Take a look at our January newsletter!
REALESTATEPLANNINGLAW.COM 718-698-2200 January 2025
WE KEEP YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH
IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING
HOW ESTATE PLANNING BRINGS PEACE OF MIND FOR THE YEAR AHEAD START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT
January always feels like a fresh start — a time for new beginnings and big decisions. As an estate planning attorney at Merlino & Gonzalez, I can’t help but think it’s the perfect moment to take stock of your life and plan for the future. Most people will be working on New Year’s resolutions, but you should also take time to ensure your loved ones have clear guidance and peace of mind when they need it most. Whether you’re a young professional building your career, a parent with young children, or someone approaching retirement, January is a great time to create or update your estate plan. We all like to think we’ll have plenty of time to handle estate planning “later.” But the truth is, none of us know what the future holds. The best time to create a comprehensive plan is now while you’re healthy and clear-headed. It’s far better to make these decisions on your terms than to leave your family guessing during what may already be a difficult time. Without a proper estate plan, your loved ones could face unnecessary court battles, legal fees, and family disagreements. I’ve seen it happen too many times: A missing signature, an outdated will, or a vague provision can lead to endless confusion and stress. These situations are entirely avoidable when you take the time to plan correctly. I understand the temptation to prepare your will on your own. Online templates and software might seem like a quick and affordable solution,
but they often create more problems than they solve. Estate planning is more than just writing down who gets what — it involves anticipating issues, understanding the law, and making sure every detail is addressed. For example, what happens if one of your beneficiaries predeceases you? How should taxes be handled? What about digital assets like social media accounts or cryptocurrencies? Generic templates often fail to address these questions, leaving your family to figure it out. When you work with an experienced estate planning attorney, you’re not just checking off a box but building a thorough, customized plan that ensures your wishes are carried out exactly as you intend. For those of you who already have an estate plan, January is an excellent time to revisit it. Life changes — marriages, divorces, new children, career advancements, or even changes in state laws — can all impact your estate plan. Updating it ensures that it continues to reflect your current circumstances and intentions. One common mistake I see is failing to update beneficiary designations. Your will might say one thing, but if your 401(k) or life insurance policy still lists an ex-spouse as the beneficiary, that’s where the funds will go. These are details that shouldn’t be overlooked, and a yearly review can help catch them.
There’s something empowering about getting everything in order at the start of a new year. It’s a chance to prioritize what matters most and set the tone for the months ahead. Whether creating an estate plan for the first time or updating an existing one, take this opportunity to make it happen. From wills and trusts to health care directives and powers of attorney, an estate plan is a road map for your family’s future. Let’s make this January the month you take that step. Your loved ones will thank you, and you’ll gain peace of mind knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect them.
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PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
How to Craft Your Own Secret Door With Murphy Door Kits! SECRET PASSAGES AREN’T JUST FOR MANSIONS
Have you ever dreamt of having your own secret passage? Well, now you can with a DIY Murphy Door kit! Transform any ordinary doorway into a hidden entrance and bring a touch of mystery to your home. Whether it’s a doorway to your study or a sneaky side entrance to your pantry, the Murphy Door offers an easy-to-assemble kit that lets you become the architect of your own adventure. All it takes is four simple steps! Step 1: Out With the Old First, you need to say
jamb, and casing a good sanding with 180-grit sandpaper. This will help your chosen paint adhere better, ensuring a smoother, more professional finish. Choose a hue that complements your room, or go bold with a pop of color — this is your secret door, after all! Step 3: Assemble the Jamb Now, let’s get building. Assemble the jamb according to the instructions. The great news is that all the hardware comes with pre-drilled holes, making this part a breeze. You’ll feel like a DIY pro in no time! Step 4: Install the Hardware and Casing With the jamb in place, it’s time to add the hardware and hang your door. Then, fit the casing around it to give everything a neat finish. The precision of the pre-assembled kit ensures everything aligns perfectly, leaving no clues about the door’s true nature. Voilà! You now have a fully functioning secret door that swings right or left and can open inward or outward, depending on your preference, and when it’s closed, everyone will think it’s just an ordinary bookcase or cabinet. With its simplicity, you can start this project whenever you’re ready to add a little mystery to your living space. Why settle for a standard doorway when you can have a hidden gem?
goodbye to your boring old door. Remove the door and the door frame you want to replace. It’s demolition day in the best possible way — no hard hats necessary, but feel free to wear one if you’re getting into the spirit! Step 2: Prep and Paint Grab your paintbrushes! But before you dip into the color, give your bookcase,
Walt Disney World Without the Wallet Woes
YOUR GUIDE TO AFFORDABLE FAMILY FUN
Avoid Disney hotels. Disney’s hotels have different price tiers. Deluxe resorts like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge usually cost around $500 a night. Moderate-tier resorts like Disney’s Coronado Springs
For years, a visit to Walt Disney World felt like an essential part of the American upbringing. There’s nothing quite like taking a picture with Mickey Mouse, the unique water smell in the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, or the night-time fireworks spectacle over Cinderella Castle. However, the cost of a Disney vacation has increased significantly in recent years, and features that helped make the trip more magical, like free transportation to and from the airport, are a thing of the past. Many families struggle to save enough money to travel to Orlando to visit Disney World. Thankfully, cost-saving strategies can help get you and your loved ones in front of the castle. Have a plan for snacks and meals before arriving at the park. Disney parks are well-known for their world-class restaurants and food options, but with good quality comes a higher cost. A soft pretzel shaped like Mickey Mouse with cheese sauce costs more than $8; buying more than one adds up quickly. Disney allows you to bring your own snacks and nonalcoholic beverages into the park, so consider taking advantage of that. Make a budget, research the restaurants beforehand, and have everyone pick out what they want to eat so you know exactly how much food will cost.
can run anywhere from $250–$500, depending on the season. And the value resorts usually stay under $250 a night. However, if you were to stay at a non-Disney hotel, you’d pay a fraction of the price while still being close to the parks. Consider hiring a travel agent. This might sound counterproductive if you’re trying to save money, but Disney works closely with various travel agencies to help park-goers cut costs and reduce stress. They will help plan every aspect of your trip and ensure you get all meal reservations and Lightning Lanes your family wants. They’re also the first to know when discounts go live, so they can ensure you get resort and ticket prices at the best value.
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HOW TO AVOID POA MISTAKES THAT COULD COST YOU Is Your Power of Attorney Up to Date?
Neglecting Updates Life changes — like divorce, the death of a loved one, or shifts in financial circumstances — may render your current POA outdated. Failing to update the document regularly could leave someone you no longer trust in charge of critical decisions. Be sure to review and revise your POA often to ensure it reflects your current wishes and relationships. Skipping Professional Guidance While using a free online template may be tempting, generic forms rarely address your unique circumstances. Many lack the necessary detail or fail to comply with state-specific legal requirements, increasing the risk of complications. Consulting an estate planning attorney ensures your POA is customized to your needs, legally sound, and free from ambiguity. We specialize in crafting comprehensive estate planning documents that ensure your wishes are honored. Don’t let vague language or outdated forms jeopardize your future — let our team provide the expertise and personalized guidance you deserve. Call us today at 718-698-2200 to update your estate plan and create a POA you can rely on. Your future and your loved ones’ peace of mind are too important to leave to chance — secure them with the trusted professionals at Merlino & Gonzalez.
Drafting a power of attorney (POA) is a vital step in protecting your future, but it demands cautious planning to avoid costly mistakes. This document gives someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you cannot, covering financial or other critical areas. When done correctly, it ensures your wishes are followed. However, common blunders can create confusion and conflict. Here’s what not to do when drafting your own POA. Selecting the Wrong Agent Choosing the right agent is crucial, yet many people prioritize emotional connections over qualifications. While it’s natural to consider a spouse, child, or close friend, the person must also be trustworthy, responsible, and capable of handling the complexities of financial decisions. An agent without the proper skills or judgment can inadvertently create problems you did not intend. Overlooking Durability A common oversight is not making the POA durable. Without durability provisions, the POA could become invalid if you become incapacitated due to sickness or injury. A durable POA ensures your agent’s authority remains intact under any circumstance, safeguarding your interests during critical times.
Citrus Olive Oil Cake Michele’s Recipe Corner
INSPIRED BY GIMMESOMEOVEN.COM
INGREDIENTS
• • • • • •
1 cup almond flour
• • • • • •
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp almond extract
2/3 cup medium-grind cornmeal
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
Zest of 1 lemon, plus 2 tbsp juice Zest of 1 orange, plus 2 tbsp juice
1/2 tsp sea salt
3 eggs
Powdered sugar, optional
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 350 F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and lightly grease the sides with cooking spray. 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk almond flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt until combined. 3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, vanilla, almond extract, and lemon and orange zest and juice. Combine the wet ingredients with dry ingredients. 4. Pour batter into the springform pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 15 minutes. 5. Run a knife gently around the edges of the cake, then remove the sides of the pan. If desired, dust cake with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh strainer.
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718-698-2200 | realestateplanninglaw.com WE KEEP YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH The Perfect Time to Create or Update Your Estate Plan Page 1 Add a Touch of Mystery to Your Home With a DIY Murphy Door Plan Your Perfect Disney Escape Without Breaking the Bank Page 2 Avoid These Common POA Pitfalls Citrus Olive Oil Cake Page 3 Spice Up Your Month Page 4 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
January 2025 is brimming with exciting events that promise fun, flavor, and intrigue for Staten Island and New Jersey residents! From a heartwarming celebration of global culinary traditions to the wild wonders of an animal showcase and even a glamorous murder mystery dinner, this month offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars and prepare for a month filled with unforgettable experiences right in your community! Abuelita Masala: A Celebration of Grandma’s Cooking Jan. 11, 2–3:30 p.m. Snug-Harbor.org/upcoming-events-calendar Abuelita Masala is a delightful culinary event where grandmothers from diverse cultural backgrounds share their most treasured dishes. Attendees will enjoy tastings of these flavorful recipes while discussing their rich origins and traditional preparation techniques. This unique gathering is part of the “Abuela’s Kitchen” exhibition and is hosted by Sarah Blas of Staten Island Therapeutic Gardens and Jamillah LaSalle of Bait Ul Jamaat House of Community. Admission is a suggested donation of $5–$10. Don’t miss this heartwarming celebration of food and culture! Mark Your Calendars! A Month of Exciting Events in Staten Island and New Jersey
‘The Wild World of Animals’ Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m. CarteretPAC.com/events/the-wild-world-of-animals
Experience the thrill of the “Wild World of Animals Show with Grant Kemmerer,” voted one of the top five edutainment shows in the world! Perfect for kids and adults alike, this fast-paced event showcases fascinating reptiles, birds, and mammals while blending fun with fascinating facts. The show highlights the expertise Kemmerer gained from guiding Everglades tours, scuba diving, and training animals. Kemmerer has live animal programs across 37 states and ecotourism lectures worldwide.
‘Murder Mystery Dinner Show: Midnight at the Masquerade’ Jan. 25, 7–10 p.m. StGeorgeTheatre.com
Step onto the St. George Theatre stage for a scandalous evening like no other! At Midnight at the Masquerade, you’ll join the Billionaires’ Club Annual Masquerade Ball — a night of glamour, intrigue, and murder. With table seating facing the theater’s majestic interior, you’ll trade clues, gather intel, and work to unmask the culprit behind the evening’s shocking crime. Come dressed in your finest evening wear and Venetian masks to fully immerse yourself in this interactive murder mystery dinner.
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