The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Merchant Profiles

Granite Real Estate
Tax Consultants, LLC: Granite Real Estate Tax Consultants Posts Record Lows in 2011

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Homeowners Lower Their Assessments/Real Estate Taxes by up to 51%

David Ruzow, Managing Director of Granite Real Estate Tax Consultants, is delighted with his company’s year-end results – down, the way he and his clients like it. That’s because Granite’s business is helping homeowners lower their assessments and save on property taxes. Ruzow is uniquely qualified to represent clients because of his dual expertise as both a certified real estate appraiser and a licensed real estate broker. His knowledge and judgment, gained in over 30 years of valuing real estate, make all the difference in mounting a successful property assessment challenge.

“The fact is, we offer our property tax reduction services only to homeowners who we believe are over-assessed,” commented Mr. Ruzow. Granite will prepare an appeal and follow all of the steps necessary to get the reduction the client deserves. The fee, 50% of the first year’s tax savings, is owed only if and when the assessment gets reduced.

Trust the experts
The burden of proof is on your consultant to present a credible case of over-assessment. Having an expert represent you – someone who knows values in the area, understands what comparables to use as proof of value, and who speaks the same language as the assessors, is critical. David Ruzow can handily counter an argument put forth by an assessor because he is an expert at the valuation, and negotiation of real estate.

Granite Real Estate
Tax Consultants serves
Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess and Orange counties. For a complete list of services, visit 
www.granitetaxreduction.com.

Granite Real Estate 
Tax Consultants, LLC
351 Manville Road,
Pleasantville, NY 10570
914-747-8999

Dr. Lydia Evans: Fraxel, For Younger, Smoother Skin

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By Dr. Lydia Evans

“My friend just had Fraxel and her skin looks incredible.” Happily, this is a comment that I hear regularly in my office about one of my favorite treatments for skin rejuvenation. Fraxel re:store is a laser designed for resurfacing the skin. There are actually two different laser wavelengths that can be produced by this instrument. One treats at a deeper level in the skin to improve fine lines and wrinkles, while the second works at a more superficial level to help erase brown spots and discolorations. Both wavelengths can be used in a single treatment that is specifically tailored to the individual’s needs. Fraxel can also be utilized to diminish scars and reduce pre-cancerous lesions. In addition to treating the face, Fraxel can be very effectively used on the neck, chest, back, arms and hands.

Fraxel creates microscopic columns of laser light that penetrate deep into the skin. The laser treats only a portion of the tissue, which promotes quick healing. The body’s own healing process replaces damaged, discolored cells with healthy skin. Significant improvement can be seen after one treatment, although best results occur after two to five treatments, depending on the skin’s condition.

The procedure can sting a bit, so an anesthetic cream is applied in the office an hour before the procedure. Immediately after treatment, the area will be pink and a little puffy for two to three days. This is followed by a bronze coloration and a slightly rough texture, which lasts for several more days and gradually flakes off. The result is smoother, younger appearing skin with a more even texture, tone and color. Improvement will continue over several months as the skin continues to build new collagen.

I am very pleased with the results of Fraxel treatment for my patients and myself (yes, as always, I tried it on myself first!).

Along with practicing Dermatology in Chappaqua since 1993, Dr.Lydia Evans has been a consulting dermatologist for L’Oreal since 2000 and has been a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and New York State Chairperson of the Psoriasis Research Foundation.

Eye Designs of Armonk: Where Quality and
Fashion See Eye to Eye

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PRODUCTS/SERVICES: “Eye Designs is the most trusted place for eye exams, contact lenses, top quality prescription lenses, and an extensive selection of eyeglasses and sunglass frames,” says Optician Jill Magro. “Our sophisticated styles attract customers from all over.” Eye Designs takes special pride in fitting children and easing them into wearing glasses. The special ‘kids room’ has a great selection of durable, yet fashionable frames. Eye Designs uses the latest digital lens technology and top-of-the-line products. Customers appreciate the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Says Magro, “If you want to see more clearly, and be seen in frames that will suit you perfectly, we invite you to come see us.”

BACKGROUND: Eye Designs has been in the optical business for over 20 years and saw a great opportunity in Armonk nearly twelve years ago. We are proud to introduce Dr Janet Woo, our new optometrist. She brings her expertise in Optometry along with a Masters in Nutrition to us, offering a unique combination of visual aids and nutrition, to address your health and ocular concerns. She enjoys fitting contact lenses on everyone; from shy teens to presbyopic adults. She is looking forward to meeting you all and helping you see clearly and comfortably according to your specific visual needs.

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Eye Designs offers cutting-edge styles, exceptional service and personalized care. The focus at Eye Designs is making sure the patient’s prescription is filled accurately, the glasses fit and you are happy with your experience.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Customer service is what Eye Designs holds dear. Product quality and selection, as well as product knowledge are also of the utmost importance. As an example of the kind of service Eye Designs likes to offer, one patient who couldn’t leave her home due to illness was thrilled to receive a personal house call.

SPECIAL PLANS: With the economy being the way it is, Eye Designs understands and is working hard to maintain the core philosophy of a personalized relationship with its clientele and a sensitivity towards economic conditions reflected in current promotions. Eye Designs will be holding its Annual Oliver Peoples Trunk Show in the Spring.

Eye Designs of Armonk
STORE MANAGERS/OPTICIANS
Jaime Herman & Jill Magro
OPTOMETRIST:
Dr. Janet Woo
IN BUSINESS SINCE:
August 1999
www.eyedesignsarmonk.com