Editor's Notebook: 5 Resolutions to Consider Making in Three Village

It's that time of year again: We tie up loose ends and reflect on the past year, and look ahead to the new year, hopefully with a sense of optimism that will pave the way for great things for you and your loved ones. And let's not forget the longstanding idea of making a "New Year's resolution."

Do you need help thinking of a resolution to make in 2013? Here are a few ideas.

1. Shop local to help the local economy flourish. Nothing means more to a mom-and-pop shop than customers who check in at their stores first before heading to a big box or chain store. Three Village is home to dozens of great mom-and-pop shops from which to choose.

2. Contribute to a cause. Getting involved in a charitable effort will not only help a greater good but it can also lift your spirits, according to a book called The Hidden Gifts of Helping, written by a Three Village resident.

3. If you've never attended an event at Stony Brook University, 2013 might be a good year to start exploring all the university has to offer the community. For instance, you can attend an open lecture at the Wang Center or a show at the Staller Center. The men's and women's basketball teams are enjoying successful seasons so far; visit their schedules online at GoSeawolves.org.

4. Get involved in the community by attending a meeting of a local civic organization. For instance, the Civic Association of the Setaukets and Stony Brook meets the first Monday of each month at the library, and the Strong's Neck Civic Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at the Setauket Neighborhood House.

5. Get more involved with Three Village Patch. You can do things like share your own news with the community by posting an announcement, add your event to our calendar, become a blogger, become our friend on Facebook and Twitter, sign up for our newsletter, or drop us a note by emailing ChristineS@patch.com.