1. Give us a brief history of your company.
My business history dates back to 1962 when I opened my first retail clothing store on Holcombe Blvd. (across from the Shamrock Hilton) in Houston, TX. From this one 1200 sq ft store, I grew the business to 15 stores in Houston, New Orleans, and New York. I was fortunate enough to find key employees who supported my efforts. Today, I remain in the retail business as well as the real estate business.
Moving home to Lafayette, after being away 40 years, what I discovered was a challenge. Out of that challenge came my desire to improve the commercial viability of the Oil Center. With my son and daughter, we purchased two buildings. One 33,000 sq ft office building which we named Travis Technology Center. The other building was formally known as A La Carte. After a complete gutting and renovation, we were able to get three outstanding tenants and also keep and administer the leasing of the Palmetto Club. The Palmetto Club accommodates groups as little as 50 and wedding parties up to 300.
2. What would you tell the rest of Acadiana makes you special?
The Palmetto Club is the only gathering facility which invites caterers and provides a caterer’s kitchen to those who cater both large and small gatherings.
3. What are you most proud of?
The ability to be able to work with the Oil Center Association to help improve and revitalize all the great development taking place in our famous Oil Center.
4. Where do you see your business in 10 years? What are your plans for the future?
Fortunately, I have family members in Lafayette who share my interest to see our city prosper and grow. My hope is that I build a foundation that they can continue to accomplish this.
5. 1A is “Focused on Forward” – meaning we are taking an active role of improving the community we live in. Our members are Focused on Forward, too! – What does Focused on Forward mean to you? How is your company Focused on Forward?
My primary source of income is derived from my 35-year-old airport concession business and with that continued growth under the direction of my two children and grandchildren it is my hope they will use those financial resources to continue the investment cycle in the Lafayette community. Presently, my efforts are also focused on developing property on the south side of Lafayette where I grew up.