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WAFB to Feature Gafford Builders

Posted on 17 February 2012.

 

 

Paid Business Spotlight by Mia Freneaux
    Dream Smart: Homebuyer Edition, a nation-wide, regionally broadcasted show featuring premier builders, will showcase the work of Gafford Builders this Saturday, February 18th, at 11:00 a.m. on WAFB-CBS, Channel 9.  Gafford Builders, owned by Central resident Dwayne Gafford, was selected because of the company’s success.  The show will air an interview with Dwayne and several of his subcontractors, and give examples of his workmanship, including a tour of one of his houses.  
    Dwayne, who has been building since the 1980’s, is one of the premier builders working in Village Lakes and Burlington Lakes Subdivisions, and took part in the Lady of the Lake Children’s Mansion fundraiser last year.  After attending LSU, Dwayne built his first house by himself at the age of 21.   Drawing on experience he received working for his father’s Industrial Insulation company, and later with his own carpentry and framing business, Dwayne then went into the construction business full time.  “We are a true Design/Build company, meaning I personally design to my clientele’s specifications, then construct it from the ground up,” Dwayne explains.  “We are also a certified Energy Star Builder.”
    State licensed in both Commercial and Residential Construction and a member of the Capital Region Builders Association, Dwayne is also on the board for the BRCC Construction Management Program.  Committed to shopping Central first, Dwayne purchases materials locally from Pat’s Home Center and uses local businesses whenever possible.  “I look for experience and attention to detail in a subcontractor.  I have to be able to trust their work.  I’ve been working with companies like Central Heating and Air, Cajun Plumbing, and Malane Landry of Signature Floors for years.”  At present constructing 7 residences, Dwayne says his company experienced one of their best years ever last year.  He attributes this to his commitment to “Integrity First, Quality Throughout.”
    Dwayne is also committed to making the process pleasant for his clients.  “It can be overwhelming with all the decisions involved.  It’s the biggest investment of someone’s life. My goal is to make it fun and simple for my clients.  I pride myself on bringing in a project on time and on budget.”
    For Dwayne and his wife Dana, a realtor with Fruge Realty, it is more than a business.  They will not build what they are not proud to put their name on.  Attention to every detail; including aspects that their clients may never know are there, is Gafford Builders’ guiding principal. “To me, I sleep at night because I know it’s done right,” Dwayne affirms, “I build for all my clientele exactly the same as if it were my own house.” Gafford Builders, Inc. 261-6185, gaffordbuilders.com.
 

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Central Economic Development Foundation Meeting Wednesday

Posted on 13 February 2012.

 

Central Economic Development Foundation will be having its next meeting February 16th at 5 pm in Central City Hall. We will be holding our Board elections and would love to have you as a member and have your vote.
 
For any questions about the organization and to download a membership form you can visit www.central economicdevelopment.org.

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B&K Bank – A Long History of Service to its Customers

Posted on 09 February 2012.

 Left to right: Courtney Slagle, receptionist, Ritha Milton, Loan Officer, Dee Donaldson, Sr. Vice President, Mortgage Division Manager, Cathy Talley, Loan Processor

Paid Business Spotlight by Mia Freneaux
 
    Britton and Koontz Bank (B&K) was founded in 1836 by William and Audley Britton and George Koontz in Natchez, MS, and is one of the oldest financial institutions in the country. It’s also one of the few institutions to retain the name of its original founders.   B&K‘s prudent policy has carried it through history from 1836 into the 21st century with 8 branches down the Mississippi River corridor from Vicksburg to Baton Rouge.   B&K Bank has grown even in the midst of this recession, recently opening its newest Loan Production Office in Central.  Having just moved from its previous location on Greenwell Springs Road,  B&K is now open in the newly-built Magnolia Square Office complex.  
    Ritha Milton, B&K’s mortgage originator, is overseeing the Mortgage Loan Production Office in Central.  Ritha has over 30 years of experience in the mortgage field, and joined the B&K team in 2010.  A 30 year resident of Central, Ritha is enjoying working close to home.  She is proud of B&K’s service record.  “B&K has no intention of changing the way we’ve done business all these years: concentrating on our customers.  When you call us, you get real people on the phone!”  B&K focusses on the customer’s convenience and preferences.  Full service banking is offered at B&K’s two locations on Bluebonnet Blvd and in Towne Center, while the new office at Magnolia Square is focused the mortgage needs of the Central area. Ritha makes it her mission to help guide her customers through the maze that is house purchasing. “It’s one of the most stressful times, a big interruption in someone’s life.  I make sure that the stress level is diminished as much as possible.”  B&K processes all loan applications at the Bluebonnet Oaks location, unlike larger entities, which send everything to a central processing center.  “This enables us to process loans quickly and efficiently,” Ritha says. “We do what it takes to make it happen.”  
    B&K avoided the recent mortgage crisis because they “didn’t overextend themselves,” Ritha affirms. “We avoided the pitfalls other banks experienced.  We pride ourselves in prudent underwriting.”  She also emphasizes that there is no better time to buy a home than now. Unlike what the national media is reporting, Ritha says, “You don’t have to have an 800 credit score and 20% down payment. There are other options, and B&K is lending!  There are good programs out there for first time homeowners.  Interest rates are so low and there’s never been a better time to buy!”  Ritha mentioned the Rural Development Financing available through the USDA.  “Most of Central is eligible for this wonderful program.“
    B&K has Baton Rouge locations at 8810 Bluebonnet Blvd., 4703 Bluebonnet in the Oaks at Bluebonnet Park, 7415 Corporate Blvd. in Towne Center behind BoneFish Grill, and their newest mortgage-focused Loan Production Office at 13440 Magnolia Square Drive, Ste A.in Central.   Phone 761-2546 Monday through Friday 9 to 5.
 

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DLFCU & Magnolia Square Businesses Celebrate Ribbon Cuttings

Posted on 03 February 2012.

Photos by Michael Spangler

 

 Steve Rabalais of Rabalais Homes has opened his new office at Magnolia Square.

 Mia Townsend of Wall Decor & More Interiors cut the ribbon on Thursday night.

 Ritha Milton of B&K Bank takes the scissors for the B&K Grand Opening.

 Ritha Milton of B&K Bank takes the scissors for the B&K Grand Opening.

 Brennan Bourg of Bourg Insurance celebrates the opening of his office.

 Daniel Newman of Edward Jones Investments cuts the ribbon at the new location.

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Central Office Park Businesses Hold Ribbon Cuttings with Chamber

Posted on 03 February 2012.

 

Photos by Michael Spangler
 
Central Office Park is located at 12628 Hooper Road between Sullivan & Joor.
 
 Dick Shaffett cuts the ribbon for Central Office Park.
 
 Walton J. Barnes, II & Rahim Smith, Attorney cut the ribbon 
at the office of Walton J. Barnes, II, APLC.
 
 The Looking Glass has recently opened as Central’s newest salon.
 
 Brockwell Bone cuts the ribbon for Bone Marketing.
 
 
 Wayne Clark of Wayne Clark Realty celebrates their opening on Hooper.
 
Chris Bone cuts the ribbon for ABC Print, Copy & Scan, located in Bone Marketing. 
 

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Rabalais Homes: Dreams Within Reach

Posted on 27 January 2012.

 

 Owner Steve Rabalais (right) with his assistant Rebecca Pihl
 
 
Paid Business Spotlight by Mia Freneaux
    Everyone’s wish is to own a beautiful, comfortable, affordable home with personalized amenities and signature decor. Enter Rabalais Homes, LLC, one of Baton Rouge Business Report’s Top Twenty Builders for three years.  With twenty-plus years’ experience, owner and Central resident Steve Rabalais is uniquely equipped to fulfill his clients’ wishes.  Steve and his assistant Rebecca Pihl meet with their client in the beautifully appointed, state of the art Conference Room, “the heart of the business”, as Steve says, and with the help of their flat screen monitor, show the variety of floorplans available.  From stock plans for square footage from thirteen hundred to seven thousand square feet, to custom plans, each client’s tastes and needs are considered and implemented into the final plan.  Steve can even show clients real life examples of those floorplans.  His noted style demands top of the line materials: marble, granite, and hardwoods; and attention to detail, seen in their perfectly mitred crown molding, built in shelving, and custom features such as stained glass, faux painting effects, and custom cabinetry. The services of a professional interior designer are included in the building package.  Outdoor living spaces also earn attention, from outdoor kitchens and courtyards to water features that include flames. His demand for excellence has earned him the Capital Region Builders Association Parade of Homes “Best Overall” Award for the past two years.  His great reputation is also built in part on the solid professionals he has assembled to subcontract for him.  “The sky’s the limit,” Steve asserts, “Whatever you wish, we can make come true.” 
    Rabalais Homes builds thirty to forty homes a year, and is a licensed commercial and residential contractor.  They are members of the National Association of Home Builders, the Louisiana Home Builders Association, the Capital Region Builders Association, and the Central Chamber of Commerce.  They have built homes in the $170-210,000 range in Burlington Lakes, from $220-320,000 in both Village Lakes and Wisteria Lakes, and $280,000 up in the Village at Magnolia Square.  They also participated in the construction of the Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital Mansion in 2011. While they are presently engaged in constructing 15 homes, their latest project involves new retail space at Magnolia Square.  This complex will be located next to the present commercial space and includes a restaurant with a wine shop and a coffee shop, and a spa and salon.  Two more retail spaces will be available, along with three condos which will be built above the shopping area, much like Perkins Rowe.  Despite national economic woes and real estate troubles, Rabalais Homes has proven its reputation is justified by increasing their business. “We’ve never slowed down, because we offer a good product at a good price,” Steve says.  “There are lots of people moving here, because of Central’s great schools and great community.”  Steve also credits his success to his wife, Stephanie, owner of Beau Ideal Salon here in Central.  “I’d like to thank her for all of her support.  No matter how late the job requires me to work, she is always understanding.  I couldn’t do it without her.”
    Make an appointment and see examples of Steve’s building expertise at Rabalais Homes’ new location: 13440 Magnolia Square Drive, Suite C . Call Rebecca at 262-4139 or 931-9478 for more information or go to their website at www.rabalaishomes.com.

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Ribbon Cutting at Central Office Park Tomorrow

Posted on 26 January 2012.

 

You are cordially invited to celebrate the Ribbon Cutting of our new location on January 27 at Central Office Park and enjoy lunch from 11:30a.m. to 1p.m.
 
Ribbon Cuttings will be at 12 noon for Central Office Park, Walton J. Barnes, II, Bone Marketing, ABC Print Copy Scan, Wayne Clark Realty and the Looking Glass Beauty Lounge.
Coffee, lunch & refreshments served
 
HOST: Walton J. Barnes, II, APLC & Rahim Smith, Attorney
 
WHERE: Central Office Park 12628 Hooper Road, Suite A, Central, LA 70818

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Dow Louisiana Federal Credit Union hosts a Grand Opening Celebration in Central, LA

Posted on 24 January 2012.

 

  

 

Dow Louisiana Federal Credit Union (DLFCU) hosted a Grand Opening Celebration at their newest location in Central, LA. The after hours celebration was kicked off with a ribbon cutting ceremony conducted by the Central Chamber of Commerce. “We are so excited to be a part of the Central community. This community has tremendous growth potential in the future and we are proud to be a part of that. The support we have received from the community, local businesses, councilmen and the Chamber has been wonderful. We look forward to contributing to the success of this community for many years to come,” said Herman Stevenson, Jr., Vice President of Operations. 

Several local dignitaries were in attendance of the night’s events, including Mayor of Central Shelton “Mac” Watts, Ron Erickson, Central Chamber President/CEO and Mike Fault, Central Community School System’s Superintendent. “It is wonderful to see the support the community of Central has toward DLFCU. We truly feel welcomed and proud to be a part of this community. As a community chartered credit union, we are committed to Central and becoming a trusted financial partner to all who reside in this prosperous community,” added Deede Sanford, Branch Manager for DLFCU’s Central location.

DLFCU’s Central location is located at 10513 Sullivan Road, Central, LA. Membership is open to all residents in Baton Rouge and its surrounding areas. The hours of operation are 7:30am – 7:30pm, Monday through Friday and 9:00am – 5:00pm on Saturdays.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Edward Jones – A Foundation of Trust

Posted on 20 January 2012.

 

    Since 1922, Edward Jones Investments has been holding to its standard: good relationships with clients are paramount.  “Personal interaction with clients is what sets Edward Jones apart from other investment firms,” says Financial Advisor Daniel Newman.  It is one of the reasons he decided to work for the firm that Fortune Magazine calls a best place to work.  After graduating with a minor in Business from Southeastern University, Daniel went through the intensive, year long training Edward Jones requires of its financial advisors.  It is the premier training program in the industry.  Daniel had to pass examinations to acquire his Securities License, his Securities Law License, and his Life and Health Insurance License.  “It’s harder to get hired by Edward Jones than it is to get into Harvard,” Daniel says.  He is also required to take 16 hours of Continuing Education each year to stay on the cutting edge of investment policies.  All of this training and experience gives Daniel the qualifications needed to take on the task of providing good, solid financial advice for his clientele. 
    Edward Jones is a partnership, owned by the associates who contribute to the firm’s success.  “We don’t have stockholders, a Board of Directors, anyone that we have to answer to, so everything we do is geared toward what is best for our client,” Daniel shares.  “Our sole focus is on our  client’s financial goals and how to best meet them.”  Branch offices are staffed by one financial advisor and one branch office administrator.  “Every time our clients walk through our door, they’re seeing the same people who are intimately knowledgeable about their situation,” Daniel notes.  Branch Office Administrator Heather Rosenthal has been with Edward Jones since 2009.  She has also undergone a year of training, and had two years of experience in the field before joining Edward Jones.  “I am responsible for client service.  I answer our clients’ questions, provide information on client statements, and process requests for incoming and outgoing funds.”  Heather also enjoys the personal interaction that comes with working for Edward Jones.  “We’ve had clients bring us vegetables from their gardens, or share stories about their grandkids.  It’s what Edward Jones is all about.”
    When a client comes in to see Daniel, he assesses their situation and learns their financial goals.  “Most people don’t have a high degree of knowledge in the area of investments,” Daniel says, “With today’s current economic conditions, there’s lots of uncertainty.  We are here to provide a knowledgeable second opinion for people to make sure they’re on track to reach their goals.”   Edward Jones is a full service investment firm.  Advice on any financial investment is readily available, whether it be concerning Roth IRA’s, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities, or life insurance.  “No one investment fits every person’s needs,” Daniel shares, “Everyone’s needs and goals are different.  We tailor investment advice to achieve those goals.  Whether it concerns retirement planning, education planning, estate planning or wealth transfer, we have an answer that is right for our client.”  Daniel will do a free investment review for his clientele.
    Edward Jones has the infrastructure and knowledge for their clients to be able to trust their financial future to them.  “There’s security in knowing a Fortune 100 best company is standing behind you.  Edward Jones has been number one in customer satisfaction for the past three years running, and we’re always in the top 2-3.  Our experience, knowledge, and stability give our clients confidence.”  Come see Daniel and Heather at their new location at 13440 Magnolia Square Drive, Ste B.  Or call them and set up an appointment, 261-8262.  Edward Jones Investments, hours Monday -Friday 8-4:30, after hours appointments available on request. 

 

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Facilities/Equipment Meeting Time Change

Posted on 19 January 2012.

 

The time of the committee meeting has changed. The meeting will now start at 7:00 P.M. The revised agenda with the time change is attached.

The Facilities/Equipment Committee will meet on Thursday, January 19, 2012 at the City Hall Office, located at 13421 Hooper Road, Suite 7, Central, LA at 7:00 p.m.  The meeting has been called to consider the following agenda items:

  1. To consider a request by area veterans for use of a designated portion of school system property to be used to establish a Veteran’s Memorial and Educational Resource for use by the community and school children. (Requested by Mr. Faulk, presented by Mr. Charles Hinton)

2) To consider a request to grant the staff permission to draw up

specifications, advertise for bids, evaluate bids and recommend

awarding a contract for drainage improvements at Wildcat

Stadium. (Requested by Mr. Faulk, presented by Mr. Faulk)

3) To consider a request from Arkel/Anderson of a no cost change order to formally align the completion of the Central Schools

Sitework Package with the Building Package, with both ending

on March 29, 2012. (Requested by Mr. Faulk, presented by

Arkel/Anderson)

 

 

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