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Franchisee Spotlight – Patricia & Kelly Simmons, Corvus of San Antonio

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September’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of San Antonio Franchise Owners Patricia and Kelly Simmons. Read on to learn more about these standout Franchisees who go above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

Reed Warren, the Regional Director of Corvus of San Antonio, is thrilled to shine a spotlight on Franchisees Patricia and Kelly Simmons. Their dedication and hard work have significantly contributed to the success of the San Antonio market, which was established just over two years ago.

One of the key factors behind the Simmons’ success is their commitment to building strong relationships with their customers. When asked about her motivation in running the franchise, Mrs. Simmons states, “Seeing people happy! Simple!” This customer-centric approach has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in their achievements.

According to Mr. Warren, “They’re just good people and they take this really seriously.” Right from the start, they actively pursued new business opportunities, and as a result, they now boast the second-highest monthly revenue in the region. Their ability to establish and nurture customer relationships has been a driving force behind their success.

The Simmons’ dedication goes beyond regular business hours. They can always be relied upon to handle urgent transfers or answer the phone late at night during emergencies. Their pride in their business is evident, and they have built it from the ground up.

For aspiring franchise owners, Mrs. Simmons offers valuable advice: “Do everything every time. Always plan your work and double-check it when you’re done.” This commitment to thoroughness and quality has clearly been a guiding principle in their journey to success. Patricia and Kelly Simmons are shining examples of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a passion for customer satisfaction. Thank you for your partnership, Patricia and Kelly!

Franchisee Spotlight – Jose and Angie Pineda, Corvus of Denver

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August’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of Denver Franchise Owners Jose and Angie Pineda. Read on to learn more about these standout Franchisees who go above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

This month, we shine the spotlight on the dynamic power couple from Corvus of Denver: Mr. Jose and Mrs. Angie Pineda.

According to Michael Kerby, Denver’s Regional Director, Jose and Angie have made an outstanding impact in the Denver market. “Certain partners truly stand out, especially those who have my back whenever I need support. Their incredible attitudes and remarkable work ethic never cease to amaze me. Inspecting their accounts is something I look forward to—Jose and Angie embody excellence. Working with them is an absolute joy, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing their continued business growth for years to come.”

Back in 2015, Jose embarked on his franchise journey, a journey that has now spanned eight years. Together with his wife, Angie, they form an unstoppable cleaning duo who genuinely revel in their work. Angie emphasizes, “Our approach is to treat each account uniquely, providing dedicated care and always going the extra mile. Some of my clients have been with me for over seven years, and it feels like we’ve become a close-knit family.”

The concept of family holds immense significance for the Pinedas. With two sons, Diego, aged 14, and Josué, aged seven, their devotion to both their business and family shines through. Amidst their business responsibilities, they also know how to have fun. Mr. Pineda even coaches his son Josué’s soccer team. Having been happily married for eight years, the couple cherishes family trips to Colorado’s stunning mountains.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Pineda expresses, “I had a decade of experience in the cleaning industry, but running a business was a new territory. Opening a Corvus franchise equipped me with invaluable administrative tools. Taking this step was monumental, and Corvus has been an effective guide on this path.”

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to Jose and Angie for selecting Corvus as their partner on this remarkable journey. Not only have they fostered robust relationships with their clients, but they’ve also forged strong bonds with their regional support team. Your dedication and passion are genuinely appreciated, and we are privileged to have you as part of the Corvus family.

Franchisee Spotlight – Anthony Ross, Corvus of Jacksonville

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July’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of Jacksonville Franchise Owner Mr. Anthony Ross. Read on to learn more about the standout Franchisee who goes above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

This month’s Franchise Owner Spotlight highlights Veteran and Franchise Owner Mr. Anthony Ross. Mr. Ross opened his business with Corvus of Jacksonville in January 2022 and has shown remarkable patience in growing it. In addition to owning his Corvus Franchise, he also oversees the sanitation squad at a local hospital.

“Mr. Ross is super dependable and a stand-up guy,” says Spencer Sandell, Regional Director of Corvus of Jacksonville. “He never misses a clean, and we have never received a complaint about him. He operates as a solo artist and has deliberately kept his business small, but he runs a tight ship.”

One of the things that Mr. Sandell appreciates about Mr. Ross is how easily accessible he is. He always answers the phone and is willing to help in any way he can.

Mr. Ross is eager to please and does an excellent job cleaning. When reviewing his customer QCs, it is not uncommon to read things like, “he is the best.” Inspections often note that the buildings he cleans are spotless, and customers are incredibly satisfied with the service.

Corvus is thrilled to partner with someone who is so dependable and skilled at what they do. Thank you, Mr. Ross!

The Fourth of July & How it Relates to Entrepreneurship

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Patriotic parades, colorful fireworks, and mouth-watering barbecues – you know what that means! The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is just around the corner. Every year since 1776, Americans from the north, south, east and west have honored the birth of our great nation. And while America’s birthday is as good an excuse as any for friends and family to come together and celebrate, it’s worthwhile to pause and reflect on the significance of this holiday.

The Significance of the Fourth of July

At its core, the Fourth of July represents freedom – the personal freedom to express ourselves, pursue happiness, and shape the course of our own lives. It’s a reminder that we live in a land where dreams can become a reality, where opportunities abound for those who dare to dream and work hard. Without freedom, there would be no chance for independence and security.

Entrepreneurship: A Reflection of American Values

Freedom, independence, security – in many ways, entrepreneurship embodies these very fundamental values. At Corvus, we pride ourselves on allowing Franchise Owners to “be their own boss.” Being able to control their work schedule and determine their income directly represents the American Dream – the idea that anyone can achieve success and happiness through hard work.

The Role of Entrepreneurs in Shaping Independence and Security

Though it is often accompanied by significant risk, entrepreneurship has the potential to offer a level of financial stability and autonomy only sometimes available in traditional jobs. Though success is never guaranteed, in the 20-plus years Corvus has been operating, we have witnessed countless entrepreneurs meet their financial goals and achieve security. Successful entrepreneurs will often scale their businesses to create jobs and hire more employees. These businesses provide not just personal and financial stability, but also create opportunities for others.

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, let us recognize and appreciate the invaluable role of entrepreneurs in shaping our great nation. Through their pursuit of independence, entrepreneurs break free from barriers and constraints, embracing the freedom to build their own path. They embody the spirit of self-reliance and the belief in personal agency that, after all, is at the core of our nation’s independence.

Franchisee Spotlight – Aveon Frierson, Corvus of Little Rock

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June’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of Little Rock Franchise Owner Mr. Aveon Frierson. Read on to learn more about the standout Franchisee who goes above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

The Franchise Owner Spotlight of the month for July is a motivated young man named Aveon Frierson. Mr. Frierson opened his business with Corvus of Little Rock in April of 2021. He is in his early twenties, and he operates his business on top of working another full-time job.

Mr. Frierson has the capacity to take on larger accounts and has been steadily growing his monthly revenue. In the 2023 Franchisee Survey, he said that the thing that kept him most motivated in his business was “customer satisfaction.”

That motivational outlook is paying off. “It is rare to ever have a complaint from a customer about him,” reports Trey Kimbrell, Regional Director of Corvus of Little Rock. “He is just on top of it. Aveon is highly respected, and it goes both ways. He goes above and beyond to take care of his accounts and customers.” Mr. Kimbrell says that Mr. Frierson makes himself available for Corvus’ needs as well. “He’s always prepared and he’s always available to swing by the office when we need him.”

Partnering with such a motivated and driven businessman has been an honor for Corvus. We are excited to see what the future holds for him and are proud to be a part of it. Thank you for all you do, Mr. Frierson!

Reflecting on Juneteenth

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Introduction: Juneteenth National Independence Day

Now officially recognized by the United States federal government as a national holiday, Juneteenth National Independence Day celebrates the day when the last enslaved black Americans in Texas learned of their emancipation more than three years after President Lincoln issued the famous proclamation.

The Delayed Emancipation: Enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas

Following President Lincoln’s issuance of Proclamation 95 – the Emancipation Proclamation (issued September 22, 1862, effective January 1, 1863) – over 3.5 million enslaved people had their status under federal law changed from “enslaved” to “free” in the rebelling Confederate states. However, enforcement of the Proclamation was largely dependent on the advance of Union troops into Confederate territory.

Texas, the most westward slave state, saw an expansion of slavery during the Civil War. During the war, many slaveholders migrated to the state, oftentimes bringing enslaved people with them. By the end of the war, the enslaved population in Texas had grown to an estimated 250,000.

Juneteenth Emerges: Union Troops and General Order No. 3

After the surrender of General Robert E. Lee to the Union Army on April 9, 1865, some Confederate generals refused to lay down their arms. General Edmund Kirby Smith, commander of the Confederate Army of the Trans-Mississippi, continued to hold out and keep fighting in Texas. On June 2, 1865, Smith officially surrendered in Galveston.

In the early hours of June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas with orders to take command of the more than 2,000 newly arrived federal troops sent to the state to enforce the emancipation of enslaved persons and oversee a peaceful transition of power. On the day of his arrival, Granger issued General Order No. 3 which informed the people of Texas of the Emancipation Proclamation and the freedom of the formerly enslaved. Granger’s men marched the streets of Galveston reading the order, finishing their march at the Negro Church on Broadway (later renamed the Reedy Chapel-AME Church).

Challenges and Revival: The Impact of Jim Crow and the Texas State Fair

Juneteenth, or Jubilee Day, was first organized and celebrated by freedmen in Texas one year after General Order No. 3. Considered to be America’s second Independence Day, Juneteenth is the longest-running African American holiday. Early celebrations were often held at Churches or other private venues, as many African Americans were still prohibited from using public accommodations for their celebrations. These early celebrations were primarily used as political rallies where newly freed slaves were given instructions on voting.

The Jim Crow Era in the former Confederate states (including Texas) disenfranchised black Americans and led to a decline in Juneteenth celebrations. The Great Depression pushed many black Americans from rural farm towns to urban cities to find work and they difficulty taking the day off to celebrate.

The revival of Juneteenth celebrations was kicked off in 1936 when the Texas State Fair began serving as a destination to celebrate the holiday. That year, an estimated 200,000 people celebrated together in Dallas. The Texas State Fair hosted Juneteenth celebrations until 1951. Over the years, celebrations have grown and evolved, but the importance of the day to black Americans, and the country, has remained as potent as it was in 1865. Today, Juneteenth celebrations involve congregations, cookouts, parades, musical services, and other public events.

Juneteenth: From State Holiday to Federal Recognition

In 1979, a bill passed through the Texas Legislature declaring Juneteenth an official state holiday. Texas officially declared Juneteenth a state holiday on January 1, 1980, becoming the first state in the Union to do so. On June 15, 2021, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Juneteenth Independence Day Act. The next day, the bill was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and on June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the bill, officially making Juneteenth the eleventh federal holiday in the United States.

Juneteenth, also known as “Jubilee Day”, “Freedom Day”, “Liberation Day”, or “Emancipation Day”, is not only a celebration; it is also a day for remembrance, reflection, and awareness. Though the Emancipation Proclamation legally ended chattel slavery in the Confederacy and Granger’s General Order No. 3 enforced Lincoln’s order in the last bastions of slavery in the south, the practice was still legal under the U.S. Constitution. It wasn’t until the passage and incorporation of the Thirteenth Amendment in December 1865 that slavery and involuntary servitude were abolished.

The day commemorates the hardships endured by the victims of enslavement, as well as their ancestors who have continued the fight for equity, racial justice, and freedom and justice for all. As we continue to confront the history of the nation and the ongoing struggle for equity, Juneteenth serves as an example of how communities can come together to empower each other and promote change from within.