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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.”
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.”
N. Syracuse Manufacturer Marks Milestone, Plans for the Future
Air Innovations has grown from a small local manufacturer into a global business, selling its products in 74 countries organizations. Some of its clients include NASA, Blue Origin and SpaceX. By Stefan Yablonski [caption id=attachment_11117 align=alignright width=450] Michael Wetzel, president and CEO, and his father, Larry, who currently is an adviser to the board of directors. Larry served as the chairman of the board until 2024, when the company was acquired by Altus Capital Partners, a private equity firm.[/caption] Air Innovations in North Syracuse hopes to add more employees and possibly even expand its facility in the near future. The company is a global leader in designing and building environmental process control systems for applications that can’t be addressed with standard HVAC equipment, according to Michael Wetzel, president and CEO. “We customize solutions for temperature, humidity, filtration and pressurization, with additional capabilities in direct-expansion, chilled-water and thermoelectric technologies. Our business now is entirely focused on specialty or niche markets.” Air Innovations celebrated its 40th anniversary on Sept. 18, marking four decades of doing business, manufacturing products and growing in Central New York. In the beginning [caption id=attachment_11138 align=alignright width=451] A worker, Ezzy Salehi, tests a Wine Guardian condenser unit at Air Innovations.[/caption] “A guy by the name of Jim Kelley started the business [known as Floratech] in 1986. It was focused on refrigerated display cases for supermarket fresh flowers,” Wetzel said. “My father [Larry] started Clean Room Technology in the early 1980s, then sold that to a French company called Clestra Cleanroom. “My father and I bought Floratech in 1996 — 30 years ago, 10 years after it was started. Then in 1999, Floratech bought a portion of Clestra and their building. At that point everything was still called Floratech. But, as that was not reflective of the diversity of the business, we rebranded as Air Innovations in 2001.” The company rebranded to pursue a strategy of diversification in specialty HVAC systems. Wetzel explained that since then, it has become a trusted global partner, earning the President’s “E” Award for Exports and securing contracts in the most demanding fields, including aerospace, defense and semiconductor manufacturing. Air Innovations has grown from a small local manufacturer into a global business, selling nearly 70,000 units in 74 countries and territories and developing custom environmental control systems for companies and organizations including NASA, Blue Origin and SpaceX. “We work with all the big names you ever heard of and some you never heard of,” Wetzel added. The Wetzels sold the business two years ago to Altus Capital Partners, a private equity firm focused on control investments in lower middle-market, niche manufacturing companies in North America. Founded in 2003, Altus Capital Partners’ headquarters is in Wilton, Connecticut, with an additional office in Lincolnshire, Illinois. “They are an equity firm. Both my father and I both maintain a small minority share. I am going to continue to be involved. I call myself a part-time CEO. I will continue that role for the foreseeable future; I don’t see any change there.” Building to the future “We are at 58 employees right now, which is a little bit down. We had a high of 70. That moves along with the activity we have,” Wetzel said. “We’ll start ramping up here in the fourth quarter into next year. More than 20% of our employees have been with the company for more than a decade. “I am fairly certain that sometime in the next several years we are going to have to enlarge the footprint of our facility and for sure we are going to have to add employees. We already are. We are probably going to have to add five or six people next year. We are always in the market for HVAC technicians; we always need those.” Air Innovations will remain in Central New York, with its current workforce staying in place, he added. “I believe the primary driver of our success over time is the diversity of our business which is a direct result of our willingness to tackle new challenges,” Wetzel said.
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.
Business Beat : Tommy’s Express Car Wash “Tunnel of Terror” returns October 28th
COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) - The annual Tunnel of Terror officially returns to Tommy's Express Car Wash in Coldwater...
Troy Jackson Presses Susan Collins on Heating Prices
"This winter is going to break some people," the Democrat says in a new ad shared first the Midcoast Villager.
Google is selling Pixel and Samsung phones inside the Play Store
Google has added a “Shop devices” option in the Play Store that lists Pixel and Samsung hardware and links straight to the Google Store.
7 Central Florida restaurants shut down after health inspections last week
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation shut down seven Central Florida restaurants during the week from Oct. 5-11 after conducting health inspections.
Worth the squeeze - College of Arts and Sciences
Alecia Septer is pinching the cheeks of sharks and rays to uncover new compounds that could help fight infections.
Endorsement: Reject Prop. 44. Politics don’t belong in California’s community health clinics.
If passed, the measure would push the majority of clinics across California into the red.
Endorsement: Reject Prop. 44. Politics don’t belong in California’s community health clinics.
If passed, the measure would push the majority of clinics across California into the red.
Danaher Collaborates with NVIDIA to Advance Autonomous Science
Collaboration will bring together NVIDIA AI technologies and Danaher’s scientific instruments, laboratory workflows and data WASHINGTON, Oct. 14, 2026 — Danaher Corporation today announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to advance autonomous science and help accelerate the pace of scientific discovery. As part of Danaher’s broader effort to shape the future of AI-enabled science, the companies […]
Viasat simplifies JetXP business aviation service plans following landmark satellite network milestone
First-ever suggested retail pricing introduced for JetXP in-flight connectivity service as ViaSat-3 constellation reaches full operation, tripling the global network's available bandwidth
2026 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study
TROY, Mich.: 14 Oct. 2026 — Overall satisfaction among gas utility business customers rises 10 points (on a 1,000-point scale) to 655 in the JD Power 2026 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction StudySM, released today. Business customer satisfaction improved across nearly all dimensions. Trust and information provided show the strongest gains, each up 24 […]
Editorial: Trump’s desperate campaign to buy off voters
The omens that President Donald Trump is facing an epic example of what another Republican president once called “a thumpin’” are accumulating. His deeply unpopular Middle East war is metastasizing,
Strong Patient Outcomes Earns Holy Cross Health High Performing Recognition in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 Best Hospitals Rankings - Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
Five High Performing ratings recognize care for heart failure, pacemaker implantation and orthopedic procedures October 13, 2026 – Cardiovascular and orthopedic issues are two of the most common reasons patients seek […]
Broward Health Medical Center Introduces Bispecific T-Cell Engager Therapy for Cancer Patients - Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
OCTOBER 13, 2026 – Broward Health Medical Center has introduced bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) therapy, an innovative immunotherapy that harnesses the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. […]
Baptist Health South Florida Named as One of the 2026 Best Workplaces in Health Care by Fortune Media and Great Place To Work - Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
It is the highest-ranked Florida-based healthcare system on the list October 13, 2026 — Great Place To Work® and Fortune magazine have named Baptist Health South Florida to the 2026 […]
Baptist Health Foundation Announces $1 Million Grant from Knight Foundation to Advance Healthcare Technology Innovation Fellowship - Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
Renewed investment will support the next five years of the Baptist Health Knight Foundation Fellowship in Healthcare Technology Innovation October 13, 2026 – Baptist Health Foundation today announced a $1 million […]
PredictX Launches New Travel Policy Analyzer and Optimizer
Tool helps managers see where policy changes can deliver savings
Michael F. Walsh, M.D., Joins Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute as Deputy Director and Chief of Prevention - Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
October 12, 2026 – Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute is pleased to welcome Michael F. Walsh, M.D., a board-certified medical geneticist specializing in hereditary cancer predisposition. Dr. Walsh will […]
Commercial Observations Demonstration
Space Weather Commercial Observations Demonstration
Take2Eton, a TMC, Expands Energy and Marine Travel Business Into Scotland
Move said to build on Texas-based operation
How medical science dismantled centuries of dogma to transform breast cancer care
POINT PLEASANT, W.Va. — The treatment and prevention of breast cancer have evolved from ancient, untreatable diagnoses into highly targeted, personalized medical therapies over four millennia, according to medical historians
Canada's Purebread Plans to Acquire Caffè Artigiano's Cafe Business
Purebread Brands signed a letter of intent for a C$7.7 million stock acquisition of Caffè Artigiano’s cafe business and 27-location network.
Hospice, Home Health Moratoria: What Might Come Next
Many hospice providers are struggling to grow amid the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) temporary moratoria on hospice and home
Boone County health department hosts community open house
Boone County's health department is hosting its first annual open house for community members to learn about its services on Saturday.
Strengthening sustainability science through the German Committee Future Earth
Discover how the German Committee Future Earth advances sustainability science through interdisciplinary research, collaboration and knowledge exchange
Donald Menzel: Lying, stealing and cheating in American politics (guest opinion)
Lying, stealing and cheating — LSC — form a grim trio in American politics, with deep historical roots. The Founders spent long hours in Philadelphia debating how to design a government that would restrain ambitious leaders from lying, ste…
Rep. Moore says he puts policy over 'toxic' politics; Crosby calls himself a chance for change
In a debate for Utah’s newly-drawn 2nd Congressional District, Republican incumbent Rep. Blake Moore squared off with Democrat Peter Crosby.
HH Health To Host Hiring Event For Clinical, Nonclinical Positions
Huntsville Hospital Health System will host a community hiring event Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Campus 805’s Stone Event Center, offering job
HH Health To Host Hiring Event For Clinical, Nonclinical Positions
Huntsville Hospital Health System will host a community hiring event Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Campus 805’s Stone Event Center, offering job
Turfgrass Disease Diagnostic Lab Helps Professionals Maintain Healthy Turf
The lab serves professional turfgrass managers, including golf courses, athletic fields, and lawn care operators for rapid diagnosis to address turfgrass pa ...
Fairphone’s latest repairable earbuds are smaller, lighter, and longer-lasting
You can swap the buds’ batteries without a single tool.
Iowa City Book Festival: Pulitzer winners, poets and more
Iowa City's 18th annual Book Festival runs Oct. 18-25, showcasing Pulitzer winners Yiyun Li, Marilynne Robinson and Nicholas Kristof. Most events are free, including a Robinson-Kristof public conversation.
NorCal science festival returns to Mission Bay
UCSF campus will this weekend host more than 125 free demos, activities and performances.
Grimes growth surges behind residential, commercial development
The city of Grimes’ population now stands at just under 18,000 following a special census last year, and that growth is representative in the number of building permits being issued, both residential and commercial, which for the year to date have already surpassed the previous high number by 32%. As of Oct. 1, the city…
Former assisted living facility in Huxley converted into apartments
A former assisted living facility in Huxley has been converted into apartments, expanding housing options in the community of more than 4,500 people. Northpark Row has been developed by Coterie Real Estate. It redevelops the former assisted living facility that had been the site of Madrid Home of Huxley and later Ballard Creek Assisted Living.…
In run for schools chief, Shaw touts ‘basics’
But barring trans girls in female sports is top issue.
Poll finds PBS popular with Arkansans
A new statewide poll conducted by YouGov found that PBS is the most trusted television news source among Arkansas adults. Recently, Arkansas TV has moved PBS News Hour from 6...
Poll finds PBS popular with Arkansans
A new statewide poll conducted by YouGov found that PBS is the most trusted television news source among Arkansas adults. Recently, Arkansas TV has moved PBS News Hour from 6...
National Fuel Gas Company Announces Plan to Separate Its Integrated Upstream and Gathering Business
Separation to Create Two High-Quality Public Companies, Each with Strong Financial Profiles, Distinct Growth Strategies and Long-Term Value Creation
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.
More work to be done on mental health after Gordon leaves Governor's Office, he says
When it comes to mental health care, outgoing Gov. Mark Gordon said on Friday that he hopes the next administration will “understand that we’ve now got little flowers growing all
Business briefs: Bank service day, history museum accolade, new bear bourbon
Bear-themed bourbon out
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.
View an e-edition of LNP\'s 2026 voters guide
To view an e-edition of LNP | LancasterOnline's 2026 voters guide, click here, and then navigate to Section D.
Scientists discover 11,742 deep-sea viruses with 99% new to science
China-based researchers identified 11,742 viruses in seabed samples, with 99% (11,662) entirely new to science..
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.
Black Hawk Acquisition Corporation Announces Redemption Results in Connection With Its Business Combination With Vesicor Therapeutics Inc.
BLACKHAWK, Calif., Oct. 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Black Hawk Acquisition Corporation (NASDAQ: “BKHAU,” “BKHA,”
'Dark Hollow': West Virginia horror film highlights Appalachian culture, history
Daniel Byers's independent horror film Dark Hollow, inspired by Appalachian history and filmed in West Virginia, is being shown in theaters across the state during the month of October 2026.
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.
Musk steps back into politics with redefined DC role
Elon Musk is jumping back into the political fray, reviving his role as a massive election spender and technology leader with a seat at the table again in Washington. Following a brief hiatus…
Voter suppression is happening in the South. This organizer fights it.
Black Voters Matter co-founder LaTosha Brown mobilizes minority communities as voting rights come under assault.
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
‘You Can See Everything’ review: Elizabeth Holmes doc is utterly fascinating
OK, let’s just start with what I do not know. Because I am not Elizabeth Holmes, I do not know what is going on inside the head of the former
Washington soccer goalie does double duty as broadcaster
SEATTLE — The University of Washington women’s soccer team had just tied Gonzaga, 1-1. A player in a pink jersey sprinted away from the sideline, a trusty binder full of
Smrithan Ravichandran wins 2026 laser science dissertation award
The University of Maryland graduate was honored for research exploring electron behavior in intense laser fields.
Chesapeake Bay gets a C+ in overall health, Va. and Md. leaders say work to protect it must continue
The Chesapeake Bay earned a C+ on the annual report card that calculates improvements or losses in key indicators of health and conditions in the estuary and surrounding areas. This is the highest the Bay has ever scored since the record-keeping began in 2006. At the announcement in Woodbridge on Tuesday, Virginia leaders said the […]
Colorado can help lead data center construction
Across Colorado, proposals for new data centers are running into fierce opposition. Residents are worried about noise, water use, health risks and high electricity costs. Six municipalities, including Denver, have imposed bans, caps or moratoriums while they figure out how these massive facilities could affect their communities. Local officials cannot ignore voters’ concerns. But the […]
China’s exports surge amid AI-driven demand
Exports grew by 36.3 percent in September, the biggest leap since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trust in science falls fastest among those left behind
Trust in science has fallen to per-pandemic levels, especially among those living in financial insecurity, Wellcome Global Monitor finds.
Andy Burnham’s Speech to the Labour Party Conference Could Be the Start of a Positive Social-Democratic Politics
But the autumn budget to be released at the end of October will offer needed details.
7 events in Lancaster County this weekend, from AppleUmpkin Festival to Spooky Fest
Need some inspiration for your weekend planning?
California’s Billionaire Tax Promises Healthcare Relief. The Fine Print Is Murkier.
An initiative on the California ballot would levy the nation’s first wealth tax on billionaires. Supporters say the proceeds would help offset President Donald Trump’s sweeping healthcare cuts. But critics argue that the temporary infusion of cash is a giveaway to politicians.
Aging Life Care Managers Can Be a ‘Godsend’ for Families
These service providers, formerly known as geriatric care managers, can arrange a move to a senior living facility, deal with Medicare and Medicaid, recommend doctors, drive a client to the dentist, and much more.
Candidates with strong education credentials square off in 96th House District
Two Manheim Township educators from opposite sides of the political aisle are vying for control of the 96th District. Democratic incumbent Nikki Rivera will face Republican Babita Rusyn, a former
Newcomer faces incumbent Zimmerman in 99th House District
Republican Dave Zimmerman has represented the 99th District in the Pennsylvania House for 12 years. This year, 23-year-old Democrat Ethan Gabrick, a teacher’s aide, hopes to take over as an
Insurance pro challenges Smith-Wade-El in 49th House District
Four years after his election to the Pennsylvania House, Lancaster Democrat Izzy Smith-Wade-El again faces a Republican challenger in Millersville Borough resident Vanessa Acosta.
Former councilwoman challenges Mentzer in 97th House District
Republican Steve Mentzer faces off against an East Lampeter Township woman with government experience in a bid to win his seventh reelection campaign in the 97th House District.
A 41st House District rematch: Brett Miller vs. Brad Chambers
Lancaster County’s 41st state House District race features a rematch between Republican incumbent Brett Miller and Democrat Brad Chambers.
Registered nurse runs against incumbent Smucker in 11th Congressional District
Democrat Nancy Mannion is confident in her ability to oust longtime Lancaster County Congressman Lloyd Smucker and take the 11th District seat.
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
36th House District race among Pennsylvania\'s most competitive
Democrat James Malone did the unthinkable last year when he won a state Senate seat in a bright red district against an established Republican candidate.
Democrat offers Greiner uncommon opposition in 43rd House District
For the first time in eight years, Republican state Rep. Keith Greiner faces competition in the 43rd House District. Democrat Bryan Peirson, a carpenter for a Chester County-based cabinet company,
A voters guide to the 2026 general election in Lancaster County
The coolest thing about LNP’s 2026 voters guide is the part we didn’t need to include — a rundown of uncontested races.
Write-in Democrat vies with Gebhard for 48th Senate District seat
Coming off a heated GOP primary, Republican Sen. Chris Gebhard faces a Berks County Democrat who won a spot on the ballot through a write-in campaign.
How to submit a mail ballot in Lancaster County
To vote by mail-in ballot, registered voters must first apply each year to do so. Voters can opt in to a permanent list to automatically receive an application to vote
Samsung is expanding One UI 9 with Android 17 to the oldest qualifying flagships
Samsung’s Android 17-based One UI 9 update is starting to arrive on Galaxy S23, its oldest Galaxy flagships eligible for the update.
Brenda Lucas: Community news for Wednesday, Oct. 14
Click for community news in the Huntington, West Virginia, and Tri-State area.
What to know about childhood vaccines this year: A Q&A with a trusted pediatrician.
We provide resources for parents, and answers about vaccines and vaccine hesitancy from Goldsboro Pediatrics’ David Tayloe III.
Rogers Behavioral Health charged with labor law violations for firing workers in union drive
The NLRB complaint alleges Rogers fired six employees and took other actions to discourage employees from organizing a union.
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.'
Lobbyists and trade groups fight to shape how states regulate medical AI
Lobbying groups for doctors and hospitals and trade groups are working behind the scenes on how to regulate AI in medicine.
Student science
Kim Sager, a wildlife biologist for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, listens to Audrey Rice, right, and Cora Powless talk about the moisture in the soil of the former Lake Aldwell site at the Port Angeles High School library.
8-year-old girl’s slime business opening at RiverTown Crossings mall
An 8-year-old girl and her family are working together to bring a slime shop to RiverTown Crossings mall in Grandville.
Google Pledges Frontier Models and Compute to European Scientists
On October 14, 2026, Google announced that Google DeepMind and Google Cloud are providing up to 200 European scientific researchers with direct access to the company's frontier models, together with $3 million in compute...
Amendment 3 support insufficient among informed voters, AIF-commissioned poll finds
Is there a path to passage in November?
Iranian Students Shine Amid War, Winning 18 Gold Medals at International Science Olympiads
Iranian students have won 18 gold medals at international science Olympiads in 2026, up from 11 last year. According to Seyed Reza Hosseini
Galderma Is Acquiring ZO Skin Health for $1.5 Billion
Galderma has signed to acquire ZO Skin Health for $1.5 billion in a move that positions it deeper in the burgeoning dermatological skin care space.
Leadership in Digital Health: How to Transform Hospitals Through Technology, Data, and Artificial Intelligence
Find out more about Leadership in Digital Health: How to Transform Hospitals Through Technology, Data, and Artificial Intelligence, don't miss it.
Financial health scores ask nothing of banks. That is why they love them.
Learn about financial health scores and how they impact consumer finance. Are they beneficial or simply a façade for banks?
Gaskin: White Stadium could hurt local businesses
White Stadium will create economic activity. The question is whether the surrounding businesses will participate in it — or pay part of the price for making the transportation plan work.
RFA Class of 1961 gathers for 65-year reunion
ROME — Dozens of members of the Rome Free Academy Class of 1961 recently came together to share old memories — and make new ones — during their 65-year reunion.
Two toolkits to stay in control of your family business
Discover two practical toolkits to keep your multigenerational family business aligned: governance agreements, councils, and clear exits.
SLR Business Credit Provides $3MM Accounts Receivable Line of Credit to Influencer Marketing and Affiliate Commerce Company
SLR Business Credit, a provider of asset-based lending solutions to middle-market companies, provided a $3 million revolving line of credit, secured by
Wintrust Hires Atwell to Help Expand Business Development for Wintrust Specialty Finance
Wintrust Financial added Sean Atwell, vice president of business development, to Wintrust Specialty Finance.
Varela Joins Republic Business Credit as Senior Vice President, Account Executive
Republic Business Credit added Jorge Varela to its recourse portfolio client management team as senior vice president, account executive. Based in Chicago,