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.