Twirly guy at Spanish Springs

[Bjeanj]

Anyone know the story with the man that is at SS square during the entertainment?

He usually wears a bandana on his head and twirls around the square with his arms outspread. Tonight he’s waving a baton around and yelling. He’s harmless, but I wondered who he is/ what his story is.

Anyone? No crude or rude comments, please.

[EdFNJ]

Here's about 80 posts all about him and others. This one is a few weeks old. Enjoy. (there's probably 5 or 6 other threads as well)

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/do-you-enjoy-certain-dancers-brownwood-324726/?highlight=bandana

[Michael G.]

Anyone know the story with the man that is at SS square during the entertainment?

He usually wears a bandana on his head and twirls around the square with his arms outspread. Tonight he’s waving a baton around and yelling. He’s harmless, but I wondered who he is/ what his story is.

Anyone? No crude or rude comments, please.

That would be me when I forget to take my meds.........:eek:

[Skivvy]

Anyone know the story with the man that is at SS square during the entertainment?

He usually wears a bandana on his head and twirls around the square with his arms outspread. Tonight he’s waving a baton around and yelling. He’s harmless, but I wondered who he is/ what his story is.

Anyone? No crude or rude comments, please.

Watched him chase everyone out of the square on Thursday. He was much louder than usual. He was also screaming at a guy, I think because the guy didn’t like his screaming. I’m surprised The Villages are allowing him to scream like that. Seems to be driving people out of Spanish Springs town square. Or maybe they like seeing the square empty. Makes it easier to justify apartments.

[Davonu]

Watched him chase everyone out of the square on Thursday. He was much louder than usual. He was also screaming at a guy, I think because the guy didn’t like his screaming. I’m surprised The Villages are allowing him to scream like that. Seems to be driving people out of Spanish Springs town square. Or maybe they like seeing the square empty. Makes it easier to justify apartments.
Yeah. His dancing around is lame but tolerable. But his screaming!!?!! Totally crosses the line.

It’s not unusual for him to startle people. And waving that baton around…I think an injury could happen.

[Dana1963]

watched him chase everyone out of the square on thursday. He was much louder than usual. He was also screaming at a guy, i think because the guy didn’t like his screaming. I’m surprised the villages are allowing him to scream like that. Seems to be driving people out of spanish springs town square. Or maybe they like seeing the square empty. Makes it easier to justify apartments.
bingo

[SickofSnow]

Here's about 80 posts all about him and others. This one is a few weeks old. Enjoy. (there's probably 5 or 6 other threads as well)

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/do-you-enjoy-certain-dancers-brownwood-324726/?highlight=bandana
Is the "Spinning Cowboy" at Brownwood the same one that is being referred to at SS?

[JMintzer]

Makes it easier to justify apartments.

Not this again...

[Chi-Town]

My antennae go up when the baton guy is around. He appears to be straddling a thin line between quirky and batsh!te crazy.

[MrFlorida]

We steer clear of him, there are a few others like him around.

[Babubhat]

Robert Dinero needs to call for Mr. Happy

[Two Bills]

My antennae go up when the baton guy is around. He appears to be straddling a thin line between quirky and batsh!te crazy.

I think the latter opinion is nearer the mark!

[fdpaq0580]

Anyone know the story with the man that is at SS square during the entertainment?

He usually wears a bandana on his head and twirls around the square with his arms outspread. Tonight he’s waving a baton around and yelling. He’s harmless, but I wondered who he is/ what his story is.

Anyone? No crude or rude comments, please.

Twirling around with arms outspread?? Maybe he is a Dervish and this is his form of prayer.
I've never seen him, (if I hit a square it will be Brownwood), so I can't be sure. Others seem to think him crazy. If this is the case, he may have someone that brings him, or he may reside close enough to walk to the square. Also, if he is brandishing a weapon, baton, cane or other form of club, the police may need to get involved for everyone's protection, his included.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Twirling around with arms outspread?? Maybe he is a Dervish and this is his form of prayer.
I've never seen him, (if I hit a square it will be Brownwood), so I can't be sure. Others seem to think him crazy. If this is the case, he may have someone that brings him, or he may reside close enough to walk to the square. Also, if he is brandishing a weapon, baton, cane or other form of club, the police may need to get involved for everyone's protection, his included.

It's a conductor's baton. A slim bone reed around 15" long and thinner than the average twig. It can't hurt anyone and would likely break in half if he tried slapping it on a rock. It was a gift from one of the patrons of the town squares, when they saw him pretending to conduct the band without one.

I believe his name is Neil (someone mentioned it in the other thread). He's completely and entirely harmless. He isn't on drugs, and doesn't drink booze at all. He carries a backpack with a 1-gallon jug of water in it, which he drinks from throughout his time there, which averages around 1.5 hours in an entire night. He does screech when he's grokking the music, usually to the beat (THREE TWO ONE!) and sometimes without words, just noise. It's jarring but most people who are regulars there are used to it.

While a few people complain, most people either a) tolerate it, or b) are cheered on by HIS enthusiasm and in awe of the fact that he can maintain all that movement without keeling over.

He's also a nice guy in general, and if you ever attempted to talk to him, he'd usually be happy to have a conversation with you. He also accepts elbow-bumps of greeting, being mindful of social distancing and not masking.

He also sweats profusely after he's been dancing for awhile, so it looks icky but it's really all just sweat.

He says he comes to dance as his primary form of exercise, it keeps him healthy. I think he's terrific. We call him Backpack Man.

[Babubhat]

Thought the police always around the squares. A visit from them may change his tune. Take video evidence

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Thought the police always around the squares. A visit from them may change his tune. Take video evidence

There's usually a Community Watch or Police presence. The guy isn't doing anything illegal, or even anything wrong. He's just twirling around. He's not homeless, he's not a vagrant, he's not begging anything from anyone, he's not touching anyone (other than the previously-mentioned elbow-bump, which is the current societal equivalent of a handshake or a high-five).

Maybe y'all autta try some scream therapy yourselves, and loosen up a bit.

[fdpaq0580]

It's a conductor's baton. A slim bone reed around 15" long and thinner than the average twig. It can't hurt anyone and would likely break in half if he tried slapping it on a rock. It was a gift from one of the patrons of the town squares, when they saw him pretending to conduct the band without one.

I believe his name is Neil (someone mentioned it in the other thread). He's completely and entirely harmless. He isn't on drugs, and doesn't drink booze at all. He carries a backpack with a 1-gallon jug of water in it, which he drinks from throughout his time there, which averages around 1.5 hours in an entire night. He does screech when he's grokking the music, usually to the beat (THREE TWO ONE!) and sometimes without words, just noise. It's jarring but most people who are regulars there are used to it.

While a few people complain, most people either a) tolerate it, or b) are cheered on by HIS enthusiasm and in awe of the fact that he can maintain all that movement without keeling over.

He's also a nice guy in general, and if you ever attempted to talk to him, he'd usually be happy to have a conversation with you. He also accepts elbow-bumps of greeting, being mindful of social distancing and not masking.

He also sweats profusely after he's been dancing for awhile, so it looks icky but it's really all just sweat.

He says he comes to dance as his primary form of exercise, it keeps him healthy. I think he's terrific. We call him Backpack Man.

Sounds as if he may not be "wacko", just, ah, enthusiastic?
One thought. I used to have a conductors baton. They can give quite a swat without braking, and with a stabbing motion, intentional or accidentally, could easily take out an eye or penetrate body tissue (think brain or heart or lung). Potentially quite lethal even if not thought of as a weapon.
Enjoy his "dancing", but keep your distance.

[JMintzer]

Sounds as if he may not be "wacko", just, ah, enthusiastic?
One thought. I used to have a conductors baton. They can give quite a swat without braking, and with a stabbing motion, intentional or accidentally, could easily take out an eye or penetrate body tissue (think brain or heart or lung). Potentially quite lethal even if not thought of as a weapon.
Enjoy his "dancing", but keep your distance.

Oh, Lord...:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Sounds as if he may not be "wacko", just, ah, enthusiastic?
One thought. I used to have a conductors baton. They can give quite a swat without braking, and with a stabbing motion, intentional or accidentally, could easily take out an eye or penetrate body tissue (think brain or heart or lung). Potentially quite lethal even if not thought of as a weapon.
Enjoy his "dancing", but keep your distance.

He's enthusiastic, AND he could stand a bit of social filtering skills. But nah he and his baton are harmless. He doesn't point it at anyone or anything like that. He literally pretends to direct the band with it, as any conductor would. He stands in a spot where there aren't any dancers, faces the band, and moves the baton the way a conductor would. And then he continues his dance, with the baton and himself safely away from anyone's body.

[JMintzer]

He's enthusiastic, AND he could stand a bit of social filtering skills. But nah he and his baton are harmless. He doesn't point it at anyone or anything like that. He literally pretends to direct the band with it, as any conductor would. He stands in a spot where there aren't any dancers, faces the band, and moves the baton the way a conductor would. And then he continues his dance, with the baton and himself safely away from anyone's body.

I just did a Google search on "Conductor's Baton Injuries" and came up with zippo...

I have to agree with OBB...

He may be annoying, but he's harmless...

[fdpaq0580]

Oh, Lord...:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

My response to OBB seems to have struck a negative cord with you. Because OBB seems to paint twirly guy as harmless if misunderstood, I wanted not sound too judgemental, but still warn of potential serious accidents.
I have seen far too many accidents caused by well meaning or thoughtless adult or children.
So, would you mind explaining your response to me. I'm not wanting to fight, I just want to understand what you were trying to tell me.
Thanks

[JMintzer]

My response to OBB seems to have struck a negative cord with you. Because OBB seems to paint twirly guy as harmless if misunderstood, I wanted not sound too judgemental, but still warn of potential serious accidents.
I have seen far too many accidents caused by well meaning or thoughtless adult or children.
So, would you mind explaining your response to me. I'm not wanting to fight, I just want to understand what you were trying to tell me.
Thanks

Because this guy has been discussed (and bashed) ad nauseam...

Have you ever even seen the guy? Those who have say he's not a threat to anyone...

[Gpsma]

Because this guy has been discussed (and bashed) ad nauseam...

Have you ever even seen the guy? Those who have say he's not a threat to anyone...

Im sure he is not.
Done with the squares years ago, same pathetic third rate entertainment, done with the 1970s line dancers, done with all the disco queens too.
Bit if you enjoy it..fine...probably never had entertainment in your prior location.

But...the man is enjoying himself and he has every right to be there.

Just like up north...all the Jesus preachers could jump on the subway or railroad car and scream that the lord will be our saviour.

Yes...he can scream his mouth off...but come near me...id consider him a threat. Probably isnt dangerous but who knows

But he enjoys the squares....and the squares at the squares.

[fdpaq0580]

Because this guy has been discussed (and bashed) ad nauseam...

Have you ever even seen the guy? Those who have say he's not a threat to anyone...

I don't frequent SS, so have not seen him. I have seen special needs individuals who, thru no fault of their own, can, and sometimes will become disruptive and, on occasion, even dangerous to themselves and others.
As to my pointing out the potential dangers of the baton, I never said there were recorded injuries or deaths, just that, if handled inappropriately accidents can happen.
Going back to what I said earlier, enjoy his performance (or not) but keep a safe distance Incase he loses control.
And, thanks for coming back to me on this. Frankly, sometimes emojis confuse me more than enlighten me. Yes, I am pretty dense at times.

[JMintzer]

I don't frequent SS, so have not seen him. I have seen special needs individuals who, thru no fault of their own, can, and sometimes will become disruptive and, on occasion, even dangerous to themselves and others.
As to my pointing out the potential dangers of the baton, I never said there were recorded injuries or deaths, just that, if handled inappropriately accidents can happen.
Going back to what I said earlier, enjoy his performance (or not) but keep a safe distance Incase he loses control.
And, thanks for coming back to me on this. Frankly, sometimes emojis confuse me more than enlighten me. Yes, I am pretty dense at times.

So you know nothing about him except what you've read... Cool...

[JMintzer]

Im sure he is not.
Done with the squares years ago, same pathetic third rate entertainment, done with the 1970s line dancers, done with all the disco queens too.
Bit if you enjoy it..fine...probably never had entertainment in your prior location.

But...the man is enjoying himself and he has every right to be there.

Just like up north...all the Jesus preachers could jump on the subway or railroad car and scream that the lord will be our saviour.

Yes...he can scream his mouth off...but come near me...id consider him a threat. Probably isnt dangerous but who knows

But he enjoys the squares....and the squares at the squares.

I'd wager you've never seen him, either...

I've been to the Squares for entertainment a grand total of 3 times...

So please, spare me your "insightful analysis" of my life, needs and wants...

And nice to know you think yourself better than those who DO enjoy them... :ohdear:

[Altavia]

The audience performers are just part of the charm of the squares.

[fdpaq0580]

So you know nothing about him except what you've read... Cool...

True. With the possible exception of my posts, I saw everything from " he is dangerous", obnoxious, disorderly, screaming at people and chasing them out of the square to he is sweet, gentle, friendly, fun to watch, totally harmless. If I remember my first post here, I was,in a way, trying to find out what gives, who is right and could he be harmful with his baton waving around. In any case my "two cents worth" on this thread is actually worth less than two cents. After all, what is an opinion really worth and who says you have to know anything to have one. At least it kept me out of major trouble for a few hours.
Good luck on figuring out what to do about Twirly Guy.

[manaboutown]

Sounds as if he may not be "wacko", just, ah, enthusiastic?
One thought. I used to have a conductors baton. They can give quite a swat without braking, and with a stabbing motion, intentional or accidentally, could easily take out an eye or penetrate body tissue (think brain or heart or lung). Potentially quite lethal even if not thought of as a weapon.
Enjoy his "dancing", but keep your distance.

Jean-Baptiste Lully: the Baroque composer who died of gangrene after stabbing his... - Classic FM (https://www.classicfm.com/discover-music/periods-genres/baroque/jean-baptiste-lully-died-gangrene-conducting-staff/)

Conductor Stabs Himself As Baton Breaks in Mexico - The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/1975/03/25/archives/conductor-stabs-himself-as-baton-breaks-in-mexico.html)

[JMintzer]

True. With the possible exception of my posts, I saw everything from " he is dangerous", obnoxious, disorderly, screaming at people and chasing them out of the square

Odd, I saw none of that... Other than obnoxious...

But if that were a criteria for expulsion... Well... We might BOTH be in trouble! :icon_wink:

[manaboutown]

True. With the possible exception of my posts, I saw everything from " he is dangerous", obnoxious, disorderly, screaming at people and chasing them out of the square to he is sweet, gentle, friendly, fun to watch, totally harmless. If I remember my first post here, I was,in a way, trying to find out what gives, who is right and could he be harmful with his baton waving around. In any case my "two cents worth" on this thread is actually worth less than two cents. After all, what is an opinion really worth and who says you have to know anything to have one. At least it kept me out of major trouble for a few hours.
Good luck on figuring out what to do about Twirly Guy.

Does he annoy the community?

"823.01 Nuisances; penalty.—All nuisances that tend to annoy the community, injure the health of the citizens in general, or corrupt the public morals are misdemeanors of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.083, except that a violation of s. 823.10 is a felony of the third degree.
History.—s. 47, Feb. 10, 1832; RS 2704; GS 3680; RGS 5624; CGL 7817; s. 932, ch. 71-136; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 66, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-24; s. 41, ch. 75-298; s. 18, ch. 83-214; s. 3, ch. 2001-57."

From: Chapter 823 - 2018 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2018/Chapter823/All)

[JMintzer]

Jean-Baptiste Lully: the Baroque composer who died of gangrene after stabbing his... - Classic FM (https://www.classicfm.com/discover-music/periods-genres/baroque/jean-baptiste-lully-died-gangrene-conducting-staff/)

Conductor Stabs Himself As Baton Breaks in Mexico - The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/1975/03/25/archives/conductor-stabs-himself-as-baton-breaks-in-mexico.html)

LOL! I I did see that... But it wasn't exactly a "conductor's baton", it was a large wooden staff, with a metal spike on the bottom, that he pounded on the ground.

He stabbed himself in the foot and died of gangrene... Right up my alley!

[asianthree]

My response to OBB seems to have struck a negative cord with you. Because OBB seems to paint twirly guy as harmless if misunderstood, I wanted not sound too judgemental, but still warn of potential serious accidents.
I have seen far too many accidents caused by well meaning or thoughtless adult or children.
So, would you mind explaining your response to me. I'm not wanting to fight, I just want to understand what you were trying to tell me.
Thanks

You must be in the medical field, LEO, or firefighter, to see “far too many accidents, caused by well meaning or thoughtless adults or children”.
My average can be 1 to 5 trauma per night, sometimes resulting in death, but, after 40 plus years, one sometimes never gets used to it. You seem comfortable with so many injuries on your plate.

[fdpaq0580]

Odd, I saw none of that... Other than obnoxious...

But if that were a criteria for expulsion... Well... We might BOTH be in trouble! :icon_wink:

Good grief, you've been watching me.😄😄😄😄

[fdpaq0580]

Jean-Baptiste Lully: the Baroque composer who died of gangrene after stabbing his... - Classic FM (https://www.classicfm.com/discover-music/periods-genres/baroque/jean-baptiste-lully-died-gangrene-conducting-staff/)

Conductor Stabs Himself As Baton Breaks in Mexico - The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/1975/03/25/archives/conductor-stabs-himself-as-baton-breaks-in-mexico.html)

Thank you. Just goes to show, things happen.

[fdpaq0580]

You must be in the medical field, LEO, or firefighter, to see “far too many accidents, caused by well meaning or thoughtless adults or children”.
My average can be 1 to 5 trauma per night, sometimes resulting in death, but, after 40 plus years, one sometimes never gets used to it. You seem comfortable with so many injuries on your plate.

In service and civilian life, work and recreation I've seen more than enough. And, if I live a little longer I expect I'll see or hear of more. But my bet is that in your 40 years you have seen far more than I. When at some gathering or event and they honor veterans they should always,IMHO, include medical professionals, police, fire and first responders. I never get used to injury or death. But I try not to let it show. But you look at the injuries on your plate. Your plate would look like a buffet compared to my dessert plate, I'm sure. Let me, veteran, thank you for your service in the medical field

[dhsmith]

Saw him in Publix shopping today and he seemed completely normal to me.

[spd2918]

4 or 5 months ago my wife and I were walking on the sidewalk in SS when this man abruptly spun and flung his arms out. My wife was looking away and would have been struck by him had I not stopped her. That would have resulted in me getting in trouble for assault. Later we heard him screaming over the band music.

Later the man was quietly talking to the police. That showed me he chooses when to flail/ scream and when not to.

I find flailing in a crowd and screaming to be disorderly conduct. I'd like to see him warned and then cited

[Davonu]

4 or 5 months ago my wife and I were walking on the sidewalk in SS when this man abruptly spun and flung his arms out. My wife was looking away and would have been struck by him had I not stopped her. That would have resulted in me getting in trouble for assault. Later we heard him screaming over the band music.

Later the man was quietly talking to the police. That showed me he chooses when to flail/ scream and when not to.

I find flailing in a crowd and screaming to be disorderly conduct. I'd like to see him warned and then cited
Totally agree. There is no doubt there is the possibility of him causing injury...over and above his yelling being very annoying.

[tophcfa]

It all comes back to Caddyshack. Just get Carl the greens keeper to slice the back of his hamstring and his dancing and flaying about days will be over : )

[Road-Runner]

I just did a Google search on "Conductor's Baton Injuries" and came up with zippo...

They were all too common back in the 1800's when live concert bands were more prevalent. John Philip Sousa killed or maimed dozens during his career with his baton. Of course, all of this was before the internet so no one hears about it now...

[JMintzer]

They were all too common back in the 1800's when live concert bands were more prevalent. John Philip Sousa killed or maimed dozens during his career with his baton. Of course, all of this was before the internet so no one hears about it now...

https://c.tenor.com/9Dt5LeGXK8wAAAAd/makes-sense-thats-reasonable.gif

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Thank you. Just goes to show, things happen.

Well yeah. Conductors should not be walking around with spiked clubs. That's the take-away there.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Saw him in Publix shopping today and he seemed completely normal to me.

I think he just goes to escape the mundane and flow into the music for a couple hours every day. I do the same thing too when I'm there, though I don't twirl or scream to the beat. But I get out there and dance by myself, not really caring what anyone thinks of it. I'm not there for them. I'm there for me.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

They were all too common back in the 1800's when live concert bands were more prevalent. John Philip Sousa killed or maimed dozens during his career with his baton. Of course, all of this was before the internet so no one hears about it now...

I just tried several google searches to find ANYTHING about this, even something that debunks it.

I tried
John Philip Sousa violence
John Philip Sousa maim
John Philip Sousa kill
Did John Philip Sousa assault anyone
John Philip Sousa baton

And got NOTHING.

Surely if this was a big scandal in the 1800's, it'd be somewhere on the first page of search results by now.

[Davonu]

Anybody who thinks there is zero chance of injury to somebody has never seen folks at the square suddenly jerk around at the sound of his blood curdling scream as he thrusts his arms out into the space around him with baton in hand.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Anybody who thinks there is zero chance of injury to somebody has never seen folks at the square suddenly jerk around at the sound of his blood curdling scream as he thrusts his arms out into the space around him with baton in hand.

For reference and context, this is what his baton looks like:

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31knEfbNJtL._AC_SL1001_.jpg

He doesn't thrust his arms out into the space around him with baton in hand, as you imagine it (and if you had actually seen it, you would know that). His scream isn't a blood curdling scream. It's sort of a Sam Kinison shriek, in 3 short sharp bursts 2-4 times during songs that he particularly enjoys. He moves around the square so no one is subjected to it the entire time he's there, and if you're on the other side of the square when he does it, you might not hear it at all.

When he "uses" his baton, he stands still near the stage. He faces the stage. And he pretends to conduct the band with just a few swipes of the baton immediately in front of him, just like a conductor would. He's not "aiming" it, he's not "thrusting" it - I mean have you ever actually been to a live performance of an orchestra? That's what he does. But only for a few phrases of any given song, and then he goes back to steady twirling/dancing around the square.

It's really not a big deal, except to people who want to find a reason to be annoyed.

[Road-Runner]

I just tried several google searches to find ANYTHING about this, even something that debunks it.

I tried
John Philip Sousa violence
John Philip Sousa maim
John Philip Sousa kill
Did John Philip Sousa assault anyone
John Philip Sousa baton

And got NOTHING.

Surely if this was a big scandal in the 1800's, it'd be somewhere on the first page of search results by now.

Sorry, this was my attempt at satire?:oops:

[CWGUY]

Sorry, this was my attempt at satire?:oops:

:welcome: You're fairly new here..... you'll learn most don't recognize or understand sarcasm here. I thought it was funny as hell. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Davonu]

For reference and context, this is what his baton looks like:

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31knEfbNJtL._AC_SL1001_.jpg

He doesn't thrust his arms out into the space around him with baton in hand, as you imagine it (and if you had actually seen it, you would know that). His scream isn't a blood curdling scream. It's sort of a Sam Kinison shriek, in 3 short sharp bursts 2-4 times during songs that he particularly enjoys. He moves around the square so no one is subjected to it the entire time he's there, and if you're on the other side of the square when he does it, you might not hear it at all.

When he "uses" his baton, he stands still near the stage. He faces the stage. And he pretends to conduct the band with just a few swipes of the baton immediately in front of him, just like a conductor would. He's not "aiming" it, he's not "thrusting" it - I mean have you ever actually been to a live performance of an orchestra? That's what he does. But only for a few phrases of any given song, and then he goes back to steady twirling/dancing around the square.

It's really not a big deal, except to people who want to find a reason to be annoyed.
Wow. I’ll wager I’ve witnessed him at the squares more than you have.

He often does what you describe. But he also mixes in exactly what I’ve described. The fact that it’s intermittent and unpredictable is the problem.

Usually it’s not a “big deal”. But if a person happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, it will become a bid deal for them.

And again, the screaming IS blood curdling. That alone turns his antics from harmless to very annoying and startling.

Acknowledging the possibility of a problem is common sense for most people, unless they go out of their way to ignore reality.

[Road-Runner]

:welcome: You're fairly new here..... you'll learn most don't recognize or understand sarcasm here. I thought it was funny as hell. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

It's tough on a blog like this, anyone who knows me knows to never take me seriously no matter what I'm saying or how believable I'm saying it!

[fdpaq0580]

Wow. I’ll wager I’ve witnessed him at the squares more than you have.

He often does what you describe. But he also mixes in exactly what I’ve described. The fact that it’s intermittent and unpredictable is the problem.

Usually it’s not a “big deal”. But if a person happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, it will become a bid deal for them.

And again, the screaming IS blood curdling. That alone turns his antics from harmless to very annoying and startling.

Acknowledging the possibility of a problem is common sense for most people, unless they go out of their way to ignore reality.

Just because it hasn't happened yet doesn't mean it can't or won't. And the scream or shout is, apparently, very startling to many. And the picture of conductors baton looks like the one I used to have. Giant bamboo needle. Capable of causing injuries, but not normally thought of as a weapon, like a letter opener.

[asianthree]

Don’t you love the posts that have never witnessed his actions at a square are the ones who want to inflict the most harm?

[JMintzer]

Sorry, this was my attempt at satire?:oops:

Don't apologize... It was blatantly obvious... AND funny!

[JMintzer]

Don’t you love the posts that have never witnessed his actions at a square are the ones who want to inflict the most harm?

It's certainly is odd...

[JMintzer]

I just tried several google searches to find ANYTHING about this, even something that debunks it.

I tried
John Philip Sousa violence
John Philip Sousa maim
John Philip Sousa kill
Did John Philip Sousa assault anyone
John Philip Sousa baton

And got NOTHING.

Surely if this was a big scandal in the 1800's, it'd be somewhere on the first page of search results by now.

Please tell me you're kidding...

[davem4616]

he's enjoying himself doing his thing...might not be everyone's idea of a good time, but he's having fun

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Wow. I’ll wager I’ve witnessed him at the squares more than you have.

He often does what you describe. But he also mixes in exactly what I’ve described. The fact that it’s intermittent and unpredictable is the problem.

Usually it’s not a “big deal”. But if a person happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, it will become a bid deal for them.

And again, the screaming IS blood curdling. That alone turns his antics from harmless to very annoying and startling.

Acknowledging the possibility of a problem is common sense for most people, unless they go out of their way to ignore reality.

There's a possibility of a problem even without Mark (I found out today that's his name, not Neil). There are dozens of drunk old people in the square every night, with two tiki bars available for them so they don't even have to go into a building to get their drinks. I'd be more concerned about them than I am of Mark.

I've actually watched some guy try to pick a fight with a woman who had returned to her seat from dancing, to find the guy sitting in her chair. Her pocketbook was under the chair, her drink had been placed on the chair and he took it off and put it on the ground next to her pocketbook. She was with a party of three, and they all came back with only two chairs available and HER stuff under the chair the guy claimed for himself. And he tried giving her a hard time about it, saying it was a free country and she shouldn't have gotten up if she didn't want anyone sitting in HIS seat.

People like that are much more likely to cause trouble than Mark.

[Tommyc6]

Try talking to him he’s a very nice guy.

[fdpaq0580]

Don’t you love the posts that have never witnessed his actions at a square are the ones who want to inflict the most harm?

To my knowledge, I'm the only one who has actually not witnessed his "dancing". I read the posts. I saw two sides. One side made him sound "potentially" a danger to himself or others. The other side ( possibly family, friends,) just folks more tolerant of what others see as unusual behavior.
I take exception to your comment that I, or anyone, "are the ones who [B]want to inflict the most harm[B]. If you read that a shooter was at some village and knew others were going there, wouldn't you want to warn them of what you deem potentially harmful?
No one here is trying to inflict harm. We only want to warn others to be vigilant in that area since, as the news might say, we have reports of an individual acting in an erratic and possibly hazardous manner. That's all. No one wishes him harm, and no one wishes harm to anyone else.

[coffeebean]

he's enjoying himself doing his thing...might not be everyone's idea of a good time, but he's having fun

He may be having fun but I find his antics creepy as all hell. Hubby and I stay clear of him. Something if off kilter with him, IMHO. No normal, self respecting individual acts that way in public. Again.....my opinion.

[D&BSmith]

He may be having fun but I find his antics creepy as all hell. Hubby and I stay clear of him. Something if off kilter with him, IMHO. No normal, self respecting individual acts that way in public. Again.....my opinion.

Yes, his name is Mark. He has AS, highly functional. Spoke with him a number of times. I agree that sometimes his screams catch me off guard. As for the baton, yup, weapon of mass destruction for sure.

Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

[asianthree]

Yes, his name is Mark. He has AS, highly functional. Spoke with him a number of times. I agree that sometimes his screams catch me off guard. As for the baton, yup, weapon of mass destruction for sure.

Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

Thank you for your post. Maybe some can understand that Mark has a Disability, that he try’s to enjoy his life the best he can.

But then again some think of you are not the norm, you should not be in public, as some have stated. If Mark scares you, it’s a big square, you have your space he should have his.

Hoping posters will take a little more patience, after all, a Disability may be in your future. Hopefully someone will be kind to you.

[JSR22]

Thank you for your post. Maybe some can understand that Mark has a Disability, that he try’s to enjoy his life the best he can.

But then again some think of you are not the norm, you should not be in public, as some have stated. If Mark scares you, it’s a big square, you have your space he should have his.

Hoping posters will take a little more patience, after all, a Disability may be in your future. Hopefully someone will be kind to you.

Thank you for a thoughtful post. I 100% agree with you.

[coffeebean]

Yes, his name is Mark. He has AS, highly functional. Spoke with him a number of times. I agree that sometimes his screams catch me off guard. As for the baton, yup, weapon of mass destruction for sure.

Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

Thank you for the information about Mark. I just knew there was a dysfunction with him.

[Bjeanj]

Yes, his name is Mark. He has AS, highly functional. Spoke with him a number of times. I agree that sometimes his screams catch me off guard. As for the baton, yup, weapon of mass destruction for sure.

Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

Thank you. This is all I wanted to know in my original question.:ohdear::ohdear:

[fdpaq0580]

Yes, his name is Mark. He has AS, highly functional. Spoke with him a number of times. I agree that sometimes his screams catch me off guard. As for the baton, yup, weapon of mass destruction for sure.

Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

Thank you for your post. If your post had been at the beginning it would have ended a lot of curiosity and confusion.

[spd2918]

Disabled or not, he can control his screaming and the wild swinging of his arms. He did so while talking to the police.

Just because he may be disabled does not mean he can behave wildly. Had he knocked my wife over that night, believe me, I would not view him as a victim.

[JSR22]

Disabled or not, he can control his screaming and the wild swinging of his arms. He did so while talking to the police.

Just because he may be disabled does not mean he can behave wildly. Had he knocked my wife over that night, believe me, I would not view him as a victim.

He has not knocked anyone over. Just give him space.

[JMintzer]

Disabled or not, he can control his screaming and the wild swinging of his arms. He did so while talking to the police.

Just because he may be disabled does not mean he can behave wildly. Had he knocked my wife over that night, believe me, I would not view him as a victim.

I've almost been knocked over by children running around. Would you have treated them the same if they had bumped into your wife?

Me? I laughed it off... I was more concerned about not hurting them...

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Disabled or not, he can control his screaming and the wild swinging of his arms. He did so while talking to the police.

Just because he may be disabled does not mean he can behave wildly. Had he knocked my wife over that night, believe me, I would not view him as a victim.

He is not doing any "wild swinging." It just isn't happening. It's controlled and intentional, and not swinging at all. Tell your wife to pay closer attention to her surroundings next time and she won't have to worry about being knocked over?

Mark pays VERY close attention to his surroundings, that's why he hasn't ever knocked anyone over.

I thought his name was Neil and learned it was Mark yesterday, as I posted. You know how? Here's how: I was coming out from behind one parking lot after picking up a take-out order, and heading to the other parking lot where I could cut through to the golf cart bridge. I saw him turning on his way to the square and immediately recognized him. I called out "Is your name Neil?" He said "What's your name?" I told him. He said "My name is Mark." He repeated my name, with an exaggerated Spanish accent, and then asked me in perfect Spanish if my name was Spanish, and if I spoke Spanish. I told him no, but I do speak "Spanglish" (which is a mix of English and Spanish, somewhat like Yiddish is a mix of Hebrew, German, and a few Slavic dialects).

He asked which way I was going. I told him, and he came over and said he'd enjoy getting a ride just down the block. I obliged, and he hopped into my golf cart. He told me how brave I was for allowing him into the cart. I told him no - I'm not brave, I recognized him, I knew he was "just another person" and nothing I needed to be brave about, and it was not a big deal to let him occupy an empty seat in my golf cart for a half-block of travel in the direction I was heading anyway.

He thanked me, I stopped the cart, and let him out where I was going to turn. And - it made ME feel awesome to have had the privilege of the moment when I could do a momentary kindness for someone else - with no expectation of reward.

It's called being a civilized human being. Some of you should try it some time.

[Babubhat]

Behavior is unacceptable regardless. Inform local security

[JSR22]

Behavior is unacceptable regardless. Inform local security

He is not harming anyone. The unacceptable behavior is the Grandchildren running and bumping into the dancers. They are out of control.

[manaboutown]

He just ain't right. His physical and vocal actions constitute a public nuisance. It also ain't right that he is allowed to destroy the peaceful enjoyment of so many others. Why should his startlingly obnoxious behavior be allowed to take precedence over the needs of others?

[spd2918]

Maybe my earlier post was missed. He was on the sidewalk in Spanish Springs on the perimeter of the square in a congested space. He went from no movement to a fast spin with his long arms fully outstretched. He nearly struck my wife who was walking beside me, holding my hand, and looking sideways at the band. That is nothing like grandchildren running around (poor parenting if they are banging into people).

This is not acceptable inside a crowd.

He has control over himself and he chooses to act out for attention.
He cannot use a supposed mental condition as an excuse to act this way or scream in public.

[SFSkol]

It's a conductor's baton. A slim bone reed around 15" long and thinner than the average twig. It can't hurt anyone and would likely break in half if he tried slapping it on a rock. It was a gift from one of the patrons of the town squares, when they saw him pretending to conduct the band without one.

I believe his name is Neil (someone mentioned it in the other thread). He's completely and entirely harmless. He isn't on drugs, and doesn't drink booze at all. He carries a backpack with a 1-gallon jug of water in it, which he drinks from throughout his time there, which averages around 1.5 hours in an entire night. He does screech when he's grokking the music, usually to the beat (THREE TWO ONE!) and sometimes without words, just noise. It's jarring but most people who are regulars there are used to it.

While a few people complain, most people either a) tolerate it, or b) are cheered on by HIS enthusiasm and in awe of the fact that he can maintain all that movement without keeling over.

He's also a nice guy in general, and if you ever attempted to talk to him, he'd usually be happy to have a conversation with you. He also accepts elbow-bumps of greeting, being mindful of social distancing and not masking.

He also sweats profusely after he's been dancing for awhile, so it looks icky but it's really all just sweat.

He says he comes to dance as his primary form of exercise, it keeps him healthy. I think he's terrific. We call him Backpack Man.

Just another Stranger in a Strange Land. Well said!

[JSR22]

Maybe my earlier post was missed. He was on the sidewalk in Spanish Springs on the perimeter of the square in a congested space. He went from no movement to a fast spin with his long arms fully outstretched. He nearly struck my wife who was walking beside me, holding my hand, and looking sideways at the band. That is nothing like grandchildren running around (poor parenting if they are banging into people).

This is not acceptable inside a crowd.

He has control over himself and he chooses to act out for attention.
He cannot use a supposed mental condition as an excuse to act this way or scream in public.

give him a break. If he knocked into me I would get over it. If my husband assaulted him I would be furious at my husband. My husband knows better then to assault people.

[spd2918]

give him a break. If he knocked into me I would get over it. If my husband assaulted him I would be furious at my husband. My husband knows better then to assault people.

If he spun and hit you in the mouth or dropped you to the ground, I very much doubt you'd just get over it.

Your husband knows not to assault people? So does the man wildly swinging his arms into crowds.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If he spun and hit you in the mouth or dropped you to the ground, I very much doubt you'd just get over it.

Your husband knows not to assault people? So does the man wildly swinging his arms into crowds.

Try and keep up here. I'll type it one word per line for ya:

He
does
not
wildly
swing
his
arms
and
he
has
not
hit
anyone
in
the
mouth
or
dropped
anyone
to
the
ground.


It's a nothingberder. As for people whining about disturbing the peace: he does this while the band is playing. You're talking about a nightly event where crowds of people block out entire portions of the dance area with their group line dancing, paying no never-mind to anyone who might want to be trying to find a space where they can dance as well. You're talking about high-decibel sound coming from electric instruments and amplified voices through big speakers. You're talking about a bunch of drunken old people "stealing" each others' chairs the second the occupant gets up to dance. What "peace" are you even talking about?

[Davonu]

It's a conductor's baton…It can't hurt anyone...
Maybe you’d like to prove that assertion by having someone poke you in the eye with one?

I didn’t think so.

[manaboutown]

give him a break. If he knocked into me I would get over it. If my husband assaulted him I would be furious at my husband. My husband knows better then to assault people.

OK, how many people who behave like him should be tolerated at the squares? 10? 100?

Just imagine what that would be like..

[JSR22]

If he spun and hit you in the mouth or dropped you to the ground, I very much doubt you'd just get over it.

Your husband knows not to assault people? So does the man wildly swinging his arms into crowds.

He has not hit anyone in the mouth and dropped them to the ground. My husband has class.

[JSR22]

OK, how many people who behave like him should be tolerated at the squares? 10? 100?

Just imagine what that would be like..

The sky is not falling. There is one person with Asperger's leave him alone.

[spd2918]

Try and keep up here. I'll type it one word per line for ya:

He
does
not
wildly
swing
his
arms
and
he
has
not
hit
anyone
in
the
mouth
or
dropped
anyone
to
the
ground.


It's a nothingberder. As for people whining about disturbing the peace: he does this while the band is playing. You're talking about a nightly event where crowds of people block out entire portions of the dance area with their group line dancing, paying no never-mind to anyone who might want to be trying to find a space where they can dance as well. You're talking about high-decibel sound coming from electric instruments and amplified voices through big speakers. You're talking about a bunch of drunken old people "stealing" each others' chairs the second the occupant gets up to dance. What "peace" are you even talking about?


I was there and he did.

[JSR22]

I was there and he did.

He is harmless just walk away. Why look for a confrontation?

[manaboutown]

He is harmless just walk away. Why look for a confrontation?

He is a nuisance and should not be tolerated.

[JSR22]

He is a nuisance and should not be tolerated.

Stop he is harmless. Being mean is unkind.

[Davonu]

Stop he is harmless. Being mean is unkind.
No one is being mean or suggesting it. But if you suggest that screaming like a banshee and startling nearby square visitors is harmless, I must disagree.

And for those of you claiming that nobody has witnessed his screaming or baton flailing…have you not read the posts in this thread?

[JMintzer]

If he spun and hit you in the mouth or dropped you to the ground, I very much doubt you'd just get over it.

Your husband knows not to assault people? So does the man wildly swinging his arms into crowds.

If the Queen had balls she'd be King...

If, If, If...

[Marathon Man]

Maybe my earlier post was missed. He was on the sidewalk in Spanish Springs on the perimeter of the square in a congested space. He went from no movement to a fast spin with his long arms fully outstretched. He nearly struck my wife who was walking beside me, holding my hand, and looking sideways at the band. That is nothing like grandchildren running around (poor parenting if they are banging into people).

This is not acceptable inside a crowd.

He has control over himself and he chooses to act out for attention.
He cannot use a supposed mental condition as an excuse to act this way or scream in public.

Since he "nearly" struck your wife, maybe you should "nearly" get upset and not make it a bigger deal than it is. Everyone seems to be saying this. Maybe take the advice?

[Davonu]

Since he "nearly" struck your wife, maybe you should "nearly" get upset and not make it a bigger deal than it is. Everyone seems to be saying this. Maybe take the advice?
Everyone is saying this?

Very selective reading of this thread.

[Two Bills]

If the Queen had balls she'd be King...

If, If, If...

Debatable!

[Bjeanj]

:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[spd2918]

Since he "nearly" struck your wife, maybe you should "nearly" get upset and not make it a bigger deal than it is. Everyone seems to be saying this. Maybe take the advice?

Your use of "nearly" is a little demeaning. I'm sorry if you would not be upset if my wife was struck. It's a big deal to me as I love her very much and I'm glad I prevented it.

People probably are not publicly agreeing with me because they don't want to be labeled as intolerant by the politically correct crowd. Being popular should never be confused with being right.

Just for some background, I very commonly worked with mentally ill / developmentally delayed people in my former life. I never treated them like babies that had no control over their decisions. Yes, many have limitations, but accepting every act they do does them a disservice. Its actually more respectful to expect them to make good decisions.

As stated before, this individual knows his actions are unwelcome, he can control them, and he chooses not to.