To the Editor:

I would like to thank the business owners who participated in the first “Shop-Wise” Know Your Neighbor event last week. I think we had a great turnout for the first monthly event.

Our goal is to focus on a couple of downtown businesses each month. Each business owner has a few minutes to explain what they do/make and then questions are asked.

I was excited to hear Freddy James, owner of Freewheel Bicycle Shop, speak about the many charitable efforts his company participates in, such as Wounded Warriors and his after-school children’s program in other cities.

He went on to talk about starting an after-school program in Franklin. What a great idea for our area youth.

After we get to know the owners, we enjoy some light refreshments at our last stop.

Please join us next month as we visit business owners on Middle Street.

Juanita Richards
Franklin