reflection paper

No.

Time

 Sender 

 Message

1.

9:59 AM 

Gosnell, Michelle (MGOSNE9056) 

Hey Everyone, how should we do this negotiation project, with so many people involved I'm not sure how we should try and juggle schedules. The reflection paper is due on Sunday, but I have to get mine written Saturday morning because I'm on a plane all day Sunday headed to Mexico City, and Saturday afternoon/evening I'm moving. So ideally we could get this going as early as possible :) what are your thoughts?  

2.

10:09 AM 

Wright, Cristin (CWRIGH9633) 

I am not certain how to do it either, Michelle. What if we each log in when we can and make contributions (in the persona of our individual roles)? That would require each of us viewing the logs to keep up to speed with the progression of the negotiation. Does anyone else have any thoughts? This will be a challenge, but I think we can do it! 

3.

7:54 PM 

Wright, Cristin (CWRIGH9633) 

I certainly hope that my family is able to muddle through this probate successfully. I know my oldest daughter will be pragmatic about things, but I worry about that younger one of mine. What if she takes my precious wedding ring and pawns it so that she can gallivant around the world? I'd die all over again. And that Joe fellow she married is no good influence on her either. I would like to see my grandson provided for if Joe doesn't manage to swindle him out of that coin collection that I know would get him off to a good start in life. Oh well, if they can't get it together and act civilly, they'll just have to live with sharing 30% equally!  

4.

8:00 PM 

Oleka, Onyinyechi (OOLEKA4892) 

Hey everyone! I think it's a good idea to just go ahead and act in our roles and log in when schedules permit. But I do think that we should set a deadline for our decisions on who gets what. I'm really still trying to figure out if my role is a young child or an older child. In either case, who's gonna take care of me since Mother is deceased?! LOL 

5.

8:55 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

As your mothers attorney recommend the following options:  

6.

9:08 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

1. Sell the home in Virginia and the cottage in South Carolina then split the profit equally among the children (Lisa, Katelyn, Debra (son), Nyechi and Kimberly). Divide the furniture pieces, Car,Cat,Wedding ring, coin collection, books and photos equally among the children. The Bank Account and retirement fund will be split equally among the children.  

7.

9:13 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

2. If no agreement is reached by noon Friday then I will sell everything and give 50% to Tribe XYZ, 10% to the University, 10% to Red Cross, and the remaining 30% divided equally among everyone. Of course my fees will be taken off the top. 

8.

9:14 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

3. Lets liquidate everything now. Split the money equally. After my fees of course. Oh and I'll take the cat! 

9.

10:42 PM 

Boettcher, Gary (GBOETTCHER) 

I suggest you merely begin with your thoughts and others will jump in. Focus on the negotiation strategy you want to use and manage your emotions. Do not be yourself... role play your part. Dr. G 

10.

10:55 PM 

Boettcher, Gary (GBOETTCHER) 

Nyechi, You are the "Adopted Tribal Child: The Chosen One. A very special person in "mother's" eyes. 

No.

Time

 Sender 

 Message

11.

8:12 AM 

Gosnell, Michelle (MGOSNE9056) 

As the twin brother I really only want what is due to me, family photos, and any family heirlooms. Otherwise everything else should stay within her family. However I  

12.

8:12 AM 

Gosnell, Michelle (MGOSNE9056) 

I'm happy to take my portion of the money if everything has to be sold and divided equally  

13.

12:34 PM 

Woodard, LaFontenay (LWOODA4809) 

Joe (Married to the second oldest daughter) – The Scoundrel (Nicky) and I am married to Second to the Oldest Daughter: The Vulnerable One (Kimberly). I don't want my wife to be taken advantage of she deserves everything that is rightfully hers. I would suggest selling the property and slit it evenly among her children. 

14.

12:38 PM 

Woodard, LaFontenay (LWOODA4809) 

The money needs to be slit equally among her children since they are legally the next of kin. Her sibling get whatever is left after the children take what they want. I am referring to her personal items.  

15.

12:41 PM 

Bailey, Debra (DBAILE4110) 

Debra ( youngest son, middle child) I vote to sell all the property and equally divide the money between her children. Legally the children are the next of kin. The personal items should be given to those who place the most importance on them. 

16.

9:23 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

As the oldest daughter I feel that the houses, coin collection, and car should be sold and divided between the four children. The eldest grandson should get the books. The four kids should divide the bank account and retirement also. The wedding ring should go to the eldest daughter. The antiques and photographs should be divided among all involved. I can take the cat if no one else wants her.  

17.

9:28 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

Five children including her adopted one.  

No.

Time

 Sender 

 Message

18.

6:00 AM 

Simmons, Kurtz (KSIMMO3274) 

I am very much in agreement with Lisa. Her solution appears to be the most logical and rational of the bunch thus far. As a fellow scholar, I greatly respect the legacy of grandmother and her lifelong pursuit of higher knowledge. I personally understand the hardships she endured to reach a high level of success in the academic world. We shared a common bond in our journey to obtain knowledge and recognition, and on numerous occasions we had discussions related to our respective fields of study. Without giving offense, I feel I understand this aspect of grandmother more so than other members of our family. I read a large number of books from her striking collection throughout the years, and she happily allowed me to borrow literature on a whim. I honestly feel the bond we shared, coupled with the familiarity I have with her library makes me the prime candidate to inherit this bibliotheca. I have no desire for her other material possessions. I simply respect her collection and I believe I can ensure her legacy subsists.  

19.

8:32 AM 

Wright, Cristin (CWRIGH9633) 

I know that my half-sister told me right before I died that she was in recovery, but after years of drug abuse, I just don't trust her. She'll swindle the entire family, if they let her....and those biological children of mine never did understand my work. I know they resent my tribal child. They never did accept her. She is a beautiful creature that I saved. They had better respect her during this probate process. 

20.

1:21 PM 

Edwards, Kimberly (KEDWAR6189) 

our mother will hate if we fail to share some of what she treasured most with them 

21.

1:22 PM 

Edwards, Kimberly (KEDWAR6189) 

The home in Virginia should be left intact and everyone will have equal access to it anytime 

22.

6:54 PM 

McGill, Katelyn (KMCGIL5137) 

No! I want to take the cat! I also think that we should just sell the house and run with the cash! I want to to pack up the cat and travel to Amsterdam for some fun! However, they "Tribal Child" shouldn't get anything! They aren't really family. Also, I don't want to have a house tying me down to the States! Just sell it off and split everything. My older sister can have the ring. As far as the pictures go, though, someone should scan them all and send everyone a flash drives with all the pictures on them and then someone (I don't care who as long as it isn't me) can keep the originals!  

23.

7:11 PM 

Edwards, Kimberly (KEDWAR6189) 

The antique furniture should be donated. the youngest daughter should be given the cat, it is her pet and they are inseparable  

24.

7:51 PM 

Oleka, Onyinyechi (OOLEKA4892) 

Even though she worked all the time, mother did love us all very much. I agree that we should split everything equally, but I want the pictures that we took together, for sentiment. I also want the cat. When mother was gone, that's who kept me company. 

25.

7:56 PM 

Bailey, Debra (DBAILE4110) 

Well no offense taken eldest grandson, but truthfully speaking Mother was no closer to you than she was to your Mother. But if you want your grandmother’s striking collection of books have at them. Just stop with the puffery mess. We need to settle this mess before the only person to acquire anything is the Attorney.  

26.

7:56 PM 

Oleka, Onyinyechi (OOLEKA4892) 

Wait a minute, cause I just saw what that youngest sister said about me not being family. Te lies you tell and if mother was here she would tell you too! I'm the Chosen One! She chose me because I am from the tribe that is near and dear to her heart! What her whole life's work has been based on! She told you about being jealous and not including me in family business! If we can't agree that everything should be split between ALL FIVE CHILDREN, then I'm fine with what the lawyer said originally and letting a percentage go to the tribe. They loved her just as much! 

27.

8:02 PM 

Bailey, Debra (DBAILE4110) 

Thank you (adopted one) that is what I have been saying.. Give the tribe what Mother wanted them to have, the assets, divide the personal items, and split the proceeds among the 5 children.  

28.

8:27 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

I recommend everyone take a deep breath and REALLY think about your decision here. Here are some points to consider:  

29.

8:29 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

1. Maintaining either house will require the payment of taxes (which in Virginia are very high) plus the cost of upkeep THIS WILL COST YOU MONEY. 

30.

8:36 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

2. The majority of what I'm hearing is to sell the assets and split the money equally. I know some of you may want a "personal" item. Lets simplify this a bit. I recommend we sell everything and split the proceeds. If there is an item you want from the estate sale, you can buy it. After all, you'll eventually get the money back. Lisa, the oldest daughter can split the photos with the other sibling (or scan them). The cat can go to Katelyn 

31.

8:38 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

3. If I have to sell everything, I'll be receiving a larger percentage  

32.

10:33 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

Sister...If you would like the cat that is find. I really don't think that meandering around the world with a cat is a stable environment for the cat, but that is your style. As far as our adopted sibling, they are just that...adopted. This means they are family and have the same privileges as the rest of the siblings. Mother liked the child for a reason and we should respect those wishes. As far as keeping the house, it is just going to create further arguments and tear us apart. Please consider my recommendations as these are most fair.  

33.

10:34 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

In addition, the scanning of the photos are an excellent idea. 

34.

10:40 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

Peter I can agree with the idea of buying the antiques after we sell the homes if we wish to, but our uncle should get a few pieces since he is not receiving anything from the sale of the property.  

35.

11:31 PM 

Oleka, Onyinyechi (OOLEKA4892) 

Well, I too think selling the assets and splitting everything is the best idea. But I want the cat. We all know mother got the cat for me when I was adopted to help me adjust. Being the chosen one was not easy, and the cat being there helped. Besides, what is the cat going to do in Amsterdam while she's out having fun?? Just sit there alone when it could be with me. So, I propose selling assets, I'm keeping the cat, splitting the profit between us but still give a percentage to the tribe to honor mother, and I'm KEEPING THE CAT. Since mother said I'm chosen, that's what I chose. 

No.

Time

 Sender 

 Message

36.

12:52 AM 

Simmons, Kurtz (KSIMMO3274) 

I’m happy I could appeal to your senses, “uncle” Debra. I think we are obliged to exhibit a bit more respect for grandmother and her legacy. After all, she struggled at length in the name of generating a mark prior to shuffling off this mortal coil. This senseless bickering will get us nowhere. Kimberly, I agree grandmother would be hurt if her inheritance wasn’t apportioned. The most sensible way to ensure that happens is to follow Lisa’s logic and simply sell and divide the property. As Peter the attorney indicated, maintaining a house requires time and money, which are valuable commodities. Allowing sentiments to mar a rational approach to this ordeal will waste time, create friction, and ultimately deliver 70% of grandmother’s estate to various charities and educational institutions, along with Tribe XYZ … Though a bit more money to the university wouldn’t be entirely objectionable I suppose. At any rate, grandmother was a scholar, and therefore a judicious hominid—unlike some of the Neanderthals in this family. It’s only reasonable to follow the most responsible approach. Furthermore, I suggest seeking out more worthwhile endeavors. Dwelling on the acquirement of material possessions is so … fruitless.  

37.

1:04 AM 

Simmons, Kurtz (KSIMMO3274) 

Ummmm ... by the way, I’ll happily purchase the bookcases from whoever inherits them.  

38.

7:45 AM 

Edwards, Kimberly (KEDWAR6189) 

The eldest grandson should be given the bookcases and some collectable books  

39.

9:02 AM 

Wright, Cristin (CWRIGH9633) 

I never, while I was living, expected my children to understand the choices that I made. I know that it sometimes seemed like I put my career ahead of them, and I did at times. I realize that there may not be sentimental attachment to any of the tangible things I left behind, but I do hope that the cottage remains in the family so that it can be enjoyed for generations to come. Maybe my children, ALL of them, can use it as a place to form better relationships. That may be the only venue for them to come together...... 

40.

10:47 AM 

Edwards, Kimberly (KEDWAR6189) 

I am to the point that my family will negotiate this probate while having everyone satisfied. I will consider the polite interests of all  

41.

5:06 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

Based on the past few days of negotiations. I recommend you consider the following option before we reach the deadline of noon tomorrow. We will conduct a pre "estate sale" event for the heirs (Lisa, Katelyn, Debra, Nyechi and Kimberly). Here are the rules:  

42.

5:10 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

1. The heirs listed above get $100K each in credits to purchase beloved items from your mothers estate. In case of multiple bids for the same item, the highest bidder wins. A tie will be decided by coin toss.  

43.

5:21 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

2. Prices for items will be the same as listed in the previous property list appraisal, with the following exceptions: A. The antique furniture prices will be 150K-Bedroom set, $300K-dining room with hutch, $200K- Dressers (4 total), 100K-bookcases. B.The cat will cost $100k, C. Photographs are free and will be chosen by the heirs first. Picking order will be oldest to youngest (Nyechi your adoption date will determine your order). All remaining photos will be available to the remaining family.  

44.

5:23 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

3. Remaining items will be sold at the estate sale then equally divided among the heirs (5). 

45.

5:31 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

If we cannot come to an agreement, I will sell everything, per your mothers wishes. Be advised that I received a certified letter yesterday that was to be delivered upon her death. It was an update/amendment on her final wishes. If we don't reach an agreement then I will get 30% of the proceeds from the "sell off." 

46.

6:23 PM 

Bailey, Debra (DBAILE4110) 

I have to agree with you eldest grandson, we need to follow Lisa’s logic to sell and divide all the property. As you so kindly pointed out, dwelling on the acquirement of material possessions is a fruitless waste. As our dear Mother would attest to if she could….we cannot take our dearly acquired possessions with us when we to quote Shakespeare and eldest grandson “shuffle off this mortal coil”. 

47.

11:56 PM 

Boettcher, Gary (GBOETTCHER) 

I see a lot of positional arguments ongoing here. Who is driving towards interests that meets the mutual needs of the parties? Are you focusing on differences or on opportunities to create greater value for the collective mutual needs of the members? Dr. G 

No.

Time

 Sender 

 Message

48.

12:29 AM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

I am sticking to my most of my recommendations. From the sounds of some of these suggestions, I can understand why mother preferred the tribe. Greed is the root of all evil. I still recommend the suggestions from the logical daughter. However, Onyinyechi should get the cat since it has been with her all this time. Cristin, maybe mom has the right idea in keeping the cottage. Maybe she realized that she wasn’t there for us, and wants us to find comfort in each other by keeping the cottage. We can set aside an account to put a percentage of the money in for its upkeep. If no one finds these suggestions amiable, then let it all go to the tribe and we can settle for 30%. Let’s see how that satisfies you money hungry insensitive people who are suppose to be family.  

49.

12:49 AM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

Ok, let’s keep the cottage for family gatherings and let mom know we appreciated her hard work. We can rent it out to help with upkeep. Sell Virginia home, car, ring, and coin collection. The funds from that and the retirement and bank account should be divided equally amongst all five of the kids. Kurtz mother would have wanted someone who would appreciate literature, so you should get the books and book cases. The antique furniture can stay in the cottage if we are keeping it. The photographs should be copied and given out to everyone who wants them in the family. Nyechi you should keep the cat since she has been around you most. If we cannot decide on this, then it should be given to the tribe. Life is too short to be wasting time being greedy. If you feel you are being slighted in any way, you can roll the dice and pay for a mediator to see how well you fair.  

50.

6:45 AM 

Simmons, Kurtz (KSIMMO3274) 

Lisa, thank you for taking a responsible approach. You always did have a sensible way about you. I fully support your proposal and I think it provides benefit to all parties involved. Moreover, it respects the desires of grandmother, which is honorable. Debra, I know you’ve expressed support for moving forward with this recommendation as well, and I think your siblings respect your judgement. Kimberly, I believe you communicated an interest in reaching an amicable solution. How do you feel about what’s been presented? Katelyn, I feel this will provide you with a greater means to explore the world and do as you please. The share you will receive in the instance the alternate arrangement is invoked will be significantly less. Nyechi, you are indeed a part of the family, and your mother loved you deeply. We talked in length about your culture and I know she had a profound respect for your people. You previously stated you were content with dividing grandmother’s inheritance and moving forward. Are you in agreement with your siblings? It appears they have also agreed to grant you possession of the cat. I know it will bring you comfort. I believe it to be most advantageous if the parties involved reach a consensus on the significant matters at hand, and settle on tentative agreements for some of the “lesser” elements. After all, if no agreement is reached, then most everything will be left out of reach, including the possessions with sentiment attached to them. Furthermore, the attorney has expressed he will receive a considerable sum of money, which will further diminish the distribution of assets to all parties involved. Do we honestly want to take from grandmother and give to a legal representative and a stranger?  

51.

9:29 AM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

If all the sibling are agreeable to Lisa's proposals on post #13 and 14 please let me know by 1pm eastern time today. 

52.

9:31 AM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

Correction to my previous post. I'meant Lisa post #s 31 and 32. thanks Atty 

53.

10:56 AM 

Oleka, Onyinyechi (OOLEKA4892) 

I agree with Lisa on keeping the cottage for family gatherings, but the items being sold...are we dividing those also? I still feel a percentage should be given to the tribe. Without the tribe, I wouldn't be here, and really, none of us would have anything... Also, thank you soooo much for giving me the cat. 

54.

12:15 PM 

Edwards, Kimberly (KEDWAR6189) 

I agree with Lisa's proposal. I want mother to be proud of us that we are making the right decision.  

55.

12:19 PM 

Gosnell, Michelle (MGOSNE9056) 

I'm in agreement with most everything that has been said here, I would like the originals of the photos as I'm old and don't understand flash drives or whatever those are.  

56.

2:33 PM 

Evans, Peter (PEVANS5982) 

It's 2:30pm Eastern time zone, well past our deadline. From what I see, we don't have total agreement by the heirs. All items will be sold and distributed per your mothers wishes. v/r Attorney Pete 

57.

9:01 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

I think the time should be extended since we made much progress. I am not sure who set the deadline time. Nyche, if you want the tribe to have money, that is something that you can distribute with your share since many of the others will not agree to this.  

58.

9:35 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

Pete I think we have enough cooperation to do my recommendations. 

59.

9:39 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

It looks as though the calendar says we have until 6pm Saturday. So please don't be so hasty to collect your paycheck.  

60.

9:41 PM 

McGill, Katelyn (KMCGIL5137) 

I can agree to everything Lisa says, but as long as I get the cat. That is my only stipulation. I need a furry companion to accompany me!  

61.

10:00 PM 

Tipton, Lisa (LTIPTO9546) 

Katelyn, that is not going to happen. That is no life for a cat who is used to being in a home. The cat should stay with Nychie  

No.

Time

 Sender 

 Message

62.

1:27 PM 

Boettcher, Gary (GBOETTCHER) 

Folks, Thank you for those who have robustly participated. I want you all to know that roles were not randomly assigned ... they were assigned based on your personality profiles and how they matched the specific role. That isn't a bad, critical, or judgment, I merely thought it would be easier for you to role play the character and negotiate on their behalf. PLEASE use the rest of Saturday to complete the negotiation and then write up your "analysis" of the negotiation dynamic. Strive to connect with as many principles/concepts that we have covered to date in your analysis ... not only what worked, but what did not work and why. Have fun with this assignment and wow yourselves. Dr. G