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SPECIAL REPORT: Tough Business
A string of vacant restaurant buildings shows that many restaurants in the region are struggling — and several are closing By Stefan Yablonski [caption id=attachment_11132 align=alignright width=401] Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill on Route 31 in Clay closed its doors in April. It had been in operation since at least 2008.[/caption] By their nature, most restaurants have a limited life. An astonishing 60% go out of business within three years of opening, largely due to fundamental flaws in the planning of the operation. But even restaurants that experience years of success almost always face eventual closure. The restaurant business is very hard and because of both personal factors and external factors beyond anyone’s control, restaurants don’t last forever. For many restaurants, age is a big factor, according to Kenneth Walsleben, professor of practice, entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises at Syracuse University. “The owners have been at it for 20 or 25 years, if not longer, they want some time to themselves,” he said. Such was the case for Jocko’s Famous Ritz Diner in Oswego. Jocko Reitz bought the building in the late 1970s from Robert Shapiro. However, when he stepped away from the business, it eventually closed. [caption id=attachment_11142 align=alignright width=402] For nearly 80 years, Vona’s Restaurant passed through three generations of family in Oswego. It closed its doors on Dec. 31, 2025.[/caption] For nearly 80 years, Vona’s passed through three generations of family in Oswego. Vona’s Restaurant officially closed its doors on Dec. 31, 2025, when no family member wanted to take over. It is on the market. The Ruby Tuesday in Oswego operated for about two decades before permanently closing in April 2026. The restaurant faced multiple temporary health department closures in 2024 and 2025 due to persistent fruit fly and foundation pest issues. Management posted a final closure notice on the doors in mid-April 2026 and the building was put up for sale. The same pattern has been happening in Onondaga County. The big building once used by Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill on Route 31 in Clay remains empty, more than six months after the restaurant closed its doors in April. It had been in operation since at least 2008. [caption id=attachment_11130 align=alignright width=401] Ruby Tuesday in Oswego operated for about two decades before permanently closing in April 2026.[/caption] Just down the road from Smokey Bones, the popular Outback Steakhouse closed in August 2024. Another restaurant took its place, La Cocina Mexican Restaurant, but it closed shortly after. The building sits empty. Other very popular restaurants in the northern suburbs of Syracuse have recently closed. Among them, Fireside by the River in Baldwinsville and Primo Nestico’s Bistro Bar in North Syracuse. “I haven’t really paid attention to the Syracuse area. There has always been some turnover, but there probably has never been a tougher time to be a restauranter than now. It’s just brutal,” Walsleben said. In the first year, roughly 20% to 25% of restaurants close or change hands, according to the National Restaurant Association. [caption id=attachment_11122 align=alignright width=401] Outback Steakhouse closed in August 2024. Another restaurant took its place, La Cocina Mexican Restaurant, but it closed shortly after. The building sits empty.[/caption] “Depending on what statistics you look at, you’ll find that any business has a high mortality rate in the first year. That is just the nature of entrepreneurship,” Walsleben said. “There are certain ones that are getting hit hard while others are more fruitful. “And when you look at the restaurant industry you have to factor in labor which is a large part — typically a third of your expenses — and those costs are going up. And there is always turnover which means investing money to train people. Then you’ve got food costs, which is also a third of the typical restaurant budget. Since the pandemic labor has gone up 41%, food costs have gone up 35%. That’s a big tight squeeze righty there. That’s two-thirds of your budget that has gone up 35% to 40% in the last few years. And then the only way you can make that work is to raise the prices.” The National Restaurant Association reports menu prices are up 36% since February of 2020. In a survey released by the association, more than eight in 10 restaurant owners reported that their food, beverage and labor costs are now higher than before the pandemic. You have to deal with the reality of are the customers willing to pay for that? Walsleben added. Restaurants historically have very thin margins; their profit margin is about 5%. “You have a third that goes into food, a third that goes into labor and about 28%, 29% that goes into everything else — overhead, insurance etc. So that brings you down to your 5% leftover,” he said. “Everything is going up. Customer expectations are going up and people aren’t going to spend that much more. So, you have a tight squeeze here,” Walsleben continued. “Restaurants who use delivery apps, they pay a fee to those guys. Those guys don’t work for free. So, you can kind of see where the squeeze comes from.” Stuck in the middle There are pockets of opportunity; the two extremes of the market can make a profit. But the middle gets squeezed out. “If you are a low-end fast-food kind of place, there is room for that. People have changed their budgets. They are still going out, but they are not spending more,” according to Walsleben. “The high end remains positive. If you have a restaurant that brings a specific experience … a great food product or you are catering to high end customers who aren’t so budget conscious, those patrons are going to expect a high-end experience. They expect excellent food every time. They are expecting excellent service. If you can meet those expectations there is room for you at the top. It’s just the guys in the middle are getting the squeeze from both ends. Tough competition, customer expectations, costs are up. Menu items, you can’t raise the prices as much as you need to. That is why you are seeing a lot of restaurants baling out.” The ones that can adapt quickly are the ones who are doing OK. “Success is heavily dependent on the strength of a restaurant’s concept development and the planning of its execution. Eventually things aren’t always new. Things change. So, if you are in the restaurant business you have got to change your menu — keep things new, fresh and update your meals. It is very fickle industry. One year carbs are out, the next year berries are out. Everybody’s diet changes — constantly chasing the latest phase. You have got to adjust your menu and move with those modifications. If you have a static menu that you have used the last couple years that hasn’t changed except for the pricing, you’ve got a problem,” he said. A lot of times these buildings are singular purpose, he added. “You have a commercially viable kitchen and you got a seating area. There is not a lot of other businesses that cater to that type of a layout. So, it’s pretty common to see another restaurant slide in,” he said. One of the things a banker learns early on is you don’t lend money to restaurants … because they fail so quickly. It is very hard to predict who the winners will be. So, if you are a restaurant in addition to all the other challenges, it is very difficult to get loans, according to Walsleben. “You might work really well in the kitchen. But that doesn’t mean you are a great businessperson,” he said. “Restaurants can fail because the owner didn’t know how to manage things properly. There are a lot of challenges. “There is opportunity at the high end and the low end. But in the middle, that’s the death valley. There are just so many things working against you. You really need to have something that will pull people in and continue to pull people in because you to constantly have to change. Think about a theme and a product that is unique to the area people don’t travel that far these days you have to be able to deliver it in an innovative fashion and keep updating to keep people coming in the door.” Out of Business? How Fast? Do nine out of 10 restaurants fail in their first year, as commonly claimed? No. Survival analysis of 1.9 million longitudinal microdata for 81,000 full-service restaurants in a 20-year U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics non public census of business establishments in the western US shows that only 17% of independently owned full-service restaurant startups failed in their first year, compared with 19% for all other service-providing startups, according to ResearchGate. The median lifespan of restaurants is about 4.5 years, slightly longer than that of other service businesses (4.25 years). However, the median lifespan of a restaurant startup with 5 or fewer employees is 3.75 years, slightly shorter than that of other service businesses of the same startup size (4.0 years). What Makes a Restaurant Successful? Opening and maintaining a successful restaurant is not as easy as creating a great menu and serving excellent food. It takes more than that, according to local restaurant owners who have been in business for decades in the region. They all agree that there are some guidelines to running a successful restaurant. • Quality food: Successful restaurants know exactly what they serve and who they serve it to. Delivering the same great taste every single time builds loyal customers. • Smooth operations: Friendly greetings and attentive staff make guests feel welcome from the moment they walk in. Hiring staff for personality and training for skill ensures reliable, caring service. • Smart marketing: Exceptional food and experiences naturally get people talking and sharing online. Word of mouth can help entice customers. Consistent social media and targeted advertising brings in new and repeat guests also. The menu is what keeps patrons coming back to Mimi’s Diner in Fulton, located at 201 N. Second St. “We locally source our produce and our meats. Our chicken and biscuits is a popular, popular special,” said Richard Tagliareni, the third-generation owner and general manager. “It’s all homemade. We have consistently served quality food.” His grandfather started the business more than 55 years ago. Mimi’s is engrained in the community. They cater to the community and are very involved in everything from the schools to local events. The first Mimi’s Drive-In opened in Mexico. Then a second in Oswego and then Fulton. Fulton’s Mimi’s is the only one left. “The last couple of weeks have been kind of slower than normal. October is usually a busier month for us People will start coming back around again. Also, the price of gas is affecting some things,” Tagliareni added. “We try to keep our prices in line. You go out to eat, you’re going to spend about a hundred bucks or so for two people for dinner. You come here to Mimi’s you are probably for two people for dinner it’s between $50 and $60. We are trying to keep our prices in line. We did have to increase our prices a little bit but things are looking OK.” For the Press Box, 29 E. First St., Oswego, it’s also about great food and a family atmosphere. “Our sports bar and restaurant was established in 1984,” said Alison Canale Scanlon, manager. “I think putting the time into everything makes a big difference and treating people like family when they walk into your restaurant. That’s how we have always operated since 1984.” “It’s the family oriented aspect,” she added. “Consistency, quality and presentation of our food — that’s the secret to a successful restaurant. We try to be very consistent with it. We treat people like family when they come in; because we know how we want to be treated when we go to a restaurant. We treat people the same or better.”
ECONOMIC TRENDS: Oswego County Launches Micro-Enterprise Grant Program
Small businesses will soon be able to apply for grants of up to $35,000 through a new program aimed at supporting local growth by Austin Wheelock | ooc@oswegocounty.org A strong, small business ecosystem is essential to a thriving local economy. Small businesses in Oswego County provide critical goods and services, create jobs and bring investment […]
Are Bank Lobbies Still Relevant?
Local banking leaders say technology is changing the way customers use their banks — and their lobbies By Deborah Jeanne Post [caption id=attachment_11109 align=alignright width=300] Steve Gorczynski is M&T Bank Central New York regional president.[/caption] When was the last time you entered the lobby of your bank? If it’s been a while, you’re part of a trend of eschewing the lobby in favor of ATMs, drive-thrus, online banking and remote deposit. A 2025 study performed by the American Bankers Association revealed that only 9% of consumers use bank branches as their preferred way to do banking and 76% prefer mobile banking. The trend away from the lobby reflects consumer behavior in other areas of doing business, including online shopping instead of perusing the mall, ordering fast food at a kiosk, not at the counter and selecting curbside pick-up rather than walking into the restaurant. Consumers want convenience and going in the lobby adds another layer to the task. It also places consumers face to face with one or more representatives of the business, something less favorable to people feeling burned out from interpersonal interactions. Nixing or at least minimizing the size of the lobby isn’t necessarily negative for banks. Fewer people passing through their doors reduces overhead for building maintenance, staffing and furnishing. Greater reliance on virtual banking can mean closing brick and mortar locations and hiring fewer staffers to cover roles like teller and lending officer. “Our focus is on meeting customers where they are and giving them flexibility in how they bank,” said Steve Gorczynski, M&T Bank Central New York regional president. “While many everyday transactions can be supported digitally and through ATMs, branches remain important for more complex financial needs, offering face-to-face guidance and a more personal banking experience.” Talking with a commercial lender or working on a home mortgage are two examples where meeting face-to-face is more desirable for many people. They can receive immediate feedback to questions and can possibly reach their goals more quickly. But there’s little need to have a large seating area, long counters and numerous tellers for routine banking that’s quicker to handle virtually. Online banking can also help people on the go more readily complete banking tasks such as depositing checks, transferring funds among accounts and checking balances. [caption id=attachment_11135 align=alignright width=300] Tina M. Stephens is the vice president branch administration for Fulton Savings Bank.[/caption] “The traditional bank lobby is certainly being evaluated by most institutions today, as the typical large, open and cavernous spaces do not necessarily meet the needs of today’s customers,” said Tina M. Stephens, vice president branch administration for Fulton Savings Bank. “Traditional lobbies often bisect traditional teller stations and customer service areas, which adds confusion, especially for the demographic who routinely use online banking and only access the lobby for customer service needs.” Despite the rollback in physical locations across the industry, Fulton Savings Bank began modernizing its six branch offices in Oswego and Onondaga counties about three years ago and have finished four offices so far in Baldwinsville, Fulton, Constantia, and Phoenix. “We made the decision to build a new branch across the street from our current office in Brewerton which will be completed by the end of 2026, and we will begin the retrofit of our Central Square office in early 2027,” Stephens said. “Our efforts specifically address where we think customers will be in the next three to five years and have greater flexibility to make changes out into the future.” The bank may be onto something, as numerous reports state that screen-weary Gen Z young adults crave more in-person interactions than virtual ones. If the pendulum continues to swing in that direction, it’s hard to see all physical bank areas disappear, even if they change somewhat. Fulton Savings Bank has also consolidated its teller and customer service representative areas to larger “universal banker” areas, where the bank representative can address all customer retail needs. A one-stop-shop experience appeals to busy banking customers who want to perform a few different banking tasks in one visit. Stephens also said that Fulton Savings Bank made additional technology and security enhancements and created flex spaces to accommodate bank meetings throughout the two-county branch footprint. At Solvay Bank, Elizabeth Lavier, vice president marketing and communications manager, lauded digital and online services as convenient and flexible for managing finances; however, “technology is not meant to replace what matters most: the relationships behind every account that have always been at the heart of community banking,” she said. “Even in today’s digital-first world, people of all ages still value the opportunity to sit down with a trusted banker for personalized guidance. We understand that some of life’s biggest moments call for more than a screen.” Lavier views digital banking as another way for the organization to serve customers rather than a replacement for branches, tellers and lenders, which tend to serve customers better for transactions like buying a first car, purchasing a home, saving for a child’s education, or planning for retirement. “Those conversations, built on understanding, experience and personal guidance, are what community banking is all about,” Lavier said. “At the end of the day, banking is about more than transactions. It’s about helping our customers achieve their goals and being there for them every step of the way. By combining the convenience of digital banking with the care, commitment, and personal service of a local community bank, Solvay Bank offers customers the best of both worlds.” Are Paper Checks Destined to Disappear? With the ubiquity of debit cards, online payments, virtual checks and peer-to-peer payment platforms like Venmo, Zelle and PayPal, will paper checks become passe? “In my view, paper checks are unlikely to disappear in the near future,” said Tina M. Stephens, vice president branch administration for Fulton Savings Bank. “They continue to serve a practical purpose by providing a clear paper trail and tangible proof of payment.” According to the American Banker, a leading trade publication that covers the banking and financial industry, in 2024, checks accounted for 65% of all payment fraud losses. Paper checks should be phased out, according to the publication. “The phrase, ‘The check’s in the mail’ probably sounds strange to younger people because the era of paper checks is rapidly drawing to a close. Put bluntly, checks are an expensive, insecure legacy that is a drag on the U.S. economy. Rather than wait for them to vanish slowly, the pragmatic choice is to strategically accelerate the transition to paperless payments.”
Mom-and-Pop Business Owners Grapple with Harsh Times
Report shows small business owners in NYS less optimistic about the economy. Taxes, inflation, labor costs and competition from larger businesses are major concerns right now, they say By Aaron Gifford [caption id=attachment_11067 align=alignright width=300] Ashley Ranslow is director for New York state at The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).[/caption] Owners of mom-and-pop businesses in New York state have been less optimistic lately than their peers in other parts of the country, a recent report indicates. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), based on a survey of 11,000 of its members in the Empire State, reported that taxes, inflation, labor costs and competition from larger businesses are major concerns right now. “Indeed, while taxes are a major problem in New York and the United States overall, New York small businesses notably are struggling more with the state’s onerous, multi-level tax burden,” Ashley Ranslow, NFIB’s director for New York state, said in the July report. Compared with surveys of business owners in other states, far fewer New York respondents rated their businesses as in excellent or good health. The report also said labor costs here are about 25% higher than the national average and are the “single most important problem” facing businesses. One respondent to the New York-specific survey complained that too much red tape, taxes and laws that restrict high-yielding companies have stifled their operation’s growth. Others said high disability and workers’ compensation insurance costs, alarming increases in utility rates and excessive building regulations are discouraging. Statewide, New York has a gross domestic product of $2.53 trillion (third in the nation, followed by Texas, $2.90 trillion; and California, $4.25 trillion), a per capita income of $90,500 (sixth) and an unemployment rate of 4.6% (34th). There are 2.4 million small businesses that employ 3.9 million people. [caption id=attachment_11112 align=alignright width=451] Member of the Greater Liverpool Chamber of Commerce gather at one of the several functions the chamber organizes monthly. “Everyone in this business community encourages each other to shop local. Everyone just wants to see each other succeed,” says Megan Wilmot, the chamber director[/caption] “New York state boasts one of the largest, wealthiest and most diverse cities in the world — and that’s still only about half the state’s population,” the report said. “In other words, the state is both its iconic city and so much more — geographically, demographically, economically. But New York is not without its challenges, challenges that include notably high taxes and other weaknesses that impact the small business environment,” it said. The report includes an optimism index that compares responses from New York (NFIB) members with those of their peers in other states across several categories. This ranges from plans to increase employment to expectations for higher sales, to plans to increase inventory or expand. The scores for Empire State business owners were lower in most categories, but they did score higher than the national average in noting that they have current employment openings, and that they are hopeful that the economy will improve. “The metrics so far paint a picture of a state with a series of challenges for small businesses, from a slightly below national average Optimism Index to a more seriously below national business health to very substantially below national Employment Index. What is going on with businesses that are creating these differences?” the report stated. In Central New York, the regional labor force comprises nearly 398,000 workers. The median household income here is $71,463, and the gross domestic product for the region last year totaled $61.3 billion, according to the CenterState CEO economic development and research organization. About half of the region’s labor force works for small and mid-sized businesses, although the number of people employed in that sector has decreased by 7% since 2010, according to CenterState’s 2026 economic forecast report. “While record-high employment in large-scale enterprises provides a strong foundation for Central New York,” the report says, “the long-term health of communities depends on a thriving small business sector to serve as a stabilizer.” Area employers identify several barriers to Central New York’s anticipated growth, including lack of specialized or skilled workers, government regulations, unaffordable housing options and long-term construction disruptions. In the city of Syracuse, the number of jobs in retail trade decreased by 1,500 or 4.7% between July 2025 and this past July. By contrast, the number of jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector increased by 2.5% or 700 jobs, in the same annual period, according to the New York State Department of Labor. Still, there’s plenty of interest for new businesses across Central New York. U.S. Census figures show that the number of applications for new businesses in all four counties increased significantly in the past 20 years. In Cayuga County, there were 324 applications in 2005 compared to 470 last year. In Madison County, the number increased from 385 to 480; Onondaga County, from 2411 to 4132; and Oswego County, from 553 to 836. Downtown Cazenovia is exemplary of Madison County’s trend: In the past year, the village welcomed a bait shop, a thrift store, a vitamin infusion center, a pizzeria, a Pilates studio and an Italian restaurant. A candy store is scheduled to open on the main drag in the months ahead. Oswego’s list of interesting new businesses in the past year includes a bubble tea shop, a hot dog eatery in Fulton, a specialty grocery store that features New York state products in Mexico, a beauty and esthetics studio in Hannibal and a hardware and farm supply store in Sandy Creek. In Onondaga County, the Liverpool area has also enjoyed a steady stream of new shops and eateries in recent years. That suburban community is unique in that, unlike neighboring communities, most of the restaurants are family-owned and not part of a national chain. [caption id=attachment_11116 align=alignright width=300] Megan Wilmot is the executive director of the Greater Liverpool’s Chamber of Commerce.[/caption] Megan Wilmot, executive director of the Greater Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, said independent business owners in her community maintain a strong sense of pride in holding their own against national companies. The chamber helps boost morale with red carpet events, ribbon cuttings, coffee hours and five-year anniversary celebrations for participating businesses. “We have built such a strong community,” Wilmot said. “Everyone in this business community encourages each other to shop local. Everyone just wants to see each other succeed.” In Syracuse, the downtown retail occupancy rate last year was about 82%, a slight improvement from 2024, according to the Downtown Syracuse Committee’s most recent annual report. Buildings with the largest amount of vacant space included The Galleries, One Park Place, and Equitable Towers, though not all of those spaces are designated for retail use. New businesses that opened in downtown Syracuse last year: Better with Time Clothing, Dakshin Curry & Biriyani, Havana Tattoo Society, Milano Bean Café, Miss Daisy, Pausa Coffee, Sweets for Babe, The Society CNY and Yafah Beauty Studio. The Destiny USA mall’s occupancy rate decreased from 80% in 2023 to 72% by the end of 2024, according to Integra Realty Resources. That leaves more than a quarter of the mall’s retail space vacant. “Looking ahead, the retail market is expected to see minimal rent growth, with vacancy rates likely remaining stable in community and neighborhood centers but continuing to rise in enclosed malls,” Integra’s report said. “New construction activity is low and redevelopment plans for former malls like Shoppingtown and Great Northern are still in the planning stages. The proposed Micron chip plant may spur development, but challenges remain in finding co-developers for large-scale projects.” Nationally, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce expects that small businesses will remain resilient and see their sales and revenues eventually improve. That organization, in a recent national survey, found that 25% of small business owners expect the economy to improve in 2027, while 45% indicated that they plan to increase employment in the next 12 months. And 69% said they believe their small business is in good shape and 70% said they are comfortable with their current cash flow. Thirty-one percent of small businesses reported raising their prices in July and 28% are planning to raise their prices within the next three to four months, the report said. Twelve percent indicated that this is a good time to expand their business. “Small business owners voice optimism for future revenues and hiring,” the report said. “High costs continue to be a wet blanket on reinvestment.” The NFIB reported in July that Main Street, despite gas price hikes, “is OK … for now.” Its small business economics trend report said sales across the country have been strong compared to last year, but continued inflation and higher prices from mom-and-pop establishments are causing some “cracks” to show. “If costs stay this high for much longer, reduced investment will have a tangible economic impact,” the report said. “The status quo is OK, but the outlook? The outlook is uncertain.”
Retiring from Farming
Start now to ensure your farm passes to the next generation Deborah Jeanne Post [caption id=attachment_11062 align=alignright width=405] Adam C. Howell, outreach director at Cornell’s NY FarmNet: “Retirement from farming is atypical planning,” he says.[/caption] Roughly 70% of family-owned farms will transfer ownership withing the next two decades, according to data from to the USDA census. Only 30% of those will remain in the family. The number of farms in New York is shrinking as the size of farms increases. In other words, there are fewer farms in the state, but they’re much larger. This is why succession planning is so important for family farms. A farm represents not only a way to make a living but a legacy and family tradition. Many families want to preserve the small farm segment of agriculture and the values it represents. Passing the family farm to the next generation can’t be left to chance. And it shouldn’t be left for “the kids to figure out” after the older generation dies. Succession planning in agriculture isn’t like other types of business retirement planning or personal final planning. “Retirement from farming is atypical planning,” said Adam C. Howell, outreach director at Cornell’s NY FarmNet. “Most farmers, their assets and the way they live and survive in retirement is tied up in the equity in the farm. Those conversations must take place a lot earlier than they think. They’re dealing with something asset-heavy that may require a trust and tax planning.” NY FarmNet offers farmers free, confidential consultation services regarding financial and business management, and family, and mental health support for farmers in New York state. It’s a program of Cornell University in Ithaca. Howell urges farmers to begin the conversation early. Most family farms are run by generations with the oldest generation most involved and typically with fewer of the middle-aged adults and young adults involved. Some of the younger generation may have off-farm jobs and not live on the homestead. “Different people have different expectations on their legacy,” Howell said. “Intergenerational conflict and discussions can be difficult. It may be good to check with NY FarmNet or Ag Mediation to help mediate these conversations with a third party. A lot of farms have broken up because people can’t decide how to divide things.” New York State Agricultural Mediation Program is a USDA‑certified, free or low‑cost service for farmers. Fair is not always equal. A sole owner simply stating that he wants to divide things equally among his children may leave one-quarter of the farm operation to an adult child who moved away and hasn’t sat in a tractor for decades. The three adult children who have toiled on the farm for 30 years may need to buy out the fourth, non-farming sibling but cannot because all of their money is tied up in the equipment, land and stock that supports their livelihood. Their payrate may not allow them to set aside much to buy out the non-farming sibling. As a result, they may need to sell parts of the farm off in order to keep it. However, doing so may limit their ability to sufficiently support their families. The farm owner may need to bequeath more assets to the farming siblings because their efforts have kept the farm going and without those assets and their work, the farm will cease operations. Howell advises seeking professional help on tax and legal issues. Without it, families can be exposed to expensive problems and infighting. A third-party expert can help farm families navigate what is truly fair in the family’s succession plans. Beyond the practical aspects of inheritance, succession also relies upon planning who will operate the farm and how. “I think it’s important that farmers understand the means and methods of farming are always changing,” Howell said. For example, many young adult farmers earn a degree at a school such as Cornell, SUNY Cobleskill or Morrisville, work on a different farm for a while and then return to their family farm with big ideas on how to improve the farm — if only their dad and uncles will agree. Intergenerational conflict is often centered on newer ideas such agritourism, online marketing and shipping goods. “It causes conflict,” Howell said. “A lot of it comes down to communication and respect within the family. If no one in the family wants to take on farming, what we’ll see is older farmers start to help trusted managers buy into the farm.” The middle-aged generation, now in their 40s and 50s, often struggle with wresting the helm from their parents. Howell said that many older farmers don’t discuss with their grown children their vital business information such as vendors, ordering supplies, pricing, recordkeeping and farm planning. They even claim that “the kids” aren’t ready yet. These gaps in cross-training may cause significant problems even before the older generation dies, if there’s an illness or injury. Howell urges farmers to document these processes and cross-train others on the farm how to handle these areas “to make sure if one person is incapacitated, the entire operation is not at risk,” he said. Mark Modzeleski, financial adviser, financial planner and president at Legacy Wealth Advisors of NY in Syracuse, advises families to talk sooner than later about who should be operating the farm. “Someone is driving the farm,” he said. “Have you decided who? Be honest when you have that conversation. Who do they turn to when there’s a question? Or who has the potential to be leaders?” Planning for leadership continuity is vital. Unfortunately, talking like this can become fraught with emotions if it’s only the family involved. Modzeleski advised finding a third party who can help drive the conversation. “Invite the right people to the conversation who can get you from point A to point B,” he said. “This is a marathon, not a sprint.” It may take sitting down a few times with an estate planning attorney who specializes in farm transition, along with a tax professional and others who can help moderate and plan. Family members, owners and possibly, integral farm managers should attend the meetings. “Figure out what you want your legacy to be,” Modzeleski added.
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7 Central Florida restaurants shut down after health inspections last week
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Giants fill open roster spot with veteran linebacker
Giants add Malik Harrison to 53-man roster.
Which remaining Ohio State game are you most excited for?
The Buckeyes have six games remaining on their regular-season schedule, each with its own amount of intrigue. For this week’s fan survey, we want to know which game you are most excited about. Click the link and vote!
Hope Booth brings 24/7 mental health support to Spelman College students
Atlanta-based nonprofit Hope Booth installed a mental health kiosk at Spelman College. Housed in a retro telephone booth, the interactive kiosk offers free, 24/7 mental health support services for students.
This week in Santa Cruz County business: Visit Santa Cruz County adds AI trip planner; La Bahia earns Michelin Key
In this week's look at local business, Jessica M. Pasko notes an artificial intelligence-powered addition to Santa Cruz County's tourism website, a big distinction for the luxury beachfront La Bahia Hotel & Spa, a new downtown listening lounge and much more.
Kelly Clarkson's feud with Brooklyn store escalates as owner says she 'put us in danger' and raises bird's price to $15m
Clarkson claims that the item she wanted to purchase had a $15,000 price tag, but the Brooklyn store insists it was never for sale. The back-and-forth's since gone viral.
Netflix to broadcast 2030 World Cup in Spain and Andorra
Netflix has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the 2030 World Cup in Spain and Andorra, marking the streaming giant’s first coverage of the men’s tournament.The platform will show all 104 match...
Philadelphians embrace national diabetes prevention programs as health organizations search for sustainable funding
The education and lifestyle program was developed by the CDC in 2010. Participants were able to prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes years later, data shows.
The raid on Ilhan Omar’s house is dangerous political theater
The raid is meant to cast an air of suspicion and criminality over Democratic candidates who, like Omar, are facing the voters in a matter of weeks
Claude just found a CRISPR-like DNA pattern, but even Anthropic's scientists aren't sure what it does
The large language model took less than a day to identify the curious stretch of DNA
Why medical group leaders are seeing big leaps in pay
Consultants say compensation is increasing quickly for roles tied to clinical integration, physician alignment and growth.
How a Madison doctor is saving the smallest lives
Preterm birth is the leading cause of death for Black infants in Wisconsin. This neonatal doctor and her team are working to give them a fighting chance.
This KC business owner thinks Royals stadium will boost development. ‘We all win’
Nicholas Grunauer, owner of the Crossroads Austrian restaurant says the multi-billion-dollar investment could open the door to more.
Derrick Lemons explores faith, politics and Trump in new book
Derrick Lemons, department head of religion at the University of Georgia, studies the relationship between anthropology and theology — a focus that has led him to examine the role of
Why Anthropic's IPO will complicate Leopold Aschenbrenner's strategy
Leopold Aschenbrenner built his hedge fund on his AI connections. Anthropic's potential IPO could turn that edge into a major compliance challenge.
Uber pay varies, falls below minimum wage in some US cities
A study reveals Uber drivers' earnings differ significantly between US cities, with some making less than minimum wage after expenses.
Apple bets AI can finally make us want a smart home
The $299 HomeView is Apple's bet AI can fix the smart home.
The scores are in. Who received low, high scores in health inspections?
Check out the most recent health inspection scores for restaurants in Chatham County.
Backlash grows as 'World of Warcraft: Midnight' continues to represent the most painfully, miserably weak writing in all of Blizzard (12.1.5 SPOILERS)
I'm convinced Blizzard wants me to hate WoW: Retail, as backlash grows to one of its weakest character deaths in recent memory. Maybe ... ever?
Police sergeant challenges Mindy Fee in the 37th House District
Republican state Rep. Mindy Fee has represented the bright-red 37th District for 13 years. This year, Chad Gleissl, a Warwick Township Democrat and York College campus police sergeant, is fighting
Ballard Partners expands global alliance with Dubai’s Farrant Group
'Together, we will give our clients seamless, coordinated counsel from Washington to the Gulf and beyond.'
Montreal visits Washington after shootout win
Montreal Canadiens (3-2-1, in the Atlantic Division) vs. Washington Capitals (3-3, in the Metropolitan Division)Washington; Wednesday, 7:30 p.
Liverpool enquiry for 'fantastic' midfielder confirmed
Liverpool have been linked with a whole host of players ever since the 2026-27 season first kicked off. Most fans expected a complete rebuild of their first-team squad after their fifth-place finish l...
Cleveland Browns 2027 Week One Roster Prediction
Previous Position RoomWe will start by looking at how Andrew Berry's position room has been built to start the season each year:2020 - Hooper, Njoku, Bryant, Carlson 2021 - Hooper, Njoku, Bryant 2022 - Njoku, Bryant, James 2023 - Njoku, Bryant, Akins 2024 - Njoku, Akins 2025 - Njoku, Fannin, Whiteheart 2026 - Fannin, Whiteheart, RyanCash Spending Per YearHere is the cash they have spend on the...
Georgia Bulldogs Given Brutal Ole Miss Game Prediction
Coming into the season, the Georgia Bulldogs were seen as one of the best teams in the entire country, and so far, they haven’t disappointed this year.This team is still led by head coach Kirby Smart, giving them an advantage over most other teams in college football. But the Bulldogs have a collection of talent […] The post Georgia Bulldogs Given Brutal Ole Miss Game Prediction appeared first on HEAVY.
ACCEPT 2026 announces registration dates
Volunteers and committee members with Atascosa County Christmas Elderly Project Target 2026, otherwise known as ACCEPT, would like to send out a special thank you for all the support given
YMCA camp in Honolulu turns fall break into a science adventure
The YMCA of Honolulu wrapped up "STEAM Camp" over fall break, teaching students important science skills. The camp is a place where Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math engage students.
49ers Receive Clear Tyreek Hill Verdict Amid Wideout Injuries
The San Francisco 49ers are off to a 5-0 start and will look to extend their winning streak to six games when they face the Washington Commanders on Oct. 19. Washington enters the Week 6 matchup at 1-3-1 after tying the New York Giants.Despite San Francisco’s strong start, concerns remain about the team’s wide receiver […] The post 49ers Receive Clear Tyreek Hill Verdict Amid Wideout Injuries appeared first on HEAVY.
Belton approves entertainment district with go-karts, movie theater and apartments
Belton City Council approves bonds for a new entertainment district featuring B&B Theatres, go-karts, bowling, restaurants and 638 apartments.
Viewpoint: How the anti-abortion movement twists medical facts and promotes science misinformation
Misinformation and junk science about abortion are spreading at alarming rates and are becoming key components in legislation and litigation as well as in
Canton eateries flagged for gnats and other health code issues
Wayne County inspectors found gnats and improper storage at several Canton restaurants between August and October.
Disadvantaged children with intellectual disabilities face greater mental health difficulties
Children with intellectual disabilities face greater mental health difficulties when they are from a disadvantaged background, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.
Dodgers Reveal Important Shohei Ohtani Decision Before NLCS Game 3
The Los Angeles Dodgers will enter Game 3 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers tomorrow night. Ahead of the meeting, the organization revealed a decision on Shohei Ohtani. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, skipper Dave Roberts announced that Ohtani will be in the lineup for Game 3. NEWS: Dave Roberts says Shohei […] The post Dodgers Reveal Important Shohei Ohtani Decision Before NLCS Game 3 appeared first on HEAVY.
YMCA camp in Honolulu turns fall break into a science adventure
The YMCA of Honolulu wrapped up "STEAM Camp" over fall break, teaching students important science skills. The camp is a place where Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math engage students.
San Antonio concert canceled over political rhetoric dispute
"I think we were bamboozled on the whole deal," the owner said.
Terry Bradshaw realizes TV career is ‘coming to an end’
Terry Bradshaw has occupied the public consciousness for more than 50 years. He won four Super Bowls as the quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers before his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 1989, and since 1994, he has starred on Fox NFL Sunday. Did Bradshaw also deliver an incredible performance in the 2006 romantic…
“The Voice” coach Riley Green gets pep talk from contestant who rejected him: ‘I think you’re the best’
Hazel Gerson chose to be part of Kelly Clarkson’s team instead of Green’s.
Seahawks Get ‘Dominant’ Former Jets Standout Back for Broncos Matchup
The Seattle Seahawks have waited months to put their offseason investment in punt coverage to work.Irv Charles has a chance to show why John Schneider sounded so eager.Seattle activated the veteran receiver from injured reserve Tuesday, clearing the way for a potential team debut against the Denver Broncos on Thursday night.The move brings a player […] The post Seahawks Get ‘Dominant’ Former Jets Standout Back for Broncos Matchup appeared first on HEAVY.
Las Vegas lands major convention for 2031
The three-year deal beginning in 2031 is expected to generate 62,000 room nights annually, with four Strip resorts and Allegiant Stadium serving as event hosts.
97% of US soldiers complete brain health assessment
Medical professionals use the data to monitor soldiers' cognitive health throughout their military careers, allowing them to spot significant changes.
Little Red Hen eviction case dismissed: Court sides with Seattle dive
The Little Red Hen, a Seattle honky-tonk and karaoke institution for decades, won another important legal battle in its ongoing eviction dispute Tuesday.
Scientists discover how harmful “zombie cells” hide from the immune system
Scientists have discovered a protein that may help harmful aging cells hide from the immune system, allowing them to accumulate and fuel age-related health problems. Blocking the protein in mice reduced these cells and inflammation while improving blood sugar regulation and strength, offering a promising new direction for anti-aging research.
Gigantic prehistoric snake discovered in India may have been one of the largest ever
A massive prehistoric snake discovered in India may have rivaled the largest snake ever known. Called Vasuki indicus, the 47-million-year-old giant could have reached up to 50 feet long, making it comparable to the legendary Titanoboa. Scientists believe its enormous body made it a slow-moving ambush predator, similar to a modern anaconda.
Unsuspected discovery of abnormal antibodies could explain pediatric cancer
Aberrant antibodies that attack DNA repair machinery in childhood could help predict later cancer risk
Scientists discover 'D-rex', a giant fungus from Chinese forests whose unique lineage dates back 65 million years
Deep in the forests of Yunnan, China, scientists have discovered a "fungal giant" that challenges our understanding of how large fungi can become. The newly described species, Dianjunus rex, produces ...
THE POPPY PROJECT POP-UP LIVING GARDEN LAUNCHES AT GALLERIA FORT LAUDERDALE TO BENEFIT HENDERSON BEHAVIORAL HEALTH - Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
Galleria Fort Lauderdale GM Angel Cordero, Mayor Dean Trantalis, Senator Rosalind Osgood, Steven Ronik, Ed.D., Representative Chip LaMarca, and David Cooley at the ribbon at the grand opening of The Poppy […]
Science Corporation implants its vision-restoring chip in its first Stargardt disease patient
Max Hodak, the former president and co-founder of Neuralink, detailed on stage at TechCrunch Disrupt how his company's work with PRIMA is part of its path toward a novel brain-computer interface (BCI).
St. Louis wants to rewrite the rules that kept politics out of City Hall hiring. Mayor speaks out.
Disadvantaged children with intellectual disabilities face greater mental health difficulties, study finds
Children with intellectual disabilities face greater mental health difficulties when they are from a disadvantaged background, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.
How Ohio State’s Fisher College Of Business Working Professional MBA Helps Military Leaders Build Their Next Mission
For professionals considering their next mission, the Working Professional MBA at Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business offers a pathway to turn experience into opportunity.
Saudi national accused of planting recording device in OpenAI executive conference room
Federal prosecutors allege the device was planted in a conference room used for confidential discussions about OpenAI's proprietary research, product plans and business opportunities.
Fresno State healthcare grant brings $1.4M to Valley
Fresno State receives $1.4 million to expand healthcare training, digital technology and access to care in four Central Valley counties.
David Bowie fantasy classic coming to Turlock theater — with a special live twist
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the cult classic.
OpenAI in Early Talks to Buy Security Startup Trail of Bits
OpenAI, which is trying to develop a substantial cybersecurity business, is in early talks to buy Trail of Bits, a startup that finds and fixes vulnerabilities in open-source software, according to people familiar with the matter. The size of the potential deal couldn’t be learned. OpenAI has ...
The 6 Best Science Fantasy Books Released Since 2010, Ranked
From The Fifth Season to Gideon the Ninth, these science fantasy novels fuse magic, technology, and unforgettable ideas.
60 Second Lectures Fall 2026 Roundup Video
This fall’s 60-Second Lectures included talks ranging from quantum materials to U.S. healthcare.
Prince Mario joins Families First’s milestone celebration
Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe brings his philanthropic passion back to Palm Beach County
Everett eyes small business tax relief in concert with new downtown stadium plan
EVERETT – For the first time in 24 years, the city’s Business & Occupation tax could be substantially revamped in […]
Many I-Drive business owners want a ban on e-scooters
Some business owners say e-scooter users are riding dangerously, leaving them scattered on sidewalks and posing risks to pedestrians.
Kamala Harris’ political future in question amid report on husband’s concerns
A panel discusses a report claiming Kamala Harris’ husband privately expressed that he does not want her to run for president again and more on ‘Hannity.’
What private practices, hospitals and investors should know about the M&A market in cardiology
William Holding, a veteran healthcare consultant, spoke to Cardiovascular Business about the ever-changing cardiology industry. Should private practices sell or stay independent? How has private equity impacted the market? He answered those questions and many more.
CVS agrees to pay $315 million to settle Justice Department case over opioid prescriptions
The settlement resolves a lawsuit brought in 2024 that accused the healthcare giant of providing massive amounts of opioids and other controlled substances “to fuel its own profits at the expense of public health and safety.”
New method helps researchers study proteins involved in plant health, disease
Plants—like people—come in all shapes and sizes. And just like scientists want to understand the components of the human body to treat disease and improve our lives, they also want to understand how plants ...
Jessica Lange Says FX Was ‘Too F**king Cheap’ During Her ‘American Horror Story’ Days
Lange surprised fans when she returned to the horror anthology series this fall, despite previously claiming she had no interest.
Movers & Shakers: Odyssey Behavioral Health, Centerstone Name Chief Revenue Officers
Merakey names new CSO, CGO In August, national behavioral health and human support services provider Merakey named two new leaders to its
Cattle futures lower waiting on direct business
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live cattle were lower, feeders were mostly lower waiting on direct business to develop. December live cattle closed $.22 lower at $226.37 and February live cattle closed $1.00 lower at $228.57. November feeder cattle closed $.07 lower at $341.02 and January feeder cattle closed $.10 higher at $335.85. Direct cash […]
NFL suspends Bears DE Montez Sweat 2 games for violating the league's PED policy
The Bears have upcoming games against the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots in Weeks 6 and 7.
OpenAI says 'hidden' recording device was planted in office
OpenAI said a "sophisticated recording device" was found in one of its offices and that the company's own models identified the person who planted it.
Trump’s Fundamental Electoral Strategy is Violence
Chants of “USA!” rang out at the president’s Ohio rally after a MAGA goon punched a protester in the face. Bet you can’t guess who got high-fived, and who got escorted out of the venue.
Updated 2027 NFL Draft Order Following Titans Loss to Texans
Tennessee’s dismal 0-5 start and stagnant offense have vaulted them into the top draft slot. Discover how a blowout loss to Houston reshaped the race for No. 1.
Marty Weinberg, retired attorney, former city solicitor, and longtime political power broker, has died at 89
As Mayor Frank Rizzo’s city solicitor in 1972 and ‘73, he negotiated labor contracts, litigated tax disputes, reduced the number of city consultants, and juggled other thorny political issues.
After 40 Years, Physicists Finally Observe The 'Energy Ladder' at Quantum Tipping Points
"To see those predictions borne out is a beautiful thing."
LVCVA happy with results of this year’s five-day sale in September
While the most important result — how much visitation is increasing as a result of the sale — may never be revealed, LVCVA marketers were happy with increased page views.
SerpApi GC on Fighting Two Tech Giants and Keeping the Business Moving
Speaking with Law.com, SerpApi's Chad Anson discussed what it means to be a startup GC in two David-versus-Goliath legal battles, why he believes companies sometimes need to litigate more openly, and the advice he would give any in-house lawyer suddenly facing a potentially existential lawsuit.
Latest Trump administration proposal to change NIH research grant system draws scientists’ ire
One researcher tells Scientific American that the change would reduce transparency and risk politicizing the grant review process
‘Gus the Bus’ to provide free food at Lamprey Health in Newmarket
Gather, a Portsmouth-based food pantry, is bringing its fresh food bus, nicknamed “Gus the Bus,” to Lamprey Health Care’s community health center in Newmarket.
Enshrouded Director Admits Keen Games Bet the Studio’s Future on It, and Over 5 Million Players Paid Off That Gamble
Two days before Enshrouded's 1.0 launch, we interview Creative Director Antony Christoulakis to discuss the exceedingly popular survival game
When 1 + 1 = 1: The Miserable Math Behind Many Media Mergers
(Welcome to the “Most Important Story of the Week”, my bi-weekly strategy column analyzing the most important (but often not buzziest) news story of the last two weeks. I’m the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a former streaming executive who now analyzes business strategy in the entertainment industry. Please subscribe.) The last few issues of this newsletter have circled two topics: September’s streaming viewership and all the Paramount/Skydance/Warner Bros./Discovery merger news. I’m happy to say on the Streaming Ratings Report front, we’ll be all caught up by early next week, then the SRR will come out on a tight weekly schedule. Then, after today, I’ll have slayed my PSWbD dragon. It’s such a big story, it demanded multiple issues. With the announcement of a name (just Skydance) and executive team, though, I think we can almost close the book on this story. In terms of topics, it becomes just another studio to cover. So today, I have one last set of takes on that merger. As I’ve sat with it, reading about who was staying and who was going, a big worry crystallized in my brain, and I gotta get that take out. Plus, I still owe you a host of “ugliness” that didn’t fit in my previous “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” takes. Let’s dive in! Subscribe Most Important Story of the Week - As Paramount Shuffles Deck Chairs, Will They Build or Consolidate? On social media—I try to avoid most social media platforms, but sometimes I end up checking in—the best joke I saw about the announcement of the new name of Skydance was from fellow reporter Claire Atkinson who pointed out… Yeah, I laughed out loud at that one. Later, though, I saw another Twitter response (that later got deleted, so I can’t shout the person out) that did give me pause. The person noted that the Titanic film made the better analogy: a super expensive project everyone in the town doubted that went on to conquer the globe. So yeah: on one hand, the image of the Titanic recalls the actual ship and its infamous end, but that clip is from a movie which proved the doubters wrong. So for all the skepticism of the latest massive media merger, one could wonder which way this one goes. Does it crash like the Titanic or rise to glory like Titanic, the movie? Either way, this deal is “Titanic”, looking at the massive debt required to close the deal, which is not going well when it comes to borrowing costs for Paramount… …or borrowing costs for Oracle. But I’ve started to get worried about another outcome: the sum of this merger will be smaller and weaker and less profitable than its former parts. In other words, one plus one won’t equal three or two, but an even smaller number. Skydance paid to take a traditional studio off the board, but they won’t really capture the upside. Let me explain what I mean, but first, let’s look at the series of news that inspired this thought. Skydance Sets Its Leadership Team As soon as the Paramount-Skydance-Warner Bros.-Discovery merger closed, the new leadership team announced a new name—Skydance, which I’ll use going forward—and a new executive leadership team. You’ve probably read through all the executive shuffling, but if you haven’t, here’s a quick, incomplete summary, in rough order of importance: Mattel’s CEO Ynon Kreiz—who previously ran Maker Studios—joined as co-CEO with David Ellison. HBO/HBO Max’s Casey Bloys will stay and run streaming. Former head of streaming for Paramount-Skydance Cindy Holland—who was also at Netflix—will depart. The former heads of Warner Bros.—Pam Abdy and Mike De Luca—are out. The film studios will be run by Dana Goldstein and Josh Greenstein. George Cheeks of Paramount will run Skydance TV, controlling all the TV production units. In comic book news, the DC films will still be run by Peter Gunn and Peter Safran. Lastly, the head of CNN, Mark Thompson, will stay in place. Let’s quickly opine on the particulars before diving into the broad ramifications. We’re just getting started with this issue, but the rest is for paid subscribers of the Entertainment Strategy Guy, so if you’d like to find out… Who I like and dislike in their next gigs… Why I think this consolidation will likely leave Skydance worse off… The math behind which mergers succeed and which don’t… A lot more ugliness in this merger… And a whole lot more... ...please subscribe! We can only keep doing this great work with your support.
LeBron James speaks out after making his 76ers debut
LeBron James scored 10 points and delivered 5 assists in his 76ers debut, then explained what it meant to share the floor with his new teammates.
Fayette County health officials confirm West Nile virus cases
Health officials confirmed West Nile virus in Fayette County, prompting local authorities to advise residents on preventative measures and offer free repellent.
Santa Monica Makes Cut for Most Business-Friendly City
Santa Monica is a finalist for LA County's Most Business-Friendly City award for the second year. The city streamlined permitting, launched a $3M Economic Development Fund, and cut business fees.
Optimum, Lubbock Chamber launch grant program to support Lubbock small businesses
Optimum Business is investing $125,000 in the program to help selected businesses support their long-term success and contribute to the community’s prosperity.