“Have a Holly, Jolly, But Frugal Christmas,” Says UA Professor
November 30, 2005 - Filed under: Outreach
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – For many Americans, money could be tight for the holidays this year because of cash diverted to higher gas and heating prices. Plus, people may be less in the celebratory mood, too, following Katrina and Rita. One University of Alabama faculty members says that doesn’t mean it can’t be festive.
Jan Brakefield, a consumer science instructor, suggests seeing this new “situation” as an opportunity to start new traditions such as:
–Volunteer at the local soup kitchen on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for yourself.
–Draw names among family members instead of trying to purchase a gift for every person in the family.
–Agree to give gifts only to family members under age 12.
–Create decorative coupons for services instead of gifts…lawn care, babysitting, car washing, dog walking, etc.
–Plan a neighborhood caroling outing…sing at three nursing homes after the neighborhood event.
The University of Alabama, a student-centered research university, is experiencing significant growth in both enrollment and academic quality. This growth, which is positively impacting the campus and the state's economy, is in keeping with UA's vision to be the university of choice for the best and brightest students. UA, the state's flagship university, is an academic community united in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Alabamians.
CONTACT: Suzanne Dowling, 205/348-8324, sdowling@ur.ua.edu