Community Corner

Westhampton Beach Business Owner Boxes For a Cause

Edward Mullally is putting on boxing gloves for Long Island's Fight for Charity.

Looking to give back and create a buzz for his business, a local business owner has entered the Long Island's Fight for Charity event March 5 at the Hilton in Melville.

Edward F Mullally IV, owner of Strong Arm Overhead Doors of Westhampton Beach, said at first he didn't plan on entering the boxing challenge until his girlfriend and cousin started kicking him under the table at networking event where it was discussed.

"Now, it's pretty much put up or shut up," he said with a laugh.

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Mullally, 31, says he is no stranger to boxing. Growing up with his mother and brother in Patchogue, he took boxing lessons at Atlantic Boxing in Shirley.

But, that was also years ago and the economic downturn has gotten the better of him — he said he has put on his fair share of "recession weight."

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Weighting 185, Mullally says he hopes to shed some 15 pounds before he hits the center ring.  He's already started running the track each morning and begins training at a St. James boxing gym this week.

Mullally said he has also always remained active through work. Since graduating high school, he has worked odd jobs, from his uncle's garage door business to towing cars to snow removal. He toyed with the idea of joining the Navy, but felt it would be hard on his mother.

It was three years ago, after meeting his girlfriend, Mia Cartalemi, that he decided to settle down and open his own business in Westhampton Beach.

"I am trying to maintain my own individuality," he said. "I was tired of having tape measures thrown at me."

And like many struggling, new businesses, Mullally said he is willing to take some risks to boost businesses, even if that means throwing or taking few punches.

Mullally vows to "turn some heads" at the boxing event, which will feature 15 boxers and gives back to three charities, The Genesis School, Long Island Community Chest and the National Foundation for Human Potential.

To donate in Mullally's name, visit Long Island Fight for Charity.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 


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