When August rolls around in Central New York, gardens and farmers markets are bursting with one of summer's most underrated vegetables: fresh green beans.
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy this seasonal favorite, skip the casserole and try something lighter. A Green Bean Salad with Basil, Balsamic & Parmesan is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of late summer.
It's crisp, colorful, refreshing, and comes together with just a handful of fresh ingredients—making it an ideal side dish for everything from backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners on the patio.

Why This Salad Works So Well

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity.
Fresh green beans provide the perfect crisp texture, while fragrant basil brings a burst of garden-fresh flavor. A homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds just the right balance of sweetness and acidity, and shaved Parmesan ties everything together with a rich, savory finish.
Each ingredient complements the next without overpowerin ...

For the first time in several years, homebuyers in Central New York are beginning to enjoy something they haven't had much of lately—more choices.
According to the latest housing market data from the Greater Syracuse Association of REALTORS®, the number of homes available for sale has reached its highest level since 2020. At the end of the second quarter, there were 1,883 homes on the market, a 46% increase compared to the same time last year.
So, does that mean our market is slowing down?
Not exactly.
A More Balanced Market Is Good for Everyone
Over the past few years, buyers often found themselves rushing to schedule showings, writing offers within hours of a listing hitting the market, and competing against multiple offers with very little time to think.
While today's market is still competitive, the increase in inventory is giving buyers a little more breathing room.
Instead of feeling pressured to make an immediate decision, many buyers now have the opportu ...

If you're looking for a fun way to spend a summer weekend in Central New York, add the Syracuse Taco & Margarita Festival to your August calendar! This two-day celebration returns to the Syracuse Inner Harbor with delicious food, refreshing drinks, live entertainment, and beautiful waterfront views—making it one of the tastiest events of the summer.
Whether you're planning a date night, meeting up with friends, or simply looking for something new to do, this festival offers a little something for everyone.
 
What to Expect
Come hungry! Festivalgoers can enjoy a variety of tacos from local food vendors, sip on handcrafted margaritas, browse unique craft vendors, and enjoy live music throughout the day. The scenic Inner Harbor provides the perfect backdrop to relax, explore, and soak up the summer atmosphere.
One of the best parts? Proceeds from this year's festival will benefit La Casita Cultural Center, helping support educational and cultural programs for Hispani ...

Whether you're dreaming of a home theater, a playroom for the kids, a home gym, or a quiet office, an unfinished basement can feel like a blank canvas full of possibilities. But before you start planning your renovation, there's one important question to ask:

 
Is finishing your basement really worth the investment?
The answer depends on your goals. While a finished basement can add valuable living space and make your home more enjoyable, it isn't always a dollar-for-dollar return when it comes time to sell. Here's what homeowners should know before taking on this popular renovation project.

More Living Space Without Building an Addition

One of the biggest advantages of finishing a basement is the extra usable space it creates.
Depending on your family's needs, a finished basement can become:

A family or recreation room 


A home office 


A fitness room 


A playroom 


A guest suite 


A hobby or craft room 


A medi; ...

Few meals capture the feeling of summer quite like a lobster roll. Whether you're planning a backyard gathering, celebrating with friends, or simply treating yourself to a special weekend lunch, this New York favorite is surprisingly simple to make at home.
While lobster rolls are often associated with New England, Long Island has become a destination all its own for fresh seafood. Along the East End, you'll find seafood shacks and waterfront restaurants serving chilled lobster rolls packed with sweet lobster meat, crisp celery, fresh herbs, and just enough dressing to let the lobster remain the star of the show.
If you're looking for a dish that's both impressive and easy to prepare, this classic summer recipe checks every box.
What Makes a Great Lobster Roll?

The best lobster rolls aren't overloaded with ingredients.
Instead, the focus is on fresh, tender lobster tossed with a light dressing that enhances—rather than masks—the natural sweetness of the seafood.
A ...