FACES COMMUNITY OF OUR
MEET CAPITAL REGION DIFFERENCE-MAKERS
RAISING THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY BY POURING TIME, MONEY AND PASSION INTO THEIR WORK AND OUR PEOPLE.
FRIENDS OF THE CAPITOL PARK MUSEUM
THE CAPITOL PARK MUSEUM is Louisiana’s flagship state museum and Baton Rouge’s hidden gem — uniquely dedicated to telling the full story of the state’s history, culture, industry, and people. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s the only museum in the state to offer such a comprehensive lens on Louisiana, from its Indigenous origins to present-
day cultural contributions. The Friends of the Capitol Park Museum, a nonprofit support organization, plays a vital role in expanding the museum’s impact through fundraising, event programming, and community engagement. Whether it’s a free lunchtime lecture, a family festival, or a major gala fundraiser, the museum serves as a hub of cultural connection.
“Enhancing quality of life in the Capital Region by offering accessible educational experiences, hosting vibrant public events, and supporting local partnerships that highlight Louisiana’s rich diversity.”
FACES OF CULTURE
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Friends of the Capitol Park Museum
President Griffin Landry
PHOTO BY COLLIN RICHIE
CUSTOM SECURITY SYSTEMS
CUSTOM SECURITY SYSTEMS, Inc., takes its responsibility to protect the Greater Baton Rouge community seriously— because this is where their families live, too. For nearly half a century, the locally owned, second-generation company has provided state-of-the-art security, fire, video, and access control solutions for homes and businesses. Whether securing a residence or a large commercial facility, the Custom team brings the same level of care
and responsibility to every project, with 24/7 support. When you call Custom Security Systems, you’ll never get an answering service or recording—you’ll always speak to a real, local team member. By helping deter crime, detect fire hazards early, and support those working to improve lives in the community, Custom Security Systems plays a vital role in enhancing safety and quality of life in the Capital Region.
“Providing advanced, dependable security and fire detection solutions that help keep our neighbors safe.”
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Co-owners Jeanine H. Anderson, left, and Brittany H. Relle
PHOTO BY ASHLEE BERGERON / STUDIOC323.COM
BRECHEEN PIPE & STEEL
FACES OF INDUSTRY
BRECHEEN PIPE & STEEL has been a leading Louisiana wholesale pipe and metal products supplier and stocker of galvanized materials for nearly half a century. BPS is a proud longtime member of the Associated Builders and Contactors-Pelican Chapter and a National Women’s Business Enterprise, certifying that the company is womanowned, operated and controlled by Danielle Brecheen, whose father founded the company in 1980. That family history is the foundation for one of the company’s most important community services: its commitment to promote women in a historically male-dominated industry. “Because
“Delivering
of the hardships and challenges I faced early in my career,” Brecheen explains, “I wanted to help more women move into industrial sales and ultimately into leadership positions where they can learn from my experiences.” Its commitment to equal opportunity has helped Brecheen compete with much larger companies by supplying those specialty items that others don’t, and doing it more quickly, efficiently and cost effectively. “When you’re small and trying to compete with huge multi-million-dollar conglomerates,” Brecheen says, “you must focus on providing a good product, good service and competitive pricing.”
quality steel to clients while creating career opportunities— regardless of gender—in a very competitive industry.”
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Owner and President Danielle Brecheen surrounded by her team at Brecheen Pipe & Steel’s Port Allen base of operations
IN LOVING ARMS PEDIATRIC DAY HEALTH CENTER
FACES OF WELLNESS
IN LOVING ARMS Healthcare for Kids is a state-of-the-art pediatric day health center (aka medical daycare) devoted to nurturing children with complex medical needs in a safe, loving and developmentally enriched environment. Its multidisciplinary team of skilled nurses, therapists, and educational professionals develops individualized care plans that support each child’s health and growth. Through early intervention programs, physical and occupational therapy, daily medical oversight, and safe, reliable daily transportation, In Loving Arms strives to improve longterm outcomes and enhance quality of life for the children
in its care and their families. President and CEO Renita Williams Thomas, MSN-Ed, RN, is the mother of a formerly medically fragile daughter and a registered pediatric nurse whose commitment to this mission runs deep and personal. She understands the emotional and practical challenges families face and is passionate about creating a space where children are medically supported, genuinely loved and celebrated. Located in the northern part of the Capital Region, In Loving Arms offers parents and guardians peace of mind by serving as both a healthcare provider and a haven of healing, hope and heart.
“Providing compassionate, specialized daytime medical care that empowers children with complex health needs to thrive while supporting their families and strengthening the local community.”
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In Loving Arms President and CEO Renita Williams Thomas, MSN-Ed, RN
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
HOME BANK
HOME BANK is a Louisiana-based bank that is committed to serving the needs of its communities. The company has earned its reputation as trusted financial partners for families and businesses across Louisiana, Natchez and the Greater Houston area, because its bankers put customers first. It’s part of their culture, and it’s what sets them apart. Home Bank is focused on
integrity, innovation, and a commitment to providing exceptional service. At Home Bank, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and bankers who take the time to understand your needs and goals. They invite you to visit any of their four Baton Rouge locations to find out why more people are coming home, to Home Bank . Home Bank is Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.
“At
Home Bank, we are committed to serving the financial needs of Baton Rouge families and businesses.”
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Members of the Home Bank Baton Rouge leadership team
PHOTO BY SEAN GASSER
FRESHTER HEALTHY PREPARED MEALS
FRESHTER is a meal prep company that focuses on maintaining a large selection of a wide variety of pre-portioned meals. Owners Tan Nguyen, John Pham and Vinh Tran focus on health, affordability and convenience for their customers. Their coolers are divided into lifestyle categories such as active lifestyle meals with higher carbs; weight-loss and cardio health meals with lower carb, sodium and calorie counts;
gluten-free and dairy-free meals for people with special dietary restrictions, and more. All the meals contain macronutrients. The business originated to help people making lifestyle changes overcome the sometimes overwhelming challenge of changing their diet. Freshter eliminates the most common sources of frustration by choosing the healthy ingredients, cooking the meals, weighing out the portions, and reducing the cost.
“Balancing out the fast-food industry by creating healthier alternatives, so people can make better food choices on a daily basis.”
FACES OF WELLNESS
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From left: Freshter owners John Pham, Tan Nguyen and Vinh Tran PHOTO BY CATHERINE CRAWFORD
TANGERINE
TANGERINE IS MORE than just a clothing store. It’s a unique experience where young females get to come and be authentically themselves. They get to laugh and strike a pose on the runway, voice their opinions, accessorize all the fine details and find the perfect pieces for every occasion life offers. Tangerine cultivates an environment that is not about simply purchasing a piece of clothing. It’s about finding clothing, shoes and accessories that boost a tween’s confidence.
Tangerine has been a staple in the Baton Rouge community since 2011. New owner Kayla Rush and her team took over in January and are proud to continue the legacy, the laughs and the fond memories for family members and daughters alike. They hope you’ll stop by and allow them to help you conquer life’s moments—from milestone events like cotillion, school dances and holiday traditions to everyday outings like shopping with the girls, heading to a birthday party or cheering on the Tigers.
“A place where young girls get to find outfits and accessories that make them confident and proud to be authentically themselves.”
FACES OF SMALL BUSINESS
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Tangerine Manager
Kate Callicott, left, and Owner Kayla Rush
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
FORD PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
FACES OF WELLNESS
FORD PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY is a family business of plastic surgeons born and raised in Baton Rouge who have made their careers supporting and caring for women in the Capital Region. After an esteemed 30+ year career as the first board certified female plastic surgeon in Louisiana, Dr. Ann Ford Reilley came out of retirement to assist her daughter, Dr. Kate Ford Chiasson, open a new practice that would bring concierge-level service in a private and sophisticated setting to women seeking aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries of the breast, body and
face. Unlike other practices where the doctor-patient relationship ends after surgery fixes a problem, Drs. Chiasson and Reilley are committed to lifelong continuity of patient care. Dr. Chiasson enjoys seeing former patients of her mother whose needs have changed over time, as well as the daughters of some of Dr. Reilley’s old patients—carrying on multigenerational care. Dr. Chiasson takes great pride in the having breast reconstruction as a major part of her practice, which allows her to assist women feel whole again after a very challenging time in their lives.
“Providing compassionate care while empowering women to look and feel their best at any age.”
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From left: Dr. Ann Ford Reilly and Dr. Katherine Ford Chiasson, Owner of Ford Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
CAPITOL WELLNESS SOLUTIONS
FACES OF WELLNESS
CAPITOL WELLNESS SOLUTIONS offers safe, natural treatment of a wide range of conditions to eligible patients who take part in Louisiana’s medical marijuana program. Trained and knowledgeable pharmacists at its two Baton Rouge locations provide guidance in choosing from a variety of marijuana products, including flower, edibles, metered dose inhalers, tinctures and topical creams. The pharmacies offer solutions for anxiety, sleeplessness, chronic pain, cancer treatment side effects, epilepsy, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and others. With online
ordering and free delivery to East Baton Rouge Parish and surrounding areas, the team prides itself on offering an easy and efficient way for patients to have access to the relief they need without the use of traditional pharmaceuticals. In response to growing awareness of the benefits of treatment and the Baton Rouge company’s commitment to professionalism and customer service, a third Capitol Wellness location will open later this year in the old Gold’s Gym location at 17097 Airline Hwy. in Prairieville.
“Offering the Greater Baton Rouge area plant-based medications”
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CEO and Founder Randy J. Mire and Business Development Director Kanoa Jo Mire
RED STICK DENTISTRY
FACES OF WELLNESS
ALTHOUGH THE NAME is new, the community roots of Red Stick Dentistry go back over 28 years, when Dr. Chad Lacour acquired the original practice. Dr. Griff Lewis joined in 2016 and Dr. Bryant Bourgeois in 2023, renaming the practice to reflect its collaborative, team-based approach to oral health care. Red Stick is focused on delivering high-quality care across all specialties, and its caregivers pursue extensive continuing education to ensure their ability to provide the widest possible range of services in-house. Rather than fix one issue at a time, Drs. Lewis and Bourgeois look at overall causes
and prevention. Offering services like extractions, implants, gum grafts, orthodontics and Botox injections in one place allows them to avoid the “tunnel vision” common in traditional dentistry. This holistic care improves long-term outcomes. The practice’s TMJ treatment (for teeth grinding and jaw clenching) is the best in Baton Rouge, thanks to Dr. Lewis’s experience and specialized training. Unlike older methods that haven’t evolved, Red Stick’s approach addresses the root causes of jaw discomfort. From night guards to Botox, its treatment plans are personalized and effective.
“Committed to top-tier, full-spectrum oral health care that provides a wide range of in-house services, from restorative work to surgical procedures, in a family-style atmosphere.”
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Dr. Bryant Bourgeois, left, and Dr. Griff Lewis
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
“The
BENNY’S CAR WASH
FACES OF FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
BENNY’S IS PROUD to employ nearly 400 team members across our nine locations in the Capital Region, with two more currently in development. The local, family-owned business originated in Pensacola in 1951 but has called Baton Rouge home since 1953. Today, four generations of the family—Benny, his sons Justin and Jason and granddaughter Helen—are actively involved in operating the car washes, oil change centers, and
B-Quik convenience stores. As one of the last remaining locally owned car wash chains in the area, Benny’s strongest focus has always been investing in its people and the community. The family proudly assists many team members with tuition support and says some of its most rewarding moments are when a former employee returns to thank Benny’s for helping them build a career and life here in Baton Rouge.
future of this city depends on businesses and residents working together to support and inspire the next generation, and we are committed to continuing that work.”
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From left: Helen, Jason, Benny and Justin Alford
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH LIBRARY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
FACES OF HISTORY
THE SPECIAL COLLECTIONS DEPARTMENT is home to the Baton Rouge Room Archives. Established by former East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President Woody Dumas in 1980, the Special Collections Department collects, manages, preserves, and provides access to items that represent historical actions of local governments, businesses, residents and institutions of the City of Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish. These items include but are not limited to photographs, manuscripts, documents, periodical publications, audiotapes, digital content and memorabilia. The archive also houses the
library’s Genealogy Collection, founded in 1941, which provides access to print and online resources including family and community histories, church records and unique printed resources that can only be found in this collection. The Genealogy department provides monthly classes focusing on all aspects of genealogical research as well as providing one-on-one-genealogy consultations. The department also hosts numerous lectures, events and displays throughout the year that highlight our area’s rich history and genealogical legacy.
“We are ‘Baton Rouge’s Attic,’ collecting community history since 1980.”
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Melissa Eastin, Head of East Baton Rouge Parish Library Special Collections PHOTO BY ASHLEE BERGERON
EMBARK FINE JEWELRY
FACES OF SMALL BUSINESS
EXPANDING FROM THE heart of Lafayette into Baton Rouge, Embark Fine Jewelry is redefining fine jewelry shopping.
Founded by friends Erin Judice, Katie Kennedy, and Michelle Robertson, Embark blends the sophistication of a fine jewelry house with the warmth of a neighborhood shop. Their selection includes fine and demi-fine jewelry, custom engagement rings and heirloom redesigns, plus permanent jewelry and luxury ear piercings by trusted medical professionals using the precise hollow needle method. The space feels inviting, stylish,
and anything but intimidating. For these women, Embark is more than a store—it’s a shared vision to make jewelry buying personal and celebratory. Clients return not just for jewelry, but for relationships and memories made in-store. Whether creating a dream engagement ring or finding the perfect everyday piece, the team approaches each interaction with sincerity and care. Now open at Coterie Exchange on Jefferson Highway, Embark stays true to its mission: honoring the big day, the everyday, and all the days in between.
“To help women shine on the big days, the everydays, and all the days in between.”
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From left: Co-owners Michelle Robertson, Erin Judice and Katie Kennedy PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
THE W GROUP
FACES OF REAL ESTATE
THE W GROUP Real Estate is proud to announce the official launch of our independent real estate brokerage right here in the Capital Region. After more than 15 years of serving families as a top-producing team, we’ve taken the next step to create a company designed to elevate the real estate experience for both clients and agents. With over 60 professional agents across Baton Rouge, the Northshore, and Greater New Orleans, The W Group Real Estate combines the power of world-class technology, innovative marketing, and proven systems to make buying
and selling homes simpler, faster, and more effective. At the same time, we’re deeply invested in mentorship, training, and professional growth for our agents—building stronger careers that translate into stronger service for our clients. Most importantly, this launch represents our commitment to the community we call home. From supporting local charities to hosting client appreciation events, we believe real estate is about more than transactions—it’s about helping families build brighter futures and enhancing the quality of life in the Capital Region.
“The W Group enriches the Baton Rouge community by leveraging our expertise to connect residents with homes that suit their needs, actively supporting local charities and driving economic growth.”
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From left: The W Group CEO Trey Willard and Business Development Manager Whitney Willard
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
SIMPSON SPORTS ENGINEERING
FACES OF RECREATION
SINCE ITS FOUNDING IN 2017, Simpson Sports Engineering (SSE) has made a significant impact on the Baton Rouge community by enhancing local athletic infrastructure through expert civil engineering services. Specializing in athletic surfaces and advanced lighting systems, SSE has helped schools and municipalities create modern, high-quality sports facilities that are safe, accessible, and designed to serve both student-athletes and the wider public. A key focus of SSE’s work is the design and engineering of artificial turf fields, which allow for year-round play regardless of weather conditions, enabling more consistent training and competition.
Additionally, artificial turf significantly lowers maintenance costs and labor by eliminating the need for watering, mowing, and sod repairs. This cost efficiency allows athletic directors to offer durable, high-performance playing surfaces that promote health, school pride, community engagement, and lasting value.
“Fostering physical activity, supporting youth development, and providing valuable community hubs that bring people together.”
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Simpson Sports Engineering owner Jesse Simpson PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
SYNERGY ONE LENDING
ONE OF THE MOST important pieces of advice that Synergy One Lending (S1L) VP of Production Toby Arceneaux gives prospective homeowners is: Work with people who listen. If your lender doesn’t take the time to understand your goals and needs, he tells them, find one who will. His team at S1L walks that talk, having guided Louisiana and Capital Region residents on the journey to homeownership or financing for over 25 years. His team of experts knows that buying a home may be one of
the largest financial decisions you make in your lifetime. Backed by Synergy One’s Industry leading technology, the S1L team helps make financing a home faster and easier. Its focus on a Modern Mortgage Experience reduces the stress by delivering speed, ease and the expertise to create an enhanced home financing process. Synergy One Lending’s commitment to excellence, and passion for helping others, sets it apart.
“Taking the time to understand your goals and needs on the journey to homeownership.”
FACES OF BUSINESS
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S1L Vice President, Production Toby Arceneaux
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
MERCEDES-BENZ OF BATON ROUGE
MERCEDES-BENZ of Baton Rouge’s commitment to giving back to the local community is much more than lip service. It is demonstrated by its support of a long list of worthy organizations, including Junior League, Breakthrough T1D, Jump Start Your Heart, Capital Area United Way, Rotary Club of Baton Rouge, Big Buddy Program, Baton Rouge Area Chamber, Knock Out MS Foundation, and various local schools and universities. Mercedes-Benz USA and Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge are also proud to partner with the Johnny Mac Soldiers Fund, which makes a donation to military families
“Dedicated
for every Mercedes-Benz vehicle it sells. But its community support doesn’t end with helping other nonprofits – MercedesBenz of Baton Rouge co-founded its own charity, dream teachers, which supports the best teachers and administrators in their quest to improve the quality of education for our children. Founded in 2008, it has grown to 50-plus members and hundreds of sponsors across the state, proof positive of General Manager/Partner Nick Pentas’ fundamental belief in the faithful execution of servant leadership.
to inspiring our employees, our guests, and the members of our community in their mission to fulfill their dreams.”
FACES OF LUXURY
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Mercedes Benz of Baton Rouge General Manager/Partner Nick Pentas
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
THE CITY OF CENTRAL
FACES OF PUBLIC SERVICE
THE CITY OF CENTRAL is a close-knit community that blends small-town charm with the benefits of growth and progress, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the Capital Region. Known for its excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong civic pride, Central offers a family-friendly environment that values faith, family, and education. Local leadership is highly engaged and responsive, working closely with residents, businesses, and organizations to maintain a high quality of life while planning thoughtfully for the future. The city prioritizes infrastructure, emergency preparedness,
and beautification efforts, ensuring that Central remains a clean, safe, and vibrant place to call home. With numerous community events and support for local businesses, Central actively promotes a lifestyle where families can thrive and neighbors know one another. As part of its Mainstreet 2030 Vision strategic plan, the City of Central took a major step forward in its 20-year history earlier this year when Mayor Wade Evans broke ground on the city’s first-ever City Hall, symbolizing progress and unity in an increasingly connected, resilient, and vibrant community.
“Fostering a strong sense of community through responsive local leadership, quality public services, and a commitment to preserving the city’s small-town values while supporting growth.”
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City of Central Mayor Wade Evans at the site of the 20-year-old municipality’s future City Hall, expected to open in 2026
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
TBR BOOKS & TEA
FACES OF SMALL BUSINESS
READING IS SUCH an important part of everyday life. It transports us to places and worlds we could not otherwise travel. It offers a way for all of us to feel seen, heard, and understood. It allows us to learn about people and cultures different from our own, growing our capacity for empathy and connection. TBR Books & Tea believes there’s something truly magical about matching the right book with the right person, and that’s what the
“A
first-year small business hopes to do each day. Owner Jamie Freeman prides herself on offering something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring her thoughtfully curated children’s section, browsing the wide variety of genres for all ages, picking out a unique gift, enjoying a delicious treat from the café, or cozying up in a reading nook, the goal is the same: Make you feel at home and find a book you love.
safe and welcoming space where everyone in Baton Rouge and beyond
can enjoy and feel a sense of belonging.”
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TBR Books & Tea owner Jamie Freeman
PHOTO BY COLLIN RICHIE
SULLIVAN DENTAL CENTER
FACES OF WELLNESS
SU LLIVAN DENTAL CENTER in St. Francisville plays a vital role in improving the overall health and well-being of the community by delivering exceptional, patientcentered dental care. Through a focus on preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, the team at Sullivan Dental Center helps patients achieve optimal oral health, reducing the risk of more serious systemic conditions linked to gum disease and dental infections. Airway and cosmetic dentistry, holistic dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics and pediatric dentistry are just some of
the full range of services patients can access under one roof. Sullivan Dental Center’s commitment to modern, evidence-based techniques ensures that patients receive conservative, long-lasting treatments tailored to their needs. Beyond clinical excellence, Sullivan Dental Center fosters a welcoming environment where education and trust are central. The practice also supports local events, schools, and charitable initiatives, strengthening community ties and promoting wellness beyond the dental chair.
“Where compassionate care, advanced dentistry, and community commitment come together to create healthier, lasting smiles.”
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From left: Dr. Aaron Priddy, Dr. Clay Couvillon, Dr. Candice Sullivan and Dr. Frank Sullivan.
PHOTO BY DENTALQORE
EL PASO MEXICAN GRILL, BLUE IGUANA & PEDRO’S
FACES OF HOSPITALITY
JORGE OSEGUERA, HIS son Alejandro and longtime business partner Ruben Chavez have built a successful restaurant group based on a simple formula: exceptional food and drinks, and unmatched customer service. Their passion for providing perfect places to gather with friends and family is rooted in their company’s core value of putting customers first at the heart of everything they do. The result is 62 establishments across the southern
U.S., including 40 in Louisiana. Together they represent a wide variety of traditional and more modern takes on authentic south-of-the-border cuisine. Among them are six Capital Region locations: El Paso Mexican Grills in Baton Rouge, Gonzales and Denham Springs; Blue Iguana Taco Bar & Tequila in Baton Rouge; and Pedro’s Tacos & Tequila Bars in Siegen Lane Marketplace and Juban’s Crossing.
“Proud to enrich the Baton Rouge community with exceptional food, drinks, customer service, business investment and cultural diversity.”
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El Paso Sherwood Forest manager Johanna Castaneda
PHOTO BY DON KADAIR
SWINGEASY GOLF CLUB
FACES OF RECREATION
A. HAYS TOWN was a true Louisiana luminary, born in 1903 and regarded as one of America’s most influential architects at the time of his passing in Baton Rouge 101 years later. His grandson Forrest Town lives in California now, but he relished the opportunity to bring a new business back to his roots and continue his family’s legacy of strengthening communities by creating vibrant communal spaces. Swingeasy, the indoor golf club created by Town and his partner, Edmund Caswell, brings members and guests together to play rounds of golf on more than 750 simulated courses from around the world; practice
“Baton
on a virtual driving range; train with the latest technology; or chill in the lounge and watch live sporting events on bigscreen TVs. Its “Modern Country Club” experience allows for one-of-a-kind social outings, ranging from indoor golf competitions with friends to corporate outings and private events. There are three Swingeasy locations on the West Coast, but this is the first in the South, putting Baton Rouge on the leading edge of a virtual indoor golf trend that is blowing up nationwide. Towns calls it “combining innovation with tradition” – in his case, a family tradition.
Rouge is our home, and we want Swingeasy to be a gathering place that people in our great community can be proud of.”
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Swingeasy owner-operators Edmund Caswell, left, and Forrest Town
PHOTO BY INGRID NACOLE WILLIAMS