Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.
Ask Rusty: Will Work Earnings Affect My Social Security at Age 80?
Dear Rusty: I am 80 years old, and I receive monthly Social Security benefits, but I’m thinking about returning to work. At this age, am I limited in how much income I generate without affecting my benefit? If so, how much can I earn without affecting it? Signed: Spry Octogenarian Dear Spry Octogenarian: Since you […]
VIEWPOINT: 2nd Circuit Clarifies U.S. Law on Employment-Retaliation Claims
In a recent decision, the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals, the federal appeals court covering New York and adjacent states, sought to clarify the federal-law standard for evaluating retaliation claims under the principal anti-discrimination statutes including, Title VII, the ADEA, and the Reconstruction Era Civil Rights Act. Significantly, the court found that such retaliation
VIEWPOINT: The Importance of Cyber Insurance & Cyber Assurance
Cybersecurity, information assurance, and cyber resilience are essential for any organization. Despite the likelihood of being hacked, companies that implement effective protection techniques and have appropriate insurance coverage can minimize the damage of a cyber attack. Cyber risks present unique challenges to the insurance industry. Business interruption and data-breach litigation insurance were some of the
VIEWPOINT: The Mohawk Valley in Motion
The Mohawk Valley region’s economic landscape has undergone a dramatic change that has turned pessimism and cynicism into confidence and progress, with more than $2 billion in public and private investment already committed to revitalizing the area. Several new development initiatives recently announced or started within the last year are adding to the region’s continued
VIEWPOINT: Changing the narrative on manufacturing jobs
It’s key to developing the next generation of manufacturing workers I recently asked a roomful of eighth graders, “Close your eyes and picture yourself walking down a street. You come across a manufacturing plant. What do you see?” They imagined broken sidewalks, weeds, tall fences, and ugly brick buildings emitting thick, black smoke. Their responses
VIEWPOINT: Key Elements of a Successful Credit-Union Strategy for 2024
Strategy is a big word. It has different meanings for different people. Most credit unions have a strategy, or at least something they refer to as a strategy. Some think of a strategic plan as a document that is produced in a nice binder and goes on a shelf. Others think of a plan with
VIEWPOINT: Race in Admissions after U.S. Supreme Court Decision
On June 29, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its long-awaited decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. (SFFA) v. President and Fellows of Harvard College. The Court considered the admissions practices of Harvard College and University of North Carolina (UNC) and found that neither could withstand the “strict scrutiny” demanded for race-based admissions decisions.
VIEWPOINT: Four Tips for Defining & Reaching Your Target Audience
When competing with other brands to find the best channels needed to reach your audience, developing an effective marketing strategy might feel like throwing darts blindfolded. To increase your odds of reaching people who might be interested in your product or service, you need to effectively and accurately define your target audience first. It might
Ask Rusty: About Income Tax on Social Security Benefits
Dear Rusty: I just started receiving my Social Security [benefits] in February of 2023. I am also working part time at a company 24 hours a week. My question is: I feel like I missed something when I signed up for Social Security because they are not taking any taxes out. What did I miss?
Syracuse–area native serves as U.S. Navy fighter pilot
Lt. Shawn Picciott, a native of the Syracuse area, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 122. The command is a strike fighter squadron located aboard the U.S. Navy’s largest master jet base. Picciott joined the Navy four years ago. Today, he serves as a pilot. “I wanted to find a direction after
Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.