Guide to Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary in Monmouth & Ocean Counties

Posted on by
Reply

This weekend marks America’s 250th anniversary and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate it in Monmouth and Ocean Counties! Check out our guide for some local fireworks, parades, and events to celebrate the special occasion.

Be sure to check dates, times, locations, and weather for any of the events you plan to attend, as details may be subject to change.

July 1

Seaside Heights | America’s 250th Celebration | 5pm-10pm

Enjoy a patriotic celebration filled with red, white, and blue along Casino Pier! There will be lively patriotic characters, face painting, patriotic drumline performances, and an all-new Beach Ball Drop. There is no cost for any of the activities. There will also be a wristband special for families to enjoy unlimited rides on the pier for just $29 from 1pm-7pm. You can end the night by enjoying the Seaside Heights Fireworks at 9:30pm.

Aberdeen | America 250 Celebration | 5pm-10pm

Join an evening filled with live entertainment, food vendors, family fun, and fireworks as we celebrate America 250 at Veterans Memorial Park (Ocean Blvd. and Lakeshore Drive). Admission is free, and refreshments will be available for purchase. Fireworks begin at 9:15pm, so don’t forget your chairs, blankets and patriotic spirit!

July 2

Wall | Allaire Village Antique American Flag Display | 11am-4pm

Don’t miss this unique, historic American flag display – featuring flags dating back to the 1800s at the chapel at Allaire State Park (available from July 2nd-July 5th). Admission for the flag display is free. There will also be a no-cost concert at 1pm on July 3rd at the gazebo, performed by the NJ National Guard 63rd Army Band. Bring a lawn chair or blanket if you plan to attend the concert. Learn more.

Red Bank | America’s 250 Celebration | 4pm

Don’t miss this epic celebration at Broadwalk. At 4pm there will be activities for kids including a balloon artist, face painting and games. At 5pm there will be a DJ on site, trivia, giveaways, photo ops, and a pie eating contest. Don’t miss John Luckenbill’s Pop Band at 7pm, following by a 250th Anniversary laser light show at the intersection of West Front Street and Broad Street.

Howell | Independence Day Celebration | 5pm-9:30pm

Let Freedom Ring at Soldier Memorial Park (Lakewood Farmingdale Rd.)! Enjoy live entertainment, rides and activities, a karate demonstration, and cornhole – because nothing says Fourth of July more! There will be a fireworks display at dusk. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food and beverages (for those 21+) available for purchase.

Ocean Township | 4th of July Celebration | 5:30pm-10pm

The annual celebration will take place at Joe Palaia Park (Whalepond Rd.) – featuring live music, food trucks, family activities, and more. The night will end with a fireworks display. There is no entry fee to attend, but items will be available for purchase.

Brick | Summerfest & Fireworks | 6pm

Brick’s annual Summerfest kicks off at Windward Beach Park on Princeton Avenue with a special 250th anniversary concert, followed by fireworks at dusk.

Toms River | Patriotic Concert & Drone Show | 7:30pm

There will be a patriotic concert followed by a drone show over Silver Bay (Bayfront Field, 1189 Bandon Rd.) Park at Cattus Island Park and a free shuttle will take you to the bayfront field. The show will begin with a 25-piece orchestra performing patriotic favorites. The concert will be followed by a drone show. There will also be food trucks, games, informational exhibits and a Revolutionary War-themed trailer highlighting the nation’s upcoming celebration.

Bradley Beach | Fireworks | 9pm-10pm

Don’t miss these annual Independence Day fireworks on the beach! No cost to attend. Be sure to also bring a chair or blanket.

July 3

Manasquan | Fourth of July Parade, Concert, and Fireworks | 5pm-9:30pm

Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with a festive parade of bikes and golf carts, followed by a live musical performance at the Manasquan Beach Boardwalk (201 Beachfront). The evening will end with a fireworks display. There is no entry fee to attend.

Colts Neck | Annual Independence Celebration & Fireworks | 6pm

One of the largest-attended public events in Colts Neck, the town’s annual fireworks celebration at Bucks Mill Recreation Area (137 Bucks Mill Rd.) includes local businesses and organizations, while bringing the community together. There will be an apple pie eating contest, flag ceremony, various refreshments, music, and fireworks at dusk. A $10 parking donation is suggested. Find out more.

Belmar | Concert, Light Show and Fireworks | 8:30pm

The summer sky will be lit up with a fireworks spectacular and computerized light show set to music, outside Taylor Pavilion (5th and Ocean Avenues). A free concert will begin at 8:30pm, followed by the laser light show and fireworks display – which will start around 9:10pm. Though the event is free to attend, the town is suggesting a $25 donation from each family attending which will be donated to Rebuilding Warriors.

Asbury Park | Fireworks Display | 9pm

There are no bad seats for Asbury Park’s fireworks display, brought to you by Garden State Fireworks. This show will light up the sky over the waterfront, following the decades-old tradition. Arrive early to get your viewing spot set up, the fireworks display will take place between 1st and 4th Avenue beaches.

July 4

Manalapan | Celebration of Independence Day | 10:30am-3:30pm

Experience the Fourth of July like its 1776 at Monmouth Battlefield State Park! There will be a living history camp, demonstrations of cannon firing, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. There is no entry fee to attend.

Plumsted | Celebrate America Food Trucks & Fun | 12pm

Gather your family and friends for two star-spangled days of patriotic fun at Laurita Winery – with the fun also continuing on July 5th! The beautiful vineyard is a great place to enjoy live music and entertainment, gourmet food trucks, and Laurita’s specialty alcoholic beverages (for those ages 21 and over). There will be a fireworks display on July 4th only. Admission is $15 + tax per adult online until 6pm the day before, or $20 at the door. Those under 21 get in free.

Holmdel | Independence Day Celebration | 12pm-3pm

Independence Day was a festive time in the 1890s – patriotism was celebrated with music and games. Join the staff at Longstreet Farm as they celebrate the holiday with games and contests. This event is free to attend.

Keansburg | Annual Family Fun Fest & America 250 Celebration | 12pm-9pm

Celebrate Keansburg’s kickoff to summer at their annual Family Day at Baywalk East (2 Beachway Ave.). Set up your beach spot and enjoy a full day of non-stop entertainment, with a HUGE fireworks display to follow! Bring your friends, family and summer vibes.

Long Branch | Oceanfest | 1pm-10pm

Celebrate the nation’s big milestone, taking place at the Long Branch Great Lawn & Promenade. There is a lineup of bands providing entertainment all day long, live dances and performances, family-friendly activities, and food trucks. There will also be a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean as the night ends. There is no entry fee to attend, but items will be available for purchase.

July 5

Freehold | Independence Day Concert & Fireworks and Hot Dog Eating Contest | 5:30pm

Enjoy a packed schedule of live music, entertainment by Mision Dance, and a fireworks display at the Freehold Raceway at 9:15pm. Jersey Freeze will also be hosting their third annual hotdog eating contest at 6pm. The festivities kick off with a live DJ, a face painter and balloon artist, a guest appearance from Buster of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and an appearance from the East Freehold Fire Department. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food available for purchase at Jersey Freeze. You can also watch the Freehold fireworks display from Jersey Freeze at sundown.

Pt. Pleasant | Independence Day Weekend Fireworks | 9:30pm-9:50pm

Enjoy a spectacular fireworks show from the beach at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk. Before the fireworks, you can enjoy the activities the boardwalk has to offer, such as family-friendly rides and games or enjoying one of the various dining options. There is no entry fee to enjoy the fireworks display.

Happy 250th Birthday, America! Stay tuned for our regular list of budget-friendly activities to enjoy in Monmouth and Ocean Counties for the remainder of July – coming next week.

Business Loan vs. Business Line of Credit: What’s the Difference?

Posted on by
Reply

Running a business often requires access to funding. Whether you’re purchasing equipment, expanding your operations or managing seasonal cash flow fluctuations – having the right financing solution can help you achieve your business goals.

Two of the most common business financing options are business loans and business lines of credit. Understanding these funding options can help business owners make informed financial decisions. While both provide access to capital, they work differently and are designed to support different business needs.

Understanding the differences can help you choose the financing option that’s right for your business.

Key Takeaway

Business loans are typically best for large planned purchases, while business lines of credit are often used to manage cash flow and ongoing expenses.

What is a Business Loan?

A business loan provides a lump sum of money that is repaid over a set period of time through fixed monthly payments.

Common uses for a business loan include:

  • Purchasing equipment or vehicles
  • Renovating or expanding a facility
  • Investing in new technology
  • Opening a new location
  • Funding a large project or initiative

Benefits of a Business Loan

  • Predictable monthly payments
  • Fixed repayment schedule
  • Ideal for large, one-time expenses
  • Easier business budgeting and financial planning

What is a Business Line of Credit?

A business line of credit, sometimes referred to as a business credit line – provides access to a predetermined credit limit that you can draw from as needed. Unlike a business loan, you don’t receive all the funds upfront. Instead, you borrow only what you need when you need it. Many business lines of credit are revolving, meaning funds become available again as balances are repaid.

A business line of credit can be useful for:

  • Managing cash flow fluctuations
  • Covering payroll during slower periods
  • Purchasing inventory throughout the year and supporting effective inventory management
  • Handling unexpected operating expenses
  • Taking advantage of short-term business opportunities

Benefits of a Business Line of Credit

  • Flexible access to funds
  • Borrow only what you need
  • Interest is typically charged only on the amount borrowed
  • Helpful for managing ongoing expenses and working capital needs

Can You Have Both?

Yes. Many successful businesses use a combination of financing solutions. For example, a business may use a loan to purchase equipment while maintaining a line of credit for day-to-day cash flow management. The right solution depends on your business goals, financial situation, and future plans.

How to Choose the Right Financing Option

Before applying for financing, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do I need funding for a specific project or purchase?
  • Will my funding needs be ongoing or occasional?
  • How important are predictable monthly payments?
  • Do I need immediate access to all the funds?
  • How will this financing support my business goals?

Answering these questions can help you determine which financing option aligns best with your business needs.

Partner With First Financial

Every business is unique, and financing needs can change as your business grows. At First Financial, we’re committed to helping businesses find financial solutions that support long-term success. Our team can help you explore available financing options and determine which solution may be right for your business goals.*

Choosing between a business loan and a business line of credit ultimately comes down to how your business plans to use the funds. Businesses with defined, one-time expenses often benefit from the predictability of a loan, while businesses seeking flexibility may find a line of credit better suited to their needs.

Contact us today to learn more about our business loan solutions and resources designed to support long-term business success.

*A First Financial business account is required to obtain a business loan. A $5 deposit in a Base Savings Account is required to establish membership prior to opening any other account/loan. A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. Other terms and conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

First Edition Member Newsletter: Quarter 2 2026

Posted on by
Reply

Our Quarterly Member Newsletter is here, and it’s packed with lots of financial tips, fresh insights, and exciting updates!

Our Member Newsletter is now available electronically, where it can be found on our website and social media sites. Paper copies will be available in our branches.

The Quarter 2 2026 First Edition Member Newsletter features the following:

View a copy of the newsletter.

We hope you enjoy exploring what’s new here at First Financial!

*Full promotion terms and conditions are available on our 90th Anniversary webpage.

Prevent a Rift: Money Tips for Newlyweds

Posted on by
Reply

35% of couples attribute stress in their relationship to financial issues. This could explain why some experts say financial problems are one of the top reasons marriages fail.1,2

Fortunately, when couples work together to address their finances, they may be able to mitigate many of the problems money may cause in a marriage.

10 Tips for Newly Married Couples

  1. Communication – Couples should consider talking about their financial goals, memories, and habits, as each partner may come into the marriage with fundamental differences in experiences and outlooks driving their behaviors.
  2. Set Goals – Setting goals establishes a common objective that both partners become committed to pursuing.
  3. Create a Budget – A budget is an exercise for developing a spending and savings plan that is designed to reflect mutually agreed-upon priorities.
  4. Set the Foundation for Your Financial House – Identify assets and sources of debt. Look to begin reducing debt, while building an emergency savings fund.
  5. Work Together – By sharing the financial decision-making, both spouses are vested in all choices, reducing the friction that can come from a single decision-maker.
  6. Set a Minimum Threshold for Big Expenses – While possessing a level of individual spending latitude is reasonable, large expenditures should only be made with both spouses’ consent. Agreeing to a purchase amount should require a mutual decision.
  7. Set Up Regular Meetings – Set aside a predetermined time once or twice a month to discuss finances. Talk about budgeting, upcoming expenses, and any changes in circumstances.
  8. Update and Revise – As a newly married couple, you may need to update the beneficiaries on your accounts, reevaluate your insurance coverage, and revise (or create) your will.3
  9. Love, Trust, and Honesty – Approach contentious subjects with care and understanding, be honest about money decisions you know your spouse might be upset with, and trust your spouse to be responsible with handling finances.
  10. Consider Speaking with a Financial Professional – A financial professional may offer insights to help you work through the critical financial decisions that all married couples face.

Questions about this topic or interested in setting up a time to talk? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

  1. CNBC.com, May 9, 2023
  2. Investopedia.com, June 10, 2023
  3. When drafting a will, consider enlisting the help of a legal, tax, or financial professional who may be able to offer additional insight, especially if you have a large estate or complex family situation.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

5 Ways a Credit Union Can Support Financial Wellness

Posted on by
Reply

A credit union isn’t just a place to direct deposit your paycheck or withdraw cash – it’s your trusted partner in achieving financial wellness. No matter what chapter you’re in and the financial goals that come with it, a credit union can play a key role in giving you access to the tools and resources you need to achieve them. Here are five ways a credit union can support you in achieving financial wellness.

  1. Establishing Your Everyday Banking Habits

Many people open their first account because it’s an essential tool for managing money in today’s world. Your financial journey often begins with a basic checking and/or savings account, to help manage your money.

  • Managing Daily Transactions: Your account provides a secure place to deposit money and use it to pay bills, make purchases, send and receive money, and save for your financial goals.
  • Access Money & Monitor Spending: What do debit cards, ATMs, online banking, and mobile banking apps have in common? They all give you convenient access to your money virtually anytime, anywhere. One credit union might have different tools than another, but they likely share the same goal – increasing convenience and accessibility to your money. Certain credit unions like First Financial, participate in a co-op ATM network – where their members have nationwide surcharge-free access to ATMs, so you can access your money wherever you are without additional fees. Tools like mobile banking help you monitor spending on the go, making it easier to budget and track your expenses.
  • Simplified Money Management: Today’s financial tools make money management simplified. Direct deposit allows money to be transferred to your bank account electronically, eliminating the need to visit your financial institution or wait extra time to access your money on payday. Remote deposit capture can help you deposit checks on-the-go and outside of regular banking hours. Automatic payments and recurring and external transfers can help ensure you never miss payments, or saving for your financial goals.
  1. Safeguarding Your Hard-Earned Money

A credit union can play a key role in helping protect everything from your account information to your money. A big aspect is account monitoring and fraud prevention. Many credit unions offer digital tools that allow you to keep an eye on your accounts and transactions in real time. For example, First Financial offers various tools to help members conveniently and securely manage their First Financial cards. You can turn cards on and off at your discretion, report lost or stolen cards with a couple of clicks, and more.

Certain accounts offer financial security by giving you a reliable way to store your money and protect it from loss. Just like banks are insured by the FDIC, federally insured credit unions are backed by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). Member deposits are protected up to $250,000, ensuring financial security and peace of mind.

  1. Achieving Financial Milestones

The milestones and financial goals you strive for often change with the phase of life you’re in. Credit unions can help you pay for life’s big purchases, which can be a valuable tool in reaching these financial goals. In the case of making larger purchases like a home, credit unions are one of the primary avenues through which individuals borrow money to obtain a mortgage loan.

  1. Personalized Support Through Every Stage

Along with the products and services used to reach milestones and financial goals, your credit union can also provide personalized guidance to help you navigate life events. Your financial institution might be able to identify products and services that align with your evolving financial needs, helping you create a plan for reaching short and long-term goals.

  1. Access to Educational Resources

Many credit unions provide access to low or no-cost reliable financial education to empower you with knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions. They might post tips on social media, make educational material available in their branches, or publish articles like First Financial does weekly on our First Scoop Blog. Financial education is always important, whether you’re opening your first account or buying your first home. You might also find educational resources about common scams and fraud prevention, which is important since you’re typically the first line of defense in protecting your sensitive information from fraudsters.

Financial wellness is a journey, shaped by the decisions you make every day and those who help you make those decisions along the way. If you haven’t explored the resources available at a local credit union, consider taking a closer look – you might find a plethora of tools you can begin using to support your journey on the road to financial wellness.

At First Financial, we strive to provide the resources our members need to achieve financial wellness. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, we pride ourselves in having our members’ best interests in mind in everything we do. Contact us or visit a local branch to see how we can help support your financial wellness journey with confidence.

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Contact the Credit Union for more information.

Advance Fee Scams: Warning Signs and How to Protect Yourself

Posted on by
Reply

An advance fee scam typically involves a promise of a loan, credit card or cash advance in exchange for an upfront payment. Once the fee is paid, the promised funds never arrive.

According to data from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumers lose billions of dollars to fraud each year. As scammers become increasingly sophisticated, understanding common warning signs can help protect your finances and personal information. Understanding how these scams work can help you protect your finances and avoid becoming a victim.

What is an Advance Fee Scam?

An advance fee scam occurs when a person or company claims they can provide a loan, credit card or financial service, but requires payment before delivering the promised funds.

The fees may be described as:

  • Loan processing fees
  • Insurance fees
  • Application fees
  • Security deposits
  • Administrative costs

In many cases, scammers claim the payment is required to guarantee approval, even if you have poor credit or limited borrowing history. Once the fee is paid, the promised money never arrives.

What are Some Warning Signs of an Advance Fee Scam?

Recognizing these common red flags can help you avoid fraudulent offers.

Guaranteed Loan Approval: Be cautious of any “lender” that guarantees approval without reviewing your financial information. Legitimate financial institutions evaluate several factors such as income, credit history, and repayment ability before making lending decisions.

Requests for Upfront Payment: One of the most common indicators of an advance fee scam is a request for payment before receiving loan proceeds. Remember this simple rule: Never pay money to receive money.

Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers often create a sense of urgency by claiming an offer is available for a limited time or that immediate action is required. Pressure tactics are designed to prevent consumers from researching the offer or asking questions.

Unsolicited Loan Offers: Unexpected emails, text messages, social media messages or phone calls offering guaranteed loans should be treated with caution.

Requests for Unusual Payment Methods

Be wary if someone asks you to pay using:

  • Gift cards
  • Wire transfers
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Peer-to-peer payment apps

These payment methods can make it difficult to recover lost funds.

How Can You Protect Yourself from Loan Scams?

Before applying for any loan or cash advance, take these precautions:

Verify the Lender: Research the company online and confirm that it has a legitimate website, physical address and customer service contact information.

Read Reviews and Check Credentials: Look for independent reviews and verify that the lender operates legally in your state.

Protect Personal Information: Do not provide sensitive personal or financial information to unsolicited callers, emails or text messages.

Review Loan Terms Carefully: Take time to understand the loan terms, fees, and repayment requirements before signing any agreements.

What Should You Do if You Suspect a Scam?

If you believe you’ve encountered a loan scam:

  1. Stop communicating with the individual or company.
  2. Do not send additional money or information.
  3. Monitor your financial accounts for suspicious activity.
  4. Change passwords if personal information may have been compromised.
  5. Report the incident to the appropriate consumer protection authorities, such as the FTC.

Taking action quickly can help limit financial losses and protect your personal information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Upfront Loan Fees Legal? Some legitimate loans may include fees that are disclosed within the loan agreement. However, lenders generally do not require consumers to send money before receiving loan funds.

Can Scammers Use Fake Lender Websites? Yes. Fraudsters often create professional-looking websites, emails, and advertisements that mimic legitimate financial institutions. Always verify a lender’s contact information and reputation before sharing personal information or applying for a loan.

What is the Biggest Warning Sign of an Advance Fee Scam? A request for payment before receiving a loan is one of the most common warning signs. If a lender asks for money upfront, take time to verify the legitimacy of the offer before proceeding.

How Can I Verify a Lender is Legitimate? Before applying for a loan, research the lender’s website, verify contact information, read customer reviews and confirm that the company is authorized to operate within your state. Legitimate lenders are transparent about their products, fees, and lending requirements.

Protecting Your Financial Future

Financial scams continue to evolve, making awareness one of the most effective tools for protecting yourself.

Before accepting any loan offer, take time to verify the lender, review the terms, and ask questions. If an offer seems too good to be true, it may be worth taking a closer look.

At First Financial, we’re committed to helping our members make informed financial decisions and protect themselves from fraud through education, trusted financial guidance, and responsible banking practices.

Remember: Legitimate financial institutions will clearly explain their products, disclose applicable fees, and give you time to review your options before making a decision.

To continue learning about financial wellness and protecting yourself from fraud, visit our Tools & Publications page or explore related articles on our First Scoop Blog, including resources on financial security, identity theft protection, and smart money management. If you have questions about our financial products, account security, or potential scams, our team is here to help – contact us today.