Take a look at our August newsletter!
REALESTATEPLANNINGLAW.COM 718-698-2200 August 2025
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IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING
Start Your Engines, Staten Island! HOW ONE CLUB’S LOVE OF CLASSIC CARS DRIVES COMMUNITY CONNECTION
I first got involved when I was a kid tagging along with my dad, who was club president more than a few times himself. I officially took the wheel about 10 years ago, and it’s been an honor to help steer the club forward. Growing up in the club allowed me to meet some of the best folks you’ll ever know, people who take their passion for classic cars and turn it into something meaningful for the whole community. Our biggest and most anticipated event is the Annual Fall Car Show, and let me tell you, if you’ve never been, this is the year to join us. Coming this September 14 to the Commons Cafe at the Teleport (rain date September 21), our Fall Show is a full-throttle celebration of all things classic. We’ll feature over 400 stunning antique and vintage vehicles, each with a story as unique as the owner behind the wheel. Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead or just someone who loves a good Sunday outing, there’s something here for everyone. A Staten Island tradition, our Fall Show draws thousands of spectators from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and other states, all coming together to relive memories, admire vintage craftsmanship, and celebrate the stories inside each vehicle. There’s even a red carpet for our show cars and special trophies for the standout rides.
only 45,000 miles. It made its debut at our annual
This month, I’m thrilled to hand the spotlight to an old friend and fellow Monsignor Farrell High School alum driving something special forward. Paul isn’t just preserving history on wheels; he’s building bridges across generations and giving back to our community in the process. With their Fall Car Show rolling into town soon, now’s the perfect time to meet the man behind the motor. Trust me, whether you’re a car buff or just love a great neighborhood story, this is one event you won’t want to miss! I’ve been turning wrenches and swapping stories about classic cars since I was a kid. Now, as the president of the Staten Island Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America (SIRAACA, for short), I can tell you one thing with certainty: People may come for the cars, but they always return for the people. Our club, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, was founded in 1974 as one of the now 350-plus regions under the national AACA umbrella. We’re a tight-knit group of around 40 members who share a passion for preserving American automotive history. But we’re more than a group of collectors, we’re a community- driven, 501(c)(3) nonprofit with deep roots in Staten Island. Everything we do is about giving back to this borough that’s supported us for over five decades.
Spring Dust Off in April and will be raffled off at the fall show. Every ticket supports local charities right here in Staten Island. That’s the kind of full-circle moment we live for. The fall show isn’t just about cars, either. We’ve got DJs spinning tunes, great food, a flea market for all your vintage finds, and plenty of family- friendly fun. Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or just looking for a great way to spend a Sunday, I can promise you it’ll be a weekend outing you won’t forget. And if you’re interested in joining, our doors are always open. Some members have been with us for over 40 years, others just a few months, but everyone has a story and a shared love of this hobby and the island we call home. Check out our Facebook page at Facebook.com/SIRAACA to learn more! There’s something special about classic cars. Maybe it’s the nostalgia. Maybe it’s the artistry. But for me, the connection to my family, this club, and the community keeps us going. I hope to see you at the fall show. Come see the cars. Come hear the stories. Come be part of something timeless. We’ll be waiting for you with engines revving, smiles ready, and a community that can’t wait to welcome you in.
–Paul Arena Jr.
This year’s big raffle car? A beautiful 2007 Mustang GT Convertible, in top shape with
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PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
Make Every Inch Count in Your Bathroom Tiny Bathroom? Mighty Storage!
Even your closet-size bathroom can feel open and organized with the right tricks up your sleeve. If you’re battling limited space, you don’t need a full renovation; a little creativity and a few clever additions can make a difference. Hooks Work Wonders Simple stick-on hooks are your bathroom’s new best friend. They come in stylish finishes like brushed silver, shiny gold, or classic bronze to match your aesthetic, and installation is a breeze. Use them for towels, robes, or even loofahs and swimsuits. Over- the-door hooks use the space most often ignored — right behind the door. Compartmentalize With Containers Nothing beats a tidy drawer or medicine cabinet, and the secret lies in compartmental organizers. These small containers store everything from Q-tips to toothpaste, so your
essentials stay where you need them. Take it further with stackable bins or below-the-sink drawers that maximize the awkward space around plumbing. The more compartments you have, the more clutter you can keep organized and out of sight! Shelf Your Worries Floating shelves aren’t just chic — they’re lifesavers! Mounted above the toilet or beside the mirror, these sleek platforms hold rolled towels, candles, or your go-to products in style. If you need more hidden storage, look for small cabinets or racks with doors to conceal the clutter and cut down on dust. Think Outside (or Under) the Box Do you have a sink with exposed plumbing under it? A pair of triangular shelves can hide unsightly pipes while storing supplies in an aesthetically pleasing way. You could also try a compact rolling cart with tiers — it’s mobile,
versatile, and perfect for storing everything from bath bombs to spare TP.
With just a few simple upgrades, your small bathroom can be beautiful and functional. Don’t let limited square footage hold you back! Get creative and organized, and love your little space even more.
PACK LIKE A PRO STRESS-FREE TRAVEL STARTS HERE
Create a packing list. While you can usually replace your phone charger or any forgotten clothes while on vacation, other items like prescriptions are irreplaceable and must go with you. List everything you need to bring to ensure you don’t forget anything. Categorize your list to make it easier to check off, and don’t forget to check the weather before you go. You can always get a raincoat at your location, but you’ll save money by bringing your own! Inspect your luggage. Have you ever seen someone digging through their
While taking a vacation is often the highlight of the year, many Americans dread the preparation involved in ensuring everything goes according to plan. You have to find the right flight at an affordable price, pick the best hotel to accommodate your needs and wants, determine whether you need a rental car, and get to the airport on time. The planning process is complex, which can lead to mistakes when packing your suitcases. We’ve all reached a destination
don’t want to be in this situation. Ideally, you should use a lightweight suitcase, but if that isn’t an option, do your best to avoid coming close to exceeding any weight limit. You should also make sure your luggage is not torn or damaged. If you bring a carry-on, measure it to ensure it fits in the overhead or under a seat. Having to check your carry-on can be time-consuming. Be intentional when packing. Your suitcase is essentially a big puzzle, and you have to ensure all the pieces fit together correctly. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to create more space, limit extra shoes or bulky items, and consider using packing cubes to compress and keep them organized. You should also leave room for souvenirs if you plan to pick up a memento on your travels!
only to realize we left behind
something vital or have luggage full of wrinkled clothes. Want to erase your packing woes? Start implementing
luggage before the baggage drop to see what they can leave behind to make their suitcase lighter? You
these strategies before your next vacation.
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THE HIDDEN RISKS EVERY REAL ESTATE INVESTOR SHOULD KNOW The Top 3 Mistakes That Sink Real Estate Portfolios
Due diligence isn’t optional. Behind every deal could be hidden structural issues, legal snags, or neighborhood red flags. That’s why thorough research is key. Don’t just glance at the listing, dig deep. Minimum due diligence includes:
Keep emotions out of the equation. A gorgeous fixer-upper or “too good to be true” price tag might tug at your heart, but smart real estate investing is all about logic. Avoid signing contracts based on emotion or gut instinct. Focus on the data. If the numbers don’t add up, walk away. Let legal experts light the way. A real estate attorney does more than read the fine print. They help you anticipate challenges, negotiate smarter, and protect your bottom line. At Merlino & Gonzalez, we help investors in Staten Island and beyond make real estate moves that are both bold and wise. Before you make your next investment, make your smartest one: Partner with a legal team that puts your future first. Contact the trusted team at Merlino & Gonzalez to ensure your next real estate move is a smart one.
Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way to build long-term wealth, but only if you sidestep the common mistakes that trap many newcomers. Even the most promising property can become a costly headache without a thoughtful strategy and professional guidance. Here’s how to protect your investment and your peace of mind. Always start with a strategy. In a red-hot market, it’s tempting to snatch up whatever hits the listings first. But impulsive buying is a fast track to disappointment. Successful investors know real estate isn’t about chasing trends but executing a well- crafted plan. Before touring properties or making offers, clarify your goals. Are you aiming for long-term rental income? A quick renovation and resale? Aiming for commercial space? Let your goals steer the ship. Without a clear direction, even the best deal on paper might be the wrong move for your future.
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Visiting the neighborhood at various times of day Ordering a professional property inspection Reviewing crime rates and safety concerns Checking for title issues, boundary disputes, or easements Consulting with a real estate attorney about any zoning or code complications Getting accurate repair quotes and assessing renovation needs Running a clear cash-flow analysis to estimate ROI
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These steps may seem tedious, but they can prevent major financial pitfalls down the road.
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Michele’s Recipe Corner
Inspired by ThePioneerWoman.com
INGREDIENTS •
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1 5.25-oz package crispy sugar cookies 1 0.8-oz package freeze- dried strawberries
1 pt strawberry ice cream 1/4 cup strawberry preserves
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1 pt vanilla ice cream
DIRECTIONS 1. Stir strawberry ice cream in a large bowl until spreadable. Fold in preserves until evenly streaked throughout. 2. Stir vanilla ice cream in a separate large bowl until spreadable. 3. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp of the strawberry mixture into the bottom of 8 (1/3-cup) popsicle molds. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp of the vanilla mixture on top of the strawberry mixture into the molds. Repeat, alternating the 2 mixtures, until each mold is full. 4. Place sticks into the popsicles and freeze until solid, 4–6 hours. 5. In a large zip-lock bag, crush sugar cookies with a rolling pin until pieces are rice-size; pour into a shallow dish. 6. Repeat with freeze-dried strawberries and stir the pieces together. 7. Run the ice cream molds under warm water to release popsicles from molds. 8. Coat bars evenly with cookie mixture. 9. Eat immediately or place on a cookie sheet and freeze.
Take a Break
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718-698-2200 | realestateplanninglaw.com WE KEEP YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
The Antique Car Club’s Fall Show Is Rolling In! Page 1
DIY Storage Hacks to Make Your Small Bathroom Shine
Avoid Vacation Packing Fails With 3 Easy Tricks Page 2
New to Real Estate Investing? Here’s What Not to Do
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Page 3
Symphony Nights, Soul Food Delights, and Historic Sights Page 4
One Last Summer Hurrah! As summer winds down, August brings one last burst of sun-filled excitement across Staten Island and New Jersey. Whether you’re grooving to the sounds of India, stepping back in time at a historic fair, or feasting on global soul food, these events celebrate culture, connection, and tradition. It’s the perfect time to embrace the rich diversity around us, honor local history, and soak up every last drop of warm‑weather fun before fall rolls in. Don’t miss these unforgettable end-of-summer experiences!
New Jersey Symphony: The Music of India With Kulture Kool Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, at 6 p.m. NJSymphony.org/events Get ready to groove under the stars! On Aug. 13, head to Provost Square Plaza for a vibrant evening of rhythm, color, and culture as the New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players team up with Kulture Kool dancers and sitar maestro Indrajit Roy-Chowdhury. From soulful Hindustani melodies to toe-tapping Bollywood themes, this Chamber Music After Hours performance is a full-on celebration of India’s musical magic. It’s your passport to a dazzling, dance-filled summer night in Jersey City. Sing along, clap to the beat, and maybe even bust a move!
Richmond County Fair Saturday, Aug. 30 – Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 HistoricRichmondTown.org/rcf Step right up for a Labor Day weekend like no other at the Richmond County Fair! Since 1895, this beloved Staten Island tradition has served a spirited mix of local flavor, family fun, and living history. Hosted by Historic Richmond Town, the fair features carnival rides, games, live music, and tasty food contests, plus hands-on history with costumed interpreters and reenactments. New this year: Adults 21 and up can sip on whiskey and cocktails inside an 1820s tavern! Come celebrate the past, party in the present, and support the preservation of this Staten Island landmark!
New York City Soul Food Festival Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025 NYCSoulFoodFestival.com Prepare to feed your soul! The NYC Soul Food Festival 2025 returns at Staten Island’s Snug Harbor Botanical Garden. Celebrate the heart and heritage of diverse cultures through sizzling soul food, live music, fashion, art, and community spirit. From global bites to a dazzling runway show and family-friendly fun, this event is open to all who wish to come! Feel the rhythm, taste the flavor, and join the movement that brings people together with every beat and bite.
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