‘Cowboy’ joins Towbin Dodge team

Ricky Maples, known for decades as "Cowboy," wasn't always a car salesman.

The Missouri-raised, boot-and-hat-clad Towbin Dodge employee worked for 20 years doing construction in Las Vegas before his career took a turn in 1992.

When Cowboy went to buy a car 17 years ago, he got more than he bargained for -- not only a car, but a new career. The sales associate who helped Cowboy was so impressed with his engaging and charismatic personality that he talked Cowboy into becoming a salesperson himself. He has sold cars ever since and recently, Cowboy joined the team at Towbin Dodge.

"I came to Towbin Dodge and observed for three days," said Cowboy, who had two other job offers at the time. "I was so impressed by how Chop (Josh Towbin) treated his employees and how everyone got along. I knew this was where I wanted to work until I retired.

"People ask me why I would choose a Dodge car or truck over anything else; I tell them it is because a Dodge is dependable. It also has a lifetime warranty that you can't beat. As far as trucks go, Dodge has the very best on the market and the only true diesel."

True to his dairy farm upbringing and flair for country western style, Cowboy, who appeared on the "Howdy Doody Show" at age 5, won't be caught wearing a tie. Josh "Chop" Towbin, co-owner of Towbin Dodge, explained that Cowboy remains true to his philosophy that people, not ties, sell cars.

"Having Cowboy as part of our team is a real asset," said Towbin. "Cowboy is just a nice guy. As a result, he has the ability to sell thousands of cars and trucks to his loyal customers. Towbin Automotive has a policy of hiring friendly staff who are very career oriented at our eight franchises."

With the recent changes to the Chrysler Corp. and the closing of many local dealerships, Towbin Dodge has been fortunate enough to hire some highly qualified new employees.

"We have added many new staff members to Towbin Dodge and that includes our service department," Towbin said. "We believe that our service department is the very best around. Come in with any Chrysler product and we will honor your warranty and give you the best possible service. We'll see you when you get here."

As for Cowboy, customers can expect to be treated honestly and with respect.

"(My customers) know I am going to give them the best car and the best deal I can."

Contact Towbin Dodge at 877-259-3771 or visit online at www.TowbinDodge.com.