Operation Homefront just honored a Utah teen with the Military Child of the Year award. We found out there’s plenty of reasons why Jamal Braxton is a very deserving recipient.
Banking has moved more and more online. Many people now use their smartphones to do their banking.
Get to know this months winner and find out what else America First Credit Union is doing for the community.
In honor of Mother’s Day, we asked some local moms about what they teach their children about finances. They also explain some monetary wisdom they wish had been imparted. We hope you enjoy these financial tips from mothers.
Penny
Dedicate yourself to your education first and find a job in which you can share your best talents — where you can see and feel the difference you make in others’ lives. Start your retirement planning now and build your deposits as you make more money. Choose your spouse carefully. Look for someone [who] has good saving habits. Put away money by being frugal now and you’ll be able to live comfortably later. You only need one credit card, that is attached to your deposit institution, so you can pay it off monthly.
Jennie
It’s important to understand the difference between needs and wants. Normally when a child says, “I need this,” it really means they just want it. Help them understand that sometimes wants have to wait or may never happen.
Kimberly
Hit the clearance racks first. Rarely pay full price for anything.
Karlene
Balance your checkbook. Start teaching your children early about finances. Even though you teach your children about finances, it does not always mean that they will understand. Let them learn from their mistakes.
Laura
First and foremost, try to save at least $10 to $20 every paycheck as a starting point. Don’t worry about coupon shopping—the discounts are often only on name-brand products. Do not encourage your children to think that name-brand clothing is the only way to dress. Have your children do chores to earn things they are aspiring for, even if your child is 18!
Tiffany
From the time you start earning money, have a budget. That way you will always spend within your means, be able to save, and never go into debt.
Alicia
Know the difference between needs and wants. Set a goal for your savings. Sometimes it’s easier to sacrifice with the end goal in mind. You can’t save money by spending.
Jennifer
Live within your means—in other words, don’t spend more than you earn. In our world today, everyone feels like they need everything right now. Young, old, newly married, married forever. I hope my children will understand the key to happiness is being happy with what you have and not always waiting to get more to find happiness.
For Immediate Release:
America First Credit Union Holds 78th Annual Meeting; New Board Members Elected
President and CEO John Lund stated, “I am happy and honored to report that 2016 was a successful year by every measure.”
Riverdale, Utah – (May 8, 2017) – America First Credit Union held its 78th annual meeting on Tuesday, April 18, 2017. The agenda included the Board of Directors election and filling its leadership roles. James G. Wendler, Linda K. Carver, and Gil A. Miller were elected by the voting membership to serve on the Board. James Wendler will continue as Board Chairman, with Linda Carver as Vice Chair and Kenlon W. Reeve as Secretary.
Taking place in April, the America First annual meeting provides an opportunity to share the success and financial state of the organization, as well as giving the membership the ability to determine the credit union’s course of action by electing volunteers to serve on the Board of Directors. These dedicated and qualified individuals share their time, talents and efforts without compensation, making them part of America First’s unique cooperative, not-for-profit structure.
The annual event was once again streamed live via the credit union’s social media accounts for added engagement and conversations online. Giveaways were also held for those tuning in who were unable to make the meeting in person. For more information, go to americafirst.com or visit them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.
About America First Credit Union:
In its 78 years of service, America First has become of the largest and most respected credit unions in the nation, providing an extensive branch network and 24/7 access through award-winning mobile and online banking platforms. America First offers a wide range of financial solutions, including mortgages, free checking, auto & RV loans, Visa® cards, business loans & services, trust services, insurance, and investments. America First has 123 locations, is the 11th largest U.S. credit union in assets with over $8.4 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership with more than 831,000.
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Contact:
America First Credit Union
Nicole Cypers
ncypers@americafirst.com
Quillin Advertising, Public Relations & Social Media
Melanie Devries
D: 702-506-0828
mdevries@quillinlv.com
These days, going to a store to buy something might feel like a hassle — most prefer internet purchases. In fact, a recent study shows that 80% of Americans are shopping online, a number that keeps going up. Unfortunately, it means cybercriminals are becoming more advanced, too, making it equally important to stay safe while shopping online. Here are some tips to help prepare you for the virtual battle against identity theft and credit card fraud.
Gathering Intel
Sometimes the best deals aren’t on popular sites such as Amazon or eBay. But if you’re visiting one for the first time, do your research. Look up reviews and check out the company’s reputation before entering any information. And trust your feelings: if it’s a strange URL, has a dated look, is loaded with excessive pop-ups or anything else that seems shady, it’s probably worth going somewhere more credible.
Also, look for https:// at the start of the web address. This lets you know they encrypt sensitive data and keep your information private. Browsers additionally display green boxes & text or lock icons in the address bar when the connection is secure. Using official company apps on mobile devices also ensures better security.
Fortifying your Defenses
You are your own first line of defense against hackers. For example, avoid buying over public Wi-Fi connections and remember to keep your browsers updated to prevent breaches.
Don’t offer more information than necessary when creating accounts or checking out — only enter the required fields. If a company wants more than that, walk away. No reputable store will ask for your Social Security number or PIN. If you do create accounts, use secure passwords and change them periodically.
Credit card purchases are common & safe options, with automatic protections built in. You can also put an extra layer of security between you and vendors with systems like PayPal. Plus, America First provides Visa® cards that come with free identity theft recovery services in case you’re ever a victim.
Defending your Stronghold
Once you buy, keep an eye on your account for the transaction to clear. Using free online banking regularly is a good way to avoid any unwanted charges. Also, file your email receipts in a dedicated folder. That way, you won’t be fooled by spammy emails about fake purchases.
If you get a message about something you didn’t buy, don’t click on any links. You can also spot scams by looking at the sender’s address. If it says Google, but the email is coming from ggl24601@hs-42.ithosting.biz, you can safely assume it’s fraudulent. To confirm if it’s legit, go to the company’s site and contact their support team.
Finally, if you suspect any breach or compromise, contact your financial institution immediately. With all the threats out there, it’s hard to feel completely safe while shopping online. But if you do your research, take proper precautions and stay on guard, you can avoid many of these virtual pitfalls.
For Immediate Release:
America First Credit Union Pays Tribute to 40-Year Member of Board of Directors
Riverdale, Utah – (May 5, 2017) – America First Credit Union pays tribute to Edwin Cline, who served as a volunteer for the credit union for 41 years from 1976 – 2017.
Cline joined America First in the 1950s, where his experience as a member of prompted him to serve as a volunteer.
Edwin Cline began his service at America First as a field loan officer in 1976 and later became a field representative in 1978. Cline was appointed to the Salt Lake Credit Committee in 1986, where he held the vice chairman and chairman positions. In 1988, Cline completed the CUNA Volunteer Achievement Program and in 1998, was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors. He has served as an advisor of the supervisory committee and has served on the lending, data processing and ad hoc committees during his time on the board.
“We are profoundly grateful for Ed and his countless contributions to America First,†said John Lund, president and CEO of America First. “His service to our members, Board of Directors and the many others who have benefitted from his incredible work have made us the organization we are today.â€
Cline attended the University of Utah for two years, where his study emphasis was business. After 40 years, he retired from the United States Air Guard as the chief master Sargent. He was also the information processing manager and a senior enlisted advisor for the Utah Air Guard. Cline has been a member of the credit union since 1956.
For more information, visit americafirst.com, America First Credit Union on Facebook, Twitter, @AmericaFirst on Instagram and Pinterest.
About America First Credit Union:
As the largest credit union in the state of Utah, boasting a long-standing history and nearly 78 years servicing members. America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 122 locations, and is the 11th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $8.4 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 831,000 members.
# # #
Contact:
America First Credit Union
Nicole Cypers
ncypers@americafirst.com
Quillin Advertising, Public Relations & Social Media
Melanie Devries
D: 702-506-0828
mdevries@quillinlv.com
By John B. Lund, President and Chief Executive Officer
Each spring, America First members gather to elect a volunteer Board of Directors to lead our credit union, renew our bond, and honor our legacy as a not-for-profit cooperative. The Board provides us with strategic guidance, ensuring our ongoing safety, soundness, and ability to deliver relevant financial value.
The process takes place at the annual meeting, which this year was held on April 18, 2017 in Ogden, Utah. Joining us were local officials, as well as credit union & industry representatives.
Kenlon W. Reeve, acting Chair of the Board Election Nominations Committee, oversaw the balloting, during which the membership chose James G. Wendler, Linda K. Carver, and Gil A. Miller to serve three-year terms. The Board subsequently maintained internal leadership roles, with Mr. Wendler as Chairman, Mrs. Carver as Vice Chair, and Mr. Reeve having the Secretary position.
Mr. Miller, a certified public & forensic accountant from Salt Lake City, is new to our Board and we welcome him. He has extensive expertise and experience. I look forward to working with him and his fellow volunteers as we embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
I would also like to personally extend my deepest gratitude to long-serving Board member Edwin G. Cline for his remarkable 42 years of dedicated service to America First. Ed is a gentleman in every sense of the word, and has made a significant contribution to the success of our credit union. His dear sweetheart Linda is also an outstanding individual and a friend to America First, as well as all who know her. Ed and Linda will be missed, but not forgotten.
Those on the Board give tremendously of their time and talents, without compensation, to benefit the credit union. They are truly dedicated to improving the financial health of every member and we are fortunate they are part of our team.
Our Loan Review and Supervisory Committees are also comprised of volunteers delivering much-needed services to the membership. The Loan Review Committee functions as an independent appeals avenue for members initially denied financing. The Supervisory Committee works with internal and external auditors to ensure fiscal and regulatory safety & soundness.
During his Chairman’s message, Mr. Wendler noted how many companies, including financial institutions, limit themselves by not seeking better ways to better meet the needs of those they serve. “We at America First are fueled by imagination, the desire to grow responsibly, and the knowledge that the ability to move beyond existing realms is not only preferable but necessary in a changing world,†he said.
Indeed, it’s a privilege to report that the strength, stability, innovative spirit, commitment to fiscal discipline, and lasting qualities of America First are in abundance. We are well positioned for a vibrant future and I am proud to be part this credit union. Together, we strive every day to help you, our valued members, save money, simplify your busy lives, and reach your unique financial objectives. It is our desire to develop and maintain a lifelong relationship with you and you families.
In this edition of Surprise Squad, grocery store customers got some unexpected help at the register to feed their families and save money for other expenses.
- Check yourself
Keep tabs on your credit rating at least once a month. With online banking from America First, you have immediate access to your FICO® Score at no cost. Just take advantage of our checking accounts or low-rate loans.
- Shred to safety
Documents with sensitive & financial data need to be disposed of properly—shredding them is the best way to prevent criminal dumpster diving. We offer free events at which you can shred all your information. Here is a schedule.
- Trust, verify
Whether you’re applying for a new Visa® credit card or you’re using a service that requires your date of birth, make sure you’re doing business with a company that’s legitimate. When you’re online, look for secure sites denoted by the https that precedes the web address.
- Show strength
This can’t be overemphasized—strong passwords are a best defense practice. Use a mix of numbers & characters, never leave them short, and don’t include personal details such as your pet’s name, birthdays, etc. And remember to change your passwords routinely, at least once a year.
- Share with care
Resist responding to any requests—especially those from unknown entities & organizations that come over the phone or via the Internet—for personal information that might be used for illegal purposes.
- Stay informed
Click here to see how we’re working to safeguard your resources.