The Tone of TOTV and A Bit of Boomer's Bio

[Boomer]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.

[Jayhawk]

:)

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.



Heck, there are posters that have more than that in ONE year. I wouldn't have time or energy to lay down an average of almost 12 opinions every day for a year, but it has been done.

Cheers.

[Mortal1]

Welcome to the reality of life. All website forums go through this and they either come out the other side completely different, close down or return to sanity. A lot like life in general.

Relax and enjoy the ride(along with the bumps).

[Bogie Shooter]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferrable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.

After not seeing A Boomer post for nearly a year.....it was good to see once again.
PS: you are so right about has happened to the board.

[EdFNJ]

If you think this is bad ... ever read "NEXTDOOR" forum (APP)?

[Bucco]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferrable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.


I post only to show support to you, and cannot agree more.

Recalling the days when difference of opinion did not mean hate or accusatory terms.

By the way, today I wrote to the Moderator (didn’t know where to go) to complain to them about the posts)

Must be the proliferation of available media that allow lies and untruths to be passed on, with never fear of accountability for hate and lying.

Glad you posted

[stanley]

If you think this is bad ... ever read "NEXTDOOR" forum (APP)?

Yep....I only use that place for the for sale section.

[kathyspear]

I left Facebook for more or less the same reason, Boomer. At first it was a nice place to reconnect with old high school friends and see pics of the young'uns that live in other parts of the country. Then everything got ugly and political to the point where it wasn't enjoyable any more. I miss some of the groups that I followed on there but I don't miss the nastiness (and I suspect my blood pressure has come down a bit).

The whole COVID thing has maybe contributed to people being a little testier than in the past. Who wants to hear that you are a selfish ***** because you refuse to wear a mask or lock yourself in your house AFTER being vaccinated. I keep thinking that some day this will be a thing of the past but will anyone still be around at that point?

kathy

[Topspinmo]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferrable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.


What great about forum, nobody twisting you’re arm to open up, read, or post. IMO, The problem with most forums new posters post a post and immediately get jumped on by few oldies on forum with humor or SAR, which can be taking the wrong way?

That’s sets the tone for new posters, some don’t come back and some are on defensive. So, IMO it sets the tit or tat, and reap’s what we sow. Either take it, respond with tat, or let it go? This is NOT directed at anyone, just way it goes down.

[Topspinmo]

I left Facebook for more or less the same reason, Boomer. At first it was a nice place to reconnect with old high school friends and see pics of the young'uns that live in other parts of the country. Then everything got ugly and political to the point where it wasn't enjoyable any more. I miss some of the groups that I followed on there but I don't miss the nastiness (and I suspect my blood pressure has come down a bit).

The whole COVID thing has maybe contributed to people being a little testier than in the past. Who wants to hear that you are a selfish ***** because you refuse to wear a mask or lock yourself in your house AFTER being vaccinated. I keep thinking that some day this will be a thing of the past but will anyone still be around at that point?

kathy

IMO FB is not the site to blabbing on especially politic’s, somebody watching, saving, and selling personal information. I never blab about politics, pass on anything. That’s how you get hacked. Plus I don’t let the world into my FB page, another way to get hacked along with all you’re friends sending friend requests to them which not you requesting cause you’re already friends. Another thing, once you post on FB it’s out there for ever, so IMO word of caution?

[Bucco]

I left Facebook for more or less the same reason, Boomer. At first it was a nice place to reconnect with old high school friends and see pics of the young'uns that live in other parts of the country. Then everything got ugly and political to the point where it wasn't enjoyable any more. I miss some of the groups that I followed on there but I don't miss the nastiness (and I suspect my blood pressure has come down a bit).

The whole COVID thing has maybe contributed to people being a little testier than in the past. Who wants to hear that you are a selfish ***** because you refuse to wear a mask or lock yourself in your house AFTER being vaccinated. I keep thinking that some day this will be a thing of the past but will anyone still be around at that point?

kathy

For whatever, you made a wise decision.

I have been a nuisance on this subject, but so much “news” is simply junk, out of context, or flat out lies.

The pressure, and insanity living under lies is just plain harmful, to our mental and physical health.

Hearing people say...that’s the way it is.....is intolerable. Holding people responsible on forums for lies and misinformation is not simply the job of the moderators.

Our society has been placed under a lot of pressure. I think we sumo,y demand truth, and call out lying

[Kenswing]

I still like my idea of a daily post limit. lol

We have so many power posters that are "passionate" about certain subjects that they spend their entire day replying to every post in every thread on their chosen subject. Whether it be Covid. Whether it be County Commissioners, local tax/impact fees, anti developer rants, etc. Give them 10 posts a day. If they can't get their point across in that many posts, come back tomorrow and try again.

Then we have the soapbox preachers spouting off whatever ideology they feel that we should all aspire to on any given day.

Granted, it seems people have a lot more time on their hands these days, but for goodness sakes, take up a hobby other than social media..

[Joanne19335]

If you think this is bad ... ever read "NEXTDOOR" forum (APP)?

TOTV is mild compared to Next Door. Nearly every thread disintegrates into a virtual fist fight.

[J1ceasar]

They will always be those that hide behind the anomimity of the internet. But you also have to understand that it is a release of emotions for many people and perhaps these are the people that would commit suicide if they were not given a place to vent. Yes it hurts people but you have a choice in life to read or not to read that is the issue God gave us brains so that we can skip those that we do not agree with unfortunately or unfortunately in this country we are giving constitutional rights to have opinions not of others and also unfortunately we have the cancer culture and the boycott culture which I totally disagree with as I've said many times to people who knock on my door asking me to convert thank you but no thank you

[MandoMan]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.

I don’t like to see Fear, Ignorance, Hatred of the Other, and Bigotry here, either. I thought the moderators did a great job of stopping political posts that turned that direction during the recent campaign.

On another note, I see that in 14 years of reading ToTV, you have THANKED someone with a THUMBS UP only ONE TIME! That shows an astonishing lack of gratitude in your attitude (grinning). Do you like almost nothing you read here? Is almost nothng helpful? And yet you have commented over 4,100 times and been thanked hundreds of times.

[geobet]

Thank you from me, a few years before baby boomers came to be.

[FromNY]

I use to enjoy learning about new things here in The Villages. Once a friendly place. Now after 18years the Kool-aid is flat and tasteless. The area has turned into what I moved away from. And I still miss the majestic Buffalo!

[scottiesrgreat@gmail.com]

Another long diatribe, resulting in ........

Never ending.

You will never be able to change anyone’s mind or perspective on things.

[DanBrew]

OK, guilty on Nextdoor. When I see crotchedy, hateful people complaining and bickering about the simpliest things, I just can't contain my sarcastic side in responding, Life is just too short to not have fun. Enjoy the ride folks and if someone disagrees with you and begins calling you names, that is their problem, not yours.

[jebartle]

Dear Boomer,

You have always been the voice of reason and kindness, please overlook those mortals that fill their posts with everything but. Like kathy, I also gave up FB for the same reason. The tone has changed but I always hope that with your influence and others, kindness will return.

[dewilson58]

But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy.
I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage.
Impression........ToTV is a 100 posters at most and not what The Villages is.......you should know that (obviously many people know this.......they keep'a com'n). ToTV might have thousands of sign-on's, but there a few dozen frequent posters......not a representation of Villagers.


Debated.......Your type of OP happens every year or two. Longer Term posters remember a kinder, gentler time and don't like ToTV today. Make ToTV what you want. Read what you want. Block whom you want. But you should know that.


Looks like you needed to vent & be heard.

[Kathy Plato]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.
I, for one, will read The Four Horsemen! Sadly agree, TV has drastically changed over the 20+ years we’ve been here. However, keep hoping, there are many good people here as well!

[soniak4@gmail.com]

Thanks for posting your thoughts. I could not agree with you more. I am a relatively new poster, only a couple of years, and am approaching the decision to say goodbye to this forum. The ugliness is mind boggling and unacceptable to me. While most of the people I hang out with are the antithesis of this ugliness, I know this ugliness exists everywhere. I know however, I can choose to reject it from my life. I pray my future encounters with people in The Villages continues to include the wonderful people I have met so far and that the people who post the ugliness that must be in their hearts don’t cross my path. There is never, ever, a need to be unkind and ugly to people you don’t know.

[rlcooper70]

The Villages is a microcosm of our society at large. We are not immune. When you see negative emotions here, it is because of a divisive society developed slowly over many years.

There is no point in pointing fingers at the cause .... and yet there is a sense that our country is comprised of two very different groups - each living in a universe that is absurd to the other.

Even facts are not relevant any longer .... facts are being changed. And there is not even truth in news.

We are a mirror. Doesn't matter where you live.

[nick demis]

For whatever, you made a wise decision.

I have been a nuisance on this subject, but so much “news” is simply junk, out of context, or flat out lies.

The pressure, and insanity living under lies is just plain harmful, to our mental and physical health.

Hearing people say...that’s the way it is.....is intolerable. Holding people responsible on forums for lies and misinformation is not simply the job of the moderators.

Our society has been placed under a lot of pressure. I think we sumo,y demand truth, and call out lying

Calling out lying and demanding truth is wrong. What is my truth can be considered a lie by you or vise versa. We need to talk to each other with respect and, if both parties are reasonable, one or both will modify or change their opinion. The worst that should happen is that they respectfully agree to disagree. Time to end the hatred.

[rlcooper70]

Here you have the idea of different variations of the truth .... that's a fascinating concept. In 2021 we can have truth and alternative truth? What would Socrates say about that? What a concept!

[butlerperkins@gmail.com]

21 0219 Friday 😷 07:46
re: what’s the point (Boomer)
Post # 0003 (possibly 0004)
I read for the postings rather frequently (but not daily). I enjoy seeing life unfold on ToTV. What a wonderful way to assemble!

re: be around (Kathyspear)
I will be around, presumably. I bought in TV in the third quarter of last year. I am thrilled to be in Florida and thrilled to be a member of this vibrant community.

You folks who have been here a while have made me feel most welcome.

[Byte1]

Maybe IF they had a Political forum, there would be less bleed over into every day discussions?
I do not see where the problem is when someone does not agree with a statement. As long as there is no name calling, we are after all, adults. Why is it that folks take it personal when someone does not agree with their view? Have we become that sensitive that we have a need to be agreed with? A good debate is healthy, in my opinion. Why is it that adults want to ban something that they do not agree with, merely because they do not have the ability to walk away from it when it effects them emotionally? If you are on here anonymously, no one can bully you. You simply exit the site and return to your facebook or twitter account. I do not subscribe to either of those, but I am sure there must be a bunch of folks on here that do.
Independent thinkers do not have to agree all of the time with your view. Some folks enjoy being open minded or different. Why ostracize them for not agreeing?
Personally, I enjoy a good discussion, even if it turns into a debate. Life is too short at our age to take something someone says seriously and personally. Isn't it great to hear the opinion of those that do not view things the way you do? How else are you going to learn, grow, improve your knowledge in the subject matter?
Although, I believe that TOTV is a bit on the strict and regimented side, I still enjoy being exposed to differing opinions.

[Bucco]

Calling out lying and demanding truth is wrong. What is my truth can be considered a lie by you or vise versa. We need to talk to each other with respect and, if both parties are reasonable, one or both will modify or change their opinion. The worst that should happen is that they respectfully agree to disagree. Time to end the hatred.

Mixed bag here.

I will always call out liars, and try to keep discussion based on facts.

A discussion based on lies is not a discussion, it is an attempted stop to a discussion.

Treating folks with respect is certainly a must, but I believe when you offer lies to people, you cannot have any respect for them or anyone for that matter. When you are lied to, either directly or enabling, do you not feel disrespected ?

[fcgiii]

Boomer,

We are preparing to move to TV next month, stay in a rental until we find our forever home.

I have not noticed as much hatred on TOTV as you have. Maybe it's because living here in the rim of DC we get this sort of thing on TV all the time.

Your suggestion to read Margeret Chase Smith's "Declaration of Conscience" is a good one, and there is a good study guide that pops up when you Google. The analogy to the era of Mccarthyism is imperfect, but there are a lot of similarities between the persecution of people accused of being communists and those today accused of being White Supremecists. Both have rich backers and compliant media.

I don't read TOTV for the politics. I read it to get info on how life is down there where it is warm (most of the time) and we will have a lot to do. In that it has been quite useful, even though a lot of the activities we look for seem to be dormant until the panic dies away.

My two cents worth. Now back to clearing out a house we have lived in for 36 years.

[psych2002]

I am brand new to the villages I haven’t even moved in yet and I was looking at this website for direction when I read those homophobic remarks the other day I wondered if I had made a mistake I commented because I struggle letting such ignorance lie i’m not gay but many of my loved ones are and I found those comments reprehensible especially in the name of God thank you for your post and sorry teacher I talk text and there’s no punctuation here :-)

[Bucco]

I don’t like to see Fear, Ignorance, Hatred of the Other, and Bigotry here, either. I thought the moderators did a great job of stopping political posts that turned that direction during the recent campaign.

On another note, I see that in 14 years of reading ToTV, you have THANKED someone with a THUMBS UP only ONE TIME! That shows an astonishing lack of gratitude in your attitude (grinning). Do you like almost nothing you read here? Is almost nothng helpful? And yet you have commented over 4,100 times and been thanked hundreds of times.

I know Boomer will respond when able, but on her behalf, she posted on here a few times her reason for not using the likes.

[oldtimes]

IMO FB is not the site to blabbing on especially politic’s, somebody watching, saving, and selling personal information. I never blab about politics, pass on anything. That’s how you get hacked. Plus I don’t let the world into my FB page, another way to get hacked along with all you’re friends sending friend requests to them which not you requesting cause you’re already friends. Another thing, once you post on FB it’s out there for ever, so IMO word of caution?

Why don’t people understand that this is a public forum anyone in the world can read these posts without even having to log on.

[nick demis]

Mixed bag here.

I will always call out liars, and try to keep discussion based on facts.

A discussion based on lies is not a discussion, it is an attempted stop to a discussion.

Treating folks with respect is certainly a must, but I believe when you offer lies to people, you cannot have any respect for them or anyone for that matter. When you are lied to, either directly or enabling, do you not feel disrespected ?

If someone is only exposed to one position on an issue, and that point is reinforced over and over, they will believe it to be the truth. debate and discussion, will change their point of view if they are willing to listen and consider.
I know I am always right (LOL)but I HAVE changed my position when confronted respectfully with an opposite point of view and convinced with fact and reason.
I am discounting the group who knowingly lie and unwilling to respectfully listen. They don't deserve my attention.
You will notice I use the word respectfully a lot.

[CFrance]

For whatever, you made a wise decision.

I have been a nuisance on this subject, but so much “news” is simply junk, out of context, or flat out lies.

The pressure, and insanity living under lies is just plain harmful, to our mental and physical health.

Hearing people say...that’s the way it is.....is intolerable. Holding people responsible on forums for lies and misinformation is not simply the job of the moderators.

Our society has been placed under a lot of pressure. I think we sumo,y demand truth, and call out lying
I don't get people getting news on FB. I never get news on FB. Ever since I joined FB, maybe about 10 years ago, it's been easy to weed out (unfollow) the political junkies (no matter their bent). I get sponsored advertisements for items (and can weed them out too), but never news. It's just a way to keep up with my friends from afar. I don't want it to be about politics, and it has been easy to keep it that way.


As for TOTV and Next Door, you can block people you don't like, and their posts won't be thrown in your face. I like public forums and refuse to let the nasties run me off.

[oldtimes]

I don't get people getting news on FB. I never get news on FB. Ever since I joined FB, maybe about 10 years ago, it's been easy to weed out (unfollow) the political junkies (no matter their bent). I get sponsored advertisements for items (and can weed them out too), but never news. It's just a way to keep up with my friends from afar. I don't want it to be about politics, and it has been easy to keep it that way.


As for TOTV and Next Door, you can block people you don't like, and their posts won't be thrown in your face. I like public forums and refuse to let the nasties run me off.

I agree I have a very short list of friends on FB and if they start to get political I unfollow them.

[jbrown132]

On this forum I find bits of information that are helpful to me and make me think. For example the quote by Thomas Jefferson that goes something like this “I have never found that a difference of opinion on religion, philosophy, or politics to be a reason to pull away from a friend”. Great words. So when I see some of these topics where there are vast differences of opinion I try to understand where that person is coming from and for what reason. Granted, some comments are over the top, but that is life in general and I do not let them bother me because in general many of the comments are informative even if I do not agree with them. So yes, some of the topics can be eye opening but I find them far more interesting than “who has the best pizza in The Villages for the fifteenth time. I think a little open debate is healthy because isn’t this what our country was built on.

[gpk111]

For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big..........

Boomer,
Thanks for helping me reflect on how I spend the valuable time I have left on this beautiful planet!

You are quite critical of TOTV. Interesting perspective. Being a relative newbie, mine is the opposite. I think people in general are kind, creative and thoughtful. It made me think of developing criteria for the few platforms I use: FB, TOTV, Quora, Nextdoor and a couple of medical sites (esp Prevmed), and a few financial forums (esp Bogleheads) .

Some of the criteria might include:
- Strong political venting (vs politically restrained)
- Poster's who need to be heard, regardless of content quality (vs posters who think about relevance to those using the forum and make well thought out comments or initiate interesting topics)
- Trollers looking for trouble (vs neutral posters & peacemakers)
- Rudeness (vs politeness)
- Contributors (vs takers)

In balance, I believe TOTV continues to rank well. It's all about your reference point I guess.

Some personal controversial views just to spice things up:

FB - scary to see this has evolved into an extension of people's lives. 4 billion members being monitored and biased by a liberal, snot nosed kid (Zuckerberg) without regulations. Many of those people should really be creating their own window to the world!

Nextdoor - Interesting, but loose monitoring allows political tirades, moronic posts, and troublemakers.

Quora and medical forums - Great forum for geeks. No traction for inane posts or fight mongers.

Financial forums - Many are useful, but often "penetrated" by brokers and "financial advisors."

TOTV - Entertaining and often great topics. Educated and reasoned commentary. Some very helpful individuals. I try not to "take more than I give." I am interested in maybe 20% of the new topics and ignore the rest. The chosen topics are usually helpful and sometimes expand horizons.

Boomer, again, thanks for posting and triggering some reflections of my own. I hope you remain engaged. You're a good writer!!

[graciegirl]

Boomer,

We are preparing to move to TV next month, stay in a rental until we find our forever home.

I have not noticed as much hatred on TOTV as you have. Maybe it's because living here in the rim of DC we get this sort of thing on TV all the time.

Your suggestion to read Margeret Chase Smith's "Declaration of Conscience" is a good one, and there is a good study guide that pops up when you Google. The analogy to the era of Mccarthyism is imperfect, but there are a lot of similarities between the persecution of people accused of being communists and those today accused of being White Supremecists. Both have rich backers and compliant media.

I don't read TOTV for the politics. I read it to get info on how life is down there where it is warm (most of the time) and we will have a lot to do. In that it has been quite useful, even though a lot of the activities we look for seem to be dormant until the panic dies away.

My two cents worth. Now back to clearing out a house we have lived in for 36 years.

I do so hope you will enjoy living here in The Villages like we have.

I am on Facebook and I have quite a bunch of folks that are considered friends on Facebook. The truth is that many are people I have never met in person. Many belong to a group of Williams Syndrome Parents and many are Villagers that I read on Facebook and hope to meet but this year has kept meeting new people at a stand still.

I think that we have faced a lot this year, this whole planet, and I think we may have had some good self realizations too.

I am not sure about Boomer's theory. Or any theory. I hope that knowledge continues to expand and we as people can handle the fact that maybe we are born with a fairly fixed personality, attributes and deficiencies attached. I think in the future, scientists will be able to perceive how we can best deal with the I.Q. or lack of it we are born with, along with our physical abilities or lack of them and even something like having a brain useful for getting a national job done well in many areas and still having difficulty with being self centered and almost addictive to praise. I wish I could live another twenty years to see if we are allowed to talk about it if we have whole groups of people who as well as having a particular gene that makes them more vulnerable to some illnesses, may have a gene that makes it easier or harder to be successful in this world. That seems so difficult for many to ponder.

[Bucco]

If someone is only exposed to one position on an issue, and that point is reinforced over and over, they will believe it to be the truth. debate and discussion, will change their point of view if they are willing to listen and consider.
I know I am always right (LOL)but I HAVE changed my position when confronted respectfully with an opposite point of view and convinced with fact and reason.
I am discounting the group who knowingly lie and unwilling to respectfully listen. They don't deserve my attention.
You will notice I use the word respectfully a lot.

Not a problem with OPINIONS on an issue.

My problem is when accusTory statements that are made up, or downright telling lies is involved.

I understand nuances, and respect opinions.

I can't tolerate outright lying or enabling of liars, for whatever reason.

That is what is missing......you cannot discuss issues, and respect differing opinions, if one person just makes things up.

[gpkk_2000]

My thanks to you ...well said. I do not subscribe or look at News of the Villages as it smears, demeans and exposes people at their lowest. I pray this forum will never stoop to that trash.

Have a happy, albeit wet, day.

[Rosebud2020]

And I am tipping my hat to you, Boomer.

Yes -- I read it all!

[Bonnevie]

I applaud your post. I, too, have been dismayed at the tone of the forum evolving over the years. I really stopped participating much when I posted for advice and the snarky responses began. I find it very annoying that when people post a question, instead of getting helpful advice, they get chastised in some way. there may be several responses but none answering the poster's question. some of the posts from one particular person, who is obviously well educated drip with sarcasm and condescension, as a rule.

As such, each morning I glance at the topics but try not to get involved. (I'm not always successful, but I come to regret it due to the responses I get. I hit "mark posts read" and look at the classifies.

I use the forum now as a reference for service recommendations which I get by using the search engine.

I'm sure there will be many replies along the lines of "if you don't like it here, go back where you came" which is a standard refrain when anyone tries to ask for some civility.

[Marine1974]

Good analogy of the comments we endure that show no compassion for one another or respect for others opinions . It is very disturbing. Thanks for sharing what
I can only guess many others feel the same way . You have to wonder about certain people and what their lives are truly like to live .
We do have the power to pray for them .

[DAVES]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.



Sadly far too many people think the world revolves around them.
The first amendment, the most important of the first ten, the bill of rights, does not say
freedom of speech, right assemble and no state religion-only if you agree with me.

[stebooo]

Boomer, I think TOTV has become another victim to the already scorched image called social media.

[coffeebean]

I still like my idea of a daily post limit. lol

We have so many power posters that are "passionate" about certain subjects that they spend their entire day replying to every post in every thread on their chosen subject. Whether it be Covid. Whether it be County Commissioners, local tax/impact fees, anti developer rants, etc. Give them 10 posts a day. If they can't get their point across in that many posts, come back tomorrow and try again.

Then we have the soapbox preachers spouting off whatever ideology they feel that we should all aspire to on any given day.

Granted, it seems people have a lot more time on their hands these days, but for goodness sakes, take up a hobby other than social media..

Covid passionate - guilty as charged!

[manaboutown]

My ignore list has grown over the years. I love that feature and use it!

[LonnyP]

Agreed, thank you.

[Dbraisted]

At least we can pick and choose which posts
we care to read. It is sad that we in this democracy can not discuss and disagree respectfully. Hang in there. Hopefully common sense and kindness will prevail.

[billethkid]

I am impressed how easily many have CHOSEN to believe the relatively small percent of participants on TOTV, are representative of The Villages as a whole.

TOTV has some 25,000 registered. Out of that number less than one percent are active posters/participants.?

Measure that number as a percent of total villages population results in two tenths of one percent.

The above are approximates but close on the whole.

Hence opinions on TOTV are insignificant in the overall.......while meaningful to some.

[mneumann02]

Ahem. I sort of think using the sentence above is being highly critical of others.............

P.S. Is Pucklebalk a new game?

I know. That was a jab and unnecessary .....But I want to point out once more that it is almost ten percent who die from Covid-19 if they contract it in my age bracket. NOT ONE PERCENT.

AND I have never "cowered in fear". I decided to try to protect myself from getting sick until the vaccine came to us. I was busy and satisfied in my lovely home in this beautiful place with interaction daily with my friends and family on Facebook.

Well said. I believe the anonymity of our posts is a key reason for the incivility and name calling, e.g. accusing those who believe this is a deadly pandemic and act accordingly "cower in fear". Those are the kinds of statements someone would probably not say to my face or if they signed their name.

[joelfmi]

Must be the proliferation of available media that allow lies and untruths to be passed on, with never fear of accountability for hate and lying.

[Taltarzac725]

I am impressed how easily many have CHOSEN to believe the relatively small percent of participants on TOTV, are representative of The Villages as a whole.

TOTV has some 25,000 registered. Out of that number less than one percent are active posters/participants.?

Measure that number as a percent of total villages population results in two tenths of one percent.

The above are approximates but close on the whole.

Hence opinions on TOTV are insignificant in the overall.......while meaningful to some.

When I mention Talk of the Villages to some people they still do not know what it is. This has been common since I joined in 2007. TOTV Eternal member, Donna, lived down the street from me and would often go to Crisper's meetings about the same time I did. She was married to a helicopter pilot if memory serves. But not many here in my section of Lynnhaven knew about Talk of the Villages.

Donna passed around 2011 or so and I still miss her presence in the neighborhood and on Talk of the Villages. She was very big into ghosts and the like so maybe in some form she is still around.

[Jeff123]

I'm glad I took the time to read your post. It encouraged me to look up Senator Smith's speech. It certainly is applicable in today's world.
Take the time to really look around as you pass through The Villages. It truly is a special place with good people. It's also a lot warmer than Indiana right now.
Have fun!

[VApeople]

Yeah, I used to be passionate about things.

"Ah but I was so much older then,
I'm younger than that now."

Besides, if we leave a perfect world for our children, they will get really bored.

[dtennent]

While I have only been a member of TOTV for a few years, I have noticed that several folks will ask for a reference when an outrageous assertion is made. While it hasn't eliminated the comments, it does bring a focus onto the validity of the post. Unfortunately, there is something about human nature that allows some individuals to spew nastiness when done as an anonymous post. This was true when I first looked at the internet in pre World Wide Web days and it is true today. I can't control the actions of anyone else (especially not my kids!) but I can only try to model the behavior I wish to see in others. Please stay active - the TOTV community needs you.

[sail33or]

I am on many Forums (College, Former Employer, Organizations, etc)

I am on TOTV primarily to get the flavor of entertainment, travel, local sight seeing, restaurants, new businesses, life in The Villages, etc.)

And I can say that all of them have matched the Country in forming into 2 extreme sides(political sides). The sides are so extreme that all rules of fair play or respect are 100% gone. And everything (and I mean everything) has become political. Medicine, Opinions, Gender Identification, Climate, Fossil Fuels, Media, Race, I could name basically every subject in the dictionary are all now political and thus subject to one side attacking the other. If there is razor wire around the Capitol then there is razor wire between these two sides. I will not predict an outcome or suggest remedies because "There are two extreme sides and no need talking to the razor wire topped wall."

[Bucco]

The sentences below end Margeret Chase Smith's Declaration of Conscience.



I don’t like the way the Senate has been made a rendezvous for vilification, for selfish political gain at the sacrifice of individual reputations and national unity. I am not proud of the way we smear outsiders from the Floor of the Senate and hide behind the cloak of congressional immunity and still place ourselves beyond criticism on the Floor of the Senate.

As an American, I am shocked at the way Republicans and Democrats alike are playing directly into the Communist design of “confuse, divide and conquer.”

As an American, I don’t want a Democratic Administration “white wash” or “cover up” any more than I want a Republican smear or witch hunt. As an American, I condemn a Republican “Fascist” just as much as I condemn a Democrat “Communist.” They are equally dangerous to you and me and to our country.

As an American, I want to see our nation recapture the strength and unity it once had when we fought the enemy instead of ourselves.

She said it well......

"“Those of us who shout the loudest about Americanism in making character assassinations are all too frequently those who, by our own words and acts, ignore some of the basic principles of Americanism,” she continued:

“The right to criticize;

The right to hold unpopular beliefs;

The right to protest;

The right of independent thought.”

“The nation sorely needs a .... victory,” Smith adds later. “But I don’t want to see the .... Party ride to political victory on the Four Horsemen of Calumny - Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry and Smear.”

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Boo hoo yes people say disgusting things on here,, but for somebody to feel there being bullied or attacked by a stranger that they don’t know, well if your that sensitive perhaps you should try scrapbooking or flower arrangements instead of having your feelings hurt on this site

[John_W]

...I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives...



I've been on TOTV almost everyday for the past ten years, I read topics that appeal to me and make comments. I usually try and make comments that are helpful from my experiences here. I just looked a the threads I commented on the past week. They are;

Background music on TV too loud

Outdoor kitchen remodel

Comcast alternative

Golf cart windshields different styles

Sheepie

Right of way

Golf lessons

How's Ken doing

Recreation centers and themes

He's back... Go Jordan Spieth

Gift card scam

No fee ATM

Where can I find out about the cost of living in TV

Is it me or does two lane roundabout don't work?

Burger King 466A


The only topic that I can remember in recent days that pertains to your post about homophobia, is one that has been removed so I can't add a link, I could not find it after searching. However the basic premise of the post was:

I used to like THE GOOD DOCTOR until last night. No more. Talk of racial prejudice not enough but now they have to add 2 gay guys kissing and
In your opinion this is homophobia, I read it as a viewer is disturbed with a prime time TV show and for reasons they find disturbing. Unfortunately for you, America is a free country, and everyone doesn't have to embrace your ideaology of what is normal behavior.

[Arleane]

Could not agree more with your comments. Respect is lost😡

[Bucco]

I am on many Forums (College, Former Employer, Organizations, etc)

I am on TOTV primarily to get the flavor of entertainment, travel, local sight seeing, restaurants, new businesses, life in The Villages, etc.)

And I can say that all of them have matched the Country in forming into 2 extreme sides(political sides). The sides are so extreme that all rules of fair play or respect are 100% gone. And everything (and I mean everything) has become political. Medicine, Opinions, Gender Identification, Climate, Fossil Fuels, Media, Race, I could name basically every subject in the dictionary are all now political and thus subject to one side attacking the other. If there is razor wire around the Capitol then there is razor wire between these two sides. I will not predict an outcome or suggest remedies because "There are two extreme sides and no need talking to the razor wire topped wall."

Gotta tell you...i agree.

Who would have thought that a pandemic would turn into political divide ?

However, will not give in to deceit and hate

[jimjamuser]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.
I read the whole thing through. It was somewhat interesting. I joined because I wanted to find out more about TV Landers, as you did. And the CV plague kept me mostly at home and close to a keyboard. I do NOT like the name-calling of individual posters. I can live with the name-calling of outside officials and others if I think that they are dishonest and deserve it. Poster to poster is too personal for me. I will criticize them, but in polite terms. I also give them "kudos" when I think they deserve it. I confess that I am not 100% appropriate for 100% of the time - sorry!

As to TOTV topics.......some are so bland and have zero EDGE that they are POINTLESS and I mark them as "terrible". Also, the topics that only apply to a few TV Landers (like 2%) I consider pointless. I DO enjoy topics that are controversial, that have an edge. I learn more about the posting people from the heavyweight "tough " topics than the lightweight topics - such as classics like "what kind of candy bar do you like? Why is the sky blue? Do you prefer daisies or roses? And etc.

Unfortunately, the topics with an edge are the ones likely to get closed. I know there MUST be standards in all aspects of society, but I have seen threads closed just as they started to get interesting. And I could not detect where excessive insults were given out to close the thread. Thread closing seems to have little rhyme or reason? That is NOT my call so I can live with it. Summary.....I see value in controversial threads. I learn more from those. They are MORE worth my time spent reading them and responding to some of them.

[jojo]

Boomer, You are one of my favorite posters ever, particularly because of your humor. I was introduced to Carl Hiassen because of you and have just finished laughing my way through Squeeze Me. That said, I so identify with the crux of your post. Thirteen years ago we had decided we wanted to move to The Villages. I was doing consulting work and was flying most every week. After I finished my work, my indulgence in my hotel room was to log onto TOTV and read the friendly posts and sense the excitement of the newbies who had just moved in. When we moved here in 2008 I had friends already and still hang with some of them today. I went to Crispers to meet many of the posters. We are in a different era and have to hope that the kindler gentler responses will win out.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Boo hoo yes people say disgusting things on here,, but for somebody to feel there being bullied or attacked by a stranger that they don’t know, well if your that sensitive perhaps you should try scrapbooking or flower arrangements instead of having your feelings hurt on this site

People post their opinions in opinion fora like these. They are not anonymous opinions attributed to thin air. They are opinions of actual people, regardless of what name they assign themselves on the forum. When you dismiss those opinions, you are not dismissing random words on a website. You are dismissing the words of an actual person. You are basically telling that person that their words don't matter. Their thoughts don't matter. Their opinions don't matter - and THEY don't matter.

Perhaps instead of being a bully, you might try scrapbooking or flower arrangements instead, and try to be a productive human being.

See what I did there?

[Pairadocs]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.

To begin, people do seem to feel comfort from confirmation and agreement of their beliefs and emotions by others, so I am in complete agreement with you. One of the "originals", I had no idea TOTV changed "owners", or even the structure of the "business'.

As I remember, shortly after our home was finished, many of us received invitations in the mail to attend a meeting of sorts at a restaurant similar to panera's but another name, located in the same plaza as Publix on 466 (Mexican restaurant now in the same location). Seems a community bulletin board social media page was being formed, and yes, as it evolved, what a wonderful communication tool for those of us who had just built new homes in the "new' villages of Tall Trees, Bonnybrook, Ashland, Lynnhaven, etc. and were anxiously awaiting "news' on the land designated to become Lake Sumter Landing !

We used this on line "life line', to get the news of the villages, and by "news", what buildings under construction might be ? Which restaurants were coming ?, has anyone been able to get close enough to see what was going on at the "yet to be" Lake Sumter Landing ?

Facebook was not the rage then, and the vile, nasty, underbelly of this tech communication "revolution" had not yet exploded, so TOTV's was fun, novel, delightful way to meet others, find new friends, form golf groups, get acquainted. The change in tone and temper was very gradual, and frankly, engaging in the beginning. Added to friendly posts such as " caution when using the gate into _____, seems it was hit by a car last night and is not working", or, yes, Comcast is out in our village too, seems a cable was hit during all the new construction". But as time went on, and the area became established, controversial topics began to appear and were, frankly, a welcome addition.

Far from the vile name calling and self righteous, narrow view, stances so often found today (as you pointed out), the discussion was lively and most of all, was great for we retirees who may not have the opportunity to discuss and debate deeper, more intellectual topics such as government, economics, international politics, and many others as we may have had in our former career environments. View points were far more respectful, and I for one learned from and was fascinated to see the thoughts, opinions, and beliefs of others communicated in a generally cogent manner.

But things did disintegrate, again as you pointed out, and life was more interesting than reading online drivel from ''some" who were obviously fighting to preserve their own sense of importance, and others who seemed to delight in being the on line "expert" in a variety of subjects, and yet others, seemed to be greatly entertained by sitting back and "watching" this "on line-circus" .

Still, other very kind, helpful, individuals, who seemed to have a variety of skills, continued to help all of us out with things like: sprinkler system is not coming on as scheduled, any suggestions on what to check, or anyone have some good tips on repairing lanai screens ?

But as Facebook rose in popularity, and we were too engaged in sports and hobbies to really get into the "social media" craze, TOTV's became a rare part of our routine and gradually tapered to no activity. It was the isolation of Covid, and the wildly diverse "facts' flying of what was really happening IN the villages, at the Villages hospital, and the lack of information in our only "news' paper (?), that I migrated back to TOTV's for information and even communication, discussion. For a period, even people in our own immediate neighborhood were no longer outside, not out watering flowers, or raking leaves, no longer just neighbors out, chatting on drives and lawns, more like a strange science fiction like atmosphere where, if you approached your mailbox, others with gloves, masks, and even plastic shields on some, backed away and sat on their golf carts or in their cars until the neighbor they formerly exchanged cookies or banana bread with, or borrowed the proverbial cup of sugar from, left the mail station. Covid changed everything, including the human kindness of one community member to another. And on line, with the anonymity it provides, very ugly things began to happen. No more understanding and RESPECT for those who do not think exactly like themselves.

One wrote a wish for someone to actually DIE for the "sin" of taking the wife for a nice anniversary dinner INSIDE a restaurant. Actually wished death by saying "glad to enjoyed the dinner, did you get a side of Covid with that too" ! ! ! WHAT kind of deep, dark, vile hate could prompt someone to go to a computer, go to the trouble to turning it on, logging in, etc. to write such an awful thing ?

I could not forget that, I asked my self for weeks, does that come from FEAR from the write who actually is living in fear for their own life ? Does it come from jealousy from a person who WISHED they had the "courage" to go out for a nice anniversary dinner, but is so fearful that it would end in death, they have to mock others in an attempt to validate their own irrational fears (irrational if they were taking the proper precautions of of course), but even so, why not allow others the dignity of "so happy to see your post of a normal, heart warming activity like an anniversary dinner, in these grim times." But no, hate, trying to make a husband feel he was trying to kill his wife by taking her for a special dinner, etc. Just the worst of human words and behavior to fellow humans !

In closing, your engaging post did get me to read ALL the way to the end, and yes, I AM very familiar with Margaret C. Smith's iconic speech so you are not alone, and not alone in noting the history and changes in what is still a great way to share tips, experiences and news of the community, but also have become the mainstay of what may be some very sick, or fearful, or emotionally needy people. My adult children are, of course, FB regulars, yet understand my lack of interest in spending my TIME on FB when I could be reading one of the stack of new books waiting for me, or playing golf or bocce, but when I related that I had, after YEARS of no longer reading TOTV's, taken up once again the habit of coffee and the social bulletin board in the mornings !

[Pairadocs]

Yeah, I used to be passionate about things.

"Ah but I was so much older then,
I'm younger than that now."

Besides, if we leave a perfect world for our children, they will get really bored.

LOL, love it !

[PugMom]

Boomer, I think TOTV has become another victim to the already scorched image called social media.

i'm not so sure about that. as long as there are mindful posters like some here, we won't ever stoop to that level. yeah, we've come close, lol, but we are far away from the name-calling, spiteful ignorance & flame wars found in general social media, inc. FB. we have gracie, bucco, dewilson and other REALLY COOL people here! (sorry if i forgot someone), but THESE are the posts i read, for info, yes, but also wisdom, & @ times a bit-of snark. this forum welcomed me when i 1st arrived from a frozen north, & helped me merge into a new & wonderful lifestyle I wish i had been part of longer.
some peeps will always spread negativity, it's prob part of their mindset. i bite my tongue & just go to the next post, usually by village tinker where i can learn real-life useable info to add to the daily life we love so much:icon_wink:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

People post their opinions in opinion fora like these. They are not anonymous opinions attributed to thin air. They are opinions of actual people, regardless of what name they assign themselves on the forum. When you dismiss those opinions, you are not dismissing random words on a website. You are dismissing the words of an actual person. You are basically telling that person that their words don't matter. Their thoughts don't matter. Their opinions don't matter - and THEY don't matter.

Perhaps instead of being a bully, you might try scrapbooking or flower arrangements instead, and try to be a productive human being.

See what I did there?they jump , I was expressing the point using a little humor that if you feel bullied or attacked by a perfect stranger maybe your in the wrong site , the response was a perfect example of why you can’t let things brother you on here , I don’t care what someone says to me on here , this site is sometimes informative, sometimes vicious, but mostly entertaining, not to.be taken personal and I forgive all the people who bully me and attack me even when they made me cry

[Garywt]

Part of the reason there are fewer people is because there are so many Facebook pages. I guess I don’t read everything you do as I have not seen anything much different. There are those talking about taxes but that does not effect me so I don’t really follow it.

[Pairadocs]

I left Facebook for more or less the same reason, Boomer. At first it was a nice place to reconnect with old high school friends and see pics of the young'uns that live in other parts of the country. Then everything got ugly and political to the point where it wasn't enjoyable any more. I miss some of the groups that I followed on there but I don't miss the nastiness (and I suspect my blood pressure has come down a bit).

The whole COVID thing has maybe contributed to people being a little testier than in the past. Who wants to hear that you are a selfish ***** because you refuse to wear a mask or lock yourself in your house AFTER being vaccinated. I keep thinking that some day this will be a thing of the past but will anyone still be around at that point?

kathy

BINGO ! Covid, while it has brought out (in our neighborhood at least) "some" exceptionally kind, caring, neighbors who do not hesitate to help others and don't act like Covid is like leprosy and refuse to even look at their neighbors, in general, it has changed people and not for the best. From my professional education and career, I can tell you of all human emotions, fear is the root of so much irrational behavior and as bad as this all is, so was small pox, polio, and many others, yet, never in my life time have to many allowed this to turn them so vile and judgmental and and disrespectful. For example, if your neighbor has decided going to church in person is what is right for them right now, and you have decided it is not right for YOU right now, why the HATE and public mocking ? If you prefer Coke, and your neighbor prefers Pepsi, why HATE them for that ? ? No, there is something wrong deep inside when people feel this COMPULSION to shame and defile those who do not think EXACTLY as they do.

[Rlheinz19@yahoo.com]

Reading now. Thank you.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

[/QUOTE]

[Indydealmaker]

Boomer, I sympathize with your disappointment. I backed away from TOTV as a regular poster and moderator because the toxicity and ever-present vitriol became overwhelming.

[Rlheinz19@yahoo.com]

Reading now. Thank you.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

[/QUOTE]

[Joelack99]

So as others have said, TOTV is not the only forum that’s messed up. Unfortunately it’s pretty much our whole society. Though I’m a homeowner there, I live in Atlanta....believe me, we have the same level of dissonance and foolishness between “us” and “them”, no matter which side of “us and them”you say you’re on.

Everybody needs to take a deep breath, recognize your neighbors are still your neighbors, and do some work looking for common ground. I won’t sell you my religion or politics, and I’m not interested in being told how to live or think at this stage of the game, not by Anyone.

As a boomer: “Why can’t we be friends?”

[Pairadocs]

Boomer,

We are preparing to move to TV next month, stay in a rental until we find our forever home.

I have not noticed as much hatred on TOTV as you have. Maybe it's because living here in the rim of DC we get this sort of thing on TV all the time.

Your suggestion to read Margeret Chase Smith's "Declaration of Conscience" is a good one, and there is a good study guide that pops up when you Google. The analogy to the era of Mccarthyism is imperfect, but there are a lot of similarities between the persecution of people accused of being communists and those today accused of being White Supremecists. Both have rich backers and compliant media.

I don't read TOTV for the politics. I read it to get info on how life is down there where it is warm (most of the time) and we will have a lot to do. In that it has been quite useful, even though a lot of the activities we look for seem to be dormant until the panic dies away.

My two cents worth. Now back to clearing out a house we have lived in for 36 years.

Well get back to the cleaning and we'll see you soon. Covid and fear have not changed the basic personalities of all those here, but yes, as the population has exploded, there have been a lot of "personalities" who (seem ?) to have found importance through condemning, shaming, judging, and "re-educating" others; in short I guess, like the D.C. atmosphere you noted, LOL ! Overall, its a nice place to live, while it's not what it once was (America's friendliest home town, that a bit of a stretch here these days) but over all, good weather most of the time, no unreasonable restrictions (though yes, activities still not back to "normal" but we have far far more we are allowed to do than in some of the states you see on the news with no schools, no church services, no eating in restaurants, etc. You might want to try to get your vaccinations before you move, it's still a bit difficult here is my only tip. Yes on the era of McCarthy witch hunts and the money/power brokers who drive things.

[Velvet]

I don’t like to see Fear, Ignorance, Hatred of the Other, and Bigotry here, either. I thought the moderators did a great job of stopping political posts that turned that direction during the recent campaign.

On another note, I see that in 14 years of reading ToTV, you have THANKED someone with a THUMBS UP only ONE TIME! That shows an astonishing lack of gratitude in your attitude (grinning). Do you like almost nothing you read here? Is almost nothng helpful? And yet you have commented over 4,100 times and been thanked hundreds of times.

No. It doesn’t. Those of us who are older are not used to “likes” and emojis and may even consider them juvenile in written texts.... until we get used to them... :)

[Pairadocs]

Part of the reason there are fewer people is because there are so many Facebook pages. I guess I don’t read everything you do as I have not seen anything much different. There are those talking about taxes but that does not effect me so I don’t really follow it.

What ? So taxes don't effect you, LOL, tell me your secret. This is what I enjoy, a bit of humor from time to time.:bigbow:

[Pairadocs]

No. It doesn’t. Those of us who are older are not used to “likes” and emojis and may even consider them juvenile in written texts.... until we get used to them... :)

Some of us completely understand ! I too was "filled in" on the importance of "proper" manners being the "showing" of approval and support by the "thumbs up"..... never heard of it among seniors, but sadly some younger people have taken their lives, their LIVES, for lack of "likes", as if life is not even worth living without "likes" from mostly relative strangers and from close friends.... that's a lot to contemplate !

[tvbound]

While having lurked for only a half-dozen years or so, far less than many on here, I too see what the OP mentions as far as the "increased ugliness." I also find all of the posts personally attacking Boomer's thread and premise - as proof that she is correct.

[dewilson58]

No. It doesn’t. Those of us who are older are not used to “likes” and emojis and may even consider them juvenile in written texts.... until we get used to them... :)
:bigbow:
:a040:
:1rotfl:
:ho:

[Chi-Town]

What we need is a curmudgeon forum. We have some hard core candidates right here who may jump at the chance to have their voices heard with like-minded individuals.

[Byte1]

Why the fuss? I don't have to agree with you to be a good person. You do not have to agree with me to be my friend. I have just as many friends that disagree with me as agree with me. Why so sensitive? Being mean is one thing, but just because someone is snarky or sarcastic, does not make them a mean person. Why is it that your opinion is more valid than mine, or vice versa? If I do not agree with you, does not mean that I do not like you (most likely I do not know you) or that I can't get along with you. I take nothing personally on here. I enjoy a good debate. I may be a bit thick skinned if I don't find a simple little comment like "weak people....or socialist....etc." when someone (me?) uses it to generalize, not to name call a poster to be a big deal. Maybe some folks on here need to grow some thick skin and not take things so seriously and personally. Surely, there are not that many folks here that grew up being protected and isolated from tough language? And seriously, those same sensitive folks demean, disparage and ostracize one's religious beliefs when their own argument becomes to weak to sustain them a victory over the conversation? That is more personal to most than to suggest they are wrong for wearing or not wearing a mask, getting the vaccination or not.

Life is way too short to be offended by losing an argument/debate on a subject. What's wrong with disagreeing? I've had disagreements with many folks and later shared beverages or a meal. Surely, one has not survived being a senior in age and not had a losing argument?
I apologize for being right all the time (or wrong depending on view)...:duck:

[dewilson58]

How you feeling Boom??......when you decide to peek.
Feel better after getting it off your chest??



~100 posts by a few dozen posters.
That's ToTV..........a few dozen posters.
The Villages is much more than a few dozen posters.
BUT YOU KNOW THAT.


Maybe just hang in the NOTHING thread for a while.
Nothing but peace & love over there.


:ho:

[Weezylou77@aol.com]

Boomer....haven't you noticed-----everyone everywhere takes sides now..whether or not they have any skin in the game or even care..they will take sides and defend it to the end!!! We are living in a different world today..

[Stu from NYC]

I have been thinking of whether to respond and have decided too.

Due to the virus we are staying in a lot more than we would have thought and spending more time here and posting quite a bit (even though think my frequency of posting is down in past couple of months.

I complained about the Good Doctor this past week. What consenting adults do in the privacy of their own bedroom is none of my business but do resent that mainstream TV is throwing their opinions at us.

Some posters on here are rather pointed at the way they talk to others but do think that I respond in a very respectful manner and would even invite most people to join me in the Village of Stu.

[graciegirl]

I am impressed how easily many have CHOSEN to believe the relatively small percent of participants on TOTV, are representative of The Villages as a whole.

TOTV has some 25,000 registered. Out of that number less than one percent are active posters/participants.?

Measure that number as a percent of total villages population results in two tenths of one percent.

The above are approximates but close on the whole.

Hence opinions on TOTV are insignificant in the overall.......while meaningful to some.

You have said this in so many ways over the years. You have mentioned that just because a few think something or want something or believe something that we still do have the majority who do not. I have always felt that you are very wise and very fair and I hope when this is over we will be able to meet you both in person. I thank you for all of the wisdom you have shared with us over time without being unkind or snarky....(Which I am at times)

[Bonnevie]

quote: Being mean is one thing, but just because someone is snarky or sarcastic, does not make them a mean person.

I guess my question is why be snarky or sarcastic? Why not make your points in a straight forward manner without demeaning another person which I feel replying to a legitimate question or comment in a snarky or sarcastic way to be demeaning? We were all taught manners growing up. Why does being older absolve us from common courtesy?

[Byte1]

I have been thinking of whether to respond and have decided too.

Due to the virus we are staying in a lot more than we would have thought and spending more time here and posting quite a bit (even though think my frequency of posting is down in past couple of months.

I complained about the Good Doctor this past week. What consenting adults do in the privacy of their own bedroom is none of my business but do resent that mainstream TV is throwing their opinions at us.

Some posters on here are rather pointed at the way they talk to others but do think that I respond in a very respectful manner and would even invite most people to join me in the Village of Stu.

Totally agree. None of my business and I do not want it forced upon me when I am attempting to watch an interesting medical themed show. I have no interest in politics or religion in a story on TV either.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I have been thinking of whether to respond and have decided too.

Due to the virus we are staying in a lot more than we would have thought and spending more time here and posting quite a bit (even though think my frequency of posting is down in past couple of months.

I complained about the Good Doctor this past week. What consenting adults do in the privacy of their own bedroom is none of my business but do resent that mainstream TV is throwing their opinions at us.

Some posters on here are rather pointed at the way they talk to others but do think that I respond in a very respectful manner and would even invite most people to join me in the Village of Stu.

I don't watch television, usually. I don't subscribe to any streaming services either. I have no idea what the Good Doctor is, other than the reference here about a previous thread that was shut down. I can tell you though - it isn't "mainstream TV throwing their opinions" at anyone.

They're providing content to people who want to watch it. If it's mainstream, then they're also selling advertisements. There have been people kissing during prime time on TV for decades, it's nothing new. The only thing that's "new" is "who" is doing the kissing. If that offends you, then that's a reflection of YOU, not of the show you're complaining about.

[Stu from NYC]

I don't watch television, usually. I don't subscribe to any streaming services either. I have no idea what the Good Doctor is, other than the reference here about a previous thread that was shut down. I can tell you though - it isn't "mainstream TV throwing their opinions" at anyone.

They're providing content to people who want to watch it. If it's mainstream, then they're also selling advertisements. There have been people kissing during prime time on TV for decades, it's nothing new. The only thing that's "new" is "who" is doing the kissing. If that offends you, then that's a reflection of YOU, not of the show you're complaining about.

If you actually watched the show you would have a better idea of the point I was making.

[LG999]

There is a lot of nastiness that I have noticed getting worse over the last couple of years. I think people in general have become much more ugly and are not ashamed of it. They are teaching ugly and inconsiderate to their kids.

[Jayhawk]

I have been thinking of whether to respond and have decided too.


///

[Jayhawk]

I have been thinking of whether to respond and have decided too.


That's the ticket. Village of Stu.

:a040:

[jimjamuser]

I use to enjoy learning about new things here in The Villages. Once a friendly place. Now after 18years the Kool-aid is flat and tasteless. The area has turned into what I moved away from. And I still miss the majestic Buffalo!
The herd of buffalo was truly amazing. A few people selfishly taking pictures inside their fences sealed their doom. The people were the problem, not the buffalo. Too bad.

[APovi]

[QUOTE=Boomer;1904434]:):ho:
EXCERPT- I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things.
"I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface"
Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

-Don't these sentiments (above) reflect the same opinions being condemned? Those who are against uncontrolled invasions/immigration are xenophobic, your quote= labels 'homophobes'.- So, anyone who disagrees with you has a 'phobia'?
Isn't it a waste of our time to 'converse' with people who share our opinions? Who can teach us what we already know?

[Lonnieme2]

Hello and thank you for the post. I agree with some who responded that social media has allowed people to hide behind a computer while saying things that they would never say to a person's face. The political climate and COVID-19 have added to the issue also. We should try to ask ourselves before hitting the "send" button the following things: Would I say this to the person's face? Will my words benefit the reader and add to the reason why most people move to The Villages?
I just read Boomer's post to my husband who unbeknownst to me had been reading the posts on this forum for four months before realizing that it was annoying him. His words not mine. He also just said, "I'm not looking for Mayberry RFD, but I am looking for some type of wholesomeness."
My husband and I plan to move to The Villages and I suppose were hoping to use this forum as a daily "fix" until we can leave Metro Atlanta in five years. My thought was also that by reading the various posts, we could be a step ahead by the time we move there. We visited for 10 days in July 2019, staying in a 3-bedroom house between Spanish Springs and Lake Sumpter but 10 days only gives a person a small taste of the good life.
Those who have not yet visited may be put off, thinking that some of the posts here are indicative of the mindset of Villagers. For me it is just a reminder that an escape from it ALL really is not possible. The people who we met during our short visit were thrilled to be alive and my husband kept saying how happy he was for each of them who had worked hard to get there.
Boomer, you are a great writer and I am sorry that this forum has robbed you of your joy. It would be nice if there were an outlet that better served you, by giving to you as much as you give to it.

[jimjamuser]

I have been thinking of whether to respond and have decided too.

Due to the virus we are staying in a lot more than we would have thought and spending more time here and posting quite a bit (even though think my frequency of posting is down in past couple of months.

I complained about the Good Doctor this past week. What consenting adults do in the privacy of their own bedroom is none of my business but do resent that mainstream TV is throwing their opinions at us.

Some posters on here are rather pointed at the way they talk to others but do think that I respond in a very respectful manner and would even invite most people to join me in the Village of Stu.
In the Villiage of Stu

Populated by both the red and the blue

Liberals and conservatives

Hold hands at the Zoo

Just a friendly place

To own a house

And take up space

For the few bad people

Better bring some Mace! ............Tee, hee, .......that's all folks

[juddfl]

I like what you wrote. You hit it on the head. Thank you for your post.

[jimjamuser]

I don't watch television, usually. I don't subscribe to any streaming services either. I have no idea what the Good Doctor is, other than the reference here about a previous thread that was shut down. I can tell you though - it isn't "mainstream TV throwing their opinions" at anyone.

They're providing content to people who want to watch it. If it's mainstream, then they're also selling advertisements. There have been people kissing during prime time on TV for decades, it's nothing new. The only thing that's "new" is "who" is doing the kissing. If that offends you, then that's a reflection of YOU, not of the show you're complaining about.
Good observation.

[jimjamuser]

quote: Being mean is one thing, but just because someone is snarky or sarcastic, does not make them a mean person.

I guess my question is why be snarky or sarcastic? Why not make your points in a straight forward manner without demeaning another person which I feel replying to a legitimate question or comment in a snarky or sarcastic way to be demeaning? We were all taught manners growing up. Why does being older absolve us from common courtesy?
"Dust to Dust". "The child is father of the man". Some say that older citizens seem to have lost their guard rails as they have aged - they have fewer inhibitions. I notice that at BOTH ends of the age spectrum that there are fewer inhibitions - in both children and the elderly. One has developing brainpower and the other has declining brainpower.

[John41]

The herd of buffalo was truly amazing. A few people selfishly taking pictures inside their fences sealed their doom. The people were the problem, not the buffalo. Too bad.

coincidentally a few months later villas starting popping up in the buffalo pasture

[Marykess1802]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.

Well said, Boomer! My “scroll on by” finger is developing serious bursitis.

[Stu from NYC]

I like what you wrote. You hit it on the head. Thank you for your post.

Unless you hit reply with quote nobody will know what you are referring to.

[Northwoods]

I still like my idea of a daily post limit. lol

We have so many power posters that are "passionate" about certain subjects that they spend their entire day replying to every post in every thread on their chosen subject. Whether it be Covid. Whether it be County Commissioners, local tax/impact fees, anti developer rants, etc. Give them 10 posts a day. If they can't get their point across in that many posts, come back tomorrow and try again.

Then we have the soapbox preachers spouting off whatever ideology they feel that we should all aspire to on any given day.

Granted, it seems people have a lot more time on their hands these days, but for goodness sakes, take up a hobby other than social media..

:bigbow:

[Topspinmo]

I don't watch television, usually. I don't subscribe to any streaming services either. I have no idea what the Good Doctor is, other than the reference here about a previous thread that was shut down. I can tell you though - it isn't "mainstream TV throwing their opinions" at anyone.

They're providing content to people who want to watch it. If it's mainstream, then they're also selling advertisements. There have been people kissing during prime time on TV for decades, it's nothing new. The only thing that's "new" is "who" is doing the kissing. If that offends you, then that's a reflection of YOU, not of the show you're complaining about.

I don’t care who kissing who as long as it’s not in my face.

[J1ceasar]

Please please please get off your soapbox how this is such a terrible place and you can't stand the people who are writing such garbage if you don't like something skip it and get over it everyone has a valid opinion except when you don't like it? This is not church this is not school people are allowed to have their opinions and if they want to say it in a nasty way to emphasize their opinions let them God gave you a brain to decide to skip someone or mute them or not read the opinions. Your viewpoints are exactly what gets this country in problems too many people on both sides going down and trying to take over something just because they can you don't like it start your own blog

[davem4616]

I've begun to lose interest in TOTV...a year ago it was somewhat of a 'life line' to the outside world, and I waiting to see what the topics would be...then it stopped being happy place

I post rarely...just tired of the nastiness and constant blaming of the developer for everything from a bad round of golf to the rain spoiling a BBQ

[Bogie Shooter]

Please please please get off your soapbox how this is such a terrible place and you can't stand the people who are writing such garbage if you don't like something skip it and get over it everyone has a valid opinion except when you don't like it? This is not church this is not school people are allowed to have their opinions and if they want to say it in a nasty way to emphasize their opinions let them God gave you a brain to decide to skip someone or mute them or not read the opinions. Your viewpoints are exactly what gets this country in problems too many people on both sides going down and trying to take over something just because they can you don't like it start your own blog
Who are you directing this to?

[dewilson58]

I've begun to lose interest in TOTV...a year ago it was somewhat of a 'life line' to the outside world, and I waiting to see what the topics would be...then it stopped being happy place I post rarely...just tired of the nastiness and constant blaming of the developer for everything from a bad round of golf to the rain spoiling a BBQ
Forgot dog poop, food not as good as NYC, round abouts

[CFrance]

I am brand new to the villages I haven’t even moved in yet and I was looking at this website for direction when I read those homophobic remarks the other day I wondered if I had made a mistake I commented because I struggle letting such ignorance lie i’m not gay but many of my loved ones are and I found those comments reprehensible especially in the name of God thank you for your post and sorry teacher I talk text and there’s no punctuation here :-)
I thought you could talk the punctuation into the text. I've seen a friend do it on her iPhone. At least your post was short. Now I understand why that post way above yours (#14, I think) was so hard to read I ended up abandoning the effort. If you want to be heard, I suggest using punctuation or keeping it short.

Also... paragraphs make it easier to read. If there's no punctuation or the post is one looooooooong paragraph, people might not read it.

[Luisa]

:):ho:For the past several days, I have watched TOTV descend into a maelstrom, and I am starting to have no hope for the forum that has been a part of many of my mornings since 2007. I am in the habit of giving the opening page a scroll and posting, if finding a topic I want to be a part of.

I am not big on the number of posts. In fact, when I was nearing 100 posts, all those years ago, I sent a PM to Mr. Tony, the owner and admin, asking him to please delete some of them. I laugh about that now, but then, I was blushing to think how habit-forming TOTV was becoming for me.

Now, almost 14 years later, I have barely passed 4000 posts, and I admit, I also find that number to be a bit embarrassing because it represents time I could have used cleaning off my desk. But I have been holding onto the excuse that I write posts like some people crochet or do puzzles -- a hobby.

Like so many of you, I found TOTV when I was looking for anecdotal information about life in TV. I could find advertising, but that was it. A tenacious search led me to TOTV when it was in its infancy. In those days, we had some ups and downs, but the overall tone was helpful -- and often, just plain fun.

I know TOTV has changed owners since, possibly more than once. TOTV sold for the first time in 2011. I am completely serious when I say that had I known in time, I might have bought it. (I could envision possible tax write-offs -- along with maybe using my energy to sell ads from my office-in-the-home or by driving around in my white Honda with the Florida plates to corner the ad market. (I spent 35 years pitching literature so I must have been thinking maybe my experience could have been transferable. sigh)

We eventually bought a house in Hadley. But had my original impression of TV been the one now often put forth on TOTV, I never would have wanted to buy. We kept our Ohio house. Thank goodness.

I have debated about whether to write this because I am to the "what's the point" stage. There are probably those among us who, like me, have noticed that we have lost a lot of our posters who had been contributing helpful posts and fun, too, for a long time. (I think they must be smarter than me because I have been continuing to hang around.)

The overall tone of TOTV this past week has been over-the-top with ugly stuff. Although I do not personally know most of you, I have been horrified to see the deluge of hatred, the bigotry, the complete arrogance -- including the irony of the name-calling that one name-caller, in particular, would see as elitist -- if someone disagreeing would say the same things. I have seen the self-righteous flaunting of a version of "religion" twisted into having nothing to with kindness, mercy, love, and peace. (Remember that guy Jesus?)

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

This morning -- in the email notice sent out to us a few times a week from TOTV -- there were at least 3 threads headlined that were destined to invite more ugly stuff. I had to wonder if those choices were made by an algorithm or were those kinds of threads chosen on purpose by an actual person -- for a numbers game.

As I end this saga, if you are still reading, may I suggest that you read "Declaration of Conscience" -- a classic speech given by Margaret Chase Smith on June 1, 1950, which she ends by calling out "The Four Horsemen of Calumny -- Fear, Ignorance, Bigotry, and Smear."

Boomer

PS: I am not kidding myself that anyone will actually do that homework assignment I just gave -- or even kidding myself that this thread will last -- or kidding myself that anybody is still reading this -- but I just had to say my piece -- or was it peace?

PPS: I don't know how that hat-tipping emoji ended up at the beginning of this post. I can't make it go away. I don't know how. So I guess I will just have to consider my hat -- and my hand -- tipped.

PPPS: Damn. And now a smiley face emoji has appeared out of nowhere. I must be bumping stuff because I am on my laptop. Believe you me, I am not smiling right now -- although I do feel better.
I misunderstood, I thought you were talking about mainstream media and big tech.

[ewitte]

Thank you for writing this. I appreciate everything you stated and agree.

[Stu from NYC]

I am still a little confused at what Boomer, the OP on this thread was getting at. Now I read some veiled references to "homophobic posts". I must have missed something and it was taken down before I could read it?

Was there something that some thought controversial on the TV series called "The Good Doctor". I missed that too.

In other words..............Why is Boomer upset? What happened that I missed?????

We have enjoyed the Good Doctor since it started several years ago.

The star is a unique character and liked watching him develop.

This past week the story was about a female transitioning to a male and in a relationship with another male. Turns out the "female character" is pregnant and several scenes showed the couple romantically involved.

Several people were not happy with the story line.

[Bonnevie]

Please please please get off your soapbox how this is such a terrible place and you can't stand the people who are writing such garbage if you don't like something skip it and get over it everyone has a valid opinion except when you don't like it? This is not church this is not school people are allowed to have their opinions and if they want to say it in a nasty way to emphasize their opinions let them God gave you a brain to decide to skip someone or mute them or not read the opinions. Your viewpoints are exactly what gets this country in problems too many people on both sides going down and trying to take over something just because they can you don't like it start your own blog

by why the need for nasty? why not just present good points for your opinions and let that emphasize them? yes, of course, one can skip over things. but what is disheartening is the need to do so because someone wants to exercise their "right" to be disagreeable for no discernible reason other than this is not church or school as though we shouldn't have to practice good manners in any other place.

[tedquick]

Boomer, I always enjoy your writings. Keep them coming.

[tophcfa]

My observation is that over the years TOTV has transformed from a forum where Villagers mostly shared useful information with each other to its current state of another social media site. Over the last couple of years, as the Villages has grown, many newer and younger social media users have joined TOTV and transformed it in a not so good way. I personally hate social media and think it is a bad thing for society. I have always proudly stated that I do not use social media, but I guess I can no longer say that since I do check TOTV most days. Over time I have definitely noticed that when I check out the new posts there are fewer and fewer threads that catch my interest. Oh well, it seems as we age that change is inevitable, weather we like it or not. For the owners of TOTV, it’s all about $$$, and that means maximizing clicks and selling advertising.

[dewilson58]

My observation is that over the years TOTV has transformed from a forum where Villagers mostly shared useful information with each other to its current state of another social media site. Over the last couple of years, as the Villages has grown, many newer and younger social media users have joined TOTV and transformed it in a not so good way. I personally hate social media and think it is a bad thing for society. I have always proudly stated that I do not use social media, but I guess I can no longer say that since I do check TOTV most days. Over time I have definitely noticed that when I check out the new posts there are fewer and fewer threads that catch my interest. Oh well, it seems as we age that change is inevitable, weather we like it or not. For the owners of TOTV, it’s all about $$$, and that means maximizing clicks and selling advertising.
:bigbow:


& ToTV is not representative of The Villages.
(silly to think it is)

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I don’t care who kissing who as long as it’s not in my face.

I tend to agree, generally speaking. But when it comes to romance on a drama TV show, if you want the characters to be *believable* you need to allow for the possibility that they might have some expression of affection at some point in a scene or two.

Even in comedies it happens. It even happened in Star Wars.

So my point stands: if you can gloss over those scenes on TV or in movies when one certain demographic does it, then you should be okay glossing over the same scenes when a different demographic does it. If one set makes you uncomfortable and the other set doesn't, then the hangup is yours, not the TV industry.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Please please please get off your soapbox how this is such a terrible place and you can't stand the people who are writing such garbage if you don't like something skip it and get over it everyone has a valid opinion except when you don't like it? This is not church this is not school people are allowed to have their opinions and if they want to say it in a nasty way to emphasize their opinions let them God gave you a brain to decide to skip someone or mute them or not read the opinions. Your viewpoints are exactly what gets this country in problems too many people on both sides going down and trying to take over something just because they can you don't like it start your own blog

Except, being nasty is against the rules of this forum. You can say nasty things all you like, in the privacy of your own home. When you start targeting people and saying nasty things to them on a public forum where ANYONE can see what you're saying, you become subject to the forum's rules. If you have a problem with restriction of what you say, then start your own forum, and invite people to say whatever they want on it, without restriction.

[dewilson58]

I tend to agree, generally speaking. But when it comes to romance on a drama TV show, if you want the characters to be *believable* you need to allow for the possibility that they might have some expression of affection at some point in a scene or two.
Roy Roger never lip-locked Dale Evans, but when the sun went down.........you knew the spurs came off (well, at least some of the time). :shocked:

[Byte1]

I tend to agree, generally speaking. But when it comes to romance on a drama TV show, if you want the characters to be *believable* you need to allow for the possibility that they might have some expression of affection at some point in a scene or two.

Even in comedies it happens. It even happened in Star Wars.

So my point stands: if you can gloss over those scenes on TV or in movies when one certain demographic does it, then you should be okay glossing over the same scenes when a different demographic does it. If one set makes you uncomfortable and the other set doesn't, then the hangup is yours, not the TV industry.

Nope, definitely the TV industry (Hollyweird).

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Roy Roger never lip-locked Dale Evans, but when the sun went down.........you knew the spurs came off (well, at least some of the time). :shocked:

Roy Rogers was cancelled 4 years before I was born. It hasn't been relevant since 1957. Most homes now have indoor plumbing, even in rural areas. Oh and communicating with your loved ones can now be done instantly even if the loved one isn't home to answer the landline phone.

The world has evolved. White people are depicted as being friends with black people on TV now. Chinese people aren't only cast as the laundry shop owners anymore. Baseball players come in all shapes, sizes, colors, nationalities, origins, and sexual preferences. And yes - consenting adults of all varieties on TV kiss. The TV studios want to make sure that ALL the advertisers' potential customers are represented.

That is commerce. When people evolve, the media has to evolve with it. The Puritans are the vast minority, and the vast minority doesn't have as much buying power as the vast majority. This is capitalism at work. The opposite would be communism. I'm okay with capitalism.

[dewilson58]

Roy Rogers was cancelled 4 years before I was born. It hasn't been relevant since 1957. Most homes now have indoor plumbing, even in rural areas. Oh and communicating with your loved ones can now be done instantly even if the loved one isn't home to answer the landline phone.

The world has evolved. White people are depicted as being friends with black people on TV now. Chinese people aren't only cast as the laundry shop owners anymore. Baseball players come in all shapes, sizes, colors, nationalities, origins, and sexual preferences. And yes - consenting adults of all varieties on TV kiss. The TV studios want to make sure that ALL the advertisers' potential customers are represented.

That is commerce. When people evolve, the media has to evolve with it. The Puritans are the vast minority, and the vast minority doesn't have as much buying power as the vast majority. This is capitalism at work. The opposite would be communism. I'm okay with capitalism.
Sarcasm Sheldon, sarcasm.

[John_W]

I tend to agree, generally speaking. But when it comes to romance on a drama TV show, if you want the characters to be *believable* you need to allow for the possibility that they might have some expression of affection at some point in a scene or two.


Yes and No. The major networks such as ABC which airs the drama show The Good Doctor, which harkens back to the original post from a week ago, that apparently upset the OP (Boomer). A poster said that the shows display of gay characters was too much in his face and he quit watching. So Boomer felt the need to basically chastise that poster and anyone else who thinks that way.

I saw a thread, since closed, that brought homophobia to the surface with certain posters -- some of whom surprised me. As a longtime secondary teacher, I have wept for students who have committed suicide because of feeling their homosexuality could never be accepted by their families. I am grateful to see how times have changed for so many people. That has saved, and will continue to save, lives.

What Boomer and apparently Orange Blossom Baby neglected to consider is ABC is a broadcast network which falls under the FCC laws about obscene, indecent and profane content, and obscene content does not have protection by the First Amendment. The poster of the previous thread was simply stating his objection to the 'in your face' portrayal of gay characters on it's most recent show.

The Common Sense website states the Good Doctor is a show for 14+ age group and warns about flashbacks to scenes of bullying. Doesn't really sound too risque. However, there are letters posted to Common Sense warning viewers.

Great show. Not for kids
This is a great show, but in the most recent episodes there is so much sex and discussion about sex that it should not be for anyone younger than 16.

The Good Doctor TV Review (https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/the-good-doctor)

I have never watched the Good Doctor, but apparently from comments, it's beginning to crossing the line in areas that are not their norm. I've not watched any recurring network TV shows since the 80's when I watched Moonlighting. I'm only going by the remarks of posters on the subject.

I have watched one episodic TV show, but it was on HBO, the show Six Feet Under. I never watched when it was new, but have since watched all 63 episodes about five times each. It's probably my favorite show if I had to pick one. However, the big difference is it was not on a public broadcast network. It was on a paid premium channel that was HBO, and most everyone who subscribes to HBO knows what they'll be getting.

Anyone that has watched Six Feet Under will know the show was based on the Fisher Family who operated a funeral home in Los Angeles. First off, it's a show about death, it's located in Hollywood, and two of the main characters, Michael C. Hall (who many will know as Dexter, which came later) and Mathew St. Patrick are gay lovers. What's even more off-kilter is St. Patrick portrays an LA Cop, but while on duty looks and plays the part of a cop perfectly. The show's scenes are sometimes the two of them kissing, but knowing the show was on HBO and warned of graphic with nudity, sex, gay, and very raw, it was not a surprise such as ABC and the Good Doctor.

The Good Doctor is about a young surgeon with autism who uses his medical gifts to save lives. Rated as a 14+ TV audience

https://www.tvinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/the-good-doctor-freddie-highmore-1014x570.jpg

Six Feet Under chronicles the lives of a dysfunctional family who run an independent funeral home in Los Angeles. Rated as 18+ for mature viewers only.

https://www.rollingstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/rs-206524-TCDSIFE_EC210_H.jpg?resize=1800,1200&w=1200

[Villages Kahuna]

Yep. Too bad. Suggests that The Villages may not be “Florida’s Friendliest Hometown”.

[CFrance]

Boomer, I sympathize with your disappointment. I backed away from TOTV as a regular poster and moderator because the toxicity and ever-present vitriol became overwhelming.
But as a moderator, couldn't you have fixed some of that? Just curious, because I did not know that posters could be moderators as well.

[DeeCee Dubya]

Great hubris.

Anybody can post an opinion, but it’s much more Cerebral To do it with style. Happy weekend to everyone.

[brfree1411@aol.com]

I appreciate your post but just like in Facebook or any other media, I just keep rolling. There is a lot of negativity, I share & forward happy & fun posts. We have lots of time on our hands we should look for happiness and share it.

[jimjamuser]

BINGO ! Covid, while it has brought out (in our neighborhood at least) "some" exceptionally kind, caring, neighbors who do not hesitate to help others and don't act like Covid is like leprosy and refuse to even look at their neighbors, in general, it has changed people and not for the best. From my professional education and career, I can tell you of all human emotions, fear is the root of so much irrational behavior and as bad as this all is, so was small pox, polio, and many others, yet, never in my life time have to many allowed this to turn them so vile and judgmental and and disrespectful. For example, if your neighbor has decided going to church in person is what is right for them right now, and you have decided it is not right for YOU right now, why the HATE and public mocking ? If you prefer Coke, and your neighbor prefers Pepsi, why HATE them for that ? ? No, there is something wrong deep inside when people feel this COMPULSION to shame and defile those who do not think EXACTLY as they do.
Sorry but, that "Pepsi vs Coke" thing is a MERE small personal choice about a TRIVIAL preference. Pretend that you are a COVID virus riding on a droplet expelled from some human being's nose or mouth. You (the virus) do NOT care if you infect a Pepsi drinker or a Coke drinker. You are equally effective against either one. That is why that "Pepsi vs Coke" analogy had ZERO transference to the issue of the current CV Plague that affects each individual in TV Land or any human (and some animals apparently) in the world! I am also sorry that my rhetoric is about how serious the EVOLVING Virus actually is. I am sorry that I do NOT understand why so many people on this forum want to downplay that seriousness. I do this because I believe that if more people recognized the magnitude of the problem, then they could react BETTER as a society to fix the problem. It probably could (?) have been fixed months ago if EVERYBODY from a local level upward had been of ONE MIND and determined to put it behind us. I see other countries like Australia taking CV seriously and here in the US it is treated as a non-event, practically a joke. Some will next call me paranoid but, I feel that I am only realistic and I am trying to warn about what I see here locally as treating CV as a non-event. I do NOT think that is a smart attitude! We are older and more experienced, we should be the thought leaders on this subject, not the thought deniers!

[Bucco]

Except, being nasty is against the rules of this forum. You can say nasty things all you like, in the privacy of your own home. When you start targeting people and saying nasty things to them on a public forum where ANYONE can see what you're saying, you become subject to the forum's rules. If you have a problem with restriction of what you say, then start your own forum, and invite people to say whatever they want on it, without restriction.

only two things that set me off on here..

1. LIES.....you cannot..it is impossible.....to have an adult conversation when a participant is lying. I am speaking of out and out fabrication, no opinions. There, in my mind is no excuse for that, and in the course of discussion enabling other liars with support is in the same ball park.

EVERY adult knows the difference between lying and difference of opinion, and those that try to pass off enabling a lie, or lying themselves have no respect for this forum, or the other posters.

2. ATTACKS on other posters is my second main critique. My wife was attacked on here about one year ago, because of ME....because I, with owner and moderator okay, allowed her to have her own separate user name. This was considered to be terrible, and on a trip to check PMs, she was boldly and nastily verbally attacked. THAT was her last trip on here. I have had PMs attacking me, and of course the political forum where that was standard action we will discount.

When political forum and outside conversations (things other than dog poop, etc) were encouraged, even a difference of opinion was civil, honest and adult. I used that forum, at that time, to learn from posters ideas and links they provided from their reading (YES, everyone mainly provided links to support their argument)

[dewilson58]

But as a moderator, couldn't you have fixed some of that? Just curious, because I did not know that posters could be moderators as well.
Yes moderators can fix.......IF they want to.
There is personal judgement.

That's why there is variation of acceptable content.


Yes posters & moderators can be one & the same.
I have suspended myself twice.

[Nevinmann]

Seems to me part of the cause of this (see subject line) is allowing in cognito and pseudo name posting. I once had a fellow Villager caution me against using my real name for fear that "people will go after you."

If I have something to say, I'm happy to use my name and if someone has a problem with my thoughts, let's have a discussion.

Otherwise, settle for name calling and outrageous remarks.

[jimjamuser]

coincidentally a few months later villas starting popping up in the buffalo pasture
The "almighty " PROFIT motive! Which motivates humans to constantly turn GREEN spaces into GREEN currency and non-green, non-oxygen-producing PARKING LOTS. When will that all stop - when the human species is extinct ? The buffalo herd was natural history and beauty all rolled into one. How unique are buffalo ? How un-unique and common is a concrete building with a PARKING LOT ? Which has more beauty and has more of a calming influence on viewers? Which would more artists like to paint? Someday in the barren future, people will wish that they made ALL decisions based on "QUALITY OF LIFE". It will definitely NOT be PROFITS.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Oh please the Buffaloes were not going to be here forever. When I first got here they were next to gas station on a not very built up 466 being fed endless amounts of junk food, then they were moved yes there were some complaints but they would have been moved for buildings anyway. The Buffalo just like cows are used to make taxes on land in urban areas cheaper as agriculture land, before they are built on . Orlando developers had a herd of cows that they moved from place to place as they bought up land for future development. I’ve heard the Buffalo are up in the prairie area near Gainesville I’m sure there much happier and healthier now that there not munching on all those snacks and not having cameras stuck in there faces

[tvbound]

In regards to the show The Good Doctor (and others like it), I embrace the idea of showing real life situations that may make me question my own potential prejudices, in the never-ending journey to becoming a better human being. Of all the wonderful rights we have in this country, nowhere does it say that we have the "right" - to never be uncomfortable.

[jimjamuser]

Nope, definitely the TV industry (Hollyweird).
I thought that the bulk of the TV shows were filmed in NYC and most movies were filmed in Hollywood. Maybe today there is a blurring of where TV is primarily shot? I really am curious. I don't know for sure?

[dewilson58]

Boomer, Boomer................Where is Boomer.
Started a thread wishing for the old days & has not been back to enjoy the almost 150 posts related and unrelated to today & the good old days.


:shrug:

[stan the man]

Start daily post maximum today.

[jimjamuser]

Roy Rogers was cancelled 4 years before I was born. It hasn't been relevant since 1957. Most homes now have indoor plumbing, even in rural areas. Oh and communicating with your loved ones can now be done instantly even if the loved one isn't home to answer the landline phone.

The world has evolved. White people are depicted as being friends with black people on TV now. Chinese people aren't only cast as the laundry shop owners anymore. Baseball players come in all shapes, sizes, colors, nationalities, origins, and sexual preferences. And yes - consenting adults of all varieties on TV kiss. The TV studios want to make sure that ALL the advertisers' potential customers are represented.

That is commerce. When people evolve, the media has to evolve with it. The Puritans are the vast minority, and the vast minority doesn't have as much buying power as the vast majority. This is capitalism at work. The opposite would be communism. I'm okay with capitalism.
Let's hear it for capitalism. Yeah! The TV media aims toward the younger under 25 crowd because they spend more. So, the programming and cultural attitudes reflected are about that group's lives mostly. The baby boomer domination of culture is over! We are only important because we vote a lot. Some specific media and movies are directed towards us. The Villages is an island of rock and roll and older people and ideas. And this Villages island is even becoming younger, Soon rock and roll will be played less and less on Village radio! We will all go the way of the Dodo and the buffalo here in the Villages! Gone and a slowly vanishing memory.

[dewilson58]

Let's hear it for capitalism. Yeah! The TV media aims toward the younger under 25 crowd because they spend more. So, the programming and cultural attitudes reflected are about that group's lives mostly. The baby boomer domination of culture is over!
I understand what you are attempting to point out...............but your ages are wrong. Under 25 still don't have the earning power and the actual population is lower than the baby boomers who spend more than the sub-25's.

[Taltarzac725]

I thought that the bulk of the TV shows were filmed in NYC and most movies were filmed in Hollywood. Maybe today there is a blurring of where TV is primarily shot? I really am curious. I don't know for sure?

Georgia seems to show up a lot in movie and TV credits. They do look for tax breaks for their production companies.

[graciegirl]

Seems to me part of the cause of this (see subject line) is allowing in cognito and pseudo name posting. I once had a fellow Villager caution me against using my real name for fear that "people will go after you."

If I have something to say, I'm happy to use my name and if someone has a problem with my thoughts, let's have a discussion.

Otherwise, settle for name calling and outrageous remarks.

My husband says that anonymous people are not to be believed or taken seriously and that they can say anything and make up any kind of background.

But the post I made this morning on this thread is gone. It was asking what exactly is Boomer alluding to? I must have missed something. Was it a discussion of homosexuality or race, because she said something was "bigoted"???. I really do NOT know what the point is of the original post? What is upsetting Boomer??? or maybe WHO???

Someone sent me a P.M. just now saying that his post in answer to my question about this is gone too? What is it we cannot talk about or someone did talk about and it is deleted? What is Boomer talking about in this thread???????????????

[jimjamuser]

Oh please the Buffaloes were not going to be here forever. When I first got here they were next to gas station on a not very built up 466 being fed endless amounts of junk food, then they were moved yes there were some complaints but they would have been moved for buildings anyway. The Buffalo just like cows are used to make taxes on land in urban areas cheaper as agriculture land, before they are built on . Orlando developers had a herd of cows that they moved from place to place as they bought up land for future development. I’ve heard the Buffalo are up in the prairie area near Gainesville I’m sure there much happier and healthier now that there not munching on all those snacks and not having cameras stuck in there faces
Everything said here is probably mostly true. And the post was informative. My post only used the buffalo as an example - a starting point for a larger conversation about the value, the pros of GROWTH, and the cons, the negatives. In general, most people believe that GROWTH and the increased population that parallels that GROWTH are inherently GOOD. I say that if you imagine a graph with Growth or GNP on the Y, vertical axis and you put population growth on the X-axis - you would see a straight line from left to right. But, at some point, the curve would start to bend over to less increase of GROWTH on the Y-axis per given X=axis increase. Like a saturation effect.

If we try it again instead with "QUALITY OF LIFE" on the Y-axis we may get a curve shaped like a mountain where some point is the maximization of Quality and then downward sloping for the increasing population. This makes certain assumptions, of course. Like square mile area of the country or of TV Land or any somewhat self-contained state or country. It also assumes that raw materials and resources are held fairly constant.

So far as I know this is just a theoretical concept. But, it could all be calculated for a city, state, or the whole US with the available, powerful computers. Portland, Or. years ago drew a line around their city to keep quality of life high by limiting high rises and other methods. The city finally relented and went away from the idea due to, I imagine, PROFIT-making interests and lobbies. I do not know if anyone ever wrote a book about that Portland, Or. attempt? Or if any summaries or conclusions were ever drawn. But, it was a HISTORIC attempt at maximizing Quality of Life - over PROFITS.

[jimjamuser]

I understand what you are attempting to point out...............but your ages are wrong. Under 25 still don't have the earning power and the actual population is lower than the baby boomers who spend more than the sub-25's.
Thanks for understanding my main point. I will try to check the age breakdowns for spending. I felt that I had read those stats somewhere before. It is possible that I remembered that wrong?

[jimjamuser]

Georgia seems to show up a lot in movie and TV credits. They do look for tax breaks for their production companies.
Good point, I have heard that Ga. tries hard to encourage film crews. Crews go to New Zealand sometimes because every possible and beautiful landscape is available there.

[dewilson58]

Thanks for understanding my main point. I will try to check the age breakdowns for spending. I felt that I had read those stats somewhere before. It is possible that I remembered that wrong?
It's interesting (going my memory of what I jus saw)..........20 million between 18 & 25, when there are almost 70 million babyboomers. We obviously have "all the net worth", but it seems like I saw we are spending twice the sub-25's.


But as you stated.........................slow vanishing memory. :faint:

[jimjamuser]

My husband says that anonymous people are not to be believed or taken seriously and that they can say anything and make up any kind of background.

But the post I made this morning on this thread is gone. It was asking what exactly is Boomer alluding to? I must have missed something. Was it a discussion of homosexuality or race, because she said something was "bigoted"???. I really do NOT know what the point is of the original post? What is upsetting Boomer??? or maybe WHO???

Someone sent me a P.M. just now saying that his post in answer to my question about this is gone too? What is it we cannot talk about or someone did talk about and it is deleted? What is Boomer talking about in this thread???????????????
Well, that is true. I personally was born on a moon of Saturn and am composed of both carbon and silicon cells. I can go anti- gravitational at will - but only when no one is looking.

[Boomer]

Thank you.

Kind words from some. Umbrage taken by others.

I have read everybody’s posts.

I never thought I would see so many comments lined up for a say.

This thread has had its share of segues and side-conversations. I like when that happens — just like it does in real life conversations.

Thank you for being a part of the conversation.

Boomer.

[graciegirl]

Everything said here is probably mostly true. And the post was informative. My post only used the buffalo as an example - a starting point for a larger conversation about the value, the pros of GROWTH, and the cons, the negatives. In general, most people believe that GROWTH and the increased population that parallels that GROWTH are inherently GOOD. I say that if you imagine a graph with Growth or GNP on the Y, vertical axis and you put population growth on the X-axis - you would see a straight line from left to right. But, at some point, the curve would start to bend over to less increase of GROWTH on the Y-axis per given X=axis increase. Like a saturation effect.

If we try it again instead with "QUALITY OF LIFE" on the Y-axis we may get a curve shaped like a mountain where some point is the maximization of Quality and then downward sloping for the increasing population. This makes certain assumptions, of course. Like square mile area of the country or of TV Land or any somewhat self-contained state or country. It also assumes that raw materials and resources are held fairly constant.

So far as I know this is just a theoretical concept. But, it could all be calculated for a city, state, or the whole US with the available, powerful computers. Portland, Or. years ago drew a line around their city to keep quality of life high by limiting high rises and other methods. The city finally relented and went away from the idea due to, I imagine, PROFIT-making interests and lobbies. I do not know if anyone ever wrote a book about that Portland, Or. attempt? Or if any summaries or conclusions were ever drawn. But, it was a HISTORIC attempt at maximizing Quality of Life - over PROFITS.

I do not see where quality of life and profits do not co-exist. Profit is not a dirty word. Profit is the goal of hard work and planning and is represented by cash, but it is the goal that when met, supports the business and the livelihood of people who depend on it for their jobs.



"Profit is necessary for the survival and growth of business enterprise. If the business does not make enough profit it will not survive in the growing competitive world. Profit means survival.

It enables the business to grow, helps employee motivation, eases negotiations with banks, attracts investors, and gives clients and customers a confidence in business. All that adds up to success.


Profit is a yardstick that tests the efficiency of the business firm. The success of the business can be judged by the extent of profit earning capacity."

Above snipped from article. Not original.

People who have long worked for the government sometimes use the word profit as a bad word. Profit is not the result of greed or of bad motives. Profit is when you have strawberries left over from your field that you didn't need to sell to get groceries. Profit is canning the leftovers or giving them to a neighbor.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

In regards to the show The Good Doctor (and others like it), I embrace the idea of showing real life situations that may make me question my own potential prejudices, in the never-ending journey to becoming a better human being. Of all the wonderful rights we have in this country, nowhere does it say that we have the "right" - to never be uncomfortable.

That's a great approach to "things that make you uncomfortable." I personally avoid TV because I prefer a more active form of entertainment - so I spend most of the time most people are watching TV, by playing a multi-player interactive roleplaying text-based game online, with people all over the world. I used to sit in front of the TV for hours every day. It was just too mind-numbing for me, so now I watch occasional shows as a break from the computer, or to share a movie with Beloved Spouse.

Mostly though he watches golf and reruns of old movies, and I game.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Let's hear it for capitalism. Yeah! The TV media aims toward the younger under 25 crowd because they spend more. So, the programming and cultural attitudes reflected are about that group's lives mostly. The baby boomer domination of culture is over! We are only important because we vote a lot. Some specific media and movies are directed towards us. The Villages is an island of rock and roll and older people and ideas. And this Villages island is even becoming younger, Soon rock and roll will be played less and less on Village radio! We will all go the way of the Dodo and the buffalo here in the Villages! Gone and a slowly vanishing memory.

You know what's scary:

Stairway to Heaven has been an "Oldie" since 1985.
Jerry Garcia has been dead for over a quarter of a century.
The last THREE generations - have probably never heard of the song Seasons in the Sun.

[Boomer]

Pssssst, Gracie, you and I went to press at exactly the same time. My post just now was immediately before yours, and then the page on my lineup turned. We hit submit simultaneously at 5:15.

Like I said, I will be back, but while I am in here, I do want to say that I don’t know why your early post was deleted. You are one who did the “homework assignment” and then posted. I liked it. I hope you did not have to miss cheerleading practice to do it. ;)

(By the way, I am not being snarky, much. Gracie really was a high school cheerleader. She told us about it years ago and I remembered. I was not a cheerleader. I dance like Elaine on Seinfeld. Even though there was no Elaine back then, I knew better than to go out for cheerleading.)

Boomer

[graciegirl]

Pssssst, Gracie, you and I went to press at exactly the same time. My post just now was immediately before yours, and then the page on my line-up turned. We hit submit simultaneously at 5:15.

Like I said, I will be back, but while I am in here, I do want to say that I don’t know why your early post was deleted. You are one who did the “homework assignment” and then posted. I liked it. I hope you did not have to miss cheerleading practice to do it. ;)

(By the way, I am not being snarky, much. Gracie really was a high school cheerleader. She told us about it years ago and I remembered. I was not a cheerleader. I dance like Elaine on Seinfeld. Even though there was no Elaine back then, I knew better than to go out for cheerleading.)

Boomer


I was a high school cheerleader and I am clumsy as a cow on a crutch. I am pretty sure I was picked by the committee of teachers for other reasons...such as my mom died when I was born and I was a serious student. I don't know.

[jimjamuser]

I do not see where quality of life and profits do not co-exist. Profit is not a dirty word. Profit is the goal of hard work and planning and is represented by cash, but it is the goal that when met, supports the business and the livelihood of people who depend on it for their jobs.



"Profit is necessary for the survival and growth of business enterprise. If the business does not make enough profit it will not survive in the growing competitive world. Profit means survival.

It enables the business to grow, helps employee motivation, eases negotiations with banks, attracts investors, and gives clients and customers a confidence in business. All that adds up to success.


Profit is a yardstick that tests the efficiency of the business firm. The success of the business can be judged by the extent of profit earning capacity."

Above snipped from article. Not original.

People who have long worked for the government sometimes use the word profit as a bad word. Profit is not the result of greed or of bad motives. Profit is when you have strawberries left over from your field that you didn't need to sell to get groceries. Profit is canning the leftovers or giving them to a neighbor.
I tried to drill below the surface on my post, which referenced back to another post about TV Land buffalo. I may have gotten a little too"would-be" professorial on that one. One can say that PROFIT is NOT a dirty word, but things get muddied when one gets into the "greed is good" philosophy of business. Incidentally, socially responsible businesses are, on average, more successful and PROFITABLE than rogue "greed is good"-types. Also, the example of Bernie Madoff would come to mind!

My basic point actually NEVER involved PROFITS. If one goes back and looks at my Y-axis, it was GNP GROWTH in one example and QUALITY of LIFE in the 2nd example (I hope no one would dispute quality of Life). Growth and Profits are not synonymous. You can have one without the other. I would hope that other posters re-read my offering. Thank you.

[Bucco]

I do not see where quality of life and profits do not co-exist. Profit is not a dirty word. Profit is the goal of hard work and planning and is represented by cash, but it is the goal that when met, supports the business and the livelihood of people who depend on it for their jobs.



"Profit is necessary for the survival and growth of business enterprise. If the business does not make enough profit it will not survive in the growing competitive world. Profit means survival.

It enables the business to grow, helps employee motivation, eases negotiations with banks, attracts investors, and gives clients and customers a confidence in business. All that adds up to success.


Profit is a yardstick that tests the efficiency of the business firm. The success of the business can be judged by the extent of profit earning capacity."

Above snipped from article. Not original.

People who have long worked for the government sometimes use the word profit as a bad word. Profit is not the result of greed or of bad motives. Profit is when you have strawberries left over from your field that you didn't need to sell to get groceries. Profit is canning the leftovers or giving them to a neighbor.

However, in context, let’s see....during this pandemic...

I am just trying to add to an earlier post (by JIMJAMUSER I think).

“With few exceptions, big businesses are having a very different year from most of the country. Between April and September, one of the most tumultuous economic stretches in modern history, 45 of the 50 most valuable publicly traded U.S. companies turned a profit, a Washington Post analysis found.”

“Despite their success, at least 27 of the 50 largest firms held layoffs this year, collectively cutting more than 100,000 workers, The Post found.”

https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/business/50-biggest-companies-coronavirus-layoffs/

Point is as we make the rich richer and the difference between “rich” and “poor” greater, are we serving the country’s good ? Never feel guilty about making a profit and do all you can to make, but let’s not forget about our country.

[manaboutown]

Good point, I have heard that Ga. tries hard to encourage film crews. Crews go to New Zealand sometimes because every possible and beautiful landscape is available there.

The terrain and flora of New Zealand are beautiful and diverse. I have been to and around both islands. The people are friendly and honest. Twenty five years ago I thought about buying some property there but never did as it was a long, long flight from LAX. One can even get a reverse mortgage down there! Borrowing against the value of your home | New Zealand Government (https://www.govt.nz/browse/housing-and-property/borrowing-against-the-value-of-your-home/)

[jimjamuser]

However, in context, let’s see....during this pandemic...

I am just trying to add to an earlier post (by JIMJAMUSER I think).

“With few exceptions, big businesses are having a very different year from most of the country. Between April and September, one of the most tumultuous economic stretches in modern history, 45 of the 50 most valuable publicly traded U.S. companies turned a profit, a Washington Post analysis found.”

“Despite their success, at least 27 of the 50 largest firms held layoffs this year, collectively cutting more than 100,000 workers, The Post found.”

https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/business/50-biggest-companies-coronavirus-layoffs/

Point is as we make the rich richer and the difference between “rich” and “poor” greater, are we serving the country’s good ? Never feel guilty about making a profit and do all you can to make, but let’s not forget about our country.
True. The disparity in wealth in the US has never been greater. The Corporations LOVE to lay-off or fire as many workers as possible. Labor is just their biggest cost, which they want to make as low as possible. Corporations can often substitute capital equipment for labor. Machines do NOT need lunch and coffee breaks. They do NOT need health care, daycare, paid time off, and etc. Wall Street rewards Corporations when they cut their workforce. That is one of the many reasons why I scratch my head at the wisdom of any immigration (legal or otherwise). The US is no longer a frontier nation. Andrew Yang said to be prepared for 30 % UNEMPLOYMENT in the US. We could end up with a whole young generation with no outlet for their energy except drugs and crime to supplement their boredom. It IS very possible and the CV plague has exasperated things. WE are in a strange and potentially dangerous time period in history. Citizens and government at all levels need to make good decisions and quick action in order to solve these many problems BEFORE they "fester" beyond control and become unsolvable. Even a little thing like this forum can help or hinder by making accurate and true information available and disseminated. I TRY (?) to be on the help side of that equation!

[jimjamuser]

The terrain and flora of New Zealand are beautiful and diverse. I have been to and around both islands. The people are friendly and honest. Twenty five years ago I thought about buying some property there but never did as it was a long, long flight from LAX. One can even get a reverse mortgage down there! Borrowing against the value of your home | New Zealand Government (https://www.govt.nz/browse/housing-and-property/borrowing-against-the-value-of-your-home/)
If there is a next lifetime - I would NOT mind being stationed in New Zealand!

[Bucco]

True. The disparity in wealth in the US has never been greater. The Corporations LOVE to lay-off or fire as many workers as possible. Labor is just their biggest cost, which they want to make as low as possible. Corporations can often substitute capital equipment for labor. Machines do NOT need lunch and coffee breaks. They do NOT need health care, daycare, paid time off, and etc. Wall Street rewards Corporations when they cut their workforce. That is one of the many reasons why I scratch my head at the wisdom of any immigration (legal or otherwise). The US is no longer a frontier nation. Andrew Yang said to be prepared for 30 % UNEMPLOYMENT in the US. We could end up with a whole young generation with no outlet for their energy except drugs and crime to supplement their boredom. It IS very possible and the CV plague has exasperated things. WE are in a strange and potentially dangerous time period in history. Citizens and government at all levels need to make good decisions and quick action in order to solve these many problems BEFORE they "fester" beyond control and become unsolvable. Even a little thing like this forum can help or hinder by making accurate and true information available and disseminated. I TRY (?) to be on the help side of that equation!

To your point, I believe the past year, and the next year are going to have a profound affect on this country, economically, socially and much more.

Crucial time for sure

[dewilson58]

Interesting handful of posts & how they relay to Boomer's......... Almost not moving here; Homo's; White Honda; Smarter than me; Secondary teacher; Horrified; Emoji's.



:ohdear:

[villagetinker]

I avoided this discussion item, but after reading (and skimming) the comments I think all of my comments were already made. In
my posts, I have tried to avoid making negative comments, although I do remember a few that were misinterpreted.

As many of you are aware, I read this site to help people, and not debate, so today, 3 clocks fixed, 1 pinball machine, 1 new friend made, and I figured why some outside lights were failing, a good day.

I will continue to look the site over for people needing help. I have learned that the newer houses have some significant differences and some of my "knowledge" is not applicable, so I have been gaining knowledge also.

I tend to stop reading a thread as soon as I see the negative comments start, and have gone to the point of blocking some people based on comments made. I agree that it would be real nice if some of the comments would be toned down.

Anyway just my thoughts, VT.

[dewilson58]

I avoided this discussion item, but after reading (and skimming) the comments I think all of my comments were already made. In my posts, I have tried to avoid making negative comments, although I do remember a few that were misinterpreted.As many of you are aware, I read this site to help people, and not debate, so today, 3 clocks fixed, 1 pinball machine, 1 new friend made, and I figured why some outside lights were failing, a good day.I will continue to look the site over for people needing help. I have learned that the newer houses have some significant differences and some of my "knowledge" is not applicable, so I have been gaining knowledge also.I tend to stop reading a thread as soon as I see the negative comments start, and have gone to the point of blocking some people based on comments made. I agree that it would be real nice if some of the comments would be toned down.Anyway just my thoughts, VT.
Tink, you are one of the owners of ToTV and are always welcome and appreciated. :coolsmiley:

[dewilson58]

If there is a next lifetime - I would NOT mind being stationed in New Zealand!
JJ
There is a next lifetime...................so much better than NZ. :icon_wink:

[tophcfa]

You know what's scary:

Stairway to Heaven has been an "Oldie" since 1985.
Jerry Garcia has been dead for over a quarter of a century.
The last THREE generations - have probably never heard of the song Seasons in the Sun.

Our daughter thinks Jerry Garcia is the guy who makes ice cream up in Vermont and has absolutely no idea about the Grateful Dead. Makes me feel very old : (

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Our daughter thinks Jerry Garcia is the guy who makes ice cream up in Vermont and has absolutely no idea about the Grateful Dead. Makes me feel very old : (

You gotta school your gal then. The real scoop:

It's Ben & Jerry's and they have an ice cream flavor CHERRY Garcia.

She really needs to get the dish straight from the quart.

[graciegirl]

Interesting handful of posts & how they relay to Boomer's......... Almost not moving here; Homo's; White Honda; Smarter than me; Secondary teacher; Horrified; Emoji's.



:ohdear:

I agree. I think some don't read ANY post and just launch unto their favorite subject. Don't you wonder how it is at home for them?

[jimjamuser]

It's interesting (going my memory of what I jus saw)..........20 million between 18 & 25, when there are almost 70 million babyboomers. We obviously have "all the net worth", but it seems like I saw we are spending twice the sub-25's.


But as you stated.........................slow vanishing memory. :faint:
OK, I remembered a little more about that. The under 25 age group MUST buy more than older established households, who have already purchased long-lasting items. The under 25 demography also are STYLE leaders, which influence and change the buying habits of the plus 25 age groups. So, advertisers key-in on that younger group.

[John_W]

You know what's scary:

Stairway to Heaven has been an "Oldie" since 1985.



If you want just say oldie, it would of been an old in '72 since it was released in '71 on LZ 4. However, the radio stations I was listening to in 1985 were still labeled rock radio, not classic rock. That wasn't a real station format yet, because rock was still being made, played and listened to. I remember hearing bands on rock stations like INXS, Motley Crue, REM Guns & Roses and AC/DC was still turning out hits. In the 80s I owned and operated a record store near Savannah Georgia.

It wasn't until the 90s and grunge replaced the hair bands of the 80s you would start seeing Classic Rock Radio stations.

In the 80s, 1985 for example, a rock station would sprinkle in late 60s and 70s songs into their regular airplay. The biggest flashback segment was usually at noon, most would give it a name like "Liquid Lunch" and we would of heard Zeppelin, Floyd and the like for a solid hour. That you can call say was an 'oldie' segment, but Stairway to Heaven was only 14 years old in '85.

That's me behind the counter of my store in 1985, it was a rock shop. We stocked and sold 90% of our inventory was rock music.

https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p843x403/67192278_1346262878871574_8637987360417513472_o.jp g?_nc_cat=110&ccb=3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=54zIhCRw468AX9O1AcK&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&tp=6&oh=3a3e689f893e2fe754180a98753ce3bd&oe=60582914

You could tell it was Georgia, I was between the Piggly Wiggly and K-Mart.

https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/s960x960/67173809_1346265232204672_291159483718041600_o.jpg ?_nc_cat=103&ccb=3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=lLC4gtF-poUAX_BoWe4&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&tp=7&oh=cda042d3206cbe5b17bc0b8310972e73&oe=60583B92

I couldn't fit the Billboard Top 200 on the wall, but I did have the top 174 every week and kept it up to date. Those are black light posters along the top. I used every inch of wall space to sell something and from the ceiling hung over 70 different rock tapestries that we sold.

https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p843x403/67471235_1346265945537934_8364940763104018432_o.jp g?_nc_cat=110&ccb=3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=pLN6S8WFgPIAX9Fmntv&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&tp=6&oh=0e674377e6a00a6210dbda38c201d181&oe=605749BF

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If you want just say oldie, it would of been an old in '72 since it was released in '71 on LZ 4. However, the radio stations I was listening to in 1985 were still labeled rock radio, not classic rock. That wasn't a real station format yet, because rock was still being made, played and listened to. I remember hearing bands on rock stations like INXS, Motley Crue, REM Guns & Roses and AC/DC was still turning out hits. In the 80s I owned and operated a record store near Savannah Georgia.

It wasn't until the 90s and grunge replaced the hair bands of the 80s you would start seeing Classic Rock Radio stations.

In the 80s, 1985 for example, a rock station would sprinkle in late 60s and 70s songs into their regular airplay. The biggest flashback segment was usually at noon, most would give it a name like "Liquid Lunch" and we would of heard Zeppelin, Floyd and the like for a solid hour. That you can call say was an 'oldie' segment, but Stairway to Heaven was only 14 years old in '85.

That's me behind the counter of my store in 1985, it was a rock shop. We stocked and sold 90% of our inventory was rock music.

https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p843x403/67192278_1346262878871574_8637987360417513472_o.jp g?_nc_cat=110&ccb=3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=54zIhCRw468AX9O1AcK&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&tp=6&oh=3a3e689f893e2fe754180a98753ce3bd&oe=60582914

You could tell it was Georgia, I was between the Piggly Wiggly and K-Mart.

https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/s960x960/67173809_1346265232204672_291159483718041600_o.jpg ?_nc_cat=103&ccb=3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=lLC4gtF-poUAX_BoWe4&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&tp=7&oh=cda042d3206cbe5b17bc0b8310972e73&oe=60583B92

Hah! I have memories of a placed called Cutler's Records in New Haven, and the Music Box in the Hamden's "Magic Mile" commercial area. Got all my guitar strings and picks there, and most of our 45s and LPs. I remember an extra credit question on our Shakespeare II class in High school (which was at the end of that Magic Mile, which was exactly one mile long and consisted of 3 strip-malls: The Plaza, the Mart, and Caldor's plaza): name every store, in order, from the school to the other end of the mile. It was a 5-point extra credit so if you were at a C- grade, it could be enough to get you off academic probation that year.

Every stoner and jock in the class (which was most of us, fitting either one or both categories) could name every store, in order. There were over 40 stores total. The dweebs who never left school during open study or lunch all got them wrong. We were a fit bunch, us stoners and/or jocks, walking to school, walking 2 miles round-trip during study-hall/lunch, and then walking home from school every day.

Yes, I'm derailing this thread. In the spirit of returning civil "conversation" to the forum.

Anyway - By "Oldie" I mean the actual category of music, not specific longevity of a popular tune. Oldie with a capital O. As in "Golden Oldies" but in the case of Led Zep it'd be "Classic Rock" - which is one of several Oldies sub-categories. It didn't become "classic" until the 1980's when it ceased to be "new" or "top 50" and found solid footing in "Oldies" territory (which would be top 100 Classic Rock or Top 100 all-time).

[manaboutown]

Let's hear it for capitalism. Yeah! The TV media aims toward the younger under 25 crowd because they spend more.

Except for reverse mortgages which have been pitched by the likes of Tom Selleck and Henry Winkler to gullible seniors over the age of 62.

It just "Depends" (another mostly senior product) on what is being marketed.

[John_W]

Hah! I have memories of a placed called Cutler's Records in New Haven, and the Music Box in the Hamden's "Magic Mile" commercial area. Got all my guitar strings and picks there, and most of our 45s and LPs. I remember an extra credit question on our Shakespeare II class in High school (which was at the end of that Magic Mile, which was exactly one mile long and consisted of 3 strip-malls: The Plaza, the Mart, and Caldor's plaza): name every store, in order, from the school to the other end of the mile.

I use to hang out at record shops, mostly they had them in department stores back then. I went to school in the 60s, so stoner was really a word yet, maybe beatnik was popular, like Maynard G Krebs.

Our biggest event was weekend nights going to the Steak 'n Shake Drive-in on 34th Street in St. Petersburg. They had 3 renta-cops just to direct all the traffic, usually about 200 cars trying to cruise the lot, most never pulled in or ordered food. The girls were on roller skates and they brought you your food. Collecting S & S glasses was my biggest hobby, their glasses were heavy glass with their logo, very neat. I just realized that photo of me at work was 35 years ago when I was 35 years old.

This was our hangout, the S & S Drive-in in St. Petersburg, it opened in '65. It's no longer there, not even as regular Steak 'n Shake.

https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/19149324_1776257052391194_7548335892261251790_n.jp g?_nc_cat=108&ccb=3&_nc_sid=825194&_nc_ohc=f339eNCJ1QsAX-CwTs2&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=415a78cb3430605f1611a75bd29a3e40&oe=6056EF2F

[Stu from NYC]

Except for reverse mortgages which have been pitched by the likes of Tom Selleck and Henry Winkler to gullible seniors over the age of 62.

It just "Depends" (another mostly senior product) on what is being marketed.

Do not understand why anyone in their right mind would buy a product pitched by a hollywood star?