Learn how to curb those cards Published Jan. 6, 2006 By Janet Taylor-Birkey CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The average American will spend about $763 for holiday shopping according to the USA Today. Typically, if a credit card is used, it will take approximately 36 months to pay off those seasons greetings. Holiday spending is inviting, but often digs a hole that is almost impossible from which to climb out. But through the help of Financial Peace University (FPU), offered by the base chapel, Airmen and their spouses can learn to jettison holiday debt and become better equipped to handle their personal finances. “In the military, everything that causes worry in the [Airman’s] life affects the mission and affects the unit. It’s so important to teach where their money is going and how to best manage it,” said Scott and Wendy Morris, previous Military FPU attendees. The free 13-week course, offered at two different times, gives Airmen an opportunity to take advantage of the training, said Chaplain (Capt.) Mark McKellen, The chaplain stressed that those who sign up, “must be committed to the entire 13-week course.” FPU was founded by Dave Ramsey who amassed and lost a fortune, and now offers common-sense tactics for financial planning. The day course, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m, will be on Tuesdays, beginning Jan.10. Evening courses, 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., will be on Wednesdays beginning Jan.11. All classes will be held at the Cannon Community Chapel. Interested Airman can enroll by calling the chapel at 784-2507. Each class is limited to 18 slots. Couples count as one slot. For more information on FPU and finances, go to http://www.daveramsey.com.