On November 1, 2015, The Town Talk partnering with the local Young Professionals Group, named its "Top 20 Under 40" for Central Louisiana. Named as one of the Top 20 is Gold Weems’ own Laura Beth "LB" Matthews (nee Graham), an associate with the firm. The Town Talk described the Top 20 as "those who opt to stay in the community and work to make a difference." LB certainly meets that criteria. The Top 20 were honored at a banquet at the Hotel Bentley.
After clerking in Alexandria with the Honorable Dee D. Drell, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, LB briefly left the area for New Orleans. However, she came "home" to Central Louisiana. Presently, she serves as an advocate for the Child In Need of Care ("CINC") program, which provides special support for children who battle home life disadvantages. As a former teacher LB has a special place in her heart for children who battle home life disadvantages. LB is also active on the Board of Directors for the Generals Athletic Association at LSUA.
The Town Talk received over 90 nominations of local persons for the recognition. Gold Weems is proud that LB was nominated and selected. LB works with Charles S. Weems, III and Lottie L. Bash, and her practice areas include corporate, commercial litigation, insurance defense and product liability