The Alternative Press

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ - Ana Galindo's new Allstate office is now open in New Providence, and the town is welcoming the veteran broker with open arms.

Galindo and her staff, with regional and state Allstate representatives and Borough Administrator Doug Marvin, cut the ribbon Thursday afternoon at the new office, located at 172 South Street in New Providence.

After a successful seven years in Union, where she started her agency, Galindo felt it was time for a change. She moved her office to the second floor of the South Street building, owned, built and shared by Carmen Torsiello of Torbilt Construction, who was on hand to help celebrate her grand opening and whom she thanked for her spacious, sunny office.

"Allstate's foundation is built on agents like Ana," said Bill Ballinger, president of Allstate New Jersey. "She gets involved in the community - that's our DNA. We aren't just at the end of a phone line or an email, we're here. We're involved."

Ballinger pointed out that like Galindo, who is on the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Union County, Allstate agents are always involved in the communities in which they work and live. He mentioned other areas of the country where agents are working to help those involved in natural disasters or other crises.

"If something happens, Ana is here, and she has all of Allstate behind her to help," Ballinger said.

Marvin congratulated Galindo on behalf of the mayor and borough council, saying they look forward to a proactive  partnership between her agency and the New Providence business community.

"New Providence is blessed to have an excellent working relationship with our business community, working on many projects to the benefit of our residents," he said. "The New Providence Business and Professional Association and the New Providence Downtown Improvement District work together to provide a variety of programs for our community. These efforts include the summer concert series, Independence Day celebration, 5K race as well as the Farmers Market and Street Fair.  None of these would be possible without the tremendous support of our business community."

Michelle Brugger, president of the New Providence Business and Professional Association, said she is happy to have the new agency in town.

"It's great to see new businesses like this opening their doors," Brugger said. "It's a sign of growth and positive change in our town. And I love seeing the Allstate hands logo lit up when I drive past at night."

During Thursday's grand opening, Galindo presented the Boys and Girls Club with a check for $1,000. Allstate contributed $500 and Galindo matched the amount.

"Ana is a classy lady," said Sal Dovi, chief operating officer of the club. "She's very community-minded and active."

Allstate offers a variety of insurance products, from auto to renter, and from health to life. For more information, call 908-464-0090 or visit the agency's website.