Aviation Mall has announced the inclusion of 518 Grapplers, a facility offering wrestling programs for area youth.
Jen Bromley, owner of 518 Grapplers, explains the evolution of their wrestling facility: “Our journey started in 2020 with wrestling practices in our basement with Head Coach Heath Bromley. As interest grew, we launched the Queensbury Grapplers, an off-season wrestling program through Queensbury Parks and Recreation. This initiative, catering to students from 1st to 12th grade, complemented the in-season “Mat Rats” youth wrestling program for grades K-6. Due to the limited availability of school facilities, which were often occupied by other sports, concerts, plays, and school activities, we recognized the need to create our own space to accommodate the growing interest in wrestling,” she said.
“The Queensbury Grapplers program quickly became a hub for young athletes from surrounding areas, including Warrensburg and Glens Falls, who shared our passion for expanding local wrestling opportunities. Our primary goal is to provide year-round wrestling opportunities without the need for long commutes, as the nearest off-season wrestling programs are in Malta, which was not feasible for many families. By offering flexible options such as monthly dues and drop-in rates, we made off-season training more accessible and affordable for parents,” she concluded.
518 Grapplers is located next to the former Sears space in the mall. For more information, email 518grapplers@gmail.com.
* * *
The Fall 2024 SEED Program is now accepting applications.
The SEED Loan Program is a character-based loan fund developed in partnership between Broadview Federal Credit Union and the University at Albany’s Small Business Development Center and School of Business. The program provides 10 weeks of entrepreneurial training after which the participant is eligible to pitch for a character-based loan of up to $35,000.
.All accepted participants are required to participate in 11 weeks of training prior to their loan pitch. The training classes include business skill development, business plan development, and peer support network.
The Fall 2024 program is planned to be virtually via the Zoom platform. Consistent access to a computer is strongly recommended for all participants.
Following the training classes, each of the participants will pitch their concept to the loan committee for funding consideration. The loan decision is based on the character of the application and the overall business concept.
Throughout the program participants are supported by a dedicated business advisor from the Small Business Development Center, a dedicated MBA consultant to assist them in developing their business model and an entrepreneurship professor from the University at Albany’s School of Business.
* * *
The Park Theater Foundation is presenting its free Summer Series Concerts at the Crandall Park Bandshell each Friday evening (7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.) until August 2.
Friday, 07/26 – Soggy Po’ Boys
Friday, 08/02 – Angelina Valente
There will be a rotating cast of local food trucks located on-site throughout the series offering a variety of small plates and beverages that will be available for purchase each evening.
Rain Location: The Park Theater (14 Park Street, Glens Falls.)
For more information, visit our website at parktheatergf.com.
* * *
Upstate Agency, LLC, part of the Arrow Family of Companies, has announced the acquisition of select assets of A&B Agency, Inc., an employee benefits insurance solutions provider located in southern Albany County.
The strategic partnership aligns with Upstate’s core business units, further enhancing its employee benefits solutions and expanding its geographic reach in the Capital Region and south.
“This partnership represents more than a business transaction; it’s a union of shared values, vision and passion,” said Douglas Thorn, President and CEO of Upstate Agency. “Having worked with owners Keith and Jennifer MacTavish in the past, I’m confident they’ll bring great expertise to our agency while continuing to serve their valued clients.”
Based in South Glens Falls, Upstate specializes in personal, commercial and employee benefits insurance solutions with a coverage area spanning from Albany to Plattsburgh. In terms of revenue, Upstate Agency currently ranks sixth in Employee Benefits and fifth for Property & Casualty in the Capital Region as compiled by the Albany Business Review.
Dave DeMarco, President and CEO of Arrow Financial Corporation and parent company of Upstate, said, “This strategic growth opportunity will enhance Upstate’s reputation as an experienced group of local agents who have their clients’ best interests at heart. With a solid base of insurance operations in the Capital Region, we are excited to expand farther south and showcase our consultative approach.”
Keith and Jennifer MacTavish, owners of A&B Agency, Inc., also expressed their enthusiasm by stating, “We are excited about this opportunity to further enhance employee benefits insurance solutions. We look forward to being a part of Upstate Agency and the Arrow Family of Companies.”