Whats wrong with this picture

[Guest]

In the United States of America you are not allowed to attend the singing of a budget that is paid for with your tax money because it is being held on "private property"that is being paid for with your amenity funds which you have no choice but to pay because your politics differ with the head of your state government?This is very scary.I never thought I would ever see this happen in a place I thought was so wonderful.I don't think I will ever again proudly say I live in the Villages

[Guest]

In the United States of America you are not allowed to attend the singing of a budget that is paid for with your tax money because it is being held on "private property"that is being paid for with your amenity funds which you have no choice but to pay because your politics differ with the head of your state government?This is very scary.I never thought I would ever see this happen in a place I thought was so wonderful.I don't think I will ever again proudly say I live in the Villages

I don't understand what you are saying. Is someone signing a budget in TV? Who and where and why reference the state government and it sounds a little political...but I don't truly understand what you are telling us. Please clarify.

Kind regards,
Gracie

[Guest]

I do not comprehend your post. Can you help me understand better what this is about?

[Guest]

Read todays edition of the Orlando Sentinel

[Guest]

I don't understand what you are saying. Is someone signing a budget in TV? Who and where and why reference the state government and it sounds a little political...but I don't truly understand what you are telling us. Please clarify.

Kind regards,
GracieI don't know why or how the state government ties into it, but there is a budget that's processed by each district in TV. You can find them at the VCDD website. As for being political, it is political just as much as it would be if someone posted a comment about our representatives in Washington having to sign legislation in order to find out what's in it! Maybe that's were what the alleged situation the OP's claiming was leaned from! Then again maybe not. Who knows?

[Guest]

In the United States of America you are not allowed to attend the singing of a budget that is paid for with your tax money because it is being held on "private property"that is being paid for with your amenity funds which you have no choice but to pay because your politics differ with the head of your state government?This is very scary.I never thought I would ever see this happen in a place I thought was so wonderful.I don't think I will ever again proudly say I live in the Villages

No one was kept out of Lake Sumter Landing for Gov. Scott's State budget signing. No one was screened. Some Democrat protesters were moved across the street from the Pavilion, but that's about it. The Pavilion was leased for this event, and security was evident.

You gave a lot of invented misinformation in your post. I don't know why.

[Guest]

In the United States of America you are not allowed to attend the singing of a budget that is paid for with your tax money because it is being held on "private property"that is being paid for with your amenity funds which you have no choice but to pay because your politics differ with the head of your state government?This is very scary.I never thought I would ever see this happen in a place I thought was so wonderful.I don't think I will ever again proudly say I live in the Villages


I don't believe the place where the signing took place is part of our amenities. I believe it is private property. I realize it is used by the public for entertainment events but can be closed to the public at the will of the owner.

[Guest]

Bargee,

Your posting was mighty incoherent but I did know Gov. Rick Scott was signing the state budget here in The Villages today. It was in the Daily Sun and other newspapers.

Like Richie said, no one was kept out. Some protesters were moved elsewhere like in any political event. Sure, security was present. Rick Scott is the governor of the state. No problem.

Even if you do not agree with the politics of Rick Scott, he is the governor and you have to respect that.

Like I have said to Richie and others on the political forum - and this goes for you, Bargee. Get over it. Nothing you can do about it now.

Of course, not that I would ever suggest to anyone, if you do not think you can live in a place like this run by the Morse family - no one is holding you here. You might even make a tidy profit on your house on your move to Stonecrest or Lake Wier.

[Guest]

No one was kept out of Lake Sumter Landing for Gov. Scott's State budget signing. No one was screened. Some Democratic protesters were moved across the street from the Pavilion, but that's about it. The Pavilion was leased for this event, and security was evident.

You gave a lot of invented misinformation in your post. I don't know why.

I was there and watched as the protesters were moved away from the Square area. I understand that the event was paid for with private funds, but what about their right to political dissent. You can tell me they were provided with an opportunity to protest, as long as they did it out of earshot or sight.

The Supreme Court has recently rule that you cannot stifle political dissent. There is nothing sicker, or more reprehensible, as the church that protests at Fallen Hero's funerals. But the Court ruled you can't stop it. I know someone will argue the private property defense, but really, is this what TV has descended to?

Please reread Franklin's quotation, used in your email signature. I'm sure you could imagine the word dissent in there somewhere.

[Guest]

No one was kept out of Lake Sumter Landing for Gov. Scott's State budget signing. No one was screened. Some Democrat protesters were moved across the street from the Pavilion, but that's about it. The Pavilion was leased for this event, and security was evident.

You gave a lot of invented misinformation in your post. I don't know why.Thanks Richie for this post. At least those of us who don't have access to the Orlando Sentinel now have a clue what the OP was talking about and the motivation behind it. The lack of clearity caused me to misunderstand and make a post that, in a manner of speaking, was out in left field.

[Guest]

I was there and watched as the protesters were moved away from the Square area. I understand that the event was paid for with private funds, but what about their right to political dissent. You can tell me they were provided with an opportunity to protest, as long as they did it out of earshot or sight.

The Supreme Court has recently rule that you cannot stifle political dissent. There is nothing sicker, or more reprehensible, as the church that protests at Fallen Hero's funerals. But the Court ruled you can't stop it. I know someone will argue the private property defense, but really, is this what TV has descended to?

Please reread Franklin's quotation, used in your email signature. I'm sure you could imagine the word dissent in there somewhere.

You can protest all you want as long as you're on public property and behaving in a lawful manner. The pavilion area is private property and was leased for this event. This has to be respected for it's own value as well as for the security of the governor, which is paramount is situations like these.
The protesters were moved across the street, not to Siberia. If you've been to the square you know this is no big move.

[Guest]

Dang it, Richie -

I hate it when you give a good clear and coherent answer that is direct, to the point, and also correct. It leaves me nothing at all to argue about.

[Guest]

Since I am way up here in Ohio, neither the Orlando Sentinel or the Daily Sun are options to read.

Glad someone clarified it....a little.:loco:

[Guest]

You can protest all you want as long as you're on public property and behaving in a lawful manner. The pavilion area is private property and was leased for this event. This has to be respected for it's own value as well as for the security of the governor, which is paramount is situations like these.
The protesters were moved across the street, not to Siberia. If you've been to the square you know this is no big move.

I agree with everything you have said. My question was where do you draw the line on honest political dissent? I said I was there, I witnessed the move. I do not believe there was any reason to suspect unruly conduct. After the assault on the congresswoman in Arizona, security has to be tight.

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." -- Benjamin Franklin, Historical Review of Pennsylvania (1759)

[Guest]

Moving some group across the street is not a violation of free speech. Now, if the "protestors" were rounded up and taken to Golden Corral and forced to eat a meal, that would be cruel and unusual punishment.

[Guest]

My wife and I were there for the signing. Sat in the 5th row in front of the governor. There were no problems. Some protestors were there as was stated they were escorted across the street. One sign I believe said Pink Slip Scott no big deal. He drove past the protestors on the way in. He shook several hands after the signing which was done on the stands where all the students were.It was very peaceful,just wish he'd have been there on time.

[Guest]

You can protest all you want as long as you're on public property and behaving in a lawful manner. The pavilion area is private property and was leased for this event. This has to be respected for it's own value as well as for the security of the governor, which is paramount is situations like these.
The protesters were moved across the street, not to Siberia. If you've been to the square you know this is no big move.

One small clarification: there are situations in which public property can be off-limits for "protestors". The situation is limited public access.

An actual example: the city for which I work cordoned off 2 blocks of public streets and sidewalks to conduct a city-sponsored festival. A small but organized group showed up for the purpose of obtaining signatures on a petition for some sort of special interest they held.

Because we had designated the cordoned-off area to be a limited public access site for the purpose of the festival, and because the group's activities were not previously approved as an activity, we did not permit the group to conduct the petition drive within the festival area.

We did, however, inform them that they could assemble across the street from the festival, where they were welcome to go about their business, provided that they did not obstruct/impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

BTW: Ritchie, I am a fan of the quote you selected as your signature sign-off.

[Guest]

Dang it, Richie -

I hate it when you give a good clear and coherent answer that is direct, to the point, and also correct. It leaves me nothing at all to argue about.

I'm sure we'll be jabbing each other soon. I'm bound to say something that will make you roll your eyes. I can't help myself.

[Guest]

Since I am way up here in Ohio, neither the Orlando Sentinel or the Daily Sun are options to read.

Glad someone clarified it....a little.:loco:

The Orlando Sentinel has a pretty good site Gracie. It's not a truncated version like the Daily Sun. If you pine for Central Florida news, it's the place to go when your at your summer retreat away from your Villages home.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/os-gov-scott-signs-budget-1-20110526,0,2857189.story (link to the Gov. Scott in TV story)

[Guest]

I believe the writer is referring to Gov. Scott's visit to TV to sign the State Budget. As a retired Law Enforcement Official one of my responsibilities when planning the security for a VIP political visit was providing a designated protest zone for anyone wishing to express their opinion at a public event.

It is proper and customary to designate an area for protestors. It allows anyone wishing to express their political opinion to do so without disrupting the ceremony. It also provides a safety buffer for everyone in attendance. This is done at all political conventions, campaign speeches, etc.

TV residents should be honored to have been chosen as the location for the budget signing. The Governor recognized TV residents as seriously engaged in Florida politics. I am proud to be a Village resident and endorse how the protestors were handled yesterday during the signing ceremony.

[Guest]

I believe the writer is referring to Gov. Scott's visit to TV to sign the State Budget. As a retired Law Enforcement Official one of my responsibilities when planning the security for a VIP political visit was providing a designated protest zone for anyone wishing to express their opinion at a public event.

It is proper and customary to designate an area for protestors. It allows anyone wishing to express their political opinion to do so without disrupting the ceremony. It also provides a safety buffer for everyone in attendance. This is done at all political conventions, campaign speeches, etc.

TV residents should be honored to have been chosen as the location for the budget signing. The Governor recognized TV residents as seriously engaged in Florida politics. I am proud to be a Village resident and endorse how the protestors were handled yesterday during the signing ceremony.

Thank You!

[Guest]

....

TV residents should be honored to have been chosen as the location for the budget signing. The Governor recognized TV residents as seriously engaged in Florida politics. ....

Personally I think the Governor recognized TV residents as serious Republicans and wanted to hold a press conference in a politically friendly environment, since his approval numbers are among the lowest in the nation. The last poll showed only 29% of Floridians approve of his job performance.

[Guest]

All of you posters who are non-residents but still are interested in what is happening in and around The Villages should really sign up for the online version of The Daily Sun and Orlando Sentinel. I continue reading The Washington Post even though I moved from that area over 18 months ago.

[Guest]

Not sure this article, concerning the signing, is very flattering for The Villages or Villagers...

You be the judge...

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/os-scott-maxwell-rick-scott-coward-0520110526,0,2567351.column

[Guest]

Not sure this article, concerning the signing, is very flattering for The Villages or Villagers...

You be the judge...

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/os-scott-maxwell-rick-scott-coward-0520110526,0,2567351.column

I have always had the feeling (Sweetie HATES when I start a sentence that way) that the folks who write the Orlando Sentinel are not big fans of The Villages.

[Guest]

Not sure this article, concerning the signing, is very flattering for The Villages or Villagers...

You be the judge...

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/os-scott-maxwell-rick-scott-coward-0520110526,0,2567351.column

Yikes !!! Real people?

[Guest]

The Wednesday Daily Sun clearly stated the signing was "open to the public". At no time was it stated it was a private event.

People who wore tee shirts merely stating "vote Democratic" were considered "protestors" and escorted off the square.

The sheriffs were moving people off the square not for security reasons but merely due to the allegation it was a private event and whoever "leased" the square decided who stays and who goes.

The Daily Sun's crowd estimate of around 1,000 is laughable. Real media outlets estimated it closer to 500. Apparently they round off numbers to the nearest 1,000.

[Guest]

I was there and watched as the protesters were moved away from the Square area. I understand that the event was paid for with private funds, but what about their right to political dissent. You can tell me they were provided with an opportunity to protest, as long as they did it out of earshot or sight.

The Supreme Court has recently rule that you cannot stifle political dissent. There is nothing sicker, or more reprehensible, as the church that protests at Fallen Hero's funerals. But the Court ruled you can't stop it. I know someone will argue the private property defense, but really, is this what TV has descended to?

Please reread Franklin's quotation, used in your email signature. I'm sure you could imagine the word dissent in there somewhere.

I was at the Square also. (Not for the event--was shopping) I also thought it curious that some of the people with card board posts were removed to the outside of the square while others were let into the square.

[Guest]

One of the statements in that article referred to the veto of funding for The Wounded Warrior Project.
For what it's worth,
It is my understanding that WWP does not /never has accepted government funding.

[Guest]

Yikes !!! Real people?

Someone should write a column pointing out was a condescending piece of trash Scott Maxwell is. His column demeans practically the entire Villages community as self-centered greedy so and so's who don't care about children, the environment, our fellow seniors and veterans.

Oh, he does say he hears from the good people who don't like anything about the governor and are still able to enjoy Villages life.

Up yours, Mr. Maxwell.

[Guest]

Someone should write a column pointing out was a condescending piece of trash Scott Maxwell is. His column demeans practically the entire Villages community as self-centered greedy so and so's who don't care about children, the environment, our fellow seniors and veterans.
Good idea! In his article Mr. Maxwell referring to Scott stated "With a 29 percent approval rating, you're going to have a tough time finding universal support anywhere outside your own bedroom." I wonder if he would make the same statement about any politician that has an approval rating in that same neighborhood! Excuse me now while I :1rotfl: at that thought!

[Guest]

Yikes !!! Real people?

Yeah, "real people" who have worked all their lives to be able to live here.....and who pay their bills, save for their own retirement, wait till their present home sells before going into debt for the one in TV.....the ones who maintain their home, yard, streets, golf courses and town squares in perfectly clean, pristine condition instead of letting it turn into a dirty, polluted, littered city like most of the others around the country.

[Guest]

Yeah, "real people" who have worked all their lives to be able to live here.....and who pay their bills, save for their own retirement, wait till their present home sells before going into debt for the one in TV.....the ones who maintain their home, yard, streets, golf courses and town squares in perfectly clean, pristine condition instead of letting it turn into a dirty, polluted, littered city like most of the others around the country.

Well. I love your answer. You are right. We are a great group if I do say so myself.

[Guest]

Yeah, "real people" who have worked all their lives to be able to live here.....and who pay their bills, save for their own retirement, wait till their present home sells before going into debt for the one in TV.....the ones who maintain their home, yard, streets, golf courses and town squares in perfectly clean, pristine condition instead of letting it turn into a dirty, polluted, littered city like most of the others around the country.

I like your definition of real people much more than the author's implication that "real people" were found in places other than The Villages.

[Guest]

IloveTV and Richie are both right on the money with their posts. Scott Maxwell's column was insulting to Villagers and I believe Villagers should write to the Orlando Sentinel demanding an apology as to what Maxwell has us portrayed.

[Guest]

I was at the Square also. (Not for the event--was shopping) I also thought it curious that some of the people with card board posts were removed to the outside of the square while others were let into the square.

Page 2 of today's Daily Sun shows photos of Villagers at the event carrying signs in support of the governor. Were they allowed in the area from which others were removed?

If attendees carrying signs in support of the governor were allowed into an area, and those carrying signs or wearing tee-shirts in opposition to the governor were not allowed into the same area, then I would see something wrong with the picture.

[Guest]

Page 2 of today's Daily Sun shows photos of Villagers at the event carrying signs in support of the governor. Were they allowed in the area from which others were removed?

If attendees carrying signs in support of the governor were allowed into an area, and those carrying signs or wearing tee-shirts in opposition to the governor were not allowed into the same area, then I would see something wrong with the picture.

Wouldn't you have to be privy to the security protocols to know?

[Guest]

Wouldn't you have to be privy to the security protocols to know?

You must be kidding,"security protocols"! The removal of "protestors" had nothing to do with security.

I was there, people who had on tee shirts that said "vote Democratic" were removed from their seats and out of view of cameras and Rick Scott.

After the rally Scott mingled among the crowds and you could get right next to him with minimal effort. So there was no real security concerns apparent after the photo ops created by the signing.

There were quite a few empty seats and Scott personnel were constantly trying to get the seats filled by those of us who were standing around the perimeter of the seating area by making us aware of the empty seats.

The Daily Sun had front page information the event was "open to the public". Then the sheriffs said it was a private event the the square was "leased". They removed those who the Republican sponsors didn't want to be seen.

I guess for our next Villages block party we'll declare it a private event and have the sheriffs department out to remove non block residents from the party since they now apparently do this as a general service to the public at large.

Be sure to watch the Daily Sun for the correction stating they misinformed readers the event was "open to the public"!

[Guest]

I believe the writer is referring to Gov. Scott's visit to TV to sign the State Budget. As a retired Law Enforcement Official one of my responsibilities when planning the security for a VIP political visit was providing a designated protest zone for anyone wishing to express their opinion at a public event.

It is proper and customary to designate an area for protestors. It allows anyone wishing to express their political opinion to do so without disrupting the ceremony. It also provides a safety buffer for everyone in attendance. This is done at all political conventions, campaign speeches, etc.

TV residents should be honored to have been chosen as the location for the budget signing. The Governor recognized TV residents as seriously engaged in Florida politics. I am proud to be a Village resident and endorse how the protestors were handled yesterday during the signing ceremony.

Another vote for The Daily Sun online?
JJ

[Guest]

Florida law does not allow for recall of the governor.

[Guest]

In the United States of America you are not allowed to attend the singing of a budget that is paid for with your tax money because it is being held on "private property"that is being paid for with your amenity funds which you have no choice but to pay because your politics differ with the head of your state government?This is very scary.I never thought I would ever see this happen in a place I thought was so wonderful.I don't think I will ever again proudly say I live in the Villages

What !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Guest]

You must be kidding,"security protocols"! The removal of "protestors" had nothing to do with security.

I was there, people who had on tee shirts that said "vote Democratic" were removed from their seats and out of view of cameras and Rick Scott.

After the rally Scott mingled among the crowds and you could get right next to him with minimal effort. So there was no real security concerns apparent after the photo ops created by the signing.

There were quite a few empty seats and Scott personnel were constantly trying to get the seats filled by those of us who were standing around the perimeter of the seating area by making us aware of the empty seats.

The Daily Sun had front page information the event was "open to the public". Then the sheriffs said it was a private event the the square was "leased". They removed those who the Republican sponsors didn't want to be seen.

I guess for our next Villages block party we'll declare it a private event and have the sheriffs department out to remove non block residents from the party since they now apparently do this as a general service to the public at large.

Be sure to watch the Daily Sun for the correction stating they misinformed readers the event was "open to the public"!

Ohhh, so you did talk to the law enforcement detail assigned to secure the area? What did they tell you their security instructions were?

You could be seen. You just wanted your photo-op and you wanted to disrupt the event.

Could you stand in the pavilion area and thrust your protest signs in the Governor's face and yell slogans to disrupt this event? No, and that's what your "outrage" is about.

Your block party is actually on a public street, so you analogy is fatally flawed.

[Guest]

The representatives of the Villages Democratic Club were first approached by The Scott security Team. Very Intimidating group. They asked us to leave.

We politely refused ( all we were doing was siting in chairs ect. We did have signs but has nor displayed them).The security team called for the Sheriffs dept and the group about 20 were escorted away from the area. about three blocks by 4 sheriffs. There were other groups there also who were asked to leave.

On the way out I and two other folks did seat ourselves. We were again approached by the security team, and then by one of the sheriffs. The sheriff asked us to leave. My Response along with two women, was, two ways we are leaving.

We Walk away on our own or you will have to arrest us and lead us away. Told the sheriff we were not walking away on our own. He must have been a democrat because all he said was to not to be disruptive. Which we had no plans of doing. All the press was there, all filmed the incident with the democratic group and another group being escorted away.

They bused in two busloads of middle school kids from the charter school. The tea

party folks and their Teachers distributed signs to the students to display when Scott signed the budget. I saw this type of tactic on the history or military channel.


In addition Something very interesting and disturbing. There was no doubt that this signing was arranged by "The Tea Party" The Chairman of the Republican Party was there, as was Alan Hays, and Representative Marleene O'Toole.

[Guest]

Kind of reminds me of the time I showed up at the University of Florida Swamp for their spring game with my son n law all decked out in my UGA Red n Black! Wrong place and wrong time. Had to excuse myself before those Gators caused a....well, decided to wait till Jacksonville! Right place, right time! Ha, maybe this is the year!

[Guest]

what are the Repubs so afraid of? However the real scary part is the actions concerning the middle school kids. Give them signs? Put them in the audience? What is that all about? Should not be allowed ever for anyone. Leave the kids alone!

[Guest]

Ohhh, so you did talk to the law enforcement detail assigned to secure the area? What did they tell you their security instructions were?

You could be seen. You just wanted your photo-op and you wanted to disrupt the event.

Could you stand in the pavilion area and thrust your protest signs in the Governor's face and yell slogans to disrupt this event? No, and that's what your "outrage" is about.

Your block party is actually on a public street, so you analogy is fatally flawed.

Sorry Richie, I didn't have a sign or protest tee shirt. Didn't yell anything or get in any photos. Stood on the square for the entire time and never asked to leave. Just stating my observations.

Nice of you to jump to your own biased unfounded erroneous conclusions.

[Guest]

:confused:...I am speechless! This thread has me shocked at the conversation between Villagers in America's Friendliest HomeTown! Not to mention the opinion of TV that is possibly held by the rest of the state (as seen in the Orlando Sentinel article)...Interesting

[Guest]

KatzPajamas and others -

In order to know what went on here with Rick Scott signing his budget at The Villages - you actually have to be here. If you read the slanderous column in the Orlando Sentinel, you will think that The Villages is filled with greedy old people who do not give a hoot about kids or education. Nothing is further from the truth. Most of our civic groups volunteer a lot of time and donate a boatload of money to schools, youth organizations and functions, food banks, etc.

Secondly, any protesters were asked to move about 100 feet across the street from the town square. It was not far. They could still see and hear just fine.

I do not know if you are seasonal residents, potential Villagers, or just interested in this forum - but to be fully informed - you have to see something firsthand in order to draw the proper conclusion.

_______________________
Richie,
Please read the PM I sent to you.

[Guest]

Excuse Me! Isn't the Florida State Budget a public document made up of public expenses paid for by our tax dollars. Doesn't that budget belong to us? It doesn't belong to Governor Scott. It's not his private document to sign on "leased" property. It's not his toy to turn into a political hay-maker.

How dangerous a precedent is it to begin holding such signings in a private environment where opposition can be suppressed under the pretense that it's "leased land." Who leased the land? Who paid for it. Where did those dollars come from. They're not tax dollars, so they must have come from some political party, even the Governor himself.

It stinks.

Oh, and by the way. I'm a lifelong Conservative Republican. I ran for office as a Republican and ran national campaigns for Republican candidates.

JLK

[Guest]

What kind of message would it send about The Villages to the rest of Florida or the country if protesters were in the Governor's face at a signing ceremony all yelling? Most signing ceremonies are held in private anyhow.

Some are just upset because they were asked to go across the street with their signs. A ceremony is not a place for protesting.

No, Talk Host, you are wrong. Have you ever been to Lake Sumter Landing to see what the area is like? It is an open town square with plenty of seating for those who want to enjoy music or a ceremony. Across the street is about a 100 foot distance.

Feel free to discuss the matter when you have seen what the situation actually involved.

[Guest]

In order to know what went on here with Rick Scott signing his budget at The Villages - you actually have to be here. If you read the slanderous column in the Orlando Sentinel, you will think that The Villages is filled with greedy old people who do not give a hoot about kids or education. Nothing is further from the truth. Most of our civic groups volunteer a lot of time and donate a boatload of money to schools, youth organizations and functions, food banks, etc.

Secondly, any protesters were asked to move about 100 feet across the street from the town square. It was not far. They could still see and hear just fine.

I do not know if you are seasonal residents, potential Villagers, or just interested in this forum - but to be fully informed - you have to see something firsthand in order to draw the proper conclusion.

As a seasonal resident exiled to Canada, I much appreciate the clarification of the Orlando Sentinel article. Thanks Tbugs and Richie.

[Guest]

Sorry Richie, I didn't have a sign or protest tee shirt. Didn't yell anything or get in any photos. Stood on the square for the entire time and never asked to leave. Just stating my observations.

Nice of you to jump to your own biased unfounded erroneous conclusions.

I just answered in a way I thought effective. Of course I have no knowledge if you were in the square or even in Florida, for that matter. It was just a simpler way of responding to your post. Just figure, I was talking to whoever was there doing as I described and you supported.

[Guest]

What kind of message would it send about The Villages to the rest of Florida or the country if protesters were in the Governor's face at a signing ceremony all yelling? Most signing ceremonies are held in private anyhow.

Some are just upset because they were asked to go across the street with their signs. A ceremony is not a place for protesting.

No, Talk Host, you are wrong. Have you ever been to Lake Sumter Landing to see what the area is like? It is an open town square with plenty of seating for those who want to enjoy music or a ceremony. Across the street is about a 100 foot distance.

Feel free to discuss the matter when you have seen what the situation actually involved.

I am fully aware of what Lake Sumter Landing looks like. I suspect I was there before you were.

If the governor can't stand the heat of protesters, he shouldn't be in politics. Signings are truly "usually" held in private, but not on private property in order to exclude opposition. He deliberately picked "The Villages' knowing that he could suppress any opposition.

Are you telling me that you personally witnessed protesters "in the governors face all yelling?'' I doubt that happened, but you are to be commended for putting your false spin on it to bolster your otherwise hollow position.

Sounds to me just like the way it was in the former Soviet Union or China today. "Round up the protesters."

Oh, and what would the rest of the country think? They would think "hey, that's The United States of America."

[Guest]

Are you telling me that you personally witnessed protesters "in the governors face all yelling?'' I doubt that happened, but you are to be commended for putting your false spin on it to bolster your otherwise hollow position.

Sounds to me just like the way it was in the former Soviet Union or China today. "Round up the protesters."

TBugs never said anything resembling what you made up here. He has been objective and polite throughout this discussion. You, on the other hand, are being anything but objective, polite and honest.

You refer to his 'spin' when he offered none and then compared the situation here in the Villages to that in the former Soviet Union or China today. If you actually feel this is the truth, you should protest by moving somewhere that meets your criteria.

[Guest]

I am fully aware of what Lake Sumter Landing looks like. I suspect I was there before you were.

If the governor can't stand the heat of protesters, he shouldn't be in politics. Signings are truly "usually" held in private, but not on private property in order to exclude opposition. He deliberately picked "The Villages' knowing that he could suppress any opposition.

Are you telling me that you personally witnessed protesters "in the governors face all yelling?'' I doubt that happened, but you are to be commended for putting your false spin on it to bolster your otherwise hollow position.

Sounds to me just like the way it was in the former Soviet Union or China today. "Round up the protesters."

There's can be little doubt that when the Governor arrived and the cameras were rolling that the seated protesters would have begun their protest activity and caused a disruption. Do you think other public figures would have done things differently? Do you think that when Democrats, like the Clinton's or the Reid's or the Pelosi's have a public event they don't clear out the opposition from the front of the gathering?

[Guest]

There's can be little doubt that when the Governor arrived and the cameras were rolling that the seated protesters would have begun their protest activity and caused a disruption.

I personally can't predict the future. But I would guess being able to do so does help one fashion his political position.

[Guest]

I personally can't predict the future. But I would guess being able to do so does help one fashion his political position.

I've been to more than a couple of political gatherings and haven't yet seen people with signs trying to be inconspicuous. They're normally chanting or something and trying to be seen and heard. It's de rigueur.

[Guest]

I have both BBQMan and Richie defending what I posted? What a major turn of events to say the very least. Well, guys, at least we know what happens at any political event unlike Talk Host or Nittak. Like Richie said, even the liberals (Clinton, etc) would not allow protesters up close during some sort of ceremony.

Talk Host does not sound like he has been to The Villages even though he says he is familiar with it. How can anyone object to being politely asked to move across the street about 100 feet away? The Villages sounds like Russia or China? Sorry, Talk Host, but you are wrong.

[Guest]

I have both BBQMan and Richie defending what I posted? What a major turn of events to say the very least. Well, guys, at least we know what happens at any political event unlike Talk Host or Nittak. Like Richie said, even the liberals (Clinton, etc) would not allow protesters up close during some sort of ceremony.

Talk Host does not sound like he has been to The Villages even though he says he is familiar with it. How can anyone object to being politely asked to move across the street about 100 feet away? The Villages sounds like Russia or China? Sorry, Talk Host, but maybe you should double up on the lithium prescription.:girlneener:

To further underscore that you don't know what you are talking about, I moved to The Villages in 2003. The Villages of Glennbrook was a dirt field at that time.

Having run for office myself and running campaigns for other Republicans at the national level, it would have been very difficult for me to have never been at a political rally.

Rather than trying to berate me, why not try to bolster your own position with well thought out material.

[Guest]

In the United States of America you are not allowed to attend the singing of a budget that is paid for with your tax money because it is being held on "private property"that is being paid for with your amenity funds which you have no choice but to pay because your politics differ with the head of your state government?This is very scary.I never thought I would ever see this happen in a place I thought was so wonderful.I don't think I will ever again proudly say I live in the VillagesAww geez, chill a little. Why get so upset now? We just went through a Presidential election when only one political party was permitted to rent office space within The Villages; only candidates from one party were permitted to speak in The Villages; and the political coverage of political issues were embarrassingly one-sided in The Villages Daily Sun.

Having said all that, there's way too many good things about living here that permits one to not get too excited about a simple budget bill signing ceremony.
Read todays edition of the Orlando SentinelDo you mean the same Orlando Sentinel that is consistently negative about almost anything that happens in The Villages?

[Guest]

Not to argue with you, Talk Host, but my home in Glenbrook was built in
2002. That would have been pretty hard to do if Glenbrook Village was a dirt field in 2003. Maybe you just have your dates mixed up.

[Guest]

Maybe Democrats condemning the procedures at this event in TV should question this, linked below. Seems to be the same thing from what I can see.

www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_11726570

[Guest]

Maybe Democrats condemning the procedures at this event in TV should question this, linked below. Seems to be the same thing from what I can see.

www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_11726570

I looked all through this story and I couldn't see where it said the president "leased" private property for this signing. I think it said it was at a museum. Did I miss something?

[Guest]

Not to argue with you, Talk Host, but my home in Glenbrook was built in
2002. That would have been pretty hard to do if Glenbrook Village was a dirt field in 2003. Maybe you just have your dates mixed up.

I made a mistake.

[Guest]

Well my life is enhanced. I have a uy in the white House and a guy in the Governor's mansion neither of whom I like or voted for and who continue to hog sound waves at every opportunity. Its enough to make me yearn to be a trappist monk.

[Guest]

Well my life is enhanced. I have a uy in the white House and a guy in the Governor's mansion neither of whom I like or voted for and who continue to hog sound waves at every opportunity. Its enough to make me yearn to be a trappist monk.

Do trappist monks take a vow of silence? Go for it!!! :doh:

[Guest]

There are a few of (us) that should try that vow of silence more than what we do.

[Guest]

Well, guys, at least we know what happens at any political event unlike Talk Host or Nittak.

I never posted on this thread - and if you are going to talk about me, get my name right!

[Guest]

There are a few of (us) that should try that vow of silence more than what we do.

Agree totally.

[Guest]

Gosh, Nitakk, sorry that I spelled your name wrong. Got it close, though.

However as to you not posting to this thread - another post that was on the same subject and was actually moved from General Discussion to Political Discussion - you did post and it went something like:

"According to the latest Quinnipiac poll, Scott's approval rating is down to only 29% so I guess he decided to come to about the only place in Florida that still likes him. He couldn't have just signed that piece of crap in his office and saved we taxpayers a bit of that precious money? The only reason to move the people who protested was because of the news coverage of the event - we can't have any dissention in TV, can we?"

Once again, I have to say, if you were not there in person to actually see what went on firsthand, believe those who were there. Do not rely on a piece of tripe written by a biased columnist or from an upset protester who got moved 100 feet away.

[Guest]

KatzPajamas and others -

In order to know what went on here with Rick Scott signing his budget at The Villages - you actually have to be here. If you read the slanderous column in the Orlando Sentinel, you will think that The Villages is filled with greedy old people who do not give a hoot about kids or education. Nothing is further from the truth. Most of our civic groups volunteer a lot of time and donate a boatload of money to schools, youth organizations and functions, food banks, etc.

Secondly, any protesters were asked to move about 100 feet across the street from the town square. It was not far. They could still see and hear just fine.

I do not know if you are seasonal residents, potential Villagers, or just interested in this forum - but to be fully informed - you have to see something firsthand in order to draw the proper conclusion.

_______________________
Richie,
Please read the PM I sent to you.


Richie, Thanks! Took me awhile to find this thread again. We are not residents, but are visiting in the fall to decide if The Villages will become our new home. We have been researching and learning as much about the place as possible in the last year, and what you say about the generosity towards youth, schools, etc, sounds more like the place and people that we have surmised The Villages and Villagers to be.
I am old enough to know how the media can portray things quite differently than they truly are. So to even ask the question...duh, what was i thinking. Maybe I should change my name to PollyAnna?!?
btw-did you leave me a private message? If so, it did not show up.
Thanks again.