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Hi there,

The Cost of Vision

Do you have less than perfect vision? If so, you’re actually in the majority. According to Global Eyesight Now, six out of ten people use some form of vision correction. I’ve been wearing glasses for seven years now, having recently switched to wearing contacts. I put together a video to help you figure out whether it’s glasses, contacts or even Lasik that will work well with both your budget and lifestyle.

What’s With The Chip?

No, I’m not talking about Lays, Utz or Pringles. I’m talking about the small, metallic square that you may have seen on debit and credit cards. That chip is what sets new cards apart from those of the previous generation. These updated EMV cards use new technology that helps protect consumers. They were introduced in the wake of numerous large-scale date breaches and increasing rates of counterfeit card fraud. According to CO-OP, credit card fraud has more than doubled in the U.S in the past 15 years. Although they have been the global standard for a while, EMV cards are still fairly new in the U.S. And because of that, I’ve put together a list of what you need to know about the chip.

Financial Fitness Fairs

It’s officially fair season! Not only is the Fryeburg Fair in full swing, but also so are Financial Fitness Fairs across the state. There are five fairs scheduled at high schools this month, with one at Portland High School already in the books. Credit union staff and volunteers will also be making their way to Deering, Maranacook, Scarborough and Mt. View High Schools to engage students in a simulation event. High school juniors and seniors are given a career and a monthly income, and then have to visit booths associated with various expenses that the average adult is faced with each month. Costs, such as transportation, housing, clothing, food, student loans, insurance and several other everyday expenses, are filled in on a monthly budget form by each student. At the end of the event, the goal is for students to have monthly budget that does not exceed their monthly income. It’s fun and educational, and I wish I attended a Financial Fitness Fair before I graduated high school!

It’s Almost International Credit Union Day

This month plays host to International Credit Union Day! The day is recognized to reflect all the good that credit unions do. October 19 will be a day for reflecting upon the movement’s history, promoting achievements and sharing member experiences. Not only does the day raise awareness about the great work that credit unions are doing, but it also gives members the opportunity to get more engaged. Maine’s credit unions will be celebrating and I hope that you will be too! This year’s theme is “Dreams Thrive Here!” Share what your dream is and be sure to hashtag it with #ICUDay! And while you're at it, reach out to your credit union to see what fun things they’ll have going on!

Video: Saving for Retirement

In this It's a Money Thing video, Jen is schooled by her rapping Grandma on what’s involved in saving for retirement.

How will you be celebrating International Credit Union Day this year? Let me know!

Take care,

Jake Holmes
Young & Free Maine Spokester