Energy Fitness survived the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to millions of dollars in federal loans and a $50,000 state grant — all of which were used to offset more than $4 million in losses. Now, as the St. James-based operator of gyms hopes to return to profitability for the first time in seven years, it faces an unexpected challenge: The state wants the grant money back, plus interest. Energy Fitness is among 101 beneficiaries of the COVID-19 Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program that were found ineligible for the relief. Seventeen are from Long Island. Read the full investigation at the link in bio. (Photos: Cindy Schultz, Thomas Hengge and James T. Madore) - - #newyork #longislandny #covid19 #smallbusiness