Smith Lake's Top 9 for 2019

Smith Lake is booming and without a doubt it is no longer one of the best kept secrets in the southeast. With it's emerald green waters and stunning rock cliff bluffs, the beauty of this place is truly like no other. 2019 has been quite a year for our lake and with the buzz on social media of everyone's "Top 9",  I took the opportunity to create a Top 9 in words rather than photos from the year on our lake.


1. Duncan Bridge still doesn't have a new restaurant despite the plans several have seen that would
highlight Smith Lake's most photographed landmark. If these plans ever come to fruition, I believe the support would be unparalleled.

2. A lot of folks continue to get up in arms about wake boats on social media. I don't get into those debates but, I've watched enough HGTV to know a "wake free" lake would cause a significant decrease in our real estate value. I firmly believe we can all do our part in leading by example, teaching our children both the written laws and unspoken rules of the waterway; while also taking the time to pick up trash in and around our lake.

3. Speaking of HGTV, Smith Lake & realtor Haley May were featured on the hit show, Lake Front Bargain Hunt this year. Watch Haley, along with Joey & Justin from previous years as they showcase our beautiful lake on HGTV. 

4. Squirrel's Marina is now painted the same shade of blue as Duskin Point and owned by the same family. We can't wait to see their grand plans, as we've heard they are pretty great!

5. Whether you live on Smith full-time, visit, or come every chance you get, you've probably noticed many abandoned buildings in the area. In March, the spot beside Dollar General in Arley is no longer one of them. Welcome, Smith Lake Flea Market & Vintage Mall, you are a much needed breathe of fresh air into the little town at heart of our lake.

6. Brother's on Smith Lake celebrated their 1st anniversary and whether you are a "east side or west side" lake patron -- it's a MUST! The atmosphere, the food and the family owned & operated feel ... it's officially a spot! They have live music, specials, a kids play area and more ... just go ~ we did!

7. The 2nd Annual Spook the Lake put on by The Lakeman, Brian Cuzup, was without a doubt a huge hit!  Not only did it bring our lake community together, it brought patrons into  the businesses surrounding our lake during a usually "quite" weekend. #supportlocal


8. The Smith Lake Concert Series once again filled Rock Creek amazing tunes and delicious food. Stay tuned for a 2020 date and get ready to secure your ticket!

9. And last but, not least we lost 3 lives on Smith Lake this year on holiday weekends. Three lives that brought people to their knees and a community together. It still brings tears to my eyes to think of the heartbreak. To see the words from the parents of the children, the faith of an earthly father to bring his daughters body home, the unwavering commitment of volunteer rescue crews, the kindness of folks opening their homes, bringing food, friends asking for prayer, blue bows ~ the list goes on.
I know our community will never forget these souls and I pray we all learn something from these tragedies.

As we embark on a new year,  lets pay it forward and strive to be do something in memory of the lives lost, lead by example on the water and take time to keep Smith Lake beautiful! Cheers to 2020!

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