Author: marketing

23 Sep

Cool Down Summer Spending

by marketing in Uncategorized
Cool Down Summer Spending

Cool Down Summer Spending

Lazy days and fun getaways are the hallmarks of summer. But unfortunately, our summer spending can leave our wallets empty come fall. We have some smart ways you can cool down common summer expenses.

Reduce Cooling Costs

Electricity usage tends to peak in the summer months mostly because of air conditioning. To reduce energy costs, replace your air filters often and turn up the thermostat by as little as four degrees. Get in the habit of using a ceiling fan to cool hot air as it rises. Keep blinds and curtains drawn to block out sunlight that can heat up your home.

Entertain the Kids for Less

From summer camp to swim lessons, activities for children can really add up. The good news? Warmer weather usually mean more festivals, outdoor concerts and community events, and this summer many venues and events are resuming pre-COVID schedules. Follow your local city or parks and recreation department social media accounts to keep up to date on free events. Some museums and learning centers also offer free or reduced admission days through the summer months. Consider using coupons and deals for entertainment. You can typically find discounts online on everything from bowling and mini-golf, to swimming, day trips and local restaurants. Plan a get-together with friends and their kids and you can save money thanks to group discounts.

Plan a Thrifty Summer Trip

Everyone enjoys big summer trips but they can be pricey. Cut costs by visiting more affordable tourist spots. Nearby state parks or local beaches are great choices. If you want to travel further away, consider visiting family. You’ll have a free place to stay and someone local to show you around.

If you need to take a break, Navigator can help with our vacation loan. Applying is easy. You can do it by phone by calling 800-344-3281, option 3, in-Branch or online. And if you want to take a break from regular loan payments, our anytime Skip-A-Pay may be right for you. Free up funds during the month of your choice, then use your cash for travel, entertainment, shopping or to just catch up. As a valued Member of Navigator Credit Union, you may be qualified to participate, and if you have more than one eligible loan, you can skip a payment on each one!

Eat at Home, Grill Out More Often

It’s no secret that eating out is considerably more expensive than eating at home – five times more on average. Consider meal planning to help reduce the time you spend in the kitchen and budget the use of your groceries. To change it up, take it outside and grill up some delicious food during the week. Grilling out helps eliminate using two energy-consuming appliances at once – your HVAC and the oven/stove. Have fun testing out different foods on the grill and enjoy relaxing summer evenings spent outside.

Conserve Fuel

Fuel prices inevitably increase in the summer. Even if you’re driving the same distance, it will cost more. If you can, cut back on driving. Carpool to work or use public transit. If you can’t avoid it, drive slower, use the recommended motor oil grade and keep your tires properly inflated to increase fuel efficiency.

Summer can be some of the most fun months of the year, and it doesn’t have to be the most expensive.

Terms and conditions apply. Visit navigatorcu.org for more details about personal vacation loans and the anytime Skip-A-Pay program.

23 Sep

Libérese de las altas tasas de interés y comisiones adicionales con una tarjeta de crédito de su cooperativa de crédito

by marketing in Uncategorized
Libérese de las altas tasas de interés y comisiones adicionales con una tarjeta de crédito de su cooperativa de crédito

Libérese de las altas tasas de interés y comisiones adicionales con una tarjeta de crédito de su cooperativa de crédito

ENGLISH | EN ESPAÑOL

Probablemente ha visto anuncios o ha recibido ofertas en su buzón de correo. Las entidades financieras, grandes y pequeñas, compiten por un espacio en su cartera para una de sus tarjetas de crédito. Con las comisiones bancarias y las tasas de interés en aumento, la tarjeta de crédito de una cooperativa de crédito podría tener más sentido financiero que una tarjeta tradicional emitida por un banco. Esta es la razón.

Comisiones más bajas

Las cooperativas de crédito son entidades sin fines de lucro y propiedad de sus miembros. Debido a que no tienen que pagar a inversores, los miembros pueden esperar menos comisiones. Solo alrededor del 10 % de las cooperativas de crédito cobran tarifas anuales por las tarjetas de crédito, en comparación con el 45 % de los bancos.1 Las tarifas máximas por pago atrasado también son 50 % más altas en los bancos, en promedio.1 En el caso de tarifas por transacciones en el extranjero, los bancos cobran casi el doble de lo que cobran las cooperativas de crédito.2 La mayoría de las cooperativas de crédito no aplican ningún cargo por las transferencias de saldo, mientras que usted puede esperar pagar entre el 3 % y el 5 % en la mayoría de los bancos.3 Todo eso es cierto para la tarjeta Navigator Platinum Rewards, que no cobra ninguna tarifa anual ni de transferencia de saldo ni de adelanto de efectivo.

Tasas más bajas

La tasa de porcentaje anual (APR) es otra área en la que puede ahorrar si elige una cooperativa de crédito. Las APR de las tarjetas de crédito son generalmente más bajas en las tarjetas de las cooperativas de crédito. En este momento, los nuevos titulares de tarjetas Navigator Platinum Rewards pueden calificar para una oferta por tiempo limitado de una APR del 4.99 % en compras durante los primeros seis meses. Cuando termina el período introductorio, la tasa vuelve al porcentaje de la tasa regular, que es considerablemente más baja a la que ofrecen la mayoría de las tarjetas de crédito de bancos y tiendas. Independientemente de la APR, recuerde que siempre puede evitar cualquier cargo por intereses si paga sus facturas a tiempo y en su totalidad.

Buena disposición para trabajar con personas con mal crédito

Las cooperativas de crédito están más dispuestas a trabajar con las personas que tienen un historial crediticio no muy extenso o no tan bueno con el fin de entregarles la mejor solución para ellos. Si usted está buscando reconstruir su crédito o establecer crédito, la tarjeta Visa® Share Secured de Navigator es la herramienta perfecta. Su tarjeta de crédito asegurada está respaldada por un depósito en efectivo. El depósito suele ser igual al límite de crédito para realizar compras. Usted recupera el depósito cuando abre una tarjeta regular “no asegurada” o cierra la cuenta con todo en regla. A medida que usa la tarjeta, Navigator informa su actividad a las tres agencias de informes crediticios. Mantenga su saldo relativamente bajo y pague su factura a tiempo todos los meses, y podrá comenzar a fortalecer su crédito. Además, los requisitos de puntaje de crédito para la tarjeta Navigator Platinum Reward se han establecido de manera que puedan calificar más Miembros, incluso aquellos que tal vez no cumplirían con los requisitos de puntaje de crédito de otras instituciones financieras.

Mejor servicio al cliente

Los grandes bancos tienen millones de clientes en todo el país. En una cooperativa de crédito local, usted puede esperar una experiencia más personalizada. Si tuviera alguna pregunta o inquietud con respecto a la tarjeta de crédito de su cooperativa de crédito, es muy fácil comunicarse con el equipo de atención al cliente para obtener ayuda útil, adaptada a sus necesidades.

¡Aproveche nuestra oferta por tiempo limitado!

Desde el pago de sus compras semanales hasta el pago de sus facturas mensuales, nuestra tarjeta Navigator Platinum Rewards recompensa gratamente sus gastos. Y se adapta cómodamente a su presupuesto. ¡Por un tiempo limitado estamos ofreciendo una APR introductoria del 4.99 % en todas las compras durante seis meses! Además, no tiene que pagar una tarifa anual ni de transferencia de saldo ni de adelanto de efectivo. Los titulares de tarjeta también ganan recompensas uChoose® ilimitadas. Puede canjear los puntos por miles de opciones, incluido el reembolso en efectivo. Para obtener más información sobre esta oferta por tiempo limitado, visite navigatorcu.org/your-card.

1Fuente: Bankrate
2Fuente: CompareCards.
3Fuente: Credit Card Insider.
4Fuente: National Credit Union Administration.

APR=Tasa de interés anual. Se aplican requisitos de calificación crediticia. Los nuevos titulares de tarjeta pagan una APR introductoria del 4.99 % durante los primeros 6 ciclos de facturación a partir de la apertura de la cuenta. Después de ese tiempo, la APR será del 10.90 % y del 12.90 % en función de la solvencia. Oferta sujeta a cambios sin aviso previo. Vea el acuerdo de Visa para revisar los términos y condiciones de uChoose Rewards®. uChoose Rewards® es una marca registrada de Fiserv Solutions, Inc. Visa® es una marca registrada de VISA Inc.

23 Sep

Building a Healthy Financial Foundation

by marketing in Uncategorized
Building a Healthy Financial Foundation

Building a Healthy Financial Foundation

How many pieces do you have in place?

Provided by Jeffrey C. Hamm

When you read about money matters, you will sometimes see the phrase, “getting your financial house in order.” What exactly does that mean?

When your financial “house is in order,” it means it is built on a solid foundation. It means that you have six fundamental “pillars” in place that are either crucial for sustaining your financial well-being or creating wealth.

A savings account. This is your Fort Knox: the place where you store and build the cash you may someday use for your biggest purchases. Savings accounts pay a modest interest rate. You should still consider having a savings account, even in today’s low-interest rate environment. Banks and credit unions often limit the number and amount of withdrawals you can make from savings accounts per month.

A checking account. This is your go-to account for everyday expenses, whether you pay your bills digitally or the old-fashioned way. Checking accounts pay a modest interest rate. Some accounts may have minimum balance requirements, so it's best to closely read the new account information. Also, opening a checking account may lead to opening a credit card account at the same financial institution.

An emergency fund. This bank account helps you deal with the unexpected. You know that label you see on fire extinguisher boxes – “break glass in case of emergency?” Only in a financial emergency should you “break into” this account. What is a financial emergency? Everyone’s definition varies, but examples include hospital bills, major car repairs and unemployment.

A workplace retirement plan account. Some want to start saving for retirement as soon as possible. Workplace retirement plans offer you a convenient way to get started. In most of these plans, your contribution is made with pre-tax dollars.1

Money saved and invested in these accounts can compound, and the compounding may become greater with time. Consistent monthly investment is the “fuel” for your account.

Regular monthly investing does not protect against a loss in a declining market or guarantee a profit in a rising market. Individuals should evaluate their financial ability to continue making purchases through periods of declining and rising prices. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

An Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA). This is a tax-advantaged retirement savings account that you own. There are traditional IRAs (up-front contributions are not taxed; retirement withdrawals are) and Roth IRAs (up-front contributions are taxed; retirement withdrawals are not, provided federal tax laws are followed).2

Mandatory annual withdrawals are required from traditional IRAs starting at age 72. The money distributed to you is taxed as ordinary income; if such distributions are taken before age 59½, they may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. No mandatory annual withdrawals are required from Roth IRAs while the original owner lives. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

Thanks to the SECURE Act, you may contribute to Roth and traditional IRAs all your life, as long as you meet the earned-income requirement for account contributions.2

A taxable investing account. This is also popularly called an investment account or brokerage account. Unlike an IRA or workplace retirement plan, the invested assets in these accounts are taxed each year. A taxable investing account gives you access to a wide range of investment products, which can help complement the other accounts in your financial foundation.

Jeff Hamm may be reached at 228-474-3427.

Learn more about NCU Wealth Management.

Representatives are registered, securities sold, advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor, which is not an affiliate of the credit union. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution to make securities available to members. Not NCUA/NCUSIF/FDIC insured, May Lose Value, No Financial Institution Guarantee. Not a deposit of any financial institution.

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Citations

  1. Tax Policy Center, May 2020
  2. Internal Revenue Service, November 10, 2020
23 Sep

Turkey Sliders with Avocado, Mushrooms and Swiss Cheese

by marketing in Uncategorized
Turkey Sliders with Avocado, Mushrooms and Swiss Cheese

Turkey Sliders with Avocado, Mushrooms and Swiss Cheese

These mini turkey burgers just melt in your mouth thanks to gooey cheese, warm mushrooms and creamy avocado.

Servings: 4; Calories: 470 Per Serving; Protein: 45g Per Serving; Fiber: 8g Per Serving

Ingredients

8 whole-grain slider buns (lowest sodium available)
1 1/4 pounds ground skinless turkey breast
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup sliced brown (cremimi) mushrooms
4 slices low-fat Swiss cheese, cut in half
1 medium avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed with a fork
1 medium tomato, cut into 8 slices (about 1/4-inch thick)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 450°F.

Arrange the buns with the cut side up in a single layer on a baking sheet. Set aside.

Using your hands or a spoon, shape the turkey into 8 patties, each about 3 inches in diameter. (The uncooked patties will be larger than the bun and will shrink as they cook.)

Sprinkle the salt over each patty.

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle pan over medium-high heat.

Cook the patties for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn over. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the patties are no longer pink in the center and register 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.

Transfer the patties to the bottoms of the buns.

In the same skillet, cook the mushrooms over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until soft, stirring frequently.

Spoon the mushrooms onto each patty. Top with the Swiss cheese.

Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven. Bake the sliders for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the Swiss cheese is melted and the buns are heated through. Remove from the oven.

Spread the avocado over the Swiss cheese. Top with the tomato slices. Put the tops of the buns on the sliders.

Using four short skewers, pierce two sliders with each skewer, if desired. Serve immediately.

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association

23 Sep

Buying a home in a competitive market

by marketing in Uncategorized
Buying a home in a competitive market

Ready to Navigate Home?

Our friendly and experienced Mortgage Team is here to help. Start the preapproval process today by visiting navigatorcu.org/mortgage or calling 800-344-3281, option 5. Remember to ask about our limited-time offer of discounted mortgage loan origination fees!

23 Sep

Six Ways to Cut Back on Expenses

by marketing in Uncategorized
Six Ways to Cut Back on Expenses

Six Ways to Cut Back on Expenses

Many people are still dealing with financial hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are one of them or just looking for ways to save money, Navigator has six things you can do now to cut expenses.

Review cable, streaming services, internet and cell phone plans.

Check-in with your service providers to see if there are any specials you can take advantage of. If there isn’t a special, try negotiating for a lower price for the service. Review the plans to make sure there aren’t alternatives that fit your lifestyle and cost less.

Cancel your gym membership.

It doesn’t have to cost you a lot of money – or any – to get or stay fit. There are a number of free at-home workouts you can do to stay active. Go for a run or bike ride outside, find a free yoga video online or download a free app with workout regimens you can follow. You can do all of these from the comfort of your home – without spending a bundle on gym membership fees.

Consider refinancing.

Depending on when you purchased your home, refinancing could give you the opportunity to take advantage of historically low mortgage interest rates. A lower interest rate means a lower monthly payment and more money in your wallet. For a limited time, Navigator is offering discounted mortgage loan origination fees. Speak to a friendly Navigator Mortgage Team Member today about your options by calling 800-344-3281 option 5 or visit navigatorcu.org/mortgage.

It’s not just your home that can be refinanced, the same goes for your car. You can leverage the equity in your car in several ways. You can use it to pay for expenses such as home repair, vacation or use it to consolidate debt. Navigator offers the same low rates for new and used vehicles. With interest rates as low as 1.99% APR, you could really save. Get pre-approved today by visiting navigatorcu.org/auto-loan.

Evaluate insurance rates.

This is a great time to have an insurance agent compare insurance rates and bundling options. By enlisting the help of an independent insurance agent, you will receive pricing from many different insurance providers in order to make the best possible decision for you and your family.

Navigator Members get special pricing on auto, home and life insurance with our trusted partner TruStage. You can bundle your auto and home insurance to save or find affordable life insurance to give you peace of mind. Navigator Members also receive a $1,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) policy at no cost. Learn more at navigatorcu.org/insurance.

Avoid unnecessary purchases.

Consider this easy approach when it comes to buying: when you see something you want, wait 72-hour hours before making the purchase. After three days, you may find you don't need the item after all. Remember, a penny saved is a penny earned!

Limit take-out and delivery.

While it’s important to support small and local businesses to keep our communities strong, ordering take-out and delivering food too often can be a real financial drain if you don’t closely watch your spending. Take a moment to budget how much, if any, you can afford to spend on take-out and delivery costs, and be sure to stick to your allocated budget.

Navigator Credit Union is committed to helping Members achieve financial success. You can rely on us for more ways to save, pay off debt, manage loans and prepare for your future. For details about banking with Navigator while the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our communities, visit navigatorcu.org/community-strong.

APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Rates are subject to change without notice. The payment amount would be $325.37 for $15,000 financed at 1.99% for 48 months. Subject to credit and membership criteria.

23 Sep

Siempre unidos con la Costa del Golfo

by marketing in Uncategorized
Siempre unidos con la Costa del Golfo

Siempre unidos con la Costa del Golfo

ENGLISH | EN ESPAÑOL

A medida que el COVID-19 continúa afectando nuestras comunidades locales, Navigator mantiene su compromiso de brindar la fuerza, la estabilidad y los recursos financieros necesarios para nuestros Miembros. Ahora que se acerca la 82.ª Asamblea Anual de Accionistas, no solo reflexionamos sobre el pasado y las formas en que su Cooperativa de Crédito marcó la diferencia durante esta pandemia global, sino que también nos proyectamos hacia el futuro a medida que ofrecemos los productos y servicios que nuestros Miembros necesitan en estos tiempos sin precedentes.

Navigator mantuvo un fuerte apoyo a nuestras comunidades cuando el coronavirus arrasó el mundo en 2020, obteniendo el reconocimiento como uno de los tres finalistas del CHAMPION AWARD de la Cámara de Comercio del Condado de Jackson por su extraordinario desempeño durante la pandemia. Lanzamos #ComunidadFuerte, una iniciativa para mostrar apoyo a las personas y los lugares que atendemos en toda la Costa del Golfo de Mississippi y Alabama.

Durante los difíciles días del año 2020, el apoyo de Navigator a Hábitat para la Humanidad de la Costa del Golfo de Mississippi y Hábitat para la Humanidad del condado de Baldwin ayudó a construir viviendas en los condados de Jackson (MS) y Baldwin (AL); y nuestras contribuciones al banco de alimentos Feeding the Gulf Coast aportaron casi 13,000 comidas a los centros comunitarios de entrega de comidas en toda la Costa del Golfo de Mississippi y Alabama, ayudando a alimentar a nuestros amigos y vecinos en dificultades.

A través de la iniciativa Comunidad Fuerte, Navigator también apoyó a más de 40 restaurantes locales afectados negativamente por la pandemia, hicimos entrega de comidas a los empleados de la Cooperativa de Crédito en la primera línea financiera; además, realizamos saludos de reconocimiento a los trabajadores de la salud por sus contribuciones para salvar vidas durante la Semana Nacional de las Enfermeras y la Semana Nacional de los Hospitales. El esfuerzo de Comunidad Fuerte creció y creó “Todos somos esenciales los miércoles” para incluir y reconocer la importancia de cada Miembro de Navigator y Miembro del Equipo, no solo de aquellos oficialmente designados como trabajadores esenciales. Esos miércoles especiales, a todos los miembros que visitaron el vestíbulo de alguna sucursal o hicieron uso del autoservicio se les regaló desinfectante de manos de bolsillo para ayudar a combatir el virus.

Navigator también ayudó a los Miembros que experimentaron dificultades financieras debido a la pandemia. Ofreció un préstamo de alivio COVID-19 especial como fondos de emergencia de hasta $ 1,500 sin requisitos de ingresos o empleo. Y nuestro apoyo a los Miembros continúa, ya que sabemos que la emergencia se mantiene vigente. Queremos que los Miembros de Navigator que están pasando por una crisis financiera como consecuencia del COVID-19 sepan que pueden solicitar una revisión de su situación. Si bien las extensiones de pago automáticas relacionadas con el COVID y los Préstamos de alivio COVID ya no están disponibles, puede solicitar una consideración debido a circunstancias especiales llamando a nuestro Centro de Contacto para Miembros, 800-344-3281. Cada solicitud se manejará caso por caso y de manera confidencial.

Como institución financiera sin fines de lucro que ha servido a la Costa del Golfo desde 1939, hemos estado con nuestras comunidades en los tiempos buenos como también en los tiempos alos. Puede contar con nosotros para los servicios y el apoyo que sea necesario, sin importar lo que suceda en el viaje de la vida.

Está cordialmente invitado a asistir a la 82.a Asamblea Anual de Accionistas

La 82.a Asamblea Anual de Accionistas de Navigator Credit Union se llevará a cabo el martes 30 de marzo a las 2 p.m. Los miembros pueden asistir a la reunión virtual de dos formas:

  • Vía telefónica: llame gratis al
  • A través de su computadora, tableta o teléfono inteligente
    • https://www.gotomeet.me/Laura-Hamner/navigatorannualmeeting

Código de acceso: 192-571-373

23 Sep

Standing Strong with the Gulf Coast

by marketing in Uncategorized
Standing Strong with the Gulf Coast

Standing Strong with the Gulf Coast

ENGLISH | EN ESPAÑOL

As COVID-19 continues to affect our local communities, Navigator remains committed to providing the strength, stability and financial resources our Members need. With the 82nd Annual Shareholders’ Meeting approaching, we’re not only looking back at the ways your Credit Union made a difference during the global pandemic, but also looking forward as we provide the products and services our Members need in these unprecedented times.

Navigator stood with our communities as the coronavirus swept the globe in 2020, earning recognition as one of three finalists for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce CHAMPION AWARD for outstanding performance during the pandemic. We launched #CommunityStrong, an initiative to show support for the people and places we serve all along the Mississippi and Alabama Gulf Coasts.

During the difficult days of 2020, Navigator’s support helped Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Habitat for Humanity of Baldwin County build homes in Jackson County (MS) and Baldwin County (AL); and our contributions to Feeding the Gulf Coast, helped the food bank provide nearly 13,000 meals to food pantries along the Mississippi and Alabama Gulf Coasts helping to feed our friends and neighbors facing hardship.

Through the Community Strong initiative, Navigator also supported more than 40 local restaurants negatively impacted by the pandemic as we provided meals to Credit Union employees on the financial front lines and saluted healthcare workers for their life-saving contributions during National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week. The Community Strong effort grew to include “We’re All Essential Wednesdays” to acknowledge the importance of every Navigator Member and Team Member, not just those officially designated as essential workers. On those special Wednesdays, every Member who visited a Branch lobby or drive-through was provided personal-sized hand sanitizers to assist in combatting the virus.

Navigator also reached out to help Members who experienced financial hardships due to the pandemic. A special COVID-19 Relief Loan offered emergency funds in amounts up to $1,500 with no income or employment requirements. And our support for Members continues as we know it continues to be a trying time. We want Navigator Members who are dealing with financial difficulties as a result of COVID-19 to know you can request a review of your situation. While automatic COVID-related payment extensions and COVID Relief Loans are no longer available, you can ask for consideration due to special circumstances by calling our Member Contact Center, 800-344-3281. Each request will be handled confidentially and on a case-by-case basis.

As a not-for-profit financial institution that's served the Gulf Coast since 1939, we've been here through good times and bad. You can count on us for the services and support you need – no matter what happens on life's journey.

You’re invited to attend the 82nd Annual Shareholders’ Meeting

Navigator Credit Union's 82nd Annual Shareholders' Meeting will be held Tuesday, March 30, at 2 p.m. Members can attend the virtual meeting in one of two ways:

  • Call toll-free
  • From a computer, tablet or smartphone
    • https://www.gotomeet.me/Laura-Hamner/navigatorannualmeeting

Access Code: 192-571-373

22 Sep

Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Marinara and Turkey Meatballs

by marketing in Uncategorized
Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Marinara and Turkey Meatballs

Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Marinara and Turkey Meatballs

This recipe for Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Marinara and Turkey Meatballs is an upgrade from the classic -- it has more fiber and vegetables, less saturated fat and sodium but it sure delivers on taste!

Servings: 6; Calories: 489 Per Serving; Protein: 36g Per Serving; Fiber: 16g Per Serving

Ingredients

Marinara Sauce
• 14 oz. canned, no-salt-added, or, low-sodium, sliced carrots
• 14.4 oz. packaged, frozen pepper stir-fry (onions and peppers) (thawed)
• 1 medium zucchini (chopped)
• 4 clove fresh garlic (minced)

OR

• 2 tsp. jarred, minced garlic
• 52 oz. cubed, no-salt-added, or, low-sodium tomato (crushed)
• 2 tsp. salt-free, dried Italian spice blend

Whole Wheat Spaghetti and Turkey Meatballs
• 1 lb. extra-lean or fat-free ground turkey breast (95%-99% lean)
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1/2 cup whole-grain cereal flakes (crushed, optional)
• 1 lb. whole-wheat spaghetti

Directions

Marinara Sauce

  1. In a large pot (not over any heat yet), add carrots. Use a fork or potato masher to mash. Add stir-fry vegetables, zucchini, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and spice blend.
  2. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, and reduce heat to medium-low so sauce is simmering.

Whole Wheat Spaghetti and Turkey Meatballs

  1. In a bowl, combine turkey, pepper, cereal and parsley. Form meat mixture into golf-size meatballs to make about 20 to 25 meatballs.
  2. Add meatballs into the simmering sauce, trying to get the majority of meatballs covered by sauce. Cover and cook until meatballs are cooked through, about 20 to 25 minutes.
  3. Make spaghetti according to package directions (omitting the salt and fat). Serve with marinara and meatballs.

Submit a recipe for a chance to be featured in Anchor Lines!

Calling all cooks! You have a chance to be featured in the next issue of Anchor Lines. We are asking for your favorite recipe. It could be one that’s been passed down in your family, an original recipe or something you’ve customized and adapted over the years. And if you can’t decide which is your favorite, send more than one! To submit a recipe, email it along with a photo to communications@navigatorcu.org. Please include your name, address, daytime phone number and a brief note about why you love it or how you came up with it. We can’t wait to share some of your favorite dishes with other Navigator Members!

By submitting a recipe, you’re granting Navigator permission to publish the recipe. Any recipe used will include attribution

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association

22 Sep

Inflation & the Real Rate of Return

by marketing in Uncategorized
Inflation & the Real Rate of Return

Inflation & the Real Rate of Return

Is your money gaining or losing purchasing power?

Provided by Jeffrey C. Hamm

The real rate of return is an important personal finance concept to understand.

It’s the rate of return on your investments after inflation. The real rate of return indicates whether you are gaining or losing purchasing power with your money.

So with inflation checking in at a 5% annual rate, does that mean any investment with less than a 5% rate of return is losing purchasing power?1

That’s where it gets a little complicated.

In theory, any investment with less than a 5% rate of return may lose purchasing power. But the financial markets are giving mixed signals about how long they expect inflation will stay at its current level. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has indicated that the inflation numbers we are seeing won’t be long lasting and can be attributed to improving economic conditions.2

In the end, the real rate of return is only one factor to consider when building a portfolio. Your time horizon, risk tolerance and goals are the primary drivers.

We work with financial professionals who monitor inflation to determine whether it’s here to stay or whether it may start to trend lower. But if inflation is starting to worry you, please reach out. We’d welcome the chance to hear your thoughts.

Jeff Hamm may be reached at 228-474-3427.

Learn more about NCU Wealth Management.

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

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Citations

  1. CNBC.com, June 10, 2021
  2. CNBC.com, May 3, 2021