Community
Thanksgiving
My grandmother used to say, “The reason we as humans can’t fully understand the beauty and wonder of Heaven is that God has placed us all in the Garden of Eden – here on Earth. […]
Raymond James
Community
Trusted contact explained by Ben Smith
In February 2018, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), one of the chief regulators of financial advisors and investment professionals, enacted a rule that has been wonderful for clients and the firms themselves. The “Trusted […]
Community
“What’s an investor to do?” “How should our portfolio be positioned?” “I’m scared. What should I do?”
These three questions tend to come up more often during periods of stock market volatility, like during this time of market volatility. The first few months of 2022 have certainly been volatile in the financial markets. Ongoing […]
Community
A positive focus helps us tackle difficult tasks for progress in the New Year – Life Compass Financial
Happy New Year! For many of us, the end of the year brings a hectic rush. It’s difficult to take the time to reflect back over the previous year and also to look forward to […]
Community
Let’s all reflect on our blessings this holiday season! – Ben Smith, Life Compass Financial
For many of us, the holiday season brings hectic days and it can also be very stressful. Even though this is a joyous time of year for many, some folks experience sadness during this time […]
Community
Harvest time is here!
In our area of the country, fall has always been associated with “harvest time.” Although more and more of our region’s beautiful farmland has been developed into residential, commercial and industrial use, we still have […]
Community
LABOR Day – Ben Smith Life Compass
Labor Day was officially declared a national holiday by Congressional action and after being signed into law by President Grover Cleveland on June 28, 1894. Stemming from poor working conditions and mistreatment of workers, the […]
Community
Pay off my low-interest mortgage or invest the money?
I get this question often: “Should I pay off my low-interest mortgage or invest the money?” And the answer is: Yes. Well, yes, pay off your mortgage if we’re talking about your primary residence. I […]
Community
Estate and legacy planning is a helpful Valentine’s Day gift
Valentine’s Day is upon us. How about a gift for our loved ones that will really help them? Completing your estate and legacy plans is an action that can be immeasurably beneficial to your family. […]
Community
Give the gift of financial security
Most of the stores and online retailers are giving us the “Christmas pitch”. Yes, it does start earlier every year. This isn’t just our imagination. I’m not a fan of Christmas decorations displayed as early […]