35 minute read
This and That
This & tHAT i
A New Experience: Bald Eagle Awareness Weekends
Have you ever experienced the breathtaking beauty of bald eagles soaring on wings that spread six feet from wingtip to wingtip? Did you know that bald eagles were added to the federal endangered and threatened species list in 1967? Though they were on the brink of extinction, through conservation efforts and environmental education, bald eagles were removed from this list in 2007. For 35 years, Lake Guntersville State Park’s Eagle Awareness Weekends has been educating thousands of park guests about these amazing creatures. We hope you will join us for the 35th Annual Eagle Awareness Weekends 2022. Participants of these weekends enjoy guided eagle watching, close encounters with live bald eagles and other raptors, Scan QR with phone and memories to last a lifetime! https://www.alapark.com/
parks/lake-guntersville-state-park/eagle-awareness ASF 50th Anniversary Season: Macbeth and Little Shop of Horrors
MACBETH — FEB. 3–24, 2022, By William Shakespeare Dunsinane’s power couple embarks on a blind ambition tour of betrayal and bloodletting when Scottish nobleman Macbeth is told by witches that he will become king one day. This supernatural battle between fate and will is one of the Bard’s most action-packed tragedies. For more info visit www.asf.net LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS — MAR. 3–APR. 3, 2022, Music by Alan Menken | Lyrics and a Book by Howard Ashman. In this deviously delicious sci-fi rock musical, meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” (after his coworker crush). This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivorous plant promises unending fame and fortune to the down-andout Seymore as long as he keeps feeding it … . From the Tony and Oscar award-winning creators of
Scan to Order Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid. Visit www.asf.net
ASF Tickets
Local Financial Advisor Offers "Life in a Box" January Workshop
Every January, we conduct a workshop at the Montgomery Moore Wealth Management office called Life in a Box. We give you a step-by-step approach to gather all relevant records, so they are all contained or referenced in one fire-resistant box. We will conduct the 2022 webinar at noon on Wednesday, January 26th. For further information and reservations, please call 334.270.1672, or email sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com. If you miss the webinar, we also offer free consultations that are without obligation. The ten categories we cover in detail include healthcare, estate planning, tax records, investments and bank accounts, liabilities, insurance,
Susan Clayton Moore, J.D.
military records, personal identification documentation, deeds and similar documents, and a miscellaneous one that covers pet information, house maintenance, etc.
READ IT - LOVE IT - SHARE IT
Wine, charity and fun converge for The Northwest Florida Beaches Ultimate Wine Week. South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival takes place April 21 – April 24, 2022 in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (not to be confused with the Sandestin resort or Sandestin wine festival). With more than 600 quality wines to taste over four days, this annual award-winning charity event delivers a wine experience unparalleled among Northwest Florida wine festivals. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and South Walton become the epicenter of the wine world during the last weekend of April as these two organizations team up to host some of the preeminent vintners from around the world. A dazzling roster of dozens of celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs and brewmasters converge in South Walton, Florida to wine, dine, educate and entertain guests as part of the three-day celebration of wine during the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival held each April throughout Grand Boulevard. Make your plans to join us now and be prepared to sip more than 600 wines presented by knowledgeable wine industry insiders, savor delectabale small bites from our Nosh Pavilions, Scan to Order Tix led by the best restaurants South Walton has to offer, and stroll the beautiful boulevard. For more info visit www.sowalwine.com.
The Capri and ASF Present A View From The Bridge
A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE introduced by Justin Blanchard, Actor, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Sunday, January 9 @ 1:00pm. Shown in partnership with Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Filmed live onstage from London’s West End. Following its smash-hit original broadcast, the Young Vic’s ‘magnetic, electrifying, astonishingly bold’ production of A View from the Bridge returns to cinemas due to audience demand. This stunning production of Athur Miller’s tragic masterpiece won a trio of 2014 Olivier Awards including Best Revival, Best Actor for Mark Strong (The Imitation Game; Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy) and Best Director for Ivo van Hove. The great Arthur Miller confronts the American dream in this dark and passionate tale. In Brooklyn, longshoreman Eddie Carbone welcomes his Sicilian cousins to the land of freedom. But when one of them falls for his beautiful niece, they discover that freedom comes at a price. Eddie’s jealous mistrust exposes a deep, unspeakable secret – one that drives him to commit the ultimate betrayal. This play is shown without intermission. A View From The Bridge Tickets Available Online www.capritheatre.org
Capital City Master Gardeners Association Lunch & Learn @ The Armory,
Capital City Master Gardener Association
presents Lunch & Learn, the 1st Wednesday of Every Month from 12-1 pm. They will meet at
Armory Learning Arts Building, 1018 Madison
Ave., Montgomery 36104. Mark your calendars, January 5, “Backyard Birding”, Tyson Farmer, Wild Birds Unlimited, will be presenting the program, “Backyard Birding”, join us to find out how to identify various birds in our own area and learn some new and different ways to entice birds into your back yard. Also, February 2, “Small Space Gardening”, Glenn Huovinen, Elmore County Advanced Master Gardener, will be presenting the program, “Small Space Gardening”, if you have a tiny back yard or limited areas for gardening, this program is for you. Discover some new ideas for growing flowers, fruits and vegetables, etc. all around your house. This will be fun! Plan to wear your mask and socially distance, as mandated by the City of Montgomery. BRING A SACK LUNCH, FREE PROGRAM, WATER PROVIDED, For information, please contact the Montgomery County Extension Office 334.270.4133. Also visit www.capcitymga.org.
This & tHAT i
Betty, we'll miss your wit and common sense...and your life giving attitude!
Betty White seemed to have it all figured out. The television icon died at the age of 99 on December31, just days shy of her 100th birthday. The "Golden Girls" alum often spoke about the upcoming milestone and had promoted it with a cover story on People magazine. Throughout her later years, the star was often asked what contributed to her longevity, as not only did she outlive many of her contemporaries, but she continued working until she died. In 2018, White spoke to Parade magazine, revealing that the secret to her long and happy life was, in part, her consumption of foods she enjoyed, such as vodka and hot dogs – "probably in that order" – rather than restricting her diet. Of course, White also credited her happiness to a positive attitude as well. "Enjoy life," she told Parade. "Accentuate the positive, not the negative. It sounds so trite, but a lot of people will pick out something to complain about, rather than say, ‘Hey, that was great!’ It’s not hard to find great stuff if you look." Just a day before her death, White shared a statement with Fox News via her rep regarding her longlasting happiness. "I've always been a cockeyed optimist," said the star. "I got it from my mom. I'm gonna stick with it."
Want to improve your mood in the new year? Here's what experts recommended
Start a gratitude journal.
This only takes a few minutes. Recording positive things about your day, whether major achievements or simple pleasures, can reduce stress, improve sleep and even foster better relationships by building a sense of empathy.
Take five deep breaths.
Not only will this make you feel calmer, but it will also help you digest your lunch better.”
Drink water.
Water is the essence of us and what we need in order for our micronutrients and functions to operate.
Label what you’re experiencing.
“Name it to tame it” is a phrase coined by Dan Siegel, a professor of psychiatry at the University of California
Spend time outdoors.
Even when it’s cold outside, spending time outdoors in nature breathing fresh air is good for the body and mind. Mindfulness in nature can boost your mood and even short walks are better than nothing.
Spend a few minutes stretching.
“Even if working out is too much for you to commit to, stretching still releases the same endorphins, which decreases a person’s perception of pain.
Call or visit a friend.
Be intentional about spending time with the people that matter most. A good conversation over a cup of coffee can change everything about the day.
Give acupuncture a go.
Studies have shown that acupuncture can help to decrease stress and anxiety.
Ask for help when you’re overwhelmed.
“Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, and people innately want to help one another,” said David Rakofsky, a psychologist and president of Wellington Counseling Group in Chicago.
Remind yourself that someone else’s mood is not your responsibility.
“Don’t take things people say or believe personally,” said Andrea Dindinger, a San Francisco-based licensed marriage and family therapist.
Volunteer (bonus if it’s with animals).
Volunteering has been shown to reduce stress. And according to the Human Research Animal Bond Institute, research has demonstrated human-animal interactions help decrease symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety and more.
Plant a garden.
“Gardening helps with mood, concentration and focus,” said Shannon Lawrence, an acupuncturist and yoga instructor in California.
Watch a funny movie.
“Smiling and laughing are positive for your mental health.”
Perform an act of kindness.
“Generosity is key to our positive mental health,” DeHoff said. “An act of kindness towards others may help you understand your own difficulties, increase empathy and gain some perspective.”
Be mindful of your social media use.
Decrease in their negative emotions, most say they feel like a burden has been lifted off of them and that they feel freer.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Stress and anxiety are two of the most common reasons for poor sleep.
Meditate.
Even on the busiest of days, finding just five or 10 minutes to meditate can be beneficial.
Talk to a therapist.
You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Mental health experts can help you manage stress and find ways to cope with problems that are affecting your daily life.
JANUARY IS THYROID AWARENESS MONTH
According to the American Thyroid Association approximately 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid cancer. It is important to discuss, because 60% of those with a thyroid disease are unaware of their condition. Let’s discuss what the thyroid is and its function. We will also cover the warning signs and screenings available. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your thyroid, please contact your doctor and/or schedule an appointment with an endocrinologist. What is the thyroid and what is its function? The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the lower front of the neck. The role of the thyroid is to make thyroid hormones. These hormones are secreted into the blood and then carried throughout the body. The Thyroid controls the body’s metabolism, increases heart rate and affects how fast things move through the body such as food, bone loss and sugar. It is thought to be the most important endocrine organ! Thyroid facts: • Women are 5-8 times more likely than men to experience thyroid problems. • 1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid disorder in her lifetime. • The cause of thyroid problems is largely unknown. • Cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis and infertility are serious conditions that can occur if thyroid disease goes undiagnosed. • It is important for pregnant women to be diagnosed and treated adequately. If not, risks include miscarriage, preterm delivery, and severe developmental problems in their children. • Most thyroid diseases are life-long and can be managed with proper medical attention. • Thyroid nodules are very common and are present in 60-70% of middle-aged women. • Most thyroid cancers respond to treatment, but a small percentage can be very aggressive. Early warning signs of thyroid problems: • Overactive thyroid: Racing heart rate, Palpitations, Anxiety, Insomnia, Nervousness, Weight loss with increased appetite, Excessive sweating/heat intolerance, Muscle weakness. • Underactive thyroid: Fatigue / sluggishness (mental and physical), Cold intolerance, Constipation, Hair loss, Weight gain, Depression. Signs of thyroid nodules/cancer: • An unusual lump or swelling in the neck. • Other warning signs include a new cough, hoarseness, swollen glands and a new persistent cough. www.thyroid.org
Formerly Alabama Allergy & Asthma Clinic PC, AllerVie Health provides the most comprehensive allergy and asthma treatment in Montgomery, Alabama. Our board-certified allergists have experience treating a variety of allergies, asthma, and related immunological disorders, which can limit people’s ability to live the lives they love. We put our patients at the center of everything we do and are committed to setting and delivering the gold-standard in allergy and immunology services to those in our care. Looking for a local allergist who understands the common pollen issues affecting those in and around Montgomery? In need of a doctor to help treat immunological disorders such as hereditary angioedema and FCAS? Call us today to schedule an appointment with a Montgomery allergist who can help you feel your best and reclaim your life! J. Allen Meadows, MD, was born in Ozark, AL, and raised in the Marietta GA. Even as a high school student, Dr. Meadows wanted to become an allergist under the mentorship of his own allergist, Jerry Vanderpoole, MD. After completing his medical training, he returned to Montgomery, the home of his wife Charlotte, to establish a new allergy practice in July 1991. He was in a community-based solo practice for 30 years until he proudly joined the AllerVie family in July 2021.
J. Allen Meadows, MD
Tell Your Friends
BOOM! Available Here and 200 other locations!
Renfroe's Market_Adams Drugs_Sommer's Place_Fresh Market_Whole Foods Tomatino's_MCA Fitness_Vintage Cafe_Derk's_UPS Stores_Steak Out_Steaks & Wine The Vintage Olive_Capital City-Ace Hardware_Orange Therapy_Down the Street Chappy's Deli_Health Wise Foods_Eastbrook Flea Market_John Lee Paints Home Care Assistance_Doug's 2_Baumhower’s Restaurant_Jan's Beach House San Marcos_Chris' Hot Dogs_Lek's_SaZas_Mexico Tipico_La Zona Rosa Read the digital version from your phone, tablet, ipad or computer, www.RiverRegionBoom.com
MPAC Presents CATS
CATS is the longest running musical in Broadway history, debuting in 1982 and finally closing on Broadway in September, 2000. Written by famed composer Andrew Lloyd Weber (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Evita, The Phantom of the Opera) and based on T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, this musical still remains a favorite with audiences nationwide. CATS tells the story of the Jellicles, a tribe of cats who assemble for their annual junkyard ball where they announce the cat that will be reborn. "Memory," the show's most memorable song (sung by the character Grizabella) quickly became a pop vocal favorite and has been recorded by over 150 artists including Barbra Streisand, Barry Manilow and Judy Collins. The show's appeal also appears to be universal, as it has been translated into over 20 languages. As time and ticket sales have proven, CATS is undoubtedly one of the most beloved stage musicals of all time. Wednesday, February 16th. For tickets www.mpaconline.org
Gogue Performing Arts Center Presents Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
For six years, Beautiful, the Tony- and Grammy award-winning Carole King musical, thrilled Broadway audiences with the inspiring true story of one woman’s remarkable journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Now, Beautiful is making its way across the country! From the string of pop classics King wrote for the biggest acts in music, to the life-changing, chart-busting success of her landmark 1971 album Tapestry, Beautiful takes you back to where it all began—and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring more than two dozen pop classics, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “Up on the Roof,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” and “Natural Woman,” this crowd-pleasing international phenomenon is filled with the songs you remember—and the story you’ll never forget. Broadway Series: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical performed in the Gogue Performing Arts Center, Woltosz Theatre, Saturday, January 29, 2022, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, January 30, 2022, 2 p.m. For tickets visit https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/
Gogue Performing Arts Center Presents An Evening with Branford Marsalis
Saxophonist Branford Marsalis is one of the most influential and revered figures in contemporary music. The National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master, Grammy Award winner and Tony Award nominee is equally at home performing concertos with symphony orchestras and sitting in with members of the Grateful Dead. After more than three decades of existence with minimal personnel changes, this celebrated ensemble is renowned for its uncompromising interpretation of a kaleidoscopic range of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics. An Evening with Branford Marsalis performed in the Gogue Performing Arts Center, Woltosz Theatre, Sunday, February 20, 2022, 7:30 p.m. For tickets visit https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/
Martin Luther King, Jr. Reflections Breakfast
One of Auburn University at Montgomery’s most cherished traditions, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Reflections Breakfast, will be held on January 18, 2022, at 8 a.m. This year’s featured speaker is AUM alum Brigadier General Terrence Adams, and the event will take place in Taylor Center 221-223 and 230. Breakfast will be served at 8 a.m., with the program beginning at 9 a.m.
Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: ANGELINA JIMOH
Angelina has been with HomeCare Assistance since October of 2021! During this time, she has made a great impression on every client and family member alike. Her compassion for the job is unmatched and everyone becomes her extended family. Angelina is a team player, that embodies both hard work and dedication.
For more information visit www.homecareassistancemontgomery.com
Free Subscriptions www.riverregionboom.com
By Jeremy Keil How to Safely Earn More on Your Savings
Adding U.S. savings bonds known as I bonds (now paying 7.12%) can be smart for your retirement mix
Many people approaching retirement are concerned about today's low interest rates and high inflation, worrying that savings and investments won't keep up with rising costs. If this sounds like you, I suggest considering adding a type of U.S. savings bonds known as I bonds to your retirement mix because they're now paying a safe, high return far better than you can get elsewhere.
An I bond is a savings bond just like the kind your grandparents may have given you on your birthday growing up, with a unique twist. Instead of providing only a fixed rate of interest the way traditional EE savings bonds do, an I bond also has a built-in inflation component that gets added every six months. That's very valuable in today's economic environment with inflation running around 5.4% or so.
If you buy an I bond between November 2021 and April 2022, you'll get a 7.12% rate for the first six months. That means if you put $100 into I bonds now, you'll have about $103 six months later, and you'll get a new interest rate after that, tied to the inflation rate at the time.
What Are the Details About I Bonds?
While I bonds are paying 7.12%, today's average 12-month bank certificate of deposit rate is just 0.14% and money market savings rates average 0.08%. • An I bond keeps earning interest for 30 years • You must hold an I bond for 12 months or more • You can buy I bonds online through the government’s website TreasuryDirect.gov or you can buy paper I bonds using your federal income tax refund • Electronic I bonds come in any amount for $25 or more; paper I bonds are sold in five denominations: $50, $100, $200, $500 and $1,000 • If you cash out within the first five years, you lose the prior three months’ interest • Every six-month anniversary of your purchase, the I bond’s inflation rate is adjusted up or down • Your I bond can never lose value • You can only buy $10,000 in electronic I bonds per person per year and up to $5,000 in paper I bonds per person per year • If you own electronic I bonds, you can redeem in the TreasuryDirect application; if you own paper I bonds, you can cash them at some local financial institutions or by mail • You can’t hold I bonds in an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) • There shouldn’t be any fees from your investment advisor for buying and holding I Bonds
What About That Early Withdrawal Penalty?
Some people are concerned about paying a penalty and losing the prior three months' interest if they cash out of I bonds sometime after 12 months. But since you'll earn today's high interest in the first six months, your "penalty" won't touch that, so your 12-month return will be at least 3.56% if you buy the bonds by April 2022.
Why You May Want to Put I Bonds in Your Emergency Fund
Many people have an emergency fund; money they can access "just in case."
Why not put a portion of your emergency fund money into I bonds, perhaps slowly at first (because you can't touch it until 12 months), so your rainyday funds will earn more interest than alternatives like bank CDs and savings accounts? If it turns out that CDs or savings accounts start paying a great rate of interest again — which doesn't seem likely anytime soon — you could easily cash out the I bonds and switch your money back to bank accounts.
Since I bonds will never lose money, you won't see any price fluctuations while you hold them and you can cash out without any drop in principal.
Can I Bonds Replace Other Bonds in Your Portfolio?
Many people are concerned about other U.S. government and corporate bonds that now have low interest rates and could lose value after inflation and potential interest rate increases (when interest rates rise, bond prices typically fall). That's why you could consider swapping in I bonds to replace some bonds you currently own that don't offer inflation protection.
Since I bonds will never lose money, you won't see any price fluctuations while you hold them and you can cash out without any drop in principal.
How to Buy I Bonds
Here are the nine steps to purchase electronic I bonds: 1. Go to www.TreasuryDirect.gov 2. Click “open an account,” choose TreasuryDirect, then “apply now” 3. Choose the type of account you’ll get, most likely a personal one 4. Fill in your info, including the bank account you’ll use to fund the account 5. Create your password and reminders (you’ll get your username soon) 6. Check your email, get your account number and go back to TreasuryDirect. gov to login 7. After you receive a “one-time passcode” by email, enter it on the Treasury site’s “virtual keyboard” 8. Once you’re in the account, click “BuyDirect,” then Savings Bonds — I bonds 9. Enter the dollar amount you want to purchase, how you want to do it (date and frequency for successive purchases or the date for a one-time purchase) and click submit.
Source: www.nextavenue.org
Polly Hardegree
This month’s cover profile is a unique woman who has spent 48 years becoming one of the best banking executives in the River Region. Her name is Polly Hardegree and she is an executive with River Bank & Trust. Polly was part of the founding team for River Bank & Trust in 2006 and has continued to make RBT a community focused financial institution through her ability to build relationships with her customers. A rare quality, especially in our “everything’s online” world. When Polly started in the banking business in the early 1980’s she had to forge her own path because it was a male dominated business. She was determined to achieve success in the banking industry, and she has, for herself and the women that followed. Polly is not only a leading local banker but a community volunteer with a passion to serve. She has been involved with Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Baptist Healthcare Foundation, MACOA, Hospice of Montgomery, National Kidney Foundation, and American Heart Association. When it comes to her passion, it’s her family, especially her grandsons, Parker and Connor. They have filled her heart with lots of love. We are grateful for Polly sharing her unique story with us this month. We enjoyed getting to know her and hope you will too.
BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e. where you’re from, education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, did you raise your family here, schools, married, family, etc?
Polly: I was born and raised in Anniston, Alabama. I attended Saks High School where I met my future husband, Don Hardegree. Shortly after our son, Jason, was born, we moved to Birmingham, where I started my banking career at National Bank of Commerce as an assistant to the Executive Vice President. In 1975, my husband was transferred to Montgomery and I accepted a job at Alabama National Bank as Administrative Secretary to their Executive Management team. This is where we raised our son, who attended Jefferson Davis High School before attending Auburn University.
Celebrating their 53rd wedding anniversary at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS Polly & Don Celebrating New Year's Eve at Arrowhead County Club
In 1990, I graduated from Alabama Banking School at the University of South Alabama. In addition to my husband and son, my small family is made whole by my two grandsons, Parker Hardegree and Connor Owens. I am grateful to have my family live close by.
BOOM!: You have been part of the banking industry for 48 years, please share how you got started in in the banking industry? What is it that kept you in it all those years? As a woman, were there unique challenges during your career?
Polly: After moving from Anniston to Birmingham, I started working for a physician’s practice. After a year, I decided that working in the medical field wasn’t for me so I started looking for a job. I had been Polly and Don on their cruise thinking to Alaska about banking for quite some time and decided to pursue any opportunities available. I
interviewed at several banks but was offered a job at National Bank of Commerce. I worked there until 1975 when we moved to Montgomery.
I love building relationships with my customers and knowing that I have helped them with their financial needs, whether it was a loan, checking account, or sound financial advice. Knowing that my customers depended on me and trusted my advice made me enjoy my job even more and I never wanted to do anything else.
I have had several unique challenges during my lengthy banking career. I had to overcome the bias that comes with being a woman in the management side of banking. At one point in my career, the department I had been working in had an opening for a manager. I was the most senior person working in that department and had brought in more business than anyone else, including previous managers. Of course, I was hoping I would be considered for the position. However, I was told at that time by the President of the bank that because I was a woman and all the other managers were men who had more degrees, I would never be the manager. He even went so far as to say that he knew, “I was the horse that pulled the cart” in my department but I would never be the manager and I needed to accept that, mainly because of the reaction of my male counterparts. I was devastated and thought my dreams of ever becoming a part of the management team was over. However, my dreams did come true within a few months when a new President came in and immediately made me the department manager. It was 1980 when I was promoted to Senior Vice President and I remained the head of the Wealth Management department plus investment services until I retired from that bank in 2005.
BOOM!: In 2006, you were part of the founding team for River Bank & Trust, The two main goals were to 1) establish a communityfocused financial institution that would support local decision making and 2) re-circulate money back into the communities it serves, could you explain to our readers why these 2 goals were the most important?
Polly: 1. National Bank of Commerce (my first banking job) was a community bank with only 50 employees. It was a wonderful way to start a career and I was able to learn skills I would use all throughout my years of banking. After joining Alabama National Bank and continuing the community banking culture until they merged with a larger bank, I learned how important is was to be able to make local decisions, especially when you get to know your customers. Clients do not like having decisions for their financial needs made by people they have never met, especially if that decision-maker is in another city or state. Prattville is just up the road, and that is as far as I have to go if I need additional assistance. I have included a picture of our CEO, Jimmy Stubbs, and Ray Smith, President of River Financial Corporation. Both of these men have helped make my job enjoyable and have been great supporters of my role at River Bank & Trust, which is truly a great place to work and bank.
2. Re-circulating money back in the community was and still is an important initiative of River Bank & Trust. Deposits made by customers are used to make loans to individuals that will improve their lives while loans to businesses and churches will improve our communities. Our goal is to also support community organizations such as the United Way, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, MACOA, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and many more, which is made possible with local banking and profits remaining in the area.
Polly and Don with their son, Jason Hardegree, and grandsons Parker Hardegree and Connor Owens, celebrating her mother Betty Brooks' birthday Polly, Don, and their grandsons Connor and Parker celebrating Christmas, 2021 Grandson Parker Hardegree Grandson Connor Owens
Son Jason Hardegree, Christmas 2021
BOOM!: In the past year you were promoted at River Bank & Trust to Montgomery County President while you already held the position of Executive Vice President and the bank's Wealth Management/ Retail Banking Manager. With so many important roles can you describe what your primary responsibilities are at River Bank & Trust?
Polly: My primary responsibilities are to oversee our Wealth Management program, which consists of Private Banking and Investment Services provided by River Financial Services. I also serve as the liaison and contact between the bank and several of our third-party vendors that are crucial to our operations. In addition to that, I assist in the management and training of our 19 office locations, as well as planning customer and bank events. My primary focus, however, is fostering unexpected and unsurpassed hospitality throughout our footprint as our number one goal.
BOOM!: Community service is an important part of your life in the River Region, what organizations do you give your time to and more importantly, please share with our readers why community service is so important?
Polly: I love our community and want to help agencies provide services people need or care they cannot afford. I know it takes time away from work and family but it is worth every minute. My own family has been touched by cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and hospice care, so I know first hand how important it is to have organizations that help raise funds for research and provide families the care they need. Over the past few years, I have been a board member and past president of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Baptist Healthcare Foundation, MACOA, Hospice of Montgomery, National Kidney Foundation, and American Heart Association. I sleep well at night knowing I had a small part in helping someone in need.
BOOM!: With a busy life, how do you like to spend time with family and friends?
Polly: My family and friends love Lake Martin so we spend a lot of weekends at the lake. We own a house there and enjoy having guests as often as possible. My husband and I also love to travel, go to restaurants, and play cards. My mother and sister live in Anniston and I enjoy visiting with them. We always find a way to have fun and shop ‘til we drop.
BOOM!: What are some of your favorite travel experiences? Favorite vacation spot? Any travel dreams planned? Polly: My husband and I have been on several trips with friends over the years. We have also had the pleasure of going on trips with the Alabama Bankers Association. Two of our favorite trips with the ABA were to Bermuda and Colorado. We were accompanied by our grandson, Parker, and that made the trip even more special. I love making memories with my family and seeing their enjoyment. Taking a cruise is my favorite thing to do. We have been on several cruises but my very favorite itinerary was a cruise we took to Alaska with friends - it was fantastic! The wilderness, scenery, food, and the helicopter and train rides were the absolute best. We hope to travel to Europe after my retirement in a few years.
BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?
Polly: No doubt, FAMILY. I didn’t know how full my heart could be until I had a son and then grandchildren. When they were small, we had fun going to the beach, lake, zoo and did I mention McDonald’s? As they get older, they have other interests than hanging out with their grandparents but we still find time to enjoy the lake together, as well as family gatherings throughout the year. I am also passionate about time spent with my son, mother, sister and other extended family.
BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down from a hard day’s work?
Polly: I enjoy reading, watching movies, and having dinner with friends and family. Some nights a margarita is added for my enjoyment and relaxation.
Don Hardegree showing Real Men Wear Pink Polly and Don on a trip to Greenbrier in West Virginia
BOOM!: What is it about living in the Montgomery/ River Region area that you like? What do we need more of?
Polly: I love the opportunity to be a part of a continually growing community. When we moved here in 1975, anything north of the bypass was all pasture land and look at it now! It offers shopping, great restaurants, entertainment, and housing. I do think we need more educational opportunities for our children and we definitely need a hospice home for people who do not have the financial resources or family members to care for them after being diagnosed with a terminal illness.
BOOM!: As you’ve aged, can you describe what it means to “age well”?
Polly: To be happy, healthy, and willing to enjoy life to the fullest. I have always heard, “You are only as old as you feel” and I choose to feel young – I don’t put off ‘til tomorrow what I should do today because tomorrow I might feel old. Just keeping up with my grandchildren and staff at work keeps me feeling young at heart.
BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you?
Polly: Honest, dependable, humorous.
BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other activities that grab your attention?
Polly: I love to cook and try new recipes. If they turn out well, I like to invite friends and family over to sample the finished product. Appetizers are my favorite thing to experiment with. BOOM!: What are some of the future challenges you’re contemplating for River Bank & Trust? For yourself?
Polly: Advancement of technology and continuing to build a staff dedicated to giving our customers first class service, as well as being considered trusted advisors.
For me personally, being able to balance my time with work and family has always been something I struggle with. I also know that keeping abreast of new technology will be a challenge since it advances so quickly.
BOOM!: Many people over 50 experience a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, etc. How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal? What are your thoughts on retirement?
Polly: At this stage of my life, I feel a sense of purpose to pass along to others the knowledge I have gained over the past half-century. I also want to spend more time with my husband and family and travel more. If you are seeking a renewed purpose, make sure you are happy doing what you are doing. Don’t wait years to make a change: do it now. It is never too late to try something new, something that makes you happy to wake up every morning and work at with a passionate heart.
My goal is to retire in a few years and maybe work part-time in order to ensure a smooth transition to the person who will someday take over my position. This way, I will have the best of both worlds; I can stay in touch with my customers while spending more time with my family.
BOOM!: Would you please describe your relationship with your grandchildren? What do your grandchildren call you and your husband Don?
Polly: I have a great relationship with my grandchildren. Connor is attending AUM and Parker is at Auburn University, which allows us to see each other often. They are truly a blessing to both me and my husband and we love spending time with them. We can’t imagine life without them in our lives. They call us Poppy and Mimi.
BOOM!: Polly, you have been married for 53 years to your husband Don. Your length of marriage is both rare and precious, especially in a society where almost everything is disposable. Would you please share your insight on making marriage work the way it’s supposed to?
Polly and Don at River Bank & Trust's 2021 Christmas Party
Polly with Ray Smith, President and Jimmy Stubbs, CEO of River Financial Corporation
Polly: We were very young, right out of high school, when we married in 1968. I guess we knew from the beginning that we were meant to be. Our first date was a church social and we never dated anyone else. As everyone knows, marriage can be hard if you don’t work at it. We, like most couples, have had good times and bad but we took our vows very seriously and worked together through any challenges that came our way. You have to be able to give and take, laugh and cry, and learn to forgive the other’s faults. I cannot imagine life without Don – he is definitely my support system. He has always had my back throughout my career, cooking when I had to work late, doing laundry, housework, and taking our son to ball practice so I could attend meetings after hours or finish work projects that fell outside of a 9-5 routine. God has blessed us throughout our marriage and we will forever lean on Him for guidance. I hope we share many more happy years together.
Polly Hardegree, River Bank & Trust, Executive Vice President, Wealth Management / Retail Banking Manager, & Montgomery County President
(photo by Chrietzberg Photography)
We want to thank Polly for sharing some of her unique story with us this month. Thanks also to DiAnna Paulk for her quality cover photo of Polly, taken in the Blount Cultural Park. If you have comments or would like to consider doing business with Polly you can contact her through River Bank & Trust at 334.290.2673 or phardegree@river.bank or visit www.riverbankandtrust.com. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please send them to Jim Watson at jim@riverregionboom.com.
scan to view RBT website
Tell Your Friends
BOOM! Available Here and 200 other locations!
Chappy's Deli_Renfroe's Market_Adams Drugs_Sommer's Place_ Fresh Market_Whole Foods_Tomatino's_MCA Fitness_Vintage Cafe_Derk's_UPS Stores_Steak Out_Steaks & Wine_The Vintage Olive_Capital City-Ace Hardware_Orange Therapy_Down the Street_Health Wise Foods_Eastbrook Flea Market_John Lee Paints_Home Care Assistance_Doug's 2_Baumhower’s Restaurant_Jan's Beach House_San Marcos_Chris' Hot Dogs_Lek's_SaZas_Mexico Tipico_La Zona Rosa Read the digital version from your phone, tablet, ipad or computer subscribe free at www.RiverRegionBoom.com
READ IT - LOVE IT - SHARE IT
BOOM! starts conversations and shares stories. Share your business with BOOM! readers. For more information call/text 334.324.3472 or visit www.riverregionboom.com
