Portrait of a Lady Jackie Richardson

 

Where are you from?

Born and raised in Hazel Green, WI

 

What did you do before working with Eagle Ridge? 

I have been in the hospitality industry in Galena for years. So, when Eagle Ridge had a sales position open it seemed like a good idea to pursue it. Prior to hospitality, I worked for the Galena and Tucson Chamber of Commerce.

 

What brought you to your current position? 

I moved back to the area from Arizona for family reasons.

 

What has been the most interesting aspect of your work? 

Dealing with people.  People never cease to amaze and sometimes disappoint me. 

 

What has been your biggest challenge?   

Prioritizing!  One’s life can change overnight and identifying what is most important is the key. 

 

Tell me about your family. 

I am an only child.  My mother and father live in Hazel Green and I am very close to them.  Troy and I live in Hazel Green as well.

 

Any pets? 

Now your talking.  Beau is my cat. He was electrocuted when he was young, so he does not have all of his back leg power. He goes outside on a harness and a leash and I also take him for “big kitty” walks. 

 

Who are you inspired by? 

My grandmother.  My grandmother’s death at 87 was devastating to me.  My grandmother, at an early age, had to quit school to raise her siblings and keep house after her mother died.  Gram married, lived on a farm and raised 5 children. From those children, 10 grandchildren were born and our family to this day couldn’t be closer. I am truly amazed with her life lessons and count my blessings for her words of wisdom that ring clearly and so very true.

 

What is you favorite book? I read a lot, I have some that I would consider good books:  The Kite Runner, Tuesday’s with Morrey, and the Da Vinci Code.

Favorite Movie? 

Born Free. I cry uncontrollably every time I see it.

 

What is in your refrigerator? 

I’m a vegetarian. Cold pizza, bagels, fruit, veggies and cheese. I love cheese.

 

If you could invite anyone to a dinner party dead or alive, who would you invite?  My grandmother.

 

What is your favorite vacation spot? 

I love to travel.  When I was young, I went on family vacations with my parents, grandparents and my Aunt and two cousins.  Back then, we would rent a station wagon, equipped with a luggage carrier on the top and go to places like: Colorado, South Dakota, Washington DC, and Niagra Falls.  When I got older I traveled international: Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Mexico, London. 

Two years ago, I found this wonderful spot in Northern WI which is great for mini vacations –  I go as often as I can. 

 

Your favorite pastime is….

I enjoy reading and if it is in our boat on a river or a lake, it is even better.

 

What has been your largest personal challenge?

My biggest challenge came with the realization that I am no longer my parent’s “little girl.”  I am now the woman that my parents look to, when decisions have to be made. And, they are never easy ones!

 

What are you most proud of? 

Once I make my mind up that I need to accomplish something, I can.

 

Are you living your dream? 

Not yet, I believe the best is yet to come.