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Anthony Stokes-Pereira

Rand Realty ‘goes Green’ In Its Offices, Helps Buyers, Homeowners Conserve Energy

Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty, one of the Hudson Valley's largest real estate brokerages with 22 locations, is "going green" in its offices and has introduced energy-audit discounts and educational programs to help sellers and homeowners reduce their energy consumption and bills.

"It's more important than ever for businesses and homeowners to do everything they can to reduce their energy consumption to reduce costs and benefit our environment," said Matt Rand, managing partner with Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty. "We want to establish Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty as a leading resource for information and assistance regarding energy conservation while setting a good example in our own operations."

A key part of Rand Realty's green initiative is a partnership with Green Tree Energy (www.greentreeenergy.com), a company based in Mt. Kisco, N.Y., that specializes in energy conservation and the use of environmentally sensitive products and building materials. The two companies have teamed up to offer a $200 discount on a home-energy audit that normally costs $399, reducing the cost to $199 for Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty clients.

During the audits inspectors evaluate a home's insulation, windows, weatherstripping, appliances, heating system and air conditioning - among other things - to identify ways the owner can improve the building's energy efficiency. A key part of the audit is a "blower door test," where special equipment is attached to one of the home's doors to see how "tight" the home is - in other words, how drafty it is. Inspectors will also utilize thermal imaging using an infrared camera to take pictures around windows and doorways to spot leaks and other potential problems. The camera will take a regular photo of the area, and then an infrared image which will turn up blue spots on problem areas with leaks. This can help identify the need for new windows and better seals around windows, doors and points in the building where wiring and plumbing enter the house.

"The inspectors are able to identify ways for owners to save in heating, cooling, electricity and water costs, and make the home more comfortable," said Rand. "The audits have helped people reduce their energy bills by up to 40 percent. Some of the improvements are very inexpensive, so even people with a tight budget are able to benefit from the audits. In addition, federal and state rebates are available that help cover the costs of recommended improvements."

Other steps Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty is taking in its offices as part of its green initiative include:

  • Holding seminars on energy conservation methods for all of its staff members and sales associates, who can share what they learn through client and friend "Home Efficiency Seminars"
  • Conducting audits of its offices to identify ways to reduce heating and cooling consumption
  • Installing energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs in its offices whenever possible
  • Adopting across-the-board recycling in its offices and using recycled materials when possible
  • Providing literature and handouts at its offices that the public can use to learn more about energy conservation and "green" household maintenance


Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty already has added a "Live Green" section to its website at www.randrealty.com/live.aspx?c=244. This page has links to articles offering advice about improvements that will result in big savings, a guide to choosing energy-efficient appliances, information about the best types of windows to choose and a discussion of conservation "myths," among other topics.

Additional information about Green Tree Energy, energy audits for residential and commercial buildings and energy conservation is available at www.GreenTreeEnergy.com. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, call Jerry Chiudina of Green Tree Energy at (914) 361-1000 or e-mail JChiudina@GreenTreeEnergy.com.

About Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Rand Realty, founded in 1984, is the No. 1 real estate brokerage in the Greater Hudson Valley with 22 offices serving Rockland, Orange, Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Ulster and Sullivan Counties. Based on market share, Rand is the No. 1 brokerage in Rockland, the No. 1 in Orange and the No. 3 company in Westchester. The company has more than 800 sales associates. For more information, please visit www.RandRealty.com.

Important Links

For assistance with any of your real estate needs, please contact me, whether it's to get started on helping you realize your goals and dreams, or just to ask a question - no pressure, no hassle, no obligation - just a friendly conversation. I would welcome the opportunity to make a difference for you.

Anthony Stokes Pereira
Office: (845) 770-2188
Cell: (845) 538-7021
Fax: (845) 624-7137
Email: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com
www.anthonystokespereira.com

Greater Hudson valley, NY Quarterly Market Report for the Third Quarter of 2009

Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Gardens - Rand Realty. I believe it is my responsibility to keep you informed about what is happening in the local real estate market, so I have enclosed a link to Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty's Quarterly Market Report for the Third Quarter of 2009. If you have any questions about the Report, or if I can help you in any way, I hope you’ll let me know. And if you know anyone who might need my services, I hope you will contact me.

I believe wholeheartedly in the unique, personal nature of real estate, I am always available to assist my clients in discover the Greater Hudson Valley area (Rockland, Westchester and Orange Counties, NY) . Being a full time sales associate, I stay diligent giving each of my clients' individual and professional service. My reputation is built on quality service, experience, trust, and reliability. I will provide personal and knowledgeable service that is genuinely responsive to your needs.

Market Report Link: http://www.randrealty.com/r4lreport.aspx?ai=C44&rp=q32009#page=1

If the link does not work, just cut and paste it into your browser.

Important Links

For assistance with any of your real estate needs, please contact me, whether it's to get started on helping you realize your goals and dreams, or just to ask a question - no pressure, no hassle, no obligation - just a friendly conversation. I would welcome the opportunity to make a difference for you.

Anthony Stokes Pereira
Office: (845) 770-2188
Cell: (845) 538-7021
Fax: (845) 624-7137
Email: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com

Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty's Fall 2009 Events Guide.

Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Gardens - Rand Realty is pleased to present this compilation of Autumn events, including Harvest celebrations, Halloween parades, farm stand listings, and foliage tours. We hope that you enjoy the festivities and foliage of the lovely Hudson Valley!

I believe it is my responsibility to keep you informed about what is happening in our area, so I have enclosed a link to Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty's Fall 2009 Events Guide. If you have any questions about the Guide, or if I can help you in any way, I hope you'll let me know. And if you know anyone who might need my services, I hope you'll email me back.

http://www.randrealty.com/r4lreport.aspx?ai=C44&rp=fall2009#page=1

If the link does not work, just cut and paste it into your browser.

Important Links

For assistance with any of your real estate needs, please contact me, whether it's to get started on helping you realize your goals and dreams, or just to ask a question - no pressure, no hassle, no obligation - just a friendly conversation. I would welcome the opportunity to make a difference for you.

Anthony Stokes Pereira
Office: (845) 770-2188
Cell: (845) 538-7021
Fax: (845) 624-7137
Email: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com

WESTCHESTER, PUTNAM AND DUTCHESS COUNTIES,NY Community Events by Anthony Stokes Pereira / Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty.

Community Events by Anthony Stokes Pereira / Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty.

Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty is pleased to present this compilation of autumn events, including Harvest celebrations, Halloween parades, farm stand listings, and foliage tours. We Hope that you enjoy the festivities and foliage of the lovely Hudson Valley!

WESTCHESTER-PUTNAM-DUTCHESS

Somers, October 19 thru November 1, 11-4 PM - Halloween Show - The main will be decorated with a special huge "Eerie Railroad" Lionel train display. Audrey 2 from the Little Shop of Horrors will be showcased. The dining room will be transformed into its own spooky Flower Shop. Tributes to Hollywood botanical monsters and some special seasonal artworks will also be on display. Muscoot Farm/Main House Gallery, Rte 100. Adults $5, kids 2&up $2. (914) 864-7282. www.westchestergov.com/parks

White Plains, October 20, 27, 10-2 PM - Bicycle Sundays - The Bronx River Parkway opens to all bicyclists, skaters, scooters, walkers and joggers. No motorized vehicles. From Westchester County Center in White Plains to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers. Parking in County Center lot $4.
(914) 995-4050. www.westchestergov.com/parks

Croton-On-Hudson, October 22-25, 28- November 1, 6-9:30 PM

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze features over 4,000 individually-carved pumpkins lit up throughout wooded walkways, orchards, and gardens of Van Cortland Manor and along the Croton River. Adults $15, Children over 5yrs old $10. Reservations required. (914) 631-8200. www.hudsonvalley.org

Irvington, October 23, 6-8:30 PM - Halloween Hayrides at Matthiessen Park. (914) 591-7736. www.irvingtonny.gov

Poughkeepsie, October 23-24, 7:30 PM -The Hudson River "Folk" Symphony, written by Kevin F. Becker, will be performed by a chamber orchestra and folk choir at the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center. The original composition celebrates 400 years of music history in the Hudson Valley and is an official Quadricentennial event. $12. (845) 229-0170. www.folksymphony.com

Tarrytown, Oct 23, 5-9 PM - BOOFEST - Join us for an interactive evening including barn dancing, a silly 19th century Mansion tour, a fortune teller, story telling witches, trick or treating and a tour of 500 scarecrows. Adults $13, Scout Leaders $12, children 3-12 $8; Scouts $7. Friends of Lyndhurst are half price. Reservations required. (914) 631-4481, ext. 43230.

Sleepy Hollow, October 24-25 - The Legend of Sleepy Hollow - "Legend Weekend Nights." At Philipsburg Manor, the grounds become a haunted landscape visited by goblins and ghosts from Hudson Valley folklore. Wander through at your own pace while ghouls, witches, pirates, and apparitions come eerily to life. Jonathan Kruk offers dramatic tales. Adults $15, Children 5-17 $10, seniors $10, 5&under free. (914) 631-8200. www.hudsonvalley.org

Tarrytown, October 24-25, 10-4 PM - Washington Irving's Sunnyside - Legend Weekend Days. Enjoy games for children, 19th century magic shows, sing-a-longs, puppet shows, Irish ghost stories and other kid-friendly Halloween experiences! Adults $15, Kids (5-17) $10, seniors $10, 5&under Free.
(914) 631-8200. www.hudsonvalley.org

East Fishkill, October 25, 3-5 PM - 9th Annual Halloween Costume Contest and Parade at the Van Wyck Jr. High School. There will be prizes, "Goodie Bags", food, drink and musical entertainment.
(845) 226-8395. www.eastfishkillny.org

Irvington, October 25 - Halloween Parade. Parade begins in the Immaculate Conception School parking lot at 1:45 PM (line-up at 1:30 PM), and ends in the Main Street School parking lot. Refreshments, trick or treat bags, and music will be provided. Free. (914) 591-7336. www.irvingtonny.gov

Katonah, October 25, 11:30 AM - Halloween Fun! Come join us & enjoy music, donuts & cider, a raffle and activities. Then gather by 2 PM for a parade for all ages. Everyone is invited to parade through the hamlet. The parade starts and ends behind the Village Commons building on Katonah Ave. Free.
(914) 232-2668. www.katonahchamber.org

Somers, October 25, 1-3 PM - Halloween Parade. The Halloween parade begins in Somers Towne Center and proceeds to Bailey Park. Costume contest, prizes, cider, and donuts. Free.
(914) 276-2398.

North White Plains, October 26, 11 AM - Hawk Watch at the Quarry - From the top of the quarry we'll have a panoramic view from Valhalla to the Hudson - a view that will hopefully include dozens of migrating hawks. Bring binoculars, a beach chair, a picnic lunch and sunscreen for this relaxing program. Free. Cranberry Lake Preserve. For information on other great events call (914) 428-1005. www.westchestergov.com/parks

Somers, October 26, 1-3 PM - Scarecrow Making Workshop - Have fun making and decorating a scarecrow at Muscoot Farm. Bring clothes and a hat. Stuffing and burlap will be provided. Pre-registration required. $10 per person. Muscoot Farm, Rte 100. (914) 864-7286. www.westchestergov.com/parks

White Plains, October 26, 5:30 PM - NoogieFest - Gilda's Club of Westchester. Trick-or-treating, along with several activities including a comedy improv workshop, face painting, cookie decorating, beaded jewelry crafts, wand and mask making, and more. (914) 644-8844.

Yonkers, October 26, 2 PM - The Yonkers Downtown BID presents - 1st Annual Halloween Pet Parade. Bring your pets in costume! Prizes awarded! The parade will be led by Clifford the Big Red Dog from the Amphitheatre adjoining the Yonkers Pier to the Sculpture Meadow and back.
(914) 969-6660. www.yonkersdowntown.com

Somers, October 27, 1-3 PM - Square Dancing - Kick up your heels with the "Friendly Square." Visitors are invited to join in the dancing or just enjoy the activities. Muscoot Farm, Rte 100.
(914) 864-7282. www.westchestergov.com/parks

On-going - Rhinebeck, thru October 31, 9:30AM-Dusk

Wonderland Farm. Pick your own pumpkins, gourds and squash. There are more than 30 acres for you and your family to enjoy. Every Sat & Sun. Free. (845) 876-6760. www.wonderlandfarm.com

On-going - Tarrytown, thru October 31, 10:30-3:30 PM - SCARECROW INVASION - Walk among 500 scarecrows representing famous artists and historical figures created by local elementary and intermediate students. Participate in a Scavenger Hunt and enter a raffle to win a family pass to the very popular Lyndhurst Boofest. $5 grounds fee for Adults; free to children 12 and under and for Friends of Lyndhurst. Reservations are not required. (914) 631-4481. www.lyndhurst.org

On-going - Yonkers, thru October 31, Event times vary - Half Moon Fest is coming: The historic Half Moon will be docked at the Yonkers Pier for two weeks. It is a plank-for-plank 85-foot replica of the ship Henry Hudson sailed while exploring the Hudson River in 1609. It will be the centerpiece of many downtown events and will be open for public tours. All events are free. Tour times: 10-4 PM, cost $5 adults, $3 children over 12. (914) 969-6660. www.YonkersDowntown.com

On-going - Granite Springs, thru November, 9-6 PM - Farmstand - Pick your own apples and pumpkins at Stuart's Farm. Market on Granite Springs Road off Mahopac Avenue with fruits, vegetables, local honey, preserves, flowers, pies and cookies. (914) 245-2784. www.stuartsfarm.com

On-going - Rhinebeck, thru November 22, 10-2 PM - Farmers' Market - Every Sunday - The Hudson Valley's premier farmers' market featuring the freshest and best locally grown produce, as well as meats, cheeses, bread, wine, flowers, honey and more! Special events, free tastings & free live music, all season long. Municipal Parking Lot on East Market St. www.rhinebeckfarmersmarket.com

On-going - Yorktown Heights, thru November, 10 AM-4:30 PM - Farmstand. Pick your own apples and pumpkins at Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm. Visit the farm market every weekend for jams, jellies, honey, pies, donuts, and cider. (914) 245-5111. www.wilkensfarm.com

On-going - Ossining, thru December 15, 8:30-2 PM - Visit the Ossining Farmers' Market located at the corner of Main and Spring St. rain or shine every Saturday. Featuring locally grown produce, fruit, organic produce as well as farm raised poultry, meats, grass fed beef and more! (914) 941-3189. www.ossining.com

On-going - Millbrook, Thru December 27, 3 PM - The Hudson Valley -VS- France Wine Tasting Competition. Join us at Oak Summit Vineyard and enjoy a local version of the historic 1976 event! You will be blind tasting and judging 3 Gold Medal Hudson River wines, against 3 Gold Medal French wines of the same varieties. Every Second Sunday of every month by appointment only. Fee: $65. www.oaksummitvineyard.com

To suggest events for inclusion in the holiday guide, please email your event and contact information to: Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com

For assistance with any of your real estate needs, please contact me, whether it's to get started on helping you realize your goals and dreams, or just to ask a question - no pressure, no hassle, no obligation - just a friendly conversation. I would welcome the opportunity to make a difference for you.

Anthony Stokes Pereira
Office: (845) 770-2188
Cell: (845) 538-7021
Fax: (845) 624-7137
Email: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY Community Events by Anthony Stokes Pereira / Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty.

Community Events by Anthony Stokes Pereira / Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty.

Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty is pleased to present this compilation of autumn events, including Harvest celebrations, Halloween parades, farm stand listings, and foliage tours. We Hope that you enjoy the festivities and foliage of the lovely Hudson Valley!

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY

New City, October 21 4-6 PM - Halloween Party. Come to the Monster Mash Party- Ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. Games, treats and fun. Street Community Center. For boys and girls from Kindergarten through 5th grade. 31 Zukor Road. (845) 634-3039.

Orangetown, October 23, 6:30 PM - Halloween Parade. Children ages 3-10 are invited to participate in a costume parade, pumpkin decorating, and cartoon character visits at Veterans Memorial Park. Free.
(845) 359-5100.

Nyack, October 24, 5:30 PM - Nyack Halloween Parade - Costumed marchers and floats. Parade steps off at 5:30 PM. Rain date: October 25, 4:45 PM. Nyack Chamber of Commerce event.
(845) 353-2221.

Pomona, October 24-25, 31, 10-5 PM - Farmstand. Pick-your-own McIntosh, Macouns, Red Delicious, Empire, Golden Delicious and Rome apples, as well as pumpkins at The Orchards of Conklin, 2 S. Mountain Rd. (845) 354-0369. www.theorchardsofconcklin.com

Sloatsburg, October 24, 5 PM - Halloween Parade. The Annual Halloween Parade will begin at the Sloatsburg Athletic Fields. Free. Rain date: October 28. (845) 753-2727.

Suffern, October 25, 2 PM - Halloween Parade. Children are invited to parade in Suffern's downtown to celebrate Halloween. Free. (845) 357-7943.

On-going - Stony Point, thru November 1, Wed-Sat 10-4:30 PM, Sun 12-4:30 PM

Battlefield State Historic Site & Stony Point Lighthouse offers military and lighthouse exhibits in the museum, self guided outdoor sign walking tour of the battlefield, musket and cannon firing, camp-life and cooking demonstrations on weekends by staff members in period dress. $5. (845) 786-2521.

On-going - Congers, thru November 8, 10-4 PM - Farmstand. Pick your own apples and pumpkins at Dr. Davies Farm on Route 304. Hay rides. Farm market and picnic fields are also available.
(845) 268-7020.

On-going - Spring Valley, thru November 8, 8-5 PM, Wednesdays -Village of Spring Valley Farmer's Market - Shop for farm fresh foods, grown and produced locally in the Hudson River Valley; Rain or shine; Free; Route 45&Church Street, Spring Valley; Parking lot below Post Office.
(914) 923-4837. www.rockland.org

On-going - Nyack, thru November 25, 8:30-2 PM, Thursdays - Nyack's Farmers' Market will be back for its 8th big season at Main & Ceder Streets. Locally grown fruits, veggies, flowers, herbs, specialty food items plus special events & more. (845) 353-2221.

On-going - Piermont, thru December 16, 11-3 PM, Sundays -Village of Piermont Farmer's Market. Shop for farm fresh foods, grown and produced locally in the Hudson River Valley; rain or shine; free. Fruits and vegetables, wines, fresh cut flowers, breads and pastries and salsas. M&T Bank lot, Ash Street and Piermont Avenue, Piermont. (914) 923-4837. www.rockland.org

To suggest events for inclusion in the holiday guide, please email your event and contact information to: Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com

For assistance with any of your real estate needs, please contact me, whether it's to get started on helping you realize your goals and dreams, or just to ask a question - no pressure, no hassle, no obligation - just a friendly conversation. I would welcome the opportunity to make a difference for you.

Anthony Stokes Pereira
Office: (845) 770-2188
Cell: (845) 538-7021
Fax: (845) 624-7137
Email: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com