The office of Governor Rick Perry recognized three area businesses Tuesday during the Governor’s Small Business Forum which was co-sponsored by Workforce Solutions and the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Governor’s office selected the businesses to receive the State of Texas Small Business Award for their efforts in being a “model for Texas small businesses.”
Apollo Computers, Aaron’s Sales and Lease Ownership, and Top Cut Lawn and Landscaping each received this award. See photos and bios of each business below.
Paul Smithson began Apollo Computers in January 2005 out in 12×16 storage shed, which was later made into his office. He and one of his coworkers had an interest in computers so Paul asked his coworker what he could do to learn more. The response was “take your computer apart into as many pieces as possible and put it back together.” With the help of his coworker, he was able to reassemble it.
Paul’s main reason to start his business was to give him the freedom to complete his degree and then get back into “Corporate America.” But because Paul had the passion of taking care of his customers, his business began growing.
Apollo Computers is known for quality service and a very friendly atmosphere. Paul stands out among his competitors by providing a pleasant experience with a speedy turn-a-round. Apollo computers is the only authorized Apple Service Provider in the region. They are in the process of expanding their business.
Congratulations to Paul Smithson and Apollo Computers for being recognized with one of the State of Texas Small Business Award. Pictured at top from left to right: Laura Terhune, Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce; Paul Smithson, Apollo Computers; Larry Ruggiano, Office of the Governor; and Emily Crawford, Brownwood Economic Development Corporation.
Aaron’s Sales and Lease Ownership was founded in 1955, but it was not opened in the Brownwood/Early area until 2006. Briley Investments began its franchisee relationship with Aaron’s in the area because Mr. Briley wanted to bring local competition to this industry, and because the Aaron’s brand has a great reputation. Aaron’s carries a wide selection of name brand products, and they offer a low price product with a high level of customer service. Aaron’s prides itself in breaking the stereotype of the rent-to-own business.
From 2008-2010 the Brownwood/Early Aaron’s store was the top store out of 700 franchises across the U.S., and this store has been named Best in Overall Performance. Mr. Briley credits the management of Mr. Joey Dolberry to huge success the store has had. Joey takes care of his customers, pays close attention to detail, and upholds the strategy of Aaron’s.
Congratulations to Aaron’s Sales and Lease Ownership in earning a State of Texas Small Business Award. Pictured above from left to right: Laura Terhune, Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce; David Sheffield, Aaron’s; Larry Ruggiano, Office of the Governor; and Emily Crawford, Brownwood Economic Development Corporation.
Johnny Escobar started mowing yards with a friend when he got out of the Marines in 2000. In 2001, he began working at Kohler, mowing yards on his days off. In 2006 he quit Kohler and started Top Cut Lawn Care and Landscaping and went to mowing full time.
He started mowing because he loved being outside and his business began growing. Since its start, the business has developed into full lawn maintenance, irrigation, pump system maintenance, landscaping, tree work, and rock work. Top Cut currently employs 4 full time and 3 part time employees.
Johnny believes that his business is more than just grass, it is personality. He handles all customers in a very professional manner, stating that being dependable is the key.
Let’s congratulate Johnny Escobar and Top Cut Lawn Care and Landscaping one of our State of Texas Small Business Awards. Pictured at top from left to right: Laura Terhune, Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce; Johnny Escobar, Top Cut Lawn Care; Larry Ruggiano, Office of the Governor; and Emily Crawford, Brownwood Economic Development Corporation.
