To the Editor:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. May you and your families enjoy peace, kindness and goodness that the Spirit of the season brings.

There has been much sharing and giving which has brought happiness to so many families. Many angels and helpers have worked overtime to make a difference. Many people have taken over and expanded Trooper Robert Hill’s children’s toy project. The Franklin Police Department, Social Services Agencies, the Salvation Army, Cooperative Ministries and the many churches who reach far and wide to share with others truly reflect the hearts of the wonderful citizens of the City and Counties where we live.

There are those who watch over us to keep us safe and healthy. There are those police, fire and rescue, sheriff’s department and hospital staff who stand watch and respond at a moments notice to calls for help and protection. How grateful we are for their around the clock service especially during this holiday time.

There are those men and women who protect us all over the world, and their families who sacrifice and share their loved ones to assure our safety. May we remember all our service men and women and their families and be grateful.

How thankful we all should be for being able to live in such a city which cares. Our employees are so dedicated to make our city beautiful and clean.

Just two Saturdays ago, I found two different public works crews working all day, overtime, to finish cleaning up those last leaves making our city clean and neat.

Our police officers have been volunteering and working overtime to put a stop to the rash of break-ins we have recently experienced. Their dedication to solving these crimes and protecting us and our properties is so appreciated.

Even with our challenges we are so fortunate to live in this area, where people really care about others and serve us all so well.

So as you move about this holiday season, find the bell of the Salvations Army — don’t run from it. Thank the police, the fire and rescue members, and our wonderful employees who serve us all.

And as a special holiday treat, don’t forget the Jamestown 400th Celebration that Downtown Franklin is sponsoring tomorrow. A progressive dinner led by Jamestown interpreters, begins at 6 p.m. at Fred’s for hors d’oevres

and entertainment. The group will then move to Phinn’s Restaurant for dinner and more about our Jamestown heritage. The evening will end

at Pam’s Tea Room with

dessert and music of the era.

Please join us for a fitting reflection on our history and 400 year long legacy. Tickets are $20 and available at Fred’s and the Downtown Franklin Association.

Until Thursday, the 27th, for our historical reflections, Merry Christmas and have a safe and Happy New Year.

Jim Councill

Franklin Mayor