Front Street Association refocusing efforts to strengthen local business promotion

By Editor | April 16, 2026 |

From Staff Reports
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Leaders of the Richton Front Street Association (RFSA) say the organization is putting a renewed focus on its core mission of supporting local businesses with plans of streamlining its efforts to drive more customers to local businesses.
Central to that shift is a decision to concentrate on a single, signature annual event—“Fall on Front,” as opposed to multiple events. As part of that decision, RFSA leaders voted to hold Fall on Front annually on the second Saturday in October and focus more energy on other activities, such as its Business of the Month program, to provide ongoing recognition for local businesses. Each featured business will be selected through a “wheel of fortune” style drawing and highlighted through a coordinated media and social media campaign, including live interview segments shared through digital and social media outlets.
In its February meeting, held at Willow Tree Coffeehouse, the diverse group of local business representative (including H&H, CDI, Cooper Insurance, Strickland’s Pharmacy, Southern Drafting & Design, Southern Eagle Inspections, CC’s, and the host venue itself). During the meeting, RFSA leaders introduced officers and reiterated the group’s mission: “to drive people to your businesses.”
In addition to the new focus on Fall on Front and the enhanced Business Spotlight initiative, the association confirmed it will also be stepping up efforts to promote ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new businesses and milestone anniversary celebrations. Plans are also to continue efforts like the Patriotic Banner project that places banners in honor of local military veterans throughout the community.
RFSA Officer Nancy Evans said several such events are already in the works, including a Ribbon Cutting for Polished by Misty nail salon and Grand Re-Opening Celebration for Brooklyn James Aesthetics and Hair, which recently completed an expansion project. Both businesses are located at 91364-C Hwy. 42, Richton.
Local entrepreneurs used the February meeting to offer feedback aimed at strengthening the community’s economic vitality, including increasing efforts to promote shopping local, partnering with media outlets to highlight the benefits of supporting hometown businesses, and creating a comprehensive directory of local services to make available to the public. Attendees also discussed exploring coordination with the local water departments to help identify businesses throughout the area.
“Our goal is simple,” RSFA volunteer Hallie Edwards said. “To drive people to our businesses and help them succeed.”
“This renewed focus allows us to be more intentional and impactful in how we serve our community.”
Residents are encouraged to follow the Richton Front Street Association in this newspaper and on social media for updates on upcoming events, featured businesses, and community initiatives.