Over the last few years, I have visited Il Villagio sometimes twice a week.
The senior center was no different than a small Hard Rock in Tampa. It was clean, safe, well lighted, and usually very busy. On Sunday afternoons there was live entertainment. The two individuals, Barbara Buzzard and Terence Morgan, were just two nice people doing their jobs. I have spoken to them many times, and found them to be likable, professional and two people who were paid to manage this senior center.
They and the rest of the employees treated customers with nothing but respect and friendship. Prey on elderly residents? I think not. Not a true accusation. What no one has failed to mention is that at the Il Villagio, breakfast, lunch and dinner were served. Coffee, juice, soft drinks, fresh fruit and snacks were also available from open to close. Seniors made sure their arrival and stay coincided with the serving of meals. The business was open 365 days a year, including holidays. The staff greeted the regulars by their names, waited and served the meal to many of the seniors who were challenged with mobility. They checked on them regularly and made sure they helped or delivered to them whatever they wanted. When it was time to leave and it was dark, the employees, or security guard escorted them to their cars or golf carts. On holidays they were busier than usual. Some people would not have had a hot Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner if they did not go there. I noticed numerous times many of those individuals made sure they took an extra soda or a piece of fruit home with them…