Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.
VIEWPOINT: Talent strategies in the face of a worker shortage
The “Silver Tsunami” is hitting its peak as 4.1 million Americans will turn 65 each year between 2024 and 2027, according to a report by the Alliance for Lifetime Income. Granted, a portion of those 16 million Baby Boomers will remain in the workforce after age 65, but organizations are bracing for a significant talent […]
Ask Rusty: About Medicare’s Dreaded IRMAA Provision
Dear Rusty: My wife is on Medicare and receiving Social Security benefits each month. We built a house and used money from our investments to pay for it. We knew we would pay taxes on that withdrawal, but my wife received a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) saying that because the money we
VIEWPOINT: Marketing Metrics Gaining in Popularity
The landscape of marketing metrics is constantly evolving. As we gain new ways of harvesting more granular and more-accurate data points, it’s critical for marketers to understand which metrics are gaining in popularity and why. Here is a quick roundup of which traditional automated marketing metrics are still worth keeping an eye on, and which
VIEWPOINT: 5 Ways a Community Bank Can Lend a Hand to a Small Business
As one of the largest investments people can make in their financial lifetime, operating a small business can be equal parts exhilarating and daunting. Fortunately, there are resources available to help small-business owners navigate the process of securing financial support. In fact, once you start looking for these resources, you’ll find that they are almost
VIEWPOINT: New CDC COVID Guidance Impact on New York State Paid Leave
On March 1, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued updated guidance related to COVID-19 prevention and treatment. Prior to [that date], the CDC recommended that individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should isolate for a minimum of five days following a positive test and also follow a period of post-isolation precautions.
Ask Rusty: Can One Work While Collecting SS Disability?
Dear Rusty: If a person is collecting Social Security (SS) disability benefits, can he, at any point, work at all? If he can, what is the maximum he can earn and still keep the disability benefit? I am asking because my husband is still young, but his injuries will not allow him to go back

Ask Rusty: If My Wife Claims Now, Will It Hurt My SS Amount?
Dear Rusty: I am 69 years old, and my wife turned 70 recently. I am still working full time. My wife is not working, but she received a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA), saying she should take her Social Security (SS) benefits as soon as possible. My question is: since my wife has

Ask Rusty: Are SS Spousal Benefits Always a Factor?
Dear Rusty: Both my wife and I have worked our entire lives. When we retire, will we both be entitled to a full benefit amount each, or will there always be a spousal factor in there? Also, how are those benefits calculated — based on your highest salaries throughout your career, or your ending salaries

VIEWPOINT: Social listening and essential response
How to use social media to your brand’s advantage Using social media as a tool for customer service is a cornerstone of digital marketing in the 21st century. However, it isn’t as simple as firing off a series of posts on X in response to angry customers. In fact, responding to customers when they are

VIEWPOINT: Snow Removal & Insurance Issues for N.Y. Business Owners
Winter in New York state brings picturesque snowscapes and the joy of seasonal festivities. However, for business owners, it also ushers in unique challenges that demand careful attention. Snow accumulation is not just an inconvenience; it can have far-reaching implications on safety and financial stability. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential aspects
Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.