Friendliest Town, until

[D&Lsunfun]

Yes, The Villages is the Friendlest Town, until
residents go to the town squares.
The "saving and holding" of chairs, picnic tables, benches, parking spaces
is really a turn off to join in the squares activites. Many people are holding chairs for guests that never arrive. One person held a whole picnic table for over an hour for her 6 to 8 guests that never arrived, but she sat alone at the table telling people the table was reserved. yes, we could bring our own chairs, but certainly there is enough chairs if they weren't reserved and empty.

[buggyone]

Don't let that worry you. On some of the busy entertainment days that does happen especially in the in season. Smile, take another chair, or bring one of your own. Lots of these are from places like New York and have not adapted to our friendly sharing ways. Just smile, have a sit down if you want, no one is going to get physical with you.

[jimbo2012]

Lots of these are from places like New York and have not adapted to our friendly sharing ways.

New York, can't believe you said that chilout

[senior citizen]

...

[Tom Hannon]

Don't let that worry you. On some of the busy entertainment days that does happen especially in the in season. Smile, take another chair, or bring one of your own. Lots of these are from places like New York and have not adapted to our friendly sharing ways. Just smile, have a sit down if you want, no one is going to get physical with you.

Not sure how you have the nerve to stereotype New Yorkers as the rude ones. Your comment is not taken lightly and I'm sure there are many other New Yorkers who feel the same as I do.

[mgm4444]

New York, can't believe you said that chilout

Jim, Tom -

I'm on this forum a long time. I call these comments "bait and tackle" - someone takes the bait and they tackle them. They know exactly what they're writing. They sit back and watch all the action they started. It's not worth the effort.

IMHO: They're just cranky because they forgot to take their daily enema.

- A New Yorker. Wanna' make something of it? hahahaha

[senior citizen]

...

[senior citizen]

...

[Gerald]

Your complaint makes me laugh. If you want to sit down and you have to have the seat that someone is saving. Just go over and sit in it. No one is allowed to save seats for any one except, where people are dancing and the seats are not being used while they dance. I find that those who complain the most are the ones who cause most of the problems. Also the stereo typing of people shows that you are hateful of those that do not follow your way of thinking. The villages is about everyone being able to enjoy life not just those that live in your limited point of views.

[Moderator]

The topic is seat saving.

Let's try to stay away from general stereotyping and personal attacks.

Thanks for your cooperation.

[buggyone]

Just a little joke with my New Yorker friends here. Don't take it personally, please.

Anyhow, for the real popular entertainment such as Cinco de Mayo, Rocky & The Rollers, and Norman Lee, you have to get to the town squares early and get your plastic chairs. Put them where you want and stay in them. You will see some chairs roped together. Most people respect that but there is no rule either way.

As for parking, there are no saved parking spaces since all the streets are public streets. Only time parking spaces are blocked off are for special events like vendor night or the cruise-ins.

Most nights, you can get to the town squares at 4:45, find plenty of chairs, sit down, have a couple of drinks, go have dinner and just another wonderful evening in The Villages.

[KathieI]

Don't let that worry you. On some of the busy entertainment days that does happen especially in the in season. Smile, take another chair, or bring one of your own. Lots of these are from places like New York and have not adapted to our friendly sharing ways. Just smile, have a sit down if you want, no one is going to get physical with you.

Not even funny.... http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/brodkavelarg.gif (http://www.millan.net)

Thanks Moderator... Let's keep stuff like this off this forum...
http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/grouphugg.gif (http://www.millan.net)

[buggyone]

Kathy -

Just a little joke with my New Yorker friends here. Don't take it personally, please

Really, what part of "little joke" and "don't take it personally, please" was not understandable?

[2newyorkers]

We were at SL last night. My friend and I went up to the bar to get a drink. Someone came over and stated that we told them that they could have our chairs because we no longer needed them. They picked up the chairs and started to walk away. One of our group called on our cell and asked if this is true. When we said no they went and got our chairs back. People can be very crafty!

[jimbo2012]

you have an option - stand up!

[buggyone]

We were at SL last night. My friend and I went up to the bar to get a drink. Someone came over and stated that we told them that they could have our chairs because we no longer needed them. They picked up the chairs and started to walk away. One of our group called on our cell and asked if this is true. When we said no they went and got our chairs back. People can be very crafty!

Wow, I have never heard of such a thing as that! Anyhow, last evening was the Cinco De Mayo celebration and a larger crowd than usual in the off season. In the off season, there usually isn't a problem getting a chair for the entertainment.

I went to the "CD Release Celebration" of a new singer named Garrett Miles on Friday night. Lake Sumter Landing did not even have 1/4 of it's capacity. The singer had a very good voice but no stage presence at all. He is blind but still needs to work on on stage presence if he wants to make it as a country singer.

[bluedog103]

Wow, I have never heard of such a thing as that! Anyhow, last evening was the Cinco De Mayo celebration and a larger crowd than usual in the off season. In the off season, there usually isn't a problem getting a chair for the entertainment.

I went to the "CD Release Celebration" of a new singer named Garrett Miles on Friday night. Lake Sumter Landing did not even have 1/4 of it's capacity. The singer had a very good voice but no stage presence at all. He is blind but still needs to work on on stage presence if he wants to make it as a country singer.
I take it this was your first CD Release party.

[asianthree]

I like my chair it has a cup holder and a little tray for a snack. Fits in the bag holder no problems

[manaboutown]

Yes, The Villages is the Friendlest Town, until
residents go to the town squares.
The "saving and holding" of chairs, picnic tables, benches, parking spaces
is really a turn off to join in the squares activites. Many people are holding chairs for guests that never arrive. One person held a whole picnic table for over an hour for her 6 to 8 guests that never arrived, but she sat alone at the table telling people the table was reserved. yes, we could bring our own chairs, but certainly there is enough chairs if they weren't reserved and empty.

Back in October of 2011 while spending the month in TV I experienced the same thing at SL. Three women were sitting together on one side of a large round table having 8 - 10 chairs around it. I asked if any seat was avaialble at the table. They obnoxiously said NO so I moved on. During the course of the evening no one else sat at the table. I know because I sat on the veranda at Panera right behind it. The same sort of thing happens on cruise ships. It is very low class behavior. It is like these people have chips on their shoulders.

[hockyb]

Not sure how you have the nerve to stereotype New Yorkers as the rude ones. Your comment is not taken lightly and I'm sure there are many other New Yorkers who feel the same as I do.
Ditto!

[bluedog103]

Back in October of 2011 while spending the month in TV I experienced the same thing at SL. Three women were sitting together on one side of a large round table having 8 - 10 chairs around it. I asked if any seat was avaialble at the table. They obnoxiously said NO so I moved on. During the course of the evening no one else sat at the table. I know because I sat on the veranda at Panera right behind it. The same sort of thing happens on cruise ships. It is very low class behavior. It is like these people have chips on their shoulders.
On cruise ships people spread towels on poolside chairs early in the day. I find a chair I want and routinely toss the towel in the bin for used towels. Never had a problem. The same thing in the squares. I help myself to these reserved chairs. Nice of these folks to save me a seat!

[jdsl1998]

In normal situations, the saving of 1 seat is always appropriate, because of bathroom and concession stand trips. The proper method is to leave an article on the seat directly in question and you yourself remain seated adjacent to it. In such situations when 2 seats must be saved by 1 person, the proper seating is this: Empty Seat - You - Empty Seat. If you can, place articles on the seat designating them as taken. Do not try to outflank the rest of goers by having two seats on the same side of you being taken. When your friends come back, you can switch to whatever seat you prefer.
Pardon me sir, but not in my America! Those who wish to sit together should arrive together. And if you have a ridiculous number of people, arrive as early as needed to secure your seats.I beg of you, arrive early if you wish to sit together en masse. Save yourself the trouble and embarrassment of being the last defender of the Alamo.

Don't feel bad when you arrive by yourself or with just 1 friend. The other members of your entourage are to blame! They are the ones who are late and they shall pay the price. Take responsibility for yourselves and show up on time!

If I show up on time and there is one man attempting to cordon off a seating area the size of New Jersey, beware! I shall take the seats from you and be in the right as me and my punctual friends settle in for a fine evening experience.

In summation, my good chums arrive early and as a cohesive unit. Be proud of your friendships and your uncanny ability to navigate lines and traffic to arrive 25 minutes before the show. But if you find yourself stuck behind enemy lines, cut off from your friends who are struggling to find a spot, be courteous, be polite, and follow the rules. One seat on either side of you is your limit. Protect the center seats by manning your perimeter. Never try to take more than you can hold and don't launch a land war! But that's just me and I've just reached my Boiling Point on seat savers.

[senior citizen]

...

[graciegirl]

In normal situations, the saving of 1 seat is always appropriate, because of bathroom and concession stand trips. The proper method is to leave an article on the seat directly in question and you yourself remain seated adjacent to it. In such situations when 2 seats must be saved by 1 person, the proper seating is this: Empty Seat - You - Empty Seat. If you can, place articles on the seat designating them as taken. Do not try to outflank the rest of goers by having two seats on the same side of you being taken. When your friends come back, you can switch to whatever seat you prefer.
Pardon me sir, but not in my America! Those who wish to sit together should arrive together. And if you have a ridiculous number of people, arrive as early as needed to secure your seats.I beg of you, arrive early if you wish to sit together en masse. Save yourself the trouble and embarrassment of being the last defender of the Alamo.

Don't feel bad when you arrive by yourself or with just 1 friend. The other members of your entourage are to blame! They are the ones who are late and they shall pay the price. Take responsibility for yourselves and show up on time!

If I show up on time and there is one man attempting to cordon off a seating area the size of New Jersey, beware! I shall take the seats from you and be in the right as me and my punctual friends settle in for a fine evening experience.

In summation, my good chums arrive early and as a cohesive unit. Be proud of your friendships and your uncanny ability to navigate lines and traffic to arrive 25 minutes before the show. But if you find yourself stuck behind enemy lines, cut off from your friends who are struggling to find a spot, be courteous, be polite, and follow the rules. One seat on either side of you is your limit. Protect the center seats by manning your perimeter. Never try to take more than you can hold and don't launch a land war! But that's just me and I've just reached my Boiling Point on seat savers.


Well said.

I see you are from Wilmington, Ohio.

[JoeC1947]

In normal situations, the saving of 1 seat is always appropriate, because of bathroom and concession stand trips. The proper method is to leave an article on the seat directly in question and you yourself remain seated adjacent to it. In such situations when 2 seats must be saved by 1 person, the proper seating is this: Empty Seat - You - Empty Seat. If you can, place articles on the seat designating them as taken. Do not try to outflank the rest of goers by having two seats on the same side of you being taken. When your friends come back, you can switch to whatever seat you prefer.
Pardon me sir, but not in my America! Those who wish to sit together should arrive together. And if you have a ridiculous number of people, arrive as early as needed to secure your seats.I beg of you, arrive early if you wish to sit together en masse. Save yourself the trouble and embarrassment of being the last defender of the Alamo.

Don't feel bad when you arrive by yourself or with just 1 friend. The other members of your entourage are to blame! They are the ones who are late and they shall pay the price. Take responsibility for yourselves and show up on time!

If I show up on time and there is one man attempting to cordon off a seating area the size of New Jersey, beware! I shall take the seats from you and be in the right as me and my punctual friends settle in for a fine evening experience.

In summation, my good chums arrive early and as a cohesive unit. Be proud of your friendships and your uncanny ability to navigate lines and traffic to arrive 25 minutes before the show. But if you find yourself stuck behind enemy lines, cut off from your friends who are struggling to find a spot, be courteous, be polite, and follow the rules. One seat on either side of you is your limit. Protect the center seats by manning your perimeter. Never try to take more than you can hold and don't launch a land war! But that's just me and I've just reached my Boiling Point on seat savers.

This is complicated:confused: I'll have to print it out and bring it with me the next time I go to the square. I thought retirement was supposed to be easier.:cry:

[LABSX2]

We have a Lifestyle Preview scheduled for September and I WAS looking forward to going to the evening Town Square activities, but if it is that much of a battle maybe I'll just skip that "fun" time. Sorry, but this sure doesn't shed a very good light on the hospitality that everyone is always boosting about. :undecided:

[graciegirl]

We have a Lifestyle Preview scheduled for September and I WAS looking forward to going to the evening Town Square activities, but if it is that much of a battle maybe I'll just skip that "fun" time. Sorry, but this sure doesn't shed a very good light on the hospitality that everyone is always boosting about. :undecided:


You are right. You will see for yourself it is mostly no problem at all. It is at HUGE events; parades, tree lighting, St. Pats day, Octoberfest etc where you see this stuff. I am so disgusted with it, I don't go to the big things anymore.

Please come and see how lovely it is here and the music plays at the squares all nights of the year but one.

[senior citizen]

...

[graciegirl]

My husband checked the day after we arrived, etc., etc. and he kept saying that there were no chairs. We ended up skipping the town square entertainment totally but enjoyed everything else.

After the 4 day Lifestyle Visit in Creekside Landing, we moved to another village that was not close to either town square......and again, didn't feel we missed anything. Figured it will always be there in the future.

We felt very much at home in the one month rental and since the main purpose was to see if we could live in the homes......that decision was a no brainer for us. Not to mention, we were blessed with a week long visit by our youngest grandbaby.......so everything then revolved around her naptime, feeding time, etc.

TV has a lot of other great things going for it that we didn't feel any sense of loss.

I wouldn't be surprised if LONG TIME RESIDENTS never even go to the town square evening entertainment. Probably their visitors enjoy it very much as well as out of the village area residents. Obviously, there will always be those who live to dance that indeed will go every night. Maybe try a "slower night". Again after him saying there were no chairs at all, we just figured it wasn't that important to us.

Gracie: Side question. Do you go to the town square entertainment every evening?

Every ordinary day there are tons of chairs senior.

We rarely go now that we have friends with whom we spend evenings doing other things. I can't converse with the music in the foreground because of these damn expensive "hearers". So I prefer to enjoy conversation in a quieter venue...and I don't drink. Used to..never could get the hang of it. It made me think I was smarter than I am.

[Tom Hannon]

The chair issue should be resolved. Perhaps each person entering the square should pick a number and sit at the designated chairs. These seats are reserved until the people leave...and then they hand the tickets back in for another person or group of people to take them if the night is still early enough.

[hotrodgirl]

I was there in October for just one night on my way down "south" and wandered over to the town square for the entertainment. My friend and I took our two little dogs, and though it was busy, we found seats easily around the perimeter. We chose to sit there as we had the pups. Many came and spoke to us, pet the dogs, asked us to dance. it was fun and friendly! There are 5 of us arriving next Sunday for the LSV and I am excited to stay for a week! I am sure you will find it friendly and likeable!

[kathy and al]

We have a Lifestyle Preview scheduled for September and I WAS looking forward to going to the evening Town Square activities, but if it is that much of a battle maybe I'll just skip that "fun" time. Sorry, but this sure doesn't shed a very good light on the hospitality that everyone is always boosting about. :undecided:
In the month of Sept. you will have your choice of front row seats at either square. If you are planning on seeing the entertainment in either square during Sept. then don't consider cancelling. You'll have no problem until we get to approx mid Dec.. At least that has been my observation for quite some time now.

[Finallyfree]

We came last year in September for our lifestyle visit, no problem with chairs at the square, great and friendly folks everywhere we went. Definitely keep your visit. Now that we are here to stay, we will plan on bring our folding chairs if we go to the square at those times when it will be extra active; own chair, no problem with anyone taking it. Come on down, you will love it.:-)

[senior citizen]

...

[zonerboy]

As I recall, every nite just after 9pm when the entertainment stops, there are people who gather up the community chairs, stack them, and move them to the periphery.
Why not use a light chain to fasten the stacks together so they cannot be moved. Then unlock them 30 minutes before a scheduled event.
Wouldn't that stop those who come way early and "save" large bunches of chairs?

[LABSX2]

No, I wouldn't cancel my Preview because of this issue, but I would avoid the Town Square if I thought there would be "chair war" going on. This is also my vacation, so I don't need that kind of stress :eek:. We are very excited about coming. We are very seriously considering TV as the next chapter in our lives and hope that it is everything we are dreaming of it to be.

[Tom Hannon]

As I recall, every nite just after 9pm when the entertainment stops, there are people who gather up the community chairs, stack them, and move them to the periphery.
Why not use a light chain to fasten the stacks together so they cannot be moved. Then unlock them 30 minutes before a scheduled event.
Wouldn't that stop those who come way early and "save" large bunches of chairs?

Great idea. People can take the chairs as they need them but not until a half hour before show.

[aljetmet]

The chair issue should be resolved. Perhaps each person entering the square should pick a number and sit at the designated chairs. These seats are reserved until the people leave...and then they hand the tickets back in for another person or group of people to take them if the night is still early enough.

Unfortunately this could not work.

1 > There are probably 8 different ways to get into each sqauare. Who is going to pay for all those ticket distributers for this?

2> People come and go quite frequently throught the night which would add to the confusion

3> You need to manage where to sit people who bring thier own chairs. (We have two chairs that would be perfect). I guess this would be the least of the problem.

When we were on our LSV a few weeks ago we witnessed the reserving of the chairs early in the morning and I just chuckled. We didn't go that eveing and as it turns out we went to the square just one evening for entertainment.

[kathy and al]

No, I wouldn't cancel my Preview because of this issue, but I would avoid the Town Square if I thought there would be "chair war" going on. This is also my vacation, so I don't need that kind of stress :eek:. We are very excited about coming. We are very seriously considering TV as the next chapter in our lives and hope that it is everything we are dreaming of it to be.
LABSX2- I didn't mean to cancel your trip to the Villages. I mean't - don't consider cancelling your intentions of going to the Squares during your visit in Sept. Sorry for the confusion.

[paulandjean]

Please leave everything the way it has been. Really this is not a problem. If you do not see a chair walk around you will find one. If this is a problem with yourself,get there early.

[gatherer47]

I agree with Paulandjean-Just leave things the way they are-Yes it gets annoying to see this chair saving but deal with it-either get there early,take your own chair or do the same thing yourself.Life is too short-Enjoy paradise,we're coming back tomorrow for two weeks and then for good June20-can't wait

[justjim]

Not to worry. After a year or two you will rarely go to the square anyway!

[mac9]

I use one of two solutions to the chair problem. If I see a lot of empty chairs that seem to be "saved," and there are no others available, I just sit in one of them. If someone has the audacity to tell me that they are all saved, I just answer them in French. If they understand me, then I tell them that I will move when the "friend" arrives. If they don't understand me, I just smile and continue sitting. Has worked every time for me. Of course, the comments that some people make in English are hysterical, but if they are particularly rude, I will tell them so in English when I am ready to leave!
Non-confrontational Mac9.

[ilovetv]

No, I wouldn't cancel my Preview because of this issue, but I would avoid the Town Square if I thought there would be "chair war" going on. This is also my vacation, so I don't need that kind of stress :eek:. We are very excited about coming. We are very seriously considering TV as the next chapter in our lives and hope that it is everything we are dreaming of it to be.

There's no "chair war". You walk around and see where there is a seat, and you take seats that are available. If none are available, you walk around the periphery and stand awhile or lean against one of the decks and eventually somebody will get up. And beyond that, you can always bring your own folding canvas chair.

There is no need to expect to sit for 4 hours in one place. The squares are made for strolling around and doing/seeing a variety of things, and nobody does that better than TV.....and such places are hard to come by in all other states.

The complaining here is really childish and selfish. The population here that posts on these threads represents MAYBE 2% of the whole TV population. Before coming I would disregard the threads that are purely complaints until I see for myself.

[RedChariot]

You are right. You will see for yourself it is mostly no problem at all. It is at HUGE events; parades, tree lighting, St. Pats day, Octoberfest etc where you see this stuff. I am so disgusted with it, I don't go to the big things anymore.

Please come and see how lovely it is here and the music plays at the squares all nights of the year but one.




Would these issues be avoided if the Town Squares were just for those that live in TV? Why are the local people from surrounding areas allowed there? The homeowners of TV pay for this entertainment, don't we? Have we paid for the maintainence of the town square also? Why isn't this entertainment just for us and our families? This isn't really a senior community is it. Don't kill the messenger for those who think this is paradise.

[paulandjean]

RedChariot,Lighten Up, The town squares are for everone, Without the "Townies", many of the stores would close up shop.We enjoy seeing the townies coming into the squares, you see some real interesting people. we love people watching.

[Ragman]

I'm pretty sure the entertainment and amenities are paid by the merchants of the respective squares, so the people who shop the stores pay the freight indirectly.

I agree with the one person-three chair approach. That seems reasonable.

We don't go to the squares often unless we have guests that want the full "Villages" experience.

:wave:

[jimbo2012]

Maybe we need to start NEW RULES like Bill Mahr

The Rules of Saving Seats

Rule #1 - Refusal
"Hey, man. Can you save me a seat?

The easiest way to not have to save a seat, is to say "no" when someone asks you.
You always have the power in that situation because you are the one that gets to make the decision.
If you are smart, you will not save seats in the first place.

Rule #2 - Appropriateness of Quantity

Realistically, one person can only save two seats: either the seat on the right and/or the left.
So, the basic rule of thumb is to have 1 person for every 3 seats with the seat saver obliged to sit in the middle seat.
Easy enough.

Rule #3 - Presence Indicators
"But it didn't look like anyone was sitting here."

A person should always be present around the seats being saved. But, your presence alone is not enough to save a seat. There has to be some object that gives the impression the seat is occupied but only vacant at that particular moment.
Common objects include:
-Purses
-Sweaters
-Coats
-Hats
Bottom Line: people have to know the seat is saved. Once another person sits in that seat, it is theirs. I would also like to reiterate that a person has to be present with the saved seats at all times. No laying down coats and then going to concession stand.

Rule #4 - Courtesy
"Hi, it's nice to meet you. Oh, and I need a seat saved."

Never ask someone you don't know to save seats for you. This includes asking them through mutual friends. If you're mature enough to get yourself to the square, you are mature enough to find your own seat.
Don't collectively pressure a group just because you know a person or you are late.

Rule #5 - Managing Groups

http://i3.squidoocdn.com/resize/squidoo_images/250/draft_lens2092755module10657715photo_1245441771gro up2.jpg

You need to arrive as a group. This way, everyone is there together (Obvious, I know). And if your early, people in the group will have time to follow the guidelines correctly.:bowdown:


Enjoy

.

[PaPaLarry]

UH OH!!!!!!! We might have to bring boxing gloves shortly to the Square!! Whats going to happen when Spanish Springs closes, and everyone comes to Sumpter??????? I think we need a boxing ring in the middle, to fight each other for chairs and the right to sit in them!!!!!!!! Just Kidd'n!! Don't forget gentlemen, to give your seat to a lady!!! hehehe Have a nice day:bowdown::BigApplause::thumbup::highfive::wave:

[rubicon]

Not to worry. After a year or two you will rarely go to the square anyway!

Kool response

[njbchbum]

the EASIEST way to eliminate saving chairs at the square is to NOT ASK A FRIEND TO SAVE ONE FOR YOU!

[Dayzee]

I like the idea of chaining the chairs until about 30 minutes before the scheduled event OR eliminate the chairs all together - Bring Your Own Chairs Only??????

[buggyone]

Now really, folks, how many times have you personally been terribly inconvenienced by not having a chair at either Lake Sumter Landing or Spanish Springs BECAUSE there were lots of chairs being saved for absent people?

When Rocky & The Rollers perform, most folks know to get their early around 4 pm. You will have a chair at that time. Get there at 5 through 7 and you will not because they are very popular. I often bring my own chair to Rocky & The Rollers and set up wherever there is a space. No problem.

Go when someone like Carol Ann is playing and there are 3/4 of the seats available anytime.

At Oktoberfest, Christmas Tree Lighting, and St. Patrick Day are probably the only time you will see lots of seats being saved. Get there early and do not wait until the actual time of the event.

One or two posters said that most Villagers do not go to the entertainment after the novelty wears off. I have been here 3 years and I love going to either square at least once a week and usually more. It is great fun.

The gripers who say they will sit wherever they want - even in a saved seat - are not what we moved to The Villages for. Smile, get along with people and go with the flow.

[Villageshooter]

I am trying to figure out a way to a put my own picnic table on my golf cart and bring it to the sqaure, or get a trailer, then anyone who wants to set down is free to do so, this of course will be in the non smoking area. I really try to make people free to enjoy the show. My wife says I am looking for a girlfriend... I always tell her> at her funeral i will have one eye on the casket, and one eye on the crowd picking out another!

[madrose]

I like Ragman's statement...."I agree with the one person-three chair approach.
I can understand someone saving a couple of chairs, but stacks of them are ridiculous.
I wonder why the announcer on town square doesn't say' it is against the Village rules to save chairs'. They announce that coolers are not allowed, and smoking is not allowed.....why not try and control the chair saving also. The majority of TV people are VERY nice, but a few are controlling and rude. Just sayin.........

[Barefoot]

Would these issues be avoided if the Town Squares were just for those that live in TV? Why are the local people from surrounding areas allowed there?

Local people from surrounding areas are "allowed" in the Town Squares because they keep the Squares financially viable. The Town Squares are NOT the property of the residents of The Villages. We don't own them or pay for them. TV isn't a gated community.

The store owners need the business. The movie theatre needs the business. The restaurants need the business. Many residents don't frequent the Squares on a regular basis. A lot of the vibrancy of the Squares comes from visitors and renters and local people from surrounding areas.

[Shirleevee]

Local people from surrounding areas are "allowed" in the Town Squares because they keep the Squares financially viable. The Town Squares are NOT the property of the residents of The Villages. We don't own them or pay for them. TV isn't a gated community.

The store owners need the business. The movie theatre needs the business. The restaurants need the business. Many residents don't frequent the Squares on a regular basis. A lot of the vibrancy of the Squares comes from visitors and renters and local people from surrounding areas.


Well said Barefoot! I agree!

[paulandjean]

Townies on the square was explained by me on any early post on page 4 I believe.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Townies on the square was explained by me on any early post on page 4 I believe.

Page numbering will differ depending on how many posts each user chooses to display per page. This can be modified via User CP/Settings and Options/Edit Options/Thread Display Options/Number of Posts to Show per Page.

Bill :)

[texasfal]

Actually, the squares are owned by the Community Development Districts. In Spanish Springs, its the VCDD and Lake Sumter is the SLCDD. The Villages has an agreement to "lease" the squares 365 days a year for $25.00 a day. The property surrouinding the squares is owned by The Villages Holding Company or The Villages Operating Company.

[buzzy]

Page numbering will differ depending on how many posts each user chooses to display per page. This can be modified via User CP/Settings and Options/Edit Options/Thread Display Options/Number of Posts to Show per Page.

Bill :)

Can't find that setting. Please tell me where in userCP. Thanks.

[George Bieniaszek]

I love all the excitement that the "saving chairs discussions" bring to these posts. While I do not condone saving more than 1 chair, I don't get my blood pressure boiling when I know there is going to be a greater than usual crowd at SS or LSL on the busy days like Market Night or when Scooter comes to entertain us.

I put 2 bag chairs into the back of my golf cart, pack a cooler with some tasty beverages and munchies, and my wife and I toodle down to the squares in our golf cart for some entertainment. Never a problem when you bring your own chairs. No walking around looking for available chairs, no confrontations, no heart palpitations or getting upset or stressed out. I left all that craziness and stress on my last day of work.

Come on Villagers!! We all know pretty quickly when the Squares are busier than usual, don't get frustrated or mad, make small adjustments, life is too short.

George Carlin once said "Don't sweat the petty things, and don't pet the sweaty things!!"

[buggyone]

I love all the excitement that the "saving chairs discussions" bring to these posts. While I do not condone saving more than 1 chair, I don't get my blood pressure boiling when I know there is going to be a greater than usual crowd at SS or LSL on the busy days like Market Night or when Scooter comes to entertain us.

I put 2 bag chairs into the back of my golf cart, pack a cooler with some tasty beverages and munchies, and my wife and I toodle down to the squares in our golf cart for some entertainment. Never a problem when you bring your own chairs. No walking around looking for available chairs, no confrontations, no heart palpitations or getting upset or stressed out. I left all that craziness and stress on my last day of work.

Come on Villagers!! We all know pretty quickly when the Squares are busier than usual, don't get frustrated or mad, make small adjustments, life is too short.

George Carlin once said "Don't sweat the petty things, and don't pet the sweaty things!!"

Great post and I concure (with the exception of Scooter the DJ). Everytime I hear that "McDonald's, KFC, and Pizza Hut" song it gets stuck in my head for a week.

The cloth chairs even have a cup holder for a can of tasty beverage!

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Page numbering will differ depending on how many posts each user chooses to display per page. This can be modified via User CP/Settings and Options/Edit Options/Thread Display Options/Number of Posts to Show per Page.

Bill :)

Can't find that setting. Please tell me where in userCP. Thanks.

buzzy, here's the route:

- Click on 'User CP'

- Under 'Settings and Options' at the left, click 'Edit Options'

- Scroll down til you see the 'Thread Display Options' box (center of the page). Within that section, you'll see the 'Number of Posts to Show Per Page' option. It'll show what your current setting is. Click on the 'down arrow' at the right of it and select a different number if you'd like to change it.

- Important last step if you modified your Number of Posts - scroll clear to the bottom of the Options and click 'Save Changes'.

Hope that helps!

Bill :)

[buzzy]

Dang it. I did not go far enough down that list. However, I may have at one point, since it was already set on 40, the max. Thanks again.

Note to admin, can you provide a larger option than 40? hehe

[ladila2]

Well, it goes to show you.....you can label anything, BUT, one's true colors always some through......the majority of Village people are retired and have sore feet....we're all looking for a place to sit.....especially in the shade.

[senior citizen]

...

[buggyone]

Glad to hear some honest folks who are truly senior citizens with sore feet and prefer the shade to the sun. How about varicose veins? Arthritis?
Sore joints? Bad backs?

Not the 40 something crowd or very early 50sh retirees. But pushing 70's.
And beyond.

I'll bet not too many want to hoof down to the squares when it's high humidity in the summer months.......only to find no seating.

Again, people who "fly in" do not have portable chairs. Maybe the TV owners should spend on some extra chairs ; that should please everyone, especially those who cannot walk far after having to park a long distance away....or those who are doing the lifestyle visit, again having flown in.

Very, very seldom are there no available chairs at either Lake Sumter Landing or Spanish Springs squares in the summer months. The residents in the summer know which groups are most popular and when to bring their own chairs in the golf cart. There is not such a thing as a "long distance" for parking in either location. Longest trek would be about 2 blocks.

[dillywho]

Very, very seldom are there no available chairs at either Lake Sumter Landing or Spanish Springs squares in the summer months. The residents in the summer know which groups are most popular and when to bring their own chairs in the golf cart. There is not such a thing as a "long distance" for parking in either location. Longest trek would be about 2 blocks.

Sorry, but many older and some younger retirees are not capable of walking over several hundred feet, never mind 2 blocks. Should these people just stay home and leave the squares with the entertainment to only the fit and able? Should they just stay home during the "peak" season? Should prospective buyers only come for a visit during the summer unless they are young and/or physically fit, driving in only so they can bring chairs? Should any visiting family/friends only come in the summer months?

Sorry, but rude is not seasonal and saving rows of chairs for those who might show up is rude and not what TV prides itself for as friendly. We were taught at a very early age that sharing with others is expected and the right thing to do.

[getdul981]

I see no problem with the powers that be eliminating the chairs at both squares for ALL events. Everyone here can afford to go to Wal-Mart and spend $10 for a chair, even if you are on a LSV. I know they spend much more than that on drinks that are gone in a few minutes. If the chairs were eliminated, that would cut expenses by not having to have people set up and take down chairs each and every day. It would definitely cut out the saving of seats. As for the people that come to rent for a month or two, there is no reason we should supply them with a place to sit. They can go to Wal-Mart too.

[njbchbum]

I see no problem with the powers that be eliminating the chairs at both squares for ALL events. Everyone here can afford to go to Wal-Mart and spend $10 for a chair, even if you are on a LSV. I know they spend much more than that on drinks that are gone in a few minutes. If the chairs were eliminated, that would cut expenses by not having to have people set up and take down chairs each and every day. It would definitely cut out the saving of seats. As for the people that come to rent for a month or two, there is no reason we should supply them with a place to sit. They can go to Wal-Mart too.

well, that sure is friendly! ;)

[Barefoot]

I see no problem with the powers that be eliminating the chairs at both squares for ALL events.

This is a retirement community, and there are many retirees with disabilities and diseases. To expect them to tote chairs around is just plain silly.

[gratton]

I always though that if they were to paint a line about 2 foot in front of the low wall around the squares and say no chairs against the wall that would give them about 200 more places to sit on the wall, It seems such a waist to see chairs against the wall when people could be sitting there, Any thoughts

[memason]

I always though that if they were to paint a line about 2 foot in front of the low wall around the squares and say no chairs against the wall that would give them about 200 more places to sit on the wall, It seems such a waist to see chairs against the wall when people could be sitting there, Any thoughts

My thoughts.... If they remove one row of chairs against the wall (2 ft), then all of those displaced folks have to sit somewhere else ...maybe on the wall!

Net gain = 0.

[senior citizen]

...

[The Villager II]

Saving Chairs in any size group or for any period of time is:

RUDE
You might as well hang a sign on the chair saying you and your friends are to important to come early and follow the common rule of first come first served.

It is a selfish thing to do.

[Zoomie1955]

Yes, The Villages is the Friendlest Town, until
residents go to the town squares.
The "saving and holding" of chairs, picnic tables, benches, parking spaces
is really a turn off to join in the squares activites. Many people are holding chairs for guests that never arrive. One person held a whole picnic table for over an hour for her 6 to 8 guests that never arrived, but she sat alone at the table telling people the table was reserved. yes, we could bring our own chairs, but certainly there is enough chairs if they weren't reserved and empty.

A good way to solve that problem...bring you own chairs!!!!!And don't hold the other ones hostage!!!! No one will be mad if you are saving your own chairs!!!!!chilout

[SarFred]

Thank you, moderator!

[bluedog103]

My thoughts.... If they remove one row of chairs against the wall (2 ft), then all of those displaced folks have to sit somewhere else ...maybe on the wall!

Net gain = 0.
Gratton said nothing about removing any chairs. If all the chairs were moved forward 2 ft it would indeed free up many places to sit.

[memason]

Gratton said nothing about removing any chairs. If all the chairs were moved forward 2 ft it would indeed free up many places to sit.

I guess you're right, but then we'd have folks complaining that there isn't enough room to line dance . . .:icon_wink:

[Indydealmaker]

Have a local charity (or 2 or 3) take charge of renting out the chairs for a nominal fee. They would start distributing chairs one hour before each event. No more seat saving and I am sure the fees would be most appreciated. Space could be saved for wheel chairs. Space could be saved along the walls. In other words, stress free and organized and good for the community.
:spoken:
I know there will be comments that we should not have to pay for something that is part of our amenity fees. However, what value is there if something is free, but cloaked in resentment? At any rate, I believe the chairs, entertainment, etc. are not paid for by our fees, but by retailers and square management.

[MLBellis]

My problem is not with saving a chair(s)…I have a problem saving a space for my Mom’s scooter. I was at SL one time to save a area for my Mom to drive up to a space in her scooter….Talk about RUDE people…One person told me that If my mom was handicap and in a scooter, she should not be out & about, she should be homebound….when she finally made it to the area that I saved for her, the dirty looks we got all night, Mom felt so bad she left to go home. Question is it wrong for me to save a SPACE for my Mom & her scooter at the squares ????

[hulahips]

yes I've seen that occur at squares and I don't think it should be allowed either. They actually tie the chairs up early in day to save them. I'm from NY and would never think to do that.

also it occurs at movies. Recently we went to movies and when we went in all seats were taken except a few in front. we spotted two toward back and went to sit. Another couple said sorry we're saving them. And we said "sorry" we purchased our tickets so we are entitled to a seat. Fisrt come, first serve. so we sat and enjoyed the movie. Felt bad, but when we purchase a ticket that is purchasing a seat!! You can't hold a seat at a movie theater when others are paying and entitled to sit where they want.

I hate the fact we had to explain that to this couple but we were polite about it and if there friends arrive late then they lose their seats. It's just the way it works. After all, we stood in line to get in also to get in so why should others come strolling in late just because they think their friends will save them a seat. Everything is crowded here so it should be first come, first serve system. Common sense I always say.

[nitehawk]

yes I've seen that occur at squares and I don't think it should be allowed either. They actually tie the chairs up early in day to save them. I'm from NY and would never think to do that.

also it occurs at movies. Recently we went to movies and when we went in all seats were taken except a few in front. we spotted two toward back and went to sit. Another couple said sorry we're saving them. And we said "sorry" we purchased our tickets so we are entitled to a seat. Fisrt come, first serve. so we sat and enjoyed the movie. Felt bad, but when we purchase a ticket that is purchasing a seat!! You can't hold a seat at a movie theater when others are paying and entitled to sit where they want.

I hate the fact we had to explain that to this couple but we were polite about it and if there friends arrive late then they lose their seats. It's just the way it works. After all, we stood in line to get in also to get in so why should others come strolling in late just because they think their friends will save them a seat. Everything is crowded here so it should be first come, first serve system. Common sense I always say.

Finally some with ba___! If everybody did this it would solve the problem --- nice woek

[graciegirl]

yes I've seen that occur at squares and I don't think it should be allowed either. They actually tie the chairs up early in day to save them. I'm from NY and would never think to do that.

also it occurs at movies. Recently we went to movies and when we went in all seats were taken except a few in front. we spotted two toward back and went to sit. Another couple said sorry we're saving them. And we said "sorry" we purchased our tickets so we are entitled to a seat. Fisrt come, first serve. so we sat and enjoyed the movie. Felt bad, but when we purchase a ticket that is purchasing a seat!! You can't hold a seat at a movie theater when others are paying and entitled to sit where they want.

I hate the fact we had to explain that to this couple but we were polite about it and if there friends arrive late then they lose their seats. It's just the way it works. After all, we stood in line to get in also to get in so why should others come strolling in late just because they think their friends will save them a seat. Everything is crowded here so it should be first come, first serve system. Common sense I always say.

You handled that beautifully. I cannot get over that someone had the utter audacity to hold seats inside the movie theater! HOLY BOWLEGGED SARAH. They could have waited, all paid, and gone in together just like everyone else does.

We have a friend who was invited to be in Honor Flight, a recognition for 2nd World War Veterans and they were directed to sit in some chairs in the lobby at Colony Cottage Regional Recreation Center until their official guide came to get them and sit with them inside the room where the orientation meeting was to be held. He isn't quite "spry" anymore. Some woman came up and said she had been sitting in that chair. They got up and moved.

I would never DREAM of doing something like that...anywhere, in any phase of my life for any reason. Where are these folks training?

[Taltarzac725]

...which gets much of its profits from concession sales. If people are not allowed to save seats for those getting food from the concession stand, then the business might suffer.

Modern Manners Guy : Movie Theater Etiquette :: Quick and Dirty Tips ™ (http://manners.quickanddirtytips.com/movie-theater.aspx)

[graciegirl]

...which gets much of its profits from concession sales. If people are not allowed to save seats for those getting food in the concesson stand, then the business might suffer.

Modern Manners Guy : Movie Theater Etiquette :: Quick and Dirty Tips ™ (http://manners.quickanddirtytips.com/movie-theater.aspx)

I never thought of that. Surely they would have told her that they were in the theater and would soon RETURN to their seats.

[Taltarzac725]

I never thought of that. Surely they would have told her that they were in the theater and would soon RETURN to their seats.

Cannot really tell in the Villages if a couple saving seats are waiting for a another couple to get to the movie theater of if that couple is in the concession line.

If you have a group of people with kids though there is almost always someone out getting drinks and popcorn for the children.

[ajbrown]

Surely they would have told her that they were in the theater and would soon RETURN to their seats.

:agree:, and don't call me .......... :laugh:

[skyguy79]

I can see this seating issue plus from more than one angle!

For one, it must be terribly stressful to have to take a dump or leak, but can't leave your seat in fear of some cagy old pirate coming along, cruising the joint for a seat to open that he can hi-jack.

http://www.divercity.on.ca/PirateSpyglass.jpg

For another, if you don't like or complain about seats being saved and argue that the ones that they're being saved for should get their earlier so there wouldn't be a problem, then there's no reason that you, or anyone else for that matter can't also get there early enough before those saved seats become a problem. What's good for the goose is good for the gander!

As for me personally, I don't go, nor do I have any desires to go to the squares or the movies where I would be potentially faced with those problems that's been discussed about them. Part of the reason is a matter of my physical comfort issues, but I also have no desire to go because quite frankly, I don't want to put up with the happy HS that I've read about since I first joined TOTV, relating to the issues that can exist with simply just being there.

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS6L-D-L27Na4M81PCmXLYYz_w8F8nbNkOgWVfewkW5afprRpR_tOna

[Taltarzac725]

...half of us go get the seats, while the other half stands in the concession line. So, no real return is involved. I often see this at the movie theater too. You see someone sitting who raises her or his hand so that the person carrying the drinks and food can find the right seat.


:agree:, and don't call me .......... :laugh:

[cquick]

We have a Lifestyle Preview scheduled for September and I WAS looking forward to going to the evening Town Square activities, but if it is that much of a battle maybe I'll just skip that "fun" time. Sorry, but this sure doesn't shed a very good light on the hospitality that everyone is always boosting about. :undecided:

oh, please don't let posters complaints turn you off from the squares! It is SO much fun to go! :wine::popcorn:

Sometimes we see LOTS of unused chairs stacked around the squares, sometimes not. Sometimes we use our own chairs, which we TRY to remember to bring along and leave in the car, just in case.

Try to realize......people are people all over the world. There will always be lounge chair savers on cruise ships, table savers at the farm festivals, chair savers at The Villages.......just because we are retired, human nature doesn't change.

I TRY not to let it bother me....sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't....depends on how my day has been going....but once we get to the square, and talk to people and listen to the music, I relax and have lots of fun! :pepper2::pepper2:

[cquick]

My problem is not with saving a chair(s)…I have a problem saving a space for my Mom’s scooter. I was at SL one time to save a area for my Mom to drive up to a space in her scooter….Talk about RUDE people…One person told me that If my mom was handicap and in a scooter, she should not be out & about, she should be homebound….when she finally made it to the area that I saved for her, the dirty looks we got all night, Mom felt so bad she left to go home. Question is it wrong for me to save a SPACE for my Mom & her scooter at the squares ????

oh, I am SO SO sorry you met rude people! We take our disabled son the the music at SL as often as we can....it is one of the main reasons we moved to The Villages....he likes to sit as near the stage as possible. I imagine there are some people who think he shouldn't be there by the steps, but it makes him happy, and there's plenty of room around the stage to dance.

[graciegirl]

oh, I am SO SO sorry you met rude people! We take our disabled son the the music at SL as often as we can....it is one of the main reasons we moved to The Villages....he likes to sit as near the stage as possible. I imagine there are some people who think he shouldn't be there by the steps, but it makes him happy, and there's plenty of room around the stage to dance.


I just love everything about you Connie Quick.:highfive:

[paulandjean]

You cannot save seats!-Mind your own business. I do not have time,to tell you the Who, What and Why.

[gatherer47]

Hey Gracie-you are right Connie Quick,Chuck,and Patrick are the best! Be there permanently June 20th.Can't wait.

[coffeebean]

Not sure how you have the nerve to stereotype New Yorkers as the rude ones. Your comment is not taken lightly and I'm sure there are many other New Yorkers who feel the same as I do.

I was a bit put out with that remark too. Not very nice.

[Sanbo]

Lets all try to be the friendly, wonderful people that we are projected to be!!!! I am so happy to be in TV, that I will smile and tolerate most anything, just to be here!!!! I love all you wonderful people.

[2BNTV]

I was at an event tonight, and someone in the front row saved three seats.

The a disable man came in and took one and a half seats, and the other one took the rest. Perfectly justified.

I personally wouldn't want to be associated with these people, who go the the squares, at 8 AM, to save a table for their group, for an event starting at 4 PM, (St. Patty's Day). The same goes for seats being reserved for invisible people. Being originally from NY, I wouldn't have the nerve to do something like this. When we New Yorkers decide to go somewhere as a group, we make it our business to get there in plenty of time, and not inconvenience others. Some people think they have some sort of entitlement, as their amenities must be much more, than others.

One fanny in seat, equals reserved.

BTW - I'm from NY and I think, I am not rude at all. In fact some people, think well of me. So much for stereotyping.

OFF SOAPBOX!!!!

[graciegirl]

I was at an event tonight, and someone in the front row saved three seats.

The a disable man came in and took one and a half seats, and the other one took the rest. Perfectly justified.

I personally wouldn't want to be associated with these people, who go the the squares, at 8 AM, to save a table for their group, for an event starting at 4 PM, (St. Patty's Day). The same goes for seats being reserved for invisible people. Being originally from NY, I wouldn't have the nerve to do something like this. When we New Yorkers decide to go somewhere as a group, we make it our business to get there in plenty of time, and not inconvenience others. Some people think they have some sort of entitlement, as their amenities must be much more, than others.

One fanny in seat, equals reserved.

BTW - I'm from NY and I think, I am not rude at all. In fact some people, think well of me. So much for stereotyping.

OFF SOAPBOX!!!!


You, Mr. Joe are the quintessential gentle man.

[jhrc4]

No, I wouldn't cancel my Preview because of this issue, but I would avoid the Town Square if I thought there would be "chair war" going on. This is also my vacation, so I don't need that kind of stress :eek:. We are very excited about coming. We are very seriously considering TV as the next chapter in our lives and hope that it is everything we are dreaming of it to be.

The chair saving problem that happens nightly, however it really depends on who is entertaining, and which square . Go to the square @ Sumter Landing it is terrific, and hopefully Lenny Wilson Trio/Quartet will be there.

Spanish Springs may be the place to avoid, and the new one at Brownwood is nice as well. The chair saving ? .... ignore it, come and Enjoy Yourselves. :beer3:

[rubicon]

I reviewed every single post and come away with the conclusion that many posters attempt to live up to this Friendliest slogan........However, who designated and legitimized this slogan and based on what?
Its like the Minnesota Nice slogan, Empire State slogan ,etc they are all feel good but do they reflect reality?

These are marketing tools to draw people and more often than not they often do not reflect accurately. Its all hubris and far too many people fall into this trap and by doing so hurt themselves.

some things are true such as Americans being very generous but sometimes generous to a fault

So if you find people that save seats are rude then they probably are always rude no matter were they go around the country. rude is as rude does

Finally if someone is always rude, grown up rude, they are not even aware of the fact that they are rude because this is the way they are and perhaps people around them its normal its the custom . "You talkin to me"

[Bogie Shooter]

The chair saving problem that happens nightly, however it really depends on who is entertaining, and which square . Go to the square @ Sumter Landing it is terrific, and hopefully Lenny Wilson Trio/Quartet will be there.

Spanish Springs may be the place to avoid, and the new one at Brownwood is nice as well. The chair saving ? .... ignore it, come and Enjoy Yourselves. :beer3:

The post you quoted was dated 05/07/2012............................

Originally Posted by LABSX2

"No, I wouldn't cancel my Preview because of this issue, but I would avoid the Town Square if I thought there would be "chair war" going on. This is also my vacation, so I don't need that kind of stress . We are very excited about coming. We are very seriously considering TV as the next chapter in our lives and hope that it is everything we are dreaming of it to be."

[cquick]

The topic is seat saving.

Let's try to stay away from general stereotyping and personal attacks.

Thanks for your cooperation.

thank you moderator!

[Sage327]

Don't let that worry you. On some of the busy entertainment days that does happen especially in the in season. Smile, take another chair, or bring one of your own. Lots of these are from places like New York and have not adapted to our friendly sharing ways. Just smile, have a sit down if you want, no one is going to get physical with you.
Do you have proof "these" people were from NY? If not, please no more ignorant statements.

[Bonanza]

A while back I was in a Costco at the food court, which was jammed. There wasn't an empty table anywhere. In addition, even the line to order food seemed to be a mile long. I was by myself.

After I got my hot dog and soda I saw a woman sitting by herself at a table. I will add that she was just sitting there and not eating. I sat down across from ther and she told me she was waiting for her husband (who was in that long line) to bring her food.

Remember -- every table was full with people eating . . . I looked at her and frankly said, "So it's okay for me to be standing here with hot food while you wait for your husband to bring you food???" I stayed put and began eating. After a minute or so, the woman got up -- very obviously P. O'd.

Was I the rude one? I think not. And I would sit down again when someone is simply saving a seat for someone who was not even there? You bettcha!

[Barefoot]

I reviewed every single post and come away with the conclusion that many posters attempt to live up to this Friendliest slogan........However, who designated and legitimized this slogan and based on what?
Its like the Minnesota Nice slogan, Empire State slogan ,etc they are all feel good but do they reflect reality.

God bless the many Villagers that strive to live up to the "friendliest" slogan. It makes The Bubble the most popular retirement community in the world! :pepper2:

[perrjojo]

Yup, friendliest hometown is just a marketing slogan. TV is like any town... Some good, some, not so good. Overall it is a great and friendly place to live. You usual lay get back what you put out. Notice that I said USUALLY..

[Steve9930]

Wow......... Everyone needs to chill a tad. Its a plastic chair. The place is crowed. With over 100K of people you need to get there early or bring a chair.

[buzzy]

Heck, before I got here I was the friendliest person in a condo full of grumps.

[travelguy]

just sit your butt down wherever you want to; if the 'alleged' people who were supposed to arrive actually do show up, then just move. no big deal. and new york does not have a monopoly on obnoxious people. i have met plenty who are natives of florida and the 'genteel' south.

[CFrance]

A while back I was in a Costco at the food court, which was jammed. There wasn't an empty table anywhere. In addition, even the line to order food seemed to be a mile long. I was by myself.

After I got my hot dog and soda I saw a woman sitting by herself at a table. I will add that she was just sitting there and not eating. I sat down across from ther and she told me she was waiting for her husband (who was in that long line) to bring her food.

Remember -- every table was full with people eating . . . I looked at her and frankly said, "So it's okay for me to be standing here with hot food while you wait for your husband to bring you food???" I stayed put and began eating. After a minute or so, the woman got up -- very obviously P. O'd.

Was I the rude one? I think not. And I would sit down again when someone is simply saving a seat for someone who was not even there? You bettcha!
I applaud you for your assertiveness. It's not like she had a reservation!

[perrjojo]

just sit your butt down wherever you want to; if the 'alleged' people who were supposed to arrive actually do show up, then just move. no big deal. and new york does not have a monopoly on obnoxious people. i have met plenty who are natives of florida and the 'genteel' south.

I agree! We were recently in Plant City for the Strawberry Festival. The eating area was crowded but I saw two open spaces. The others there told me the spaces were saved. I said I hope you don't mind if we sit here to eat until your friends come back. What could they say? We sat and ate. Got up and left and never saw the people the seats were saved for. If they had come back we would have left but it wasn't necessary. Just sit there until the person wanting the seat arrives. Who knows, you could make new friends...or not. LOL

[Abster]

Wow, there are a lot of rude, inconsiderate people around here. I certainly would hold the door for someone walking into/out of a store, stop to let a pedestrian cross the street, offer the extra seats at our table...that's the way we were raised. Sadly, even though this is a retirement community, it appears a lot of people just don't know any better.

[perrjojo]

Wow, there are a lot of rude, inconsiderate people around here. I certainly would hold the door for someone walking into/out of a store, stop to let a pedestrian cross the street, offer the extra seats at our table...that's the way we were raised. Sadly, even though this is a retirement community, it appears a lot of people just don't know any better.

Ummm, I think their Mother taught them better....but....

[Bogie Shooter]

Its the age of entitlement..........I preferred Aquarius.

[Bonanza]

Wow, there are a lot of rude, inconsiderate people around here. I certainly would hold the door for someone walking into/out of a store, stop to let a pedestrian cross the street, offer the extra seats at our table...that's the way we were raised. Sadly, even though this is a retirement community, it appears a lot of people just don't know any better.

There are rude and inconsiderate people here but they are all over. I cannot believe the amount of those who walk out the door at a store when you are right behind them, and don't hold the door for another 5 seconds so it doesn't slam in your face.

These are the same people who tried on clothing in that same store and left them in a heap in the dressing room without hanging them back up.

[Golfingnut]

Saving seats is selfish, but honest. In my opinion, folks from the northeast tend to move fast, talk fast, talk loud and swear more than other areas of the country.

Also, in my opinion, I like that attitude because I find it HONEST AND TO THE POINT, not rude. Folks down south tend to gentle up all the above, but in find that sometimes to be acting and not honest.

If you don't lie, cheat or steal from me you can use any attitude you like.

[graciegirl]

Its the age of entitlement..........I preferred Aquarius.



I want that quote on a tee shirt. AND also one that says "There is no pee in Lake Sumter".

[nitehawk]

I want that quote on a tee shirt. AND also one that says "There is no pee in Lake Sumter".

What is this no pee in lake sumter.........is this a funny?????

[CarolSells]

What is this no pee in lake sumter.........is this a funny?????

I always laugh when Gracie reminds us that it's Sumter, not Sum"p"ter.

[graciegirl]

AND a tee shirt that says


"There isn't a kid in the world that's cute after eight o'clock at night."


P.S. I LOVE kids.

[perrjojo]

Saving seats is selfish, but honest. In my opinion, folks from the northeast tend to move fast, talk fast, talk loud and swear more than other areas of the country.

Also, in my opinion, I like that attitude because I find it HONEST AND TO THE POINT, not rude. Folks down south tend to gentle up all the above, but in find that sometimes to be acting and not honest.

If you don't lie, cheat or steal from me you can use any attitude you like.

Ummm, in the South, we call it good manners. We call it, having class. We call it, doin' what my Mama taught me! :-)

[CFrance]

What is this no pee in lake sumter.........is this a funny?????
Yes, it is a long-standing TOTV quip, coined by Gracie, I believe. A lot of people new to TV will spell "Sumter" as "Sumpter" when they first join TOTV.

[graciegirl]

Ummm, in the South, we call it good manners. We call it, having class. We call it, doin' what my Mama taught me! :-)


That is what we call it in Ohio. We try to take after the British who are polite to you right up to the second before they kill you.


It is an ingrained fear that some nice smelling female person larger than you is going to drag you into a public restroom and smack your fanny and say "ACT like a lady!"


Both of our daughters say that every time they enter a public restroom they feel like something bad is going to happen to them.;)

[perrjojo]

That is what we call it in Ohio. We try to take after the British who are polite to you right up to the second before they kill you.


It is an ingrained fear that some nice smelling female person larger than you is going to drag you into a public restroom and smack your fanny and say "ACT like a lady!"


Both of our daughters say that every time they enter a public restroom they feel like something bad is going to happen to them.;)
This made me smile.:)

[Golfingnut]

Ummm, in the South, we call it good manners. We call it, having class. We call it, doin' what my Mama taught me! :-)

I agree, I have a southern gentile wife. She does it for all your reasons. I am referring to those that do that to your face and not when your out of site. I prefer honesty over FAKE I love you comments.

[dbussone]

What is this no pee in lake sumter.........is this a funny?????


A lot of people spell it incorrectly ... SumPter

[buggyone]

I am willing to bet an ice-cold Yeungling there will be plenty of chairs being marked as "saved" at Spanish Springs this afternoon. Scooter The DJ is performing at 5 and he definitely is a Villages favorite. Better get there early and bringing your own chair is a great idea, too.

[graciegirl]

We are taught to not act impulsively. We are taught to respond diplomatically. Some people can tell you to go to hell and make you look forward to the trip. I understand about being honest, but sometimes people say things that make people angry. They may not THINK that is what they are doing but others see it that way. So the responses are not quite honest, like..."Please shut up." They may be to change the subject, or try to explain without making it into a huge heated debate.


I think the problem lies with any of us believing that their way of looking at things is the right way, and trying to change someone else's mind...which is probably not going to happen.


It is trying to put yourself in another's shoes and after several rejections of our ideas, being mature enough to drop the subject. Some people can accept the fact that agreement is not possible and go on without feeling the person who debates them dislikes them personally. I think several posters have this ability. I try to do this and think this and fail regularly. We are all sensitive people. And we all have things that we believe that are dear to us.