Jon Wackerman started banking with Richwood because the branch was next door.
He’s stayed for the relationship, trust, and ease that make business simple.
As the owner of Desperados Bar & Grill in Huntsville, Jon knows the power of local connections. His restaurant has become a community gathering spot — a place where farmers, bikers, and business owners all pull up a chair at the same table. And when it comes to his banking, Jon values that same small-town accessibility paired with real, dependable support.
“We started with Richwood because the branch was right here in town,” Jon recalls. “It was convenient. But from the beginning, it’s always been a great experience — easy to work with, great people.”
That convenience turned into connection — and over nearly a decade, Jon’s relationship with lender Alexis and the Richwood Bank team has become a cornerstone of how he runs his business.
A Relationship That Grows with You
Over the years, Jon has worked closely with Richwood Bank’s Alexis, building a partnership that goes far beyond loans or deposits.
“There’s probably not enough words to express how much Alexis has done,” Jon says. “She’s been great — always there to answer my questions, even when it doesn’t pertain to loans. She’s my go-to, no matter what.”
He laughs, admitting he probably texts her more than he should.
“I try not to text her after 7 p.m., but sometimes I have thoughts in my head and just have to ask. She always answers — that’s the kind of relationship we have.”
Whether it’s expanding the restaurant, managing farm finances, or even financing a family home in Florida, Jon says the process with Richwood has always been simple and supportive.
“It’s just really easy to have an institution like that where you know you can go to them and things are going to be taken care of.”
Community at the Heart
Desperados has grown tremendously since Jon took over more than 10 years ago.
“We do a lot more volume now,” he says. “Our prices are reasonable, our food is good, and it’s just a good place to go.”
But for Jon, success is measured in more than sales. It’s about creating a place where everyone feels welcome.
“We’ve got farmers, attorneys, bikers — all sitting side by side,” he says proudly. “That’s what I love about this place. It’s a mix of all walks of life, and that’s the kind of community we have here.”
That same spirit of connection is part of what drew him to Richwood Bank — a partner that shares his belief in giving back.
“I think it’s great what Richwood does for the community,” Jon says. “With Discovery Riders, the donations, the coffee program — that’s something extra that really means a lot.”
Jon serves on the board for Discovery Riders, a therapeutic horseback riding center that helps children and adults build confidence and connection through equine therapy. Richwood’s coffee donations help support the organization’s work — something deeply personal for Jon.
“Discovery Riders is my heart,” he says. “Last year, through pull tab sales here at Desperados, we donated over $70,000 to them. To see Richwood also supporting that cause — it’s just a good deal all the way around.”
Banking That Feels Personal
When asked what he’d say to others who are nervous about starting a banking relationship, Jon doesn’t hesitate.
“That’s an easy question — I recommend Richwood to everybody,” he says. “I’ve gotten most of my employees to open accounts, get credit cards, start building credit. It’s easy. The branches are easy. The people are easy to work with.”
After ten years of partnership, Jon says there’s simply no comparison.
“I don’t have any complaints — none. It’s been a great relationship, and I probably wouldn’t change anything.”
At Richwood Bank, relationships like Jon’s are what make community banking different.
It’s not about transactions — it’s about people who know your name, care about your goals, and show up when it matters.
Because sometimes the best partner is right next door.
