KEY TAKEAWAYS: Keesler Federal opened a new branch at 615 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie, its 16th location in the greater New Orleans area. The branch occupies a former Walmart pickup facility and expands the credit union’s southeast Louisiana presence. Keesler Federal will donate $10,000 each to the Mande Milkshakers and TEP Center during the grand opening celebration. The Mississippi-based credit union serves more than 380,000 members and manages approximately $5 billion in assets.   Keesler Federal Credit Union is expanding its presence in southeast Louisiana with the opening of a new branch in Metairie, bringing its total number of locations in the greater New Orleans area to 16. The credit union will celebrate the opening of the branch at 615 Veterans Blvd. with a public event scheduled for June 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature live entertainment, food, community organizations and appearances by members of the New Orleans Saints Cheer Team. The credit union is opening in a former Walmart pickup facility. The new location represents Keesler Federal’s continued growth in the New Orleans market as the Biloxi-based financial institution broadens access to banking services across its service area. “We’re excited to show off our newest location and celebrate with our neighbors who have welcomed us so warmly,” Chief Operating Officer Joshua Brown said in a statement. “This new branch reflects our commitment to creating a banking experience that is personal, accessible, and centered on the needs of our members.” As part of the grand opening celebration, Keesler Federal will donate $10,000 each to the Mande Milkshakers and the TEP Center. The event also will include performances by the Mande Milkshakers, complimentary food and opportunities for attendees to enter drawings for signed sports memorabilia, including jerseys autographed by Cam Jordan and former Pelicans player Jose Alvarado. Founded in 1947, Keesler Federal is the largest credit union headquartered in Mississippi. The institution serves more than 380,000 members and manages approximately $5 billion in assets. The credit union operates more than 50 branches across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and the United Kingdom. Keesler Federal said membership is available to individuals who live, work, worship or attend school within its service areas. Guest parking for the June 27 event will be available at Wilshire Plaza, accessible from Veterans Boulevard and Martin Behrman Avenue. ...read more read less