Paddock Square at Brownwood

[coffeebean]

First time at Brownwood's Paddock Square last night and I was a bit surprised how small the dance floor area is. The dance floor does not go all around the band stand as it does in LSL and SS. It wasn't very crowded last night when hubby and I were there but I can imagine the dance floor is going to be way too small when the area is crowded. There really is no separate area where line dancers can gather, such as the sides of the band stand.

What were they thinking when this town square was drawn up?

[PaPaLarry]

:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[Down Sized]

First time at Brownwood's Paddock Square last night and I was a bit surprised how small the dance floor area is. The dance floor does not go all around the band stand as it does in LSL and SS. It wasn't very crowded last night when hubby and I were there but I can imagine the dance floor is going to be way too small when the area is crowded. There really is no separate area where line dancers can gather, such as the sides of the band stand.

What were they thinking when this town square was drawn up?

They were thinking a little less dancing and a little more selling (commercial space.) " DA"

[OldManTime]

First time at Brownwood's Paddock Square last night and I was a bit surprised how small the dance floor area is. The dance floor does not go all around the band stand as it does in LSL and SS. It wasn't very crowded last night when hubby and I were there but I can imagine the dance floor is going to be way too small when the area is crowded. There really is no separate area where line dancers can gather, such as the sides of the band stand.

What were they thinking when this town square was drawn up?

I doubt if it will ever be crowded, looks like the developer took the cheap way out this time, no comparison to SS or SL.

[Cantwaittoarrive]

:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

.....

[mulligan]

I doubt if it will ever be crowded, looks like the developer took the cheap way out this time, no comparison to SS or SL. What ????????

[coconutmama]

We were not impressed with the Brownwood Square set up either. It is difficult to imagine hiking up & down those concrete bleachers. But in general it will be better when the other phases are complete. Sounds like some interesting businesses are going in.

[graciegirl]

Boy Howdy.

There isn't anything cheap that I can see. (Gary, if you are reading this, don't be sad)

In the beginning (I am told) Lake Sumter Landing had far fewer commercial businesses; restaurants, shops etc than it does now and eventually those were built when businesses wanted to be there. And very quickly grew to the size it is now. That was built 10-12 years ago when the whole country was not in an economic downturn and chains were expanding.

I don't know about the dancing part, I didn't really notice that it would be a detriment to all of the line dancers who I personally would NEVER get good enough to join ;) but ...are you SURE it is too little?

I am pretty sure that one of those bronze cows probably cost as much as one of our houses. All of the finishes and the decor of the movie house and the sales center are just...top of the line. I just can't hear the word cheap and the word Brownwood all in the same sentence.

Now I feel better.

I don't know Gary Morse but gosh...that would hurt my feelers if I built it.

[Barefoot]

I doubt if it will ever be crowded, looks like the developer took the cheap way out this time, no comparison to SS or SL.

I think the statues are beautiful, and probably expensive! And the movie house is better than SS or LSL.

[KathieI]

Drove through Brownwood recently for the first time. Not impressed. I don't believe its as well laid out as the other two squares. I have no idea why, and don't care, but I have enough to do with what's existing to even bother to venture that far.

[asianthree]

we have been there when its in full swing yes a little smaller, but you don't have to pick your side as to whom to watch i don't mind the bleachers, you don't have to sit behind twenty people and have no idea what is going on

[Serenoa]

Before Brownwood was built why in the world didn't the Morse family consult every resident of TV, and every future resident of TV to get their input so that EVERYONE would be happy & satisfied with every little detail, & then there would be absolutely NO complaints?

OMG what were they thinking, it would have been so simple! But then I guess all of the complainers would just be complaining about not having anything to complain about.

[Bogie Shooter]

Before Brownwood was built why in the world didn't the Morse family consult every resident of TV, and every future resident of TV to get their input so that EVERYONE would be happy & satisfied with every little detail, & then there would be absolutely NO complaints?

OMG what were they thinking, it would have been so simple! But then I guess all of the complainers would just be complaining about not having anything to complain about.

GREAT POST!:BigApplause:

[cquick]

There isn't anything cheap that I can see. (Gary, if you are reading this, don't be sad)


Now I feel better.


Dear Gracie, I agree that it's not cheaply built but the whole concept is not very conducive to The Village lifestyle. I find it confining with those bleachers....and I sure wouldn't sit up there on those hard cement seats, and my knees wouldn't like going up and down either. I don't like the "coral" cow pen look of the bars, either. I wouldn't like standing in those wooden fence things to buy a drink. I don't like the bleachers interfering with the views either. I am trying very hard to wait and see what it will be like when the shops are built, but so far, I don't like it.

sorry. now I feel better.

[Bogie Shooter]

Dear Gracie, I agree that it's not cheaply built but the whole concept is not very conducive to The Village lifestyle. I find it confining with those bleachers....and I sure wouldn't sit up there on those hard cement seats, and my knees wouldn't like going up and down either. I don't like the "coral" cow pen look of the bars, either. I wouldn't like standing in those wooden fence things to buy a drink. I don't like the bleachers interfering with the views either. I am trying very hard to wait and see what it will be like when the shops are built, but so far, I don't like it.

sorry. now I feel better.

There's always SS & LSL...........................

[ugotme]

Before Brownwood was built why in the world didn't the Morse family consult every resident of TV, and every future resident of TV to get their input so that EVERYONE would be happy & satisfied with every little detail, & then there would be absolutely NO complaints?

OMG what were they thinking, it would have been so simple! But then I guess all of the complainers would just be complaining about not having anything to complain about.


YEAH - I agree! They didn't consult me and I don't even live there yet!

:22yikes:

[graciegirl]

Dear Gracie, I agree that it's not cheaply built but the whole concept is not very conducive to The Village lifestyle. I find it confining with those bleachers....and I sure wouldn't sit up there on those hard cement seats, and my knees wouldn't like going up and down either. I don't like the "coral" cow pen look of the bars, either. I wouldn't like standing in those wooden fence things to buy a drink. I don't like the bleachers interfering with the views either. I am trying very hard to wait and see what it will be like when the shops are built, but so far, I don't like it.

sorry. now I feel better.

But Connie, weren't you a Dale Evans fan? OOOPS. I am older than you. sigh.

Well if you don't like it I will look at it again, because you are a smart cookie and I sure like you. ;)

[eweissenbach]

Before Brownwood was built why in the world didn't the Morse family consult every resident of TV, and every future resident of TV to get their input so that EVERYONE would be happy & satisfied with every little detail, & then there would be absolutely NO complaints?

OMG what were they thinking, it would have been so simple! But then I guess all of the complainers would just be complaining about not having anything to complain about.

I get what you are saying, however complaining about any specific thing does not make a person a "complainer" in my opinion. Sure, there are people who can never be satisfied, but far more often someone who sees a negative has a legitimate perspective. I have not yet been to Brownwood, but I can see how some of the comments could be justified. Not everyone sees everything through the same lens.

[perrjojo]

I think the statues are beautiful, and probably expensive! And the movie house is better than SS or LSL.


:agree: the statues are wonderful and the theater there is THE BEST. We don't live near there but still like to go there for the movies.

[coffeebean]

I doubt if it will ever be crowded, looks like the developer took the cheap way out this time, no comparison to SS or SL.

I don't see Paddock Square as ever not being crowded when everything is built out in TV. As for the developer taking the "cheap way out"....I don't see it that way at all. So far, all the nice touches in Brownwood look wonderful. It is the dance floor that is lacking in space and can not compare to the set up at the other two squares.

[coffeebean]

Boy Howdy.

There isn't anything cheap that I can see. (Gary, if you are reading this, don't be sad)

In the beginning (I am told) Lake Sumter Landing had far fewer commercial businesses; restaurants, shops etc than it does now and eventually those were built when businesses wanted to be there. And very quickly grew to the size it is now. That was built 10-12 years ago when the whole country was not in an economic downturn and chains were expanding.

I don't know about the dancing part, I didn't really notice that it would be a detriment to all of the line dancers who I personally would NEVER get good enough to join ;) but ...are you SURE it is too little?

I am pretty sure that one of those bronze cows probably cost as much as one of our houses. All of the finishes and the decor of the movie house and the sales center are just...top of the line. I just can't hear the word cheap and the word Brownwood all in the same sentence.

Now I feel better.

I don't know Gary Morse but gosh...that would hurt my feelers if I built it.

Gracie...I agree with you that there is nothing cheap about Brownwood. Unfortunately, yes, the dance floor is very small, especially with all the folding chairs that will occupy precious dance floor space. When I was there last evening, there were still many chairs that had not been put out yet. To the sides of the band stand, there is limited space for dancing because those areas look to be a walk through for pedestrians in the area. Behind the band stand is not for dancing at all as it is only a large side walk. Sorry, but IMHO, they really messed up with the space issue for dancing.

[OldDave]

It seems to me that the Town Squares appeal to a couple of different audience, certainly with some crossover. First, the music and dance crowd. From another thread going on here about a county grant to help pay for the nightly music, it is clear that this is very important to many folks. Although I do wonder just how narrow that group is. With the two squares previous packed, I'm guessing that couldn't have been more than a few hundred in each location. That's really not very high out of 80-100,000 residents, not to mention locals who want a free show. But if I had to guess at why there are bleachers there, I would guess it was the never ending complaining about people saving chairs when I first started reading this site a year ago. The bleachers will certainly stop people from moving chairs around. I also recall a post saying for the chairs that are at Brownwood, they now have a monitor to keep you from taking more than one for yourself. So someone may have been listening to your complaints and trying to respond.

The other audience is certainly those coming to shop and eat. Many people have said they are disappointed, but clearly this is going to take a bit of time to develop. You really cannot expect people to open stores without enough traffic. But certainly it will come with the new building. It also seems they've set aside more room for growth, than say Lake Sumter.

You know once you get beyond the initial excitement of the squares, there is a certain artifical sameness about them. That could be good say having movie theatres at each place. It's good to have the same restaurant, if you like it. If you don't it's disappointing not to have something different. But as I look at the two squares that existed, in my mind Spanish Springs is so much better. Not because the square is better or worse, but because all of the outside development that grew nearby and across the street. It really is a one stop shopping area. Lake Sumter cannot be because it's closed in.

It appears Brownwood has much more area around it for bigger shopping venues. Of course I wasn't there when Lake Sumter went up. Perhaps it was built way before the houses around it like Brownwood.

I initially wondered why TV would build so far past all the houses, even the planned ones. I think that has been well answered by all the new land acquistion that is starting to show up. In 10 years, I'm guessing Brownwood will be surrounded like Sumter, but I'm guessing with a lot more shopping with it.

One other thing I have to mention is the farmer's market. There have been nothing but raves about it from everyone here, other than a couple of people who should never shop outdoors. Frankly we're really looking forward to seeing that in March. We drove to a couple of markets around TV this summer, but found very little homegrown stuff. I hope it really goes. (Now if we could get an actually fresh florida seafood store...so you can actually tell we're in Florida.) We spent a week on Marco Island a couple of years ago and twice a week they set up a farmer's market in a park. It was huge, well attend, the the produce and baked good were extraordinary.

So, I think Brownwood will grow, albeit slowly.

[coffeebean]

I think the statues are beautiful, and probably expensive! And the movie house is better than SS or LSL.

Hubby and I looked at the inside of the movie theater and must agree...it is gorgeous and so rustic and so in tuned with the theme of the square. Just a beautiful job. Plan to go to a movie there this afternoon so we will experience what the inside of the theaters are like.

[coffeebean]

Before Brownwood was built why in the world didn't the Morse family consult every resident of TV, and every future resident of TV to get their input so that EVERYONE would be happy & satisfied with every little detail, & then there would be absolutely NO complaints?

OMG what were they thinking, it would have been so simple! But then I guess all of the complainers would just be complaining about not having anything to complain about.

I don't see it as complaining...I see it as making an observation.

[Serenoa]

People need to realize that Brownwood is still in its infancy, and I'm sure it will expand & grow well beyond its current size. I'm certainly anxious to see it again in two or three years.

I'm curious as to how long it took LSL & SS to grow to their current size. Are there any pictures anywhere of either of them when they were still in development stages? I think TV should add more on their website in regard to the history & development of the two older town squares.

[CWGUY]

There's always SS & LSL...........................

or Hunters Creek! chilout

[DAWN MARIE]

As a die hard line dancer I love LSL the best but do love the dancing surface at BW. The few times I've danced at BW it's been good for line dancing with the only exception when Scooter shows up. Then it quickly gets over crowded. Most nights it' been pretty empty but I expect that will change when the businesses and homes get more established.

Like everything else, it takes time to make adjustment for new things. I'm sure BW will have its share of regulars like the other two squares have now. As for me and my line dance friends, we go according to the bands. With all things being equal you'll find me at LSL.

[coffeebean]

People need to realize that Brownwood is still in its infancy, and I'm sure it will expand & grow well beyond its current size. ...

I have no doubt Brownwood is going to be a wonderful place to go to for shopping with many stores and restaurants. I do not think there will be room to enlarge the square where the band stand and the dance floor is.

[gomoho]

We do not attend the square activities, but do enjoy going to the squares to eat, shop or walk around. I love the ambiance of Brownwood, but that's coming from a wanna be cowgirl.

[billlaur]

Brownwood is fabulous,plenty of room for dancing, Bleacher seating is great,for those that dont like it, chairs are available.They thought of it all..
Great planning this will be the place to go in the near future....:BigApplause:.

[Shimpy]

JMHO Brownwood didn't scrimp on expenses but didn't allow for a large enough crowd by only have seating 180 degs. I don't mind bleachers but there are not enough of them. The stage looks good but limits seating to 180degs. and a limited crowd. When will we see a good restaurant where we can several times a week have breakfast there and hang out?

[zonerboy]

My take on the complaints about the set up of Paddock Square (bleacher seating, size of dance floor, etc).
If you don't like it, don't go there. There are 2 other squares.
Problem solved.

[perrjojo]

WOW, I AM AMAZED SOMETIMES. We have world hunger, wars, gang violence, homeless people, cancer, hurricanes, etc, etc, etc. And we complain about the dance floor, stadium seating, rude cyclist, dog poop, etc, etc, etc. Come on folks...lets get our gratitude list out!

[rayschic]

Where are the bronze statues located ?? I've gone to Brownswood 3 times and have not seen them.
The movie theater is absolutely gorgeous, has great seating and great sound. Farmers market was excellent. I walked over to look at the bleacher seating. I looked up and there is a beam directly above the first row in the bleacher. It had 6 pigeons sitting on it. Can't wait for the new threads on pigeon poop. LOL

[Challenger]

Bronze statues are located at entrance to Brownwood at Rte 44

[rayschic]

Thanks Challenger. I usually take Buena Vista down to the end and turn in, so I've never seen them. I'll go in on 44 next time.

[skip0358]

New Irish Restaurant coming to the old Butter Beanery, Holiday Inn will be going next to that, Cody's will be in the area of the Theater, also World of Beers is being built. Soon it will be fine. Rome wasn't built in a day so neither will Brownwood. Relax and enjoy the piece and quiet.

[justjim]

Personally, I don't see Brownwood as better or worse than Spanish Springs or Lake Sumter Landing----just different. Brownwood is more a "showplace". If the developer is able to attract a Dillard's, Macy's, and other well know stores to the Brownwood area along Rt 44, they will bring in outsider's from a larger square mile area. Maybe Brownwood was not built just with TV residents in mind, rather the goal might be attract a larger audience who would rather listen to music than to dance. There is still room to dance but the square is more of an outdoor concert type setting IMHO. One thing for sure, it is not cheap. Only time will tell, so give it three years or so and lets see what develops.

[Villager Dude]

New Irish Restaurant coming to the old Butter Beanery, Holiday Inn will be going next to that, Cody's will be in the area of the Theater, also World of Beers is being built. Soon it will be fine. Rome wasn't built in a day so neither will Brownwood. Relax and enjoy the piece and quiet.

Like one post I was suprised Brownwood was not built somewhere near 466A and Buena Vista . This would have been central to the Southern area. But also someone said the Southern Point of The Villages will be in Miami soon.

I do have an observation. I do not see " The Villages " on anything other than the developer commercial places. The other squares have it on the approacing signs, bandstand, etc .

Have others noticed this and perhaps know if there was a shift in a different direction by the developer ?

Take Care!

[coffeebean]

After spending time in Paddock Square last night, hubby and I went to LSL this evening. My goodness...what a difference in the open feeling and the roominess of the square. There must be at more than twice the area for dancing and seating using all the space all around the bandstand at LSL. Still....have no idea what the developer was thinking when they designed the Paddock Square band stand and dance area. Even the Paddock Square band stand is half the size of the band stand at LSL.

[coffeebean]

My take on the complaints about the set up of Paddock Square (bleacher seating, size of dance floor, etc).
If you don't like it, don't go there. There are 2 other squares.
Problem solved.

I plan to do just that, actually. Having said that, when Rocky and the Rollers plays Paddock Square, I don't want to miss them. It is not going to be a pleasant experience I fear, with the crowds they will bring.

Also...where are the merchants going to set up their wares for Market nights??? Looks like there is no room for the merchants around the square.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

I suspect there might have been people who were not happy having to sit beside/behind the performers while at SS and LSL.

Bill :)

[golf2140]

Gee alll these folks know more then the Morse family does. I would suggest they go out and build a nicer place.

[Bogie Shooter]

I plan to do just that, actually. Having said that, when Rocky and the Rollers plays Paddock Square, I don't want to miss them. It is not going to be a pleasant experience I fear, with the crowds they will bring.

Also...where are the merchants going to set up their wares for Market nights??? Looks like there is no room for the merchants around the square.

Assuming there will be market night at Brownwood.

[Bogie Shooter]

Personally, I don't see Brownwood as better or worse than Spanish Springs or Lake Sumter Landing----just different. Brownwood is more a "showplace". If the developer is able to attract a Dillard's, Macy's, and other well know stores to the Brownwood area along Rt 44, they will bring in outsider's from a larger square mile area. Maybe Brownwood was not built just with TV residents in mind, rather the goal might be attract a larger audience who would rather listen to music than to dance. There is still room to dance but the square is more of an outdoor concert type setting IMHO. One thing for sure, it is not cheap. Only time will tell, so give it three years or so and lets see what develops.

:a20:

[UpNorth]

Went to Brownwood the other night to see Scooter. The stage sound system there is terrible, largely because of the roof over the bleachers. Like a reverse bandshell, all you get is a one-note boom, loads of feedback, and no clarity whatsoever. It can probably be "fixed" by adding some speakers and equilization, but depending where you sit, it can be annoying.

[Serenoa]

Gee alll these folks know more then the Morse family does. I would suggest they go out and build a nicer place.

:agree::agree::agree::agree: I'm extremely concerned that TV's days are numbered. Any day now someone is sure to build the PERFECT retirement community.

[golfergirl1]

I totally agree. The dance area is inadequate when you consider the types
of crowds that will eventually come to this square. Plus the stadium seating, while providing raised view of the stage performers does not take in to account the general age of the viewing public and the physical limitations (ie. bad backs and knees) which would make this an uncomfortable option. The lack of information concerning future merchants or dining establishments is also a bit tiresome. This combined with the poor movie
choices really place this town square as it is...3rd in line as a place to go. Hopefully, all this things will improve with time.
First time at Brownwood's Paddock Square last night and I was a bit surprised how small the dance floor area is. The dance floor does not go all around the band stand as it does in LSL and SS. It wasn't very crowded last night when hubby and I were there but I can imagine the dance floor is going to be way too small when the area is crowded. There really is no separate area where line dancers can gather, such as the sides of the band stand.

What were they thinking when this town square was drawn up?

[DougB]

Waaaaahhhhh, waaaaaahhhhh, waaaahhhhh

[billlaur]

I plan to do just that, actually. Having said that, when Rocky and the Rollers plays Paddock Square, I don't want to miss them. It is not going to be a pleasant experience I fear, with the crowds they will bring.

Also...where are the merchants going to set up their wares for Market nights??? Looks like there is no room for the merchants around the square.

Have you been to farmers market? There is actually to much room...:BigApplause:

[justjim]

Assuming there will be market night at Brownwood.

Do you know the actual size of Brownwood (sq ft of the square itself) compared to the other squares? :(

[Cedwards38]

My guess is that once they get all the commercial space built down there, and from what I hear its gonna be a lot, Brownwood might be the busiest little cow town in Florida.

[graciegirl]

I totally agree. The dance area is inadequate when you consider the types
of crowds that will eventually come to this square. Plus the stadium seating, while providing raised view of the stage performers does not take in to account the general age of the viewing public and the physical limitations (ie. bad backs and knees) which would make this an uncomfortable option. The lack of information concerning future merchants or dining establishments is also a bit tiresome. This combined with the poor movie
choices really place this town square as it is...3rd in line as a place to go. Hopefully, all this things will improve with time.

Dear Golfergirl1

Welcome to the forum.

There are chairs available just like at the other squares at Brownwood, or at least I have been told, haven't been there at night.

I am not clear what exactly you mean by poor movie choices. They appear to be the same mix of first run movies as the other two venues.

There isn't any news about future business inhabitants, restaurants etc. PROBABLY because those businesses and restaurants have not made a commitment yet to come there. This isn't the best economy and many chains are simply NOT expanding and loans for new businesses are probably a little harder to get after the default on so many loans in the recent past. Lending institutions are being very careful with their money.

The developer builds the physical structures for the new businesses to inhabit and I am sure will do so when they decide to come there. I don't think anybody is sitting on any information.

That is just my opinion. I am often wrong.

[2BNTV]

I think one needs to be patient until Brownwood is completely built. I am sure many other things need to be added to get the full effect of what it be finally be.

All good things come with time. :smiley:

[mmatcg]

Listed Merchants in Paddock Square (http://www.thevillages.com/lifestyle/images/maps/SM_PADDOCK_SQUARE.pdf)

Reported or confirmed
Five Guys Burgers & Fries
World Of Beer

Potential Merchants
Too Jays
Flippers Pizzeria
Codys

any others?

[jackiedew]

I think Brownwood is fabulous just as the other two squares are and there is plenty of room for dancing (and I'm a line dancer). Perhaps some people are conceiving that it is smaller because of the layout. Well done in my opinion and I bet the cattle are the most photographed in FL!

[rubicon]

Originally the plans called for Brownwood to be 3 times the size of LSL. However I do not know if the they adhere to the original plans?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I love the stage and bleacher setup at Brownwood. At SS and LSL you can't see the band because of the people dancing in front of them. They should move the dance areas to behind where the people are sitting so that those who want to watch the band as well a listen can see.

[Bucco]

Very difficult for me to read all the negativity concerning Brownwood. From all I hear and read, when it is complete, it will far exceed both LSL and SS.

I suppose we live in the era of INSTANT gratification.

[Bogie Shooter]

Do you know the actual size of Brownwood (sq ft of the square itself) compared to the other squares? :(

No.

[cquick]

We've gone to Brownwood and Paddock Square lots of times since they have opened, and we'll keep on going there, we just choose which band we want to hear.....and that's where we go.

I will say I LOVE the Farmer's Market on Saturdays. We go almost every week
:highfive:

[sueandskip]

The question was about how small the dance floor was.....My answer would be people have a tendancy to keep moving closer and closer to the stage area with there chairs making the dancing area smaller...They also have a bad habit to setting up there gossip area in the entrance area totally blocking them off....

[perrjojo]

Very difficult for me to read all the negativity concerning Brownwood. From all I hear and read, when it is complete, it will far exceed both LSL and SS.

I suppose we live in the era of INSTANT gratification.

I think you are on to something. :-)

[Shimpy]

BROWNWOOD...... It is what it is and no amount of discussion will change it.

[coffeebean]

Very difficult for me to read all the negativity concerning Brownwood. From all I hear and read, when it is complete, it will far exceed both LSL and SS.

I suppose we live in the era of INSTANT gratification.

My comments in the original post of this thread is about the dance floor and band stand area. I was not commenting about what the completed Brownwood is going to be like. The band stand is completed and so is the limited dance floor area.

The sidewalks that surround the immediate vicinity of the dance floor are also smaller than SS and LSL. The street that circles around the dance floor and band stand does not seem as wide and open as in SS and LSL. The very integral central part of this town square (surrounding street, dance floor and band stand) is so much smaller and feels closed in to me. These things can not be changed as they are already in place.

[Bogie Shooter]

My comments in the original post of this thread is about the dance floor and band stand area. I was not commenting about what the completed Brownwood is going to be like. The band stand is completed and so is the limited dance floor area.

The sidewalks that surround the immediate vicinity of the dance floor are also smaller than SS and LSL. The street that circles around the dance floor and band stand does not seem as wide and open as in SS and LSL. The very integral central part of this town square (surrounding street, dance floor and band stand) is so much smaller and feels closed in to me. These things can not be changed as they are already in place.

And...................?
See post #64

[Skybo]

I think Paddock Square is great! Is it the same as Market Square? No. Is it the same as Town Square? No. Do you all want every square to be the same? I don't.

Most folks who are able and willing to sit in the bleachers will gladly do so, because they provide the best view. Those that choose not to sit in the bleachers have chairs available to them. So what's the problem?

As far as dance floor space...no square has ever been so crowded that people can't dance. Even during high-season, there is always room to dance.

[Bucco]

I think you are on to something. :-)

As I recall, and as the years go by, that recall is not as sharp as it used to be, but I was here right after SS was completed. Not much there...if the developer didn't open it up, it did not exist. Restaurants where there were were all owned by the developer. Crowds were ok, but nothing to write home about, then as the population grew, the crowds grew.

Then came LSL, and for awhile you could come over and look around before the grand opening. We didn't have this forum, but folks said...how pretty but there sure is not much there. Then it grew as the population grew.

Now Brownwood, and it sounds like it will be spectacular. I would rather talk about the state of the art theater and how really nice it is there. The growth, the crowds, etc will come in time.

The person who began this thread spoke of the size of the dance area...obviously that is important to that person, BUT not to everybody and I would suspect those who want a larger dance area will gravitate to a town center that meets with what they want. That is the idea of these 3 town squares...all different architecture, feel, etc.

Enjoy them all.......it just strikes me as odd how anyone could complain about anything in The Villages...is it perfect,. nope, but then again, where is that perfection. This place has so much to offer, and I am overreacting for sure, but I think it a "cheap shot" to criticize Brownwood, and I still think it is a mark of our society....I want it now and those who do not give me what I want and now are bad people.

Sorry for being negative, but please enjoy this place, whatever town square you choose to visit !

[coffeebean]

The question was about how small the dance floor was.....My answer would be people have a tendancy to keep moving closer and closer to the stage area with there chairs making the dancing area smaller...They also have a bad habit to setting up there gossip area in the entrance area totally blocking them off....

I was at Paddock Square yesterday before any chairs were brought onto the square. The area is basically the same size as LSL in front of the band stand. That is where the similarity ends. Paddock Square has much smaller area on the sides of the band stand and no area at all in the back of the band stand. LSL's dance floor has more than twice the size of Paddock Square's dance floor. It is very easy to "eye ball" it.

Also... the chairs at LSL and SS are have arms on them. Not so in Paddock Square. Not complaining...just making an observation.

[justjim]

As I recall, and as the years go by, that recall is not as sharp as it used to be, but I was here right after SS was completed. Not much there...if the developer didn't open it up, it did not exist. Restaurants where there were were all owned by the developer. Crowds were ok, but nothing to write home about, then as the population grew, the crowds grew.

Then came LSL, and for awhile you could come over and look around before the grand opening. We didn't have this forum, but folks said...how pretty but there sure is not much there. Then it grew as the population grew.

Now Brownwood, and it sounds like it will be spectacular. I would rather talk about the state of the art theater and how really nice it is there. The growth, the crowds, etc will come in time.

The person who began this thread spoke of the size of the dance area...obviously that is important to that person, BUT not to everybody and I would suspect those who want a larger dance area will gravitate to a town center that meets with what they want. That is the idea of these 3 town squares...all different architecture, feel, etc.

Enjoy them all.......it just strikes me as odd how anyone could complain about anything in The Villages...is it perfect,. nope, but then again, where is that perfection. This place has so much to offer, and I am overreacting for sure, but I think it a "cheap shot" to criticize Brownwood, and I still think it is a mark of our society....I want it now and those who do not give me what I want and now are bad people.

Sorry for being negative, but please enjoy this place, whatever town square you choose to visit !

Good thoughtful post. :beer3:

[2BNTV]

As I recall, and as the years go by, that recall is not as sharp as it used to be, but I was here right after SS was completed. Not much there...if the developer didn't open it up, it did not exist. Restaurants where there were were all owned by the developer. Crowds were ok, but nothing to write home about, then as the population grew, the crowds grew.

Then came LSL, and for awhile you could come over and look around before the grand opening. We didn't have this forum, but folks said...how pretty but there sure is not much there. Then it grew as the population grew.

Now Brownwood, and it sounds like it will be spectacular. I would rather talk about the state of the art theater and how really nice it is there. The growth, the crowds, etc will come in time.

The person who began this thread spoke of the size of the dance area...obviously that is important to that person, BUT not to everybody and I would suspect those who want a larger dance area will gravitate to a town center that meets with what they want. That is the idea of these 3 town squares...all different architecture, feel, etc.

Enjoy them all.......it just strikes me as odd how anyone could complain about anything in The Villages...is it perfect,. nope, but then again, where is that perfection. This place has so much to offer, and I am overreacting for sure, but I think it a "cheap shot" to criticize Brownwood, and I still think it is a mark of our society....I want it now and those who do not give me what I want and now are bad people.

Sorry for being negative, but please enjoy this place, whatever town square you choose to visit !

Very good point that has perspective. :BigApplause:

[ricksvl]

My experience was with Barnstorm Theater. My husband and I walked in and started looking at some very nice things on their walls. We walked passed the wooden rail fencing and was promptly told that if we were on that side of the fence, we needed a ticket. I tried to explain that we were admiring the decor and did not want to attend a movie at this time. The young lady again told me that we had to buy a ticket to be on that side of the fence and we could not "just look at their decor". This was very insulting and demeaning. This happened just after Thanksgiving. My husband and I have not been back to this movie theater and we may never go back. LMR

[Bogie Shooter]

My experience was with Barnstorm Theater. My husband and I walked in and started looking at some very nice things on their walls. We walked passed the wooden rail fencing and was promptly told that if we were on that side of the fence, we needed a ticket. I tried to explain that we were admiring the decor and did not want to attend a movie at this time. The young lady again told me that we had to buy a ticket to be on that side of the fence and we could not "just look at their decor". This was very insulting and demeaning. This happened just after Thanksgiving. My husband and I have not been back to this movie theater and we may never go back. LMR

I would have asked for the manager. How do you think it can be fixed, if the mangager isn't made aware? Thanksgiving.......probably her second day on the job.

BTW welcome to TOTV.

[mulligan]

Okay, I've got it all figured out. The developer was using selective elimination. All those that need armchairs and a bigger dance area will go to SS and LSL. Those of us who can appreciate his response to various other issues ( such as roping off seats) will be free to enjoy Brownwood. See you there !! I'll be the one inside that allegedly hideous wooden fence waiting for an adult beverage !!

[coffeebean]

And...................?
See post #64
My point is....What the heck were they thinking when they planned Paddock Square? Doesn't the developer expect large crowds at Paddock Square as there are at the other two squares? It's going to be very close when all the homes are built south of 466A.

[DougB]

My experience was with Barnstorm Theater. My husband and I walked in and started looking at some very nice things on their walls. We walked passed the wooden rail fencing and was promptly told that if we were on that side of the fence, we needed a ticket. I tried to explain that we were admiring the decor and did not want to attend a movie at this time. The young lady again told me that we had to buy a ticket to be on that side of the fence and we could not "just look at their decor". This was very insulting and demeaning. This happened just after Thanksgiving. My husband and I have not been back to this movie theater and we may never go back. LMR

Theater wouldn't let you in without purchasing a ticket? Why, I never heard of such a thing! But seriously, was she impolite or rude in any way, or just following the rules?

[Bogie Shooter]

My point is....What the heck were they thinking when they planned Paddock Square? Doesn't the developer expect large crowds at Paddock Square as there are at the other two squares? It's going to be very close when all the homes are built south of 466A.

And I repeat.............see post #64.

[villagerjack]

I was at Paddock Square yesterday before any chairs were brought onto the square. The area is basically the same size as LSL in front of the band stand. That is where the similarity ends. Paddock Square has much smaller area on the sides of the band stand and no area at all in the back of the band stand. LSL's dance floor has more than twice the size of Paddock Square's dance floor. It is very easy to "eye ball" it.

Also... the chairs at LSL and SS are have arms on them. Not so in Paddock Square. Not complaining...just making an observation.


But why??...Do you always make a habit of comparing things? Arms on chairs? Give me a break.....PULEEEZE.

[Serenoa]

My experience was with Barnstorm Theater. My husband and I walked in and started looking at some very nice things on their walls. We walked passed the wooden rail fencing and was promptly told that if we were on that side of the fence, we needed a ticket. I tried to explain that we were admiring the decor and did not want to attend a movie at this time. The young lady again told me that we had to buy a ticket to be on that side of the fence and we could not "just look at their decor". This was very insulting and demeaning. This happened just after Thanksgiving. My husband and I have not been back to this movie theater and we may never go back. LMR

That sure is different than the experience we had at Barnstorm. During our LSV in December we visited Brownwood on a saturday so we could see the farmer's market. After looking over almost everything else we wandered into the theatre with no intention of seeing a movie. I must have snapped at least a dozen or more pictures of the old John Deere tractor & all the other antiques & decor in the lobby. There were several employees over behind the snack counters & others walking around, but none asked for a ticket or said we couldn't do what we were doing without tickets. I'm sorry you had a bad encounter, but I sure wouldn't let one less than courteous employee keep me from going back to enjoy a movie. I do hope you go back.

As far as the discussion about the dance floor, I'm wondering if the tall height of the grandstand seating areas doesn't give the dance area a closed -in appearance & just make it seem smaller? I'm really shocked that someone hasn't visited each town square with a measuring wheel to settle this very, very important argument once & for all.

[villagerjack]

My experience was with Barnstorm Theater. My husband and I walked in and started looking at some very nice things on their walls. We walked passed the wooden rail fencing and was promptly told that if we were on that side of the fence, we needed a ticket. I tried to explain that we were admiring the decor and did not want to attend a movie at this time. The young lady again told me that we had to buy a ticket to be on that side of the fence and we could not "just look at their decor". This was very insulting and demeaning. This happened just after Thanksgiving. My husband and I have not been back to this movie theater and we may never go back. LMR

OH, C'mon now! Please stop, this is getting very childish! Chairs with no arms, small sidewalks and now this? I cannot believe what I am reading. Did everyone immigrate from Utopia to The Villages to finish fifth grade? .

[gmcneill]

We dropped by Brownwood on our drive out of TV to SoFla. We saw at least 10 people by the cattle drive out front; watched kids dancing on stage (wi grand-parental supervision); grabbed lunch from the BBQ trailer, a $14 total bill for 2 meals that filled us up; and glimpsed a lot of construction behind the fences on two sides of the square. All on a crisp and breezy blue-skied winter's day.

BW/Paddock Square has a completely different vibe than the other two squares, and we are glad that it does. We enjoy each square for different reasons. We so appreciate those differences.

BW/PS is nice now in it's very early growing stages, and will be much more so as growth continues. And if the dance floor proves to be too small, well then just like TV (The Vandellas) they'll be dancing in the streets.

[Skybo]

My experience was with Barnstorm Theater. My husband and I walked in and started looking at some very nice things on their walls. We walked passed the wooden rail fencing and was promptly told that if we were on that side of the fence, we needed a ticket. I tried to explain that we were admiring the decor and did not want to attend a movie at this time. The young lady again told me that we had to buy a ticket to be on that side of the fence and we could not "just look at their decor". This was very insulting and demeaning. This happened just after Thanksgiving. My husband and I have not been back to this movie theater and we may never go back. LMR

The area beyond the “wooden rail fencing” is the entrance to the hallway where the movies are shown ... and just like every other movie theater in the country, you need to purchase a ticket to go there. There is no special d�cor beyond the rails, there is just a concession stand and the cinema rooms. How could you expect the theater to operate properly if they didn't require tickets beyond a certain point?

[Barefoot]

The area beyond the �wooden rail fencing� is the entrance to the hallway where the movies are shown ... and just like every other movie theater in the country, you need to purchase a ticket to go there. There is no special d�cor beyond the rails, there is just a concession stand and the cinema rooms. How could you expect the theater to operate properly if they didn't require tickets beyond a certain point?

I was thinking the same thing Skybo.

In my humble opinion, Paddock Square is a work of art in progress. We love the statues, and the western theme. I think it will be fabulous as additional shops and restaurants open. We are so lucky to have three, unique Town Squares to enjoy!

[Skybo]

Thanks Bare, and I agree, with one caveat ... it�s not a �western theme�, it is a Florida cowboy/cattle drive theme. Florida is rich in cattle history, and I�ve been told that Florida has more cattle than Texas?. ??? Who knew?

[Barefoot]

Thanks Bare, and I agree, with one caveat ... it’s not a “western theme”, it is a Florida cowboy/cattle drive theme. Florida is rich in cattle history, and I’ve been told that Florida has more cattle than Texas?. ??? Who knew?

To me, a western theme has more to do with how you do it, and not where you do it. In central Canada we ride our quarter horses Western style, not English. We wear Western boots and Western Stetsons. We use Western saddles and practice barrel racing and reining. I always thought cowboys and cattle drives were western in nature, even when done in Florida or Ontario. But you know, it doesn't matter one bit to me. I love horses and cattle and saddles, and I feel really comfortable in Brownwood! :0000000000luvmyhors

[coffeebean]

And I repeat.............see post #64.

Bogie...I don't want to go round and round with this so I will digress...Nothing can be done at this point so I agree with you about that.

[coffeebean]

But why??...Do you always make a habit of comparing things? Arms on chairs? Give me a break.....PULEEEZE.

It's human nature to compare. That's just me, I guess.

[mulligan]

I'll wager that you'll see the same chairs at all 3 squares before too long. easier to handle, less space to store, and actually quite comfortable. A big plus, is the attendant handing them out 1 per person: roping off problem gone without any confrontation....brilliant.

[duffysmom]

The area beyond the �wooden rail fencing� is the entrance to the hallway where the movies are shown ... and just like every other movie theater in the country, you need to purchase a ticket to go there. There is no special d�cor beyond the rails, there is just a concession stand and the cinema rooms. How could you expect the theater to operate properly if they didn't require tickets beyond a certain point?

:BigApplause::agree:

[Cantwaittoarrive]

I was thinking the same thing Skybo.

In my humble opinion, Paddock Square is a work of art in progress. We love the statues, and the western theme. I think it will be fabulous as additional shops and restaurants open. We are so lucky to have three, unique Town Squares to enjoy!

Yes I agree! I enjoy each square for different reasons but everytime I go it feels just like I'm on vacation

[dadspet]

Dancing at Brownwood is Awful. The floor which is meant to look like mud is: uneven, has cracks and rough. This makes it interesting to look at if your not a dancer but very hard to turn on and leaving you open for twisting an ankle or falling. We tried it once or twice and its our last choice for dancing. LSL is by far the best square for dancing. Its the largest and smoothest. Most dancers also don't like Spanish Springs for dancing since its smaller, goes up and down and the drain holes also leave you open for twisting an ankle. Dancers (Waltz, Cha Cha, Swing, Two step etc) can't believe they recently redid the floor at Spanish Springs and made it no better for dancing.

[BettyCrocked]

I get what you are saying, however complaining about any specific thing does not make a person a "complainer" in my opinion. Sure, there are people who can never be satisfied, but far more often someone who sees a negative has a legitimate perspective. I have not yet been to Brownwood, but I can see how some of the comments could be justified. Not everyone sees everything through the same lens.

You need to stop with all this logic and reason! Pick a side and attack the other already!

[cquick]

But Connie, weren't you a Dale Evans fan? OOOPS. I am older than you. sigh.

Well if you don't like it I will look at it again, because you are a smart cookie and I sure like you. ;)

yes, Gracie, I am a Dale Evans fan! Not too old either! I will of course go to Brownwood Paddock Square to listen to the music....the music is the main draw for me anyway! I only know 2 line dances!

[cquick]

New Irish Restaurant coming to the old Butter Beanery, Holiday Inn will be going next to that, Cody's will be in the area of the Theater, also World of Beers is being built. Soon it will be fine. Rome wasn't built in a day so neither will Brownwood. Relax and enjoy the piece and quiet.

wow, Skip, that sounds really neat!

[AriaGrandparents2013]

My wife and I were there during the recent Strawberry Festival and though it was packed there seemed to be ample room between the bleachers and stage for people to dance.

Didn't see a problem as this event was a big draw and probably reflects a maximum pedestrian turnout.

Just my opinion for what it's worth.

[Bogie Shooter]

This thread should have not been raised from the dead.

[sportstalk]

There's a new bowling alley coming across from Brownwood.

:MOJE_whot:

[Scoops]

There's a new bowling alley coming across from Brownwood.

:MOJE_whot:

Tell me more.

[Chazz]

There's a new bowling alley coming across from Brownwood.

:MOJE_whot:

That's great news and much needed!

[Bogie Shooter]

Such a nice rumor.....................

[sportstalk]

Such a nice rumor.....................

It's not a rumor, there's a sign for it too now, right next to the Irish Pub...go check it out.