Members In The News

Name: Stephen M. LaFrance

Birthplace: Charleston, SC

Occupation: Financial Consultant

Education: Bachelor of Science from NC State, MBA from Wake Forest

Family: Married with 2 kids age 3 ½ and 2

If I had a different job, I’d be a: Dentist. They work 4 days a week. Never work late, never work weekends and never bring their work home with them. …or a professional shotlink operator!

The four guests at your fantasy dinner party would be: (1) Jesus – to find out how he feels about the modern church. (2) John Maynard Keynes – to hear about his thoughts regarding the problem and solution to our current economic struggles. (3) Milton Friedman – also to hear his thoughts regarding the problem and solution to our current economic struggles and to witness a true debate between Keynes and Friedman. (4) Leonardo da Vinci – most folks think of him for his art but he was also a visionary scientist. Naturally, my wife would co-host this with me!

My hobbies are: NCAA Football, Snow Skiing, Mountain Biking, Fixing Things, Saving Money

Dream Car: VW Karmann Ghia from the late-60s – simple, beautiful, practical, affordable and drivable.

Book I've read recently that really influenced my thinking: Bailout Nation by Barry Ritholtz.

My favorite movie is: Don’t watch a lot of movies but was recently moved by Slumdog Millionaire

The biggest honor I ever received was: Awarded the ELITE award while employed at Valspar. It’s given annually to 25 of the 8000 global employees.

My worst habit is: Tapping my feet while I’m thinking… drives my wife nuts.

My favorite restaurant is: The one where someone else is paying!

My ideal vacation is: One that involves travel, activity, exploration and experiencing a new place. I’m not the type to sit still on a beach or a cabin for very long.

I’m happiest when: My wife is happy.

If I won the lottery, I would: Work less and volunteer more.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: at the pool with my family.

People would be surprised to know that I: restored a custom ’67 VW Beatle from the ground up.

Finish this sentence: On the grill, I make a mean… beer can chicken and hot wings.

Sounds like an honest man!!