Warwick business notebook: Let the sunshine in ...

WARWICK - If you were not too happy with the temperature of your pool last season, Patrick Gallagher, owner of Gallagher Solar Thermal, has a solution that will make swimming more comfortable this summer without doubling your propane or electrical bill. Pools do not qualify for the huge tax credits that his home hot water customers receive but, he explained, the overall savings more than make up for the installation of a solar system, which will eventually pay for itself. And, he added, you can enjoy your pool both earlier and later in the season. “In some cases,” said Gallagher, “It works out to an 18 per cent return on your investment.” Those who don’t have a pool or do not mind swimming in cold water might consider installing a solar system for other hot water needs. That’s when federal and New York State tax breaks, which expire at the end of the year, kick in to save you, in some cases, more than half the initial cost of the solar hot water installation. If you want all the facts, Gallagher, who lives in Warwick his wife Amy and three children ages 14 to 18, has a computer program, developed by the Canadian government and using data from NASA, that will give you a complete financial summary. The inputs include weather data for the local area, the type of fuel you use, the efficiency of your furnace, maintenance and availability of tax credits. Gallagher likes to stay on the conservative side when estimating your savings but even then, the program usually shows that, in a relatively short period, the cost of installing a solar system will be recaptured and will begin earning thousands of dollars in fuel savings. There are also other benefits besides saving money. “Energy independence,” said Gallagher, “helps improve our environment. And a solar hot water heating system should also increase the value of your home.” Unlike solar systems that generate electricity, the solar hot water panels produce more energy and require less roof space. Gallagher has worked with very large systems but in most cases, he explained, a couple of panels may be sufficient. Gallagher will be happy to come to your home, free of charge, with his lap top computer, to evaluate the practicality of a solar installation and an estimate of savings. For additional information call 258-0749 or visit solarthermalsolution.com New management at Curves For about five years, Curves of Warwick, 25 Elm St. in Mitchel Corners Plaza, has been offering women an opportunity for a 30-minute workout. As of Jan. 23, Angela Luberts and Maria Porteus became the new owners of the well-established fitness center. And, effective this month, Curves will now be open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday hours are from 8 a.m. to noon. Luberts, her husband, Kenny, and son Kenny Jr., 8, and Porteus and her husband, Jerry, live in the area. Although this is their first retail venture, both partners were required to complete an extensive course in fitness training and nutrition at Curves International headquarters in Waco, Texas. According to the company, the cardiovascular and weight training program, designed exclusively for women, has proven to reduce the dangers of osteoporosis and Type II Diabetes. “I was in this program before I became an owner,” said Luberts. “I loved it and I was inspired to help other women.” For many women, the advantage of the Curves program is that the workout, which involves moving in a circle from one exercise machine to the next, is pleasant, varied, set to music and limited to 30 minutes. “Many of the other Curves’ facilities use eight machines and require participants to make three full circuits,” said Porteus. “We have 12 machines designed to target every muscle and that offers more variety and only two circuits. Curves offers a 30-minute complete workout especially designed for women. It’s fast, fun and safe.” Since taking over the operation, the new owners have demonstrated that Curves of Warwick is a good neighbor. The company, for example, recently completed a program to collect food for the Warwick Ecumenical Council’s Food Pantry. “We received a warm welcome from the community,” said Luberts, “and we are happy to support community programs.” Curves of Warwick offers a free figure analysis and introductory tour. For additional information or to schedule an appointment call 986-1700. News from the Merchants’ Guild It’s that time again. The Warwick Merchants Guild met on Tuesday evening, March 6, and committee members are now busy planning for the biggest and best Springfest to date. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 28, or, in case of rain, April 29. This year’s Springfest will be a true celebration of spring with an emphasis on the home and garden. More to follow. Sad news Anthony and Deborah Blomfield, owners of Port of Call Home Furnishings are currently holding a “Going out of Business Sale.” In addition to their fine furniture and accessories, the owners have been strong supporters of merchant events and the artists’ community. More to follow.