Petition to Re-open Brownwood Theater

[Bea&Mike]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

[Stu from NYC]

If the developer thought that reopening the theater would either be a profitable endeavor or help them to sell more homes do you think it would have happened a long time ago?

[Keefelane66]

It’s a dying industry

[dewilson58]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

Words ain't going to cut it.................put your money where your words are...............tell TV you will invest in the project because you can guaranty the viability. Get about a half of million............that might get their attention.

:crap2:

[Michael 61]

I signed the petition, but I think it’s futile.

[Two Bills]

You should be petitioning the film industry, to make some decent movies.
Cinemas are no good if there is only a steady stream of rubbish to watch.
JMO.

[Michael 61]

Do you think the developer has plans for a movie theatre in Middleton, with all the families that will be living there, and thus the reason for not re-opening Brownwood? Those families in Middleton will be far from theatre options. I know I am speculating here.

With quality movies, I would be going to Brownwood 3-4 times a week to see movies. I also would go to all the “special event” reissue of older classic movies that came to the theatres.

[Bogie Shooter]

Do you think the developer has plans for a movie theatre in Middleton, with all the families that will be living there, and thus the reason for not re-opening Brownwood? Those families in Middleton will be far from theatre options. I know I am speculating here.

With quality movies, I would be going to Brownwood 3-4 times a week to see movies. I also would go to all the “special event” reissue of older classic movies that came to the theatres.

One person and counting…………..

[dewilson58]

I signed the petition, but I think it’s futile.

The industry has changed.
Mark Morris did a nice job (I thought) explaining.
You might try to find the video....it was at one of those Morse Town Meetings.

[charlie1]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

I love movies and would love for it to reopen. However, I also understand that it is a business that needs to have a profit. There are VERY few times that I have gone to the Playhouse in Sumter Landing when a theatre has been even close to full. Went this week and there were maybe a dozen people watching the movie we attended. We just have to accept that the Big Screen is going the way of the Drive In Theaters. Into extinction! Enjoy it while you can!

[Bruce3055]

Words ain't going to cut it.................put your money where your words are...............tell TV you will invest in the project because you can guaranty the viability. Get about a half of million............that might get their attention.

:crap2:

I agree. I think the petition should be for fund raising and pledges to support re-opening. Not citizen demands that somebody else accommodate us.

[vintageogauge]

That last movie I saw was Message in a Bottle, my wife talked me into it. I have no use for movie theaters but tonight, 9:00 on the History Channel, "Alone" is on, great reality show if you haven't watched it.

[Whitley]

Words ain't going to cut it.................put your money where your words are...............tell TV you will invest in the project because you can guaranty the viability. Get about a half of million............that might get their attention.

:crap2:

If they would sell me the theatre for .5m I would seriously consider it. At least worth getting the stats on it. I was thinking a golf cart drive in would be fun in TV. In SRQ during the pandemic years we held a drive in on weekends at UTC. Filled every spot every weekend.

[dewilson58]

If they would sell me the theatre for .5m I would seriously consider it. At least worth getting the stats on it.

"invest in"................not sell the theater for $500k............."invest in" it and cover their losses for a while. :popcorn::popcorn:

[Taltarzac725]

The Villages is a unique market and should not be compared to places like NYC, Chicago, DC, Los Angeles, etc.

We have a huge number of people who are retired and loved going to the movies.

But the Villages' developers can do anything they want within the law.

[Taltarzac725]

The Villages is a unique market and should not be compared to places like NYC, Chicago, DC, Los Angeles, etc.

We have a huge number of people who are retired and loved going to the movies.

But the Villages' developers can do anything they want within the law.

I signed the petition and shared it on Facebook. You would be surprised who shows up on my Facebook and who has shown up. For instance, I had a member of the N.C.I.S. staff ask me about my employment and family life. This was by a Private Message. I told him/her it was complicated. That is the N.C.I.S. show and not the N.C.I.S. even though many law enforcement sites also pop up on my Facebook page along with various universities. To my dissatisfaction it was not Katerina Law.

[Bogie Shooter]

Do you think the developer has plans for a movie theatre in Middleton, with all the families that will be living there, and thus the reason for not re-opening Brownwood? Those families in Middleton will be far from theatre options. I know I am speculating here.

With quality movies, I would be going to Brownwood 3-4 times a week to see movies. I also would go to all the “special event” reissue of older classic movies that came to the theatres.

If the Developer was planning a movie theater in Middleton…..it would be in bold letters in their marketing.

[Taltarzac725]

If the Developer was planning a movie theater in Middleton…..it would in bold letters in their marketing.

You got that right. And the last I looked they are still marketing the Villages as having three movie theaters. It is just that two of them are not open.


The Villages - Florida's Friendliest Active Adult 55+ Retirement Community (https://www.thevillages.com/entertainment/movie-theaters)

You can enjoy all the blockbuster favorites and cinematic classics at the three movie theaters located in each of the town squares in The Villages community!

Our modern, multi-screen movie theaters are the perfect choice for date night, a cool, relaxing afternoon or evening, or good times with the family.

[tophcfa]

Do you think the developer has plans for a movie theatre in Middleton, with all the families that will be living there, and thus the reason for not re-opening Brownwood? Those families in Middleton will be far from theatre options. I know I am speculating here.

No, I don’t think so. The younger generation has grown up in a world of streaming and are very unlikely to frequent a movie theater.

[Papa_lecki]

The Villages is a unique market and should not be compared to places like NYC, Chicago, DC, Los Angeles, etc.

We have a huge number of people who are retired and loved going to the movies.

But the Villages' developers can do anything they want within the law.

As DEWILSON said, if there was revenue opportunity, the theater would be open.
The movie theater industry is contracting at 15% a year.

they already have the alternate use in the plans for Brownwood (just my opinion).

[Taltarzac725]

As DEWILSON said, if there was revenue opportunity, the theater would be open.
The movie theater industry is contracting at 15% a year.

they already have the alternate use in the plans for Brownwood (just my opinion).

With creative advertising they could easily get people into the theater. Especially if they show older movies and bring them in with the interests of various clubs here in the Villages.

Church groups, schools, nursing homes, sports groups, etc., could bring in their own special audiences.

[dewilson58]

With creative advertising they could easily get people into the theater.

Have to disagree.

From a business prospective............which this is, a business and not a non-profit.....it ain't going to fly.

Villagers, nursing homes (the clean-up could be a nightmare), etc., are not going to come at full-price.

The business model is not there.

[Papa_lecki]

Have to disagree.

From a business prospective............which this is, a business and not a non-profit.....it ain't going to fly.

Villagers, nursing homes (the clean-up could be a nightmare), etc., are not going to come at full-price.

The business model is not there.

I think these guys are right, the evil Developer knows, with creative advertising they could fill the theater and make a fortune, but they want us to be miserable without a theater.
The Developer knows nothing about branding/advertising/marketing, all 100,000 of us just stumbled our way into the community.

[Taltarzac725]

I think these guys are right, the evil Developer knows, with creative advertising they could fill the theater and make a fortune, but they want us to be miserable without a theater.
The Developer knows nothing about branding/advertising/marketing, all 100,000 of us just stumbled our way into the community.


The developers already have made themselves millions. But they do still advertise the Villages as having three movie theaters. It is not about making money but having things like pickleball courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, billiard tables, dancing venues, etc. Quality of life for the home owners and their families. And movie theaters were part of that promise.

But this is a company town so they can pretty much do whatever they want until people leaving makes them do something else.

[NotGolfer]

The industry has changed.
Mark Morris did a nice job (I thought) explaining.
You might try to find the video....it was at one of those Morse Town Meetings.

You mean Mark Morse..... This thing is like beating a dead horse. It's been discussed and explained ad nauseum. They didn't close the theatres to make folks angry. There isn't enough revenue in it and it all "died" during the plandemic. Make many block-busters and "maybe" the industry will come back but with all the streaming devices, apps etc. it just won't happen. The Morse family isn't to blame---Hollywood is!!

[Papa_lecki]

The developers already have made themselves millions. But they do still advertise the Villages as having three movie theaters. It is not about making money but having things like pickleball courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, billiard tables, dancing venues, etc. Quality of life for the home owners and their families. And movie theaters were part of that promise.

But this is a company town so they can pretty much do whatever they want until people leaving makes them do something else.

The entire village of Richmond sold out in about 10 minutes, and it wasn’t because of the 3 movie theaters.

[Stu from NYC]

I think these guys are right, the evil Developer knows, with creative advertising they could fill the theater and make a fortune, but they want us to be miserable without a theater.
The Developer knows nothing about branding/advertising/marketing, all 100,000 of us just stumbled our way into the community.

You nailed it. Why do people think the developer has not reopened the theater, he usually does not shy away from money making opportunities

[Taltarzac725]

You nailed it. Why do people think the developer has not reopened the theater, he usually does not shy away from money making opportunities

Again. It is not about making money. It is about the style of life. And golf and very little cold weather are what sells houses here in the Villages as well as word of mouth. The developers make money hand over fist.

[eyc234]

Challenge for all the movie theater opener crowd, list the 24 movies in the last year that would have gotten you and at least 10 of your friends to the movies over the last year every 2 weeks. Old movies do not cut it, people can watch those at nauseum on tv anytime they want, you can watch Rambo 10 times a day in multiple languages.

[Taltarzac725]

Challenge for all the movie theater opener crowd, list the 24 movies in the last year that would have gotten you and at least 10 of your friends to the movies over the last year every 2 weeks. Old movies do not cut it, people can watch those at nauseum on tv anytime they want, you can watch Rambo 10 times a day in multiple languages.

Many of the movies I have gone to of late at the Old Mill Playhouse were almost full to capacity especially on Monday All Seats $6.

[retiredguy123]

You got that right. And the last I looked they are still marketing the Villages as having three movie theaters. It is just that two of them are not open.


The Villages - Florida's Friendliest Active Adult 55+ Retirement Community (https://www.thevillages.com/entertainment/movie-theaters)
You are being too kind. They are just flat out lying about having three theaters. I have asked them several times to update their website, and they have refused to do it. It is an intentional lie.

[Babubhat]

Streaming crushed movie theaters. Why AMC went under.

[Hardlyworking]

Maybe the developer will lease the theater to some enterprising movie buff and they can take a run at it.

[Papa_lecki]

You are being too kind. They are just flat out lying about having three theaters. I have asked them several times to update their website, and they have refused to do it. It is an intentional lie.

Yes, they know if they remove the three theaters from the web site, NO ONE will move here and buy houses.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Yes, they know if they remove the three theaters from the web site, NO ONE will move here and buy houses.

Point missed.

Throughout the history of The Villages, potential homebuyers were drawn to the community because of various amenities, activities, features. Over time, some of the features were replaced, and others simply eliminated.

If they will intentionally mislead potential homebuyers over something as benign as "three movie theatres" vs. "one movie theatre" what else will they intentionally mislead potential homebuyers about?

[Stu from NYC]

Point missed.

Throughout the history of The Villages, potential homebuyers were drawn to the community because of various amenities, activities, features. Over time, some of the features were replaced, and others simply eliminated.

If they will intentionally mislead potential homebuyers over something as benign as "three movie theatres" vs. "one movie theatre" what else will they intentionally mislead potential homebuyers about?

Friendliest home town?

[Stu from NYC]

Maybe the developer will lease the theater to some enterprising movie buff and they can take a run at it.

Have you noticed that movie theaters are not being opened by movie buffs? For better or worse the economics of movie theaters have changed and the industry is shrinking.

[Taltarzac725]

Have you noticed that movie theaters are not being opened by movie buffs? For better or worse the economics of movie theaters have changed and the industry is shrinking.

I would say that movie making is booming but it is now on many platforms with many more countries getting involved in it as well as many more states in the US. Hollywood is spread out all over the United States.

[Goldwingnut]

Do you think the developer has plans for a movie theatre in Middleton, with all the families that will be living there, and thus the reason for not re-opening Brownwood? Those families in Middleton will be far from theatre options. I know I am speculating here.

With quality movies, I would be going to Brownwood 3-4 times a week to see movies. I also would go to all the “special event” reissue of older classic movies that came to the theatres.

Nothing I’ve seen in any plans or flights over the downtown area of Middletown indicate any plans or intentions to build a building big enough for a multi screen theater (single screen theater don’t make money). While some theaters are still popular and profitable, many are not and the trend continues to worsen nationwide. Younger audiences have different viewing preferences- phones and tablets - and do not desire to enjoy the big screen experience that previous generations have.

The low attendance at LSL’s theaters continue to prove the lack of profitability of the current market. The developer is not everyone’s rich uncle who is here to provide for our every wish, they are a business and businesses exist to make a profit. That’s not a bad thing, it’s how most of us living here in the villages were able to get here, the companies we worked for or owned made a profit and we received a portion of the profits, saved some of it, and eventually retired here.

So to the OP, your petition idea is a waste of time, a fool’s errand. If you want the theater opened the prove the developer’s business decision is wrong, open you checkbook, lease the property and make it a profitable business venture. Don’t expect someone else to fund your fool’s errand.

Don’t agree with me, fine, prove me wrong.

[Taltarzac725]

Nothing I’ve seen in any plans or flights over the downtown area of Middletown indicate any plans or intentions to build a building big enough for a multi screen theater (single screen theater don’t make money). While some theaters are still popular and profitable, many are not and the trend continues to worsen nationwide. Younger audiences have different viewing preferences- phones and tablets - and do not desire to enjoy the big screen experience that previous generations have.

The low attendance at LSL’s theaters continue to prove the lack of profitability of the current market. The developer is not everyone’s rich uncle who is here to provide for our every wish, they are a business and businesses exist to make a profit. That’s not a bad thing, it’s how most of us living here in the villages were able to get here, the companies we worked for or owned made a profit and we received a portion of the profits, saved some of it, and eventually retired here.

So to the OP, your petition idea is a waste of time, a fool’s errand. If you want the theater opened the prove the developer’s business decision is wrong, open you checkbook, lease the property and make it a profitable business venture. Don’t expect someone else to fund your fool’s errand.

Don’t agree with me, fine, prove me wrong.

Again. The Villages is not made up of 20-30 year olds. It is made up of people from maybe 45 to 100+ years young. People who grew up with access to big screens in many theaters.

It is a question of promises made and not kept. Three open movie theaters is stated plainly TODAY on their website. It is a selling point.

[Hardlyworking]

Have you noticed that movie theaters are not being opened by movie buffs? For better or worse the economics of movie theaters have changed and the industry is shrinking.

Yeah but there seems to be so manu movie buffs that think TV shout reopen and lose money, why not the buffs give it a whirl. Sarcasm much?

[rsmurano]

Sumter already has a movie theater and it’s not sold out. I also heard the Springs has a theater that charges for old flicks, that’s something I wouldn’t do, I can stream those. I do go once and a while to new movie releases at Sumter sq.

[Worldseries27]

Does it always have to be about the money? What about restoring the villages to mr schwartz's ideals. A man of class and vision.

[KShowalter]

If they would sell me the theatre for .5m I would seriously consider it. At least worth getting the stats on it. I was thinking a golf cart drive in would be fun in TV. In SRQ during the pandemic years we held a drive in on weekends at UTC. Filled every spot every weekend.

We still have a drive-in theater in my home town in Virginia and it is packed every weekend. Half of the theater is G=Rated and half is R-Rated so everyone gets to come. There is a concession stand. This theater has been written up in the Washington Post as one of the last ones in business but it remains successful. The movies shown are all current for the most part. The idea of a outdoor golf cart theater would be great.

As far as the playhouse I would love to see it open as well for movies, comedy acts, boozy bingo, etc.; anything to keep it's doors open.

[SusanStCatherine]

The developers already have made themselves millions. But they do still advertise the Villages as having three movie theaters. It is not about making money but having things like pickleball courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, billiard tables, dancing venues, etc. Quality of life for the home owners and their families. And movie theaters were part of that promise.

But this is a company town so they can pretty much do whatever they want until people leaving makes them do something else.

Billions not Millions. The Morse family's wealth was over $3 billion way back in 2018,. Mark Morse, Jennifer Parr, and Tracy (Mathews for awhile) Morse are all billionaires.

[dewilson58]

:sigh:

[msilagy]

Movie theaters will be gone gone gone for the most part....drive to Sumter Landing and hope that stays open. Times are changing quickly with the very popular streaming opportunity everyone has - spent money to go to Sumter theatre only to find that movie with Tom Hanks on Netflix a few months later! This is not a productive business opportunity for anyone - Theatre in my area up north struggling to make it.

[skippy05]

Not so! Just a short drive up 441/27 to SE Ocala is a drive-in theater + flea market combo just waiting to see you.

[Michael 61]

Nothing I’ve seen in any plans or flights over the downtown area of Middletown indicate any plans or intentions to build a building big enough for a multi screen theater (single screen theater don’t make money). While some theaters are still popular and profitable, many are not and the trend continues to worsen nationwide. Younger audiences have different viewing preferences- phones and tablets - and do not desire to enjoy the big screen experience that previous generations have.

The low attendance at LSL’s theaters continue to prove the lack of profitability of the current market. The developer is not everyone’s rich uncle who is here to provide for our every wish, they are a business and businesses exist to make a profit. That’s not a bad thing, it’s how most of us living here in the villages were able to get here, the companies we worked for or owned made a profit and we received a portion of the profits, saved some of it, and eventually retired here.

So to the OP, your petition idea is a waste of time, a fool’s errand. If you want the theater opened the prove the developer’s business decision is wrong, open you checkbook, lease the property and make it a profitable business venture. Don’t expect someone else to fund your fool’s errand.

Don’t agree with me, fine, prove me wrong.

Well said Don, I am in complete agreement with you. When I posted about Middleton, I knew I was “reaching”, thanks for clarifying about the buildings and infrastructure going in at Middleton - I look forward to your future videos as Middleton develops and builds out.

[Bogie Shooter]

You are being too kind. They are just flat out lying about having three theaters. I have asked them several times to update their website, and they have refused to do it. It is an intentional lie.

What is the process of “asking them”? What is the Developer’s phone number?

[retiredguy123]

What is the process of “asking them”? What is the Developer’s phone number?
Go to "thevillages.com" website and click on "contact us" at the bottom. There is a live chat option, an email/feedback option, and a phone number where you can leave a voice mail for a call back. I have used all three options several times with no response and no results.

[dhdallas]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

Get all the signatures you want but the theater is never going to reopen. The developer is not in the business of operating a venue that loses money. Movie theaters are as dead as Vaudeville.

[Kabbage]

Get all the signatures you want but the theater is never going to reopen. The developer is not in the business of operating a venue that loses money. Movie theaters are as dead as Vaudeville.

Maybe they should close the theater in Lake Sumter and open the one in Brownwood for a while then.

[Keefelane66]

I didn’t buy a 65” tv to watch the weather or news we get that on our phone/tablet. The TV is primarily used to watch movies/entertainment.
The convenance of home gives us a pause button, bathroom, fridge, microwave within 20+ feet.

[mntlblok]

We still have a drive-in theater in my home town in Virginia and it is packed every weekend. Half of the theater is G=Rated and half is R-Rated so everyone gets to come. There is a concession stand. This theater has been written up in the Washington Post as one of the last ones in business but it remains successful. The movies shown are all current for the most part. The idea of a outdoor golf cart theater would be great.

As far as the playhouse I would love to see it open as well for movies, comedy acts, boozy bingo, etc.; anything to keep it's doors open.

All I can think about is those speakers and their posts that we used to deal with. :-)

[paulajr]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

Movie theatres will ALL be closed soon….obsolete.

[Bogie Shooter]

Go to "thevillages.com" website and click on "contact us" at the bottom. There is a live chat option, an email/feedback option, and a phone number where you can leave a voice mail for a call back. I have used all three options several times with no response and no results.

So, you really didn’t get a refusal……………

[retiredguy123]

So, you really didn’t get a refusal……………
If I send a detailed feedback message to them using their mode of communication, and they do not respond to me in any way or correct the incorrect website, I consider that a refusal.

[HospitalCoder]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

I signed petition even though I prefer to watch at home. I think movie houses are an important piece of the entertainment and social environment of The Villages. Not everything has to turn a profit to be beneficial.

[Freehiker]

If I send a detailed feedback message to them using their mode of communication, and they do not respond to me in any way or correct the incorrect website, I consider that a refusal.

Feedback doesn’t require a response.

[jimkerr]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

You can’t force someone to open a business if they don’t want to. This is America. The Morse family already publicly told us they wouldn’t reopen it.

If you think it’s such a great business idea, why don’t you talk to the villages commercial properties and lease the space and open your own theater?

[retiredguy123]

Feedback doesn’t require a response.
I don't understand your point. I didn't need a response to the feedback message, but they decided to not correct the website information that I described in the feedback message. Also, they did not return phone calls when I left voicemails.

[Goldwingnut]

Again. The Villages is not made up of 20-30 year olds. It is made up of people from maybe 45 to 100+ years young. People who grew up with access to big screens in many theaters.

It is a question of promises made and not kept. Three open movie theaters is stated plainly TODAY on their website. It is a selling point.

The comment I was responding to was about the possibility of a theater in Middleton, again, not very likely.

With respect to the website showing 3 theaters, it is out of date and should be updated no doubt. However if you click on the links, only the LSL theater give schedule information, the rest are dead ends. We know that SS is dead, BW presents a bigger challenge for repurposing simply due to the size of the facility. While I don’t believe it is a willful deception, it is a minor inaccuracy that should be corrected, at least for SS.

If there not being more movie theaters in The Villages is a huge negative then I do not suggest you move away because you’ll more than likely be disappointed in short order no matter where you move to as the theater industry is imploding upon itself on a daily basis.

There are some very astute business people running the commercial districts of The Villages and if they don’t thing a theater can be profitable in this age demographic then I’ll side with them on this one. But, if someone thinks otherwise I’m sure they’ll lease them the facilities so they can have a go at it with their wallets at risk.

[BlueStarAirlines]

Does it always have to be about the money? What about restoring the villages to mr schwartz's ideals. A man of class and vision.

Didn't know Mr Schwartz or have any idea about his ideals. I've only lived in TV 18 months, but have only gone to 1 movie in a theatre in that time....and it was free during my lifestyle visit. I can wait for a few weeks and stream at home any movie that is currently in a theatre. If the LSL ended their $6 mondays, I bet the attendance numbers would be cut in half.

There is nothing a theatre provides that I don't have at home.

[Goldwingnut]

Does it always have to be about the money? What about restoring the villages to mr schwartz's ideals. A man of class and vision.

Surly you jest, HS was first and foremost a businessman, all you need do is study up on his background and early business dealings to know he was in it to be successful, and in business success is always about the bottom line, making a profit.

While I never met the man, I have many friends who knew him and did business with him and his son that have shared with me their impressions and experiences of dealing with an aggressive and focused team of businessmen. They were first and foremost salesmen, not the lowlife used car or snake oil type salesmen, but salesmen and businessmen 100% of the time. Yes they took great pride and believed in the product that they were selling. These men, and their descendants currently running the business, are focused on being successful and this has benefited both themselves, the residents who have chosen to move here, as well as the surrounding communities and many businesses that have grown as result of their efforts and vision.

So yes, it does have to be about the money. It ALWAYS has been and ALWAYS will be, because this is a business.

[charlie1]

Does it always have to be about the money? What about restoring the villages to mr schwartz's ideals. A man of class and vision.

Mr. Schwartz was a smart businessman! His vision was amazing! But do not be fooled. He never gave anything away. He just invested in the future! Everything he did was to bring in sales and profits. It worked and made the Family billions! I applaud him for his vision and the execution of the vision. I am sure that if he was still with us, he would continue to invest in the things that bring in sales and profits! The Theaters will not! They are dying all over the country! The Family has to continue to change its vision also as society changes. Again, Mr. Schwartz would be changing also. He showed us this again and again as The Villages developed.
He never stopped changing his vision and/or direction. If he had stopped the Villages would today consist of only the original trailer court! Let's give the whole family credit! They have followed Mr. Schwartz leadership example!

[Jayhawk]

Many of the movies I have gone to of late at the Old Mill Playhouse were almost full to capacity especially on Monday All Seats $6.

Six-dollar tickets one day a week to old-timers who smuggle in their popcorn and drinks from home is a real money-making opportunity.

[billethkid]

Are those stating support willing to buy into an annual "movie theater membership" plus admission fees to sustain the establishments viability??

With prices continuing to go up as the participation dwindles.....like it has as evidenced by the closing of 2 of the 3 theaters.

Of course I jest!

____________________________________________

:censored:

[Taltarzac725]

Six-dollar tickets one day a week to old-timers who smuggle in their popcorn and drinks from home is a real money-making opportunity.

What is it that you people do not get? Movie theaters like basketball courts are features for homeowners and their visiting family members leading better lives in the Villages rather than having to go to Ocala or Leesburg to see movies on the big screens.

It is not about making money. I doubt if any of the Villages' theaters here ever made much of a profit. Any of them. You need a chain of them really to compete.

[Jayhawk]

It is not about making money but having things like pickleball courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, billiard tables, dancing venues, etc. Quality of life for the home owners and their families. And movie theaters were part of that promise.



Nothing is PROMISED in business results. If it was, Ford would still be making the Edsel. And throwing money towards a losing proposition would take away from all the other things you listed (pickleball courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, billiard tables, dancing venues, etc). Sounds like a good decision to me.

Even Hollywood knows movies are dying.

25 movie stars who made the move to TV | Yardbarker (https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/25_movie_stars_who_made_the_move_to_tv/s1__38135780#slide_21)

[Taltarzac725]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

Congrats on getting past a thousand signatures!!!

[Taltarzac725]

Nothing is PROMISED in business results. If it was, Ford would still be making the Edsel. And throwing money towards a losing proposition would take away from all the other things you listed (pickleball courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, billiard tables, dancing venues, etc). Sounds like a good decision to me.

Even Hollywood knows movies are dying.

25 movie stars who made the move to TV | Yardbarker (https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/25_movie_stars_who_made_the_move_to_tv/s1__38135780#slide_21)

Throwing money? How much would reopening Brownwood's theater cost? Not very much. Not for the developers. It would cost a great deal for someone else though. And I am sure the developers would ask for an arm and a leg.

[tophcfa]

The petition will get filed right next to the petitions to reopen Katie Bells, rebuild the clubhouse, restaurant, pool, and tennis courts at Hacienda Hills, and bring back the farmers market and two hour happy hour at Spanish Springs.

[Taltarzac725]

The petition will get filed right next to the petitions to reopen Katie Bells, rebuild the clubhouse, restaurant, pool, and tennis courts at Hacienda Hills, and bring back the farmers market and two hour happy hour at Spanish Springs.

Probably true. It is the green they are after. They will put something in where they can get 4 times the profit of the movie theater.

[Jayhawk]

What is it that you people do not get? Movie theaters like basketball courts are features for better leading better lives in the Villages rather than having to go to Ocala or Leesburg to see movies on the big screens.

It is not about making money. I doubt if the theaters here ever made much of a profit. Any of them. You need a chain of them really to compete.

Out of 130,000 + residents fewer than a couple hundred pay to go to movies daily around here. So the Great Benefactor should use their money to support what you admit are fiscally losing businesses?

I'll return the same question - What is it that you people do not get?

And by the way, similar to the current theater situation, I've never seen a busy basketball court anywhere in The Villages.

[Taltarzac725]

Out of 130,000 + residents fewer than a couple hundred pay to go to movies daily around here. So the Great Benefactor should use their money to support what you admit are fiscally losing businesses?

I'll return the same question - What is it that you people do not get?

And by the way, similar to the current theater situation, I've never seen a busy basketball court anywhere in The Villages.

Not a business but an attraction marketed by the developers as having three open theaters. Same as the basketball courts, rec centers, swimming pools, etc. Not the golf courses as they are the bread and butter of the Villages.

[tophcfa]

The entire village of Richmond sold out in about 10 minutes, and it wasn’t because of the 3 movie theaters.

Nope, the investors picking up rental properties to eventually flip weren’t overly concerned about movie theaters.

[Marmaduke]

Of course, with streaming, theaters are a dying entity, much like drive-ins, newspapers, telephone booths and mailboxes, etc.

Slightly off topic, there's a real winner in theatres right now and its one that Disney passed on.
Count me IN.

It went independent, way under budget and it's opening day, July 4th bypassed what they thought would be the big summer movie.

It's sold out daily in advance, in Ocala and people are having trouble getting tickets.

Sound of Freedom.

It's at LSL theatre until at least the 13th.

Sadly, it's based on a true story that many of the colleagues across the aisle want to deny.

It's touted as a conservative thriller.

[Taltarzac725]

Of course, with streaming, theaters are a dying entity, much like drive-ins, newspapers, telephone booths and mailboxes, etc.

Slightly off topic, there's a real winner in theatres right now and its one that Disney passed on.
Count me IN.

It went independent, way under budget and it's opening day, July 4th bypassed what they thought would be the big summer movie.

It's sold out daily in advance, in Ocala and people are having trouble getting tickets.

Sound of Freedom.

It's at LSL theatre until at least the 13th.

Sadly, it's based on a true story that many of the colleagues across the aisle want to deny.

It's touted as a conservative thriller.

Sound of Freedom (2022) - IMDb (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7599146/)

I will look for it.

Sound of Freedom - Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sound_of_freedom)

Hardly sounds like a "conservative thriller". Just a story that needs telling.

[Lottoguy]

Pefecet site and size for a bowling alley. This would be very profitable.

[PurePeach]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

Not worth the time to open the doc. The second largest cinema in the world filed for bankruptcy last year. Why would TV invest in something that is already dying on the vine? I never see the theater in LSL even close to full unless the movie is free. Much easier to watch movies in the comfort of your own home and pause it when you need to.

[MSGirl]

The Villages is a unique market and should not be compared to places like NYC, Chicago, DC, Los Angeles, etc.

We have a huge number of people who are retired and loved going to the movies.

But the Villages' developers can do anything they want within the law.
The truth is we DONT have enough Villagers going to the movies daily to support another movie theater. Or employees. Sumter took half the that theater and turned it into a restaurant! Movies aren’t what they used to be! I can see half the new movies from the comfort of my home! I went to a movie last week with my grandson- new release- and we were 2 of 5 people in the entire theater!

[Number 10 GI]

There hasn't been a movie released in the last 2 or 3 years that I would go to the theater and pay to watch. I won't even watch them for free at home!

[3105boy]

Bowling would be great as would many indoor sports to beat the heat.

[Taltarzac725]

Not worth the time to open the doc. The second largest cinema in the world filed for bankruptcy last year. Why would TV invest in something that is already dying on the vine? I never see the theater in LSL even close to full unless the movie is free. Much easier to watch movies in the comfort of your own home and pause it when you need to.

The movie was full for Top Gun: Maverick for my first two viewings. About 1/3 when I saw it again the 3rd time around the 4th week it was there.

[RCJ61]

That last movie I saw was Message in a Bottle, my wife talked me into it. I have no use for movie theaters but tonight, 9:00 on the History Channel, "Alone" is on, great reality show if you haven't watched it.

Alone is the real thing. Been watching for quite a few years. Some of those people are very talented, others not so much.

RCJ

[Taltarzac725]

The Exorcism of Emily Rose - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Exorcism_of_Emily_Rose)

I was the only person in the Old Mill Playhouse's largest auditorium when they showed this movie one afternoon just after the OMP had opened in 2005.

And I went to many various movie festivals at the Rialto and Old Mill Playhouse where I was among just a few movie lovers. They had had Hitchcock festivals, old horror movies, top Indys one year, etc.

[Marathon Man]

OK. There are 1283 signatures so far. At $200 per person, that might be enough money to entice a theater operator to open up shop.

[dewilson58]

OK. There are 1283 signatures so far. At $200 per person, that might be enough money to entice a theater operator to open up shop.

:loco:

Lucky if it was $20 each.

[Stu from NYC]

OK. There are 1283 signatures so far. At $200 per person, that might be enough money to entice a theater operator to open up shop.

What do you got for 10 bucks and if you reopen it can we get free popcorn?

[Taltarzac725]

It is more an image thing except that not sure that even matters all that much.

They have their sheep well in hand.

[margaretmattson]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

I believe it was explained the reason the theatre closed in Spanish Springs was because the company that owned it went bankrupt. Sorry, I do not remember the name of the company.

Theatres are closing everywhere in the USA because as someone said it is a dying business. With that in mind, my best guess is that whoever ran/owned the theatre in Brownwood probably went bankrupt as well. The developer does not run the theatres as far as I know. If anything, he merely has a rental agreement with the company and nothing more. Once the buisness is deserted, the developer must find someone else to lease the property. If a movie company is not interested there is nothing that can be done. Move on, and find another way to lease the property.

[Whitley]

Sound of Freedom (2022) - IMDb (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7599146/)

I will look for it.

Sound of Freedom - Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sound_of_freedom)

Hardly sounds like a "conservative thriller". Just a story that needs telling.

Conservative Thriller. So truthful then.

[Taltarzac725]

I believe it was explained the reason the theatre closed in Spanish Springs was because the company that owned it went bankrupt. Sorry, I do not remember the name of the company.

Theatres are closing everywhere in the USA because as someone said it is a dying business. With that in mind, my best guess is that whoever ran/owned the theatre in Brownwood probably went bankrupt as well. The developer does not run the theatres as far as I know. If anything, he merely has a rental agreement with the company and nothing more. Once the buisness is deserted, the developer must find someone else to lease the property. If a movie company is not interested there is nothing that can be done. Move on, and find another way to lease the property.

I do not recall ever reading that someone else owned the Rialto Theater.

And they seemed to be doing very well before COVID.

[dewilson58]

I believe it was explained the reason the theatre closed in Spanish Springs was because the company that owned it went bankrupt. Sorry, I do not remember the name of the company.

Theatres are closing everywhere in the USA because as someone said it is a dying business. With that in mind, my best guess is that whoever ran/owned the theatre in Brownwood probably went bankrupt as well. The developer does not run the theatres as far as I know. If anything, he merely has a rental agreement with the company and nothing more. Once the buisness is deserted, the developer must find someone else to lease the property. If a movie company is not interested there is nothing that can be done. Move on, and find another way to lease the property.

Misinformed.

[Stu from NYC]

I do not recall ever reading that someone else owned the Rialto Theater.

And they seemed to be doing very well before COVID.

I believe the developer owns the theaters but can you disagree with the fact that folks do not go to the movies nearly as often as before covid?

[margaretmattson]

Misinformed.
You are right, I do not personally know Mark Morse. But I stand by my post that I heard (not read) that the company who ran the Rialto went bankrupt. Perhaps I heard it in one of the Continuing the Dream Videos. All I can say is that I remember hearing it from one of "the family members" in an open forum.

I have extensive background in Real Estate Market. I have met a minute few developers who get involved in the commercial running of a business on his developed land. It is not the nature of their business. As I stated, it was my best guess scenario based on what I personally know about land developers. If it is different in the Villages, I will be eager to hear what you know. I am on this forum to learn.

[dewilson58]

I heard .

The Villages ran and run the theaters. Period.

[margaretmattson]

The Villages ran and run the theaters. Period.

Thanks! Good to know! Like I said, here to learn,!

[coralway]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)



There ain’t no money in it.

[tophcfa]

There hasn't been a movie released in the last 2 or 3 years that I would go to the theater and pay to watch. I won't even watch them for free at home!
Only watched 4 during that time, all at home when they became available. Top Gun Maverick, A Man Called Otto, Avatar, the way of water, and John Wick 4.

[BobnBev]

For all the good this petition is doing, you may as well spit into the wind.

[Chi-Town]

I signed. It would be nice to have it open again. The naysayers wouldn't be patrons if it were open anyhow, so all the repeating from the same posters makes no difference.

[PugMom]

There hasn't been a movie released in the last 2 or 3 years that I would go to the theater and pay to watch. I won't even watch them for free at home!

agreed! take a look @ what's showing now, all cartoon kid-stuff.

[tophcfa]

agreed! take a look @ what's showing now, all cartoon kid-stuff.

And what’s up with all the superhero and zombie crap. Whatever happened to comedy, action, and suspense/thriller movies?

[dewilson58]

I signed. It would be nice to have it open again. The naysayers wouldn't be patrons if it were open anyhow, so all the repeating from the same posters makes no difference.

I'm guessing I'm in your naysayer bucket, since I'm a repeating poster.........I'm just being a realist.
Having 2% of the population sign a petition is not going to move the needle.

I have gone to the theaters and would go.
Brownwood is closer for me, but Sumter Lake is only 15 minutes away (not a deterrent) and it's never busy.

Villagers need to show Demand before TV would increase the Supply.

:posting:

[Stu from NYC]

And what’s up with all the superhero and zombie crap. Whatever happened to comedy, action, and suspense/thriller movies?

Apparently the powers to be only think superhero and zombie will sell.

There are some comedies around as well as action, saw Harrison Ford movie yesterday, silly plot but great special effects. Just have to overlook the plot and enjoy the action.

[Worldseries27]

Every picture tells a story,story.
Looks like the bear market may yet see the return of the bull once covid fears have receded

[dewilson58]

Apparently the powers to be only think superhero and zombie will sell.

There are some comedies around as well as action, saw Harrison Ford movie yesterday, silly plot but great special effects. Just have to overlook the plot and enjoy the action.

Don't want to turn this into: I Saw This Movie thread.............but................

Hunter Killer

Just a random click...........was pleasantly surprised.

[dewilson58]

Every picture tells a story,story.
Looks like the bear market may yet see the return of the bull once covid fears have receded

A lot of stats out there....................I saw, the industry is still down 50% even with a couple good years.

AND, growth thru 2028 is projected at less than 5%.

:eek:

[Stu from NYC]

A lot of stats out there....................I saw, the industry is still down 50% even with a couple good years.

AND, growth thru 2028 is projected at less than 5%.

:eek:

Most of the ticket sales goes back to the people who made the movie. Money makers for the theaters is the very overpriced concession items. Cannot believe people buy huge buckets of popcorn for over 10 bucks

[Worldseries27]

don't want to turn this into: I saw this movie thread.............but................

Hunter killer

just a random click...........was pleasantly surprised.
very interesting movie if your a fan of the genre

[Taltarzac725]

Don't want to turn this into: I Saw This Movie thread.............but................

Hunter Killer

Just a random click...........was pleasantly surprised.

I saw that at the Rialto I think with maybe a dozen people. Think there were two other people when I viewed Bruce Springsteen using movies as a replacement for a concert tour.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IXzAAKrsFE

[Rainger99]

The developer is not in the business of operating a venue that loses money.

Do the executive courses make money? Do the pickleball courts make money? Do the flowers make money?

[Taltarzac725]

Do the executive courses make money? Do the pickleball courts make money? Do the flowers make money?

I kind of doubt it. The upkeep of the golf courses probably costs more than they make a dues or whatever they get from golfers.

Of course, playing golf is nothing like hitting a make believe ball at a video screen.

Movies also offer an experience in a movie theater environment that you cannot get in your living room. And people watching at the movie theater is real fun.

[Bogie Shooter]

//////

[Bogie Shooter]

Get all the signatures you want but the theater is never going to reopen. The developer is not in the business of operating a venue that loses money. Movie theaters are as dead as Vaudeville.

Do the executive courses make money? Do the pickleball courts make money? Do the flowers make money?

The don’t belong to the Developer.

[Babubhat]

Will be as successful as the petition to reopen Katie Belle

[GizmoWhiskers]

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)
Thank you for sharing this! It is about time something get started. I read a comment once about how great the Leesburg theater is since Brownwood isn't open... to heck with that. The Lifestyle trolley tour sold the Brownwood Theater as part of The Village lifestyle. No excuse for it not to be open (although I heard they claim no one goes to movies anymore) I call b s, even if only one movie a week is shown at least they would be delivering what is sold to Villagers who want entertainment to be a golf cart ride away.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Have you noticed that movie theaters are not being opened by movie buffs? For better or worse the economics of movie theaters have changed and the industry is shrinking.
I wonder if the Leesburg theater is enjoying all the Villager's going to their theater instead of Brownwood?

[margaretmattson]

The don’t belong to the Developer.
Again, based on what I know about land developers, I would have to agree. They do not belong to the developer.

[GizmoWhiskers]

You are being too kind. They are just flat out lying about having three theaters. I have asked them several times to update their website, and they have refused to do it. It is an intentional lie.
That's a real point...

[Taltarzac725]

I believe the Rialto is a gym now.

It was the only theater here in the Villages when we moved here in June of 2005.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IXzAAKrsFE

Big evolution ahead for Spanish Springs | News | The Villages Daily Sun | thevillagesdailysun.com (https://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/villages/big-evolution-ahead-for-spanish-springs/article_55843524-37d3-11ed-8d38-9fc7cbd1e2f7.html)

[Papa_lecki]

Do the executive courses make money? Do the pickleball courts make money? Do the flowers make money?

Um, we pay for those amenities with our amenities fees.

If you want amenity fees to go to subsidize the theaters, let the amenity authority know.

[Taltarzac725]

Um, we pay for those amenities with our amenities fees.

If you want amenity fees to go to subsidize the theaters, let the amenity authority know.

I am pretty sure the Developers were funding the Villages theaters. They have private viewing boxes in the Old Mill Playhouse and did have one at the Barnstorm Theater.

They were not about making money but creating a lifestyle for retirees who had grown up going to movies.

[Papa_lecki]

I am pretty sure the Developers were funding the Villages theaters. They have private viewing boxes in the Old Mill Playhouse and did have one at the Barnstorm Theater.

They were not about making money but creating a lifestyle for retirees who had grown up going to movies.

Maybe the developer was subsidizing the theaters, in Spanish Springs, when they were selling houses north of 466A - but they don’t need to subsidize theaters for south of 44 - villages are selling out in a half day.

[Stu from NYC]

Maybe the developer was subsidizing the theaters, in Spanish Springs, when they were selling houses north of 466A - but they don’t need to subsidize theaters for south of 44 - villages are selling out in a half day.

True but if they do not intend to reopen the theater and apparently they do not they should change their literature accordingly.

[Worldseries27]

that's a real point...
idk.
///

[Worldseries27]

you are being too kind. They are just flat out lying about having three theaters. I have asked them several times to update their website, and they have refused to do it. It is an intentional lie.
idk. They have 3 theaters. The deception is that all 3 are not operating.
The fine print counts. The devil is always in the details

[margaretmattson]

[QUOTE=Taltarzac725;2233080]I am pretty sure the Developers were funding the Villages theaters. They have private viewing boxes in the Old Mill Playhouse and did have one at the Barnstorm Theater.

They were not about making money but creating a lifestyle for retirees who had grown up going to movies.[/QUOTE

I have seen developers negotiate leases with kickbacks like a private viewing box. The developer is merely exercising his right to use a portion of his property for personal use as long as it is agreed upon by both parties. It does not mean that he is involved in the daily operation of that commercial business.

The villages is a unique entity and I love learning more about it every day. I would really love to hear from someone in the know!

[Taltarzac725]

[QUOTE=Taltarzac725;2233080]I am pretty sure the Developers were funding the Villages theaters. They have private viewing boxes in the Old Mill Playhouse and did have one at the Barnstorm Theater.

They were not about making money but creating a lifestyle for retirees who had grown up going to movies.[/QUOTE

I have seen developers negotiate leases with kickbacks like a private viewing box. The developer is merely exercising his right to use a portion of his property for personal use as long as it is agreed upon by both parties. It does not mean that he is involved in the daily operation of that commercial business.

The villages is a unique entity and I love learning more about it every day. I would really love to hear from someone in the know!

I have never seen any indication that the Villages theaters were privately owned. None at all. Restaurants yes as I know some relatives of some of their owners. And used to talk to the former owner of Red Sauce when she would bring her family's pooch to a local dog park and go over how difficult it was sometimes to get the cooks' needed ingredients in on a timely basis. Her and her husband had come before Red Sauce had even opened for business in Sumter Landing. But after they opened he was needed at the restaurant.

[Rainger99]

The don’t belong to the Developer.

I didn’t say they did. I don’t think the amenities are there to make a profit.

[GizmoWhiskers]

True but if they do not intend to reopen the theater and apparently they do not they should change their literature accordingly.
Exactly, anyone take the "trolley tour" recently? What does T V say about what USED to be a gorgeous theater at Brownwood?

Do they say "and on your right, you see the theater 'facade' that was here once upon a time, back when old people enjoyed taking their grandkids to see a movie. Since they don't want to do that anymore, look left"?

[spinner1001]

With creative advertising they could easily get people into the theater. Especially if they show older movies and bring them in with the interests of various clubs here in the Villages.

Church groups, schools, nursing homes, sports groups, etc., could bring in their own special audiences.

A straightforward test: You can personally go into the Old Mill Playhouse theater in Lake Sumter Landing two times per week on random days at random show times over six months and count the number of people in the seats. Divide your total headcount by the number of the movie showings you attended. That’s an indication of the market size (demand for movie theater attendance in TV). Then, assuming a Brownwood theater will double the theater seating capacity in TV (supply), one-half of your average showing head count in your OMP research is an indication of attendance at a Brownwood theater. (Fixed market demand with twice the supply of seats.)

You can argue a bunch of reasons that amount would be higher than one-half of your OMP average head count. Fine. So double it.

Now, on an Excel spreadsheet, prepare a business plan for a Brownwood theater with your assumed average headcount, your assumed average revenue per person for admission and food ($10?), and then subtract operating costs including paying film distributors, wages and benefits for workers and management, food purchases, and electricity.

Take the result to the Developer. Oh, wait. The Developer likely already has that sort of financial information and the bottom line is inadequate. At least you learned something.

At least go to the OMP theater several times and count the number of people in each showing and multiply it by the ticket price you paid plus a drink price. Then think about the nontrivial fixed and variable costs of operating the theater. You can do that. My guess is the bottom line for a Brownwood is an operating loss.

Argue all you want but please at least put some numbers in your argument.

[Ponygirl]

Per Genesis fitness in SS Rialto has already been demolished inside and the fitness center moves there in March with all new equipment

Next question is what happens to that beautiful building that house the fitness center

As far as classic movies last year the Sharon showed some great movies like “Gypsy” “Little Shop of Horrors” We saw several movies Excellent to see movies on that big screen. Like watching a Broadway show for the musicals

BUT in that huge theater there were less than 5 people for every show. More people working than in the theater And they also had. Special drinks that reflected the movie

I could never understand why people didn’t come

Soooo. I would say that’s one reason that the BW theater won’t reopen

[birdawg]

Want to make money with it turn it into a indoor pickle ball facility and charge by the hour

[Michael 61]

Per Genesis fitness in SS Rialto has already been demolished inside and the fitness center moves there in March with all new equipment

Next question is what happens to that beautiful building that house the fitness center

As far as classic movies last year the Sharon showed some great movies like “Gypsy” “Little Shop of Horrors” We saw several movies Excellent to see movies on that big screen. Like watching a Broadway show for the musicals

BUT in that huge theater there were less than 5 people for every show. More people working than in the theater And they also had. Special drinks that reflected the movie

I could never understand why people didn’t come

Soooo. I would say that’s one reason that the BW theater won’t reopen

I would have been one of those “five people” attending the classic movies at the Sharon had I been a resident last summer. Wish there was a greater demand for watching classic movies on the big screen here, but alas that is not the case. Most prefer their own homes. I remember in the 80s and 90s, there were many movie theatres in San Francisco that showed nothing but double-features of classic movies, who’s titles changed daily. Really introduced me to so many classic movies from the silents of the 20s up to the 50s. I was attending the monthly showing for film noir titles at the Savannah Center up until May. Don’t know if that is just on hiatus for the summer, or if that has been discontinued. Those showings seemed to attract a decent sized crowd for their afternoon schedule. Well, thank goodness for my large flat screen TV and the TCM channel to get my classic movie fix. 😀

[Papa_lecki]

BUT in that huge theater there were less than 5 people for every show. More people working than in the theater And they also had. Special drinks that reflected the movie

I could never understand why people didn’t come

Soooo. I would say that’s one reason that the BW theater won’t reopen

People don’t come because….

They have an 85” TV in their living room
They can watch the same movies, from the 6 streaming services they pay for
They can pause when natures calls
They can make their own snacks and drinks at home
They can watch the movie at 1 in the afternoon or 9PM
They can watch the movie in their pajamas
They can move the 85” TV into their Lanai/Birdcage if they want and invite neighbors.

[retiredguy123]

People don’t come because….

They have an 85” TV in their living room
They can watch the same movies, from the 6 streaming services they pay for
They can pause when natures calls
They can make their own snacks and drinks at home
They can watch the movie at 1 in the afternoon or 9PM
They can watch the movie in their pajamas
They can move the 85” TV into their Lanai/Birdcage if they want and invite neighbors.
I agree with those, but I don't go because there are always people who talk or use a cell phone during the movie.

[davefin]

Read the fine print in the petition. Do you really want to receive these emails after signing?

[RicNic]

What about showing movies that are more enjoyable on the big screen?
How about introducing live theatre. May not be Broadway but it could make for a nice afternoon or evening.

[Alarmed]

It is a shame they remain closed. What other theatre has a stuffed miniature horse you can pet?

[Bogie Shooter]

What about showing movies that are more enjoyable on the big screen?
How about introducing live theatre. May not be Broadway but it could make for a nice afternoon or evening.

Look around…..live theater exists in TV.

[margaretmattson]

Want to make money with it turn it into a indoor pickle ball facility and charge by the hour
I believe indoor pickleball is included in the plans for Eastport. Not sure anyone would try to open a business that charges for something the residents will be able to get for free. Someone will see potential in that building and will be willing to sign an extended lease. Perhaps it will turn into some sort of medical facility. I could see that happening. Who knows? We will just have to wait and see!

[Stu from NYC]

It is a shame they remain closed. What other theatre has a stuffed miniature horse you can pet?

But can you feed it? Asking for a friend

[BiPartisan]

[QUOTE=Taltarzac725;2232840]What is it that you people do not get? Movie theaters like basketball courts are features for homeowners and their visiting family members leading better lives in the Villages rather than having to go to Ocala or Leesburg to see movies on the big
screens.

You don't have to go to Ocala there are 8 screens in LSL Old Mill and it is a mere 6 miles from Brownwood and 3 miles from Spanish Springs. The town we moved from has a population of approx 200,000 and has one theater in a mall advertising 14 screens, but have now closed half of them... With the number of new "block buster" movies being introduced 7 is more than enough. But if 8 screens is not enough to entertain out of town guests, then Ocala it is.
BTW, not one City Council meetings in my previous town had the subject of needing more movie theaters or to reopen the other 7 on their calendar.

[pauld315]

The beauty of living in the US is that one can take the risk and open a business of their own. If you think this would be a good investment start having discussions with the developer to see if they will lease the theater to you so you can reopen it. The developer is not going to listen to you or pay attention to any petition you present.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

There's someone in the Historic Section who shows Christmas movies on their garage door. They have an old-time movie theatre popcorn machine, and a cooler with small water bottles. They offer this for free, the only rule is, it's golf-carts only, no cars. They also have an "open house" cookout once a year with hotdogs and hamburgers. They said that they just love meeting their neighbors and feeling that whole community spirit, and that's why they do it. Really sweet couple.

[mickey100]

[QUOTE=Taltarzac725;2232840]What is it that you people do not get? Movie theaters like basketball courts are features for homeowners and their visiting family members leading better lives in the Villages rather than having to go to Ocala or Leesburg to see movies on the big
screens.

You don't have to go to Ocala there are 8 screens in LSL Old Mill and it is a mere 6 miles from Brownwood and 3 miles from Spanish Springs. The town we moved from has a population of approx 200,000 and has one theater in a mall advertising 14 screens, but have now closed half of them... With the number of new "block buster" movies being introduced 7 is more than enough. But if 8 screens is not enough to entertain out of town guests, then Ocala it is.
BTW, not one City Council meetings in my previous town had the subject of needing more movie theaters or to reopen the other 7 on their calendar.

Was your previous town a retirement community?? I'm guessing not. Comparing apples to oranges. You can't compare The Villages to an average US demographic. We are retired, good disposable income, lots of time for recreational activities like movies, etc. The movie industry is in a state of flux, evolving, and is coming to terms with streaming options and home theater. Will it re-invent itself? Remains to be seen. But in the meantime, we have to remember it takes years to get a movie through production and onto the big screen. During the pandemic, there was almost a complete shut down, so it took awhile to the scripts written, financing arranged, production, advertising, etc. From what I've read, 2023 is projected to be a banner year for the movie industry. That said, I agree, with those who think we need two movie theaters. There is no question that it is false advertising if the Villages markets the community as having "x" number of theaters, and really doesn't have that amount.

[Timeweaver1]

The LSL movie theater is not open in the evenings so I doubt old movies would even cover the cost when everyone that can stream the same old movie would watch it at their convenience in their favorite chair.

[Taltarzac725]

The LSL movie theater is not open in the evenings so I doubt old movies would even cover the cost when everyone that can stream the same old movie would watch it at their convenience in their favorite chair.

I believe the Old Mill Playhouse shows movies starting around 7:30 PM. Some of the recent movies are a good 2 and a half hours long.

This is off of movie times today for the Old Mill Playhouse.


Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
2:50pm
6:15pm
Joy Ride
1:05pm
3:20pm
5:35pm
7:50pm
Elemental
1:30pm
4:05pm
6:45pm
Sound of Freedom
1:45pm
4:40pm
7:40pm
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
1:35pm
4:35pm
7:40pm
Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken
12:50pm
3:00pm
5:15pm
7:30pm
No Hard Feelings
2:00pm
4:30pm
7:00pm
About My Father
3:00pm
7:40pm
It Ain't Over
12:40pm
5:15pm

[justjim]

From what I observed at Lake Sumter Landing, the concession has to be profitable. Maybe eight screens is two many - two or four might make more sense. Turn the rest of the Barnstorm (with a separate entrance) into a nightclub with drinks and dancing that opens at nine and closes at midnight. Just a thought.

[Taltarzac725]

From what I observed at Lake Sumter Landing, the concession has to be profitable. Maybe eight screens is two many - two or four might make more sense. Turn the rest of the Barnstorm (with a separate entrance) into a nightclub with drinks and dancing that opens at nine and closes at midnight. Just a thought.

How much money do the developers need? The right thing to do is to keep at least two movie theaters open for those generations who grew up going to the movies.

Why does this keep going back to whether the movie theaters are making money? It is not even relevant to the discussion.

From the petition--

By reopening Barnstorm Theater as an additional venue for public shows in Brownwood, we can ensure that all residents have equal opportunities for artistic engagement and enjoyment. This will not only enhance our quality of life but also contribute positively towards building a stronger sense of community identity.

We urge decision-makers at both local government levels and theater management teams alike to consider this petition seriously. By reopening Barnstorm Theater promptly while adhering strictly to health guidelines recommended by reputable sources such as CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), we can strike a balance between public safety and the need for accessible cultural experiences.

[Bogie Shooter]

[QUOTE=

The villages is a unique entity and I love learning more about it every day. I would really love to hear from someone in the know![/QUOTE]

Good luck finding someone in the know......that will share.
To help you on your journey seeking knowledge, some sites with a lot of information-
Village Community Development Districts (districtgov.org)
POA of The Villages | Property Owners Association of the Villages (poa4us.org)
VHA | The Villages Homeowners Advocates (thevha.net)

[Goldwingnut]

How much money do the developers need? The right thing to do is to keep at least two movie theaters open for those generations who grew up going to the movies.

Why does this keep going back to whether the movie theaters are making money? It is not even relevant to the discussion.

From the petition--

WOW! You really do have no clue how businesses work. It is and always has been about the money. That's why people take the risks they do in business, to make money. From just this post it's obvious that you have never owned a business or were responsible for a P&L sheet for a business. So, making a profit for any business not only is relevant to the discussion, but it is also the ONLY THING relevant to the discussion. As a current small business owner and past Project Manager for multi-million-dollar construction projects where I was held accountable for the P&L of the projects, I can tell you from firsthand experience you watch every penny spent and every dollar in costs saved, or you die.

As for your first question, a) it's none of your business b) the question is irrelevant as they are the ones at risk not you and c) since you opened this door by asking, how much money do you need? Since you want to pass judgement on their tax return perhaps it's time the court of public opinion passes judgement on how much wealth you have amassed in your lifetime and should determine how to relieve you of some of it, just as you stand in judgement of relieving the developer of theirs.

I'm neither for nor against the developer in their decisions, they have to do what they feel is best for themselves, just as I must make decisions for my company. Sometimes this means making investments and sacrifices for the long-term benefit, sometimes it means making hard or unpopular decisions, in either case the long-term viability of the business is the driving motive.

[Keefelane66]

How much money do the developers need? The right thing to do is to keep at least two movie theaters open for those generations who grew up going to the movies.

Why does this keep going back to whether the movie theaters are making money? It is not even relevant to the discussion.

From the petition--
Isn’t it great to spend other people’s money.

[Taltarzac725]

The Villages is the business. The movie theaters are a selling point made by that business to get people to buy homes or stay here in the Villages.

A good deal of our neighbors have moved or are in the process of moving out of the Villages. Their main reason for moving is to help family members.

Again. READ the Petition.

If I move out of the Villages, the lying about the movie theaters by the developers is one of strongest reasons I would move as well as the heavy cyber bullying I have encountered over the years on many platforms by "Villagers".

I was a manager of a very small food service in the Reno and Washoe Valley area. Money was an important issue for the owners of this small business. I earned two BAs during the rest of the year from the U of Nevada, Reno.

What drew the people to the Washoe Valley food service was the large swimming pool. What drew them to the ski lodge was the ski training program and the skiing. What drew them to the softball diamond was the softball being played by many amateur teams. I was not a manager at the ski lodge food service as I had left for law school in 1982 for the BYU Law School but did not fit in there so came back. Got a MA in Librarianship at the U of Denver. Worked my way through library school. Then was in an entry position at a publishing concern --Information Access Company-- and then went back to another law school at the U of MN. Where I worked my 2nd and 3rd year of law school and then worked a while longer at the U of MN Law Library.

Most of my law school training was in business matters which is common at all law schools.

WOW! You really do have no clue how businesses work. It is and always has been about the money. That's why people take the risks they do in business, to make money. From just this post it's obvious that you have never owned a business or were responsible for a P&L sheet for a business. So, making a profit for any business not only is relevant to the discussion, but it is also the ONLY THING relevant to the discussion. As a current small business owner and past Project Manager for multi-million-dollar construction projects where I was held accountable for the P&L of the projects, I can tell you from firsthand experience you watch every penny spent and every dollar in costs saved, or you die.

As for your first question, a) it's none of your business b) the question is irrelevant as they are the ones at risk not you and c) since you opened this door by asking, how much money do you need? Since you want to pass judgement on their tax return perhaps it's time the court of public opinion passes judgement on how much wealth you have amassed in your lifetime and should determine how to relieve you of some of it, just as you stand in judgement of relieving the developer of theirs.

I'm neither for nor against the developer in their decisions, they have to do what they feel is best for themselves, just as I must make decisions for my company. Sometimes this means making investments and sacrifices for the long-term benefit, sometimes it means making hard or unpopular decisions, in either case the long-term viability of the business is the driving motive.

[Stu from NYC]

The Villages is the business. The movie theaters are a selling point made by that business to get people to buy homes or stay here in the Villages.

A good deal of our neighbors have moved or are in the process of moving out of the Villages. Their main reason for moving is to help family members.

Again. READ the Petition.

If I move out of the Villages, the lying about the movie theaters by the developers is one of strongest reasons I would move as well as the heavy cyber bullying I have encountered over the years on many platforms by "Villagers".

I was a manager of a very small food service in the Reno and Washoe Valley area. Money was an important issue for the owners of this small business.

What drew the people to the Washoe Valley food service was the large swimming pool. What drew them to the ski lodge was the ski training program and the skiing. What drew them to the softball diamond was the softball being played by many amateur teams.

The developer should change the literature to one movie theater. Since it is his money at risk he gets to make decisions like this.

If this was my property would close it in a heartbeat based on demand for movie theaters.

[Bogie Shooter]

The Villages is the business. The movie theaters are a selling point made by that business to get people to buy homes or stay here in the Villages.

A good deal of our neighbors have moved or are in the process of moving out of the Villages. Their main reason for moving is to help family members.

Again. READ the Petition.

If I move out of the Villages, the lying about the movie theaters by the developers is one of strongest reasons I would move as well as the heavy cyber bullying I have encountered over the years on many platforms by "Villagers".

I was a manager of a very small food service in the Reno and Washoe Valley area. Money was an important issue for the owners of this small business. I earned two BAs during the rest of the year from the U of Nevada, Reno.

What drew the people to the Washoe Valley food service was the large swimming pool. What drew them to the ski lodge was the ski training program and the skiing. What drew them to the softball diamond was the softball being played by many amateur teams. I was not a manager at the ski lodge food service as I had left for law school in 1982 for the BYU Law School but did not fit in there so came back. Got a MA in Librarianship at the U of Denver. Worked my way through library school. Then was in an entry position at a publishing concern --Information Access Company-- and then went back to another law school at the U of MN. Where I worked my 2nd and 3rd year of law school and then worked a while longer at the U of MN Law Library.

Well, that explains a lot of questions.
Cannot imagine why you would receive cyber bullying.🤷🏼

[Taltarzac725]

The developer should change the literature to one movie theater. Since it is his money at risk he gets to make decisions like this.

If this was my property would close it in a heartbeat based on demand for movie theaters.

Now that would be the right thing to do.

Correct the literature.

[Taltarzac725]

Well, that explains a lot of questions.
Cannot imagine why you would receive cyber bullying.������������

It goes with the territory. Encountered an incredibly creative and nasty cyberbully on Findlaw in 2002 who never let up. It turned out he was the person I was travelling all over the Tampa Bay area to help with his criminal defense case. He was a white collar defendant. Tracked him down when I knew who he was and the police department person I talked to knew the person well. He was kind of a gadfly there. The person who called me thought it was kind of funny. Probably because they were looking at Findlaw and it took me years to figure out it was this guy. He was very two faced online. I think I saw the last of him just after I moved to the Villages in 2005. I stopped using Findlaw around 2006 and heard Talk Host talk about Talk of the Villages in July of 2007 at a Villages Computer Club meeting. Talk Host used to be a co-owner of Talk of the Villages or something like that.

He was business man who had defrauded someone allegedly. And they were trying to get him convicted for it.

Most of the other cyberbullies I have run into look like people of maybe 12 year old maturity.

[Worldseries27]

the villages is the business. The movie theaters are a selling point made by that business to get people to buy homes or stay here in the villages.

A good deal of our neighbors have moved or are in the process of moving out of the villages. Their main reason for moving is to help family members.

Again. Read the petition.

If i move out of the villages, the lying about the movie theaters by the developers is one of strongest reasons i would move as well as the heavy cyber bullying i have encountered over the years on many platforms by "villagers".

I was a manager of a very small food service in the reno and washoe valley area. Money was an important issue for the owners of this small business. I earned two bas during the rest of the year from the u of nevada, reno.

What drew the people to the washoe valley food service was the large swimming pool. What drew them to the ski lodge was the ski training program and the skiing. What drew them to the softball diamond was the softball being played by many amateur teams. I was not a manager at the ski lodge food service as i had left for law school in 1982 for the byu law school but did not fit in there so came back. Got a ma in librarianship at the u of denver. Worked my way through library school. Then was in an entry position at a publishing concern --information access company-- and then went back to another law school at the u of mn. Where i worked my 2nd and 3rd year of law school and then worked a while longer at the u of mn law library.

Most of my law school training was in business matters which is common at all law schools.
agree with you. Cannot understand people defending what amounts to pennies for an entity that misleads potential buyers to this very day

[dewilson58]

If I move out of the Villages, the lying about the movie theaters by the developers is one of strongest reasons I would move as well as the heavy cyber bullying I have encountered over the years on many platforms by "Villagers".



1) Well, hope you don't move.

2) Technically, aren't there are three theaters..............but only one is operational.

3) You can only go to one theater at a time......so it ain't that painful (1 vs. 2 vs. 3) is it??

4) Cyber b's are every where, probably less in TV vs. other places.

Peace

[Taltarzac725]

1) Well, hope you don't move.

2) Technically, aren't there are three theaters..............but only one is operational.

3) You can only go to one theater at a time......so it ain't that painful (1 vs. 2 vs. 3) is it??

4) Cyber b's are every where, probably less in TV vs. other places.

Peace

The Talk of the Villagers moderators keep things peaceful.

What I do not understand is that it would bring about a lot of good will if the developers had at least two movie theaters open. Good will is worth a huge amount of money.

Do think good business people know the importance of good will. And it is very hard to get back once gone.

[dewilson58]

The Talk of the Villagers moderators keep things peaceful. What I do not understand is that it would bring about a lot of good will if the developers had at least two movie theaters open. Good will is worth a huge amount of money. Do think good business people know the importance of good will. And it is very hard to get back once gone.

The family goes thru Pro's & Con's on a weekly basis.

With Mark's presentation regarding the theaters and the industry and getting movies and splitting the proceeds...............I'm happy TV has one theater (mostly since i can get there in my cart) and that the one & only is "in the middle" of TV.

TV has millions of dollars sitting idle (fixed cost), that tells me they weren't even able to cover their variable expenses and put an impactful amount towards the fixed costs.

The family understands goodwill. But if the petition is turned in with only 1% or 2% of the population signing it..............that will only confirm to the family they made a good decision to close two out of three.

:ho:

[mickey100]

Now that would be the right thing to do.

Correct the literature.

Agree. Essentially what the developer has done is promise certain amenities, keep mention of those amenities in their advertising literature, then take the amenity away and not change the literature. It's just not ethical. It's obvious that there are not a lot of movie goers on the forum, so many are not concerned. But suppose they took away one of the softball fields, or an archery range, or your favorite golf course? Boy you'd hear about it then. Look what happened at Hacienda. People bought on the golf course, thinking they were near the country club, an the developer just decided to demolish it and build whatever. And how many people bought their homes in an area, to be told that there would be no more expansion? That the Villages would stop at a certain point. Right, yeah. The lesson from all this is that you can't trust the Developer.

[Bogie Shooter]

Agree. Essentially what the developer has done is promise certain amenities, keep mention of those amenities in their advertising literature, then take the amenity away and not change the literature. It's just not ethical. It's obvious that there are not a lot of movie goers on the forum, so many are not concerned. But suppose they took away one of the softball fields, or an archery range, or your favorite golf course? Boy you'd hear about it then. Look what happened at Hacienda. People bought on the golf course, thinking they were near the country club, an the developer just decided to demolish it and build whatever. And how many people bought their homes in an area, to be told that there would be no more expansion? That the Villages would stop at a certain point. Right, yeah. The lesson from all this is that you can't trust the Developer.

/////

[Taltarzac725]

They are getting close to 2500 signatures.

Sign here to reopen Barnstorm Theater in Brownwood square. Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://chng.it/cM5R6vYgvF)

[Stu from NYC]

They are getting close to 2500 signatures.

How does it matter?

[Taltarzac725]

How does it matter?

Probably does not as the developers can do whatever they want as far as I can tell. We have one working movie theater and their marketing literature says we have three.

Movie Theaters
You can enjoy all the blockbuster favorites and cinematic classics at the three movie theaters located in each of the town squares in The Villages community!

Our modern, multi-screen movie theaters are the perfect choice for date night, a cool, relaxing afternoon or evening, or good times with the family.

[Taltarzac725]

We, the concerned residents of Wildwood, The Village FL, hereby request the immediate reopening of Barnstorm Theater to ensure that our community has access to sufficient public theater options. With a population of approximately 140,000 people residing here, it is evident that relying on just one theater is simply not enough.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, our community was fortunate enough to have three theaters available within each square. However, due to necessary safety measures and restrictions imposed during these challenging times, two theaters were forced to close down temporarily. While we understand the need for caution and compliance with health guidelines, it is crucial that we now take steps towards restoring our vibrant cultural scene.

I do like how they worded the petition. Well done on their part.

[Stu from NYC]

Probably does not as the developers can do whatever they want as far as I can tell. We have one working movie theater and their marketing literature says we have three.

As I said before they need to change the literature in line with what we have.

I do believe that if the economics said additional theaters would be profitable they would be here.

Not to mention if the developer thought he was losing sales due to lack of theaters they would be open already.

[Taltarzac725]

Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://www.change.org/p/reopen-barnstorm-theater-to-provide-adequate-public-theater-in-brownwood-the-village-fl?recruiter=1311553548&recruited_by_id=747432f0-1a67-11ee-b30c-dda7be5dadd0&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=share_petition&utm_term=share_for_starters_page&utm_medium=copylink&utm_content=cl_sharecopy_36746089_en-US%3A8)

They are closing in on 2500 signers.

I have had a very wide assortment of movie and TV stars on my Facebook page and had e-mailed many of them back in the early 2000s. And our house in Rohnert Park was across from the Red Lion Inn where they had some kind of agreement with Hollywood that they could park their movie trailers on their parking lot while they made movies in Sonoma and other surrounding counties.

Have felt a certain connection to the movies since 1992 or so.

[Goldwingnut]

Agree. Essentially what the developer has done is promise certain amenities, keep mention of those amenities in their advertising literature, then take the amenity away and not change the literature. It's just not ethical. It's obvious that there are not a lot of movie goers on the forum, so many are not concerned. But suppose they took away one of the softball fields, or an archery range, or your favorite golf course? Boy you'd hear about it then. Look what happened at Hacienda. People bought on the golf course, thinking they were near the country club, an the developer just decided to demolish it and build whatever. And how many people bought their homes in an area, to be told that there would be no more expansion? That the Villages would stop at a certain point. Right, yeah. The lesson from all this is that you can't trust the Developer.

Demonstrated lack of understanding.
1) the movie theaters are NOT amenities, they are privately owned businesses, so they have not taken any amenities away by shuttering these businesses.
2) North of SR44 they could not touch a single amenity, the amenities - ball fields, pickle ball courts, rec centers, pools, executive golf courses, etc. are owned by the local government - the VCCDD or the SLCDD. South of SR44 they could possibly eliminate some amenities but the legal and business impact ramifications of such actions would be huge and not worth any possible cost savings.
3) Hacienda Hills CC was a privately owned business on a privately owned golf course (all the championship courses are privately owned property and are NOT amenities), the CC went out of business because they couldn't make a profit selling ice water and air conditioning while people brought in outside food and drinks.
4) The only time that the growth had the potential to stop and was a factual statement was at SR44 when state law was limiting the growth of the community, it was a legal issue. When the law changed, to the benefit of many thousands of workers in Sumter and surrounding counties, the growth was no longer restrained. As far is any other statements of stopping at a certain point, that was not statements made by the developer (some of their contracted sales staff may be guilty of such statements) and their actions early on support the continued growth that included all areas down to SR44 - withing 30 months of establishing CDD5 (3/19/2002), CDD10 was established (9/24/04) making it obvious that they intended to built to their legal limit at SR44.

The developer does a good job of keeping their intentions and plans hidden. To their dismay in recent years there are several such as myself that have found ways to legally uncover information about their plans and intentions and have made this information public. They've quickly learned that it's a new age and they'll have to work harder to keep their long-term plans out of sight. In my 9+ years of digging for information. watching their every move, and carefully collecting all the informaiton I can, I have never seen anything that was either dishonest or deserving of a loss of trust, the same cannot be said of some of the contracted sales staff. I have seen some actions by the developer that I saw as petty, mean, and thoughtless - FBC church of Leesburg on 466a and Grace Tabernacle Church on Morse Blvd - both not having golf cart accessibility - come quickly to mind - but these actions were not dishonest.

[tophcfa]

In my 9+ years of digging for information. watching their every move, and carefully collecting all the informaiton I can, I have never seen anything that was either dishonest or deserving of a loss of trust.

I agree with everything you said in your post except for one thing. What happened at Hacienda Hills is without a doubt deserving of a loss of trust for the unfortunate folks who bought homes near the old clubhouse, pool, pro shop, restaurant, and tennis courts at Hacienda Hills. I feel very sorry for fellow Villagers who paid a substantial premium to live in an area such as the 9th fairway on the Oaks course. What happened to them is simply not right! Hopefully future potential suckers will take note of what happened before they drop their hard earned money to pay a premium for a homesite on a Championship Golf Course.

[Taltarzac725]

Demonstrated lack of understanding.
1) the movie theaters are NOT amenities, they are privately owned businesses, so they have not taken any amenities away by shuttering these businesses.
2) North of SR44 they could not touch a single amenity, the amenities - ball fields, pickle ball courts, rec centers, pools, executive golf courses, etc. are owned by the local government - the VCCDD or the SLCDD. South of SR44 they could possibly eliminate some amenities but the legal and business impact ramifications of such actions would be huge and not worth any possible cost savings.
3) Hacienda Hills CC was a privately owned business on a privately owned golf course (all the championship courses are privately owned property and are NOT amenities), the CC went out of business because they couldn't make a profit selling ice water and air conditioning while people brought in outside food and drinks.
4) The only time that the growth had the potential to stop and was a factual statement was at SR44 when state law was limiting the growth of the community, it was a legal issue. When the law changed, to the benefit of many thousands of workers in Sumter and surrounding counties, the growth was no longer restrained. As far is any other statements of stopping at a certain point, that was not statements made by the developer (some of their contracted sales staff may be guilty of such statements) and their actions early on support the continued growth that included all areas down to SR44 - withing 30 months of establishing CDD5 (3/19/2002), CDD10 was established (9/24/04) making it obvious that they intended to built to their legal limit at SR44.

The developer does a good job of keeping their intentions and plans hidden. To their dismay in recent years there are several such as myself that have found ways to legally uncover information about their plans and intentions and have made this information public. They've quickly learned that it's a new age and they'll have to work harder to keep their long-term plans out of sight. In my 9+ years of digging for information. watching their every move, and carefully collecting all the informaiton I can, I have never seen anything that was either dishonest or deserving of a loss of trust, the same cannot be said of some of the contracted sales staff. I have seen some actions by the developer that I saw as petty, mean, and thoughtless - FBC church of Leesburg on 466a and Grace Tabernacle Church on Morse Blvd - both not having golf cart accessibility - come quickly to mind - but these actions were not dishonest.

Where did you get that the movie theaters are privately owned? I still see no evidence of that.

This is the owner of record for the Old Mill Playhouse--


Owner Information
THE VILLAGES OPERATING COMPANY
3619 KIESSEL ROAD
THE VILLAGES, FL 32163
FEI/EIN Number: 20-4647826
Document Number: P06000035355

[Rainger99]

Where did you get that the movie theaters are privately owned? I still see no evidence of that.

This is the owner of record for the Old Mill Playhouse--
Quote:
Owner Information
THE VILLAGES OPERATING COMPANY
3619 KIESSEL ROAD
THE VILLAGES, FL 32163
FEI/EIN Number: 20-4647826
Document Number: P06000035355

I think Don means that the developer is a private company and not a governmental entity.

[retiredguy123]

This is an excerpt from "thevillages.com" website:

Movie Theaters
You can enjoy all the blockbuster favorites and cinematic classics at the three movie theaters located in each of the town squares in The Villages community! Our modern, multi-screen movie theaters are the perfect choice for date night, a cool, relaxing afternoon or evening, or good times with the family. So grab your popcorn, candy and a drink and catch the latest flicks to hit the big screen—day or night!

[Taltarzac725]

Quote:
Owner Information
THE VILLAGES OPERATING COMPANY
3619 KIESSEL ROAD
THE VILLAGES, FL 32163
FEI/EIN Number: 20-4647826
Document Number: P06000035355

I think Don means that the developer is a private company and not a governmental entity.

In many ways the Villages developers act like a governmental entity.

[Bill14564]

In many ways the Villages developers act like a governmental entity.

Some local governmental entities are almost indistinguishable from the Villages developers. (Not a criticism, just an observation)

[mickey100]

In many ways the Villages developers act like a governmental entity.

Of course they do. Anyone who thinks otherwise is indeed a sucker.

[Papa_lecki]

In many ways the Villages developers act like a governmental entity.

Government is the least efficient operating entity. Plus government does not make or sell a product.

The Developer is exactly the opposite of government.

[Taltarzac725]

Government is the least efficient operating entity. Plus government does not make or sell a product.

The Developer is exactly the opposite of government.

They make and sell all kinds of products. We just often have to buy them.

And I would call this shutting down of two movie theaters while claiming to have three open ones is very bad for publicity.

I am very biased though towards movies as have loved going to a big screen theater since the 1960s. Patton's opening scene really needs a very big screen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS5yfhPGaWE

[dewilson58]

.

I am very biased though towards movies ]

We know and that's why we love you.
:icon_wink:

[Bogie Shooter]

They make and sell all kinds of products. We just often have to buy them.

And I would call this shutting down of two movie theaters while claiming to have three open ones is very bad for publicity.

I am very biased though towards movies as have loved going to a big screen theater since the 1960s. Patton's opening scene really needs a very big screen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS5yfhPGaWE

We know and that's why we love you.
:icon_wink:

What’s this we $#@& kemosabe? 😀

[Taltarzac725]

We know and that's why we love you.
:icon_wink:

Thanks. Met a lot of great people here in the Villages. Two of my favorites were a Spanish and a French teacher. Think they taught at the high school level. The male Spanish teacher married the French female teacher. He was very much involved with Villages' affairs in this area of the Villages. He loved war movies and trivia and the like. They moved to help family members.

I never tried practicing my Spanish nor my French with them though.

He went to meetings and the like.

The Villages sure has changed in the 18 years we have been here.

There was only the Rialto open when we moved in June of 2005. Prior to the Rialto I think it was a big bed sheet in a parking lot north of US 441/27. That was the Villages movie theater. Probably a projector and a bed sheet with rope or maybe taped to a building.

[Taltarzac725]

I did think I might be getting some where with all my myriad of letters and the like when the guy behind me at the Petaluma, CA movie theater asked "Did you see that?" when the 612 showed up on the test vial in the Sonoma County, CA and other county filmed or at least the production was prepared in the movie Outbreak. Outbreak - Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/outbreak)

I had never seen the guy that I was aware of but he could have been from the Red Lion Inn and their contingent of various movie production trailers that were about 150 feet out or back door across the fairway.

I used 613 a lot on these mailings as well as 224. 613 is my number in a 17 week study on stress on the unemployed conducted at the University of California San Francisco Health Sciences Campus in December 1992 through March 1993. I drove down to SF from Rohnert Park, CA four times to give blood for testing as well as chat with my interviewer at UCSF about my life and work and the like. I did show her a bunch of letters received and sent. She waited until I was done with the study to compliment me on what I was doing.

Part of why I love movies so much. And a lot of people over the years have told me to try to get Hollywood involved with my story.

I gave a bunch of correspondence to a detective in Pinellas County Florida around 2002 and he often would remind me as a joke of his name which was the same as a studio in LA. I interacted a little bit with two Criminal Intelligence Detectives in 2002 after I went down in person and demanded to talk to someone.

[Keefelane66]

Indiana Jones and the “Dial of Destiny” is now on my streaming app

[Stu from NYC]

Indiana Jones and the “Dial of Destiny” is now on my streaming app

Fun movie, great special effects, the story _____ decide for yourself.

[Taltarzac725]

Petition * Reopen Barnstorm Theater to Provide Adequate Public Theater in Brownwood, The Village FL! * Change.org (https://www.change.org/p/reopen-barnstorm-theater-to-provide-adequate-public-theater-in-brownwood-the-village-fl?recruiter=1311553548&recruited_by_id=747432f0-1a67-11ee-b30c-dda7be5dadd0&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=share_petition&utm_term=share_for_starters_page&utm_medium=copylink&utm_content=cl_sharecopy_36746089_en-US%3A8)

More than 3,000 signatures now for this petition.

[VApeople]

My wife and I have not gone to a movie since 2005 and I doubt we will ever go to one again, so we do not care if there are movie theaters.

We enjoy sitting in our recliner sofa and watching movies in our home. My hearing is not that great, so we always use the closed captions. Life is very good for us and we hope your lives are very good as well.

[Taltarzac725]

My wife and I have not gone to a movie since 2005 and I doubt we will ever go to one again, so we do not care if there are movie theaters.

We enjoy sitting in our recliner sofa and watching movies in our home. My hearing is not that great, so we always use the closed captions. Life is very good for us and we hope your lives are very good as well.

I doubt if the new Mission Impossible movie looks all that good on a TV screen. You really need a movie theater screen or something even bigger like IMAX to experience the film. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One | Official Website | Only In Theatres Wednesday (https://www.missionimpossible.com/)

[Stu from NYC]

I doubt if the new Mission Impossible movie looks all that good on a TV screen. You really need a movie theater screen or something even bigger like IMAX to experience the film. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One | Official Website | Only In Theatres Wednesday (https://www.missionimpossible.com/)

Your right but not enough movies like this are being made to justify opening up theaters.

[Rainger99]

My wife and I have not gone to a movie since 2005 and I doubt we will ever go to one again, so we do not care if there are movie theaters.

We enjoy sitting in our recliner sofa and watching movies in our home. My hearing is not that great, so we always use the closed captions. Life is very good for us and we hope your lives are very good as well.

Last time I was at a movie, people were talking and texting throughout the movie. You can’t pause and rewind at the theater. You miss dialogue and it is not that enjoyable.

I agree that seeing some movies in a big theater makes the experience more enjoyable Star Wars, Indiana Jones, etc. However, it is hard to find a movie with a large screen. We have the multiplex theaters where the screens are significantly smaller than the single screen that I grew up with.

[Taltarzac725]

Last time I was at a movie, people were talking and texting throughout the movie. You can’t pause and rewind at the theater. You miss dialogue and it is not that enjoyable.

I agree that seeing some movies in a big theater makes the experience more enjoyable Star Wars, Indiana Jones, etc. However, it is hard to find a movie with a large screen. We have the multiplex theaters where the screens are significantly smaller than the single screen that I grew up with.


I recall going to a Tampa IMAX to see one of The Matrix movies with my nephew and his best friend and the screen must have been 40 feet high or near there. And there are IMAX screens much bigger than that.

I had friends at a local dog park too who often went to an IMAX in Orlando to see blockbuster movies.

The screens at the Barnstorm were some of the biggest in this area. Those at the Rialto left a lot to be desired for size.

[Keefelane66]

Just started watching from my home “ Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” I don’t think I’ll signing petition

[Taltarzac725]

Just started watching from my home “ Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” I don’t think I’ll signing petition

I did not know that was available except for from the people who video these releases and then put them on the Internet.

[Keefelane66]

I did not know that was available except for from the people who video these releases and then put them on the Internet.
Movies are in English but I must suffer foreign subtitles and sometimes suffer thru several 15 second commercial by sponsor throughout movie.

[Taltarzac725]

Movies are in English but I must suffer foreign subtitles and sometimes suffer thru several 15 second commercial by sponsor throughout movie.

I did try watching some of Guardians of the Galaxy on one of these foreign sites and it did come with subtitles and breaks. But I did not use my computer as I was scared of hacks. Just used a tablet that I erase often.

I had missed 30 minutes of Guardians of the Galaxy when I arrived late at the Old Mill Playhouse and wanted to see what I had missed and someone had told me to check out that foreign site.

[Taltarzac725]

The $6 Friday Saturday Date Night at the Old Mill Playhouse is a good idea. I know how well Villagers love deals. And it offers somewhere to go for the high school students.

[Babubhat]

Movie theater is a rotten business. Ask AMC.

[dewilson58]

Movie theater is a rotten business. Ask AMC.

Absolutely.....................This is the Macro view, and explains a lot.

Nothing to do with "I was promised".

Nothing to do with "their website says".

Nothing to do with "the developer is lying".

Nothing to do with "I'm entitled to......".

:highfive:

[Taltarzac725]

Movie theater is a rotten business. Ask AMC.

It looks very profitable to me. The Numbers - Movie Budgets, Most Expensive Movies, Most Profitable Movies, Biggest Money-Losing Movies (https://www.the-numbers.com/movie/budgets)

People seem to be on strike or about to strike for their shares of the pie.