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April 2024
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IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING
A VETERAN’S JOURNEY TO OFFERING AERIAL CITY TOURS SKY-HIGH DREAMS
After working with Ash and learning his story, I knew we had to share his adventures with you here in our newsletter. From two decades in the military to flying sky high in New York City, Ash has recently entered a new phase of his career and life. Here’s his story.
After spending two incredible decades serving as an Army engineer officer, I’ve embarked on a thrilling new chapter that’s a world away from my military life. Yet, somehow, it feels like a seamless continuation of my journey. My military career, commissioned by my mother, who was a U.S. Navy physician, was more than a job; it was my family’s tribute to a nation that welcomed us with open arms in 1963. I always thought I’d wear the uniform for 30 years, but life had other plans. After a 14-month deployment, the sight of my baby girl, who had started walking in my absence, reshaped my priorities. I decided I wanted to leave like Johnny Carson did and part ways while my career was on a high note. As a command group member working closely with a general, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices military service demands from families. At the 20-year mark, I made a decisive pivot to dedicate the next decade to my family, supporting my wife’s career as a physician and being present for our children. It was during this time that I did some real estate work and had the pleasure of working with Merlino & Gonzalez! With my daughter about to graduate from college and my son already working for SpaceX as an engineer with the new Starship Spacecraft system, it’s time for me to revisit passions that have always lingered in the background: aviation, photography, and videography. My fascination with flight isn’t new; helicopters were a significant part of my Army life. However, today, my focus has shifted to the skies of New York City, piloting fixed- wing aircraft as the proud owner of Azzurra City Tours, one of the only fixed-wing tour operators in the NYC area.
I acquired the business from a fellow aviation lover, Dave, who decided he wanted to put the wrench down as a mechanic and become an airline pilot. As I dove into this venture head first, it opened my eyes to the unique appeal of airplane tours over helicopters, as airplanes provide a quieter, more stable, vibration-free experience. Authorized by the FAA, we operate under strict guidelines to ensure safety and compliance, making our tours not just exhilarating but also secure. Ultimately, this endeavor isn’t just about offering tours; it’s about providing a bucket list experience. Every flight feels like being a kid in a candy store, and I want our passengers to share in that wonder. At Azzurra City Tours, we’re not just flying; we’re creating unforgettable memories. Whether it’s the meticulous planning, the photos, or the swag, every detail is designed to make our tours a once-in-a- lifetime experience. In a world where days at the office often blur together, I want our passengers to remember their special hour with us forever.
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Tune In to Your Body’s Clock UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF NATURAL REST
When we lie down and settle into sleep, our brain starts descending
If we wake up naturally from the light sleep stage, we feel refreshed and rejuvenated. A clock alarm, though, doesn’t know which sleep stage we are in, so it may wake us when we are in the deep sleep stage. Being abruptly awoken in this state leaves us disoriented and groggy. It creates sleep inertia, an uncomfortable stage that can put us in a bad mood when we first wake up. Our bodies are not designed to wake up during deep sleep. Cortisol, our natural energy hormone, is like a slow-release pill crafted by nature. Levels decrease as we get ready to go to bed and rise when it is time to wake up. If the alarm disrupts the natural sleep cycle, waking us before the cortisol surge, we feel out of sorts. Our brains and bodies are designed to balance our well-being. When we respect its natural rhythms, we enhance our mood, boost our cognitive abilities, and nurture our overall health. Each night is a new opportunity to reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom and wake up to a more vibrant and harmonious life. So tonight, when you lay your head on the pillow, listen to the whisper of your internal clock and embrace your natural sleep patterns. Sweet dreams and sweeter morning awakenings are ahead if you do.
from the conscious realm into the soothing arms of slumber. As you drift off, your brain activity decelerates, your body temperature dips, and muscles relax. This phase, known as light sleep, makes up about half of our total sleep time.
As the night progresses, we enter the deep sleep stage. Here, our body’s muscle tone and heartbeat find their calmest rhythm while the brain’s activity shifts to delta waves. It’s like a restorative elixir flowing through you, bolstering your immune system and mending the day’s wear and tear. Deep sleep is pivotal in cementing memories and contributes to creativity and insightful thinking. Then, we enter the famous REM sleep, when our brain activity escalates. It is the stage responsible for our most vivid dreams and a fountain of learning and creativity. To enter REM sleep, we must be asleep for at least 90 minutes to cycle through light to deep sleep. Once we are in it, REM can last for about 90 minutes.
YOUR 4-WEEK SPRING-CLEANING CALENDAR
Spring-cleaning can be overwhelming. From the kitchen counter to the ceiling fan, there’s a lot of ground to cover. But there’s a trick to make it easier: Breaking down the work into quick, doable tasks spread over four weeks. Week 1: The Living Room The start of every journey begins with a single step, and that step is acquiring and prepping supplies. Wash out buckets, empty vacuum bags, throw microfiber cloths in the wash, clean mops, and shake out brooms. Next, it’s time to clean the light fixtures. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away dust and debris. Then dunk the cloth in soapy water, wring it out, and scrub the light fixture covering the bulb until it shines — just make sure you turn the lights off first. Once you’ve finished the lights, head to the bookshelves. Dust the tops and wipe down the sides. Make sure to wipe down any pictures or framed art on the wall. Lastly, move the furniture and vacuum underneath.
Week 2: The Kitchen Clean the dishwasher filter first. Devote the next two days to getting the stove to sparkle, including ridding the vent of grease. Wipe down the countertops and the cabinets. Clean out the microwave and wipe down any other countertop appliances. Congratulations, week two is over! Week 3: The Bathroom You’ll want to begin by removing the grime from the showerhead and sanitizing the
curtain. The curtain can be scrubbed and air- dried in the sun. Then clean and sanitize the shower and sink. Shine the fixtures. For the toilets, get under the rim with a toilet brush and give the much-ignored back some love, too. Now that the toilet’s shining, it is the perfect opportunity to get the floor. Take a little extra time to get the baseboards. Week 4: The Bedroom Clean the bedrooms from top to bottom. Now is a good time to wash your pillows and air-dry them. Bedroom ceiling fans can build up a lot of gunk over the winter. An easy way to clean them is by pulling a pillowcase around the blades and pulling them back. Next, polish any wood furniture. Thoroughly clean the windows with glass cleaner or a homemade mixture of vinegar and water, and remember to clean the window tracks. Lastly, test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
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with local regulations. However, there are legal pathways to bypass these restrictions if they interfere with your business plans.
Seeking a Variance Obtaining a variance allows property use that deviates from existing zoning laws. This process requires a comprehensive application to the local zoning board, detailing why an exception is necessary. The application undergoes a meticulous review, potentially leading to public hearings before the board makes a final decision. The Process for Obtaining a Variance The variance application is uniform across jurisdictions, demanding strategic presentation and compelling arguments to convince the board. Additionally, rezoning is an option for those looking to change a property’s designated use, though it comes with its own procedural demands. Expert Guidance at Merlino & Gonzalez The intricacies of zoning laws in New York and New Jersey can be daunting, highlighting the value of consulting with an experienced real estate attorney. At Merlino & Gonzalez, we specialize in guiding our clients through the variance or rezoning process, ensuring compliance, and advancing your business goals. If you’re exploring commercial real estate opportunities and are concerned about zoning issues, let us assist you. Contact Merlino & Gonzalez today at 718-698-2200 to discuss your property needs and how we can help navigate local zoning laws.
Navigating the complexities of local zoning laws is a crucial step for business owners purchasing or leasing property in New York or New Jersey. These easy-to-miss laws, which dictate permissible activities on commercial properties, can significantly impact your business operations. Understanding Zoning Laws In both New York and New Jersey, properties are categorized for specific uses such as residential, commercial, or industrial. This classification comes with a set of regulations and ordinances essential for every entrepreneur to understand. Whether you plan to open a bar, an office space, or a warehouse, your business activities must comply with the relevant zoning laws to avoid penalties. The Cost of Non-Compliance Violating zoning laws can lead to substantial fines, calculated on a daily basis, making it imperative to ensure your business operations align A GUIDE TO ZONING LAWS IN NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY Zoning Laws Decoded
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MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
While many say this new adventure seems destined after a life of loving aviation, I think I forged this destiny myself. I feel my journey has come full circle, but not because of chance or luck. “Luck” is what happens when preparation and opportunity come together. Every step I took led me here, and I couldn’t be more grateful for those opportunities and proud of myself for taking risks to get here. This venture is more than a business; it’s a continuation of my lifelong commitment to service, now directed at ensuring each customer’s experience is nothing short of magical. With Azzurra City Tours, I’m ready to explore the skies and offer others the chance to do the same, turning mundane tasks into extraordinary experiences.
SCALLOPS AND SPRING VEGETABLES WITH OLIVE-CAPER PAN SAUCE
INSPIRED BY EATINGWELL.COM
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 8 oz sea scallops, tough side muscle removed • Pinch of ground pepper • 8 oz asparagus (1/2 bunch), trimmed • 6 oz baby carrots, halved lengthwise
• 1 medium shallot, minced • 5 pitted green olives, coarsely chopped • 1 tbsp capers, chopped • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1/4 cup dry white wine • 1 tbsp butter • Chopped fresh parsley to garnish
Visit our website at AzzurraCityTours.com for more information and to book an appointment!
DIRECTIONS
1. In a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp oil. Pat scallops dry and sprinkle with pepper. Add scallops to pan and cook, flipping once, until browned and just cooked through, 1 1/2–2 minutes per side. Set aside. 2. In the pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil, asparagus, and carrots and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, 2–3 minutes. 3. Add shallot, olives, capers, and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 4. Add wine and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and add butter; stir until melted. 5. Plate veggies with scallops, then drizzle with pan sauce. Serve with parsley if desired.
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718-698-2200 | realestateplanninglaw.com WE KEEP YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
How an Army Engineer’s Passion Took Flight Over NYC Page 1
Embrace Your Sleep Cycle
Tackle Spring-Cleaning With a Week-by-Week Plan Page 2
What Business Owners Need to Know About Zoning Laws
Scallops and Spring Vegetables With Olive-Caper Pan Sauce Page 3 Explore April’s Most Exciting Events Page 4
April Adventures Await! CIRCUS THRILLS, CAKE DECORATING, AND PAINTING
Discover a world of enchantment and creativity in Staten Island and New Jersey, designed to bring unforgettable experiences to your doorstep. Dive into our selection of April’s must-attend events and make lasting memories with family and friends. Flip Circus Is Coming to Town! April 19–30 Tickets.FlipCircus.com/event/staten-island-ny68 Dive into the mesmerizing world of Flip Circus, where every seat promises an intimate and unforgettable interaction with the artists. With a legacy spanning more than 50 years and four generations, the Vazquez family has enchanted audiences across North and South America, creating cherished memories at Circus Vazquez. Flip Circus brings a fresh and exhilarating show that blends modern flair with a nostalgic touch. Bring your family for an extraordinary experience right outside the Staten Island Mall!
Join a Vintage Cake Decorating Class April 26, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Facebook.com/SweetNFancyNJ Love those intricate retro cakes all over Instagram? Then, step into the charming world of cake decorating at Sweet n’ Fancy Emporium! In this engaging class, you’ll master the art of vintage cake decoration under the guidance of skilled instructors. Learn
Creative Aging: Painting Italy With Artist Kathy Fieramosca April 8, 11 a.m. to12:30 p.m. NYPL.org/events/creative-aging Embark on an artistic journey to Italy without leaving the city at West New Brighton Library with artist Kathy Fieramosca’s “Painting Italy” program. Paint along with Kathy using a provided photograph as your guide, capturing a picturesque Italian landscape or village scene. This class will delve into color harmony, perspective drawing, and basic watercolor techniques. All materials supplied. While attendance at all sessions is highly encouraged, space is limited, and registration is essential. Part of the Creative Aging series, these free art classes are exclusively for adults aged 50 and older. Explore new artistic horizons — register now at the link above!
essential techniques, from detailed piping to delicate decorations, suitable for both beginners and experienced bakers. This is your chance to let your creativity
flow and leave with a stunning 6-inch vintage cake your own hands have crafted.
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