Where is the political forum? (deserves it's own thread!!)

[billethkid]

Gone?

I am sure the moderators would not do something permanent without some sort of notice being given.

I thought it should have it's own thread so some can have some fun with it's absence.

I expect we SHOULD hear something soon.....right?

btk

[KathieI]

BTK, I found the post from the Admin, today around 12am. No more political forum. Done, fini, closed... no further comments. Guess it got too hot in there.?????

[wendyquat]

Talk about censorship! My dad told me never to talk about religion or politics so it doesn't matter to me but I'm sure it does o some. I started to comment on the admin last night but I was afraid I'd get thrown out of TOTV!

[bkcunningham1]

I saw the post from the Admin regarding the closing of political and the warning of what would happen if you talk about politics on this forum.

Wow. I must have missed something. I haven't seen anything that I believe would lead to that happening. I was going to ask a question regarding the Admin post, but the Admin made the post and closed his remarks to any comments. Again. Wow.

[rubicon]

Well TOTV without the political forum is like a cannoli without the ricotta cheese, empty. wonder how long we can all survive on "Just for fun"? Hmmmm

[njbchbum]

BTK, I found the post from the Admin, today around 12am. No more political forum. Done, fini, closed... no further comments. Guess it got too hot in there.?????

i thought the admin indicated that the forum was "suspended" and not "done, fini, closed..." isn't a suspension a temporary status? al least it was when i went to school! some kids got dismissed - but most of us were made to return! ;) i hope it is a temporary situation!

[billethkid]

where did you see the post by the admin?

I did not see it. I will reserve comment until I read it for myself.

btk

[jandbrare]

Gone?

I am sure the moderators would not do something permanent without some sort of notice being given.

I thought it should have it's own thread so some can have some fun with it's absence.

I expect we SHOULD hear something soon.....right?

btk

I can't find it, either. Not in the list of forums. What's up? I've posted to it, recently.

[Bogie Shooter]

where did you see the post by the admin?

I did not see it. I will reserve comment until I read it for myself.

btk

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/totv-political-forums-58754/

[jandbrare]

Well, if the Political Forum is closed, I suppose the political posts will go to the "General Discussion"?

[janmcn]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/totv-political-forums-58754/

[quirky3]

Well, if the Political Forum is closed, I suppose the political posts will go to the "General Discussion"?

See JanMCN's post - the link to the moderator's announcement is in there. No political posts in TOTV. (until further notice)

[KathieI]

Well, if the Political Forum is closed, I suppose the political posts will go to the "General Discussion"?

i thought the admin indicated that the forum was "suspended" and not "done, fini, closed..." isn't a suspension a temporary status? al least it was when i went to school! some kids got dismissed - but most of us were made to return! ;) i hope it is a temporary situation!

Based on this post by the Admin, I'd say its closed, finished, done.... NO political posts will be allowed in any of the forums..... here's his/hers direct quote.:

"Effective immediately and until further notice the political forums will be suspended.

NO political posts are allowed in any of the forums. First offense an account infraction and warning. Second offense account will be banned."

I, personally, will not fight it... dem's da rules....

[billethkid]

Thank you for the link to the announcing post.

All I can say now that I have read it for myself and not knowing the facts that led to the "suspension".....is to quote Spock from Startrek:

"the needs of the many far outweigh the few or the one"

I choose to be positive in the words "suspension" and "until further notice" that this is temporary. Hence I look forward to the return of the political forum as what ever the issues may be or have been, they most certainly do not apply to the many and hopefully the administrators will consider it that way.

btk

[Posh 08]

I guess bear sightings and roundabouts will be my entertainment.

[janmcn]

I guess bear sightings and roundabouts will be my entertainment.

And don't forget dog poop. That's a biggie on here.

[Bill & Carolyn]

Well, if the Political Forum is closed, I suppose the political posts will go to the "General Discussion"?

I think any would be VERY short lived and the Admin has already stated that, if you do, you get 1 warning, then, your account is banned permanently.


There are plenty of non-villages political forums that people can use to vent their spleens on each other.

[Posh 08]

And don't forget dog poop. That's a biggie on here.

Yep that'll stimulate our minds or should I say simulate? :a20:

[notlongnow]

This is like when I was a kid and I came home from grade school to find out we were moving that day and I could not say goodbye to all my friends.
Maybe I will meet you all again when we grow up and are in the same highschool!

[jandbrare]

Thanks bogieshooter. That is the link
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/totv-political-forums-58754/

[gmcneill]

Not intending to be a wiseguy with the following, but does anyone have an idea as to what exactly constitutes a "political post"?

I intend to abide by Admin directive; a clearer definition or description of "political post" would be a beneficial guide to all of us.

[Golfingnut]

I went in the Political site daily and posted almost everyday, but that said, considering the tone, lack of civility and down right insults thrown back and fourth, I FEEL ADMIN DID THE RIGHT THING, and would be fine if it never comes back.

Thats all I got to say about that.

[rp001]

I went in the Political site daily and posted almost everyday, but that said, considering the tone, lack of civility and down right insults thrown back and fourth, I FEEL ADMIN DID THE RIGHT THING, and would be fine if it never comes back.

Thats all I got to say about that.

Absolutely..Good Riddance

[hulababy]

What happend to FREEDOM OF SPEECH??? Is that NOT allowed on TOTV?? Aren't we all adults entitled to our opinions???

[quirky3]

What happend to FREEDOM OF SPEECH??? Is that NOT allowed on TOTV?? Aren't we all adults entitled to our opinions???

It's a private forum. The admins set the rules. Lots of other places to discuss political issues.

[Golfingnut]

It's a private forum. The admins set the rules. Lots of other places to discuss political issues.

:beer3:

[Barefoot]

I FEEL ADMIN DID THE RIGHT THING, and would be fine if it never comes back.


Absolutely..Good Riddance

The Admins obviously feel that a cooling-off period is needed. They used the wording "suspended" rather than "permanently closed". I'm hopeful the Political Forum will be reactivated.

The previous Owners of TOTV designed the Political Forum so that you must JOIN it to read threads or participate. I honestly don't understand why people who don't enjoy it would keep going there, or why anyone would want it closed ... why not just Opt Out?

[eweissenbach]

I don't know the admin nor have I communicated with him/her, but my guess is that the moderation of that forum was taking a lot of time and attention. The number of deleted posts was fairly large, and out of proportion to the rest of the board. It is the admin's prerogative to offer, or not offer, a political forum. I participated in it but it is no great loss to me personally.

[quirky3]

The Admins obviously feel that a cooling-off period is needed. They used the wording "suspended" rather than "permanently closed". I'm hopeful the Political Forum will be reactivated.

The previous Owners of TOTV designed the Political Forum so that you must JOIN it to read threads or participate. I honestly don't understand why people who don't enjoy it would keep going there, or why anyone would want it closed ... why not just Opt Out?

Just a guess, but maybe the "ambience" of the Political Forum was starting to negatively influence the rest of the forums. One way to find out is to suspend the Political Forum.

[mfp509]

I agree rp001 and Golfingnut - wholeheartedly!!

[duffysmom]

Speak to Mark Morse, maybe he'll rent out some corners with soap boxes where the lonely political pundits can make their speaches. :rant-rave: :swear:
I like to think outside the box.:girlneener:

[Barefoot]

It is the admin's prerogative to offer, or not offer, a political forum.

Absolutely, it is the Admin's prerogative whether or not to offer a Political Forum. They own TOTV, and obviously they were finding it unworkable.

The previous Owners found that politics were seeping into daily discussions on TOTV. So they created a Political Forum that you had to JOIN, to keep political comments separate from the rest of the website. Presumably those people who joined the Political Forum and found the comments distasteful would opt out.

In an election year, I fear that now political comments will seep back into the main part of the website. And that will lead to bannings. Oh well, c'est la vie.

[rp001]

Just a guess, but maybe the "ambience" of the Political Forum was starting to negatively influence the rest of the forums. One way to find out is to suspend the Political Forum.

The ambience there was that of a bar room brawl..You could see the sawdust and empty beer cans all over the place...Pitiful...

[ilovetv]

The ambience there was that of a bar room brawl..You could see the sawdust and empty beer cans all over the place...Pitiful...

I would liken it more to a couple of snakes biting and spitting venom 30 feet across the room.

Whenever people take the position that "my party/candidate can do no wrong" and "the other party/candidate has never done a single thing right", there is no exchange of ideas nor learning.

[Bogie Shooter]

I haven't missed it!

[eweissenbach]

The inherent problem with political forums in general is, everyone who frequents them is passionate about their beliefs, otherwise they would not be there, or would quickly leave. People who are open to differing opinions and ideas are likely not to stay long when they see the level of intolerance of others' thoughts. I have been on a few other political forums over the years and they are all the same - basically the same people, different names. In fact, this one is actually the tamest I have encountered.

[gerryann]

I don't like talking politics. My family is WAY too argumentative and opinionated when it comes to politics. Soooo, I avoid it. I also NEVER (to my knowledge) went into the political forum here. But, I do find it a little odd that those that WANT to partake in this type of lively discussion should be able to do so. If they can't do it here on TOTV...there are many, many other political forums to join.

[eweissenbach]

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm, Hmmmmmmmmmmmm

[rubicon]

From the inception of this country politics has always been very agrumentative, down right nasty with name calling etc. To wit the new TNT limited series entitled "Political Animals". Given the fact that the only places I see the masses "passive" are in dictatorships,

In my Italian family we were required to discuss politics and religion it was debating cooking recipes that got you into trouble. Well I can handle bitter disagreement and some name calling..... Gosh its only politics not personal

[2BNTV]

I haven't missed it!

I never had the desire to go to the political forum so I don't miss it either.

[rubicon]

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm, Hmmmmmmmmmmmm

I deleted my post before i read yours:swear::pepper2:

[ceejay]

Just a thought....do you think it could have anything to do with Paul Ryan's visit on Saturday?

Secret Service...Airport Security...could we be under any kind of surveilence?

No conspiracy theory here....just a thought. :shrug:

[big guy]

Without the Political Forum everything on this site has turned into beige, flavorless, inane, chatter inside the bubble. Will miss the righteous outrage. Is there a religious or sex forum? You know, part of the trinity of subjects your mother said you should not talk about in polite company. Thanks mother.

[graciegirl]

I would liken it more to a couple of snakes biting and spitting venom 30 feet across the room.

Whenever people take the position that "my party/candidate can do no wrong" and "the other party/candidate has never done a single thing right", there is no exchange of ideas nor learning.


You are so correct.

I would think that a person would behave in such a way as to make what they believe something to admire. And in so doing make people want to believe in their political views and vote for the person they think is best..

I stopped reading that forum because many of the people who were "for" someone I intended to vote for made me rethink the whole thing. They were ugly, and uncaring, and not for ANYONE's good at all. They made me literally sick to my stomach. I wonder what they are like to live with.

Because I did not accept every tenet of the political party which they belonged to, I was completely wrong. There wasn't an element of decision making that I could tell, either you accepted the whole deal or you were unworthy to be whatever it was that they are. There is NO moderation in their thinking and no listening and no learning. There is only hatred.barf

The silent majority do not see things the way that the most outspoken see them on that forum. And I am saying that BOTH sides were equally as bad.

When we enter the ballot box, we are alone. The maker gave us a mind to see the big picture.

[njbchbum]

I went in the Political site daily and posted almost everyday, but that said, considering the tone, lack of civility and down right insults thrown back and fourth, I FEEL ADMIN DID THE RIGHT THING, and would be fine if it never comes back.

Thats all I got to say about that.

better that the political forum returns and the lack of civility and insults do not!

[njbchbum]

:swear:I would liken it more to a couple of snakes biting and spitting venom 30 feet across the room.

Whenever people take the position that "my party/candidate can do no wrong" and "the other party/candidate has never done a single thing right", there is no exchange of ideas nor learning.

AMEN to your post!

[billethkid]

Just a guess, but maybe the "ambience" of the Political Forum was starting to negatively influence the rest of the forums. One way to find out is to suspend the Political Forum.

Really. How about an example?

I am (was) a political forum regular and know what I have to say there has no relationship what so ever to what I say or how I say it. Ditto for other members noted in political as well as other.

Political forum, as usual gets a bad rap by the non participants. Just because there are a few speeding tickets issued in TV does not mean all residents are speeders.

The previous admin made it an opt in situation for a reason.

btk

[ceejay]

better that the political forum returns and the lack of civility and insults do not!

An AMEN for your post! :pray:

- billethkid

Really. How about an example?

I am (was) a political forum regular and know what I have to say there has no relationship what so ever to what I say or how I say it. Ditto for other members noted in political as well as other.

Political forum, as usual gets a bad rap by the non participants. Just because there are a few speeding tickets issued in TV does not mean all residents are speeders.

The previous admin made it an opt in situation for a reason.

btk

And one for yours, as well!

[billethkid]

I feel obligated to continue to remind some posters that the only thing wrong with political (or any other violated scenario).......it is because of a few....very few.......and too many choose to paint with too broad a brush incorrectly characterizing the many.

btk

[rp001]

From experience,I think the descriptions of the behaviour there (PB) are apt.

In the current climate, a lot of discussions can lend themselves to be needlessly politicized causing unnecessry heartburn for some of the participants. I also hope we are able to keep on topic, and do not resort to thinly veiled threads/posts with attempts to be "non-political".

[BobKat1]

There is a VERY interesting article in one of the Florida's newspapers today on the Villages I'm sure EVERY Villager would want to read. However due to no political forum any longer I'm afraid I don't have permission to tell you about it. !!! Does involve the Morse family and their political views and so much more but hmmmmm we lost our right to free speech here. A sign of the times and what's to come. We can't even agree to disagree. Great country we live in - America !!

Another friendly reminder, this is a privately operated site. It's like we are a quest in TOTV's house. If they don't want it we should respect their wishes.

[DandyGirl]

You are so correct.

I would think that a person would behave in such a way as to make what they believe something to admire. And in so doing make people want to believe in their political views and vote for the person they think is best..

I stopped reading that forum because many of the people who were "for" someone I intended to vote for made me rethink the whole thing. They were ugly, and uncaring, and not for ANYONE's good at all. They made me literally sick to my stomach. I wonder what they are like to live with.

Because I did not accept every tenet of the political party which they belonged to, I was completely wrong. There wasn't an element of decision making that I could tell, either you accepted the whole deal or you were unworthy to be whatever it was that they are. There is NO moderation in their thinking and no listening and no learning. There is only hatred.barf

The silent majority do not see things the way that the most outspoken see them on that forum. And I am saying that BOTH sides were equally as bad.

When we enter the ballot box, we are alone. The maker gave us a mind to see the big picture.

GG I so agree with you. The couple of times I went in the political forum I found it to be so hateful and mean spirited that it made me feel sick.. There's enough chaos in the world without adding to it on a daily basis. Peace, love and joy!;)

[hulababy]

GG I so agree with you. The couple of times I went in the political forum I found it to be so hateful and mean spirited that it made me feel sick.. There's enough chaos in the world without adding to it on a daily basis. Peace, love and joy!;)

and like dutiful Children, be silenced. Peace, love and joy to you too!!

[BobKat1]

and like dutiful Children, be silenced. Peace, love and joy to you too!!


Have you looked into other sites that will allow you to voice your opinions as you wish?

[Mikeod]

and like dutiful Children, be silenced. Peace, love and joy to you too!!

At the risk of getting this post deleted, I must say your disdain for those who understand that this is a PRIVATE enterprise, just like the theaters, and wish to accept the owner's decision, is an example of the ad hominem argument that gets forums suspended or canceled.

[DandyGirl]

and like dutiful Children, be silenced. Peace, love and joy to you too!!

I rest my case.

[DDoug]

It would appear that when you start something you have a certain responsibility to continue with what you start.

[buggyone]

Hey, it is a private enterprise. Let the Admin do what he wishes to do. This forum is not part of the Morse family but entirely private.

[quirky3]

It would appear that when you start something you have a certain responsibility to continue with what you start.

It would also appear that when you enroll in a something, you have a certain responsibility to accept and follow the associated rules.

[cappyjon431]

First off, let me say that I have never been in the political forum so I have no dog in this fight. While I am politically active, I prefer to discuss my politics in other venues.

Second, I support the mods/admin 100% in their decision. While I am all for free speech and the free exchange of ideas, I understand that this is a privately owned board and we are all just guests in this house.

The only insight I can add is that perhaps the mods/admin are becoming more sensitive to some of the acrimony we have seen on TOTV in general. The one example I can cite is a thread in the General Discussion forum I started earlier this week concerning the "Friendliness of America's friendliest hometown. Apparently several posters got annoyed with some of the discussion and resulted in nastiness and name calling (and while some of it was supposedly aimed at me, I never saw these posts as they were quickly deleted--I was only told about them by others) and the moderator shut it down for a "cooling off period." Personally, I consider myself a big boy and can handle myself in any type of rhetorical discourse, but the moderator thought it best to shut it down (at least for a while) and I support his decision, as it is a private forum. I don't know if shutting down the political forum and this thread are linked, but i find it interesting that both events happened at the same time (just after midnight last night).

[Bogie Shooter]

What happend to FREEDOM OF SPEECH??? Is that NOT allowed on TOTV?? Aren't we all adults entitled to our opinions???

How did your meeting go with the young manager at the theater regarding the banned movie??

[jgbama]

First off, let me say that I have never been in the political forum so I have no dog in this fight. While I am politically active, I prefer to discuss my politics in other venues.

Second, I support the mods/admin 100% in their decision. While I am all for free speech and the free exchange of ideas, I understand that this is a privately owned board and we are all just guests in this house.

The only insight I can add is that perhaps the mods/admin are becoming more sensitive to some of the acrimony we have seen on TOTV in general. The one example I can cite is a thread in the General Discussion forum I started earlier this week concerning the "Friendliness of America's friendliest hometown. Apparently several posters got annoyed with some of the discussion and resulted in nastiness and name calling (and while some of it was supposedly aimed at me, I never saw these posts as they were quickly deleted--I was only told about them by others) and the moderator shut it down for a "cooling off period." Personally, I consider myself a big boy and can handle myself in any type of rhetorical discourse, but the moderator thought it best to shut it down (at least for a while) and I support his decision, as it is a private forum. I don't know if shutting down the political forum and this thread are linked, but i find it interesting that both events happened at the same time (just after midnight last night).

Well said Cappyjon. I had a thread deleted as well. There certainly is that 1% (or less) who are so intolerable of anyone else's opinion that they resort to exaggerations, hateful words. . . and the list goes on and on. God made us different for a reason, so harsh words on a forum will certainly not sway anyone to your view. To insult someone shows more about you than it does the issue. I try to avoid such exchanges. I received an appropriate quote for this issue, "Never argue with an idiot. They will lower you to their level and beat you with experience!" :a20:

[kentucky blue]

I would liken it more to a couple of snakes biting and spitting venom 30 feet across the room.

Whenever people take the position that "my party/candidate can do no wrong" and "the other party/candidate has never done a single thing right", there is no exchange of ideas nor learning.

I have more advantageous things to do with my time than read the bias,malice, and stupidity demonstrated by participates in any political forum. With politics and religion, " It's better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."

[Golfingnut]

better that the political forum returns and the lack of civility and insults do not!

That would be wonderful, but after participating for years in that forum, I am sure it would never happen. And lets be real, their were only a hand full of folks arguing in their out of thousands of TOTVer's that enjoy the information source from the many many other forums available to us. In a perfect world we could have both, but then in a perfect world we would not have politics at all. I sincerely feel that as time erodes the memory of the Political Forum, TOTV members will all be in a better place and happier with the helpfulness of the rest of the forums.

[Posh 08]

Any former member of the political forum that knows of another site that is similar or better to discuss politics please PM me. Thank you.

[jblum315]

My father always said 3 things you don't discuss outside of your own family: politics, religion, money. He also said whenever anyone asks how are you, just say fine thank you. They really don't want to hear anything else. He was so right.

[senior citizen]

...

[gomoho]

True - this is a private site - funded by those who advertise - that we keep in business. So it really is a 2 way street.

[billethkid]

Any former member of the political forum that knows of another site that is similar or better to discuss politics please PM me. Thank you.

If there is one discovered or known I would like to be contacted as well.

I really am enjoying the hypocrisy being spewed in this thread. By those who espouse what a bad place the political forum is because of the lack of civility and courtesy....and then they proceed to call it names and be as derogatory as they can. So noble and credible???

Just remember the tone and tenor most do not like is done by a very few, but the rest of us get tagged the same by a very few here as well........Hmmmmnnnn I detect a human/normal pattern here by some who speak one way and act another. Every group has it's one percenters that some how get the credit.

btk

[Posh 08]

If there is one discovered or known I would like to be contacted as well.

I really am enjoying the hypocrisy being spewed in this thread. By those who espouse what a bad place the political forum is because of the lack of civility and courtesy....and then they proceed to call it names and be as derogatory as they can. So noble and credible???

Just remember the tone and tenor most do not like is done by a very few, but the rest of us get tagged the same by a very few here as well........Hmmmmnnnn I detect a human/normal pattern here by some who speak one way and act another. Every group has it's one percenters that some how get the credit.

btk

There isn't one on the board that I wouldn't have a beer with
After all we are all Americans excercising our rights.

[Taltarzac725]

Share Your Political View | LiveCitizen.com (http://www.livecitizen.com/)

I just read some of the messages on this one and do not know its rules but it could be worth a look.

[coralway]

US Politics News - Topix (http://www.topix.net/us/politics)



http://townhall.com/

[Taltarzac725]

Share Your Political View | LiveCitizen.com (http://www.livecitizen.com/)

I just read some of the messages on this one and do not know its rules but it could be worth a look.

You need Facebook or Twitter to become a member of LiveCitizen.com.

[Posh 08]

You need Facebook or Twitter to become a member of LiveCitizen.com.

I'm good with that.

[njbchbum]

Excellent post Gracie.

As someone else said, the old silent rule of NOT discussing religion, sex, politics and whatnot (I might add food choices) and / or lifestyle.....still makes sense nowadays.

Back in the 60's, personnel managers in large corporations would tell the employees NOT to discuss their "raises", their "wages", plus "not to bring their personal family problems" or any "personal opinions" into any office discussions..........nowadays, everyone lets it all hang out.

As far as politics, better to remain apolitical in group discussions and keep silent until you enter the voting booth. Obviously, you can't please everyone. Nothing is simply black nor white. There are always shades of gray. Hubby and I notice NOTHING CHANGES , no matter who wins the election.*presidential election*

I take that last sentence back............in hindsight.......when we first moved to Vermont in 1970 it was still a very very super CONSERVATIVE "old fashioned" rural state.
It is now considered a leftist liberal state. So, change does happen.........not always for the better.
We were warned, "You are moving to a state where all the hippies live". We laughed because we had never met a hippie in New Jersey.
They are not hippies any longer......but definitely changed the climate of Vermont and I don't mean global warming...........

that's why the admin made the political forum an 'opt IN' forum so that those of us who DO WANT to discuss politics can have a place to go without disturbing those who do not wnat to discuss politics but who could not stop from clicking into the forum before the change. seems some folks were just voyeurs who wanted to see what other folks were saying but did not want to say anything themselves and then complained about how things were discussed in political!

for someone who expressed their opinion about not discussing politics, you sure found a way to share your thoughts! ;) if/when we get political back, perhaps you'll stop by more often and participate. folks with perspectives such as yours with the 'history' of vermont have the unique vision of the changing times beyond more that just a week or so. ;)

[ssmith]

.... I know that Donkeys and Elephants both can be passionate about their views but ....the reason I stayed out of it....is the tenor went from staying on topic to degrading a person because they have a different view than you. Really? I mean Really? This has occurred on this venue as well. Why must there be a personal attack on a person and their character? Why must there be so little respect when a person disagrees or when you question the authenticity of a post?

Mind you my experience happened before political left this venue! Just sayin.

[graciegirl]

There isn't one on the board that I wouldn't have a beer with
After all we are all Americans excercising our rights.

I ...think..that in an election year that it would be necessary and even kind for people who feel strongly to talk about it. It seems more than just about parties, it is amost a religion, a way of life...it is very important to those folks who feel strongly about political opinion. I wish that the administrators would bring it back and just ban personal attacks.

And I wish that people would be a little more respectful of political opinions that were not far right or far left. Just more respectful in general.

There are good people from both sides and bad creepy people from both sides.

It only takes a minute to figure out who is fair and presents a well thought out argument and who respects your opinions if you differ from their views.

I don't like hostility and anger from a person who is anonymous. It is just wrong.

[John_W]

All this political talk is a waste of time, if you had just read this morning's Sun paper you would know that tomorrow they are having a 'Victory Rally' at LSL, apparently they've already picked a winner!

[justjim]

I think that Dwight D. Eisenhower probably said it best: "I despise people who go to the gutter on either the right or the left and hurl rocks at those in the center". This election is especially hostile----both sides have billions to spend on negative ads. The spin, the half truths, and especially the INTERNET has former mature reasonable people about half crazy. And the crazy thing-----after this election-----no matter who wins it starts all over again. No wonder just about half of us even bother to vote.

[quirky3]

I ...think..that in an election year that it would be necessary and even kind for people who feel strongly to talk about it. It seems more than just about parties, it is amost a religion, a way of life...it is very important to those folks who feel strongly about political opinion. I wish that the administrators would bring it back and just ban personal attacks.

And I wish that people would be a little more respectful of political opinions that were not far right or far left. Just more respectful in general.

There are good people from both sides and bad creepy people from both sides.

It only takes a minute to figure out who is fair and presents a well thought out argument and who respects your opinions if you differ from their views.

I don't like hostility and anger from a person who is anonymous. It is just wrong.

I know it would be nice if TOTV could be "all things to all people", and it does provide a very wide range of topics! At the same time, if I were a moderator I would probably want a balance between the number of topics and the amount of time they demand. If (and I say "if") one forum was demanding a large amount of admin time compared with all the other forums, and there were lots of places for people to go to discuss that topic, I could understand wanting to stick to the many, many topics that don't have excessive admin needs.

[njbchbum]

Well, if the Political Forum is closed, I suppose the political posts will go to the "General Discussion"?

from the admin's post re political:

"NO political posts are allowed in any of the forums. First offense an account infraction and warning. Second offense account will be banned."

so i don' think so!

[bkcunningham1]

Does anyone have any experience with the website Quora? I just joined and so far, so good. It looks like it is going to be a very high quality Q&A site.

[Barefoot]

Does anyone have any experience with the website Quora? I just joined and so far, so good. It looks like it is going to be a very high quality Q&A site.

It looks interesting. There are so many different topics available where you can register an interest. Over 55,000 people interested in Political. It's going to take some time to explore the site.

[Joaniesmom]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/totv-political-forums-58754/

Well I think Admin made that clear as a bell. This is his site and I love it here. Just as is TV, if you want to live and play there, you abide by the rules. There are zillions of political sites to join on the net and discuss endlessly who chained who today. If you like that kind of discussion, you won't be deprived.

[jebartle]

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplaus e:
I will not miss forum one bit!



I would liken it more to a couple of snakes biting and spitting venom 30 feet across the room.

Whenever people take the position that "my party/candidate can do no wrong" and "the other party/candidate has never done a single thing right", there is no exchange of ideas nor learning.

[EdV]

I never joined the political forum because it had little if anything to do with what’s happening right here in and around me.

Personally, I never understood why the political forum wasn’t set up with sub sections for each of the three counties and perhaps each of the numbered CDD’s. I mean think about it. Do you know who your CDD trustees are and what they’ve been voting on?

And how about the Amenity Authority Committee which ironically has no authority whatsoever. Who are the members and what are they voting on? That’s the kind of stuff I thought should be debated, not what’s being done on the other side of the world.

Perhaps a restructuring of that forum with a new focus would be a better alternative to a suspension altogether.

Just an outsiders thoughts.

[njbchbum]

I never joined the political forum because it had little if anything to do with what’s happening right here in and around me.

Personally, I never understood why the political forum wasn’t set up with sub sections for each of the three counties and perhaps each of the numbered CDD’s. I mean think about it. Do you know who your CDD trustees are and what they’ve been voting on?

And how about the Amenity Authority Committee which ironically has no authority whatsoever. Who are the members and what are they voting on? That’s the kind of stuff I thought should be debated, not what’s being done on the other side of the world.

Perhaps a restructuring of that forum with a new focus would be a better alternative to a suspension altogether.

Just an outsiders thoughts.

ed - political discussions went far beyond cdds and counties! all of the local info you question we find in the district gov page. sometimes topics about the goings on there were brought into the 'general' forum and if discussion strayed the mod was careful to determine if/when a thread should move to 'political'.

just wonderin' - if you never joined 'political' how is it you are familiar with its set-up?

[jandbrare]

from the admin's post re political:

"NO political posts are allowed in any of the forums. First offense an account infraction and warning. Second offense account will be banned."

so i don' think so!

That's what it sounds like. No political posts, anywhere.

I started a Google Group to discuss local, The Villages politics: click here (https://groups.google.com/d/forum/thevillagespolitics). Spin-off forums don't usually work, but I thought I'd see if there were enough residents interested in discussing local politics to make it worthwhile I started by posting about my present concern: the return of signs north of CR 466. You will have to join to post, but it's not hard to do. Join and leave any kind of post to show interest, please. Doesn't need to be serious or angry :kiss:

Jerry

[old moe]

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplaus e:
I will not miss forum one bit!

:posting:Agreed,me either. This is not the place for politics, it is mainly for information, and FUN. Thanks to the admin. for his action.:spoken::D:D

[njbchbum]

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplaus e:
I will not miss forum one bit!

well, i sure miss it - but i also understand the need for a cooling off period that was obvious from the sniping and lack of civility. hopefully the admin will restore it soon.

[Number 6]

well, i sure miss it - but i also understand the need for a cooling off period that was obvious from the sniping and lack of civility. hopefully the admin will restore it soon.

Me too. For those that won't miss it, well fine. No one ever forced you to go there. Well, from my point of view it was fun. I hope to see it back.

[graciegirl]

That's what it sounds like. No political posts, anywhere.

I started a Google Group to discuss local, The Villages politics: click here (https://groups.google.com/d/forum/thevillagespolitics). Spin-off forums don't usually work, but I thought I'd see if there were enough residents interested in discussing local politics to make it worthwhile I started by posting about my present concern: the return of signs north of CR 466. You will have to join to post, but it's not hard to do. Join and leave any kind of post to show interest, please. Doesn't need to be serious or angry :kiss:

Jerry
Jerry;
I followed your recent concerns about the local person who voted to ignore sign restrictions and who was also running for a public office. He lost that election.

I wish we could discuss those sorts of things...somewhere here on this forum, because I kind of know the feel of people here, the ones who are trustworthy and the ones who are kinda....blowhards?

I trust you, Jerry.

[billethkid]

all of you who are so "thankfull" for the demise of the political forum and thanking and praising the admin for doing it....you folks are kidding right........ya know it was an opt in forum. If you did not like it then opt out if you are or were in. If you don't like it why do you or did you go there.

And when you express your dislike why does it have to be with a durogatory or demeaning intent.......very similar to what you accuse or allege exist in the political forum.

How very hypocritical.

The problem as repeated over and over again was with a very small number of posters.......just like there is in this forum (or any other)!!!

btk

[jandbrare]

I never joined the political forum because it had little if anything to do with what’s happening right here in and around me.

Personally, I never understood why the political forum wasn’t set up with sub sections for each of the three counties and perhaps each of the numbered CDD’s. I mean think about it. Do you know who your CDD trustees are and what they’ve been voting on?

And how about the Amenity Authority Committee which ironically has no authority whatsoever. Who are the members and what are they voting on? That’s the kind of stuff I thought should be debated, not what’s being done on the other side of the world.

Perhaps a restructuring of that forum with a new focus would be a better alternative to a suspension altogether.

Just an outsiders thoughts.

Ed, take a look at the forum I started on Google Groups: click here (https://groups.google.com/d/forum/thevillagespolitics). I had the same idea as you.

[EdV]

ed - political discussions went far beyond cdds and counties! all of the local info you question we find in the district gov page. sometimes topics about the goings on there were brought into the 'general' forum and if discussion strayed the mod was careful to determine if/when a thread should move to 'political'.

just wonderin' - if you never joined 'political' how is it you are familiar with its set-up?

To answer your questions:

My point was/is that I thought the political forum might be better served if it was restricted to local district or county concerns rather than national and world politics.

Yes the district gov site has postings for each district including meeting agendas, minutes and budgets, but there’s no place to discuss or debate the issues with other members of your specific district. No big deal, just a thought.

And when I joined TOTV in 2008, that forum was wide open and all the political posts would regularly appear when you clicked the button to show just new posts. Without even opening the thread you could see the subject line so I knew what was being discussed. After numerous complaints, the Admin made membership in that forum restricted.

[Golfingnut]

all of you who are so "thankfull" for the demise of the political forum and thanking and praising the admin for doing it....you folks are kidding right........ya know it was an opt in forum. If you did not like it then opt out if you are or were in. If you don't like it why do you or did you go there.

And when you express your dislike why does it have to be with a durogatory or demeaning intent.......very similar to what you accuse or allege exist in the political forum.

How very hypocritical.

The problem as repeated over and over again was with a very small number of posters.......just like there is in this forum (or any other)!!!

btk

I am one that feels we (the majority of members of TOTV) would be better off without it ever coming back. I am so sorry if that offends anyone, but that is my Opinion and nothing more. Why did I go there?? Good question. I guess I am interested in Politics, but not the negative parts. I would not know these Admin folks if I bumped into them, but I say they did THE RIGHT THING and if nothing else, and they do reopen the forum, maybe that small number of posters YOU refer too will have learned there lesson. I had issues on there myself and when warned by Admin, I stopped and pray I never make a negative remark again. Life is to short for us old folks and life in The Villages is to wonderful to mess any of it up. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest.

[njbchbum]

To answer your questions:

My point was/is that I thought the political forum might be better served if it was restricted to local district or county concerns rather than national and world politics.

Yes the district gov site has postings for each district including meeting agendas, minutes and budgets, but there’s no place to discuss or debate the issues with other members of your specific district. No big deal, just a thought.

And when I joined TOTV in 2008, that forum was wide open and all the political posts would regularly appear when you clicked the button to show just new posts. Without even opening the thread you could see the subject line so I knew what was being discussed. After numerous complaints, the Admin made membership in that forum restricted.

no reason that local and county politics could not be brought into 'political' - i love that idea!

re discuss/debate with your district members - several new villages have set up websites - maybe yours did? maybe a search on totv would find it if one is here. if ya can't find one, maybe you could post a request to find someone who could/would set one up for ya! but then. such discussion could always be a thread within 'political'......

2008 - that's like ancient history around here! ;)

[njbchbum]

all of you who are so "thankfull" for the demise of the political forum and thanking and praising the admin for doing it....you folks are kidding right........ya know it was an opt in forum. If you did not like it then opt out if you are or were in. If you don't like it why do you or did you go there.

And when you express your dislike why does it have to be with a durogatory or demeaning intent.......very similar to what you accuse or allege exist in the political forum.

How very hypocritical.

The problem as repeated over and over again was with a very small number of posters.......just like there is in this forum (or any other)!!!

btk

thanx for posting - i so totally agree with your point of view!

[rp001]

What I saw there (PF)was unmitigated hate..There was a group of about 6 that pretty much ran amok, and would bully/browbeat anyone with dissenting opinions..One person would say something and 5 others would chime in.. None really interested in any opinion from "the other side". Definitely a "my way or the highway" approach. GOOD RIDDANCE..

[EdV]

Ed, take a look at the forum I started on Google Groups: click here (https://groups.google.com/d/forum/thevillagespolitics). I had the same idea as you.

Jerry, that’s nice that you are trying to get this going with a separate forum, but attempts in the past at spin offs were not very successful. The overall success of TOTV is a hard act to follow and was many years in the making.

Perhaps after the cooling off period and enough TOTV members request a district specific political forum, the Admin will consider a trial period. No national or world politics, just local district issues and certainly no partisan comments. And whenever a major issue is debated, allow for a poll so people can be heard without having to post a comment if they want to.

Think of the possibilities. As the build out of TV continues and more districts get turned over to the residents, candidates for Board of Supervisors could join TOTV and discuss district issues with their constituents. The potential benefits seem too important to overlook.

Who knows.

[Rebel Pirate]

Jerry;
I followed your recent concerns about the local person who voted to ignore sign restrictions and who was also running for a public office. He lost that election.

I wish we could discuss those sorts of things...somewhere here on this forum, because I kind of know the feel of people here, the ones who are trustworthy and the ones who are kinda....blowhards?

I trust you, Jerry.

Careful GG. In a non-political forum in the immediate aftermath of the action to eliminate the political forum, I created a post with an opinion very similar to yours above...and my post was taken down by the admin. Talk about over-reaction!!

[njbchbum]

[QUOTE=EdVinMass;542414]snip
Perhaps after the cooling off period and enough TOTV members request a district specific political forum, the Admin will consider a trial period. No national or world politics, just local district issues and certainly no partisan comments. And whenever a major issue is debated, allow for a poll so people can be heard without having to post a comment if they want to. snipQUOTE]


sorry, ed, i hope national/world 'political' WILL BE restored rather than as you seem to want to eliminate. i appreciate sharing such discussion with my totv forum subscribers...especially because those issues impact me far more than tv issues since i am but a snowbird in the villages.

please describe partisan comments - would these be personal opinions?

totv affords polls in any forum - and comments are not required in order to cast a vote - have done it several times i wanted my opinion to be counted.

[njbchbum]

Ed, take a look at the forum I started on Google Groups: click here (https://groups.google.com/d/forum/thevillagespolitics). I had the same idea as you.

well, jerry, i joined but am not sure i will participate too much since it is just local issues and because i can find no way to start a new topic, can only respond to your post that is there now.

good luck with your venture. it was good of you to try to make a go of totv's loss.

going back to searching for something closer to a totv substitute. ciao!

[capecodbob]

All this political talk is a waste of time, if you had just read this morning's Sun paper you would know that tomorrow they are having a 'Victory Rally' at LSL, apparently they've already picked a winner!

How can you spout this political stuff and not get a warning? The political forum is gone, but you continue.... :(

[graciegirl]

Jerry, that’s nice that you are trying to get this going with a separate forum, but attempts in the past at spin offs were not very successful. The overall success of TOTV is a hard act to follow and was many years in the making.

Perhaps after the cooling off period and enough TOTV members request a district specific political forum, the Admin will consider a trial period. No national or world politics, just local district issues and certainly no partisan comments. And whenever a major issue is debated, allow for a poll so people can be heard without having to post a comment if they want to.

Think of the possibilities. As the build out of TV continues and more districts get turned over to the residents, candidates for Board of Supervisors could join TOTV and discuss district issues with their constituents. The potential benefits seem too important to overlook.

Who knows.

I agree absolutely.

Please reconsider, Admin.

[EdV]

sorry, ed, i hope national/world 'political' WILL BE restored rather than as you seem to want to eliminate. i appreciate sharing such discussion with my totv forum subscribers...especially because those issues impact me far more than tv issues since i am but a snowbird in the villages.

please describe partisan comments - would these be personal opinions?

totv affords polls in any forum - and comments are not required in order to cast a vote - have done it several times i wanted my opinion to be counted.

I’m sorry njbchbum, I think you’ve misunderstood me. I’m not trying to eliminate anything. It’s just that TOTV is the definitive source for current events in and around (or as I like to say, about) The Villages, why use it as a platform for national and world political discussions when there are a thousand forums out there already for that. How many great forums are there for The Villages? Just this one I submit.

Partisan comments are not personal opinions, in fact they are just the opposite.

And of course polls are a way for a member to express their opinion without making a comment. That was my point.

[justjim]

I have a feeling that after a fairly brief cooling off period the Political Forum will be back. Its just a "gut feeling". I think the Admin. made their point and rightfully so.

[quirky3]

Well I think Admin made that clear as a bell. This is his site and I love it here. Just as is TV, if you want to live and play there, you abide by the rules. There are zillions of political sites to join on the net and discuss endlessly who chained who today. If you like that kind of discussion, you won't be deprived.

I agree! I think we are much better off without it. This can be an upbeat, helpful place for sharing and learning.

[Barefoot]

i hope national/world 'political' WILL BE restored rather than as you seem to want to eliminate. i appreciate sharing such discussion with my totv forum subscribers...especially because those issues impact me far more than tv issues since i am but a snowbird in the villages. [/QUOTE]


I’m not trying to eliminate anything. It’s just that TOTV is the definitive source for current events in and around (or as I like to say, about) The Villages, why use it as a platform for national and world political discussions when there are a thousand forums out there already for that. How many great forums are there for The Villages? Just this one I submit. Partisan comments are not personal opinions, in fact they are just the opposite.


If you've been hankering to discuss local issues instead of national and world politics, why haven't you been starting threads on those topics?

People have been starting threads on national topics because that is what they want to discuss. After all, it's an election year!

[Moderator]

To answer your questions:

My point was/is that I thought the political forum might be better served if it was restricted to local district or county concerns rather than national and world politics.

Yes the district gov site has postings for each district including meeting agendas, minutes and budgets, but there’s no place to discuss or debate the issues with other members of your specific district. No big deal, just a thought.

And when I joined TOTV in 2008, that forum was wide open and all the political posts would regularly appear when you clicked the button to show just new posts. Without even opening the thread you could see the subject line so I knew what was being discussed. After numerous complaints, the Admin made membership in that forum restricted.


Just to clarify, nonpartisan local district issues about TV continue to be welcome in The Villages, General Discussion Forum as always.

[njbchbum]

I agree! I think we are much better off without it. This can be an upbeat, helpful place for sharing and learning.

quirky3 - i don't recall you participating much in 'political' - why do you think those of us who hope it returns are better off without it after a cooling off suspension of service? after all, it is an opt in forum.

[Bucco]

quirky3 - i don't recall you participating much in 'political' - why do you think those of us who hope it returns are better off without it after a cooling off suspension of service? after all, it is an opt in forum.

My only comment in reading some of this is that there are a lot of folks who NEVER posted in political, found it disgusting, but OBVIOUSLY made sure they visited the forum on a regular basis. This is just based on the descriptive notes about it.

[Posh 08]

My only comment in reading some of this is that there are a lot of folks who NEVER posted in political, found it disgusting, but OBVIOUSLY made sure they visited the forum on a regular basis. This is just based on the descriptive notes about it.

:BigApplause:

[quirky3]

quirky3 - i don't recall you participating much in 'political' - why do you think those of us who hope it returns are better off without it after a cooling off suspension of service? after all, it is an opt in forum.

Three reasons:
- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it
- I think TOTV will require much less admin time without it
- I think with clear policies defined we won't have the problem of posts needing to be moved to the political forum, because no political posts would be allowed

I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

[Posh 08]

Three reasons:
- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it
- I think TOTV will require much less admin time without it
- I think with clear policies defined we won't have the problem of posts needing to be moved to the political forum, because no political posts would be allowed

I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

Quirk
If you didn't use or participate in the Political Forum why do you think it was a problem?

[quirky3]

quirky3 - i don't recall you participating much in 'political' - why do you think those of us who hope it returns are better off without it after a cooling off suspension of service? after all, it is an opt in forum.

Njbchbum - I am just sharing my opinion, as you are sharing yours. I am not trying to debate or even argue. Just taking my turn stating how I feel. And it's different than how you feel. We can agree to disagree without making anyone else right or wrong.

[quirky3]

Quirk
If you didn't use or participate in the Political Forum why do you think it was a problem?

How can I be more clear?
Three reasons:
- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it
- I think TOTV will require much less admin time without it
- I think with clear policies defined we won't have the problem of posts needing to be moved to the political forum, because no political posts would be allowed

I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

[Posh 08]

How can I be more clear?
Three reasons:
- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it
- I think TOTV will require much less admin time without it
- I think with clear policies defined we won't have the problem of posts needing to be moved to the political forum, because no political posts would be allowed

I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

If you were NOT there, how would you know?

[quirky3]

If you were NOT there, how would you know?

I've never been on the political forum, period. But I do have my opinions, and I am stating them here. Sorry you don't like that.

[Posh 08]

I've never been on the political forum, period. But I do have my opinions, and I am stating them here. Sorry you don't like that.

Didn't say I didn't like it. Just think you should taste it before you say you don't like it, but that of course is up to you.

[quirky3]

Didn't say I didn't like it. Just think you should taste it before you say you don't like it, but that of course is up to you.

We are all free to express our opinions any time. We don't need to meet the criteria of others.

[graciegirl]

I am surprised we have not heard from Richie Lion.

[Barefoot]

- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it.
I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

If you were NOT there, how would you know?

I've never been on the political forum, period. But I do have my opinions, and I am stating them here. Sorry you don't like that.

Quirk, isn't that a little like saying: "I've never tried icecream, but I know I wouldn't like it, and everyone's life will be more positive and upbeat without it". I know I'm being silly to make a point, but how can you judge something negatively if you've never been there?

[quirky3]

Quirk, isn't that a little like saying: "I've never tried icecream, but I know I wouldn't like it, and everyone's life will be more positive and upbeat without it". I know I'm being silly to make a point, but how can you judge something negatively if you've never been there?

Folks, just a friendly reminder - the thread is titled "Where is the political forum", and the TOTV policy is to address the topic at hand, not attack the posters.

I prefaced all my comments with "I think",not "I know". Also, all of my comments refer to ways in which TOTV can improve, not anything specifically bad about the political forum. Chill out. Don't take out your projected anger on me. I will not accept it.

[Posh 08]

We are all free to express our opinions any time. We don't need to meet the criteria of others.

Except on TOTV political forum. Right? I rest my case. Thank you.

[billethkid]

Three reasons:
- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it
- I think TOTV will require much less admin time without it
- I think with clear policies defined we won't have the problem of posts needing to be moved to the political forum, because no political posts would be allowed

I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

How does the political forum make "it" so negative and downbeat???

You obviously know how much time out of their total admin time; what % does it take?

Some posts are not intended to be political that are in other forums; some how some of them take on a political trend. Just because there is no political forum, just how does this not happen.

And the last line, your opinion, you are totally and completely entitled to as we all are.

If any of you opted in and visited the political forum and did not post, and did not like it, there was no requirement for you continue....just opt out and be of what ever opinion why you did not like it.

To pontificate about the value of TOTV with or without it.......WOW!!!!

btk

[DaleMN]

I am surprised we have not heard from Richie Lion.

Me too. He may be in withdrawal. :D

[graciegirl]

Paul Ryan coming to Sumter Landing.

When? I have a hair appointment and have to go around that area tomorrow at nine thirty...Those kinds of things usually draw huge crowds.

I don't like crowds or I might go take a peep at him to say I did if he should attain his goal.

[Posh 08]

Me too. He may be in withdrawal. :D

He is my Champion. He'll sort this out.

[quirky3]

How does the political forum make "it" so negative and downbeat???

You obviously know how much time out of their total admin time; what % does it take?

Some posts are not intended to be political that are in other forums; some how some of them take on a political trend. Just because there is no political forum, just how does this not happen.

And the last line, your opinion, you are totally and completely entitled to as we all are.

If any of you opted in and visited the political forum and did not post, and did not like it, there was no requirement for you continue....just opt out and be of what ever opinion why you did not like it.

To pontificate about the value of TOTV with or without it.......WOW!!!!

btk

I anticipated just such a response, which is why I prefaced all of my statements by "I think". They are my opinion, sorry if you don't like it. You have an odd definition of "pontificating". I'm not here to debate, just state my opinion, and I have done that.

[Golfingnut]

Three reasons:
- I think it will be a more positive, upbeat forum without it
- I think TOTV will require much less admin time without it
- I think with clear policies defined we won't have the problem of posts needing to be moved to the political forum, because no political posts would be allowed

I am saying that I think TOTV is better off without it

You are among the larger group with this post stating your opinion, me included.

[Bucco]

How does the political forum make "it" so negative and downbeat???

You obviously know how much time out of their total admin time; what % does it take?

Some posts are not intended to be political that are in other forums; some how some of them take on a political trend. Just because there is no political forum, just how does this not happen.

And the last line, your opinion, you are totally and completely entitled to as we all are.

If any of you opted in and visited the political forum and did not post, and did not like it, there was no requirement for you continue....just opt out and be of what ever opinion why you did not like it.

To pontificate about the value of TOTV with or without it.......WOW!!!!

btk

I have to support billethkid on this. I think I know why the area was shut down, and accept it as just a fact.

I, as BTK, have been posting on political since it began. It is remarkable to hear all the comments being made from folks who DID NOT HAVE TO EVEN SEE THE AREA, surely did not have to read or post and I suspect never even visited, and if they did and didnt like it, I WOULD ASSUME opted out since it was so nasty.

[Barefoot]

I am surprised we have not heard from Richie Lion.

Me too. He may be in withdrawal. :D

He is my Champion. He'll sort this out.

I did e-mail briefly with Richie, he was kind enough to give me a little background. Like many of us, he feels "It's a shame" that the Political Forum has been suspended.

[Down Sized]

They just announced it on the news at 6pm that Paul Ryan would be in town Saturday. I didn't catch a time. Maybe someone else did.

[Posh 08]

You are among the larger group with this post stating your opinion, me included.

Villager II also would say this.

[Taltarzac725]

The TOTV's Political Forum seemed quite tame when you compared it with some of the other forums that talk about politics and the Villages. Check out the usually very nasty attacks on the Orlando Sentinel board whenever they have an article about the Villages.

They do not even seem to require PG language.

[njbchbum]

They just announced it on the news at 6pm that Paul Ryan would be in town Saturday. I didn't catch a time. Maybe someone else did.

not being discussed here because it is a political event.

[Bucco]

not being discussed here because it is a political event.

Check in the political forum...I am sure it was mentioned there...oh, forgot !!!

[graciegirl]

not being discussed here because it is a political event.

It is another guest speaker of a certain genre. Please advise us on this mod and admin.

[njbchbum]

When? I have a hair appointment and have to go around that area tomorrow at nine thirty...Those kinds of things usually draw huge crowds.

I don't like crowds or I might go take a peep at him to say I did if he should attain his goal.

admission to the area starts around 7:30am with appearance scheduled for 10am - so you might have to take a very long way around to get to your hairdressers! if you did get to sneak a peak - i bet you'd like his mom who will be joining him at the rally!

is wisconsin that far from ohio? ;)

[gomoho]

wow - I think admin has created a two headed monster with this - maybe you should open the Polical Forum so these posts calm down. Personally I think the censorship just plain "sucks"!!! Sorry if my language offends you.

[Posh 08]

admission to the area starts around 7:30am with appearance scheduled for 10am - so you might have to take a very long way around to get to your hairdressers! if you did get to sneak a peak - i bet you'd like his mom who will be joining him at the rally!

is wisconsin that far from ohio? ;)

Does Mom really live there?

[billethkid]

I for one do believe this thread has been pretty well worked.

I think I have said my piece/opinion.

So now off to landscape or travel to see if there is any excitement there to help while away the time until the political forum comes back.

Remember if you do not like it...do not go there....because some of us are prone to asking questions!!:D.....and opinions are NEVER denied!!!!!

btk

[graciegirl]

wow - I think admin has created a two headed monster with this - maybe you should open the Polical Forum so these posts calm down. Personally I think the censorship just plain "sucks"!!! Sorry if my language offends you.

I said passionately that I didn't like to read the political forum, it was way toooooo much for me, but now that I have thought about it, I know how passionately we seniors feel about this area. And how much they like to talk and debate and argue. I think it should be brought back. I just won't read it. I am a wuss.

I ask that the administrator rethink this and reeinstate the political forum.

[bkcunningham1]

Did the Admin or owner of TOTV ever state why he was doing away with the political forum?

[Posh 08]

I said passionately that I didn't like to read the political forum, it was way toooooo much for me, but now that I have thought about it, I know how passionately we seniors feel about this area. And how much they like to talk and debate and argue. I think it should be brought back. I just won't read it. I am a wuss.

I ask that the administrator rethink this and reeinstate the political forum.

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause:

[Posh 08]

Did the Admin or owner of TOTV ever state why he was doing away with the political forum?

He told me that it was, now this is not a quote, too much time spent moderating or something along those lines. Here is his/her response.


"What happened is that people can't treat other people with respect and it is taking too many hours a day to monitor".

So hopefully yall get to see this before it goes poof.

[bkcunningham1]

He told me that it was, now this is not a quote, too much time spent moderating or something along those lines. Here is his/her response.


"What happened is that people can't treat other people with respect and it is taking too many hours a day to monitor".

So hopefully yall get to see this before it goes poof.

Was that said to you by the Admin in a private message/email?

[ijusluvit]

I can understand the moderator's concern that he/she has to monitor the political forum 24/7. That could probably be categorized as cruel and unusual punishment.

So if this a big reason for suspending the forum, I would suggest the moderator try one of the following experiments:

1) Allow the political forum to function without any monitoring, or

2) Open the forum for specific daily hours scheduled at the discretion of the moderator.

In either case it is also reasonable for the moderator to establish rules which may lead to 'disciplinary action'.

[Bucco]

I can understand the moderator's concern that he/she has to monitor the political forum 24/7. That could probably be categorized as cruel and unusual punishment.

So if this a big reason for suspending the forum, I would suggest the moderator try one of the following experiments:

1) Allow the political forum to function without any monitoring, or

2) Open the forum for specific daily hours scheduled at the discretion of the moderator.

In either case it is also reasonable for the moderator to establish rules which may lead to 'disciplinary action'.

Good ideas....the last concerning RULES and DISCIPLINE, to me, are the most vital ! Even if the rules and violations are done with the total discretion of the administrator which would be acceptable to me.

[duffysmom]

Personally I would like to see the political forum opened so that the bullies can return to their domain.:grumpy:

[quirky3]

Personally I would like to see the political forum opened so that the bullies can return to their domain.:grumpy:

Hmmmm....now there's a point worth considering!

And - thanks to all who sent the many supportive PMs!

[njbchbum]

Does Mom really live there?

no! she is travelling with him.

[jandbrare]

well, jerry, i joined but am not sure i will participate too much since it is just local issues and because i can find no way to start a new topic, can only respond to your post that is there now.

good luck with your venture. it was good of you to try to make a go of totv's loss.

njbchbum, sorry about the posting capability. I was trying to guard against spammers and got too aggressive. Try it now. I think you will be able to post.

For any of you who want to post about The Villages politics, try this site (https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/thevillagespolitics)

[njbchbum]

njbchbum, sorry about the posting capability. I was trying to guard against spammers and got too aggressive. Try it now. I think you will be able to post.

For any of you who want to post about The Villages politics, try this site (https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/thevillagespolitics)

thanx - maybe tomorrow!

[Barefoot]

I ask that the administrator rethink this and reeinstate the political forum.

If I were the Admins, I'd reinstate the Political Forum, lock all the posters in a room, throw away the key, and let them out after the election.

[TOTV Team]

njbchbum, sorry about the posting capability. I was trying to guard against spammers and got too aggressive. Try it now. I think you will be able to post.

For any of you who want to post about The Villages politics, try this site (https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/thevillagespolitics)


For clarification - there are NO changes in the general forums of TOTV. Discussions that have always happened regarding issues and governance in The Villages have been and will continue as always.

The political forum where discussions and debates on political parties ie: Democrat and Republican has been suspended. Those discussions have not been allowed in the general forums and that will continue to be our policy.

Thank you for your support.

Best Regards,

Admin

[jandbrare]

For clarification - there are NO changes in the general forums of TOTV. Discussions that have always happened regarding issues and governance in The Villages have been and will continue as always.

The political forum where discussions and debates on political parties ie: Democrat and Republican has been suspended. Those discussions have not been allowed in the general forums and that will continue to be our policy.

Thank you for your support.

Best Regards,

Admin
There really is no need for the Google Group Forum (https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/thevillagespolitics) I instituted today. I only intended it to be for local (The Villages) politics. Now that Admin has clarified that TOTV is open to local politics, I will close the Google Group. It didn't stand much of a chance for success, anyway.

Jerry

[bkcunningham1]

Mr. Admin, why did you close political here and is the closure permanent? Thank you in advance for your answer.

[TOTV Team]

Mr. Admin, why did you close political here and is the closure permanent? Thank you in advance for your answer.

The political forums have been suspended due to a number of ongoing factors and the decision was not taken lightly. A decision has not been made as to if it will be permanent but likely through the elections. At this time we prefer to reserve those various factors that lead to this decision from open discussion because regardless of the reasons we felt compelled to make the change, some users and not implying you at all, will continue to argue and debate even our most articulate and thought out responses.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause any user and we are focused on continuing to improve Talk of the Villages as a resource for current residents to find and share information about The Villages and everything that is centric to life in The Villages.

[Taltarzac725]

The political forums have been suspended due to a number of ongoing factors and the decision was not taken lightly. A decision has not been made as to if it will be permanent but likely through the elections. At this time we prefer to reserve those various factors that lead to this decision from open discussion because regardless of the reasons we felt compelled to make the change, some users and not implying you at all, will continue to argue and debate even our most articulate and thought out responses.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause any user and we are focused on continuing to improve Talk of the Villages as a resource for current residents to find and share information about The Villages and everything that is centric to life in The Villages.

The bitter political partisan debate did not seem to have that much to do with life in the Villages; so, I am not missing the Political Forum all that much.

I had thought about leaving it many a time because of just how personal some of the attacks became.

[Golfingnut]

The bitter political partisan debate did not seem to have that much to do with life in the Villages; so, I am not missing the Political Forum all that much.

I had thought about leaving it many a time because of just how personal some of the attacks became.

:BigApplause:

[quirky3]

:BigApplause:

Amen! :BigApplause:

[senior citizen]

from the admin's post re political:

"NO political posts are allowed in any of the forums. First offense an account infraction and warning. Second offense account will be banned."

so i don' think so!

Yes, I just got one of those from the administration.

At first I thought it was re my post re the "hippies" in Vermont once upon a time......so I just deleted it.

But now I'm thinking it was because I sent the hyperlink re the Miami newspaper that said where the "mom" lived as a snowbird.....in Florida.

You'll have to read between the lines here.

Personally, I've never gone to the POLITICAL section, never posted there and do not know what all this fuss is about or why I got an infraction or whatever..........all I said is "nothing ever changes"....which is true.........which contradicts what I've noticed over the past 42 years in Vermont..........so I'm wrong, I admit. It may seem that nothing changes, but eventually the changes are evident.

However, that could be more than the "p" word. It might be the greater influx of metropolitan/cosmopolitan folks from the cities and burbs who relocated up here.....both in the '70s and post 911 to find peace and quiet and safety.

AGAIN, I have no idea why I got a message from the administration re politics. I have never posted on that site.

[billethkid]

for me it was easy to manage not having to deal with posts from people one would rather not deal with....the forum does provide a blocking feature that takes care of 90% plus.

My own personal opinion is that between the need to OPT IN to get to the political forum and the feature to block as many members as needed and just ignoring that with which I feel is offensive......what else does a person need. Maybe a little maturity to help with the complaining about that which some feel is offensive or disagreeable to their likings. But even here again....all they need do is just not go there or do not open and read the posts.

If my suspicions are correct in that the issue could be complaint driven, then I think the action to suspend is really not fair (I know it is the owner's game!!!).

My suggestion would be for the admin to consider drafting a set of rules of decorum (that almost all of us have anyway)....then provide notice to those who opt in a "warning" of some type the admin is not responsible, etc for content....enter at your own risk sort of caution (how ridiculous is this for senior citizens?)

Then let those who opt in have at it. It is so easy for participants to set aside the very few loose cannons whose only purpose is to bait, aggrivate and taunt folks. Eliminate the need for admin monitoring!!!!

As for commentary and complaints from those who have only negative comments about the political forum, it is sort of like you go to an R rated movie and then come out and complain about what you saw. And then go to another R rated movie and complain again. Well all one has to do is determine it it not to your liking, like political, then do not go there...do not read the posts....and please do not continue to refer to the majority of us as bullies, thugs, nasty and what ever else.....because it is just not true.

I totally and completely disagree with the position of a closed political forum. Whether some like it or not, it is a part of what some of us are interested in here in TV.

I wonder how other political forums do it without a problem?

And in closing, I wonder why it is OK with so many to watch the same level of lack of civility every minute of every hour of every day in the media and television coverage of the current campaign for POTUS????

That is my $3.75 ( my 2 cents adjusted for inflation).

Smile it really helps:D

btk

[ceejay]

for me it was easy to manage not having to deal with posts from people one would rather not deal with....the forum does provide a blocking feature that takes care of 90% plus.

My own personal opinion is that between the need to OPT IN to get to the political forum and the feature to block as many members as needed and just ignoring that with which I feel is offensive......what else does a person need. Maybe a little maturity to help with the complaining about that which some feel is offensive or disagreeable to their likings. But even here again....all they need do is just not go there or do not open and read the posts.

If my suspicions are correct in that the issue could be complaint driven, then I think the action to suspend is really not fair (I know it is the owner's game!!!).

My suggestion would be for the admin to consider drafting a set of rules of decorum (that almost all of us have anyway)....then provide notice to those who opt in a "warning" of some type the admin is not responsible, etc for content....enter at your own risk sort of caution (how ridiculous is this for senior citizens?)

Then let those who opt in have at it. It is so easy for participants to set aside the very few loose cannons whose only purpose is to bait, aggrivate and taunt folks. Eliminate the need for admin monitoring!!!!

As for commentary and complaints from those who have only negative comments about the political forum, it is sort of like you go to an R rated movie and then come out and complain about what you saw. And then go to another R rated movie and complain again. Well all one has to do is determine it it not to your liking, like political, then do not go there...do not read the posts....and please do not continue to refer to the majority of us as bullies, thugs, nasty and what ever else.....because it is just not true.

I totally and completely disagree with the position of a closed political forum. Whether some like it or not, it is a part of what some of us are interested in here in TV.

I wonder how other political forums do it without a problem?

And in closing, I wonder why it is OK with so many to watch the same level of lack of civility every minute of every hour of every day in the media and television coverage of the current campaign for POTUS????

That is my $3.75 ( my 2 cents adjusted for inflation).

Smile it really helps:D

btk

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause:

Well said, BTK.

[ilovetv]

I think the political forum is good to have here, so that people see the true diversity of opinion in TV.....that TV is NOT all far-right only old f*rts as people in other areas are led to believe.

Maybe it could be re-opened and to avoid personal attacks, remove the "Quote Post" function (so the poster quoted is not a target instead of their comments), and prohibit referral to other posters' names. Comments could be written by starting with "regarding the comment above about ____, I disagree and think this:"

[justjim]

The political forums have been suspended due to a number of ongoing factors and the decision was not taken lightly. A decision has not been made as to if it will be permanent but likely through the elections. At this time we prefer to reserve those various factors that lead to this decision from open discussion because regardless of the reasons we felt compelled to make the change, some users and not implying you at all, will continue to argue and debate even our most articulate and thought out responses.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause any user and we are focused on continuing to improve Talk of the Villages as a resource for current residents to find and share information about The Villages and everything that is centric to life in The Villages.

Thanks for the update.

[njbchbum]

I am one of the members of ‘political’ who supported the temporary suspension of the forum because of the sniping and lack of civility there. I fully supported the need for a cooling-off period.

But I am overly disappointed to read that my support for this suspension would mean that the forum might not return until AFTER the election; and then return in a format that would PREVENT the discussion of things political that are NOT "centric to life in the villages”.

Well, YIKES! If issues such as voter fraud and medicare are not issues that are centric to the lives of residents in the villages, are we stuck with the issues of signage, dog poop and saving seats that the admin posted can be discussed in the general forum.

I always counted on ‘political’ as a place where I could go to understand the viewpoints/opinions of the honorable opposition, present the other side of the coin for discussion and learn from the serious material posted there. The loss of that opportunity to learn and to grow - even at my age - is a serious disappointment.

[The Shadow]

I am one of the members of ‘political’ who supported the temporary suspension of the forum because of the sniping and lack of civility there. I fully supported the need for a cooling-off period.

But I am overly disappointed to read that my support for this suspension would mean that the forum might not return until AFTER the election; and then return in a format that would PREVENT the discussion of things political that are NOT "centric to life in the villages”.

Well, YIKES! If issues such as voter fraud and medicare are not issues that are centric to the lives of residents in the villages, are we stuck with the issues of signage, dog poop and saving seats that the admin posted can be discussed in the general forum.

I always counted on ‘political’ as a place where I could go to understand the viewpoints/opinions of the honorable opposition, present the other side of the coin for discussion and learn from the serious material posted there. The loss of that opportunity to learn and to grow - even at my age - is a serious disappointment.
Mother knows best. (he said sarcastically)

[BobKat1]

Mother knows best. (he said sarcastically)

In many cases, yes, she does.

[Taltarzac725]

I am one of the members of ‘political’ who supported the temporary suspension of the forum because of the sniping and lack of civility there. I fully supported the need for a cooling-off period.

But I am overly disappointed to read that my support for this suspension would mean that the forum might not return until AFTER the election; and then return in a format that would PREVENT the discussion of things political that are NOT "centric to life in the villages”.

Well, YIKES! If issues such as voter fraud and medicare are not issues that are centric to the lives of residents in the villages, are we stuck with the issues of signage, dog poop and saving seats that the admin posted can be discussed in the general forum.

I always counted on ‘political’ as a place where I could go to understand the viewpoints/opinions of the honorable opposition, present the other side of the coin for discussion and learn from the serious material posted there. The loss of that opportunity to learn and to grow - even at my age - is a serious disappointment.

Some of the other message boards I have been on have had volunteer moderators who did a good job of keeping things civil while also being objective about removing offensive posts and the like. Not sure if this would work on the TOTV's Political Forum as you would need someone who has a lot of time available, would work for no pay, and be objective. Very few people are really objective when it comes to partisan politics.

[eweissenbach]

for me it was easy to manage not having to deal with posts from people one would rather not deal with....the forum does provide a blocking feature that takes care of 90% plus.

My own personal opinion is that between the need to OPT IN to get to the political forum and the feature to block as many members as needed and just ignoring that with which I feel is offensive......what else does a person need. Maybe a little maturity to help with the complaining about that which some feel is offensive or disagreeable to their likings. But even here again....all they need do is just not go there or do not open and read the posts.

If my suspicions are correct in that the issue could be complaint driven, then I think the action to suspend is really not fair (I know it is the owner's game!!!).

My suggestion would be for the admin to consider drafting a set of rules of decorum (that almost all of us have anyway)....then provide notice to those who opt in a "warning" of some type the admin is not responsible, etc for content....enter at your own risk sort of caution (how ridiculous is this for senior citizens?)

Then let those who opt in have at it. It is so easy for participants to set aside the very few loose cannons whose only purpose is to bait, aggrivate and taunt folks. Eliminate the need for admin monitoring!!!!

As for commentary and complaints from those who have only negative comments about the political forum, it is sort of like you go to an R rated movie and then come out and complain about what you saw. And then go to another R rated movie and complain again. Well all one has to do is determine it it not to your liking, like political, then do not go there...do not read the posts....and please do not continue to refer to the majority of us as bullies, thugs, nasty and what ever else.....because it is just not true.

I totally and completely disagree with the position of a closed political forum. Whether some like it or not, it is a part of what some of us are interested in here in TV.

I wonder how other political forums do it without a problem?

And in closing, I wonder why it is OK with so many to watch the same level of lack of civility every minute of every hour of every day in the media and television coverage of the current campaign for POTUS????

That is my $3.75 ( my 2 cents adjusted for inflation).

Smile it really helps:D

btk

As with most btk posts, this is well thought out and hard to argue with. Whether there is a political forum or not, will not affect my life greatly either way. I enjoy going to political and reading what the current topics and arguments are, but I don't take it too seriously. It seems logical to me that the forum should be offered, and since it is "opt-in", should not bother anyone who doesn't care to participate. One political board that I have participated in will banish unruly members for one day if they cross the line, and for good, if they do so continuously. That said, it is a tough job for the moderators to determine what is over the line, and what is passible, and becomes very subjective. As I said before, the moderator(s), and administrator probably had to spend an inordinate amount of their time and attention to the poli board and decided it was not worth it to them. I can think of a few regular poli board members who may have lowered their blood pressure several points over the last few days. Stay well! Ed

[Mikeod]

I am one of the members of ‘political’ who supported the temporary suspension of the forum because of the sniping and lack of civility there. I fully supported the need for a cooling-off period.

But I am overly disappointed to read that my support for this suspension would mean that the forum might not return until AFTER the election; and then return in a format that would PREVENT the discussion of things political that are NOT "centric to life in the villages”.

Well, YIKES! If issues such as voter fraud and medicare are not issues that are centric to the lives of residents in the villages, are we stuck with the issues of signage, dog poop and saving seats that the admin posted can be discussed in the general forum.

I always counted on ‘political’ as a place where I could go to understand the viewpoints/opinions of the honorable opposition, present the other side of the coin for discussion and learn from the serious material posted there. The loss of that opportunity to learn and to grow - even at my age - is a serious disappointment.
After re-reading the post from Admin, I don't believe that is what was said. It has not been determined whether the political forum will return, but it will likely be suspended through the elections. The last paragraph appears to be a general mission statement that TOTV (as a whole) exists to be a resource of information regarding The Villages. Nowhere do I read that the political forum, if it returns, will be restricted to TV issues only. Instead I read a statement that differentiates between discussion of TV issues (allowed outside the political forum) and partisan national political issues that were restricted to the political forum.

[Barefoot]

I am overly disappointed to read that my support for this suspension would mean that the forum might not return until AFTER the election; and then return in a format that would PREVENT the discussion of things political that are NOT "centric to life in the villages”. If issues such as voter fraud and medicare are not issues that are centric to the lives of residents in the villages, are we stuck with the issues of signage, dog poop and saving seats that the admin posted can be discussed in the general forum.

I always counted on ‘political’ as a place where I could go to understand the viewpoints/opinions of the honorable opposition, present the other side of the coin for discussion and learn from the serious material posted there. The loss of that opportunity to learn and to grow - even at my age - is a serious disappointment.

:agree:

[njbchbum]

After re-reading the post from Admin, I don't believe that is what was said. It has not been determined whether the political forum will return, but it will likely be suspended through the elections. The last paragraph appears to be a general mission statement that TOTV (as a whole) exists to be a resource of information regarding The Villages. Nowhere do I read that the political forum, if it returns, will be restricted to TV issues only. Instead I read a statement that differentiates between discussion of TV issues (allowed outside the political forum) and partisan national political issues that were restricted to the political forum.

glad to see that your opinion differs from mine, again. i get where we agree that the admin is likely to suspend the board after the eletions. i get that the mission statement is to make totv all about an info resource and point of sharing.

but i guess we differ on the interpretation of "everything that is centric to life in The Villages" with centric being defined as something that is pertaining to or situated at the center or central re life in the villages and not outside of it. guess we'll find out if 'political' returns; and if it doesn't our interpretations don't mean you know what! ;)

[Serenoa]

now, now, now kiddies. TOTV says we been bad, so they must take our toy away......and teach us a lesson about how to behave like good little boys & girls.

Are you kidding me? How friggin ridiculous. Whover complained just needs to stay out of the political forum if they can't take the heat. If this type of heavy-handedness is common in TV it makes me wonder if I really ever want to live there.

for heaven's sake people...LIVE & LET LIVE!

[ewstanley]

You can't judge all of TV by this forum. The Villages is a community. This forum has members that don't necessarily live here in The Villages. I don't see any heavy handedness in our little community and it really isn't common.

[BobKat1]

now, now, now kiddies. TOTV says we been bad, so they must take our toy away......and teach us a lesson about how to behave like good little boys & girls.
Are you kidding me? How friggin ridiculous. Whover complained just needs to stay out of the political forum if they can't take the heat. If this type of heavy-handedness is common in TV it makes me wonder if I really ever want to live there.

for heaven's sake people...LIVE & LET LIVE!

No disrespect intended, but heavy handed goes both ways.

[createquilts]

What is really interesting is seeing how many members this forum has, and how many regularly post. The people who have posted over 100 times for instance are a very small slice of the total population, and many may not even live here. No way of knowing. Who knows, there could be a few troublemakers that have nothing to do with The Villages who try to stir things up!

So maybe the people posting on the political forum are those that are most active on the forums or most adamant about their feelings on the issues whether or not they live here.

No matter what, I have come to the conclusion that no matter what I say, I am not going to change anyone's mind about the major issues that people argue about, like religion, abortion, whether or not the stimulus program was good or bad, if Romney will do a better job than Obama, if Obama will do a better job than Romney and so on.

[EdV]

.....If you've been hankering to discuss local issues instead of national and world politics, why haven't you been starting threads on those topics?.....

But I have. In fact, forty seven of them so far.

And if the Admin ever creates a sub-forum for my district, I’ll start some there when appropriate. But of course we know that ain’t gonna happen.

[Barefoot]

But I have. In fact, forty seven of them so far.

And if the Admin ever creates a sub-forum for my district, I’ll start some there when appropriate. But of course we know that ain’t gonna happen.

Sorry, I thought you lived in Stonecrest. I must have missed the threads. I apologize for my question.

[asianthree]

Well TOTV without the political forum is like a cannoli without the ricotta cheese, empty. wonder how long we can all survive on "Just for fun"? Hmmmm

so that's why my cannoli tastes funny for got the ricotta:D

[jebartle]

Didn't say I didn't like it. Just think you should taste it before you say you don't like it, but that of course is up to you.

I tasted and I didn't care for it....As was said in a previous post, the opinions were either white or black, NO grey (NO meeting of the minds), and lots and lots of personal hostility....

TOTV and the Villages are way too much fun and I'd love to keep it that way!

[bkcunningham1]

For clarification - there are NO changes in the general forums of TOTV. Discussions that have always happened regarding issues and governance in The Villages have been and will continue as always.

The political forum where discussions and debates on political parties ie: Democrat and Republican has been suspended. Those discussions have not been allowed in the general forums and that will continue to be our policy.

Thank you for your support.

Best Regards,

Admin

Thank you for your response.

[pooh]

now, now, now kiddies. TOTV says we been bad, so they must take our toy away......and teach us a lesson about how to behave like good little boys & girls.

Are you kidding me? How friggin ridiculous. Whover complained just needs to stay out of the political forum if they can't take the heat. If this type of heavy-handedness is common in TV it makes me wonder if I really ever want to live there.

for heaven's sake people...LIVE & LET LIVE!

I will assume you realize that TOTV is a privately owned message board and not a part of The Villages owned businesses. As a privately owned entity, decisions about the board are the owners'. Luckily for all who write, there is no fee associated with membership at this site. There is no heavy handedness taking place here in my opinion.

One might indeed have to wear a suit of armor to participate in just about any political forum, things do get heated, that's for sure.

[gomoho]

I still don't get why something is a problem if people choose to participate? Don't like it don't participate - thought that was the American way as long as you are not breaking any laws.

[Number 6]

Yes. After reading throgh 187 posts, my only question is "why?"

[quirky3]

Yes. After reading throgh 187 posts, my only question is "why?"

Here is the post from the admin
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/where-political-forum-deserves-its-own-thread-58773/index16.html#post542716

[jblum315]

Interesting that the political forum was shut down just before Ryan's visit.

[ceejay]

Interesting that the political forum was shut down just before Ryan's visit.

My post #42 in this thread....

Just a thought....do you think it could have anything to do with Paul Ryan's visit on Saturday?

Secret Service...Airport Security...could we be under any kind of surveilence?

No conspiracy theory here....just a thought.

I thought so, too.

[gomoho]

I asked admin in a post for a site to discuss today's activities in The Villages and was shut down "no political posts". This is something that occurred in The Villages for Villagers, but we can't discuss it freely. I don't get it.

[BobKat1]

I asked admin in a post for a site to discuss today's activities in The Villages and was shut down "no political posts". This is something that occurred in The Villages for Villagers, but we can't discuss it freely. I don't get it.

I certainly can't speak for the moderator, but history shows that no matter how innnocently a thread starts with a political bent (i.e Paul Ryan in TV), it quickly deteriorates.

Sometimes I think some threads are started not so innocently. Just IMO of course.

[Number 6]

Here is the post from the admin
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/where-political-forum-deserves-its-own-thread-58773/index16.html#post542716

But that rerally does not answer the basic question; "why", does it? Unless you count, "cause I said so" as an answer.

[billethkid]

and the suspend will last at least through the election!!!

Might as well tie a rock around it and throw it in Lake Sumter now.

Unless there is more to the story than we will ever find out, there are alternative, effective way to have a political forum. To not be able to even talk about "today's event" is sort of a crowning blow to logic.

Thousands of residents in the square....TV makes the square available.....and on a forum for what concerns residents of TV not to be able to talk about it???? Something is starting to smell a bit?

btk

[bkcunningham1]

and the suspend will last at least through the election!!!

Might as well tie a rock around it and throw it in Lake Sumter now.

Unless there is more to the story than we will ever find out, there are alternative, effective way to have a political forum. To not be able to even talk about "today's event" is sort of a crowning blow to logic.

Thousands of residents in the square....TV makes the square available.....and on a forum for what concerns residents of TV not to be able to talk about it???? Something is starting to smell a bit?

btk

Yep.

[graciegirl]

Yep.

A lot of people think this forum is run by The Villages, which of course it is not. It is privately owned by an individual who has the power to run it any way he wishes.

I don't know why this happened? I don't go there anymore. Was there a big blow up???

Richie Lion was a huge poster on the political forum. I wish he would tell us what happened.

[bkcunningham1]

A lot of people think this forum is run by The Villages, which of course it is not. It is privately owned by an individual who has the power to run it any way he wishes.

I don't know why this happened? I don't go there anymore. Was there a big blow up???

Richie Lion was a huge poster on the political forum. I wish he would tell us what happened.

I asked the Administrator what happened, Gracie. Did you see the response? All I know is what the Admin told me and the rest of us on the forum. The post is numb 157: https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/where-political-forum-deserves-its-own-thread-58773/index16.html

[Barefoot]

I asked admin in a post for a site to discuss today's activities in The Villages and was shut down "no political posts". This is something that occurred in The Villages for Villagers, but we can't discuss it freely. I don't get it.

It's a very hard decision to understand. Especially in an election year. :confused: But I think part of the responsibility may lie on the shoulders of the members of the Political Forum. Just a guess, but I have a feeling the Admins were bombarded with complaints from members of the Forum about the conduct of other members. Perhaps the Admins should have started by removing the "red triangle" feature.

[OhSuzannah]

I've just started to consider a move to TV and currently live in North Carolina.
I must say that it is concerning that adult opinions, however rude, would be censored in this community....and that is the issue. That your village isn't allowed to get riled up, rude, loud, etc, especially since it is done in print, and no one is compelled to read it. It certainly seems to be a very judgmental call on the part on one group of adults against another - Pretty insulting to the participants of the group. I don't know if I want to live in a place that controls thought expression. :(

[pooh]

I've just started to consider a move to TV and currently live in North Carolina.
I must say that it is concerning that adult opinions, however rude, would be censored in this community....and that is the issue. That your village isn't allowed to get riled up, rude, loud, etc, especially since it is done in print, and no one is compelled to read it. It certainly seems to be a very judgmental call on the part on one group of adults against another - Pretty insulting to the participants of the group. I don't know if I want to live in a place that controls thought expression. :(

Not sure why you think thought expression is controlled. TOTV is a privately owned board and its administrators have suspended one forum ....it is their right to do so. TOTV is not a company owned and operated by The Villages. Participants on TOTV are invited to post at no charge, but must remember, they are guests.

[Golfingnut]

i certainly can't speak for the moderator, but history shows that no matter how innnocently a thread starts with a political bent (i.e paul ryan in tv), it quickly deteriorates.

Sometimes i think some threads are started not so innocently. Just imo of course.

bingo

[Golfingnut]

I've just started to consider a move to TV and currently live in North Carolina.
I must say that it is concerning that adult opinions, however rude, would be censored in this community....and that is the issue. That your village isn't allowed to get riled up, rude, loud, etc, especially since it is done in print, and no one is compelled to read it. It certainly seems to be a very judgmental call on the part on one group of adults against another - Pretty insulting to the participants of the group. I don't know if I want to live in a place that controls thought expression. :(

Its not like that at all. Please read other forums in this site and you will see:
1. Senior help hints and Ideas.
2. Scam alerts and advise.
3. Good and Bad Contractors.
4. Money saving Ideas for seniors.
5. Congratulations/ Thank yous/ Happy birthdays/ Get well Prayers, etc. etc.
6. For sales and wanted adds.
7. Club/Event information.
8. Experts on line to help us with our questions about so many topics.
9. Church information and Help or support group updates.
These are just a few of the many reasons that thousands of people use TOTV as their daily calendar and sometimes just a friend to talk to.

My point is, that if one of the forums is deleted for the benefit of the rest, then in MY OPINION, it is a wise and kind thing to do for so many Villagers at the expense of only a hand full of those that would for lack of a better term, become so passionate about one topic, that they :::::: ah ah ah , well I think you get the message. Please stay with us and this is the friendliest home town in America.

[Ddogle]

I agree!

[graciegirl]

I've just started to consider a move to TV and currently live in North Carolina.
I must say that it is concerning that adult opinions, however rude, would be censored in this community....and that is the issue. That your village isn't allowed to get riled up, rude, loud, etc, especially since it is done in print, and no one is compelled to read it. It certainly seems to be a very judgmental call on the part on one group of adults against another - Pretty insulting to the participants of the group. I don't know if I want to live in a place that controls thought expression. :(

We post on this forum that is owned by an individual who I believe is younger and does not live on site and he maintains it as a business and the source of revenue are the advertisers on here. He can make any decision he wants about the perimeters of conduct. It must be very difficult to do with our prolific postings ( I am the biggest culprit).

It has NOTHING to do with The Villages or The Villages form of government that does have deed restrictions like most upscale communities across this country so that you don't see cars up on blocks, campers parked in driveways, lawn art in yards, outbuildings and fences. These are choices you must make if you move here, whether or not you want deed restrictions, and you need to know that a CDD form of government is not changed by votes. It is what it is.

We are all old and older or young and younger depending if you look at the exterior packaging or the inwardly workings of the heart. NOONE can squelch us. We are old enough to be danged sure we are right, stubborn, opinionated and mouthy. Some of us have kept the manners our mother's taught us and others I suspect did not have a mother. ;)

It is so great here that I don't know how anyone who is old enough can keep from moving here. We just love it. Come on down.

[njbchbum]

snipped
My point is, that if one of the forums is deleted for the benefit of the rest, then in MY OPINION, it is a wise and kind thing to do for so many Villagers at the expense of only a hand full of those that would for lack of a better term, become so passionate about one topic, that they :::::: ah ah ah , well I think you get the message. Please stay with us and this is the friendliest home town in America.

golfingnut -would you please be so kind as to explain first, how suspension of the political forum has now turned into deletion; and second, how deletion of the political forum benefits the rest of the forums?

[ceejay]

golfingnut -would you please be so kind as to explain first, how suspension of the political forum has now turned into deletion; and second, how deletion of the political forum benefits the rest of the forums?

I agree...curious minds would like to know...

[Taltarzac725]

The political posts are still on TOTV you just cannot post onto any of these threads.

I often thought of opting out of the TOTV Political Forum because of how outspoken some posters would get. I did have that option though.

Still believe that TOTV should lasso some volunteer moderators whom the Administrator trusts. The volunteers can flag various posts which can then be examined at the Administrator's leisure.

Violators of terms set by the Administrator can be booted from JUST the Political Forums for violating the rules of the Political Forum.

[ceejay]

Violators of terms set by the Administrator can be booted from JUST the Political Forums for violating the rules of the Political Forum.

Yet...they have been able to return (one, in particular) under the guise of new screen names.....

[Taltarzac725]

Yet...they have been able to return (one, in particular) under the guise of new screen names.....

Kind of hard to protect a message board if the new guise wearer behaves.

[Golfingnut]

golfingnut -would you please be so kind as to explain first, how suspension of the political forum has now turned into deletion; and second, how deletion of the political forum benefits the rest of the forums?

Hi,

This is copied from my post:
My point is, that if one of the forums is deleted for the benefit of the rest, then in MY OPINION, it is a wise and kind thing to do

Sorry if you might possibly have misunderstood my meaning. Please feel free to contact me via PM if you still need further explanation of what I intended.

[Augie]

Its not like that at all. Please read other forums in this site and you will see:
1. Senior help hints and Ideas.
2. Scam alerts and advise.
3. Good and Bad Contractors.
4. Money saving Ideas for seniors.
5. Congratulations/ Thank yous/ Happy birthdays/ Get well Prayers, etc. etc.
6. For sales and wanted adds.
7. Club/Event information.
8. Experts on line to help us with our questions about so many topics.
9. Church information and Help or support group updates.
These are just a few of the many reasons that thousands of people use TOTV as their daily calendar and sometimes just a friend to talk to.

My point is, that if one of the forums is deleted for the benefit of the rest, then in MY OPINION, it is a wise and kind thing to do for so many Villagers at the expense of only a hand full of those that would for lack of a better term, become so passionate about one topic, that they :::::: ah ah ah , well I think you get the message. Please stay with us and this is the friendliest home town in America.

I believe that this has been one of the best business decisions that TOTV has made. I would bet that it will provide great benefits to the owner(s) and the members. I have started passing on the word that TOTV is now a friendlier forum with a mentally healthier environment. I see the membership not only increasing, but also old friends returning. Give it a little time. The nasty ones will find a new place to torment.

Someone (probably Gracie) asked a while back, where all of the old posters had gone. I can personally name a few more than a dozen of them who quit visiting TOTV just because of the disrespectful, bull-headed, uncompromising postings of others. This was especially prevalent and concentrated in the Political Thread.

If you go way back to when the Political Thread was made "members only" you'll find BTK and some of the others making the same arguments. It worked out then (for a while) and doing away with it entirely will work out now. The membership and the owners will come away the winners.

To Admin - nice job.

[quirky3]

Kind of hard to protect a message board if the new guise wearer behaves.

I'm not sure, but if the admins have access to each user's IP address, then they should be able to tell if someone comes back under another name

[quirky3]

I believe that this has been one of the best business decisions that TOTV has made. I would bet that it will provide great benefits to the owner(s) and the members. I have started passing on the word that TOTV is now a friendlier forum with a mentally healthier environment. I see the membership not only increasing, but also old friends returning. Give it a little time. The nasty ones will find a new place to torment.

Someone (probably Gracie) asked a while back, where all of the old posters had gone. I can personally name a few more than a dozen of them who quit visiting TOTV just because of the disrespectful, bull-headed, uncompromising postings of others. This was especially prevalent and concentrated in the Political Thread.

If you go way back to when the Political Thread was made "members only" you'll find BTK and some of the others making the same arguments. It worked out then (for a while) and doing away with it entirely will work out now. The membership and the owners will come away the winners.

To Admin - nice job.
I agree! I will be happy to see old members returning !:coolsmiley:

[DandyGirl]

Kind of hard to protect a message board if the new guise wearer behaves.

What are you trying to protect the message board from if they are "behaving" ? Seems to me they learned a lesson and are trying to do better.

[Mikeod]

I'm not sure, but if the admins have access to each user's IP address, then they should be able to tell if someone comes back under another name
But what if the IP address is for a household with a router where two people both belong on the board? If they block an IP address, might they be blocking someone who has done nothing wrong?

[eweissenbach]

I GET why the admin might want to get the politics board out of his life. The moderation of that board probably takes ten times as much time as the rest of the forums combined.

I DON'T GET why some TOTV members are so glad to see it go. NO ONE that disliked that kind of debate needed to even see the thread topics, much less click on the threads and read them. I personally enjoyed the politics board and found it immensely entertaining at times, but I can live without it just fine. However, I don't understand the sentiment of good riddance that some people who did not care to participate seem to express.

[eweissenbach]

By the way; isn't it interesting that the thread about the demise of the politics board has been, by far, the most active thread on the board the last two or three days. What conclusions might be drawn from that fact?

[pooh]

By the way; isn't it interesting that the thread about the demise of the politics board has been, by far, the most active thread on the board the last two or three days. What conclusions might be drawn from that fact?

LOLOLOL....you're so right!

[mulligan]

HMMMM-- I see 22 pages of fairly civil discussion, and nobody has been put in time out.

[moosemann8]

It would seem to me that if the Political Forum is suspended, then so should political advertisements, i.e., paid for by "Restore Our Future Inc" advertisement shown in TOTV today.

[Augie]

I GET why the admin might want to get the politics board out of his life. The moderation of that board probably takes ten times as much time as the rest of the forums combined.

I DON'T GET why some TOTV members are so glad to see it go. NO ONE that disliked that kind of debate needed to even see the thread topics, much less click on the threads and read them. I personally enjoyed the politics board and found it immensely entertaining at times, but I can live without it just fine. However, I don't understand the sentiment of good riddance that some people who did not care to participate seem to express.

Perhaps the fact that pure ignorance, hatred, bias, bigotry, and grade school yard bullying even exists in adult world can be uncomfortable and disconcerting for some. Some folks just don't know how to play nice with others. You can't convince me that it isn't on purpose that "the few" act the way they do. I would speculate that they may be making up for short-comings in their lives.

That's my opinion.

[notlongnow]

Perhaps the fact that pure ignorance, hatred, bias, bigotry, and grade school yard bullying even exists in adult world can be uncomfortable and disconcerting for some. Some folks just don't know how to play nice with others. You can't convince me that it isn't on purpose that "the few" act the way they do. I would speculate that they may be making up for short-comings in their lives.

That's my opinion.


I think this misses the point.
If you do not want any of that to happen to you, it was as easy as unsubsrcibing to the forum, not joining the forum, not reading the forum, not posting in the forum. Besides, everything you listed can be experienced daily without going on a forum. At least it was in a controlled environment.
I hope it was suspended because of the work it was causing for the moderator and not because a few dabbled in the forum and got offended leading them to complain and causing it to be suspended.

[Taltarzac725]

I think this misses the point.
If you do not want any of that to happen to you, it was as easy as unsubsrcibing to the forum, not joining the forum, not reading the forum, not posting in the forum. Besides, everything you listed can be experienced daily without going on a forum. At least it was in a controlled environment.
I hope it was suspended because of the work it was causing for the moderator and not because a few dabbled in the forum and got offended leading them to complain and causing it to be suspended.

It just sounds like it got too hot in there because of the date involved-- 2012. Maybe, it will cool down quite a bit after November.


I had thought about abandoning it quite often; that was my choice though.

[EdV]

But what if the IP address is for a household with a router.....

Or from one of the many wi-fi hotspots in restaurants etc.

[Augie]

I think this misses the point.
If you do not want any of that to happen to you, it was as easy as unsubsrcibing to the forum, not joining the forum, not reading the forum, not posting in the forum. Besides, everything you listed can be experienced daily without going on a forum. At least it was in a controlled environment.
I hope it was suspended because of the work it was causing for the moderator and not because a few dabbled in the forum and got offended leading them to complain and causing it to be suspended.

I think you are wrong. It made my point exactly. You do understand that it was my opinion? Oh, maybe I missed your point. :icon_wink:

[BobKat1]

It just sounds like it got too hot in there because of the date involved-- 2012. Maybe, it will cool down quite a bit after November.


I had thought about abandoning it quite often; that was my choice though.

I wonder if things would cool down there after November? It seems like perhaps the second guessing, I told you so's and what if's would kick in. Just a thought.

[njbchbum]

Hi,

This is copied from my post:
My point is, that if one of the forums is deleted for the benefit of the rest, then in MY OPINION, it is a wise and kind thing to do

Sorry if you might possibly have misunderstood my meaning. Please feel free to contact me via PM if you still need further explanation of what I intended.

golfingnut - i understand that it is your opinion...i was just wondering what led you to form that opinion. and re the offer of pm - if it can't be discussed here, i don't think i want it in my inbox - thanx anyway.

[notlongnow]

I think you are wrong. It made my point exactly. You do understand that it was my opinion? Oh, maybe I missed your point.


I guess I could have not understood your point. I did not say your opinion was wrong, just that given everything you listed nobody HAS to read, post, join the forum and expose themselves to those things anymore than everyday life.

[njbchbum]

I wonder if things would cool down there after November? It seems like perhaps the second guessing, I told you so's and what if's would kick in. Just a thought.

for me, after the elections will be too late for me to learn anything about why folks feel and think the way they do. any shot at reconsidering any of my opinions, thoughts and options will be gone.

[njbchbum]

I believe that this has been one of the best business decisions that TOTV has made. I would bet that it will provide great benefits to the owner(s) and the members. I have started passing on the word that TOTV is now a friendlier forum with a mentally healthier environment. I see the membership not only increasing, but also old friends returning. Give it a little time. The nasty ones will find a new place to torment.

Someone (probably Gracie) asked a while back, where all of the old posters had gone. I can personally name a few more than a dozen of them who quit visiting TOTV just because of the disrespectful, bull-headed, uncompromising postings of others. This was especially prevalent and concentrated in the Political Thread.

If you go way back to when the Political Thread was made "members only" you'll find BTK and some of the others making the same arguments. It worked out then (for a while) and doing away with it entirely will work out now. The membership and the owners will come away the winners.

To Admin - nice job.

and you are basing your opinion on having joined totv in april, 2012 and a participation of 17 posts? how is it that you have such a knowledge of the history of totv?

[njbchbum]

I GET why the admin might want to get the politics board out of his life. The moderation of that board probably takes ten times as much time as the rest of the forums combined.

I DON'T GET why some TOTV members are so glad to see it go. NO ONE that disliked that kind of debate needed to even see the thread topics, much less click on the threads and read them. I personally enjoyed the politics board and found it immensely entertaining at times, but I can live without it just fine. However, I don't understand the sentiment of good riddance that some people who did not care to participate seem to express.

i gotta give ya an AMEN to that post! except for the point about living without it! ;)

[justjim]

for me, after the elections will be too late for me to learn anything about why folks feel and think the way they do. any shot at reconsidering any of my opinions, thoughts and options will be gone.

:coolsmiley: I too was on the Political Forum to learn and listen to other viewpoints. From all the posts, it is obvious that many are genuinely disappointed to see the demise of the Political Forum. Some good ideas have been posted how the Forum could be brought back and I would hope The administration would revisit this option in the near future. :ho:

[rp001]

:coolsmiley: I too was on the Political Forum to learn and listen to other viewpoints. From all the posts, it is obvious that many are genuinely disappointed to see the demise of the Political Forum. Some good ideas have been posted how the Forum could be brought back and I would hope The administration would revisit this option in the near future. :ho:

there even more happy to see it go..Now folks here can actually be civil and keep the drama out. Good Riddance

[billethkid]

TOTV is a healthier friendlier, etc. with more people returning BECAUSE THERE IS NO POLITICAL?!?!?!?!?!?!
While you certainly are entitled to your opinion, it is more than a stretch of reality.

How does the political forum that is for one an opt in situation and secondly one where no one HAS TO GO THERE OR OPEN ANY POLITICAL POSTS to get anywhere else on TOTV....have anything to do with the environment of TOTV????

These kinds of unwarranted falsities posted in the political forum would generate controversy and challenge for basis or proof. Concepts non confrontational people are uncomfortable with. and tend to malign that which they do not personally like or are uncomfortable with. Neither of which entitle one to state such negative false hoods or allegations.

This type of post would be categorized as baiting on the political forum.

Yes I was around when the previous administration created the opt in requirement. That opt in requirement was designed to allow those who wanted to participate to have to take a specific action to do so. So for those who do not like it and opt in anyway to lurk around, you have absolutely no basis for complaining.

Have your opinion....fine....do not make it mandatory for others to have the same or spread false commentary. With the kind of disparaging being done by those with a negative viewpoint of Political discussions, the only difference between the political forum and this one for example is we are not discussing political points of view. But isn't it amazing that the nay sayers behave no differently than the accusations the render.

btk

I also appeal to the administration that if you are influenced by members like this that ALSO is not fair. Per my earlier suggestions put up an enter at your own risk notice.

[billethkid]

now just why is it OK to have differing opinions about whether one likes the political forum or not and state so....even some using uncalled for disparaging, unfounded commentary in their opinions.

Not much different than the political forum. Those of us who are/were active political forum participants know exactly how to handle the posts from loose cannons...they can be block by the forum and some of us know how to do the real adult thing and ignore the onsey twosey trouble makers.

Human behavior is human behavior whether you dislike some of it or not.

btk

[duffysmom]

:blahblahblah:... and that's my final word..

[RichieLion]

I don't understand the reasoning of a good deal of these posts on this thread.

Under the original system, a large number of people got annoyed with the “passionate” banter of the political posts and bellyached until Tony decided, to keep the peace, he would institute an "opt in" to the Political Forum, so that if you didn't like the "heat" you could stay out of the "kitchen"; and you wouldn’t even have to see the “controversial” headlines when you clicked “New Posts”.

The only restrictions to the Political Forum were that you could not gratuitously insult another poster directly, and you couldn't post copywrited material without permission. You were otherwise free to debate as passionately in service to your ideals and views as you wished. That system was carried over with the new administration.

You don't like it?..........don't join, and don’t participate, and thus you have a custom made TOTV without a Political Forum to see. Case closed? Problem solved?

Nooooooo............people join, or opt in, and then continue to complain vehemently, over and over, about the "tone" of the political discussions. Discussions they have to "sign up" to see. It's the about the most ludicrous thing I've witnessed among otherwise level headed adults.

It’s like buying tickets to a prizefight and then complaining because the boxers are hitting each other too much, and too hard.

IMHO the Administration would have been better served to just have a ready “join at your own risk” reply to the naysayers of the Political Forum. Witness it and/or participate in it at your own choice or discretion.

For those that do join: “Don’t curse each other out, and don’t post copywrited material without permission”; period, end of the rules.

You can’t monitor people’s feelings. They have to monitor themselves. If you are “thin skinned” and otherwise don’t enjoy haven’t your views challenged to any extent, the Political Forum was probably not for you. Don’t join.

So now we have scads of members happy that free political speech is squelched because you drove the Administration crazy with endless complaints to the extent that they canceled the Political Forum to save their own sanity? Why; to what purpose does this injunction serve you?

I don't understand the reasoning of a good deal of these posts on this thread.

[quirky3]

:popcorn:

[Bucco]

I don't understand the reasoning of a good deal of these posts on this thread.

Under the original system, a large number of people got annoyed with the “passionate” banter of the political posts and bellyached until Tony decided, to keep the peace, he would institute an "opt in" to the Political Forum, so that if you didn't like the "heat" you could stay out of the "kitchen"; and you wouldn’t even have to see the “controversial” headlines when you clicked “New Posts”.

The only restrictions to the Political Forum were that you could not gratuitously insult another poster directly, and you couldn't post copywrited material without permission. You were otherwise free to debate as passionately in service to your ideals and views as you wished. That system was carried over with the new administration.

You don't like it?..........don't join, and don’t participate, and thus you have a custom made TOTV without a Political Forum to see. Case closed? Problem solved?

Nooooooo............people join, or opt in, and then continue to complain vehemently, over and over, about the "tone" of the political discussions. Discussions they have to "sign up" to see. It's the about the most ludicrous thing I've witnessed among otherwise level headed adults.

It’s like buying tickets to a prizefight and then complaining because the boxers are hitting each other too much, and too hard.

IMHO the Administration would have been better served to just have a ready “join at your own risk” reply to the naysayers of the Political Forum. Witness it and/or participate in it at your own choice or discretion.

For those that do join: “Don’t curse each other out, and don’t post copywrited material without permission”; period, end of the rules.

You can’t monitor people’s feelings. They have to monitor themselves. If you are “thin skinned” and otherwise don’t enjoy haven’t your views challenged to any extent, the Political Forum was probably not for you. Don’t join.

So now we have scads of members happy that free political speech is squelched because you drove the Administration crazy with endless complaints to the extent that they canceled the Political Forum to save their own sanity? Why; to what purpose does this injunction serve you?

I don't understand the reasoning of a good deal of these posts on this thread.

There is no rationale Richie....and frankly, I see just about as much acrimonious posts on the general section of this forum, and will never understand carping something you cannot even see UNLESS you asked to see it, and once you see it, you do not have to go back or see it again.

I have read some really profound posts about how it ruined this forum, and I would love to have that explained, PLEASE.

I prefer not to read what is in DO IT YOURSELF, and so I do not go there, and in the case of political, you didnt even know it existed so how it bothered folks so badly is just beyond me.

If Richie's assumption that this action was a result of folks who complained but never visited or only once and could opt out, then I am also very upset.

It surely defines folks quite clearly !!

[njbchbum]

there even more happy to see it go..Now folks here can actually be civil and keep the drama out. Good Riddance

why should posters who have no need, no desire and no interest in the political forum be "happy to see it go"?

i thought the mods/admin kept people "civil" and "the drama out" - no?

please explain...thanx

[njbchbum]

It would seem to me that if the Political Forum is suspended, then so should political advertisements, i.e., paid for by "Restore Our Future Inc" advertisement shown in TOTV today.

i believe i saw an ad for the villages tea party, too; under national sponsors

[ajbrown]

I mostly lurk in the political forum. Much of the time it was very interesting. I found it easy to ignore posts that I was not interested in or offered nothing to the subject matter. IMO it was not much different than watching an expert panel on various cable news networks. Two completely different views on the same issue with each side passionately supporting their side.

The only reason I post this at all is to let the admins know I personally feel that the political forum makes TOTV a better site. Other sites may offer political banter, but what makes TOTV political different is that many of the posters live here (or are considering living here) and are likely of an age that we have shared similar live experiences. Much more interesting IMO.

FWIW, I "like" posts 217, 235 and 238. I suspect there are others, but those stuck out for me....

[justjim]

there even more happy to see it go..Now folks here can actually be civil and keep the drama out. Good Riddance

Everybody is entitled to their opinion but the point that you seem to miss was the fact that you could opt in or choose to opt out. Understand what we mean? Nah! :ho:

[njbchbum]

I mostly lurk in the political forum. Much of the time it was very interesting. I found it easy to ignore posts that I was not interested in or offered nothing to the subject matter. IMO it was not much different than watching an expert panel on various cable news networks. Two completely different views on the same issue with each side passionately supporting their side.

The only reason I post this at all is to let the admins know I personally feel that the political forum makes TOTV a better site. Other sites may offer political banter, but what makes TOTV political different is that many of the posters live here and are likely of an age that we have shared similar live experiences. Much more interesting IMO.

FWIW, I "like" posts 217, 235 and 238. I suspect there are others, but those stuck out for me....

thank you for your opinion, ajbrown

[justjim]

I mostly lurk in the political forum. Much of the time it was very interesting. I found it easy to ignore posts that I was not interested in or offered nothing to the subject matter. IMO it was not much different than watching an expert panel on various cable news networks. Two completely different views on the same issue with each side passionately supporting their side.

The only reason I post this at all is to let the admins know I personally feel that the political forum makes TOTV a better site. Other sites may offer political banter, but what makes TOTV political different is that many of the posters live here and are likely of an age that we have shared similar live experiences. Much more interesting IMO.

FWIW, I "like" posts 217, 235 and 238. I suspect there are others, but those stuck out for me....

Very nice post. Could not say it better! :coolsmiley:

[graciegirl]

It seems that it might be alright if we wimps stayed out of it and let the people be as frisky as they want. Remove the red triangle so it isn't a headache for the moderators and just let the folks enjoy their debate.

If blood starts seeping into the other forums we know that it is getting bad in there.

What do you think Kenneth? Look at all of those posts about it?

Please bring it back. I will stay out and not offer any opinions except to warn folks it isn't for the meek of heart.

[quirky3]

:popcorn:

[justjim]

It seems that it might be alright if we wimps stayed out of it and let the people be as frisky as they want. Remove the red triangle so it isn't a headache for the moderators and just let the folks enjoy their debate.

If blood starts seeping into the other forums we know that it is getting bad in there.

What do you think Kenneth? Look at all of those posts about it?

Please bring it back. I will stay out and not offer any opinions except to warn folks it isn't for the meek of heart.

:ho: Jim

[Schaumburger]

It seems that it might be alright if we wimps stayed out of it and let the people be as frisky as they want. Remove the red triangle so it isn't a headache for the moderators and just let the folks enjoy their debate.

If blood starts seeping into the other forums we know that it is getting bad in there.

What do you think Kenneth? Look at all of those posts about it?

Please bring it back. I will stay out and not offer any opinions except to warn folks it isn't for the meek of heart.

:agree: I opted in to the political forum for about 2 weeks last year. The heat was too hot in that kitchen for this wimp, so I opted out and I have no desire to opt back in to the political forum. But for the for the bold, adventurous and politically passionate, they should have a place on TOTV to post and debate. Just my 2 cents.