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Rutledge Auto Group opened in 2016 . President , owner and operator , Richard Rutledge graduated in 1992 from Elkhart High School and joined the US Army where he served for 2 ½ years , with a six month tour in Somalia . He then obtained his Associates Degree from TVCC and studied for his Bachelors of Applied Arts & Sciences and his Master of Business Administration at UT Tyler . In the years leading up to his decision to open his own business , Richard made his way through the ranks from Salesman to Sales Manager to General Manager at local auto dealerships . After 18 years in the business , Richard decided to invest in his community and himself and went out on his own . He carefully considered his options and knew that being raised locally would help him understand the local market better and would help him know what would sell best . When asked what the most challenging thing about opening his own business was , Rutledge said , “ Making the decision to leave the job I ’ d been at for 18 years and raising the capital to purchase and start the company .” Being a local business owner , Richard says , “ gives me the opportunity to employ local people and help them provide for themselves and their families ”. Richard leans on his community and gives back in more ways than one . Richard is a member of Lions Club , a board member for the YMCA and he is past president of the Rotary Club of Palestine . He is an advocate for helping people grow , which was apparent when he helped a new Rotary Club , in Rusk , TX , establish during his presidency . Richard has been married to his wife Becky for 26 years and they have a son and a daughter .
Palestine is full of people like Jonathon , Amanda , Holly , Jason and Richard . It just takes a few key components to turn your idea into a successful business . Keeping it local and investing in your hometown will have your hometown investing in you . For consumers , shopping local helps our little city thrive . Why try life anywhere else ?
More Palestine Born & Raised Businesses
Jamie ’ s Therapeutic Touch Jennifer Willard Photography Edward Jones-Jordan Ray Brooks Plumbing Hambone ’ s Cajun Grill Country P ’ s BBQ Dulceria Porras ETX Balloon Gal Journey HQ Locked-N-Loaded Palestine Air & Heat Landmark Realty
Love , Always Premier Hydromulching Rhone Funeral Home Bebo ’ s Butchery Big Dud ’ s BBQ Somethin ’ Sweet No Mow Worries J & B Security The Lemon Spot Nuna ’ s Cajun Sweet E ’ s Sweet Shoppe Island Tans & Gift Boutique
& Many More , Call the Chamber for more info !
Written by Angela Howell-Fields Interview Credit- Emily Aylor , Westwood HS