In downtown Franklin, our small business owners thrive on the word “community.” And that’s why more than 20 merchants will support nearly a dozen local charities this Friday, Feb. 8 through their sales as part of the “Open Your Heart” promotion coordinated by the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA).

The participating DFA businesses will leave their doors open later and donate 15 percent of sales between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to a non-profit organization of their choice.

Jack Yacoubian Jewelers, a new fine jewelry store on Third Avenue South, will support the American Heart Association (AHA)’s “Go Red For Women” campaign on Friday—but the store is also taking it one step further. Owner Jack Yacoubian said he will donate 100 percent of silent auction proceeds, gathered from a 1.00-carat diamond pendant set in 18k gold, to the organization.

People may bid on the special jewelry piece, which retails for more than $3,000, at the jewelry shop at 114 Third Avenue South. The silent auction bidding begins today and will be open through Friday evening. The bidding will begin at $900, and will increase in $50 increments.

Yacoubian said he chose to rally around the specific AHA campaign because it hits close to home. His wife has battled the disease for nine years.

“Supporting this particular charity is special to me and my family,” Yacoubian said. “My wife had heart complications during one of her pregnancies, and I feel fortunate to be able to give back to the ‘Go Red For Women’ cause in this way.”

To find the store on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/JackYacoubianJewelers. To contact the store, email yacoubian901@yahoo.com or call (615) 224-3698.

To learn more about Jack Yacoubian Jewelers, read his “Faces of Franklin” story here.

Jack and his wife, Maggie