“Get involved in government, even if it’s just in a small way. Write a letter to at least one of your elected representatives about an issue that concerns you. Attend at least one village, town or school board budget hearing. Join your local civic association. Don’t just vote your party line; get to know the candidates of the party you usually don’t vote for. Attend at least one of the meet-the-candidates forums. Read the literature your elected officials send you, and verify its validity and completeness. Vote!”
    —Felix Procacci, Franklin Square resident

“People should become more tolerant and inclusive. That’s my personal program of energy efficiency, because it takes less energy to love than to hate.”
    —Dorothy Jacobs, president, board of directors, Long Island Crisis Center

“In these tough times, my resolutions definitely focus less on the traditional ‘I’ll exercise more’ or ‘I’ll eat healthier.’ This year I’m focusing more on counting my blessings for what I do have and paying less attention to what I don’t. Volunteering more of my time not just to help friends and family but to make a difference in a stranger’s life. I’m a firm believer that resolutions to help others — even in small ways — always lead to a happier life. Let’s hope that having a positive outlook on the future is contagious! Pass it on.”
    —Lori Anderson, Franklin Square resident

“In these difficult times, I’m reminded of John F. Kennedy’s ‘Ask not what your country can do for you’ plea to the American people. Residents and businesses must foster an environment of self-reliance and community, to improve not only their own station but that of their neighbors as well.”
    —Chris Rosado, Elmont Chamber of Commerce