Main Street in Elizabeth welcomed a new store to the neighborhood. Chickadees, at 286 Main St., is not your average purse and jewelry store, and owners Sabrina Jump and Holly Bartlett work hard to add a little flair to their merchandise.

This week: New Louis Vuitton collection blooms, and dog lovers like Barrymore dig up a gem

U.S. Senate seats are for sale in Illinois, says a Peoria jeweler who is producing necklace charms in the shape of the Senate's chairs.In a parody of the legal predicament faced by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, accused of trying to sell the vacant Senate seat of U.S. President-elect Barack Obama in exchange for campaign cash and personal favors, Brad Pettet of Pettet Jewelry Designs says his ...

PEORIA, Ill., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate seats are for sale in Illinois, says a Peoria jeweler who is producing necklace charms in the shape of the Senate's chairs.

The Brooklyn Flea Market in Fort Greene has closed for the winter, but bargain hunters need not despair.

Illinois jeweler sells 'U.S. Senate seats' ... Mud race entrants undeterred by cold temps ... Man will throw Lexus in with home sale ... Racy snowboards spark free speech debate ... UPI Quirks in the News.

SANDUSKY — Some people spend a lifetime of searching for something they love doing, are good at and can even make a living doing.

Some owners say the cost of testing for toxic lead and phthalates will shut their businesses. The law goes into effect Feb. 10. Barring a reprieve, regulations set to take effect next month could force thousands of clothing retailers and thrift stores to throw away trunkloads of children's clothing.

About the crafters

PICTURE IT Las Vegan Sandra Birnie can charm anyone. As the founder of Lovecharmz she makes personal photos into charms for necklaces and bracelets. Not big on jewelry? Lovecharmz can customize cuff links, baby spoons, money clips, journals and more. It's the perfect way to turn a meaningless item into a treasured keepsake.Lovecharmz baby spoon, $115, lovecharmz.com