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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

[ - ] What's the going hourly rate for a full-time twins nanny on the UWS? TIA! 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
Toddler 06.25.08, 05:55 PM Flag
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I'd say at least $15 an hour for someone really qualified [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:16 PM Flag
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$16-$18 an hour [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:16 PM Flag
[ - ] Anyone ever been to Aruba? Suggestions? 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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I've never been, but everyone I know of who has been there LOVED it. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:53 PM Flag
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Avoid going during a school vacation week. It was totally crazy and not relaxing at all. Other times should be OK. Where are you staying? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:54 PM Flag
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Westin [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:55 PM Flag
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Oh, good, the Hyatt is totally overrated. Don't do a jeep tour -- very sweaty and dusty and not much to see. We enjoyed the snorkel/sail trips. Restaurants: Eat outside at the Sunset Grille (Radisson). Reserve a seat by the pool at Papiamento. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:59 PM Flag
[ - ] Sometimes I wish that I could go back in time and handle my finances differently. It depresses me when I think about it. I've learned my lesson and manage it differently, but it hurts to think about where I could have been if I had not been so impulsive and overindulgent in the past. 12 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:49 PM Flag
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Live and learn, many people, including my parents have never learned to manage their money, they bought a house in 1965 for $16,000 and now owe $250,000 on it. They will work until the day they die and I worry like crazy about them. I'm not perfect but I try to live within my means and put into my retirement so my kid isn't worrying about me. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:57 PM Flag
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Well I can honestly say that you made me feel a LOT better. Believe me...I have learned. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:00 PM Flag
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I hate to sound ignorant, but what did they do...keep taking loans out on the house? Could they sell it and move into a condo? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:05 PM Flag
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They are so finacially irresponsible, they buy what ever they want, they have remortgaged their house so many times, in fact, I think they can't do it anymore. I don't ask anymore.They pay off there credit card bills from refinancing, then charge them right back up, they have nothing to show for their debt. Its not like they paid for college or weddings, my brother and I have always been told if you want college you'll find a way. I went to college with out ever taking out a loan. My brother never did, but we are both financially secure, not well off by any means but doing well. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:12 PM Flag
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Well kudos to you and your brother. It seems that in their errors they have taught you both a great deal. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:15 PM Flag
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a ton of people have done this over the last couple years...they take the money out and use it for other things, hoping that real estate is going to continuously go up at 10% a year... [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:18 PM Flag
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Is it too late to turn things around? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:58 PM Flag
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No. It's not too late. I am not really bad off, but I could be doing better. I have a good 401K and I own a small home in another state that I am selling (which will be helpful). I just have debts (credit cards) to pay off and it annoys me to have put myself in this position. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:03 PM Flag
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credit cards suck. I finally got the self control to stop using them, got everything onto one card with 3% interest, and will be paying it off for the next 3-5 years... but I've learned... [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:20 PM Flag
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I have cut up one and I am paying off the other. I have 13K on it right now and plan to be rid of it by the beginning of next year. After that, I will not do this to myself again. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:24 PM Flag
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I've got $15k...but we don't have much money to chip away at it. I am fortunate that I got it locked in at that low interest rate for length of loan... they don't seem to have those deals anymore... [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:28 PM Flag
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Most of us, given the opportunity, would go back in time and make different financial decisions. We would all make a killing in the stock market. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:58 PM Flag
[ - ] will lipo fix cellulite? 0 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
Toddler 06.25.08, 05:49 PM Flag
[ - ] if you had to choose between City & Country and the Earth School, wwyd? 6 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
NY Schools 06.25.08, 05:48 PM Flag
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the free one [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:49 PM Flag
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c&c if i had the money. earth school is pretty mediocre. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:55 PM Flag
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are there any public progressive schools that compare to the private ones? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:57 PM Flag
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Think about it. How could they? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:13 PM Flag
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^^^ np [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:13 PM Flag
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just wishful thinking i guess. i went to an amazing public progressive school on the west coast. the east village schools seem pretty ok, but not as great as the private progressives in terms of special programs, music, etc. (b/c of course they have more money to spend...). just wondering if the similarities in educational philosophies would be enough, if we are supplementing dc's education w/ cultural extras (which we do anyway). [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:19 PM Flag
[ - ] will this terrible cellulite go away after this pregnancy or is it here to stay. God, my thighs and butt look ugly. 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More ]
Expecting 06.25.08, 05:47 PM Flag
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welcome it, own it, love it, be one with it. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:48 PM Flag
[ - ] DS is starting at PS 59 in the fall. We don't know anything about the new bldg. reall. Just saw a model when I registered him in the office at the old location. Does it have a gym and a roof play yard? Is there a cafeteria or is that also the gym space like the old bldg. has? Thanks. Am kind of nervous. 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
NY Schools 06.25.08, 05:46 PM Flag
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I wish I could help you, but I don't know. But don't spend your summer worrying. No matter what it has or doesn't have, it will all work out. K children are pretty easy and your dc will most likely love school and have a blast! [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:42 AM Flag
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I bet it [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:44 AM Flag
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sorry I bet it's great. Why would they build a new facility and my it bad. I'm waiting to see - may move to the area for it [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:44 AM Flag
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THANKS ! [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 04:51 PM Flag
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a friend of mine has a dc there. loves it. i think when it rains they watch cartoons in the cafeteria. thats all i know. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:03 PM Flag
[ - ] I was planning on waiting for dc's ERB scores before I started my list of school. Didn't do Spring tours and intentionally tried to block it all out. But I just realized we won't get the scores until late August and it would be smart to begin requesting applications now. Breaking it down to ones I'm sure about and those I'm not. Could you help me with my list? Dalton, Trinity, Collegiate, Riverdale, ECFS, Friends, CGPS, Friends. Ones I'm not sure about: St. Ann's (the brooklyn thing), Trevor, Rudolf Steiner, Town (K-8???), Cathedral (also K-8 concerns). What else should I be considering? Thanks! 56 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
NY Schools 06.25.08, 05:45 PM Flag
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Here are the facts: ERB scores mean JACK. I know 2 great kids with 99's who will be headed to public school this Sept. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:49 PM Flag
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You're right there. My DD got a 99 and no TT acceptances. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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Ditto here too [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:30 PM Flag
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OP: I understand that high ERBs mean don't mean you'll get in, but wouldn't you agree that low scores mean you'll get dinged before you even start. I don't feel like applying to Dalton or Trinity if we're dead in the water with low numbers. I figured ds has to get at least 95 to follow through on this list. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:35 PM Flag
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NP: Not necessarily. Depends on your kid. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:37 PM Flag
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Really? My kid is a total x-factor -- he can be perfect, well behaved, responsive, etc. or act shy or even a little silly depending on the other kids in the playdate and his rapport with the teachers. Meaning I have no idea if they would take him because of him. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:40 PM Flag
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You are probably on the right page about needing a 95 or better for Dalton. Not sure about Trinity. At Trinity it really is mainly about connections not ERBs. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 07:36 PM Flag
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There are kids who scored in the 90s at Dalton. I'm sure there are those who scored in the 80s at Dalton (but not many). [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 07:38 PM Flag
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NOT in recent years. Nope. Sibs were turned away with 93. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 01:09 PM Flag
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they were probably terrors. and the parents were worse. why extend the time you have to deal with a family like that! [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:25 PM Flag
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ITA [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 09:37 AM Flag
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Same for us [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:54 AM Flag
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OP: Funny, I actually think I like 2nd tier more than tt. Not sure about ss, think Trinity isn't a fit, but feel very good about ECFS, Riverdale, CGPS. So I don't care about that. Just want a decent enough score to be competitive and be considered. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:17 AM Flag
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OR: Riverdale was one of our top choices - great campus, liked what we saw in the classes, although it was a bit traditional, we still really liked it. I hear it is very rigorous in the upper grades. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:20 AM Flag
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OP: Ditto. I did think the mix of progressive and traditional in the lower grades was a good idea -- able to explore but still with structure. And it might help guide my slightly wacky ds. We'll just have to wait and see how academic he is by the time he hits highschool. Who knows?!?!?!? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:22 AM Flag
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Riverdale OH was a bit overwhelming as hundreds of families there for what you know is not a lot of spots. Also - was one of the few one-on-one interviews DC had. Riverdale interviewer claimed ERBs not end-all and be-all for their school - that they were looking at match up between kid's interview, written portion of ERB report and school report. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:27 AM Flag
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np; Trinity really looks for connected kids, I think. Wasn't a good fit anyway, but dd really aced their playdate (perfect drawings of all the shapes they asked for, reading books, writing, sharing, whatever) and parent interview (everyone knows doesn't really count) was okay, and 99 erb, diversity.. was w/l'ed. Asked for FA but I could tell they were not interested. We were not connected at all. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 01:18 PM Flag
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Personally, I'd say skip st. anns (so few K acceptances this past year), and keep Trevor and Town on the yes list. I did not love Trevor and wished I had toured before applying but had a few friends who loved it. Also - if you are okay with the riverdale commute consider Fieldston Lower over EC (less Manhattan applicants and the campus is great). If you have a DS you might want to submit your CGPS application right after it is available as last year they ran out of boy interview slots. Same deal with Trinity application - hand deliver it day after available or you won't get an interview spot. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:16 PM Flag
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Thank you for your really helpful post. Can you tell me more about why you didn't like Trevor? I don't know anyone there. Also feel like I have to follow through with ECFS (we applied there for PK and if we change it just looks calculating). Would you agree? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:39 PM Flag
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np: dc got into trevor, but we did not go. got in elsewhere, as weell, and later to anderson. but i thought it was a very good school. I loved the new head, and the only thing that gave me pause was the reputation on ues that it was a lesser school in some way. guess I care what people think. I do think this reputation has to do with the school's history, and they are trying to strengthen college placements and the upper school, and are starting with taking higher scoring smarter kids. I think trevor is definitely solid for elementary and MS, and I imagine that it will develop a stronger record for HS. liked the foreign language aspect, and felt they really do work to offer a tailor made curriculum. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 07:03 PM Flag
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OR: Trevor is a solid school and I was impressed with the HS kids who spoke to the parents during the kids big group playdate. The HOS also seemed like a straight shooter. If you get your DC's ERBs before applications are due you can guide yourself as to whether you need to include it on your list. FWIW Trevor also had an interview waitlist last year but I think many got off the interview waitlist. We really liked Riverdale, Dalton, FL and Town. Hated HM - kids just seemed miserable. Trinity was nice but unattainable in our minds (and in reality). ECFS admissions seemed extremely disorganized this year - so they might not even realize your DC applied last year (although I'd guess it's a question on the application). If there is any chance you can visit FL before you need to submit your application I would say it is worth the trip. You can always explain away the change as "we couldn't imagine our 4 year old DC on a bus to riverdale, but it seems much more doable now that they'll be five." Practically speaking there was no ECFS/FL parent interview at all last year - so there would be no explaining to do...especially if PSD backs up your committment to travel to Riverdale. We found that letting Riverdale Country know we had no problem with the travel component increased our chances there (even if ever so slightly). [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 07:31 PM Flag
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OP: Aaggh! You got cut off.... Seriously, great feedback. This is the most helpful, least snarky conversation I've ever had on the schools board. We are not a HM family. DH truly did not feel comfortable there. But any you would add? Think I'm missing something crucial? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 08:00 PM Flag
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OR: Take a look at at least 1 all boys schools. We didn't b/c DH claimed he couldn't imagine son at all boys school (plus we have younger DD). But I wished we had at least looked at Collegiate and Allen Stevenson so I would have basis for comparison. Re: stuff to do now - and this will totally sound dumb - but if you have time over the summer, it wouldn't hurt to work on drawing with your DC. My DS can't draw to save his life (although his letters/numbers are okay) and I cringed at every single interview where they made him draw as either part of the interview or to kill time while they were waiting for the rest of a play group. I seriously doubt we got dinged anywhere for the drawing issue but PSD explained that how a child draws a person is a developmental milestone thing (something like that)...for every sort of detail they add to a person (eyes, fingers, toes, shoes, etc)..it shows a level of development. Sorry for the poor explanation but you cannot otherwise help DC get ready for interviews. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 08:11 PM Flag
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OR: not sure why it keeps getting cut off or whether you can read the rest, but the only other sort of obvious piece of advice is to schedule what you think will be your top choices near the middle of your schedule. DC may need first few interviews to understand the drill, but by last few he'll be wasted from the process. Schools tend not to love when people reschedule appts multiple times, but I think it's not fatal to ask to move a date one time - whether because you don't want favorite first or b/c DC has another school scheduled same day/week. Its okay to say your family happens to be traveling the day they assigned you - even for the schools with the letters that say we don't really want you to reschedule. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 08:18 PM Flag
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I'm sure you're not still on or checking this but thank you! We have Collegiate on the list. Is there another you think? AS? And ds is doing some OT work to help with his writing, cutting, etc. I will ask the therapist to work on drawing. Have him do more faces and stuff instead of scribbles, right? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 04:22 AM Flag
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OR: yes, apparently there is something developmental about the detail of a person that a child draws at this age (the more detail the better - eyes, arms, torso, fingers, toes or shoes, etc). Its certainly not a make or break deal - but for someone with a kid who just scribbled when the process started in October - and was next to little girls drawing fairies and rainbows and self-portraits, it stressed me out a bit. At one school DC was admitted to they may have actually "assessed" DC's person drawing as it became part of his file and they showed it to us at our interview. Thank god - that school was later in the process and at least DC had drawn a stick figure with eyes, nose, mouth, stick body, fingers and toes. PS must have known this drill because improvement was based on self portrait drawing kids did from Sept - December in class. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:43 AM Flag
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I asked ds this morning what he liked to draw, just to see. He said he wanted to do a cookie machine and showed stuff going in, mixing up, and then circles coming out. Do they give points for creativity? I'm kidding, but faces are not what he thinks to do! I just know they'll look at him like he should be doing better because he's a fall kid, so one of the oldest to be interviewing. May I ask where you ended up? And was this your FC? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 06:31 AM Flag
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They direct them more, they ask them to draw a person or their family. Don't worry too much about that - it doesn't have to look good - they count the body parts. This year I was worried that all the psychologists at these schools would make something out of the fact that dd never drew her dad in any of the family pictures. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 06:36 AM Flag
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Interesting on two fronts. I didn't know they directed them. Does your DH travel a lot? Mine does. He's gone two or three weeks out of the month. I wonder if ds would put DH in there. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:16 AM Flag
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DS is starting at Dalton in the fall. This was our FC mainly because we thought it was a good fit for DS's personality. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:01 AM Flag
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And how would you characterize ds? What about Dalton made it a fit? Because they didn't have PK, and I didn't apply last year or have too many friends there, I know much less about it but something about it intrigues me. Whereas my instinct tells me Trinity isn't as right. Don't know why... [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:17 AM Flag
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DS very curious - must be touching things he works with, asking a billion questions, moves around a lot. Thought a traditional place like HM (if they even admitted him) would kick him out by second grade. Maybe I bought the Kool Aid Dalton was selling but they marketed their program as embracing and fostering free thinkers, stressed how kids could complete projects throughout the grades in ways they found interesting. Every kid did not have to travel the same road to get to the end spot. Sounds like a spiel but if it turns out to be true I think it could work great for DS and encourage a real love of learning. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:36 AM Flag
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OR: Trinity is a great program, but it was never really an option for us and DC had good ERBs, offered some diversity and DH had inner connections. Seemed like this would be enough to at least get a foot in the door - but it was clear they were not interested from the get-go. That was our first playdate and main project there was drawing a picture for the parents. Guess the scribbles did not cut it. But try for it - start the app now and just reprint it day after Labor Day and walk it over (do not put it in the mail) - you never know. But if you do have any remote connections there start working it now - my DH may have waited too late to shake the connection tree. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:42 AM Flag
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I wondered because my ds is a bit of an iconoclast. He gets these passions where he needs to explore everything about them. He's not HM -- he's not going to sit, take every direction, and behave perfectly. Did you like Ethical or Fieldston for that reason? What did you feel was the difference between those and Dalton (other than tier!)? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:43 AM Flag
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Have friends with DC at EC and they love, love it. Wanted to love it - but for some reason did not get the "vibe" there. Thought it was fine and maybe reaction was a function of a few unimportant factors but def worth applying to. We were blown away by FL campus and lower school kids there looked really happy, parent guide was super nice. As you prob know, you need to decide when you submit application if you'll apply to FL or EC can't apply to both. WL'd at EC so never really had to compare which was better for DC. Proximity might have given the edge to Dalton though in the end. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:55 AM Flag
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DH went on the middle and upper school tour when we interviewed and loved, loved, loved it. We picked EC because of the proximity thing (we're UWS). And because we did it for PK and got WL, I think it would be disingenuous to switch to FL, like we're only doing it because we think we have a better shot. Do you agree? I'm really eager to see Dalton. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:01 AM Flag
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Not sure about the EC/FL thing since you applied fro preK. Your PSD might be able to shed light on that. FWIW - I was a bit underwhelmed by Dalton's lower school (Little Dalton) as the space seems a bit tight. But, again, I tried to concentrate on the program over the asthetics of the buildings. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:12 AM Flag
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my dc go to dalton. your child sounds like the dalton prototype. it's a great program for self directed kids. my dc love it there. plus they have very nice friends from normal families with strong values [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:07 PM Flag
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OR: BTW I have heard really great things about AS. It sometimes gets a bum rap on this board because not TT and not on the Collegiate level but heard through friends that its a great place (although I think it may be k-8). Only admitted a few new families last year - so odds not great but might be worth a visit. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:48 AM Flag
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Not sure how I feel about all boys in general so I might like the idea of K - 8 boys because it gives us the option to do coed for high school... Thanks. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:51 AM Flag
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re: ecfs. not sure about this school. know more than one family that it failed in that it did not see signficant learning disabilities. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 07:02 PM Flag
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interview spots ALREADY FILLED UP at friends!! [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 09:30 AM Flag
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Huh> For 2009/2010? For real???? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 03:30 PM Flag
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OR: well, the web site is weird on this. under the faq its says that applications for the 2009/2010 year will be accepted starting August 25, 2008. Then further down, under the interview section, there is a special note that says all kindergarten interview slots are full! So, either they did not update this part of their website, or there really are no more k interview spots left. this makes me regret giving up a g&t spot..... [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 06:59 PM Flag
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I have to think it's a glitch from the past year. But thanks for the heads up that applications can go in August. I would have waited until September. What G+T did you give up and why? And is Friends one of your top choices that it would make you regret that? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.27.08, 10:22 AM Flag
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Would rather not say which g&t we gave up, but will say, again, that regret lingers. dc will be in a private k this year, one that accepts post august 31 birthdays. if accepted to private, will have to repeat k, which not sure would be a good thing given maturity and abilities. friends is not top choice, ss school uptown is. have been up worrying about schools and choices. not sure if it is better to either send dc to zoned school for 1st and 2nd or good catholic for the same and then try for private afterward. seems like while doe made many mistakes during g&t process it was nonetheless fairly transparent in its process. doubt that privates will have any transparency. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.27.08, 11:35 AM Flag
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Try some of the other SS: St. B, Buckley, St. D, A-S [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:59 AM Flag
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There is really no reason to wait - no matter what the scores you need to apply broadly. That is a good list.Steiner is an interesting school and wants a very particular type of child and family, but they don't require the ERB for K. A few more that don't are Bankstreet and MCS (although both of these have only a few spots for K. Also, you may want to add SHSH, a few more SS, Calhoun [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 06:22 AM Flag
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i was told by psd that calhoun has no boys spots for K next year. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 02:11 PM Flag
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How would they know that yet? They may think that for the number of sibs who will probably be applying there will be few spots, but there is no way that in June they can that there will be none. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 03:36 PM Flag
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calhoun has preK and therefore there are only 5-7 boys spots for K to begin with. I imagine it's very possible that they can have so many sibs & legacies, that they say "no biys spots". Since we weren' that interested I didn't ask if htey would accept applications at all or not. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 05:31 PM Flag
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In addition to the good schools listed above, I would really consider Anderson and Nest if you test in. We looked at most if not all of the schools on your list and some were not as impressive or well rounded as the two top G&T programs. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:01 AM Flag
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OP: I suspect he'll do the OLSAT again, but I'm a little worried because it would mean he'd enter at 1st grade (fall 2003 boy). That's not a thrill but I think it's worth checking out. UWS so NEST might not work, but Anderson certainly is appealing. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:23 AM Flag
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To all of you who replied and gave me such helpful, insightful info, I just want to say thank you. Not one snark at me for being a bit on the anxious side -- just really clued in thoughts on what is a vicious process. Very very appreciated. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 04:43 PM Flag
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You are welcome. I just came out the other end of this process alive and with a spot, for which I feel very fortunate - it was a blood bath out there this past year. GL [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 04:45 PM Flag
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OR: Same here. One spot was all we needed which was good because Hunter/Anderson did not work out in the end. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 06:18 PM Flag
[ - ] seriously, don't you think adult twins are freaky? 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More ]
Toddler 06.25.08, 05:44 PM Flag
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only if theyre still wearing matching outfits [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:45 PM Flag
[ - ] I'm taking a cheap double stroller on a plane next week. Should I have a bag to put it into or just hope for the best? 3 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:40 PM Flag
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i've flown many times w/ strollers, checked at the gate, never used a bag and never had a problem. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:41 PM Flag
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ty [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:42 PM Flag
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just gate check it, no bag needed [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:42 PM Flag
[ - ] going to call in sick to work tomorrow to spend the day with dss - what excuse should i use? do I email or call boss? I have never done this! 12 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:39 PM Flag
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diarrhea or rash. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:40 PM Flag
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Call and just say you're under the weather and won't be in. When you go back on Friday say you had a stomach bug and drink seltzer. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:40 PM Flag
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ITA and don't go into details when you call. Just be vague about symptoms. Sounds tired but don't over do it [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:42 PM Flag
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You can't help it ds had an allergic reaction and is in the emergency room. But call don't email. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:41 PM Flag
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never make up stuff about kids being sick. bad karma! [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:42 PM Flag
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op and ita [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:51 PM Flag
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can't you just say that ds has a stomach bug and you have to stay home? it's easier to lie when you're not lying about yourself. That way you don't have to act sick the next day when you go in. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:43 PM Flag
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i have a nanny so would not work [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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can you say that nanny is sick? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:55 PM Flag
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I wouldn't because it starts to cause resentment towards people with kids... stick with lying about yourself [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:54 PM Flag
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i think i will do the stomach bug [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:55 PM Flag
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OR - trust me - works like a charm. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:58 PM Flag
[ - ] Going in for a C-section on Friday. Any last-minute advice from those who have BTDT? So far I've been told to bring prunes to the hospital and drink warm water afterwards to avoid constipation. Sounds fun! TIA. 6 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
Newborn 06.25.08, 05:35 PM Flag
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Bring Gas-X with you (ask the nurses for it right after surgery, but I've heard some nurses are a pain about getting it for you). Definitely start moving asap, helps with healing. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:37 PM Flag
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walk around as soon as you can, take the pain meds. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:37 PM Flag
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I had one (unplanned) and actually it wasn't as bad as I thought. The pain was excrutiating the first few days, so take the percoset, but I left on ibuprofen only. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:38 PM Flag
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start walking as soon as the doc lets you. also i didn't have the pain med...only the ibuprofen. helped to feel the pain so i didn't overdo it. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:40 PM Flag
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OP: Thanks for all this! What should I plan on wearing as I'm hobbling through the hallways? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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a bathrobe and slippers. you may stay in your hospital gown for the duration, or change into your own pjs. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:00 PM Flag
[ - ] Going in for a C-section on Friday. Any last-minute advice from those who have BTDT? So far I've been told to bring prunes to the hospital and drink warm water afterwards to avoid constipation. Sounds fun! TIA. 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:35 PM Flag
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You don't have to bring prunes. You will feel a prick in your back when they give you the anesthesia and then you will be able to just lay back for the delivery. While in the recovery room the anesthesia wears off and that is when you will feel some pain and nausea. You can just keep asking for the percocet for the pain. (THe nausea will run its course.) I was in a room with a woman who just refused the pain killer. I took it with both pregnancies and I'm glad that I did. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:37 PM Flag
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I've had 3 (will be 4 come february). Take the colace, don't take more than a day's worth of percoset if you can help it, it's VERY VERY constipating. switch to prescription strength motrin. I would take metamucil or something stronger than prune juice to hospital. Walk by the next day, and take several walks throughout the day. Good luck! [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:38 PM Flag
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I did percocet with both of my c's and didn't get constipated at all. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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i took 2 percocets w/ my last c-sxn, and I needed a suppository I was so constipated. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:59 PM Flag
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Get a blow out before you check in so you don't have to raise your arms to shampoo for a few days. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:38 PM Flag
[ - ] Is there any type of a penalty or drawback to putting only 5% down on a home? It is a three family home and the rent from the two other units would more than pay for the monthly payments. TIA 7 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:34 PM Flag
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you probably won't get a really great interest rate and may need to pay private mortgage insurance [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:36 PM Flag
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Yes, you have to pay PMI (mortgage insurance) for anything less than 20%. Sometimes you can just get a secondary loan at a higher rate instead (we did this a few years ago). But right now, it would be hard to get a company to approve you at all for only 5% [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:36 PM Flag
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I've been pre-approved by Wells Fargo...The agent said they will approve as long as I put down 5%. Both my dh and I have high credit ratings. I will be in that state for five years and I would rather own than rent. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:40 PM Flag
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That's great you have been pre-approved. It is in NO WAY a guarantee of actually getting the mortgage. You should definitely discuss with the broker the various ways of breaking down the loan (to avoid PMI). [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:42 PM Flag
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Thanks a lot for all of this info. I knew you ladies would be a good starting point. Luckily I am working with a bank agent that owns my other home and he's been quite helpful. I hope this comes through. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:44 PM Flag
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GL! Sounds like a great opportunity. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:45 PM Flag
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In this credit market, you will have a very hard time getting a loan at 95% LTV. Especially if there is an investment component to the property. You may find someone willing to give you an 80/10/10. But the 10% mortgage will have a higher rate than the 80% mortgage. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:37 PM Flag
[ - ] Forest Hills moms -- we are considering a move this summer to Forest Hills. What should we expect the rent to be for a 2-bedroom apartment near a good elementary school and not too far from the subway? TIA 28 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More ]
New York City 06.25.08, 05:34 PM Flag
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a few years ago, I rented a 3 br close to everything for 2400 [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:35 PM Flag
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is there a particular neighborhood or area you would recommend? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:36 PM Flag
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yes. the LIRR and biggest subway stop is on 71st ave at the intersection of Austin street. the closer to Austin you are, the better. Look along yellowstone blvd close to queens blvd. yellowstone as you go away from queens blvd is less convenient and a little shadier of a neighborhood. - dont let them show you places called "forest Hills" that are really rego park [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:41 PM Flag
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thanks! any Web sites or realtors you'd recommend? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:42 PM Flag
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i just found my place in the paper, but I know the area well. We used terrace realty. where is your commute to? I might be able to give you some more specific advice [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:44 PM Flag
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I work near Penn Station and dh works in the 20s and Park Avenue area [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:50 PM Flag
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well, you could be to work in 14 minutes on the LIRR. dh will have to do the E train - so you could even look on austin east of continental - some nice bldgs there, too. the others are also exactly right [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:52 PM Flag
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^^other posters, that is [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:55 PM Flag
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Also, along the N side of Queens Blvd are some very nice apartment buildings. They're expensive but they're nice. Most of them are named after presidents but they could get pricey. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:50 PM Flag
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Definitely google the address and get the zip code. You want 11375 not 11374 (Rego Park), but RP will be cheaper. Just don't get tricked into it. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:50 PM Flag
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or: exactly what I said above - do not fall for that [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:53 PM Flag
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Craig's List is good to give you an idea of price. You might see Jr 4 being advertised a lot. I don't know if you know it but it's basically a tiny second bedroom. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:53 PM Flag
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I did not know that, so thanks. Any particularly good public schools to recommend? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:54 PM Flag
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i didnt have dcs when I lived there, but I dont think there are many in FH (maybe 2) and I htink theyre both supposed to be good. See which one is zoned for the neighborhoods were talking about and Im willing to bet its a good one [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:56 PM Flag
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PS196 is the highest scoring, but has large classes. PS101 is also overcrowded. I would look into PS144. Don't let the test scores fool you. They have special needs kids that bring the overall score down. PS144 is south of QB, west of Continental, in general. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:58 PM Flag
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Well, the best one is the School-in-the-Gardens PS 101 but you'd have to live in Forest Hills Gardens and that's really, really, really expensive. The others are PS196 and PS144, depending on where you actually live. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:15 PM Flag
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PS101 does not cover the entire Gardens, just east of Continental. Also, not all of its catchment is the Gardens. There are a lot of apartment buildings east of Ascan Avenue, for example. Also, I do not agree that PS101 is necessarily better. It depends on the criteria. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:18 PM Flag
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OK, I have no kids so I'm just giving some random thoughts. Just watch that you don't wander too far East of Ascan and into Kew Gardens. If you want that 15 minutes commute to Penn, you won't want to wonder too far. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:22 PM Flag
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Thanks, everyone. One more question (though I'll keep this post on watch if other folks have ideas to share) .... is the 2400 estimate in first response an accurate estimate for a 3 bedroom? [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 05:59 PM Flag
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As a benchmark, look at Parker Towers. They have a website. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:01 PM Flag
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im the or. I think that parker towers is not a great benchmark - its probably on the low end. huge complex, but I did not like it when I went to look at apts there. there are much nicer bldgs. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:02 PM Flag
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any recs for buildings to look at? Parker Towers runs about $2400 for a two bedroom [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:04 PM Flag
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ha, see. I was right -2400 for a 2 br! there are not that many buildings like that in the area - many smaller ones. but theres the kennedy house, the birchwood towers, gerard towers and the pinnacle but that one is probably the most expensive and its also the farthest east. theres some new bldg on continental, too but i dont know what ots called [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:06 PM Flag
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^^you know what, I take it back, maybe its nicer now. you should really a look at a few you know how it is with seeing stuff online... [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:04 PM Flag
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I ageee, I think Parker Towers is probably on the low end. There's Lexington and the presidents (clumped together and the states (spread throughout). Fancy schmancy one is called Windsor and if you buy they cost as much as a house. Here's a good NYT article: http://www.nytimes.com/2005/08/21/realestate/21living.html?_r=1&ex=1126324800&en=97482a9ec5cd18a7&ei=5070&oref=login&oref=slogin [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:19 PM Flag
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im that responder and I highly doubt it. like i said it was a few years ago. but I bet its in the right neighborhood for a 2 br. but I havent looked in a while [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.25.08, 06:01 PM Flag
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I pay $2,600 a month for a large two bedroom in one of the "president" buildings on Yellowstone, a 5-minute walk to the subway on Queens Blvd. Zoned for PS 196, which is opening a second school in the neighborhood to handle the overcrowding. My dc's first grade was 21 kids, that is not bad. PS 144 across QB is also quite good. Note: I have heard there is a scarce supply of three-bedroom rentals in good buildings. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 08:27 AM Flag
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Actually, the new school is its own independent school and has its own philosophy, curriculum and principal, so they will not be doing things the 196 way. It is a feeder school to 196, that is true. [ Reply | More ]
General Topics 06.26.08, 09:33 AM Flag
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