Stocks trade in tight range after surprise drop in continued jobless claims; retail sales dataNEW YORK — Cautious traders are looking for more than just any sign of improvement in the economy. Looking for monied buyers: Antiques dealers say they are fewer, pickier as economy slowsWOODBURY, Conn. — Walking what used to be a busy trail of antiques shops in this western Connecticut hamlet now is a lonely, quiet trek. Meltdown 101: A look at how food prices are set and how they fit into the larger economyIn a sour economy, you can pad your budget by cutting out cable, trips to restaurants and vacations. But you can’t cut out food. Gullah communities on South Carolina sea islands open farmers marketCHARLESTON, S.C. — A new farmers market has opened near the Gullah communities on South Carolina’s sea islands. Visitors to southwestern Michigan’s Harbor Country savor relaxing, leisurely wanderingNEW BUFFALO, Mich. — The hectic pace of modern life slows to a leisurely crawl in southwestern Michigan’s Harbor Country, where travelers can relax and unwind for a few hours — or while away an entire summer. Still looking for a Mother’s Day gift? The clock is ticking. Suggestions for 5 classic optionsNEW YORK — With Mother’s Day just days away, there are plenty of options left for procrastinators, but most involve shelling out major bucks. This year, though, as retailers chase dollars amid the recession, some low-price options are available. Old book from Texas pharmacy where Dr Pepper was invented goes up for auctionDALLAS — Poking through antiques stores while traveling through the Texas Panhandle, Bill Waters stumbled across a tattered old ledger book filled with formulas. Madoff Mets season tickets sell for $38,100 on eBay, well below $56,000 listNEW YORK — Someone got a bargain with Bernard Madoff’s Mets season tickets. |