By Larry Sparks
Thank you to all who joined us April 5 at our monthly meeting at Grace Community Church. This well-attended meeting began with engaging conversation and networking over breakfast. The plenary session began about 7:30, when our president, Michael Lordino, called us to order. The delicious breakfast was brought by Dan Lanotte of Falcon Personal Security.
Dan, as breakfast sponsor, spoke for 10 minutes about his business. He brought to our attention the issue of home invasions. He is offering a class that discusses proactive steps to protect yourself and to advise your neighbors.
Board Vice President Joe Graff, our Director of Membership, reported that we have gained 10 members since the first of the year. He also reported on the vigorous activity on the websites of our members through our site. Joe helps us appreciate the growth being experienced in our community; and, as a result, in our chamber.
The main presentation of the morning came from Randy Rabalais of Cricket Roofing & Exteriors, LLC. Randy provided a very informative presentation on his business, his industry and the issues faced by homeowners in our community. The name of his business comes from a roofing term given to the triangular structures designed to divert water away from chimneys and other areas where water can collect. Randy’s approach to everyone is to advise them from his experience as a consumer and a homeowner.
Randy has built a reputation for being an honest and reliable tradesman. He does not come out to sell a roof. He comes on site to evaluate conditions and make recommendations. During his informative presentation, we learned that there are solutions to issues. These may involve repair or replacement. Of particular interest to those assembled was the advice to carefully consider contractors, conditions and coverage. He recommended that your contractor be local and come with references and adequate insurance. For conditions of the roof, he advised regular inspections and that the materials used be in line with your timeline in the house. Finally, he recommended a careful conversation with your insurance agent. Many companies are going to percentage deductibles. One should check to see if a flat deductible for covered perils is available. Additionally, in your review, look into ordinance or law coverage that can pay for bringing your home up to code after a loss. Your home is one of your biggest investments and should be protected.
Business After Hours this month will be Wednesday, April 19, at Red’s American Grill.
Ribbon cutting
Les Schwab Tire Center in Falcon had its grand opening celebration April 21 and 22. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Eastern Plains Chamber of Commerce was April 21. Guests enjoyed a barbecue and cookies, local gift card giveaways and prizes from the Falcon high school football team. On Saturday, they also had
a taco truck, bouncy house and free car washes from the Falcon high school baseball team. Located at 7105 Old Meridian Road, the new Les Schwab Tire Center offers legendary service on all your car’s needs, including alignments, brakes, shocks, batteries, lift kits, oil changes, and of course tires.
Caption for ribbon cutting: Kolton Klein, the manager of the Les Schwab Tire Center in Falcon, cuts the ribbon at the grand opening celebration.
Photo by Christel Blaylock