Why such meanness?

[redwitch]

I like jokes, really I do. I like sarcasm even more. But why oh why the meanness? If you happen to think a question is dumb, how about resisting the urge to crack a joke -- at least until there have a few serious answers so that the poor OP has an answer or two?

I've seen this too many times lately. Fine, you've never heard of free legal advice? It does exist -- legal aid used to be available, not so much any more. Law schools frequently have clinics. Tort attorneys will at least tell you whether or not you have a case. Criminal attorneys will frequently give a quick piece of advice. Many of the law firms that advertise on television have attorneys on call just for quick questions and answers.

You think a question has been asked and answered. Fine, give the OP the link to the original thread but there's no need to imply they're being stupid by asking again.

Someone is a newbie and you think they're a troll? Give them the benefit of the doubt and see what progresses as people answer seriously. The motives of the OP will show up quickly enough.

You know when someone is sincerely praising a contractor (especially a landscaper) or when it is done for the OP to get a discount, an extended warranty, whatever, let it go and just ignore that post.

I really can see joking around AFTER a question has been answered or at least a few reasonable comments have been made, but why start out being cute? Do you really need the attention so much that you're willing to you hurt another? Is there such a need to prove how smart you are?

[ljarnold]

I agree completely.

[gomoho]

Redwitch - good advice which I think I can follow except when it comes to dog poop threads!!! Sorry had to say it.

But seriously I do think we need to work towards being a kinder, gentler community. Thanks for the reminder.

[jpharmat]

Well said!

[wereback]

I hope the ones that know who they are will listen

[Ecuadog]

Bingo

[Parker]

Big thumbs up. A little class goes a long way.

[DianeM]

It costs nothing to be nice so why be mean?

[queasy27]

Thanks, redwitch.

Personally, I think even the poo threads (dog or otherwise!) can be interesting. Not everyone has been reading TOTV for years or may not check in very frequently. Certainly the member who started the thread thought it was worth discussing. One person's troll is another person's neighbor making a sincere comment.

If Person X is tired of poo, so much the better! Less for Person X to read and get steamed about.

[anarick]

I like jokes, really I do. I like sarcasm even more. But why oh why the meanness? If you happen to think a question is dumb, how about resisting the urge to crack a joke -- at least until there have a few serious answers so that the poor OP has an answer or two?

I've seen this too many times lately. Fine, you've never heard of free legal advice? It does exist -- legal aid used to be available, not so much any more. Law schools frequently have clinics. Tort attorneys will at least tell you whether or not you have a case. Criminal attorneys will frequently give a quick piece of advice. Many of the law firms that advertise on television have attorneys on call just for quick questions and answers.

You think a question has been asked and answered. Fine, give the OP the link to the original thread but there's no need to imply they're being stupid by asking again.

Someone is a newbie and you think they're a troll? Give them the benefit of the doubt and see what progresses as people answer seriously. The motives of the OP will show up quickly enough.

You know when someone is sincerely praising a contractor (especially a landscaper) or when it is done for the OP to get a discount, an extended warranty, whatever, let it go and just ignore that post.

I really can see joking around AFTER a question has been answered or at least a few reasonable comments have been made, but why start out being cute? Do you really need the attention so much that you're willing to you hurt another? Is there such a need to prove how smart you are?


Spot on Redwitch

All it takes is common courtesy

[eremite06]

"Familiarity breeds contempt." This site has become too cliquish among the "regulars."

A real turnoff in my view.

[Buffalo Jim]

Thank You ! Thank You ! For taking the time to say what needed to be said .

The tendency of others to " jump " on a person who takes a " risk " of sharing a Post tends to make people hesitant to try to participate in this important and needed forum .

[JB in TV]

Agree 100%. In addition, I would hope that folks that read the first post in a thread, will take the time to read some of the replies, before just scrolling down and answering. It gets to be a bit much to see the same answer 7 or 8 times. Granted, it reinforces that the answer is accurate, but come on folks, please read the thread before posting your reply. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest. :-)

[senior citizen]

I like jokes, really I do. I like sarcasm even more. But why oh why the meanness? If you happen to think a question is dumb, how about resisting the urge to crack a joke -- at least until there have a few serious answers so that the poor OP has an answer or two?

I've seen this too many times lately. Fine, you've never heard of free legal advice? It does exist -- legal aid used to be available, not so much any more. Law schools frequently have clinics. Tort attorneys will at least tell you whether or not you have a case. Criminal attorneys will frequently give a quick piece of advice. Many of the law firms that advertise on television have attorneys on call just for quick questions and answers.

You think a question has been asked and answered. Fine, give the OP the link to the original thread but there's no need to imply they're being stupid by asking again.

Someone is a newbie and you think they're a troll? Give them the benefit of the doubt and see what progresses as people answer seriously. The motives of the OP will show up quickly enough.

You know when someone is sincerely praising a contractor (especially a landscaper) or when it is done for the OP to get a discount, an extended warranty, whatever, let it go and just ignore that post.

I really can see joking around AFTER a question has been answered or at least a few reasonable comments have been made, but why start out being cute? Do you really need the attention so much that you're willing to you hurt another? Is there such a need to prove how smart you are?

Excellent and well expressed post.........

[jrandall]

Well said. I try to abide by the Golden Rule. This can be a tremendous forum for all of us to share our questions, thoughts, concerns, and joyful events. I love TV because the majority of people I come in contact with are friendly, caring, helpful, and NICE! Let's not push away anyone.

[marianne237]

Thank you Red.

[SALYBOW]

I like jokes, really I do. I like sarcasm even more. But why oh why the meanness? If you happen to think a question is dumb, how about resisting the urge to crack a joke -- at least until there have a few serious answers so that the poor OP has an answer or two?

I've seen this too many times lately. Fine, you've never heard of free legal advice? It does exist -- legal aid used to be available, not so much any more. Law schools frequently have clinics. Tort attorneys will at least tell you whether or not you have a case. Criminal attorneys will frequently give a quick piece of advice. Many of the law firms that advertise on television have attorneys on call just for quick questions and answers.

You think a question has been asked and answered. Fine, give the OP the link to the original thread but there's no need to imply they're being stupid by asking again.

Someone is a newbie and you think they're a troll? Give them the benefit of the doubt and see what progresses as people answer seriously. The motives of the OP will show up quickly enough.

You know when someone is sincerely praising a contractor (especially a landscaper) or when it is done for the OP to get a discount, an extended warranty, whatever, let it go and just ignore that post.

I really can see joking around AFTER a question has been answered or at least a few reasonable comments have been made, but why start out being cute? Do you really need the attention so much that you're willing to you hurt another? Is there such a need to prove how smart you are?


We say we are the friendliest place around and then people bash and criticize people on here. It is okay for anyone to think or like anything. I don't have to. When people express excitement about something and someone puts them down it has to hurt. I did not think that was supposed to be what we are about. As my poor sainted Mother used to say; if you can't say anything nice about someone...don't say anything at all.

[ssmith]

There has been a change over the years in the mood on this forum.

Used to be nearly everyone was positive and encouraging. Not so much now.

I hate to admit it, but I have been a member for a few years...yes many, many threads are repeats. Many times you get new information etc. Remember that your one time newbie, clever, questions were likley repeats by those before you too....have some forbearance with your fellow posters!!!

Also if you see a pattern of exteme neagativity...then you can always go to the control panel and add that poster on the ignore list. That way you never see what they post.

Also of note...many times extremely negative posters get in trouble with the moderators and eventually are gone.

[Happinow]

I can remember when I first got on here and was picking out my lot and home. I must have asked 20 questions. As I recall, I got many great answers and not any smart remarks. I did not know that there was a "search" button at the top to search comments already provided. I could have researched all of my questions without anyone responding. But....what fun would that have been? By people responding, I got to "talk" to many nice people on here and meet some. If people just hit the search button then this forum wouldn't be what it is. When new people ask questions I think it is the right thing to do to politely answer their questions. Then, you may refer them to previous posts on the subject. The fact that a subject has been discussed a million times on here is unknown to the new poster. So, be kind and courteous to those on here, new or not so new. Lift people's spirit, don't dampen it.

[SpicyCajunPugs]

I can remember when I first got on here and was picking out my lot and home. I must have asked 20 questions. As I recall, I got many great answers and not any smart remarks. I did not know that there was a "search" button at the top to search comments already provided. I could have researched all of my questions without anyone responding. But....what fun would that have been? By people responding, I got to "talk" to many nice people on here and meet some. If people just hit the search button then this forum wouldn't be what it is. When new people ask questions I think it is the right thing to do to politely answer their questions. Then, you may refer them to previous posts on the subject. The fact that a subject has been discussed a million times on here is unknown to the new poster. So, be kind and courteous to those on here, new or not so new. Lift people's spirit, don't dampen it.

Very well said....I was just recently fussed at for just placing information about an upcoming garage party in all caps, and it really dampened my spirits. Why would someone really take the time to complain about something so harmless and trivial? It is just mean spirited and uncalled for IMHO....

[billethkid]

I keep wondering why a small minority of posters that are out of step with the majority continue to get so much play in recent weeks.

There will always be some small percentage of participants in almost any quorum that may grate one the wrong way for whatever reason. Add the cloak of anonymity and they can get even more inspired to stir the pot.

They are easy to ignore......and in my opinion do not set the tone or tenor of TOTV.

btk

[wendyquat]

I like jokes, really I do. I like sarcasm even more. But why oh why the meanness? If you happen to think a question is dumb, how about resisting the urge to crack a joke -- at least until there have a few serious answers so that the poor OP has an answer or two?

I've seen this too many times lately. Fine, you've never heard of free legal advice? It does exist -- legal aid used to be available, not so much any more. Law schools frequently have clinics. Tort attorneys will at least tell you whether or not you have a case. Criminal attorneys will frequently give a quick piece of advice. Many of the law firms that advertise on television have attorneys on call just for quick questions and answers.

You think a question has been asked and answered. Fine, give the OP the link to the original thread but there's no need to imply they're being stupid by asking again.

Someone is a newbie and you think they're a troll? Give them the benefit of the doubt and see what progresses as people answer seriously. The motives of the OP will show up quickly enough.

You know when someone is sincerely praising a contractor (especially a landscaper) or when it is done for the OP to get a discount, an extended warranty, whatever, let it go and just ignore that post.

I really can see joking around AFTER a question has been answered or at least a few reasonable comments have been made, but why start out being cute? Do you really need the attention so much that you're willing to you hurt another? Is there such a need to prove how smart you are?

:agree: you are a wise witch! Thanks!

[Bonnevie]

agree totally with Red....as my mother used to say (and I'm sure many of your mothers as well) if you can't say something nice about something, don't say anything. I, too, can't understand why someone would even bother to take the time to be mean, but it's happened to me as well and it bothered me.

[rubicon]

I believe that most respond members respond respectfully. For those times when it is not so can be for variety of reasons beginning of course with an unpleasant person. Other reasons would include the subject matter which triggers an annoyance simply a bad day, etc.

On the other side of this issue are some of us who are too sensitive.

Then of course some of it can be attributed to the part of the country we were reared. Some states like direct confrontation, others see it has rude. In some states people position as reserved but underneath are being less than honest. Live and let live is a good motto

[senior citizen]

I believe that most respond members respond respectfully. For those times when it is not so can be for variety of reasons beginning of course with an unpleasant person. Other reasons would include the subject matter which triggers an annoyance simply a bad day, etc.

On the other side of this issue are some of us who are too sensitive.

Then of course some of it can be attributed to the part of the country we were reared. Some states like direct confrontation, others see it has rude. In some states people position as reserved but underneath are being less than honest. Live and let live is a good motto

Another good post.......

Next to the last sentence is very true.........some people in order to remain in the favor of the majority will echo sentiments they really do not truly believe in........but don't want to "rock the boat" or displease anyone.

I'll say it again, perhaps we have lived in New England too long, but plain spoken and authentic thoughts are easy to see and accept as "Live and Let Live" is a good motto and everyone is coming from a different background and different experience.............but authenticity is like a breath of fresh air.

When someone is just being a "people pleaser", even their tone of voice changes.............I think having a long time marriage helps as one does not have to pretend to be younger than their chronological years.
A wise mature brain in an older body would get an A+ in my book, if their thoughts are authentic and not phony.............meaning the real deal.

Not a "I'm being what I think everyone wants me to be".......or pretending to be in high school or college again.........like on one of those television ads for "mature" dating........we laugh and laugh when it comes on.....I forget the name of the singles group. It's really sad in the bigger scheme of things.

I'll say to hubby......"Can you imagine your mom or aunts looking like that?" and we both chuckle.......Madison Avenue Marketing is what it's all about. The dumbing down of Americans............

I'm a born pacifist, but still prefer down to earth thoughts and speech.

[LvmyPug2]

Great comments Red. My husband originally had serious reservations about moving to TV because of all the negativity he saw on TOTV. He kept saying "I don't want to live around so many grumpy and mean old farts". Fortunately on our 4 visits before buying we were blown away by everyone's friendliness. After living here 2+ yrs we realize this place is full of kind and friendly people, where age is just a number. Fortunately the snarky comments on TOTV do not represent the majority of villagers.

[Newbeginnings]

Agree 100%

[billethkid]

Fortunately the snarky comments on TOTV do not represent the majority of villagers.

The reality of what is not represented on TOTV or anywhere else where THE FEW on fact DO NOT represent the majority of TV or TOTV.

Let's do more discussion and defense of what is represented by the over whelming majority.....retired, happy, enjoying life, sensitive, courteous, polite, helpful.....neighbors.

The few will always ONLY be THE FEW no matter where one lives/visits/participates.

btk

[bonrich]

There are times when I read a post and it bothers me, and I hit quick reply, I have learned to let it sit for awhile because once you hit the enter key, it is done and there is no time to take it back.

[renielarson]

I like jokes, really I do. I like sarcasm even more. But why oh why the meanness? If you happen to think a question is dumb, how about resisting the urge to crack a joke -- at least until there have a few serious answers so that the poor OP has an answer or two?

I've seen this too many times lately. Fine, you've never heard of free legal advice? It does exist -- legal aid used to be available, not so much any more. Law schools frequently have clinics. Tort attorneys will at least tell you whether or not you have a case. Criminal attorneys will frequently give a quick piece of advice. Many of the law firms that advertise on television have attorneys on call just for quick questions and answers.

You think a question has been asked and answered. Fine, give the OP the link to the original thread but there's no need to imply they're being stupid by asking again.

Someone is a newbie and you think they're a troll? Give them the benefit of the doubt and see what progresses as people answer seriously. The motives of the OP will show up quickly enough.

You know when someone is sincerely praising a contractor (especially a landscaper) or when it is done for the OP to get a discount, an extended warranty, whatever, let it go and just ignore that post.

I really can see joking around AFTER a question has been answered or at least a few reasonable comments have been made, but why start out being cute? Do you really need the attention so much that you're willing to you hurt another? Is there such a need to prove how smart you are?

:BigApplause:

I've been concerned about the spirit of TOTV for some time now and have voiced my concerns to the admin. The ruthlessness that is allowed here appears to be a growing problem based on other posts similar to Redwitch's.

Although TOTV continues to be a great reference source it's also a place where humiliation, meanness, and even bullying is allowed. Perhaps if we start clicking the "report" button each time we see negative responses then maybe our voices will be heard.

[JoeC1947]

That's why I seldom post anymore. This site has turned mean and you know who you are. Too many jump on the band wagon because there is safety in groups. Proof is there have been many recent posts complaining about this.

[billethkid]

:

Although TOTV continues to be a great reference source it's also a place where humiliation, meanness, and even bullying is allowed. Perhaps if we start clicking the "report" button each time we see negative responses then maybe our voices will be heard.

In my opinion the administration does a very good job of monitoring and advising and taking action when and where determined to be needed. I totally disagree with the notion that TOTV is "...a place where humiliation, meanness, and even bullying is allowed."

We all have perceptions/beliefs based on our perspective backgrounds, education, preferences, politics and outlook on life. Mine just happens to be that TOTV like the rest of TV people are not to be categorized using minority specifics to tar the general population.

The tone that has been recently being used to describe the some few deemed unacceptable posts is the same tone and complaints to the previous administration that eventually led to opt in restrictions to access the political forum and eventually led to the closing of that forum for.........the very same behaviors now being described as existing in the general TOTV forum.

Once again, that is just not an accurate representation of the population of TOTV or TV. Life is always, ALWAYS going to have it's few that some will not like. That does not in any way warrant tarnishing the other 90%+ that do it right.

That is my recurring 2 cents on the subject.

btk

[Barefoot]

I keep wondering why a small minority of posters that are out of step with the majority continue to get so much play in recent weeks. There will always be some small percentage of participants in almost any quorum that may grate one the wrong way for whatever reason. Add the cloak of anonymity and they can get even more inspired to stir the pot. They are easy to ignore......and in my opinion do not set the tone or tenor of TOTV.

The reality of what is not represented on TOTV or anywhere else where THE FEW on fact DO NOT represent the majority of TV or TOTV. The few will always ONLY be THE FEW no matter where one lives/visits/participates. In my opinion the administration does a very good job of monitoring and advising and taking action when and where determined to be needed. I totally disagree with the notion that TOTV is "...a place where humiliation, meanness, and even bullying is allowed."

We all have perceptions/beliefs based on our perspective backgrounds, education, preferences, politics and outlook on life. Mine just happens to be that TOTV like the rest of TV people are not to be categorized using minority specifics to tar the general population.

Once again, that is just not an accurate representation of the population of TOTV or TV. Life is always, ALWAYS going to have it's few that some will not like. That does not in any way warrant tarnishing the other 90%+ that do it right.

:agree: I think that the Admins do a good job of admonishing and disciplining those members "who step out of line". It happens behind the scenes and it's usually not obvious to the other members. I think the Admins are quite cognizant of what is happening on TOTV and act accordingly. :024:

[buzzy]

There are times when I read a post and it bothers me, and I hit quick reply, I have learned to let it sit for awhile because once you hit the enter key, it is done and there is no time to take it back.

I rarely hit a quick reply. However, sometimes I quit typing and discard my message because it's negative or not a factual contribution. I wish these message boards had a "draft" function, so we could revise our message a few times before hitting the submit button.

[Barefoot]

I rarely hit a quick reply. However, sometimes I quit typing and discard my message because it's negative or not a factual contribution. I wish these message boards had a "draft" function, so we could revise our message a few times before hitting the submit button.

There is a "preview post" function so you can review and revise your message prior to submitting. Once your post has been submitted, there is an "edit" button so that you can revise your post. And there is also a "delete" button.

[buzzy]

There is a "preview post" function so you can review and revise your message prior to submitting. Once your post has been submitted, there is an "edit" button so that you can revise your post. And there is also a "delete" button.

Understood. Just desiring a place to park the draft, go take a cold shower, have a few beers, and then finish it.

Tell Fireboy that Ron says hello.

[Outbacker]

Bravo Red!

[Barefoot]

Understood. Just desiring a place to park the draft, go take a cold shower, have a few beers, and then finish it. Tell Fireboy that Ron says hello.

Sorry Buzzy, I misunderstood! I didn't realize you wanted a "post and park for later" feature. That would be helpful, and would allow a cooling off period. Which a lot of us could use, on occasion.

Fireboy says Hi -- he sure misses TV and the flying.

[dillywho]

You are the voice of reason and one of the kindest people I have the good fortune to know personally. Some people are just mean, whether on a blog site or in person. That's just life. Not right, but it does exist.

This is supposed to be a support system as well as a forum for differing opinions/experiences/problems, etc. It can be all of these but can be done in a civil manner. None of us is all wrong, but none of us is all right. We have a mixture of it all.

Sometimes, "old" posters on here need to stop and realize that someone may have just signed up for TOTV and does not understand how to find out how everything works. As long as I've been on, I still have to look up the "how to's". If someone brings up a subject that has been discussed in the past, perhaps that person is not a part of the "past". Just redirect them to some of the original posts kindly and most likely they will find their answers.

All of us at some point will probably step on some toes; it happens. When it happens, just make every effort not to do so intentionally.

I still love what my daddy always said: "I never did see a board that didn't have two sides."

[graciegirl]

You are the voice of reason and one of the kindest people I have the good fortune to know personally. Some people are just mean, whether on a blog site or in person. That's just life. Not right, but it does exist.

This is supposed to be a support system as well as a forum for differing opinions/experiences/problems, etc. It can be all of these but can be done in a civil manner. None of us is all wrong, but none of us is all right. We have a mixture of it all.

Sometimes, "old" posters on here need to stop and realize that someone may have just signed up for TOTV and does not understand how to find out how everything works. As long as I've been on, I still have to look up the "how to's". If someone brings up a subject that has been discussed in the past, perhaps that person is not a part of the "past". Just redirect them to some of the original posts kindly and most likely they will find their answers.

All of us at some point will probably step on some toes; it happens. When it happens, just make every effort not to do so intentionally.

I still love what my daddy always said: "I never did see a board that didn't have two sides."

Well said, kindly reasoned, gently said. Just as usual.

[travelguy]

There are times when I read a post and it bothers me, and I hit quick reply, I have learned to let it sit for awhile because once you hit the enter key, it is done and there is no time to take it back.

quick reactions to something that may bother us are not a good way to communicate. the internet and fora (the plural of forum is not forums) allows us to be anonymous and so we can rant and rave and act obnoxious without anyone knowing our true identity.

"it is better to be thought of as a fool, then to open one's mouth and remove all doubt."

:024:

[Geewiz]

"Familiarity breeds contempt." This site has become too cliquish among the "regulars."

A real turnoff in my view.

A clique is a self limiting group. As a regular poster, I don't see anyone not encouraging others to participate. There is a great deal of kindness and good information on this board....albeit, you have to step over the occasional troll to get there.

[redwitch]

Thank you all for your responses. It's nice to see that the "good guys" are still around and still care.

Strangely, my issue isn't with the bullies -- they will always be around and there's nothing that can be done. And, yes, the admins do a great job of getting rid of the bullies and trolls when it becomes obvious that someone is in fact a bully or a troll.

My issue is more with the day-to-day members who are snarky (man, I love that word!) to a dumb question (may be dumb to them, but the poster was probably being very sincere); a question that has been asked and answered a bajillion times (either nicely direct them to an old link, answer it for the umpth odd time or just ignore it). I've seen too much of this snarkiness lately. It seems like there is a contest on to see who can make the "wittiest" comment first, usually at the expense of the poster who then feels like a fool and never giving a real answer.

If you really think the post is wrong for some reason (typing in all caps, for example), there's no need to chastise in public, a private message gets to the person and may help a newbie feel valued rather than ridiculed. Folks, be nice! We were all newbies here once upon a time.

[l2ridehd]

Well said Ms Redwitch. We are all guilty of it from time to time and this is a good reminder to always remember that what we write can always be interpreted multiple ways. You might intend something to be funny, but when someone else reads it they think it's being "snarky" or mean or poking fun. And another faux-par we all make is trying to describe something in one sentence. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words. You know you failed when you get 40 more questions.

Like trying to describe how to use a roundabout. Can't be done. However the green signs now in place make it impossible to not understand. Yet people still do go around 270 degrees in the outside lane. Yet someone was able to describe that in just four words. "you can't fix stupid"

[redwitch]

This thread proves, once again, that people love to see train wrecks. There are 43 posts but 2500 views. WOW!

Hopefully, this isn't being considered a train wreck by those who view it but don't respond. I would consider it a train wreck if people were trying to be cute in replies, not getting the point. Thankfully, I think folks are getting it and, hopefully, it will make a difference for at least a sshort while. Now, if I were more of a sensitive soul, I might take this as a snarky comment. As it is, I just don't get it. Sorry.

[ssmith]

Something else that is bothersome is when there is personal attacks on a person.

Answer or don't answer the post but no need to attack the person.

I usually hit the button to the admins in the upper left hand corner when I see personal attacks.

[Barefoot]

My issue is more with the day-to-day members who are snarky (man, I love that word!) to a dumb question (may be dumb to them, but the poster was probably being very sincere); a question that has been asked and answered a bajillion times (either nicely direct them to an old link, answer it for the umpth odd time or just ignore it).

This is a good reminder for us all. Red, thanks for starting the thread. I am definitely going to "pull up my socks". You are absolutely right ... to us, it may be a question that has been asked a bajillion times, but to the new poster, it is a fair question that should have a respectful response.

[graciegirl]

I have ALWAYS thought you were one of the most articulate posters on this forum and one of the most fair. I see that you have once again hit the nail on the head. Glad to call you friend. Are we in a clique?

Is that snarky?

[eweissenbach]

This may be the dumbest thread I have ever read on this forum, and that is saying something. Dee, if you don't like it here, why don't you just leave. Are you paid by the developer to write tripe like this? While I'm at it the entertainment at the square sucks, the restaurants are crappy, there is no indoor pool, the drivers are senile, dog poop is everywhere, the snowbirds are annoying, and why in hell can't i have a for sale sign in my yard, not to mention pink flamingoes? I suppose this won't inspire most of you to shape up, but I am only one man, albeit an influential one, on a mission to help the rest of you be better villagers.

[graciegirl]

This may be the dumbest thread I have ever read on this forum, and that is saying something. Dee, if you don't like it here, why don't you just leave. Are you paid by the developer to write tripe like this? While I'm at it the entertainment at the square sucks, the restaurants are crappy, there is no indoor pool, the drivers are senile, dog poop is everywhere, the snowbirds are annoying, and why in hell can't i have a for sale sign in my yard, not to mention pink flamingoes? I suppose this won't inspire most of you to shape up, but I am only one man, albeit an influential one, on a mission to help the rest of you be better villagers.


He is just kiddin'.

[skyguy79]

He is just kiddin'.I think you're right Gracie and I wouldn't be surprised that there will be some that don't get it or why he's doing it! I've seen enough times where people see something for other than what it is or was meant to be!

[BarryRX]

I am one of those that limits my time spent on TOTV. I live in such a wonderful community, that oftentimes the only unpleasant experience I have all day is on this forum. I just prefer to not ruin the glow of another day in paradise by reading some of the stuff that people say to each other behind the veil of anonymity.
I do have some specialized knowledge, so I do check back often just in case someone has a question I can help with.

[eweissenbach]

He is just kiddin'.

Quit tryin' to spoil my fun Grace.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Ed must've found the key to the liquor cabinet.............:shocked:

:pepper2:

Bill :wave:

[redwitch]

Ed, you be callin' me dumb? You be the pot or the kettle? And I'd leave if I could but the bubble won't let me. Sadly, no one pays me to write -- tripe or otherwise. And, yes, the entertainment does suck (I'm really, really, really sick of oldies!). And do be careful slamming the restaurants -- remember, my daughter works at one of 'em (but the chains really need to go and the prices are way tooo high). Don't swim, so don't care about pools -- indoor, outdoor, dirty, clean, chlorinated or not. As to for sale signs or flamingos -- go for it ... I. don't. care!!! (BTW -- It is flamingoS not es ... use your spell checker, Ed.) And don't even get me started on dog poop (was taking care of a pupperface today with a serious case of the runs -- she got into the garbage) ... ewwwwwww!!!! As to the senile, blind old bats driving, well, I think we should get the posse together and just watergun 'em off the road.

And, Ed, I'm so glad that you're influential in your own mind -- someone has to listen to you once in awhile.

And, Gracie, if we're in a clique it's a pretty open one. I've never seen you exclude anyone. And, boy howdy, I'd be devastated if we weren't friends.

So, let the fun begin!

[Golfingnut]

Redwitch, Great Thread and so well written. What has inspired me most about this thread is the WOW factor I have gained about several of the long time posters. Several that I have at least squinted my eyes at in the past posted to your thread using the same words I would have posted. Could it be that we are ALL for the most part on the same wagon. At a minimum, I will use the recommendation from BONRICH and let it simmer before posting a quick response. Too quick of a come back is often regretted later.


:beer3:

[eweissenbach]

I think you're right Gracie and I wouldn't be surprised that there will be some that don't get it or why he's doing it! I've seen enough times where people see something for other than what it is or was meant to be!

Satire and sarcasm are dangerous tools to use on the interweb! BTW, I love Dee and Grace and even Bill!

[SALYBOW]

Were is the report button and the block button.

[SALYBOW]

Originally Posted by eweissenbach
This may be the dumbest thread I have ever read on this forum, and that is saying something. Dee, if you don't like it here, why don't you just leave. Are you paid by the developer to write tripe like this? While I'm at it the entertainment at the square sucks, the restaurants are crappy, there is no indoor pool, the drivers are senile, dog poop is everywhere, the snowbirds are annoying, and why in hell can't i have a for sale sign in my yard, not to mention pink flamingoes? I suppose this won't inspire most of you to shape up, but I am only one man, albeit an influential one, on a mission to help the rest of you be better villagers. :cus:

Ed, you do not sound like a Happy Camper here. If I was so unhappy I would leave.

[Moderator]

We're pretty sure Coach Ed was using satire and sarcasm in his post and was not meant to be taken literally.

A good reminder of how our words can be misinterpreted.

A well placed smilie or "just kidding" at the end can help clarify the poster's intent.

For now, let's move past this post and get back on topic.

Thanks...

[skyguy79]

Satire and sarcasm are dangerous tools to use on the interweb! BTW, I love Dee and Grace and even Bill!You can say that again! And BTW, Eileen and I feel the same way you do about Dee, Gracie and Bill! They're all good people, and although I've never met you personally, I think, based on your posts alone, that you are too!

Joe

[redwitch]

Hey, I'm lucky -- I know all five of us and you're all great people (I'm not too sure about me, sometimes).

[senior citizen]

:BigApplause:

I've been concerned about the spirit of TOTV for some time now and have voiced my concerns to the admin. The ruthlessness that is allowed here appears to be a growing problem based on other posts similar to Redwitch's.

Although TOTV continues to be a great reference source it's also a place where humiliation, meanness, and even bullying is allowed. Perhaps if we start clicking the "report" button each time we see negative responses then maybe our voices will be heard.

I would hate to think that people of retirement age would be participating in bullying........especially since all of the "Villagers" we met while there were extremely down to earth, very kindhearted, friendly and interesting to chat with................I would hope they would represent the majority.
The ones we met were the ones we would be happy to call "neighbor".
I'm referring to the ones we met in person.

However, it is true that there is a tendency to bully across our United States and perhaps it does cross the age barrier into senior citizens????
Senior citizens acting like middle school kids? High school kids?

As others have said, the anonymity of Facebook or emails or forums, etc. might just bring out the worst in some people....or perhaps they are playing "Devil's Advocate" to get a rise out of people.........or know just how to push their buttons.

If truth be told, I myself have thought......."This person cannot be real".
"This person must be working for the site to stir up some controversy and gain more readers"......or "Provoke public opinion". Or perhaps, "This person must be working for the Marketing Department"......to paint a rosy picture.

In our 68 years, I have never ever met people like some of those that post.

Again, the majority , which is a huge majority, are kind, genuine and real.
They have big hearts and wish to help others via their own personal experiences. I value all of their opinions. They are WISE and MATURE.

The others, I will continue to "wonder about"......maybe it's an age gap?
No doubt about it, we are now approaching 70.......but still "young at heart" according to all of our young friends and family members........
I guess the ones in their 40's married to the 55's would certainly have different viewpoints........than say, we would. But still, some posters do not quite seem "genuine" or even residents of The Villages........

The majority of seniors will prevail and we look forward to meeting all of the helpful, kindhearted, authentic and genuine , down to earth villagers.......in person, someday.

We are "on a roll", delivering all the "extras" to the Salvation Army each day........downsizing, decluttering, etc. so that we don't have to pack it all up next spring or summer for our move down.........like the old saying goes, if you haven't used it, worn it, have need for it, etc.......dispose of it. The other day it was the toyboxes and remote control cars and trucks, etc...........big fire engine, etc. and castle.
Some children will enjoy them.

[SALYBOW]

Hey, I'm lucky -- I know all five of us and you're all great people (I'm not too sure about me, sometimes).

I am sure about you also. :eclipsee_gold_cup: