10 Things ABOUT: Richard Pierce

Richard PIERCE

AGE: 66

OCCUPATION: I graduated with a degree in parks administration and started working with Farm Bureau in March of 1976 as a career agent. I have been in this same office for 44 years and was fortunate enough to become the agency manager in June of 2015.

HOMETOWN: I’m originally from Mt. Ida. I came to ATU in 1972.

FAMILY: I’m married to Angie who is also an ATU graduate and former miss ATU. We have four sons, all married, and 11 grandchildren. We live on 28 acres in Atkins.

1What is your favorite book and why? My favorite book is American Sniper. I’m not much of a reader, but I read this entire book in one weekend. It really intrigued me because of the perseverance and courage our military display and the dangers they face every day that we, here in America, take for granted. They are to be appreciated for the sacrifices they take so that we can enjoy the freedoms they have fought for us to have.

2Dog or cat? Why? I’m a dog lover. I currently have four dogs — two inside Yorkies and two 80-pound outside Labs, one silver and one chocolate.

3What do you think is the most positive

aspect of living in the River Valley?

The most positive aspect of living in the River Valley is the diversity of scenery we have and all the business base here. This is an ideal place to

raise a family. There are excellent educational opportunities from public to private to college level.

4What’s something no one would

ever guess about you?

No one would ever guess that I am an accomplished drummer. I have taught both of my sons to play drums and now they are much better than me. One plays in a band Dry Town and the other plays, on occasion, at our church First Baptist in Russellville.

5What is your favorite music

genre and artist? Why?

My favorite music genre is contemporary southern gospel and favorite artist is David Phelps. I have had the opportunity recently to see him in concert as well as the Gaither Vocal Band. Both are my favorites. I used to sing in a gospel 6 What do you nerd out on? I nerd out on hunting shows. I love to watch the Outdoor Channel and pick up tips to help me with my outdoor activities.

7If you could change one thing

about the River Valley, what would it be?

If I could change one thing in the River Valley, I would like to get some type of manufacturing business to come to my hometown of Atkins. That is a wonderful community that really needs an economic boost to help it grow and prosper.

8Where is the one location in the

River Valley you would tell a firsttime visitor that they must go?

I would tell a first time visitor to the River Valley to go see the nuclear plant and how amazing a feat of engineering that is and then cruise on by Lake Dardanelle to see its beauty. Next they have to drive to the top of Mount Nebo to get a bird’s eye view of the entire River Valley.

9Pizza, tacos, cheeseburger, or

fried chicken? Any particular reason why?

Fried chicken. It’s the best food you can have and is manufactured right here in the River Valley by farmers who are some of my best friends and clients. It provides many jobs for many people so keep those drum sticks coming.

10 What is your favorite quote? Could be from an inspirational person, could be an original.

“Wherever you go, there you are”

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