Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.

HISTORY FROM OHA: If It’s Hardware We Have It: The Burhans & Black Story
The history of Burhans & Black, Inc. dates back to 1874 when Henry Nehemiah Burhans’ sash, blind, and door company joined with Jerrold William Black’s hardware business to become Burhans, Black & Co. Henry Nehemiah Burhans was born in the town of DeWitt on Oct. 12, 1839. He received his education at Fayetteville Union School […]
VIEWPOINT: The Impact of N.Y.’s New Pay-Transparency Law on Employers
On Dec. 21, 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the long-anticipated New York State pay-transparency bill into law. The bill amends New York State Labor Law by adding a new section 194-b, which takes effect on Sept. 17, 2023. Labor Law § 194-b continues a recent trend toward pay transparency both nationally and locally, including similar
Ask Rusty: For Some Simple Guidance About Medicare
Dear Rusty: I’m nearing 68 years old, have never signed up for Medicare, but am thinking that I should look into it. I’m currently covered by my wife’s health insurance through her employer. I would greatly appreciate some simple guidance regarding Medicare. I’ve tried watching some videos about the subject, but it was always so
VIEWPOINT: NLRB Restores Obama-Era Bargaining-Unit Test
On Dec. 14, 2022, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB or Board) issued a decision that (again) modifies its standard for bargaining-unit determination cases where a labor union seeks to represent a unit that contains some, but not all, of the job classifications at a particular workplace. The decision, in American Steel Construction, Inc., revives
CEO FOCUS: Evolving our Communications and Operational Teams to Support Members and Staff
I’ve [recently] highlighted shifts to our forward-facing work resulting from a strategic refresh process that has helped us redefine our goals, metrics, and the resources required to best meet the evolving needs of our members and the community. At the same time, we are also evolving our communications and operational teams. CenterState CEO’s marketing and
Ask Rusty: Will My Wife’s Benefit Change My Claiming Decision?
Dear Rusty: I’ll be 69 in April 2023, and my wife will be 59 [in about a month]. I’m still working and am trying to determine whether I should take Social Security at 69 or 70. My main question revolves around my wife’s future Social Security benefits and how they will affect my decision on
VIEWPOINT: How Can Your Business Transform In An Uncertain Economy?
When you’re in a tough spot —personally or professionally —and not sure of where to go or what to do, you need to look within at your fear. And then you need to use it as fuel to realize your goals. Most of us experience fear as being friction, getting in the way of making
Ask Rusty: How Do I Avoid Pitfalls & Get Maximum Social Security?
Dear Rusty: I turned 70 in June of this year and want to start receiving benefits. I am currently working full time as well. I want to set things up and get started in the most advantageous way so that my benefit is maximized even when I stop working. What are your recommendations for me

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Eden Fresh Network co-founders show how crowdfunding is done
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — If one were to look at the playbook for how to set up a successful crowdfunding campaign, Mark Pawliw would check all the boxes. He and his co-founder and co-owner of Eden Fresh Network (EFN), Leah de Rosa, successfully crowdfunded the launch of EFN in May. Community members from the duo’s networks,
VIEWPOINT: 3 Tips for Firms to Craft Holiday Social-Media Messaging
Holidays can be your social-media calendar’s best friend, the free spaces on the Bingo card in the insatiable drive for online content. When it comes to striking the proper tone with your organization’s public messaging, holidays can also be your worst enemy. Take Pride Month, celebrated every June in the United States to recognize the
Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.