The public is invited to free classes to learn tips and techniques to reduce holiday spending. The Holiday Planning classes will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m.-12 CT at the South Pittsburg Citizens Center. The center is located at 315 Elm Avenue. The class will be repeated on Thursday, Nov. 15, at the University of Tennessee Extension office in Chattanooga from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.. The Hamilton County Extension office is at 6183 Adamson Circle.
Registration is required by Nov. 7, by calling 942-2656 to register for the South Pittsburg class and calling 855-6113 to register for the Chattanooga class. Participants will sample quick and easy recipes, find gift ideas that don’t break the bank, and learn to make easy gift and decorations made from recycled materials.
The classes are provided by a United Way Worldwide FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) grant to provide Americans with knowledge, skills and tools necessary for financial success. The presenters are from the University of Tennessee Extension.
“Consumers can save hundreds of dollars during the holiday season by planning ahead,” said June Puett, University of Tennessee Extension Agent. “We hope to motivate and educate people who are feeling financially strapped or want to try new ways to reduce both their stress and spending.
Americans plan to spend an average of $749.51 on gifts, decorations and other holiday items this season, just 1.2 percent more than a year ago, according to a survey conducted for the National Retail Federation.
These classes and all University of Tennessee extension activities provide equal opportunity in programs and employment.