Ames layaway customer service representative Melanie Vanderhoof scans Christmas decorations for Debbie Noel of Pedro to put into layaway.

Thursday, October 14, 1999

Ames layaway customer service representative Melanie Vanderhoof scans Christmas decorations for Debbie Noel of Pedro to put into layaway. Ms. Vanderhoof said the store has been busy because customers are preparing for Christmas. Experts say early budgeting can keep the holidays from becoming a feast of debt instead of fun.