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By Georgette Gouveia / ggouveia@westfairinc.com

Immersive 1960s-style tribute band set to perform at the Lewisboro Music Festival Sept. 27 • Page 19 The members of Aquarius, from left to right — Will Willsey (bass), Dunja Von Stoddard (keyboards), Dana Page (vocals), Tobias Ralph (drums), Karen Tobias (rhythm guitar) and Justin Cross (lead guitar). Photographs courtesy Aquarius except where noted.

WESTCHESTER COUNTY

Marist University to cap yearly tuition, housing costs at $32K Marist University’s Empire State Promise will cap tuition, housing and dining at $32,000 annually for eligible New York students entering in 2027, with household incomes of $200,000 or less.• Page 22

FAIRFIELD COUNTY

Nonprofit school has its ‘Grassroots’ in tennis Danbury Grassroots Academy celebrates 20 years of helping low-income youth succeed through academics, mentoring, tennis, health and leadership programs. The nonprofit serves 75-80 students annually. • Page 24

LEGAL RECORDS: Westchester County & Hudson Valley • PAGE 28

Fairfield • PAGE 32

LIFESTYLE

Eye on small business — Nod Hill Brewery, Ridgefield

Monday

Nod Hill Brewery is investing in a new German-engineered brewhouse and expanded production as craft beer faces challenges. With wholesale revenue up 35%, the Ridgefield brewery is focused on quality and growth. • Page 9

ISSUE #25

LEGAL NOTICES: • PAGE 35

September 14

No matter what business you’re in, we’re into your business.

MAIN OFFICE TELEPHONE 914-694-3600 OFFICE FAX 914-694-3699 EDITORIAL EMAIL pkatz@westfairinc.com (Westchester news)

WRITE TO 4 Smith Ave., Suite 2 Mount Kisco, NY 10549 Barco Hospital San Raffaele Emergency Medical Team members board a plane in Cali, Colombia, headed to Caracas, Venezuela, to support the immediate health needs in the aftermath of the recent earthquakes. Photo courtesy of Ricardo Rodriguez/Americares.

DISASTERS

Unnamed donor gives $50M to Americares to expand lifesaving medicine access By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Donation will help expand Stamford nonprofit reach as global funding for international aid declines

STAMFORD – A Connecticut family that has supported Americares for 30 years has donated an unprecedented $50 million to the city-based relief organization at a critical moment for global health as communities face increasing humanitarian needs driven by conflict, climate-related disasters and supply chain disruptions. It also comes at a time when international aid has been virtually eliminated by the Trump administration. The transformational gift will help Americares address the most pressing global health challenges and achieve its goal of helping 100 million people access quality health care by 2030, the organization said in a press release today. “For nearly 50 years, Americares has worked alongside local partners to help people and communities in crisis,” said Americares President and CEO Christine Squires. “This remarkable investment will allow Americares to expand access to lifesaving medicines, strengthen our partnerships with local health providers and support more resilient health systems for the future. We are deeply grateful for this extraordinary vote of confidence in our work, and we hope it inspires others to join us in ensuring more people have access to

the care they need.” By supporting more than 4,000 health centers worldwide with life-changing health projects, medicine and medical supplies, Americares improves the health of millions of people affected by poverty or disaster every year. Last year alone, Americares delivered $1.8 billion in aid, including enough medicine to fill 9 million prescriptions and 3 million medical supplies for patients in need. These challenges are being compounded by staggering reductions in international aid by the Trump administration that are forcing the closure of lifesaving health programs around the world. For millions of people, these converging pressures have made access to quality health care out of reach. The World Health Organization reports funding cuts have directly affected nearly 5,700 health facilities, including more than 2,000 that have suspended operations, reducing access to services for 53 million people. This extraordinary gift marks a landmark investment in the five-year vision outlined in Americares 2025 Strategic Plan, the organization stated. That vision includes strengthening its emergency response capabilities, expanding its network of local health partners and building the

capacity of those partners to deliver continuous, quality health care in their communities. This $50 million investment in Americares will advance a new vision for its Access to Medicine program, a key pillar of its five-year strategy: ensuring patients and health centers can reliably obtain the medicines they need, when they need them. Americares plans to deepen and expand this work in high-need countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East and North Africa, Asia and Latin America where fragile health systems and chronic gaps in access to medicines leave patients without the care they need. “We are facing a perfect storm for global medicine access,” said Americares Senior Vice President of Medicine Security Kellen Thomas. “Conflict, climate-related disasters, supply chain disruptions and reductions in global health funding are all increasing pressure on already fragile health systems. Americares Access to Medicine strategy is designed to meet this moment — strengthening global and local supply chains, diversifying sources of medicine, supporting local health providers and creating more reliable pathways for patients to get the treatments they need. This investment will help us scale lifesaving solutions when and where they are needed most."

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

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REAL ESTATE

51 South apartments in White Plains sold for $64.3M By Peter Katz / pkatz@westfairinc.com

An apartment complex at 51 S. Broadway in White Plains that was completed last year has been sold for $64.3 million. The 134unit eight-story building was purchased by CIM Group Acquisitions LLC in partnership with Hulic Co., Ltd. The seller was RMS Broadway LLC. RMS had received financial incentives for the development from the Westchester Industrial Development Agency (IDA). RMS and CIM Group asked the IDA to transfer those benefits to CIM when the sale took place. Attorney David Steinmetz of the White Plains-based law firm Zarin & Steinmetz representing CIM Group told the IDA that CIM had invested more than $3.5 billion of cash equity in real asset projects throughout New York state. He said that the Los Angeles-based company has more than 30 years’ experience, more than 900 employees, and approximately $32 billion in assets owned and/ or operated. The IDA incentives included a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement on property taxes along with sales tax and mortgage recording tax exemptions. 51 South has a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments along with more than 20,000 square feet of amenities, including coworking space, indoor and outdoor lounges, and a variety of recreational and sports facilities including a pool and fitness center. There are 16 apartments priced as affordable housing. The project includes 134 parking spaces. 51 South was built on a site that formerly had an approximately 30,000-square-foot building that had been home to a variety of retailers in the past. One of the last major tenants was the White Plains outlet of Frozen Ropes, a chain of baseball and softball training centers. "We are pleased to add 51 South to our New York portfolio and make our first investment in Westchester County," said Shaul Kuba, co-founder and principal of the CIM Group. "We believe the market benefits from strong fundamentals, connectivity to New York City, and continued demand for quality housing. We look forward to expanding our presence in Westchester and pursuing additional opportunities across the region.” The real estate services firm CBRE represented RMS in the sale. Stuart MacKenzie of CBRE Institutional Properties who worked on the sale commented, “White Plains has seen a significant wave of new supply over the past few years. That supply has been steadily absorbed as new residents discover everything the downtown has to offer, all within a short commute to New York City." Other CBRE personnel involved in the transaction included Jeffrey Dunne, Eric Apfel, Travis Langer, and Eric Greenberg.

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Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

LAW

After meeting with City of Milford, police union pro-Flock withdraws petition for relief By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Citing safety issues, police still want city to reactivate LPRs, cameras

The Board of Aldermen did not pay heed to the complaint and • Anderson Ave. at Pepes Farm deactivated nine of the LPRs and Rd. — deactivated 8/24 temporarily shut off the school zone • Merwin Ave. at Oxford Rd. — speed cameras from issuing any more deactivated 8/24 tickets after it voted Aug. 27 to put in • US 1 at School House Rd. — deactivated 8/25 place on moratorium until a new ordinance committee meets to review • US 1 at CT Post Mall (main entrance) — deactithe two traffic camera vated 8/25 systems. US 1 at • In its complaint, obCT Post Mall (East tained by the Fairfield Town) — deactivatCounty Business Journal ed 8/25 through a FOI request, The remaining the union charged that LPRs are located the City of Milford “has at entry points engaged in and is engaginto Milford from ing in prohibited practices neighboring border within the meaning of towns, I-95, Route Section 7-470” of the 15, and the Parkway Municipal Employee Refeeder, according to lations Act by agreeing to the Police Departdeactivate and take down ment. any of the Flock LPRs In its complaint, and cameras. “Unilater— Milford Police the union asks for al removal of the LPRs Department the following: and Flock Safety SysEmployees Union Order • tems without “successful requiring the city completion” of impact to bargain with the bargaining with the police union about the union is a violation of impact the proposed state law. changed will have on the safety The 110-member Milford Poand working conditions of the lice Department Employees Union bargaining unit (police officers). filed the complaint and petition for • Order requiring the city to cease interim relief on Aug. 20 after the and desist and grant interim department was told of the upcoming relief. Aug. 27 Board of Aldermen hearing • Payment of the union’s costs and and vote to address both the future attorney’s fees. of Flock Safety LPRs and school Additionally, the union states that zone speed cameras in the city. officers will “suffer injury and harm But during that Aug. 27 meeting of an irreparable nature” since LPRs the board voted to approve a moratoand Flock cameras provide essential rium on the use of and installation of officer safety enhancements and new Automated Traffic Enforcement features. The union specified those Safety Devices (ATESD), or speed enhancements as real time identificameras, and red light cameras. cation of dangerous felons, wanted Following the meeting Police Depersons, stolen vehicles and weapon/ partment deactivated nine of its 24 firearm information. Flock LPRs and has asked the vendor to physically remove the devices by Sept. 21. According to an Aug. 31 City of Milford Police Department Facebook page post, the deactivated LPRs are located at: • Gulf St. at New Haven Ave. — deactivated 8/12 • Woodruff Ave. at Post Rd. — deactivated 8/24 • Woodmont Ave. at Higgins Rd. — deactivated 8/24 • Broad St. at High St. — deactivated 8/24

“LPRs and Flock cameras provide essential officer safety enhancements and features.”

A Flock automated license plate reader on Villa Avenue in Fairfield. That reader and accompanying camera have been replaced by Axon equipment. Photo by Gary Larkin

MILFORD – The Milford Police Department Employees Union has withdrawn its petition for interim relief related to a complaint filed with the state's Board of Labor Relations against the City of Milford for deactivating Flock license plate readers (LPRs) and safety cameras. However, the complaint remains in force, according to a statement from police union attorney Marshall Segar. In a statement sent to News 8, Segar said: “The Milford Police Department Employees Union and the City of Milford have met as scheduled by the State Labor Board. Based on

these discussions and the content of the resolutions passed by the Board of Alders, the Union has withdrawn its petition for Interim Relief. The Complaint before the State Labor Board is still active and our next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 19. The Union and the City are committed to ultimately reaching a final understanding as soon as we can.” The city’s police union filed the complaint last month to order Mayor Richard Smith and the Board of Aldermen from moving ahead with a temporary plan to deactivate LPRs and the school zone speed cameras.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

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BUSINESS

Team behind Antonio’s Italian Bistro, Zucchero Café to open Ocean 46 at Harbor Point By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

STAMFORD — Ocean 46, a new waterfront restaurant, will open at 46 Southfield Ave. in Harbor Point after Antonio’s Restaurant Group – the team behind Antonio’s Italian Bistro and Zucchero Café – signed a 15-year lease for 6,000 square feet of space, according to Building and Land Technology (BLT). Ocean 46 will offer fresh seafood, premium steaks, burgers, pastas and Italian-inspired specialties, alongside signature cocktails. Plans for the space also include an indoor bar and an outdoor bar and dining area overlooking the harbor. “This is an experienced restaurant team with deep roots in Fairfield County and a strong understanding of what makes a neighborhood destination successful,” said Carl Kuehner,

BLT chair. “Their long-term commitment underscores the strong leasing momentum we’ve seen across Harbor Point this year and the continued demand from high-quality operators looking to be part of the neighborhood’s growth.” The group has built a strong following in nearby Darien through Antonio’s Italian Bistro, known for upscale Italian dining with a modern touch, and Zucchero Café, which offers breakfast and lunch, dinner on select evenings and happy hour. Both concepts are located just steps from the Darien train station. “Harbor Point has established itself as one of Fairfield County’s premier waterfront communities, and we’re thrilled to become part of the energy and growth happening here,” said Antonio Sandolo, owner of Antonio’s

Restaurant Group. “Our vision for Ocean 46 is to create a true neighborhood destination that brings people together through exceptional food, warm hospitality and an experience that keeps guests coming back.” The lease is the latest in a series of additions to Harbor Point’s restaurant scene. Earlier this summer, the team behind The Quartiere signed a longterm lease at 15 Harbor Point and debuted KIN Social, a seasonal concept featuring globally inspired shareable dishes and craft cocktails. Harbor Point is BLT’s 100-acre, master-planned mixed-use community in Stamford. Home to more than 4,000 residences, commercial office space, 34-plus shops and restaurants, marinas, water taxis, more than 25 acres of parks and open space, and a mile-long public boardwalk, the neighborhood offers a mix of residential, commercial and recreational amenities.

A new restaurant called Ocean 46 will open in Stamford’s Harbor Point. Photo courtesy of Hey Stamford

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Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

1/25/26 4:00 PM

EDUCATION

Tribeca Community School comes to Ridgefield By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

RIDGEFIELD – After more than two decades of serving families in New York City, TriBeCa Community School has opened its first Connecticut campus at 66 Grove St., bringing its award-winning, Reggio, Italy-inspired approach to early childhood education to Fairfield County. Founded in 2006 in Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood, the school has earned a reputation for creating thoughtful learning environments where children are encouraged to ask questions, investigate ideas, express themselves creatively, and develop the habits of thinking that support lifelong learning. The new Ridgefield campus serves children from ages 6 weeks through 6 years, offering full-day, year-round programs with flexible scheduling options. For co-owner Doug Schachtel, the opening is also a personal homecoming. “I grew up in Ridgefield, so bringing Tribeca Community School to my hometown is deeply meaningful to me,” Schachtel said. “Over the past 20 years, we’ve built a school in New

York that families trust because it treats childhood with the seriousness and respect it deserves. We’re excited to bring that same philosophy to a community that values education, the arts, and strong family connections.” Inspired by the educational philosophy that emerged in Reggio Emilia, Italy, TCS believes children are naturally curious, capable learners whose ideas deserve to be explored. Teachers observe closely, ask thoughtful questions, and design learning experiences that encourage children to think deeply, collaborate with others, solve problems, and make meaning through exploration. Rather than following a one-sizefits-all curriculum, learning emerges from children’s interests and investigations, creating classrooms where curiosity drives discovery and every child’s thinking is valued. TCS has seen its graduates thrive as they move on to elementary school, demonstrating the curiosity, independence, resilience, and love of learning that set the foundation for long-term success. The new Ridgefield campus has been purposefully designed to sup-

The Reggio, Italy-style of teaching inspires TriBeCa Community School, which has expanded to Ridgefield. Photo courtesy of TriBeCa Community School

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

port this approach, featuring lightfilled classrooms, carefully curated learning materials, dedicated art and atelier spaces, and expansive indoor and outdoor environments that encourage movement, collaboration, and creative exploration. “The relationships children build with their teachers, classmates, materials, and environment become the foundation for everything that follows,” said Melissa Barissi, program director of TCS Ridgefield. “Our goal is for every child to feel seen, heard, respected, and capable. When children know their ideas matter, they develop the confidence to ask questions, solve problems, and discover who they are as learners.” Throughout its history, Tribeca Community School has welcomed educators from around the world to observe its classrooms and has contributed to professional conversations around inquiry-based learning, documentation, and the Reggio Emilia approach. Families can choose from a variety of scheduling options, including half-day and full-day programs, with extended care available to support modern family schedules.

COURTS

Sleepy Hollow boiler business sues CT competitor

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A Sleepy Hollow industrial boiler business claims that a former employee and a competitor have taken its trade secrets. Miller Proctor Nickolas Inc. (MPN) accused Michael Hyland and Analytical & Combustion Systems Inc. (ACS) of misappropriation of trade secrets, in a lawsuit filed on Sept. 2 in Westchester Supreme Court. "The threat of harm is imminent," the complaint states, because MPN and ACS are competing for work on several projects and use of its trade secrets would enable ACS to "underbid MPN." Hyland joined MPN in 2016 and rose to senior aftermarket sales engineer. He left on July 10 and went to work for MPN's largest competitor, ACS, of Bethel, Connecticut. MPN is owned by the employees and does not use non-compete agreements to restrict employees from moving to competitors. "That freedom," the complaint states, does not relieve former employees from refraining from "unauthorized use or disclosure of MPN's confidential and trade secret information." Hyland notified MPN on June 25 that he was resigning as of July 10, according to the complaint. When asked if he intended to join a competitor he allegedly denied that he was staying in the same industry. Had MPN known that Hyland was joining ACS, the complaint states, it would have immediately revoked his access to records. Instead, MPN permitted Hyland to

retain access to company systems through his final day of work. But Hyland was allegedly forwarding company emails to his personal Gmail account, downloading thousands of files, and deleting hundreds of files. The records included customer reports, pricing information and models, project proposals and contract terms, and other confidential information. MPN discovered the alleged data breach after Hyland had gone to work for ACS, the complaint states, and even then Hyland tried to access MPN records. Many of the records that Hyland purportedly downloaded concerned active projects and proposals for new business. MPN demanded that Hyland and ACS stop using its confidential information, in a cease-and-desist letter sent on Aug 11. ACS, according to the complaint, responded that it did not believe it possessed the records but was working with a consultant to confirm whether it had any of the records. Hyland did not respond. MPN is accusing Hyland and ACS of misappropriation of trade secrets and unfair competition. It accused Hyland of breach of fiduciary duty, acting as a faithless servant, and conversion of property. It wants the court to stop them from using or disclosing the trade secrets and to award unspecified monetary damages. An attorney who represents Hyland did not reply to a message asking for responses to the allegations. Danbury attorney Chris Parkin, who represents ACS, replied that "it is not our practice to comment on pending litigation."

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Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

CONSTRUCTION

Trumbull Town Council Oks moratorium on new data centers By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

TRUMBULL – The Trumbull Town Council took a tepid step Wednesday toward regulating data centers in town by approving a two-year moratorium effective immediately of building such facilities necessary for AI-operated businesses and platforms. But for many of the residents who spoke at the public hearing portion of the meeting, that action was not enough. Of the dozens or so residents who spoke, many gave similar reasons for asking that the owner of the data center being modernized at 80 Merritt Blvd. cease and desist demolition and renovation of the former Nasdaq data center. However, the resolution approved by unanimously by the council by voice vote only places a moratorium on all new data centers built. The resolution does not pertain to the work being done at the Trumbull Corporate Park on Merritt Boulevard. Those residents believe that based on what the new tenant – 365 Data Centers of Norwalk – has reported, the modernized data center will be part of a pipeline of data centers needed for AI computing. “I believe 80 Merritt Blvd. should be included in the moratorium,” said Lynn Haber of Stemway Road. “I understand that 80 Merritt Blvd. is being described as a modernization of a data center rather than a new data center. What does modernization really mean?” Haber went on to explain what she and many other residents believe is really going on. “In May 2026, 365 Data Centers announced on its own website that in collaboration with Aphorio Carter (a data center division of private equity firm Carter Funds) to develop a 200MW pipeline of AI-ready data centers including infrastructure designed for AI and high-performance computing,” she said. “Trumbull was specifically named as one of the locations being pursued. The first selectman has identified 80 Merritt as the site where 365 is expected to become the longtime tenant with a 15-year commitment. She has described this as a renovation of a decades-old existing data center,

not construction of a hyperscale AI facility.” First Selectman Vicki Tesoro and Town Attorney Daniel Schopick were on hand to answer questions raised by the council about the data center in question. At the same time, they defended the Host Municipality Fee Agreement the Town of Trumbull signed last year with the property owner AC Trumbull LLC and redeveloper CogNOVUM for the tenant 365 Data Centers. That agreement gives the property owner a state tax break if the town indicates it is in favor of the data center. In return, the owner and developer are investing at least $200 million for the project. Tesoro then read aloud a note she had shared with residents where she clarified that the former Nasdaq center had been in place for more than 50 years and that she has met with new tenant of the property about their intentions. Dominique Kahn of South Edgewood Avenue is worried about the Town of Trumbull making a mistake that could have huge ramifications on the environment and residents’ children.

“I am truly concerned by the idea of data centers coming to our town,” Kahn said. “I know a lot of people are going to talk to the noise pollution concerns, the concern about property value and electricity concerns and things. “For me though, I want to take a step back and remind us of why we teach history lessons to our children in schools. We want them to learn from the mistakes we made in the past. When it comes to AI and data centers (obviously this is a different type of data center) what is interesting is that data centers are not new; the AI data centers are. At the end of the day, they haven’t been properly studied.” A Facebook group calling itself Trumbull AI Data Center Watch has spent the past year challenging the first selectman’s agreement signed with the 80 Merritt Blvd property owner. They want a joint Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council meeting and hearing held to get to the bottom of how 365 Data Centers has been able to start demolition of the center buildings and move along with the project. “It is because of the efforts of each of us that Trumbull now has a two-year moratorium on Data Centers and this

“I believe 80 Merritt Blvd. should be included in the moratorium. What does modernization really mean?”

— Lynn Haber, Trumbull resident

Demolition of one of three buildings at the former Nasdaq data center in Trumbull Corporate Park has begun. Photo by Gary Larkin Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

is reason to celebrate,” the Data Watch group posted. “However, we are disappointed that the moratorium was passed without an amendment that would address the many concerns we have about 80 Merritt Blvd, which is unaffected by the moratorium.” Signed by Sherry, Richard and Sarah, the post continues: “We will regroup to determine the best course of action to make sure the issues of public health, environment, utilities, and costs raised by the community about the AI Data Center that is currently under construction are *not* ignored.” First Selectman Tesoro did not address setting up a joint meeting with Planning and Zoning and the Town Council. But she did report that she is meeting with the Planning and Zoning Commission to ask that panel to look at their zoning regulations. She added that she plans to ask Aphorio Carter to attend an upcoming P&Z meeting and possibly the Town Council as well to have a discussion. They said they would be interested. “I have been meeting with them once a week,” she said. “And I will continue to do that.” She reiterated the discussion she had with Aphorio Carter earlier this summer where the company agreed to four conditions. They include: Electricity: The owner agreed to no additional electric utility capacity. Existing on-site transformer infrastructure will be reconfigured for more efficient use. There will be no new substations and no new grid draw. Noise: Backup generator testing will take place on a limited schedule: briefly once a month, and for two hours once a year. There will be no incremental increase in sound from what is there today, and I’ve directed staff to verify independently as design finalizes. Water: The facility will move from its current open-loop evaporative cooling to a closed-loop system as part of this modernization, meaning water consumption will not increase as modernization takes place. Footprint: There will be no expansion of the building. This is a renovation within the existing structure. In fact, the total building area on site will be reduced. There are no plans now or in the future to rebuild that space. Once complete, this will represent a 23% reduction in total building area on the property.

Eye on small business — Nod Hill Brewery, Ridgefield By Jeremy Wayne / jwayne@westfairinc.com can generate more than three times the revenue.” But wholesale provides something the taproom cannot, which is to say scale. “Wholesale earns its place by giving us reach and volume the taproom simply can't.” The channel puts Nod Hill products in front of customers beyond the people who can physically visit the brewery, while recurring wholesale orders also make production planning more predictable. “So the two channels play different roles. Direct is our highest-margin, highest-touch business, and wholesale is how we scale the brand and grow overall volume across the state.” That balance has become increasingly important as the craft-beer market has matured. When Nod Hill opened nine years ago, Kaye said, the industry was defined by rapid growth and enthusiasm. The prevailing assumption was that good beer and an appealing taproom provided a strong foundation for success. But, he pointed out, “today, consumers have more choices, the market is more competitive and you have to be much more intentional about every part of the business.” This has meant scrutinizing costs and operations while continuing to invest in the brewery’s core product. Under Head of Brewing Operations Rob Bollard, formerly of Kent Falls and Black Hog, Nod Hill has reviewed recipes, ingredients and brewing processes, eliminating some elements and changing others. The new brewhouse is the centerpiece of that effort. Kaye said it will provide “greater precision and consistency” while allowing the brewery to refine its processes rather than simply trying to reproduce past results. “We're nine years in, and rather than standing still, we feel like we're entering a really exciting new chapter.” Kaye also points to Nod Hill’s location as part of the financial equation. Ridgefield and Fairfield County as a whole carry relatively high

At a time when breweries across Connecticut and the Northeast are closing, cutting production or putting expansion plans on hold, in part due to changing drinking habits, Nod Hill Brewery , which the Fairfield County Business Journal first wrote about when it launched in 2017, is doing the opposite. The family-founded Ridgefield brewery is making its largest production investment since its establishment, installing a state-of-the-art German-engineered brewhouse (a high-efficiency commercial brewing system manufactured by the German company BrauKon in Bavaria, designed for craft breweries), and expanding its production and laboratory capabilities. For David Kaye, co-founder, owner and general manager the decision is less a bet on a particular beer than on the long-term economics of an independent brewery. “The tough stretch is exactly when you can't afford to stand still,” Kaye told us. “The breweries that come out the other side of this will be the ones that keep raising their own bar instead of playing defense.” The investment comes after a period in which Nod Hill has been reshaping its business. Driven by new accounts and increased support from existing retail partners, its Connecticut wholesale revenues are up more than 35% year over year, he said, while wholesale now accounts for roughly 60% of the brewery’s total volume. That growth reflects a deliberate shift toward a more scalable business model. “A big part of that has been our return to self-distribution,” Kaye added. The move has allowed Nod Hill to expand its sales outreach while developing “stronger, more direct relationships with our retail partners.” The economics of the two sales channels are markedly different. Kaye estimated that a barrel sold directly through the brewery’s taproom generates $1,500 to $2,000 in revenue, depending on style and format, compared with roughly $500 for the same barrel sold wholesale. “On a per-barrel basis, direct sales

Rob Ballard, head of brewing operations.

David Kaye,

co-owner and general manager.

BrauKon Brewhouse System at Nod Hill Brewery in Ridgefield. Photographs by Amy Sheldon.

operating costs, but the brewery benefits from an affluent, densely populated market, proximity to Westchester County and New York City and an influx of younger families since the pandemic. “That’s brought in exactly the kind of customer base that wants a place like Nod Hill — somewhere to bring the family, grab a casual beer and bite to eat and spend an afternoon.” The local competitive landscape also works in Nod Hill’s favor, he added. Fairfield County is not as saturated with breweries as some other parts of Connecticut and the Northeast are. When Nod Hill opened, he recalled, a brewery was still an unfamiliar concept in Ridgefield. “As we've proven ourselves to be a

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

positive presence in the community, the town's been wonderful about supporting us.” The larger bet, however, is on whether disciplined investment can produce an advantage in a crowded, contracting industry. “If you don't have great beer, nothing else matters,” Kaye said. “Quality is the foundation of everything.” That philosophy is now being translated into capital spending, distribution strategy and operational changes. For Nod Hill, the new brewhouse is not simply an equipment upgrade; it’s a commitment to increase production capability while tightening control over the business behind the beer. “We're very aware of the challenges facing craft beer right now. But we see that as a reason to invest, not pull back. “The breweries that will succeed are the ones that refuse to become complacent.”

COURTS

THE 2026 ANNUAL GALA AND AWARDS CELEBRATION

Gas stations sue Sunoco for terminating franchises By Bill heltzel / bheltzel@westfairinc.com

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2026

Impact Award Recipient WBDC proudly honors Susan Muigai, Chief People Officer at Mastercard, with a 2026 Impact Award. Susan is a global champion of people whose career is defined by building dynamic, high-performing workforces and creating opportunities for individuals to grow, lead, and make an impact. At Mastercard, she drives the global human resources strategy to ensure top talent thrives. Her extensive background spans human capital, organizational leadership, business transformation, legal, and compliance. Shaped by leadership roles across multiple industries and countries, she brings a global perspective to help organizations and their people navigate change, unlock potential, and achieve bold ambitions.

SUSAN MUIGAI Chief People Officer, Mastercard

“ I am so proud to be recognized by WBDC alongside women whose leadership and ambition are making a meaningful difference. This honor is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when women are supported, celebrated, and empowered to create lasting impact.”

The Women’s Business Development Council educates, motivates, and empowers women to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. Since 1997, WBDC has educated and trained over 26,000 clients—helping women to launch, sustain, and scale over 17,700 businesses, create and maintain more than 46,100 jobs in Connecticut, and access over $97 million in capital. Since 2020, WBDC has provided more than $26 million in grants to help fuel growth in small businesses throughout Connecticut.

For tickets, sponsorships, and more information please visit: ctwbdc.org/gala-2026 or contact lcohen@ctwbdc.org.

"The ultimate thing you must understand," Judge Block told a family member in whose home Ahmed would be confined, "he cannot leave the home." On May 20, Ahmed told Sunoco he had decided to sell the franchises, according to the lawsuit. A broker found a Sunoco retailer in Maryland who agreed to pay $3 million for the gas stations, but by then Sunoco had terminated Ahmed's franchises and refused to consent to the deal. The June 9 termination notices cite failure to meet supervision requirements and fraud or criminal misconduct relevant to the operation of the premises. He was given to Labor Day to vacate the properties. Ahmed says he was unable to supervise the gas stations because he was detained on the criminal charges. But in his absence, his brother, Nader, who also owns and operates gas stations, supervised the businesses, and there was no loss of sales. He claims that the termination notices are not specific enough to determine whether Sunoco has lawful grounds to terminate the franchises, under the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act. The stated reasons of fraud or criminal misconduct, for example, are not valid grounds because he has not been convicted. Ahmed is asking the court to declare that the termination notices are invalid and to award monetary damages. Sunoco did not reply to a message asking for its responses to the lawsuit. Ahmed is represented by attorneys Jonathan D. Kraut and Andrew C. Lang of Harfenist Kraut & Perlstein LLP, in Purchase.

The owner of two Westchester gas stations who is facing sex trafficking charges has sued Sunoco for $3 million for terminating his franchises. Adel Ahmed, of Yonkers, claims that Sunoco violated the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act, in part, by terminating his franchises because of his arrest. "Ahmed has pleaded not guilty to the indictment and maintains his innocence," the lawsuit states. "Actual evidence of criminality or misconduct" can sustain termination of a franchise, but not "mere allegations, arrests or indictments." Ahmed operates Sunoco franchises under the corporate names Sky High Enterprises Inc. and G23 Enterprises Inc. The gas stations and convenience stores are on North Broadway near the North White Plains train station and on Boston Post Road near the I-287 Port Chester interchange. On March 9, a federal grand jury in Brooklyn indicted Ahmed for allegedly traveling to Colombia to have sex with minors. He was arrested on March 11 and accused of coercion and enticement of a minor, sex trafficking of a minor, sex tourism, and transportation of child pornography, from October 2023 to January 2024. An assistant prosecutor testified at a bail hearing that the evidence includes more than 15 videos of illegal conduct with children and thousands of pages of messages between Ahmed and 12-to-14year-old girls. U.S. District Judge Frederic Block placed him under house arrest and set bail at $3 million, secured by three houses pledged by the family.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

HEALTH CARE

Mount Sinai Health to stop ‘gender-affirming care’ for children By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Mount Sinai Health System has agreed to end gender-affirming care on transgender children as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice that was announced on Sept. 4. The settlement resolves an investigation into potential violations of federal law arising from its provision of sex-rejecting procedures on children — often described as “gender-affirming care.” Under the agreement, Mount Sinai, one of the largest health care providers in the state of New York, will cease providing these interventions to minors, including by administering puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones and performing surgical procedures. Additionally, Mt. Sinai will pay a monetary penalty and dedicate $2 million to providing free medical care to individuals suffering harmful consequences of gender affirming care they received as children, the DOJ said in a press release. The settlement, which has followed a trend of similar DOJ tactics with U.S. colleges and universities that previously adopted diversity, equity and inclusion policies, was met with criticism by the New Pride Agenda, New York State’s leading LGBTQ+ advocacy organization. “We are deeply disappointed that Mount Sinai has chosen to settle with the Trump administration and end its provision of gender-affirming care for this community of young people,” said Executive Director Kei Williams. “At a moment when bodily autonomy and access to care across the board is under sustained attack, we need healthcare institutions willing to back their patients and providers in the face of political pressure.” Williams also challenged the DOJ for spreading misinformation about gender-affirming care. “Gender-affirming care is exactly that: essential, evidence-based healthcare utilized by people across ages, economic backgrounds and gender identities.” Mount Sinai Health System operates several multi-specialty and primary care practice locations across Westchester County, New York, known as Mount Sinai Doctors - Westchester. This announcement follows similar agreements with Texas Children’s Hospital, the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, and Connecticut Children’s

Hospital. In working towards this resolution, the United States acknowledged that Mount Sinai took significant steps entitling it to credit for cooperation with DOJ in its investigation. At all times during the investigation, Mount Sinai remained cooperative, proactive, and solution-driven, as evidenced by its multimillion-dollar commitment to detransition care, the DOJ stated. “Mount Sinai was subpoenaed by a grand jury in the Northern District of Texas to produce, among other documents, the medical records of some of our patients who received gender-affirming care,” a Mount Sinai spokesperson said in a statement that was reported by The Advocate. “The hospital said it settled with DOJ and the Department of Health and Human Services so it would not be forced to provide those records.” Attorney General Todd Blanche was adamant about stopping the practice of gender-affirming care for children. “The Department of Justice is committed to holding accountable medical providers that violate federal law and endanger children through so-called gender-affirming care,” the attorney general said. “This agreement puts an end to these practices at Mount Sinai and provides meaningful relief for individuals who have already suffered harm.” In Texas the U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould for the Northern District reiterated Blanche’s concerns about protecting children. “The Northern District of Texas remains committed to holding medical providers, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies accountable for unsound medical practices and procedures that put our kids at risk,” he said. “This settlement is a step in the right direction, and we will continue to use all of our civil and criminal tools to hold these actors and entities accountable when they violate federal law when providing this so-called care.” The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch and the Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Food and Drug

Administration Office of Criminal Investigations. In January 2025, President Trump issued an order "Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation," directing the DOJ to prioritize investigations and enforcement actions involving such violations of federal law.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Mount Sinai Health System has settled with Trump's U.S. Department of Justice to stop gender-affirming care for children. Photo courtesy of Mount Sinai Health

SPECIAL REPORT MARKETING

A trio of state businesspeople join CTMEETINGS board By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Frost is director of marketing operations of Special Events and Special Projects for the City of Hartford. Pugliese is director of community relations at Eversource Energy. Shactman is an award-winning Connecticut-based broadcaster at Audacy and WFSB-TV 3. “We congratulate Shannon Frost, Jeff Pugliese and Brian Shactman on joining to our committed Board,” said Robert Murdock, CTMEETINGS president. “They each bring skills and experience that will help us to grow and expand.” Frost, an accomplished economic development and marketing professional in 2025, made history by being appointed as the City’s inaugural Marketing Director under Mayor Arunan Arulampalam. Pugliese is responsible for managing Eversource’s municipal relations strategy in Connecticut on a day-today basis. He and his team oversee a variety of Eversource’s economic

Shannon Frost

and community development efforts in Connecticut including Community Impact Grants, the purchase of historic and housing development tax credits, and supporting the energy efficiency efforts of the nonprofit community through the Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA). Shactman is an award-winning Connecticut-based broadcaster. His journalism career began in the late 1990's, helping to develop ESPN's internet presence during the dot-com boom. From there, he transitioned to local news at NBC Connecticut, where he won an Associated Press award for his documentary on UCONN Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma, before moving on to New York to report and anchor for CNBC and MSNBC. Murdock reported that according to Destinations International economic calculator bookings by CTMEETINGS in FY26 generated over $75 million in revenue for the state, as visitors stayed in Connecticut hotels, dined in restaurants, shopped and enjoyed attractions. Also, Murdock stated that more than 24,200 jobs in the state’s hospitality industry were supported, and mre than $4,895,000 in Connecticut taxes were generated. The 2026-2027 Officers of the Connecticut Convention & Sports

MIDDLETOWN – The board of the state’s Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau (CTMEETINGS) has elected three new board members: Shannon Frost, Jeff Pugliese and Brian Shactman.

Jeff Pugliese

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Brian Shactman

Bureau (all re-elected) are: • Chair: Alex Peterson, Senior Advisor & Director of Government Affairs for the CT Airport Authority (CAA) • Vice Chair: Tina Mazzullo, Area Director of Sales and Marketing at the Residence Inn and the Courtyard Stamford Downtown • President: Robert Murdock • Treasurer: Kevin McMillan, CPA, Director of Accounting Services at FML • Assistant Treasurer: Michael Johnson, Michael Johnson, President of Accounts & Services and a Lobbyist at Sullivan & LeShane • Secretary: Roger Wierbicki, Director of Marketing for R&D Dynamics Corporation • Immediate Past Chair: Thomas Madden, NYSERDA. The At-Large Executive Committee Members for 2026-2027 are: Rachel Lenda, Director of Tourism for the CT Department of Economic & Community Development; Peter Murphy, a Partner at the law firm of Shipman & Goodwin LLP; Karen O’Connell, Vice President of Resort Sales & Hotel Operations at Foxwoods Resort Casino; and Kimberly Simone, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Mohegan Sun. The board members for 2026-2027 are: Karen Bachofner, Waterford Hotel Group; Leo Barrieau, President of Barrcom Associates, LLC; Dorinda Borer, Mayor of West Haven; Jorge Cabrera, Connecticut State Senator; Chris Davis, Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA); Scott Dolch, President & CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association; Evan Feinglass, University of Connecticut Division of Athletics; Patrick Fisher, DRVN; Michael Ferguson, New Haven Hotel; (New) Frost, City of Hartford; Jan Jones, Ph.D., Pompea College of Business at University of New Haven; Jackie Kosiba, Delamar Hotel Collection; Shari Mahan, Winvian; (New) Pugliese, Eversource Energy; Mia Schipani, Houlihan Lawrence Commercial and Schipani PR; (New) Shactman, Audacy and WFSBTV 3; Cian Stein, Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater; and Valerie Stolfi Collins, Connecticut Recreation & Parks Association.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

MARKETING

SPECIAL REPORT

Longtime marketing exec Schipani joins Coldwell Banker Commercial Realty By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Looks to bring her innovative approach to local real estate market

STAMFORD – Veteran real estate professional, business strategist, and marketing executive Mia Schipani has joined Coldwell Banker Commercial Realty, serving the firm’s clients in Danbury and its Greenwich and Stamford offices. With more than two decades of experience spanning commercial real estate, public relations, marketing, business development, and brand strategy, Schipani brings a multidisciplinary approach to helping businesses, investors, developers, landlords, and tenants achieve their real estate objectives. She specializes in retail, office, industrial, mixed-use, hospitality, multifamily, and investment properties. Schipani has built a career helping organizations grow through strategic partnerships, innovative marketing, and relationship-driven business development. Her extensive background in branding, communications, digital marketing, and public rela-

tions provides clients with a unique competitive advantage throughout every stage of the commercial real estate process. "Joining Coldwell Banker Commercial Realty is an exciting opportunity to combine my passion for commercial real estate with my experience helping businesses grow," Schipani said. "Today's commercial real estate landscape requires more than transactional expertise. It requires strategic thinking, creative marketing, and trusted relationships.” Beyond her commercial real estate practice, Schipani is deeply engaged in business and nonprofit communities in the state. She serves on the State of Connecticut’s CT MEETINGS Council, part of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), and is co-chair of the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women Westfair chapter and co-chair of the Metro New York & Connecticut Regional Board for Girls With Impact. She also

Mia Schipani,

a longtime marketing guru, joins Coldwell Banker as an associate. Photo courtesy of Coldwell Banker

founded City Girls Fairfield County, a business and real estate initiative showcasing the people, places, and opportunities shaping Stamford, Norwalk, and neighboring communities. She also leads RED (Real Estate Divas), a professional networking group connecting women in commercial real estate. In addition, Schipani is the founder of Schipani PR, a boutique public relations and marketing firm that has advised businesses, professional service firms, nonprofits, lifestyle brands and real estate developers throughout Connecticut and the New York metropolitan area for more than a decade. "We are pleased to welcome Mia to Coldwell Banker Commercial Realty," said Todd Payne, managing broker of CBC Realty Northeast. "Her diverse business background, entrepreneurial mindset, great energy, marketing expertise, and extensive community relationships make her an outstanding addition to our team. Mia understands how to create value for clients through strategy, collaboration, and innovative thinking, and we look forward to supporting her continued success."

NBC Connecticut’s ‘CT Live’ will air as part of its prime access lineup By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

NBC Connecticut will add a prime access edition of its locally produced lifestyle program “CT Live” beginning Monday, Sept. 14, Newscast Studio reports. The program will air Monday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m. on WVIT while continuing its existing 11:30 a.m. broadcast. The new edition will debut ahead of NBC’s coverage of the 78th Emmy Awards, which begins at 8 p.m. ET that night. Actress Mariska

Hargitay will host the ceremony, which will also stream on Peacock. Other schedule changes include dropping the second hour of “NBC News Daily” at 3 p.m. — where “The Kelly Clarkson Show” was — to air “News Zone,” according to future public schedules but not confirmed by the station. “News Zone” is the name of an existing show WNBC, which is WVIT’s sister station, produces. On Fridays, “The Hub Today” takes the place of “CT Live” at

11:30 a.m. and “On Her Mark” will air at 7:30 p.m., a station official confirmed to NCS. “Hub” is a program produced by sister station WBTS in Boston, while “On Her Mark” is the name of a podcast by NBC Sports Boston personality Hannah Donnelly. Hosted by Abbey Carnivale, “CT Live” features restaurants, businesses, entertainment, community organizations, events and other attractions throughout Connecticut. “We know our audience wants local content that is useful, engaging and relevant to their everyday lives,”

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

said Katherine Clemens, marketing and creative services director for NBC and Telemundo Connecticut, in a statement. “Adding more ‘CT Live’ gives us another opportunity to deliver that while showcasing all there is to see, do and experience across Connecticut.”

A Family Business Writing a New Chapter

his own business for 40 years in the Bronx.

ong before email pitches, social media

Now she is sharing that experience with her

campaigns and digital media lists, Risa

own daughter.

Hoag learned the value of persistence

The profession has changed dramati-

the old-fashioned way: by repeatedly picking

cally since Risa first tried to get a reporter

up the phone.

on the phone. Press kits once traveled by

In the late 80s, Risa was running The Cor-

mail, releases went out by fax, and a good

porate Stork, a business she launched with

media list was built one conversation at a

her mother, Leatrice Bell. Hoping to generate

time. Today’s communications landscape

visibility, she spent weeks calling then-West-

includes digital media, social platforms,

chester Business Journal Editor Mills Korte,

online content, analytics and a steady

leaving message after message, until he had

stream of new channels competing for

no choice but to answer.

attention.

Korte wrote about Risa and her mother,

For Risa and Samantha, those changes

giving the young entrepreneur a glimpse into

also underscore what each brings to the

the power of both persistence and publicity.

partnership. Risa has decades of rela-

In 1991, she founded Global Marketing Group,

tionships, business experience and an

later renamed GMG Public Relations as Risa

understanding of how to recognize and

shifted her focus to helping others tell their

develop a strong story. Samantha brings

stories.

experience working within today’s faster,

Four decades later, her story comes full circle. This past January, Risa’s daughter, Samantha Hoag, joined GMG, the agency Risa founded 35 years ago this November. Once

Risa Hoag (center), with her daughter Samantha and actor Kevin Kilner at the 2026 The Arc Westchester Foundation Matter of Taste (MOT) dinner. GMG handles the on-going public relations work for The Arc Westchester as well as the event management for the annual event. Kevin Kilner is the MOT emcee every year.

again, she finds herself in a mother-daughter

distinct roles to play. At GMG I can apply my

landscape that bears little resemblance to the

business, only now, she’s the mother.

experience working at a large agency when

one Risa entered decades ago.

“It is truly inspiring that at one time I

it comes to fine-tuning project organization,

One of the agency’s most impressive PR

learned from my mom and today I am learn-

enhancing detailed reporting methods, and

campaigns was for White Plains-based

ing from my daughter,” Risa says.

increasing opportunities for media outreach.

historic document dealer Seth Kaller in 2024.

Samantha is learning from her too but

However, I also have an opportunity to wear

The story highlighted the discovery of a copy

also brings her own expertise to the busi-

many more hats than I did before and learn

of the Constitution found in a South Carolina

ness. Before joining GMG, she built her PR

new sides of running a business in the PR

filing cabinet. Covered by the AP and nearly

background at a large New York City agency,

world that I didn’t experience before,” she

every on-air news program in the country, the

working in a fast-paced, competitive media

said.

story went viral amassing over 6,000 place-

environment with international clients.

Over 35 years, Risa has worked with well-

ments, $235 million in publicity value, and 8

Rather than simply stepping into the family

known names alongside many local business-

billion impressions. Ultimately, the document

business, she’s helping shape its next phase,

es and nonprofits including The Sidney Kim-

sold for $11,000,000 to an individual who

combining Risa’s decades of relationships

mel Foundation, PXG, IMAX, The Tourism

read one of the articles.

with her own perspective on today’s media

Board of Scotland, Veolia, Rockland Commu-

landscape.

nity College, The Arc Westchester, Down to

featured Sean Connery, in a 7-minute CBS

Her experience has also brought new ideas

increasingly integrated media environment. Together, they are blending those perspectives as they look toward GMG’s next chapter. What hasn’t changed, Risa says, is the importance of relationships, storytelling and persistence. Nearly 40 years later, the mother-daughter business story is still being written with a new chapter featuring the next generation.

Her most memorable placement, though,

Earth Living, Penguin Rep Theatre, Wallauer,

Sunday Morning segment on the history of

to the agency’s day-to-day operations. Saman-

and Westchester Children’s Association.

the kilt. “We did a segment of the story at the

tha works across earned media, social media

During that time, GMG’s work has also

Waldorf Astoria during the Tartan Ball and he

and communications initiatives, developing

expanded well beyond traditional media re-

press releases, media pitches, messaging

lations. The agency provides public relations,

Close behind was a story that aired twice

materials, executive talking points and social

marketing, advertising and communications

on the Today Show in 2024, featuring Mount

content while conducting proactive outreach

support for businesses and nonprofits across

Vernon-based American Christmas founder

to broadcast, print, digital and community

a range of industries, combining media

Dan Casterella discussing holiday decorating

outlets. The role has allowed her to apply the

outreach with content development, social

in New York City and the Rockefeller Center

systems and processes she learned at a larger

media, community relations, advertising cam-

Angels.

agency while gaining a broader view of what

paigns, event promotion and broader mar-

For Risa, there is a certain symmetry to it

it takes to operate and grow a business.

keting strategies including GEO for today’s

all. Her mother was beside her when she first

www.gmgpr.com 914.996.8100

“Coming from a large agency, there were

AI environment. That evolution has allowed

learned what it meant to build a business. She

New York State Certified WBE

many layers of people, each with their own

the firm to grow alongside a communications

also had the support of her father, who ran

was absolutely charming,” she recalled.

Public Relations Marketing Advertising

The Story Behind the Story Forty years. One enduring commitment to Westchester. As Thompson & Bender celebrates its 40th anniversary, we look back on four decades of partnering with the people, organizations, and institutions that have made the county what it is today. Behind nearly all of Westchester’s landmark openings, civic milestones, and signature campaigns since 1986 is a story we’ve been privileged to help tell—and, at times, help write.

THOMPSON-BENDER.COM Pictured above: Partners Geoffrey Thompson, Elizabeth Bracken‑Thompson & Dean Bender

A REGIONAL VOICE

RESHAPING THE SKYLINE

FROM FORTUNE 500 TO MAIN STREET

Partners Dean Bender, Geoff Thompson & Elizabeth Bracken‑Thompson

Louis Cappelli with Geoff

Joe Simone with Liz

As the county’s downtowns reinvented themselves, T&B directed the launches that announced them, most notably through its long partnership with developer Louis Cappelli, whose projects transformed New Rochelle and White Plains. T&B produced the moments behind New Roc City’s 1999 debut and the landmark City Center and Ritz‑Carlton Residences that redefined the White Plains skyline in the 2000s. Each opening became a regional event.

Over four decades, T&B has represented the full sweep of the regional economy, from the places people shop—Stew Leonard’s, Cross County Center, The Galleria, and the grand openings of The Westchester and New Roc City—to Fortune 500 headquarters like General Foods, PepsiCo, and Fujifilm. The firm has told the story of residential real estate leaders like Houlihan Lawrence and marquee developers from Simone Development to Donald Trump, and virtually everything in between.

T&B’s early work carried Westchester’s story into the wider metro—from the revitalized shops of Grand Central Terminal to Fujifilm’s headline‑making panda campaign at the Smithsonian National Zoo. In 1998, the firm helped launch The Journal News, uniting Gannett’s regional dailies under a single masthead and giving the Lower Hudson Valley one unified news brand.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

BRANDING A COUNTY—AND A CITY

A PARTNERSHIP THAT POWERED THE COUNTY

TELLING WESTCHESTER’S STORY

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano with Liz & Geoff

BCW President & CEO Marsha Gordon with Geoff, Liz & Dean

Geoff & Liz with Dee DelBello, Publisher of Westfair Business Journal

When Westchester needed a defining identity, it turned to T&B. Working with the Westchester County Office of Economic Development and Westchester IDA, the agency launched “New York’s Intellectual Capital” under County Executive Rob Astorino, positioning the county as a hub of innovation, healthcare, and talent. In Yonkers, T&B partnered with Mayor Mike Spano and the Yonkers IDA to reposition a rising city, first through Generation Yonkers and today through Hollywood on Hudson, establishing it as the Northeast’s emerging filmmaking capital.

For decades, Thompson & Bender has stood beside The Business Council of Westchester, helping rebrand and grow it into the largest and most influential business membership organization in the county where Westchester’s business community comes together.

Since its beginning, T&B has worked alongside the region’s media to tell the stories of the people, businesses and institutions shaping Westchester. Those longstanding relationships—with publishers, editors, reporters and broadcasters—have helped bring the county’s biggest milestones, transformations and success stories to audiences throughout the region.

EDUCATING THE REGION

GIVING BACK

THE NEXT FRAME

Archbishop of New York Timothy Cardinal Dolan with Dean, Liz & Geoff

ArtsWestchester CEO Kathleen Reckling with Dean & Geoff

The T&B team

Education has long been at the heart of T&B’s work. Over the decades, the firm has partnered with virtually every college and university in Westchester, and with many of the region’s leading private and independent schools—from the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of New York and Archbishop Stepinac High School to Iona Preparatory and the Charter School of Educational Excellence—helping the institutions that shape the county’s next generation tell their stories.

Over four decades, Thompson & Bender has joined with the nonprofit organizations that hold Westchester together— helping them tell their stories and deliver their missions. From the United Way of Westchester & Putnam to ArtsWestchester, from Pace Women’s Justice Center to Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester, from the Westchester Parks Foundation to Nonprofit Westchester, the firm has given the county’s nonprofit community a stronger voice.

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN. Now marking its 40th anniversary, Thompson & Bender remains where it has always been: at the center of the Westchester story—and helping write its next chapter.

Liz & Geoff pictured with: A NYS Governor George Pataki B NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo C NYS Governor Kathy Hochul D County Executive Ken Jenkins E New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart‑Cousins A

IN GOOD COMPANY Forty years, one common thread: the leaders and builders who shaped the region trusted T&B to tell their story.

Public Leadership | County Executives Al DelBello, Andy O’Rourke, Andy Spano, Rob Astorino, George Latimer, and now Ken Jenkins • Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano • NYS Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart‑Cousins • NYS Governors Kathy Hochul, Andrew Cuomo, and George Pataki The Builders | Joe Simone of Simone Development—naming and launching Hutchinson Metro Center 25 years ago • Louis Cappelli, who transformed New Rochelle and White Plains • Martin Ginsburg of GDC, who built homes throughout the Hudson Valley • Yonkers Housing Authority • Robert Martin Company • Stagg Group • “Wilder Balter Partners • And many more—shaping the region’s commercial, residential, and housing landscape.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

SPECIAL REPORT

American Marketing Association releases Season 8 of Marketing / And Podcast By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Includes 15 episodes hosted by CEO Bennie Johnson The American Marketing Association (AMA) released Season 8 of its podcast, Marketing / And, which is hosted by the organization’s CEO Bennie Johnson. For the eighth season, AMA will release a new episode each Wednesday, starting Sept. 9 through Jan. 20, 2027. Episode 1 of season 8, which went live on Wednesday, features Court Avenue Co-founder Daniel Khabie. “When the ground moves beneath us, the natural instinct is hesitation,” Johnson said. “In our conversations for Season 8 of the podcast, we’re seeing the exact opposite. Leaders are using that edge to move faster and bolder than ever before. I’m thrilled to bring you a new season of Marketing / And focused on how we transform market uncertainty into unstoppable momentum.”

MARKETING

SEASON 8 EPISODES:

Susan Westwater, Co-Founder of Pragmatic Digital Release date: Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026

Dr. Vanitha Swaminathan, Thomas Marshall Professor of Marketing and Associate Dean for Research and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Pittsburgh Release Date: Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026

Ulli Appelbaum, Founder of First the Trousers Then The Shoes Release Date: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026

Dimi Albers, Global Chief Executive Officer of DEPT® Release Date: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026

Sean Greenwood, Vice President of Public Relations for Ben & Jerry's Release Date: Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026

Shane Coker, SVP of Marketing at Osano Release Date: Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026

Daniel Khabie, Co-founder of Court Avenue (posted) Release date: Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026

John Cardone, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Carlow University Release Date: Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 Michael Vajda, President & Managing Director for Elevate Global's North American Operations Release Date: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 Arielle C. Baril, the Founder and Creative Director of Rielle and Dr. Denise Gravatt, Assistant Director of Communications for the College of Business at Florida Atlantic University Release Date: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 Kerel Cooper, Chief Marketing Officer at MarketCast Release Date: Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Paula Beadle, CEO of the Sponsorship Marketing Association Release Date: Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2026 Ajit Mohan, Chief Business Officer at Snap Release Date: Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2026 Britta Larson, Brand Principal at Conscious Minds Studios Release Date: Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2027 Rob Volpe, CEO and Founder, Empathy Activist, LLC Release Date: Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2027

A new age of ‘Aquarius”• Page 1

In promoting his series “The Vampire Lestat” (streaming on AMC+ after debuting in June), showrunner Rolin Jones joked that he could think of no better way to torture the title character — the transcendent antihero of Anne Rice’s “The Vampire Chronicles” and a real prima donna — than to make him a rock star in an age when rock ‘n’ roll is no longer relevant. (“The Vampire Lestat” — the second in the 13-book “Chronicles,” in which he does become a rock star — was published in a very different time, 1985, on Halloween to be exact.)

“We want to reach as many people as possible, to pass along something people are missing and don’t even know that they’re missing.”

— Dunja Von Stoddard, Aquarius manager, keyboardist and backup singer

“…While there are many great rock bands that are alive and kicking right now, their hold of the cultural landscape is quite small,” Jones told the Los Angeles Times. “You couldn’t think of a worse way to get your message out than going to be a rock star right now.” So is rock music on its way to becoming deader than, well, a vampire's victim? Not for Dunja Von Stoddard, the manager, keyboardist and backup singer for Aquarius, an immersive 1960s-style rock’n’roll cover band — it also plans to write its own songs — that will appear at the inaugural Lewisboro Music Festival in South Salem at noon Saturday, Sept. 27. “I’m a Gen Xer,” Von Stoddard said of the generation born between 1965 and 1980. “I grew up on a farm near Bennington, Vermont, listening to this music. For me, rock’n’roll was part of my childhood. It’s very much alive for me then.” But she acknowledged that rock is not as popular as it once was, particularly with younger generations, having been eclipsed by hip-hop/rap and pop, with country music surging. The reasons for this are as much cultural as economic, not the least of which has been the success of rock itself — a counterculture genre that developed, along with the spending power of postwar teenagers, in the mid-20th century, blending blues, R & B (rhythm and blues), gospel and country in original songs that used the bass, the guitar (acoustic as well as electric) and the drums. Rock not only gave youth a Dionysian voice. It became a vehicle for individual performers and bands that wrote their own material, unlike in

the previous decades when singers and the big bands performed works from what is now called The Great American Songbook; turned the album into an art form; and even dared to reimagine opera (The Who’s “Tommy,” Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s “Jesus Christ Superstar”). Over time, rock became so big that it splintered into various subgenres, including heavy metal, grunge, punk, indie and emo, becoming a case of the sum of the parts being less than the whole. As rock diversified, the demographics of music lovers also shifted. Studies have shown rock to be most popular with baby boomers and Gen Xers like Von Stoddard, less so with the so-called Silent Generation that preceded the boomers or with the millennials and Gen Zers who have followed Gen X. For proof of this look no further than the nostalgic “My Music” specials that turn up on PBS as fundraisers, with boomers on their feet, singing and dancing to individual performers and bands of the 1950s through ’70s. Von Stoddard added that the audience for Aquarius is predominantly boomers, with some rock lovers in their 20s and 30s. But what has really challenged rock and the music industry in general, she added, is distribution: “Spotify, Napster, Live Nation: The corporations have taken over.” To be fair, the music industry has always been a particularly difficult one for performers to break into, given the relative youth, eagerness and perhaps naivete of newcomers, who just want to get their work out there, and the ruthlessness of record labels, which have controlled the recording studios, viewed advances as loans and

recouped recording and touring costs before handing out royalties. The stories are rife about future superstars like Elvis Presley, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones who were underpaid early on. That meant you had to sell a lot of records, albums and venue dates to make it big. Even then you could wind up in debt. Von Stoddard pointed to Tom Petty, who declared bankruptcy on May 23, 1979, as a way to free himself from his contract with Shelter Records and retain the rights to his songs, a strategy that ultimately netted him a $3 million contract with MCA (which had reacquired Shelter) and that other artists have looked to. (Von Stoddard is also part of another Hudson Valley-based tribute band, this one to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, called The Tom Prettys.) In the digital age, musicians can upload their own work for free, eliminating one middleman. But the diffusion and profusion of streaming platforms — the new middlemen — isn’t any more financially rewarding for them. “In the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, you’d listen to the radio and hear a single that had come out,” Von Stoddard said. “Everyone was listening to the same thing….There wasn’t so much fragmentation.” On the streaming platforms, a band or individual performer is competing with reportedly more than 100,000 uploads a day, with the biggest names getting the most play. The platforms in turn prorate royalties, with the artists winding up with less than a tenth of 1%. Spotify pays $12 a month, Von Stoddard said. A monthly minimum wage? That would be $1,300, requiring 600,000

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

streams of your song. Von Stoddard and the other five members of the band — lead vocalist and instrumentalist Dana Page, lead guitarist Justin Cross, rhythm guitarist Karen Tobias, bass guitarist Will Willsey and Tobias Ralph — all have other jobs and/or play in other bands. Von Stoddard sells real estate and does graphic design and screen printing, which plays into the immersive quality of the shows. She oversees everything from the vintage clothing, right down to the go-go boots, to the backdrops and the band’s visual identity as it performs Motown, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Simon & Garfunkel, The Beatles, The Doors and The Rolling Stones, to name part of its wide-ranging repertoire. (Check out the band's recent WKZE Radio session here.) In February, Aquarius played the legendary Whisky a Go Go club in West Hollywood, opening for Strawberry Alarm Clock, then stayed on stage to groove with the main attraction. The house was packed, as it was for a Worcester, Massachusetts, gig, she said. Rock has always thrived on live touring and that continues to be the case. What Von Stoddard wants is for Aquarius to offer a multigenerational experience that families can enjoy. She’s had people come up to her with tears in their eyes saying that the music took them back in time. Von Stoddard wants to do that for those who didn’t grow up with rock’n’roll. “We want to reach as many people as possible, to pass along something people are missing and don’t even know that they’re missing.”

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Join us for an evening of meaningful connections, inspiring stories, and a celebration of what’s possible when emerging leaders are given the opportunity to shine.

YAEL BELINKIE

Senior Director Montefiore-Einstein Psychiatry Associates Chief of Addiction Operations Montefiore Medical Center

JADE M. FELDER

Assistant Vice President, University Advisement Strategy and Innovation Mercy University

RAHIM HIRANI

JERRICA BROOKS

Head of Membership, Entertainment Business Development and Brand Partnerships Strategist Soho House & Co.

PATRICK BUCKIEWICZ Account Manager Events to Remember 360 Marketing

MD/Ph.D. Candidate New York Medical College

ANNMARIE PULEO

Director, The University Advisement Center Western Connecticut State University

TARYN RAMEY Associate McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt LLP

CHARLES BURT Benefits Consultant Lawley Insurance

LAURA SABIA

Owner and CEO Pure Barre Westport, Darien and Pure Barre Fairfield

AMANDA CASTELLANO Vice President, Investments Moors & Cabot

NICK CHIARELLA

JOSHUA SMITH

LILLIE DAVIS

WESLEY VELO

JENNY DELORBE

ALICIA WALDIE-COLEMA

ROCKY DELUCA

JEFFREY WINTHAL

Attorney Pullman & Comley

Head of Social Media and Digital Strategy City of Yonkers

Senior Associate Cuono Engineering PLLC

Community Impact Officer Mutual Security Credit Union

Associate Vice President of Finance Andrus

Associate Professor and Clinical Billing Liaison College of Westchester and Yale School of Medicine

Associate Vice President, Property Management Newmark

Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships United Way of Westchester & Putnam

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

EDUCATION

Marist University to cap yearly tuition, housing costs at $32K By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Empire State Promise seeks to expand college choice for NY students

cost,” said Marist President Kevin Weinman. “A Marist education prepares students to thrive in whatever they do. I’m proud to make this investment to help more students have access to the valuable and rewarding experiences that we offer, in and out of the classroom.” To qualify for Marist’s Empire State Promise, students must: • Be a New York State resident with a household adjusted gross income of $200,000 or less • Enroll as a full-time student at Marist (minimum 12 credits/ semester) • Submit the FAFSA by required deadlines • Be a new student entering Marist in 2027 • Meet and maintain all academic standards and program requirements.

Marist University has launched a commitment to give eligible New York families access to a private university education by capping the annual cost of tuition, housing, and dining at $32,000. The Empire State Promise will be available to new first-year and transfer students from New York enrolling at Marist in 2027. It is designed for families with an adjusted gross income of $200,000 or less. Marist created the program to address a longtime barrier in the college search: many New York families assume a selective private university is financially out of reach and limit their options. “Talented students should be able to choose a university based on opportunity and outcomes, without being constrained by assumptions about

The Empire State Promise renews up to four years. The Promise builds upon Marist’s longstanding investment in access and student success. It already distributes approximately $115 million in financial aid annually, and 99% of incoming first-year students receive scholarships and/or grants. “The Empire State Promise

expands access to an exceptional private university and sends a powerful message to talented students across New York: choose a college based on where you see opportunity, discover your best fit, and can envision your future, not by assumptions about what a private education may cost,” said Sean Kaylor, Vice President of Enrollment Management.

EVENTS

Rockland, Westchester counties ‘Remember’ 9/11 with pair of video series By Gary Larkin / glarkin@westfairinc.com

Officials to mark 25th anniversary at Haverstraw Bay County Park, Kensico Dam Plaza

also connects that enduring legacy of service to the people who continue answering the call in Rockland today. “Rockland Remembers tells the story of the enduring strength of our community that day and in the aftermath,” said County Executive Ed Day. “On Sept. 11 and in the 25 years since, Rockland has continued to answer the call, and I hope all of our residents and beyond watch this powerful series.” The county will also hold its annual Sept. 11 Memorial Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 11 at 8:30 a.m. at Haverstraw Bay County Park. County officials, family members, clergy, first responders, and community members will be there to remember the lives lost. As Westchester County prepares

Both Rockland and Westchester counties have produced a video and documentary to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a video series called “Rockland Remembers.” The two-part video series honors the selfless acts of courage and compassion demonstrated by Rockland County residents on fateful day and in the days that followed, according to County Executive Ed Day and Economic Development & Tourism Director Jenna Nazario. Launching this week across the county government’s social media and YouTube pages, the series shares stories of local residents who stepped forward during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history. It

to mark the 25th anniversary, it is honoring the lives lost, remembering those who have died from 9/11-related illnesses and reflecting on how that day shaped Westchester over the quarter-century that followed. As part of the commemoration, Westchester County has produced a new short documentary featuring reflections from every County Executive who has served since the tragic events. The documentary brings together their memories of that day, Westchester County’s response in the immediate aftermath, the lasting impact on the County and the lessons they believe should be carried forward 25 years later. The documentary was filmed and edited by Westchester County Lead Videographer John Borst and is being released publicly for the first time as part of the County’s 25th anniversary commemoration.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

The county will also host two annual remembrance events at Kensico Dam Plaza. An interfaith prayer vigil starts at 5 p.m. on Sept. 10. The annual memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Kensico Dam Plaza. “Twenty-five years have passed, but for so many of us, the memories of September 11 remain incredibly vivid," Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said. "We remember where we were, what we saw and the uncertainty and heartbreak that followed. We also remember how Westchester came together. This documentary gives us an opportunity to preserve those memories and reflect on not only what we lost, but how our County responded, endured and moved forward. Most importantly, it helps ensure that the generations who did not experience September 11 understand its impact and the responsibility we all have to remember.”

Napa revisited by DOUG PALDING / doug@dougpaulding.com

I’ve been writing about wines & spirits for a couple of decades now. I have been invited on media trips to multiple countries in Europe and South America. My passports have been stamped so many times, yet this recent trip was just my third invite to American wine regions and my first to Napa Valley. We were met midday at San Francisco International Airport and escorted to Alila Napa Valley in St. Helena. The Alila has been a Hyatt property for five years now, with exceptional everything, from a prompt, friendly, professional staff to a gorgeous setting nestled between the Spring and Howell mountains. Just 30 feet from my patio slider sat Beringer Vineyards. There is a hotel day spa, second to none in services and style. We visited seven vineyards within the Napa Valley, each touting a unique history, personality, architecture and wine style. Napa has changed over the years — this is the 50th anniversary of the so-called “Judgment of Paris” in which Napa wines carried the day in a French competition — with its place in the wine world clearly exemplified by the crazy influx of money from many directions and continents. Big wine money arrived from Europe. Baron Philippe de Rothschild partnered up with Robert Mondavi to create Opus One wines in Oakville. Taittinger Champagne built Domaine Carneros in Napa. Champagne’s Moёt & Chandon created Domaine Chandon in Yountville and Château Pétrus established Dominus Estate, also in Yountville. Hedge funders took notice, got in, and the price of Napa vineyard land soared. Napa Valley is bordered to the west by the Mayacamas Mountain range, and the region has two parallel mainly north/south roads known as Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail. It is truly dizzying to drive on these roads and pass all these wineries. In many cases, it got me thinking of the time I tasted this wine and where and with whom. There are so many wine memory triggers that it is dreamlike just to revel in the greatness of the region. Virtually all seven wineries we toured welcome visitors, but all request/require advance appointments. Tours and tastings range from $50 to a lot more, depending on what they offer and what you opt for. Eleven Eleven Winery has 35 acres with 25 of those planted to 14 varietals. We

met founding partner Ellie Anest and winemaker Kirk Venge for a lovely tour and delicious tasting. Venge, like most winemakers today, believes the wine is made “in the vineyard.” The less winery manipulation you need, the better. Eleven Eleven hosts many types of wine and food events. The wines are fresh, clean and flawless. Take a closer look here. Our next visit was to Ehlers Estate where I got to meet winemaker Adam Casto (again). The welcome center/ tasting room has “1886” embossed above the door as a testimony to its longevity. Casto came to winemaking accidentally but has embraced all things oenological and leaves nothing to chance: “I grow wine. I don’t like winemaking.” As with Venge, the happier and more robust things are on the vine, the easier winemaking is. Ehlers Estate also has a fairly massive olive grove — it makes some wonderful olive oil — and an outdoor tasting and dining area called the Belvedere. Casto is a bright guy who brings excellence to everything he creates. All the wines we tasted were balanced, ethereal and demanded introspection. Ehlers Estate continues to be a charitable operation that distributes money to cardiovascular research. The two “Es” in Elhers have a heart drawn in them as a reminder of the estate’s commitment to the heart. Make an online visit here. That night we made a trip to Marciano Estate for a truly magical evening. We met winemaker Bastien Lucas and Daniel Ha, director of sales and marketing. After introductions, we savored an attractive bubbly and climbed aboard a modified golf cart to get a quick tour of the property, owned by Maurice Marciano, who came to the United States with his three brothers to pursue a dream. That dream was Guess Jeans, and the tight-fitting, stone-washed denim brand became a phenomenon almost overnight. Guess Jeans company was eventually sold, making way for the purchase of an existing vineyard in 2006 and then luxury custom construction of a winery infrastructure. Over dinner we tasted four wines. Starting with the Estate Blanc of mostly Sauvignon Blanc, it showed lovely citrus and character. Next, we tasted the M Proprietary Red, mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, a beautiful wine that you can drink tonight or let age for decades. Then we tasted the Cabernet Sauvignons from 2023 and 2013 for

“There are so many wine memory triggers that it is dreamlike just to revel in the greatness of the region.”

comparison. In 2013, the vines were just coming into their proper maturity. In 2023, the wine style was just coming into its proper maturity. Both were brilliant — dark fruit, blackberry, fig, cedar — lovely. Also, Marciano Estates is one of the few Napa producers making kosher wines. Ha poured us a side-by-side tasting of wines from adjacent vineyards, one kosher and the other not. The kosher wines cost a few more dollars, because of the more extensive kosher process, but the flavor is identical. Don’t miss the estate’s olive oil, among the best in the world. If avoiding Napa crowds is a goal, you must visit Somerston Estate, by appointment only. It is a short, beautiful drive up a double black diamond mountain road with magnificent views around every corner. Somerston Estate was first purchased in 2004 by Allan and Kathleen Chapman with significant acreage added in 2006. Today it is a 1,682-acre estate with 230 acres planted to vines. Winemaker Cody Hurd gave us a four-wheeler tour through the property and its history, including vineyards alongside the Vaca Mountains. Somerston Estate produced its first vintage in 2006 and has fine-tuned production in the two subsequent decades. We then sat for a beautiful lunch with a wine pairing. Bottle pricing is rather broad, with wines available from $30 to near $155 for the estate reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. The all-terrain tour and tasting and lunch can all be prearranged online here. That night we visited Seghesio Family Vineyards in Healdsburg, set in a residential neighborhood. Originally planted in 1895, Seghesio was in the family for five generations before being sold to the Crimson Wine Group. It has more than 300 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards mostly planted to Zinfandel. It is also one of the few wineries we visited that allows for walk-ins. On the front lawn are many Adiron-

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

dack chairs, bocce courts and cornhole games. The bottle pricing runs from $26 to $85, making Seghesio wines a great price-to-value wine. More information is available here. Our next adventure was at Priest Ranch Tasting Room in downtown Yountville, also owned by the Chapmans of Somerston Estate with Cody Hurd installed as winemaker. The wines are all made at Somerston and shipped to downtown Yountville where the people are. There is a welcome center, a tasting area and a restaurant with a couple of dining rooms and Yountville’s only rooftop dining. Priest Ranch wines are priced between $30 and $145 with most between $60 and $75. When it’s time for a Napa timeout, visit Priest Ranch Tasting Room. My personal favorite on our journey, however, was our visit to Pine Ridge Vineyards on the Silverado Trail in the Stags Leap district in Napa. Established in 1976, Pine Ridge now has 160 acres of noncontiguous planted vines. Josh Widaman, a 2002 University of California, Davis, alumnus, met us for a drive to a couple of the more exceptional vineyards. We then went deep into the winery’s mountain caves where there were intimate tasting groups scattered in different areas. Widaman showed us the way to a private tasting room where we tasted five wines. First, we tried the 2025 Chenin Blanc-Viognier blend retailing at $16. It showed great lemon citrus with bright, refreshing flavors carried by hints of a pleasant edgy spice with a silky texture — lovely. Pine Ridge 2025 Sauvignon Blanc was next, retailing at $45. Aged with 30% new oak barrels, it gave fresh citrus, pineapple and apricot. The 2023 Malbec — which showed dark fruit, blackberry, smoothness, freshness and liveliness — was followed by two Cabernet Sauvignons. The 2023 Circle Hill Vineyard was a dark, attractive brooding wine with fresh prunes, dark cherries and pomegranate. And finally, the 2023 Locked Horns Vineyard Cab offered dark cherry and dark raspberry with fine peppery aromatics the contributed to a brilliant, inky mouthfeel and finish. Each of the wineries we visited has member or club pricing that is considerably more attractive, with added perks such as special winery events and tasting invites, making them even more affordable. Another plus, you won’t have to pay any tariffs. Write me at doug@dougpaulding.com.

Twenty years later, Danbury academy molds strong, confident students

NONPROFITS

Nonprofit school has its ‘Grassroots’ in tennis By Pamela Brown

The Danbury Grassroots Academy has been a pillar in the community, providing select city students with a disciplined and nurturing environment for mentoring, promoting healthy lifestyles, and building self-esteem. This year, the nonprofit is celebrating 20 years of helping students become strong, confident, and successful in the classroom, on the tennis court and in life. “It’s exciting to be celebrating 20 years,” said Executive Director Lynn Radford, who previously served as director of education for 17 years. “We started as a tennis-only summer program, and we’ve come a long way from the beginning.” The academy’s education and enrichment center is located at 196 Main St. Sports programming is held on the public tennis courts at Rogers Park. “Kids couldn't make the high school tennis team because of their bad grades, so I was asked to come to Danbury to tutor them at the library after school,” Radford said. “One thing led to another, and our board of directors decided that our hook would be tennis, but our main focus would be education.” Since it was established, the academy has annually served select 75-80 low-income, first-generation youths

from Danbury who are between the ages of 8 and 22. “We believe every child deserves access to opportunities that promote success regardless of their family's financial circumstances,” she said. “Our comprehensive model combines academics, mentoring, small group tutoring, health and wellness enrichment, leadership development, civic engagement, and tennis instruction to help students overcome barriers associated with poverty and to achieve long-term success. “Many of the youth we serve come from immigrant families facing food scarcity, financial hardship, language barriers, and limited access to educational resources and extracurricular opportunities.” The academy is a free, year-round sports-based youth development organization that offers a rigorous academic support system. Its four primary goals include highlighting the importance of education, providing tools necessary to develop honorable character traits, teaching the basics of tennis, and emphasizing the value of nutrition and exercise. Its staff comprises three full time and three part-time paid staff members. Students attend the academy four days per week, 42 weeks a year, and participate in educational, cultural, and recreational field trips and

workshops. High school students receive individualized college and career counseling, including course selection, FAFSA assistance, college applications, essay writing, resume development, and more. Staff maintain close communication with teachers, counselors, and families and attend all parent-teacher conferences to ensure students receive support to succeed. “Approximately 65 students participate in our daily after-school and summer programming,” Radford said. Students attending Grassroots Academy have a 100% graduation rate, 100% improve their reading levels, and 50+ are honor roll students, she added. Grassroots began with a conversation between founder Carl Bailey and a friend who created a similar program in Norwalk. “As my father and grandparents emigrated from Lebanon, I personally understood the challenges of Danbury’s children,” said Bailey, an avid tennis player. “I know education, hard work, and health are the components required to reach their potential.” The discipline of the sport helped my personal growth both physically and socially. I knew that a program like ours could change lives.” Bailey’s wife, Lauren, developed the foundation of the sports program. “We started with about 20 students and after a couple of years grew to over 50,” said Bailey. After seeing how the students faced academic problems, they hired Radford who designed the

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

“We’re a free program but not an easy one.”

— Carl Bailey, founder, Grassroots Academy

current curriculum with Lauren. “We’re a free program but not an easy one. We created a contract signed by the student and parents mandating behavior, grades, and parent participation. This discipline and accountability is one of the core reasons most students remain with us through high school graduation,” said Bailey. Radford noted the academy’s commitment extends beyond high school graduation, with 10-15 alumni receiving college, career, academic, and personal support as they transition into higher education and the workforce. “These long-term relationships help ensure students have the support needed to persist through college and begin successful careers,” Radford said. “We empower young people to become confident learners, compassionate leaders, and engaged members of the Danbury community,” she added. Bailey is proud to see Grassroots thrive. “We’ve worked tirelessly to measurably improve the life paths for our students. Our love and respect for each student is the reason they work hard and develop close friendships with each other,” Bailey said. “Seeing young men and women in careers, in college, playing varsity tennis, and enjoying life with confidence and self-respect is a gift. Knowing that this idea has borne so much fruit continues to motivate me to be certain we can continue for the next generation of students, staff, volunteers, and donors.”

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

2026

WOMEN INNOVATORS HONOREES Join us in celebrating this year’s remarkable women who are making an impact across business, leadership and their communities. REBECCA AHIMOR

SAMANTHA PARDAL-JEREZ

External Communications Manager

Director of Government Affairs

Blythdale Children’s Hospital

Optimum

MELISSA ALCRUZ

ELENA RIVERA-CHEEK

Chief Marketing Officer

CEO and Founder

Mr. Short Sale

C&A Digital

BEVERLY BALAZ

JOANNE RUSSO-LANZA

CEO

Chief Operating Officer, Housing

Fairfield Chamber of Commerce

United Hebrew Senior Living

ANNE BRADNER

PATRICIA SIMONE

CEO

Principal and President, Simone Management Group

Simone Development Companies

Port Chester Carver Center

CATHERINE DWYER

Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Privacy & Security Officer

Burke Rehabilitation®

PATTY FERRIS

MAGGIE SMITH

Director of Client Experience

Next Level Private

PATRICIA STARK

Brand Sales Manager

AVE Hamilton Green - Korman Communities

MELISSA FITTER

Author, Host, Trainer

Patricia Stark Communications

LAUREN TETENBAUM

Senior Associate

Author, Therapist, Advocate for Women

Cuono Engineering PLLC

The CounseLaur

SHELBY GREEN

MEENA THEVER

Professor of Law

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University

ANNA HOHLER

Director of neurology for Northwell’s Westchester Region

Northwell Health

MONICA HUGHES

Partner and Head of Capital Formation

ACON Investments

IRENE TSETSEKOS

Senior Vice President, Development

WMCHealth

SHARMEE WALTON

Lead Administrator, Water Infrastructure Modernization and Environmental Justice

Production Operations Senior Manager

LAURA KRAUSS

CMPE and Senior V.P of Operations

City of Mount Vernon - Mount Vernon, NY

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company

COURTNEY WELYCZKO

Vice President, Business Banking Relationship Manager

Crystal Run Healthcare, Part of Optum

STEPHANIE MELOWSKY, ESQ.

First Vice President, District Manager

M&T Bank

First VP, Attorney Relationship Manager

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Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Legal Records

WESTCHESTER COUNTY & HUDSON VALLEY

WESTCHESTER COURT CASES

U.S. Bankruptcy Court White Plains and Poughkeepsie Local business cases, Sept. 2 - 8 Harold W. Jones, Tappan, codebtor Next Chapter Properties LLC, 26-22892SHL: Chapter 7, assets $147,575, liabilities $212,508. Attorney: Julie C. Curley. 42 Brick Development Corp., Piermont, Matthew Delia, president, 26-22893-KYP: Chapter 11, assets $350,100, liabilities $816,197. Attorney: pro se. Zeppin LLC, Thornwood, Tae S. Kim, owner, 26-22904-KYP: Chapter 11, assets $34,700, liabilities $614,232. Attorney: James J. Rufo. Valley Buster LLC, New City, William DeGraw, member, 26-22909-SHL: Chapter 7, assets and liabilities $100,000 - $500,000. Attorney: pro se.

U.S. District Court, White Plains Local business cases, Sept. 2 - 8 Michelle McCalla, Far Rockaway, et al, vs. USI Insurance Services LLC, Valhalla, 26-cv-7691: Employee Retirement Income Security Act. Attorney: Mark K. Gyandoh.

Items appearing in the Westfair Business Journal’s On The Record section are compiled from various sources, including public records made available to the media by federal, state and municipal agencies and the court system. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, no liability is assumed for errors or omissions. In the case of legal action, the records cited are open to public scrutiny and should be inspected before any action is taken. Questions and comments regarding this section should be directed to: Sebastian Flores Westfair Communications Inc. 4 Smith Ave., Suite 2 Mount Kisco, NY 10549 Phone: 914-694-3600

Ioannis Toumazou, Ridgefield, New Jersey vs. Humanedge Inc., White Plains, 26-cv7696, Negligence, data breach. Attorney: Courtney E. Maccarone.

DEEDS Above $1 million 72 Guard Hill NY LLC, Miami, Florida. Seller: FTC V IML, San Diego, California. Property: 72 Guard Hill Road, Bedford. Amount: $5.6 million. Filed Aug. 19. Andrzejewski, Alex W., New York. Seller: Harris May LLC, Bronxville. Property: 4 The High Road, Eastchester. Amount: $3.8 million. Filed Aug. 14. Blagojevic, Nadja B, Larchmont. Seller: 195 Partners LLC, Larchmont. Property: 195 Larchmont Ave., Mamaroneck. Amount: $1.9 million. Filed Aug. 18. Boomer Unit 9 LLC, Irvington. Seller: Richard Turk, Irvington. Property: 27 N. Buckhout St., Greenburgh. Amount: $1.4 million. Filed Aug. 14. Fattouh, Michael, White plains. Seller: ACA 2012 LLC, Austin, Texas. Property: 145 Woodlands Ave., Greenburgh. Amount: $1.3 million. Filed Aug. 14. Harrison RE Holdings LLC, Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Seller: 313 Halstead LLC, Harrison. Property: 313 Halstead Ave., Harrison. Amount: $2.7 million. Filed Aug. 13. Haxhari, Gac, Brewster. Seller: 227 Central Avenue Associates LLC, Rye. Property: 227 Central Ave., Rye City. Amount: $3.1 million. Filed Aug. 19. Naber Primiano II LLC, White Plains. Seller: Glenn Street Associates, White Plains. Property: 30 Glenn St., White Plains. Amount: $3.6 million. Filed Aug. 13. North Portchester LLC, Yonkers. Seller: MLF Properties Inc., Rye. Property: 168-180 N. Main St., Rye Town. Amount: $3.2 million. Filed Aug. 17. Nunez, Francisco R., Scarsdale. Seller: 9 Walker LLC, Purchase. Property: 9 Walker Ave., Rye City. Amount: $3.6 million. Filed Aug. 17.

Snyder, Derek, East Hampton, Connecticut. Seller: 50 Franklin LLC, Thiells. Property: 50 Franklin Ave., Rye City. Amount: $4.2 million. Filed Aug. 13.

Clear Path House Buyers LLC, Washingtonville. Seller: Joseph J. Bliss, Peekskill. Property: 3 Waterview Estates, Peekskill. Amount: $225,000. Filed Aug. 14.

MRJK Properties LLC, Dobbs Ferry. Seller: 401 Ashford Avenue LLC, Dobbs Ferry. Property: 401 Ashford Ave., Greenburgh. Amount: $999,000. Filed Aug. 18.

TB 153 McLean LLC, Yonkers. Seller: BCD Yonkers LLC, Yonkers. Property: 153 McLean Ave., Yonkers. Amount: $1.2 million. Filed Aug. 13.

Clover Asset Planning LLC, Scarsdale. Seller: Jenny K. Chase, White Plains. Property: 5 Albemarle Road, White Plains. Amount: $400,000. Filed Aug. 18.

Phillips, Kelly, Elmsford. Seller: 45 Mount Morris Avenue LLC, North Bergen, New Jersey. Property: 45 Mount Morris Ave., White Plains. Amount: $760,000. Filed Aug. 13.

CSRR Calder LLC, Mount Vernon. Seller: Emanuel Chionchio, Mount Vernon. Property: 430 Terrace Ave., Mount Vernon. Amount: $402,000. Filed Aug. 18.

Pixley, Mark, Stamford, Connecticut. Seller: Residences At Underhill Farms LLC, Yorktown Heights. Property: 1801 Soundview Court 1801, Yorktown. Amount: $999,000. Filed Aug. 19.

Tilton, Benjamin, New York. Seller: 28 N. Dutcher LLC, Irvington. Property: 28 N. Dutcher St., Greenburgh. Amount: $1.2 million. Filed Aug. 17. Z-2 Investment Holdings LLC, New York. Seller: Jason Boxer, New York. Property: 38 Buckout Road, Harrison. Amount: $2.8 million. Filed Aug. 17.

Below $1 million 263 N. Regent BB LLC, Rye. Seller: Brian Blum, Port Chester. Property: 263 N. Regent St., Rye Town. Amount: $665,000. Filed Aug. 19. 3258 Old Crompond LLC, Eastchester. Seller: Edmund Chan, Yorktown Heights. Property: 3258 Old Crompond Road, Yorktown. Amount: $982,000. Filed Aug. 19. 449 Orchard Street Realty LLC, Port Chester. Seller: Sales Mercedes, Port Chester. Property: 449 Orchard St., Rye Town. Amount: $650,000. Filed Aug. 14. 57 Hilltop Drive LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: Leslie BishopSabin, North Salem. Property: 57 Hilltop Drive, North Salem. Amount: $690,000. Filed Aug. 13. Arias, Erika, White Plains. Seller: J&A Renos LLC, Harrison. Property: 14 Goodwin Ave., Greenburgh. Amount: $615,000. Filed Aug. 13. Birch, Erik, Briarcliff Manor. Seller: Jonabri LLC, Yorktown Heights. Property: 10 Tighe Road, Somers. Amount: $625,000. Filed Aug. 19. Bunny Otter LLC, Crotonon- Hudson. Seller: Salvatore Gagliano, Yorktown Heights. Property: 1839 Allan Court, Yorktown. Amount: $725,000. Filed Aug. 18.

Francisco, Amrika, Mount Vernon. Seller: Kalic Management Group LLC, Mount Vernon. Property: 312 Hawthorne Terrace, Mount Vernon. Amount: $750,000. Filed Aug. 14.

Radpasand, Mohsen, New Rochelle. Seller: ZH Properties LLC, New Rochelle. Property: 31-1 Franklin Ave., New Rochelle. Amount: $720,000. Filed Aug. 13.

Good Lines Homes LLC, Pelham. Seller: Deborah G. Rosenfeld, Yonkers. Property: 69 Pietro Drive, Yonkers. Amount: $705,000. Filed Aug. 18.

SGGS 17 LLC, Bedford. Seller: Wenzl Donna S. Wenzl, LaGrangeville. Property: 18 Nancy’s Lane, Pound Ridge. Amount: $605,000. Filed Aug. 13.

Jheel Veer LLC, Yorktown. Seller: GSC Realty LLC, Mahopac. Property: 2712 Gomer St., Yorktown. Amount: $775,000. Filed Aug. 14.

Woodward, Tyler L., White Plains. Seller: 108 Evolve Properties LLC, Ossining. Property: 271 Colonel Greene Road, Yorktown. Amount: $823,000. Filed Aug. 19.

Kelly, Chance, Scarsdale. Seller: Cookie Big House LLC, Mamaroneck. Property: 323325 Maple Ave., Mamaroneck. Amount: $850,000. Filed Aug. 14. Lui & Sons Construction LLC, Orange, New Jersey. Seller: Gare Family Irrevocable Income Only Trust, Peekskill. Property: 1605 Crompond Road, Peekskill. Amount: $40,000. Filed Aug. 14. LW Premier Development Realty Corp., Pelham. Seller: Barbara W. Scharrer, Tacoma, Washington. Property: 503 Second Ave., Pelham. Amount: $770,000. Filed Aug. 17. McQuick, Olayinka R., Yonkers. Seller: 122 Oliver LLC, Bronx. Property: 122 Oliver Ave., Yonkers. Amount: $620,000. Filed Aug. 14. MEM Flipp Corp., Bronxville. Seller: Janie W. Oakman, Yonkers. Property: 512 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. Amount: $445,000. Filed Aug. 19.

Westfair Business Journal | ASeptember 14, 2026

Your New Home LLC, Peekskill. Seller: Robyn Landow, Peekskill. Property: 8 N. James St., Peekskill. Amount: $188,000. Filed Aug. 17. ZEV 142 LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: 109 Beech LLC, Brooklyn. Property: 142 Beech St., Yonkers. Amount: $800,000. Filed Aug. 17. Federal Tax Liens, $10,000 or greater, Westchester County, Sept. 2-8 Alexander, Keith W.: Elmsford, 2016, 2018 - 2024 personal income, $101,202. Blasi, Gregory J.: Pelham Manor, 2013, 2020, 2022 - 2023 personal income, $414,963. Fox, Andrew W. and Alexandra Fox: New Rochelle, 2021, 2023 - 2024 personal income, $190,833. Handsman, David S. and Susan G. Handsman: Briarcliff, 2020 - 2024 personal income, $375,065.

Jackson, Christopher: Tarrytown, 2024 personal income, $309,602.

Johnson, Reginald J.: Peekskill, 2016 - 2017, 2021 - 2025 personal income, $82,533. Jones, Christina: Hastingson-Hudson, 2014, 2018, 2023 personal income, $64,849. Kossowan, Anne C.: Pelham Manor, 2020, 2022 - 2023 personal income, $82,530. Louis, James and Pamela Louis: Tarrytown, 2017 - 2024 personal income, $108,376. Martin, Roberto: Yonkers, 2020 - 2025 personal income, $62,807. Mofunanya, John J.: Yonkers, 2006 - 2008, corporate income, restitution, $785,082. Pagan, Michael A.: Rye, 2022 personal income, $1,206,787. Reyes, F. Barreto: Port Chester, 2021 - 2025 personal income, $108,094. Rowe, Philip S.: New Rochelle, 2019 - 2025 personal income, $36,433. Street, James: White Plains, 2017 - 2018, 2020 - 2024 personal income, $67,329. Street, Shunta: White Plains, 2015 - 2018, 2020 - 2024 personal income, $73,309 Vazquez, Vero: Tarrytown, 2024 personal income, $309,602. Vera, I. Merchan: Port Chester, 2021 - 2025 personal income, $108,094. Williams, Heather: Mount Vernon, 2022 - 2025 personal income, $76,609. Woodruff, Rodney: Scarsdale, 2018 - 2020, 2022 - 2023 personal income, $199,865.

WESTCHESTER COUNTY & HUDSON VALLEY

JUDGMENTS Abdelaal, Ashraf, Hwelett. $134,477 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Azana, Kristen, Port Chester. $1,988 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5. Bogdanowicz, Michael, Hawthorne. $2,793 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 5. Brown, Samantha, Mohegan lake. $4,517 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 5. Cannon, Ebony Q., Yonkers. $5,049 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Chicago Studio City Real Estate Holdings LLC, Chicago, Illinois. $195,715 in favor of GCM Funding LLC, White Plains. Filed Aug. 3. Crespo, Jonathan, Water Mill. $106,692 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Cruz, Jesse J.T., Rye. $17,825 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Curanovic, Kristina, Tuckahoe. $12,399 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Delosantos, Odanis, Yonkers. $3,413 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 5. Delta Green LLC, Flushing. $49,544 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Dewalt, Hortensa M., Douglasville, Georgia. $60,144 in favor of Citimortgage Inc. Filed Aug. 4. Druyan, Scott J., Yonkers. $9,943 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Dusaj, Vesna, New Rochelle. $7,409 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Fan, Darren, Jamaica. $49,544 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7.

Ferrin, Monica G., Ossining. $2,071 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 4.

Lambert, Cynthia, White Plains. $1,752 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5.

Flagg, Danaejah, Mount Vernon. $1,616 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 5.

Lantigua, Michelle, White Plains. $1,785 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5.

Garcia, Vidal, Peekskill. $1,740 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5.

Lieberman, Meilech, Brooklyn. $209,241 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7.

Goldman, Noah, Scarsdale. $223,014 in favor of CFG Merchant Solutions LLC,. Filed Aug. 4.

Linares, Eduardo L., Yonkers. $5,987 in favor of Haar Orthopedics & Sports Medicine PC. Filed Aug. 7.

Graff, Lawrence, Mohegan lake. $2,213 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5.

Loffler, Solomon, Brooklyn. $79,821 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7.

Greco, Velina, Valhalla. $2,501 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 4.

Love Blue Inc., Rego Park. $91,106 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7.

Hilario, Domingo, Sleepy Hollow. $1,651 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 4.

Macaluso, Matthew M., Yonkers. $4,009 in favor of Cavalry Spv I LLC, Greenwich, Connecticut. Filed Aug. 5.

Indigo Designer Corp., Brooklyn. $209,241 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7.

Manrique, Jaganat, H.S.V., Port Chester. $6,189 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5.

Intriago, Rachel, Jefferson Valley. $1,995 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5.

Marrero, Peter, West Harrison. $1,845 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 4.

Ismailgeci, Vera, Hastingson- Hudson. $3,963 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 5.

McClain, Jovan T., Port Chester. $6,173 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5.

Johnson, Alita M., Mount Vernon. $1,450 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed Aug. 5.

McCray, Rahsun, Sleepy Hollow. $4,135 in favor of Capital One NA, McLean, Virginia. Filed Aug. 5.

Joseph, Elon D., Brooklyn. $129,508 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. JST Restaurant Corp., New York. $81,463 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Kalkan, Rahman, Bedford Hills. $30,966 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Keane, Kerri, Yonkers. $8,390 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5.

McNeill, Kevin, Mount Vernon. $73,062 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Melville, Garth A., Rye. $97,251 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Mittelman, Faigy, Brooklyn. $104,818 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Mooney, Diana, Scarsdale. $12,039 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5.

New York Career Training & Advancement Inc., Brooklyn. $129,508 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Nikic, Vitore, Yonkers. $14,902 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. No Agency New York LLC, New York. $54,938 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Norris Sr., Jamie D., White Plains. $20,012 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Pagan, Ramon Jr., Yonkers. $8,208 in favor of Capital One NA, McLean, Virginia. Filed Aug. 5. Patrick F. Monaghan III, CPA PC, New City. $67,165 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Pellicano, Joseph, Mamaroneck. $1,141 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5. Penna, Ryan J., Tarpon Springs, Florida. $325,641 in favor of GCM Funding LLC, White Plains. Filed Aug. 5. Perez, Maria, Ossining. $10,712 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 5. Performance Flooring Systems LLC, Rye. $97,251 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Plastec Industries Inc., Brooklyn. $104,818 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7. Robbins, Matthew, White Plains. $2,964 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 4. Rocha, Mariela B., Yonkers. $3,694 in favor of Capital One NA, McLean, Virginia. Filed Aug. 5. Rojo, Oscar, Yonkers. $4,200 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed Aug. 5. Samara Trucking LLC, Brooklyn. $134,477 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed Aug. 7.

LIS PENDENS Arthur, Anthony, as owner. Filed by Citizens Bank NA. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $456,000 affecting property located at 157 Glenwood Ave., Yonkers. Filed Aug. 12. Board of Directors of Scenic Ridge Homeowners Association Inc., as owner. Filed by Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $375,000 affecting property located at 27 Oriole Lane, Croton-on-Hudson. Filed Aug. 12. Bruce Sokol & Associates, as owner. Filed by Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $565,000 affecting property located at 147 Rumsey Road, Yonkers Filed Aug. 14. Dean, Raymond Anthony, as owner. Filed by Rocket Mortgage LLC. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $307,000 affecting property located at 3727 Indian Hill Road, Shrub Oak. Filed Aug. 11. Endlich, Hudson James, as owner. Filed by Newrez LLC. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $190,000 affecting property located at 208 Coach Light Square, Cortlandt. Filed Aug. 12. Ferraro, Graziella, as owner. Filed by Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $231,000 affecting property located at 147 Crotona Ave., Harrison. Filed Aug. 13. Gamory, Adrian, as owner. Filed by Newrez LLC. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $625,000 affecting property located at 10 Columbia Ave., Greenburgh. Filed Aug. 14. Gray, Adriano G., as owner. Filed by Laelia LLC Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $698,000 affecting property located at 9 Colonel Thomas Lane, Bedford. Filed Aug. 14. Hometap Equity Partners LLC, as owner. Filed by M&T Bank. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $110,000 affecting property located at 919 Nepperhan Ave., Yonkers. Filed Aug. 11.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Smith, Alice, as owner. Filed by Deutsch Bank National Trust Co. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $357,000 affecting property located at 53 North Road, Greenburgh Filed Aug. 24. Stolecki, Paula M., as owner. Filed by HGRF Trust. Action: Foreclosure of a mortgage in the principal amount of $100,000 affecting property located at 134 Macer Ave., Harrison. Filed Aug. 11.

MECHANIC’S LIENS Mohring, Richard, Greenburgh. $28,187 in favor of Robert Cowell Construction Inc., Bedford. Filed Aug. 28. Robert James Contracting Corp., Greenburgh. $5,740 in favor of General Painting & Decorating, Bethel, Connecticut. Filed Aug. 31. St. John’s Riverside Hospital, Yonkers. $100,000 in favor of Complete Building Controls Inc., Yonkers. Sept. 1.

Flow, 217 N. Highland Ave., Ossining 10562. c/o Isaiah Rosario. Filed Aug. 4. Grumpy Old It Guy Publishers, 64 Fairmont Ave., Hastings-on- Hudson 10706. c/o Angelo Renato Bobak. Filed Aug. 11. Holy Tails, 52 Haines Blvd., Port Chester 10573. c/o Brianna Antonella Napoli. Filed Aug. 12. Illustrated Index, 25 Maple Ave. No. 707, New Rochelle 10801. c/o Olushola Reis. Filed Aug. 11. Kelly Strategy Group, 231 Increase Miller, Katonah 10536. c/o Ryan Kelly. Filed Aug. 6. Legacy Personal Car Services, 1 Harbor Square, No. 413, Ossining 10562. c/o Mubashar- Hussain. Filed Aug. 6. Lima Street Co., 78 Union Ave., New Rochelle 10801. c/o Jesus Villarroel Laureano Wimmer. Filed Aug. 10.

NEW BUSINESSES

Melodys Sweet Sip, 141 S. Lexington Ave., White Plains 10601. c/o Tia Scott. Filed Aug. 12.

Partnerships

Mundo Najera Landscaping Service, 108 Waverly St., Apt. 3, Yonkers 10701. c/o. Filed Aug. 13.

Blackout Batch NYC, 153 Park Hill Ave., 2A, Yonkers 10705. c/o Carndad Vallodares and Lincoln Benjamin Vallodares. Filed Aug. 12.

My Little Mint Alfajores, 78 Union Ave., Apt. 2, New Rochelle 10801. c/o Guissella Laureano Rivera Magali. Filed Aug. 4.

Sole Proprietorships All Stars Pavers & Junk Removal, 141 Primrose Ave., Mount Vernon 10552. c/o Nito Mauricio Cardoso. Filed Aug. 3. Amina Hair Braiding, 10 E. 3Third St., Mount Vernon 10550. c/o. Filed Aug. 13. AOD, 15 Bent Ave. 1l, Port Chester 10573. c/o Domiano Akemio. Filed Aug. 4. Bdbl Enterprises, 150 N. Division St.. No. 2, Peekskill 10566. c/o Eliabeth McGorvey. Filed Aug. 7. Dm3, 15 Victoria Road, Ardsley 10502. c/o Donald Miller. Filed Aug. 7. Dtrain Productions, 1155 Warburton Ave., Yonkers 10701. c/o Richard DiNardo. Filed Aug. 3.

N. Montilla Therapeutic Massage, 1 Arlington St., 2A, Yonkers 10710. c/o Nancy Maria Montilla. Filed Aug. 10. Nine River Studio, 47 Lewis Parkway, Yonkers 10705. c/o Amelia Lau Carling. Filed Aug. 12. Paolas Jewelry, 32 Main St., Apt. 1B, Dobbs Ferry 10522. c/o. Filed Aug. 13. Prins Crown Care, 7 Rossiter Ave., Yonkers 10701. c/o. Filed Aug. 11. Surticredit CM, 104 Highland Ave., D45, Yonkers 10705. c/o Eustolia Correa. Filed Aug. 7. UCM Realty, 332 S. Sixth Ave., Mount Vernon 10550. c/o Michelle C. Urquhart. Filed Aug. 3. Women 2 Women Personal Car Service, 1 Harbor Square, No. 413, Ossining 10562. c/o Isabel Camacho. Filed Aug. 6.

Legal Records

WESTCHESTER COUNTY & HUDSON VALLEY

HUDSON VALLEY BUILDING LOANS

Above $1 million ER Elasir RE LLC, as owner. Lender: Conventus LLC. Property: 37 Dallas Drive, Monroe. Amount: $1.3 million. Filed Aug. 12. Greystone Funding Company LLC, as owner. Lender: 2817 Post Road Realty LLC. Property: 2817 Albany Post Road, Montgomery. Amount: $19.1 million. Filed Aug. 10. Northeast Community Bank, as owner. Lender: Tower Ridge Associates LLC. Property: 483 County Route 105, Monroe. Amount: $1 million. Filed Aug. 13. Northeast Community Bank, as owner. Lender: Tower Ridge Associates LLC. Property: in Orange. Amount: $2 million. Filed Aug. 13. Northeast Community Bank, as owner. Lender: 11 Satmar Drive LLC. Property: 11 Satmar Drive, Palm Tree-Kiryas Joel Amount: $3.3 million. Filed Aug. 12. Northeast Community Bank, as owner. Lender: Forest Wood LLC. Property: 13 and 15 Forest Road, Palm Tree. Amount: $19 million. Filed Aug. 13.

Below $1 million Crosson, David M., as owner. Lender: Valley National Bank. Property: in Clinton. Amount: $460,000. Filed July 14.

Kiavi Funding Inc., as owner. Lender: Easy Stay Properties LLC. Property: in Deerpark. Amount: $214,100. Filed Aug. 11.

TKRP LLC, Sparkill. Seller: UAC Group LLC, West Nyack. Property: 2 Union St., Sparkill. Amount: $2.1 million. Filed Aug. 20.

769 Hunns Lake Road LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: Catherine Horan, Stanfordville. Property: in Stanford. Amount: $590,000. Filed July 6.

Shah, Rugesh Girishchandra, as owner. Lender: Corevest American Finance Lender LLC. Property: in Town of Poughkeepsie. Amount: $352,500. Filed July 6.

Two Meadows Farm LLC, Southampton. Seller: Hudson Valley Real Estate Group LLC, Tivoli. Property: in Milan. Amount: $10.1 million. Filed July 9.

Ekstein, Moshe, Spring Valley. Seller: 80 Twin Avenue LLC, Spring Valley. Property: 80 Twin Ave., Spring Valley. Amount: $999,000. Filed Aug. 17.

Wells Fargo Bank NA -Trust, Coppell, Texas. Seller: Radhika S. Nagubandi - referee, New City. Property: 160 S. Conger Ave., Congers. Amount: $1.4 million. Filed Aug. 19.

Empire Builders of Rockland County Inc., Spring Valley. Seller: Arcadian Drive LLC, Brooklyn. Property: 5 Arcadian Drive, Wesley Hills. Amount: $730,000. Filed Aug. 19.

Thom, Ashley H. and Dominic A. Thom, as owner. Lender: Trustco Bank. Property: in East Fishkill. Amount: $477,600. Filed July 2.

Below $1 million

DEEDS Above $1 million 12 Canterbury LLC, Suffern. Seller: Richard V. DiRenno, Suffern. Property: 12 Canterbury Lane, Montebello. Amount: $1.2 million. Filed Aug. 18. 64 Rosman LLC, Thiells. Seller: Rosman Road Realty Corp., Livingston Manor. Property: 64 Rosman Road, Thiells. Amount: $1.4 million. Filed Aug. 17. Broadway South LLC, Monsey. Seller: Estate of 20 S. Broadway Owner LLC, Huntington. Property: 20 S. Broadway, Nyack. Amount: $5 million. Filed Aug. 19. Congregation Rabbinical Institute of Tartikov Inc., Monsey. Seller: Southend LLC, Brooklyn. Property: 318 Route 306, Pomona. Amount: $2.8 million. Filed Aug. 17. Cottnine LLC, Nyack. Seller: Nyack 1 Properties LLC, Fairfield, Connecticut. Property: 66 S. Broadway, Nyack. Amount: $1.3 million. Filed Aug. 18. Cottnine LLC, Nyack. Seller: Nyack 2 Properties LLC, Fairfield, Connecticut. Property: 98 Main St., Nyack. Amount: $1.4 million. Filed Aug. 18. Horowitz, Meilech, Monsey. Seller: Neil Associates LLC, Monsey. Property: 8 Neil Road, Spring Valley. Amount: $1.2 million. Filed Aug. 18. Milgraum, Chaya, Edison, New Jersey. Seller: 48 Woodhaven Drive LLC, New York. Property: 48 Woodhaven Drive, New City. Amount: $1.2 million. Filed Aug. 20.

10 Colline LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: Sari Morninghawk, Suffern. Property: 10 Colline Drive, Suffern. Amount: $850,000. Filed Aug. 17. 10 Rensselaer LLC, Spring Valley. Seller: Nestor Matos, Spring Valley. Property: 10 Rensselaer Drive, New Hempstead. Amount: $975,000. Filed Aug. 20. 11 Castle Drive LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: Elchonon Jacobovitz, Chestnut Ridge. Property: 11 Castle Drive, Chestnut Ridge. Amount: $900,000. Filed Aug. 17. 18 Oxford Court LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: Jo Ann N. Liburd, Spring Valley. Property: 18 Oxford Court, Spring Valley. Amount: $956,000. Filed Aug. 18. 21 Oriole LLC, Spring Valley. Seller: Wayne S. Gordon, New City. Property: 21 Oriole Road, New City. Amount: $710,000. Filed Aug. 19. 25 Tennyson LLC, Spring Valley. Seller: Estate of Lois Maiello, Garnerville. Property: 25 Tennyson Drive, Nanuet. Amount: $815,000. Filed Aug. 18. 64 Tea Lane LLC, Woodbury. Seller: Ilka M. Loefflath-Hagan, Red Hook. Property: in Red Hook. Amount: $605,000. Filed July 6. 68 Union Road Service LLC, Monsey. Seller: Devorah Landau, Monsey. Property: 68 Union Road, Spring Valley. Amount: $950,000. Filed Aug. 18. 7 Eagle Valley LLC, Sloatsburg. Seller: John Rooney, Sloatsburg. Property: 7-11 Eagle Valley Road, Sloatsburg. Amount: $730,000. Filed Aug. 18.

Friedman, Ceril, New Square. Seller: EVC 2 Holding Inc., New Square. Property: 39 Ostereh Blvd., New Square. Amount: $900,000. Filed Aug. 18. Greenridge Way LLC, Spring Valley. Seller: Miriam Perez, Spring Valley. Property: 15 Greenridge Way, New Hempstead. Amount: $820,000. Filed Aug. 17. Gross, Benjamin, Monsey. Seller: 1 Manor Drive LLC, Suffern. Property: 1 Manor Drive, Monsey. Amount: $763,000. Filed Aug. 19. Intuitive Restoration Inc., Hopewell. Seller: Theresa A. Garfinkel, Stormville. Property: 3 Sunny Lane, Stormville. Amount: $300,000. Filed July 6. Keizer Capital LLC, Brooklyn. Seller: Brian E. Volz, Beacon. Property: 76 Church St., city of Beacon. Amount: $435,000. Filed July 9. Lavigna, Joseph, Woodridge. Seller: James V. Reda Irrevocable Income Only Trust, Tuxedo Park. Property: 95 Parkside Drive, Suffern. Amount: $308,000. Filed Aug. 20. LJM Roundhill Road Properties LLC, Hopwell Junction. Seller: Richard Thomas Procida Jr., Hopewell Junction. Property: in East Fishkill. Amount: $925,000. Filed July 9. Marte, Yesenia M., Yonkers. Seller: Bank of New York Mellon-Trust, Greenville, South Carolina. Property: 712 Manette Lane, Valley Cottage. Amount: $632,625. Filed Aug. 19. Martinez Shaquana, Poughkeepsie. Seller: Hyde Park Estates LLC, Monroe. Property: 27 Franklin Road, Hyde Park. Amount: $403,000. Filed July 6.

Westfair Business Journal | ASeptember 14, 2026

Mazariego, Gustavo, Pomona. Seller: Brega Company II LLC, Valley Cottage. Property: 509 Kings Highway, Valley Cottage. Amount: $400,000. Filed Aug. 19. Orangeburg Realty Trust, Orangeburg. Seller: Orangeburg Realty Trust, Orangeburg. Property: 34 Lester Drive, Orangeburg. Amount: $10. Filed Aug. 19. Poconnuck Land Partners LLC, Shelton, Connecticut. Seller: Cameron O. Smith, New York. Property: in Amenia. Amount: $700,000. Filed July 9. Ray Linda, New York. Seller: Thorndale Farm LLC, Millbrook. Property: in Washington. Amount: $775,000. Filed July 7. Red Apple Media Inc., New York. Seller: Alexander Medakovich, Garnerville. Property: 188 Central Highway S., Pomona. Amount: $78,102. Filed Aug. 17. Rosenberg, Yaakov, Monsey. Seller: MCLP Asset Company Inc., Dallas, Texas. Property: 11 Centennial Drive, Garnerville. Amount: $615,000. Filed Aug. 20. Schaubhut, Maxwell, Verplank. Seller: Clear Path House Buyers LLC, Washingtonville. Property: in Union Vale. Amount: $415,000. Filed July 8. Veterans Investing LLC, Poughkeepsie. Seller: Stephen B. DiRubba, Fishkill. Property: in Wappinger. Amount: $350,000. Filed July 8.

JUDGMENTS Alvarez, Eddie, New WIndsor. $2,332 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 6. Andryshak, Elena, Goshen. $2,258 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed July 9. Atkinson, Amatullah, Newburgh. $1,144 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7. Bayside Joinery & Construction Company LLC, Middletown. $44,846 in favor of Vox Funding LLC, New York. Filed July 6.

Beach, Jill, Port Jervis. $1,794 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7. Berrospi, Wilmer A., Newburgh. $2,900 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 7. Bogart, Tonya, Warwick. $4,523 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 6. Chavez, Carmela, Pine Island. $11,786 in favor of Crown Asset Management LLC, Duluth, Georgia. Filed July 8. DeJesus, Madeline I, Port Jervis. $6,519 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 7. Desir, Carls, Walden. $6,535 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Dickinson, Dallas, Montgomery. $1,391 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed July 8. Eich, Darcey, Newburgh. $2,355 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Faria, Jose, Middletown. $2,223 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7. Farias, Enriqueta, New Hampton. $3,178 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed July 9. Festinger, Viorel, Chester. $2,663 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 6. Finnegan, Alexandra L., Campbell Hall. $10,904 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 6. Fisher, Issac, Monroe. $12,671 in favor of American Express National Bank, Sandy, Utah. Filed July 9. Flores, Francisca, Walden. $8,199 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Forsythe, Katie, Greenwood Lake. $2,444 in favor of Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC, Norfolk, Virginia. Filed July 6. Gandolfini, Camille, New Windsor. $4,076 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Geddes, Utopia M., Middletown. $4,375 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 7.

WESTCHESTER COUNTY & HUDSON VALLEY Goff, Michael J., Napanoch. $3,271 in favor of Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, Kingston. Filed July 7.

Medina, Nydia I., Middletown. $2,456 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7.

Valentin, Gregory Jr., Monroe. $3,735 in favor of Bank of America, Charlotte, North Carolina. Filed July 7.

Goff, Richard J., Montgomery. $6,750 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 8.

Mendelovits, Mendel, Central Valley. $10,025 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9.

Vanterpool, Eric, Harriman. $7,089 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed July 17.

Hayes, Thomas, Port Jervis. $1,738 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7.

Mendez, Ana, Middletown. $2,977 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7.

Hendricks, Kristle, Rock Tavern. $7,630 in favor of Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC, Norfolk, Virginia. Filed July 8.

Merino, Jose, Newburgh. $2,723 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7.

Vanzandt, Cecelia M., Montgomery. $13,612 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed July 8.

Hernandez, Ana Laura Castaneda, Middletown. $4,016 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 8. Herrera, Josue, Newburgh. $2,607 in favor of Citibank, Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Filed July 6. Hershkowitz, Shloma, Monroe. $21,647 in favor of KeyBank National Association, Buffalo. Filed July 9. Kilcarr, Erin M., Greenwood Lake. $4,349 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Limonta, Marie, Port Jervis. $3,890 in favor of Meenan Oil Company LP, Woodbury. Filed July 6. Luna, Erika, Walden. $10,374 in favor of Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, Kingston. Filed July 8. Magnolia Valley Shore Inc., Larchmont. $51,797 in favor of Vox Funding LLC, New York. Filed July 17. Martin, Theresa, Tuxedo Park. $1,629 in favor of Midland Credit Management Inc., San Diego, California. Filed July 9. Martinez, Annette, Cobbs Creek, Virginia. $4,042 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 6. Martinez, Orlando, Montgomery. $2,428 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 6. Mason, Anthony, Middletown. $4,664 in favor of Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC, Norfolk, Virginia. Filed July 8. McCabe, Meaghan K., Campbell Hall. $20,110 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 6.

Mi Rancho Vi Inc. $41,003 in favor of Vox Funding LLC, New York. Filed July 17. Michel, Nahum, New WIndsor. $6,083 in favor of Bank of America, Charlotte, North Carolina. Filed July 7. Morena Tile & Stone Inc., San Juan Capistrano, California. $25,581 in favor of Vox Funding LLC, New York. Filed July 17. Mutzen, Gitty, Brooklyn. $97,308 in favor of Citizens Bank NA, Johnston, Rhode Island. Filed July 6. Oppenheim, Chaim, Highland Mills. $18,143 in favor of US Bank National Association, Cincinnati, Ohio. Filed July 6. Perez, Christina, Middletown. $4,158 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Reynoso, Bryant V., Goshen. $5,366 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Rivera, Evelyn, Walden. $3,360 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 9. Rosas, Melissa, Washingtonville. $1,956 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 6. Rottenberg, Yitzchok, Monroe. $14,478 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed July 7. Rudner, Nicolas J., Newburgh. $2,570 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 9. Snell, Francis, Monroe. $3,944 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7. Torres, Jaime, Newburgh. $5,251 in favor of Capital One, McLean, Virginia. Filed July 7.

Villafane, Marcelino, Middletown. $15,875 in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, Wilmington, Delaware. Filed July 7. Weaver, Tonnia, Middletown. $1,610 in favor of Lvnv Funding LLC, Greenville, South Carolina. Filed July 7.

MECHANIC’S LIENS 105 Grove LLC, as owner. $41,725 in favor of Sharp Edge Drywall. Property: 105 Grove St., Spring Valley. Filed July 28. 158 and 160 Eckerson LLC, as owner. $68,228 in favor of Upstate Plumbing & Heating Inc. Property: 158-162-166170 W. Eckerson Road, Spring Valley. Filed July 30. 158 and 160 Eckerson LLC, as owner. $116,107 in favor of J. Trim & Interiors. Property: 160 W. Eckerson Road, Spring Valley. Filed Aug. 4. 26 North Myrtle LLC, as owner. $442,394 in favor of AS Install Inc. Property: 26 N. Myrtle Ave., Spring Valley. Filed July 29. 26 North Myrtle LLC, as owner. $405,217 in favor of J Trim & Interiors. Property: 26 N. Myrtle Ave., Spring Valley. Filed Aug. 4. 26 North Myrtle LLC, as owner. $32,045 in favor of Cementx Corp. Property: 26 N. Myrtle Ave., Spring Valley. Filed Aug. 13. Green Development Realty LLC, as owner. $156,673 in favor of Cioffi Excavating Services Inc. Property: 135 N. Main St., New City. Filed July 28. Julien, Wanda, as owner. $16,271 in favor of Continental Construction Corp. Property: 10 Druid Court, Suffern. Filed July 31.

Keren Yad Vezer LLC, as owner. $10,410 in favor of Cioffi Excavating Services Inc. Property: 116 College Road, Monsey. Filed July 28.

JCW Construction Services, 993 US Route 209 CuddleBackville 12729. c/o Christan Gordon and Wilmer Ramos. Filed Sept. 2.

Myrtle Corner LLC, as owner. $117,864 in favor of J Trim & Interiors. Property: 16 N. Myrtle Ave., Spring Valley. Filed Aug. 4.

Pennings Orchard, 169 State Route 94, South Warwick 10990. c/o John Pennings and Monica Pennings. Filed Aug. 27.

Myrtle Corner LLC, as owner. $71,000 in favor of Braun C. Plumbing & Heating Corp. Property: 16 N. Myrtle Ave., Spring Valley. Filed Aug. 5.

Sole Proprietorships

St. Thomas Aquinas College, as owner. $1,537,320 in favor of Abba Construction LLC. Property: 230 NY, 340, Orangetown. Filed Aug. 5.

NEW BUSINESSES Partnerships Arbor Grove at Pennings Orchard, 169 State Route 94 South Warwick 10990. c/o John Pennings and Monica Pennings. Filed Aug. 27.

A&G Remodeling & Handyman Services, 241 Orange Turnpike Apt. A, Sloatsburg. c/o Geronimo Ventura. Filed Aug. 25. Cara Clementine, 12 Stevens Place, Chester. c/o Collette Maresca. Filed Aug. 31. Cleya Bookeeping & Digital Solutions, 61 Stewart Ave., Newburgh. c/o Alicia Taylor. Filed Aug. 25. DB Machines, 1 Breezy Knoll Drive, Newburgh. c/o Anthony Bowman. Filed Aug. 31.

Eisenberger & Adler Orthodontics, 791 NY 17m, Monroe. c/o Adler Chaim. Filed Sept. 1. Floral Rosary, 157 E. Mulberry Drive. Milford, Pennsylvania 18337. c/o Jeanette Puliga. Filed Aug. 31. Gnushy Interpreting Services, 13 Regina Drive, Bloomingburg 12721. c/o Bernard Giorgione. Filed Aug. 26. Highland Farmhouse Baked, 31 Highland Ave. Otisville 10963. c/o Ericka Mounier. Filed Sept. 1. Hudson Valley Deep Sky, 1538 Greenville Turnpike, Port Jervis 12771. c/o Justin Worden. Filed Aug. 26. La Nails, 125 Dolson Ave., Suite 18, Middletown 10940. c/o Glenda Panameno. Filed Aug. 25.

M&S Cleaning Services, 12 Knox Ave., Middletown 10940. c/o Aida Munoz. Filed Sept. 1. Mr. Ramos Landscaping Services & Son, 451 South St., Newburgh 12550. c/o Wilmer Ramos. Filed Sept. 2. Skin Care Essentials, 244 W. Main St., Goshen 10924. c/o Briann Reynolds. Filed Aug. 26. Skulloneapparelenterpire, 16 Wilkins St., Newburgh 12550. c/o John Wagner. Filed Aug. 25. Steves Spare Parts, 351 Quaker St., Wallkill 12589. c/o Stephen Phillips. Filed Aug. 31. Sunshine Exteriors, 40 Kings Drive, Tuxedo Park 10987. c/o Jeremy Kohler. Filed Aug. 28.

License To Grill, 17 Heard Road, Box 117, Blooming Grove 10941. c/o Sean Murray. Filed Sept. 1.

Sealed bids will be received as set forth in instructions to bidders until 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, October 01, 2026 at the NYSDOT, Office of Contract Management, 50 Wolf Rd, 1st Floor, Suite 1CM, Albany, NY 12232 and will be publicly opened and read. Bids may also be submitted via the internet using www.bidx.com. A certified cashier’s check payable to the NYSDOT for the sum specified in the proposal or a bid bond, form CONR 391, representing 5% of the bid total, must accompany each bid. NYSDOT reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Electronic documents and Amendments are posted to www.dot.ny.gov/doing-business/ opportunities/const-notices. The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that all Amendments are incorporated into its bid. To receive notification of Amendments via e-mail you must submit a request to be placed on the Planholders List at www.dot.ny.gov/doing-business/opportunities/const-planholder. Amendments may have been issued prior to your placement on the Planholders list. NYS Finance Law restricts communication with NYSDOT on procurements and contact can only be made with designated persons. Contact with non-designated persons or other involved Agencies will be considered a serious matter and may result in disqualification. Contact Robert Kitchen (518)457-2124. Contracts with 0% Goals are generally single operation contracts, where subcontracting is not expected, and may present direct bidding opportunities for Small Business Firms, including, but not limited to D/M/WBE’s and SDVOBs. The New York State Department of Transportation, in accordance with the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation and Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 200, Title IV Program and Related Statutes, as amended, issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all who respond to a written Department solicitation, request for proposal or invitation for bid that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability/handicap and income status in consideration for an award. Please call (518)457-2124 if a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the letting. Region 08: New York State Department of Transportation 4 Burnett Blvd., Poughkeepsie, NY, 12603 D265832, PIN 881626, FA Proj , Dutchess, Orange, Westchester Cos., SIGNAL OPTIMIZATION - Various Locations., Bid Deposit: 5% of Bid,(~ $75,000.00) Goals: DBE: 0.00%

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Legal Records

BUILDING PERMITS

Commercial 587 CT Ave LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Jason Milligan. Perform replacement alterations at 11 Belden Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $1,000. Filed June 29. A & K Restoration of CT LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Ann R. Salta. Remove and re-roof at 6 Belair Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $21,407. Filed June 23. BRT Services LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Union Park Condo. Renovate interior doors at 9 Mott Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $40,000. Filed June 25. Country Club Homes Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Thomas B. and Sara Wells. Rebuild new single-family residence at 58 Old Rock Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $700,000. Filed June 15. Delmaro, Nicholas, Norwalk, contractor for Koestner Family Limited Partnership. Re-roof at 35 Lois St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $125,750. Filed June 23.

Gurnari Jr., Michael A., Norwalk, contractor for Michael A. Gurnari Jr. Remodel first and second floor full bathroom and renovate kitchen at 14 Hayes Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $80,000. Filed June 22.

Women’s Construction CT General Contractor LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Sonia Castellanos. Remove and re-roof at 15 Edgewood St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $14,200. Filed June 29.

LLC NaeNae, Norwalk, contractor for LLC NaeNae. Perform replacement alterations at 51 Stevens St., #2/G, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $1,000. Filed June 22.

Residential

Michael Stadler Construction LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Laura Kuhn Nelson. Remodel existing basement at 12 Cindy Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $30,000. Filed June 26. MMF Construction LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Brookfield Properties. Install Roll up door space at 1-101 North Water St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $14,678. Filed June 15. Perschino, Glenn, Norwalk, contractor for Clinton LLC 195. Construct foundation for two-family and three-family residence at 19 1/2 Clinton Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $200,000. Filed June 17.

Dennis Vlahakis, Norwalk, contractor for SWP Center Seven LLC. Perform replacement alterations at 607 Main Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $119,000. Filed June 16.

Phil’s Main Roofing LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Ledgebrook Condo Assoc Inc. Remove and re-roof at Ledgebrook Drive, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $101,562. Filed June 24.

Empire Building Construction Corp, Norwalk, contractor for Tran Thien. Remove and re-roof at 7 Brookhill Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $22,500. Filed June 18.

Protestant Episcopal Society, Norwalk, contractor for Protestant Episcopal Society. Perform replacement alterations at 2 Emerson St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $1,000. Filed June 23.

Greenleaf General Contractors LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Theresa B. Duncan. Construct superstructure to elevate single-family residence at 6 Golden Court, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $100,000. Filed June 25.

Signature Construction Group of CT Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Merritt 7 Venture LLC. Perform replacement alterations at 501 Merritt 7, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $131,000. Filed June 29.

Sky View Builders LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Richard J. Preli. Add full bathroom and expand existing garage space at 24 Lounsbury Ave. Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed June 30.

Alonso, Maria J., Norwalk, contractor for Maria J. Alonso. Finish basement, full bathroom, playroom and gym at 150 Grumman Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $60,000. Filed June 22. Bhattiprolu, Ravish V., Norwalk, contractor for Ravish V. Bhattiprolu. Perform replacement alterations at 14 Vincent Place, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $51,500. Filed June 25. Bilt By Gannon LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Ruedi and Alix M. Laager. Add two second-floor dormers to pool house at 189 Rowayton Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed June 29. Brady, Eugene, Norwalk, contractor for Christos and Eugenia Kotzageridis. Replace 2 windows at 44 Strawberry Hill Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $7,340. Filed June 26. Brown Roofing Co Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Edward A. and Robin J. Rockoff. Remove and re-roof deck at 16 Maurice St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $29,416. Filed June 23. Casanova Remodeling Company LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Philip A. Dino. Remove and re-roof at 38 Donohue Drive, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $12,000. Filed June 16. Delgado Roofing & Siding LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Diana A. Abarca. Re-roof at 52 Wilton Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $49,100. Filed June 25. Donaher, Thomas G., Norwalk, contractor for Thomas G. Donaher. Construct Wheelchair ramp at 23 Raymond Terrace, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $4,000. Filed June 23.

Eastern Restorations LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Bruno Vincenza Ruggieri. Remove and re-roof at 20 Norvel Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $23,000. Filed June 18.

JP Carroll Roofing LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Kimberly Y. Lucas. Remove and re-roof at 35 Lakeview Drive, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed June 18.

WG Contractors LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Edna Escobar Casasola. Replace roof at 14 Avenue B, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $10,200. Filed June 29.

Elite Foam Insulation & Exteriors, Norwalk, contractor for Janine Jandrojitz. Re-roof at 224 Silvermine Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $85,000. Filed June 25.

Karolsky Construction LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Kevin C. and Danielle C. Becraft. Add story and deck at rear of single-family residence at 39 Witch Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $300,000. Filed June 29.

Wilson, Oliver J., Norwalk, contractor for David A. Nachman. Install generator at side of single-family residence at 10 Logan Place, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed June 18.

Lucero, Luis A. and Yasmine, Norwalk, contractor for Luis A. Lucero. Construct rear deck at 10 Beau St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $22,000. Filed June 16.

Woodworks Pro LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Kristen and David M. Cochran. Renovate kitchen, full bathrooms, bedrooms, laundry room, unfinished attic, and basement, and replace windows at 14 Pennoyer St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $300,000. Filed June 16.

Galmac Construction Corp, Norwalk, contractor for Patrick L. and Victoria H. Marsh. Renovate single-family residence at 41 Mohawk Drive, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $40,000. Filed June 23. Helio Solar LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Steven and Patricia Kerschner. Install roof-mounted solar panels at 267 Fillow St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $48,160. Filed June 23. Home Depot USA Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Mayra Diaz. Remove and replace 8 windows at 18 Kelee Drive, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $8,201. Filed June 18. Home Depot USA Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Herbert Giovanni Trinidad. Remove and replace 5 windows at 11 Bartlett Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $5,787. Filed June 22. Home Depot USA Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Francis E. Campos and Maureen Majors. Remove and replace 14 windows at 47 Fox Run Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $23,410. Filed June 22. Home Depot USA Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Adams Parks Jr. and Ann. Remove and replace 4 windows at 17 Honey Hill Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $4,609. Filed June 23. JH Carpentry LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Robert F. Pinto. Renovate single-family residence at 6 Wallace Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $30,290. Filed June 22. JM Roofing & Siding LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Virginia Konkoski. Re-roof at 8 Bayberry Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $12,500. Filed June 22.

Sebastian Flores Westfair Communications Inc. 4 Smith Ave., Suite 2 Mount Kisco, NY 10549 Phone: 914-694-3600

Westfair Business Journal | ASeptember 14, 2026

Pearson, Fenella C., Norwalk, contractor for Fenella C. Pearson. Construct rear deck at 51 Quintard Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed June 15. Rainbow Shine LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Einar and Kersti Winge-Sorensen. Renovate single-family residence at 3 Studio Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed June 25. Rejoice & Restore LLC, Norwalk, contractor for David and Celia Gable. Remove and re-roof at 112 Partrick Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $39,474. Filed June 23. Ring’s End Inc, Norwalk, contractor for Cynthia McConaghy. Replace window at 13 Kermit St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $48,384. Filed June 22. Roof Revival and Restoration Services LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Yury and Allison Katsman. Remove and re-roof at 4 Olive Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $13,000. Filed June 23. Shoals Contracting LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Joan M 2011 Decal of Trust Taylor. Renovate kitchen and bathroom at 168 Rowayton Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $30,000. Filed June 29. Tapia Home Improvement LLC, Norwalk, contractor for Yujush D. Saksena. Renovate single-family residence at 501 Merritt 7, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed June 26.

COURT CASES Bridgeport Superior Court Facility Solutions Group, Inc., Austin, Texas. Filed by Ricki Electric Service LLC, Monroe. Plaintiff’s attorney: James L Walker Jr, Atlanta, Georgia. Action: the plaintiff and defendant had a long business relationship and agreements for electrical work. The plaintiff completed 1,531 hours, including 942 hours of wiring between August 2021 and January 2022, with payroll records supporting this. The defendant breached the agreement by not paying for these services. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FBT-CV-26-6162004-S. Filed June 30. Ochoa Velasco, E. A., et al., Peekskill. Filed by Paul Chaisson, Fairfield. Plaintiff’s attorney: Johnpatrick Casey O Brien, Bridgeport. Action: the plaintiff suffered a collision caused by the defendant and sustained severe damages and injuries. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs, and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FBT-CV-26-6162474-S. Filed July 13.

Perez-Hernandez, Kedyn, et al, Norwalk. Filed by Suzanne Kezel-Stocker, Wilton. Plaintiff’s attorney: Matthew Julian Forrest, Hartford. Action: The plaintiff suffered a collision caused by the defendant and sustained severe damages and injuries. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FBT-CV-26-6162581-S. Filed July 14. Thomas, Lloyd G., Bridgeport. Filed by Francois Pierre, Shelton. Plaintiff’s attorney: Nicholas R Nesi, East Haven. Action: The plaintiff suffered a collision caused by the defendant and sustained severe damages and injuries. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages of more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FBT-CV-26-6162227-S. Filed July 6.

Danbury Superior Court C & W Services, Needham, Massachusetts. Filed by Hector Reyes, Naugatuck. Plaintiff’s attorney: The Ment Law Group Pc, Hartford. Action: the plaintiff is a mechanical engineer employed by the Defendant for about seven years, worked primarily at the Defendant’s client facility in Ridgefield, Connecticut. During his employment, he faced ongoing racial harassment and hostility from colleagues, including aggressive confrontations and racial slurs, which he repeatedly reported to supervisors and Human Resources. Despite these reports, the Defendant failed to conduct meaningful investigations or take effective remedial action. After complaining of harassment and retaliation, including the suspicious disappearance of specialized tools from his locked work cart, the Plaintiff continued to experience a hostile work environment, culminating in intensified racial abuse during a transition period to a new contractor, with the Defendant persistently neglecting to address or stop the discriminatory conduct. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. DBD-CV-266060279-S. Filed July 22.

C. & J. Clark Retail, Inc, Stamford. Filed by Jobita Quiroz Zambrano, Danbury. Plaintiff’s attorney: The Finch Firm LLC, Trumbull. Action: the plaintiff was lawfully on the defendant’s premises as a business invitee, when the plaintiff tripped and fell over an extended shoe-measuring device left in a customer walkway within the defendant’s store. This fall caused the plaintiff serious injuries and damages, which were a result of the defendant’s negligence and carelessness. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. DBD-CV-26-6060203-S. Filed June 15. Freundt, Eric Et Al, New Milford. Filed by Lily Nyarady, Danbury. Plaintiff’s attorney: Moore O’Brien & Foti, Middlebury. Action: the plaintiff suffered a collision caused by the defendant and sustained severe damages and injuries. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. DBD-CV-266060170-S. Filed July 13. Phan, Nawy, Danbury. Filed by Capital One, N.A., McLean, Virginia. Plaintiff’s attorney: Zwicker and Associates Pc, Enfield. Action: The plaintiff is a banking association. The defendant used a credit account issued by plaintiff and agreed to make payments for goods and services. The defendant failed to make payments. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages is less than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs. Case no. DBD-CV-26-6060088-S. Filed July 6.

Stamford Superior Court Arocho, Elis Antonio Et Al, East Hartford. Filed by Resham Khan, Norwalk. Plaintiff’s attorney: Jason Gregg Degenaro, Guilford. Action: the plaintiff suffered a collision caused by the defendant and sustained severe damages and injuries. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FST-CV-266082165-S. Filed July 9.

Olbrych, Sean P., Greenwich. Filed by William Calyanis, Stamford. Plaintiff’s attorney: Rubin & Jacobson LLC, Westport. Action: The plaintiff is the holder of a promissory note of the property leased to the defendant. The defendant failed to pay the full amount of the monthly rent, therefore breach the lease. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FST-CV-26-6082621-S. Filed Aug. 4.

62 Ivy St LLC, Greenwich. Seller: Adam Melon and Nicholas Gabriele, Greenwich. Property: 62 Ivy St., Greenwich. Amount: $10. Filed July 28.

Trdevaj, Aferdita Et Al, Stamford. Filed by Ashleynn Gaston, Norwalk. Plaintiff’s attorney: The Pickel Law Firm LLC, Stamford. Action: the plaintiff suffered a collision caused by the defendant and sustained severe damages and injuries. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FST-CV-26-6082028-S. Filed July 1.

David Montanari Bros LLC, Stamford. Seller: Judy Zhu Huang, Stamford. Property: 140 Grove St., Unit 5K, Stamford. Amount: $190,000. Filed July 15.

Twenty-Five Commerce, Inc., Norwalk. Filed by Nathalia Simiioinatto, Stamford. Plaintiff’s attorney: Kevin L Hoffkins, Westport. Action: the plaintiff was lawfully in the premises controlled and maintained by the defendant when walking in the vicinity of the freezer unit, she was caused to slip and fall to the ground due to the existence of a clear liquid on the floor. The fall of the plaintiff was caused by the negligence and/or carelessness of the defendant. The plaintiff seeks monetary damages more than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs and such other and further relief as the court deems appropriate. Case no. FST-CV-26-6082263-S. Filed July 14.

DEEDS Commercial 21 Keeler Avenue LLC, Fairfield. Seller: Johanna M. Flamini and Barbara A, Rega, Fairfield. Property: 36 Romanock Place, Fairfield. Amount: $775,000. Filed July 10.

Bella Point Holdings LLC, Old Greenwich. Seller: Bella Lane LLC, Old Greenwich. Property: 110 Sheephill Road, Riverside. Amount: $5,500,000. Filed July 30. Clementine Interior LLC, Stamford. Seller: Zakhar G. Maymin, Cos Cob. Property: 681 River Road, Cos Cob. Amount: $2,445,000. Filed July 28.

Eaton Peppermill LLCX, Bronx, New York. Seller: 252 VA Company LLC, Fairfield. Property: 252 Villa Ave., Fairfield. Amount: $975,000. Filed July 8. EPHS1617 LLC, Greenwich. Seller: Jeanette A. Gugelmann, Greenwich. Property: 561 Indian Field Road, Greenwich. Amount: $10. Filed July 29. Go Frogs LLC, Stamford. Seller: Claudio M. Irigoyen and Marta G. Beltrano, Stamford. Property: 25 Forest St., Unit 7F, Stamford. Amount: $455,000. Filed July 15. Hawthorne 209 RR LLC, Cos Cob. Seller: Half Way Tree Holdings LLC, Greenwich. Property: 209 River Road Ext., Cos Cob. Amount: $10. Filed July 28. Linwood LLC, Wilton. Seller: Linwood Avenue I, LLC and Linwood Avenue II, LLC, Fairfield. Property: 234 Linwood Ave., Fairfield. Amount: $1,700,000. Filed July 8. Mankowska, Anna and Janusz Godlewski, Stamford. Seller: Staepelaere Enterprises LLC, Scotts Valley, California. Property: 77 Van Buskirk Ave., Unit 8, Stamford. Amount: $485,000. Filed July 16. Palmeri, Joseph and Joelie Nebel, Stamford. Seller: David Pietrycha and Laura Pietrycha, Southport. Property: 276 Pemburn Drive, Fairfield. Amount: $1,700,000. Filed July 9.

Pluff, Caitlin and Kevin Pluff, Fairfield. Seller: Sophie Coleman, Fairfield. Property: 349 Beach Road, Fairfield. Amount: $3,600,000. Filed July 9. Redrum Properties LLC, Stamford. Seller: Edge of Forever Properties LLC, Stamford. Property: 77 Glenbrook Road, Unit 208, Stamford. Amount: $10. Filed July 17. Schneider, Elisabeth T. and Stephen M. Jakab, Fairfield. Seller: 1331 Mill Plain LLC, Monroe. Property: 1331 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield. Amount: $1,799,000. Filed July 9. Sophia Property LLC, Stamford. Seller: Barton Properties Connecticut LLC, Stamford. Property: 470 West Main St., Stamford. Amount: $0. Filed July 13. Teng, Ronald YenLung, Stamford. Seller: JTH Construction Co, LLC, Norwalk. Property: 17 Jama Lane, Stamford. Amount: $2,349,000. Filed July 16.

Residential Abianch, Hossein, Stamford. Seller: Curtis Ralston, Stamford. Property: 59 Courtland Ave., Unit 3F, Stamford. Amount: $285,500. Filed July 14. Abrams, Robert and Diane Abrams, Larchmont, New York. Seller: Barbara Sheehy, Stamford. Property: 77 Havemeyer Lane, Unit 318, Stamford. Amount: $1,125,000. Filed July 16. Anderson, Shealyn, Stamford. Seller: Daniel M. Liashek and Anne KelleyKemple, Stamford. Property: 31 Puritan Lane, Stamford. Amount: $770,000. Filed July 17. Aviles, Megan and Alberto Aviles, Vernon Hills, Illinois. Seller: Adam McNeil and Griselda McNeil, Fairfield. Property: Lot 56, Surrey Lane, Fairfield. Amount: $1,550,000. Filed July 7.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Balestracci, Thomas Ernest and Melissa Groccia, Stamford. Seller: Christian Campusano and Cara Kennedy, Stamford. Property: 11 Klondike Ave., Stamford. Amount: $860,000. Filed July 13. Cheon, Paul Myunggun and Adrienne Samantha Malaluan, Long Island City, New York. Seller: Jin-Suk Han and Kyung-Ae Han, Greenwich. Property: 18 Caroline Place, Greenwich. Amount: $1,030,000. Filed July 31. Christensen, Brett and Kelly Christensen, Stamford. Seller: Michelle Festa and Kevin Leroy Celestine, Stamford. Property: 28 Bouton St. West, Stamford. Amount: $830,000. Filed July 16. Colon, Christian and Sofia Julia Sena, Bridgeport. Seller: Harrison E. Jones and Christine Betterly Jones, Fairfield. Property: 2032 North Benson Road, Fairfield. Amount: $1,156,000. Filed July 7. DeJesus, Jr., Edwin and Emily Amanda DeJesus, Pelham Manor, New York. Seller: Jason Leewe and Lutao Xie, Weston. Property: 39 Maple Tree Ave., Unit 26, Stamford. Amount: $630,000. Filed July 15.

Hanly, Kevin and Eliza Woolford Hanly, Stamford. Seller: Sheryll Boyce and Jennifer Ciarleglio, Fairfield. Property: 85 Eastlawn St., Fairfield. Amount: $1,060,000. Filed July 8. Hann, Kara, Fairfield. Seller: Steve L. Bender, Fairfield. Property: 66 Wynn Wood Drive, Fairfield. Amount: $487,500. Filed July 10. Harness Jr., John R. and Elizabeth M. Wambeke, Stamford. Seller: Thomas Domanick, Stamford. Property: 50 Crestview Ave., Stamford. Amount: $828,750. Filed July 14. Holden, Catherine J. and W. Blakely Holden, Greenwich. Seller: Priscila Guimaraes Mendes and Marcos Rodolfo Livino De Varvalho, Greenwich. Property: 125 Barn Hill Road, Stamford. Amount: $1. Filed July 17. Lee, Edwin, Stamford. Seller: Vicente Siguenza, Stamford. Property: 20 Cerretta St., Stamford. Amount: $1,000,000. Filed July 17. Leon, Adriano, Stamford. Seller: Darwin Emmanuel LeonPaula, Stamford. Property: 250 Cascade Road, Stamford. Amount: $10. Filed July 13.

Dunphy, Brendan and Jennifer Dunphy, Riverside. Seller: Jennifer Schwabe and Brendan Dunphy, Riverside. Property: 27 Linwood Ave., Riverside. Amount: $0. Filed July 28.

Lim, Chang and Yujin Hwang, Stamford. Seller: Stephen N. Gibbs and Albertine R. Gibbs, Pawcatuck. Property: 163 West Hill Road, Stamford. Amount: $1,550,000. Filed July 16.

Epondulan, Aristotle and Aryss Jean Almario Epondulan, Stamford. Seller: Camille G. Vitti, Stamford. Property: 25 Albin Road, Stamford. Amount: $620,000. Filed July 15.

Linforth, Joshua Ben and Jennifer Linforth, Greenwich. Seller: John Federspiel and Judith Verrille, Greenwich. Property: 118 Butternut Hollow Road, Greenwich. Amount: $10. Filed July 30.

Flores, Josue and Paulina Flores, Stamford. Seller: German Patricio Macancela Guaman and Nora Elisabeth Tenezaca Jachero, Stamford. Property: 97 Ogden Road, Stamford. Amount: $644,000. Filed July 15. Foley, Kristen E., Stamford. Seller: Peter Noback and Claire Donnelley, Fairfield. Property: 203 Burroughs Road, Fairfield. Amount: $800,000. Filed July 8.

Lo, David, Norwalk. Seller: George W. Schork Jr. and Kristen Landolfi Schork, Stamford. Property: 5 Woods End Road, Stamford. Amount: $820,000. Filed July 17. LoFrisco, Francis, Stamford. Seller: Jean-Christopher Thouait, Stamford. Property: 80 East Ridge Road, Stamford. Amount: $1,170,000. Filed July 17.

Legal Records

Lynn, Erik and Kimberly Zaccagnino, Stamford. Seller: Raphael Ventura and Marissa Ventura, Stamford. Property: 107 Barclay Drive, Stamford. Amount: $1,425,000. Filed July 14. Macios, Christopher Francis and Clare Helen Cullinane, Greenwich. Seller: Meera Ayyampully, Riverside. Property: 0 Owenoke Way, Greenwich. Amount: $10. Filed July 28. Merolla, Gianfranco and Elyse Merolla, Greenwich. Seller: Jack Lichtenthal and Lois Lichtenthal, Boynton Beach, Florida. Property: 45 Carriage Drive South, Stamford. Amount: $1,260,000. Filed July 13.

Miller, Dianne and Steven Penn Miller, Mahopac, New York. Seller: David Stefanowicz and Jeanne Stefanowicz, Stamford. Property: 2525 Long Ridge Road, Stamford. Amount: $10. Filed July 17. Miller, Elizabeth Kohl, Fairfield. Seller: William B. Miller and Debra L. Miller, Fairfield. Property: 148 Crestwood Road, Fairfield. Amount: $0. Filed July 8. Pietrycha, Laura and David Pietrycha, Fairfield. Seller: Stephen M. Jakab and Elisabeth T. Schneider, Southport. Property: 790 Cedar Brook Lane, Southport. Amount: $2,755,000. Filed July 10. Prescott, Rachel and Ryan Prescvott, Stamford. Seller: Daniel C. Mistretta and Cynthia Mistretta, Stamford. Property: 62 Hastings Lane, Stamford. Amount: $1,550,000. Filed July 16.

Puk, Maksymilian and Brianna Longo, Stamford. Seller: Lee F. Dimon and Patricia A. Dimon, Fairfield. Property: 54 Bunnell Circle, Fairfield. Amount: $657,577. Filed July 7.

Zaaijer, Caroline and Liam Zaaijer, Stamford. Seller: Joseph Tarzia, Stamford. Property: 257 Silver Hill Lane, Stamford. Amount: $1,075,000. Filed July 16.

Rauf, Abdur and Nahida Akter, Stamford. Seller: Elizabeth Gomez and Fabio Munoz, Stamford. Property: 321 Glenbrook Road, Stamford. Amount: $952,000. Filed July 13.

Zheng, Meng Yun, Stamford. Seller: Mohammad A. Bashar, Bronx, New York. Property: 101 Crystal St., Stamford. Amount: $820,000. Filed July 14.

Soni, Sidharth and Jacqueline R. Soni, Greenwich. Seller: Mary Bridget Mortamais and David Mortamais, Greenwich. Property: 44 Hunting Ridge Road, Greenwich. Amount: $10. Filed July 31.

MORTGAGES

Sosis-O’Sullivan, Leah and Gregory Sosis-O’Sullivan, Baltimore, Maryland. Seller: Paula Giver and David Giver, Stamford. Property: 19 Colonial Road, Unit #8, Stamford. Amount: $511,000. Filed July 15. Tobey, Caroline, Southport. Seller: Jan Weller and Pooja P. Weller, Southport. Property: 211 High Meadow Road, Southport. Amount: $1,350,000. Filed July 8. Tully, Alexander Charles and Olivia Witteveen, Weston. Seller: Stephanie J. Lofaro and Charles L. Gerlach, Fairfield. Property: 209 Merwins Lane, Fairfield. Amount: $1,180,000. Filed July 10. Vincent, Gauthier and Valerie Vincent, Stamford. Seller: Aida E. Moronta and Gabriel Moronta, Stratford. Property: 39 Kenilworth Drive West, Stamford. Amount: $1,175,000. Filed July 14. Von Oldenskioeld, Jesper and Esther Von Oldenskioeld, Norwalk. Seller: Shaun Mills and Erica Mills, Stamford. Property: 52 Bon Air Ave., Stamford. Amount: $799,000. Filed July 15.

Werkle, Amanda P. and Joshua P. Powers, Fairfield. Seller: Catherine U. Werkle, Fairfield. Property: 128 Katona Drive, Unit 1A4, Fairfield. Amount: $312,500. Filed July 7.

232 East Putnam LLC, New York, New York, by Steven V. Krauss. Lender: Provident Bank, 10 Woodbridge Center Drive, 3rd Floor, Woodbridge, New Jersey. Property: 232 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob. Amount: $2,925,000. Filed July 23. 29 West Brother Drive Trust, Greenwich, by Donald L. Watson. Lender: UBS Bank USA, NA, 95 State St., Suite 2200, Salt Lake City, Utah. Property: 29 W Brother Drive, Greenwich. Amount: $750,000. Filed July 20. Anderson, Christopher and Madeleine Hammond O’Connor Anderson, Fairfield, by Zane A. Thompson. Lender: TD Bank NA, 2035 Limestone Road, Wilmington, Delaware. Property: 31 Cambridge St., Fairfield. Amount: $214,801. Filed July 2. Baertsoen, Vincent and Lenka Novakova, Greenwich, by Morris L. Barocas. Lender: Wells Fargo Bank NA, 101 North Phillips Ave., Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Property: 2 Cider Mill Road, Stamford. Amount: $900,000. Filed June 30. Banker Jr., Ernest Alfred and Janet Banker, Greenwich, by Jeffrey Weiner. Lender: Citizens Bank NA, 1 Citizens Plaza, Providence, Rhode Island. Property: 10 Huckleberry Lane, Greenwich. Amount: $1,000,000. Filed July 20. Barbadimos, Tina J., Stamford, by Zhangzhu Howard. Lender: M&T Bank, 1 Fountain Plaza, 6th Floor, Buffalo, New York. Property: 89 Berrian Road, Stamford. Amount: $500,000. Filed July 1.

Benincasa, Morgan and John T. Maisano, Old Greenwich, by James Kavanagh. Lender: Guaranteed Rate Inc, 3940 N Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, Illinois. Property: 22 Camore St., Stamford. Amount: $513,745. Filed July 1. Bocchetta, Constance M., Stamford, by John J. Bove. Lender: New American Funding LLC, 1 MacArthur Place, Suite 800, Santa Ana, California. Property: 46 Breezy Hill Road, Stamford. Amount: $322,000. Filed July 2.

Clifford, Ryan and Jessica Lee Guild, Greenwich, by John C. Polera. Lender: First County Bank, 117 Prospect St., Stamford. Property: 312 Sound Beach Ave., Greenwich. Amount: $805,000. Filed July 21.

Boyle, Mary Ann and Leland Tyler Murray, Old Greenwich, by Linda K. McCallum. Lender: Total Mortgage Services LLC, 185 Plains Road, Milford. Property: 500 River Road, Unit 3, Greenwich. Amount: $833,000. Filed July 23.

Connolly, Megan and Andrew Connolly, Fairfield, by Susan Kohn. Lender: New American Funding LLC, 1 MacArthur Place, Suite 800, Santa Ana, California. Property: 230 Barberry Road, Southport. Amount: $1,280,000. Filed June 30.

Capalbo Jr., Anthony A. and Jennifer J. Capalbo, Fairfield, by Gina Dasilva. Lender: M&T Bank, 1 Fountain Plaza, 6th Floor, Buffalo, New York. Property: 330 S Benson Road, Fairfield. Amount: $89,000. Filed June 30.

Delise, Amelia and Colin Grattan, Stamford, by Andrew L. Wallach. Lender: Bank of America NA, 101 South Tryon St., Charlotte, North Carolina. Property: 99 Judd St., Fairfield. Amount: $600,000. Filed July 1.

Carrizzo, Antonio and Bernadette Carrizzo, Stamford, by Richard J. Rapice. Lender: A & D Mortgage LLC, 899 W Cypress Creek Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Property: 2435 Bedford St., #3A, Stamford. Amount: $348,500. Filed July 2. Certner, Matthew and Natalie Certner, West Orange, New Jersey, by M. Cassin Maloney Jr. Lender: Citibank NA, 1000 Technology Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri. Property: 22 Mallard Drive, Greenwich. Amount: $2,280,000. Filed July 24. Ciambriello, Charles and Dawn Ciambriello, Shelton, by Adam J. Hirsch. Lender: CMG Mortgage Inc, 3160 Crow Canyon Road, Suite 400, San Ramon, California. Property: 74 Oldfield Drive, Fairfield. Amount: $765,000. Filed July 1.

Sebastian Flores Westfair Communications Inc. 4 Smith Ave., Suite 2 Mount Kisco, NY 10549 Phone: 914-694-3600

Cingari, Dominick M. and Lisa Marie Cingari, Stamford, by Joseph J. Capalbo II. Lender: Bank of America NA, 101 South Tryon St., Charlotte, North Carolina. Property: 242 Ocean Drive W, Stamford. Amount: $750,000. Filed June 30.

Westfair Business Journal | ASeptember 14, 2026

Diguglielmo, Thomas Andrew and Carly Patricia Roddy, Wilton, by Kevin C. Kaiser. Lender: CrossCountry Mortgage LLC, 2160 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Property: 26 Essex St., Fairfield. Amount: $484,000. Filed June 29. Felizardo, Francisco and Maria Felizardo, Mount Vernon, New York, by Jonathan A. Wetmore. Lender: CrossCountry Mortgage LLC, 2160 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Property: 1099 Nerritt St., Fairfield. Amount: $318,000. Filed July 2. Garcia-Berg, Leonardo, New Canaan, by William A. Harrison. Lender: CMG Mortgage Inc, 3160 Crow Canyon Road, Suite 400, San Ramon, California. Property: 39 Wedgemere Road, Stamford. Amount: $1,800,000. Filed June 29. Gisondi, Jessica and Michael Gisondi, Fairfield, by Jeffrey G. Lane. Lender: Rocket Mortgage LLC, 1050 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Michigan. Property: 51 Winoca Road, Fairfield. Amount: $250,000. Filed June 29.

Hatton, William F. and Karen M. Hatton, Fairfield, by Rachel Pilat. Lender: Liberty Bank, 315 Main St., Middletown. Property: 787 Rowland Road, Fairfield. Amount: $400,000. Filed July 1. Heim, Caroline M. and Douglas Heim, Fairfield, by Tenneil Bailey. Lender: Bank of America NA, 100 North Tryon St., Charlotte, North Carolina. Property: 571 Tahmore Drive, Fairfield. Amount: $100,000. Filed July 2. Herbst, Jillian Keating and Jonathan Herbst, Fairfield, by Daniel Vincent Randazzo. Lender: Citizens Bank NA, 1 Citizens Plaza, Providence, Rhode Island. Property: 241 Euclid Ave., Fairfield. Amount: $100,000. Filed July 2. Hurtado Salas, Nancy and Gladys Hurtado, Stamford, by Margareth Rios. Lender: United Wholesale Mortgage LLC, 585 South Blvd. E, Pontiac, Michigan. Property: 12 Van Buskirk Ave., Stamford. Amount: $450,000. Filed July 1. Ingber, Olesya, Old Greenwich, by Gary R. Khachian. Lender: Wells Fargo Bank NA, 3201 North 4th Ave., Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Property: 6 Caroline Farms Road, #4, Cos Cob. Amount: $540,000. Filed July 21. Kearns, Taylor and Thomas Matthew Kearns, Greenwich, by Sendy Paola Mongiello. Lender: Rocket Mortgage LLC, 1050 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Michigan. Property: 10 Lita Drive, Greenwich. Amount: $2,200,000. Filed July 22. Legere, Christopher M. and Maria T. Legere, Stamford, by Nicola Corea. Lender: Rocket Mortgage LLC, 1050 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Michigan. Property: 21 Ledge Terrace, Stamford. Amount: $45,000. Filed June 29.

Leon, Ricardo S. and Judit Jankfalvi Leon, Stamford, by Connie S. Fair. Lender: First County Bank, 117 Prospect St., Stamford. Property: 20 Knobloch Lane, Stamford. Amount: $300,000. Filed July 2. Lipinski, Nicholas, Stamford, by Bestaina Joseph. Lender: Citizens Bank NA, 1 Citizens Plaza, Providence, Rhode Island. Property: 245 Butternut Lane, Stamford. Amount: $290,000. Filed July 1. Long, Amy H., Darien, by Charles P. Abate. Lender: JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, 1111 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 47 Mitchell St., Stamford. Amount: $720,000. Filed June 30. Manchisi, Matthew James and Jane Minerly Manchisi, Fairfield, by Zane A. Thompson. Lender: TD Bank NA, 2035 Limestone Road, Wilmington, Delaware. Property: 477 Aran Hill Road, Fairfield. Amount: $400,000. Filed June 30. Martin, Krystyn, Riverside, by Ashley Montanez. Lender: US Bank NA, 2800 Tamarack Road, Owensboro, Kentucky. Property: 12 Linwood Ave., Riverside. Amount: $1,950,000. Filed July 21. McGinnis, Kevin J. and Amy Konieczny, Fairfield, by Cynthia M. Salemme-Riccio. Lender: JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, 1111 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 59 Glen Arden Drive, Fairfield. Amount: $125,000. Filed June 30. McNiff, Mary Anne, Old Greenwich, by Ann Brown. Lender: US Bank NA, 700 Deerfield Road, Deerfield, Illinois. Property: 27 Nawthorne Road, Old Greenwich. Amount: $3,135, 636. Filed July 21. Meyers, Brian and Erin Meyers, New York, New York, by Cynthia L. Smith. Lender: Rocket Mortgage LLC, 1050 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Michigan. Property: 14 Pond Place, Cos Cob. Amount: $1,800,000. Filed July 23.

Murray, Christine Saniuk and Leland Tyler Murray Jr., Nashua, New Hampshire, by Descera Daigle. Lender: CrossCountry Mortgage LLC, 2160 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Property: 65 Tahmore Place, Fairfield. Amount: $700,000. Filed June 29.

Pierce, Lisa and John Pierce, Durham, North Carolina, by Kathleen M. Dunn. Lender: CrossCountry Mortgage LLC, 2160 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Property: 677 Eleven O’clock Road, Fairfield. Amount: $2,000,000. Filed July 1.

Nadboy, Michelle and Gavin Beinart-Smollan, Stamford, by Howard R. Wolfe. Lender: Rocket Mortgage LLC, 1050 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Michigan. Property: 2435 Bedford St., Unit 14D, Stamford. Amount: $665,000. Filed July 1.

Pradhan, Rochak and Pema Dorjee, Stamford, by Scott Rogalski. Lender: Loandepot. com, LLC, 6561 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, California. Property: 26 Harvard Ave., Stamford. Amount: $330,000. Filed July 1.

Nargi, Anthony, Stamford, by Scott Rogalski. Lender: Citibank NA, 1000 Technology Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri. Property: 444 Bedford St., Stamford. Amount: $228,000. Filed June 30. O’Connor, Stanley James, Cos Cob, by Eddy Perpignan. Lender: M&T Bank, 1 Fountain Plaza, 6th Floor, Buffalo, New York. Property: 333 Valley Road, Cos Cob. Amount: $300,000. Filed July 23. Orban, Monica, Fairfield, by Charles S. Harris. Lender: JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, 1111 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 75 Denise Terrace, Fairfield. Amount: $200,000. Filed July 1. Pace, Gregory and Kerri Pace, Fairfield, by Christopher A. Stratton. Lender: Fourleaf Federal Credit Union, 899 South Oyster Bay Road, Bethpage, New York. Property: 28 Philemon St., Fairfield. Amount: $395,200. Filed June 29. Papa, Victoria, Hartsdale, New York, by Arianne O’Donnell. Lender: Citibank NA, 1000 Technology Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri. Property: 16 Bouton St. East, Unit B6, Stamford. Amount: $387,920. Filed June 30.

Radcliffe, Alexander and Sarah Jane Radcliffe, Old Greenwich, by Jeremy E. Kaye. Lender: JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, 1111 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 81 Pinewood Road, Stamford. Amount: $1,050,000. Filed July 2. Reid, William J. and Christine M. Reid, Stamford, by Shetal Nitin Malkan. Lender: Lafayette Federal Credit Union, 2701 Tower Oaks Blvd., Rockville, Maryland. Property: 33 MacGregor Drive, Stamford. Amount: $350,000. Filed June 30. Riggar, Zachary and Amanda Riggar, Cos Cob, by Ann Brown. Lender: US Bank NA, 9380 Excelsior Blvd., Hopkins, Minnesota. Property: 5 Stone Brook Lane, Cos Cob. Amount: $250,000. Filed July 24. Roleder, Amanda, Fairfield, by Sebastiano Tornatore. Lender: Champions Funding LLC, 365 East Germann Road, Suite 140, Gilbert, Arizona. Property: 1140 Fairfield Beach Road, Fairfield. Amount: $780,000. Filed June 30.

Russo, Brian and Gena Russo, Stamford, by Connie S. Fair. Lender: First County Bank, 117 Prospect St., Stamford. Property: 34 Shady Lane, Stamford. Amount: $300,000. Filed June 29.

Tripuzzi, Joseph, Stamford, by Rory K. McGuinness. Lender: M&T Bank, 1 Fountain Plaza, 6th Floor, Buffalo, New York. Property: 16 W Kenilworth Drive, Stamford. Amount: $52,000. Filed July 2.

Russomanno, Sara L. and Samuel M. Hauslaib, Fairfield, by Danielle N. Perugini. Lender: United Wholesale Mortgage LLC, 585 South Blvd. E, Pontiac, Michigan. Property: 175 School St., Fairfield. Amount: $492,000. Filed July 2.

Viney, David and Nicola Viney, Riverside, by David W. Hopper. Lender: US Bank NA, 2800 Tamarack Road, Owensboro, Kentucky. Property: 32 Welwyn Road, Riverside. Amount: $2,739,000. Filed July 20.

Seversky, Candice, Oxford, by Antoinette R. Kaine. Lender: Deephaven Mortgage LLC, 3530 Toringdon Way, Suite 300, Charlotte, North Carolina. Property: 19 Church St. W, Apt 3, Greenwich. Amount: $357,500. Filed July 24.

Vora, Molly and Abhishek Goenka, White Plains, New York, by Jeremy E. Kaye. Lender: Bank of America NA, 101 South Tryon St., Charlotte, North Carolina. Property: 21 Woods Ave., Greenwich. Amount: $1,492,122. Filed July 21.

Seymour, Olivia and Michael Szementei, Stamford, by Seth J. Arnowitz. Lender: CrossCountry Mortgage LLC, 2160 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Property: 138 Houston Terrace, Stamford. Amount: $307,000. Filed June 29. Stamford Investors LLC, White Plains, New York, by Alexandra Clark. Lender: Bank of America NA, 1 Bryant Park, 34th Floor, New York, New York. Property: 1 Greyrock Place, Unit 1 and Unit 2, Stamford. Amount: $148,512,000. Filed July 2. Strain, Andrew and Lauren Strain, Stamford, by Seth J. Arnowitz. Lender: US Bank NA, 2800 Tamarack Road, Owensboro, Kentucky. Property: 41 Chester St., Stamford. Amount: $1,164,000. Filed June 29. Trager, Sarah Bertolotti and Greg Michael Trager, Riverside, by Shetal Nitin Malkan. Lender: Spring EQ, LLC, P.O. Box 2026, Flint, Michigan. Property: 46 Meyer Place, Riverside. Amount: $500,000. Filed July 23.

Vyravipillai, Daniel Rohan and Jacqueline Lauren Abu-Haidar, Greenwich, by Erin Spiess Chang. Lender: Citizens Bank NA, 1 Citizens Plaza, Providence, Rhode Island. Property: 4 Cherry Blossom Lane, Greenwich. Amount: $4,700,000. Filed July 22. Warmflash, David F. and Kimberly S. Warmflash, Stamford, by unreadable. Lender: Ridgewood Savings Bank, 1981 Marcus Ave., Suite 110, Lake Success, New York. Property: 10 Turner Road, Stamford. Amount: $500,000. Filed July 1. Webb, Tyler and Kirsten Webb, Greenwich, by Thomas Anthony Toscano. Lender: JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, 2500 Westfield Drive, Floor 2-1, Elgin, Illinois. Property: 29 Butternut Hollow Road, Greenwich. Amount: $1,250,000. Filed July 24.

Westfair Business Journal | September 14, 2026

Wussler Jr., Robert, Greenwich, by Benjamin McEachin. Lender: Third Federal Savings and Loan Association of Cleveland, 7007 Broadway Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. Property: 44 Carrington Drive, Greenwich. Amount: $100,000. Filed July 22.

Luxury Limousine Service, 62 Treat Ave., Stamford 06908, c/o Luxury Limousine Service LLC. Filed Sept. 3.

Yates, Andrew and Ryan McGrath, Greenwich, by Gillian V. Ingraham. Lender: M&T Bank, 1 M&T Plaza, Buffalo, New York. Property: 53 Hunt Terrace, Greenwich. Amount: $1,462,500. Filed July 24.

Park View Variety, 233 Main St., Stamford 06901, c/o Keshav 233 Inc. Filed Sept. 2.

Yoder, Samantha Kylie and Eduardo Santana Dos Reis, Fairfield, by Jonathan A. Wetmore. Lender: Sikorsky Financial Credit Union Inc, 1000 Oronoque Lane, Stratford. Property: 20 Lynnbrook Road, Fairfield. Amount: $774,000. Filed June 29.

NEW BUSINESSES

Ocean 46, 46 Southfield Ave., Stamford 06902, c/o R&A Sands LLC. Filed Sept. 3

Soho Barber Shop, 544 West Ave., Norwalk 06850, c/o Tecu Chano Abelino. Filed June 7. Sound Foiling, 15 Avenue B., Norwalk 06854, c/o Lacomte Dwight. Filed June 9. Tradition Emerging Markets, 9 West Broad St., 9th Floor, Stamford 06902, c/o Tradition Securities and Derivatives LLC. Filed Sept. 8. Trust Freight Dispatch, 6 Grove St., Norwalk 06854, c/o Samuel Remy. Filed June 8.

7 Brew Coffee, 641 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk 06854, Wanderley Silva, 1450 c/o John Quinn. Filed June 8. Washington Blvd., 1012 S, Stamford 06902, c/o Best BuyDirect2U, 52 Wanderley Silva. Filed Sept. 8. Brookdale Drive, Stamford 06903, c/o Eugene Friedman. Filed Sept. 3. G&G Home Remodeling, 6 Saint George Ave., Stamford 06805, c/o Carlos Eduardo Gonzalez Rueda. Filed Sept. 3. Happy House, 501 Glenbrook Road, Stamford 06906, c/o Nika LLC. Filed Sept. 3. Harmony Advisors Group, 750 E Main St., Suite 620, Stamford 06902, c/o Harmony Advisors group LLC. Filed Sept. 2. Jennie Stitched This, 24 Pheasant Lane, Norwalk 06854, c/o Jennie Spellman. Filed June 7. Legacy Path Solutions LLC, 141 Danbury Road, Unit #213, Wilton 06897, c/o Marta Cecilia Garcia. Filed June 7.

We congratulate Irene Tsetsekos and Patricia Simone on this well-deserved recognition.

Their leadership, vision, and dedication continue to make a lasting impact on our communities.

Irene Tsetsekos

Senior Vice President, Development/Foundations

Patricia Simone Foundation Trustee

To make an appointment with one of our doctors, scan the QR Code 2

WELCOME

Welcome to Westfair Business Journal’s 2026 Women Innovators. Tonight, we celebrate the remarkable women who are leading the way, driving change and redefining what’s possible across industries. Through their leadership, creativity and determination, this year’s honorees are making a lasting impact in our region and beyond. We are proud to recognize the 2026 Women Innovators and celebrate their achievements, influence and continued contributions.

PROGRAM 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.: Cocktail hour Beer & Wine • Passed Hors-d’Oeuvres • Networking Vendor tables 6:30 – 8 p.m.: Awards ceremony Opening Remarks Natalie Holland Events Director Westfair Business Journal Mistress of Ceremonies Christina Dufour Executive Coach and Keynote Speaker Carnelian Connection

PRESENTED BY

THANK YOU

PARTNER

SUPPORTERS

Honoring a Leader. Celebrating an Innovator.

Congratulations to our Founder & CEO

Elena Rivera-Cheek, MBA Elena, thank you for the vision that inspires us, the leadership that guides us, and the heart you bring to everything you do. We’re so grateful to be part of what you’ve built. FR O M A L L O F U S AT

1 North Broadway, Suite 1401 - White Plains, NY - cabrandsny.com

EMCEE

Christina Dufour

Executive Coach and Keynote Speaker Carnelian Connection Christina Dufour began her career in banking and business development, where performance was measured in numbers, not well-being. With a degree in business management and organization and years of experience, she saw how stress, burnout, and communication issues quietly eroded even the most driven teams and capable leaders. Motivated by the question of how to help people truly thrive at work, Dufour turned to mindfulness and performance science. Over the past 15 years, she has earned multiple certifications in mind-body energy modalities, including a university-backed certification in mindfulness and performance, and studied with renowned teachers to bridge leadership effectiveness and human sustainability. In 2015, she launched CarnelianConnection.com, combining her business expertise with well-being strategies to help organizations support their people more effectively. Her programs are research-backed, results-driven, and designed to address real stressors in practical, business-relevant ways. One of her signature courses was studied by Columbia University, published in a peer-reviewed journal, and shown to reduce stress, decrease depression and anxiety, increase job satisfaction, and lower turnover intentions. Dufour partners with Fortune 500 companies, high-growth teams, and senior leaders to foster cultures where well-being and performance reinforce each other. Through leadership coaching, keynote speaking, and corporate wellness programs, she aims to set a new standard—grounded, measurable, and deeply human. She also works closely with executives and leaders through tailored coaching programs that enhance presence, communication, and strategic self-mastery. Her work helps leaders reduce burnout, improve decision-making, and lead with clarity and confidence—whether in the boardroom, on stage, or within fast-moving teams. Dufour has spoken at the World Business Forum and her work has been featured in The Muse and the Meditation Studio app. She received the Westfair Business Journal Milli Award for outstanding entrepreneurship in 2015 and was named to the 40 Under 40 list for business leadership in 2024.

INNOVATION ISN'T ALWAYS ABOUT INVENTING SOMETHING NEW. SOMETIMES IT'S ABOUT FINDING A BETTER WAY TO CARE.

Congratulations Joanne! We are so proud of you! For more than 30 years,

Joanne Russo-Lanza

has found better ways to serve seniors, strengthen communities, develop staff and connect residents to the resources they need to thrive. This is what leadership looks like at United Hebrew Senior Living.

Seen. Heard. Cared For. Short Term Rehabilition 391 Pelham Road New Rochelle, NY 10805 p. 914.632.2804

www.uhgc.org

Willow Towers Assisted Living 355 Pelham Road New Rochelle, NY 10805 p. 914.636.6565

Skilled Nursing Long Term Care Respite Care Hospice & Palliative Care 391 Pelham Road New Rochelle, NY 10805 p. 914.632.2804

Willow Gardens Memory Care 60 Willow Drive New Rochelle, NY 10805 p. 914.336.2338

HONOREES

Rebecca Solomon Ahimor

Melissa Alcruz

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I appreciate my willingness to reinvent myself with purpose. After more than two decades in journalism, I found a new way to use storytelling to make a direct impact on children and families facing complex medical challenges. I'm proud of my ability to listen, connect with people and help them feel heard. Whether reporting the news or leading communications at Blythedale Children's Hospital, I strive to lead with empathy, curiosity and resilience.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? The boldest risk I've taken is refusing to perform leadership — or marketing — the way people expect it to look. I'm always 100% respectful and professional, but I don't hide behind a title, follow convention for convention's sake or try to impress a room; I lead with realness, humor, curiosity and genuine human connection. That same approach guides how I understand consumers: I don't begin with what competitors are doing, but with what people are feeling, needing and responding to. It has taught me that authenticity and emotional intelligence are not soft skills; they are often the most powerful forces in leadership, creativity and brand growth.

Communications Manager, Podcast Host Blythedale Children's Hospital

Chief Marketing Officer Mr. Short Sale

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my leadership leaves a legacy of empathy, innovation and meaningful connection. Throughout my career, I've seen how stories can change perspectives, build understanding and give people hope. Most of all, I hope to inspire others to lead with compassion and purpose. If my work helps families feel less alone and amplifies voices that deserve to be heard, that's a legacy worth celebrating.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Great leaders should never stop knowing their people. I make a point of having a personal conversation with every team member every day because you cannot lead a room, inspire exceptional work or understand what makes people tick without a genuine connection to them. When I build a team, we show up for one another as one unit — personally and professionally — and that bond often lasts long after the job ends. No great Olympic coach would ignore their players and expect championship results — and leadership should be no different.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Plot Twist: The Best Story I Ever Told Was the Next Chapter of My Own

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? The Executive Who Questions Everything — Except the Importance of People.

Congratulations to Courtney Welyzcko on being named a Westfair Women’s Innovator This honor recognizes her exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to excellence.

We’ll bring

ORDER to your law BUSINESS.

Congratulations to our Attorney Relationship Manager, Stephanie Melowsky, Esq. We’re proud to count you as a remarkable business leader in the region.

Guiding Your Business. Growing Your Wealth.

orangebanktrust.com 10

HONOREES

Beverly Balaz

Anne Bradner

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I built my educational publishing career by earning trust through integrity, cultivating long-lasting relationships and creating collaborative partnerships that led to business success and staff loyalty. Throughout my leadership roles, I maintained an unwavering standard of excellence that became part of my reputation in the publishing industry. I brought those same standards to the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. Faced with negative net income and no money in the bank, I developed a strategic business plan that moved the organization from negative to positive and created year-over-year growth in membership and reserves. One of my greatest strengths is building trusted relationships, inspiring collaboration and bringing people together to drive positive change. Everyday Goal: Building Relationships, Building Business

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I am 100% all in.

President and CEO Fairfield Chamber of Commerce

Chief Executive Officer Port Chester Carver Center

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? I once declined a promotion for a position I did not want, left the company, and started consulting. Connections made through consulting led to my job at the Rye Arts Center, where I stayed, happily, for eight years. What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Caring. The only way you can effect positive change is by truly caring about your mission and related outcomes.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Remember that every relationship is an investment. Build and maintain career-long relationships and partnerships based on respect, creating trusted pathways for future success. And don't forget that employees work with you, not for you. If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? I meet everyone in person (new members and prospects) for successful business and relationship development ... not for lunch or dinner, but always for a cup of coffee — when people can relax and feel comfortable. "Let's schedule a day to meet for a cup of coffee!"

HONOREES

Catherine Dwyer

Patty Ferris

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? A leader is only as great as the team that supports and believes in them. Every great leader must listen to the people they've brought in to help make them successful. Listening is a difficult skill to maintain once you become the leader. You can't see yourself as the boss giving orders. Instead, you need to be the one hearing concerns and considering suggestions to help guide the organization toward the right solutions. Listening, combined with adopting a fail-fast mentality, is what keeps progress moving for everyone.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? The boldest risk I've taken was betting on myself instead of staying where I was comfortable. Throughout my career, I've chosen opportunities that require me to build relationships, create community and represent organizations in new ways. Those roles came with uncertainty because success depended on my ability to connect with people, earn trust and create value every single day. Looking back, that decision shaped not only my career but also gave my purpose. It gave me the confidence to become a community leader, a mentor and an advocate. It taught me the biggest rewards often come from stepping outside your comfort zone and believing in your ability to make a difference.

Vice President, Information Technology/CIO; Privacy and Security Officer Burke Rehabilitation®

Brand Ambassador AVE Hamilton Green

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope that I've helped develop the next generation of leaders well. The great people who have worked with me, for me or trained under me will, I hope, remember me as someone who cared about them as individuals, not just as workers. I truly believe that taking care of each person, ensuring they are seen, heard, credited, corrected and guided, only strengthens the entire team. If each person knows they are empowered and supported by me, they will carry that forward and do the same for the next generation of leaders they help develop long after I am gone.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? A great leader should never stop listening, learning, and lifting others up. Leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about creating opportunities, building meaningful relationships, and making people feel seen, heard, and valued. The strongest leader remains curious, approachable, and willing to grow. They celebrate others' successes, learn from setbacks, and lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Success isn't measured by what you build — it's measured by who you build.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Connecting People. Building Community. Inspiring Hope.

LEADING THE WAY FOR WOMEN IN HEALTH CARE Congratulations to Anna Hohler, MD, FAAN Director, Virtual Neurology Northwell Health Director of Neurology Northwell’s Westchester Region Chair of Neurology Northern Westchester Hospital Chief of Neurology Phelps Hospital Neurology Residency Program Director Vassar Brothers Medical Center

As a trailblazer for women in medicine, your visionary leadership and dedication are transforming the future of health care.

With gratitude and admiration: Souhel Najjar, MD Senior Vice President and Executive Director Neurology Service Line

Derek Anderson Senior Vice President, President Northern Westchester Hospital and Putnam Hospital Beata Mastalerz Senior Vice President, President Phelps Hospital

McCULLOUGH, GOLDBERGER & STAUDT, LLP proudly supports the

WOMEN INNOVATORS 2026 and congratulates all of this year’s honorees.

HONOREES

Melissa Fitter

Shelby Green

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? Leaving the security of a large engineering firm after more than 16 years to join a boutique consulting practice was the boldest decision of my career. It meant trading familiarity for the responsibility of helping shape a smaller firm's growth and mentoring the next generation of engineers. That experience taught me that meaningful growth happens when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone, trust your experience and embrace greater accountability.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? In the classroom, I work to inculcate in students an intellectual curiosity and strong work ethic, both necessary to decipher the ancient and emerging issues in the law and to inspire them to find productive paths in the legal profession. I believe my scholarly engagement with professional colleagues, through writing and talks, helps to unravel complex issues toward just and fair societal ends.

Senior Associate Cuono Engineering, PLLC

Professor of Law Elisabeth Haub School of Law

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? I took on an apparently losing case because the client needed representation. I dug deep, pored over reams of files and all sources of information, then discovered the winning evidence, buried deep among seemingly irrelevant minutiae. Hard work and faith in the cause are essential components of success.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? I believe there are three things great leaders should never stop doing: learning, listening and mentoring. The best ideas often come from being curious enough to learn from others and humble enough to hear different perspectives. Leadership means creating an environment where others feel valued, supported and empowered. When you invest in people, the impact of your leadership extends far beyond any single project.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Pursuing the cause of justice, serving those in need and striving to help others to see and embrace the cause of the hapless and vulnerable.

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my legacy is measured not only by the structures and systems I've helped create, but by the people I've encouraged and mentored along the way. I want to be known as someone who worked with integrity, mentored others with generosity and used my skills to strengthen my profession and community. If those who work with me become more confident leaders themselves, I would consider that my greatest accomplishment. 15

HONOREES

Anna Hohler, MD, FAAN

Monica Hughes

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? I believe that leaders should never stop listening and learning to better serve those who depend on their performance excellence.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I would compliment myself on having the courage to lead change with purpose and never allowing limitations to define what is possible. Throughout my career, I've embraced complex challenges as opportunities to innovate, build partnerships and create lasting impact. I take pride in bringing people together, empowering others to succeed and transforming ideas into measurable results that strengthen communities. Most of all, I'm proud that my work reflects integrity, service and a commitment to creating positive, lasting impact.

Regional Director for Neurology in Westchester County Northwell Health

Administrator - Lead Services City of Mount Vernon Board of Water Supply

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I want to be thought of as a leader who put others first and who genuinely cares about the well-being of their reports and the direct effect on their patients.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? The boldest risk I took was leaving a successful private-sector executive career after more than three decades to pursue public service. I chose to apply my experience in finance, operations, strategic communications, and mergers and acquisitions to local government, knowing it would require a different approach to leadership and collaboration. That decision taught me that innovation isn't defined by the sector you work in, but by the courage to use your experience to create lasting value. In public service, success is measured by the positive impact you have on people and communities. It reinforced my belief that meaningful leadership requires embracing change, challenging the status quo and creating solutions that improve lives.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Innovation Through Collaboration, Leadership Through Service

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Fashionably Fearless. Transforming Ideas into Partnerships, Data into Decisions, and Vision into Impact. 17

BURKE REHABILITATION® CONGRATULATES

THE 2026 WOMEN INNOVATORS ESPECIALLY OUR OWN:

Cathy Dwyer Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Privacy & Security Officer

785 MAMARONECK AVE. | WHITE PLAINS, NY 888-99-BURKE | BURKE.ORG

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2026 WOMEN INNOVATORS! Co-Communications proudly celebrates this year’s honorees whose vision, creativity, and leadership are driving innovation and making an impact. Here’s to the women who challenge what’s possible and inspire what’s next.

HONOREES

Laura Krauss

Stephanie Melowsky, Esq.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? The boldest risk I took was moving from underwriting into sales, where my success depended on generating business. The experience taught me to trust myself and lean into my strengths. It showed me that authenticity, kindness and genuine relationships can drive meaningful results and lasting success.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? Stephanie always puts a positive spin on things. This is an amazing way to get through difficult times. While things are not perfect, it is great that she is able to help others refocus and push through.

Vice President, Business Banking Relationship Manager M&T Bank

Attorney Relationship Manager Orange Bank and Trust

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? Moving to Orange Bank in a new role after 14 years at a different bank was very risky. However, having the right tools and support quickly proved that it was the right decision. As a banker and an attorney, I am the best equipped at Orange Bank to service our large list of attorneys.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Great leaders should never stop listening, learning and treating people with kindness and respect. People do their best work when they feel valued, heard and supported. Leadership isn't just about setting direction — it's about setting the tone. By leading with empathy and modeling the behavior you hope to see in others, you build trust and help people thrive.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Every great leader should never stop encouraging others to become leaders as well. There are so many people that I think confuse not wanting to be a leader with thinking they are not able to be a leader. However, when you help someone believe in themselves and they start to see the accomplishments that they help make, those who helped make it happen are the best indicators of a good leader.

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my leadership is remembered for making people feel supported, respected and confident in their abilities. I've built my career on being approachable, fostering genuine relationships and helping people feel comfortable, whether they're clients, colleagues or community members. If people look back and remember that I led with kindness, treated others with respect and helped them believe in themselves and their potential, that would be the legacy I'm most proud to leave behind.

CONGRATULATIONS PATTY FERRIS Westfair Business Journal’s 2026 Women Innovators Honoree AVE Hamilton Green congratulates Patty Ferris on being named a 2026 Women Innovator and celebrates her passion for building relationships, strengthening our community, and leading with purpose.

HAMILTON GREEN | AVE COLLECTION Luxury Apartment Rentals & Flexible-Stay Furnished Apartments 25 Cottage Pl | 5 Cottage Pl · White Plains 914.530.6203 20

HONOREES

Christine Mullen

Samantha Pardal-Jerez

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I would compliment myself on my resilience and my commitment to becoming a better person, both in business and in life. I try to lead with honesty even when it's not easy. I am proud of my willingness to keep learning, my ability to trust my instincts and my strength to push through the hard moments.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I am hardworking, proactive and always willing to take on new challenges and projects. When I work on issues that are new to me or difficult, I ask questions and find solutions. I pride myself on being a team player who looks for opportunities to support colleagues, elevate their contributions and ensure they receive recognition for their efforts.

Founder and CEO Aspire Digital Solutions

Director of Government Affairs Optimum Communications

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? I believe every great leader should never stop learning. Leadership requires the humility to listen, reflect and recognize that there is always room to grow. The strongest leaders stay open to new perspectives and are willing to make changes when something is no longer working.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? Advocating for myself to move from an internal policy and regulatory affairs role into an external government affairs position, despite having limited direct experience in local politics or legislative advocacy. I made the case to senior leadership that my deep understanding of policy, regulation and the business would allow me to effectively represent the company with policymakers and stakeholders. Taking that leap pushed me well outside my comfort zone, but it ultimately became one of the best decisions of my career. It taught me that transferable skills and a willingness to learn can be just as valuable as direct experience, and the success I achieved in the role ultimately led to a promotion.

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my leadership leaves people believing in what can be accomplished when we work together toward a shared vision. Great things are built by people who trust one another, stay committed to the same goal and understand that every person has an important role to play. I also hope people remember that building something great requires courage. It takes courage to take risks, make difficult decisions and keep moving forward when the outcome is uncertain. Resilience is just as important because challenges are inevitable. Strong teams do not avoid hard moments. They learn from them and find a way forward together.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Showing Up, Stepping In and Figuring It Out.

HONOREES

Elena Rivera-Cheek, MBA

Joanne Russo Lanza

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? Resigning from my job to start C&A. I traded a steady paycheck for a blank page, and it taught me that most learning happens in the difficult moments. Taking the leap, "losing," "failing" — I put those words in quotes intentionally. Personally, I believe that the only way to fail is to give up. But what my biggest risk taught me is that you get better by going through the trials, finding the way forward and doing what you say you will.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I am equally comfortable managing complex housing operations as I am sitting with a tenant to help solve a personal problem.

Founder and CEO C&A Digital

Chief Operating Officer Senior Housing United Hebrew of New Rochelle

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? Simultaneously opening both Meadow Lane Apartments and obtaining licensure for Willow Gardens Memory Care Assisted Living. Lesson learned: All things are possible with a great team.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Learning. The moment leaders decide they are the finished product, their organizations start shrinking to fit them. I built my whole philosophy — I call it Micro-Mastery — on the idea that authority comes from going deeper into your craft, not just higher in your title. Great leaders stay students of three things: their craft, their people and their market. I still read books, go to seminars and maximize all learning opportunities that are put in front of me.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Always the first to volunteer with any help I can provide.

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my legacy lives in people rather than plaques. I want everyone who has come through the doors at C&A to leave carrying two convictions: that hard work is still the only way to be great and that a culture where people are genuinely seen produces the best work of their careers. If someday someone leads their own team with higher standards and more generosity because of how they were led here, that will be worth more to me than anything with my name on it. 23

ENDORSEMENTS

Patty Ferris “You are an inspiration to all in your community. Dedicated, talented and kind of heart and spirit. Your Fogo family is rooting for you always!” — Tammi D., Fogo De Chao

Melissa Alcruz “Your authenticity, creativity and professional integrity make you truly exceptional. You inspire all who have the privilege of working with you!” — Theresa M., Elysian Multi-Media Corporation

Irene Tsetsekos “Your leadership, dedication, and the way you support those around you do not go unnoticed! Thank you for being you!” — Alexis L., Westchester Medical Center

Joanne Russo-Lanza “Congratulations Joanne. It's been a pleasure working side by side with you for the last 20 years. No one is more deserving.” — Christina V., United Hebrew of New Rochelle

Christine Mullen “Your vision and leadership inspire us every day. Thank you for building something extraordinary and paving the way for others.” — Cameryn M., Aspire Digital Solutions

Anna Hohler, MD, FAAN “Your accomplishments brought you to this moment, but the lives you influence along the way are what make your leadership truly meaningful.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Monica Hughes “I’m so proud of you and all you’ve accomplished. Watching you work hard, follow your dreams, and make a difference fills my heart with pride.” — Corine H.

Rebecca Solomon Ahimor “Rebecca, your creativity and compassion inspire us all. Keep amplifying Blythedale's ‘Journeys of Hope’ and making a difference every day!” — Connie C., Blythedale Children's Hospital

Patricia Stark “You've earned your seat at the table. Keep using it to make room for bigger ideas, bolder possibilities and the women coming next.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Catherine Dwyer “Cathy, your exceptional leadership, insight, and understanding make you a role model and a tremendous boss. Thank you for all you do.” — Anthony O., The Burke Rehabilitation Hospital

HONOREES

Patricia Simone

Maggie B. Smith

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I view every challenge as a problem to be solved rather than a crisis. Staying calm when conditions shift allows me to keep our team focused on solutions rather than roadblocks. In real estate, variables shift constantly, so I focus on staying adaptable, keeping cool under pressure and finding practical ways forward.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? I think the biggest risk I took was taking time off from my career to raise my children, not knowing what the landscape would look like when I returned. What it taught me is that if you fully commit to reinventing yourself, then anything is possible. Believe in yourself.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Asking "why" and "what's next." True leadership requires continuous curiosity — never settling for status quo processes, but constantly seeking better ways to innovate, improve operations and add long-term value.

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? You can be both an amazing mother who raises incredible human beings and a badass businesswoman who others look up to.

Principal and President Simone Development Companies

Director of Client Experience Next Level Private LLC

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Small but mighty

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope to create a legacy of driving purposeful growth — building spaces that strengthen communities, supporting a strong corporate culture and positioning our portfolio for sustainable success well into the future.

ENDORSEMENTS

Patty Ferris “You've earned this moment. Patty, your courage, creativity, and willingness to keep moving forward inspire more people than you may ever realize.” — Barry N., Veritas Infrastructure Group

Laura Krauss “You are bold enough to question what is and fearless enough to imagine what could be. Keep going.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Lauren Tetenbaum “You are the definition of an innovator and a powerhouse. Always so impressed and inspired by you!” — Lauren M., Do Some Good

Christine Mullen “You lead by example every single day. Your dedication to our clients and the quality of our work inspires all of us.” — Juan O., Aspire Digital Solutions

Beverly Balaz “Bev, keep leading with heart and trusting your vision. Your ability to bring people together and create opportunity is truly inspiring!” — Taylor B., Advanced Dentistry of Fairfield County

Joanne Russo-Lanza “Your dedicated leadership at United Hebrew breaks barriers, inspires women to lead boldly, and creates meaningful change for those you serve.” — Mark S., United Hebrew

Samantha Pardal-Jerez “You didn't get here by settling. Keep raising the bar and redefining what's possible.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Courtney Welyczko, MBA, BSN, RN, CMPE “The example you set is noticed and your impact reaches further than you may realize.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Melissa Fitter “Never underestimate the impact of your perspective. Keep asking questions, challenging expectations and bringing your own voice to the table.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Rebecca Solomon Ahimor “Congratulations, Rebecca! Your podcast and media outreach have brought greater visibility to Blythedale's mission and impact. Well deserved!” — Liz D., Blythedale Children's Hospital

Irene Tsetsekos “You are the person that makes people believe in goodness again. Dedicated, humble, smart and compassionate!” — Steve T., Religen Inc.

HONOREES

Patricia Stark

Lauren Tetenbaum

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? If I could compliment myself, I'd say I have a gift for helping people find the calm and confidence to communicate, lead and perform at their best, not only in life's biggest moments when the pressure is on, but in the everyday moments that shape who they become.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? I took a risk by leaving a corporate job in the legal field to start my own psychotherapy practice. It taught me there is no one right professional path and allowed me to pursue my passion for advocating for women. That decision led to opportunities including publishing my 2025 book, "Millennial Menopause," and supporting women through major life transitions.

Founder, Keynote Speaker, Creator of the Calmfidence® Method Patricia Stark Communications

Author, Therapist, Advocate for Women The CounseLaur

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? The boldest move I made was leaving a successful career in broadcasting and corporate communications to build my own business. Success depended on my willingness to take risks, trust myself and keep showing up, even when the outcome was uncertain. That journey included becoming a certified body language expert and writing my first book after multiple publishers turned me down. Seeing "Calmfidence" on the shelves of Barnes & Noble reinforced an important lesson: Meaningful growth often requires stepping into uncertainty before you're ready.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? I believe a great leader should always act in line with their values and be authentic to themselves. But that doesn't mean they have to go it alone; support is available, communities are invaluable and it's OK to ask for help. A great leader should prioritize empathy and compassion, including self-compassion. Let's be cheerleaders for ourselves and for each other. If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? "Pink, sparkly and fiercely feminist" — I'm proud that I never lose my optimism or lightheartedness, even while navigating challenges or supporting other women. I find joy in small moments and believe it's important to laugh at yourself, all while advocating for women's rights, reproductive health care and workplace equity for women and caregivers.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Great leaders should never stop being intentional about how they show up, especially under pressure. They listen, seek to understand and make people feel valued. Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about creating an environment where people feel respected, supported and inspired to do their best work.

ENDORSEMENTS

Patricia Simone “Keep breaking barriers, raising expectations and showing others what's possible.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Stephanie Weston “Stephanie proves that innovation isn't just about ideas-it's about the courage to lead the way for the women coming up behind you. Keep leading!” — Nicky S., Apple Bank

Christine Mullen “Your passion and resilience are shaping a brighter future. Keep believing in your vision and inspiring those around you!” — Sarah C., Aspire Digital Solutions

Maggie Smith “Maggie is the definition of caring. Every conversation with her leaves you in a better mood, and she brings the best energy every day. Congrats Mags!” — Tommy E., Next Level Private

Joanne Russo-Lanza “I have known you forever and continue to be impressed by you and all you do. Thanks for being part of life on the United Hebrew campus.” — Rita M., United Hebrew of New Rochelle

Anne Bradner “Keep leading with confidence, trusting your instincts and making space for the ideas that have the power to move people forward.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Sharmee Walton “Keep being curious enough to question what exists and courageous enough to build what doesn't. That's where innovation begins.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Monica Hughes “Monica is the most amazing woman I know. She wears many hats in this lifetime, but I’m so blessed to call her my mom!” — Jerrica B., SoHo house

Stephanie Melowsky, Esq. “So very proud of my dear friend and all of her accomplishments. She is an unstoppable force and a master at her craft. Much continued success!” — Lavaughn R., DSNY

Meena Thever “Keep bringing your ideas to the table and challenging what's possible. Leadership grows stronger when women aren't afraid to bring a different perspective.” — Westfair Business Journal team

HONOREES

Meena Thever

Irene Tsetsekos

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope that my legacy opens doors for people who otherwise may not have had an opportunity. For women, women of color, people of color, young students from hard working immigrant families, kids who may be the first in their families to attend university and others. I also hope to motivate all young people to strive for success, but also to be global citizens who use their talents to make this world a better place. I want to be a force that encourages and supports them to live to their full potential.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? One of the boldest risks I've taken in my career has been being authentic about what I don't know instead of feeling I need to have all the answers. I learned that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of confidence, humility and a commitment to the best outcome. That mindset has helped me build stronger relationships and make better decisions. Great leadership isn't about knowing everything; it's about creating an environment where people can learn, collaborate and solve challenges together.

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? The boldest risk I have ever taken, but did not fully appreciate at the time, was starting a career as an investment banker out of college. I had no background in finance and did not fully understand the life and career I was signing up for. I had always intended to move to Washington, D.C., and pursue politics and policy, but I ended up living in Manhattan and working on Park Avenue instead. It has been a rough road in an unforgiving industry, but I would not have done anything differently. I have learned how to be resilient, strategic, resourceful and meticulous. And those have been qualities that have propelled me forward both in my career and in life.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? I believe every great leader should never stop expressing gratitude. Recognizing the contributions of others builds trust, strengthens relationships and helps people feel valued. A simple "thank you" can be one of the most powerful ways a leader brings out the best in others.

Partner ACON Investments Founder and CEO Wealth Is Female

Senior Vice President of Development Westchester Medical Center Health Network

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my leadership leaves behind a culture where our mission always comes first. I want to be remembered for building strong relationships and bringing people together around a shared purpose. If I've helped create an environment where trust, collaboration and generosity thrive, and where those collective efforts lead to better care for our patients and communities, that would be the legacy I'm most proud to leave.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? They say you can't do it all, but I think I am proof that you can! 29

ENDORSEMENTS

Melissa Alcruz “It has been a joy to work with you these past few years. Thank you for helping our books take shape, and for your innovative eye toward media!” — Clare L., Clare Levijoki Publishing

Irene Tsetsekos “Continue to be who & how you are, to astonish a mean world with acts of kindness, to allow humor to lighten the burden of your tender heart.” — Max M. & Maya A.

Elena Rivera-Cheek, MBA “Continue trusting the vision that brought you this far. The courage to think differently is often where the most meaningful change begins.” — Westfair Business Journal team

Stephanie Weston “One word of encouragement can be enough to spark someone's motivation to continue with a difficult challenge. Thank you for your unwavering support!” — Michele C., Apple Bank Shelby Green “Your commitment to educating law students is admirable, especially during these challenging times. Your wisdom will make a difference & inspire all.” — Beverly B., Fairfield Chamber of Commerce

Christine Mullen “Christine is a strong leader who encourages the women around her to trust themselves, grow, and recognize what they are capable of.” — Seana H., Aspire Digital Solutions

Joanne Russo-Lanza “Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition as a Women Innovator Awardee! You make a meaningful difference in older adults.” — Jerome B., United Hebrew Senior Living

Christine Mullen “Your leadership makes a real difference, and the way you continue to move forward with confidence and purpose is truly inspiring.” — Diana S., Aspire Digital Solutions

Rebecca Solomon Ahimor “Your passion, leadership and commitment to using your voice for good inspire others. Thank you for making a difference in our community.” — Esther M., Alzheimer's Association

Joanne Russo-Lanza “Congratulations, Joanne, on this well-deserved Award. Your commitment to making a difference truly sets you apart.” — Grace F., Willow Towers Assisted Living

HONOREES

Sharmee Walton

Courtney Welyczko, MBA, BSN, RN, CMPE

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? I am authentically who I am. I am honest with myself and humbled by all the strength that has been gained from the God who lives in me. My level of gratitude is beyond the measure of words, and my actions and deeds point to my ability to give back as much as has been given to me. God gets all my glory.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Great leaders should never stop being curious. The best ideas don't always come from the boardroom — they come from listening to the physicians, staff and patients who experience health care each day. Staying connected to the front line allows us to identify unmet needs, challenge the status quo and develop innovative solutions that improve care. When leaders remain curious and empower their teams to act on good ideas, innovation becomes a part of the culture rather than a single achievement. Ultimately, the greatest innovations are those that make a meaningful difference for the physicians, patients and communities we proudly serve.

Multi Functional Manufacturing Senior Manager Sikorsky Aircraft, Lockheed Martin

Senior Vice President of Operations Crystal Run Healthcare

What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? I took a risk and interviewed for a leadership role with no experience in management or leading a collective bargaining workforce. This risk led to over a decade of leadership, promotions and oversight that focused largely upon workforce readiness and bold leadership decisions that would enable our workforce to achieve mission excellence. The added value of being a diverse, inclusive and supportive leader contributes directly to our workforce while advancing our mission.

What kind of legacy do you hope your leadership leaves behind? I hope my leadership is remembered for creating a culture where people felt heard, supported and empowered to do their best work. Lasting change begins with trust, collaboration and genuine partnership. If my legacy is that I helped others feel valued while improving care for our patients, I would consider that my greatest accomplishment.

What is something you believe every great leader should never stop doing? Every great leader should never stop learning and having a growth mindset. Upskilling can mean learning about self, our profession, our work culture, employees and customers. The list goes on and on, and with the world evolving, we absolutely must evolve with it, no matter where we are in life. And we must learn from both successes and failures, as they both yielded a result and both are of importance.

If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Empowering People, Elevating Care

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HONOREES

Stephanie Weston

District Manager, First Vice President Apple Bank If you could compliment yourself, what would you say? One of my strengths is turning challenges into opportunities while bringing people together to achieve great results. I am proud that my leadership, creativity, commitment to excellence and resilience have been recognized with this award. What is the boldest risk you've ever taken in your career, and what did it teach you? One of the boldest risks I ever took in my career was leaving a position at a regionally recognized bank, where I was at the top of my game, to join a smaller, privately held community bank. Many people questioned why I would leave the stability and prestige of a large institution. I saw an opportunity to make a greater impact, help shape the future of the organization and continue to grow as a leader. That decision reinforced a lesson I have carried throughout my career: Innovation isn't just about new ideas; it is about having the courage to take calculated risks, trust your instincts and embrace opportunities that others may overlook. If you could sum yourself up in a catchy headline, what would it be? Transforming challenges into opportunities.

SUPERLATIVES

BEST INFLUENTIAL VISIONARY

Melissa Alcruz

FASHIONABLY FIERCE LEADER

Elena Rivera-Cheek, MBA

Christine Mullen

LEADING CHAMPION OF DIVERSITY

Meena Thever

Irene Tsetsekos

MOST GROUNDED AND UNSHAKABLE

Laura Krauss

Melissa Fitter

Patty Ferris

HONOREES

Stacey Ross Cohen

Kecia Palmer-Cousins, MBA

CEO Co-Communications

CEO Aero-Ba-Soul, Inc.

Kecia Palmer-Cousins is CEO of Aero-Ba-Soul Inc., a Peekskill, New York-based, New York City- and New York state-certified MWBE providing business management and MWBE consulting, professional development training and life coaching services. An energetic wellness entrepreneur, she also serves as COO of G&K Sweet Foods LLC, a Peekskill-based, New York City- and New York state-certified MWBE and DBE baked goods company that was a contracted vendor for the VIP Party at the 2014 Super Bowl. A retired Verizon IT project manager, Palmer-Cousins enjoys spending time with her family and mentoring women and young people in her community. She inherited her entrepreneurial spirit from her parents and uncles, who operated home-based businesses for more than 50 years. Palmer-Cousins earned a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering from Boston University, a master’s certificate in project management from George Washington University and an MBA in marketing from Long Island University. She is a graduate of the Women’s Enterprise Development Center and Westchester Community College’s Just Add One Small Business Program. She has received numerous awards for her community service, including WEDC’s Lillian Vernon Award and the Peekskill Youth Bureau’s Phenomenal Woman Award. Palmer-Cousins currently serves on the Local Planning Committee for the Peekskill Downtown Revitalization Initiative.

An award-winning marketing professional who earned her stripes on Madison Avenue and at major television networks, Stacey excels at taking brands to market and leveraging each client's unique voice to build impactful campaigns. In 1998, Stacey founded Co-Communications, a marketing communications agency serving clients in real estate, education, healthcare, nonprofit, economic development, and professional services. Her accolades include Forbes Enterprise, PRSA Practitioner of the Year, City & State NY/Power100, City & State Who’s Who in Communications, and Crain's New York Business' Notable Leader in Advertising, Marketing, and PR. A contributor at Entrepreneur and The Huffington Post, Stacey has been featured in Forbes, Inc, Good Morning America, USA Today, Newsweek, and more. Her TEDx talk on personal branding has reached over 1.3 million viewers. She holds a BS from Syracuse University, an MBA from Fordham University, and a certificate in Media, Entertainment, & Technology from NYU Leonard Stern School of Business. A sought-after speaker, Stacey has delivered talks at Fortune 500 companies and global education institutions. She is an adjunct Hospitality marketing professor at Fordham University and serves on Fordham’s Real Estate Institute Council Executive Advisory Council. An entrepreneur at heart, Stacey started her first business at 14. Stacey is especially passionate about lifting the next generation. Through her best-selling Brand Up books (Post Hill Press/Simon & Schuster), she equips teens and emerging professionals with tools to stand out and shine in college, career, and beyond. She also contributes to workforce reentry efforts, including a Ukrainian refugee initiative. Whether leading a workshop or delivering a keynote, Stacey’s north star is helping individuals and businesses find their voice and their path with clarity.

SUPERLATIVES

MOST LIKELY TO BE QUOTED IN WESTFAIR BUSINESS JOURNAL

Stephanie Melowsky, Esq.

THE CONNECTOR

Courtney Welyczko, MBA, BSN, RN, CMPE

Anne Bradner

MOST LIKELY TO LEAVE A LEGACY

SHATTERING GLASS CEILINGS

Patricia Simone

Maggie Smith

Sharmee Walton

Shelby Green

Patricia Stark

PARTNER

Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) is the Hudson Valley’s premier provider of the most complex care in the Hudson Valley. WMCHealth includes Westchester Medical Center (WMC), the region’s only academic medical center, and Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, the only acute care children’s hospital in the region and nationally ranked among the best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. WMCHealth also features Level I (adult and pediatric), Level II, and Level III trauma centers, several community hospitals, and dozens of specialized institutes and centers. More than 13,500 skilled employees work across WMCHealth, including 1,000 employed physicians and 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom are experts in their specialties. The network’s capabilities are further enhanced by its academic medicine partnership with New York Medical College (NYMC) – which shares a vibrant campus with WMC in Valhalla, NY. NYMC annually attracts more than 600 rising healthcare leaders, specialists and researchers who are trained by WMCHealth’s experts, developing cutting-edge treatments and therapies that will shape the future of healthcare. WMCHealth is the unquestioned leader of trauma, pediatric, and advanced surgical care in the region. Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital is home to the Hudson Valley’s only Level I pediatric trauma and burn care programs, pediatric intensive care unit and its regional neonatal intensive care unit where the region’s tiniest and sickest newborns are cared for. The Network also includes Comprehensive and Primary Stroke Centers, skilled nursing facilities, and is one of New York State’s largest providers of comprehensive behavioral health services.

SUPERLATIVES

COMMUNITY CATALYST

Beverly Balaz

UNSTOPPABLE POWERHOUSE

Rebecca Solomon Ahimor

Catherine Dwyer

Monica Hughes

ALWAYS RAISING THE BAR

ULTIMATE CHAMPION OF CHANGE

Lauren Tetenbaum

Joanne Russo-Lanza

Stephanie Weston

MOST LIKELY TO CHANGE HISTORY

Anna Hohler, MD, FAAN

Samantha Pardal-Jerez

SUPPORTERS

Founded in 2012, Cuono Engineering is a structural engineering firm guided by a mission that reflects both its work and its outlook: “Renewing our past, building our future.” From breathing new life into existing buildings and preserving historic landmarks to tackling complex renovations and new construction, Cuono brings curiosity, collaboration, and practical problem-solving to every project. With offices in White Plains and New York City, the firm partners with architects, owners, developers, contractors, and institutions throughout the region to develop thoughtful structural solutions for even the most challenging conditions. At the heart of Cuono Engineering is its people. The firm is committed to creating an environment where talented professionals can grow, lead, share ideas, and make an impact—not only through their project work, but within the AEC industry and the communities they serve. That culture extends beyond the office through mentorship, professional organizations, educational initiatives, charitable efforts, and community partnerships. In 2026, Cuono Engineering was proud to be named Zweig Group’s #1 Best Firm to Work For among firms with 10–49 employees and #1 in Structural Engineering—recognition that reflects the collaborative culture the team has built together. That same spirit of leadership, service, and community is embodied by Senior Associate Melissa Fitter, P.E., and Cuono is proud to celebrate her recognition as a 2026 Westfair Women Innovator.

Burke Rehabilitation®, a proud member of the Montefiore Health System, is a nationally recognized and accredited, not-for-profit healthcare organization specializing in rehabilitation medicine, research, and graduate medical education. Burke is ranked among the nation’s top rehabilitation hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and Newsweek, and is New York’s largest provider of stroke rehabilitation. The Burke mission is to provide the highest quality medical care and rehabilitation services to ensure that each patient achieves the maximum functional recovery from illness, injury, or disability. Based in White Plains, NY, Burke offers a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services at its hospital, Outpatient Physician Practice, and 15 outpatient therapy locations throughout the Bronx, Westchester County, and the Hudson Valley.

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SUPPORTERS

Mr. Short Sale was built on a simple belief: the greatest tragedy is not foreclosure. It is a foreclosure that could have been prevented. Behind every foreclosure is a human story. A job loss. An illness. A divorce. A death in the family. One unexpected event that changed everything. When that happens, families do not need judgement. They need to know they may still have options. Mr. Short Sale is a national team of short-sale and foreclosureprevention experts who step in, take on the banks and manage the entire process from start to finish – at no cost to the homeowner. Our compliance-driven process is built on lender-specific expertise, precise documentation and relentless negotiation. Because in a timesensitive process, one missed requirement can cost a family the chance to choose a better path. Foreclosure is not just a financial event. It is a human event. Our mission is to help as many American homeowners as possible avoid preventable foreclosure and move forward with dignity, clarity, and a real plan for what comes next.

Northwell is the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast, serving residents of New York and Connecticut with 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians. Northwell cares for more than three million people annually in the New York metro area, including Long Island, the Hudson Valley, western Connecticut and beyond, thanks to philanthropic support from our communities. Northwell is New York State’s largest private employer with over 104,000 employees – including members of Northwell Health Physician Partners and Nuvance Health Medical Practices – who are working to change health care for the better. Northwell, named a TIME100 Most Influential Companies 2025, is making breakthroughs in medicine at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. Northwell is training the next generation of medical professionals at the visionary Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and the Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies. For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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A privately held media company based in Mount Kisco, New York, Westfair Communications Inc. is the home of the Westfair Business Journal, a trusted source of business news, information and insights serving Westchester and Fairfield counties and the Hudson Valley. For more than 60 years, Westfair has covered the people, companies, industries and issues shaping the region’s business community, with reporting on economic development, real estate, health care, banking and finance, law, education, government, technology and other sectors important to the regional economy. Founded by former Westchester resident David Moore, a grandson of influential New York publisher Joseph Pulitzer, and John Smith, a former Wall Street Journal editor, Westfair continues their commitment to independent local journalism and meaningful coverage of the communities it serves. In addition to breaking news, in-depth reporting, profiles and analysis, Westfair produces a range of e-newsletters and digital content designed to keep business leaders informed about developments across the region. Its coverage also extends beyond business to include food, travel, health and wellness, home and lifestyle. Westfair has also become an important convener of the regional business community, producing awards programs, conferences, discussions and other events that recognize achievement, bring leaders together and create opportunities for meaningful connections. Through its journalism, digital platforms, events and community partnerships, Westfair remains committed to informing, connecting and celebrating the people and organizations moving the region forward. For more information, visit westfaironline.com or call 914-694-3600.