Our firm’s greatest assets are our employees. We are so fortunate to have a diverse and talented team all focused on providing excellent service to our clients. As we have grown, we know it is hard for you to get to know each staff member, and you may not get the opportunity to meet many of them face to face. Over my next few letters, I am going to introduce you to the people behind AFG. 

I want to introduce the team member who may be the most important person in our firm to many clients. She’s the “money lady”! One of her many tasks is to deliver funds to clients. If you to get to know Asia McCollum, you’ll quickly see why we love having her as part of our team.

What volunteering or passion projects do you do outside of work?

The Boys and Girls Clubs are a passion for me. As a kid, I attended the local club. I loved it so much I started volunteering in High School. After graduation, I had the opportunity to work for a club in a variety of areas. I love helping the kids, whether it is through tutoring or helping with the sports programs. These clubs are such an amazing community resource. Most importantly, they provide a safe space for these kids.  

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

I can be both depending on the day. As I have gotten older, I definitely have become more of an early bird. Honestly, it’s hard for me to stay up past 11:00 most nights!

What do you enjoy about the work you do?

I love helping clients with their money needs, getting to know them individually, and hearing their stories.

What is something that made you smile recently?

Recently, I had the opportunity to go to the Robinson Center to see my first musical, Hairspray. I loved the show, but it was a bit “spicy” at times! I was in show choir all through high school and loved it. The musical took me back to the time when I was onstage and performing. It also reminded me of watching the original Hairspray movie that aired in 1988 with my Mom. 

Spring, Summer, Fall or Winter?

Summer is definitely my favorite season. Being born in June, I have always been the most comfortable in summer temperatures. Also, I love outdoor activities like going to the beach or a water park.

When you were a kid what did you want to be when you grew up?

In early elementary school, I remember wanting to be an astronaut. We took a field trip to a space museum, and I loved everything about that experience. They let us try some “space food” and we were able to sit in a simulator. In one of my favorite pictures from childhood I’m dressed up like an astronaut.

If you haven’t had a chance to meet Asia, ask to meet her the next time you’re in our office. I’m sure her smile will brighten your day. As always, we are here for you. Please email or call if you want to set up a Zoom video conference meeting or talk by phone.

Mary McCraw, CFP®

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Please remember that past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product (including the investments and/or investment strategies recommended or undertaken by The Arkansas Financial Group, Inc. [“AFG]), or any non-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in this commentary will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the content may no longer be reflective of current opinions or positions. Moreover, you should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this commentary serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from AFG. AFG is neither a law firm, nor a certified public accounting firm, and no portion of the commentary content should be construed as legal or accounting advice. A copy of the AFG’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees continues to remain available upon request or at www.arfinancial.com.

Please Remember: If you are a AFG client, please contact AFG, in writing, if there are any changes in your personal/financial situation or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing/evaluating/revising our previous recommendations and/or services, or if you would like to impose, add, or to modify any reasonable restrictions to our investment advisory services. Unless, and until, you notify us, in writing, to the contrary, we shall continue to provide services as we do currently. Please Also Remember to advise us if you have not been receiving account statements (at least quarterly) from the account custodian.