Homeless people showering at the dog park

[jimkerr]

Today, while at the dog park, 3 people came in to use the hose to shower. I called Community Watch and they were not interested in assisting. They wanted me to call the police. That's useless because they come and go before the police can show up.

I took pictures and video but Community Watch didn't seem to care. Is this something we have to put up with? On a positive note, they didn't beg for money.

[manaboutown]

Uh-oh... Broken windows theory - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broken_windows_theory)

[tophcfa]

Today, while at the dog park, 3 people came in to use the hose to shower. I called Community Watch and they were not interested in assisting. They wanted me to call the police. That's useless because they come and go before the police can show up.

I took pictures and video but Community Watch didn't seem to care. Is this something we have to put up with? On a positive note, they didn't beg for money.

Hopefully they used some flea shampoo and are current on their hookworm medication! Did you toss them a couple of milk bones?

[Taltarzac725]

Today, while at the dog park, 3 people came in to use the hose to shower. I called Community Watch and they were not interested in assisting. They wanted me to call the police. That's useless because they come and go before the police can show up.

I took pictures and video but Community Watch didn't seem to care. Is this something we have to put up with? On a positive note, they didn't beg for money.

How do you know they were/are homeless? I see various kinds of workers use the closest pool restrooms or others rather often. Maybe some workers got very dirty and needed washing up.

[LAFwUs]

Today, while at the dog park, 3 people came in to use the hose to shower. I called Community Watch and they were not interested in assisting. They wanted me to call the police. That's useless because they come and go before the police can show up.

I took pictures and video but Community Watch didn't seem to care. Is this something we have to put up with? On a positive note, they didn't beg for money.

what dog park OP?
can you post the pics here?

We are seeing plenty of them down on the south end near the turnpike.

Previous TOTV thread regarding the small "encampment" that was discovered near Chitty Chatty got some traction and several other resident reports, before it was (intentionally) derailed over semantics of what constitutes an "encampment".
Sheriffs office & Community Watch promised immediate action, if it was reported to them.
**In fact, pass down instruction was specifically to contact Community Watch 24/7 #number, due to varying jurisdictional issues.
If you feel they were in fact homeless utilizing facilities here (and not possibly, workers, landscapers, etc as mentioned), then I'd strongly suggest you follow up on the lack of interest/response with the CW head staff, because that is not how its is to be handled - per statements by CW themselves.

[manaboutown]

Homeless trespassers are like cockroaches, you may see a few but there are many unseen and unnoticed. Their numbers explode if not stopped.

[kitnhead]

How do you know they were/are homeless? I see various kinds of workers use the closest pool restrooms or others rather often. Maybe some workers got very dirty and needed washing up.

If they are simply workers, then that will be discovered through the right channels (sheriffs, etc). This should be reported and I’m very glad the OP took pics.
We had a church in our former city that let the homeless sleep in their yard. Next thing you knew, they were right in front of our house and a home break-in at another residence resulted in a small dog being intentionally injured. It simply cannot be tolerated.

[Debra Freeman]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.

[LivingOnSunshine]

OP: What dog park was this at?

All the dog parks are private property owned by The Villages.
And they are DOG PARKS not community showers.
ANY person using the park without a resident or guest ID is trespassing.

Call the police. They’ll respond as quickly as community watch would have.
Also call the main number for the CDD (352) 751-3939 - let them know what’s happening/where.

[Carlsondm]

Where is your compassion. It is hot in Florida. Did you ask if they were overheating or ok? As a runner I appreciate the water placed around the villages for us. If they do it frequently, then I would ask if they are ok and what village they are from. You may be surprised.

[LuvNH]

Two replies showing compassion for those less fortunate. What a sad state of affairs, is this what America is becoming?

[augustnotes]

Where is your compassion. It is hot in Florida. Did you ask if they were overheating or ok? As a runner I appreciate the water placed around the villages for us. If they do it frequently, then I would ask if they are ok and what village they are from. You may be surprised.
My gosh at least one person spoke the truth.... where is your compassion? We all want to turn a blind eye on the homeless as it's not our problem. Call the police to get them removed.... do you every think that they may need help. I hope when Jesus looks into the people hearts that have disdain for the homeless that He does not find disdain for them. Who did Jesus look for to help? It was not the Pharisees, but the down trodden and the weak. What do we do as a society? Are we like the Pharisees and walk by with indifference to THOSE people. The best we can come up with is to call the authorities to get THOSE kind of people removed from our sight. Shame on you. Oh and yes there will be people tell me that there are places the homeless can go and get help, but isn't it each individuals responsible to help our neighbor? Jesus said to love your neighbor as your self. And who is your neighbor, I say anyone you meet is your neighbor. I am sure I will get a lot of hate mail for posting this, but come on people, step off your high horse and say thank you God that I am able to help the less fortunate.

[Toymeister]

This video, which is written and reported on by compassionate people in a VERY compassionate city, show the results of compassion. The documentary is well worth your time. In addition to highlighting the results of being very compassionate it also offers a solution.
https://youtu.be/bpAi70WWBlw

[Remembergoldenrule]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.


You have been in the bubble too long. Think summer of love and look at Seattle now. Look at San Francisco and what happen to Mr Pelosi by homeless illegal drug addict. Most people here are escaping ruin home state because of misplaced compassion. Yes, give time and talent to professional agencies that want to help lift up people out of circumstances (my family was homeless once), but don’t allow those who choose to live that life style to break laws and take over or you won’t have anywhere else to flee.

[jimbomaybe]

What's your addy, we can send them over.
Here we go again the last thread had people who have had experience dealing with this issue , and they related that these people cannot be helped, they have mental problems, personality disorders that can not be addressed, they are not a "clear and present danger to themselves or others and so cannot be institutionalized,, "give a man a fish, you feed him for one day , teach him to fish and feed him for life " these people will not fish or cut bait

[RiderOnTheStorm]

Yes, by all means, let's show "compassion"
Let's build state of the art showers and restrooms, let's get a gourmet food kitchen. Let's advertise it nationally so we can show "compassion" to all the homeless.
What is being suggested would be ideal in a Utopian society, but in the real world, showing that type of "compassion" to these people is simply naive. But if that's what some people want, they should buy land in Wyoming and start a homeless ranch. (My apologies to the citizens of Wyoming)

Wow! Can't believe I am hearing such aggression against a few people down on their luck. Everyone has a history, and I bet theirs was a history of great misfortune that none of us would ever want to experience. Consider yourselves very fortunate. There but for the grace of God ....

[golfing eagles]

Wow! Can't believe I am hearing such aggression against a few people down on their luck. Everyone has a history, and I bet theirs was a history of great misfortune that none of us would ever want to experience. Consider yourselves very fortunate. There but for the grace of God ....

The overwhelming majority of these people are NOT "down on their luck". I'd be the first person to contribute to those that lost their home in Ian, or lost their job to COVID and only want to get a new job and new home and work to earn it. (and I have). Most of these people are only temporarily homeless since they seek out the help they need and work to get back on their feet. This is more of a "hand up" than a "hand out"

The majority are either mentally ill, drug/alcohol addicted, or have chosen that lifestyle. And as a society we have enabled them when we closed down the large institutions and allowed them "freedom to choose". This was about the equivalent of letting your 3 year old play with matches inside your house.

How many more people that have worked with the homeless do people need to hear from? How many more examples of cities overrun by the homeless do they need to see?
This is why most of us don't want them in our community, and we can do without an army of do-gooders and social workers as well.

[Worldseries27]

my gosh at least one person spoke the truth.... Where is your compassion? We all want to turn a blind eye on the homeless as it's not our problem. Call the police to get them removed.... Do you every think that they may need help. I hope when jesus looks into the people hearts that have disdain for the homeless that he does not find disdain for them. Who did jesus look for to help? It was not the pharisees, but the down trodden and the weak. What do we do as a society? Are we like the pharisees and walk by with indifference to those people. The best we can come up with is to call the authorities to get those kind of people removed from our sight. Shame on you. Oh and yes there will be people tell me that there are places the homeless can go and get help, but isn't it each individuals responsible to help our neighbor? Jesus said to love your neighbor as your self. And who is your neighbor, i say anyone you meet is your neighbor. I am sure i will get a lot of hate mail for posting this, but come on people, step off your high horse and say thank you god that i am able to help the less fortunate.
amen

[golfing eagles]

My gosh at least one person spoke the truth.... where is your compassion? We all want to turn a blind eye on the homeless as it's not our problem. Call the police to get them removed.... do you every think that they may need help. I hope when Jesus looks into the people hearts that have disdain for the homeless that He does not find disdain for them. Who did Jesus look for to help? It was not the Pharisees, but the down trodden and the weak. What do we do as a society? Are we like the Pharisees and walk by with indifference to THOSE people. The best we can come up with is to call the authorities to get THOSE kind of people removed from our sight. Shame on you. Oh and yes there will be people tell me that there are places the homeless can go and get help, but isn't it each individuals responsible to help our neighbor? Jesus said to love your neighbor as your self. And who is your neighbor, I say anyone you meet is your neighbor. I am sure I will get a lot of hate mail for posting this, but come on people, step off your high horse and say thank you God that I am able to help the less fortunate.

amen

Yes, "Amen"

Why?????-----Because if these people show up in large numbers we'll all need to start praying.....

[cynjim]

Wow...maybe it was a worker but if it was someone that was homeless it did not hurt anyone for them to use the hose... Hopefully none you know is ever homeless. the last couple of years many have lost so much so giving them a little water does not hurt anyone.

[cynjim]

wow was that meant to be funny....

[cynjim]

I don't think using a hose is using the facilities...be kind to people who are in need. Does not sound like they hurt anyone.

[cynjim]

Cockroaches....Wow they are humans they be on hard times...you don't know their story.

[golfing eagles]

Wow...maybe it was a worker but if it was someone that was homeless it did not hurt anyone for them to use the hose... Hopefully none you know is ever homeless. the last couple of years many have lost so much so giving them a little water does not hurt anyone.

So, we should condone trespassing as long as it is just for "a little water"? Look at all the posts from people who have worked with the homeless, from those who lived in cities they had to escape from. Ask yourself, what else can happen? Where do these people relieve themselves, where do they have intimate interactions? On the streets----in some places, yes. Someone said, "it's not a pint of blood they're taking". But most of them would, and more, if given the chance.

[cynjim]

Wow... kindness in using a water hose never hurt anyone.

[cynjim]

That you someone with compassion

[ithos]

It will only get worse as the cartel has operational control of much of our southern border so they can flood our country with an unlimited supply of fentanyl and other drugs.

If the homeless addicts want to get clean then the state should have a program. Otherwise stay out of my neighborhood and don't camp out on public spaces. Enabling them is very short sighted and not in their best interest.

[cynjim]

Not sure where the compassion has gone from TV anymore but I am sure if they had donated blood to a blood bank to receive a meal the people that are complaining about them would would take their blood if they needed it and yet they are worried about them taking a little water from a hose...sad

[cynjim]

your title says it all....bully She has compassion but it seems you don't. They were using a little water from a hose...they didn't hurt anyone.

[golfing eagles]

Not sure where the compassion has gone from TV anymore but I am sure if they had donated blood to a blood bank to receive a meal the people that are complaining about them would would take their blood if they needed it and yet they are worried about them taking a little water from a hose...sad

Sorry, but what I think is really sad are those that want to make a nice, comfy home for them right here in "River City"-----which would give us a much bigger problem than "pool" (Robert Preston, The Music Man)

It's no different than the conclusion of various threads on theft here----make it difficult for the thief and they'll find an easier target. Let's not make The Villages and easy target.

[golfing eagles]

your title says it all....bully She has compassion but it seems you don't. They were using a little water from a hose...they didn't hurt anyone.

So, in other words, their criminal trespassing was a "victimless" crime, so it's OK?

[Rainger99]

We should consider designating a single Village for those people who want to help feed and help the homeless and mentally ill.

You couldn’t live there unless you agreed to assist the homeless whenever they stopped by so it would have to be a new Village. It would be part of the deed restrictions.

We could call it Utopia and it could be advertised as the place for homeless to go looking for handouts.

[DeeCee Dubya]

Great analogy.

[ThirdOfFive]

Sorry, but what I think is really sad are those that want to make a nice, comfy home for them right here in "River City"-----which would give us a much bigger problem than "pool" (Robert Preston, The Music Man)

It's no different than the conclusion of various threads on theft here----make it difficult for the thief and they'll find an easier target. Let's not make The Villages and easy target.
Spot on.

Back before we moved here, we lived in a town in Minnesota of about 30,000 people about an hour's drive from Minneapolis - St. Paul. There were homeless in our town; not many, but they were there. We showed compassion: churches took turns cooking so that there was one free, healthy meal provided per day, usually at about 5:00 PM. A local athletic facility allowed them to use the showers at certain designated times. They could use the food shelves. Churches also arranged for clothing donations to be given to them. Reports were that some of them utilized a couple of abandoned buildings for shelter; the law mostly looked the other way. It made sense. Minnesota isn't bad during the summer months but there is 5-6 months of winter weather up there and it can get pretty rough living outside.

We began noticing, however, that the numbers of people at the free meals were increasing. Panhandling started occurring, and some of the panhandlers were quite verbally aggressive about it. Shoplifting, and theft (including break-ins) were increasing. There were squabbles among the homeless as well, one of them knifing another over some dispute or other. Word had it that the reputation for compassion shown to the homeless in our little town had spread to other towns--homeless people have phones too, and contrary to some belief they DO travel. It was the "Portland effect" in miniature. We moved before anything concrete was done about it so I have no idea what the situation is there today.

This is what "compassion" for the homeless gets you. I've seen it firsthand and I definitely don't want it here in TV.

[jimkerr]

what dog park OP?
can you post the pics here?

We are seeing plenty of them down on the south end near the turnpike.

Previous TOTV thread regarding the small "encampment" that was discovered near Chitty Chatty got some traction and several other resident reports, before it was (intentionally) derailed over semantics of what constitutes an "encampment".
Sheriffs office & Community Watch promised immediate action, if it was reported to them.
**In fact, pass down instruction was specifically to contact Community Watch 24/7 #number, due to varying jurisdictional issues.
If you feel they were in fact homeless utilizing facilities here (and not possibly, workers, landscapers, etc as mentioned), then I'd strongly suggest you follow up on the lack of interest/response with the CW head staff, because that is not how its is to be handled - per statements by CW themselves.

Rupert. Yes, I’ll be following up with the rec dept.

[jimkerr]

Not sure where the compassion has gone from TV anymore but I am sure if they had donated blood to a blood bank to receive a meal the people that are complaining about them would would take their blood if they needed it and yet they are worried about them taking a little water from a hose...sad

What’s your address and phone number? I’ll send them to your home.

[Caymus]

This is what "compassion" for the homeless gets you. I've seen it firsthand and I definitely don't want it here in TV.

We call it being a "sucker".

[asianthree]

Today’s entertainment…..bash other posters for their thoughts, compassion, or ugly comments to others:rant-rave:

[golfing eagles]

Today’s entertainment…..bash other posters for their thoughts, compassion, or ugly comments to others:rant-rave:

Not just today..........:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[ThirdOfFive]

We call it being a "sucker".
In so many words.

Happens a lot when emotion triumphs over reason.

[Rickanvic]

I worked at an office in an area of St. Petersburg that was over run with homeless. They would come to our office after hours. We would come to work to find urine and feces on the walkway around the building. We would find used napkins from restroom use. As employees who chose to go to work daily, it wasn't fair to us to have to clean up dirty, bloody used napkins, not to mention the actual product. We called 911 on multiple occasions due to someone still there when we arrived because they were unresponsive. Before blasting people who are paying a great deal of money for 'that water hose" go deal with the outcome. From what I saw 99% of the people on our sidewalk didn't want to get off the streets.

[Dantes]

Community Watch employees do not have police powers

[Marine1974]

Where do you expect them to go unless your willing to pay more taxes to feed , shelter and provide
medical . It’s only going to get worse . No compassion shown here by the OP .

[rickaslin]

Please post your address so if seen we can send them to your house for a quick shower with soap! No blood just soap !

[ron32162]

Why would you think community watch would assist people showering?

[Teemotay]

Today’s entertainment…..bash other posters for their thoughts, compassion, or ugly comments to others:rant-rave:

You can find it just about every day on these threads and any social media. It’s what we have become as a society of “civilized people”.

“America’s Friendliest Hometown”......NOT!

[NoMo50]

Homelessness in America is a problem that has no real solution...at least not yet. As a quality of life issue, the question soon becomes how much of your quality of life are you willing to give up to increase their quality of life? This is a concept not dissimilar than redistribution of wealth. What will you give up in order to lift up the other guy?

And, should the litmus test really be "hurting someone?" You hear that all the time..."they only did (insert whatever), they're not hurting anyone." For the sake of argument, let's say The Villages decided to be "compassionate," and took 100 acres of preserve land and designated it as an approved homeless camp. Restaurants could bring leftover food for donations. Portable toilets could be delivered. Fresh water and outdoor showers are easily brought in. Now, let's say that YOUR house is right around the corner from this camp. Do you think you would be "hurt?" What would happen to your property value? Would you still feel the same level of compassion, or would you quickly become a NIMBY (not in my back yard)?

If you were a seasonal resident, and arrived at your Villages home on October 1st to find four homeless folks camping on your lanai, what would be your first inclination? Call the police (no compassion), or invite them in for dinner (lots of compassion)? It is easy to feign benevolence when the problem is distant. It is much tougher when it is in your face. This is why, since there are no real solutions to the homeless question, the most prevalent answer is to move them along...and make them someone else's problem. It may be sad, but it is true.

[Arlington123]

Walk the talk. Prove your compassion by providing your addresses or getting involved directly. Otherwise your words ring hollow.

[Bilyclub]

Where do you expect them to go unless your willing to pay more taxes to feed , shelter and provide
medical . It’s only going to get worse . No compassion shown here by the OP .

Most are homeless because they want to be. It's a lifestyle choice. There are already options out there that they tend to ignore. You can't force someone to a shelter or temporary housing, but you can move/arrest them when they are breaking the law.

[airstreamingypsy]

Two replies showing compassion for those less fortunate. What a sad state of affairs, is this what America is becoming?

Nope, this is what it has become.

[golfing eagles]

Where do you expect them to go unless your willing to pay more taxes to feed , shelter and provide
medical . It’s only going to get worse . No compassion shown here by the OP .

Um, wakey-wakey?????
We have shelters, they won't utilize them
The medical they need is anti-psychotics, neuroleptics, SSRI/SNRIs and lithium-----they won't take them
And while I suspect most will take food, some embrace the lifestyle and so I'll quote Dr. Alan Grant from "Jurassic Park"-----"Velociraptor doesn't want to be fed, he wants to hunt"

as far as the OP goes, "No compassion shown here by the OP"---I suspect that person would be willing to show some compassion, just NOT HERE

[Wondering]

Uh-oh... Broken windows theory - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broken_windows_theory)
If your point on the "Broken Window" theory, in relationship to the homeless people showering in the dog part, is that the police need to stop it or crime will increase, you're misguided. The solution is that the community/society needs to help the less fortunate among us, especially with what they/homeless have had to endure since the beginning of the pandemic. As soon as I read the Wikipedia source and it referenced Rudy Guiliani, I discounted the theory as not being legitimate.

[rrtjp]

Not sure where the compassion has gone from TV anymore but I am sure if they had donated blood to a blood bank to receive a meal the people that are complaining about them would would take their blood if they needed it and yet they are worried about them taking a little water from a hose...sad

You should give them your address so they can use your hose, use your bathroom or yard. Now that would really be compassionate. Many not all of course but many homeless would be turned away from donating blood for many reasons like having TB, hepatitis, aids just to mention a few. There are shelters for the homeless that truly want help, TV is not a shelter.

[Snprentice]

Seattle.

[Rainger99]

The National Alliance to End Homelessness calculated that, in 2021, the U.S. federal government enacted over $51 billion in funding for selected homelessness and housing programs. This, of course, does not include city, county, or private dollars invested in homelessness and affordable housing as well.

Estimates are that there are about 552,000 homeless in the USA. That comes out to $92,000 per homeless person - which for a family of four is $368,00. That would put them in the top 3% of the country. And that is just in federal spending!

I don't think the problem is lack of funds. Perhaps the funds are not being spent wisely.

I have also seen that we are giving billions of dollars to Ukraine.

[dtennent]

This video, which is written and reported on by compassionate people in a VERY compassionate city, show the results of compassion. The documentary is well worth your time. In addition to highlighting the results of being very compassionate it also offers a solution.
https://youtu.be/bpAi70WWBlw
Thanks for the link to a very interesting video. Never really thought about the drugs/homeless cycle and what it would take to break the cycle. This sounds like what true compassion should be.

[golfing eagles]

If your point on the "Broken Window" theory, in relationship to the homeless people showering in the dog part, is that the police need to stop it or crime will increase, you're misguided. The solution is that the community/society needs to help the less fortunate among us, especially with what they/homeless have had to endure since the beginning of the pandemic. As soon as I read the Wikipedia source and it referenced Rudy Guiliani, I discounted the theory as not being legitimate.

And just how does society help those who don't want help?????

[dhdallas]

Community Watch only gets paid to drive around aimlessly and wave. Forget about them actually doing anything.

[golfing eagles]

The National Alliance to End Homelessness calculated that, in 2021, the U.S. federal government enacted over $51 billion in funding for selected homelessness and housing programs. This, of course, does not include city, county, or private dollars invested in homelessness and affordable housing as well.

Estimates are that there are about 552,000 homeless in the USA. That comes out to $92,000 per homeless person - which for a family of four is $368,00. That would put them in the top 3% of the country. And that is just in federal spending!

I don't think the problem is lack of funds. Perhaps the funds are not being spent wisely.

I have also seen that we are giving billions of dollars to Ukraine.

Have to love the efficiency of government:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[reggiethurlow]

Watched the Seattle article, very eye opening as to what gets started and how it can snowball into out of control chaos.

[kendi]

Homeless trespassers are like cockroaches, you may see a few but there are many unseen and unnoticed. Their numbers explode if not stopped.

How about if not helped rather than “not stopped”. What a sad analogy you make comparing a person to cockroaches.

[airstreamingypsy]

I wonder how many of you will be in church tomorrow pretending to be Christians. WWJD

[golfing eagles]

I wonder how many of you will be in church tomorrow pretending to be Christians. WWJD

Hard to say, after all, wasn't he one of the homeless??????

[tophcfa]

Where do you expect them to go unless your willing to pay more taxes to feed , shelter and provide
medical .

I would expect them to apply for some of the many job openings available and get a job so they can provide for themselves. Work is a four letter word and it’s not typically fun, but we all did it because that’s what responsibility people do.

[tophcfa]

Community Watch only gets paid to drive around aimlessly and wave. Forget about them actually doing anything.

They will call you at 3 in the morning to tell you your garage door is open, so they do that.

[PugMom]

Hopefully they used some flea shampoo and are current on their hookworm medication! Did you toss them a couple of milk bones?

:coolsmiley:

[conman5652@aol.com]

Thank u. What u said is true. On judgement day they will have to answer for their action.

[ThirdOfFive]

Most are homeless because they want to be. It's a lifestyle choice. There are already options out there that they tend to ignore. You can't force someone to a shelter or temporary housing, but you can move/arrest them when they are breaking the law.
Very true. It is a choice, and it is a choice easily made because WE, not they, pay for it.

Perhaps, rather than thinking about compassion, we should be thinking about "tough love"--which I believe is really more compassionate than handing out freebies. As I've posted before I've asked my wife what the welfare system was in Thailand, and her reply "simple. If you don't work, you don't eat" has a lot of both wisdom and truth in it. Of course there are homeless people who are in the situation they're in because of mental illness, and they should receive treatment on our dime, but of the rest, how many would remain homeless if they had to choose between starving or actually working? Not many.

It has been done before. There were many homeless in America in the dust-bowl days of the 1930's. Not by choice; many forced off their land. Many gravitated toward the Hoovervilles that sprang up near the larger cities. I recall Dad talking about it: the government did what it could, instituting programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and other like programs which were essentially make-work programs providing minimal wages and basic accommodations for manual labor. But along with the pay and accommodations it gave these men a sense of self-worth; rather than begging or stealing they were getting paid for actually accomplishing something. They could have hung out in the Hoovervilles and eaten thin soup at various soup kitchens, but they didn't. The hardship suffered in the depression days gave birth to what we today call The Greatest Generation.

Are we really doing these homeless a favor by enabling them? Not really. I think the tough love route would have MUCH better results.

[Michael 61]

We have a few bleeding hearts that want to turn a blind eye to existing laws and support homelessness within TV. Remember, most of homeless are young able-bodied men who have made that choice. There are plenty of shelters with a warm bed, food and showers, that most refuse to go to. Giving aid to the homeless only enables them and actually increases homelessness. We absolutely need to show compassion and give aid to the truly needy, but we need to do so through charitable organizations and not give handouts to vagrants. We also need to enforce existing laws about vagrancy, loitering, and illegal panhandling and encampments.

[Sandy and Ed]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.
Yeah, ok. Let’s just wait awhile. Oh, and does anyone out there with an extra bedroom willing to put up a couple of the homeless for a few nights???

[pauld315]

OP: What dog park was this at?

All the dog parks are private property owned by The Villages.
And they are DOG PARKS not community showers.
ANY person using the park without a resident or guest ID is trespassing.

Call the police. They’ll respond as quickly as community watch would have.
Also call the main number for the CDD (352) 751-3939 - let them know what’s happening/where.

Funny, there was (maybe still is) a guy named Dennis who was in a movie about the Villages not too long ago. He lived in his van here in The Villages for years. Somebody would get him visitor passes every month. He used to hang out at the Hacienda Pool all day before it was razed. Then, he moved over to the Orange Blossom pool. He would regularly take showers at these locations. Maybe somebody has given these people at the dog park visitor passes.

[ThirdOfFive]

We have a few bleeding hearts that want to turn a blind eye to existing laws and support homelessness within TV. Remember, most of homeless are young able-bodied men who have made that choice. There are plenty of shelters with a warm bed, food and showers, that most refuse to go to. Giving aid to the homeless only enables them and actually increases homelessness. We absolutely need to show compassion and give aid to the truly needy, but we need to do so through charitable organizations and not give handouts to vagrants. We also need to enforce existing laws about vagrancy, loitering, and illegal panhandling and encampments.
Agreed.

Discussing this issue with my wife, she asked "when we provide food and other necessities to the homeless, are we doing that to help them? Or are we doing it to make OURSELVES feel good?" It is a valid question and one that should be considered. Her point was that merely providing "stuff" for them is nothing more than enabling them. It would be far more compassionate to motivate them to change their lives for the better rather than just continuing to wallow in it.

[golfing eagles]

Funny, there was (maybe still is) a guy named Dennis who was in a movie about the Villages not too long ago. He lived in his van here in The Villages for years. Somebody would get him visitor passes every month. He used to hang out at the Hacienda Pool all day before it was razed. Then, he moved over to the Orange Blossom pool. He would regularly take showers at these locations. Maybe somebody has given these people at the dog park visitor passes.

Can anyone spell E-N-A-B-L-I-N-G?????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Petersweeney]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.

But the posters give at church so they are ok….

[PugMom]

that guy openly admitted to being a leach, -on the prowl for some wealthy woman to 'take care of him.' @ least now you know who he is & can identify him.

[Vermilion Villager]

Homeless trespassers are like cockroaches, you may see a few but there are many unseen and unnoticed. Their numbers explode if not stopped.
O...M...G!!!!! Wow!
There's this book out there called The Bible. Might suggest you get yourself a copy...

[DonnaNi4os]

Today, while at the dog park, 3 people came in to use the hose to shower. I called Community Watch and they were not interested in assisting. They wanted me to call the police. That's useless because they come and go before the police can show up.

I took pictures and video but Community Watch didn't seem to care. Is this something we have to put up with? On a positive note, they didn't beg for money.


Sadly there are more and more homeless people. As we sit comfortably in our air conditioned homes with running water and food on the table, let us not forget that we are blessed. Sometimes we forget that and forget that we could have been one of the homeless…think of those who lost their homes due to the hurricane. There but for the grace of God go I. And I agree with those that expressed the need for a bit of compassion. My humble opinion

[Bigmo93]

Everyone. Let them know that Debra said it's okay for them to shower at her house. Please post your address Debra

Compassion my a**. They are like cockroaches. It’s happening all over the country. We’ll be overrun in no time. They need to be removed immediately.

[Ken D.]

Wow! Can't believe I am hearing such aggression against a few people down on their luck. Everyone has a history, and I bet theirs was a history of great misfortune that none of us would ever want to experience. Consider yourselves very fortunate. There but for the grace of God ....
So, what are you going to do to help?

[bluecenturian]

Calling the police will do no good without community watch. The police can not take action without a representative of the property, ie community watch to tell the people they are trespassing and not permitted to come back. Once they are notified they are trespassing then the police can arrest them.

If community watch won’t act try counting BOCC. Don Wiley seems to know everyone maybe he can get something don.

[OhioBuckeye]

Are utilities getting that expensive, that water must of been cold!

[MandoMan]

My gosh at least one person spoke the truth.... where is your compassion? We all want to turn a blind eye on the homeless as it's not our problem. Call the police to get them removed.... do you every think that they may need help. I hope when Jesus looks into the people hearts that have disdain for the homeless that He does not find disdain for them. Who did Jesus look for to help? It was not the Pharisees, but the down trodden and the weak. What do we do as a society? Are we like the Pharisees and walk by with indifference to THOSE people. The best we can come up with is to call the authorities to get THOSE kind of people removed from our sight. Shame on you. Oh and yes there will be people tell me that there are places the homeless can go and get help, but isn't it each individuals responsible to help our neighbor? Jesus said to love your neighbor as your self. And who is your neighbor, I say anyone you meet is your neighbor. I am sure I will get a lot of hate mail for posting this, but come on people, step off your high horse and say thank you God that I am able to help the less fortunate.

While I agree with your post, I think I think society should deal with homelessness and not let people just roam around. There should be mental institutions where the mentally ill are kept medicated in dormitory situations with warmth, shelter, food, and clothing. There should be internment camps with clean and neat tiny houses with communal dining and washing facilities where the homeless who are not mentally ill but refuse to work live. Separate but similar camps for vets, where they can live with dignity and get the meds or treatment they need. Then it will be easier for the rest thrown out of housing by circumstances to get apartments and other help.

[MrFlorida]

Next time send your dog over to investigate.

[Mortal1]

There's always the "compassion" card played till it comes to your neighborhood. The water from these dog parks is paid for by our amenity fees. I already pay taxes to support the homeless and yet those in charge refuse to spend that tax money wisely. So instead of trying to guilt shame people and you care so much then contact your local politicians to do something about it.

It's a DOG park...not a personal bathroom for many who have chosen this lifestyle and get away with it due to some bleeding hearts in lieu of using common sense.

[Vermilion Villager]

I'm calling BEEEEE ESSSSS on the whole story.
I just called Community Standards and they have received no reports of people showering at any of the dog parks or anything like that. Given multiple people have asked on this forum and the OP (jimkerr) has not only refused to say where this happened, he has not made another post on this topic, I think we are all a victim of a Drive By for his entertainment........:swear:

[ElDiabloJoe]

Uh-oh... Broken windows theory - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broken_windows_theory)

^ Exactly!!! James Q. Wilson's theory has been sound for decades now and should be elevated to a criminology law rather than merely a theory.

[ElDiabloJoe]

If they are simply workers, then that will be discovered through the right channels (sheriffs, etc). This should be reported and I’m very glad the OP took pics.
We had a church in our former city that let the homeless sleep in their yard. Next thing you knew, they were right in front of our house and a home break-in at another residence resulted in a small dog being intentionally injured. It simply cannot be tolerated.

If you don't want the birds around, stop feeding the pigeons. You never see a skinny pigeon or one die of starvation do you? No, they go where they are fed. You don't want them here, stop feeding them. Vociferously boycott do-gooders and churches that insist on feeding them, don't give panhandlers money or food, etc. Stop feeding them - they will go away.

[ElDiabloJoe]

If your point on the "Broken Window" theory, in relationship to the homeless people showering in the dog part, is that the police need to stop it or crime will increase, you're misguided. The solution is that the community/society needs to help the less fortunate among us, especially with what they/homeless have had to endure since the beginning of the pandemic. As soon as I read the Wikipedia source and it referenced Rudy Guiliani, I discounted the theory as not being legitimate.
You DO realize the author of the theory has been around quite a bit before Rudy ran NYC, right? Rudy used the theory to make NYC the safest and cleanest it had been since the 1950's, despite the exponentially increased population.

You discounting it simply because a name you don't like utilized it is the same as my ignoring my enjoyment of musical entertainment because I don't like Barbara Streisand. You have made a short-sighted decision and refused to objectively view the coin's two sides. You essentially made your decision based on "feeling" instead of "reason." Expand that mistake and you have the country we now "enjoy."

[ThirdOfFive]

Sadly there are more and more homeless people. As we sit comfortably in our air conditioned homes with running water and food on the table, let us not forget that we are blessed. Sometimes we forget that and forget that we could have been one of the homeless…think of those who lost their homes due to the hurricane. There but for the grace of God go I. And I agree with those that expressed the need for a bit of compassion. My humble opinion
I'm all for being blessed. But the reality is that just about all of us have gotten to where we are in life because we chose to bust our butts to get there.

Most of the homeless have gotten to where they are also because of their choices. But it's a pretty safe bet that very few if any of them included butt-busting as one of their choices.

[Tyson]

Thats what you get when you move into wildwood. Nothing like that would ever happen north of 466a.

[Djean1981]

Did anyone else see the situation?

[Weiserj]

Maybe you should move to a city like Seattle where the woods, overpasses and streets are full broken rvs and dangerous camps of filthy trash and needles. The city has tried everything to clean up and nothing has worked. The people refuse help and don’t want to live under rules and curfews. The city, like many other sanctuary cities, has turned into a hell hole. Finally left and I’m gonna fight to not let Florida become the same!!

[NoMoSno]

I'm calling BEEEEE ESSSSS on the whole story.
I just called Community Standards and they have received no reports of people showering at any of the dog parks or anything like that. Given multiple people have asked on this forum and the OP (jimkerr) has not only refused to say where this happened, he has not made another post on this topic, I think we are all a victim of a Drive By for his entertainment........:swear:
He posted the info in post #40

[Toymeister]

Did anyone else see the situation?

It's been reported here before, in the past 90 days. Often it is told that "joggers" are showering at the dog park. It's not joggers.

[Lillyangel]

Post your address so they can shower at your house

[Villagevip]

Just call Skip Smith, he will be on it.... : )

[MrLonzo]

This whole thread is very disturbing. I'm considering moving to TV to escape California and its rampant homeless problem. But it's sounding like the Villages is becoming infected with the same issues that have destroyed California. Please -- NIP IT IN THE BUD!!!!!

[jimbomaybe]

Um, wakey-wakey?????
We have shelters, they won't utilize them
The medical they need is anti-psychotics, neuroleptics, SSRI/SNRIs and lithium-----they won't take them
And while I suspect most will take food, some embrace the lifestyle and so I'll quote Dr. Alan Grant from "Jurassic Park"-----"Velociraptor doesn't want to be fed, he wants to hunt"

as far as the OP goes, "No compassion shown here by the OP"---I suspect that person would be willing to show some compassion, just NOT HERE

You are right, it can be demonstrated by efforts in the past, yet we will always hear compassioned suggestions, some more fanciful solutions than others all ignoring the "problem", that being the homeless themselves, they are not functional in the commonly understood term, yet legally sane, but not necessarily so, not necessarily safe and not sober if given any alternative, the problem is not lacking a way out, but the lack of willingness/ability to do so on the part of the chronically homeless

[Taltarzac725]

I have lived here in the Villages since 2005 and rarely have seen any homeless people except near Walmart on US 441/27 at various times. As well as once in a great while I see a family with a sign asking for money near Southern Trace or elsewhere.

As the Villages has expanded a great deal it might encroach on places the homeless have taken up over the years.

[golfing eagles]

There's always the "compassion" card played till it comes to your neighborhood. The water from these dog parks is paid for by our amenity fees. I already pay taxes to support the homeless and yet those in charge refuse to spend that tax money wisely. So instead of trying to guilt shame people and you care so much then contact your local politicians to do something about it.

It's a DOG park...not a personal bathroom for many who have chosen this lifestyle and get away with it due to some bleeding hearts in lieu of using common sense.

I believe it was "Field of Dreams"----"If you build it, they will come"

[Gulfcoast]

Since when is allowing human beings to shower in the middle of an open dog park and act of compassion? Those people should be directed to a homeless shelter where they can be treated with some amount of dignity.

[Taltarzac725]

I believe it was "Field of Dreams"----"If you build it, they will come"

SOZO KIDS - Home (http://www.sozokids.org/)

It looks like there are about 45,000 people without homes up in the Ocala Forest. The Villages Daily Sun has done a lot of articles on them and people who are helping them in some way.

[manaboutown]

As the Villages has expanded a great deal it might encroach on places the homeless have taken up over the years.

"Encroachment
A real estate situation where property owners unlawfully enter, extend, or build onto their neighbor’s land"

From: Encroachment - Overview, Forms, Examples, How To Avoid (https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/commercial-real-estate/encroachment/)

The homeless living on land owned by The Villages and/or Villages residents are trespassing on property owned by others and in which they have no ownership rights unless they acquired them through adverse possession. Only then could they be encroached upon.

[GATORBILL66]

Where is your compassion. It is hot in Florida. Did you ask if they were overheating or ok? As a runner I appreciate the water placed around the villages for us. If they do it frequently, then I would ask if they are ok and what village they are from. You may be surprised.

Please post your address, so we can redirect them to your house.

[Lea N]

My gosh at least one person spoke the truth.... where is your compassion? We all want to turn a blind eye on the homeless as it's not our problem. Call the police to get them removed.... do you every think that they may need help. I hope when Jesus looks into the people hearts that have disdain for the homeless that He does not find disdain for them. Who did Jesus look for to help? It was not the Pharisees, but the down trodden and the weak. What do we do as a society? Are we like the Pharisees and walk by with indifference to THOSE people. The best we can come up with is to call the authorities to get THOSE kind of people removed from our sight. Shame on you. Oh and yes there will be people tell me that there are places the homeless can go and get help, but isn't it each individuals responsible to help our neighbor? Jesus said to love your neighbor as your self. And who is your neighbor, I say anyone you meet is your neighbor. I am sure I will get a lot of hate mail for posting this, but come on people, step off your high horse and say thank you God that I am able to help the less fortunate.

Very well said. I agree with you completely.

[Smalley]

The vast majority of the homeless population are addicted to drugs and/or alcohol or have serious mental illness. These people are not "down on their luck". The addicts need detoxification but they have to be motivated to do it. The mentally ill need medical help.

[Taltarzac725]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-non-villages-discussion-93/people-living-ocala-national-forest-244761/

I remember this thread from 2017.

[airstreamingypsy]

Yeah, ok. Let’s just wait awhile. Oh, and does anyone out there with an extra bedroom willing to put up a couple of the homeless for a few nights???

Why do people make such silly childish comments? "Bring them home" "What's your address" "Put up the homeless for a few nights" Seriously, people can be empathetic for people's plight without bringing them home. grow up.

[manaboutown]

Why do people make such silly childish comments? "Bring them home" "What's your address" "Put up the homeless for a few nights" Seriously, people can be empathetic for people's plight without bringing them home. grow up.

It seems to me these are "Put up or shut up." statements.

BTW, the vast majority of the homeless are leading feral lives by choice, choosing to leech off the misguided good will of bleeding hearts as well as by theft and other crimes. Frankly I do not feel sorry for these "homeless". I despise them.

[NNELSON]

As horrifically misguided as this society is, surely homeless people are not begrudged use of the water and hose as the DOG PARK!!!

[Caymus]

Why do people make such silly childish comments? "Bring them home" "What's your address" "Put up the homeless for a few nights" Seriously, people can be empathetic for people's plight without bringing them home. grow up.


How are you personally solving the problem?

[manaboutown]

As horrifically misguided as this society is, surely homeless people are not begrudged use of the water and hose as the DOG PARK!!!

OK. What would be the cut off number of homeless allowed to use the hose on a daily basis? 3? 30? 300?

What about the seniors who want to take their dogs to the park? At what what point will they feel uncomfortable or threatened?

When will the homeless start leaving their needles, trash and human waste in the grass and the facilities?

When will the panhandling start?

[golfing eagles]

OK. What would be the cut off number of homeless allowed to use the hose on a daily basis? 3? 30? 300?

What about the seniors who want to take their dogs to the park? At what what point will they feel uncomfortable or threatened?

When will the homeless start leaving their needles, trash and human waste in the grass and the facilities?

When will the panhandling start?

And don't forget the times people bring their 8 year old granddaughter to the dog park

Trespassing is trespassing, and it is a crime. Let's not start selectively enforcing the law, it's a slippery slope

[DeirdreFoster]

I was told at one point by a group that works with the homeless to not give them anything other than water. Money or other items take away from the work they are trying to provide in getting them off the streets. Do not be an enabler but give them the location of the services they need. Let the professional's work their magic.
This, in my opinion works for either side of the discussion.

[golfing eagles]

Why do people make such silly childish comments? "Bring them home" "What's your address" "Put up the homeless for a few nights" Seriously, people can be empathetic for people's plight without bringing them home. grow up.

This may come as a shock, but it's the incredibly naive and ignorant do-gooders that want to mollycoddle these losers that need to grow up. In the real world, no good can come from harboring them in our community---and the less hospitable we make it, the quicker they will seek greener pastures. I would want community watch and the sheriff's dept. to harass them at every opportunity and arrest them for the slightest violations. Word will get around and they'll be gone. It's no different than being aware you didn't speed through Jessup, Georgia in the 60's -80's. I think the pictures posted above tell the story.

But for those that still don't get it, the "childish" offer to suggest they take them in stands.

[BettyInFL]

Hopefully they used some flea shampoo and are current on their hookworm medication! Did you toss them a couple of milk bones?

Ouch!! Just spit my Tea on the computer screen!..

[Gulfcoast]

As horrifically misguided as this society is, surely homeless people are not begrudged use of the water and hose as the DOG PARK!!!

The homeless should not be showering in the dog park. Period.

Allowing them to do so is not compassion. That is enabling.

[Byte1]

I hope the dogs in the area were not offended.

[Taltarzac725]

I picture someone throwing a water bowl full of water over their head many times.

[Bitsee]

Sadly there are more and more homeless people. As we sit comfortably in our air conditioned homes with running water and food on the table, let us not forget that we are blessed. Sometimes we forget that and forget that we could have been one of the homeless…think of those who lost their homes due to the hurricane. There but for the grace of God go I. And I agree with those that expressed the need for a bit of compassion. My humble opinion

Ummmm....Excuse ME....but I worked very hard for 32 years to be able to obtain this " Comfortable Lifestyle " to which you are now condemning us for, how dare you !!!!

We pay dearly to maintain this standard of living here , make no mistake.
And you want me to now share it with some vagrant(s) who have no work ethics !?!

And FYI ~ the Lord has absolutely nothing to do with this Homeless issue.

If you so called compassionate folks are so concerned about the homeless.... DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT YOURSELVES !!!
Pool your retirement funds and approach a church outside the gates and set up temporary housing for them. Take in clothing donations , food donations, etc....you get the picture people.
STOP flapping your gums, HELP them , and stop condemning GOOD people such as myself !!!

And just for the record I rescue helpless animals and that is my passion which I support with all my heart and hard earned dollars.

[Bogie Shooter]

This whole thread is very disturbing. I'm considering moving to TV to escape California and its rampant homeless problem. But it's sounding like the Villages is becoming infected with the same issues that have destroyed California. Please -- NIP IT IN THE BUD!!!!!

A little advice from someone who’s been around for awhile.
Do not believe everything you see posted on this site.

[kitnhead]

Please go find them and show compassion. No one is stopping you. I, however, lived in LA for 27 years and worked in social service and criminal justice. People who are truly down on their luck are getting services. People on drugs are homeless because they don’t like rules. I worked my butt of all of my life to live in a nice place and will call the proper authorities. If they want help, they will be directed to shelters. The dog park is not the shelter and has no proper social services attached to it.

[Jayhawk]

Consider yourselves very fortunate. There but for the grace of God ....

So why does God like fortunate people better than homeless people?

[defrey12]

Not sure where the compassion has gone from TV anymore but I am sure if they had donated blood to a blood bank to receive a meal the people that are complaining about them would would take their blood if they needed it and yet they are worried about them taking a little water from a hose...sad

Would your response be the same if it was some low-life walking up your front step to use your hose? NIMBY, I suspect…

[defrey12]

So, in other words, their criminal trespassing was a "victimless" crime, so it's OK?

And that responder probably also thinks it’s not theft if it’s under $1000? Ask California business owners how that’s helping ANYONE!

[golfing eagles]

Would your response be the same if it was some low-life walking up your front step to use your hose? NIMBY, I suspect…

And worse yet, walk up to use the hose that you just used to fill the plastic kiddie pool for your 5 year old granddaughter to splash around in.

[HORNET]

Community Watch is a waste of our amenity money

[HORNET]

A lot of difference between Gary and Mark

[defrey12]

Where do you expect them to go unless your willing to pay more taxes to feed , shelter and provide
medical . It’s only going to get worse . No compassion shown here by the OP .

And as long as we keep GIVING to these folks without an expectation of them EARNING their keep, yes…it will get worse. A late President once said, “the only reason for welfare is to eliminate the need for its existence.”

[defrey12]

If your point on the "Broken Window" theory, in relationship to the homeless people showering in the dog part, is that the police need to stop it or crime will increase, you're misguided. The solution is that the community/society needs to help the less fortunate among us, especially with what they/homeless have had to endure since the beginning of the pandemic. As soon as I read the Wikipedia source and it referenced Rudy Guiliani, I discounted the theory as not being legitimate.

Then do it! No one’s stopping you. I just don’t want my tax $$$ going into a proverbial “black hole”….used to live in SF and have seen that sort of first-hand stupidity!

[defrey12]

If you don't want the birds around, stop feeding the pigeons. You never see a skinny pigeon or one die of starvation do you? No, they go where they are fed. You don't want them here, stop feeding them. Vociferously boycott do-gooders and churches that insist on feeding them, don't give panhandlers money or food, etc. Stop feeding them - they will go away.

So VERY true…

[defrey12]

This whole thread is very disturbing. I'm considering moving to TV to escape California and its rampant homeless problem. But it's sounding like the Villages is becoming infected with the same issues that have destroyed California. Please -- NIP IT IN THE BUD!!!!!

Fear not. The pro-active outnumber the bleeding hearts around here. For most of the year…

[defrey12]

As horrifically misguided as this society is, surely homeless people are not begrudged use of the water and hose as the DOG PARK!!!

THEY ARE TRESSPASING! Pure and simple. Ask any lawyer…this is 1L stuff.

[Jerseygirl08]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.
Compassion???? Experience shows that once the word is out many more homeless people will start invading out spaces. It's not about compassion. It's about trespassing and then loitering, then squatting. How about they squat in your yard, your driveway, use the outside water at your house?? Would you compassionately allow them on YOUR property? Just asking, don't mean to be mean but I've lived in San Diego and I know homeless people very well. I've got stories . . . . Just sayin'.

[mikeycereal]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvmpXURWlJg&ab_channel=FOX11LosAngeles

yikes I wonder how this all started.

[Jerseygirl08]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.

Two replies showing compassion for those less fortunate. What a sad state of affairs, is this what America is becoming?
It's not about compassion. If you want to be compassionate, invite them into your backyard to shower. If indeed these are homeless people, they need services from our community. Give them compassion at the dog park and they will follow you home. Then you can take care of them and see where that compassion gets you!! Does this argument ever end?

[manaboutown]

It can start with a single homeless person and quickly grow in number as it did here when authorities did nothing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWnRPEvAn_4https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWnRPEvAn_4

[Number 10 GI]

Community Watch only gets paid to drive around aimlessly and wave. Forget about them actually doing anything.

What do you expect them to do? They have no police power or any other authority to force someone to do anything. Their purpose in the community is to report any emergencies or problems to the proper authorities. This has been cited many, many times on this forum.

[Dave951]

There are several services available for
homeless people but they can't smoke drink or use drugs at the facilities that's why some of them don't go there

[MrFlorida]

Two replies showing compassion for those less fortunate. What a sad state of affairs, is this what America is becoming?

Well send them over to your house, what's your address?

[tophcfa]

I find it insulting to the canine community to have to share their facilities with those that refuse to work and contribute to society. All of our dogs (Border Collies) are the opposite of these losers. Our dogs are highly intelligent and have a work ethic second to none. They love to work and don’t know what to do with themselves without a job to do. In fact, their biggest fault is you have to be careful with them, because if you don’t sometimes make them take a rest they would work themselves to death. Gotta love Border Collies : )

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

It seems to me these are "Put up or shut up." statements.

BTW, the vast majority of the homeless are leading feral lives by choice, choosing to leech off the misguided good will of bleeding hearts as well as by theft and other crimes. Frankly I do not feel sorry for these "homeless". I despise them.

So what's your solution, and what are you DOING to reach that end? Opining on a semi-anonymous website? Yeah that'll teach those homeless!

I saw the video about Seattle dying and I love what Rhode Island is doing. As I said in the other thread about the homeless here, the Ocala Forest should be considered an option for a homeless community. But perhaps the state could incorporate the idea of a homeless community, with the system similar to what they did in Rhode Island. Build a prison where these folks can be put, which will also get them off the drugs and perhaps save their lives, and allow them to become contributing members of society again.

Whining about the homeless folks on the internet does nothing about the problem. All it does is point out how much some people like to whine. And so the phrase goes right back over to you: put up or shut up.

[Taltarzac725]

I still have no idea how someone could shower at a Villages' dog park? The ones I have been to only have contraptions that fill water bowls from the bottom. You put it on the ground next to it or partially inside it, and it fills the water bowl.

Maybe the Villages' southern area dog parks are different.

There are showers at the pools for use outside to rinse off the chemicals from the pool.

[manaboutown]

So what's your solution, and what are you DOING to reach that end? Opining on a semi-anonymous website? Yeah that'll teach those homeless!

I saw the video about Seattle dying and I love what Rhode Island is doing. As I said in the other thread about the homeless here, the Ocala Forest should be considered an option for a homeless community. But perhaps the state could incorporate the idea of a homeless community, with the system similar to what they did in Rhode Island. Build a prison where these folks can be put, which will also get them off the drugs and perhaps save their lives, and allow them to become contributing members of society again.

Whining about the homeless folks on the internet does nothing about the problem. All it does is point out how much some people like to whine. And so the phrase goes right back over to you: put up or shut up.

"If you say that someone is whining, you mean that they are complaining in an annoying way about something unimportant." From: Just a moment... (https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/whine)

I do not believe posters are whining about the presence of homeless people plaguing our community as their presence if tolerated eventually becomes a serious threat to the peaceful enjoyment of their property and their personal safety. Frankly, I regard that as important, not unimportant.

My solution is to not tolerate their presence here. Drive them off whenever they are encountered. Arrest them and lock them up for any crimes they commit.

[Bikehike]

������ have a good day

[coffeebean]

Today, while at the dog park, 3 people came in to use the hose to shower. I called Community Watch and they were not interested in assisting. They wanted me to call the police. That's useless because they come and go before the police can show up.

I took pictures and video but Community Watch didn't seem to care. Is this something we have to put up with? On a positive note, they didn't beg for money.

What exactly is Community Watch for? What do they do other than drive around in their CW marked vehicles?

[coffeebean]

Where is your compassion? It was a shower they wanted; not a pint of your blood.

It is attitudes like this that will allow this problem to grow and become something we don't want in our community. I have no compassion for anyone who is not willing to work for a living. Sorry.

[coffeebean]

Where is your compassion. It is hot in Florida. Did you ask if they were overheating or ok? As a runner I appreciate the water placed around the villages for us. If they do it frequently, then I would ask if they are ok and what village they are from. You may be surprised.

Seriously? Homeless people are not from a village. Do you think homeless people reside in The Villages? Your comment is confusing to me.

[coffeebean]

My gosh at least one person spoke the truth.... where is your compassion? We all want to turn a blind eye on the homeless as it's not our problem. Call the police to get them removed.... do you every think that they may need help. I hope when Jesus looks into the people hearts that have disdain for the homeless that He does not find disdain for them. Who did Jesus look for to help? It was not the Pharisees, but the down trodden and the weak. What do we do as a society? Are we like the Pharisees and walk by with indifference to THOSE people. The best we can come up with is to call the authorities to get THOSE kind of people removed from our sight. Shame on you. Oh and yes there will be people tell me that there are places the homeless can go and get help, but isn't it each individuals responsible to help our neighbor? Jesus said to love your neighbor as your self. And who is your neighbor, I say anyone you meet is your neighbor. I am sure I will get a lot of hate mail for posting this, but come on people, step off your high horse and say thank you God that I am able to help the less fortunate.

Leave Jesus and God out of this for crying out loud. Sheesh!