D&S Glass originally started in 1946, but the company didn't become a leader in residential, commercial, industrial and automotive glass until 1992.
That is when Mike and Pam Latone became owners of the company with plans to expand the business' operations.
''The first year we took the company from one employee to five,'' Latone said. ''Three years later, we added the contracting division and added 15 more people. When we started we had only one employee. Now we have over 20.''
Article Photos
Rodney Javens constructs a door frame while working at D&S Glass.
P-J photo by Dennis Phillips
The Latones, along with their son Mike Latone Jr., handle several jobs depending on the customer's needs. For custom commercial jobs, business employees will make the frame, cut the glass, insulate it and then piece the frame and glass together.
For residential jobs, D&S Glass, which is located at 333 Fluvanna Ave. Jamestown, does installation work and can fix broken glass for customers. The company also does shower door installations and picture frame work. D&S employees will work on boat glass and mirrors, too.
When it comes to automobiles and replacing broken glass, Latone said they are a one-stop location for all clients. The business also replaces glass for heavy equipment like tractors, buses and front-end loaders.
''It is same-day service. The customer doesn't have to worry about anything. We handle all the insurance work,'' he said. ''We have 300 windshields in stock to fit most makes and models. Our employees go the extra mile to get the job done and make sure the customer is happy.''
The Latones do a lot of projects in the community. Right now the business is working with WCA Hospital and Shults Auto Group. Through the years, the company has worked on several projects which include the glass work at Jamestown City Hall, the BWB Center and the Lakewood Village Plaza.
''If you go down Third Street, all the way from the Hometown Grill on up, we did most of the work. It has been nice that businesses in Jamestown have put their faith in us and what we do,'' Latone said. ''It is great to be a part of it. To have a hand in making Jamestown look better.''
Latone Jr. said being involved in the community and helping organizations, like Lutheran Social Services, is important to all the employees.
''Community involvement gives you a sense of ownership,'' he said. ''You feel more involved in helping Jamestown be a better place to live.''
The business is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday. For more information, call 664-9321 or visit www.dsglass.com.