MADISON – Beth Richardson appreciates the sense of belonging found in Madison.

“That feeling of belonging somewhere is amazing. When you can walk into a restaurant and they know your order and a good portion of the people in the restaurant say, ‘Hi, Beth! Is Rodney behaving?,’ it makes you feel like you really belong,” Beth said.

Convenience, another asset. The supermarket, school or any destination just a couple of minutes away. “Parade candy — not many communities do this anymore. Our town welcomes it,” Beth said. “The people, schools and green space make our city an attractive community to live, work and play.”

When she drives down County Line Road or other streets, Beth sees people walking, running or biking with their families. “Madison has the cool factor; we’re ‘it.'”

Ten years ago, Beth moved to Madison, and her daughter was enrolled in private school. “With her big personality, I knew it would be only a matter of time before she would desire to attend public school. Madison, and Madison City Schools, was a ‘win-win’ choice for us.”

Beth’s husband Rodney K. Richardson is Principal of Horizon Elementary School. Daughter Jaylin Caroline is a junior at James Clemens High School. “Go, Jets!”

Currently, Beth is Madison Market President for Progress Bank and Trust. “We’ve been in Madison for almost six years,” she said. Beth ensures “all aspects of the bank’s activities obtain maximum profits commensurate with the best interest of the shareholders, customers, employees and the community.”

Beth strives to provide the highest level of customer relations and service; to monitor customers’ changing needs; and to recommend strategies using Progress’ products and services. She serves on the Product, Technology and Assets committee and the Liability Management committee.

In volunteering, Beth serves with Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau and boards of directors for Madison Police Foundation and Madison Hospital. “My civic involvement has enabled me to positively impact education, politics, healthcare services and economic development,” she said.

A huge fan of gospel, she believes music soothes the soul.

Most any Friday night, you’ll find Beth and Rodney at Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. They also enjoy Stem and Stein, Cricket’s and Main Street Cafe.