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VIEWPOINT: The Failure of Raise the Age: A Gift to New York’s Gangs
Raising the age of criminal responsibility in New York state has created a nightmare scenario that opened statutory loopholes which prohibit law enforcement and prosecutors from doing their job. As a result of this reckless policy failure, youth violence in New York has skyrocketed while gangs recruit those under 18 to do their bidding knowing […]
Ask Rusty: Social Security Questions Asked Over Coffee
Dear Rusty: My coffee conversations among a group of friends have resulted in several questions about Social Security, including the following: 1. What happens to the Social Security account of someone who dies before retirement age? What happens to that money and where does it end up? 2. How does the decreased birth rate of
VIEWPOINT: Supreme Court Clarifies Standard in “Reverse Discrimination” Case under Title VII
The McDonnell Douglas standard, established in McDonnell Douglas Corp. v. Green, 411 U.S. 792 (1973), is a burden-shifting framework used to evaluate claims of employment discrimination. This standard applies to claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL), and other related statutes. Under the
VIEWPOINT: Colleges Face Federal Requirement To Contact Students About Loan Debt
On May 5, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) released a “Request for Institutions to Provide Repayment Information to Former Students to Prevent Defaults” (GEN-25-19). Noting that “only 38 percent of Direct Loan and Department-held Federal Family Education Loan Program borrowers are in repayment and current on their student loans,” ED estimates that “almost
Ask Rusty: How do I apply for Social Security?
Dear Rusty: I just turned 65 years old in February 2025. I need to sign up for Social Security but don’t even know where to start. Signed: Seeking Assistance Dear Seeking Assistance: It’s fairly easy to sign up for your Social Security (SS) benefits, by either calling the Social Security Administration (SSA) at (800) 772-1213
VIEWPOINT: The Southern Tier Can’t Afford to Fall Behind on Economic Growth
The Southern Tier has long been a region of opportunity. Growing up in Binghamton, I witnessed firsthand how thriving industries provided for families and sustained vibrant communities. But over the past few decades, we have watched prosperity slip away. The Southern Tier once thrived on manufacturing that provided stable, middle-class jobs. But as companies moved
VIEWPOINT: The Time is Now for Binghamton’s Clinton Street
Early in my career in public service, I knew that Binghamton’s Clinton Street was special. With its historic bones, walkable footprint, affordable neighborhoods, and eclectic mix of shops and eateries, Clinton Street really was the best kept secret in our community. Thanks to the recent announcement of a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant
VIEWPOINT: Broome County’s Transformation
When I first stepped into the role of Broome County Executive [in early 2017], I wasn’t interested in lip service or finger-pointing. I knew that Broome County had the bones of a great community — strong people, a rich history, and neighborhoods full of potential. What we needed was a plan, hard work, and a
Ask Rusty: Will DOGE Hurt Social Security or Medicare Benefits
Dear Rusty: I am a new AMAC member and have an important question for you, and your answer will be greatly appreciated. My question is: Is the new DOGE effort going to help us, or hurt us, all those living on Social Security and receiving Medicare benefits? Please let us know soon. Signed: Worried Senior
VIEWPOINT: How Leadership Coaching Transforms Organizations
What can a skilled leader do for a company? She can turn chaos into order. In turn, this creates the space she needs to build an exciting work environment that provides continuous growth and increased profits. We have seen it happen. Companies with superior products and services and competent employees but stagnant growth turned themselves
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