400 Life February 2024

400 LIFE

CONTRIBUTORS

Publisher

Stephanie Woody

Group Editor

Nate McCullough

Managing Editor

Michelle Hall

Advertising Sales Manager

Jessica Shirley

Advertising

Stacy Clark

Meghan Hernandez

Adam Schurlknight

This magazine

Special contributors

Sudie Crouch

Leslie Marinelli

Sabrina Kern

Creative Services

Claudette Keeley

April Seymour

Chelsea Sunshine

4 ON THE COVER: Financial Consultants Group

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400 reads: Home is where the books are

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400 health: The harmful efffects of clutter

400 drinks: One of the top breweries in the nation is in Forsyth

THE BASICS

We begin with the end in mind. We want every client headed in the right direction, so we begin by analyzing where you want to go, whether that is 5, 10, or 50 years in the future. From there, we work the equation backwards by evaluating current resources and making recommendations for further consideration, but the final decision is always up to you. We co-create your plan because your life circumstances are entirely unique. Yes, it takes additional time and planning to get things right, but we value quality over quantity and work at your pace. Awareness is a key step in becoming wholistically engaged with your general income, taxes, spending habits, benefits, markets, and where you are currently. You are your greatest asset in this process and we are happy to build a plan around all the detail you are willing to share as we help you decide your next best step forward.

A large part of our fiduciary responsibility is simplifying complex data and processes. Our industry often speaks an entirely different language and we frequently need to translate technicalities into practical applications. Once we streamline decisions, clients often find the overall process easier to navigate.

We prefer to focus on retirement planning because it affords us the ability to make numerous key decisions,

but there are other life stages which are just as important for planning. If we all knew then what we know now, life could be vastly different; so we enjoy working with younger generations of business owners, savers, and growing families to plan for later years.

CHANGES

The only constant we anticipate is change. Since our last appearance in 400 Life, we’ve grown, tried new hairstyles, revised some of our processes, changed clothing sizes, and worked current market conditions into how we analyze data and plan for flexibility. We’ve expanded office space into new localities and are staying involved with the community through service and mentoring.

David is immersed in endless industry data but also finding balance in family life and community involvement with a lengthy list of organizations, most recently being the Forsyth County Chamber Board of Directors. He is the personification of having an Attitude of Gratitude with his unexpected acts of kindness for clients and the FCG team. There are also few more additions to our office aquariums.

Sandee Fricks is our information hub and the perfect example of someone who thrives in their element. She makes her challenging role seem absolutely effortless and glows while coordinating all the moving parts of client and business

Planning For Your FUTURE

David Fountain, CFP®, with fellow CFP®, Sandee Fricks, have been leading a talented and dedicated team towards stellar service and client-centric planning.

operations. She is a perfect blend of wisdom, humor, and the brains behind the operations.

We have added two team members. Jake McTyre graduated from UGA and is doing a stellar job of learning all things clientservice related as our Client Relationship Manager. He has an eternally positive attitude and is always motivated to help with anything that comes to mind. He’s the first smiling face you’ll see when you visit our Sanders Road office. We’re entirely impressed with his ability to learn and adapt through an expansive 2023.

Leslie Stoner joined the team as our Financial Planner. A 20-year financial industry veteran with a broad financial background, she is in the final stages of formalizing her experience in Boston University’s Financial Planning Program in preparation for CFP® certification. Leslie thrives on organizing the data clients deliver as she assembles it into a cohesive plan. She is always busy and willing to step in wherever needed to carry projects across the finish line.

We are seeing less of Kim Foodman as she is transitioning back into her expanding architecture and interior design business. Her infinite talents and energy carry her forward on so many levels, but she is still our biggest cheerleader and client engagement coordinator. When you receive one of our mailed cards or welcome gifts, you know exactly who is behind the creativity.

THE BEST TIME IS NOW

Our clients come to us in all stages of life and have an array of needs. We believe luck is not a strategy. Life is a series of consecutive small decisions, often with tradeoffs. And as the famous lyric says: “Even if you choose to not decide, you still have made a choice.”

Some people just need validation that their current path will be successful. And there is a distinct difference between thinking you are doing everything right and understanding potential pitfalls that could undermine your best intentions. Having a general mental plan starkly contrasts having a deliberate, dynamic plan memorialized on paper. We like to remove uncertainty and that process often narrows down one’s life choices into a more manageable framework.

It is never too early to start planning. Making minor changes on the front end of planning is infinitely easier than making drastic corrections later. Everyone walks away from our process

with new insight, an entirely new game plan, or a greater understanding of their environment. Let us tell you how powerful just analyzing your spending can be!

Some clients need a guiding resource on changes as one transitions from working years to the “now what” years. Relocating families often want a new local advisory relationship where they can walk in the door and meet face to face. Some clients just aren’t feeling the love from their former advisor and want a new perspective.

The really rewarding cases are those where clients need an entire life reset because something significant is about to occur or has arrived unexpectedly. Life happens; and when it does, let us tell you how we step up. We have found that when people are in crisis, preparing for a big shift, or are just out of their element, it’s best to call in the professionals for triage. Whether that is finding a real estate agent, CPA, attorney, or other life resource, we try to solve problems in the most prudent manner. Sometimes finding the “Who” is just as important as knowing the “What.”

We know every client by name and intend to keep our relationships close. There are no 1-800 numbers to call or lengthy hold times. Few things have moved as historically expected since 2020 so we still reinforce the basics of debt elimination, saving, and proactive planning. Our extra level of care enhances our “Do Right By Others” approach. Planning and follow-through goes far beyond transactions as we look towards timing, strategy, and comprehensive needs. We love it when clients run ideas by us before acting so we can give guidance on the most effective way of accomplishing the task, whether from a tax, timing, or common-sense perspective. Our relationship is ongoing and dynamic and we all win together.

THE MISSION

Everyone’s “why” is ever changing. Life is so much more than a daily treadmill of routine. Our collective experiences make us wiser and stronger. We seek balance, contributions to the community, maintain a positive outlook (even when things don’t feel so positive), and aim to spot emerging trends that benefit our clients. Managing expectations has been key to keeping our relationships productive along with maintaining the ability to pivot when needed. Every client is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. We also hold some pretty great client events as an added bonus. Our “Thankful” sign greets you as a reminder of our mindset towards life. Wealth management and asset allocation are always important, but we strive to be trusted life resources because decision management is where we make the greatest impact.

HOME IS where the books are

CAN’T MAKE IT TO THE LIBRARY? WE’LL COME TO YOU!

By Leslie Marinelli for 400 Life Magazine

February 2024 Issue

Don’t let inclement weather or transportation challenges keep you from getting the library materials and resources you need this winter. Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) has a number of ways to serve you from wherever you are!

eLibrary

Need something to read but don’t want to brave icy roads? Explore the FCPL eLibrary!

eLibrary is the term we use to describe all the electronic—or digital—books, audiobooks, magazines, videos, tutorials, research databases, and learning tools available to library cardholders on the library’s website at ForsythPL.org/eLibrary. All electronic items and services are available even when the library is closed.

The easiest way to enjoy eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines from FCPL is with the Libby app. Just download this free app from your app store, enter your library card number and PIN one time, and then you can browse and enjoy electronic materials on your devices at

your convenience. You can even take free music lessons through the Libby app! Best of all, everything borrowed through Libby returns automatically, so you’ll never have any overdue fines on digital items.

The eResources section of the FCPL eLibrary also includes links to popular digital publications like The New York Times Online and Consumer Reports, as well as genealogy tools, health and medicine research tools, career support, ad-free video tutorials, language lessons in over 70 world languages, and more! This is also where you’ll find academic support tools for students and teachers including free online tutoring and college test prep courses.

Bookmobile

The FCPL Bookmobile is on the road! Visitors can come aboard and check out books and DVDs, access WiFi, check out a Chromebook, and print documents. Visit www.ForsythPL.org/Bookmobile to find an upcoming bookmobile stop in a neighborhood or Forsyth County Park near you!

Mailbox Books

Homebound library patrons who prefer physical mate-

rials over electronic ones should explore our free Mailbox Books program!

FCPL offers free home delivery via the U.S. Mail to FCPL cardholders in Forsyth County who:

• Have a permanent or temporary disability or medical condition that prevents a person from visiting the library.

• Reside in a nursing care or assisted living facility, whether on a temporary or permanent basis.

• Have other health conditions that make a person unable to visit the library.

Library cardholders who qualify for the Mailbox Books program have access to all materials currently available from the library, including standard and large print books,

For more information about FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY or any resources or upcoming events, visit WWW.FORSYTHPL.ORG or connect with FCPL on social media @forsythpl.

Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Street, Cumming, GA 30040 | Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Rd, Cumming, GA 30041 | Post Road Library, 5010 Post Rd, Cumming, GA 30040 | Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Rd, Cumming, GA 30041

paperbacks, print materials in a variety of World Languages, Interlibrary Loans, DVDs, books on CD, music CDs, and magazines. The Mailbox Books program is completely free to qualified participants.

Mailbox Books patrons may select their own books online or over the phone, or our librarians are happy to make selections for them based on their preferences.

To learn more about Mailbox Books or to apply for this service, visit the Outreach Services page of the FCPL website: ForsythPL.org/Outreach-Services or call the FCPL Outreach Department at 678-513-9354.

Forsyth County Public Library is open seven days a week. Stop by your nearest library or visit our website for more information or to apply for a library card.

Leslie Marinelli has lived in Forsyth County for 20 years with her husband and three children and is the Communications Manager at Forsyth County Public Library.

How clutter affects your well-being

by Sudie Crouch Health & Wellness columnist

Clutter is something that many of us deal with – from a stack of mail we let pile up to clothes we haven’t put away – but it may have more of an impact on us than we realize. Some people have jokingly said watching shows that focus on extreme hoarding cases make them feel like their clutter is not as much of an issue. Even if the clutter may not be as severe, it can still affect our overall well being and addressing it can help us feel happier and healthier.

How much is too much clutter, and when do we need to do something?

Any time something starts to

I think of how people who are collectors may fall in this category. They may have a lot of items but it’s organized in a specific way, if only to them. One caveat to collecting is that we can often think everything has ‘value’ either from a financial standpoint or from a sentimental one. Being intentional with our collections and what we gather and keep is one way to stay on top of the clutter.

Some of us may have a few DOOM piles lying around. DOOM stands for “didn’t organize, only moved” and it can be mail, magazines, files, or whatever we accumulate and instead of going through, we simply move from one location to another. If you find yourself struggling with finding things or see

not inviting friends over? It’s time to do something about the clutter.

The negative effects of clutter on our well being

Think about how you feel when you see that clutter around you? It can make you feel depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, or even increase your anxiety. When there is too much clutter, it can also make someone feel claustrophobic in a sense, as it can make spaces feel too cramped and smaller than they are. Clutter makes it difficult to find things when we want or need them.

The negative effects of clutter can extend beyond just the physical space as well. According to a WebMD article,

room to keep things and we find ourselves putting them in storage because we can’t bear to part with them. We also may not know what we already have or be able to find it and purchase it again. While we often start keeping things just in the chance we may need it again and don’t want to buy it again, it often costs us money.

How decluttering can help us

When we think about how our environment affects our mood and overall mental health, it can be easy to see how decluttering can be beneficial. Decluttered spaces help us to relax and feel more at ease. Our

cortisol levels drop in organized areas. We have improved focus, we’re more productive due to having less distractions. Our physical space is a definite influence on our mental health, so decluttering can help us feel calmer and less anxious. Plus, there’s such a sense of accomplishment in getting things organized and decluttered.

Steps to declutter

There are many different methods to help you declutter, but the best one is one you can do and sustain. I tend to recommend starting with whatever you can achieve first so you can build that self efficacy in accomplishing it.

It could be a drawer or even a closet. Toss what you don’t need – or haven’t used in at least 6 months. You can also create a box for donations, but I caution in doing this unless you have already contacted someone for pick up. Often, those good intentions find themselves being a boxed version of a DOOM pile. If you have a buddy willing to help you, enlist their help. Sometimes, not having that emotional attachment to the items can help.

Overall, clutter can be weighing you down. By kicking it to the curb, you can experience freedom, not just in your environment but in your mental and physical well being as well.

COMING SOON TO THIS SPACE: ASK THE COACH

I would love to hear from you! If you have a health or wellness or even a personal development question you’d like me to explore, feel free to email me at askcoachsudie@gmail.com and I will include it in an upcoming issue.

Local brewery recognized as one of the best in the nation for 2023

By Sabrina Kerns skerns@forsythnews.com

VinePair recently named a Forsyth County brewery as one of the top 19 breweries in the U.S. that opened in 2023.

Crooked Culture Brewing opened about two months ago at Cumming City Center and offers a variety of craft beers in a fun and a family-friendly environment.

Patrick Leonard, who opened the brewery alongside business partner Nick Estes, said he had no idea at first about the recognition from VinePair.

“I actually was on Facebook and was responding to some messages, and I saw that someone had tagged us in [a post about it],” Leonard said. “I didn’t know it was coming up or anything. I’m just reading it, and I’m like, ‘Holy crap, we’re one of the top 20 breweries in the U.S. and we’re two months old.’”

Leonard said it feels amazing to be recognized by the industry experts who had a say in the ranking. After years of working on Crooked Culture’s opening and months of perfecting their first 14 beers, he’s happy to see he and head brewer Geoff Gardner have accomplished their goal in making quality drinks that everyone can enjoy.

“When we were starting this, it was not to be mediocre,” Leonard said. “It wasn’t just to have another brewery. It wasn’t just so I can brew. It was we’re going to brew beer that will get people to come from their town to our town to try it.

“You aren’t going to do that if you have mediocre beer. You’ve got to have great beer.”

The VinePair ranking also takes note of Crooked Culture’s inviting space, which includes two large hangout areas with tables, booths, bar seating and cozy couches. The staff hosts events in the space each week ranging from trivia to Connect 4 tournaments, bringing in community members and families from across Forsyth County.

Leonard said that has been his favorite part of opening Crooked Culture so far — seeing

people from all around the community come inside and have a good time.

“Being recognized for that is a huge feather in my cap,” Leonard said. “It’s been the highlight of these first two months. Just having a publication that doesn’t know me recognize me like that is pretty cool.”

Leonard first started brewing beer back in 2003 as a hobby while he worked full-time in construction. He worked out of his garage, reading and learning all he could as his dabbling with new recipes and creations quickly became a passion.

At the time, Leonard never thought he would be opening his own brewery or even working in one. But his homemade brews started to gain traction in metro Atlanta, winning awards and gaining local recognition.

Eventually, he left his job to work as Jekyll Brewing’s head brewer in Alpharetta, and after a few years moved on to brewery consulting where he helped to open Gate City Brewery Company in Roswell.

“After I had seen two breweries that really took off, and I figured if there is a time [to open my own], the time to do it is now,” Leonard said.

When he first started looking for the perfect place to open, Leonard admitted he didn’t have his sights set on Cumming at first even though his family has lived in the area since he was 15.

“They didn’t have anything like the City Center at the time,” Leonard said. “They had the downtown, and I drove through and just didn’t see a lot of foot traffic or shops that were going to draw people in, so I was looking at Woodstock, at Chamblee and some of these little town center places that were thriving.”

But before Leonard could settle on a spot outside of Forsyth, the City of Cumming announced plans for the City Center, and in the middle of the pandemic, he made plans with city officials to add his brewery into the mix of new businesses going into the development.

He and Estes officially signed the lease in 2022 and worked nonstop to perfect the space

before having their soft opening on Oct. 28.

“It’s been full throttle,” Leonard said.

The brewery always serves 14 beers on tap, and Leonard said several favorites will always remain on the menu while others will rotate, giving customers staples to keep coming back to while always also giving them something new to try.

And as an added touch that makes Crooked Culture even more unique — every beer served comes in a different glass.

“We’re trying to create an experience around here,” Leonard said. “When someone sees someone else walk by with this glass, they think, ‘What is that? I want that.’ They don’t even know what beer it is or what it tastes like. It’s just, ‘That’s a cool glass. I want to try that.’ It gives people, visually, something different to look at.”

Leonard said he also loves being able to look around and immediately know what people are drinking.

“Someone will walk by and I’ll say, ‘How’s the double IPA?’” he said. “It’s just a lot of fun.”

By March, he also hopes to open the brewery’s rooftop patio where they will have taps and a space for those 21 and older. This way, Leonard said anyone who wants to can enjoy their beer away from kids and families.

Aside from this future patio, Leonard made clear that the rest of the brewery is open to anyone and everyone who wants to come in, enjoy a beer and hang out with family, friends and other community members.

“I’m super proud of the beer. I love making beer, and that’s been my passion for 20-plus years, but I also love people coming in here and just looking around and seeing people smile and have fun. Kids are playing, groups are getting together and meeting. That’s really what this place is built for.”

Crooked Culture Brewing is located in the Cumming City Center at 421 Vision Drive, off Canton Hwy. To keep up with the brewery, follow it on Facebook at Crooked Culture Brewing or on Instagram @crookedculturebrewing.

Photos by Sabrina Kerns

From the left, co-owner Nick Estes, head brewer Geoff Gardner and co-owner Patrick Leonard stand in Crooked Culture Brewing, which was recognized as one of the best new breweries in the nation after opening just two months prior.