Little white crosses

[ROCKETMAN]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.

[ThirdOfFive]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.
Still tied up in court as I recall reading recently. And probably will be forever.

[Blueblaze]

The solution in our neighborhood is an 8" cross in every single flowerbed.

It's sort of like the way we finally defeated that idiotic 55mph speed limit that was almost universally ignored, and still managed to kill thousands of people every year, as evidenced from the drop in highway deaths the year it was finally repealed.

Sometimes the only solution to stupid government overreach is passive resistance.

[Pondboy]

The repeal of the 55 mph speed limit in 1995 led to an increase in highway deaths

Study: A study found that the increased speed limits after the repeal accounted for an estimated 12,545 deaths over 10 years.

Fatality rates: A study found that fatality rates were 17% higher after the speed limit increases, even after accounting for changes in vehicle miles of travel.

[asianthree]

The solution in our neighborhood is an 8" cross in every single flowerbed.

It's sort of like the way we finally defeated that idiotic 55mph speed limit that was almost universally ignored, and still managed to kill thousands of people every year, as evidenced from the drop in highway deaths the year it was finally repealed.

Sometimes the only solution to stupid government overreach is passive resistance.

So everyone n your village is of the same beliefs in white cross. Must be a dedicated entire neighborhood to switch beliefs to prove a point. My parents could not have allowed a cross no matter how small in their personal space.

[Battlebasset]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

[fdpaq0580]

Paint the crosses camouflage. No one will see them?
😏😒🫥🙄😔

[Topspinmo]

The repeal of the 55 mph speed limit in 1995 led to an increase in highway deaths

Study: A study found that the increased speed limits after the repeal accounted for an estimated 12,545 deaths over 10 years.

Fatality rates: A study found that fatality rates were 17% higher after the speed limit increases, even after accounting for changes in vehicle miles of travel.

Nearly Nobody was actually going 55, like 65 to 70 plus. When they increased it to 70 that means nearly everybody was going 80 to 85 plus. Another thing there no limit till you get caught.

[Topspinmo]

Just move up in northern districts can do what you want. Lawn ornaments galore brick in all of CYVs yard including easements and use whole front yard as parking lot, but don’t try to gravel patio vIlla yard..

[tophcfa]

Paint the crosses camouflage. No one will see them?
😏😒🫥🙄😔

Or just claim they are AIRBNB customers and there will be no enforcement.

[Bjeanj]

The issue everyone seems to be ignoring is that any type of lawn ornament, be it a white cross or a deer statue, is that any of them need to be located under the eaves of the house. If these people had complied with this district restriction, they wouldn’t be in court today. This is not a religious issue. Rather it is a deed restriction issue.

[BrianL99]

It's great to see that we weren't able to get through a week, without a "little white crosses" thread.

You can't have one! You signed a Deed Restriction that they are NOT ALLOWED in TV.

SIMPLE.

[CarlR33]

The solution in our neighborhood is an 8" cross in every single flowerbed.

It's sort of like the way we finally defeated that idiotic 55mph speed limit that was almost universally ignored, and still managed to kill thousands of people every year, as evidenced from the drop in highway deaths the year it was finally repealed.

Sometimes the only solution to stupid government overreach is passive resistance.The government controls our C&R? I would be curious how many of the same ornaments are represented inside the same home? I do not need to advertise the pink flamingo in my front yard for the neighbors to look at all day as I have one inside it, LOL

[Bilyclub]

The solution in our neighborhood is an 8" cross in every single flowerbed.

It's sort of like the way we finally defeated that idiotic 55mph speed limit that was almost universally ignored, and still managed to kill thousands of people every year, as evidenced from the drop in highway deaths the year it was finally repealed.

Sometimes the only solution to stupid government overreach is passive resistance.



How about reading and complying with the deed restrictions that you agreed to when buying a house in TV. This is not government overreach at all.

[dewilson58]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

what is next???

opening the door.

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

Are you okay with your neighbor's swastika on their front lawn? How about a pagan pentagram? Or a Muslim crescent moon? If you find any of those to be offensive, then you have your answer to your question.

Personally I consider the white crosses to be stupid. I'm not Christian. But I've read the old and new testament, along with several other religious texts. Nowhere have I read that a white cross on the front lawn was an important part of anyone's religion.

I've also read in the New Testament various statements to the effect of - if you have to advertise, you're doing it wrong.

[Byte1]

Personally, I have no problem with my neighbors personalizing their property, regardless of "deed restrictions." I am lucky that I live in a district that has very a very limited amount of restrictions and it does not bother me whatsoever. In my opinion, many folks that are "offended" by the little white crosses, have more issues than a mere violation of the deed restrictions. Many do not even understand the meaning/reasoning behind the display of the white cross in public. I am not going to quote the story that caused the issue to go viral because it is very easy to search the story on the Internet. For those that compare the white cross violation with the idea of displaying a swastika, or some other symbol that they feel one should be offended by, I don't easily offend. What offends one, may not offend another. Like I said, I like the idea of personalizing ones property. Maybe the new districts being built should set a restriction that all residents have only white cars and must park their vehicle in their garage after dark. The village of Valdosta consists of CYV all painted gray. Not my cup of tea, but the villas are occupied with folks that are probably content with their Navy base housing gray mimic. The next village on Tally Ridge consists of CYVs that consist of several different colors. C'mon folks, lets get it together....left, right, left, right, one two three four. We have a lot of nosey folks here, that seem to be easily offended by the actions of others. "But, but, but...." Some find it easy to rely on the old "rules are rules" until they break a rule or law. I find it amusing that we have so many easily offended folks in The Villages.....land of good neighbors....
BTW, I put a little white cross in my front yard. I didn't NEED to display my religious preference. I did it in support of the issue. And yes, I do know what I am supporting. Hint: Look up "White Cross Movement started in Frankenmuth, Michigan in 2008"

[Byte1]

Are you okay with your neighbor's swastika on their front lawn? How about a pagan pentagram? Or a Muslim crescent moon? If you find any of those to be offensive, then you have your answer to your question.
Nope, those symbols do not offend me. It's a free country.....or it was.
Personally I consider the white crosses to be stupid. I'm not Christian. But I've read the old and new testament, along with several other religious texts. Nowhere have I read that a white cross on the front lawn was an important part of anyone's religion.
Other than the crosses being an inanimate object, what do you find "Stupid?" Just curious.

I've also read in the New Testament various statements to the effect of - if you have to advertise, you're doing it wrong.
Hmm, for someone that has also read the Bible, I know that there is also a New Testament instruction to go throughout the world and witness. Some folks do misquote scriptures conveniently, to support their opinion.

[Rocksnap]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

Rules are rules. If you let crosses in, then where does it stop? Everyone would then want their own “symbol” out on their property. Where would the line be drawn?

[Rocksnap]

The issue everyone seems to be ignoring is that any type of lawn ornament, be it a white cross or a deer statue, is that any of them need to be located under the eaves of the house. If these people had complied with this district restriction, they wouldn’t be in court today. This is not a religious issue. Rather it is a deed restriction issue.

Common sense prevails!

[Rocksnap]

Personally, I have no problem with my neighbors personalizing their property, regardless of "deed restrictions." I am lucky that I live in a district that has very a very limited amount of restrictions and it does not bother me whatsoever. In my opinion, many folks that are "offended" by the little white crosses, have more issues than a mere violation of the deed restrictions. Many do not even understand the meaning/reasoning behind the display of the white cross in public. I am not going to quote the story that caused the issue to go viral because it is very easy to search the story on the Internet. For those that compare the white cross violation with the idea of displaying a swastika, or some other symbol that they feel one should be offended by, I don't easily offend. What offends one, may not offend another. Like I said, I like the idea of personalizing ones property. Maybe the new districts being built should set a restriction that all residents have only white cars and must park their vehicle in their garage after dark. The village of Valdosta consists of CYV all painted gray. Not my cup of tea, but the villas are occupied with folks that are probably content with their Navy base housing gray mimic. The next village on Tally Ridge consists of CYVs that consist of several different colors. C'mon folks, lets get it together....left, right, left, right, one two three four. We have a lot of nosey folks here, that seem to be easily offended by the actions of others. "But, but, but...." Some find it easy to rely on the old "rules are rules" until they break a rule or law. I find it amusing that we have so many easily offended folks in The Villages.....land of good neighbors....
BTW, I put a little white cross in my front yard. I didn't NEED to display my religious preference. I did it in support of the issue. And yes, I do know what I am supporting. Hint: Look up "White Cross Movement started in Frankenmuth, Michigan in 2008"
By your “reasoning”, then any symbol on display is fair game. Religious preferences be damned. This does not compute. Where does it stop? Perhaps a nice LBGTQ+ display in your front yard! Giddy up!

[CarlR33]

[QUOTE=Byte1;237011
BTW, I put a little white cross in my front yard. I didn't NEED to display my religious preference. I did it in support of the issue. And yes, I do know what I am supporting. Hint: Look up "White Cross Movement started in Frankenmuth, Michigan in 2008"[/QUOTE]

Ok, I did look it up and the initial movement was because someone “tagged” a bridge which belonged to the city with something that he wanted removed (justified). Second, as a citizen he felt the city should consider changing their shield as it was something that he felt needed refreshed (a citizen within their rights to request this similar to a company changing its logo). However, citizens felt offended by a citizen acting within their rights so they felt they should go against their rules by further displaying the same thing for their neighbors to see? I really do not need your “powerful and inspiring message for all Americans passing them every day” unless you’re paying for it on a billboard on the Turnpike (then acting within the rules).

[terryf484]

So everyone n your village is of the same beliefs in white cross. Must be a dedicated entire neighborhood to switch beliefs to prove a point. My parents could not have allowed a cross no matter how small in their personal space.

Big issue about white crosses, but nothing said about political flags flying year around, some of them not so nice. If not crosses, then make home owners take down their political flags.

[nn0wheremann]

Are you okay with your neighbor's swastika on their front lawn? How about a pagan pentagram? Or a Muslim crescent moon? If you find any of those to be offensive, then you have your answer to your question.

Personally I consider the white crosses to be stupid. I'm not Christian. But I've read the old and new testament, along with several other religious texts. Nowhere have I read that a white cross on the front lawn was an important part of anyone's religion.

I've also read in the New Testament various statements to the effect of - if you have to advertise, you're doing it wrong.
“There’s a Merrseschmitt on the front lawn! Somebody clean it up!”
—Rodney Dangerfield

[Sandy and Ed]

And, unfortunately, there aren’t enough police on the roads to catch some of the excessive (like 20+ mph over !) speeders out tgerr

[john352]

Still tied up in court as I recall reading recently. And probably will be forever.

The home, in that case, is located in CDD-8. The homeowner is Wayne Anderson, who is running for a seat on the CDD-8 Board of Supervisors in the November election. Only voters who live in CDD-8 can vote for that office. Wayne's profile is available on the Sumter County Supervisror of Election website.
Candidate Reports (https://www.voterfocus.com/CampaignFinance/candidate_pr.php?op=cv&e=25&c=sumter&ca=456&rellevel=4&committee=N)

[GizmoWhiskers]

Don't need a little white cross in a garden. Just "the blood of a lamb" over your door for if shtf again. Ifkyk.

[Justputt]

It's my understanding TV does not go looking for these things and only responds to the squeaky wheel. Thus, someone must have been offended and reported it. Rules are rules, and when you buy here you sign documents that say you will follow the rules. It's pretty simple.

[Tomptomp]

I know the church places them to represent abortions recently performed. Whatever anyone’s opinion about abortions, it is probably not the point of the villages. If these symbols are allowed what will be next ? A hammer and cycle as has been opined or a swastika.
Maybe little white cross is inoculating but The Villages does have a point.

[MrLindy]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

In America, we have a Constitutional Right to Freedom of Speech. Whether a White Cross, a Red, White, and Blue flag with 50 white stars, or a Grey Sandhill Crane...the choice & place of display belongs to the citizen. Look away if you don't like it. Sometimes it's better to say nothing at all.

[Marathon Man]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

Drive through a community that do not have restrictions, or chooses not to enforce, and you will see your answer.

[BrianL99]

In America, we have a Constitutional Right to Freedom of Speech. Whether a White Cross, a Red, White, and Blue flag with 50 white stars, or a Grey Sandhill Crane...the choice & place of display belongs to the citizen. Look away if you don't like it. Sometimes it's better to say nothing at all.

Placing "white crosses" is not speech, in case you haven't noticed .... it's a "display". "Speech" is generally verbal.

& even if you have some constitutional right to say whatever you think you should be able to speak, you signed away that right, when you bought a home in TV.

If you prefer to exercise your supposed "right of free speech", perhaps you should dress yourself up as a "little white cross", stand on your front porch and scream as loud as you're able ... "I am a little white cross".

[Ponygirl]

Personally, I have no problem with my neighbors personalizing their property, regardless of "deed restrictions." I am lucky that I live in a district that has very a very limited amount of restrictions and it does not bother me whatsoever. In my opinion, many folks that are "offended" by the little white crosses, have more issues than a mere violation of the deed restrictions. Many do not even understand the meaning/reasoning behind the display of the white cross in public. I am not going to quote the story that caused the issue to go viral because it is very easy to search the story on the Internet. For those that compare the white cross violation with the idea of displaying a swastika, or some other symbol that they feel one should be offended by, I don't easily offend. What offends one, may not offend another. Like I said, I like the idea of personalizing ones property. Maybe the new districts being built should set a restriction that all residents have only white cars and must park their vehicle in their garage after dark. The village of Valdosta consists of CYV all painted gray. Not my cup of tea, but the villas are occupied with folks that are probably content with their Navy base housing gray mimic. The next village on Tally Ridge consists of CYVs that consist of several different colors. C'mon folks, lets get it together....left, right, left, right, one two three four. We have a lot of nosey folks here, that seem to be easily offended by the actions of others. "But, but, but...." Some find it easy to rely on the old "rules are rules" until they break a rule or law. I find it amusing that we have so many easily offended folks in The Villages.....land of good neighbors....
BTW, I put a little white cross in my front yard. I didn't NEED to display my religious preference. I did it in support of the issue. And yes, I do know what I am supporting. Hint: Look up "White Cross Movement started in Frankenmuth, Michigan in 2008"

Well. Thank you I did not know what the white crosses meant so I looked it up

So the white crosses represent Christian nationalism. That this country was founded on Christian principles and must remain so. The Christian nationalism movement

And Project 2025 is the result and playbook

Not inclusive and very Scary

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

Lanai is considered inside the home.

[opinionist]

The white crosses I have seen are nearly invisible unless you are looking for them. I find it humorous that political signs are restricted in some locations (in a window) but are allowed on a golf cart or car.

[Marmaduke]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.
You got 3 pages of responses to add to the thousands already in the archieves.
Ad nauseam.

[Bilyclub]

The white crosses I have seen are nearly invisible unless you are looking for them. I find it humorous that political signs are restricted in some locations (in a window) but are allowed on a golf cart or car.


Pretty simple, there is no deed restrictions against it. Plus the carts are driven on public roads.

[BrianL99]

Pretty simple, there is no deed restrictions against it. Plus the carts are driven on public roads.

Please don't confuse posters with logic, law and common sense.

[harby]

These single little white and plain cross does not bother us as long as they r in their lawn by house. What about over numerous lawn ornaments, giant seasonal decors such as Skeleton, balloon Santa, Bunny, ugly cactus, etc.?

[OhioBuckeye]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.

That was an issue when we lived in TV 5 yrs. ago. If my memory serves me right TV said you couldn’t put anything out in the yard, it had to be back where your bushes are. To make it short somehow the homeowners don’t own from the bushes to the street. If I’m wrong correct me, not trying to make trouble but this has been an earlier issue.

[Fastskiguy]

Rules are rules. If you let crosses in, then where does it stop? Everyone would then want their own “symbol” out on their property. Where would the line be drawn?

Agreed. First it’s crosses then it’s a giant ***** sculpture. There are plenty of places you can live with no rules or restrictions but here in TV we’ve got certain standards to uphold. Inside your house go nuts. Outside…..let’s keep things within the rules.

Joe

[Topspinmo]

It's great to see that we weren't able to get through a week, without a "little white crosses" thread.

You can't have one! You signed a Deed Restriction that they are NOT ALLOWED in TV.

SIMPLE.


Depends on which district you live in. :oops: That’s a problem rules are not all same :wave:

[Topspinmo]

These single little white and plain cross does not bother us as long as they r in their lawn by house. What about over numerous lawn ornaments, giant seasonal decors such as Skeleton, balloon Santa, Bunny, ugly cactus, etc.?

Don’t forget the bronze cranes. :beer3:

[Indydealmaker]

How about reading and complying with the deed restrictions that you agreed to when buying a house in TV. This is not government overreach at all.

Totally up to interpretation. Most Christians would never think to call a single white cross a violation of any law, let alone call it a lawn ornament. Personally, I must question the morals of anyone who agrees that a single, small religious symbol is objectionable.

[JGibson]

It's odd that they don't allow the little white cross but at Christmas time they allow all types of Christmas ornaments outside your house.

Personally I couldn't care less.

[fdpaq0580]

Big issue about white crosses, but nothing said about political flags flying year around, some of them not so nice. If not crosses, then make home owners take down their political flags.

Agree! But, sometimes, those flags do let you know which of your neighbors is batspit crazy. 😒

[ken.yotz]

Not only do you ignore the facts, you sadly spread untrue statements.The solution in our neighborhood is an 8" cross in every single flowerbed.

It's sort of like the way we finally defeated that idiotic 55mph speed limit that was almost universally ignored, and still managed to kill thousands of people every year, as evidenced from the drop in highway deaths the year it was finally repealed.

Sometimes the only solution to stupid government overreach is passive resistance.

[Bill14564]

That was an issue when we lived in TV 5 yrs. ago. If my memory serves me right TV said you couldn’t put anything out in the yard, it had to be back where your bushes are. To make it short somehow the homeowners don’t own from the bushes to the street. If I’m wrong correct me, not trying to make trouble but this has been an earlier issue.

The homeowners do own their front yards from the bushes to at least close to the street (probably all the way but not sure).

Read your deed restrictions to find the wording about lawn ornaments. I don't see anything that allows me to put ornaments in the shrub beds. In fact, I have seen arguments that even though you may drape flowers over it, an old bicycle is still not flower pot.

Perhaps there was the thought that anything under the eaves is within the footprint of the house and therefore considered to be within the house and not part of the lawn. If a homeowner is allowed to get away with that then good for them. It seems to me that interpretation would also allow me to decorate those walls as I would any other interior walls. However, I am willing to bet if my wall decorations contained political slogans or my choice of wall color did not match a pre-approved palette then I would quickly learn that the area is NOT considered to be within the house.

It is really pretty easy:
- Read your deed restrictions
- Remember that you gave your word you would follow them
- Do not put up any lawn decorations
- Do not rely on creative interpretations as a way to go back on your word

[Bill14564]

It's odd that they don't allow the little white cross but at Christmas time they allow all types of Christmas ornaments outside your house.

Personally I couldn't care less.

Read your deed restrictions. Mine prohibit lawn ornaments except for seasonal displays which are limited in how long they may remain.

A little white cross for 30 days at Christmas would be okay.

An inflatable reindeer left up year round would be a prohibited lawn ornament.

[dougawhite]

The repeal of the 55 mph speed limit in 1995 led to an increase in highway deaths

Study: A study found that the increased speed limits after the repeal accounted for an estimated 12,545 deaths over 10 years.

Fatality rates: A study found that fatality rates were 17% higher after the speed limit increases, even after accounting for changes in vehicle miles of travel.

Traffic Deaths per 100 Million Miles Driven Have Shown a Steady Decrease Over the Years, per NHTSA
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dougawhite-64760/albums/doug_photos/10610t-vehicle-deaths-per-year-per-nhtsa.jpg

[Lanieb]

I. New here and I don’t know what the white crosses mean?
Explain please.
LB

[Margefrog]

I don't get the purpose of flaunting one's beliefs to the point of bad taste, or even Insulting what it represents . Likewise others who think there's some benefit in bragging tastelessly about their political choice. Without that excessive "stuff" flying on carts, lawns, inside garages & lanai, The Villages would look nice, in keeping with the lakes, golf courses, etc. Why do some people feel the need to shove their ideas down other people's throats? It doesn't accomplish anything. It does feel disrespectful and trashy.

[Margefrog]

Live and let live also means don't shove your stuff in other people's faces. Lawn ornaments is one thing, planting the same religious symbol on lawns is very cult like. Most of us do not want to live amongst a cult. Why? Because cults are mentally unhealthy.

[CybrSage]

The repeal of the 55 mph speed limit in 1995 led to an increase in highway deaths

Study: A study found that the increased speed limits after the repeal accounted for an estimated 12,545 deaths over 10 years.

Fatality rates: A study found that fatality rates were 17% higher after the speed limit increases, even after accounting for changes in vehicle miles of travel.

The studies guess how many deaths there would be without the speed increase in order to make that type of claim. It is a guess because there is no way to actually know how many there would have been. Actual data shows the number of deaths actually went down.

According to the NHTSA, traffic deaths declined in the United States between 1989 and 2009.

A total of 40 states raised their speed limits to 65 mph on rural Interstate highway and non-Interstate rural roads built to Interstate standards by 1988.

[Margefrog]

A letter from Community Compliance to everyone reminding them of the rules and regs should have an effect.

[CybrSage]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

2,000 years of oppression by people claiming the Jews killed Jesus could be a reason why some people might be offended by it.

I never understood the hatred so many Christians had and still have for Jews when their own Messiah was a Jew.

That said, most Jews aren't offended when people advertise they worship a dead man.

[Margefrog]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.
This seems to be a failure of administration. Community Standards should send letters to everyone reminding them of the CC&Rs and where lawn "ornaments" can & cannot be placed. Most people don't read the restrictions. They assume they know them, and or just do what they please. The repetitive crosses do make the area look like a cult lives there. By most, cults are considered strange and unsafe. What does that say about The Villages?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I. New here and I don’t know what the white crosses mean?
Explain please.
LB

They can mean one or more of a few different things:

1. someone buried a pet immediately in front of or behind the cross.
2. "a Christian lives in the house and they want to make sure everyone knows it, because they lack the confidence in their own faith to live it rather than advertise it."
3. the person in the house is a White Christian Nationalist (modern terminology for evangelical bigot).
4. "someone who normally wouldn't put anything in that spot, but heard about how everyone hates Christians and put the cross there as a "neener neener" rather than any expression of their devotion to their god."

[lawngilander]

It's great to see that we weren't able to get through a week, without a "little white crosses" thread.

You can't have one! You signed a Deed Restriction that they are NOT ALLOWED in TV.

SIMPLE.
Show me on the deed restrictions, where it says, “No little white crosses”.

[CybrSage]

I. New here and I don’t know what the white crosses mean?
Explain please.
LB

People will lie and say they represent white supremacy or such, but it is simply not true

Crosses of many sizes and colors have been used as a symbol of Christianity since the second century CE (aka AD). It became commonly used in the fourth century CE.
This is because Jesus was executed by the Romans in a cross, called crucifixion.

It is just as stupid to say it represents nationalism or such as it is to say the OK symbol, made with your hand, represents white power.

[CybrSage]

They can mean one or more of a few different things:

2. "a Christian lives in the house and they want to make sure everyone knows it, because they lack the confidence in their own faith to live it rather than advertise it."

You honestly think that is why a Christian would put up a cross? Wow.
Sompeople with a US flag must also lack confidence in the US rather than live it, right?
Or a terrible towel hung up means they lack confidence in their team rather than live it?

Reduction to absurdity, one of Aristotle's favorite tactics. Since those results are absurd, the logic used must absurd.

Proper logic says they are displaying the crosses to show devotion to the ideas the crosses represent. Just like the US flag and the terrible towel.

[CybrSage]

Show me on the deed restrictions, where it says, “No little white crosses”.

It is right after the line that says 'no broken down cars in the front yard" and right before the line that says "300 pink flingos is prohibited ".

[fdpaq0580]

People will lie and say they represent white supremacy or such, but it is simply not true

Crosses of many sizes and colors have been used as a symbol of Christianity since the second century CE (aka AD). It became commonly used in the fourth century CE.
This is because Jesus was executed by the Romans in a cross, called crucifixion.

It is just as stupid to say it represents nationalism or such as it is to say the OK symbol, made with your hand, represents white power.

Many things have different meanings to different people. As a child, I thought a cross in the yard was where a dead pet had been buried. Just a grave marker with no religious significance. Just as words can, and often do, have more than one meaning.
👌white power? Looks more like a rooster head to me.

[fdpaq0580]

Read your deed restrictions. Mine prohibit lawn ornaments except for seasonal displays which are limited in how long they may remain.

A little white cross for 30 days at Christmas would be okay.

An inflatable reindeer left up year round would be a prohibited lawn ornament.

The crosses could be in lots of colors and flashing lights.
The inflatable reindeer? Fill it with helium and tie it to a giant candy cane. Call it Blitzen. My favorite reindeer. 😃

[fdpaq0580]

People will lie and say they represent white supremacy or such, but it is simply not true

Crosses of many sizes and colors have been used as a symbol of Christianity since the second century CE (aka AD). It became commonly used in the fourth century CE.
This is because Jesus was executed by the Romans in a cross, called crucifixion.

It is just as stupid to say it represents nationalism or such as it is to say the OK symbol, made with your hand, represents white power.

You are correct. "People will lie". And others will repeat it.

[fdpaq0580]

They can mean one or more of a few different things:

1. someone buried a pet immediately in front of or behind the cross.
2. "a Christian lives in the house and they want to make sure everyone knows it, because they lack the confidence in their own faith to live it rather than advertise it."
3. the person in the house is a White Christian Nationalist (modern terminology for evangelical bigot).
4. "someone who normally wouldn't put anything in that spot, but heard about how everyone hates Christians and put the cross there as a "neener neener" rather than any expression of their devotion to their god."

You forgot the one about keeping the vampire in the coffin. Just trying to help. I'm on your side. 🙂😉🙂

[HORNET]

Mount it to the house, 1” off the ground, then it’s not a lawn ornament

[Caymus]

Up north, a neighbor had a "Bathtub Madonna". Somehow, I survived that.

[Pugchief]

Agree! But, sometimes, those flags do let you know which of your neighbors is batspit crazy. ������

I see. So roughly half the people in the country are batspit crazy? Or is it the other half? Not sure which flags you refer to....

Nothing like a little unity and brotherly love toward your neighbors....

[Pugchief]

Little white crosses aren't religious, it's politics disguised as religion.

ya, okay, sure :rolleyes:

[Pugchief]

////

[Margefrog]

I don't get it. How is planting one in every box "passive resistance"?

[Margefrog]

I believe the point is they want them to be seen.

[Margefrog]

Read the CC&Rs. The responder was not referring to little white crosses specifically. Check with Community Standards. Placed behind their fence is ok. When I moved here I first thought there were pets buried there, then as I saw more i thought they were for MIAs or killed in action. Then I saw there were many and it looked like a cult.

[fdpaq0580]

You honestly think that is why a Christian would put up a cross? Wow.
Sompeople with a US flag must also lack confidence in the US rather than live it, right?
Or a terrible towel hung up means they lack confidence in their team rather than live it?

Reduction to absurdity, one of Aristotle's favorite tactics. Since those results are absurd, the logic used must absurd.

Proper logic says they are displaying the crosses to show devotion to the ideas the crosses represent. Just like the US flag and the terrible towel.

How come you chose to jump on suggestion #2? There were other options.
Common sense says (proper logic?), that since I don't know them, it could be for any number of reasons, many of which might not occur to me. 🤔

[fdpaq0580]

Read the CC&Rs. The responder was not referring to little white crosses specifically. Check with Community Standards. Placed behind their fence is ok. When I moved here I first thought there were pets buried there, then as I saw more i thought they were for MIAs or killed in action. Then I saw there were many and it looked like a cult.

I was like you. Now I know better.

🤫 shh (it doesn't just look like a cult...) 😉

[fdpaq0580]

ya, okay, sure :rolleyes:

That was easy!😁

[fdpaq0580]

Mount it to the house, 1” off the ground, then it’s not a lawn ornament

Design modification. Need to get ARC approval!

[wvgal]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.

Whether you are for the crosses or not, you'd have to admit that the current quantity of crosses throughout the Villages would likely not exist had this couple been left alone to display their single cross.

[Micizel]

Where do you get these crosses?

[Nancy@Pinellas]

I put mine in my bedroom window. It faces a main road.

[JMintzer]

They can mean one or more of a few different things:

1. someone buried a pet immediately in front of or behind the cross.
2. "a Christian lives in the house and they want to make sure everyone knows it, because they lack the confidence in their own faith to live it rather than advertise it."
3. the person in the house is a White Christian Nationalist (modern terminology for evangelical bigot).
4. "someone who normally wouldn't put anything in that spot, but heard about how everyone hates Christians and put the cross there as a "neener neener" rather than any expression of their devotion to their god."

Insult other religions much?

[judylovesflamingos]

The government controls our C&R? I would be curious how many of the same ornaments are represented inside the same home? I do not need to advertise the pink flamingo in my front yard for the neighbors to look at all day as I have one inside it, LOL

I solved the pink flamingo dilemma by having them on my name & address sign!

[fdpaq0580]

Insult other religions much?

It's OK. Real Christians, who understand and follow the teachings of Jesus, love peace, forgive and don't hold grudges. Those who don't are CINOs, Christians in name only, wannabes, pretenders.

[fdpaq0580]

Where do you get these crosses?

Make your own. 1 paint stick, a bit of glue or a couple of staples, a coat of white paint (or color of your choice) and vyola, one little white cross that can mean anything your little heart desires.

[fdpaq0580]

I solved the pink flamingo dilemma by having them on my name & address sign!

Whew! For a moment I thought you were gonna say you invited them over for a barbecue. By the way, they taste like fishy chicken, only a little tougher. 😏😉🤫

[Byte1]

Rules are rules. If you let crosses in, then where does it stop? Everyone would then want their own “symbol” out on their property. Where would the line be drawn?

And that is a problem? Seems it's only a problem to some folks.

[Challenger]

Why does a little white cross bother anyone? If it were a hammer/sickle flag I would look at it and roll my eyes, but I wouldn't get my undies in a bunch. You do you, I'll do me. Live and let live.

How about we do Little Black Swastikas? Do you think there might be a groundswell about enforcing Deed Restrictions?

[BrianL99]

And that is a problem? Seems it's only a problem to some folks.


If it isn't problem for you, you maybe shouldn't have bought in a community with reasonable strict guidelines and standards?

[ThirdOfFive]

Well. Thank you I did not know what the white crosses meant so I looked it up

So the white crosses represent Christian nationalism. That this country was founded on Christian principles and must remain so. The Christian nationalism movement

And Project 2025 is the result and playbook

Not inclusive and very Scary
Those crosses are also handed out at prolife rallies.

[ThirdOfFive]

This is amusing for a couple of reasons. First is the asinine policy on the part of the powers-that-be in TV, of responding ONLY to the homeowner in question when a violation against that homeowner is reported. What that means is that you can be reported for having a little white cross next to the corner of your picket fence, barely visible from the street, but the guy next door could have a dozen of them stuck wherever in HIS lawn and unless a report is made about him, nothing will happen to him.

Second is that this is a HUGE can of worms for the powers-that-be. The original Villager claims that they can display the cross, and to make them remove it violates their rights under the Florida Religious Freedom Restoration Act, but crosses in yards are far from the only religious symbols displayed in yards. Statues of The Buddha, cement angels, BVM shrines (AKA "Our Lady of the Bathtub"), stars of David, etc. are all out there on display in various yards and can be seen by anyone driving through the various neighborhoods. This case is apparently currently on appeal after a local judge ruled against the couple with the cross.

So--if this couple eventually wins, what does the powers-that-be in TV do? Will the people who favor the removal of the crosses bring some sort of action? How about those Buddha statues, cement angels, etc.? And how about the "unequal enforcement" element? I doubt that those powers-that-be want to be confronted with ANY of those questions, and possibly more, which will happen if they lose. Hence, it appears that The Villages is drawing this out as long as they can, hoping against hope that this couple will just quietly acquiesce, run out of money to pay their attorneys, move, or otherwise cease to be an issue.

[Bilyclub]

I solved the pink flamingo dilemma by having them on my name & address sign!



Welcome to TOTV.
There have been many fixes suggested, but the original couple dug in their heels and will not follow the deed restrictions.

[fdpaq0580]

Welcome to TOTV.
There have been many fixes suggested, but the original couple dug in their heels and will not follow the deed restrictions.

Yup! Think you got the gist of it. They, like many here, are prone to view the rules and regulations as unreasonable suggestions. Worth ignoring. When finally called out, they argue like a karen, with all the "what about them's", and "I have rights", and all the other irrelevant arguments. Each case is an individual situation. Like vehicles speeding. The police can't get everyone. They get one driver / law breaker, then go after another. Rule breakers have already demonstrated they can't be trusted. Expect them to try any tactic/argument no matter how irrelevant, ridiculous or untrue. This one is supposedly about religion. Why in the lawn or garden? Why not tastefully above the door? Is it truly about religion? Or is that just a ruse, red herring? I don't know. But they did break the rule. 🫠😉

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

This is amusing for a couple of reasons. First is the asinine policy on the part of the powers-that-be in TV, of responding ONLY to the homeowner in question when a violation against that homeowner is reported. What that means is that you can be reported for having a little white cross next to the corner of your picket fence, barely visible from the street, but the guy next door could have a dozen of them stuck wherever in HIS lawn and unless a report is made about him, nothing will happen to him.

Second is that this is a HUGE can of worms for the powers-that-be. The original Villager claims that they can display the cross, and to make them remove it violates their rights under the Florida Religious Freedom Restoration Act, but crosses in yards are far from the only religious symbols displayed in yards. Statues of The Buddha, cement angels, BVM shrines (AKA "Our Lady of the Bathtub"), stars of David, etc. are all out there on display in various yards and can be seen by anyone driving through the various neighborhoods. This case is apparently currently on appeal after a local judge ruled against the couple with the cross.

So--if this couple eventually wins, what does the powers-that-be in TV do? Will the people who favor the removal of the crosses bring some sort of action? How about those Buddha statues, cement angels, etc.? And how about the "unequal enforcement" element? I doubt that those powers-that-be want to be confronted with ANY of those questions, and possibly more, which will happen if they lose. Hence, it appears that The Villages is drawing this out as long as they can, hoping against hope that this couple will just quietly acquiesce, run out of money to pay their attorneys, move, or otherwise cease to be an issue.

If the Villages allows the crosses and makes the exception, it opens up the possibility that anyone against it, will retaliate by putting up religious symbols that are known to be offensive.

The pagan symbol. The Church of Satan symbol. The Muslim symbol. For those antisemites in the room, the Star of David. Buddha, faeries, a yin/yang statuette, shinto, confuscian, the swastika (which was originally a religious symbol), the baha'i faith symbol, or hey how about the ancient Egyptian god Min, who is most appropriately depicted as having a HUGE phallus?

If you root for the white crosses, you MUST also root for all the above - and more. If you have a problem with any of the above, then you must root against the white crosses.

"Religious freedom" applies to all religions. It's either allowed to be expressed on the lawn, or it isn't.

[mraines]

What is the status of the case of the villages against the house with the little white crosses. I know they owed a lot of fines but I thought they took it to court. I just started walking and in my travels along Bailey trail around sea breeze I have seen 6 or 7 houses with the white crosses. Some have them stuck in flower pots. The most innovative one was 3 crosses stuck inside the lani which faces the road but clearly visible from the road.

Do three crosses make you a better Christian than one?

[Caymus]

If the Villages allows the crosses and makes the exception, it opens up the possibility that anyone against it, will retaliate by putting up religious symbols that are known to be offensive.

The pagan symbol. The Church of Satan symbol. The Muslim symbol. For those antisemites in the room, the Star of David. Buddha, faeries, a yin/yang statuette, shinto, confuscian, the swastika (which was originally a religious symbol), the baha'i faith symbol, or hey how about the ancient Egyptian god Min, who is most appropriately depicted as having a HUGE phallus?

If you root for the white crosses, you MUST also root for all the above - and more. If you have a problem with any of the above, then you must root against the white crosses.

"Religious freedom" applies to all religions. It's either allowed to be expressed on the lawn, or it isn't.

How other does this happen outside of The Villages in a typical suburban US town? Besides you, who is living in fear that it could happen?

[Rainger99]

Big issue about white crosses, but nothing said about political flags flying year around, some of them not so nice. If not crosses, then make home owners take down their political flags.

Are there any restrictions on flags?

[tophcfa]

Do three crosses make you a better Christian than one?

Or do no crosses make you a better Christian because you’re following the rules you agreed to when purchasing your home?

[fdpaq0580]

Do three crosses make you a better Christian than one?

Good question!
Does planting a "little white cross" even mean you're a Christian? Does growing vegetables mean you're a vegetarian? The answer to both queation is "NO"! 😯

[fdpaq0580]

Or do no crosses make you a better Christian because you’re following the rules you agreed to when purchasing your home?

I say "Yes"! "Give unto Ceasar that which is Ceasar's". In other words, don't break you word, don't break the rules, laws. JmHo. 😉

[ThirdOfFive]

If the Villages allows the crosses and makes the exception, it opens up the possibility that anyone against it, will retaliate by putting up religious symbols that are known to be offensive.

The pagan symbol. The Church of Satan symbol. The Muslim symbol. For those antisemites in the room, the Star of David. Buddha, faeries, a yin/yang statuette, shinto, confuscian, the swastika (which was originally a religious symbol), the baha'i faith symbol, or hey how about the ancient Egyptian god Min, who is most appropriately depicted as having a HUGE phallus?

If you root for the white crosses, you MUST also root for all the above - and more. If you have a problem with any of the above, then you must root against the white crosses.

"Religious freedom" applies to all religions. It's either allowed to be expressed on the lawn, or it isn't.
That is not a possibility. That is a guarantee. I've seen it mentioned in The Online Paper That Shall Not Be Named. And I am sure that inevitability is on the collective minds of the powers-that-be in TV. The last thing they'd want is for word to get out that The Villages allows satanic symbols, pentagrams, swastikas, etc. to be freely displayed. Talk about a hit in the ol' pocketbook if that happens. It is yet another reason for those powers to draw this out as long as possible.

There are always those among us who insist on defining their "freedoms" by the lowest common denominator.

[JD Tremor]

Is this horse dead yet?

[ThirdOfFive]

Is this horse dead yet?
Nah. We're just beginning Act 2 of this particular soap opera. Several more acts (and years) to follow.

[fdpaq0580]

Are there any restrictions on flags?

While I haven't looked it up, there is proper flag etiquette. Personally, I find no difference between a political or religious sign on a poster or flag. Political flags, for example, are just signs that are not static. The move with the wind. Inappropriate and offensive. But they don't care.
Just my opinion. Everyone on totv has one, too.

[fdpaq0580]

Nah. We're just beginning Act 2 of this particular soap opera. Several more acts (and years) to follow.

Years? I don't think I have many of those left. (Note: I can hear the folks that just said "GOOD!) And I'm having such a good time here! 😃🙃🫠😉

[Blueblaze]

The beauty of the "white cross" controversy is that it provides a simple way for new arrivals to identify laid-back, friendly neighborhoods where hateful neighbors don't seek out ways to dominate and annoy everyone close to them. If the idea of the "Friendly Hometown" appeals to you, then choose a neighborhood where the spirit of the rules is observed with neatly trimmed lawns and attractive landscaping, but nobody cares if you think a pink flamingo in your garden is the height of style -- or even if you stick a little 8" white cross in the bushes to advertise your religion.

On the other hand, the lack of "white crosses", flags, trees, or other decorations identifies a neighborhood where the residents are militant about rules and conformity. So if your lifelong dream is to have or be a Stepford Wife, you, too, can have the retirement of your dreams in The Villages!

[Maker]

Placing "white crosses" is not speech, in case you haven't noticed .... it's a "display". "Speech" is generally verbal.

& even if you have some constitutional right to say whatever you think you should be able to speak, you signed away that right, when you bought a home in TV.

If you prefer to exercise your supposed "right of free speech", perhaps you should dress yourself up as a "little white cross", stand on your front porch and scream as loud as you're able ... "I am a little white cross".

Supreme Court disagrees with that conclusion. Have ruled that speech also includes things that do not have words. Flags are a prime example. Also signs and symbols. The KFC chicken bucket, Walmart's "*", and so on. Also ruled that the content of any type of speech cannot be used as a basis of any restriction, such as a political sign time limits.
There are additional restrictions where government cannot restrict religion.
So the white crosses are both religious, and a symbol. Any restrictions are illegal and unconstitutional.

Anyone who provides examples of similar things that "would you approve of that" ... OR "if this is allowed, where does it end" ... Everybody has the constitutional right to freedom of speech. Those rights cannot be restricted or limited. If someone agreed to limits in the past that can be revoked at any time.
Disagree? Change the constitution. Until that happens, enjoy our freedoms.

[Rainger99]

Supreme Court disagrees with that conclusion. Have ruled that speech also includes things that do not have words. Flags are a prime example. Also signs and symbols. The KFC chicken bucket, Walmart's "*", and so on. Also ruled that the content of any type of speech cannot be used as a basis of any restriction, such as a political sign time limits.
There are additional restrictions where government cannot restrict religion.
So the white crosses are both religious, and a symbol. Any restrictions are illegal and unconstitutional.

Anyone who provides examples of similar things that "would you approve of that" ... OR "if this is allowed, where does it end" ... Everybody has the constitutional right to freedom of speech. Those rights cannot be restricted or limited. If someone agreed to limits in the past that can be revoked at any time.
Disagree? Change the constitution. Until that happens, enjoy our freedoms.

Who enforces the deed restrictions? If it is the government, they might be limited.

[fdpaq0580]

If the Villages allows the crosses and makes the exception, it opens up the possibility that anyone against it, will retaliate by putting up religious symbols that are known to be offensive.

The pagan symbol. The Church of Satan symbol. The Muslim symbol. For those antisemites in the room, the Star of David. Buddha, faeries, a yin/yang statuette, shinto, confuscian, the swastika (which was originally a religious symbol), the baha'i faith symbol, or hey how about the ancient Egyptian god Min, who is most appropriately depicted as having a HUGE phallus?

If you root for the white crosses, you MUST also root for all the above - and more. If you have a problem with any of the above, then you must root against the white crosses.

"Religious freedom" applies to all religions. It's either allowed to be expressed on the lawn, or it isn't.


So, let me see if I understand. Those who say (religiously or politically) " my way or the highway" are expressing un-American sentiments. 🫠 Well, fancy that!

[fdpaq0580]

How other does this happen outside of The Villages in a typical suburban US town? Besides you, who is living in fear that it could happen?

Probably everyone who realizes that freedom isn't free and that it can happen here. 🫥😐

[fdpaq0580]

Supreme Court disagrees with that conclusion. Have ruled that speech also includes things that do not have words. Flags are a prime example. Also signs and symbols. The KFC chicken bucket, Walmart's "*", and so on. Also ruled that the content of any type of speech cannot be used as a basis of any restriction, such as a political sign time limits.
There are additional restrictions where government cannot restrict religion.
So the white crosses are both religious, and a symbol. Any restrictions are illegal and unconstitutional.

Anyone who provides examples of similar things that "would you approve of that" ... OR "if this is allowed, where does it end" ... Everybody has the constitutional right to freedom of speech. Those rights cannot be restricted or limited. If someone agreed to limits in the past that can be revoked at any time.
Disagree? Change the constitution. Until that happens, enjoy our freedoms.

🫢🤭😀🫣🤭🙄

[fdpaq0580]

The beauty of the "white cross" controversy is that it provides a simple way for new arrivals to identify laid-back, friendly neighborhoods where hateful neighbors don't seek out ways to dominate and annoy everyone close to them. If the idea of the "Friendly Hometown" appeals to you, then choose a neighborhood where the spirit of the rules is observed with neatly trimmed lawns and attractive landscaping, but nobody cares if you think a pink flamingo in your garden is the height of style -- or even if you stick a little 8" white cross in the bushes to advertise your religion.

On the other hand, the lack of "white crosses", flags, trees, or other decorations identifies a neighborhood where the residents are militant about rules and conformity. So if your lifelong dream is to have or be a Stepford Wife, you, too, can have the retirement of your dreams in The Villages!

🙂🙃🙂🙃🙂🙃🙂
Hmm? Are you suggesting that people move to TV for the purpose of intentionally breaking their word and break the rules? Sounds dishonest. Like you are denigrating honorable people and praising those who are less than honorable.

[Blueblaze]

🙂🙃🙂🙃🙂🙃🙂
Hmm? Are you suggesting that people move to TV for the purpose of intentionally breaking their word and break the rules? Sounds dishonest. Like you are denigrating honorable people and praising those who are less than honorable.

Our lives are chock full of lawyer babble and legaleze that nobody reads. If we tried, that's all we would have time to do. We are forced to assume rational behavior and hope for the best. The alternative is a unibomber shack on top of a mountain somewhere.

Google says you agreed that they can read your mail and capture your search history, even though none of us has ever signed an agreement -- and yet the courts have confirmed such outrageous overreach, the same as the deed restrictions we all signed that can be interpreted to say that you can't plant a little white cross in your own yard. We trust Google and The Villages to not to use their powers for evil -- but in the end, people with power always do. On the day that Google uses your email and search history to create a social credit score, like they do in China, are you going to nod along and tell us that's what we all agreed to, so shut up and do as Big Brother tells you? If so, please don't move to my neighborhood.

My advice is to simply use those little white crosses to find a neighborhood where people expect reasonable behavior -- or where they're militant lawn nazi's, if that's what you prefer,

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Supreme Court disagrees with that conclusion. Have ruled that speech also includes things that do not have words. Flags are a prime example. Also signs and symbols. The KFC chicken bucket, Walmart's "*", and so on. Also ruled that the content of any type of speech cannot be used as a basis of any restriction, such as a political sign time limits.
There are additional restrictions where government cannot restrict religion.
So the white crosses are both religious, and a symbol. Any restrictions are illegal and unconstitutional.

Anyone who provides examples of similar things that "would you approve of that" ... OR "if this is allowed, where does it end" ... Everybody has the constitutional right to freedom of speech. Those rights cannot be restricted or limited. If someone agreed to limits in the past that can be revoked at any time.
Disagree? Change the constitution. Until that happens, enjoy our freedoms.

They can't be restricted BY THE GOVERNMENT. They can still be deed restricted in a deed-restricted community. Also, no one is violating your first amendment right to freedom of speech. You're still allowed to put a white cross on your property. Just not the front lawn. Just like I don't have the right to keep a cigar lit on the lanai 24/7 with a fan blowing it into my next door neighbor's window. It's my cigar, my lanai, my fan - and yet - I don't have the right to do anything with it that floats my boat.

It's called living in a civilized community, and agreeing to abide by rules. If you don't like the rules, you don't have to live in the community. There are places in The Villages where you can put up a white cross if you want to. THOSE OTHER places - you agree to not do that when you buy the house.

[fdpaq0580]

Our lives are chock full of lawyer babble and legaleze that nobody reads. If we tried, that's all we would have time to do. We are forced to assume rational behavior and hope for the best. The alternative is a unibomber shack on top of a mountain somewhere.

Google says you agreed that they can read your mail and capture your search history, even though none of us has ever signed an agreement -- and yet the courts have confirmed such outrageous overreach, the same as the deed restrictions we all signed that can be interpreted to say that you can't plant a little white cross in your own yard. We trust Google and The Villages to not to use their powers for evil -- but in the end, people with power always do. On the day that Google uses your email and search history to create a social credit score, like they do in China, are you going to nod along and tell us that's what we all agreed to, so shut up and do as Big Brother tells you? If so, please don't move to my neighborhood.

My advice is to simply use those little white crosses to find a neighborhood where people expect reasonable behavior -- or where they're militant lawn nazi's, if that's what you prefer,

Has nothing to do with what I prefer. Has everything to do with the contract you agreed to and signed. No one was forced to accept or "assume rational behavior". And if someone chooses not to read the "lawyer babble" and legalese, that is on them. Like a drunk driver telling the cop that is arresting him for dui, "You can't arrest me. How was I supposed to know you were going to pull me over tonight. Heck nobody has time to read all the driving laws".
I am not in favor of "lawn nazis. But, if one would get called out for breaking the rule, I would hope that they understand that it was their own fault and they were unlucky enough to be the one who got caught and with good grace, correct the situation.
And I'm still not sure how you figure the unibomber is the alternative to any of this.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Our lives are chock full of lawyer babble and legaleze that nobody reads. If we tried, that's all we would have time to do. We are forced to assume rational behavior and hope for the best. The alternative is a unibomber shack on top of a mountain somewhere.

Google says you agreed that they can read your mail and capture your search history, even though none of us has ever signed an agreement -- and yet the courts have confirmed such outrageous overreach, the same as the deed restrictions we all signed that can be interpreted to say that you can't plant a little white cross in your own yard. We trust Google and The Villages to not to use their powers for evil -- but in the end, people with power always do. On the day that Google uses your email and search history to create a social credit score, like they do in China, are you going to nod along and tell us that's what we all agreed to, so shut up and do as Big Brother tells you? If so, please don't move to my neighborhood.

My advice is to simply use those little white crosses to find a neighborhood where people expect reasonable behavior -- or where they're militant lawn nazi's, if that's what you prefer,

I live in an area where those white crosses are allowed. That doesn't make me a good neighbor. I don't like those crosses, and I think anyone who thinks that putting one on their front lawn is a surefire way of making everyone think "yeah that person lives the faith" is being a nincompoop. However, they have the right to be a nincompoop. I accepted this when I moved in. Really it just lets me know who to NOT invite to my Satanic Ladies Night. They're missing out. We have a hell of a time :)

[Rainger99]

There are places in The Villages where you can put up a white cross if you want to. THOSE OTHER places - you agree to not do that when you buy the house.

I was not aware that some areas allow white crosses and some don’t.

Does anyone know which areas allow them?
And why the discrepancy?

[Bilyclub]

Historic Section for sure. The developer refined things as they continued to build.

[fdpaq0580]

I live in an area where those white crosses are allowed. That doesn't make me a good neighbor. I don't like those crosses, and I think anyone who thinks that putting one on their front lawn is a surefire way of making everyone think "yeah that person lives the faith" is being a nincompoop. However, they have the right to be a nincompoop. I accepted this when I moved in. Really it just lets me know who to NOT invite to my Satanic Ladies Night. They're missing out. We have a hell of a time :)

Almost makes me sorry I'm a guy! Almost! 😁😁😃😳