Airman and Family Readiness Center to host debt-free holiday seminar Nov. 16 Published Nov. 10, 2011 By Danny Monahan 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs KIRTLAND AFB -- The Airman and Family Readiness Center will host "Planning for a Debt-Free Holiday" seminar Nov. 16 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. "This event will give people the tools, and more importantly, the mindset to reduce a big holiday stressor - excessive spending when money is already tight," said Teresa Reinhard, A&FRC financial consultant. "We all know we should not spend money we don't have. So committing oneself to use cash, instead of credit, is one way to ensure that rule is followed." Reinhard also suggests people create a gift-spending worksheet. "List the people you plan to give a gift and the anticipated cost," said Reinhard. "This level of pre-planning can help one reduce unexpected or excessive holiday spending." For those who cannot attend the seminar, Reinhard suggested the one step all can take is creating a budget. "Create a budget that is written down and not just in your head," said Reinhard. "When it's written down, it is much clearer how much of your money goes to various categories. When you take the time to write down your monthly budget, to include fixed and variable expenses, it's easier to notice if you are spending more than you think. It's usually on the little things. The little things are normally discretionary and they can add up to costly expenses at the end of the year." Active-duty Airmen, their spouses and civilians can schedule an appointment with Reinhard for financial counseling. "As an accredited financial counselor with the A&FRC, I love to help people prepare for their financial security, whether it's helping to create a budget or discussing their Thrift Savings Plan," said Reinhard. For more information and to sign up for the seminar, call 853-1713.