Wishing You a Happy Independence Day from Fairmont Federal Credit Union

The 4th of July is right around the corner, and you know what that means! The ultimate feast of burgers, brats, dogs, and all the pasta salad you could ever want is finally at your fingertips.  It’s the perfect time for family gatherings and bonding with friends! Eating on any given holiday is always one of the main events. It’s the most delicious event and brings a little tradition to the table. Before the fireworks begin, what will be on your menu?

Appetizers

While your guests wait for the grill to heat up, colorful appetizers can keep them busy. With avocado booming  in popularity, a nice and easy dip to add to the table is guacamole with some chips. It’s a good place to start. Colorful, thick, guac is always a crowd pleaser. Taco dip, pico de gallo, mango salsa, any kind of dip will give your table a delicious, color treat to any party guest. What’s more? If you have leftover avocado, deviled eggs with sliced avocado, bacon, and a little hot sauce is an amazing tweak to the classic summer appetizer.

Main Dish

What’s the 4th of July without hamburgers and hotdogs? Pulled pork sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, Italian beef, brats, you name it! Heat the grill up and have a little variety for the whole family. And of course, don’t forget the  lettuce, cheese, tomato, ketchup, mustard.. Make a swiss burger and add some mushrooms! Bring some buns to the table, but give it a twist by adding tortillas and flat breads. Different buns adds a whole new level of creativity for your guests to add to their meal.

Dessert

When you’re making a 4th of July dessert, try to really keep the red, white, and blue theme alive. A flag cake is one of the most popular festive cakes! There are so many alternatives to this dish. The colors from the fruit on top add some pop to your table. Another 4th of July favorite is strawberry shortcake. You can do one big cake or make it a layered trifle strawberry shortcake. When making a trifle shortcake, you will need to cut up the cake beforehand, creating multiple layers. A tall bowl will be helpful if you are expecting a lot of people!

Curious where and when you can catch a fireworks show in your area? Check out local times here

Fairmont Federal Credit Union wants to wish you and your family a happy 4th! Fairmont FCU is a not-for-profit financial organization, democratically controlled, owned and operated by our members for the benefit of all who belong. For more information you can visit our website at https://www.fairmontfcu.com.

How to Have a Worry Free Vacation

As summer begins, thoughts turn to the kids being out of school, warm weather and getting away for a vacation.. Preparing for a fun getaway adventure requires careful planning and preparation to ensure you enjoy happy memories for years to come.

Before you leave home

• Cover your bases – Make copies of all credit cards, travelers checks, identification and medical information that you will be bringing with you on your travels. Keep one copy with you and leave the other at home.
• Bring limited cash – Contact credit/debit card companies- So they are aware of your travel dates and possible purchases outside of your normal routine. You may even want to stash some extra cash in case of inconveniences or you lose your wallet.
• Give limited info on luggage – Don’t put your address on your luggage tags. Instead write your phone number as a method of contact.
• Check your home before you leave – Secure all windows and doors and arm your alarm system before you head out of town. Set automatic timers for your lights and turn on a radio to create the illusion that someone is home. Additionally, consider adjusting your thermostat and water heater for vacation settings.
• Don’t post on Social Media -  Post your vacation pictures when you return home. Announcing your plans on social networks can alert unwanted visitors to your home.
  

On your trip

• Use room safe – Only take the cash and credit cards you need for the day. Put your other spending money in your room safe. Additionally, do not leave any valuables such as computers, wallets or jewelry out in the open.
• Know where you are going – Before you venture out, ask the hotel staff if there are any areas you should avoid.
• Keep valuables hidden in car – Never leave souvenirs, wallets or other items that might catch the eye out in the open in your automobile. Lock them in the trunk or put them in the glove box.
• Use small denominations – Don’t display large amounts of money when making a purchase and keep the dominations to $50 or less.
  

At Fairmont Federal Credit Union, we offer our members a variety of credit and debit card options, many which offer rewards benefits. Contact us to find the right option for your needs.