How conservative is the Villages?

[Snoopy]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

[jebartle]

last poll showed both represented about the same, give or take a few points....Please don't base your opinion on TOTV's political forum...Granted the Morses are Republicans, but that is all right...We share the same sun and fun....You will find many wonderful Villagers that willl welcome you with open arms, and I'm one of them....




As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

[nitakk]

I've lived here almost 7 years and as a proud liberal democrat from SoCal, it was a shock to the system. It seems to me that the conservative republican is far more prevalent here, and vocal. During the 08 elections, I had Obama stickers ripped off my golf cart while parked at Glenview and it boggled my mind that people this age would do such a thing. The newspaper is a bad joke, the developer's political leanings couldn't be more in your face - but given all that, I still love living here. I don't agree with a lot of people here, but I play golf with them, go to dinner with them and like quite a few of "them". I do, however, stand up for my beliefs and love to debate them on all issues. There are democrat clubs you can join to meet people of like mind, which sometimes is quite a welcome relief! When Palin, Beck and Bush come to town, I find other useful things to do that day and get quite a kick out of the local paper the next day. Until this country learns it's not "us" versus "them", we're not going anywhere.

So come join us and add to the discussion - Lord knows we could always use another democrat!

[Snoopy]

I appreciate your response. I feel better already! Retirement is still a couple of years off, but I am certainly close enough to want to begin some serious planning.

[memason]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

Snoopy.... Welcome to TOTV! I learned a long time ago that there are two things I never discuss....politics and religion. I keep both to myself and it has worked well for me over the years.

I don't "feel" any covert [or overt] conservatism or liberalism in TV.... Come on down; be happy!

[katezbox]

Snoopy - I have always considered myself a moderate - but here is TV that is considered radical left.

Other stuff about TV is great - and we all need to have good dialogue to keep this great country of ours working. So come on down...

[Tbugs]

I would have to agree that the political views of too many in The Villages are ultra-conservative. Fox News is considered gospel as well as their talking heads like Hannity, Rove, and even Glenn Beck.

Just stay off of the Politics forum on Talk of The Villages; laugh out loud when you see golf carts with anti-Democrat stickers; and go out of town when one of the unbalanced Fox News darlings has a book signing - and you will be happy.

Life is too short to argue politics with fools.

[redwitch]

I am a diehard liberal. I've lived in Orange County, California (ULTRA conservative) and I'm quite sure that most Villagers would consider even that county too liberal for their taste. This is truly the only place I have ever been to where liberal is truly considered a dirty word by the majority. There is no question that Morse is a diehard conservative Republican.

I have found many closet liberals here -- they really don't let people know their political bent. I have also found that as more of the "younger" baby boomers buy here, there are more Democrats and liberals moving here daily.

I refuse to hide the fact that I'm a liberal. I do refuse to discuss politics with some of my friends -- it just gets too heated and I value their friendship to lose them over political issues. There are other friends where the discussions are friendly, informative and the arguments are downright fun. For those, we discuss, argue and then go have dinner together. Heck, I'll even admit to a stranger in the Square that I'm a liberal if the right topic comes up. It has made for some interesting and fun discussions.

Now, having said all of that, I LOVE TV. There are a plethora of activities for all tastes. Riding around in a golf cart almost all the time is fun. There is a generosity of spirit here that I've seen nowhere else on this planet. So, it is up to you if you want to get in discussions about politics. If you do, be prepared to feel like a serious minority (even though you really aren't as much of one as is believed). You won't be reviled for being other than a conservative (they may not like liberals here, but they'll like you as long as you're a good, happy person). TV isn't perfect, but it is a wonderful slice of good, old-fashioned apple pie (ala mode, of course) at the very least.

[Tbugs]

Redwitch-

You forgot to include Trivia Night at Urban Flats as something to do!!

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Snoopy.... Welcome to TOTV! I learned a long time ago that there are two things I never discuss....politics and religion. I keep both to myself and it has worked well for me over the years.

I don't "feel" any covert [or overt] conservatism or liberalism in TV.... Come on down; be happy!

:agree:

Bill :)

[skyguy79]

:agree:

Bill :)

Snoopy.... Welcome to TOTV! I learned a long time ago that there are two things I never discuss....politics and religion. I keep both to myself and it has worked well for me over the years.

I don't "feel" any covert [or overt] conservatism or liberalism in TV.... Come on down; be happy!Memason, as a newly arrived to TV I'm glad to hear that said. I can only hope that should demographics change in the future, that it will continue to remain that way.

[ljones190]

I agree with others that said its best to keep politics out of normal discussions between friends. I have found The Villages no different from other places I have lived except maybe The Villages showing more of outward appreciation and respect of our service man and women. Before we decided to buy in The Villages I researched many websites, books and magazines. I used a website called bestplaces.net which has its flaws but is an interesting tool to compare cities such as cost of living, taxes, school costs, and many others including voting registrations. Since The Villages is in 3 counties some of the data only shows Lady Lake but it indicates over 60% Republican and less then 40% Democrat at this time, do not know if it is accurate but it is interesting to compare areas. Mount Laurel NJ is shown as 15% more expensive to live then The Villages which I think is mostly accurate. Hope this helps others in making the decision if to buy in The Villages, we are glad we did.

[jblum8156]

Dear Snoopy, I am a Democrat. My father told me many years ago that there are 3 things that should not be discussed outside of family: religion, money and politics. Living in The Villages, I know how right he was. But I don't let it get me down. There is a very active Democratic Club here that meets every third Saturday at the Odell Recreation Center. Next meeting is Feb. 19 at 9:30 a.m. Come, be welcomed, and meet some of your like-minded neighbors. You are not alone. 900 new Democrats were registered last year in Sumter County.

[hedoman]

That isn't a consideration for us as we are going to settlement and moving down full time in hopes of NOT talking politics. Certainly there is way more to do than get into partisan arguments, unlike up here in the snowy north where it is about all people seem to do. We are becoming villagers to escape "political persecution" LOL

Talk politics to me and you will find a stone wall more knowledgeable and probably cares more too!

:a20:

[graciegirl]

I sadly find that too many friendships here are much more colored by political affiliation than where I have lived before.


I think that older people become much more certain of all of their views and stands and values and are not as open to other peoples ideas as younger people. So I think as a community we are a little more intolerant of others political views and sometimes a LOT more intolerant. It doesn't make for comfortable living sometimes and I find it a downside of living here.


I sometimes read and feel the bitterness in peoples views here and it saddens me.

[skyguy79]

I used a website called bestplaces.net which has its flaws but is an interesting tool to compare cities such as cost of living, taxes, school costs, and many others including voting registrations. Since The Villages is in 3 counties some of the data only shows Lady Lake but it indicates over 60% Republican and less then 40% Democrat at this time, do not know if it is accurate but it is interesting to compare areas. Since you find the bestplaces data interesting, I thought you would enjoy the following voter registration stats obtained from the Florida Department of State's website:

Lake Co: 86,477 (R) 67,449 (D)
Marion Co: 89,506 (R) 83,324 (D)
Sumter Co: 31,128 (R) 22,127 (D)
Total: 271,111 (R) 172,900 (D)

These figures are as of 10/4/2010.

There were a significant number of "Other" affiliations, such as Independents etc., but their numbers were somewhat less than either Democrat or Republican figures. Also keep in mind that these figures are not TV inclusive; they represent the entire counties.

[dpingram]

I have never understood why this should make a difference in meeting people and having a friendship. Why is is so important to state one's policial affiliation here? When I meet someone for the first time I certainly do not shake their hand and say "Hi, my name is Donnie and I'm a _____". YOu certainly would not meet someone and state your religion or how much money you make. I think there are more important things in life to discuss than who you vote for. I agree with what some posters have said "outside of family do not discuss politics, money, or religion." We don't even discuss politics in family because some of our children and their spouses vote differently than we do but we didn't disown them. Then again maybe we should we'd have more money!
Taking liberties with Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech -- "one day my children will be judged by the content of their character and not by their polictical affiliation"
I am looking forward to living in TV and hope that when I meet someone my polictical affiliation won't be an issue.

[graciegirl]

I have never understood why this should make a difference in meeting people and having a friendship. Why is is so important to state one's policial affiliation here? When I meet someone for the first time I certainly do not shake their hand and say "Hi, my name is Donnie and I'm a _____". YOu certainly would not meet someone and state your religion or how much money you make. I think there are more important things in life to discuss than who you vote for. I agree with what some posters have said "outside of family do not discuss politics, money, or religion." We don't even discuss politics in family because some of our children and their spouses vote differently than we do but we didn't disown them. Then again maybe we should we'd have more money!
Taking liberties with Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech -- "one day my children will be judged by the content of their character and not by their polictical affiliation"
I am looking forward to living in TV and hope that when I meet someone my polictical affiliation won't be an issue.


I could NOT agree with you more but once you "settle in" the politics do become an issue among a LOT of folks. AND I think that our age is a factor, you become a little more set in your ways and sure of your views as you pass through five or six or seven decades of life and you believe that you are right.

I was taught NOT to discuss religion, politics and money. I try hard not to. Others, particularly those who like you, frequently assume that your politics and theirs are the same..............and feel free to bring up the subject.

[ljones190]

Skyguy79

It appears 60% to 40% is about right. Thanks for the data. As you noted it's difficult just to get data only for The Villages.

[JenAjd]

I agree with others that said its best to keep politics out of normal discussions between friends. I have found The Villages no different from other places I have lived except maybe The Villages showing more of outward appreciation and respect of our service man and women. Before we decided to buy in The Villages I researched many websites, books and magazines. I used a website called bestplaces.net which has its flaws but is an interesting tool to compare cities such as cost of living, taxes, school costs, and many others including voting registrations. Since The Villages is in 3 counties some of the data only shows Lady Lake but it indicates over 60% Republican and less then 40% Democrat at this time, do not know if it is accurate but it is interesting to compare areas. Mount Laurel NJ is shown as 15% more expensive to live then The Villages which I think is mostly accurate. Hope this helps others in making the decision if to buy in The Villages, we are glad we did.

I agree re: keeping a low profile in conversations re: politics. I appreciate living here due to the respect given our service people etc. and much more. I don't see it as a negative to live here at all. It is a 'bubble" as many people will attest to. We moved here from one of THE most liberal areas of the U.S. and that too can be a negative....just mho. If you don't care for the events where politiicians come...you don't have to participate. If you think you're going to come and change things then you probably shouldn't consider this place as somewhere you'd want to live. Again mho.

[Taj44]

I'm a die hard liberal as well, and have been shocked by some of the right wing nut jobs I've come into contact with here in The Villages. That said, its a good sized community - I've developed my friendships based on activities and common interests, and find my large circle of friends includes mostly left leaning people like me, along with a few center-of-the-road types. For those I'm friendly with that I sense don't share my political views, we manage to just not discuss politics. I do find the bombardment of right wing nonsense in the Daily Sun to be annoying, so I get the Orlando Sentinel. There are so many other wonderful aspects of The Villages, I wouldn't let the conservative political bent dissuade you from checking us out.

[jebartle]

that as we age, we are less diplomatic....I've also noticed that few if any conservatives have added to this thread from TOTV's political forum...Another observation, usually TOTV's political forum has the same posters, saying the same thing....Life is good here in the Villages and I find it easier to avoid the very few unhappy people... I know debate is a good thing, IF, you are considerate and open minded to others opinions and don't jam it down their throats....Bottom line when we go to the polls, we are ONE vote, after that, we can go play golf...

[graciegirl]

that as we age, we are less diplomatic....I've also noticed that few if any conservatives have added to this thread from TOTV's political forum...Another observation, usually TOTV's political forum has the same posters, saying the same thing....Life is good here in the Villages and I find it easier to avoid the very few unhappy people... I know debate is a good thing, IF, you are considerate and open minded to others opinions and don't jam it down their throats....Bottom line when we go to the polls, we are ONE vote, after that, we can go play golf...

Beautifully said.

I can't stand the heat, so I try to stay out of the kitchen.

The only thing that MIGHT change someone's mind is how one lives his/her life.

[skyguy79]

that as we age, we are less diplomatic....I've also noticed that few if any conservatives have added to this thread from TOTV's political forum...Another observation, usually TOTV's political forum has the same posters, saying the same thing....Life is good here in the Villages and I find it easier to avoid the very few unhappy people... I know debate is a good thing, IF, you are considerate and open minded to others opinions and don't jam it down their throats....Bottom line when we go to the polls, we are ONE vote, after that, we can go play golf...
:agree: except for one thing... not all of us can go play golf! :sing:

[Schaumburger]

Snoopy, Thank you for bringing up this topic. Being a moderate to liberal person, I have been wondering about this myself in regards to moving to TV in a few years. About 90% of the time, I can get along with just about anyone regardless of their political persuasion. I've managed to work for almost 23 years in an office dominated by more conservative coworkers without a problem. I won't hide how I feel, but I won't push it on anyone either. I won't let the more conversative tilt of TV be a deterrent to me moving there at some point in the future.

[keithwand]

Snoopy.... Welcome to TOTV! I learned a long time ago that there are two things I never discuss....politics and religion. I keep both to myself and it has worked well for me over the years.

I don't "feel" any covert [or overt] conservatism or liberalism in TV.... Come on down; be happy!

I agree. We had to ask a friend to stop sending political jokes to our email as we disagreed on alot of the issues.

How about open mindedness; why Republican or Democrat. Yes we "lean" R but have voted for the best candidate even if a D.

In fact Buddy Dyer (D) has ours for Orlando mayor.

[Pturner]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

Snoopy,
:welcome: to TOTV!

Here's one way to look on the bright side. If you feel comfortable where you live now because it is solidly blue, consider this: Florida is a swing state. OK, quit snickering y'all. I don't mean it in the kinky sense.

I mean that in a solidly red or solidly blue state (or community), one more vote red or blue vote isn't going to make much of a difference. In a "swing" state, it does. So if you're passionate about your politics, come on down. Just look at it as you're vote counting more here.

Ok, quit snickering y'all. Hanging chads. Sheesh!

[katezbox]

Snoopy,
:welcome: to TOTV!

Here's one way to look on the bright side. If you feel comfortable where you live now because it is solidly blue, consider this: Florida is a swing state. OK, quit snickering y'all. I don't mean it in the kinky sense.

I mean that in a solidly red or solidly blue state (or community), one more vote red or blue vote isn't going to make much of a difference. In a "swing" state, it does. So if you're passionate about your politics, come on down. Just look at it as you're vote counting more here.

Ok, quit snickering y'all. Hanging chads. Sheesh!

Good job PT - who I believe is also pretty much a moderate.

I have learned not to let birthers here run off at the mouth or espouse another sadly misinformed "facts" - I think we are responsible to be sure that if we disagree on something it is based on facts, not hearsay or misinformation...otherwise, I am with Gracie...

I LOVE the fact that we appreciate our military here ...

[CSilvestrucci]

Ok, here's a response from a conservative. To be honest it was not even a consideration when I chose to move here. Only realized how conservative TV was after a few months. It wasn't that important that my neighbors and friends have the same political beliefs. After a little over a year and having met quite a few people from all aspects of TV for the most part I don't know if they are liberal or conservative and don't really care. I just don't think it should matter what political affiliation a person is. I guess what I'm saying is that we are so busy with fun things it rarely comes up and if it does we just agree to disagree and laugh and go on.

[Xavier]

My neighbor yells anti-anything but Republican epitaphs at FOX News as he uses his treadmill, but is about the best neighbor you'll find. The developer has deep pockets in his conservatism, but he's put together the very best retirement community on earth. I do get a little embarrassed when my friends see on the national news that "flash-in-the-pan" political leader wannabes are hawking their wares at Sumter Landing. It's a little hard to explain the public one-sidedness. We have a couple of handfuls of know-it-all, LOUD conservatives, waiting on the attack, but are pretty well contained in the Political Forum at TOTV. When they do wander out into the general population they are pretty civil and many are quite like-able. Come on down and become one of our silent majority. Reasonably minded Liberals, Moderates and Independents are building a significant power-base.

Xavier

[graciegirl]

I think it is fair to tell people considering a move here that the political party of the owners is Republican and they are large contributors to the Republican party. The paper that they own has a decidedly Republican bent, slant, bias, you choose the words.

Before elections and at other times too, there are speakers and book signings by Republicans such as George Bush, Sarah Palin, Glenn Beck, etc. This is given a lot of coverage in the paper and a LOT of people attend these functions at the squares. President Bush has been a guest in the Morse home.

The Democratic nominees and speakers are not afforded much of a welcome from the developers.

I read that the split is 60-40 but it feels to me more like 70-30. Out of ten homes on our street, neighbors nearby I would wager that 8 out of 10 vote Republican. There is a large silent bunch of moderate Republicans and a lot of vocal Tea Party people.

I hope I continue always to have friends on both sides of the aisle.

[Sparky-30]

Whoooa, hold on here, what started out as a decent conversation has turned into a butt kissing contest.
"Right wing nut jobs" and other nasty remarks by liberals towards conservativs and we just have to tolerate it!
Fox news and the slams against Republicans! My stomach is starting to turn reading some of these posts, dont know about others but that is my opinion.

"Cmon on down but watch out for these nasty right wingers"

[jebartle]

how long it would take to hear from the conservatives, you can always count on Sparky! huh!? And in response, I think Gracie was more than gracious and diplomatic!.She was only repeating the facts man, "Only the facts"....IMHO



Whoooa, hold on here, what started out as a decent conversation has turned into a butt kissing contest.
"Right wing nut jobs" and other nasty remarks by liberals towards conservativs and we just have to tolerate it!
Fox news and the slams against Republicans! My stomach is starting to turn reading some of these posts, dont know about others but that is my opinion.

"Cmon on down but watch out for these nasty right wingers"

[BobKat1]

It's just a matter of time before any discussions similar to this go down the same old road. Some sooner than others. No surprise.

[iandwk]

I've lived here since June of this year and have met several Villagers. I have no idea what their political affiliation is and care very little how they vote. It just isn't any of my business. If someone were to ask me about my political leanings, I would have to tell them it is none of their business. Do I care about the country and how it is being guided? Of course I do, and I let my votes do my talking. Am I missing something or being unpatriotic by keeping my views as my own?

For those who say they won't discuss politics or religion, I will add this:

I won't get into a political discussion with anyone. If they insist, they will see my back as I walk away.

As far as religion, I will discuss religion with anyone who is willing to use the Bible as the standard for discussion. Other than that, there is nothing but opinion, and you can't discuss opinion in a civilized conversation with many people. It tends to become uncivilized rather quickly.

[katezbox]

My neighbor yells anti-anything but Republican epitaphs at FOX News as he uses his treadmill, but is about the best neighbor you'll find. The developer has deep pockets in his conservatism, but he's put together the very best retirement community on earth. I do get a little embarrassed when my friends see on the national news that "flash-in-the-pan" political leader wannabes are hawking their wares at Sumter Landing. It's a little hard to explain the public one-sidedness. We have a couple of handfuls of know-it-all, LOUD conservatives, waiting on the attack, but are pretty well contained in the Political Forum at TOTV. When they do wander out into the general population they are pretty civil and many are quite like-able. Come on down and become one of our silent majority. Reasonably minded Liberals, Moderates and Independents are building a significant power-base.

Xavier

Well said! I think we need all opinions in a democracy....

[Sparky-30]

Jebartle, the man asked a question on how conservative is the Villages, and I simply answered his question, too old to be playing the political correctness agenda.

[Army Guy]

ok, I guess it is time for me to wade in! I am going to try and answer this in a non-political way!
Is TV conservative? YES, in a very big way! We believe in old fashion values, we Love our Country, we Love our Flag, we Love those of us like me that are Military, we for the most part Love our neighbors and the old time feeling of closeness in our neighborhoods and help out all we can, we LOVE that we can be deverse (sp?) and speak our thoughts, and we for the most part accept that from others. So yes we are conservative, do we all have our own political leanings? Yes! But the core is we are all conservative to some point and live in TV for that reason. WE ARE TV'ers!

Hope I made sense!
Army Guy

[Bill-n-Brillo]

ok, I guess it is time for me to wade in! I am going to try and answer this in a non-political way!
Is TV conservative? YES, in a very big way! We believe in old fashion values, we Love our Country, we Love our Flag, we Love those of us like me that are Military, we for the most part Love our neighbors and the old time feeling of closeness in our neighborhoods and help out all we can, we LOVE that we can be deverse (sp?) and speak our thoughts, and we for the most part accept that from others. So yes we are conservative, do we all have our own political leanings? Yes! But the core is we are all conservative to some point and live in TV for that reason. WE ARE TV'ers!

Hope I made sense!
Army Guy

Good job! :)

Bill

[aljetmet]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

Decided to respond without looking out any of the responces to your post.
I haven't belong to a political party for many years. I honestly get very quiet when politics are discussed with friends or family. I have my views and that's that. Politics would never stop me from moving to TV.

[elevatorman]

"I'm not a member of any organized political party. I'm a Democrat.".....Will Rodgers

[manaboutown]

At this point in time I have one life style visit to TV under my belt and most of it was spent looking at the layout, the homes, recreations centers and so on. Although I came into contact with a few people I had no time to get to know them in any deep sense. Most seemed friendly enough. The result is that TV is still on my list of potential active adult retirement communities in which to become a frog. Now that said, I have lived 69 years and I find there are places I want to spend time and places I do not, people with whom I want to spend time and others with whom I do not. I want compatible and agreeable company, not in the sense we necessarily share a common mindset about the various aspects of life but that we are courteous to each other, enjoy what we do together and engage in pleasant, informative and otherwise beneficial discussions. That said, if I decide to move to TV I want to have enough to do, feel welcome and that enough of the people there may want to become friends with me. I want to feel physically safe from crimes against persons and from crimes against property, both real and personal. I want to be somewhere having adequate medical care available. In one of my current two living environments I do not feel physically safe at times and in many places or that my real and personal property are safe whereas in the other I feel safe all ways almost all of the time. Since I now split my time between Albuquerque, NM and Newport Beach, CA, you have three guesses as to which is which and the first two do not count. Again, in one the medical care is substandard and one may have to wait for hours or even over a day in an emergency room because they are overloaded taking care of drug overdoses, stab wounds and the like whereas in the other I can obtain great emergency as well as other medical care as needed. In Albuquerque Ann Coulter was to speak but she had to cancel because of threats against her person whereas in Newport Beach I had to wait in a line for hours to get one of her books signed and it was standing room only at another event in Orange County featuring Ann as a speaker. Guess which community is mostly liberal and which is mostly conservative. I have both liberal and conservative friends. Guess which ones are not open to ideas other than their party's dogma and which are open to new ideas? Guess which ones can not stand for long to not bring up their politics and ruin an evening in which no one else is dicussing politics or religion? Frankly, if most of the residents of TV are conservatives I believe I would be welcome there and find it a pleasant place to live out my life.

[graciegirl]

At this point in time I have one life style visit to TV under my belt and most of it was spent looking at the layout, the homes, recreations centers and so on. Although I came into contact with a few people I had no time to get to know them in any deep sense. Most seemed friendly enough. The result is that TV is still on my list of potential active adult retirement communities in which to become a frog. Now that said, I have lived 69 years and I find there are places I want to spend time and places I do not, people with whom I want to spend time and others with whom I do not. I want compatible and agreeable company, not in the sense we necessarily share a common mindset about the various aspects of life but that we are courteous to each other, enjoy what we do together and engage in pleasant, informative and otherwise beneficial discussions. That said, if I decide to move to TV I want to have enough to do, feel welcome and that enough of the people there may want to become friends with me. I want to feel physically safe from crimes against persons and from crimes against property, both real and personal. I want to be somewhere having adequate medical care available. In one of my current two living environments I do not feel physically safe at times and in many places or that my real and personal property are safe whereas in the other I feel safe all ways almost all of the time. Since I now split my time between Albuquerque, NM and Newport Beach, CA, you have three guesses as to which is which and the first two do not count. Again, in one the medical care is substandard and one may have to wait for hours or even over a day in an emergency room because they are overloaded taking care of drug overdoses, stab wounds and the like whereas in the other I can obtain great emergency as well as other medical care as needed. In Albuquerque Ann Coulter was to speak but she had to cancel because of threats against her person whereas in Newport Beach I had to wait in a line for hours to get one of her books signed and it was standing room only at another event in Orange County featuring Ann as a speaker. Guess which community is mostly liberal and which is mostly conservative. I have both liberal and conservative friends. Guess which ones are not open to ideas other than their party's dogma and which are open to new ideas? Guess which ones can not stand for long to not bring up their politics and ruin an evening in which no one else is dicussing politics or religion? Frankly, if most of the residents of TV are conservatives I believe I would be welcome there and find it a pleasant place to live out my life.

I believe your dreams have come true. Come on down and enjoy this place.

[Jane52]

at this point in time i have one life style visit to tv under my belt and most of it was spent looking at the layout, the homes, recreations centers and so on. Although i came into contact with a few people i had no time to get to know them in any deep sense. Most seemed friendly enough. The result is that tv is still on my list of potential active adult retirement communities in which to become a frog. I have both liberal and conservative friends. Guess which ones are not open to ideas other than their party's dogma and which are open to new ideas? Guess which ones can not stand for long to not bring up their politics and ruin an evening in which no one else is dicussing politics or religion? Frankly, if most of the residents of tv are conservatives i believe i would be welcome there and find it a pleasant place to live out my life.

bullseye!!!

[skyguy79]

Frankly, if most of the residents of TV are conservatives I believe I would be welcome there and find it a pleasant place to live out my life.Regardless of the relatively short period of time I've been here in TV, I've gotten the opinion that you are correct in what you've stated. There has been not a wisper of politics, right or left leaning, out of anyone that I've personally met or encountered to this point, and would not be surprised if it rarely occured in the future.

However, I disappointingly cannot say the same when it comes to TOTV. Sadly, in just this thread alone, offensive words have been used against conservitism like... unbalanced, fools, right-wing nut jobs and right-wing nonsense when the posters of these words apparantly do not agree with the expressed views or opinions of others, or of any entity whose views differ from their own. At the same time I'm glad that I've yet to heard those kinds of descriptive terms applied to Liberals and hope I don't. We don't need that kind of disrespectful talk if we're here to learn, share information and/or just plain have fun.

[redwitch]

Skyguy, barring a few, I think you really only hear the words mentioned here by either side during elections. To say things got ugly in TV if you mentioned you were not voting the McCain-Palin ticket was puting it mildly. Also, just so you know the comments made about conservatives in this thread are mild compared to some of things I've heard about us disgusting, ill-advised, stupid liberals and democrats. You can always read the political forum to see just ugly it gets on both sides. (Fortunately, the same people posting in that forum are usually some of the nicest people you'll get to meet in real life.)

[Pturner]

I know liberals, conservatives and moderates and like most of them.

I don't find the broad generalizations accurate regarding which "side" is closed-minded and which isn't. I know from experience that you cannot judge an entire "side" by the posts of individuals on that "side".

I've met people on both sides who listen and read thoughtfully and broadly across the spectrum, and consider individual issues on their merits. I've met people people on both sides who are not open to considering the merits of different opinions and who are dismissive of opinions and evidence alike that contradict their beliefs.

Frankly, it's the broad generalizations about the other side that seem ... closed minded.

[skyguy79]

Skyguy, barring a few, I think you really only hear the words mentioned here by either side during elections. To say things got ugly in TV if you mentioned you were not voting the McCain-Palin ticket was puting it mildly. Also, just so you know the comments made about conservatives in this thread are mild compared to some of things I've heard about us disgusting, ill-advised, stupid liberals and democrats. You can always read the political forum to see just ugly it gets on both sides. (Fortunately, the same people posting in that forum are usually some of the nicest people you'll get to meet in real life.)Be it true or not, I cannot take it for gospel nor can I judge that it represents the whole story since I wasn't around here them, but either way it makes little difference in what I've stated, nor does it excuse the current behavior. I guess that I'll just have to wait until the next election and see if it happens then for myself. As for reading the political forum, I cannot access it since I'm not a member of it and not interested in joining, at least at this time!

[escapequeen]

I've lived here almost 7 years and as a proud liberal democrat from SoCal, it was a shock to the system. It seems to me that the conservative republican is far more prevalent here, and vocal. During the 08 elections, I had Obama stickers ripped off my golf cart while parked at Glenview and it boggled my mind that people this age would do such a thing. The newspaper is a bad joke, the developer's political leanings couldn't be more in your face - but given all that, I still love living here. I don't agree with a lot of people here, but I play golf with them, go to dinner with them and like quite a few of "them". I do, however, stand up for my beliefs and love to debate them on all issues. There are democrat clubs you can join to meet people of like mind, which sometimes is quite a welcome relief! When Palin, Beck and Bush come to town, I find other useful things to do that day and get quite a kick out of the local paper the next day. Until this country learns it's not "us" versus "them", we're not going anywhere.

So come join us and add to the discussion - Lord knows we could always use another democrat!

This whole post sounds like us versus them.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

..............(Fortunately, the same people posting in that forum are usually some of the nicest people you'll get to meet in real life.)

red, I believe you've hit on something there. Makes me think of a friend of mine. I've known him for probably 35 years, dating back to when we used to work at the same place. Face-to-face - nicest guy you'd ever want to meet. But in any type of 'written' format, he comes across as almost schizophrenic. Most of the time, you'll see his great sense of humor in his writings. But other times, he expresses himself in ways that really make you wonder - extremely pushy with his views on things (particularly politics), outspoken to the point of being very rude and demeaning, and so forth. At the risk of upsetting the apple cart between us as friends, I ended up resorting to telling him - as politely as possible - that I preferred not to have any of those things pointed my way in the future, that it just wasn't my cup of tea. No problems- he understood. I think it's just the way some people are........and that's fine. For some, it's easier to write things than it is to express them face-to-face.

Bill :)

[jebartle]

I could not agree with you more.....

I've said many times, that some are more diplomatic when face to face....Even driving a car....You are in a "safe zone".....Can flip someone off and feel no repercussions or post a personal attack on an individuals political beliefs and then go to CHURCH with a clear conscience...

One of these days we will all wake-up and realize that life is short, live and let live, and enjoy our life in paradise...

I keep hoping that Graciegirl's kindness will rub off on all of us...

[JUREK]

At this point in time I have one life style visit to TV under my belt and most of it was spent looking at the layout, the homes, recreations centers and so on. Although I came into contact with a few people I had no time to get to know them in any deep sense. Most seemed friendly enough. The result is that TV is still on my list of potential active adult retirement communities in which to become a frog. Now that said, I have lived 69 years and I find there are places I want to spend time and places I do not, people with whom I want to spend time and others with whom I do not. I want compatible and agreeable company, not in the sense we necessarily share a common mindset about the various aspects of life but that we are courteous to each other, enjoy what we do together and engage in pleasant, informative and otherwise beneficial discussions. That said, if I decide to move to TV I want to have enough to do, feel welcome and that enough of the people there may want to become friends with me. I want to feel physically safe from crimes against persons and from crimes against property, both real and personal. I want to be somewhere having adequate medical care available. In one of my current two living environments I do not feel physically safe at times and in many places or that my real and personal property are safe whereas in the other I feel safe all ways almost all of the time. Since I now split my time between Albuquerque, NM and Newport Beach, CA, you have three guesses as to which is which and the first two do not count. Again, in one the medical care is substandard and one may have to wait for hours or even over a day in an emergency room because they are overloaded taking care of drug overdoses, stab wounds and the like whereas in the other I can obtain great emergency as well as other medical care as needed. In Albuquerque Ann Coulter was to speak but she had to cancel because of threats against her person whereas in Newport Beach I had to wait in a line for hours to get one of her books signed and it was standing room only at another event in Orange County featuring Ann as a speaker. Guess which community is mostly liberal and which is mostly conservative. I have both liberal and conservative friends. Guess which ones are not open to ideas other than their party's dogma and which are open to new ideas? Guess which ones can not stand for long to not bring up their politics and ruin an evening in which no one else is dicussing politics or religion? Frankly, if most of the residents of TV are conservatives I believe I would be welcome there and find it a pleasant place to live out my life.

For sure one of the better written emails on this subject.
You are welcome here any time my friend.

[tony]

Iowa,

If you like, you can discuss all the Politics you want in the Political forum.

Click on the ad for the Political forum in the left column and join up.

[actor]

At this point in time I have one life style visit to TV under my belt and most of it was spent looking at the layout, the homes, recreations centers and so on. Although I came into contact with a few people I had no time to get to know them in any deep sense. Most seemed friendly enough. The result is that TV is still on my list of potential active adult retirement communities in which to become a frog. Now that said, I have lived 69 years and I find there are places I want to spend time and places I do not, people with whom I want to spend time and others with whom I do not. I want compatible and agreeable company, not in the sense we necessarily share a common mindset about the various aspects of life but that we are courteous to each other, enjoy what we do together and engage in pleasant, informative and otherwise beneficial discussions. That said, if I decide to move to TV I want to have enough to do, feel welcome and that enough of the people there may want to become friends with me. I want to feel physically safe from crimes against persons and from crimes against property, both real and personal. I want to be somewhere having adequate medical care available. In one of my current two living environments I do not feel physically safe at times and in many places or that my real and personal property are safe whereas in the other I feel safe all ways almost all of the time. Since I now split my time between Albuquerque, NM and Newport Beach, CA, you have three guesses as to which is which and the first two do not count. Again, in one the medical care is substandard and one may have to wait for hours or even over a day in an emergency room because they are overloaded taking care of drug overdoses, stab wounds and the like whereas in the other I can obtain great emergency as well as other medical care as needed. In Albuquerque Ann Coulter was to speak but she had to cancel because of threats against her person whereas in Newport Beach I had to wait in a line for hours to get one of her books signed and it was standing room only at another event in Orange County featuring Ann as a speaker. Guess which community is mostly liberal and which is mostly conservative. I have both liberal and conservative friends. Guess which ones are not open to ideas other than their party's dogma and which are open to new ideas? Guess which ones can not stand for long to not bring up their politics and ruin an evening in which no one else is dicussing politics or religion? Frankly, if most of the residents of TV are conservatives I believe I would be welcome there and find it a pleasant place to live out my life.

and respect for others on the one hand, and on the other hand you admire Ann Coulter a person who personifies the exact opposite virtues. You can have her.

[graciegirl]

Thanks Mr Tony, I have went in there and read some threads. Looks kind of rough for me. I will just monitor for a while. I am so neutral on politics, I am a registered Independent with Sumter County. I listened to two of my golf friends argue about a talk show host and I thought they both were right, but they ended up pretty mad about the others opinion on the host. That made me realize that if I went with either one, I would still lose one friend.

Dear, dear IowaParkersburg, I truly understand that. It happens to me all of the time. ESPECIALLY about each of them having very good arguments. We don't get older without gaining a lot of information and being very able to articulate.....and somehow being stubborn goes right along with it.

Gracie. (Always right and always in the middle.:smiley:)

[Taj44]

Interesting that you talk about courtesy and respect for others on the one hand, and on the other hand you admire Ann Coulter a person who personifies the exact opposite virtues. You can have her.

Actor, well said!:BigApplause:

[BobKat1]

I don't think the OP has weighed in here lately, but in answer to his/her concerns, there is a good cross section of information here.

Hopefully it will help them in making their decision.

[oldtimecop]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

Don't confuse Democrats with liberals or progressives. There are a lot of good sensible Democrats in the Villages.They, along with a great many other residents are very concerned with the direction that our present government is taking us. Maybe you didn't read the Thursday (any) edition of the Daily Sun ( our local paper). There is an insert entitled Recreation News. In there you will get a good idea of the diversity that exists here. Something for everyone including you. If you just want to look at people like yourself (in thought, word and deed) then I guess you might as well stay up north.

[skyguy79]

Don't confuse Democrats with liberals or progressives. There are a lot of good sensible Democrats in the Villages.They, along with a great many other residents are very concerned with the direction that our present government is taking us. :clap2:Very well said OTC! Democrats, Liberals and Progressives are often thought of as one in-the-same whereas that is far from the truth.

I also agree that there are a lot of good sensible Democrats (with a few exceptions) not only in TV but all across our country. Additionally, their being a majority of residence leaning to either side of political beliefs, short of that majority being fringe or extreme, should not deter anyone from enjoying any community like TV that has so much for their residents to enjoy.

As a Republican I can say that I have several Democratic friends that I get along with very well and think very highly of. Well, at least until they start showing signs of being unduly influenced by progressive ideology and/or covertly subversive progressive activities... unless they are are just doing so just to bust my you know whats for fun. http://www.deviantart.com/download/146358616/Smiley_La_by_Mirz123.gif

[graciegirl]

I think that the political climate here is not discussed as much as it should be because we are mostly polite and considerate and because politics aren't usually in a general conversation with people we just have met while we are playing golf or games or having dinner with new people.

Then people will move here and find that the newspaper has a definite political slant and it is Republican. I am used to that. I am from Ohio, but a lot of people are not used to that.

The developer does invite conservative Republicans here to speak and have book signings and Democrats aren't invited to do the same, ever.

If prospective buyers would know this before they buy, than perhaps we wouldn't have all this controversy and bitterness.

This small city is not governed by voting for a mayor or voting for anyone and we have no say as to how things are done. It is a (someone help me here) a CDD form of government. There are several in Florida. It works well as far as I am concerned and I don't care that I can't change things. I like how it is run and I have had my turn being on boards and steering committees.

I read the disdane and hatred on here and I think, how sad that they came here and bought and didn't know this.

Someone will tell it better than I just did.

A persons politics doesn't matter to me, but my politics might matter to them.

[swrinfla]

Gracie said, "A persons politics doesn't matter to me, but my politics might matter to them."

Which is why I personally never, ever mention my political views in any environment whatsoever! When the subject arises, it inevitably ends in a shouting match, usually hurtful! That's when I'll bow out! I just wish folks would chilout chilout

SWR
:beer3:

[Matt and Gail]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

Is this a joke? Really? All you asked about in the thread is political, and you are worried you will hate the politics. That is just to funny. Come on down, enjoy life and forget about all of it! :highfive:

[logdog]

Is this a joke? Really? All you asked about in the thread is political, and you are worried you will hate the politics. That is just to funny. Come on down, enjoy life and forget about all of it! :highfive:

Thanks for throwing a flag on this play. On the face, it does seem a little ridicules to base where you will retire solely on local politics. TV is a big place with a lot of political diversity but no one really cares as long as you're having fun and you show some respect for each other. If politics is that important to you, I'm sure there's a club here for that. On the golf course, nobody cares if you hook or slice (I always play down the middle).

[skyguy79]

On the golf course, nobody cares if you hook or slice (I always play down the middle).But... if you yell "Fore" when teeing off, does somebody down the fairway yell "Against?"
History of Yelling Fore: http://golf.about.com/cs/historyofgolf/a/hist_fore.htmhttp://www.laie-smileys.com/golf.gif

[Eve2278]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!


Coming from suburbs of Washington DC, fortunately we had the opportunity to hear both sides of the story. Down here it appears to be to the far right, down the street and around the corner, having said that I have met some of the nicest people ever and the majority are mature enough to use political etiquette . We politely avoid politics and enjoy TV for what it was meant to be…fun, fun fun!
and yes, there are a lot of Democrats here and more showing up.
Come on down, you will love it!

[graciegirl]

But... if you yell "Fore" when teeing off, does somebody down the fairway yell "Against?"
History of Yelling Fore: http://golf.about.com/cs/historyofgolf/a/hist_fore.htmhttp://www.laie-smileys.com/golf.gif

:a20::1rotfl:

One or two just might.............

[Jane52]

From the beginning of this thread, I've thought the whole premise of choosing or ruling out a community to which one would move, based primarily on whether the majority party were or were not one's own, is absurd.

I mean really.....how many liberals moved to a foreign country because Bush got elected twice? Or how many conservatives moved out of New York because Hillary got elected as Senator? Or how many NYC voters moved out of NYC because they didn't like the fact that the mayor, Giuliani, was a Republican?

Or how many people have refused to move to Chicago because Richard M. Daley (D) has been mayor since 1989?

It seems more and more absurd as I think about it. Quality of life, crime rates, employment or income possibilities, CLIMATE, and many other factors would be at the top of the list of criteria for most people.

If the greatest risk you ever take is moving to TV while the majority of residents are conservatives, you have a pretty darn comfortable, untested existence. Better get ready for a life storm, because one is on its way for every person at some point in time, and being a member of the right or left is not going to help you survive it. Only God can over-ride all of it and get you through.....I wouldn't count on any finger-in-the-wind politician whose only concern is the next election to save me in a worst life crisis.

[Talk Host]

.....It seems more and more absurd as I think about it. .

I personally don't ever tell anybody that their concerns are "absurd." Particularly when they are brand new to a group. The poster came here with the best of intentions and posted a question that was important to him/her.

What does he get, "absurd" comments.

You'll notice that he posted only twice and has not been back. Thank you.

jlk

[ssmith]

Although I have strong opinions....I wouldn't want to be in a place that had "in- your- face- people" of the oposite opinion. The original poster might have felt that could be the case since they said they were Democratic and then saw Palin etc being advertized.

I was disappointed to see the personal attacks and slanderous name calling mentioned here but as Red said it..... seems they are just dishing out what maybe they have received in the past...don't know...just disappointed :(. BTW I stay away from Political.

[redwitch]

It's one thing to live in an area where the majority are of a different mindset, it's another to live in a community where you only hear one side. TV coverage is one-sided -- conservative Republican. If we didn't have access to television, the internet and other newspapers, we really would have no clue what the Dems or Liberals or whatevers are offering in elections.

If you happen to be in the majority, you don't see it as an issue since you know you'll find people who agree with you. However, if you're in the minority, it is reasonable to be concerned that there are others you can discuss your viewpoints with without it becoming an issue. They are not "absurd" concerns.

This has nothing to do with the other great aspects of TV. It has to do with someone being concerned that they won't fit in. It is reasonable given what Snoopy saw of TV. Hopefully, enough non-Republicans and friendly Republicans have posted here so that Snoopy knows s/he will be welcome regardless of his/her political bent.

[graciegirl]

I think it only fair to say that people have very strong opinions on here and sometimes they get frustrated and angry.

Sometimes we behave in a mature manner and sometimes you see awful, hateful things posted.

I believe that every person has a story and if we knew it we would understand him or her better.

But then and again there are those folks who just won't quit, and that is when.............. I get the girls together.

:a20:

[Bucco]

I am a very political person and believe it is not only our right to be involved but our duty to be involved. I have very strong opinions on politics. In the past, I was EXTREMELY involved in politics.

Having said that...I have lived in The Villages for over 10 years. In those 10 years, I have NEVER, NOT ONE TIME...ever heard anything political except at a gathering that was designated as a political gathering.....NOT ONE TIME. Of course there are remarks made concerning ANY political party in power...that is the way it is and always has been....if that concerned you then you should move every 4 to 8 years to escape it.

I will add....I was EXTREMELY involved in politics prior to coming to Florida in the Democratic party....I am now a Republican. I have NEVER lived anywhere where the paper did not show bias one way or another. I have lived where I was in the majority and I have lived where I was in the minority relative to political views. I have NEVER been subject to anything remotely close to anything that I would consider even uncomfortable as a result of my political views or the views of others.

It seems to me that someone who is using the political leanings of the community to decide where to live is being extremely shallow !

[Tbugs]

Very well written, Bucco.

I have heard only a couple of political comments from bystanders at the two town squares but they are never said in anger. If there are speakers or rallys you do not believe in, just do not attend. I did not attend the Glenn Beck rally or the Sarah Palin booksigning but I did not resent their coming to The Villages.

There is a Democrat Club as well as Republican Club and Tea Party Club. Be a part of politics if you want - or don't. It is a personal choice.

I, also, do not think you should decide whether or not to move to The Villages based on it being too conservative. Come to enjoy the activities and the people. This is a slice of Heaven. Enjoy it!!

[katezbox]

I personally don't ever tell anybody that their concerns are "absurd." Particularly when they are brand new to a group. The poster came here with the best of intentions and posted a question that was important to him/her.

What does he get, "absurd" comments.

You'll notice that he posted only twice and has not been back. Thank you.

jlk

Perfectly stated.

[graciegirl]

As a retiring life-long democrat, I got worried on my recent visit to the Villages. In some of the literature, I noticed Limbaugh, Hannity, GW Bush and Rove pictured and/or mentioned. I saw nothing of Obama, Kennedy, Reid or Pelosi. Is it a ridiculous notion for me to even consider retiring in the Villages. I love the place, but I may hate the politics. Conservatives and liberals alike please advise. Thanks!

What I forgot to say is Welcome. I certainly hope you will move here and be very, very happy.

The Talk Host said we ran you off. Please come back and prove him wrong.

[Jane52]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Talk Host
I personally don't ever tell anybody that their concerns are "absurd." Particularly when they are brand new to a group. The poster came here with the best of intentions and posted a question that was important to him/her.

What does he get, "absurd" comments.

You'll notice that he posted only twice and has not been back. Thank you.
jlk

Perfectly stated.

I am so, so sorry I wrote it was an "absurd" notion, and my words of apology will never be adequate nor make up for the insult I did without thinking of the writer who started the thread.

It's no excuse, but when I wrote that insulting adjective and rant, I was actually thinking of several liberal Democrat couples we know who absolutely will not even look at TV because they've seen that Palin, Beck, Bush, etc. have come here and drew big, adoring crowds. It's a shame to see that people who you know would love it here, and whom we'd love to see here, are dead set against even looking at TV because of political bent.

It is too late now, but what I should have written is that it is "bewildering to me" that someone would choose a place to live based primarily on one party majority or another prevailing. I'm ashamed of myself and I meant no disrespect for the writer.

[redwitch]

Jane, that was a truly beautiful apology. Thank you for explaining what you meant. The sad thing about the internet is that it is to say the wrong thing and never even have a clue you were inadvertantly insulting. Being a liberal (not a liberal Democrat, an out-and-out liberal -- I don't see much difference between Dems and Republicans in the long run), I do understand Snoopy's concerns.

Had I known how Republican the bubble is, I might have hesitated to move here. I really would like to see political invitees of all sorts rather than have it limited to just one party, but it is what it is. I feel sorry for your friends. They're missing out on a wonderful way to live because of politics. If I can stand the political climate and love TV and its residents as much as I do, it truly has to be a great place to live. Their loss and, quite possibly, our loss as well if your friends are half as gracious as you are.

[Snoopy]

Wow! Well, this has certainly opened my eyes as to the way of TV. I am simply researching - I certainly didn't mean to offend. As far as the comments about making my decision based solely on politics, why would you assume that is the sole factor of my decision? I can see for myself all of the many things that TV has to offer. There are many factors that I am basing my decision on; I didn't need the assistance of this forum for that or other information. TV had been on my short list of possibilities, because of those numerous other factors. And while I, too, choose when, or if, I discuss politics with others (which I rarely do), I want to live where both sides of the spectrum are represented, where book signings or guest speakers include people from both (or should I say "all") parties. Apparently, many people misunderstood or misconstrued the intentions of my original post. Finally, I live in America, I would like to believe I can freely say I am a democrat-regardless of my address, it seems that may not be the case at TV. Thank you for your responses, I certainly learned a lot about TV.

P.S. The previous 2 posts came in while I was writing this post. I appreciate the apology. It was thoughtful and unexpected.

[redwitch]

Snoopy, TOTV is a great forum, but not necessarily an accurate image of TV. I flinched at some of the comments made in this thread. Sadly, they weren't mean comments; they were just comments about being conservative and being happy that their friends and neighbors are as well (said in different ways, but that was the message I got).

Most of my friends here are (dare I say it???) Republicans. They know my viewpoints -- I can't keep my mouth shut to save my life. They love me anyway and I love them. The one thing that has been said that I totally agree with is don't let the political persuasion of the developer or even the majority here be a reason to not choose The Villages.

True, Democrats don't get to speak in the town squares, but they do in cities close to here, so we can hear all viewpoints. The Daily Sun is a great paper to find out daily activities. Otherwise, I read the Wall Street Journal. There is an active Democrat Club.

Should your political bent really be a factor whether or not to live here? Not really. It should be a consideration, but not a true factor. I put it in the same categories as Florida bugs -- they're around and a slight nuisance (especially the dang lovebugs) but nothing major in my day-to-day life. Hopefully, if you decide TV is the place for you, you'll have much the same attitude.

[Snoopy]

Redwitch, should I decide to further pursue TV as a possible retirement destination, we have to meet up! I have loved every one of your posts!! So politics aside, there are bugs? What about snakes??? That may trump politics!

[jblum8156]

Snoopy, Glad to see you're still with us.
A friendly Dem wants to meet you too.

[2BNTV]

I base friendships on good and caring people, not their political affiliations.

If a person is nice and fun to be around, I will treasure their friendship. I will be there for them in good times and in their time of trouble and be as helpful as I can.

My personality is as such: I do not want to be around people who have strong personalities in that everying they say, one has to agree with or there is a big discussion. I agree we disagree would be to last thing I would need to say. I would go onto the next friendship if that doesn't meet their criteria of having to agree wholeheartedly with them. I also don't force my opinions on others.

"A person convince against his/her will is of the same opinion still".

I am still a wannabe who plans on having fun and I won't let anyone rain on my parade.

Life is too short to be too little.

[campie]

Extreme sway in conservative direction as evidenced by the Opinion page of the newspaper and the fact that a democratic candidate would NEVER be invited here by the developers. The lifestyle here is wonderful and we let these misguided souls babble on.

[skyguy79]

we let these misguided souls babble on.:ohdear:

[ssmith]

I know many of you love being there and I am jealous.... but as a Wannabe...we are hanging out in this forum....trying to learn. We don't want to look forward to moving there and then instead of finding the Great and Powerful Oz we find... the man behind the curtain!!!! Snoopy sure may have gotten the wrong idea, that everyone there is sitting around all day arguing politics and fighting in the neighborhoods over politics. I have my own concerns, but Snoopy's concerns are his... and he should not be put down for having them. Afer all he is trying to make an informed decision re: his future.

Also I know there is a lot of history amongst some of you but wish everyone would play nice. I think it is great that there are strong convictions tho. Please remember there are a lot of people that don't live there making decisions based on what you post here. They may be getting the wrong idea about the people there which I personally have found to be some of the nicest and friendliest anywhere.

[Schaumburger]

I base friendships on good and caring people, not their political affiliations.

If a person is nice and fun to be around, I will treasure their friendship. I will be there for them in good times and in their time of trouble and be as helpful as I can.

My personality is as such: I do not want to be around people who have strong personalities in that everying they say, one has to agree with or there is a big discussion. I agree we disagree would be to last thing I would need to say. I would go onto the next friendship if that doesn't meet their criteria of having to agree wholeheartedly with them. I also don't force my opinions on others.

"A person convince against his/her will is of the same opinion still".

I am still a wannabe who plans on having fun and I won't let anyone rain on my parade.

Life is too short to be too little.

Excellent post. I grew up in a Father Knows Best/It's My Way or the Highway household which resulted in many heated discussions with my dad in my teen years. I can live peacefully with law abiding, friendly neighbors of any political persuasion, race, religion or sexual orientation, and I'm sure I could do the same in TV.

[katezbox]

Redwitch, should I decide to further pursue TV as a possible retirement destination, we have to meet up! I have loved every one of your posts!! So politics aside, there are bugs? What about snakes??? That may trump politics!

Bugs - it seems like none - far less than the skeeters we had in New England. The only bugs are the pesky but harmless love bugs that appear in May (ans sometimes) October. They are small, non-biting and not at all creepy - just a nuisance.

Snakes - yes - but being smart allows us to co-exist. (This from a woman who REALLY hates snakes.)

From kate - a moderate who feels there is truth on both sides....