Employers can legally mandate COVID shots | EXPLAINER
The Justice Department says individuals must be informed of their "option to accept or refuse administration" of an emergency use vaccine like the coronavirus shot. But that doesn't prohibit employers from mandating vaccinations as a condition of employment.
Mario Batali harassment settlement will pay $600,000 to accusers
Disgraced chef Mario Batali, his business partner and their New York City restaurant company have agreed to pay $600,000 to resolve a four-year investigation by the state attorney general's office into allegations that Batali, restaurant managers and other workers sexually harassed employees.
An exhibit of artwork brightens otherwise empty storefronts
Residents and visitors to Great Neck said they welcome the splash of color that artwork brings to empty storefronts.
Bronx business owners say street vendors are 'out of control'
Store owners in the Bronx say illegal street vendors are taking over entire streets and it's cutting into their bottom line.
Pop-up shops filling empty storefronts across the U.S.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we're starting to see pop-up shops appearing year-round to fill empty storefronts.
Wildwood boardwalk repair gets $4 million in NJ budget
New Jersey has set aside $4 million in its recently enacted budget for long-needed repairs to the Wildwood boardwalk, one of the Jersey Shore's main attractions.
Jersey Shore businesses happy to be open despite rain
After Memorial Day weekend was a washout, the Fourth of July holiday weekend got off to a wet start, too. However, businesses along the Jersey Shore didn't seem to be too worried.
With 70% of New York adults with 1 COVID shot, Cuomo lifts restrictions
With 70% of adults in New York having at least one dose of the COVID vaccine, Gov. Andrew Cuomo lifted all state-mandated restrictions "effective immediately."
New Yorkers may encounter inconsistent mask rules
Businesses can choose to continue health and safety precautions. And that could lead to confusion and conflicts.
Many performance venues still waiting for pandemic aid
In December, lawmakers in Washington finally passed a $16.1 billion relief package called the Shuttered Venue Operator Grant program, and help was on the way for theater owners across the country. Until it stalled.
Report: Less than 1% of venues have received 'Save Our Stages' funds
Over 14,000 businesses have applied for a Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, but only 90 have been awarded one.
Restaurant labor shortage may force higher wages for workers
Critics claim unemployment benefits are keeping people out of the restaurant workforce. But workers and labor organizers say that the reality is more complex, and that food service workers haven't been paid a living wage.
Long Island oyster farming program expanding
The Town of Islip leases areas of the Great South Bay to oyster and clam farmers. The program is expanding.
Netflix, cosmetics, even takeout: We have more subscriptions than we realize
Many products and services have launched subscriptions. Businesses love the recurring revenue and consumers love the convenience. But how many subscriptions do we really have and need?
Café charges patrons $5 if they wear a mask or for 'bragging' about COVID vaccine
"$5 FEE ADDED TO ORDERS PLACED WHILE WEARING A FACE MASK," a sign posted in the window of the café reads. In the fine print below the sign says that any customer "caught bragging" will also have to pay the penalty.
Why New York's economic recovery will take a long time
New York City is way behind in recovering from the pandemic compared to the rest of the country.
New Yorkers cash in on growth of 'stooping' phenomenon
Last year, an out-of-work Broadway performer realized that she could make decent cash by selling stuff that New Yorkers tossed to the curb. And with so many residents fleeing the city, she found a lot of inventory.
Black-owned brewery in Brooklyn tackles diversity issues
Black-owned brewery ownership represents just 1% of the country's industry.
Looking to rebound, beach businesses seek willing workers
Bars and restaurants on Long Island are eagerly awaiting the high season as pandemic restrictions are lifted. But some spots are having trouble hiring help.
Long Island wants its beaches fully open this summer
Under current New York state rules, beaches are capped at 50% capacity. Officials in Nassau County want that cap removed because the risk of COVID-19 transmission outdoors is very low.