Letters to the editor December 14

Posted 12/13/17

Buy American Recently, there have been a lot of razor commercials on TV, and I think I know why: it’s because China has been sending us all that cheap junk that doesn’t work. It only …

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Letters to the editor December 14

Posted

Buy American

Recently, there have been a lot of razor commercials on TV, and I think I know why: it’s because China has been sending us all that cheap junk that doesn’t work. It only looks like the real thing, but doesn’t function properly. So people who’ve been using disposables are finding that they don’t work anymore—because they’re made in China—which creates an opening for other companies to advertise and sell theirs.

One product after another—junk, junk, junk—why don’t we stop importing all that junk that’s no good, that doesn’t work, or that falls apart after the first use? I’m switching to all American-made stuff, that works the way it’s supposed to.

I’ve used disposable razors for decades, and they’ve performed well, but recently I bought Chinese-made disposables that just glide across my pitiful face like there’s not even a blade in them. So frustrating, just like most of the other Chinese-made junk.

My Chinese watch, two months old, just fell apart. The sole on my Chinese shoe just simply fell off as I was walking out of the Narrowsburg post office. I almost fell over the railing into the flowers. And don’t ask about my Chinese scissors. I dropped my eyeglasses and the lens popped out and the earpiece broke off. Of course, made in China.

Good thing my dog wasn’t made in China. He probably would have bit me, and I’d have rabies.

Now I’m afraid to eat a pomegranate, because we used to call them “Chinese apples.”

Phil Yacino

Narrowsburg, NY

Some tips on home sharing

Re the article on home sharing in PA in the November 9 issue of TRR: Certainly, the home-share program beginning in PA can be quite successful. It has been ongoing here in New York for a few years.

The home or apartment owner (host) can set some parameters, which I highly recommend, given that the home-seeker and host will be living in close quarters. The host can be far more selective regarding the person who moves in to share. Of course, one may say this is “discriminatory.” I would say rather “selective,” for the sake of peace of mind, ability to trust and acceptance of a stranger.

In New York, the home-share agency affiliates with the New York City Department of Aging, which does intensive screening and background checks for a good match between the host and home-seeker. Having been a residential landlord for some 23 years, I suggest any home-share host incorporate further screening, provide a written rental agreement (establishing house rules and subject to change with notice). The agency provides one, but it may not be as detailed as required by the host.

Also, in addition to charging separately for utilities, it is important to cover the cost of water, if the location is on a municipal system. That will cover any surprises when utility bills arrive: better safe than sorry. Monitor those bills over the first few months; it should be noted in the initial interview that you’ll be doing so. Lastly, accept postal money orders for rent—it’s much safer than carrying rent in cash for either party.

It may take a while to find the right person to share, but patience is worthwhile, as a host is not required to take the first offer. I have found that high-functioning, independent, part-time employed, developmentally disabled work out well. In the long run, home share can eliminate isolation, foster conversation, provide decent compensation, give the home-seeker a sense of worth and encourage positive self-esteem.

Afi Phoebe

Narrowsburg and Jamaica, NY

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