As the holiday shopping season moves into full swing, I would like to suggest trying something new. Instead of heading to the malls and big national chain stores, try putting some more meaning into your shopping by thinking small and avoiding the malls. Try spending more time and money this year in small, independently owned local businesses instead.

In the Village of Farmingdale we are fortunate to have a vibrant Main Street and dozens of merchants, who have survived the onslaught of the big box stores and national chains. Sure, national chain stores have more inventories, often at cheaper prices, and are usually open later, but that comes at a cost. Big stores can't always offer us the unique variety of products and level of customer service we find at the smaller, locally owned businesses in town.

Remember customer service? Most of us have almost grown accustomed to the "I'm-doing-you-a-favor-by-waiting-on-you attitude" that we encounter at the malls and large stores. Local shopkeepers and their staff are more committed, knowledgeable and make recommendations you can trust. Customer service is the most important product local stores can offer customers.

But what I like most about independent businesses is that they keep money in our communities. The employees and owners of these businesses often live and shop close by, and the money we spend in their stores continues circulating in the local economy, financially supporting our community. National chain stores' profits go back to corporate headquarters.

So I'll see you on Main Street! Tell your friends and family to meet you for a bite at the Library Café, enjoy an ice cream at Vone Leeson's or pick out their gift at the Runner's Edge. Keep the local economy strong.

Legislator Dave Mejias