Business

New York Entrepreneur Will Makris Assures New York Is Not Dead

Published

3 years ago

October 10, 2020

Panic consequently set in from viral posts about New York being dead. People believe anything they read these days, but as a New York resident, I can assure you, it is very much alive. Yes, we have experienced major setbacks from the pandemic, but what city hasn’t? Anyway, New York is notorious for being busy, even nicknamed “The City That Never Sleeps.” People, those pictures on Twitter of empty streets, are from March. New York is getting back into full swing, the traffic is heavier, and every neighborhood restaurant is packed outdoors until curfew…and maybe even a little after. Though most of us are being health-conscious, the hustle and bustle to get the economy back are powerful. Entrepreneur Will Makris is a believer that New York is not dead, and his restaurants and recent private club opening serve as proof.

Makris, a hospitality veteran, is a co-owner of multiple successful restaurants in Manhattan. He has experienced the ups and the overwhelming amount of downs 2020 has offered. Through it all, he remained optimistic and kept the high morale of his staff and partners. Since restaurants were deemed essential, Makris and his partners kept their doors open for takeout while abiding by all regulations and proper employee testing. The optimistic leader and his team felt compelled to give some sort of hope to the people of New York.

Lola Taverna, the relatively new kid on SoHo’s block, pushed through winter and the pandemic. Since it survived both, it could probably survive anything. Makris and his partner Cobi Levy opened the popular Greek spot nearly a year ago and, more recently, were able to redesign the outdoor space to give the community a refreshing escape from all the chaos. It is now packed every night of the week and breathing life back into social interactions. Makris and Levy’s other must-visit spot Little Prince, located down the street from Lola, famous for its crowd-pleasing, dietary accommodating dishes, has been around for seven years and is currently available for private events. The duo has plans to build on the brand and are currently constructing a more elevated version of the concept.

“The city has been picking up and people are streaming back in and becoming more comfortable with socializing,” Makris said. “We have absolutely seen an uptick in business, and I believe it will continue to increase.”

The restaurant business took a hit, but with regulations lifting and the spread being contained, it is expected that these restaurants will experience a revenue spike; some may even make up for lost momentum.

Now, packed restaurants are not the only sign of hope. Makris and his other business partner Scott Sartiano have been given the green light to open their private membership club next week. Zero Bond, which has an adequate and safe number of members already, will absolutely attract more elites to New York in the near future. Not only that, but it serves as an example that opening or starting a project during a pandemic is very achievable. New additions to the great city of New York definitely means it’s not dead.

Overall, New Yorkers are tough, and when faced with adversity, they will join in solidarity and do whatever to make a comeback. From what I have seen, everyone is getting out as much as possible to support businesses and ensure New York stays alive.

Business

Choosing a Reliable Roofing Contractor: 10 Questions to Ask

Published

3 days ago

September 25, 2023

Matthew Wiles

The durability and safeguarding of your home are heavily reliant on the state of your roof. Whether you’re confronted with repairs, a full replacement, or the installation of a new roof, the selection of the perfect roofing contractor holds paramount significance. Determining whether you’re selecting the best option among the abundance of choices available can be difficult. In order to help you with this crucial decision-making process, we have painstakingly put together a list of 10 crucial inquiries to ask potential roofing contractors.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Verify the contractor’s eligibility to operate in your locality by scrutinizing their credentials, and be sure to demand evidence of insurance. The significance of this step lies in its role as a protective shield, guarding you against potential liability should any accidents or property damage transpire during the course of the project.

2. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters in the roofing industry. Contractors with a long history of successful projects are often more reliable and capable of handling various roofing issues.

3. Can You Provide References?

In the process of choosing a contractor, it is imperative to request references from their previous clients. A trustworthy contractor will not only furnish you with a roster of contented customers but will also supply their contact details, affording you the opportunity to reach out directly and delve into their firsthand experiences. This direct feedback will provide invaluable insights into the contractor’s performance, professionalism, and dependability, empowering you to make a well-informed decision.

4. What is Your Specialty?

Roofing contractors may specialize in specific types of roofing materials or projects. Make sure they have experience with the type of work you need, whether it’s asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or commercial roofing.

5. Do You Offer Written Estimates?

To foster clarity and preempt potential misunderstandings, it is strongly advised to refrain from solely relying on verbal estimates. Instead, it is prudent to seek a thorough, written estimate that encompasses all critical facets of the project. This written estimate should include a complete analysis of the necessary materials, an estimate of labor expenses, and a clearly defined schedule outlining the project’s key checkpoints and the anticipated completion date. By employing this tactic, you can provide the groundwork for good communication and guarantee that all stakeholders are aware of the needs and parameters of the project.

6. What Warranty Do You Offer?

Inquire about the warranties they offer for both materials and workmanship when choosing a contractor. An honest and reliable contractor will always stand behind their work and provide thorough warranties that shield you from any potential flaws or problems that might develop later. These guarantees not only give you peace of mind, but they also show how dedicated the contractor is to producing top-notch outcomes and assuring your pleasure throughout the entire process. So, don’t hesitate to ask about the warranties and make an informed decision that gives you added confidence in your choice of contractor.

7. Do You Have Proper Permits and Documentation?

Ensuring that the contractor you hire will manage all the necessary permits and paperwork on your behalf is of utmost importance. This proactive approach not only conserves your valuable time and effort but also serves as a protective barrier against potential legal complications or entanglements that could surface down the road. By entrusting these responsibilities to a dependable contractor, you can enjoy peace of mind and dedicate your focus to other aspects of your project or business with unwavering confidence.

8. What Safety Measures Do You Have in Place?

Ensuring safety should always be a paramount concern when undertaking any roofing project. It is crucial to inquire about the contractor’s safety practices, which encompass not only the equipment they utilize but also the extent of their training. By doing so, you can help guarantee the well-being and security of all individuals involved in the project, fostering an environment that prioritizes safety above all else.

9. How Will You Handle Unexpected Issues?

When embarking on roofing projects, it’s essential to acknowledge that they can occasionally unveil unforeseen issues that were not initially apparent. Engaging in a candid conversation with your contractor regarding their contingency plans for addressing these unexpected challenges is of paramount importance. Furthermore, it is prudent to inquire about the potential extra expenses that might arise due to these unanticipated circumstances. Establishing a transparent understanding of how the contractor intends to manage such situations contributes to a more streamlined and prosperous roofing project.

10. What Is Your Timeline for Completion?

To maintain a seamless workflow, it’s essential to gain a thorough grasp of the project’s schedule. Delays can be a source of significant frustration, which underscores the importance of having a precise understanding of what lies ahead. This knowledge empowers you to plan and allocate resources with precision. Being well-informed about the project’s timeline enables you to anticipate and address any possible challenges or obstacles that may emerge, ultimately contributing to a more successful and efficient execution.

*Bonus Tip: Check Online Reviews and Ratings

Prior to reaching a final decision, it’s advisable to conduct an online review and rating check for the roofing contractor. Platforms such as Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau can furnish valuable insights regarding their reputation and levels of customer satisfaction.

Selecting the appropriate roofing contractor is a momentous decision that holds the potential to influence the long-term structural soundness and overall value of your home. By posing these 10 critical questions and undertaking comprehensive research, you’ll be fully equipped to choose a dependable roofing contractor capable of delivering top-notch workmanship and providing you with peace of mind throughout your roofing project.