The Carytown Merchants Association isn’t planning the celebration because of the high costs of security and other expenses, said Thom Suddeth, president of the merchants group.

Those New Year’s resolutions of old somehow seem out of date for 2009. How can you resolve to keep your closets straight when you’re worried you might lose the house? Or stick to your fitness plan when you can’t afford that gym membership anymore? In these bleak times, resolutions have more to do with faith, hope and perseverance.

Champagne and caviar might not be in your budget this New Year’s Eve, but you won’t need to resort to crackers and cheese spread to keep the cost of the festivities under control. There are plenty of options for foods that are as good to your wallet as they are to your guests. Consider making bite-size pizzas using store-bought dough and sauce. Making the dough yourself is easy, and even cheaper.

Join the merchants of Petersburg for their second annual “Ball of the Centuries” on New Year’s Eve 2008 at the Black Swan, Old Towne Catering Co., 9 W. Old St., in Petersburg. The evening will begin with cocktails at 8 p.m., followed by dinner and dancing from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Tickets are $75 and include dinner, dessert, dancing and complimentary wine and champagne. A cash bar also will be available.