does NOT the fact that the current-events-type-thread-subjects encourage WIDE interest. I believe that the SHEER NUMBER of pages for these subjects PROVES POSITIVELY that TV Land LOVES them - can't get ENOUGH of them!

[eweissenbach]

Some of you will remember when prior to about 2014, TOTVers got together once a month at Crispers in Southern Trace. Smaller group back then but those get togethers were fun and gave us a chance to actually meet and put a face to a username. Harder to insult people you have actually gotten to know.

[rjsantos592]

Like this one

[jojo]

Thank you, jojo. I, too, have been around here since 2007.



Every room full of people has a feel — a tone. TOTV is a room full of people and the feel of the room has changed, especially for those of us who remember how it once was. It will never be like the early days when the “room” was small, but maybe it can get better — depending on who decides to stick around — and why.

Boomer

i love your posts Boomer. you always provide good info such as the thread on book suggestions, And you have a sense of humor - much needed.

[villagetinker]

Some of you will remember when prior to about 2014, TOTVers got together once a month at Crispers in Southern Trace. Smaller group back then but those get togethers were fun and gave us a chance to actually meet and put a face to a username. Harder to insult people you have actually gotten to know.

I really enjoyed those get togethers when I could attend, it was fun meeting some of the other posters.

[Taltarzac725]

I really enjoyed those get togethers when I could attend, it was fun meeting some of the other posters.

So many of the people who used to come to the Crispers get togethers on Friday at 3 PM have passed or just gone to other media.

[eweissenbach]

Some posters have mentioned “last summer” as a source of problems in their opinion. I looked at my posting history and saw I posted once in May, once in July, and once in August, so was not very active in the summer. What were the problems last summer?

[PugMom]

Some of you will remember when prior to about 2014, TOTVers got together once a month at Crispers in Southern Trace. Smaller group back then but those get togethers were fun and gave us a chance to actually meet and put a face to a username. Harder to insult people you have actually gotten to know.

OMG,YES! something happens to a person when they get behind a keyboard. some feel it's free reign to insult, degrade & deride without concern, & dominate areas where they normally wouldn't do so in real life. when you see an actual face & person, things are softened a bit; direct conversation is more polite, & people are aware of other's comments & concerns. it's also easier to recognize sarcasm, or a wink & nod while story-telling. social media can be good, or very bad

[justjim]

I really enjoyed those get togethers when I could attend, it was fun meeting some of the other posters.

I agree. I was able to attend a few of those informal meetings at Crispers and it was great to see and talk with the “real” person behind the anonymous handle.

[rmd2]

Some of you will remember when prior to about 2014, TOTVers got together once a month at Crispers in Southern Trace. Smaller group back then but those get togethers were fun and gave us a chance to actually meet and put a face to a username. Harder to insult people you have actually gotten to know.

I lived here in 2014 but didn't know about the Crispers get togethers. I would have liked that. Crispers was right around the corner from me.

[Villageswimmer]

I have and will continue to avoid discussions that go off topic. As you may have noticed I tend to try and be a problem solver, something I have been most of my life, and to provide help to others. I deliberately avoid getting involved with personal opinions unless they are with a specific service, product, or item that I have actually used. As long as i can continue to do that you will find me on this site, as I enjoy what I do, and I believe others do also.
Have a great day, VT member since 2013.


You have always been very helpful on many, many topics. I, for one, appreciate you.

[2BNTV]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

Hey Ed:

I agree!!!

I believe I joined TOTV way before I moved here in 2013. Back then, I had many questions that needed to be answered and the replies were very friendly. I don't feel that need at the present time so I am rarely on TOTV. In addition to, many posters like to be negative. It hardly seems to be worth the effort.

It use to be people made friends on TOTV and were invited into other people's homes for get togethers. There was the meeting at Crispers, that people could put a face to a persons handle. My impression is that most posters don't seem want to get together and just want to state their point of view behind their keyboards..

I rarely come on here anymore as I have been attacked to the point that I lost interest. I have always found that many posters don't ask themselves, "how would i feel if someone talked to me that way"? Too much in a rush with their self importance.IMHO

The moderators do their best to keep conversation civil but some people feel they don't want to be filtered. They feel their point of view is the only point of view. I've always felt most people "don't agree to disagree respectfully". It doesn't cost anything to be nice. :smiley:

Some people have said there is a posse that put down other people because they love TV and don't want to hear any dissenting opinions. Their was a thread many years ago about, "marginalizing one's point of view".

I think TOTV has not changed in many years nor do I see much hope of it ever changing,.
Therefore I come on once in a blue moon. At this point there is very little I need to know about TV.

[eweissenbach]

Hey Ed:

I agree!!!

I believe I joined TOTV way before I moved here in 2013. Back then, I had many questions that needed to be answered and the replies were very friendly. I don't feel that need at the present time so I am rarely on TOTV. In addition to, many posters like to be negative. It hardly seems to be worth the effort.

It use to be people made friends on TOTV and were invited into other people's homes for get togethers. There was the meeting at Crispers, that people could put a face to a persons handle. My impression is that most posters don't seem want to get together and just want to state their point of view behind their keyboards..

I rarely come on here anymore as I have been attacked to the point that I lost interest. I have always found that many posters don't ask themselves, "how would i feel if someone talked to me that way"? Too much in a rush with their self importance.IMHO

The moderators do their best to keep conversation civil but some people feel they don't want to be filtered. They feel their point of view is the only point of view. I've always felt most people "don't agree to disagree respectfully". It doesn't cost anything to be nice. :smiley:

Some people have said there is a posse that put down other people because they love TV and don't want to hear any dissenting opinions. Their was a thread many years ago about, "marginalizing one's point of view".

I think TOTV has not changed in many years nor do I see much hope of it ever changing,.
Therefore I come on once in a blue moon. At this point there is very little I need to know about TV.

Joe, You were and are, one of the nicest people, and posters, I know and anyone who “attacked” you would have had to be a mean-spirited bully. If someone like you has tired of the board it justifies my original point, that it just doesn’t seem the same as it once was. I continue to check in and post occasionally but not with the same enthusiasm I once did, and I kind of miss that.

[Gulfcoast]

I'm new. I don't think you can judge this forum or any one specific place based on the past 6 months or so. Most people move to TV for the wide range of amenities, the active lifestyle and the opportunity to make new friends. That's probably the case for most retirement communities. TV (and the rest of the country) is now under restrictions, whether you agree with them or not, that we have never seen in place before and that we have never had to deal with before. It's new territory and it has people concerned. I wasn't on this forum pre-pandemic so I don't know what it was like before. But I will guess that things like dancing in the squares, eating at restaurants, live music, golfing or club gatherings were never viewed as remotely controversial until now. Things that were once taken for granted as a certainty are now not so certain. Hopefully, things will be able to return to normal soon. But until that happens I think the same circular debates will continue.

[Taltarzac725]

Donna was one of the posters on TOTV who was often present during the Crisper's get togethers. She passed a while back though. Her and Kathie were close friends and Donna lived a few doors south of me here in Lynnhaven.

She was big into ghost stories and the paranormal. https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/donna-5624/

There have been a number of other posters who passed who gave us a lot of interesting information.

[JimJohnson]

Some of you will remember when prior to about 2014, TOTVers got together once a month at Crispers in Southern Trace. Smaller group back then but those get togethers were fun and gave us a chance to actually meet and put a face to a username. Harder to insult people you have actually gotten to know.

I went to a lot of those.

[Bay Kid]

When I 1st came to TVs in Jan. 2013 I started w/TOTV. With this group I learned sooooo much about how great TVs will be for me and my family. Since that 1st day I look forward to every morning with my friends.

[graciegirl]

I went to a lot of those.

Actually three. One I wasn't there. It was near the end of Crispers.

[eweissenbach]

Actually three. One I wasn't there. It was near the end of Crispers.

Those were really fun times to be a TOTVer.

[Packer Fan]

Not trying to be negative or controversial, but just curious. Does it seem to you that their are far fewer posts that are interesting or entertaining on TOTV than there used to be several years ago? Maybe it is because I have been on here so long that I’ve seen most things that people have questions or interest about. Maybe it is because I’m less interested in what happens in TV than I used to be. Whatever it is I just don’t find as much that interests me on the forum as I once did. Just curious if you find the same or if you disagree.

I am posting this before I read any other responses. I have been on here like 7 or 8 years, and YES, things have changed for the worse. I used to come on every day, and now there is such negativity I barely come on, maybe once a week or when I have a specific question. The only thing worse is Facebook with its "fact checking", now that is a total joke... at least they don't insult us like that here.

[Nucky]

When we moved in about 5 years ago and went to Crispers for the first time we were met by a gang of people I felt I knew already. What a wonderful get together it was. I will never forget the warm reception we received from so many valued friends that we still have today.

Villagetinker tried to put a similar meeting together some time back and the thread as an example of what the subject is here turned into a nasty give and take. A real shame.

I have been guilty at certain points about being one of those who were on the attack but hardly knew I was doing it. I had a chip on my shoulder. It was pointed out by a dear friend privately. After consideration, I have stopped acting like that. We really have it made and there is no reason for me to act that way. The Culture of the Forum has changed but has also been improved by the layoff of a few members by the Moderators. I'm hopeful things will change for the better once we get through the disaster we have been living through.

I came here to be happy and that is what it's gonna be for me and my wife. I wish you all well!