Operation LifeSaver:

Train the Trainer Opportunity

Do you know that a freight train moving at 55 miles per hour can take a mile or more to stop once the emergency brakes are applied? That’s the length of 18 football fields! Many people in your community don’t know this fact and they put their lives at risk every day in an effort to save a few minutes.

About every 3 hours in the United States a person or vehicle is hit by a train. Talking to people about navigating safely across railroad crossings and staying clear of railroad property is the key to preventing tragedies in our community. Minnesota Operation Lifesaver (MNOL) is a state-wide nonprofit organization whose mission is to reduce collisions, deaths, and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and on railroad property through a network of volunteers who work to educate people about how to make safer decisions around tracks and trains. Rail safety affects everyone. When you become an authorized volunteer for Operation Lifesaver you can make a difference in your community!

Minnesota Operation Lifesaver is hosting an authorization training session on Monday, June 9th in Moorhead. If you would like to attend this session and join our team of individuals dedicated to helping save lives please pre-register with Sheryl Cummings, Executive Director and State Coordinator at mnoperationlifesaver@gmail.com or at 651-328-3259.

Poll Reveals Many Reluctant

to Assume Risk of a Mortgage

Renting may be the right answer for some, at least temporarily.

In recognition of June as Homeownership Month, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC) today released the results of a recent poll revealing that close to one in five respondents do not believe that taking on a mortgage is worth the risk. This attitude is consistent with the U.S. Census Bureau’s current report highlighting the declining rate of homeownership. The present rate of 64.8 percent representing the first quarter 2014 is the lowest homeownership rate in almost 19 years.

“The housing crisis, recession and continued economic instability appear to have shaken the confidence of many Americans, particularly when it comes to big-ticket items such as a house” said Gail Cunningham, spokesperson for the NFCC. “However, the unwillingness to take on a mortgage loan may be a smart decision for some, as many borrowers have learned the hard way that homeownership does not come with a guarantee of continually increasing equity.”

Although the benefits of owning a home are many, until a person is fully prepared to assume responsibilities such as a mortgage payment, home and lawn maintenance, improvements, and taxes and insurance, renting may be right for them. Homeownership is about much more than buying a home. Renting until they are in a position to buy can help a person avoid a costly mistake, including the negative ramifications of foreclosure.

NFCC Certified Financial Professionals at The Village Financial Resource Center recommend that you consider some of the benefits that renting provides:

· Allows time to prepare for homeownership which can pay off. Saving money for a downpayment can decrease the amount of monthly mortgage payments, and building a stellar credit report and score can result in a lower interest rate on the loan.

· Mobility. A 12-month lease is a fraction of time compared to a 30-year mortgage. If it becomes necessary to move for any reason, a renter is not shackled to their home until they sell it.

· Less money required up front. Security deposits are much less than broker’s fees and closing costs.

· Avoids costly purchases such as appliances, some of which are often included with the rental.

· Renters insurance is less expensive than homeowners insurance.

· Money is not tied up in the home, making it more readily available for emergencies or other needs and opportunities.

· Luxuries that may not be affordable independently such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, gym and party room are extras often available through apartment complexes.

· Avoids costly maintenance and repairs. Upkeep of a home takes both time and money, whereas expenses associated with repairs are typically included in the cost of the rent.

· No Homeowners Association fees. Maintenance of the grounds and common areas is usually included as part of the rent.

· Utility bills are sometimes included in the rental payment, making budgeting much easier.

Cunningham noted that it is critical to remember that buying a home represents a large financial obligation extending over a long period of time and is usually a person’s largest investment.

Consumers should consider homeownership only after careful deliberation and when the timing is right for their unique situation.

If buying a home is your ultimate goal, take advantage of a Village homebuyer workshop, or a financial coaching session. To find out more, call The Village Financial Resource Center at 1-800-450-4019 or go to www.HelpWithMoney.org.

7th ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP BIKE RUN

The “Butch Kouba Memorial Scholarship Bike Run” is scheduled for Saturday, June 7th. The 7th Annual bike run will cruise approximately 200 miles in the surrounding area. Registration starts at 11:00 a.m. at El Zagal Shrine Center located at 1429 3rd Street North in Fargo with the riders leaving at noon. Butch passed away in August 2007 and was a long-time Mason and Shriner who loved riding his motorcycle. Cost is $15.00 per person or $25.00 per couple for riders and $10.00 per person or $15.00 per person for non-riders. The ride will end at El Zagal Shrine Center with a Silent Auction, Door Prizes and food. For more information contact Mike at 701-730-5456.

Library’s Free Summer Reading Program Begins

FARGO, N.D. What elements make up a great summer? Participating in the Fargo Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Program is one way to have a great summer. This year’s program combines science and reading in ways that will appeal to readers of all ages. The free Summer Reading Program began Monday, June 2, and runs through August 9. Readers of all ages are invited to participate by reading, attending events and earning prizes.

The children’s summer reading program theme is “Fizz, Boom, READ”. Weekly storytimes, science-themed events, movies, and performances for all kids up to 12 years of age, are planned at all three library sites. A schedule of events, kids’ book logs and activity sheets are available at all three library locations and online at www.fargolibrary.org/childrens.

The teen program for the summer is titled “Spark a Reaction”, and all area teens, ages 11 to 18, are eligible to participate. Special themed events for teens are planned each week. Book logs are available at each library location and a list of teen events is available at www.fargolibrary.org/teen.

Summer Reading Program is supported in part by the Friends of the Fargo Public Library.