11:00 A.M. Sumter Square

[Midge538]

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[Graytop]

Looks about normal,....are you trying to tick us off? :icon_wink:

[Barefoot]

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The Nervy Ribbon People have struck again! As they do at every special event.

[sandybill2]

My husband was over there around 9:30 a.m. ----he noticed two golf carts in Parking Spots on street where the Japanese Steakhouse is---they were parked apart with a rope between them----can you believe they were saving parking spaces!!!!!

[KathieI]

Who are these crazy people who are so rude?? I remember 3 or 4 years ago, we saved a table from 7:30am and someone had to be at that table the whole time or else the "event police", LOL, would come by and give up the table. What ever happened to the "friendliest hometown"???? absurd. I, for one, will not even go near the squares until my usual late hour, prob 11pm, hahahahaha... :pray:

[Posh 08]

In cruise vernacular...... Chair Hogs. :yuck:

[Bogie Shooter]

Good topic for the resident survey.

[RichieB]

Stuff like this really sets me off, and I'm not even a Villages resident !!

[Graytop]

Isn't there a squirt gun posse I've read about on here somewhere? Gracie? :throwtomatoes:

[BmoreGal]

You would think that when people get to a certain age, they would acquire, wisdon, grace, and manners....

The pictures would say otherwise.....

I guess, 8, 18, 80... somethings just never change with age.....

[RichieB]

There are (many) people who think that they are better than the rest of us, just as there are those who feel that "the rules" do not apply to them.

[gmcneill]

Good topic for the resident survey.

That behavior is inexcusably rude.

I agree wi you bogie: a resident survey topic suggestion.

What do you think...

For any event that is open to the public and for which no admission fee is charged, it is strictly prohibited for any individual or group to reserve or save in any manner a seat of any type; and/or any table; and/or any floor, open ground, or parking area more than one hour before the announced start of the event.

[Posh 08]

That behavior is inexcusably rude.

I agree wi you bogie: a resident survey topic suggestion.

What do you think...

For any event that is open to the public and for which no admission fee is charged, it is strictly prohibited for any individual or group to reserve or save in any manner a seat of any type; and/or any table; and/or any floor, open ground, or parking area more than one hour before the announced start of the event.

:coolsmiley:

[JoeC1947]

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Thank you Midge for posting this. It's time that we took back our town square. I would be honored to be part of a ribbon cutting task force should someone like to start it. Scissors in hand we would cut those ribbons as fast as they put them up. This is out of control and keeps rule abiding citizens like me away from the squares on days like this. What say ye? Should we do it????

[Number 6]

True defination of "entitlement mentality".

[jblum315]

Wow! I would just like to drop a big glob of SuperGlue in each one of those "reserved" seats. Or thumbtacks.

[jblum315]

Or SuperGlue AND thumbtacks

[RichieB]

Or SuperGlue AND thumbtacks

hee hee :clap2:

That's a thought. Would have to be white thumb tacks, though.......:)

[Mudder]

I love the super glue idea. Also if I had seen those pictures earlier today I know I would have been very tempted to take scissors in hand or at the very least I would have just sat in one of the chairs. Unbelievably rude.
I was at MVP this afternoon about 4 PM, all was very civil in Spanish Springs, yes, there were chairs saved, but not that many. There were lots of people's own chairs set up, that's not quite as bad I guess.

[Halle]

That behavior is inexcusably rude.

I agree wi you bogie: a resident survey topic suggestion.

What do you think...

For any event that is open to the public and for which no admission fee is charged, it is strictly prohibited for any individual or group to reserve or save in any manner a seat of any type; and/or any table; and/or any floor, open ground, or parking area more than one hour before the announced start of the event.

:BigApplause:

I'm putting this on the comment section of the survey with one small change I don't believe you should be able to reserve seats or parking anytime.

[Midge538]

if I had seen those pictures earlier today I know I would have been very tempted to take scissors in hand or at the very least I would have just sat in one of the chairs.

M

Each of these sections was 'guarded' by someone .. and they did not have a friendly "St. Pat's Day" demeanor. I just happened to be in the Landing this morning .. and was not interested in the parade or entertainment but I was struck by what seemed like such selfish and boorish behavior. Out of curiosity, I then lightly approached each 'roped section' as if I was going to sit (aka: invade) and each time the guard started toward me. None of us needs confrontation, so I would hope that a fair policy could be implemented for those who wish to enjoy the music and activities in the squares by ???? 'whomever.'

M

[KEVIN & JOSIE]

Reminds me of the good old saving the parking space during a snow storm in Balmer hon. :D

[mgjim]

I'm one of the new guys here and don't know anything about this issue. Is this a chronic problem or just during special events? And, can you bring your own lawn chairs?

[Carla B]

It's going in my survey and my husband's also, if I have any influence over his answers:mad:

[Posh 08]

I'm one of the new guys here and don't know anything about this issue. Is this a chronic problem or just during special events? And, can you bring your own lawn chairs?

I don't live in TV yet so I'm a little afraid to answer since there has been criticism lately but here goes. My only sources are TOTV and a friend that lives in Lady Lake. There have been many comments on TOTV about folks hogging chairs at the Squares. This is during regular nites and special events. My LL friend says that it happens all the time.

[wendyquat]

As long as its allowed I guess it's going to go on! The way we handle it is just stay at home! No fun but much less stress!

[Sandy222]

How do these special people get to do this? All these events are for enjoyment ,with all these rude actions and a few drinks its just brewing for trouble.

[momesu]

Super glue and thumb tacks the thought is intriguing, but I wouldn't want to bring myself down to their boorish level. Friends and I got to LSL around noon, had an enjoyable lunch outside at Johnny Rockets and then went and set up our chairs near the beginning of the parade route by Tuscan Spa. Sat in the shade for 3 hours chatting and having a good time. Didn't feel the need to be near the square itself. Not only saw the parade, but were able to get out of town very easily as we were parked on canal in front of Tea Plantation. It was a fun day in a relaxed location. I did walk down to square several times and decided it was to crowded for me and the lines for drinks were so long I just came home and poured one for free......it would have been nice to stay and hear the music, but I have 360 other evenings to do that, that are not special event evenings.....

Suzanne

[skip0358]

Neighbor and I got there at 5:15 this AM to reserve our spots. Before you asked we stayed there all day until about 8:15 this evening. well let me tell you we took our 2 tables for our group the 2nd and 3rd in front of Panerra Bread. Before we had all our stuff out the first table in front of Panerra had been taken away completly and moved to th far end past the sales center chairs from that table were gone ane another 15 - 20 were taken to the same area as the 1st table and then they roped the whole section off:swear::icon_twisted:. There was nobody there from TV Staff yet so it was a free for all.People were running in piling chairs on top of tables ,putting ropes through chairs etc. and just leaving. By about 6AM the place was pretty much roped off. Well this Staff person comes flying down the road in the B&W truck slams on the brakes and starts yelling that the road is closed u can't do this or that. I said a little 2 late pal the damage is done. Well where's this table and the chairs moved I said well they can't do that .Well maybe you should have had your ass down here at 5 AM to watch what was going on. What a punch of pigs today. Something really has to be done. If you want a table somebody should have to stay as we did or tough s---,on you. The rules should be posted and enforced. if there's no reserving then be there at 5 and enforce it period. Just my opinion:boxing2:

[gatherer47]

Went to Lake Sumter at noon.Found a spot in front of City Fire and the wife and I sat.Had a good time chatting.There were several chairs in front of us and a clearly defined front row with most chairs occupied.No problems.Finally four o'clock rolls around and the festivities begin.Well guess what happens!About half these "front row " people with no one in front of them,stand up.And they stay up.Mind you,no one is blocking their view but they continue to stand through the whole parade.No matter how many "down in front" yells made,these rude people continued to stand.What would make a person who got there so early to place their chair in front,stand up to watch something right in front of them.MIND BOGGLING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Pturner]

It's going on my survey to suggest that "no chair saving" signs be posted. Will also suggest that Community Watch remove ribbons and articles left on chairs to save them. An notice can be posted in the Weekly activity news stating this policy as well and explaining where removed personal articles can be picked up.

[ssmith]

I wonder if the density of the population is having an impact....seems to affect the driving....the next square is not build yet. Wonder if it will get better with the next square. Wonder if the powers that be will take the issue on....I know it is not a deal breaker for most but still seems to put a damper on the enjoyment of the place.

[tainsley]

After our first experience with Mardi Gras we brought our own fold up table and each of us brought a chair and we sat over on the grassy area next to the tent on Lake Sumter. It was a beautiful day!

[Carla B]

You were wise to bring your own equipment. The problems seem to occur at restaurants, at events, at Rocky and the Rollers, etc., when TV'ers (think they must) travel in packs. Instead of having tables set up perhaps "standing room only" makes more sense.

[Bogie Shooter]

I wonder if the density of the population is having an impact....seems to affect the driving....the next square is not build yet. Wonder if it will get better with the next square. Wonder if the powers that be will take the issue on....I know it is not a deal breaker for most but still seems to put a damper on the enjoyment of the place.

It was like this before LSL was built.

[Bogie Shooter]

Neighbor and I got there at 5:15 this AM to reserve our spots. Before you asked we stayed there all day until about 8:15 this evening. well let me tell you we took our 2 tables for our group the 2nd and 3rd in front of Panerra Bread. Before we had all our stuff out the first table in front of Panerra had been taken away completly and moved to th far end past the sales center chairs from that table were gone ane another 15 - 20 were taken to the same area as the 1st table and then they roped the whole section off:swear::icon_twisted:. There was nobody there from TV Staff yet so it was a free for all.People were running in piling chairs on top of tables ,putting ropes through chairs etc. and just leaving. By about 6AM the place was pretty much roped off. Well this Staff person comes flying down the road in the B&W truck slams on the brakes and starts yelling that the road is closed u can't do this or that. I said a little 2 late pal the damage is done. Well where's this table and the chairs moved I said well they can't do that .Well maybe you should have had your ass down here at 5 AM to watch what was going on. What a punch of pigs today. Something really has to be done. If you want a table somebody should have to stay as we did or tough s---,on you. The rules should be posted and enforced. if there's no reserving then be there at 5 and enforce it period. Just my opinion:boxing2:

Oh, I see its the fault of the Event Staff.

[Villageshooter]

I have found when you start taking a pictures of bullies they tend to wilt or back down.. If they give you a hassle about just setting down, I just say.. Maybe we should call 911 and see what a cop has to say about chairs on public property and who has the rights to use them if those chairs are provided by TV? I don't ever go looking for a confrontation, but some nice pictures of one of these knuckleheads posted on a web site tends resolve the issue. This is dealing with men, as far as dealing with women, well sometimes you don't kick a lying dog!

[Midge538]

Oh, I see its the fault of the Event Staff.

I think the question comes down to just 'who actually has the authority to either allow or prevent these behaviors.'

[JoeC1947]

Neighbor and I got there at 5:15 this AM to reserve our spots. Before you asked we stayed there all day until about 8:15 this evening. well let me tell you we took our 2 tables for our group the 2nd and 3rd in front of Panerra Bread. Before we had all our stuff out the first table in front of Panerra had been taken away completly and moved to th far end past the sales center chairs from that table were gone ane another 15 - 20 were taken to the same area as the 1st table and then they roped the whole section off:swear::icon_twisted:. There was nobody there from TV Staff yet so it was a free for all.People were running in piling chairs on top of tables ,putting ropes through chairs etc. and just leaving. By about 6AM the place was pretty much roped off. Well this Staff person comes flying down the road in the B&W truck slams on the brakes and starts yelling that the road is closed u can't do this or that. I said a little 2 late pal the damage is done. Well where's this table and the chairs moved I said well they can't do that .Well maybe you should have had your ass down here at 5 AM to watch what was going on. What a punch of pigs today. Something really has to be done. If you want a table somebody should have to stay as we did or tough s---,on you. The rules should be posted and enforced. if there's no reserving then be there at 5 and enforce it period. Just my opinion:boxing2:

Well, you know what they say about opinions. It sounds like you're the classic example.

[rustyp]

I'm one of the new guys here and don't know anything about this issue. Is this a chronic problem or just during special events? And, can you bring your own lawn chairs?
Happens every night in Spanish Springs in front of the music mixing booth and the church side of the square. Pay attention and sometimes the band will acknowledge what a great job the "chair guy" is doing to give up his time every afternoon to come down and set up the chairs. Oh yea some of those chairs get the cushion treatment during his act of charity.

[graciegirl]

I think the question comes down to just 'who actually has the authority to either allow or prevent these behaviors.'

You are right. It is a power thing, a selfish thing if people KNOW that it mightily offends others. I think a lot of folks think it is "just how it's done" here. If they posted signs then people would KNOW it shouldn't be done. I wonder if it would stop SOME people from hogging seats.

Is it an issue that can't be enforced? I think "The Villages" whoever the committee is, the event staff a or whoever makes those decisions, doesn't want to have to have confrontations with bullies either. I don't think they want to "take it on" and make it really a messy thing to handle. This is supposed to be America's friendliest home town and I think it is up to the individual to KNOW somehow that it is selfish and wrong to save seats.

And so those of us who do not like it will stay away. Winning through intmidation will be the order of the day. I just don't see a fix that is doable. If we have been taught to think of others and run our lives that way...it will still serve us well and we will be winners in the end....somehow. It is just wrong to hog. In MY opinion anyway. It would ruin it for me to make a scene. The enjoyment of the parade would be gone.

So Skip, you were going to sit in those seats all day from five in the morning until time for the parade? Or did I misunderstand?:wave:

[jblum315]

I have lived in TV full time since Oct. '09. I haven't gone to any of the special events since the first month I was here, because of the seat-hogging and general confrontational atmosphere. Sometimes I would like to go, but it's not worth it. Even standing is unpleasant, people push in front of you or sort of push you out of their way. I have never seen anything like it, anywhere I've ever been.
Friendly - Schmiendly. NOT friendly.

[jojo]

It's been suggested before but I think we should note it on the survey. I think posted signs would discourage this seat saving habit. We went to the square at 3:30 and watched the parade. Of course we were standing but we had a good time.

[2 Oldcrabs]

"If the chair saving continues we may just stop shopping & eating in the square area". The merchants pay for the entertainment. Put that in your survey if you want to get results.

[Challenger]

I also dislike the idea of "long term" seat saving and other rude behavior that is apparent in the squares, however, this is not only restricted TV. It happens many places depending on the tradition of the area and the acceptance of the behavior as acceptable. In some other venues different traditions and expectations prevail. In most cases people will respond to what they perceive to be acceptable behavior.

I believe that a process to educate TV residents as to what the accepted behavior should be and some enforcement procedures, could change most of the selfish behavior and return the "squares" to their former friendly reputation.

Newspaper articles, signs and the intervention of a few " marshalls" similar to the process used on golf courses who could remind people of the rules might help with the process.

[skip0358]

Oh, I see its the fault of the Event Staff.

Possibly. If it's NOT allowed and event staff persons know it,and your going to enforce it for some people and not all because you don't want a confrontation. Then have signs posted by the poweres to be so everyone knows and it can and should be enforced on everyon at that point.

[bargee]

If these rude"entitled people" are allowed to continue this practice I fear the provided chairs will go the way of the Buffalo.

[memason]

Well, I'm gonna go against the grain here and say that it isn't rude to save these seats or chairs. It's the way it's done in TV...for whatever reason, it has been accepted behavior for years. Personally, I don't engage in the practice of saving seats, but I have friends and neighbors who do. However, they stay with their reserved seats/tables all day.

What can the event staff do? Here's a tip...

Yesterday, I was at LSL, where my some of my neighbors had been saving a table and chairs since 5:00am. When I was there, the sun was starting to hit their spot and it was getting very hot. One of them owns a fold-up tent, like they use in the squares for market night. I asked him why he didn't just throw up the tent until parade time to get out of the sun. They told me the "staff" does not allow you to have any umbrella's or tents. They laughed at my suggestion, as if I'd just hopped off the turnip truck.. :1rotfl: So, there is some control exercised by the staff.

OK...here's the best part. I texted my friend about 6:00pm and asked him how the celebration was going at the square. He texted back, "We're at Cane, waiting for a table. If you've seen one parade, you've seen 'em all."

You gotta love it . . .

[Midge538]

I believe that a process to educate TV residents as to what the accepted behavior should be ....


It is my opinion that it was 'other than Village residents' that had reserved sections for seating.

[Posh 08]

Maybe the prime seating should be "sold" by the Fire Dept, Boy Scouts etc. A donation for a seat.

[rhredd1654]

It is my opinion that it was 'other than Village residents' that had reserved sections for seating.

I guess I don't understand why all these events are "open to the public". I very seldom go to the squares at night because of the crowding and rudeness of some of the people. Besides, you can't carry on a conversation with all the "hot rodding" going on. Am I in the minority, or should us Villagers take back our Squares?:spoken:

[aln]

I see it as a 2 sided arguement and both points are valid.

On one hand "I" want to see the parade with my friends. "I" will get there early to get us a table.

On the OTHER hand "I" want to see the parade but when "I" got there there was no tables because "I" was late.

And if you put it in the survey all that you'll accomplish is getting the elimination of the parade and even extras.

[Dirigo]

Maybe the prime seating should be "sold" by the Fire Dept, Boy Scouts etc. A donation for a seat.

Or perhaps seats and tables could be awarded using a lottery system. That way, folks who really want to have a spot at the squares could potentially buy a "place" from someone who won a "place" via the lottery system.

The cost of administering the lottery and policing seat assignments at events would be paid for by the lottery entry fee.

No confrontation, no hard feelings, everybody wins!

[NotGolfer]

I see this thread is very long and "I" haven't read all of the comments though the majority as in league with my thoughts. I totally agree this is horrible!!
When we first came here to live we wanted to experience the squares, the fun etc. The very first Christmas 3 years ago---for the tree lighting was the first and last for me (us). We got there around 5 and of course it was crowded and ALL the "good" chairs were taken. We were 'fortunate' to find a couple behind the gazebo but of course couldn't see alot of the activity. My memory is that it wasn't all that enjoyable with shoulder to shoulder folks---then there was the traffic jam of getting there (parking) and home again. We tend to avoid the squares now for most any reason much less the special events.

We happened to be traveling from the area of 441 (cartride/errands) down to the area near Colony late in the afternoon yesterday and my word the crowds just vying to park by Sweet Bay etc was incredible. I wonder if anyone who wanted to shop there could find a spot at that time???

I do think that something needs to be done about the "saving spots"!! What happened to the let's be fair mentality??

[George Bieniaszek]

I like the ideas of some previous posters who suggested that the tables and a number of chairs per table be acquired with a donation to a non-profit charity as a fund raiser for them. That way, the fights and arguments over the tables would be diminished.

I don't understand why TV needs to put out these tables in the first place. The additional costs by staff to set up the tables and chairs, then collect all of them scattered all over town square must cost some money.

If you want to come down to the town square and celebrate, why not bring your own tail-gating tables, chairs, etc. and stake out your area.

Better yet, have everyone interested in staking out a place meet one block away with all their equipment and a TV Official blow a whistle at a predetermined time and watch everyone sprint down the street like an 1800's land rush to grab their piece of heaven!! :icon_wink:

[Posh 08]

I like the ideas of some previous posters who suggested that the tables and a number of chairs per table be acquired with a donation to a non-profit charity as a fund raiser for them. That way, the fights and arguments over the tables would be diminished.

I don't understand why TV needs to put out these tables in the first place. The additional costs by staff to set up the tables and chairs, then collect all of them scattered all over town square must cost some money.

If you want to come down to the town square and celebrate, why not bring your own tail-gating tables, chairs, etc. and stake out your area.

Better yet, have everyone interested in staking out a place meet one block away with all their equipment and a TV Official blow a whistle at a predetermined time and watch everyone sprint down the street like an 1800's land rush to grab their piece of heaven!! :icon_wink:

The thought of seniors racing for their spots was too much. Coffee off keyboard cleaning to commence.

[momesu]

Maybe the prime seating should be "sold" by the Fire Dept, Boy Scouts etc. A donation for a seat.

Oh I like that..:thumbup:..there are many charities that could benifit from this.....I can just hear the screams of protest to this already......

Suzanne

[momesu]

It is my opinion that it was 'other than Village residents' that had reserved sections for seating.

Nope I don't think so.....not from what I saw anyway. They were mainly neighborhood groups or club members that banded together.

Suzanne

[momesu]

I like the ideas of some previous posters who suggested that the tables and a number of chairs per table be acquired with a donation to a non-profit charity as a fund raiser for them. That way, the fights and arguments over the tables would be diminished.

I don't understand why TV needs to put out these tables in the first place. The additional costs by staff to set up the tables and chairs, then collect all of them scattered all over town square must cost some money.

If you want to come down to the town square and celebrate, why not bring your own tail-gating tables, chairs, etc. and stake out your area.

Better yet, have everyone interested in staking out a place meet one block away with all their equipment and a TV Official blow a whistle at a predetermined time and watch everyone sprint down the street like an 1800's land rush to grab their piece of heaven!! :icon_wink:

:1rotfl: then again maybe :crap2: Which ever CERT couldn't be in parade they would be needed to pick up all the pieces........

Suzanne

[Skybo]

I think if you want to claim/save a chair, then your butt needs to be in it. If you want to claim/save 6 chairs, then you need all six butts sitting in them. Let your whole party sit there all day long if the location is that important to you. But roping off a whole row of chairs or staking claim to an entire table, and then posting a “guard” is ridiculous. Anyone who thinks this is acceptable behavior is completely self-centered. It should be first butt-in-the-chair gets the chair.

[Midge538]

Maybe whomever has the authority could set a fair policy:

"The Village's Entertainment group wants all residents to have the same opportunity to enjoy great seats for our events. Therefore we have established a policy that there will be 'no saving of seats' for our events in any of the squares. There will be no reserving, taping, or roping off of sections or rows or individual seats prior to any event. This policy will apply to all residents, business owners, performers, our media partners, our staff, and our volunteers. No one will have early access privileges. All seating will be done on a first-come, first-serve basis. The only exception to this policy will be for those passengers who are confined to a wheel chair."

[George Bieniaszek]

The issues related to chair saving need to be included in the 2012 Survey! If TV receives enough comments from residents, then an official police will be enacted and signs at the squares should be installed.

[nitehawk]

There is more ways to skin a cat - if someone in front of me kept standing up when he or she has a seat - there would be a puddle of beer on their seat when the did sit down - sorry i spilled my beer did notice it fell on you seat.

[captg]

:rant-rave: At LSL yesterday, 4 seats directly in front of the stage had chair covers on them, no butts, shortly after 6 a gal walked over and removed them. Other seats scattered among the crowd were also SAVED but no butts were in them. :(

[George Bieniaszek]

There is more ways to skin a cat - if someone in front of me kept standing up when he or she has a seat - there would be a puddle of beer on their seat when the did sit down - sorry i spilled my beer did notice it fell on you seat.

Nitehawk you rascal!! I love how you think!! :ho:Let me know where you will be sitting next time and I will sit next to you. I can also accidentally spill my beer on the seat of the person standing next to the one in front of you!! :1rotfl:

[Single Track]

I think I've been on cruises with these people. They're the ones who take about 3 or 4 towels for each chaise that they are "saving" and come back after the rest of their pack has gotton out of bed and have gone to breakfast. So for several hours chairs are there but not for you. I don't think posted signs would have any effect on their ignorant behavior because signs are posted everywhere on a ship that chair saving is not permitted. You are forgetting that rules don't apply to these special folks.

Since it seems that there are more of us than them, why not form a posse armed with scissors to cut the ribbons and sit in the chairs. The "chair hogger" would not be able to rouse a half dozen of us from the chairs and their ribbon would be useless when we got up to free the next group of saved chairs. It would send a loud and clear message that we all have the right to participate and we're not going to take it anymore.

I'm not even there yet and I find it so annoying that even in T.V., the nice people who respect everyone and know how to behave finish last.

[Posh 08]

There is more ways to skin a cat - if someone in front of me kept standing up when he or she has a seat - there would be a puddle of beer on their seat when the did sit down - sorry i spilled my beer did notice it fell on you seat.

You might be a redneck if..............

[gcrisp]

Seat saving is obviosly a sore subject. I see this behavior a lot other areas: driving, even shopping and restaurants. My Mom had a saying about these behaviors--AFTER ME YOU COME FIRST!!! Annelle

[rustyp]

Maybe the prime seating should be "sold" by the Fire Dept, Boy Scouts etc. A donation for a seat.
Oh -sounds like a "chairity"

[buggyone]

...and the posters here who say they would superglue thumbtacks on chairs (that would ruin chairs for future use and we pay for them with amenity fees), spill beer on chairs, cut ribbons, and other acts of childish vandalism are worse than those who got down to the entertainment area early in the morning and took positive action to assure they would have a seat.

There are no "bullies" that would physically do anything to you if you moved into one of their areas. They may grump at you but so what?

Next time, I suggest instead of sleeping until 11 am that you get yourself down to the entertainment area and set up your own chairs for you and a few friends.

[BritParrothead]

You should try getting a seat/sunlounger in any Spanish hotel pool area..
Impossible, unless you get to the pool at about 2 am.

[njbchbum]

perhaps event tables should be stenciled with: 'warning: unoccupied tables/chairs cannot be reserved without the presence of some member[s] attending the event. reserved tables/chairs not so occupied will be dismantled.'

[paulandjean]

What is the big deal. If I see the seats are not being used,I just move the stuff. I have been doing this for years. I just make sure it is not somebody walking over and talking to someone and have just left their chairs. If anyone questions me,I say no saving seats this is not the 4th grade.We do not need signs.

[jblum315]

You should try getting a seat/sunlounger in any Spanish hotel pool area..
Impossible, unless you get to the pool at about 2 am.

Maybe so. But I don't spend a lot of time in Spanish hotels. I live here and I pay for the amenities.

[blueash]

Oh -sounds like a "chairity"

Brilliant, just brilliant. Love a good pun:mademyday:

[Posh 08]

Brilliant, just brilliant. Love a good pun:mademyday:

Great catch. Went way over my green beer addled head. Lol

[JoeC1947]

...and the posters here who say they would superglue thumbtacks on chairs (that would ruin chairs for future use and we pay for them with amenity fees), spill beer on chairs, cut ribbons, and other acts of childish vandalism are worse than those who got down to the entertainment area early in the morning and took positive action to assure they would have a seat.

There are no "bullies" that would physically do anything to you if you moved into one of their areas. They may grump at you but so what?

Next time, I suggest instead of sleeping until 11 am that you get yourself down to the entertainment area and set up your own chairs for you and a few friends.

Yep, people say "I would do this or I would do that" and they wouldn't do squat! (Pun intended) Cut the ropes and take a seat. No one will beat you up!

[uujudy]

Oh -sounds like a "chairity"

Hahahah! Good one! :1rotfl:

[Happinow]

This type of behavior is not unique to TV. For the reasons of..... way too many people in one spot, saving of chairs and tables, trying to get home in a timely manner, pushy people and the me, myself and I mentality, my husband and I don't attend many festivities. We grew tired of this early on as it happens all the time where I live. in TV you are mostly dealing with seniors which may or may not be easier. Where I currently live we are dealing with people of all ages which I actually think is worse. The "kids" would rather tell you "where to go" than to let you have a spot to see a parade. I think if people attend these large events they need to be mentally prepared. They are a lot of fun, but also a lot of aggravation. We tend to go to the beat of our own drum.

[handyman]

Just what I was thinking,Make it 5.00,sell tags there are many worthwhile charities,at least that would put a stop to those who like to SAVE 2&3 seats in different areas.....

[bestmickey]

I think if you want to claim/save a chair, then your butt needs to be in it. If you want to claim/save 6 chairs, then you need all six butts sitting in them. Let your whole party sit there all day long if the location is that important to you. But roping off a whole row of chairs or staking claim to an entire table, and then posting a “guard” is ridiculous. Anyone who thinks this is acceptable behavior is completely self-centered. It should be first butt-in-the-chair gets the chair.

I fully agree Skybo!

Here are my thoughts/suggestions, for what they're worth. I'm sorry it's so wordy. And, if you don't like my suggestions, PLEASE create your own proactive suggestions. After all, it's your community. Criticism is easy. An acceptable approach to resolving the problem(s) is what's needed.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Squares have gotten so overcrowded, tables should NO longer be allowed or offered on the Squares. To provide more seating for the increased crowds, since there will be no more tables, there will be plenty of extra room for extra chairs to be lined up in rows. If you want to bring your own food or drinks, fine. However, whatever you bring will sit under your chair or on your lap.

As an aside, lack of tables may also result in a decrease of drunks at the squares since there will likely be fewer bottles of spirits in the areas.

Roping off of sections of chairs and placing of items to "hold" sections of chairs will NO longer be tolerated. This will be posted on-site and noted in every Recreation News, and in/on every Weekly/Daily Entertainment Schedule.

It will also be posted AND noted in these listings that standing will NO LONGER be tolerated, UNLESS you are in the LAST ROW of chairs.

The lack of tables should also allow the drink kiosk owners (don't know what their official name is) to sell more product, thereby providing them extra income. With this extra income, there should be an increase in the permit fee they are charged to run these kiosks. The extra income generated from these permit fees should be strictly directed to support hired staff to help enforce these rules. IF it's the developer who pockets the money from these drink kiosks, then a permit fee isn't charged. Well, since the developer would then be the one making more money, the anticipated increased profit should still go towards enforcement staff.

To cut down on the temptation of saving chairs, perhaps the line-up of chairs should not be allowed until three hours prior to the scheduled event. (???)

IF you agree with these recommendations, you may want to cut/paste/print these ideas and attach them to your resident survey when submitted.

One last suggestion, in case the developer won't allow or won't enforce these suggestions (or other proactive suggestions you may have). Cut/paste/print the suggestions and en masse, hand them out to shop/restaurant owners on the Squares. Since it's they who reportedly fund the entertainment, inform the owners/managers of these establishments that you will stop visting the Squares and their establishments IF something isn't done to make the Squares/events more appealing and comfortable for you.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Good luck folks! I'm sure there are many who won't like any of these suggestions. Well, where are your suggestions to resolve the problem? I'm only in TV one or two months a year. I don't even like or go to the parades ... and don't much care for Rocky & The Rollers period of music ... so I don't even run into the problem. You who have the problem should help resolve the issue.

[Bogie Shooter]

bestmickey
Sorry, but I cannot find fault with your proposal. Good Work!

[bestmickey]

bestmickey
Sorry, but I cannot find fault with your proposal. Good Work!


Don't be sorry Bogie! I'm honored. :bigbow:

[paulandjean]

Or we can have a check in station,Heres you chair ,now you can go.

[macgolfnut]

I'm sorry for those of you that don't think this is a friendly place. I have been here for 3 years and I find that 95% of the people that I meet are very friendly. There are always some bad apples in the bunch and some of the most angry people seem to use TOTV to vent their anger. My feeling is that the powers that be are trying to offer a lot of opportunities for people to enjoy the holidays and other special events. As The Villages have grown, and especially this time of year, there are going to be times when some of these events are very crowded. I would agree that it is bad to save seats in the squares around the bandstand. When it comes to the parade, I'm not sure there is a better way to accommodate the people who want to enjoy the parade with their friends. I was part of a group that got to LSL at 5:45 to reserve a table and had someone at the table throughout the day. We saw tables where people got there early to reserve the table and then left and didn't return until right before the parade. This is definitely wrong and the event officials should open up those tables that are not attended. Perhaps a solution would be to do away with the tables and just leave those spaces open to everyone. However, you are never going to stop people from saving spaces. Go to your hometown 4th of July parade, or, if you've ever gone on a cruise, a seat by the pool.

Come on. Lighten up, people. If you don't want to fight crowds, don't go to the parade or the squares this time of year. I thoroughly enjoyed the parade and the day with some good friends.

[JoeC1947]

I fully agree Skybo!

Here are my thoughts/suggestions, for what they're worth. I'm sorry it's so wordy. And, if you don't like my suggestions, PLEASE create your own proactive suggestions. After all, it's your community. Criticism is easy. An acceptable approach to resolving the problem(s) is what's needed.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Squares have gotten so overcrowded, tables should NO longer be allowed or offered on the Squares. To provide more seating for the increased crowds, since there will be no more tables, there will be plenty of extra room for extra chairs to be lined up in rows. If you want to bring your own food or drinks, fine. However, whatever you bring will sit under your chair or on your lap.


As an aside, lack of tables may also result in a decrease of drunks at the squares since there will likely be fewer bottles of spirits in the areas.

Roping off of sections of chairs and placing of items to "hold" sections of chairs will NO longer be tolerated. This will be posted on-site and noted in every Recreation News, and in/on every Weekly/Daily Entertainment Schedule.

It will also be posted AND noted in these listings that standing will NO LONGER be tolerated, UNLESS you are in the LAST ROW of chairs.

The lack of tables should also allow the drink kiosk owners (don't know what their official name is) to sell more product, thereby providing them extra income. With this extra income, there should be an increase in the permit fee they are charged to run these kiosks. The extra income generated from these permit fees should be strictly directed to support hired staff to help enforce these rules. IF it's the developer who pockets the money from these drink kiosks, then a permit fee isn't charged. Well, since the developer would then be the one making more money, the anticipated increased profit should still go towards enforcement staff.

To cut down on the temptation of saving chairs, perhaps the line-up of chairs should not be allowed until three hours prior to the scheduled event. (???)

IF you agree with these recommendations, you may want to cut/paste/print these ideas and attach them to your resident survey when submitted.

One last suggestion, in case the developer won't allow or won't enforce these suggestions (or other proactive suggestions you may have). Cut/paste/print the suggestions and en masse, hand them out to shop/restaurant owners on the Squares. Since it's they who reportedly fund the entertainment, inform the owners/managers of these establishments that you will stop visting the Squares and their establishments IF something isn't done to make the Squares/events more appealing and comfortable for you.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Good luck folks! I'm sure there are many who won't like any of these suggestions. Well, where are your suggestions to resolve the problem? I'm only in TV one or two months a year. I don't even like or go to the parades ... and don't much care for Rocky & The Rollers period of music ... so I don't even run into the problem. You who have the problem should help resolve the issue.

Best solution so far Mickey! I'm in!:BigApplause:

[gerryann]

I'm sorry for those of you that don't think this is a friendly place.

I don't believe that anyone feels this way. We all know that this is a friendly place. We simply do not like the "saving situation" that is going on.

[hedoman]

Good topic for the resident survey.

Absolutely!

Was in SS at 8:30 and the Event Staff said folks started setting up at 7 am when HE got there AMAZING!

Thread is full of good ideas, except for thumbtacks and glue, just take the chair if it is not being used. Many outsiders come to use the squares too as we have met some great folks only to find they don't live in TV. That's all fine. All I can do is wait another month and then all will be well as we never have a problem finding a seat im May, June July......

Let'slet'em know in the survey!!!!!

[getdul981]

I thoroughly agree that chairs and/or tables should not be saved. We all need to make this point on our suirveys. Also, why not everyone bring your own chair. That way there would not be a need for the setting up and taking down of the chairs every day at both squares. There could be marked off sections where you could put your chair and sit and watch the entertainment. Also, the candle lighting at Christmas needs to be eliminated. Last Christmas, my wife nearly had her hair catch on fire by someone staggering around with a lighted candle in one hand and a drink in the other.

[nitehawk]

...and the posters here who say they would superglue thumbtacks on chairs (that would ruin chairs for future use and we pay for them with amenity fees), spill beer on chairs, cut ribbons, and other acts of childish vandalism are worse than those who got down to the entertainment area early in the morning and took positive action to assure they would have a seat.

There are no "bullies" that would physically do anything to you if you moved into one of their areas. They may grump at you but so what?

Next time, I suggest instead of sleeping until 11 am that you get yourself down to the entertainment area and set up your own chairs for you and a few friends.

thank you - i now know where you stand and it gives me a incite to you personality. you get up at 5am and set up you chars for you and your friends and i come at 3pm and claim you spot - the early bird does not always get the worm. you play by your rules i play by mine thank you