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Dear UrbanBaby community,

Thank you so much for being a valued member of the UrbanBaby community. We wanted to inform you that we are shutting down the site on July 6th. We are grateful for your participation and support that has helped make UrbanBaby such an important resource to parents for many years.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can email us at urbanbaby-support@cbsinteractive.com.

Thanks so much,

UrbanBaby Support

[ - ] At what point is it the norm to use a laptop in class for school works and notetaking? My 2nd grader doesn't have the easiest time with handwriting writing (though an OT evaluation put him in the "just average" category). He'll continue to work/practice, but wondering at what point this becomes less important. Thanks! 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:10 PM Flag
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not trying to sound mean but why would a 2nd grader be taking notes and why would they need a laptop? my DS is in 10th grade and doesnt use a laptop in school for anything beyond slacking off. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:16 PM Flag
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OP: Great question, he doesn't at all...I was just wondering at what point laptop for notes might become the norm (vs. a notebook). If it was middle/high school or not at all [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:28 PM Flag
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My 8th grader does 100% of in-class work and about 50% of homework by hand. 5th grader does 95% of work by hand. Practice the handwriting. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:17 PM Flag
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Private, right? Puts me in mind of about a decade or so ago, when a private UES school distributed tablets and the kids became mugging targets. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:18 PM Flag
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I could see using it to turn in more legible homework, but be careful on the notetaking. There have been studies on college students that people retain more info when taking notes on paper vs a computer. I [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.03.20, 12:54 AM Flag
[ - ] This runs counter to this board ("Schools MUST open!") but based on what I am hearing I would estimate 30-50% of NYC private school families will elect to start with remote learning in the fall. And this number is rising daily given the spikes in cases. 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:08 PM Flag
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I disagree. I asked my HOS how many kids are choosing the remote option at this stage, and it's like a handful. Most want to come back. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:10 PM Flag
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It's really early for families to make an official decision--I'm just telling you what they are thinking now. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:12 PM Flag
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Not what I am hearing. Our private did a parent survey and overwhelming majority want to come back. Three friends at other privates say they are hearing the same thing. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:11 PM Flag
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same. but we are at a K-8, so more younger kids. Maybe K-12s have more older kids for whom remote school works and the families want to continue with that. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:33 PM Flag
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That’s true, we are at a k-8 as well but two of the friends I talked to were at k-12s [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:39 PM Flag
[ - ] Any suggestions for AirBNBs within an hour's drive of NYC? We like hiking, lakes, cute towns. Have one 11 yo dc. Thank you! 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:02 PM Flag
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cold spring, garrison are good towns to look at [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:05 PM Flag
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Thank you! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:07 PM Flag
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I love Saugerties, Woodstock and Red Hook New York. A bit more than an hour's drive but lovely. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:31 PM Flag
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Thank you very much! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:44 PM Flag
[ - ] Moths have eaten ALL of my cashmere (sweaters, pants, coats, scarves), my wool blankets, and I just moved the couch to see they have destroyed our wool/silk rugs. DH doesn’t want an exterminator in here. Help! 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:00 PM Flag
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Horrible. This happened to me when I bought an excellent vintage sweater. Immediately dry-clean everything wool or cashmere and have the rugs cleaned and insect proofed by a verified rug cleaner, if the rugs are salvageable. Then you need to remove everything from your shelves and call an exterminator. It's honestly the only way- otherwise you'll never remove all of the residual moths, eggs and larvae. Huge hassle and expense. Every single year I wash all of my sweaters at the end of the season, and seal up in those space-bags. Any scent on sweaters (food, perfume, anything) and the moths will eat them. They crawl into shelves, bags and drawers. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:30 PM Flag
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Thank you! I usually do dry clean everything at the end of the season and then put them away, but this year the cold lasted so long and then we were in lockdown. But I suppose I'd rather pay the expense now and get it completely cleared up than have the ongoing expense of replacing rugs/sweaters/blankets every year. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:56 PM Flag
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OP: I hated every minute of it. Such a massive hassle and expense. But if you don't kill every last one of them, you will repurchase your sweaters and it will happen again. Which will be infuriating. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:05 PM Flag
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I almost cried when I saw our carpet. Our dog likes to hide under the sofa so DH was blaming it on him, but it was definitely moths. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:13 PM Flag
[ - ] Ghislane Maxwell arrested in New Hampshire 14 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:56 PM Flag
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https://www.msnbc.com/stephanie-ruhle/watch/ghislane-maxwell-arrested-by-fbi-in-epstein-case-to-be-charged-in-new-york-86807109784 [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:56 PM Flag
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Why did it take so long to find her if she’s been in the U.S.? Crazy! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:57 PM Flag
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OP: i thought she was in paris, very strange [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:01 PM Flag
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Because people w lots to lose are hiding her. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:28 PM Flag
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Tinfoil hat time: I wonder if this is why Berman was forced out? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:01 PM Flag
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Can you explain that speculation? I saw someone post something similar in the comments section of the Times and I don’t appreciate the link. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:03 PM Flag
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Berman was leading the investigation into Epstein and his accomplices. Barr has him fired out of nowhere a week or so ago; I’m speculating that Barr new about the imminent arrest and was uncomfortable about what might be disclosed afterwards before the election. Just spitballing. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:06 PM Flag
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Lol sorry meant “knew”! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:06 PM Flag
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Or maybe Berman was blocking the arrest for some reason. Epstein had lots of disgusting associates from all different political corners. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:56 PM Flag
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I saw that! Wild. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:01 PM Flag
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Finally!! I hope she gives names. Odd she was in NH! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:32 PM Flag
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her bf has a house near there https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2019/08/15/ghislaine-maxwell-manchester-by-the-sea-massachusetts [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:48 PM Flag
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I hop she rots. Evil, evil person. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:27 PM Flag
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I've read about her, and I truly hope the feds purp walk her in an orange jumpsuit. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 07:14 PM Flag
[ - ] Dd going to college, wants a certain 13 inch computer when there is an awesome 14 inch computer by a different company (the one I have for work), but she had a 1st generation of 14 inch and it was bad. Ok fine, let dd have the computer she wants. But now she actually wants the 15 inch of the 13 inch brand and it weighs at least 4 pounds. Isn't that too heavy to carry around a lot? Dorm is very far from classes. I know I sound ridiculous, but it's a lot of money and want her to have a good one that lasts the 4 years. 13 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:24 PM Flag
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Get her the Dell XPS 13. Lightweight, best computer on the market and she won’t be able to find any research that says otherwise. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:39 PM Flag
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+1 - I got the Dell XPS 13 for personal use when it was at the top of the consumer reports ranking. Have had it for almost 4 years with no issues. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:41 PM Flag
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Still is and reviewers are saying the 2020 model is the best yet. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:20 PM Flag
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I was in one of the first classes of college students where having a laptop was the norm (my sister graduated the year before I went to college, and everyone had a desktop). My laptop was over 5 lbs and I carried it everywhere. It will be fine. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:43 PM Flag
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She wants the dell xps 13 but thinks it will be too small. Currently has lenovo which is having fantastic sales, but doesn't want (probably cause I am pushing it). So wants the dell xps 15 which sounds like less battery life plus it's heavy (she says she doesn't mind) and of course much more expensive for same storage. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:49 PM Flag
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this is hard because it is an issue of control between the two of you. give her the weekend. have her write down why she ultimately made the decision. explain today that this is the one laptop you are buying for all 4 years and leave it at that and then defer to her decision when she makes it on Monday. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:51 PM Flag
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totally, and this is an easy thing to give her choice on - in theory. She wants the 15 but I believe 4-4.5 pounds too heavy, she doesn't. Is it too heavy? If so I'd just tell her it's too much $ (which is also true, would have to get less storage for the budget). [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:56 PM Flag
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do you have an old heavy laptop around or something else that you could have her take for a 1 mile walk -- one 4 vs. one 5 lbs? again, I think ultimately, this is a natural process regarding her trying to assert control, you trying to impart wisdom, her being unable to hear it, etc., but it is going to be a long summer of this process with covid and pick your battles (you may elect to pick this one, but just know you are doing it). I do not say this from a moral high ground - this will be happening with my DD all summer too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:59 PM Flag
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Are you proposing the Lenovo X1 Carbon? That is also an excellent computer and a good middle ground in terms of weight/screen size but is more high-powered and expensive than she'll need. Generous of you to propose though. As someone whose back pain started as a teen I would tell her choose between the XPS 13, Lenovo, and maybe propose another option (Surface 3?) to give her some choice. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:28 PM Flag
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I want to get her the lenovo x1 carbon - turns out the one I picked is the exact same model and storage I am getting for work now (company laptop). She had 1st generation lenovo x1 I got on EBAY - of course it was all fake, a few months later I paid to get all real lenovo parts installed when it died, but battery was still awful. Now there is a 7th generation and they are super sale on lenovo but she says she doesn't want another lenovo, despite my reasoning that the first one was bunk. I'm ok with the xps 13 to give empowerment but she believes (as I do) it will be too small. When all is said and done with warranties it will be approaching 2K so this is a one time thing, graduation gift. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:21 PM Flag
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What if you got a monitor for her dorm room? That would give her the extra screen space and could be nice for watching movies too. There will also be desktops available in the library with bigger screens. As a recent grad school student, I much preferred leaving my laptop at home and using the library computers to work. I also found many of the classroom desks to be so tiny (could barely fit a laptop, let alone notebook, water bottle, etc), so I think 13" is great. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:22 PM Flag
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This. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.03.20, 12:56 AM Flag
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This. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.03.20, 12:56 AM Flag
[ - ] Saw on CNN that FDA expects vaccine by year end or early next year, but now no longer see the article. That sounds awesome and super fast. Wouldn't even be surprised if rich people travel overseas to get it if available elsewhere earlier. 6 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:19 PM Flag
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Only if other countries decide to let Americans in. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:50 PM Flag
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How does the FDA "expect" anything? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:52 PM Flag
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in that there are several good candidates for vaccines in last phases of trials so arguably odds are that one of them will prove safe and effective by end of year. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:59 PM Flag
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No one I know is eager to take some rushed out vaccine so I’m constantly surprised that people on this board are [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:00 PM Flag
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https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/02/health/us-coronavirus-thursday/index.html [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:50 PM Flag
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There is a vaccine already available in China, only limited to military right now. Moderna and Astra Zeneca/Oxford are starting large phase 3 trials in the US in July/August, so i bet FDA commissioner is hoping for one of these two to be mass produced and available [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:00 PM Flag
[ - ] Is anyone familiar with or a graduate of the Schreyer Honors College at Penn State University? We’ve split NYC due to Covid and now permanently in Pennsylvania. We know nothing about it yet it’s hard to ignore the cost & reviews. It seems like a separate college within PSU. DS is a rising Senior (now) in public with high GPA and SAT scores. Anyone with experience to share? TIA. 6 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:16 PM Flag
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Don't know personally, but someone who knows DS well recommended it as a possibility when DS was looking last year. Smaller separate unit within Penn State, seems like it could be well worth a look. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:22 PM Flag
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OP: thank you. We will definitely be looking into it. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:29 PM Flag
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Not a graduate but I work for a well known consulting firm and I know we recruit there. The alums I’ve met have been great - all very smart (although I think all were at the very top of the class). I think it’s a pretty big school though. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:37 PM Flag
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I bet it is great. I have spoken to people with kids going to the honors college and scholars program at UMD College Park. really smart kids from mostly public high schools. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:45 PM Flag
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My husband is a graduate. He's a physisist, works in industry. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:53 PM Flag
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in general, the honors college of any state flagship is going to have a lot of super smart kids, and not a lot of super rich kids. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:36 PM Flag
[ - ] I have rising 7th grader and wondering what you are guys doing for your middle schoolers? My dd is only doing online math and reading books in her free time. 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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NY Schools 07.02.20, 12:31 PM Flag
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Same. It's going to be a Looooooong Summer. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:44 PM Flag
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DD is doing a short online Red Cross babysitting course, but otherwise refuses to read any quality books or basically do anything other than stare at her phone. I am making each DC get outside every day for exercise, but their reluctance to do so is frustrating. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:12 PM Flag
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How did you get her to do online math? My rising 8th grader isn't doing a damn thing academically. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:01 PM Flag
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I have a rising 5th and 7th grader. School ended last Friday. I’m letting them do little for a couple weeks then will start them on a program of exercise, reading, math, science, music and fun online activities. I won’t make them do all every day. Reading 4-5 days a week, math and science a couple days a week. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:40 PM Flag
[ - ] We live in a small condo in the city, haven't gone any hiking or park except the parks around our neighbor. We are thinking of going upstate NY or NJ shore area renting Airbnb. OUr budget is tight, can't afford a luxurious rental house. Any recommendations or places? 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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New York City 07.02.20, 12:30 PM Flag
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Check out Letchworth State Park: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/letchworth/details.aspx. I believe there are cabin rentals. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:33 PM Flag
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^^https://parks.ny.gov/parks/attachments/Letchworth2020LetchworthCabinInformation.pdf [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:34 PM Flag
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Bear Mountain? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:03 PM Flag
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If you can get up to New Hampshire, you can hike the Presidential mountains and stay overnight in a hut (modest accommodations but such an adventure). [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:03 PM Flag
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Why not go to the Poconos? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:03 PM Flag
[ - ] Where can I get some denim shorts or other casual shorts that are not tight or short? 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:29 PM Flag
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Uniqlo or Gap. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:39 PM Flag
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Vineyard Vines everyday shorts. I live in them. I also size up 1 size so the hit lower on my hips and aren’t tight on my thighs. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:18 PM Flag
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Macy's [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:19 PM Flag
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loft [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:46 PM Flag
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I love the Riviera shorts from Ann Taylor Loft. They're made of decent material (not thin like Uniqlo). I'm 5'4" 120 lbs and I get the Size 2. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:05 PM Flag
[ - ] Our DD started at a public K. I had just started back to work in September after maternity leave so I wasn’t involved much with the class and didn’t get to meet many of the families. Then with the pandemic there was no opportunity to socialize. Last week we got an Evite from the class parent that she was hosting a graduation BBQ at their house. She invited the whole class which is about 25 families and most rsvpd to attend. I wanted to go and socialize with the group but DH said no. I took a photo of the RSVPs and texted it to a mom friend in an older grade to get her perspective. She forwarded the photo back to one of the families that was attending to criticize them for gong. Now the host who I don’t even know is mad with me. Should I reach out to her or let it go? 18 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:43 AM Flag
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Why was a photo necessary for any of this? I would apologize. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:46 AM Flag
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I don’t know most of the families but she does so I wanted to know if she thought they were being safe. So I could tell DH and try to go to the event [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:47 AM Flag
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Your started drama for no reason [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:57 AM Flag
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It seems like the friend started drama. Although I don't really understand why OP had to involve her and couldn't just have an adult conversation with her DH. (Also, this seems like a stupid and risky thing to do. Don't go.) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:05 PM Flag
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OP it’s because a we’re new to the school and don’t know the families. Our friend has older DCs and knows many of this K group who also have older DCs. But yes I regret sending it to her [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:07 PM Flag
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Your friend is a Karen. She should have minded her own business [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:58 AM Flag
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I know and I had no idea she would react that way. I really wanted to go and now I’m afraid it makes it look like I was judging their group when I was looking for support to attend. But what do I do now? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:04 PM Flag
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Na ha, you were definitely judging and being gossipy and it came back to bite you in the butt. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:42 PM Flag
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No - the friend may have genuinely been scared that the risk was now heightened for her family. That said she handled it inappropriately and without consideration of consequences to OP. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:29 PM Flag
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This [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:13 PM Flag
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Asking a friend if they think the party is safe doesn’t mean you need to eat out people who are going. You can’t go to the party now. Send your regrets and try to get your DD some Park play dates this summer so you can meet people. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:41 PM Flag
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The party was last week [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:13 PM Flag
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Where do you live? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:09 PM Flag
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CT suburb [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:13 PM Flag
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1) friend is a jerk or 2) friend acted without thinking or both. And I agree with you to not go. 3) next time trust your gut 4) remember all tests can be screen shots. I started screen shots of a vindictive friends text as future insurance in case any mutual friends doubt me when I say she’s been spewing crap about them too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:16 PM Flag
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Texts not tests [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:17 PM Flag
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You shouldn’t have sent a screen shot. Just have asked her opinion. Oh well. I would call the host (no paper trail) and let her know you were just asking advice if you should go or not, that w a new baby, you’re feeling vulnerable. You appreciate the invite and either yes, I’d love to come or no, I’d love to come but are not ready for large crowds yet. When this is all over, I’d love to take You out for a coffee or cocktail. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:44 PM Flag
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...PS, no way in hell I’d go. People are acting irresponsibly and I am not willing to risk my or my family’s health and well being for a bbq. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:45 PM Flag
[ - ] All this debate about private schools opening is silly. If the state allows schools to open the HAVE to provide in person schooling or they will get sued left and right. They also HAVE TO provide a remote option for at risk families. They are beholden to the parent body who has paid tuition NOT the DOE. 15 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:32 AM Flag
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Have any private schools said they will not open IF the state allows it? I feel like that's the big if though. I don't know that they HAVE to provide a remote option though--just as they can say they are not set up to accommodate certain disabilities, if they are willing to relinquish that family's fees and go to their waitlist, I think they can refuse to provide remote tuition. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:40 AM Flag
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There was one unconfirmed report here that Trinity was planning to be fully remote for a year, but I don't believe it. I think all have said they'll be at least hybrid, pending state approval. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:43 AM Flag
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LOL. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:42 AM Flag
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I don’t agree. We’ve paid for next year but will no be back in the city for the school year. We plan to use the remote learning feel safer outside of nyc. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:48 AM Flag
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Have you been told for sure that there is a fully remote option? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:50 AM Flag
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Not OR, but wouldn't it be in the school's interest to offer this? If some families stay remote it eases density. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:00 PM Flag
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Depends on the numbers, I think. If there are, say, 20 kids and 2 teachers in a first grade class, and half or close to it want to stay remote, then that helps the school and they can devote one teacher to the remote track. But if seventeen families want to come back in person, they really need two in-person groups, and then who is responsible for remotely teaching the three? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:04 PM Flag
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I wonder if any of the schools with smaller student bodies have considered teaming up. eg. if Brearley, Spence and Chapin each have 3-4 families per grade wanting to stay remote, they could run an interschool remote class. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:19 PM Flag
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3-4 per grade? Way off-- try 3-4 per class at minimum! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:04 PM Flag
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NP -- my understanding of the remote option is (a) it is for children who at high risk or live with someone who is at high risk and (b) it will mean remoting into the actual classroom, not a separate teacher or separate learning plan. All our classrooms have smartboards. Any remote children will be on google meets on the smart board. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:39 PM Flag
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OR it’s unclear but highly likely as other families are doing the same thing, either way we’ll sit the year out. Not too worried about it but have already paid. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:09 PM Flag
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NP: I want to sit out a few months and then return. I don’t want to be gone the whole year - this could improve at some point and maybe kids aren’t having to be trapped under masks & having no real art class. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:45 PM Flag
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Our private sent a note explicitly saying there will be no remote option and you cannot return mid year. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:43 PM Flag
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Is that HM? I heard they were saying that, but I didn't know if there are others taking that approach also. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:57 PM Flag
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No, Brooklyn private. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:17 PM Flag
[ - ] What kind of guidance should a RE broker give you how much to offer when making a bid. Ours is reluctant to give a numerical suggestion. Is there a way to phrase the question so she’ll feel comfortable knowing that we won’t hold her responsible no matter the outcome since decision is ultimately ours? The 17 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:00 AM Flag
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You should find a new broker. She should absolutely be suggesting pricing and explaining why she is making the recommendation that she is. If you are exclusive to the agency already and can’t get out of it, I would talk to the head and asked to be reassigned to a new broker. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:06 AM Flag
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Missed that you are the buyer but the same applies. We got into a bidding war on a house - initially lowballed but our brokers relationship with the selling broker is what got us into round two anyway and then her advice on quirky offer got us the house. This is literally her job, as poster below says. Ask agency head for new agent or that he/she partner with the agent to advise you. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:22 AM Flag
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Realtor should have a relevant bid suggestion for you, based on knowledge of the market, the property, and comps, as well as intel on the seller (readiness to sell, length of time on the market, etc). Some realtors are very gun-shy about bid suggestions because they would LOVE you to make a higher bid than they might suggest, but also want to make the sale. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:12 AM Flag
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Not true at all. Your broker wants you to get the best possible deal. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:29 AM Flag
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your broker wants to earn money and get referrals to earn more money. that means create sales at the highest possible price. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:39 PM Flag
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this is literally her job. Real estate is such a joke, its stupidly easy to make decent money. If she can't figure this out she needs a new job and you need a new broker [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:17 AM Flag
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This +100, every time someone uses the expression Real Estate Professional it makes me smile. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:17 PM Flag
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RE Broker here. It is her job. She should advise you based on the comps and value of property. Obviously how badly you want the property is also a factor, and if there are multiple bids etc. is relevant. Also if you are paying cash vs. financing, and how qualified you are as a buyer are also all bargaining tools. And to the PP, being a RE Broker is not an easy job if you are doing it properly. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:28 AM Flag
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Question for you: Since you're compensated as a % of the selling price, isn't it in your interest to get the buyer to pay as high a price as possible? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:54 PM Flag
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I am a agent as well, I work in the best interest of my client - though I am sure there are those out there who don't. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 05:54 PM Flag
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Brokers are generally useless but get another opinion [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:37 AM Flag
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Get another broker: she's supposed to know the value of the property and she's also supposed to be advising you. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:01 PM Flag
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This [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:14 PM Flag
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+2 her reluctance to talk to you tells me she doesn't know her business very well. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:50 PM Flag
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I always wanted to make really lowball bids and broker wouldn't allow it as utterly pointless. When house came up she knew it was reasonable price range and guided us in the offer price. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:14 PM Flag
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OP| just directly asked for guidance on what to offer and she said she’d pul comps for me. Not helpful. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:18 PM Flag
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Ugh. She sounds so lazy and unaware. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:37 PM Flag
[ - ] To those with a pool— how much work is it to keep it clean and maintain it? 15 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:48 AM Flag
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Depends on whether or not you have a pit bull to chew on it and/or a bunch of cannonballing friends. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:04 PM Flag
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Very easy. The company comes once a week to treat and clean. We do nothing. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:29 PM Flag
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How much is that? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:31 PM Flag
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np: we pay about $5000 per season, which includes opening, closing, and weekly vacuums/cleanings by the pool company [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:37 PM Flag
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TY [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:09 PM Flag
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It is a pain imo but Dh is the one who wanted the pool and does the maintenance. One thing that helps a lot is an auto cover. Keeps the water warm, prevents evaporation, etc. We also have a pool Vacuum, which is unsightly but makes things easier. For him, the trade off is worth it. For me, it’s not, but my 8 yo and I don’t really use it unless we have company over. So I guess it depends on how much joy you would get from it. We don’t have a weekly company come anymore - Dh just checks the pool chemicals each week himself [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:35 PM Flag
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I was researching this while we were renting a house with a pool. I couldn't believe how much debris settled in the deep end. That would drive the OCD part of me crazy. Does the pool vacuum stay in the pool all the time? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:56 PM Flag
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OP: TY. I was contemplating the idea of getting a house with a pool and the thought of maintaining a pool clean is making me rethink the idea. And the many storms that’s been occurring recently also. Just seems like a lot of work. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:13 PM Flag
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Floridian here - weekly pool service costs me $90/month. You don't need a vacuum if you have a pool service since they clean it weekly. Or the vacuum can stay in all the time. You get used to seeing it and can take it out whenever you want. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:04 PM Flag
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Op: TY. How often do you replace the water? Is this not something done routinely? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:11 PM Flag
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we never do that in CA [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 08:37 PM Flag
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Ours feels very easy to maintain. We do it all ourselves (opening and closing). An important investment is a "robot" which vacuums the pool for you. We put it on everyday and our pool is very clean [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:56 PM Flag
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That was my OCD conclusion, that a robot would be necessary. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:25 PM Flag
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Very little. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:43 PM Flag
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you must not have any trees near your pool [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:40 PM Flag
[ - ] If any of you have a dog, did their personality change after you got them fixed? 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:50 AM Flag
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no except they stopped humping or trying to hump any dog in heat [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:33 AM Flag
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Lol, I have a neutered dog and I swear they left something in. He still tries to hump my spayed female. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:17 AM Flag
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Neutered animals sometimes do that. I read somewhere that the adrenal glands also produce testosterone, so maybe that's it. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:59 AM Flag
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No. But they were puppies, so... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:52 AM Flag
[ - ] Has anyone shopped at fairway uptown in the last couple of days.? Are the sales prices worth the trip? 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:30 AM Flag
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I read that they’re closing [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:47 AM Flag
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Yes, the Harlem and Red Hook stores are closing. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:36 PM Flag
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Great spaces for trader joe’s [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:50 PM Flag
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I went on Monday and nothing was on sale. Friend who went yesterday said things were on sale then, about 20-30% off. Not really enough for me to make a special trip. Probably they will drop further. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:57 PM Flag
[ - ] Is there such a thing as a late bloomer for math? I'll often hear people talk about kids who were slightly behind with reading and then once it clicked they were at/ahead of grade level. DS (finishing 2nd grade) has been needing an extra boost for math, and though I am aware this could be a LD something bigger, also wondering if this could just be needing time for certain math facts/concepts to click. (Note: his teacher didn't seem too concerned, felt he should do work over summer) 8 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:42 AM Flag
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It comes easy to some and they love it. The other 75-80 percent of us can learn with effort and the right teacher. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:12 AM Flag
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I would say yes. DS thought he was terrible at math, math homework was painful for all of us, and then in 5th grade he had an amazing math teacher and it all just clicked. Just graduated HS as captain of the math team. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:21 AM Flag
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This. Sometimes just being taught to look at it differently can make all the difference. Or connecting with the math teacher can inspire the child. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:37 PM Flag
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If he puts in the effort he will improve. It won’t happen on its own u less the kid is naturally very bright. That’s a different situation but for the rest of the kids, if effort is made, they will do a lot better and have more confidence in the subject and then continue doing better. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:51 AM Flag
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My dd hated math and went into HS at a 4th grade level. We finally found her a great tutor (a woman in her 70's, which I'm mentioning because people seem to think young tutors are always better) and it turned out, dd sucked at arithmetic but is actually gifted at higher-level math. To the point where she could have gone into a math career. Not that she wanted to. Anyway, the right tutor changed everything for her. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:57 PM Flag
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Thanks! Great input. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:11 PM Flag
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I had a good friend who was terrible at math. She was getting Cs in middle school math. She started going to Kumon and it really turned things around for her. She ended up going to MIT. Maybe your son just needs a tutor or some other type to help [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:19 PM Flag
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Wow, sounds like she should have been in an ad campaign [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.03.20, 09:26 PM Flag
[ - ] My kid is going to our local public high school next year. I've been asking friends and neighbors with kids in the school what they think of it and they all say "its great, but you have to make sure your kid is in the honors classes. Make sure he is in the honors classes. Demand that he be in the honors classes." But my kid is no honor student, he's an 85 average when he tries kind of student. What do I do? Just see what happens? Do I force him into harder classes? Do I just resign myself to the idea that my kid isn't going to go to college? 15 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:59 AM Flag
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Depending on where you live, an 85 might get him in to honors track. "Honors" classes don't necessarily mean the same as when we were in school; in some schools/districts they just mean "the classes for students who want to try even a little." I think you should enquire with the school. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:07 AM Flag
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Are you serious? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:08 AM Flag
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NP: About what? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:11 AM Flag
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I never heard of an 85 average kid not being able to get into college. Stop listening to nonsense [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 02:26 AM Flag
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Well, it's worth looking into. But I think many people just have the mindset that anything "advanced" will automatically be better and don't have any big-picture perspective. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:08 AM Flag
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Do these people actually have kids who have been in the non-honors classes? Or are they just assuming that anything except honors is trash? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 03:17 AM Flag
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Are you in CA? Those classes help the GPA for the UCs. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:05 AM Flag
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I know what they mean. They are saying that the kids in the "regular track" are trouble. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 04:11 AM Flag
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This!! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:37 AM Flag
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or poor. or brown. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 11:50 AM Flag
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I was just going to say that. Honors, G&T, etc. typically less behavioral issues than gen ed. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:39 PM Flag
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How can you force him in to honors classes if he has an 85 average? Wouldn't the school look at past grades/recs to make that decisions ? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:38 PM Flag
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Sounds a bit like Wagner. I suppose there are placement exams, but isn't there a parent rep you could ask? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 12:39 PM Flag
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Don't be an a--. You can definitely get into good schools with an 85. I've just finished the college process with dd and saw where kids were getting in, kids of moms I am friends with. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:16 PM Flag
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Of course a kid can go to college with an 85 average! Focus on helping your DC do well, getting a C in an honors class is pointless so better to do well in regular classes and develop other areas of their application - community involvement, music, etc. There is no one formula schools are looking for, my DC had excellent grades but less than stellar ECs, strong but not stellar SAT, no hook at all, and got into his first choice SLAC with a nice merit scholarship. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.02.20, 01:34 PM Flag
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