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205 - 384 - 6942 New Boat Showroom Landau Pontoon Boat Sales “Brand New 2021 Landau 232 Tri-toon rentals. Powered by 140 four-stroke . Powerful yet fuel efficient. Online booking for pricing and availability.” Bennington Pontoon Boat Sales Call Michael 205-384-6942 for Pontoon Boat Sales • Dry Storage RV Park Area • Pontoon Rentals • Wet Storage • Ship Store • Boat Sales • Boat Service (Routine Service & Appointments) • Fuel 24/7 • R V Park (Applications Required) www.duskinpointmarina.com ~ 198 Duskin Point Road, Jasper, AL 35504 smithlakeliving.com I 3
Duncan Bridge Marina & rV retreat 55 Marina Drive Arley, AL. 35541 duncanmarina3@gmail www.duncanbridgemarina.com 205-387-1208 RV Retreat • Wet / Dry Slip Boat Storage • Public Boat Launch $ 10.00 Fee 205 - 387 - 1208 • Gas - 90 Octane Non Ethanol • Store - Boating Accessories & More • Beach Area - Picnic Tables Duncan Bridge RV Retreat offers long term parking on concrete pads up to 20’ x 50’. All pads have full hook-up and utilities (water, power, sewer, and wi-fi ). The park has year around water with a dock for easy access to water, bath house, and is very convenient to Duncan Bridge Marina. Pricing starts at $ 300 a month.. 4 I smithlakeliving.com
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CONTENTS • 7 Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2022 Smith Lake Info / Water Level • 56 Alabama Vietnam Veteran Memorial By Rachel Sweigard • 9 Boating on Smith Lake on a Nice Winter Day By Trish Hand • 62 Cattle and Canvas Art Studio By Kristine Bullock • 14 Sweet Home Cullman County By Kristine Bullock • 63 Smith Lake Living 365 By Eddie Hand • 26 White Willow ~ Libby Crider By Rachel Sweigard • 68 Los Bomberos Cafe' Coffee By Rachel Sweigard. • 30 Bama Steel Structures, Inc. By Rachel Sweigard • 72 Bassmaster Open Fishing Tournament By Eddie Hand • 36 Cullman County Chamber of Commerce meeting at Smith Lake Trident Marina • 74 Alabama Bass Trail By Rachel Sweigard ABF- High School Fishing Tournament •38 Everything Cost More. So What? • 75 EVENTS By Jeff Roberts Tom Fredricks - AL. House District 14 •44 Birmingham Boat Show • 78 Advertiser Index Smith Lake Living™ { Winter 2021 } 36 Cullman County Chamber of Commerce Smith Lake ~ Trident Marina SWEET HOME ... 14 CULLMAN COUNTY 56 CATTLE & CANVAS ART STUDIO 62 ALABAMA VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL 68 26 Los Bomberos White Willow Cafe' Coffee Libby Crider www.SMITHLAKELIVING.com 6 | smithlakeliving.com
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2022 From the Smith Lake Living Staff A.P.C. Shoreline Permit Smith Lake Info: Local Office (205) 384-7385 Elevation above sea level ( Full Pool): 510 feet www.apcshorelines.com Area: 21,200 acres Shoreline: 642 miles The repair fees for Residential, Multifamily, and Lake level depth at dam: 264 feet Commercial dock repairs are for major repairs. Call Watershed drainage area: 944 square miles APC Shoreline for review of your plans. Smith Lake Dam Facts: Lake Level - November 18 , 2021 .............. 500.60’ Rule Curve Lake Level November 18 , 2021 .497.1 ’ In service September 5, 1961 Two generators, rating 78,750 kilowatts each 3.5 Feet Above Rule Curve Type Rock-fill 9.4 Feet Below Full Pool Length 2,200 feet Historical Average Lake Level ................ 497’ Maximum height 300 feet Smith Lake is licensed by FERC with the Record High Water Level following uses: energy, flood control, recreation and March 1973 .......... 521.2’ economic opportunity, irrigation and drinking water, and fish/wildlife habitats. Record Low Water Level October 1971 ........ 488.8’ Source Corps of Engineers Water Temperature 63 degrees F November 18, 2021 smithlakeliving.com I 7
Smith Lake Living WINTER 2021 Vol. XVII No.4 Smith Lake Living, LLC Looking back over the past seventeen years, this marks the 68th issue of Smith Lake Living magazine. What 788 County Road 97 an honor it has been to meet and work with all the lake Bremen, AL 35033 folks. Editor Being a lake resident one can enjoy watching an ear- ly morning sunrise or a beautiful late evening sunset, sitting Kristine Bullock by a fire overlooking the lake on a cold winter day, taking a walk to enjoy all the fall colors and wildlife, going for a sunny Photography winter boat cruise, or picking up a fishing pole to test your luck. Eddie Hand Thinking about joining our community? We have Contributing Writers countless activities year-round so you too can enjoy Smith Lake Living 365. * Kristine Bullock * Samantha Acton * * Rachel Sweigard * Trish Hand * See you on the Lake ! * Jeff Roberts * Eddie Hand * Eddie Hand Publisher Smith Lake Living Magazine Published by Smith Lake Living, LLC Smith Lake Living Scan on your smart phone Advertising www.smithlakeliving.com “ a community magazine” For information about advertising in Smith Lake Living Magazine, please call ISSN 2150-3486 Eddie Hand 256- 287-1545 Issued by Email: [email protected] United States Copyright Letters Office Letters to the publisher are welcome, but must Library of Congress include the writer’s name and a daytime phone number. 101 Independence Ave. S.E. Washington, DC SUBSCRIBE TO S LLmIiVthINakGe Cover Smith Lake Living Magazine Myrex Family ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION AVAILABLE Smith Lake Cullman County $ 25 check only (Make checks payable to Smith Lake Living LLC) By Eddie Hand Mail to: Smith Lake Living LLC a community magazine 788 County Road 97 Bremen, AL. 35033 All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher NAME: ________________________________________ Copyright 2021 ADDRESS:_____________________________________ Smith Lake Living is a registered Trademark owned Smith Lake Living LLC _____________________________________ CITY | STATE | ZIP CODE SMITH LAKE LIVING MAGAZINE is distributed free of charge. PHONE: ______________________________________ EMAIL: ______________________________________WN 21 8 | smithlakeliving.com
Boating on Smith Lake ... on a Nice Winter Day E Everyone loves boating around By Trish Hand Smith Lake in the summertime, traditionally have some very nice days around the but late fall and even winter boat Christmas holidays when the water temperature cruises on Smith Lake are enjoy- is low but the air temperature is quite comfort- able too. Taking a boat ride from able, so we encourage people to enjoy the lake mid-October through early Novem- as many days as possible year round.” Tolbert ber is the perfect chance to observe the beautiful added, “There is absolutely nothing wrong with fall colors as the leaves turn shades of red, orange, running these boats on New Year’s Day or even and gold. Additionally, the opportune time to look Valentine’s Day.” Tolbert’s rule of thumb is that if for lake property is when the water level is at win- someone is planning to use an outboard engine ter pool. Fisherman may like to be on the lake in boat every couple of weeks during the winter- the wintertime because spotted bass, largemouth time, then it is perfectly fine not to winterize that bass, and striped bass are plentiful in many parts boat. Tolbert recommends boating during fall and of Smith Lake during cold weather. winter on Smith Lake because, “The best thing to Whereas boats with inboard engines must be do for any piece of equipment is to operate it and winterized after each use in the wintertime wheth- not to set it up.” er stored indoors or outdoors to prevent the pos- g hSmith Lake Livingtm sibility of the engine freezing, boats powered by outboard engines do not require winterizing, and can be run all year round. According to Jeff Tolbert at Trident Marina, more than 70% of the boats they sell have outboard engines, including Mercury, Yamaha and Suzuki boats. Tolbert remarks, “We smithlakeliving.com I 9
® 205-384-5990 2403 Highway 78 East Jasper, AL. 35501 www.highpoint-furniture.com Follow Us on FACEBOOK 12 | smithlakeliving.com
Cullman Furniture Market ® “ Cullman’s Largest Furniture Showroom” 256-841-6755 Follow Us on FACEBOOK 1807 2nd. Avenue S.W. Cullman, AL. 35055 www.cullmanfurnituremarket.com smithlakeliving.com I 13
Sweet Home Cu Sweet Home Cu By Kristine Bullock quintessential American dream is a constantly changing phenomenon, and is defined differently as time pro- The gresses through the generations. Many movies have attempted to captivate audiences with scripts of people growing up in small towns, marrying their high school sweethearts, and having a life rich with profound con- tentment and never-ending bliss. Cindy and Ricky are walking examples that this story is not just found in mov- ies, and together have created a love story that withstands the tests of time. Continued on Page 16 14 | smithlakeliving.com
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Cindy grew up in Cullman County, and has lived within the five mile radius be- tween Trident Marina and the Four Way Stop Convenience Shop that her parents had owned most of her young life. She is one of five children, and went to Cold Springs High School. Growing up, Ricky and Cindy attended Ryan’s Creek Baptist Church where Ricky’s mom and dad were both active members and teachers. His family had moved into the community when he was a young boy. An avid motor cross rider, Ricky would frequent the Four Way Stop, which quickly became the place where the crush began. From first kisses to whimsical diary entries, Cindy and Ricky became each other’s forever’s, and just recently celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary. Continued on Page 18 Outdoor Fire Pit Area 16 | smithlakeliving.com
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Ricky spent his career as an iron worker out of Local 92 in Birmingham. Cindy spent the early years of their mar- riage taking care of their two beautiful daughters, Abby and Georgia. After 18 years of being a stay at home mom and wife, she started selling real estate. The couple has two grandchildren, Benton and Branch, whom they are blessed to see every day. In fact, their recent pur- chase of 40 acres was in part to help support the budding dreams of their grandson. Ricky and Cindy bought their prop- erty in February, 2021. The 40 acre lot consists of 800 feet of water front. The couple decided to build a barndominium, which is comprised of living quarters and a loft as well as a barn. The barn is equipped to house all of their toys. Inside, the living quarters contain a kitchen, living room, bed- room, bathroom, office, work-out space, storage room, and bunk room. Ricky and Cindy lived in a 5th wheel while they waited for construction to be complete, and do have plans to build a house on the property in the summer of 2022. Continued on Page 20 Kitchen Area Work Out / Fitness Area 18 | smithlakeliving.com
190 2020 The #1 Listing and Selling Realtor on Smith Lake. smithlakeliving.com I 19
Benton: Flies off Table Top This newly constructed barndominium is not the only unique part of the property. Their grandson’s success in motor cross inspired them to build a motor cross track to help support his great aspirations to become a competitor at the Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at the legendary Loretta Lynn Ranch. This championship has become the premiere amateur national series in the United States, and the proving grounds for America’s future profes- sional Supercross and Motocross heroes. As writers of their own American Dream, Cindy and Ricky are now helping their grandchildren to write a story all their own. It is without a doubt that this cyclical example of determination, love, and support will stand up to the tests of time just as the love story which started it all. Continued on Page 22 20 | smithlakeliving.com
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Cindy and Ricky are eternally grateful to all of the special people who worked to build and design the barndo- minium including: Brian Clemments, Anthony Hamby, Chad Nichols, Heatherly Farms, Walker Timber Frames, Augustine Ortiz, Effrin Cruze, Chris Haney, and Libby Crider. g hSmith Lake Livingtm BENTON LAYS OUT MOTOCROSS BIKE IN A TURN.... Georgia, Benton, & Branch Cindy & Ricky Matt & Abby 22 I smithlakeliving.com
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Lakeshore Inn & Marina Lodge • SPACIOUS , CLEAN & COMFORTABLE ROOMS Marina ~ Boat Storage • STANDARD KING, DOUBLE ROOMS & SUITES Pontoon Rentals • LAKESIDE PATIO, PICNIC TABLES, & STUNNING Floating Gas Dock ~ VIEW OF BEAUTIFUL SMITH LAKE 24 hour credit card service. • TV, WET BAR & MINI-FRIDGE • NO SMOKING / NO PETS (205) 489-2462 Lakeshore Inn & Marina www.lakeshoreinnandmarina.com 364 East Lakeshore Drive Double Springs, AL. 35553 BAR & GRILL • DRINK SPECIALS g hSmith Lake Livingtm • SPECIALTY DRINKS • 13 LED TV’S smithlakeliving.com I 7 • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EVERY WEEKEND 24 I smithlakeliving.com
14538 County Road 222 Crane Hill, Alabama 35053 L to R Kayla Reel (Realtor), Christine Patterson (Realtor), Connie Teems (Broker/Owner), Tonya Freeman (Realtor), Riley Harris (Office Manager). Here at Integrity Real Estate, our goal is to assist our clients in the buying and selling process. We believe the best way to achieve this goal is with honesty and true commitment. Follow Us on FACEBOOK @integrityrealestate2020 www.teemupwithintegrity.com smithlakeliving.com I 25
Libby Crider By Rachel Sweigard The Smith Lake area is packed with small businesses that offer services far superior to big box stores. Small businesses are always appreciative of the patron- age of the community, but they are especially appreciative in today’s climate where goods, services, and operating costs are increasingly expensive. White Willow is a small business in Cullman that serves as a premier furniture store and interior design studio. Libby Crider, an interior designer at White Willow, explains that they offer the full package, and are ready to adapt to their customer’s needs. Crider remarks that they are prepared to help with large tasks such as designing or decorating a space using items that the customer has already picked out, or small tasks such as assisting the customer in choosing linens, drapes, or furniture. Crider states that she especially likes to help first-time home buyers on Smith Lake because they are often appreciative of the expertise and guidance in decorating a space for the first time. White Willow sells trees and other Christmas decorations to be used around the holiday season. Crider explains that current popular styles are spaces that can be lived in with a variety of colors and textures. White Willow opened in 2016, and their designers have a heart for the resi- dents of Smith Lake. Crider reports that they also work closely with realtors on the Continued on Page 28 26 | smithlakeliving.com
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lake as well as second home owners. White Willow recently won a Best Furniture and Inte- riors Award through the Best of Bama Awards sponsored by AL magazine. Crider shares that these awards are voted on by consumers, and that makes the award much sweeter. White Willow’s designers can be reached at (256) 739-7001. They are also active on both Facebook and Instagram. Ser- vices are typically schedule around a month out. Crider or one of the other interior design- ers at White Willow can help to walk custom- ers through every step of the process. Their business website is: https://whitewillowcullman.com g hSmith Lake Livingtm L to R Stacy Shaddix, Libby Crider Sydney Crider, Amanda Franklin 28 | smithlakeliving.com
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By Rachel Sweigard Home trends have changed drastically over Brian Clements the last several years, and today’s homebuyers and Owner builders are venturing out of the box as they design, build, and shop for homes. The development of BAMA STEEL STRUCTURES, inc barndominiums has been one trend that has recent- ly gained popularity. Bama Steel was founded in 2000. Clem- ents’ father was in the dock building business, A barndominium is best described as a barn and a customer of his wanted him to construct that is built to be lived in, and often features an a building. He took a leap of faith into this new open-concept design. Barndominums are often less industry sector, and the rest was history. Clem- expensive than a traditional home due to the dif- ents reports that he loves working with customers ferences in building materials. They feature a steel to provide exceptional customer service and to frame with metal siding in place of a wood frame ensure their deepest level of satisfaction. Bama with vinyl siding or brick. Steel currently works with individuals more than they do businesses or corporations. Bama Steel Bama Steel in Bremen specializes in custom is located in Bremen, and can be found online barndominiums and other steel structures such as through their Facebook page. workshops or garages. Brian Clements, the owner of Bama Steel, explains that barndominiums offer g hSmith Lake Livingtm many perks because the steel used in the con- struction is much stronger than wood. Additionally, because the frame of the house is welded together instead of nailed or bolted, this adds an extra layer of strength. Clements also explains that customers have greater control over the customization of their home due to the open design that steel structures lend. Bama Steel specializes in barndominiums and workshops, and has had a hand in many of the buildings on the lake. Clements reports that they work closely with customers and builders as they create the exterior shell of the building before the builders come in and work on the interior spaces. The average barndominium is typically an inexpen- sive option when compared to a traditional home. Ultimately, the price fluctuates based on the cost and availability of materials which can be variable, especially considering the current world market. 30 | smithlakeliving.com
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~ Specializing in cUSTOM BlinDS anD SHaDeS ~ Custom Sizes Professionally Installed - Call for a Quote Follow Us on Facebook Smith Lake Blind Company ~ Brian DeWitte Owner 205 873-1379 Natural Woven Roman Shades with privacy lining featured above are a big [email protected] favorite for Smith Lake homes. Jim Bain “Convenient and Automatic Boat Protection” 256-794-1443 www.touchlesscover.com Touchless Covers of Alabama 32 | smithlakeliving.com
205-387-0297 • TMSAtuouibrrtroe&oFGrSsrlohansostwIenrDsEtaanlvlcaliotdisounLreosngJ-aOspweSnreear&rrveSinamgsi.tthheLake • • • Custom Shower Enclosure Auto Glass Installation Visit our Location: 1800 - 6th. Ave. So. -Jasper, AL. Follow us on Facebook smithlakeliving.com I 33
See FULL SERVICE TRIDENT MARINA MARINE GROUP ● New & Pre-Owned Boats ● Boat Storage ● Wake & Surf Shop ● Marine Parts & Service ● 24/7 Automated Fuel ● Gel Coat Restoration ● Boat Detailing ● Authorized Service Center For: SMITH LAKE T 21680 Co. Rd. 222 Crane Hill, AL 35053 tridentmarinas.com 256●286●0050 34 | smithlakeliving.com
e Yourself In A New pontoon We’re an authorized Avalon and Tahoe dealership serving all of Smith Lake. Come see us today. The Grille AT TRIDENT MARINA Full restaurant and bar inside, outside and dockside 256●841●4016 • Beer • Wine • Mixed Drinks • Liquor smithlakeliving.com I 35
Cullman County Chamber of Commerce meeting at Smith Lake - Trident Marina Garlan Gudger - Alabama State Senator, Peggy Smith - Cullman County Chamber President, Jeff Tolbert - Owner Trident Marina. Beth Kibler - Sprout Fiber Internet It takes many people to make a community By Rachel Sweigard successful. Behind each successful community are countless partnerships and vital friendships. The manec.com/sprout to see if their address is eligible Cullman County Chamber of Commerce is one exam- for service. If a particular address isn’t currently avail- ple. The chamber has been in place for 75 years, and able for service, residents can complete an interest currently has over 800 members according to Peggy form. The future goal is to expand the availability of Smith, the current chamber president. this great service in the area. The chamber is involved in many aspects of Smith remarked that the Smith Lake area is life in Cullman County. On October 14th, there was a developing rapidly, and the chamber’s goal is to meet chamber meeting at Trident Marina on Smith Lake to the needs of residents and business owners both now discuss several important items. First, the chamber and in the future. She also explains that the cham- explained that the Smith Lake area is growing at a ber looks forward to hosting more discussions like the rapid rate, and discussed various events, such as fish- one held on October 14th at Trident Marina. Many ing tournaments, that are coming to the lake in the holiday events are scheduled throughout the Smith next few months. The chamber also discussed the Lake area, and she urges residents to follow the Cull- new Tourism Bureau that has been formed through man County Chamber of Commerce on Facebook to recent legislation sponsored by the state delegation. stay updated on upcoming programs and events. The bureau has been put into place in order to bring more attention to attractions and events in the Cull- g hSmith Lake Livingtm man area, including those happening on Smith Lake. The chamber reported that Sprout Fiber In- ternet is now available in some areas around Smith Lake. There has been a great need in years past to bring more powerful internet to rural areas such as Smith Lake, and that need has recently intensified. Smith explains that Sprout Fiber Internet will allow residents and businesses to live and work on the lake in ways previously unseen. Residents can visit cull- 36 | smithlakeliving.com
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“ Everything Costs More. So What ?” You are likely hearing about rising inflation in the By Jeff Roberts news. If you wonder what that really means, you are not truckers to deliver the items wherever they need to go. Or, alone. For purposes of this article, I’m going to keep a when they are being delivered, the fuel prices are higher very important and complex topic fairly simple. and delivery costs go up. More inflation. Inflation is defined as the rate at which the cost of a good Inflation, measured by the lens of the Consumer Price or service increases. In general terms, inflation is a gen- Index (CPI), has averaged 3.68% per year between 1975 eral increase in prices and the fall in purchasing power of and 2020 (46 years).(1) That means $1,000,000 in your money. Eggs cost more today than they did 20 years 1975 would have to be $5,000,000 in 2020 to have the ago. Most things do. That is inflation. We have seen same purchasing power.(2) More recently, the CPI has extreme examples of inflation recently. Consider real es- averaged 2.14% per year between 2000 and 2020 (21 tate prices, for example. Chances are the house you were years).(1) Therefore, $1,000,000 in 2000 would have to living in 5 years ago is worth a lot more today. That, too, be $1,500,000 in 2020 to feel the same.(2) is inflation. A skillful financial advisor should inspire people to have a Although prices can fluctuate for a number of reasons, sound financial plan. And a good plan engages clients to inflation is generally a result of an increase in the supply make wise decisions that focus on the attainment of their of money, commonly due to actions taken by the Feder- short-term and long-term goals. In doing so, you can’t just al Reserve (The Fed). In short, as more money becomes think in terms of today’s dollars. The impact of inflation available, the purchasing power of a single dollar drops. is important to factor into your projections. If you are 30 We see this when the Fed makes interest rates low, and years of age today, and you plan to retire in 30 years, you people can borrow money very inexpensively. Everyone may need to have much more saved than expected. The runs out to get a house, a new house, or a better house. CPI has averaged 2.29% per year for the last 30 years Everyone also runs out to get a new car. When there are (1991-2020).(1) That means $1,000,000 in 1991 would 8 people wanting to buy one house, what happens to the feel like $1,900,000 today.(2) That’s nearly double. If you price of the house? It goes up. When there are more buy- are 60 years of age, retired, and planning to live to age ers of SUVs than there are SUVs on the lots, are dealers 90 (or close), you too may need to see your life’s savings lowering the prices? Certainly not! They raise the prices. double during that period of time. Living off your nest egg, All of this is inflation. while at the same time growing it enough to outpace infla- You are also hearing about “supply chain issues.” For a tion, is not an easy task. number of reasons, namely COVID, there were gaps in the In late September 2021, the Federal Reserve revised its production of certain goods that are now causing delays estimation of 2021’s inflation to be 4.20% (up 3.40%).(3) in the manufacturing of other goods. For example, some- Inflation is running at its hottest pace in about 30 years. where in the world there is a company making electronic The Fed predicts inflation will drop back down to 2.20% gizmos. It closes for 4 months due to COVID. Another in 2022.(3) Let’s hope that is correct. Because, while company that buys and uses those gizmos to make wid- Jerome Powell (Federal Reserve Board Chairman) tells us gets now can’t make widgets and send them out to be this inflation is transitory, many Wall Street firms are act- put on the shelves in stores. With fewer widgets available ing as if the inflation will be sustained for some time into than customers who want them, the stores will raise the the future. In fact, a number of CEOs of major financial prices on the few widgets they have left. This, too, is in- firms have publicly expressed their opposing views on in- flation. flation and suggested inflation will likely be higher and last When gizmo or widget production starts back (along with longer than Powell suggested.(4) Expect to hear more po- every other backlogged product), there may not be enough tentially conflicting perspectives the longer this plays out. shipping containers to send them out. Or there may not In fact, just as this article is getting wrapped up on Novem- be enough room at the shipping ports to receive the goods ber 9, 2021, CNBC reports “Wholesale prices rose 8.6% as they arrive in the country. Or there may not be enough year over year in October, tied for the highest ever.”(5) 38 | smithlakeliving.com Continued on Page 42
Ranks Among Alabama's Top Leaders in Financial Planning Jeff RobertsChFC®, CRPC®, CFS®, CKA®, BFA™, APMA®, AEP® Private Wealth Advisor | Founder and President (205) 313-9150 * [email protected] * mavencrosswealth.com MavenCross Wealth Advisors®, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Dedicated to being \"the obvious choice for guiding clients to joyfully steward their resources.\" Barron's® Top 1,000 Advisors, 2009-2011 Barron's® Top 1,200 Advisors, 2014-2021 Financial Times 400 Top Financial Advisers, 2017-2020 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors, 2018-2021 Barron's® listings are based on data compiled by many of the nation's most productive advisors, which is then submitted and judged by Barron's®. Key factors and criteria include: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory and compliance record, and years of professional experience. Barron's® is a registered trademark of Dow Jones, L.P.; all rights reserved. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors pay a fee to Barron's in exchange for the ranking. The Financial Times 400 Top Financial Advisers is an independent listing produced annually by the Financial Times. The FT 400 is based on data gathered from advisors, firms, regulatory disclosures, and the FT's research. The listing reflects each advisor's performance in six primary areas: assets under management (AUM), asset growth, compliance record, experience, credentials, and online accessibility. This award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients and is not indicative of this advisor's future performance. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors pay a fee to the Financial Times in exchange for inclusion in the FT 400. Forbes/SHOOK Research listings are based on data compiled by many of the nation's most productive advisors, selected by their firms, which is then submitted to and judged by SHOOK Research. Key factors and criteria include: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory and compliance record, and credentials/years of professional experience. Selection of winners is done by comparing advisors at a national level, selecting winner, and then sorting them into state-specific lists. A separate evaluation is not done for each state. Portfolio performance is not a factor. This award is not indicative of this advisor's future performance. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2021 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. CA Insurance #0G34699 smithlakeliving.com I 39
“ Everything Costs More. So What ?” With more massive government spending on the horizon rising costs of goods and services, supply chain delays, and stubborn supply chain issues in so many critical in- etc.) finally impact the profitability of stocks or maybe just dustries, inflation could get worse before it gets better. It the projection of their profitability, that could finally be the could also last longer than anticipated. If inflation were trigger for volatility to return. So, buckle up, but let’s not to run higher for longer than the Fed currently predicts, panic, people. they will eventually have to act to cool the economy down. Sometimes, the Fed has waited too long to take enough Things are not all bad at this time. In fact, at the action, so when they do, they may have to act in a much time this article is being written, 7 out of 10 leading eco- more aggressive way than perhaps they would have origi- nomic indicators are positive.(7) Remember, too, there will nally preferred. This tightening of the economy (often the likely be plenty of reporting in the coming months that may Fed raising interest rates), if gone wrong, could cause a take any one of these topics, spin it in the worst possible chain reaction that may lead the U.S. into recession. Fed direction, and fail to mention that perspective is only one interest rate hikes have preceded 4 out of the last 7 Unit- of many possibilities. Scary headlines and messages com- ed States recessions.(6) I believe the worst-case scenario monly play well during times of uncertainty and fear. Ulti- is we could end up in a Fed-induced recession at some mately, supply chain issues will not last forever and neither point. But, with all these uncertainties, it is entirely pos- will excessive inflation. To paraphrase Abraham Lincoln, sible investment markets could get really volatile during a “This, too, shall pass…” Try not to get emotional about any period of inflationary transition. Investors may have forgot- bumps in the road ahead. Keep your eye on the ball: ten what normal levels of volatility looks like because the Time + Money + Wise Counsel = Goal Achievement U.S. stock market has been on a gradual incline since its rapid decline at the beginning of the pandemic. The stock And now, more than ever, if you are not working market almost seems to be ignoring the issues discussed closely with a financial advisor to address these issues above and content with what has been decent corporate (and more) as they relate to your financial goals, it is time earnings, as of late. If these issues (corporate tax hikes, that you do so. g hSmith Lake Livingtm (1) Kaplan Pocket Tables (2) https://www.bls.gov/data/inflation_calculator.htm (3) https://www.marketwatch.com/story/americans-will-have-to-get-used-to-high-inflation-at-least-until-the-end-of-2021-11632511300 (4) https://www.nypost.com/2021/07/14/federal-reserve-chair-assures-that-inflation-will-pass (5) https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/09/wholesale-prices-rise-8point6percent-year-over-year-in-october-tied-for-highest-ever.html (6) “Bear Markets and Subsequent Bull Runs”, JP Morgan Guide to the Markets, September 30, 2021. (7) “The Year-Over-Year Growth Rate of the LEI Likely Peaked in April, But is Still in Positive Territory”, John Hancock Market Intelligence, 3Q21 Out- look, slide 7. The views expressed here reflect the views of Jeff Roberts as of November 9, 2021. These views may change as market or other conditions change. Actual investments or investment decisions made by Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, whether for its own account or on behalf of clients, will not necessarily reflect the views expressed. This information is not intended to provide investment advice and does not account for individual inves- tor circumstances. Investment decisions should always be made based on an investor’s specific financial needs, objectives, goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. Past performance does not guarantee future results, and no forecast should be considered a guarantee either. Jeff Roberts, ChFC®, CRPC®, CFS®, CKA®, BFA™, APMA®, AEP® is a Private Wealth Advisor with, and Founder and President of, Ma- venCross Wealth Advisors®, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Birmingham, AL. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and wealth management strategies and has been in practice for 29 years. To contact him, call (205) 313-9150 or visit his website at mavencrosswealth.com. Offices are located at 31 Inverness Center Parkway – Suite 550, Birmingham, AL 35242 and 1817 Commons North Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405. Not Federally Insured No Financial Institution Guarantee May Lose Value The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2021 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved 42 | smithlakeliving.com
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