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Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>Serious Help! Need Advice...
Little Star75 01:27 PM 04-03-2013
I had it! I decided I'm going to term this family. I just need advice on how to tell the parents. This dcb is always sick this is the same one with Asthma and in need of the nebulizer. He started mid January and had always been sick. Dcb is complaining about ear ache now (btw he has tubes) I text the mom and she says "do u have Tylenol" ummm no I don't. This baby is so delicate and honestly don't want to be liable. I rather term and not risk it. I feel that this child needs more like a nanny someone that can give the full attention he needs. I obviously can't as I do have other ones in my care. He also has a sibling who is SA and lately has given me trouble like, not doing his homework not listening to me period!
So please if you have advice on how to tell this parent please let me know.

Thanks in advance
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CedarCreek 01:44 PM 04-03-2013
Say just that.

Dcm, this will serve as two Weeks notice of termination of our contract. I feel as though dck would benefit more from a stay at home nanny and unfortunately I cannot provide a service like that at this time.
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Blackcat31 02:33 PM 04-03-2013
Dear DCM

This is written notice of my intent to discontinue our agreement for child care services.

I feel at this time that Billy requires far more care and attention that I am able to provide.

I have included the number to the local Child Care Resource & Referral to aid you in your search for new care arrangements.

The last day I am able to provide care for Billy is Friday April, xx, 2013

Sincerely

Provider.


Short and simple.
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Little Star75 02:35 PM 04-03-2013
Thank you both, I'm so ready to term right away.
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Blackcat31 02:38 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
Thank you both, I'm so ready to term right away.
That is also an option. Not always a professional one but I will admit there have been times when professionalism is the last thing on my mind....especially when it comes to a high maintenance kid and not wanting to deal with it any more.

If you want to take that route, you most certainly can do so, I would just change the date in the above letter to "effective immediately".

Be prepared however, for a visit from licensing if you go that route.

....and probably a lot of badmouthing on the parent's part about you as well...but sometimes you just have to do what you have to do in order to maintain your sanity.

Sanity definitely trumps professionalism though.
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Little Star75 02:53 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
That is also an option. Not always a professional one but I will admit there have been times when professionalism is the last thing on my mind....especially when it comes to a high maintenance kid and not wanting to deal with it any more.

If you want to take that route, you most certainly can do so, I would just change the date in the above letter to "effective immediately".

Be prepared however, for a visit from licensing if you go that route.

....and probably a lot of badmouthing on the parent's part about you as well...but sometimes you just have to do what you have to do in order to maintain your sanity.

Sanity definitely trumps professionalism though.
I'm going to keep him for the next two weeks. Now I need some advice on how to figure out the deposit. I agree that every month dcb doesn't attend daycare with no pay. (This isn't in the contract btw) so next week dc happens to be out and the following I will have to use her deposit (1 week worth)
Should I still charge her for that week or use her deposit. I verbally agreed with the dcb being out with no pay but I don't want to be without any pay at all for the next 2 weeks. YKWIM? Should I change it and say next week he can either come or go with grandma but I will use the deposit towards next week and his last week will have to be out of pocket. Do I make sense???
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Blackcat31 02:56 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I'm going to keep him for the next two weeks. Now I need some advice on how to figure out the deposit. I agree that every month dcb doesn't attend daycare with no pay. (This isn't in the contract btw) so next week dc happens to be out and the following I will have to use her deposit (1 week worth)
Should I still charge her for that week or use her deposit. I verbally agreed with the dcb being out with no pay but I don't want to be without any pay at all for the next 2 weeks. YKWIM? Should I change it and say next week he can either come or go with grandma but I will use the deposit towards next week and his last week will have to be out of pocket. Do I make sense???
Sorta.... so you have a full two weeks deposit of hers?

...and you agreed somewhere along the lines to allow her to have a week off without payment?

Is that right?
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Little Star75 03:26 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
Sorta.... so you have a full two weeks deposit of hers?

...and you agreed somewhere along the lines to allow her to have a week off without payment?

Is that right?
I only have one week deposit. That was a verbally agreement only not on contract. I also told her that as soon as I had to turn service away to a FT child I would then make her pay at least half the rate as a courtesy. She is trying to save money by not paying and sending her child to auntie. Just yesterday I interviewed a parent who is very interested in starting but because I'm already at my limit I can't accept dcg. This dcb who I'm terming is consider an infant (17 months) so yes I had to turn service because of this dcb. It all happen at together! Ugh!!! I'm so stressed out right now. I just now put him to nap because he kept complaining about his ear and mom refuses to pick him up. She offered to drop off medicine but I ignored the text.
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Blackcat31 03:34 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I only have one week deposit. That was a verbally agreement only not on contract. I also told her that as soon as I had to turn service away to a FT child I would then make her pay at least half the rate as a courtesy. She is trying to save money by not paying and sending her child to auntie. Just yesterday I interviewed a parent who is very interested in starting but because I'm already at my limit I can't accept dcg. This dcb who I'm terming is consider an infant (17 months) so yes I had to turn service because of this dcb. It all happen at together! Ugh!!! I'm so stressed out right now. I just now put him to nap because he kept complaining about his ear and mom refuses to pick him up. She offered to drop off medicine but I ignored the text.
You know honestly if you only have a one week deposit from her, I would just terminate immediately and return the deposit if you can afford it as sometimes it is just best to be done with a tough situation.

Or, you could allow her to come for one final week and keep her deposit. I would tell her the "free" week you were going to give her no longer applies since she is not going to be a continuing family with you...

Or, give her the two week notice but count the FIRST week of the final two weeks as being covered by the deposit and the second week of the final two weeks is the week you will allow her to go to her Aunt's without charging her.

That way, you only have to deal with her for one week but are still abiding by your contract and giving her the two week notice.

What ever you do.....I would NOT give her a free week (except as the last week of her final two weeks).

Apply the deposit FIRST.

Does that make sense?
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Little Star75 03:38 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
You know honestly if you only have a one week deposit from her, I would just terminate immediately and return the deposit if you can afford it as sometimes it is just best to be done with a tough situation.

Or, you could allow her to come for one final week and keep her deposit. I would tell her the "free" week you were going to give her no longer applies since she is not going to be a continuing family with you...

Or, give her the two week notice but count the FIRST week of the final two weeks as being covered by the deposit and the second week of the final two weeks is the week you will allow her to go to her Aunt's without charging her.

That way, you only have to deal with her for one week but are still abiding by your contract and giving her the two week notice.

What ever you do.....I would NOT give her a free week (except as the last week of her final two weeks).

Apply the deposit FIRST.

Does that make sense?

Yes it does and it's a great idea! Thank you so much blkcat for all your advice you have been a great help.
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AmyKidsCo 03:40 PM 04-03-2013
Tom Copeland says you don't have to give a reason for terminating. This is my termination letter:
Dear (PARENT) (DATE)

This note is to inform you that effective (DATE), child care provided by (CENTER) will be terminated. The last day of care for your child, (NAME), will be (DATE).

I will continue to provide care through the end of this date. According to our contract you are (required to pay tuition for your child through this date whether or not your child is brought to care. EDIT TO FIT YOUR POLICIES)

I have appreciated the opportunity to care for your child.

(SIGNED)
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Little Star75 03:43 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
You know honestly if you only have a one week deposit from her, I would just terminate immediately and return the deposit if you can afford it as sometimes it is just best to be done with a tough situation.

Or, you could allow her to come for one final week and keep her deposit. I would tell her the "free" week you were going to give her no longer applies since she is not going to be a continuing family with you...

Or, give her the two week notice but count the FIRST week of the final two weeks as being covered by the deposit and the second week of the final two weeks is the week you will allow her to go to her Aunt's without charging her.

That way, you only have to deal with her for one week but are still abiding by your contract and giving her the two week notice.

What ever you do.....I would NOT give her a free week (except as the last week of her final two weeks).

Apply the deposit FIRST.

Does that make sense?
I just remembered that she can't use the second week to,go to auntie because auntie has something scheduled. So anyhow dcb will be here next two week, so do I still have her pay for the second week since I'm using the deposit for her first week which is next week.?
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Patches 03:52 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I just remembered that she can't use the second week to,go to auntie because auntie has something scheduled. So anyhow dcb will be here next two week, so do I still have her pay for the second week since I'm using the deposit for her first week which is next week.?
Charge her for one week, keep the deposit for the second week
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Little Star75 03:54 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Patches:
Charge her for one week, keep the deposit for the second week

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Blackcat31 04:09 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Patches:
Charge her for one week, keep the deposit for the second week
I agree, charge her for one week and apply the deposit to the second week.

If she doesn't pay for the first week, then apply the deposit and do NOT allow her to return. At least that way, you won't be out any money for services rendered.
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Little Star75 04:13 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
How would I word that? Dcb will be here till the 19th but next week dcb goes with auntie and will be back the second (last) week. Should i say I'm going to use the deposit to her first week???
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Blackcat31 04:18 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
How would I word that? Dcb will be here till the 19th but next week dcb goes with auntie and will be back the second (last) week. Should i say I'm going to use the deposit to her first week???
add this paragraph to the letter you are giving her....

Your deposit will be applied to the first week of your final two weeks in care. It will cover services foe Monday through Friday April, 8-12. You will have a balance due for the week of April 15-19 in the amount of $_______.

Please note, the above balance is due IN FULL on ________ or no services will be provided after April 12.

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Little Star75 04:25 PM 04-03-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
add this paragraph to the letter you are giving her....

Your deposit will be applied to the first week of your final two weeks in care. It will cover services foe Monday through Friday April, 8-12. You will have a balance due for the week of April 15-19 in the amount of $_______.

Please note, the above balance is due IN FULL on ________ or no services will be provided after April 12.
Should I mention in the letter the free week no longer will be valid or just keep it out?
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Little Star75 04:51 PM 04-03-2013
Sorry for all the questions but what if she decides to bring him next week which originally he's off the second week of the month? I already know she's going to try to use the week since I'm using the deposit for that week. Idk what to do now, should I allow dcb to come next week?
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Little Star75 11:09 AM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
Dear DCM

This is written notice of my intent to discontinue our agreement for child care services.

I feel at this time that Billy requires far more care and attention that I am able to provide.

I have included the number to the local Child Care Resource & Referral to aid you in your search for new care arrangements.

The last day I am able to provide care for Billy is Friday April, xx, 2013

Sincerely

Provider.


Short and simple.
DCP got very upset with this notice I gave. DCP said he took my text as if dcb was too much for me and also stated dcb is not a disabled retard.

I said to him "I'm very sorry you took it different that wasn't my intention."

This has been a total nightmare, I'm now communicating via email with him. I will keep you all updated

Again thank you for everything
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bunnyslippers 11:12 AM 04-08-2013
I would not be able to work with him again, after the dcd used the "R" word. I can't tolerate that word for any reason. What a dope.
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EntropyControlSpecialist 11:12 AM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
Sorry for all the questions but what if she decides to bring him next week which originally he's off the second week of the month? I already know she's going to try to use the week since I'm using the deposit for that week. Idk what to do now, should I allow dcb to come next week?
If you are only providing care for 2 weeks and are keeping/requesting the funds to do so as a 2 week notice then yes, you need to take him.
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EntropyControlSpecialist 11:12 AM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
add this paragraph to the letter you are giving her....

Your deposit will be applied to the first week of your final two weeks in care. It will cover services foe Monday through Friday April, 8-12. You will have a balance due for the week of April 15-19 in the amount of $_______.

Please note, the above balance is due IN FULL on ________ or no services will be provided after April 12.

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Crystal 11:43 AM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
DCP got very upset with this notice I gave. DCP said he took my text as if dcb was too much for me and also stated dcb is not a disabled retard.

I said to him "I'm very sorry you took it different that wasn't my intention."

This has been a total nightmare, I'm now communicating via email with him. I will keep you all updated

Again thank you for everything
Why did you TEXT a termination notice? Sorry, but IMO, that is really unprofessional. As the parent, I would be offended as well.....not only about the termination, but the way it was delivered.

Also, no offense Black Cat, but I would NEVER tell a parent that their child "requires far more care and attention that I am able to provide" It makes it sound as though you are incapable of providing adequate care, because you did not specify WHY you are unable to meet his needs.
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Blackcat31 12:09 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:

Also, no offense Black Cat, but I would NEVER tell a parent that their child "requires far more care and attention that I am able to provide" It makes it sound as though you are incapable of providing adequate care, because you did not specify WHY you are unable to meet his needs.


But it is the truth. I have told parents this several times and never view it as a bad or negative thing.

I didn't elaborate on the "Why" for this poster because she ahs obviously been in constant communication with the parent about the troubles she is having with the child/behavior.

Some children simply are too much to handle or deal with in a group setting. Especially if they are aggressive, physical or super needy.

Doesn't mean the provider is a bad one but it does mean the provider IS unable to provide the child the level of care they require so I would expect the notice to come across that way. truthful.

I surely wouldn't lie to a parent. That doesn't help anyone.

I would gladly explain my statement to ANY parent that asked.

No way I am sugar coating things because a parent might not take it well.

I am an adult as are they.
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Crystal 12:30 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:


But it is the truth. I have told parents this several times and never view it as a bad or negative thing.

I didn't elaborate on the "Why" for this poster because she ahs obviously been in constant communication with the parent about the troubles she is having with the child/behavior.

Some children simply are too much to handle or deal with in a group setting. Especially if they are aggressive, physical or super needy.

Doesn't mean the provider is a bad one but it does mean the provider IS unable to provide the child the level of care they require so I would expect the notice to come across that way. truthful.

I surely wouldn't lie to a parent. That doesn't help anyone.

I would gladly explain my statement to ANY parent that asked.

No way I am sugar coating things because a parent might not take it well.

I am an adult as are they.
I understand. I agree to let them know that their child is "too much", but I would include the how and why, even if they already know, simply because it is the final "termination" and I would want to be VERY specific.

Thanks for clarifying though, and double thanks for not being offended
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Little Star75 01:56 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
Why did you TEXT a termination notice? Sorry, but IMO, that is really unprofessional. As the parent, I would be offended as well.....not only about the termination, but the way it was delivered.

Also, no offense Black Cat, but I would NEVER tell a parent that their child "requires far more care and attention that I am able to provide" It makes it sound as though you are incapable of providing adequate care, because you did not specify WHY you are unable to meet his needs.
I didnt text the 2-week notice. I wrote it up and emailed it to DCP
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Little Star75 02:02 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
I understand. I agree to let them know that their child is "too much", but I would include the how and why, even if they already know, simply because it is the final "termination" and I would want to be VERY specific.

Thanks for clarifying though, and double thanks for not being offended
I actually did explain WHY I'm unable to care for dcb. One he's always sick which I had to enforce my policies I guess I was being too nice, two he was just diagnosed with asthma and required special treatment (nebulizer) and NO I rather not risk it sorry if I offend anyone but my decision has been made and cleared to parent. I have 5 more children that I need to care for and if I have to give the nubilizer treatment that would take too much of my time and will distract others. Of course there is other issues going on that I rather not discuss here.
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Little Star75 02:04 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by EntropyControlSpecialist:
If you are only providing care for 2 weeks and are keeping/requesting the funds to do so as a 2 week notice then yes, you need to take him.
But dcb was already scheduled to be off to begin with. I already have my menu and curriculum schedule for this week without him plus this is spring break vacation and we will be going on field trips all week. It's not recommended for dcb to be out since he has frequent ear infections.
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Crystal 03:57 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I didnt text the 2-week notice. I wrote it up and emailed it to DCP
Sorry, I misunderstood. You said the "DCP said he took my text as if dcb was too much for me" so I thought it was a text. Silly me
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Crystal 03:59 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I actually did explain WHY I'm unable to care for dcb. One he's always sick which I had to enforce my policies I guess I was being too nice, two he was just diagnosed with asthma and required special treatment (nebulizer) and NO I rather not risk it sorry if I offend anyone but my decision has been made and cleared to parent. I have 5 more children that I need to care for and if I have to give the nubilizer treatment that would take too much of my time and will distract others. Of course there is other issues going on that I rather not discuss here.
I know you have talked about it with the parent. My point was, I would include why in the written notice. THAT is what they will remember and have written documentation of and I feel it is in your best interest to be as detailed as possible in any written communication and ESPECIALLY in a written notice of termination of care.
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Crystal 04:01 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
But dcb was already scheduled to be off to begin with. I already have my menu and curriculum schedule for this week without him plus this is spring break vacation and we will be going on field trips all week. It's not recommended for dcb to be out since he has frequent ear infections.
I understand this. However, if you give notice when they are not scheduled to be there and expect them to pay anyway, that is unfair. They either can attend and use their remaining two weeks or they don't pay for the final two weeks. I would have given the notice after they returned and give them two weeks OR I would have terminated effective immediately since they were not scheduled to be there and expect to not be paid for it. I actually think it might not be legal to charge and then not allow them to attend....not sure, though. I'd ask Tom Copeland.
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Little Star75 04:02 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
Sorry, I misunderstood. You said the "DCP said he took my text as if dcb was too much for me" so I thought it was a text. Silly me
Sorry I'm sounding confusing right lol I actually type it up and in one of her text I also responded but everything is in writing and documented.
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Crystal 04:03 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
Sorry I'm sounding confusing right lol I actually type it up and in one of her text I also responded but everything is in writing and documented.
Lol! Okay, I get it.
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Little Star75 04:06 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
I understand this. However, if you give notice when they are not scheduled to be there and expect them to pay anyway, that is unfair. They either can attend and use their remaining two weeks or they don't pay for the final two weeks. I would have given the notice after they returned and give them two weeks OR I would have terminated effective immediately since they were not scheduled to be there and expect to not be paid for it. I actually think it might not be legal to charge and then not allow them to attend....not sure, though. I'd ask Tom Copeland.
I understand that dcb week off happened to be during this 2-week trial but I did give parent the notice on Friday which I still allowed him to make the decision to bring dcb. He was going back in forth undecided if dck were attending or not I can't be waiting for him. I have to plan accordingly for the menu and curriculum. YKWIM
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Crystal 04:08 PM 04-08-2013
How frustrating! After rwading your other thread about the behavior, I would honestly just be done with it. TODAY!!!!

to you for hanging in there!
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Little Star75 04:08 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
I know you have talked about it with the parent. My point was, I would include why in the written notice. THAT is what they will remember and have written documentation of and I feel it is in your best interest to be as detailed as possible in any written communication and ESPECIALLY in a written notice of termination of care.
I did put in writing for DCP.
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Crystal 04:10 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I did put in writing for DCP.
hahaha! I understand now. I was confused before!
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Little Star75 04:16 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
How frustrating! After rwading your other thread about the behavior, I would honestly just be done with it. TODAY!!!!

to you for hanging in there!
I know but how do I tell DCP?? He's going to think I'm making it up. What if DCP makes things up to my licensor? This is serious though dcb touched dcg on her private part!
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Crystal 04:33 PM 04-08-2013
Originally Posted by Little Star75:
I know but how do I tell DCP?? He's going to think I'm making it up. What if DCP makes things up to my licensor? This is serious though dcb touched dcg on her private part!
"HOW" did he touch her? I ask because different situations call for different measures.


Otherwise, Document it for your files. You will need to let the DCG's parents know as well and let them know that the child who did this will no longer be in care as your highest priority is to protect their child and the other children in care.

Tell the dcb's parent at pick up time EXACTLY what happened and tell them you are unable to continue to care for the child. Call your licensor and let her/him know what happened. They may require you to file an "unusual incident" report. I would do so anyway, because that will then be on file with your licensor should the parents of the boy try to retaliate by making a false accusation.

Good luck, and keep us informed. You will be fine with licensing IF you are the first to notify them.
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