[2BNTV]

In a word, "no".

Can someone saved a seat for me at the Christmas tree lighting? I should be down at TV some time next spring. Just Kidding!

This type of behavior reminds me of a small child who has no concept of anything going around them. I sometimes lament on the lack of courtesy and co-operation in the world that seems to be getting less and less as I get older.

If one sits so close to the stage, are they in the performance?

Come on, folks. Lets have some consideration for others.

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by NJblue

I too think it is not right to save tables and chairs for an extended time. However, I have learned that the people who do this are not necessarily rude and uncaring. We have neighbors who are among the most thoughtful people we have met ... not just to us (because we are "neighbors") but to everyone. However, I was taken aback when they told me they went to the square early to reserve seats for the Rocky and the Rollers concert later that day.

Does this single act make them rude? No, I think they are probably from an environment where this is accepted behavior and not considered rude at all.

That is how I see it. However it would be considered rude where I come from.

We are all so alike and so different.

[redwitch]

NJB -- Maybe you should send your friends to this thread so they can see how the majority feels about their behavior. I'll even bet you 50 cents that it won't make a bit of difference to them -- they will continue to save the seats. Even nice people do things that is considered rude by others and see no reason to stop.

[dillywho]

The practice should be eliminated and everyone on a first-come basis. Afterall, TV is for everyone, not just a select few. We were at SS yesterday and got there early enough to get a good seat and be in the shade. Right in front of us were chairs tied together and whoever had done so still hadn't shown up when we left long after the parade. You want a seat, get there and sit in it. I can see saving one or two if you have plans with someone and get there first, but not a whole row and not for long. Certainly not for all day.
If they don't make it within 20 minutes of the agreed time, then let it go.

[Bogie Shooter]

In the eight years I have been in TV, there never has been anything published regarding this issue of saving tables/seats. Seems if there was a position stated those sweet folks who don't know they are being rude, would have an awakning.
BTW if someone wants to got to the square at 10:00AM and sit at a table until the parade starts at 4:45pm, thats OK with me.(the parades are nice but never saw one worth waiting 6-7 hours for). I too object to the cooler "sitters".

[scrapple]

I say sit on the empty chairs until the person comes for them.

[scarecrow1]

Don't have public tables and chairs. Bring your own, then they are yours. If you want to get there early with YOUR table and chair then you can reserve the spot. As for the way they do it now I'll sit in any chair I like. I'm 6'6" and 300 lbs and I'd like to see someone remove me from a so called saved seat.

[Pturner]

Originally Posted by EdVinMass

This is not the first time that this problem has been discussed in TOTV. Management should recognize this problem and take action. Here’s my solution:

Place a big sign at the back that says “No reserving seats. Any personal items left unattended for more than 15 minutes should be placed here – THE MANAGEMENT!”

Then we can all pick up this “Squatter Fodder” when we see it and place it in the designated area as directed by The Management.

I think simple signs that say "no reserve seating" should suffice. These are free events, so I don't think management should have to hassle with collecting people's stuff and dealing with any subsequent ranting.

"No reserved seating" signs would give Villagers the go ahead to simply move items place on "saved" seat and place the items beside (or under) the seat. If the owner returns, the seated Villager could politely point out the sign/ rules against saving seats, and let the owner take his/her belongings.

[memason]

Here's the deal... Lets say that I don't read TOTV and I don't know how everyone on here feels about the saved/reserved seats/tables. So, I get to TV; a brand new Villager and go to the square or any other event where I am not able to get a seat, since they are all reserved or "saved". What do I do at the next event I want to attend? Exactly, I go early and "save" my spot, because that's what they do in TV. Right?

I think the best solution would be to have signs stating no reserved seating, etc. They certainly have signs that you cannot smoke in the square and even make a VERY LOUD announcement telling everyone smoking is not allowed. What's the difference...

Bottomline....When in Rome, do as the Romans do. So, in a sorta goofy, backhanded way, I think I'm defending the practice.

Just keeping it real....

[ladylake1]

Seem to recall the same situation occurred when TV had a New Year's Eve event. People set up chairs and tables way way ahead of time. As it turned out, they cancelled New Year's Eve celebration. There should be some limit to how long something can be "reserved."

[NJblue]

Originally Posted by memason

Here's the deal... Lets say that I don't read TOTV and I don't know how everyone on here feels about the saved/reserved seats/tables. So, I get to TV; a brand new Villager and go to the square or any other event where I am not able to get a seat, since they are all reserved or "saved". What do I do at the next event I want to attend? Exactly, I go early and "save" my spot, because that's what they do in TV. Right?

I think the best solution would be to have signs stating no reserved seating, etc. They certainly have signs that you cannot smoke in the square and even make a VERY LOUD announcement telling everyone smoking is not allowed. What's the difference...

Bottomline....When in Rome, do as the Romans do. So, in a sorta goofy, backhanded way, I think I'm defending the practice.

Just keeping it real....

I think you have nailed it. For all I know my neighbors did exactly that ... they saw what everyone else was doing and assumed that's the "Village Way". Until signs are posted and/or announcements are made, things are not likely to change.

[graciegirl]

What we usually do is take those lightweight chairs and find a place for the three of us....hoping not to block the view of the original SITTERS. No fun for me if I am being glared at.

Memason....there is lot of sense in how you put it. I don't think many people mean ill, but it is aggravating when they don't come and sit on those chairs.

In my art class there is a person who takes up the whole table that is set up for two, which is not a problem except when the class is filled and someone is turned away.

It is unusual, and people don't know just how to approach someone like that.

Although some peoples' meat and drink is to have some sort of confrontation.
That is how they are made.

I was born and still am a card carrying sissy.

[Ajack]

I don't think it would take very many confrontations before word spreads. It could shift the other way in no time.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Originally Posted by Pturner

I think simple signs that say "no reserve seating" should suffice. These are free events, so I don't think management should have to hassle with collecting people's stuff and dealing with any subsequent ranting.

"No reserved seating" signs would give Villagers the go ahead to simply move items place on "saved" seat and place the items beside (or under) the seat. If the owner returns, the seated Villager could politely point out the sign/ rules against saving seats, and let the owner take his/her belongings.

This makes good sense to me!

Bill

[Indydealmaker]

Eliminate free seating for special events. Rope off the square. Have a vendor employing some of our residents rent chairs for $5 each starting one hour prior to event. People are less likely to fork over the moolah for their friends who have not yet arrived. Those that currently and quite reasonably feel arriving around an hour prior to an event is practical can then have increased chances of attending. For those horrified by the prospect of actually paying for entertainment, the funds can go to charity. I have found that if you want to induce people to start acting reasonably, money is an effective inducement.