JOHN SULLIVAN: I'm thankful for local businesses

Recently my 20-year-old Stihl chain saw quit working, so I took it to Joel at Winton Hardware expecting the worst. Joel replaced the sprocket bearing for $28, and I was back cutting wood in less than an hour. Talk about great customer service and then some.

Try that with a chain store. Of course they would be willing to sell you a brand new one. It was nice to be reassured that my chain saw was worth keeping and that I did not to spend the money on a new one.

There is something to be said about quality. Quality products, quality service, quality stores and quality people! That is why I support our local businesses. It is businesses like these which helped build our country.

I hope that they will survive these tough economic times and they will with your support especially during this holiday season. Take time to shop your local stores. You might be surprised -- their prices are extremely competitive. I guarantee that you won't find any better customer service!

I give thanks to all the local businesses!

JOHN SULLIVAN

Atwater