Ahead of the Bell: Consumer Credit WASHINGTON Consumers likely reduced their borrowing for an eighth straight month in September, as layoffs continue and credit remains tight. The declines in borrowing are expected to drag on the fledgling economic recovery.Ahead of the Bell: Consumer Credit WASHINGTON Consumers likely reduced their borrowing for an eighth straight month in September, as layoffs continue and credit remains tight. The declines in borrowing are expected to drag on the fledgling economic recovery.Holiday Shopping Notebook: Victoria's Secret bra NEW YORK Victoria's Secret is hoping a new push-up bra intended to boost women's busts as much as two sizes also will enhance its bottom line this holiday season.Iowa AG: States must help protect consumers DES MOINES, Iowa Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller says the states should continue to have a role in protecting consumers from fraudulent practices.Man took pay from NJ company he never worked for SOMERVILLE, N.J. An Illinois man has admitted banking more than $470,000 in paychecks from a New Jersey company he never worked for.
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Worried about holiday spending? Layaway may be an option The recession has brought back many shopping strategies that had been largely discarded in the more free-wheeling spending days of the 1990s.Itchin' to do something out of town? Nearby big cities offer a boatload of possibilities The Miami Valley has thousands of enticing shopping and entertainment options, but another benefit of living here is the easy access to larger metro hubs that are brimming with additional things to do.2009 Holiday Bazaars & Craft Shows Holiday Craft Show: Gifts, decorations, and floral arrangements by local crafters and bake sale. Lunch will also be available. Supports Sacred Heart Mission Commission. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. today, Sunday, Oct. 4, at Sacred Heart Church, Fairfield, 400 Nilles Road, Fairfield. (513) 858-4210. www.sacredheart-fairfield.org.Top five money-saving tips from five area businesses Sometimes, the best way to find out how to get the best discounts and deals on goods or services is to go directly to the source.