Two families discuss their history and the ups and downs of children working side-by-side with parents. All agree: "You're never really away from it. You talk business around the dining room table and a birthday party around the conference table."

Transit Oriented Development is an important component of growth and development, and a significant part of affordable housing decisions. In New Jersey, TOD may focus on Manhattan commuters and locally, on community development, promoting the "downtown."

In 2016, those in real estate who had rentals, went from "it's hard to believe rents can go up in the future" to a leveling-off, with an increase in inventory in some high-price areas. Owners - good deals out there became harder to find "then gems."

Beginning 2008, increased banking regulations led to less and less money available for construction, enabling non-banking lenders to assume an increasingly important role in real estate financing.

New York City's Fashion/Garment District has taken on a new look - some with long experience in the area may be amazed at the changes but all are excited by the influx of additional industries, widening options for growth and development of the area.

Owners and chef/owners come together to explore the restaurant business - some located in Manhattan - others, in the boroughs - Long Island City and Red Hook.

Co-Working indicates a shared work environment, often occupied by independent contractors of unrelated businesses. Co-Living brings together several people, often unrelated, to live together and share a residential space.

Considering the effect of the 2016 election-some predict a friendlier relationship to business, fewer regulations; others concentrate on foreign investment and immigration policies on the labor market. Most conclude that "the jury is still out."

Providing "atmosphere" and "ambience" is important to attract customers and to the success of commercial developments. Panel discussed redevelopment of the South Street Seaport and malls.

Making bread or chocolate treats, running a restaurant, catering special events-one must be passionate and dedicated to the work, so say those engaged in these industries. Some say regulatory pressures, increased costs have taken lots of the fun out of it.