Meet the man who wants you to strike up conversation with strangers on benchesCommunity initiative 'happy to talk' benches aim to combat loneliness post-COVID by encouraging social interactions in public spaces.
As Chicago's Street Festivals Struggle, How Will Restaurants Be Impacted?Chicago street festivals face financial challenges due to rising costs and a reduction in donations, threatening the survival of local events.
Cupertino hotel project pulled amid slow hospitality sector - San Jose SpotlightCupertino's hospitality sector is struggling post-pandemic, leading to the cancellation of a key hotel project that would have generated significant revenue.
As Chicago's Street Festivals Struggle, How Will Restaurants Be Impacted?Chicago street festivals face financial challenges due to rising costs and a reduction in donations, threatening the survival of local events.
Cupertino hotel project pulled amid slow hospitality sector - San Jose SpotlightCupertino's hospitality sector is struggling post-pandemic, leading to the cancellation of a key hotel project that would have generated significant revenue.
Annual Report to the Nation: Cancer deaths continue to fallOverall cancer death rates have declined from 2001 to 2022, influenced by reduced lung cancer rates and rising obesity-linked cancers.
Why fewer kids are getting vaccinated in Florida - and how that could affect outbreaksFlorida sees a decline in kindergartner vaccinations due to misinformation and personal issues post-COVID.
Annual Report to the Nation: Cancer deaths continue to fallOverall cancer death rates have declined from 2001 to 2022, influenced by reduced lung cancer rates and rising obesity-linked cancers.
Why fewer kids are getting vaccinated in Florida - and how that could affect outbreaksFlorida sees a decline in kindergartner vaccinations due to misinformation and personal issues post-COVID.
Doctor, Nurse Shortages Persist in Rural Areas Years After COVIDRural hospitals are severely struggling to maintain staff due to difficulties in hiring physicians exacerbated by the pandemic.
USF Reimagines Academic Supports for Student SuccessMany college students are unaware of available academic support resources, impacting their success.
Bay Area art school closures continue as Contra Costa School of Performing Arts takes its curtain callThe Contra Costa School of Performing Arts is closing due to financial challenges driven by rising costs and declining enrollment.
Interview: The role of IT innovation at Royal Ballet and Opera | Computer WeeklyInnovative technology in the arts can enhance customer experience and lower costs, allowing for investment in key performance elements.
Bay Area art school closures continue as Contra Costa School of Performing Arts takes its curtain callThe Contra Costa School of Performing Arts will close due to rising costs and declining enrollment, marking the end of its decade-long tenure.
Interview: The role of IT innovation at Royal Ballet and Opera | Computer WeeklyInnovative technology in the arts can enhance customer experience and lower costs, allowing for investment in key performance elements.
Bay Area art school closures continue as Contra Costa School of Performing Arts takes its curtain callThe Contra Costa School of Performing Arts will close due to rising costs and declining enrollment, marking the end of its decade-long tenure.
Gregory Porter: My worst job? Shovelling exterminated rats'Gregory Porter's empathy and vulnerability shape his music and worldview, highlighting the complex emotions associated with life experiences.
This Innovative Bike Brand Is Closing Its DoorsRevel Bikes has announced it will wind down operations and liquidate its assets due to insurmountable financial challenges.
Doctors are still burned out five years after COVID exposed systemic failuresPhysician burnout costs the health system $4.6 billion annually, with nearly half of doctors reporting burnout.Systemic changes are needed to improve physician wellbeing, beyond reducing stigma around mental health.
Burnt-out employees are taking mental health leaves - here are some ways to approach a needed breakCarolina Lasso's experience highlights the importance of mental health support and the normalization of taking mental health leave.
NYC keeping people with mental illness on Rikers Island due to hospital bed shortageRising number of defendants found mentally unfit for trial in NYC leads to delayed justice and overcrowded jails.
Doctors are still burned out five years after COVID exposed systemic failuresPhysician burnout costs the health system $4.6 billion annually, with nearly half of doctors reporting burnout.Systemic changes are needed to improve physician wellbeing, beyond reducing stigma around mental health.
Burnt-out employees are taking mental health leaves - here are some ways to approach a needed breakCarolina Lasso's experience highlights the importance of mental health support and the normalization of taking mental health leave.
NYC keeping people with mental illness on Rikers Island due to hospital bed shortageRising number of defendants found mentally unfit for trial in NYC leads to delayed justice and overcrowded jails.
TODAY's Kaylee Hartung shares details of her egg freezing journey with Kylie KelceKaylee Hartung's journey of freezing her eggs highlights the challenges of finding resources and the importance of community support.
Five Years After COVID, the Restaurant Labor Market Has Yet to RecoverThe restaurant industry continues to face significant labor shortages, with lasting impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic affecting hiring and workforce dynamics.
Fare Fares: Here's How Much Outdoor Dining Costs Restaurants - Streetsblog New York CityThe new outdoor dining program imposes significant financial burdens on business owners, leading to decreased participation compared to the pandemic-era initiative.
Major Burger King franchisee files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after closing 18 restaurants in Florida and GeorgiaConsolidated Burger Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to significant revenue losses and operational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.
Charcoal-Fired Steaks and Raw Seafood Breathe New Life Into a West Loop StalwartProxi is reinventing its identity with a new focus on coastal Asian cuisine and seafood.
Ghost kitchens', fast casual and higher prices: how the pandemic changed the US restaurant industryLi'l Dizzy's successfully adapted to pandemic challenges, preserving its family legacy by shifting business models and maintaining affordability for local customers.
A New Pizzeria May Deliver Chicago's Crunchiest Detroit SquaresA successful restaurant in 2025 combines great food with a compelling narrative and cohesive business strategy.
Five Years After COVID, the Restaurant Labor Market Has Yet to RecoverThe restaurant industry continues to face significant labor shortages, with lasting impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic affecting hiring and workforce dynamics.
Fare Fares: Here's How Much Outdoor Dining Costs Restaurants - Streetsblog New York CityThe new outdoor dining program imposes significant financial burdens on business owners, leading to decreased participation compared to the pandemic-era initiative.
Major Burger King franchisee files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after closing 18 restaurants in Florida and GeorgiaConsolidated Burger Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to significant revenue losses and operational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.
Charcoal-Fired Steaks and Raw Seafood Breathe New Life Into a West Loop StalwartProxi is reinventing its identity with a new focus on coastal Asian cuisine and seafood.
Ghost kitchens', fast casual and higher prices: how the pandemic changed the US restaurant industryLi'l Dizzy's successfully adapted to pandemic challenges, preserving its family legacy by shifting business models and maintaining affordability for local customers.
A New Pizzeria May Deliver Chicago's Crunchiest Detroit SquaresA successful restaurant in 2025 combines great food with a compelling narrative and cohesive business strategy.
Industry reacts to FHA's loss mitigation changesThe Federal Housing Administration's recent changes to mortgage mitigation are seen as beneficial for borrowers and lenders alike.
Why Gen Z Now Has Major Homebuyers' RemorseYounger homeowners show significant buyer's remorse regarding pandemic-era home purchases, prompting many to sell and reassess their decisions.
Pet service soar 40% post-Covid - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.comThe pet services industry has experienced significant growth since the COVID-19 pandemic, with a notable rise in adoption of services.
The rise of the digital fishmonger: how Covid helped customers buy fresh from the boatCOVID-19 transformed the seafood supply chain by enabling direct sales from fishermen to consumers.
Nintendo built the Switch 2 for the next societal shutdownThe Nintendo Switch 2 aims to enhance multiplayer gaming experiences while reflecting on community play memories, but raises concerns about future global events.
The moment I knew: when he said I love you, it took me days to build up the nerve to respondThe bond formed during lockdown led to an unexpected romantic relationship between two theatre performers.Shared interests in surfing and skateboarding strengthened their connection beyond the stage.
Raising the New Normal TeenTeens face increased mental health risks post-pandemic.Encouraging measured risks can build teen resilience.Involving teens in rule-setting fosters responsibility.Consistent sleep schedules are crucial for teen health.
Not Working, Not Studying, Not Happy: Meet the NEETs | The WalrusLisa Chung's journey illustrates the struggles and social perceptions of being a NEET, especially in an era impacted by the pandemic.
The Strange Allure of Watching Other People Tear Up Their HomesLisa Chun transformed her pandemic boredom into a thriving home renovation influencer career.
Not Working, Not Studying, Not Happy: Meet the NEETs | The WalrusLisa Chung's journey illustrates the struggles and social perceptions of being a NEET, especially in an era impacted by the pandemic.
The Strange Allure of Watching Other People Tear Up Their HomesLisa Chun transformed her pandemic boredom into a thriving home renovation influencer career.
The Pandemic Proved That Remote Leadership WorksRemote work allows organizations to hire global leaders, expanding talent access beyond local boundaries.The shift towards remote leadership requires thoughtful strategies for sustainability.
Remote work helps the environment. Here's how.Remote work significantly reduced carbon emissions during the pandemic, changing American commuting habits permanently.
Employees at remote-friendly jobs are working from home nearly half the timeAmerican workplaces have adapted to a new rhythm in remote and hybrid work five years after the COVID-19 pandemic.
This American City Has Lost Nearly 40% of Its Downtown's Population in Just 10 YearsUrban centers continue to face long-term COVID impacts, with varying employer mandates on return-to-office policies prompting shifts in demographics and work patterns.
Remote work helps the environment. Here's how.COVID-19 drastically reshaped American work habits, particularly commuting, favoring remote work and reducing carbon emissions.
US workers with remote-friendly jobs are still working from home nearly half the time, 5 years after the pandemic beganAmerican workplaces are adapting to new hybrid work environments, balancing remote work and in-office requirements post-COVID-19.
The Pandemic Proved That Remote Leadership WorksRemote work allows organizations to hire global leaders, expanding talent access beyond local boundaries.The shift towards remote leadership requires thoughtful strategies for sustainability.
Remote work helps the environment. Here's how.Remote work significantly reduced carbon emissions during the pandemic, changing American commuting habits permanently.
Employees at remote-friendly jobs are working from home nearly half the timeAmerican workplaces have adapted to a new rhythm in remote and hybrid work five years after the COVID-19 pandemic.
This American City Has Lost Nearly 40% of Its Downtown's Population in Just 10 YearsUrban centers continue to face long-term COVID impacts, with varying employer mandates on return-to-office policies prompting shifts in demographics and work patterns.
Remote work helps the environment. Here's how.COVID-19 drastically reshaped American work habits, particularly commuting, favoring remote work and reducing carbon emissions.
US workers with remote-friendly jobs are still working from home nearly half the time, 5 years after the pandemic beganAmerican workplaces are adapting to new hybrid work environments, balancing remote work and in-office requirements post-COVID-19.
One Brooklyn Pizzeria's Battle in the War Against Outdoor DiningNew outdoor dining regulations are causing distress among restaurant owners, complicating business survival efforts.
Housing market outlook: What forecasters see mortgage rates doing through 2026Mortgage rates are predicted to gradually decrease over 18 months, but housing affordability will remain an issue even in 2025.
No, homeowner delinquency rates aren't elevatedHomeowner delinquency rates are rising but remain below pre-COVID-19 levels, contrasting significantly with multifamily loan delinquencies.
The Typical House in This Beautiful American Town Only Costs $84,950Consumer prices rose faster than incomes during the pandemic, exacerbating housing unaffordability.Some U.S. areas still offer homes within reach of local wages amid rising costs.
Housing market outlook: What forecasters see mortgage rates doing through 2026Mortgage rates are predicted to gradually decrease over 18 months, but housing affordability will remain an issue even in 2025.
No, homeowner delinquency rates aren't elevatedHomeowner delinquency rates are rising but remain below pre-COVID-19 levels, contrasting significantly with multifamily loan delinquencies.
The Typical House in This Beautiful American Town Only Costs $84,950Consumer prices rose faster than incomes during the pandemic, exacerbating housing unaffordability.Some U.S. areas still offer homes within reach of local wages amid rising costs.
Hawaii businesses are struggling as tourists declineHawaii's visitor numbers remain significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels, impacted by wildfires and rising costs.
How Melissa Samuel, a Celebrity Nail Artist, Spends Her SundaysMelissa Samuel's Finesse Your Claws serves high-profile clients with bespoke 3-D nail art, thriving despite the pandemic.
A Prolonged Strike Gave Silicon Valley a Glimpse of Life Without TransitPublic transit systems, like San Jose's, are vulnerable post-COVID, illustrated by strikes and diminished ridership.
After 101 years, the doors close on L.A.'s Original Pantry CafeThe Original Pantry Cafe, a historic diner in downtown Los Angeles, has closed its doors after nearly a century of service.
One of L.A.'s oldest restaurants is at risk of closing. Could a new bar save it?Chili John's, a historic Burbank diner, faces potential closure due to sustained low business levels exacerbated by the pandemic.
The quiet, yearslong struggle of a once-loved Bay Area pizzeriaRagazza restaurant in San Francisco will close after 15 years due to financial struggles exacerbated by the pandemic.
After 101 years, the doors close on L.A.'s Original Pantry CafeThe Original Pantry Cafe, a historic diner in downtown Los Angeles, has closed its doors after nearly a century of service.
One of L.A.'s oldest restaurants is at risk of closing. Could a new bar save it?Chili John's, a historic Burbank diner, faces potential closure due to sustained low business levels exacerbated by the pandemic.
The quiet, yearslong struggle of a once-loved Bay Area pizzeriaRagazza restaurant in San Francisco will close after 15 years due to financial struggles exacerbated by the pandemic.
The Worst Local Job Market in Every State - Unemployment Near 20%The U.S. job market has shown consistent improvement since 2010, except during 2020 due to COVID-19.
The sudden, surprising rise of beard transplants: This industry is a wild west'Vikram Arora's anxiety over his patchy beard led him to consider aesthetic procedures like beard transplants during the pandemic.
Math Reveals the Formula for a Hollywood BlockbusterThe film industry must innovate to attract audiences as attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels.
How 'The Matrix' helped build-and break-beleaguered production company Village RoadhouseVillage Roadshow's downfall is linked to a long-term decline in box office performance influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Math Reveals the Formula for a Hollywood BlockbusterThe film industry must innovate to attract audiences as attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels.
How 'The Matrix' helped build-and break-beleaguered production company Village RoadhouseVillage Roadshow's downfall is linked to a long-term decline in box office performance influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What incentives Pret, Caffe Nero, Starbucks and Costa are offering for bringing your own reusable coffee cupThe reusable coffee cup movement is struggling to regain momentum post-COVID despite its environmental importance.
Night Shift: One night at Williamsburg's historic Kellogg's DinerKellogg's Diner in Williamsburg successfully returned to 24-hour service amid a decline in late-night venues post-pandemic.
NYC's economy rebounded from COVID-19. The subways? Not so much.New York City's subway ridership has not fully recovered post-pandemic despite overall population growth and increased activity in other sectors.
Night Shift: One night at Williamsburg's historic Kellogg's DinerKellogg's Diner in Williamsburg successfully returned to 24-hour service amid a decline in late-night venues post-pandemic.
NYC's economy rebounded from COVID-19. The subways? Not so much.New York City's subway ridership has not fully recovered post-pandemic despite overall population growth and increased activity in other sectors.
IT in opera and ballet: A Computer Weekly Downtime Upload podcastTechnology has transformed ticket purchasing and customer engagement for the Royal Ballet and Opera post-Covid.Online platforms have become crucial for maintaining audience connections and enhancing visitor experiences.
In-office work at highest level since 2020, as companies pull back on remoteOffice occupancy has reached its highest point since the pandemic, indicating a significant return of workers to in-person settings.
In the rapidly shifting world of work, many employees are unclear what's expected of themJob roles can drastically change, leading to employee disengagement and unclear expectations, particularly post-COVID.
In-office work at highest level since 2020, as companies pull back on remoteOffice occupancy has reached its highest point since the pandemic, indicating a significant return of workers to in-person settings.
In the rapidly shifting world of work, many employees are unclear what's expected of themJob roles can drastically change, leading to employee disengagement and unclear expectations, particularly post-COVID.
The Lingering Shadow of COVID-19 on Youth Mental HealthYouth mental health issues have escalated postpandemic, with significant increases in anxiety and depression.
'Buy Canadian' Reddit post becomes secret ingredient to help save Ontario condiment business | CBC NewsCanadian patriotism significantly boosted sales for Aki's Fine Foods during tough times.
Here Are The 3 Most Popular Dog Breeds In 2025Dog ownership in the U.S. continues to rise post-COVID, with almost 60 million households owning dogs.
Cockroaches and working in a closet: Inside Trump's return-to-office orderFederal employees returning to offices face significant unpreparedness and unpleasant work conditions after being ordered back full-time by Trump.
How Did Covid Change Travel? Readers Had a Lot to Say.Covid significantly altered travel habits, leading to an increase in family-focused, meaningful travel experiences as people sought to make up for lost time.
Hudson's Bay Company nearly $1B in debt, with court filings painting dire financial portrait | CBC NewsHudson's Bay Company faces a $950 million debt crisis amid ongoing struggles in the retail sector post-COVID.
Cities Where Ultraluxury Homes Are Selling FastThe U.S. ultraluxury residential real estate market reached record sales in 2024, driven by demand in specific high-end markets.
Fear, Greed, and Quiet Exuberance | The Motley FoolThe market remains uncertain post-COVID-19, prompting a need for reflection on changes and constants. Keeping a long-term investment perspective is crucial.
Cities Where Ultraluxury Homes Are Selling FastThe U.S. ultraluxury residential real estate market reached record sales in 2024, driven by demand in specific high-end markets.
Fear, Greed, and Quiet Exuberance | The Motley FoolThe market remains uncertain post-COVID-19, prompting a need for reflection on changes and constants. Keeping a long-term investment perspective is crucial.
COVID made shortages of doctors and nurses even worse. Rural hospitals still struggleRural hospitals in Iowa face severe physician shortages post-pandemic, affecting healthcare access.
Prima Materia shuttering Oakland tasting roomPrima Materia's tasting room is closing due to pandemic impacts, with reduced wine production planned.Owner Pietro Buttitta cites sluggish recovery five years post-Covid as a key factor for closure.
It's Been Five Years Since Life in DC Shut Down Abruptly, Democrats Try to Stymie GOP Budget Plan, and We Suggest Places for Cherry-Blossom-Themed Afternoon Teas - WashingtonianA reflection on five years since the onset of turmoil in the DC area, with thoughts on loss and resilience.
Step Off the No. 1 Train and Into La NoxeLa Noxe is a hidden bar in New York, created to evoke the atmosphere of the late '70s and early '80s.
This State Has the Most Sluggish Economy in AmericaThe U.S. economy has shown strong resilience with notable GDP growth, but economic prosperity is unevenly distributed across states.
Gaytheist Return With New Album, The Mustache StaysAfter many years, Jason Rivera reconsidered Gaytheist's future post-pandemic but was revitalized by their new album's positive reception.
It was messy': Federal workers ordered to return to offices without desks, Wi-Fi and lightsFederal workers face significant challenges returning to the office, including inadequate technology and workspace confusion.
Gene Hackman's Santa Fe Neighbors Recall Actor's Quiet Life in Gated CommunityGene Hackman chose a reclusive lifestyle in a gated community, opting for privacy away from the public eye.
The politics behind universal basic incomeUniversal basic income is gaining support amid political division, with proposals emerging at local levels despite ongoing resistance.COVID-19 highlighted the need for UBI as a viable welfare model, particularly in response to rising economic hardship.
Houston's last remaining drive-in movie theaterMoonstruck Drive-In offers a unique experience with city skyline views and newly released movies, thriving post-pandemic.
I worked in 4 different countries during med school. It changed my perspective on medical systems and patient interactions.Vikram Madireddy highlights the varied approaches to healthcare he encountered globally and the impact of these experiences on his medical education.
Royal Academy staff face redundancy amid plans to cut 18% of workforceRA plans to cut up to 60 roles to address financial pressures, potentially impacting 18% of its workforce.
What will it take to rekindle the senior housing market?Senior housing development has stagnated, possibly leading to a shortage amid growing demand.Many seniors prefer aging in place, impacting the senior housing market significantly.
Maine's aging population is a case study for supporting seniorsMaine established a Cabinet on Aging to improve services and coordination for older adults, focusing on economic and social issues vital for their well-being.
What will it take to rekindle the senior housing market?Senior housing development has stagnated, possibly leading to a shortage amid growing demand.Many seniors prefer aging in place, impacting the senior housing market significantly.
Maine's aging population is a case study for supporting seniorsMaine established a Cabinet on Aging to improve services and coordination for older adults, focusing on economic and social issues vital for their well-being.
Burnout is a problem for caseworkers serving unhoused peopleHousing assistance providers, like Nicole Barracliff, face overwhelming demand for services in Connecticut amid rising homelessness and expiring COVID-19 benefits.
An All-Day Cafe Favorite Returns With a Beautiful New Clinton Street SpaceFair Weather has reopened successfully in Portland after shutting down in 2021, bringing back beloved menu items.
Three in five small UK museums and galleries fear closure amid declining revenue, new research suggestsThree in five small UK museums fear closure due to revenue declines.Visitor numbers in UK museums remain significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels.Cost of living crisis negatively impacts museum attendance and income.
COVID upended Atlanta's office market. How is it doing 5 years later?COVID-19 has fundamentally reshaped the office leasing market, highlighting preferences for location and amenities over mere building quality.