Alternative gifts expected to be popular this season

STERLING - Shirley Guay and Rosalee Koldan hope this year's slow economy will mean a boon for their holiday business. The owners of Amboy Arts and Antiques said this winter has been better than last, with more locals looking for the newest addition to family members' collections. With no must-have toy for Christmas, and big-box retailers quivering amid the worst holiday economy in recent memory, this season could revive the adage that it's better to give than receive. Except for Web-based sales, retail purchases are down in nearly every category recorded by the U.S. Commerce Department. That means this year's humble winners could be re-sale shops and antiques stores, chock full of unique and personal items for those willing to troll the she