On Thursday, September 17, 2026, 914INC. hosted its annual Best of Business Awards at the historic CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, bringing together Westchester’s top local leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to celebrate the region's thriving commercial landscape. The festive evening offered an invaluable opportunity for vibrant networking and collaboration while spotlighting the exceptional accomplishments of the area's business community. The event officially honored the leading B2B companies and innovators highlighted in the magazine's September/October issue, underscoring their vital contributions to Westchester's economic growth and success.Levitt-Fuirst Insurance president Ken First sat down with Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone to discuss operating Westchester’s largest independent insurance brokerage. As a third-generation leader with an extensive corporate background before joining the family firm, First outlined how his 80-employee company relies entirely on referrals rather than heavy advertising to serve mid-sized businesses and high-risk industries like construction. He also shared insights on risk management—such as insurers using modern technology like drones and satellite imagery to inspect properties—and voiced his commitment to remaining independent amid widespread private-equity consolidation in the brokerage industry. 

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, 914INC. hosted its annual Best of Business Awards at the historic CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, bringing together Westchester’s top local leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to celebrate the region's thriving commercial landscape. The festive evening offered an invaluable opportunity for vibrant networking and collaboration while spotlighting the exceptional accomplishments of the area's business community. The event officially honored the leading B2B companies and innovators highlighted in the magazine's September/October issue, underscoring their vital contributions to Westchester's economic growth and success.Denine Timlin, president of D9 Permit Services, spoke with Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone about how her business simplifies the complex firearm licensing and permitting process across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Originating from her family's gun range and training school in Mount Vernon, Denine explained her role in guiding clients through required state safety courses and paperwork, notably pointing out that New York City now allows non-residents to apply for carry permits. She emphasized strict adherence to safety, proper home defense equipment, and the crucial need to address mental health over imposing restrictive laws on law-abiding citizens. 

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, 914INC. hosted its annual Best of Business Awards at the historic CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, bringing together Westchester’s top local leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to celebrate the region's thriving commercial landscape. The festive evening offered an invaluable opportunity for vibrant networking and collaboration while spotlighting the exceptional accomplishments of the area's business community. The event officially honored the leading B2B companies and innovators highlighted in the magazine's September/October issue, underscoring their vital contributions to Westchester's economic growth and success.HudCo co-founder Christina Cohen and general manager Samantha Barr joined Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone to discuss their 9,000-square-foot co-working and events space in Dobbs Ferry. They detailed how HudCo survived the pandemic by leaning into private event hosting and integrating on-site wellness providers, such as physical therapists and acupuncturists, to offer a balanced work-life environment. Barr also highlighted unique community additions like an in-house pop-up bookstore (Picture Book) and upcoming live entertainment events sponsored by local partners.

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, 914INC. hosted its annual Best of Business Awards at the historic CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, bringing together Westchester’s top local leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to celebrate the region's thriving commercial landscape. The festive evening offered an invaluable opportunity for vibrant networking and collaboration while spotlighting the exceptional accomplishments of the area's business community. The event officially honored the leading B2B companies and innovators highlighted in the magazine's September/October issue, underscoring their vital contributions to Westchester's economic growth and success.Brittney Hodgins, Director of Residential Services at Hope’s Door, spoke with Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone about the critical support her organization provides for domestic violence survivors. She shared her personal experience as a survivor and outlined Hope’s Door's comprehensive shelter and wrap-around services, which include transitional housing, job readiness, counseling, and children's activities. Hodgins also highlighted their 24/7 confidential hotline (888-438-8700) and text/chat support, encouraging anyone in need to reach out without fear. 

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, 914INC. hosted its annual Best of Business Awards at the historic CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, bringing together Westchester’s top local leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to celebrate the region's thriving commercial landscape. The festive evening offered an invaluable opportunity for vibrant networking and collaboration while spotlighting the exceptional accomplishments of the area's business community. The event officially honored the leading B2B companies and innovators highlighted in the magazine's September/October issue, underscoring their vital contributions to Westchester's economic growth and success.Sharc Creative President Andrew Castellano sat down with Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone to discuss his journey from terrestrial radio to pioneering on-hold messaging and audio marketing. Castellano reflected on how learning community-relationship building at WFAS guided him to found Sharc Creative 25 years ago, expanding over time into overhead music platforms, online radio, and podcasting. He emphasized the importance of staying ahead of tech trends—transitioning from cassettes to digital apps—and credited his long-term partnership with Vice President of Creative Services Jim Feldman for the company's continuous evolution. 

The 2026 Westfair Communications Women Innovators Awards brought together impactful female leaders redefining success across industries for a day dedicated to networking, leadership growth, and breaking barriers. During the gathering at The Water's Edge at Giovanni’s in Darien, CT, honorees sat down for live interviews with Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano. Their discussions centered on overcoming industry challenges, driving innovation, and the importance of fostering supportive networks to empower the next generation of women in business.Speaking with host Andrew Castellano, Patricia Stark, communication expert and creator of  "The Calmfidence Method," discussed her work which helps leaders maintain calm under pressure and project confidence when it matters most. She shared practical advice on overcoming social anxiety and public speaking fears through deep breathing, visualization, and self-hypnosis, stressing the importance of positive internal dialogue and reframing challenges as growth opportunities.

The 2026 Westfair Communications Women Innovators Awards brought together impactful female leaders redefining success across industries for a day dedicated to networking, leadership growth, and breaking barriers. During the gathering at The Water's Edge at Giovanni’s in Darien, CT, honorees sat down for live interviews with Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano. Their discussions centered on overcoming industry challenges, driving innovation, and the importance of fostering supportive networks to empower the next generation of women in business.In her interview with Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano, Melissa Alcruz, Chief Marketing Officer at Mr. Short Sale, detailed her organization's mission to protect families from the financial and emotional toll of property foreclosure. She explained how short sales offer homeowners a manageable alternative—rebuilding credit much faster and providing relocation assistance—while emphasizing that her team works to dismantle the stigma and mental stress associated with unexpected financial hardships. 

Westchester County Parks' Fall Vendor Village brought vibrant community energy to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla on Saturday, September 12th. Blessed with a fantastic, sunny fall day, attendees gathered against the scenic backdrop of the historic dam to enjoy live music while exploring a wide variety of pop-up booths featuring everything from local artisans, makers, and unique crafts to regional food vendors. Adding to the lively atmosphere, Westchester Talk Radio was on hand live at the event, interviewing several of the local vendors and giving them a platform to share their stories and showcase their unique products to the broader community.WTR host Andrew Castellano spoke with Siobhan Francis, founder of Sip & Saver, about her line of cold-pressed, fresh fruit beverages inspired by her family’s Caribbean heritage and her mother’s recipes. Siobhan explained the specialized humming-bird pressing process that preserves natural nutrients without added preservatives or concentrates. She highlighted popular offerings like the Pink Lady watermelon lemonade and Osintia’s limenade, sharing her entrepreneurial journey and encouragement for aspiring business owners.

Westchester County Parks' Fall Vendor Village brought vibrant community energy to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla on Saturday, September 12th. Blessed with a fantastic, sunny fall day, attendees gathered against the scenic backdrop of the historic dam to enjoy live music while exploring a wide variety of pop-up booths featuring everything from local artisans, makers, and unique crafts to regional food vendors. Adding to the lively atmosphere, Westchester Talk Radio was on hand live at the event, interviewing several of the local vendors and giving them a platform to share their stories and showcase their unique products to the broader community.WTR host Andrew Castellano sat down with Shaun Herrmann to discuss her dual roles managing Reid Castle Events at Manhattanville University and co-founding Herrmann's Honey. Shaun shared how her husband's beekeeping hobby blossomed into an active honey business featuring hives hosted right on campus. She provided insights into seasonal beekeeping, colony life cycles, and hive maintenance while also describing how Reid Castle serves as a scenic venue for weddings, corporate functions, and private events. 

Westchester County Parks' Fall Vendor Village brought vibrant community energy to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla on Saturday, September 12th. Blessed with a fantastic, sunny fall day, attendees gathered against the scenic backdrop of the historic dam to enjoy live music while exploring a wide variety of pop-up booths featuring everything from local artisans, makers, and unique crafts to regional food vendors. Adding to the lively atmosphere, Westchester Talk Radio was on hand live at the event, interviewing several of the local vendors and giving them a platform to share their stories and showcase their unique products to the broader community.WTR host Andrew Castellano interviewed Ken Wong, owner of Dragon Tech International, and his daughter Kayla Wong regarding their family-run business ventures. Ken detailed his core business in cybersecurity MSP services, addressing current global challenges like AI data leakage and standardizing corporate AI policies. Kayla then showcased Dragon Vault, a streetwear and fashion spin-off where the family curates and resells authentic clothing, shoes, and collectibles sourced directly from global brands and warehouses. 

Westchester County Parks' Fall Vendor Village brought vibrant community energy to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla on Saturday, September 12th. Blessed with a fantastic, sunny fall day, attendees gathered against the scenic backdrop of the historic dam to enjoy live music while exploring a wide variety of pop-up booths featuring everything from local artisans, makers, and unique crafts to regional food vendors. Adding to the lively atmosphere, Westchester Talk Radio was on hand live at the event, interviewing several of the local vendors and giving them a platform to share their stories and showcase their unique products to the broader community.WTR host Andrew Castellano spoke with Ashley Zielinski, the director of Lightbridge Academy’s Valhalla location, about their comprehensive early childhood education programs for children ranging from six weeks to five years old. Ashley discussed their curriculum, which incorporates sign language, Spanish, and age-appropriate lesson plans beyond basic childcare. She highlighted that the center operates year-round with open enrollment and emphasized their strong community presence and appreciation for their dedicated teaching staff. 

Relive the magic of outdoor cinema with the White Plains Hospital Screenings Under the Stars series at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. Nothing quite compared to the simple joy of watching a favorite film under the stars on a warm summer night, blending the enchantment of movies with the peaceful serenity of nature. Families and friends gathered with picnic blankets and plenty of snacks to enjoy these fun, free community evenings. Set against the stunning backdrop of Kensico Dam Plaza, the beloved series provided local residents with the perfect setting to relax, bond with loved ones, and make unforgettable summer memories together.Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano sat down with Manny Menjivar, the owner of K&S Catering, which was established in 2023 and named after his two children, Cadian and Sebastian. Menjivar discussed his journey from running a remodeling business called Handy Manny to launching a family-operated catering service and opening a full-service cafe located at 520 White Plains Road in Tarrytown. He outlined their diverse menu offerings, including daily soups, a salad bar, and grilled items, while also sharing their presence at local community gatherings, the White Plains Farmers Market, and upcoming seasonal markets. Manny expressed gratitude for the local support and highlighted how rewarding it is to operate the business alongside his family.

Relive the magic of outdoor cinema with the White Plains Hospital Screenings Under the Stars series at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. Nothing quite compared to the simple joy of watching a favorite film under the stars on a warm summer night, blending the enchantment of movies with the peaceful serenity of nature. Families and friends gathered with picnic blankets and plenty of snacks to enjoy these fun, free community evenings. Set against the stunning backdrop of Kensico Dam Plaza, the beloved series provided local residents with the perfect setting to relax, bond with loved ones, and make unforgettable summer memories together.Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano interviewed Nick Pereyra from Splash Car Wash in White Plains. Nick shared what customers can anticipate when visiting their 170 South Kensico Avenue location, highlighting their commitment to friendly service, efficient teamwork, and high-quality results. He explained their community outreach efforts at local events, where they offer promotions like discounted or free car washes to engage with residents. Nick also emphasized their hands-on approach to client service and five-star detailing services, reassuring listeners that despite the company's regional expansion across multiple states, their focus remains steadfast on personal customer care and community connection.

Relive the magic of outdoor cinema with the White Plains Hospital Screenings Under the Stars series at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. Nothing quite compared to the simple joy of watching a favorite film under the stars on a warm summer night, blending the enchantment of movies with the peaceful serenity of nature. Families and friends gathered with picnic blankets and plenty of snacks to enjoy these fun, free community evenings. Set against the stunning backdrop of Kensico Dam Plaza, the beloved series provided local residents with the perfect setting to relax, bond with loved ones, and make unforgettable summer memories together.Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano spoke with Kristen Alouisa, the Executive Director of the American Heart Association. During the interview, they highlighted the strong partnership between White Plains Hospital and the Heart Association, particularly through senior vice president Dawn French, who serves on the organization's board. She explained how easy it is to learn hands-only CPR in as little as 90 seconds, noting the organization’s goal to have at least one person trained in CPR in every household by 2030. Additionally, they discussed the importance of managing blood pressure, mitigating stress, getting quality sleep, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits to combat heart disease.

Jersey Shore Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano interviewed Carlo Castronovo, the owner of G’ZEPPS Old School Italian Pizza & More in Old Bridge, New Jersey. Carlo shared the history of his family business, which began when his parents immigrated from Sicily and opened a pizzeria in New Jersey. After briefly moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting, where he even landed a line on 90210, Castronovo returned to New Jersey in 2007 to take over the restaurant. The two discussed the business’s evolution, including its recent dining room expansion, adapting during COVID-19 by offering contactless car pick-ups, and the rebranding from "Giuseppe's" to "G’ZEPPS," a name inspired by local high school staff and the eatery's friendly mascot. TAKE A LISTEN!!