Conventional wisdom suggests (as does scientific research) that technology and especially electronic gadgets such as laptops, smartphones and tablets can serve as a hindrance to quality sleep when used around bedtime. But sleep-deprived consumers shouldn’t ban all devices from the bedroom just yet because, when used appropriately, technology can also be a benefit for those trying to summon slumber. People seeking to capture more ZZZs should consider these seven ways technology can help them fall asleep and even support quality sleep once the Sandman arrives: By blocking blue light: Scientists have found that short-wavelength blue light emitted by many electronic devices’...

Read More 7 Ways That Technology Can Support Quality Sleep

First, the good news: Statistics from the State Law Enforcement Division show that the property-crime rate in South Carolina has been steadily declining since 2011. Further, each of the counties in the FTC Security service area — Clarendon, Florence, Lee, Sumter and Williamsburg counties — experienced drops in reported property crimes between 2015 and 2016 (the latest years for which figures are currently available). Unfortunately, of course, homeowners can never fully eliminate the possibility that burglars will target their property and belongings. But there is more good news for those seeking peace of mind — sensible steps can be taken to...

Read More 6 Features to Look for in a Home Security System

For music lovers on the move, streaming music services offer an attractive alternative to hauling a collection of CDs around, and they open up an easy avenue to finding new favorite artists. Subscription services from the likes of Spotify and Pandora offer a broad catalog of music — from the latest hits to golden oldies, with millions of albums and tracks that span the full spectrum of musical styles — all available with a few taps of the touchscreen. Further, the music can be played without having to buy it (rather, users pay a relatively low monthly fee, and some...

Read More 5 Top Streaming Services for Tech-Savvy Music Lovers

For many parents raising kids in the digital age, their children’s screen time can be both a blessing and a curse. Sure, when used correctly, the televisions, tablets, smartphones, video game systems (both in-home and portable), computers and the like can offer positive, educational experiences for their youngest users. And it’s hard to deny that they come in handy when Mom and Dad need a bit of a reprieve from their parental duties or want to keep the kids content and occupied — dare we say even quiet? — on a long road trip. But all of this technology also...

Read More 5 Tactics for Controlling a Child’s Screen Time/Fighting Internet Addiction

For cooks and bakers nationwide, the fast-approaching holidays can bring an often-overwhelming list of kitchen-related to-do items, including grocery shopping, prep work, baking, cooking and cleaning, just to name a few. And, of course, with so many culinary responsibilities on tap over such a short span of time — even without factoring in all the gift shopping, preparing for holiday guests, etc. that also accompany the season — this can all be a recipe for havoc in the holiday home. But have no fear. For today’s kitchen heroes, technology can help save the day or, at the very least, minimize some...

Read More 5 Apps That Can Ease Efforts in the Kitchen this Holiday Season

Santa Claus had a great time visiting our Bishopville and Sumter, Wesmark locations last week and is suiting up to make another round of visits to FTC stores for the annual FTC Santa Portrait Days. Supporting its mission of serving its communities, FTC is once again offering what has become an annual tradition. From Nov. 26 to Nov. 30, all the good little boys and girls are invited to come by to visit Santa and receive a free 4X6 photo courtesy of FTC. As always, customers will be able to purchase more prints after the event online. Stop by these...

Read More FTC’s Annual Santa Portrait Days Continues This Week

As the holiday shopping season hits full swing and that gift-buying checklist remains largely undented while the big day draws nearer, online shopping can be a huge time-saver. The convenience of online shopping, though, does come with some inherent risks. To avoid the security pitfalls that can accompany the sharing of personal and financial information over the internet, online shoppers should consider these tactics for increasing their e-shopping security: Use reputable retailers: Consumers’ safest bet is to stick with stores they already know and trust. That said, sometimes the best deal might be on an offer from an unfamiliar up-and-comer....

Read More Avoid Becoming a Victim When Shopping Online

Verified active duty and retired military personnel can save on FTC qualified services FTC recently implemented across-the-board discounts on its service to those in the military and their families. The offer also extends to those who have retired from the military. “We value our military personnel and their families,” said Chip Chase, director of public relations for FTC.“Offering members of the military discounts on our services is one way we can show how much we, at FTC, care about our customers, our communities and our military and their sacrifice.” FTC’s Military Discounts include 10 percent off Internet, Voice, Security, and...

Read More FTC Now Offering Military Discounts

Many consumers have heard of it: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The name sounds sort of tech-y, but also sort of obvious—the internet seems like it’s part of everything now, so why not phone service? What’s the big deal? Also known as “internet telephony” or “IP telephony,” VoIP is an alternative way to make telephone calls, using the internet instead of the public telephone network. The technology has been around awhile; most phone companies already use VoIP behind the scenes to make their networks more efficient. But until recently, most telephone customers still used traditional phone lines the way they...

Read More What Is Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)?

He’s jolly, he’s bearded, and he’s coming back! Santa is suiting up to pay a special visit to the FTC stores for FTC Santa Photo Days Nov. 19 – Nov. 30! Each day he will visit a different FTC location from 2:30 - 5:30 p.m. and you and your family can have your photo taken with the jolly old fella for FREE! We will be printing photos on site and you will receive a free 4x6 photo immediately after you tell Santa what you want for Christmas. As always, we’ll be collecting new, unwrapped toys for Toys For Tots at...

Read More Here Comes Santa!