In This Issue · high-interest debt that, like Stephen, leaves them feeling helpless, stressed and overwhelmed. The program pays off high-interest debt from payday lenders, medical

Volume 1 Issue 78 • February 2016

In This Issue:

ECU Debt Crusher Gives HopeDebt Consolidation Program Helps Manage Debt

Credit Union Staff/Members Help Homeless StudentsSave Cash on your Auto Loan Are You Confident Your Investments Are Positioned to Support You?Take Advantage of Low Mortgage Rates TodayAccel Helps Members Manage DebteTip: Try eBill Pay for FreeHigh School Seniors: We Have a Scholarship for YouECU Staff Recognized for Mentoring EffortsWYCD/ECU host Ten Man Jam Ticket GiveawayECU Fills Educational Gap with Basic FinancesECU to Get New LookEuchre Tournament to Help Feed Local StudentsTeacher Feature: Jaime Bellos, Center Line High SchoolWarning About Social Security Email/Tax FraudWatch Out for This Chip Card ScamMake sure you don’t fall victim to this chip card scam

Tips for Knowing When to Sell Your HomeThe best times to list

Small Ways to Save That Add UpThese little things could mean big savings for your business

Late to the Retirement Savings Party?Simple first steps for those nearing retirement age but don’t have savings

The Economic and Social Cost of Student Loan DebtThe wide impact of student loan debt and how to help the situation

Foods You Should Always Buy OrganicFive foods to purchase organic in the new year and beyond

All-Wheel Drive Vehicles to ConsiderSo much more than pickups and SUVs

Understanding Your Blood Pressure ReadingHow to better understand if you are at risk for or are suffering from high blood pressure

ECU Debt Crusher Gives HopeDebt Consolidation Program Helps Manage Debt

Life happens. For one reason or another, whether it’s a job loss, a natural disaster that affects ourhome, a car breaking down, or simple overspending, life can put us in debt—and quickly.

Da Dada Daaa! Extra Credit Union to the rescue!

That was the case for one of our newest members, Stephen. Life happened to him and his wife. Hewanted to take control of their debt, so he began looking for a debt consolidation loan, but couldn’t getapproved.

Last week, we gave them the approval they were looking for. They consolidated their debt, andrefinanced their vehicle at ECU. And that approval is saving the local couple $600/month. Yes, youread that correctly—$600 per month.

“With our past credit issues, it was hard to get a loan,” Stephen said.

It was our tagline—Nothing is Stopping Us From Lending to You—that finally got his attention andprompted him to give us a call.

“You have given us the opportunity to take our extremely high-interest loans and cut them in half,”Stephen said.

Extra Credit Union’s Debt Crusher Debt Consolidation Program helps our members end the cycle ofhigh-interest debt that, like Stephen, leaves them feeling helpless, stressed and overwhelmed. Theprogram pays off high-interest debt from payday lenders, medical bills, utility bills—basically anyoneyou owe—and rolls it all into one monthly payment you can afford based on your budget and financialgoals.

Members then get a clear timeline of when their debt will be repaid and the payments are easy tomanage with automatic payments.

Find out more about the program on our website, or apply online 24/7 or over the phone at (586)276-3000.

Extra Credit Union • 586.276.3000 • https://www.extracreditunion.org/

Credit Union Staff/Members Help Homeless Students

1,286. That is the number of homeless students in Macomb County this school year. And those arejust the ones who have been identified. We were glad to collect and drop off more than 490 personalcare items {hats, gloves, shampoo, toothbrushes, etc.} and a $500 donation to the MISD HomelessEducation Project through the Macomb Intermediate School District.

Many of the students are “doubled” up with family members, while some of the students reside inhotels/ motels or shelters. The project provides school supplies, backpacks and other items to thesestudents, as well as providing referrals for housing, clothing, food and other community resources, saidMary Lebioda, School Health and Related Services Consultant with the Macomb Intermediate SchoolDistrict and liaison with the project.

“At the Macomb Intermediate School District, the primary goal of the Homeless Education Project is toinsure school stability, while the student is homeless,” Lebioda said. “… The (project) functions wellas a result of many community partnerships. We all work together to ensure school stability forhomeless students in Macomb County. School is a "safe place" for children, when the rest of theirworld is in turmoil.”

Lebioda noted that each homeless student receives a backpack with school supplies, socks,hats/gloves and hygiene items. The greatest need is school supplies and backpacks.

We’re proud to say our donations have been increasing year over year for the past five years. Thankyou to our staff and credit union members who contributed!


Save Cash on your Auto Loan

Old man winter may make it difficult to dig your car out of the snow, but he can't stop you from diggingyourself out of a high-interest auto loan. When you refinance your loan through Extra Credit Union,we'll beat another lender's rate by at least 1 percent APR; some restrictions may apply. Get more info!


Are You Confident Your Investments Are Positionedto Support You?

With all the market turmoil during the past few years, most investors are scrutinizing their investmentsand associated costs like never before. More importantly, they’re feeling increasingly uncertain aboutbeing on track to reach their financial goals.

What better way to help calm your fears than getting a second opinion? If you had a serious illnessor a major health problem, you’d likely seek a second doctor’s opinion before settling on a single planof action. Why not do the same for an issue just as important -- your financial health?

Having a comprehensive financial plan is a major step in pursuing your financial goals. In fact, a 2013study by Harris Interactive confirms that 70% (nearly 3 out of 4) respondents with a written financialplan feel they will have enough saved for their retirement, a number that’s 26% higher than thosewithout a plan!

As a way for you to evaluate your financial health, our in-house financial consultant, Michele Nehls, isproviding a “2 nd Opinion” comprehensive financial plan and analysis service to current ExtraCredit Union members. This no-obligation offer is a way for you to thoroughly compare your currentplan’s allocation, provide financial education through a gap analysis, and help you understand what, ifany, problems might exist.

With Michele’s help, you may find that the course you’re on now, despite what may have been laggingperformance in the past year or two, is exactly where you need to be. You may find, alternately, thathad your portfolio been positioned differently, your outcome might have been better. Whatever theresults of your comparison, Michele isn’t here to “sell” you anything other than an objective way toanalyze your current course.

Should you reach the unfortunate conclusion that you’re being underserved by your current advisor, orif you’re not currently working with a financial professional, Michele would welcome the opportunity todiscuss how she might be able to be of service. But for now, Michele’s priority is to provide ExtraCredit Union members with an objective resource, a “2 nd Opinion,” for comparing alternatives againsttheir current financial plan. Call 586-276-3108 today to schedule a time you can begin putting your2 nd Opinion financial plan together with Michele.


Take Advantage of Low Mortgage Rates Today

You may have noticed lately that the Dow Jones Industrial Average has fallen roughly 10 percentsince the beginning of the year. While this may be impacting your investment accounts, it creates agreat window of opportunity for a home buyer.

While first mortgage rates are not directly tied to the market, they tend to follow a similar trend, and asthe Dow has come down, so have our rates! Visit our website to see our current loan offerings and asnapshot of popular loan programs. While there, you will also find the tools to build a sample loanestimate. Have questions? Ready to apply? Give Dan the mortgage man a call at (586) 276-3109 orclick “Apply Now” right from our site.


Accel Helps Members Manage Debt

You’re not alone if you’re having difficulty paying your bills or staying current on credit cards. At ECU,we offer free debt management services to our members that can bring financial relief.

Accel counselors will actually contact your creditors on your behalf to negotiate concessions and/orwork out loan payment agreements. Typically, credit card companies will agree to lower your interest,eliminate fees, and cease collection activity.

Certified financial counselors are available 8 a.m.-9 p.m. (EST) Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Friday, and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Call 1-877-33ACCEL (332-2235) to speak with an Accelrepresentative or visit Accel Services for details. Mention you are a member of Extra Credit Union.


eTip: Try eBill Pay for Free

One of the many benefits of Extra Credit Union’s new eBanking platform is that we offer all newenrollees of eBill Pay three months of fee-free usage! {Paying bills online without having to writechecks, lick envelopes or buy stamps? Yes, please!!!}

How does this work? When you enroll in eBill Pay, you have three months to explore the systemwithout having to pay three or more bills to avoid the $4.95 monthly fee. This gives our members timeto determine if this service will work for them and for our members to pay some bills or cancel theservice prior to being charged.

After the three-month trial period is over, the member will begin to be charged the monthly fee if threeor more bills are not paid monthly. The fee is charged the third business day of the next month for theprevious month’s activity. Learn more about the many benefits and features of our new eBill Pay onour website!


High School Seniors: We Have a Scholarship for You

It’s never too early to start saving for college, especially with college costs increasing every year.Extra Credit Union gives students a helping hand by proudly awarding the Richard J. SpenceScholarship, totaling $5,000, to five graduating seniors. Our scholarship recipients are determined bya committee and selected on the basis of academic achievement, community and school involvement,contributions to family or society, and a written essay. Students must be members of Extra CreditUnion and high school seniors to apply. Visit Extra Credit Union.org to download the scholarshippacket today! But hurry! Applications are due on April 15.


ECU Staff Recognized for Mentoring Efforts

We are proud of our staff's dedication to the community! Check out this video via WinningFutures featuring our mentors who give their time every week to help local high schoolers be the bestthey can be!


WYCD/ECU host Ten Man Jam Ticket Giveaway

Ten superstars. One stage. 99.5 WYCD's Ten Man Jam at the Fillmore Detroit was a hit on Thursdayevening. And we were glad to have helped send more than 20 people to the show for free!

We recently partnered with the country radio station for a ticket drop at our main office, and 12 luckypeople walked away with a free pair of tickets to the show. This year’s country jam featured Maddie &Tae, Clint Black, Justin Moore, Granger Smith, Scotty McCreery, Drake White, William MichaelMorgan, Ashley Campbell, Ryan Kinder and Dallas Smith.

We’ll be giving away more tickets to some more great events throughout the year, so stay tuned toour Facebook page and eNewsletter for more details. And visit our Facebook page for more photosfrom the ticket drop.


ECU Fills Educational Gap with Basic Finances

Basic budgeting. Too many students graduate high school without knowing this basic concept andmany others under the financial literacy umbrella. Our staff members at Extra Credit Union are glad tohelp teach these important concepts to our local students by sponsoring with the Banzai program. TheMacomb Daily recently featured this important program in an article, citing the work we do in thecommunity.

*Photo credit: Sarah Blondin reviews an assignment with Leo Saffaleo and Morgan Cosgrove duringconsumer management class at Warren-Mott High School recently. DAVID DALTON- FOR THEMACOMB DAILY

Sarah Blondin reviews an assignment with Leo Saffaleo and Morgan Cosgrove duringconsumer management class at Warren-Mott High School recently. DAVID DALTON- FOR THEMACOMB DAILY


ECU to Get New Look

Heads up—Extra Credit Union will be getting a new look in the coming months! Our team is finalizingplans for some interior building updates that are sure to please the eye. The details are still in theworks, but we’ll be sure to fill you in when the plans are more concrete—stay tuned!


Euchre Tournament to Help Feed Local Students

The Blessings in a Backpack program is hosting a Euchre tournament from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday,March 20 at 5 Star Lanes to raise funds for its programming. The nonprofit organization providesbackpacks of food to school age children that qualify for their school district’s Free or Reduced Feelunch program. Tickets cost $20, which includes pizza, pop, playing, and 50/50. Purchase tickets atany Warren Consolidated School District school or visit blessingsinabackpackmi.org.


Teacher Feature: Jaime Bellos, Center Line HighSchool

Extra Credit Union is an organization devoted to serving the financial needs of local schools and hasdone so since its formation in 1954. For many years, Extra Credit Union has successfully providedfinancial education programs in local K-12 schools; scholarships to graduating seniors; and giventeachers many resources and services.

With this in mind, we are featuring a different teacher every month. Our “teacher feature” bringsattention to a teacher in our community who goes above and beyond and whose passion for their worktruly shows. This month, we feature Jaime Bellos, history and Tiny House Design and Build teacher atCenter Line High School, and one of this year’s Classroom Grant recipients.

ECU: How long have you been teaching?

Bellos: 20 years

ECU: What subject do you teach?

Bellos: AP World History, World History (regular), and Tiny House Design and Build

ECU: Why did you become a teacher?

Bellos: When I was in high school, I was asked to become the drum major of the high school band. Iended up in that role for four years (freshman through senior year). In that role I was able to lead,teach, perform, communicate, present, show responsibility, and have a sense of accomplishment afterevery game. I loved it! I also really liked history. So I thought I could combine my interest in historywith the skills I learned in my leadership role in the band and become a history teacher. The rest is“history” as they say. There is nothing better than inspiring others to be better than they “think” theycan be; It's the satisfaction that you have made a difference and helped another human being.

ECU: What is your favorite thing about teaching?

Bellos: Seeing the light go on in a student. Having a conversation with a student and making a realconnection with them either about what they're learning or just about life in general. Knowing thatwhat you have said could make a real difference in their life.

ECU: How old are you?

Bellos: 45 years young :)))

ECU: Are you married? Kids?

Bellos: I am married to my wonderful wife Angie. We have two beautiful dog children named Mollyand Kona.

ECU: What do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies?

Bellos: I like to hang out with my friends by going to new restaurants, traveling to other countries, andbuilding things with my hands (mostly with wood).

ECU: What school activities are you involved in?

Bellos: I have done just about everything here you can imagine. Right now, I am heavily involved in

the First Robotics Team as a mentor and also working on the Tiny House Project. I also mentor a newteacher as well as help others whenever I can.

ECU: Do you have any specific goals for the school year?

Bellos: I would like as many of my AP students as possible to pass the AP exam (but that is mostlyon them :). I would also like to complete the shell of the Tiny House before the end of the school year. (The shell means putting up the walls, roof, and having all of the exterior complete. That doesn'tsound like much but with only a few in-class hours a week and several weekend builds, that will be agreat accomplishment. Anything beyond that is a bonus).

ECU: What do you hope your students take away from your class at the end of the semester/schoolyear?

Bellos: A sense of accomplishment, being part of something really cool and unique, giving back totheir school/community, basic building skills, communication skills, being part of a team with aworthwhile goal, etc. They are learning how to fund raise, learn the importance of thanking those whohelp us, simple planning and basic budgeting of a project, etc. They are communicating with businesspartners and seeing the benefits of those relationships. There are many real world/life lessons.

Know an outstanding teacher who deserves to be featured in an upcoming ECU enewsletter? Emailtheir name, school, email address and phone number to [email protected].


Warning About Social Security Email/Tax Fraud

Be aware: There is a fake Social Security email circulating with a subject line that reads “GetProtected.” The email talks about new features from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that canhelp taxpayers monitor their credit reports, and know about unauthorized use of their Social Securitynumber. It even cites the IRS and the official-sounding “S.A.F.E Act 2015.” It sounds real, but it’s allmade up.

It’s a phishing email to get you to click on a scammer’s link. If you do, a scammer can install malware— like viruses and spyware — on your computer. Or, the link might send you to a spoof site — alookalike website set up by a scammer to trick you into entering your personal information. Be alertand protect yourself.

In addition, the IRS has put out many good resources to help protect consumers about tax scams.Visit the IRS’s site for more information.


Watch Out for This Chip Card ScamMake sure you don’t fall victim to this chip card scam

The country is progressing quickly on the path to replacing magnetic strip swipe cards with new, moresecure chip cards. The switch to chip cards marks an effort to improve security and prevent fraud andidentity theft.

The move to embrace this technology, which is already the standard in many other countries, waspartially motivated by the highly publicized security breaches at several major retailers over the pastfew years. While the move to chip cards will improve security overall, there are some scammers whoare trying to take advantage of the temporary confusion during the switch.

Last October marked the deadlinefor retailers to update theirpoint-of-sale systems so that theycould read the new chip cards. Anyretailers that didn’t meet thatdeadline were at risk of being heldliable for fraudulent transactionsthat may have been prevented withthe new chip card systems.

“The new cards provide moresecurity because the microchipcreates a unique code for each useto help authenticate a transaction,”according to Kathryn Vasel of CNNMoney. “Older cards store thatpayment data in the magnetic stripon the back, which is easy to steal,replicate and put on fake cards.”

As retailers across the countryswitched over, financial institutions began sending out new cards. During this time, a new identity theftscam arose. The scammers pose as financial institutions and send emails in an attempt to collectvaluable personal information. They sometimes ask people to confirm or provide updated personalinformation so that a new card can be sent.

Other times, they provide a link that they claim will take people to their financial institution’s website sothey can start the process of getting a new card. Unfortunately, these sites are used to gatherinformation that can be used for identity theft. Even if you don’t input any information, just clicking thelink can cause problems.

“If you click on the link, you may unknowingly install malware on your device,” according to ColleenTressler, a consumer education specialist with the Federal Trade Commission. “Malware programscan cause your device to crash, monitor your online activity, send spam, steal personal informationand commit fraud.”

You can avoid these scams by keeping in mind that your financial institution will never ask you forpersonal information over email or the phone. If you receive a call asking for information, hang up andcall back yourself, using the number provided on the back of your card. You may have to give your

account number over the phone when you call, but since you typed in the number yourself, you knowthe correct people are hearing it.

Likewise, do not respond to emails with any personal information. If you think you may have alegitimate email from your financial institution, it is important to close the email and navigate to thefinancial institution’s website from a new browser. That way, you know you are going to the correctURL — one that you type in yourself — and not risking a link that redirects to a scammer’s site. Youshould also check that the website you are on is secure before putting in any information. If you can’tfind the page that the link referred to, you can call your financial institution to confirm the email waslegitimate before you use the link.

If you keep this information in mind and remember that it is always better to play it safe and take theextra step to ensure that your communications are with your actual financial institution, then you canstay safe from this chip card scam.


Tips for Knowing When to Sell Your HomeThe best times to list

Maybe you’ve outgrown your home. Maybe you’re looking for a change of city or town. Whatever thereason you want to sell your home, it’s important to know the best time to put it on the market. Thatway, you can sell fast and get the best price possible.

Read on to find out the best timesto sell your home.

Spring or summer - Warmermonths tend to be known as someof the best times to sell your home.First off, prices tend to be highersince most people list their housesaround this time, and houses aremuch in demand.

“It sounds counterintuitive, but it’s afunction of demand being veryseasonal, driven by weather andthe school year,” says ChiefEconomist ofRealtor.com Jonathan Smoke. As abonus, listing your home in thespring and summer could improvethe appeal of the house.

“There is no real curb appeal [in the winter], as there is in the spring. We miss the beauty of greenlawns, flowers and in-ground pools,” says Linda Mossman, a realtor with Realty Executives BostonWest in Boston.

After the influx of listings - We just established that the most popular time of year to list is the springor summer, so naturally, there tends to be an influx of houses listed once spring begins. A great timeto list is right after that influx hits, say two or three weeks.

“Once buyers have been drawn into the market, they start looking online, but they haven’t yet selectedwhich home to buy. Pay attention to listings on the Internet in your neighborhood and wait until two orthree weeks after new listings start to bloom, and then you hit a sweet spot,” says Spencer Rascoff,CEO of Zillow, the nation’s No. 1 real estate website.

When rent prices increase - At times when rental prices are on the rise, people who previouslyrented an apartment might decide it’s a good time to buy a home.

“Every time there’s an increase, it triggers the decision processes on whether [renters] should go intothe market and buy,” says Budge Huskey, president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate.Another advantage to this is that first-time homebuyers tend to help sellers feel more comfortableabout their prospects.

“It allows others to move up the chain in the market,” Huskey says.

During the holidays - “Many people consider the holiday season the worst time to sell a home; it’s

the time of year when homeowners are hosting family members, putting up favorite decorations andplanning vacations,” says Patty Spiller, president of the Bryan-College Station Regional Association ofREALTORS. Nevertheless, it actually makes a great time to list; the competition is much reduced andmeans buyers might actually be willing to pay more for your home.

“Most buyers who aren’t incredibly motivated will put off a home search during the holidays and pickthings up again in the spring,” Spiller says. “If someone is touring homes instead of celebrating theseason with friends and family, they likely need to buy a home quickly and could be willing to paymore.”

When your home is in tip-top shape - You don’t have to spend thousands renovating every aspectof your home, but it does pay (literally) to make it look its absolute best before listing.

“Spend just a little bit of money sprucing up the home, improving the bathrooms, and you’ll get amuch better return,” Rascoff says. For example, update the old linoleum floors or simply get rid ofeverything personal to create a new, good-looking home that buyers will love. Staging your home alsomakes your house look great. Staging is a great way to get buyers to go out and view that property,and really take it into consideration when they might not have otherwise.

If you’re selling your home, call or stop by to find out the options we have for you.


Small Ways to Save That Add UpThese little things could mean big savings for your business

What business doesn’t wish it could have just a little more money? Running a company is noinexpensive task, and cutting costs is essential to ensuring that you’re gaining profits. That’s why it’simportant to put saving money on the top of your priority list.

And there’s good news: saving is easier than you might think. In fact, there are lots of small, easyways to sock a few — or more — extra bucks away each month, many that don’t even take mucheffort on your part.

Check out these small ways to save that add up quickly:

Most businesses require materials such as paper, ink and postage, and many don’t even realize howmuch small things like this can add up. If you get rid of it all, over time, you’ll see your savings growsteadily.

“Businesses should shift toward paperless payments for many reasons,” says Mitch Rose, vicepresident of BillTrust. “Businesses should not be reliant on the [United States Postal Service] forreceiving payments. There is already too much going on with the USPS from rising rates, closing ofpostal locations, lost mail, delays due to disasters or vandalism, etc. Just as important, the cost to abusiness to apply a paper check payment is significant. There are struggles with keying it in, gettingthe payment deposited in a timely manner and applying the payment to a specific invoice.”

Negotiate for better rates - “Onething we have done is gone to anyservice providers or partners andtried to negotiate flat fees or justbring down the prices,” says TimSantoni, president and CEO ofSantoni Worldwide Investigationsand Backgrounds.

You might be surprised by howoften providers will want to keepyour business and will arrange for abetter price post-negotiation. If theyaren’t willing to lower theirexpenses, it might be beneficial toswitch to other providers. Makesure you’re partnered with serviceproviders that you know want tohelp you grow and aren’t simplytaking orders and delivering.

“The more strategic partners and providers you have, the easier it will be to grow,” says Jackie Nagel,owner of small business strategy firm Synnovatia.

Don’t overspend on taxes - Sometimes, if businesses are new to a location, they’re subject to ahigher tax rate. In order to avoid spending too much on taxes, take action.

“Go to city hall to determine what your neighbors are paying, and use this to negotiate a better rate,”

“Go to city hall to determine what your neighbors are paying, and use this to negotiate a better rate,”suggests Pete Collins of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in New York City. “Expanding businesses canoften negotiate with community authorities who want them to stay in town rather than move and takejobs elsewhere.”

Go green - Did you know that the average business consumes 3.6 tons of paper per year? Or thatcompanies use 2,400,000 barrels of water a year (of which more than 20 percent isn’t necessary)? It’sobvious that adapting to a greener workplace will not only help you eliminate waste, and that’s great.But eliminating waste also saves your business money. Simply replacing standard light bulbs withalternatives can decrease lighting energy cost by 75 percent.

“More and more businesses are recognizing the benefits of reducing their waste,” says CarrieHamblen, executive director of the Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce. “Not only canbusinesses save money by reducing their overhead, [but] recycling [is] good for business and benefitsus all.” It’s a win-win.

Save the money you’re saving - It may sound obvious, but one of the biggest mistakes people makewhen trying to save money is spending the money they’ve just saved — which totally defeats thepurpose of saving.

“What’s important is that you save it — you don’t fritter it away on something else,” says Fred Brock,author of “Live Well on Less Than You Think.” He also recommends, if you’d like, to “put it into amutual fund, or whatever your investment vehicle is. Over time, you’ll be able to save an incredibleamount of money.”

To rein in your business budget, a few simple cost-cutting tips can make all the difference. Take theseeasy ways to save into account to save some money.


Late to the Retirement Savings Party?Simple first steps for those nearing retirement age but don’t havesavings

A recent survey of near-retirees by the Employee Benefit Research Institute and Greenwald andAssociates found that around one-third of workers have less than $1,000 saved up for retirement.Saving often and early is the best advice given for retirement planning, but what happens if you arepart of that one-third of workers already stumbling upon retirement with little to no nest egg? Thereare a number of ways to get your savings started. Here are just three of the most basic:

Start a tax-free retirement account now - Better late than never, they say, and it is definitely true inthis case. Utilize a 401(k) or IRA, preferably one in which your employer matches your contributions.Utilize “catch up” contributions if you qualify. Every little bit helps. Speak to your financial professionalfor exact amounts and the best ways to do this.

Cut back present expenses andthose in the future - “The goal isto free up as much money as youcan to save for retirement or paydown debt and to reduceyour expenses in retirement, aswell, so you can eventually live onless income,” says ForbesContributor Erik Carter, a certifiedfinancial planner.

Are there any bills on which youcan negotiate the amount due? Doyou have any voluntary variableexpenses on which you can cutdown? Can you switch to acheaper provider or carrier? Theseare all questions you should askyourself.

Furthermore, think long term andcut down the expenses you will need to pay in the future (during retirement) by paying down thosedebts now while you are still working. Speak to a financial planner or your financial institution for themost effective strategy for paying off debt that works with your specific situation.

Earn additional income - You can do this in two ways: Work past retirement age or work part timeduring retirement. Working at your full-time job for longer will not only add to your regular income, itwill increase your Social Security benefits and possibly your pension benefits, among otheradvantages.

“You also won’t have to stretch your retirement dollars as long. However, this option depends greatlyon your health and prospects for continued employment, so make sure you have a plan B as well,”Carter recommends.

That backup plan could be in the form of a side job after retirement, or of taking the opportunity to

start your own business. This is an attractive option for many retirees because it gives them thechance to maintain an active lifestyle and pursue interests or goals they may not have had time forwhile they were working.

Again, these are just a few simple first steps you can take to get your retirement savings ball rolling.Be creative and resourceful. There are a lot of assets and tools out there that can help.


The Economic and Social Cost of Student Loan DebtThe wide impact of student loan debt and how to help the situation

The cost of student loan debt is clearly felt by those directly involved, whether they are studentsthemselves or family members who have taken out loans on behalf of the students. Student loan debthas a wider effect, however, with a large economic and social impact that spreads throughout thecountry.

“In a widely discussed brief lastyear (as widely discussed as briefscan be), data from the New YorkFed suggested a macroeconomicdrag due to student loan debt inthe wake of the Great Recession,”according to Forbes ContributorJosh Freedman.

The brief also suggests that peoplewho had more student loan debtwere not as likely to purchase carsor homes as people were without adebt burden. This has a directimpact on the car and housingmarkets and a wider impact on theeconomy as a whole.

“Rising student debt levels arechanging how millions of peopleapproach major milestones andcore financial decisions, affecting long-standing social and economic patterns,” states Kelley Hollandin a contribution to CNBC. “Owning a home used to be a key marker of adulthood and maturity. Buthome ownership has plummeted among Americans under age 35, from 43.3 percent in the firstquarter of 2005 to 34.6 percent in the first quarter of 2015, according to the Census Bureau.”

Due to student debt, first-time home buyers can only afford homes in the lower price range, which islimiting the market value of other homes. Builders and realtors are also being impacted due to the lackof market for higher valued homes.

People in their 20s are also delaying starting a family, a trend that has been going on for years. In thesummer of 2015, the birth rate for women 20-29 hit a record low according to Pew Research. It isn’tpossible to predict exactly what the economic impact of this trend will be, but it is clear that the socialimpact is already being felt, as the landscape of young parenthood already has a dramatic new look.

“Research has also found that the burden of student debt hinders innovation and entrepreneurship, acore component of the economic prowess of the United States,” states Holland. “Researchers at theFederal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and Penn State studied the relationship between student debtand small business formation and found ‘a significant and economically meaningful’ link: more studentdebt led to fewer small businesses being formed.”

Experts have many ideas regarding how to improve the student loan situation. Due to the fact that themajority of student loans are federal loans, some experts feel that there would be less student loan

debt overall if the balance shifted more toward private loans from financial institutions.

“First, private student loans arguably have the strongest consumer protection: a robust underwritingprocess that includes an ability-to-repay test,” says Richard Hunt, president and CEO of the ConsumerBankers Association, in a commentary on CNBC.com. “Government loans are subject to theDepartment of Education lending rules, which don’t require such a test.”

Another reason is that private lenders must provide a full and comprehensive disclosure of conditionsand terms, and a summary of the full price of the loan over its lifetime. This can help students andtheir parents accurately weigh the costs and the benefits.

Students can also help decrease the burden they feel, as well as the larger social and economicimpact of their debt, by taking the right steps to make home ownership easier sooner. A good start istalking to their financial institution about the steps they can take to reach a level at which they can beapproved for a loan. This could include forming goals like saving up to a specific down-payment target.Then they can make use of one of the many free budgeting tools available online to help get theirspending in check and save more efficiently.

Higher education is still a very important part of building a successful future. You can be in a betterposition to enjoy the rewards if you make thoughtful decisions about what type of loan to choose andpractice careful budgeting to ensure that you can still meet all your life goals, like buying a home andstarting a family.


Foods You Should Always Buy OrganicFive foods to purchase organic in the new year and beyond

If you are one of the countless Americans who have resolved that 2016 will be the year in which youfinally begin to tighten up your diet, you have certainly been spending more time in the produce aisleat your local grocery. Here, you may have discovered that most fruits and vegetables are offered inhigher-priced organic options. You may have also noticed organic labels on meats, grains, dairyproducts and even the cookware in which you prepare your food.

If you do not typically purchase organic foods, you may be wondering what differences make organicproducts so much healthier that they are worth an extra cost. To help your future decision-making,here are five foods that you should always buy organic.

Milk

According to LiveStrong.com,approximately 20 percent of all milksold in the United States is derivedfrom cows that have received thegenetically-modified RecombinantBovine Growth Hormone (rBGH).This hormone stimulates theinsulin-like growth factor (IGF-1)hormone, which some studiesassociate with an increased risk ofcancer. Organic milk, on the otherhand, comes from cows that arefed organic food and are notsubjected to the same battery ofantibiotic and growth hormonetreatments that other cattle receive.

Apples

The saying goes that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but a high concentration of pesticideresidue on these delicious fruits may ultimately have the opposite effect. According toWhatsOnMyFood.org, the USDA Data Program found more than 47 pesticide residues on apples, sixof which are considered known or probable carcinogens and five of which are considered neurotoxins.Thiabendazole, a probable carcinogen and known developmental or reproductive toxin, was found on81 percent of all apples tested by the USDA. As organic apples are not treated with pesticides, thereare no such residues to be found.

Cucumbers

These green vegetables are great in salads and ideal for making homemade tzatziki sauce forgyros—never mind that they are rich in vitamin A, vitamin K and potassium. However, the USDAPesticide Data Program also finds that they are home to as much as 86 pesticide residues, includingendosulfan, an organochlorine insecticide that has been banned or phased out in more than 80countries. While a number of these chemical traces will be removed by simply peeling off the skin,organic cucumbers should always be considered in lieu of regular cucumbers.

Meats

The reasons for choosing organic beef, pork and poultry are similar to the reasons for choosingorganic byproducts. Cows, chickens and pigs among other animals are treated with growth hormonesand antibiotics and eat foods containing herbicides and GMOs. The presence of these additives inmeat can lead to an increased risk of cancer, and the heavy intake of antibiotics can lead to thecreation of resistant bacteria, meaning that the higher price of organic meats is well worth it. Certifiedorganic meat must be grain-fed, cannot be fed meat byproducts, and must be descended from amother that was only given organic feed during the formative stages of pregnancy.

Potatoes

The soil in which potatoes are grown is typically treated with heavy fungicides in order to preventblight, and potato vines are also treated with pesticides that include neurotoxins, carcinogens andhormone disruptors. Organic potatoes are considerably more expensive than the alternative, but thelack of any additives more than makes up for it. Sweet potatoes are considered cleaner than regularpotatoes, but they are also not additive-free unless they are purchased in organic form.

Buying more organic products will result in a higher grocery bill, but it will likely result in a cleaner billof health and a better sense of well-being. Buying these products organic every time will help keepyour body cleaner and have a positive impact on your health moving forward.


All-Wheel Drive Vehicles to ConsiderSo much more than pickups and SUVs

When you’re looking for the best vehicles to tackle the poor-weather driving conditions that come withwinter, getting a vehicle with all-wheel drive is a great start. And while you’re probably well aware ofthe SUVs and pickups that come equipped with all-wheel drive, there are plenty of other options too.

Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy is the only midsize sedan that’s standard with all-wheel drive. Many popularmidsize options like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Nissan Altima don’t even make it available;and with an MSRP of $21,745, this one’s more affordable as well. There are two engine options, withfuel economy rated at up to 36 mpg highway. Some of the impressive features you’ll find are theEyeSight driver assist technology and STARLINK smartphone integration.

“Subaru completely redesigned the Legacy last year. The company maintained the midsize sedan’sall-wheel-drive capability and capacious interior while making meaningful improvements in fuelefficiency as well as infotainment and safety technologies,” Left Lane News says of the newest model.“A sleeker, more modern look helps the Legacy turn more heads than before too.”

Chrysler 300

If you’re looking for the optimalblend of performance, luxury,amenities and affordability, theChrysler 300 is a great pick. Whilerear-wheel drive is standard, theavailable all-wheel-drive modelsuse the most advanced system inthe entire class, with an axledisconnect system that helpsmaximize fuel economy while stillproviding the grip you need. Andbuying a 300 means you have theoption of innovation afterinnovation, with cutting-edgefeatures like the Uconnectinfotainment system, TorqueFliteeight-speed automatic transmissionor best-in-class engine choicesstarting with the award-winningPentastar V6. The LimitedAll-Wheel Drive starts at just over $34,000.

“No matter what version you choose, the 300 is stylish, roomy, powerful and a pleasure to drive. TheAmerican sedan is alive and well,” AutoTrader adds.

Luxury options

Virtually every luxury manufacturer has an all-wheel-drive option, and many of them have carefullydeveloped their technology to not only tame poor-weather driving conditions, but to improve

performance on dry roads as well.

Acura has Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, also known as SH-AWD, and you can find it on both theTLX and RLX luxury sedans. Audi has quattro, BMW uses xDrive and Mercedes-Benz equips some ofits models with 4MATIC.

A newer entry into the luxury coupe arena is the Lexus RC (MSRP starting at $39,995), and itcurrently ranks in U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 upscale small car. There are numerousLexus models to help you find the exact blend of power and efficiency you’re looking for, and the RC300, RC 350, RC 300 F SPORT AWD and RC 350 F SPORT AWD can all be equipped with all-wheeldrive.

Regardless of what kind of vehicle you’re looking for, stop by to see what financing options we havefor you so you can worry about one less thing during the car-buying process.


Understanding Your Blood Pressure ReadingHow to better understand if you are at risk for or are suffering fromhigh blood pressure

If one of your resolutions for 2016 is to get your health in order and take steps to improve your overallquality of life, there are certain factors that you will want to consider. Body fat percentage, bloodglucose, cholesterol and overall body weight are all important pieces of the puzzle, and so is bloodpressure.

The dangers of high bloodpressure

High blood pressure can causesubstantial damage to your body,even resulting in death. High bloodpressure is known as a “silentkiller” because there are almost nosymptoms, and its effects includestroke, kidney damage, loss ofvision, loss of memory and heartdamage up to and including heartattack and congestive heart failure.

Factors that put you at anincreased risk for high bloodpressure include age, heredity,male gender, obesity, smoking,high cholesterol, diabetes and alack of exercise.

Because of the silent nature of high blood pressure, it’s important to get your blood pressure checkedregularly. In order to understand whether you suffer from high blood pressure, you will need to knowhow to understand your readings and what they mean.

What the numbers indicate

Your blood pressure reading will be presented as x/y mm Hg, where x represents systolic bloodpressure and y represents diastolic blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association,systolic blood pressure represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts. Diastolicpressure, on the other hand, represents pressure in the arteries between heartbeats when the muscleis refilling with blood. The systolic blood pressure will always be higher than the diastolic pressure.

The five stages of blood pressure

According to the American Heart Association, there are five stages of blood pressure: normal,prehypertension, Stage 1 hypertension, Stage 2 hypertension and hypertensive crisis. It is important toalso note that a single blood pressure reading is not an immediate indicator of high blood pressure,and that if you do test high, you should return to your doctor for a second reading after a short periodof time to see if your blood pressure levels have remained consistent.

A systolic reading of 120 mm Hg or lower and a diastolic reading of 80 mm Hg or lower are

considered to be normal and healthy. Systolic readings between 120 – 139 mm Hg and diastolicreadings between 80 – 89 mm Hg fall under the prehypertension range, meaning that you are at a riskof high blood pressure and should consider undertaking certain preventative measures.

Stage 1 hypertension is indicated by 140 – 159 mm Hg systolic blood pressure and 90 – 99 mm Hgdiastolic blood pressure, which indicates that you should consider substantial lifestyle changes up toand including stricter diet and more exercise. Stage 2 hypertension is indicated by a systolic bloodpressure reading of 160 mm Hg or higher and a diastolic pressure reading of 100 mm Hg or higher,and is typically treated by lifestyle changes and some degree of medication.

Hypertensive crisis is considered a level at which you should seek immediate emergency care, and itis indicated by readings of 180 mm Hg systolic pressure and 110 mm Hg diastolic pressure. UnlikeStage 1 hypertension and Stage 2 hypertension, hypertensive crisis is accompanied by symptomaticindicators such as severe headache, shortness of breath, nosebleeds and anxiety.

Low blood pressure

While readings of 120/80 mm Hg or lower are typically considered healthy, there is such a thing aslow blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, low blood pressure is typically onlya cause for concern if it is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, depression, dizziness,fainting, dehydration and shallow breathing.

With the ability to determine whether your blood pressure levels are healthy, you will be better able toregulate your health in the new year. If you feel as though you are at risk for high blood pressure,make an appointment with your doctor and begin taking steps necessary to bring your blood pressuredown.


Documents

In This Issue · high-interest debt that, like Stephen, leaves them feeling helpless, stressed and overwhelmed. The program pays off high-interest debt from payday lenders, medical