With an extensive background spanning the realms of hospitality and real estate, I am a seasoned entrepreneur and community advocate deeply committed to driving positive change. As the co-owner of Tee Jaye’s Country Place Restaurants and the proprietor of Sokol & Associates, I bring decades of experience to the table, balancing the intricacies of restaurant management with the nuances of real estate brokerage.

Throughout my career, I’ve cultivated a rich tapestry of affiliations, holding memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Ohio Business Brokers Association, Ohio Restaurant Association, and Central Ohio Restaurant Association. My involvement in these associations has allowed me to not only stay abreast of industry trends but also actively shape legislative initiatives and advocate for the interests of small businesses.

My dedication to advocacy is exemplified by my participation in numerous high-profile events and committees. From serving on the Election Advisory Committee for Tiberi for Congress to representing small business leaders at the White House during President Bush’s administration, I have consistently leveraged my expertise to effect meaningful change. Moreover, my contributions to organizations like the Ohio Hospitality Coalition, where I served as Chairman, underscore my commitment to driving legislative agendas that benefit the broader community.

On a state level, I’ve been instrumental in shaping policy through my involvement in initiatives such as the Governor’s Food Service Advisory Committee, where I worked alongside state officials to establish new food code standards for Ohio. Additionally, my tenure as Chairman of the Ohio Restaurant Association and my role in developing statewide PACs further highlight my dedication to advancing the interests of the hospitality industry.

Locally, I’ve made a lasting impact through my leadership roles in organizations such as the Central Ohio Restaurant Association and the Children’s Hospital Development Board. Whether spearheading fundraising events or advocating for marginalized communities, I strive to foster a culture of philanthropy and compassion in everything I do.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I am deeply committed to community service, volunteering my time with organizations such as Special Olympics and serving on advisory boards for charitable foundations. My educational background, including a Bachelor’s Degree in Restaurant Management from The Ohio State University, along with ongoing professional development through institutions like the Dale Carnegie Institute and Hondros College, has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel across diverse disciplines.

In summary, my multifaceted career journey reflects a steadfast commitment to driving positive change, both within the business realm and the broader community. Through advocacy, leadership, and unwavering dedication, I endeavor to leave a lasting legacy of impact and empowerment wherever I go.

Currently

Co-owner: Tee Jaye’s Country Place Restaurants
Real Estate Broker: Sokol Realty LLC
Owner: Sokol & Associates
Affiliations: Ohio Business Brokers Association, Ohio Restaurant Association & Central Ohio Restaurant Association

Professional Experience

• National Restaurant Association Public Affairs Conferences:1997-2006
• Election Advisory Committee: Tiberi for Congress
• NFIB representative to President Bush White House: Small Business Leaders 2000
• Personally contribute: ORA PAC Fund
• Personally contribute: NRA SAFE Fund
• Co-Chair: National Restaurant Association Ohio’s SAFE Fund Golf Outing 2001
• Phone calls to Senators and Congressman relating to small business issues
• National Restaurant Association winner: National Grassroots Award 2001

State Involvement

• Steering Committee: Ohio Hospitality Coalition (the legislative arm for ORA)1990-2001
• Chairman: Ohio Hospitality Coalition 1997-1998
• MC: Legislative Day Event while hosting Congressman Pat Tiberi 1999
• Developed OHC PAC fundraisers throughout Ohio
• Developed grassroots ‘Adopt a Candidate’ program for elections 2000
• Chairman: Ohio Restaurant Association 1999-2000
• Board Member: Ohio Restaurant Association 1991-2008
• Developed state-wide PAC for ORA locally
• Appointed by Taft & Voinovich to serve on Governors Food Service
• Advisory Committee to adopt new food code standards for Ohio 2002
• Advisory Board: Ohio State University Food Management 2002
• Member Ohio Restaurant Association
• Member of NFIB

Local Contribution

• Chairman: Central Ohio Restaurant Association 2007
• Executive Committee: Central Ohio Restaurant Association 2000-Present
• President: Children’s Hospital Development Board 2000
• Board Member: Children’s Hospital Development Board 1995-Present
• Chairman: Children’s Hospital Woody Hayes Golf Outing 2000
• Chairman: NFIB Columbus Action Committee
• Board Member: NFIB
• Merchant of the Year: Parson Avenue 1996
• Coach: Special Olympics Track & Basketball 1995-2000
• Founder: Jewish Business Forum 1999
• Chairman: Columbus Jewish Federation Annual Dinner 2003
• Member: Columbus Jewish Foundation 2000-Present
• Board Member: Ohio State University Hillel 2000-2005
• Board Member: Retail Food Safety Advisory 1999
• Committee member: JDRF Auction 2010-Present
• Founding member of board: Food & Wine Affair & Chair of Auction 2003
• Board Chair: Central Ohio Restaurant Association PAC 2005-2006
• Agudas Achim Board Member- 2014 to present
• Agudas Achim Brotherhood Chairman- 2014-2016
• Columbus Culinary School- Speaker quarterly
• In Christy Shoes Charity- Advsiory Board Member & on Founding Board
• City of Columbus Food Truck Board- Help create the laws and regulations
• City Of Columbus- Food Truck Advisory Board 2015- present
• City of Columbus- Local Food Action Plan Committee member 2014-2016
• SWAYCO- Single Use Bag Ban committee
• Bexley Citizen Police Academy Graduate 2022
• Bexley Citizen Police academy board 2023-24
• Agudas Achim Synagogue President 2023-2024

Education

The Ohio State University

• Bachelor’s Degree: Restaurant Management
• Member: President’s Club
• Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity: Vice-President 1980

Dale Carnegie Institute

• Public Speaking
• Meeting Facilitation
• Award winner: Public Speaking

Capital University

• Professional Development: Management courses

Franklin University

• Professional Development: Communication classes

Hondros College

• Real Estate Broker License