Personal robot functions as beer servant

Ah, the classic piggyback maneuver, that situation where you and your friends are hanging out on the couch, the beer is getting low, and you all wait it out to see who will be the first to give in and get up for a fresh bottle. This move is then followed by a chorus...

How the SLA loosely defines “help”

For some, applying for a New York State liquor license can be one of the most stressful and frustrating parts of opening a business. Like so many government agencies in the Empire State, the New York State Liquor Authority is underfunded and understaffed, a recipe for...

Successful arguments of hardship for a zoning variance

Many restaurant owners find themselves needing to apply to the Town or City for a variance from a zoning law or code provision. For example, a local zoning code may restrict the installation of a sign or require setbacks that are not practical given the geography and...

Opting for legally licensed recorded music in your establishment

ASCAP and BMI employ investigators to roam the country identifying new restaurants, bars, clubs or other establishments where music is used but the establishment does not have a license. Venue owners are required to purchase a license, typically for a single annual...

Trade secrets and trade dress investments can payoff

Magnolia Bakery opened its first store in Greenwich Village, New York over 15 years ago. It is known for its cupcakes. The bakery believes its cupcakes are distinguishable and highly valued because of their “unique, distinctive, and immediately recognizable look — the...