Personal Mobility Scooter altercation on nature trails in The Villages

[JRP2TV]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:

[Bogie Shooter]

Seems like a whole lot of effort just because one person acted like a jerk.

[John-US]

bikes and ebikes are not allowed on the nature trails.. before you enter a trail.. it clearly indicates what is allowed.

I would imagine a disability scooter is allowed. however it maybe loud and scare away the nature? I've seen people on cell phones on the nature trails...

Remain calm and pick your battles everyone.. please be kind. this wont last long for many of us.

[JRP2TV]

bikes and ebikes are not allowed on the nature trails.. before you enter a trail.. it clearly indicates what is allowed.

I would imagine a disability scooter is allowed. however it maybe loud and scare away the nature? I've seen people on cell phones on the nature trails...

Remain calm and pick your battles everyone.. please be kind. this wont last long for many of us.

In this area, the trails are designated for walking and biking. E-bikes are used by the hundreds per day. They are not just walking trails in this particular area. There are areas where the nature trails are walking only. This is not one of them. It's the trail running behind Citrus Grove, St Catherine and further north.

The mobility scooters are electric, as are e-bikes. No noise.

[LuvtheVillages]

bikes and ebikes are not allowed on the nature trails.. before you enter a trail.. it clearly indicates what is allowed.

I would imagine a disability scooter is allowed. however it maybe loud and scare away the nature? I've seen people on cell phones on the nature trails...

Remain calm and pick your battles everyone.. please be kind. this wont last long for many of us.

Disability scooters are battery operated. They are NOT noisy.

[Gpsma]

Is the OP the personal mobility rider? If not, did the OP personally witness the incident?

Or is this something that is hearsay?

My guess...just a post without any importance unless it was a personal experience.

Im thinking its all BS.

[JRP2TV]

Is the OP the personal mobility rider? If not, did the OP personally witness the incident?

Or is this something that is hearsay?

My guess...just a post without any importance unless it was a personal experience.

Im thinking its all BS.

It is not hearsay. I was a direct witness to the entire thing. Please don't assume. I only wish I took out my camera to video the male Karen doing the harassing.

Here is what is being said about it on FB.

[Garywt]

I can’t believe that someone thinks so highly of themselves that they have the right to tell anyone to get off a path of any kind. If there is an important issue call the authorities but in this case he did not have a clue. Keep walking and mind your own business. Maybe he should not be walking this the hair across his azz.

[golfing eagles]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:

Wow, unbelievable! That person probably wins jerk of the year (and it's only February). I don't think the Villages needs to post anything, that's what the ADA has already done. Besides, two things are true. 1) you can't legislate human decency with a sign and 2) Anyone who would be that rude and uncaring will ignore the sign anyway

[JRP2TV]

Wow, unbelievable! That person probably wins jerk of the year (and it's only February). I don't think the Villages needs to post anything, that's what the ADA has already done. Besides, two things are true. 1) you can't legislate human decency with a sign and 2) Anyone who would be that rude and uncaring will ignore the sign anyway

You are probably correct on that.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I would say - if the trail accommodates wheelchairs, then it accommodates electric mobility scooters.

[HawkinsGuy]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

[John-US]

ok ok- I was specifically thinking (in my head) of the fenney nature trail and the sharon trail. - I understand now - yes the trails behind citus are all but golf cars. scooters shouldn't be an issue.

[BlueStarAirlines]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

Yes! Take one incident and then lump all people that have absolutely nothing to do with that incident into one large group and call them all bad. I do think you are right though, you should sell and move. You seem like a simple judgmental person that has no problem saying all 130k Villagers are bad because of one person. You are part of the problem. Do better.....

[gbs317]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.
You can not judge all by the actions of a few. If there is a Utopia out there in this world that would be wonderful but there is none that I know of. TV is not perfect but if you are respectful and decent to others you will find more pleasant people than the occasional jerk. We reap what we sow.

[BrianL99]

Is the OP the personal mobility rider? If not, did the OP personally witness the incident?

Or is this something that is hearsay?

My guess...just a post without any importance unless it was a personal experience.

Im thinking its all BS.
I'm with you on this one. The original post on FB, was posted by someone who doesn't seem to exist. The person has (2) blank FB profiles and I spent some time searching online, for a person with the name, without success. I then got into a dialogue with the original poster on FB, when I disputed his contention that Mobility Scooters are allowed, "anywhere people are allowed to walk". That's a gross exaggeration of the ADA.

I don't really have an opinion or enough knowledge of the specifics of that particular trail, but the original post strained credulity.

[toeser]

Just when you assume that some people could not be worse jerks, they surprise you.

[HawkinsGuy]

Yes! Take one incident and then lump all people that have absolutely nothing to do with that incident into one large group and call them all bad. I do think you are right though, you should sell and move. You seem like a simple judgmental person that has no problem saying all 130k Villagers are bad because of one person. You are part of the problem. Do better.....

Never indicted all Villagers. Read post again. Cited to just one individual and stated I might have rethought “that” area, not The Villages. Wonder who could “do better”

[banjobob]

Upset over nothing , I have no issue with those scooters using the trails , walk ,ride and pass them safely, why do we need a written instruction .Who you gonna call?

[thevillages2013]

Well , well I just had an idea (which means the coffee has started taking effect). Think I am going to borrow a mobility scooter and ride that trail a little to see if the a-hole wants to tell me I can’t. What time of day should I go?

[stenteach]

Seems like harassment continues not only of the individual in question, but those on line and others. It comes down to what we were all taught--treat others as you would like to be treated. None of us know the day we may be in that place/condition or whether any of this is fact. However, if one has an issue they can address it kindly with someone and go from there or address those that manage the paths or whatever. Let's end the meanness. Possibly that can start on Talk of The Villages and Nextdoor.
No response necessary and thanks for your kindness.

[Eg_cruz]

It is not hearsay. I was a direct witness to the entire thing. Please don't assume. I only wish I took out my camera to video the male Karen doing the harassing.

Here is what is being said about it on FB.
I truly think people have lost their minds lately. Sorry this happen to someone just trying to enjoy the day. Very shameful

[Petersweeney]

The guy on the scooter was Borat….now you know the whole truth…..

[mrrmauu]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:

Sorry, but I think this whole thing is fabricated. And I love the overreactions such as people claiming they want to back out of a contract because of some hearsay story on FB that was repeated here. I also love the “I’m so sorry this happened to you” posts. The stock scooter photo pulled from the internet on the original FB post and the fake profile referenced in another post are a dead giveaway that this is nothing but a trolling expedition. Nice touch using the scooter as his profile pic in FB. Give me a break.

[golfing eagles]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:

I'm with you on this one. The original post on FB, was posted by someone who doesn't seem to exist. The person has (2) blank FB profiles and I spent some time searching online, for a person with the name, without success. I then got into a dialogue with the original poster on FB, when I disputed his contention that Mobility Scooters are allowed, "anywhere people are allowed to walk". That's a gross exaggeration of the ADA.

I don't really have an opinion or enough knowledge of the specifics of that particular trail, but the original post strained credulity.

So, now who should we believe??????? Looks like a coin toss:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[mrrmauu]

Well , well I just had an idea (which means the coffee has started taking effect). Think I am going to borrow a mobility scooter and ride that trail a little to see if the a-hole wants to tell me I can’t. What time of day should I go?

You may be riding it forever because I highly doubt this ever happened.

[thevillages2013]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

If the turnpike noise didn’t stop you from purchasing don’t let this little issue make you have second thoughts. Isolated incident if it’s true

[Ele201]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live. The truth is, there are rude jerks wherever you go. Thankfully there aren’t that many of them. And yes, I’ve witnessed some jerks in The Villages, especially after spending many nights out on the Squares. It’s not always the friendliest town in America!

[G.R.I.T.S.]

Well said. What a jerk. Fools aren’t aware that mobility scooters are for those who cannot walk and are allowed wherever walking is allowed. Next time, keep moving…like you’re deaf too. Can’t fix stoooopid.

[Priebehouse]

They are probably the same people who go into the grocery store with their dogs in the basket of the cart with wet feet, etc.

[HawkinsGuy]

If the turnpike noise didn’t stop you from purchasing don’t let this little issue make you have second thoughts. Isolated incident if it’s true

I imagine, if true, it’s isolated. The issue with me is my 95 year old, but active, mom needs her scooter for mobility. My concern was when I have her visit, she would love the nature trails in the Southern areas. I would not want her to encounter someone so foolish. My thought was maybe I should have considered a resale in the northern areas. I was second guessing my southern location decision, not The Villages. Perhaps I stated that inartfully. Anyway, I have read about the noise and potential odor from the water treatment facility. If it turns out intolerable, we can look for another place In The Villages. We are looking forward to our move.

[Malsua]

Sorry, but I think this whole thing is fabricated. And I love the overreactions such as people claiming they want to back out of a contract because of some hearsay story on FB that was repeated here. I also love the “I’m so sorry this happened to you” posts. The stock scooter photo pulled from the internet on the original FB post and the fake profile referenced in another post are a dead giveaway that this is nothing but a trolling expedition. Nice touch using the scooter as his profile pic in FB. Give me a break.

I think you're right, although there is a Jay Lansing that lives way down south in Fenney.

Up here in the cold white north near Spanish springs, there's a well known Vet who rides his scooter all over the place and no one gives it a second thought beyond perhaps a wave.

I would think that anyone who is barking about a mobility scooter is probably barking at the moon several days a month.

[golfing eagles]

I imagine, if true, it’s isolated. The issue with me is my 95 year old, but active, mom needs her scooter for mobility. My concern was when I have her visit, she would love the nature trails in the Southern areas. I would not want her to encounter someone so foolish. My thought was maybe I should have considered a resale in the northern areas. I was second guessing my southern location decision, not The Villages. Perhaps I stated that inartfully. Anyway, I have read about the noise and potential odor from the water treatment facility. If it turns out intolerable, we can look for another place In The Villages. We are looking forward to our move.

My way of looking at it, for what it is worth----Why consider the northern areas if you feel mom would love the southern nature trails? Certainly not for one jerk, even if he is real. She's 95, and if she'd get enjoyment out of those trails, go for it. And jerks notwithstanding, it's a lot better than riding a scooter on the cart lane of Morse north of 466

[Sanford Epstein]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

Watch out for the growing number of "entitled villagers". Just go to Publix and watch the 10 items or less sign. If you are an "entitled villages" you can go through with a full basket. Until you move here you will NOT realize that all the rules/regulations/covenants are for the OTHER guy/gal, not for them

[reggiethurlow]

There are a lot of people who utilize the villages amenities that do not live in the villages. Especially the squares and pools. So I am assuming they use the paths as well.

[christine J Toft]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.
I fear you are looking for a place that does not exist.

[Larchap49]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

Where is the perfect place you live now. Is it the garden of eden? Must be bliss living in the perfect place. Why oh why are you moving?

[Larchap49]

I'm with you on this one. The original post on FB, was posted by someone who doesn't seem to exist. The person has (2) blank FB profiles and I spent some time searching online, for a person with the name, without success. I then got into a dialogue with the original poster on FB, when I disputed his contention that Mobility Scooters are allowed, "anywhere people are allowed to walk". That's a gross exaggeration of the ADA.

I don't really have an opinion or enough knowledge of the specifics of that particular trail, but the original post strained credulity.

Perhaps you should spend some time tracking down the perso that did the harassing you sound like you would like to be his friend.

[Donnarae93]

On behalf of my hubby and I and all of my furry friends I am so very very sorry that someone treated you the way they did!! Uninformed peeps are truly headaches for those that know the truth 🦋🦋

[tedquick]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

I have a slightly different take on living here: I've lived here for around 8years, am socially active, eat out at least once a day, belong to a number of different groups, and have seen, met and/or chatted with probably literally thousands of the "locals" over these years. While I have run into people who I have no interest in being around again, I have never run into any person that approximates the kind of attitude of the "miscreant" that the OP encountered. So enjoy your new home and your new lifestyle. While there are jerks world-wide I doubt you'll have an encounter like the one described above.

[BrianL99]

Sorry, but I think this whole thing is fabricated. And I love the overreactions such as people claiming they want to back out of a contract because of some hearsay story on FB that was repeated here. I also love the “I’m so sorry this happened to you” posts. The stock scooter photo pulled from the internet on the original FB post and the fake profile referenced in another post are a dead giveaway that this is nothing but a trolling expedition. Nice touch using the scooter as his profile pic in FB. Give me a break.
Ahhh ... a change! When I tried to track the Poster down yesterday, neither of his FaceBook Profiles had a Profile photo.

According to every online resource I have access to, no person with the original poster's name, exists in FL. Just coincidently, the FaceBook profile that shows up for the Poster, is also the originator of another FaceBook Group, that's critical of Village's Management, particularly in the Southern area.

[spd2918]

At first this seemed too over the top to be believed, but JRP2TV posted they witnessed it, so I will believe it for the sake of discussion.

A small minority of people here do act like the people described by JRP2TV. I have a neighbor that told me out of blue one day to "drive safe." I have no idea why, as I don't speed in the neighborhood. Another gives me the stink eye for an unknown reason. I enjoy TV and ignore these people, but I acknowledge they exist.

If a few people are not happy here, they would probably be unhappy anywhere.

[Wyseguy]

I can’t believe that someone thinks so highly of themselves that they have the right to tell anyone to get off a path of any kind. If there is an important issue call the authorities but in this case he did not have a clue. Keep walking and mind your own business. Maybe he should not be walking this the hair across his azz.

Unfortunately there are a few cranky bitter old folks roaming the Villages. Not many, but they do exist.

[Wyseguy]

The guy on the scooter was Borat….now you know the whole truth…..

Very Nice.

[billethkid]

Seems like a whole lot of effort just because one person acted like a jerk.

The usual basis for way too many posts.......isolated incidents presented/treated/responded to as general condition!!!!

[Wyseguy]

Watch out for the growing number of "entitled villagers". Just go to Publix and watch the 10 items or less sign. If you are an "entitled villages" you can go through with a full basket. Until you move here you will NOT realize that all the rules/regulations/covenants are for the OTHER guy/gal, not for them

That is not isolated to the Villages, nor to people our age. I find the people in TV to generally be happier as a whole to those I meet from other regions. If you think about it, we end up in TV because we choose to.

[Waltdisney4life]

I am sorry I’m calling BS on the story the poster does not say it’s one person the poster says it’s multiple people.Really multiple people harassing a handicap individual I Have not seen that in my 12 years I’ve been here.

[Regorp]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:
As long as there is mutual respect from all users of the path, a scooter is not a problem unless they bully walkers off of the path. Keep it safe and share the Villages perks equally well.

[PugMom]

They are probably the same people who go into the grocery store with their dogs in the basket of the cart with wet feet, etc.

:clap2::1rotfl:

[JMintzer]

Watch out for the growing number of "entitled villagers". Just go to Publix and watch the 10 items or less sign. If you are an "entitled villages" you can go through with a full basket. Until you move here you will NOT realize that all the rules/regulations/covenants are for the OTHER guy/gal, not for them

You really think that doesn't happen EVERYWHERE?

The people you see doing it in TV were doing it long before they got here...

[kendi]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

You think there is a place in this world where no nasty people exist? You my friend will constantly on the move if that’s what you’re looking for.

[davem4616]

this sounds like a 'one off' to me....and a story delivered in the 3rd person

[noslices1]

Seems like a whole lot of effort just because one person acted like a jerk.

Can’t we all just……get along?

[JRP2TV]

Upset over nothing , I have no issue with those scooters using the trails , walk ,ride and pass them safely, why do we need a written instruction .Who you gonna call?

I followed up on the FB posting and found this. The Villages will be sending out communication regarding the rights of the disabled to use scooters on the trails.

[JRP2TV]

Well , well I just had an idea (which means the coffee has started taking effect). Think I am going to borrow a mobility scooter and ride that trail a little to see if the a-hole wants to tell me I can’t. What time of day should I go?

LOL! That is funny. It happened in the early afternoon, but it was sunny and warm.

[Hank W]

Why not organize personal mobility scooter parade on that trail? See if Trudeau gets involved.

[JRP2TV]

The guy on the scooter was Borat….now you know the whole truth…..

What does this mean?

[JRP2TV]

I'm with you on this one. The original post on FB, was posted by someone who doesn't seem to exist. The person has (2) blank FB profiles and I spent some time searching online, for a person with the name, without success. I then got into a dialogue with the original poster on FB, when I disputed his contention that Mobility Scooters are allowed, "anywhere people are allowed to walk". That's a gross exaggeration of the ADA.

I don't really have an opinion or enough knowledge of the specifics of that particular trail, but the original post strained credulity.

Except I personally witnessed it myself, which is why I'm posting it here. I just wish I videoed it all. It was shocking to say the least.

[JRP2TV]

I am sorry I’m calling BS on the story the poster does not say it’s one person the poster says it’s multiple people.Really multiple people harassing a handicap individual I Have not seen that in my 12 years I’ve been here.

Not multiple incidents. One incident that involved two men walking together and stopping the man on the scooter.

[thevillages2013]

I imagine, if true, it’s isolated. The issue with me is my 95 year old, but active, mom needs her scooter for mobility. My concern was when I have her visit, she would love the nature trails in the Southern areas. I would not want her to encounter someone so foolish. My thought was maybe I should have considered a resale in the northern areas. I was second guessing my southern location decision, not The Villages. Perhaps I stated that inartfully. Anyway, I have read about the noise and potential odor from the water treatment facility. If it turns out intolerable, we can look for another place In The Villages. We are looking forward to our move.
That is awesome that your mother is 95 and still active. You should have no issues with the trail . If it is true hopefully it is an isolated incident

[thevillages2013]

Why not organize personal mobility scooter parade on that trail? See if Trudeau gets involved.
You truly are a man after my own heart. Let Walmart sponsor it (and loan the needed scooters) . I am in! I want Hawkins Guy’s mom to feel safe out there too and I am serious about that

[VApeople]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there.

I would have to see the incident to decide who was being a jerk.

Maybe the person on the scooter was going too fast and surprised the walkers.

Maybe the scooter person came up behind the walkers and did not warn them.

Maybe the walkers were meandering all over the path and not paying attention.

I give the benefit of the doubt to the walkers rather than a person riding in a vehicle.

[JRP2TV]

I would have to see the incident to decide who was being a jerk.

Maybe the person on the scooter was going too fast and surprised the walkers.

Maybe the scooter person came up behind the walkers and did not warn them.

Maybe the walkers were meandering all over the path and not paying attention.

I give the benefit of the doubt to the walkers rather than a person riding in a vehicle.

As I witnessed it I can tell you exactly what happened. The man on the scooter was riding safely down the path. Straight, plenty of room and at a safe speed. The two other guys were walking the opposite direction, toward the scooter, face to face. One of the two men started waving his arms and stepped in front of the scooter. Both stopped and then the harassment began.

What is good now is regardless of some people wanting to doubt what happened for some odd reason, The Villages took it seriously as they should and are now going to deal with it. Look for an upcoming communication regarding the issue from The Villages.

I find it wonderful that The Villages is looking out for all of us, including people who have health challenges to deal with. No one should be given a hard time when they are just trying to enjoy a bit of paradise.

[MX rider]

I would have to see the incident to decide who was being a jerk.

Maybe the person on the scooter was going too fast and surprised the walkers.

Maybe the scooter person came up behind the walkers and did not warn them.

Maybe the walkers were meandering all over the path and not paying attention.

I give the benefit of the doubt to the walkers rather than a person riding in a vehicle.

You could be right, or she could be since she said she witnessed it.
But if it went down like she said, they're douche bags. If I witnessed that I would have called them out right there. But that's just me. No tolerance for bitter grumpy a**holes.

We're all in this together. Just be nice!

[ElDiabloJoe]

It is not hearsay. I was a direct witness to the entire thing. Please don't assume. I only wish I took out my camera to video the male Karen doing the harassing.

Here is what is being said about it on FB.

My normal response to people that say this kind of thing to me as I continue on my way:

"F*ck you, write me a ticket."

Usually they can't. All bark, no bite. Good follow up is "Pound Sand," or "Kick Rocks." Again, as I continue on my way without any thought to their concerns/wants/desires/preferences.

I don't go looking to create confrontations or provoke people, but if you bring it to my doorstep, I do not fold and slink away. I will firmly plant my feet and budge not one bit. Often I will go on the offensive. Be prepared if you're the kind of person that thinks their opinion matters that much (P.I.P.s - Previously Important Persons) or think you can bully or intimidate me.

I'm not the biggest or strongest person by any measure, but I have zero ounces of cowardice or fear of others in me and a whole lot of IDGAF.

Approach me politely or kindly, and I'll give you my shirt and my last dollar.

[Number 10 GI]

I then got into a dialogue with the original poster on FB, when I disputed his contention that Mobility Scooters are allowed, "anywhere people are allowed to walk". That's a gross exaggeration of the ADA.

Please cite the part of the ADA that verifies your statement.

[frose]

i been saying that since i moved in, in august.. leaves a lot to be desired.

[BrianL99]

Please cite the part of the ADA that verifies your statement.

Scroll back, I included a link ... .unless it was deleted by the Moderators, they don't like links. Google is your friend, though.

[Gpsma]

i been saying that since i moved in, in august.. leaves a lot to be desired.

You obviously didnt finish your full glass of Kool-Aid when you closed on your house.

[JMintzer]

You obviously didnt finish your full glass of Kool-Aid when you closed on your house.

Or didn't do one's due diligence...

[lpruettusa]

I'm with you on this one. The original post on FB, was posted by someone who doesn't seem to exist. The person has (2) blank FB profiles and I spent some time searching online, for a person with the name, without success. I then got into a dialogue with the original poster on FB, when I disputed his contention that Mobility Scooters are allowed, "anywhere people are allowed to walk". That's a gross exaggeration of the ADA.

I don't really have an opinion or enough knowledge of the specifics of that particular trail, but the original post strained credulity.

I have a Facebook page and I emptied it out over ten years ago. I only keep my Facebook account because I have two groups that I am in which only post their schedule's, activities and comments on Facebook.

In addition to deleting all my photos, posts, etc., I've hidden by account from all searches. I told all my friends and I was getting off Facebook and deleted all "friends". I see the important one in person, anyway and most of the others I have real world contact info for. So, now I have just two connections left on Facebook to two clubs and that is it.

Perhaps, just perhaps, he is on Facebook with an empty profile (like mine) for certain contacts only.

I don't think the original post was incredulous at all. We see people doing stuff like that on/in the local and national news very frequently. I've seen them in person.

[VApeople]

The man on the scooter was riding safely down the path. Straight, plenty of room and at a safe speed. The two other guys were walking the opposite direction, toward the scooter, face to face. One of the two men started waving his arms and stepped in front of the scooter. Both stopped and then the harassment began.


That sounds kind of like what my wife and I did.

When they first put in the walking/biking trail around Hogeye, it was clearly marked that no golf carts were allowed on the trail. However, cart riders would ignore the signs and drive on the beautiful trail.

Three times we found cart riders on the trail, so we stood in the trail and told them no carts were allowed. One couple said they were new here and did not know the rules.

A week or so later, we saw the same couple driving their golf cart on the walking/biking trail, and they used the same excuse that they were new here and did not know the rules. We were blocking the path, so the guy driving the cart got out to confront me. I asked my wife to call the police, and then he got back in the cart, turned around, and drove back to where they came from.

I guess other people must have complained about carts driving on the Hogeye path, because The Villages put of barricades to block the carts from entering the walking path. Problem solved.

[JRP2TV]

That sounds kind of like what my wife and I did.

When they first put in the walking/biking trail around Hogeye, it was clearly marked that no golf carts were allowed on the trail. However, cart riders would ignore the signs and drive on the beautiful trail.

Three times we found cart riders on the trail, so we stood in the trail and told them no carts were allowed. One couple said they were new here and did not know the rules.

A week or so later, we saw the same couple driving their golf cart on the walking/biking trail, and they used the same excuse that they were new here and did not know the rules. We were blocking the path, so the guy driving the cart got out to confront me. I asked my wife to call the police, and then he got back in the cart, turned around, and drove back to where they came from.

I guess other people must have complained about carts driving on the Hogeye path, because The Villages put of barricades to block the carts from entering the walking path. Problem solved.

This was not a golf cart situation. It was a mobility scooter for the disabled and they are allowed on all walking and biking paths.

Luckily for the residents The Villages understands what happened and they are addressing it now to make it clear to everyone that mobility scooters are indeed allowed and people using them should never be harassed and asked to leave.

I will tell you one thing though. Next time I see a Karen, male or female, act out like that again, I will video the entire thing and post it everywhere for everyone to see. :boom:

[JRP2TV]

Found this on his update. The Villages taking it very seriously, as they should.

[golfing eagles]

i been saying that since i moved in, in august.. leaves a lot to be desired.

Of course, you have the option of moving OUT. Based on previous posts, I doubt this was the first time you've had that response.

[Velvet]

I’ve seen mobility scooters up north on crowded city sidewalks racing each other, the seniors riding them just giggling. The people on the sidewalk terrified of being run down. I think it goes both ways. If a person physically needs the scooter, they should be allowed on trails where other people walk… but as soon as the scooter is misused… there has to be consequences. Take a video of any incident where you feel threatened whether you are in the scooter or on the trail, to document it.

[JRP2TV]

I’ve seen mobility scooters up north on crowded city sidewalks racing each other, the seniors riding them just giggling. The people on the sidewalk terrified of being run down. I think it goes both ways. If a person physically needs the scooter, they should be allowed on trails where other people walk… but as soon as the scooter is misused… there has to be consequences. Take a video of any incident where you feel threatened whether you are in the scooter or on the trail, to document it.

It does go both ways. People walking need to respect those who require a scooter. Likewise, those riding scooters need to respect those who are walking to ensure safety.

In this case the walkers did not respect the rights of the person riding the scooter. Hopefully they will see the notice from The Villages and realize they were in the wrong.

I do know I will have my phone with me at all times when walking the trail in case I see something like this again. I will video it all and call the police. The harassers will be held accountable.

[golfing eagles]

It does go both ways. People walking need to respect those who require a scooter. Likewise, those riding scooters need to respect those who are walking to ensure safety.

In this case the walkers did not respect the rights of the person riding the scooter. Hopefully they will see the notice from The Villages and realize they were in the wrong.

I do know I will have my phone with me at all times when walking the trail in case I see something like this again. I will video it all and call the police. The harassers will be held accountable.

I'm on your side on this one, but I don't think the police will get involved, nor do I think the two men will be held "accountable" if all there was, as you stated in the OP, "an exchange of words". There's no law against rudeness. Now, if there was more to it, if it actually rose to the level of harassment, which by your description is doubtful (legally, not by what you termed it), then LEO could act.

[JRP2TV]

I'm on your side on this one, but I don't think the police will get involved, nor do I think the two men will be held "accountable" if all there was, as you stated in the OP, "an exchange of words". There's no law against rudeness. Now, if there was more to it, if it actually rose to the level of harassment, which by your description is doubtful (legally, not by what you termed it), then LEO could act.

You may be right, but I was just reading what was posted from The Villages. They stated he should call 911 if he felt in fear from the other guy. The probably wouldn't charge him based on words, but they could set him straight on the spot that he is dead wrong and the guy on the scooter is 100% correct. They could also warn him to stop harassing people.

[Bilyclub]

That sounds kind of like what my wife and I did.

When they first put in the walking/biking trail around Hogeye, it was clearly marked that no golf carts were allowed on the trail. However, cart riders would ignore the signs and drive on the beautiful trail.

Three times we found cart riders on the trail, so we stood in the trail and told them no carts were allowed. One couple said they were new here and did not know the rules.

A week or so later, we saw the same couple driving their golf cart on the walking/biking trail, and they used the same excuse that they were new here and did not know the rules. We were blocking the path, so the guy driving the cart got out to confront me. I asked my wife to call the police, and then he got back in the cart, turned around, and drove back to where they came from.

I guess other people must have complained about carts driving on the Hogeye path, because The Villages put of barricades to block the carts from entering the walking path. Problem solved.


Two wrongs don't make a right.

Gomer Pyle's "Citizen's Arrest!" of Barney Fife - The Andy Griffith Show - 1963 - YouTube (https://youtu.be/A1D78Y60gvo)

[Spalumbos62]

Yes! Take one incident and then lump all people that have absolutely nothing to do with that incident into one large group and call them all bad. I do think you are right though, you should sell and move. You seem like a simple judgmental person that has no problem saying all 130k Villagers are bad because of one person. You are part of the problem. Do better.....

Wow...that was harsh...I think he has a valid point. If a person has just made a contract and hears/reads these kind of stories of course they are going to think twice...who wouldn't!!
BTW, reading all of the daily post here, it's not even close to positive stuff....complaining about speed, roundabouts, rudeness, service,neighbors,kids making noise. I've been here for a few years and I look forward to snowbirds with open arms....they are nice, excited, cheerful,funny and appreciate being here. A person being apprehensive with their decision to buy certainly should not be told to go..get out.....that's just plain rude.

[talleyjm]

When I read threads like this, how an individual can be so mean and uncaring, it makes me second guess my decision to purchase a home in The Villages. If I weren’t already under contract, I might have held off purchasing. I don’t know if that’s the area in which I want to live.

Contracts can be cancelled❗️Just tell the realtor that you’re looking for “an area” where there are no mean and uncaring individuals. And then share the name of that area with the rest of us.

[DAVES]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:

For such SELF APPOINTED CHIEFS, I would suggest the person on the mobility scooter pretends their hearing is no good.

[ThirdOfFive]

Unfortunately there are a few cranky bitter old folks roaming the Villages. Not many, but they do exist.
I agree. The reason they stand out is because in my opinion they ARE so rare. If most folks were the same way we'd never give 'em a second thought.

[Calisport]

I had a change of heart with scooters when an old golf partner started riding his wife's scooter to get around easier and everyone made fun of him. He had a brain tumor and died a few months after that at 70. He had headaches and mobility problems because of the tumor and didn't know it. So scooter anywhere is fine for me as long as I don't get run over.

[bagboy]

I had a change of heart with scooters when an old golf partner started riding his wife's scooter to get around easier and everyone made fun of him. He had a brain tumor and died a few months after that at 70. He had headaches and mobility problems because of the tumor and didn't know it. So scooter anywhere is fine for me as long as I don't get run over.

I agree. I give a wide berth to anyone on a mobility scooter. As to the subject of this thread, I have no idea what occurred. I can say that I cannot imagine confronting anyone for any reason who is on a scooter.

[camaguey48]

So there was an incident on the walking/biking nature trail in the southern section of The Villages. A disabled person was riding their Personal Mobility Scooter on the trail, the same trail people walk on, ride bikes on and ride electric e-bikes on and they ended up getting stopped and harassed by some people walking on the trail. They demanded the Personal Mobility Scooter rider exit the trail stating they should not be there. The Personal Mobility Scooter rider explained to them what the scooter is and why they were using it, but the harassers said they did not want them on there and told the rider to leave. Words were exchanged and then they each went on their way.

Two questions:

1) Is there any place to find The Villages written rules on the specifics of using Personal Mobility Scooters on the nature trails?

2) Is there a way to have The Villages make it clear to all residents that Personal Mobility Scooters are allowed on the trail? Federal ADA laws make it illegal to prevent such use, but it would be good if The Villages could make this clear to residents given more and more nature trails are being built.

:posting:
Karens on the south side.

[JRP2TV]

I had a change of heart with scooters when an old golf partner started riding his wife's scooter to get around easier and everyone made fun of him. He had a brain tumor and died a few months after that at 70. He had headaches and mobility problems because of the tumor and didn't know it. So scooter anywhere is fine for me as long as I don't get run over.

I'm glad you have compassion for those who are hurting. May I ask what the issue was prior to the change of heart?

[JRP2TV]

The Villages followed through. Page 11 of the newest bulletin discusses the rights of mobility scooter riders.

Mobility Scooters on Paths in The Villages (https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20220210001301)