A round-up of some recent news stories about New York City schools, plus a random silly video for your viewing pleasure. But first, the news:

A couple of great deals to snap up if they fit your bill. Find out how to get your environmentally friendly, toxin free diapers for almost half off from Amazon.com and scoop up a last minute Halloween Costume from Ricky's also half off. Check these deals out fast.

We've all been hearing lots of hype about getting vaccinated for the H1N1 swine flue on the radio, television, and in the print media urging people to get the vaccine. On the other side there have been lots of conversations in the playgrounds and on message boards discussing fears of the side effects and dangers of the flu vaccine. But once, you get over the question of whether to get the vaccination or not, you're faced with a second issue: how do you find a flu shot vaccine?

I had it down with the old MetroCard fares, buy a $40 card and get the 15% bonus for an extra 3 free rides and the card would empty out perfectly. Now with the $2.25 fare and a 15% bonus, I find I never know how much to buy in order for it to come out even. What? The MTA is making me multiply and divide fractions now? Don't they know I went to NYC public school?

In a smart move, Baby Einstein is offering a full refund to anyone who purchased their DVDs in the past 5 years after complaints that the videos are not, in fact, educational.

Last week I wrote about some not too spooky haunted houses to take the kids to. I'm adding Chelsea Market as another great Halloween destination for spooky and fun decorations, treats and a big Halloween event this Friday.

It has always really bummed me out that there was no great craft store in New York City. When I was a kid I used to go to the Woolworth's on Broadway for all kinds of crafts supplies. I loved that place, but it's been gone for ages and, while you can find some craft supplies at the art supply stores, it's hit or miss. So, I am thrilled that, finally, there is a great craft store in New York City with the opening of Michaels on the Upper West Side. Yes, it's a huge chain, and, yes, it smells unbearably like potpourri, but I'll take it!

Halloween isn't just about candy. This weekend you can take Halloween on from every angle with Fall and Harvest festivals, at a pumpkin festival, in a historic mansion, a green halloween, glamrock and even from the point of view of bats. But that's not all, the Greenpoint/Williamsburg Halloween Parade is this weekend, plus the non-scary kids version of Nightmare: Vampires Haunted House is this weekend only. Yes, Halloween is eerily upon us, but have no fear—we’ve got you covered! From last minute DIY costume ideas, to healthier options for treats, there’s tons of great stuff in our Halloween Fun Guide.