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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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• 7 Smith Lake Info / Water Level CONTENTS • 56 Lake Fashion By Laurel Hand • 9 How to make your summer lake time easier. Cullman Economic Development Agency By Samantha Acton • 60 By Rachel Sweigard. • 14 The Commute to Paradise A Musical Gathering Place By Kristine Bullock By Kristine Bullock • 62 Smith Lake Concerts • 20 Jeff Clemons-Chairman- Cullman County Commission SmithLakeLiving™365 LTCV Cullman County Litter Cleanups By Rachel Sweigard • 66 Smith Lake Real Estate- Connie Teems Spring Lake Cleanups- SLCA & WCSLA • 24 Cullman County Economic Development • 67 Events Fireworks - 4th of July By Rachel Sweigard • 68 By Laurel Hand • 26 HB 238- Defeated in House of Origin • 70 Advertiser Index By Eddie Hand • 72 { SUMMER 2021 } •28 Classic Closets, Inc. • 74 By Rachel Sweigard • 75 • 38 The Future of Financial Planning By Jeff Roberts & Associates • 78 • 44 Cullman Education Retirees Association Meeting By Rachel Sweigard Smith Lake Living™ 66 Tristan McIntosh Smith Lake Concerts 14 20 The Commute to Paradise. 75 56 Lake Fashion FIREWORKS - 4th. of July 28 62 Classic Closets LLC Jeff Clemons Chairman 6 | smithlakeliving.com Cullman County Commission A Musical Gathering Place www.SMITHLAKELIVING.com
Parking Area @ Smith Lake Dam Smith Lake Info: Elevation above sea level ( Full Pool): 510 feet Area: 21,200 acres Shoreline: 642 miles Lake level depth at dam: 264 feet Watershed drainage area: 944 square miles Smith Lake Dam Facts: In service September 5, 1961 Two generators, rating 78,750 kilowatts each Type Rock-fill Length 2,200 feet Maximum height 300 feet Smith Lake is licensed by FERC with the follow- ing uses: energy, flood control, recreation and economic opportunity, irrigation and drinking water, and fish/ wildlife habitats. Fish Weight-In Station Boat Docks at Smith Lake Dam Under Water on April 1, 2021 Water Level 520.9 ‘ Smith Lake Water Levels Lake Level - June 10 , 2021 ................... 510.34’ Smith Lake Dam Road Rule Curve Lake Level June 8 , 2021 ..... 510’ A.P.C. Shoreline Permit 0.34 Feet Above Rule Curve Local Office (205) 384-7385 0.34 Feet Above Full Pool Historical Average Lake Level ................ 509.’ www.apcshorelines.com Record High Water Level The repair fees for Residential, Multifamily, and March 1973 .......... 521.2’ Commercial dock repairs are for major repairs. Call APC Shoreline for review of your plans. Record Low Water Level October 1971 ........ 488.8’ Source Corps of Engineers Water Temperature June 10, 2021 76.5 degrees F smithlakeliving.com I 7
Smith Lake Living SUMMER 2021 Vol. XVII No. 2 Smith Lake Living, LLC Summer starts off with busy lake season. Boat 788 County Road 97 traffic on weekends is very crowded with all types of Bremen, AL 35033 vessels... short ones, long ones, quite ones, loud ones, fishing boats, ski boats, sail boats, racing boats, PWC’s, Editor kayaks / canoes, paddle boards, cruisers, & Jon boats. Kristine Bullock Lake concerts have geared up this summer with concerts every Saturday evening at Trident Marina’ Photography Check out Smith Lake Living™️ Facebook paged and the magazine App for up-to-date listings of all lake events. Eddie Hand Remember to follow all the boating laws, ALEA and Contributing Writers area county Sheriffs have increased lake patrols and boating safety checks. * Kristine Bullock * Samantha Acton * * Rachel Sweigard * Laurel Hand* Hope everyone has a safe and great summer. * Jeff Roberts * Eddie Hand * See you on the Lake ! Smith Lake Living Magazine Eddie Hand Published by Publisher Smith Lake Living, LLC Smith Lake Living Advertising “ a community magazine” For information about advertising ISSN 2150-3486 in Smith Lake Living Magazine, please call Issued by Eddie Hand 256- 287-1545 United States Copyright Email: [email protected] Office Library of Congress 101 Independence Ave. S.E. Washington, DC Scan on your smart phone Letters www.smithlakeliving.com Letters to the publisher are welcome, but must SUBSCRIBE TO include the writer’s name and a daytime Smith Lake Living Magazine phone number. ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION AVAILABLE S LLmIiVthINakGe Cover Jeff Clemons $ 15 check only (Make checks payable to Smith Lake Living LLC) CHAIRMAN Cullman County Commission Mail to: Smith Lake Living LLC 788 County Road 97 PHILLIPS BRIDGE- AKA BIG BRIDGE Bremen, AL. 35033 By Eddie Hand NAME: ________________________________________ a community magazine ADDRESS:_____________________________________ All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be _____________________________________ reproduced without written consent of the publisher CITY | STATE | ZIP CODE Copyright 2021 PHONE: ______________________________________ Smith Lake Living is a registered Trademark owned Smith Lake Living LLC EMAIL: ______________________________________SU 21 SMITH LAKE LIVING MAGAZINE is distributed free of charge. 8 | smithlakeliving.com
How to make you Summer Lake time easier. After the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, By Samantha Acton things are not quite back to normal at Smith Lake. Another item to keep on hand during long But, there is always one thing to rely on - the water. days spent on the water is insect repellent. From Enjoying the outdoors is the one thing that has kept perfumes to food, bugs are attracted to all sorts of the community together this past year and a half. smells. Many bug repellent sprays are notorious for Nature has remained a steady force in the midst of bad smells. Fragrance free bug repellent lotion pro- great uncertainly. vides all the benefits of bug spray without the smell. How does one enjoy the outdoors to its full- These easy to transport, individual packets can pro- est, even during unexpected circumstances? Well, tect from bugs for up to 14 hours! Picaridin Insect here are a few items that may make summer a bit easier and more convenient while enjoying time on Repellent has recently introduced this new lotion. It the beautiful Smith Lake. is very effective, and doesn’t leave a sticky or smelly One of the basic essentials to living life residue on the skin. This bug repellent lotion even in the modern world is access to a cell phone. provides moisture that is much needed after a day in However, electrical outlets are scarce when climb- the sun. ing aboard a standard fishing or ski boat, so a Keep these tips in mind to make lake life this phone’s battery life tends to be an ongoing con- summer more enjoyable! cern. In these cases, the best travel companion is a portable charger. Most portable chargers fit g hSmith Lake Livingtm comfortably into a pocket or even fit into a dry box. These devices have the capability to keep phones powered all day. A solar powered portable phone charger pulls its energy straight from the sun to charge phones, eliminating the need for an exter- nal electrical source. Speaking of sunlight, coolers are a ne- cessity for a day out on the boat, or beaching by the lake. Need entertainment as well? Coolers are now available that not only keep drinks and snacks chilled for a day out in the sun, but also play music too! There are many different brands and sizes to choose from. The ability to connect a phone via Bluetooth to a cooler allows for endless entertainment while soaking up the sun, and enjoy- ing an ice cold drink. A day out on the water can sometimes get messy with sand and dirt. Portable showers allow for boaters to rinse off throughout the day without need- ing to jump in the water. RinseKit, a popular brand, can hold up to two gallons of water! This is a great way to freshen up between stops on the boat. Spiker cup holders are another wonderful item that can keep drinks clean. The spike end can be placed into the sand keeping cans, bottles, or tumblers dirt and sand-free. smithlakeliving.com I 9
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® 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
The Commute to Paradise By Kristine Bullock A good deal of research has been put into how commute times can impact a person’s quality of life. In 2019, Americans reported average one-way commute times of 27.6 minutes according to the United States Census Bureau. A study by the University of West England even reported that adding 20 minutes to a round trip commute has the same negative im- pact as a 19% drop in salary. Despite these facts, many people still make the choice to live in more remote, yet desirable locations such as Smith Lake. One couple in our community that made that choice is John and Denise Launius; who value life on beautiful Smith Lake more than the benefits of a short commute. As Denise describes, “we have a little bit a fur- ther drive, but once we get home, we are in our own little paradise.” 14 | smithlakeliving.com
Denise & John Launius Tucker Bear John and Denise have been full time residents of Smith Lake for the past five years. They both grew up in the small town of Warrior, Alabama; so small town life or even living out in the country is something they both love. John is the owner of Launius Furni- ture in Warrior, Alabama, which is a fourth generation, family owned furniture store, as well as co-owner of Cullman Furniture Market. Denise has been a realtor for the past 25 years, and is an agent for RE/MAX Advantage North. Both Denise and John have been enjoying the beauty and recreation of Smith Lake since childhood; and prior to becoming full time residents they built a small house fit for weekend enjoyment with their family. However, when they decided to jump in with both feet and live on the lake year round, they realized they needed a bit more space, and that Continued on Page 16 smithlakeliving.com I 15
LAKE VIEW is when they purchased their current home located on Ryan Creek just across the road from Trident Marina two years ago. This four bed, three and a half bath home quicky became a labor of love, as John and Denise have remodeled the house from one end to the other. Complete with new granite, hard- wood floors, light fixtures, roof, shiplap, remodeled kitchen and baths and relandscaping, they have created a true sanctuary that they can come home to. Their lot gives them easy access to the deep water’s edge, and is located just off a major road that really serves to simplify the commute. Continued on Page 18 BREAKFAST AREA 16 | smithlakeliving.com
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While many are drawn to the tranquility and solitude that Smith Lake has to offer; John and Denise are quick to point out that their home is located on one of the busiest parts of the lake. At first, they wondered how they would adjust to the location, but both agree it has become one of their favorite features of their home. The couple has found that the central location makes their home a gathering spot for day trips on the water for friends and family; and the lake in general is a wonderful way to connect with old friends, and create relationships with new acquaintances. It is also a breathtaking place to gather as a family, and watch their grandchildren learn and grow. While the drive home may be a bit longer than others may prefer, John and Denise will not soon give up their commute to paradise g hSmith Lake Livingtm MASTER BEDROOM KITCHEN AREA GUEST BEDROOM 18 | smithlakeliving.com
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Jeff Clemons Chairman Cullman County Commission Local governments are comprised of several By Rachel Sweigard entities that are charged with carrying out duties that There are always multiple projects in the many people take for granted. For example, most works, according to Clemons. Currently, roadways counties have a commission that oversees various are one of the Commission’s chief concerns, and departments of their local government they are in the process of a five-year road plan that to ensure that everything is running will outline the improvements that they want smoothly. In Cullman County, Jeff Clemons serves as the current to make, as well as the timeline that they chairman, and works closely want to make those improvements in. with the local government to The Commission is also working ensure that various processes on building more storm shelters are supported. in the area as there is a major need for them during tor- The Cullman nado season each year. The County Commissioner’s Commission received $2.1 office oversees the daily million in funding from the operations of 13 depart- CARES Act, and would like ments that exist in the to use it for the betterment county including the water of Cullman County. Ac- department, emergency cording to Clemons, “No management association, one deserves it more than sanitation department, and the residents and county em- road department, among ployees of Cullman.” others. Currently, there are The Cullman County Com- two associate commissioners, mission meets weekly on Tues- each of whom represent either the day nights at the Cullman County east or west side of Cullman County. Courthouse. The public are welcome Kerry Watson and Garry Marchman report to Chairman Jeff Clemons. Clemons states that his to attend, and get to know the commis- department is responsible for the quality of life for sioners who represent and make decisions for the 90,000 residents who reside in the county. The the county. Clemons reports that they want to work Commission also oversees 2,000 miles of roadways. together to make Cullman County the best that it The Commission can apply to the state government can be. For more information about the Cullman for funding and grants to improve life in Cullman County Commission, visit their website at http:// County. Clemons states that “it’s all about relation- www.co.cullman.al.us/commission.html. ships,” and their goal is to make life better for the residents of Cullman County, as well as to save tax- g hSmith Lake Livingtm payers money. 20 | 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 smithlakeliving.com I 7 • SPECIALTY DRINKS • 13 LED TV’S • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EVERY WEEKEND 22 I smithlakeliving.com
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(CCED) Bradley L. Williams - Director By Rachel Sweigard the biggest projects is road improvement. There is Cullman County Economic Development currently a state initiative to improve all roads in the state, which is something that all Alabama drivers Local governments are comprised of many are likely to support. The CCED has been able to se- different offices, all of which exist to further the qual- cure funding through this initiative to improve roads ity of life in an area. One such division is the local across Cullman County. The CCED also works to economic development office. In Cullman County, improve public areas such as parks and fire depart- the economic development agency is doing great ments. Specifically, the CCED has helped to improve things to help keep the county moving forward. the Stony Lonesome ATV Park just outside of Dodge City. The office recently partnered with the state of The main priority of the Cullman County Alabama to secure funding for additional personal Economic Development (CCED) office, according to protective equipment for fire departments in the director Bradley Williams, is to promote the econom- wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. ic development of Cullman County. The CCED has been in existence since 2006, and consists of one Currently, there are several projects in the director and three project coordinators who all work works under the umbrella of the CCED. They have with state representatives in Montgomery to secure received a grant to improve the bridges at Stony funding for various projects to benefit Cullman Coun- Lonesome ATV Park, as well as update the trails and ty. The agency focuses on job creation, industry ex- equipment at the park. The office has utilized CARES pansion, and retail development in the County, and Act funds to update the rescue squad building at collaborates with their counterparts at the Cullman Sportsman Lake, and used additional funding to Economic Development Agency to improve the area. fix several high-traffic roads across the county. The CCED is hard at work for the residents of Cullman The CCED works to secure grant funding County and Smith Lake, and believe that this is an for a variety of projects in Cullman County. One of area worthy of the investment. 24 I smithlakeliving.com g hSmith Lake Livingtm
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HB - 238 Defeated in the HOUSE OF ORIGIN by three votes..... Would have changed boating as we know it on Smith Lake designating numerous areas idle speed only. By Eddie Hand The Alabama House of Representatives rejected House Bill 238 that would require a person to operate a vessel at idle speeds under certain conditions. HB 238 was sponsored by Republicans Shaver, representing HD 39-Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, and Dekalb Counties; Holmes, representing HD 31- Elmore County; and Oliver, representing HD 81-Chilton, Coosa, and Tallapoosa Counties. . The bill would have set forth certain guidelines for boaters that enjoy all types of recreation on Smith Lake as described in this excerpt: Continued on page 36 26 | smithlakeliving.com
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CLASSIC CLOSETS, LLC By Rachel Sweigard There are countless businesses in the Smith Lake area that are owned and operated by locals, and that offer items and services cus- tomers cannot get in chain stores. Classic Closets, in Haleyville, has been in opera- tion since 2002, and creates custom closets and organi- zational systems in homes in the Smith Lake area and beyond. Classic Closets is family-owned and operated, and was created in attempts to help people better orga- nize their closets, laundry rooms, garages, and other rooms in their home. While the company focuses on new construction, they are able to help with storage remod- eling jobs as well. When a customer wishes to have Classic Closets create or re- model closets or shelving in their home, they should first schedule a consultation to go over the space available, materials, as well as their wants and needs. It takes approximately four to six weeks to complete a closet after the proposal is approved by the cus- tomer. Customers have the ability to choose their color for the closet so that it will match their current or future décor. The staff at Classic Closets builds the shelving in-house using the materials that the customer chooses, making the final product completely customized. According to Shane Tidwell of Classic Closets, what sets the company apart from other busi- nesses is that they have the ability to completely customize a closet or storage location to a custom- er’s desires. They use melamine, which is very durable and visually appealing, instead of traditional wire for the shelving. Prices for a custom closet range from $5,000-$15,000. Classic Closets also has the capability to design and install custom cabinetry for garage organization. Continued on Page 30 28 | smithlakeliving.com
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Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have realized that storage spaces in their homes are simply not up to par, or are so disorganized that they do not know where to begin to fix the issue. Sometimes a complete renovation of a space is just what is needed to achieve the perfect closet, laundry room, or garage. For more information about Classic Closets, and to see photos of past projects, visit their website at www.classicclosets.net or their Facebook page. They can also be reached at (205) 486-9023. g hSmith Lake Livingtm “Customer receives these 3D renderings to get a better look of what their closet will look like be- fore installation.” C l a s s i c C l o s e t s, L L C www.classicclosets.net ClassicClosetsAlabama @classicclosets Manufactured at our facility in Haleyville, AL, Classic Closets designs, builds, and installs custom storage solutions in your home. New & pre-existing spaces can be transformed to efficiently maximize storage for a clutter free, organized life. We service the majority of AL and parts of MS and TN. Call today for a consultation! [email protected] 3210 Highway 13 N Haleyville, AL 35565 (205) 486-9023 30 | smithlakeliving.com
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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 ~ 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. 32 | smithlakeliving.com
Jim Bain 256-794-1443 Touchless Covers of Alabama “Convenient and Automatic Boat Protection” www.touchlesscover.com Metal Buildings - All Sizes ! Our Structures are made of all Steel ! Welded for Strenght ! NO WOOD or BOLTS Brain Clements 256-383-2066 / 256-287-9558 www.bamasteelstructures.com Owner 23911 Co. Rd. 222 Bremen , AL. 35033 smithlakeliving.com I 33
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HB -238 Republican Corey Harbison of Cullman states, “I have concern that the requirement that boats be in idle speed whenever they are within 100 feet of a shore or a person in the water would force too many boats into the center of the lake. This would create a safety hazard.” Jeff Tolbert, owner of Trident Marina, shares, “We have spent many hours promoting tourism for the Smith Lake area, and this bill would have hurt tourism, consequently damaging the economy for our lake.” Tom Fredricks, owner of Fredricks Outdoor, expressed, “On lakes with narrow fingers like Smith, miles and miles of navigable waterways would be rendered impassable due to sheer travel distance at idle speed taking literally days. The bill is illogical, impractical, and foolhardy.” Republican Tim Wadsworth of Arely, says, “A law enforcement officer can stop every single boat on a lake and ask for a safety check, or ask for a breathalyzer test. If boat drivers refuse, they lose not just their boating license, but their driver’s license for 90 days under this bill. That is a major point. The ability for a person to go to work on Monday would be inhibited, therefore, I am not going to support this bill.” If a few boats were sitting in the mount of Rock Creek entrance, this would have made the gate- way to Rock Creek idle speed only. The term idle speed only next to a public park or beach would have made Clear Creek idle speed only. Undoubtably, this bill would have changed recreation uses at Smith Lake, and would have limit- ed boating and fishing throughout the state. April 20, 2021, HB238 was rejected in the House of Origin by three votes. g hSmith Lake Livingtm Smith Lake Stakeholders 205-300-8000 JOIN US TODAY ! PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY RIGHTS The organizational meeting announcement will be forth coming soon. Stand up and have a voice if you own property or visit Smith Lake. More information, meetings, and membership applications will be forth coming on social media. adsu2021 36 | smithlakeliving.com
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The Future of Financial Planning I started in this business in 1992. I still have was being manually turned off, and the stock market my first business card, which titled me as “Personal (S&P 500 Index) was dropping over -32% in 5 weeks. Financial Planner”. Things were much different back What tools had the industry given investors? We gave then, in almost every way. Logistically, I worked around them the ability to login to their accounts and ask, “How a dozen financial planners, all operating independently much money did I just lose?”, which may be the wrong but housed in the same office in Birmingham, Alabama. question at the wrong time. As we established (in last We shared two computers, which did not have email quarter’s article), stock market related investments are or the Internet, as neither was in practical commer- going to have wild swings. Giving clients the ability to cial use at that time. Heck, those dinosaur computers focus only on something that arouses the most fear at didn’t even have Microsoft Windows. Back then, if you the worst possible time is like giving a chainsaw to a saw someone with a mobile phone, you presumed they termite. We know this because there is now a better un- must be rich. As a struggling first-year “Financial Plan- derstanding of the brain and how we make decisions. ner”, I did not have one. Investors should understand this as well, or work with a professional advisor who does, because your emotions One very notable difference between then and can absolutely impact your ability to accomplish your now was the way the financial services industry com- financial goals. municated with clients. Most investment companies would mail statements on a quarterly basis, which In his book Financial Intelligence, celebrated meant investors were limited to seeing/knowing their thought leader Doug Lennick explains that the brain is account values every three months. For example, if you divided into three major sections. Here is my attempt had 401(k) retirement plan through your employer, you to quickly oversimplify his words… would only see your account balance (your nest egg) 1. The outer layer of the brain is the “rational cen- four times per year. That’s it! An investor’s portfolio ter” (cerebral cortex), which handles complicated cogni- could potentially swing down -10% and back up +12% tive processes, such as objective thinking and rational in a quarter (in-between statements) and the investor decision-making. would not know their account had even declined in 2. The middle layer of the brain is the “emotion- value. Upon reflection, I remember financial services al center” (limbic system), which processes emotions, consumers being completely comfortable with that ar- motivations, and drives. Within the limbic system is the rangement. Clients rarely called to inquire about their amygdala, which translates outside stimuli into specific account values. And on the rare occasion they did, I emotions. would call the Ameriprise customer service line (IDS 3. The inner layer of the brain is the “habit cen- Financial Services, at that time), speak with a repre- ter” and is responsible for processing everything we do sentative, get the client’s account balance, and call the without thinking (i.e. habits as well as breathing, blood client back. That procedure was actually quicker than circulation, and more). The most significant component using a computer to access the data. that relates to financial decision-making involves the basal ganglia, which seeks out anything we recognize I have been serving clients now for 29 years as rewarding, thus leading to the formation of habits. and, during that time, I have seen a lot of changes in the financial industry. Some changes have been good These three parts of the brain are connected to and others not so much. The financial services indus- one another by neural circuits, which are pathways that try has put tools in the hands of investors, so they are use special chemicals to send information back and empowered to see their investments in a moment’s forth between different parts of the brain. Translation, notice with perfect clarity. By doing so, I feel we have there is a very physical and emotional reaction to news trained investors to ask the wrong question. like “Your portfolio just dropped in value!” Now, when markets go up or down, today’s in- Continued on Page 42 vestors tend to focus only on how much money they lost (or made) in the short run. For example, back in April of 2020, amid a global pandemic, the U.S. economy 38 | smithlakeliving.com
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, 2014-2020 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
The Future of Financial Planning Here is an example of how the three parts of the For nearly three decades, I have waited for technology brain are connected: Imagine it’s early April 2020, and to finally provide the financial planning customization you login to check on your retirement nest egg to find and precision that truly impacts clients’ lives, empowers your equity investments (stocks) are down -30%. Within their decision-making, and builds their confidence no 12 milliseconds, what you saw activates the part of your matter where they are in life. Speaking personally, we brain that processes emotions, and you may feel fright- intend to lead the effort to change the narrative and re- ened and anxious. Your emotional brain immediately define what planning looks like across the industry. For sends a chemical message to your inner brain, which example, my office uses online financial planning tools cues your heart to start beating faster and your breath- that aggregate a client’s entire financial picture securely ing to become shallower. Meanwhile, it takes a sluggish into one view. Whether someone is currently retired or 40 milliseconds for your outer analytical brain to get the still working, all their assets can be securely linked (from message about the sharp drop in portfolio value – not wherever they are) into a single forecasting tool. The nearly as quick as your emotion brain. After your brain system projects where someone is today all the way out has already triggered a physical response, you now try to their life expectancy (or beyond). Everything can be to figure out whether the decline in your investments will customized based on retirement lifestyle spending in- impact your future, and you play-out several scenarios in puts, inflation assumptions, portfolio construction, risk your highly emotional mind. Most of the scenarios be- tolerance, and ever-changing tax law (and hundreds of ing played are likely not optimistic because your anxiety other customization points). The result is a Probability levels have risen, and your heart rate continues to beat of Success meter that reads from 1% to 99%. Ideally, cli- rapidly. All of this happens in a matter of seconds. ents should have a 90% probability of success (or great- Lennick further explains that (in this scenario) er) for us to have confidence. All of this is calculated your emotions of fear and anxiety could be so strong that daily in real time as accounts bounce around. they disable the rational center of your brain. He says, Back to our 2020 example again, if your proba- “It’s not that you weren’t thinking at all, but that your bility of success fell from 99% to 95%, you might not be strong feelings affected the quality of your thinking.” In as concerned if your accounts were down -5%, -15%, or that same April 2020 scenario, now imagine your neigh- even -30%. Hopefully, these new tools will finally give cli- bor sticking his head in your window and saying, “Hey ents the ability to change the paradigm from “How much neighbor! I just made +25% on my cryptocurrency in- am I down?” to “Am I still on track?”. But remember vestment!” Your brain now processes another thread of too, there are a myriad of variables to consider when emotions around the fear of missing out (FOMO). But answering the latter. So, it will always be my most core that’s a topic for another day. belief that we all need a coach or advisor for the parts of Doug’s explanation of the brain (above) is the our lives where we must succeed. Payton Manning, Mi- science behind behavioral finance, which is the study of chael Jordan, and Michael Phelps had coaches. Warren the influence of psychology on the behavior of investors. Buffett, Nick Saban, and Jeff Bezos have advisors. Do And yes, the understanding of this is another important you think they have financial advisors, as well? development in the financial services industry, because Someday, we may all have our net worth infor- the tools the industry has previously given clients are mation scrolling instantaneously on our wrist watches or simply not enough moving forward. in our eyeglasses’ lenses. The future of financial plan- So back to April 2020, instead of seeking to ning must involve an understanding of the psychology of know whether accounts are up or down (because they money matters and one’s values, as well as the delivery will always be bouncing around), I want clients to ask of tools that teach investors to ask the most essential a better question, “Given what is happening in the in- questions (like “Am I still on track?”). As the financial vestment markets at this time, am I still on track to ac- services industry finally circles around with the right complish my retirement goal throughout my life?” Now, technology tools, be sure to be working with someone THAT is a good question!! Whether you are still working who understands behavioral finance and can help guide or retired, you should know the answer. But there hasn’t you to joyfully steward your resources. been a way for investors to answer the question as eas- ily as accessing their ever-changing account balance… Continued on Page 44 until now. 42 | smithlakeliving.com
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The views expressed here reflect the views of Jeff Roberts as of June 1, 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 investor 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, MavenCross 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 prac- tice for 28 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. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500® Index), an unmanaged index of common stocks, is frequently used as a general measure of market performance. The index reflects reinvestment of all distributions and changes in market prices but excludes brokerage commissions or other fees. It is not possible to invest direct in an index. Investment products, including shares of mutual funds, are not federally or FDIC-insured, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value. 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. 3617175ACMR0621 g hSmith Lake Livingtm Cullman Education Retirees Association (CERA) Meeting Smith Lake Living™ Publisher Eddie Hand Guest Speaker By Rachel Sweigard The Smith Lake area is bustling with various groups who meet for fellowship, ser- vice, or other opportunities. The Cullman Education Retirees Association (CERA) meets regularly to discuss the state of education as it pertains to students, teachers, and retirees, and makes plans for ways that they can be of service to those still working in area schools. CERA is made up of retired teachers, administrators, bus drivers, school office workers, and other positions that the State Department of Education recognizes as being part of the state education retirement system. CERA meets monthly, except during the summer months, to plan service opportunities. Currently, CERA works with local schools to send home backpacks with food for students who may not have enough to eat over the weekends. Members also volunteer their time in a variety of ways to the area schools, though the COVID-19 pandemic has recently made this more difficult. Additionally, CERA works with the Alabama Education Retirees Association on various education-relat- ed efforts. Eddie Hand, the publisher of Smith Lake Living Magazine, spoke to CERA about the magazine at their last meeting. Melda Wiegand, the president of CERA, reports that the meeting was very informative as she and other members of CERA had heard of the maga- zine, but had not read a copy of it yet. Hand spoke about how he started the magazine years ago, and described how it has progressed to what it is today. He also informed members about the general state of lake life, and shared some notable people who live on the lake. Wiegand states that CERA members greatly enjoyed the presentation, and shared that it was neat to learn about the various things happening on the lake and surrounding areas that may not be public knowledge. For more information about Smith Lake Living Magazine or the Cullman Education Retirees Association, visit their respective Facebook pages. g hSmith Lake Livingtm 44 | smithlakeliving.com
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