[KathieI]

I just received a pm from someone who told me that a couple of newbies came to Crispers a few months ago and they were treated very badly by the group of regulars. I feel soooo sad about this because I truly go out of my way, and so do all the regulars, to make all newbies feel like they are very much a part of the group. Usually, when I see new people, I will go over to introduce myself and to introduce them out loud to the rest of the group and once they intermingle with everyone, I go on about my business with picture taking, name badges and just driving everyone nuts, ESP SWINFLA.....

I want to personally apologize to those people who felt this way and want to assure them that we are not that way and for some reason, perhaps we didn't know they were part of TOTV (sometimes people sit on the outside of the group and we do not know that they are members) and I usually have a sign at a table to sign in for TOTV. But that is not an excuse, I am truly sorry that you felt this way and I would like to make it up to you. Please come to the next lunch and I will make sure that you are treated fairly and become a friend to all. I will be discreet (as much as my big mouth will allow me).

I am truly sorry if you felt slighted in any way.

[swrinfla]

Well, obviously, we cannot have The Mayor being unhappy!

Especially when maybe it's me!

Love

SWR

[graciegirl]

Maybe it's me. I did begin a conversation with this one and that one and then sat down and were joined by two great folks I hadn't really had a chance to meet in person. I just didn't look up and see the new folks.

I am so sorry. PLEASE...next time just kick our shins or something. I know that no one there meant to leave anyone out. I know I didn't.

Come back. I will do better.

[SALYBOW]

I would like to correct the perception that the group was unwelcoming. We walked in late (well not for me...when I get there is on time) and someone pointed us out to Kathie and we were very graciously greeted, announced and introduced to other newbies. That month might have been an abberation or the people quite shy. My usually shy husband, aka Mr Cheapseats, even made a great attempt to chat people up. He was well accepted. Kudos to the group. And thanks all. Sally

[2BNTV]

Plan at being at the next lunch on September 17, 2010 during a visit to TV.

Thank you for the heads up about the sign designated for TOTV members.

Is there any thing else first timers should know when attending this luncheon?

Regards,

2BNTV

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by 2BNTV

Plan at being at the next lunch on September 17, 2010 during a visit to TV.

Thank you for the heads up about the sign designated for TOTV members.

Is there any thing else first timers should know when attending this luncheon?

Regards,

2BNTV

Did they tell you to wear your pajamas?

Originally Posted by swrinfla

Well, obviously, we cannot have The Mayor being unhappy!

Especially when maybe it's me!

Love

SWR

KathieI is the Mayor of TOTV?? Does a Mayor tak the pictures? This should be remedied.

[Shirleevee]

Originally Posted by KathieI

I just received a pm from someone who told me that a couple of newbies came to Crispers a few months ago and they were treated very badly by the group of regulars. I feel soooo sad about this because I truly go out of my way, and so do all the regulars, to make all newbies feel like they are very much a part of the group. Usually, when I see new people, I will go over to introduce myself and to introduce them out loud to the rest of the group and once they intermingle with everyone, I go on about my business with picture taking, name badges and just driving everyone nuts, ESP SWINFLA.....

I want to personally apologize to those people who felt this way and want to assure them that we are not that way and for some reason, perhaps we didn't know they were part of TOTV (sometimes people sit on the outside of the group and we do not know that they are members) and I usually have a sign at a table to sign in for TOTV. But that is not an excuse, I am truly sorry that you felt this way and I would like to make it up to you. Please come to the next lunch and I will make sure that you are treated fairly and become a friend to all. I will be discreet (as much as my big mouth will allow me).

I am truly sorry if you felt slighted in any way.

Extremely hard to believe!

[KathieI]

Originally Posted by 2BNTV

Plan at being at the next lunch on September 17, 2010 during a visit to TV.

Thank you for the heads up about the sign designated for TOTV members.

Is there any thing else first timers should know when attending this luncheon?

Regards,

2BNTV

Yeah, bring a lot of $$$.. The newbies pay for lunch, lol

Just bring a smile, and look for the loud-mouth redhead, meeee!! Can't wait to meet you!!

[KathieI]

Originally Posted by SALYBOW

I would like to correct the perception that the group was unwelcoming. We walked in late (well not for me...when I get there is on time) and someone pointed us out to Kathie and we were very graciously greeted, announced and introduced to other newbies. That month might have been an abberation or the people quite shy. My usually shy husband, aka Mr Cheapseats, even made a great attempt to chat people up. He was well accepted. Kudos to the group. And thanks all. Sally

You too, Sally? I thought I was the only one who considered "on time being when I get there..." LOL.

It was sooo nice meeting you and Mr. Cheapseats - he's adorable. We noticed he was a little shy, that's why we embraced him...

We love newbies!!!!

[gardenia]

I went ALONE (single) to my first TOTV Crispers gathering on Friday and was immediately welcomed and felt a great connection with the entire group the minute I introduced myself. Every single person I met spoke openly, laughed and exchanged contact info and details about his/her excitement about the lifestyle in the Villages, and moreover, our gratitude to TOTV forum for such great insights into buying, moving and living in TV. I felt so comfy I even accepted invites to go out to dinner that evening and to get emails about daily meet ups to hang out (thank you to KathieI - just wait till you meet KathieI in person, lots of fun and a great dancer too!). My advice to newcomers is to simply walk in with a big smile, ask if table is part of a group and if they are part of TOTV, simply introduce yourself and start networking/moving around to meet as many folks as you can. That's what I did, and other folks did the same...musical chairs!!