Relay For Life @ TVHS

[F16 1UB]

TV will not allow the Relay For Life fund raising event, The Walk, to be held at TVHS track in 2011 as they've done in the past. TV officials have centered all their energy toward Moffitt fund raising. I don't think anyone will take anything away from the Moffitt Cancer Center operation but....

We are waiting for more info from the American Cancer Society (ACS) but ACS officials at last nights "Relay" meeting were the ones that broke the news. It was suggested to go outside to the local community. Lady Lake, Wildwood, Leesburg.

If you've attended "The Walk" ceremony you understand the heart felt passion that drives one to help in this Relay For Life fund raiser.

[KathieI]

this is very sad news, 16, I know that there is a great deal of passion for this event and the Relay for Life program and I agree, I don't think it would take a thing away from the Moffitt center donation program. Do you think a petition would help?? I'd be very happy to help organize something if you think it could work.

If not, perhaps there are other very lovely places around TV that we might look into. It won't be as convenient, of course, but we must not stop the walk... what do you think.

I'm sorry for you, Barb and the rest of the team, as this program is very near and dear to many of our hearts.

[Whalen]

Kathie, thanks for the offer but I don't think a petition would help.
I was at last night's meeting and TV made it perfectly clear that they will no longer support Relay and the annual Walk will not be held on Village property.

I for one am both saddened and angered to think that all of us who support Relay for Life will have to leave our community and go to a neighboring community for this incredible event.

[Halle]

I agree it is a shame that TV has decided to not allow the Relay for Life on Villages Property. Everywhere I have lived the Relay for Life gets wonderful support from the local community.

So many survivors and family members participate that not only is it a great fund raising event but an opportunity to meet with other survivors and offer support.

I hope that a convenient location can be found so TV residents can continue to participate in this wonderful event.

[bluedog103]

This is absurd! The Relay for Life will not detract from the Moffitt Center fundraising. If anything it will enhance it.
As a two time cancer survivor I well remember my first victory lap, coming down to the finish being high-fived by family, friends and especially doctors and nurses who had been by my side during the difficult, scary treatment. Truly an uplifting experience.

[homeball]

What is a little surprising is the very low response that this important thread has elicited. I guess it's easier to roll over than stand up and say "What's up with that?"

The Moffitt Center and the American Cancer Society should be able to coexist in the same community. One is helping patients fight a disease and the other is searching for a cure. Banning American Cancer Society fund raising from all Village property demonstrates a lopsided view of what's in our best interests.

[redwitch]

I'm speechless. I think that may be one of the reasons so little is being said. The other reason may be that we don't truly know why it will not be held on TV property. This is just so sad and so wrong.

[Mikitv]

Maybe a letter to the editor would help? People calling and emailing to ask why? What can we all do to help? I agree that every thing for charity in the paper has been focused on the Moffitt Center, lately.

[sandybill2]

I am upset about this decision. I have participated in The Village Relay for Life since our move here in 2007. I am a survivor like so many here and also have had lost family and friends to this dreadful disease. Being able to donate and have luminaires with my loved one's names on them meant so much to me--honoring their life that way. The survivor walk -I have been told--is the largest one in the United States. I think we should let the "decision makers" know how we feel about this.

[njbchbum]

What is a little surprising is the very low response that this important thread has elicited. I guess it's easier to roll over than stand up and say "What's up with that?"

The Moffitt Center and the American Cancer Society should be able to coexist in the same community. One is helping patients fight a disease and the other is searching for a cure. Banning American Cancer Society fund raising from all Village property demonstrates a lopsided view of what's in our best interests.

what a lame brain decision!

talk about 'should be able to coexist in the same community'!!!!! i can't think of two ventures more related and inclined to support each other than these two!

having each of them in the villages can only strengthen the relationship. awareness of one can only help the other!

the playing fields on rolling acres rd come to mind as does the carriage museum or even uncle donald's farm!

[beartrack]

I too am stunned by this terrible decision. I took my first walk as a survivior last year. Never in my life have I experienced such a heart warming event. The love that was shown to my wife and I is something that I will never forget. To deny that experience to other survivors and caregivers is a tragedy. I can not imagine that the relay for life would in any way detract from fund raising efforts on behalf of The Moffitt Center. Quite the opposite in my opinion. Each endeavor would shed more light on the other. Personally, if I am forced to choose as a result of this inane decision, considering the anger and distress that it has caused me, I will continue to support the relay for life and as much as I want it, I will find it difficult at best to continue to support The Moffitt Center.

[nkrifats]

My first walk was 5 years ago and I will not forget walking with others who have beaten this disease. I can see no reason for The Villages to do this. I am not there full time yet but would be glad to help in any way that could cause this to happen.

[golfnut]

i wonder where we can go to get an explanation from TV why....gn

[LuvItHere]

What is a little surprising is the very low response that this important thread has elicited. I guess it's easier to roll over than stand up and say "What's up with that?"

The Moffitt Center and the American Cancer Society should be able to coexist in the same community. . . .

This is a total embarrassment to the community. Maybe we should all put our money together to buy one of those full-page newspaper ads to express this.

[suebanj]

I am speechless about this decision...I don't understand the villages thinking on this one!!!

[dominick]

All of the fundraising efforts going on in TV are worthwhile and commendable, and I'm as charitable and caring as the next person (really). But with so many causes and events, especially now with the Moffit Center $6million goal, the whole thing is getting to be a bit too much. People asking you to buy tickets for this, raffle chances on that, march for this, pledge money to pay for this, buy crummy breakfasts for that , etc, etc. -- it's kind of annoying. Telephone calls from volunteers wanting donations, letters and emails asking for money, fight this disease and that affliction, support the troops. Yeah, its getting kind of bothersome.
Last week, a neighbor asked me for $25 for some charity & seemed personally offended when I politely told her that I wasn't interested in contributing. I will not treat solicitors kindly, no matter what their cause, if I feel that they are overly aggressive and demanding. Sorry
Both my wife and I have had cancer and survived. I don't go around all weepy and morose about it. If it does me in the next time, so what?? We all have to go sometime.
As I said, all of the causes are noble and worthwhile. Maybe we should have just one big fund. Everyone could contribute to the one fund, and then the money could be somehow divided up among the causes. Kind of like a United Fund just for TV.

[golfnut]

somehow divided up, therein lies the issue....gn

[billethkid]

Maybe something more to the point i.e.:

The Villages "cancels' support for Relay for Life or perhaps

Morse Family abandons support for Relay for Life

If TOTV has 15,000 members it sure would be great to get each one of them to voice their disgust in a personal letter to Gary Morse with a copy to Mark.

I absolutely agree with previous comments the event will not take away one dime from the Moffit Center...there actually could be a back lash for it.

Where do we donate to the one page ad in the paper?

Someone needs to send the announcement to The Orlando Sentinel!!!

I have a feeling this may not be the desire of the Morse family....Moffit fund raiser politics?? I bet.

There needs to be an outcry loud enough to encourage the Morse family to either reverse the decision or at least state why the won't.

btk

[redwitch]

I think the first thing we need to do is find out WHY there will be no Relay in TV. It may be because Moffitt is not getting enough money quickly enough, it may be some sort of insurance or safety issue. We don't know and we shouldn't assume. I have sent emails to both TV and the Sun to see if someone has any answers. If I get any replies, I'll post.

[graciegirl]

I think the first thing we need to do is find out WHY there will be no Relay in TV. It may be because Moffitt is not getting enough money quickly enough, it may be some sort of insurance or safety issue. We don't know and we shouldn't assume. I have sent emails to both TV and the Sun to see if someone has any answers. If I get any replies, I'll post.

So did I. Janet Tutt answered immediately and sent a copy of the letter sent to her by The American Cancer Society saying there would be a Relay for Life for the Villages in another location. (paraphrased)

[Whalen]

So did I. Janet Tutt answered immediately and sent a copy of the letter sent to her by The American Cancer Society saying there would be a Relay for Life for the Villages in another location. (paraphrased)

GG

You have been conspicuously silent on this matter.

Where is the letter?
What did Ms Tutt have to say.
Where will the event take place?
Can you get there in a golf cart?

[bluedog103]

I think it's time to get the national media involved in this. I cannot believe stupidity of this decision.
Perhaps it's time to check in with 60 Minutes. Any retired CBS folks out there?

[billethkid]

The opening paragraph goes into very limited detail, starting with you may have heard there has been discussion about the Villages relay for life. Then assuring there will be a relay for life "for the Villages" residents in 2011 and are working on where and when we will be held...more information to come soon. (paraphrasing).

The rest of the letter goes on to provide information about the relay for life, it's benefits, etc.

It was co-signed by Melody Pressnell Field VP, Central Region and Dorothy Hardee Unit Executive Director, Lake/Sumter. Dated 11/15/2010.

btk

[graciegirl]

GG

You have been conspicuously silent on this matter.

Where is the letter?
What did Ms Tutt have to say.
Where will the event take place?
Can you get there in a golf cart?

The letter is in an attachment. Tony does not allow anything but links.
I can't post it.

[Whalen]

The letter is in an attachment. Tony does not allow anything but links.
I can't post it.

I don't believe it is copyrighted material, therefore you can cut and paste.

[Whalen]

The opening paragraph goes into very limited detail, starting with you may have heard there has been discussion about the Villages relay for life. Then assuring there will be a relay for life "for the Villages" residents in 2011 and are working on where and when we will be held...more information to come soon. (paraphrasing).

The rest of the letter goes on to provide information about the relay for life, it's benefits, etc.

It was co-signed by Melody Pressnell Field VP, Central Region and Dorothy Hardee Unit Executive Director, Lake/Sumter. Dated 11/15/2010.

btk

BTK,
Thanks for your support.
Please note the letter you recieved was dated prior to the meeting I attended on 11/ 17.
At said meeting we were told that there will be no Relay event on TV property.
We were also told that we are more than welcome to join forces with surrounding groups, ie Wildwood, Lady Lake etc.and that all future fund raising efforts by TV will be directed for the benefit of the moffit center.

Please don't shoot the messenger.

[billethkid]

the one thing I do not care for is the way they have structured their ownership of certain businesses, properties and organizations. In my opinion some decisions made as a result of at times unilateral decision making to benefit a focus determined by TV management to benefit TV developers, businesses or organizations do in fact constitute a conflict of interest.
As legally staffed and covered as they tend to be, I am sure they are doing what is legally allowed, at times they do approach to skate on some mighty thin ice.

In recent weeks I have heard TV representatives use the excuse of focusing on the Moffit Center to turn down other projects/requests.

I do understand we live in their bubble and we are here by choice. There are times when unilateral decision making in necessary. To eliminate certain heretofore ongoing activities benefiting TV residents to focus upon or benefit TV developers, owners, organizations and or interests may be legal....just not very democratic or understand or really as caring as they would us all to keep smiling about. Sorta like our folks in Washington in many respects.
The benefit goes to those with the money and the power.

Not that any of the above matters except to me and all the friends and family who have been or are directly affected by the unilateral edicts....most recently abandoning support for Relay for Life.

btk

[graciegirl]

I agree BTK that sometimes the lack of democracy here in TV does chafe.

There is a very long article in the paper this morning and I truly can't understand it.

The best I can make of it, it appears that the Villagers? (it gave the names of a man and a woman) that ran the Relay for Life fundraiser have thrown their support toward the Moffitt center fundraiser. Now who knows if that is the case, if they were waterboarded to change their allegiance, but that is what I get out of it.

Seems inhospitable that THE VILLAGES, ie THE MORSE ORGANIZATION would just not let the Relay for Life continue at the High School track knowing all the stink it would bring. (It looks like the fundraiser group abandoned it....?) But WHY? Were they directed to change, or what?

it really doesn't make a huge difference other than people can't get to it by golf cart...if you want to see the bottom line. The survivors will walk, but just not here in TV which was kinda cozy and nice.

Can anyone give a better understanding of this morning's lengthy newspaper article??

AND it was lengthy. Methinks they protest too much.

[LuvItHere]

I looked last night on the ACS Relay site for The Villages Relay, and it still says it's scheduled for April, 2011 at the high school. So I emailed D. Hardee listed there a contact, and asked if the Relay is being cancelled or just relocated within TV. Here is her reply last night, 11/18 at 9:27 p.m.:

"Yes this is true. Please know that we are currently securing a new site for
Relay for the Village residence. I will let you know as soon as possible.
Please do not hesitate to call or email me with question or concerns."

So, it looks like it's still on and maybe we should wait instead of getting all inflamed about it.

Perhaps the location change is due to some other big event in need of the school grounds? i.e. Wounded Warriors - Golf Car Parade held there last week?

[homeball]

I looked last night on the ACS Relay site for The Villages Relay, and it still says it's scheduled for April, 2011 at the high school. So I emailed D. Hardee listed there a contact, and asked if the Relay is being cancelled or just relocated within TV. Here is her reply last night, 11/18 at 9:27 p.m.:

"Yes this is true. Please know that we are currently securing a new site for
Relay for the Village residence. I will let you know as soon as possible.
Please do not hesitate to call or email me with question or concerns."

So, it looks like it's still on and maybe we should wait instead of getting all inflamed about it.

Perhaps the location change is due to some other big event in need of the school grounds? i.e. Wounded Warriors - Golf Car Parade held there last week?

Not to be repetitive, at the meeting on Wednesday, Nov 17 the Relay for Life committee was told that UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES were they going to be allowed to conduct their April event on VILLAGE PROPERTY . . . . . school grounds or otherwise. Note that they were NOT told they couldn't hold the event. It's just that it would have to be done outside The Villages, possibly hooking up with whatever would be going on in Wildwood, Fruitland Park, Leesburg, etc. This is reinforced by the article in today's SUN which says in one fashion or another that the Relay for Life effort would now be diverted to fund raising for the Moffitt Center. Unless someone comes up with a way to veto that decision or The Villages has a change of heart, that's the way it is.

[billethkid]

present what it would like us residents to believe and accept (or accept and believe). Whether it was the reporter or the chairpersons of the Moffit Center committee or both, presenting a position contrasting the needs of The American Cancer Society (referred to as the "global" cause) VS the Moffit Center (the "local" entity) and stating the local need supercedes the global need is a very narrow minded, prejudiced, slanted, self serving perspective.

The article continues to try to coerce the reader into accepting their premise by presenting statistics about the "global" administration needs. OK so it is truetheir is an administration requirement. What about the other 96% of the "global" donations that go for all the various researches and benefits that organizations like Moffit would and could not exist without.

As for the story of not having to drive another half hour for treatment...here again a valid position. However, it is not a reason to put the local entity above the "global".

The article and the committee would have the residents and readers believe that once the Moffit Center is open that the cancer treatment needs of TV residents will be taken care of by the new "local" entity. Not true.
What percent of cancer patients would or could be accommodated by the new center? Certainly not 100% and I am not saying they intimate to the contrary. Just that the new center will in fact be more convenient for those whose treatment needs match up to what is provided by the new "local" facility.

Of course in a promotional piece they certainly are not going to present the other aspects of reality. The following is a pure guess on my part: there will still be a majority of residents with needs for cancer treatment that will continue to have to go else where for treatment as they do today. There is just no way the new cancer center will be the answer to all TV residents needs. Hence it's blatant, arbitrarily assigned priority should not profess being the priority for us residents.

To present an attitude that the residents of TV can not accomplish the needs of The Relay for Life and the Moffit Center is a very selfish, inconsiderate and extremely biased position to present.

The heat generated for me by this subject is the arbitrary abandoning of a cherished, emotional event and in the course of trying to sell a more favored event (Moffit) the committee, the developer and it's entities (the newspaper et al) attempts to reduce the former stature as a subordinate need.

A political style mugging with word smithing and mirrors in the spirit of Washington politics.

We will follow the Relay for Life where ever it winds up. We will also make a contribution to the new Moffit Center. However, the Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society is our priority and the donations allocated appropriately.

I personally believe the committee and the developer and who ever else approved or supported the "cancer goes local" needs to appologize to TV residents and The American Cancer Society for their arrogant and biased presentation.

btk
I wonder if the committee expects any support from the subordinate organization, The American Cancer Society?

[KathieI]

There is sooo much "emotional'ism" going on here and I accept that it is very valid but let's look at a bigger picture because as we are all after the same goal...that of treating and beating the big C.... what IF we negotiate that the "global" entity (ACS/Relay for Life) donate "x" % of the proceeds to the "local" entity, Moffitt Center????


For instance, my last employer, an extremely large top 10 corporations, "encouraged" all of us employees to give to the United Way a yearly donation.... Rather than stir the pot, I developed a way where my contributions would be directed to the City of Hope which made me feel it was going where I wanted it to go.... I know it got there because I received annual letter from COH thanking me for my donation....

This seems like a fair compromise and perhaps would work...

The other thing is there is a Relay for Life event at the Rolling Acres Sports Complex - wherever that is... a we could tie in with them a make it a win-win program..???? I always prefer to not get angry, but to take positive actions to get what I want>>>> what do you think??

[homeball]

There is sooo much "emotional'ism" going on here and I accept that it is very valid but let's look at a bigger picture because as we are all after the same goal...that of treating and beating the big C.... what IF we negotiate that the "global" entity (ACS/Relay for Life) donate "x" % of the proceeds to the "local" entity, Moffitt Center????


For instance, my last employer, an extremely large top 10 corporations, "encouraged" all of us employees to give to the United Way a yearly donation.... Rather than stir the pot, I developed a way where my contributions would be directed to the City of Hope which made me feel it was going where I wanted it to go.... I know it got there because I received annual letter from COH thanking me for my donation....

This seems like a fair compromise and perhaps would work...

The other thing is there is a Relay for Life event at the Rolling Acres Sports Complex - wherever that is... a we could tie in with them a make it a win-win program..???? I always prefer to not get angry, but to take positive actions to get what I want>>>> what do you think??

From what I've been told, that ship has sailed. Reportedly The Villages approached the ACS regarding sharing donations. The ACS response was that splitting or sharing donations with another entity was against their policy and they just don't do it no matter how worthy the cause. If they did it for one, then they would in all liklihood be expected to do it again and again and they choose not to deal with it.

[Judec]

I am upset about this decision. I have participated in The Village Relay for Life since our move here in 2007. I am a survivor like so many here and also have had lost family and friends to this dreadful disease. Being able to donate and have luminaires with my loved one's names on them meant so much to me--honoring their life that way. The survivor walk -I have been told--is the largest one in the United States. I think we should let the "decision makers" know how we feel about this.
I am a survivor to and felt so privilged to walk around the field with the support of the attendees and to see the luminaries lit up at night for those who have lost their battle was so moving. I cannot believe the friendliest home town would do this to stop fund raising for the RFL and deny Villagers this important recognition. For money for equipment instead is an outrage. We have all been touched by cancer thru ourselves, family, friends, neighbors and should be up in arms to complain. Our taxes support the very school they say we no longer have access to. Our Villagers volunteer at the same school and we support the students...what is going on...the Villages is no longer a democracy but a dictatorship, what happened to Our Friendliest Hometown, seems more like the greedy hometown to their own focus to me.
Yvonne Collins

[billethkid]

doesn't measure up to traffic circles and gazing balls in the front yard!!!!
This kind of participation is exactly what organizations that do arbitrary things count on. Little to almost none, hence they continue on their merry way....just like the dolts in Washington count on full speed ahead the sheeple will fall in line.

I do understand that the 1500 survivors for the Relay for Life is a drop in the bucket out of TV 80,000.
It does not mean it is right or acceptable.

TV sets the drum beat and the masses follow...they know it and expect their boat will not be rocked.

Let's just wait and see what the direction is when they do not realize the $6 + million they need for equipment.

Some of us look forward to the day when TV developers build out and the residents become the ruling entity. Participation from the masses will still be as low. However, they will at least then be afforded a voice... today they are not. And at least then, at least the direction will be set by residents...not the power and the $$$$.

Those of us willing to be front and center on an issue will always be the minority vote...how very sad.

btk

[homeball]

doesn't measure up to traffic circles and gazing balls in the front yard!!!!
This kind of participation is exactly what organizations that do arbitrary things count on. Little to almost none, hence they continue on their merry way....just like the dolts in Washington count on full speed ahead the sheeple will fall in line.

I do understand that the 1500 survivors for the Relay for Life is a drop in the bucket out of TV 80,000.
It does not mean it is right or acceptable.

TV sets the drum beat and the masses follow...they know it and expect their boat will not be rocked.

Let's just wait and see what the direction is when they do not realize the $6 + million they need for equipment.

Some of us look forward to the day when TV developers build out and the residents become the ruling entity. Participation from the masses will still be as low. However, they will at least then be afforded a voice... today they are not. And at least then, at least the direction will be set by residents...not the power and the $$$$.

Those of us willing to be front and center on an issue will always be the minority vote...how very sad.

btk

EXCELLENT POST. :thumbup:

[beartrack]

present what it would like us residents to believe and accept (or accept and believe). Whether it was the reporter or the chairpersons of the Moffit Center committee or both, presenting a position contrasting the needs of The American Cancer Society (referred to as the "global" cause) VS the Moffit Center (the "local" entity) and stating the local need supercedes the global need is a very narrow minded, prejudiced, slanted, self serving perspective.

The article continues to try to coerce the reader into accepting their premise by presenting statistics about the "global" administration needs. OK so it is truetheir is an administration requirement. What about the other 96% of the "global" donations that go for all the various researches and benefits that organizations like Moffit would and could not exist without.

As for the story of not having to drive another half hour for treatment...here again a valid position. However, it is not a reason to put the local entity above the "global".

The article and the committee would have the residents and readers believe that once the Moffit Center is open that the cancer treatment needs of TV residents will be taken care of by the new "local" entity. Not true.
What percent of cancer patients would or could be accommodated by the new center? Certainly not 100% and I am not saying they intimate to the contrary. Just that the new center will in fact be more convenient for those whose treatment needs match up to what is provided by the new "local" facility.

Of course in a promotional piece they certainly are not going to present the other aspects of reality. The following is a pure guess on my part: there will still be a majority of residents with needs for cancer treatment that will continue to have to go else where for treatment as they do today. There is just no way the new cancer center will be the answer to all TV residents needs. Hence it's blatant, arbitrarily assigned priority should not profess being the priority for us residents.

To present an attitude that the residents of TV can not accomplish the needs of The Relay for Life and the Moffit Center is a very selfish, inconsiderate and extremely biased position to present.

The heat generated for me by this subject is the arbitrary abandoning of a cherished, emotional event and in the course of trying to sell a more favored event (Moffit) the committee, the developer and it's entities (the newspaper et al) attempts to reduce the former stature as a subordinate need.

A political style mugging with word smithing and mirrors in the spirit of Washington politics.

We will follow the Relay for Life where ever it winds up. We will also make a contribution to the new Moffit Center. However, the Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society is our priority and the donations allocated appropriately.

I personally believe the committee and the developer and who ever else approved or supported the "cancer goes local" needs to appologize to TV residents and The American Cancer Society for their arrogant and biased presentation.

btk
I wonder if the committee expects any support from the subordinate organization, The American Cancer Society?



Bravo BTK, well said. One point that seems to be overlooked here is the convenience of having the Moffitt center here instead of having to go to Tampa. Well, no one need go further then Orlando. It has recently come to my attention that there is not only one but, two world renowned cancer satellite centers there. Sloan-Kettering and M D Anderson, so I have been told, have both built cancer centers there, and to the best of my knowledge, without any contributions from anyone. World Class facilitys with no strings attached. I will also make my contribution to our Moffitt center but, the bulk of my contribution and my heart, will always be with " The Relay For Life "

[LuvItHere]

As a survivor and one around whom a Relay team of families formed, to buoy up my spirits and raise money during my battle with a fast-spreading cancer a few years ago, I want to say that this "all or nothing" approach/attitude is unnecessarily divisive.

It saddens me to see a line drawn between two potentially "warring" factions, as glad-handing politicians now so often pit the "haves" against the "have nots"--US, pitted against our own people in the same boat.

I don't think it should be "All Moffitt" or "All ACS-RFL". We're all in this boat together--I cannot think of anyone who's not had a loved one stricken with cancer. And I know there are many, many gifted researchers out there who would welcome funding from ANY of these efforts, to work passionately for the CURE!

The Moffitt fundraising doesn't need to be the "enemy" of ACS - RFL fundraising. I'm sure that researchers and therapists will welcome funding and equipment from BOTH efforts' monies.

I agree it doesn't seem very "nice" for TV to not allow the Relay in any of its properties in order to focus on the Moffit fundraising goals. But if I set a goal for myself and the bar is set high, I'm going to do everything I can, with God's mighty hands holding me up, to make sure I run that race like I'm Lance Armstrong and not let anything take my focus off that prize.

We comment a lot that when The Villages builds something, they do it right, with high quality and class. I give them credit for not only doing this project, but doing it with FOCUS and determination. That same focus and determination for a dream is what made this the beautiful place that it is!

RFL is well established and respected, and another fundraiser in town (that amounts to only $69 per person if every resident donated) is not going to stifle RFL. Let's unite, not divide.

[graciegirl]

As a survivor and one around whom a Relay team of families formed, to buoy up my spirits and raise money during my battle with a fast-spreading cancer a few years ago, I want to say that this "all or nothing" approach/attitude is unnecessarily divisive.

It saddens me to see a line drawn between two potentially "warring" factions, as glad-handing politicians now so often pit the "haves" against the "have nots"--US, pitted against our own people in the same boat.

I don't think it should be "All Moffitt" or "All ACS-RFL". We're all in this boat together--I cannot think of anyone who's not had a loved one stricken with cancer. And I know there are many, many gifted researchers out there who would welcome funding from ANY of these efforts, to work passionately for the CURE!

The Moffitt fundraising doesn't need to be the "enemy" of ACS - RFL fundraising. I'm sure that researchers and therapists will welcome funding and equipment from BOTH efforts' monies.

I agree it doesn't seem very "nice" for TV to not allow the Relay in any of its properties in order to focus on the Moffit fundraising goals. But if I set a goal for myself and the bar is set high, I'm going to do everything I can, with God's mighty hands holding me up, to make sure I run that race like I'm Lance Armstrong and not let anything take my focus off that prize.

We comment a lot that when The Villages builds something, they do it right, with high quality and class. I give them credit for not only doing this project, but doing it with FOCUS and determination. That same focus and determination for a dream is what made this the beautiful place that it is!

RFL is well established and respected, and another fundraiser in town (that amounts to only $69 per person if every resident donated) is not going to stifle RFL. Let's unite, not divide.

Well said. Clear and from the heart. Bravo

[barb1191]

I agree BTK that sometimes the lack of democracy here in TV does chafe.

There is a very long article in the paper this morning and I truly can't understand it.

The best I can make of it, it appears that the Villagers? (it gave the names of a man and a woman) that ran the Relay for Life fundraiser have thrown their support toward the Moffitt center fundraiser. Now who knows if that is the case, if they were waterboarded to change their allegiance, but that is what I get out of it.

Seems inhospitable that THE VILLAGES, ie THE MORSE ORGANIZATION would just not let the Relay for Life continue at the High School track knowing all the stink it would bring. (It looks like the fundraiser group abandoned it....?) But WHY? Were they directed to change, or what?

it really doesn't make a huge difference other than people can't get to it by golf cart...if you want to see the bottom line. The survivors will walk, but just not here in TV which was kinda cozy and nice.

Can anyone give a better understanding of this morning's lengthy newspaper article??

AND it was lengthy. Methinks they protest too much.

Why can't the walkers walk the public streets in TV? The streets are public, yes? I'm so confused, as well as even more disenchanted about the "developer greed" that seems to be increasing at a real fast pace as the community grows.

Does one need a permit to "walk" in TV? Doesn't necessarily have to be at TV school grounds, but could one apply for a permit (or whatever is necessary) from say, Sumter County Sherrif's office to walk the public properties?

The "Moffit" debaucle was pretty disgusting when the developer took control of the donations, but this one really takes the cake in showing the greed in not allowing this long-standing "walk for cancer." GRRRR

Please do not advise me to move; I like it here and this is my choice to live here and I also have the choice to speak out when there's questionable happenings within the community. This is "our" community and we have the POA to balance the scales for our residents, thank goodness.

[Pturner]

I am trying hard to not feel utter disgust.

I was so baffled reading the other thread in which people expressed animosity about the fund-raising for the Moffitt Center. I just could not understand it. I hate to say this, but I might get it, at least a little, on some level.

I think BTK is right about the conflict of interest, right about the political-style mugging, right that this is just wrong. The attitude seems to be, "if anybody is going to raise money around here, it's going to be me. If my corporate interest doesn't get a slice of it, no one else will either. Not on my property, not on my watch."

Ok, maybe it's not as bad as that. Maybe I'm just... speechless. Maybe I'll regain my perspective. Maybe I'll come to see this situation more "charitably".

Or maybe... Yes, the streets of TV are public, aren't they? Maybe we should organize a protest march.

I'm trying so hard to not feel disgust; and dammit it's not working.

[Boomer]

I know I am not supposed to have an opinion on this because we do not yet own here in TV. But we see so many things to like about this place that we are seriously considering buying. We have been looking at houses.

And I can no longer stay silent on this one. (I sometimes wonder, when I read some of the stuff here on TOTV, if I can make my way in TV as an independent thinker. But I have always managed to find my people somehow. So I am betting that I can.) Whoops. I digress….. so anyway, back to the topic that’s got me all riled up……

I was appalled by what I had been reading in this thread. But then I read that article in today’s newspaper and now I need a new word -- something stronger than appalled. Can’t seem to think of the perfect word right now…..well… at least not a ladylike word.

Thank you, BTK, for your comments on the article and also for your comments on this situation in general. You are telling it like it is.

I saw that newspaper article as quite a piece of writing that boiled down to saying that a small, powerful group made a decision to pull the rug out from under the biggest Relay for Life in the country. I can only imagine the influence that must have been brought to bear in that one. (shudder)

As I looked at the writer’s style, it sure looked to me like a version of the assumptive close. Invoking the assumptive principle, the writer presents the issue with absolute and complete confidence, as if it is all so very obvious, so purely right. When a decision is presented in such a manner, people who say the decision is wrong can find themselves cast in a bad light by those who will call them (gasp) negative and, in some cases, worse. And so it goes……

I have learned a lot about TV from TOTV. I have learned that the streets are public and the squares are public. I also know that charter schools are funded with public money.

The Relay for Life is always inspiring and beautiful. I think it would be wonderful to see the Villagers’ Relay for Life pour out, in those huge numbers, into the streets and the squares of TV. Not to be denied. And I would plan to be right there with them.

I can dream, can’t I?

Norma Rae Boomer

[njbchbum]

I am trying hard to not feel utter disgust.

I was so baffled reading the other thread in which people expressed animosity about the fund-raising for the Moffitt Center. I just could not understand it. I hate to say this, but I might get it, at least a little, on some level.

I think BTK is right about the conflict of interest, right about the political-style mugging, right that this is just wrong. The attitude seems to be, "if anybody is going to raise money around here, it's going to be me. If my corporate interest doesn't get a slice of it, no one else will either. Not on my property, not on my watch."

Ok, maybe it's not as bad as that. Maybe I'm just... speechless. Maybe I'll regain my perspective. Maybe I'll come to see this situation more "charitably".

Or maybe... Yes, the streets of TV are public, aren't they? Maybe we should organize a protest march.

I'm trying so hard to not feel disgust; and dammit it's not working.

Pt -
this thread has given me so much to ponder! at one point i wondered if i ever need the services of the moffitt ctr and they find i didn't contribute to its fund - would i be treated there! and then there are these visions of villagers in procession thru the streets of our neighborhoods, along cart paths with our individual candles/luminaries and just happening to converge at the polo fields at the same time! - sorta like your protest march - but the neighborhood captains could collect our donations for relay for life and/or the center.

[Halle]

:BigApplause:

I know I am not supposed to have an opinion on this because we do not yet own here in TV. But we see so many things to like about this place that we are seriously considering buying. We have been looking at houses.

And I can no longer stay silent on this one. (I sometimes wonder, when I read some of the stuff here on TOTV, if an independent thinker like me can make my way in TV. But I always manage to find my people somehow. So I am betting that I can.) Whoops. I digress….. so anyway, back to the topic that’s got me all riled up……

I was appalled by what I had been reading in this thread. But then I read that article in today’s newspaper and now I need a new word -- something stronger than appalled. Can’t seem to think of the perfect word right now…..well… at least not a ladylike word.

Thank you, BTK, for your comments on the article and also for your comments on this situation in general. You are telling it like it is.

I saw that newspaper article as quite a piece of writing that boiled down to saying that a small, powerful group made a decision to pull the rug out from under the biggest Relay for Life in the country. I can only imagine the influence that must have been brought to bear in that one. (shudder)

As I looked at the writer’s style, it sure looked to me like a version of the assumptive close. Invoking the assumptive principle, the writer presents the issue with absolute and complete confidence, as if it is all so very obvious, so purely right. When a decision is presented in such a manner, people who say the decision is wrong can find themselves cast in a bad light by those who will call them (gasp) negative and, in some cases, worse. And so it goes……

I have learned a lot about TV from TOTV. I have learned that the streets are public and the squares are public. I also know that charter schools are funded with public money.

The Relay for Life is always inspiring and beautiful. I think it would be wonderful to see the Villagers’ Relay for Life pour out, in those huge numbers, into the streets and the squares of TV. Not to be denied. And I would plan to be right there with them.

I can dream, can’t I?

Norma Rae Boomer

Thank you!

[Whalen]

I am trying hard to not feel utter disgust.

I was so baffled reading the other thread in which people expressed animosity about the fund-raising for the Moffitt Center. I just could not understand it. I hate to say this, but I might get it, at least a little, on some level.

I think BTK is right about the conflict of interest, right about the political-style mugging, right that this is just wrong. The attitude seems to be, "if anybody is going to raise money around here, it's going to be me. If my corporate interest doesn't get a slice of it, no one else will either. Not on my property, not on my watch."

Ok, maybe it's not as bad as that. Maybe I'm just... speechless. Maybe I'll regain my perspective. Maybe I'll come to see this situation more "charitably".

Or maybe... Yes, the streets of TV are public, aren't they? Maybe we should organize a protest march.

I'm trying so hard to not feel disgust; and dammit it's not working.

PT

I have been trying to find a word beyond disgust to describe how I felt Wednesday evening when I went to what I thought was a kick off for this year's Relay for Life season only to find out that it was not to be.

At this meeting we were told that TV will longer support Relay and the annual Survivors' Walk will not be allowed to take place on Village property! All future Villages fundraising will be focused on the Moffit Center. If our team wants to continue we will either join with them and desert Relay or align our team with a neighboring community. I left feeling manipulated and in need of a bath.

I still feel that way.

[redwitch]

let's see -- moffitt is a for-profit hospital that we are expected to fund. the majority of world-class physicians of moffitt will stay in tampa and, if we're lucky, will telecommute to here for consultations. personally, i think we've been sold a HUGE bill of goods on this one. unfortunately, we're stuck. so are the morses. they're discovering that fund raising for moffitt is not going as quickly as they expected. they're hearing a lot of negative comments about the whole deal; comments they did not expect. so, they need to cut out other fundraisers in the hopes that people will contribute more to moffitt.

i do believe that if we were to march down the public streets we would in fact be arrested, just as protestors were in the 60s and 70s. we may live here, but the morses do still hold the power.

to my way of thinking, disallowing the relay for life in the villages is obscene. it's the only word i can think of for this action.

[beartrack]

I know I am not supposed to have an opinion on this because we do not yet own here in TV. But we see so many things to like about this place that we are seriously considering buying. We have been looking at houses.

And I can no longer stay silent on this one. (I sometimes wonder, when I read some of the stuff here on TOTV, if an independent thinker like me can make my way in TV. But I always manage to find my people somehow. So I am betting that I can.) Whoops. I digress….. so anyway, back to the topic that’s got me all riled up……

I was appalled by what I had been reading in this thread. But then I read that article in today’s newspaper and now I need a new word -- something stronger than appalled. Can’t seem to think of the perfect word right now…..well… at least not a ladylike word.

Thank you, BTK, for your comments on the article and also for your comments on this situation in general. You are telling it like it is.

I saw that newspaper article as quite a piece of writing that boiled down to saying that a small, powerful group made a decision to pull the rug out from under the biggest Relay for Life in the country. I can only imagine the influence that must have been brought to bear in that one. (shudder)

As I looked at the writer’s style, it sure looked to me like a version of the assumptive close. Invoking the assumptive principle, the writer presents the issue with absolute and complete confidence, as if it is all so very obvious, so purely right. When a decision is presented in such a manner, people who say the decision is wrong can find themselves cast in a bad light by those who will call them (gasp) negative and, in some cases, worse. And so it goes……

I have learned a lot about TV from TOTV. I have learned that the streets are public and the squares are public. I also know that charter schools are funded with public money.

The Relay for Life is always inspiring and beautiful. I think it would be wonderful to see the Villagers’ Relay for Life pour out, in those huge numbers, into the streets and the squares of TV. Not to be denied. And I would plan to be right there with them.

I can dream, can’t I?

Norma Rae Boomer

Great post. You said it better then I ever could

Thanks Boomer

[Pturner]

If anyone has a fax machine and would be willing to fax me a copy of the long Daily Sun article on the subject, please PM me and I'll give you my fax number. Thanks much.

[memason]

Just saw this on the ACS website.... Not updated ?? Looks like you can still sign up for TV relay...

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY11FL?sid=1003&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=29865

[wendyquat]

Great idea about Carriage Museum nj girl! What a beautiful place!:clap2:

[Larry Wilson]

let's see -- moffitt is a for-profit hospital that we are expected to fund. the majority of world-class physicians of moffitt will stay in tampa and, if we're lucky, will telecommute to here for consultations. personally, i think we've been sold a HUGE bill of goods on this one. unfortunately, we're stuck. so are the morses. they're discovering that fund raising for moffitt is not going as quickly as they expected. they're hearing a lot of negative comments about the whole deal; comments they did not expect. so, they need to cut out other fundraisers in the hopes that people will contribute more to moffitt.

i do believe that if we were to march down the public streets we would in fact be arrested, just as protestors were in the 60s and 70s. we may live here, but the morses do still hold the power.

to my way of thinking, disallowing the relay for life in the villages is obscene. it's the only word i can think of for this action.

You are right redwitch. I think someone needs to leak this to papers around America. I bet that publicity would change their minds.

[billethkid]

on this subject, the relay will take place as planned. They are busy pursing non-TV alternatives and or teaming up with other neighboring venues already established.

I guess when TV got national coverage from ACS for being the largest in the country, they puffed up their chest.
Now the headline could be:

The Villages cancels the nation's largest Relay for Life event for self interest projects.

btk

[Bogie Shooter]

Was the committe that ran the cancer fund raising including the Relay for Life a Villages group or just citizens that banded together? If it is the latter, how can the developer be blamed for canceling the Relay for Life?

[barb1191]

One point that seems to be overlooked here is the convenience of having the Moffitt center here instead of having to go to Tampa."


Easy ....The Moffitt Center will be built at Leesburg, regardless of the outcome of TV site. Leesburg is a lot better drive than Tampa, yes? Problem solved. ;-)

[Pturner]

Was the committe that ran the cancer fund raising including the Relay for Life a Villages group or just citizens that banded together? If it is the latter, how can the developer be blamed for canceling the Relay for Life?

Because it would be easy to organize another committee to coordinate the project instead of announcing that a Relay for Life will not take place in TV so that all fund-raising can be channeled into Moffitt.

[Whalen]

Was the committe that ran the cancer fund raising including the Relay for Life a Villages group or just citizens that banded together? If it is the latter, how can the developer be blamed for canceling the Relay for Life?




Because TV, aka the developer, has forbidden the annual Real Relay for Life to take place on Village property.

There are over 70 teams in the Villages who raise funds and participate in the annual Really for Life which includes the Survivors Walk.

At last Wednesday's meeting representatives of these teams were told that all support for Relay has ended,
but were more than welcome to get on the Moffit bus or go elsewhere .

Therefore any Villager who wishes to participate in the Relay for Life next year will have to go to a neighboring community and will not be able to walk in their own hometown.

[barb1191]

Since the streets of TV are county owned, the administrators of the Annual Relay for Life could request a permit in an area not controlled by the developer; like the Rte 466 Walmart area. The walks would then be cart accessible and yet just across the street from the charter school where the rallies were originally heldl!!! The blocks of streets there would do fine for walking a track.

If the Annual Relay for Life event is continuing their plans for the relay elsewhere, I sure wish them well for their efforts to succeed with humanity under such atrocious conditions put forth by the "greedy developer."

[Dorothy Hardee]

Please know that the Relay For Life of the Villages of Hope WILL take place, April 29-30, 2011!

For more information please visit our event website at relayforlife.org/thevillagesfl

You may also call or email me at Dorothy.Hardee@cancer.org or 352.326.9599 x 5706.

Join us for the next team party on Thursday, March 3, 2011 @ 5:30 PM!