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REALESTATEPLANNINGLAW.COM 718-698-2200 August 2024
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IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING
Always on the move and somehow still radiating positivity — I couldn’t be more thrilled to spotlight Greg Sokol with RE/MAX Elite. Greg has been an incredible friend and colleague throughout the years and has truly been the image of professionalism and authenticity for not only our clients but also our team here at Merlino & Gonzalez. GREG IS BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE After 25 years in the industry I love, it’s the relationships and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives that keeps me excited about what tomorrow brings. My name is Greg Sokol with RE/MAX Elite, and I will always jump at the chance to share a bit about my career as a manager and associate broker and my invaluable connection with Merlino & Gonzalez, a firm that continues to raise the bar. The Merlino & Gonzalez team shares the same priority I do: not just taking care of our clients’ needs but exceeding their expectations. Merlino & Gonzalez consistently provides my clients with exemplary service, making everyone feel like family. Their expertise in navigating complex real estate transactions is unmatched, and they are always able to offer insightful guidance with a strong focus on client satisfaction. Their proactive approach helps anticipate and resolve issues before they arise, and I can’t imagine a better team! As for myself, I have plenty on my plate managing a RE/MAX office. From overseeing operations and supporting agents to ensuring the office runs smoothly, I’m constantly on the move. My key management duties include A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
agent support and development, where I provide guidance, training, and resources to help our agents succeed. This includes coaching on sales techniques, market trends, and legal requirements. I want to ensure our agents can provide the excellent service we’ve always been known for. I also manage day-to-day operations such as office administration, scheduling, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Maintaining excellent relationships with clients and ensuring their needs are met promptly and professionally is a top priority. My day typically starts by checking emails and messages, reviewing appointments, and preparing for scheduled property showings and client meetings. I return calls, follow up on leads, and update listings on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). I also regularly hold meetings with agents to discuss priorities, market updates, and upcoming events, all while providing guidance on negotiations and address any challenges they may encounter.
I became a Realtor because I love people and the opportunity to work with a diverse group. Building rapport and earning the trust of my
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PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
FOCUS ON THESE 5 WELLNESS PRACTICES BY HARLEY PASTERNAK More Than Just the Numbers
In the world of health and fitness, it’s easy to get lost in the numbers — constantly checking the scale, measuring waistlines, and obsessing over every calorie. However, renowned celebrity fitness trainer Harley Pasternak offers a refreshing perspective with his five fundamentals of health and wellness, which focus more on lifestyle habits rather than the numbers that often define our fitness journeys.
emails after a particular hour or dedicating time to read a book or meditate, for example, will help maintain a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. 3. Stress Management: Managing stress is another pillar of Harley’s approach. Chronic stress can lead to a host of health issues, including heart disease, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Incorporating daily practices like deep breathing exercises, yoga, or even short walks can significantly mitigate stress levels. 4. Healthy Diet: Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall wellness. Instead of counting every calorie, concentrate on the quality of the food you’re consuming. Hydration is also crucial! 5. Resistance Exercises: Resistance training is fundamental to building muscle, burning fat, and increasing metabolic rate. Harley suggests
incorporating simple resistance exercises into your routine, such as squats, lunges, or push- ups, which you can do anywhere. You gain direct control over your health and wellness by shifting focus from the scale to these five key areas. Remember, the numbers on a scale are merely indirect results of your daily habits. Focusing on these actionable and controllable aspects of your lifestyle means you don’t need to worry about the scale. You’re building a foundation for a healthier, happier life.
1. Daily Steps: Harley emphasizes the importance of movement. Rather than
spending hours in the gym, he advocates for getting your daily steps in. This could mean taking a brisk walk in the morning, opting for the stairs instead of the elevator, or even pacing during phone calls.
2. Unplugging: It’s too easy to be glued to our phones all day. Setting boundaries not to check
BACKYARD CAMPING MADE EASY Pitch a Tent to Make Memories
Camping is an excellent way for families to disconnect from their devices and spend time together — but traveling to a campsite isn’t always feasible. Instead of forgoing this treasured summer activity, think outside the box and discover the best campsite you’ll ever pitch a tent in — your own backyard. Here are our two tips for success.
order. It’s also not a bad idea to stash extra supplies (like batteries) or a first-aid kit in a tote before heading outside. And don’t forget the cooler! Stock it with juice boxes and other cold beverages or fruit, plus easy-to-heat-and-eat foods like hot dogs, cans of soup, or even store-bought camping meals you simply add boiling water to. Get creative with campfire cuisine. The best part of camping is the time spent around the campfire, and mealtimes are an ideal excuse for this summer tradition. Don’t have a fire pit? No problem! A charcoal grill works just as well.
will remember forever. Buying extra sticks, chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows make crafting s’mores a breeze. Are you looking for something a little healthier? Foil packets filled with rice, proteins, vegetables, and flavorful liquids like broth or wine can be placed near the fire for hands-free cooking. Get creative with your dishes, and you might discover a new family favorite to add to your weekly rotation — or to savor and keep as a campground specialty. You might forget you never left home as you tell spooky stories, go on scavenger hunts in your yard, and enjoy other campsite activities or games. Camping doesn’t have to happen at some exotic location — what matters is time spent together unplugged from your tech and plugged into nature.
Make a pact to stay outside (no cheating)! If you’re going to pretend you’re ramping,
you have to commit fully. That means no running into the house except for bathroom breaks or emergencies! To ensure you don’t disrupt your fun, pitch your tent and set up your campsite, double-checking that everything you need is present and in working
Roasting hot dogs on sticks over a bonfire is a classic camping experience your kids
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Master the Zoning Maze How to Leverage Zoning Laws for Real Estate Success
Whether you’re an investor, developer, or simply looking to purchase commercial property, understanding New York’s zoning laws is crucial. Understanding the zoning distinctions and their implications can significantly impact decision- making and property value. Understanding Zoning Classifications New York State categorizes zoning into three main types — residential (R), manufacturing (M), and commercial (C). Each category is then subdivided to address specific usages:
activities, from light (M1) to heavy industries (M3), keeping more disruptive industries away from quieter commercial and residential areas. Commercial Districts (C1-C8): Varying from neighborhood retail stores (C1) to heavier commercial uses like gas stations and car repair shops (C8), each category influences the types of businesses that can operate in a certain zone.
property’s development potential. For example, a property zoned for residential use that is set to be rezoned for commercial use can increase in value overnight, offering substantial equity gains once the rezoning is approved. Navigating Zoning Complexities For those unfamiliar with New York’s zoning laws, understanding and adapting to these regulations can be overwhelming. Missteps can lead to significant financial and resource losses. That’s why consulting with a knowledgeable real estate attorney is crucial. They can provide legal clarity, help tailor your development plans, and ultimately prevent costly mishaps. Investing in New York’s real estate can be highly lucrative, but success largely depends on a thorough understanding of zoning laws. Our team can provide expert guidance and strategic planning so you can make informed decisions that optimize the potential of your investments.
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The Impact of Zoning on Property Value The designated zoning type greatly influences a property’s value. High-demand zones that allow for a variety of business operations are typically more valuable due to their flexibility and income potential. Meanwhile, properties in zones with restrictive uses usually have lower costs. Zoning Changes and Property Potential Zoning laws are not static; they can and do change. These changes can dramatically alter a
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Residential Zones (R1-R10): These range from areas suitable for single-family homes (R1) to zones where residential skyscrapers are permitted (R10). This structure prevents incompatible developments, such as skyscrapers next to single-family homes. Manufacturing Districts (M1-M3): These zones are designed to accommodate different levels of manufacturing
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Michele’s Recipe Corner
Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad
clients is incredibly rewarding, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Helping people achieve their goals, whether it’s finding their dream home, selling a property quickly, or making a sound investment, is what drives me. I enjoy guiding people through the process and providing expert advice. Yet, after 25 years working with buyers and sellers, it gives me the greatest satisfaction. I am so happy to still make time for those relationships, both old and new. Throughout my career, I’ve been honored with several accolades, including being named the 2010 Realtor of the Year and serving as the 2017 President of the Staten Island Board of Realtors. I am a proud member of the Staten Island Board of Realtors (SIBOR), the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and the New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR). With the assistance of Merlino & Gonzalez, I have the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. Working with John Merlino and his team at Merlino & Gonzalez has been a game-changer. Their expertise and client-first approach align perfectly with my commitment to excellence. Together, we provide our clients with unparalleled service and support, ensuring their real estate transactions are smooth and successful.
INGREDIENTS Chicken • 3 tbsp olive oil
Corn and poblano salad • 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup all-purpose flour • 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper • 1 1/2 tsp salt • 3/4 tsp black pepper • Zest of 1 lime • 8 chicken thighs
• 2 poblano peppers, diced • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 14-oz can of corn • 4 scallions, minced • Juice of 2 limes • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro • Salt and pepper
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, spices, and lime zest. Dredge chicken in the mix to coat. 4. Add chicken, skin-side down, to skillet, then place skillet in the oven for 30–35 minutes. 5. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil and add poblanos. Sauté 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute. 6. In a bowl, add poblano mix, corn, scallions, lime juice, and cilantro, toss and serve with the chicken.
You can reach me at 646-209-1008. Here’s to many more years of making dreams come true!
–Greg A. Sokol
Inspired by PureWow.com
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394 Manor Road Staten Island, NY 10314
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718-698-2200 | realestateplanninglaw.com WE KEEP YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Greg Celebrates 30 Years of Real Estate Excellence Page 1
Transform Your Health With Harley Pasternak
Discover the Campground in Your Own Backyard (Literally) Page 2
Decode New York’s Complex Zoning Laws
Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad Page 3
Our Picks for Community Fun and Festivity Page 4
WHERE COMMUNITY MEETS CULTURE YOUR WEEKEND GUIDE TO STATEN ISLAND’S CAN’T-MISS EVENTS
There’s always something buzzing in and around Staten Island! Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekend plans or find new treasures, these community events are the place to be. It’s more than just fun; it’s about connecting with neighbors, discovering local talents, and making every outing a little adventure. So, grab your friends, pack the family into the car, and come see what all the fuss is about. Let’s make some memories and support our local scene — it’s the neighborly thing to do!
to the Forest of Arden, finding refuge among exiles and a peaceful Resistance. This adaptation weaves romance and wit, perfect for Shakespeare lovers and novices alike! Performances are scheduled for Sept. 13, 14, 20, and 21 at 7 p.m. at Snug Harbor Cultural Center. Plan for an evening of timeless theater with a historic twist!
the gender-neutral Fig King at 5 p.m., a tradition celebrating the best fig presentations. A suggested donation of $5 supports this organic gathering, a staple since 2010. The Richmond County Fair Is Back! Aug. 31 to Sept. 2, 12–8 p.m. HistoricRichmondTown.org/rcf Join in on the fun at Staten Island’s annual community celebration and Historic Richmond Town’s biggest fundraiser — the Richmond County Fair! For 43 years, this beloved event has showcased the best of Staten Island while supporting Historic Richmond Town’s mission to preserve our local history. Enjoy carnival rides, games, pony rides, and a wine ring toss. Delight in aerialists, stilt walkers, strolling violinists, and roving balloon artists. Of course, fair food is always the highlight, so indulge in treats from Eggers Ice Cream and Main Street Coffee. Fun for all ages awaits!
Fig Fest 2024 Sept. 14, 2–6 p.m. LighthouseMuseum.org/event/ fig-fest-save-the-date
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s ‘As You Like It’ Sept. 13–21 SIShakespeare.org/events/ sist-presents-as-you-like-it
Head to the National Lighthouse Museum for a delightful afternoon celebrating the unique fig! Bring figs from your own farm to swap and discuss everything fig-related, or simply chow down on fig delights. This year’s special feature is the Paw Paw “Paw-tee,” honoring the indigenous Lenni-Lenape people with tastings of pawpaws, a regional fruit. Enjoy this waterside event with food and beverages for sale and participate in crowning
Step back in time with Shakespeare’s “As You Like It,” reimagined against the backdrop of World War II. Join Rosalind, her cousin Celia, and the humorous Touchstone as they escape
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