Sweat It Out
SWEAT SHOP OFFERS MORE THAN A WORKOUT FOR WOMEN
STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY JOHNSON MEMORIAL HEALTH
Leading the way in Patient Safety
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Dr. Nicholas St. Germain specializes in minimally-invasive hip replacements and robotic-assisted knee replacements
Nicholas St. Germain, MD, is a fellowship-trained physician who specializes in orthopedic surgery, adult reconstruction and total joint replacement. He is one of the few area surgeons who performs the anterior hip replacement procedure, which allows patients to experience less pain and faster recovery.
Dr. St. Germain uses OrthoGrid AI technology, an application that provides valuable, real-time image analysis during hip replacement surgery. He also uses the state-of-the-art ROSA robotic system when performing knee replacement surgery. Both of these technologies provide greater alignment accuracy, resulting in more natural-feeling joints.
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PUBLISHER AMY SKIRVIN amy@townepost.com (317) 412-4652
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THE FRUITFUL FROG
GET YOUR GREENS ON AT FRANKLIN’S NEWEST MARKET AND ORGANIC JUICERY
Writer & Photographer / Frieda Dowler
If you over-indulged during the holidays and want to correct your course, Ann Buie says that “taking a baby step toward better health can make a significant difference.”
Buie is the owner of the Fruitful Frog Market and Organic Juicery, which she opened in August on East Jefferson Street.
“Many people are tired of not feeling their best but don’t know what to do about it,” she says.
Buie offers solutions at her market and organic juicery through healthy foods and supplements. There is also an information library, and she invites anyone to come in to look around, shop, sip on a drink, ask questions, and find answers in the books and pamphlets in the library.
The smiling frog mascot greets you at the door. Glancing around the lively green and white decor accented with gray, your spirits are lifted. A juice bar lines one side with tables and chairs on the other side. Along the front window facing Jefferson Street, you can watch the world go by, surf the net through free Wi-Fi, or browse the library as you sip on a hot or cold beverage. A customer favorite is the warm froggy cider made with apples, organic lemons and pumpkin spices. She also serves healthy versions of coffee and tea. Add a protein bar or other snack, and your afternoon pick-me-up is complete.
Another offering is a kit you can purchase to pinpoint food allergies or sensitivities.
As you browse the shop, toward the back is a dairy case and freezer case for meats. The meats are non-GMO, hormone free and antibiotic free, purchased from regenerative farmers who feed their animals on nutrientrich soil.
Seasonal produce in limited quantities from similar local growers is available too. Buie carries natural skin care products and some of her favorite supplements.
“People may be aware of food allergies they have because of physical symptoms that appear, but many don’t know about food sensitivities they may have,” Buie says. The symptoms can range from headaches to muscle spasms and cramps. People can eat the same things but react differently. Avoiding certain foods might alleviate many negative symptoms people experience.
Buie’s interest in helping people who want to feel better began 10 years ago as she researched information and sources to help friends and family. Her jobs were in the health food industry as a sales representative. As her
passion grew, she began taking her freshpressed juices to community and farmers markets. When the opportunity came up to open the Fruitful Frog, she jumped at the chance.
She named her market from an acronym for the phrase “fully relying on god,” and fruitful means producing good or helpful results, which is what she hopes to do in Franklin.
Visit the Fruitful Frog at 114 East Jefferson Street in Franklin. Also visit fruitfulfrog.com or call 740-843-3764 for more info.
A TASTE OF NOSTALGIA FRANKLIN CANDY KITCHEN HAS A SWEET HISTORY
Writer / Teena Catt
Today the streets of downtown Franklin are often filled with shoppers who have made Franklin a destination spot. For those of us who grew up in Franklin and have seen the ebb and flow of downtown commerce, this revival is a welcome sight. New businesses popping up in existing buildings often evoke memories of long-gone iconic business of downtown Franklin.
Franklin Candy Kitchen, better known as Nick’s, is one of those businesses that comes to mind. For those who were teenagers in the ’40s and ’5’s, Nick’s was the place to be.
“When school let out each afternoon, and sometimes just for kicks, the sound rang clear through all the halls, I’ll see you all at Nick’s.”
That excerpt is from a poem written by the late Bob Tranter Jr., a former employee, for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Candy Kitchen.
Nick Banos Sr. came to America from Greece sometime between 1916 and 1917 as a 17-year-old who could not speak English. He had a cousin who had opened a candy store in Martinsville, Indiana. Martinsville Candy Kitchen, now owned by another family, still operates using the same candy-making skills from its founder. Young Banos learned of a school in St. Louis where he could learn the skill of candy making and traveled there to learn what was to become his lifelong trade.
Banos opened his legendary candy store at 135 East Jefferson Street in 1922 after a serving time in the U.S. Army during World War I. He became attracted to Franklin because he loved sports, in an era when a high school basketball team defined Hoosier hysteria. That team, dubbed the Wonder Five, won the state championship three consecutive years
from 1920 through 1922, and went on to win a national college championship for Franklin College in 1923.
Banos’ homemade candies, sodas, milkshakes and welcoming atmosphere drew in loyal customers. Nick Banos Jr. recalls his father being able to call his customers by name. As an immigrant, he was particularly attuned to all races, especially in a time of civil unrest. He made a point to accept anyone in his shop and make them feel welcome. Banos Jr. recalls his dad’s memory, saying that “he had a mind that was unbelievable. He could remember names and faces years later and even recall what drink they wanted to order.”
Unless you were there, it is hard to imagine a soda fountain shop so packed with young people that the fire marshal had to instruct the staff to count the customers, limiting the number inside at any one time. Often there was a queue outside hoping to enter and grab a booth, or snag a spot on a barstool at the soda fountain counter.
Franklin resident Harriet Beeler describes her memories of the Candy Kitchen days between 1957 and 1961. “I remember lots of fun and good times at Nick’s,” she says. “He always knew your name and I recall the dinging of the pinball machine bells. The jukebox was always playing, and it was the place to be after school and after ball games. It was a wonderful place to gather with friends and catch up on all the gossip. I recall the marshmallow Cokes and the vanilla and chocolate Cokes too, along with the toasted ham salad sandwiches. Nick would not stand for any foul language or unruly behavior. It was a great gathering place to stay out of trouble.”
Despite the introduction of fast-food restaurants and the popularity of drive-ins, Nick’s still drew in loyal customers. Two 1974 Franklin Community High School graduates comment on their memories of the Candy Kitchen.
“I spent hours in there with the pinball and jukebox machines,” says Frank Paris of New Whiteland. “I had great conversations with [Nick]. I remember he was always
reading a Greek newspaper. He knew and remembered my parents’ names from the ’50s when they would go in there and hang out. If I didn’t have any money for lunch, he always told me to pay him later. He was a very generous man.”
“Nick was a great man,” says Mindy Mitchell of Franklin. “He always called me by name and knew my order. In the wintertime I always got a vanilla Coke, and in the summertime, Nick’s fresh-squeezed lemonade. It could not be beaten. I worked down the street and would stop every day. His candy canes were the best.”
Banos Jr. has fond memories of growing up at the Candy Kitchen. As a young boy, he was in awe of the teenagers who worked and spent time there. As a student at Payne School, he would walk to the shop during his lunch hour. In those days there were no cafeterias in schools. He would venture over and have a sandwich and then help his father in the shop until it was time to return to school.
Because the shop was a functioning
restaurant and soda fountain, Banos Sr. would make the candies after the shop closed at night. Vanilla taffy, peanut brittle, cinnamon rolls, pecan rolls, divinity, sea foams, and chocolate-dipped cherries and truffles were a few of the varieties offered. The candy canes, however, were a fan favorite. “He never saw a recipe for the candies,” says Banos Jr. Along with the specialty candies, his father made the soda flavorings by hand as well. The process of making candy canes is difficult and takes a special skill. Banos Jr. remembers his family spending every other weekend making candy canes during the holiday season with the Martinsville family shop. The popularity of the candy cane in December equaled long hours, with everyone in the family helping. This process was all handmade and involved a large copper kettle, a marble table, a special heated table and skilled craftsmanship.
About the time Banos Jr. thought he might
be interested in a career in the candymaking trade, his father sat him down and talked to him about the demanding hours of owning the candy store. He reminded him that it was a seven-days-per-week job, and although he never said not to do it, he discouraged it. Banos Jr. went on to pursue a career in education and administration. Banos Jr. credits his father for teaching him how to interact with people. Today he and his wife, Paige, still hand out homemade candy canes to friends and family during the Christmas season, continuing a longtime family tradition.
The Franklin Candy Kitchen closed in 1983, but memories still circulate throughout the city with fond memories for residents. For those who would like one more trip down memory lane, the Johnson County Museum of History has a wonderful display of Nick’s Candy Kitchen, complete with photos and actual artifacts from the shop.
“‘Arrived
BOUND TOGETHER BOOK CLUB
FEBRUARY PICK: “HORSE” BY GERALDINE BROOKS
Writer / Christina Cochran
February’s book club selection, “Horse” by Geraldine Brooks, offers readers a compelling journey through history, art, and humanity’s enduring bond with animals.
This pick is made even more exciting by the upcoming release of Brooks’s highly anticipated memoir, “Memorial Days”, debuting on February 4. With her unique ability to weave intricate narratives, Brooks invites us to explore both her fiction and personal reflections, making this the perfect time to delve into her extraordinary storytelling.
“Horse” is a sweeping historical novel that intertwines the lives of three characters across centuries, connected by a legendary racehorse named Lexington. The story shifts between 1850s Kentucky, where an enslaved boy named Jarret nurtures the horse into greatness; 1950s New York, where an art historian unravels the significance of a mysterious equine painting; and the present day, where a scientist and a journalist uncover forgotten stories of racial injustice and perseverance
tied to Lexington. Brooks masterfully blends themes of race, art, science and history into an emotionally resonant tale about humanity’s enduring connection with animals and each other.
Geraldine Brooks is a Pulitzer Prizewinning author known for her richly researched historical novels that delve into complex themes of identity, morality and resilience. Born in Australia, Brooks began her career as a journalist before transitioning to fiction. Her celebrated works include “Year of Wonders”, “People of the Book” and “March”, which earned her the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2006. With “Horse”, Brooks continues her tradition of crafting deeply compelling narratives that bridge past and present, showcasing her unparalleled ability to illuminate history through storytelling.
Brooks’s storytelling brilliance shines in both her historical fiction and personal
reflections, making this pairing a perfect opportunity to celebrate her work. You can find copies of “Horse” and preorder or purchase “Memorial Days” at Wild Geese Bookshop here in Franklin, or check out “Horse” at your local JCPL branch. Don’t miss this chance to explore these remarkable stories!
As a reader, you can participate in our Bound Together Book Club by simply reading the monthly book selection and following along on Franklin Magazine’s Facebook page. Each month we’ll post prompts asking for your reviews and ratings of the book. It’s a fun and interactive way to share your love of reading with the community, while also staying informed on exciting book releases and events hosted by our beloved Wild Geese Bookshop and Johnson County Public Library.
Breathe Easier with JOHNSON COMFORT
Do you suffer from allergies, asthma, or persistent coughing? The air inside your home could be up to 5 times more polluted than the air outside! Dust, pollen, pet dander, mold, and bacteria are lurking in your ductwork, compromising your indoor air quality.
Johnson Comfort’s Duct Cleaning Service is here to help. Our professional cleaning removes these contaminants, making your home a healthier place to breathe.
LEADERSHIP JOHNSON COUNTY
CULTIVATING LEADERS FOR A THRIVING COMMUNITY
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
For over three decades, Leadership Johnson County (LJC) has been dedicated to fostering informed, involved citizens to strengthen their community. Established in 1994 and 1995, the organization graduated its first Signature Program class at the time, an initiative that continues to be a cornerstone of its mission. This nine-month program blends leadership development with community awareness, empowering participants to lead and identify areas of need within Johnson County.
Since its inception, LJC has graduated over 900 participants from the Signature Program. Each September, new members embark on their journey with a two-day retreat, followed by monthly sessions from October through May. Participants split their focus between honing leadership skills and deepening their understanding of the community.
“Leadership isn’t just about skills,” says Tandy Shuck, LJC’s executive director. “It’s about knowing where those skills are needed.”
Shuck herself is a testament to the program’s transformative power. In 2001, while working at Franklin College as the assistant director of counseling, she felt a yearning for greater community involvement. “My life was
work and home,” she recalls. “I wanted to connect more deeply with my community.” Upon completing the Signature Program, Shuck’s path shifted dramatically. She was invited to become LJC’s first full-time, paid staff member, and assumed the role of executive director six years later.
“Leadership Johnson County changed my life,” she says. “It gave me purpose and a community network.”
Under Shuck’s leadership, LJC has expanded its offerings. Seven years ago the organization introduced Select Workshops, half- and full-day sessions open to the public. A year later they launched the Youth Leadership Academy for high school juniors and seniors, mirroring the adult program’s emphasis on leadership and community projects. Youth participants recently organized drives for sweatshirts, socks and cereal for local nonprofits like Resources of Hope and Good Cheer baskets.
Another innovative program is Leadership to Your Door, where LJC delivers customized leadership training to businesses. “We tailor the curriculum to meet the specific needs of each organization,” Shuck explains, highlighting LJC’s adaptability.
LJC’s projects often leave a lasting impact on the community. One notable initiative, Journey Johnson County, was born from the Signature Program. Concerned about the absence of a tourist bureau and innkeeper’s tax in our community, participants created a grassroots effort to promote local attractions.
Their advocacy eventually led to the establishment of Festival Country, now the county’s official tourism organization.
Collaboration remains at LJC’s core. Recent projects include partnering with nonprofits like Resources of Hope and Servants at Work. In April an LJC group will spearhead a “ramp-a-thon” to build accessibility ramps for mobility-impaired residents.
“Collaboration is key to a thriving community,” Shuck says. “When leaders, businesses and organizations come together, amazing things happen.”
As LJC celebrates its 31st year, it also marks a significant milestone: becoming an independent 501(c)(3) organization. This move paves the way for new possibilities.
“2025 will be a year of growth and innovation,” Shuck says. “The best is yet to come.”
For those considering LJC, Shuck offers simple advice: “Just do it. It’s an investment in yourself and your community.” With a commitment to cultivating leaders and a strong partnership with Franklin College, LJC continues to build a legacy of connection, collaboration and community transformation.
Visit their website at leadershipjohnsoncounty.org.
RESEARCH STUDY SEEKING Women 50 or Older
Purdue University, College of Pharmacy is seeking healthy volunteers who are at least 50 years old (women) to participate in a study to determine if a hormone called progesterone can reduce the risk of a heart rhythm abnormality.
If you qualify for the study:
• You will complete one 2-hour visit and two 10- hour visits at the Indiana Clinical Research Center (ICRC) located on the IUPUI campus in downtown Indianapolis
• Prior to the 2nd and 3rd visit, you will apply progesterone or a placebo for 3 days and during the 2nd and 3rd visits, you will receive a medication called Ibutilide (Covert) by IV, have your blood taken and ECGs performed throughout the day.
• You will receive up to $500 after completing all study visits. Parking and meals during the study are included.
If you are interested in participating, please call or text 317-847-2094 or email: hwroblew@iu.edu
FALLING FEATHERS HEALING
ANN DAY HELPS CLIENTS ON THEIR JOURNEY TOWARD HEALTH AND BALANCE
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
Nestled in a cozy space on Jefferson Street in Franklin, Indiana, Falling Feathers Healing is a sanctuary dedicated to restoring balance to the mind, body and spirit. Ann Day, the heart and soul behind this new business, offers Reiki and sound therapy to individuals and small groups seeking peace and healing in an increasingly hectic world.
For Day, the path to Falling Feathers began in 2011, during a time of personal crisis. She sought alternative methods to heal her mental health, after struggling with the adverse effects of traditional treatments. That’s when she discovered the transformative power of Reiki and sound therapy. Experiencing the profound effects
these practices had on her own wellbeing, Day was inspired to learn more. She trained extensively at Eloia Healing Arts in California, earning certifications in both modalities.
“Reiki and sound therapy changed my life,” Day says. “They brought me back to my natural balance, where healing truly begins.”
These complementary therapies fall under what she describes as “vibrational healing.” While each practice is distinct, both aim to harmonize the body’s energy and restore it to a state of equilibrium. Reiki involves the gentle movement of energy through the body, while sound therapy uses vibrations from instruments to impact brainwaves and release stagnant energy.
“We all carry energy within us,” Day explains. “Think about the static shock when you walk across a floor in socks. It’s proof of the energy we hold. Reiki and sound therapy help bring that energy back into balance, to a state of homeostasis. It’s where we’re meant to be, but in today’s fast-paced society, we rarely get there.”
For her clients, the benefits are transformative. Many come seeking relief from anxiety, depression or the emotional toll of family challenges. Others look to Falling Feathers for support alongside traditional medical treatments. “These therapies aren’t
alternative,” Day emphasizes. “They’re complementary. They work in tandem with medical care to help individuals find balance and peace, creating the optimal environment for healing.”
Day’s journey to Franklin, much like her personal healing path, feels divinely guided. Relocating from California a year ago, she initially had no plans to set roots in this small town. But a chance encounter with local resident Amy Skirvin, and a serendipitous connection with her landlords, led Day to the charming commercial space that now houses Falling Feathers.
“I truly believe the universe brought me here,” Day says. “Every step felt like a blind leap, but it all aligned perfectly. Now, I’ve found my place here in Franklin.”
With Falling Feathers, Day hopes to raise awareness about Reiki and sound therapy, sharing their incredible potential to foster peace, balance and health. For her, it’s not just a business; it’s a mission to help others find the same healing she once sought.
Go to fallingfeathershealing.com to learn more.
Sweat It Out
SWEAT SHOP OFFERS MORE THAN A WORKOUT FOR WOMEN
Writer / Katie Hosea Photographer / Emily Stewart
Amy Skirvin, Sweat Shop owner and publisher of Franklin Magazine, has her eyes set on the future. With a new studio space and continued growth, Skirvin has taken an exciting and humbling step forward.
After outgrowing its previous studio, the Sweat Shop team came together to expand into a larger studio in the Jessen building at 197 East Jefferson Street. The new location allows for more room for classes, and the chance to welcome even more women into the community. With an open floor plan, lengthy mirrors and fun lighting, the new space reflects the fun-loving group that is the Sweat Shop. With plans for new classes, programs and partnerships, the future of the Sweat Shop looks incredibly bright.
Among the many exciting changes, Skirvin is launching mommy-and-me classes in partnership with Becky Balz, who has worked with preschool-aged children
since 2012, and has found support and joy through the Sweat Shop community since June 2023.
Balz has gone through her own transformation over the last year and half. “I have never worked out this consistently or been this healthy in my life,” she says. Balz was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2017 and has had two children since then. With a busy life, it hasn’t always been easy to manage her sugar levels. However, since starting at the Sweat Shop, her checkups have gone great and she is now falling within the prediabetic range.
“Having a place where I can feel comfortable exercising while having fun and being part of a welcoming community has definitely played a huge role in improving my health,” Balz explains. She is looking forward to sharing the space with many of the families she cares for, who know her endearingly as Miss Becky.
These classes are designed to help mothers bond with their young children while also benefiting from a supportive fitness community.
In addition to these new classes, Skirvin is working on creating accountability groups where women can support each other in their fitness and wellness journeys. Having built the Sweat Shop on the power of community, Skirvin continues to show the importance of group fitness. When reflecting on why Franklin is important to her small business, Skirvin says “it is home to me, and that’s what I want the Sweat Shop to be for women; a place to belong.”
The new studio will also offer more advertising opportunities for local businesses, and Skirvin sees this as an important step in building stronger community ties. The Sweat Shop is all about women supporting women. Within the Jessen building, the Sweat Shop will be neighbors with several fantastic small businesses such as Pillar Wealth, J Avenue Boutique, and Essential Aesthetics Wellness & Body.
Looking ahead, Skirvin is excited about the possibilities that 2025 will bring, especially as the Sweat Shop continues to grow. For her it’s not just about expanding the business, but about continuing to
offer a place where women can focus on their physical and mental health, build confidence, and forge lasting relationships.
The Sweat Shop has become a place for women of all ages and stages of life to come together, prioritize their health and grow stronger together. Since its humble beginnings, the community has grown to include women from all generations. The diversity in the age and backgrounds of members is something Skirvin takes great pride in.
“I am so thankful for the women that have become such close friends now too,” Skirvin says.
The journey to this point wasn’t always easy, but it’s one Skirvin is grateful for. In 2019 Skirvin made a Facebook post asking for people to come work out with her in the local park. In the beginning, four women showed up to work out on a scorching basketball court with Skirvin. She then moved the small fitness group she started into a space in the basement of 10 Pins. Not long after, the group quickly outgrew that space, and Skirvin took another leap of faith by moving into a studio on South Main Street in Franklin, next to Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza. It was a big step, but Skirvin was determined to build something more than just a place to work out.
“I never thought it would turn into a space that would be mine,” she recalls. At first it was just something she needed to regain her sense of self. “When I saw the impact, that’s when I began to dream bigger,” she adds.
Her vision for the Sweat Shop became clear as she saw women’s confidence grow, not just in their fitness levels, but also in how they felt about themselves. Skirvin describes the transformation she witnessed: “I would see women come in completely covered up, and over time they would start wearing different clothes, becoming more comfortable in their bodies.” For Skirvin, this was one of the most rewarding aspects of the Sweat Shop’s journey. Seeing women take pride
in their appearance and health, and finding strength and confidence, was a driving force for her to continue building the community.
Skirvin didn’t embark on this journey alone. Her family has been a constant source of support and encouragement from the very beginning. Her mother, Teresa Crawford, was her biggest cheerleader and has always believed in her dream. “I have been there since day one, and I could not be more proud of watching her change lives and encourage women to be their best,” Crawford says.
Skirvin’s sister, Bekah Crawford, also played a key role in the Sweat Shop’s success. “She believed in me before I could believe in myself,” Skirvin says.
Skirvin’s husband, Steve, and their three children, Abby, Samantha and Henry, have been there every step of the way, and their pride in her work shines through. In 2023 Johentte Cruz joined the Sweat Shop community, bringing her love for great music, dancing, contagious energy, and fitness and business knowledge.
Over the years the Sweat Shop has changed many lives. Dawn O’Connor Klinge, who has been a member of the Sweat Shop since 2021, says “Amy is amazing and she motivates us all. It’s a family. I’m so much
“IF YOU ARE EVEN THINKING OF JOINING US, DO IT. AMY IS AN INSTRUCTOR LIKE NO OTHER AND THE COMMUNITY IS WELCOMING. YOU WON’T REGRET IT.”
- Bekah Crawford
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Sandi Stinson, CMA
stronger and it gives me a purpose to keep going. I love the Sweat Shop.” Another Sweat Shopper, Sharon Purdue Todd, says the Sweat Shop “has been my savior. I started when I was 65 and that was two years ago, and I am stronger and healthier mentally and physically than I have ever been.”
Kiersten Nixon, like many other Sweat Shoppers, is a mother, with two young children trying to find time for fitness.
“When I first started working out, I was intimidated because I had no idea what to expect,” she says. “To my surprise, the Sweat Shop was far from intimidating. Amy was fun and welcoming. Now, I couldn’t be more comfortable working out and I look forward to every class.”
Crawford has changed her life through the support of the Sweat Shop. “I’ve struggled with weight my entire life,” she says. In January 2022 Skirvin came to Crawford with the idea of starting a coaching program, and asked if she’d like to be the first client. “At that point I was 370 pounds and had been working for the studio for a year,” she says. “I started with a few classes a week and modified everything, and made slow changes to my diet. Neither
Amy or I knew how serious I’d end up taking it. I fell in love with taking care of myself, working out, and everything just became natural.”
By May 2023, Crawford had lost 100 pounds. Today she is down 145 pounds, and says “I am the healthiest I have ever been in all ways.” Now Crawford is preparing for her wedding and setting new goals with the constant support of the Sweat Shop. “The Sweat Shop and my sister have changed my life,” Crawford says. “Yes, it’s a fitness studio and I’ve lost 140-plus pounds, but what I’ve gained is like no other - my health, friendships, support, love, confidence and overall happiness I didn’t know existed.”
The Sweat Shop has always been about more than just fitness. It’s about women supporting one another, building confidence and fostering a sense of belonging. From its humble beginnings to its growing community of around 100 women, the Sweat Shop has become a place where laughter, sweat and support go hand-in-hand.
The studio offers a wide variety of classes including restorative yoga, strength
training, wall pilates, boxing, Zumba and line dancing, to name a few. There’s something for women of all fitness levels and schedules, and virtual classes are available for those with limited time. No matter which class women choose, they can count on a supportive, empowering environment where they can grow stronger, both physically and mentally.
To sign up for classes or learn more about pricing and schedules, follow the QR code shown here, visit sweatshop.fit, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, you’ll always feel welcome and celebrated at the Sweat Shop, where laughter is just as important as the sweat.
“If you are even thinking of joining us, do it,” Crawford says. “Amy is an instructor like no other and the community is welcoming. You won’t regret it.”
For more information go to www. sweatshop.fit or text your questions to 317-412-4652. Follow Sweat Shop on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ sweatshopfranklin.
HEART OF THE MATTER A GUIDE TO WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH
Writer / Kimber Hercest
February is associated with flowers, candy, love and hearts, all connected to Valentine’s Day. It’s also a great time to focus on a different kind of heart - the one beating that keeps us alive. February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness and reduce the risk of heart disease.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), “cardiovascular disease is the number-one killer of women, causing one in three deaths each year.”
Heart disease and stroke can affect women at any age. Officials with the AHA explain factors such as family history, personal risk, and life events - including pregnancy and menopause - play a significant role in increasing a woman’s risk.
Recognizing the symptoms of heart issues
is crucial. Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Lisa Lemons with Precision Med Spa explains how knowing the signs can save a life - very literally.
“[Some symptoms are] squeezing of the chest or back, or feeling like something heavy is on your chest,” she says. “Symptoms can also include pain in the neck, jaw, arms - sometimes both - or stomach, along with shortness of breath, sweating during rest, nausea and lightheadedness.”
Lemons also advises women to “think FAST” when it comes to recognizing the signs of a stroke:
• Face Drooping - One-sided facial droop or numbness
• Arm Weakness - Raise both arms; does one arm drift down?
• Speech Difficulty - Repeat a simple
phrase like “The sky is blue.”
• Time - Call 911 immediately. Quick response is essential to minimize lasting effects.
Lemons encourages women of all ages to prioritize their heart health by getting screened and consulting with health care providers about lifestyle tweaks. These include quitting smoking, controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol with medication, losing weight, cutting back on alcohol, and improving sleep and eating habits.
With nearly 45% of women in the United States over the age of 20 living with some form of cardiovascular disease, early detection and simple lifestyle adjustments can make a world of difference in heart health in the long run.
THE SALON
Writer / Katie Hosea
By opening its doors in July 2024, Taylor Stevenson’s lifelong dream was realized in The Salon. This trendy and inviting space is more than just a place for a hair makeover; it’s designed to help build confidence. The Salon is a beautiful, relaxing environment, featuring shades of pink and warm wood, great music, and an overall welcoming atmosphere.
“Owning a salon is something I always dreamed of doing,” says Stevenson.
As a child, Stevenson was inspired by a passion for hairstyling, and with the support of family and friends, she built a business. “I just kind of manifested from being a little girl who wanted to be a hairstylist, to being a grown woman who wanted to own this beautiful place where anybody can come and get their hair done and feel good about themselves,” she says.
Stevenson acknowledges that without the unwavering support of her family, The Salon wouldn’t have become what it is today. Her husband, Joseph Stevenson, played a crucial role, helping her maintain a healthy work-life balance while ensuring she was present for their infant daughter.
Her father, Danny Coffman, applied his business and contracting skills, offering critical advice throughout the process. Stevenson’s mother, Hilary Coffman, also contributed significantly by stepping in to care for her granddaughter during those busy early months.
When it came to naming the salon, Stevenson knew she wanted something simple yet bold that would reflect the essence of her business. “I wanted it to be the ‘it girl’ of hair salons - the one everyone knows about,” she explains. Thus The Salon was born, an establishment that promises not only stunning hair, but also an unforgettable self-care experience.
“The experience is personalized for each client,” says Stevenson.
The Salon fosters positive conversations and ensures that everyone feels welcomed and heard. Whether you’re in for a quick trim or a dramatic transformation, the goal is to ensure each visit is an experience worth remembering. The Salon even offers a unique feature for a tranquil escape: the Silent Appointment. This add-on allows clients to enjoy a peaceful, conversation-free session, perfect for anyone who needs a moment to unwind without the pressure of small talk.
The Salon offers services by two amazing stylists, Taylor Stevenson and Dayna Crothers. Stevenson, a native of Whiteland, feels fortunate to be growing her business and client base in Franklin. Stevenson, her husband and their 1-year-old daughter enjoy boating on Lake Monroe with their three Labrador retrievers, Nashville, Dolly and Cash, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Crothers, a 2024 graduate from Tricoci University of Beauty Culture, is an expert in blonding services, wedding styles and men’s cuts. When not working, she enjoys hiking with her dog.
Looking ahead to 2025, The Salon team is planning for growth. “My goal is to bring in two more stylists to fill our chairs, and to work on bringing in more clients for my stylists to keep their books full,” Stevenson shares. As the salon expands, the focus remains on providing exceptional service while building a community of talented professionals.
Booking your next appointment is simple. Schedule online at thesalon1.co or call the salon directly at 317-727-2921.
Whether you’re seeking a subtle refresh or a bold new look, The Salon promises an experience that goes far beyond great hair. With personalized service, a relaxing ambiance and skilled professionals close to home, you’ll leave feeling confident and beautiful.
ESSENTIAL AESTHETICS
WHERE LUXURY MEETS RESULTS-DRIVEN SKIN CARE
Writer & Photographer / Katie Hosea
In the heart of Downtown Franklin, Essential Aesthetics is offering a blend of high-end skin care treatments and personalized service that leaves clients feeling rejuvenated and confident.
Founded by Terri Lundy, a licensed aesthetician with 17 years of experience, this intimate and professional spa delivers results-driven skin care with a focus on individualized care. Alongside her partners, Robin Eads and Sofia Bohler, Lundy is excited to begin serving the Franklin community from a new space, located at 197 East Jefferson Street, Suite C.
Lundy’s journey into the world of aesthetics began at a luxury spa, where she honed her skills. But after several years she transitioned into medical aesthetics, working alongside plastic surgeons at Franciscan and receiving additional training in dermatology. With a passion for helping clients look and feel their best, Lundy set out to create a space where both medical-grade treatments and luxurious spa experiences could coexist. In 2020 she opened the doors of Essential Aesthetics, LLC in Franklin.
“I really love working and living in the same community,” she says. “Franklin is a warm, welcoming community. It is fun to watch the town grow and yet keep the small, college-town feel. It’s exciting to see smallbusiness owners supporting one another.”
Essential Aesthetics has grown significantly since its opening through word of mouth spread by happy clients. With the growth, Lundy was joined by Eads, a board-certified clinical nurse specialist, advanced practice nurse, and owner of Essential Wellness and Body. She graduated from Indiana University School of Nursing with three degrees. In addition to being laser certified, Eads practices lifestyle management and health coaching, which enables people to improve their health. Behavior modification interventions, targeting areas like physical activity, stress and nutrition, are utilized
to help improve wellness and weight management, and reduce health risks, while promoting healthy behaviors.
Eads, founder of Essential Wellness and Body, offers a range of Cutera laser treatments, including vein therapy, hair removal, intense pulsed light, and laser genesis. She also focuses on overall wellness, including non-medicinal health, and future programs like “Walk and Talk With the Doc”, offering clients the chance to discuss wellness topics while enjoying a stroll around town.
The practice recently expanded once again with the addition of Bohler, a licensed aesthetician known for luxury skin care services. Bohler brings a fresh perspective to the team, offering clients everything from custom facials to body treatments, LED red and blue light therapy (including a foot treatments), and waxing. She is a perfect fit for those looking to unwind and indulge in a relaxing experience while still addressing their skin’s unique needs.
As a team, Essential Aesthetics specializes in result-driven skin care, tailoring each service to clients’ specific needs. Whether it’s microneedling, laser treatments, chemical peels, dermaplaning, or facials targeting rosacea, acne and anti-aging, approaches are customized to ensure the best results possible.
“We all call ourselves Essential because each of us brings something unique to the table,” says Lundy. “Together we provide clients with the best of both worlds - luxury skin
care with medical-grade treatments that give them results.”
For those seeking cutting-edge skin care treatments, Essential Aesthetics is also excited to announce new retail hours on Franklin’s First Fridays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. During these hours, clients can explore toptier skin care products from brands like ZO, Hale & Hush, and OSEA, while receiving personalized advice from an experienced esthetician to help them choose the best products for their skin. The upcoming grand reopening event on February 7 will feature giveaways, wine and special discounts.
New clients can expect a warm welcome upon entering Essential Aesthetics, as each treatment begins with a thorough consultation to discuss their individual skin care needs. From there, they’ll experience professional, personalized care designed to leave them feeling refreshed and glowing.
With its exceptional staff, personalized services and deep commitment to the community, Essential Aesthetics has firmly established itself as a top destination for skin care in Franklin. Whether you’re looking for luxurious relaxation or transformative treatments, Essential Aesthetics has something special just for you.
For more information, follow the QR code or visit essentialawb. my.canva.site.
FEBRUARY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ACROSS
1. Act the mendicant
4. Boys, to Burns 8. A bit loopy
12. Questionnaire datum
13. “American ___” 14. Sole 15. Also 16. Whirling water 17. Desist
18. Dug up 20. Hose hue
21. Particular, for short 23. “Concentration” puzzle 25. Modify 27. Toupee, informally 28. ___ now or never 31. Passage preventer
33. Van Morrison classic 35. Snoop 36. Dash
38. London’s ___ Court
39. Kathmandu country
41. Friends and neighbors 42. Extinct flock
45. Celebrity ribfest
47. Superior to 48. Deck
49. Chalet site, perhaps 52. Club
53. “Take this!” 54. Born in France? 55. Bounds
56. “Paradise Lost” setting 57. Bonus for waiting
1. Cavern sight 2. I problem? 3. High school subject 4. Bank loan security 5. Calculator, at times 6. Go unsteadily 7. Full of guile 8. Doctor’s orders 9. Beginning to freeze?
10. Aggressively publicize 11. Blood category
19. Coffee preference
20. Base caller 21. Pouches
22. Leaky faucet sound 24. Software error
26. Wanders
28. Annoyance
29. List
30. Dress-uniform part
32. Frost’s bite? 34. Thousand ___, Calif.
Ruined 39. Expected outcomes
River through Tours
Spoil, with “on”
It’s within your range
Word with heat or meat
Biblical conclusion
French beverage
HOMETOWN HEROES Diane Black
Writer / Teena Catt
People who know her use words such as generous, truthful, compassionate, charitable, noble, selfless and goodhearted in describing Diane Black. If a person were to confront her with these descriptive words, she would undoubtedly be humbled.
Black first came to Johnson County in 1954 when her Coast Guard father started the farming trade, after promising his in-laws he would work on their Johnson County farmland. To do this, though, he had to attend Purdue University, as he had no prior knowledge of farming. Her father, Charles (“Chuck”), and her mother, Louise, lived a life giving back to their community. Black says her philosophy to life came from her upbringing. She says her parents taught her to “tend the garden where you are planted, be that your church or an organization. Weed out the bad stuff, don’t let weeds grow and always leave the garden better than when you arrived.” Carrying on that way of thinking has led Black to impact organizations in Johnson County.
Franklin Community School Corporation, Central Nine Career Center, Franklin College, Johnson County Public
Library (JCPL), Girls Inc., United Way of Johnson County, Leadership Johnson County, Johnson County Extension Services and others have benefitted from Black’s time and energy.
She said her church, Hurricane Community Church, will always be number-one on her list. Black has been attending for over 70 years. “You cannot give 100% to five different things,” she says. “You are cheating somebody - if not the organization, then yourself - when you
spread yourself thin.”
Black currently gives of her time and talents to JCPL. She volunteers several times weekly to help with the JCPL Foundation’s operations. Black was a founding member of the JCPL Foundation and the Silver Tree Society, a legacy giving group. “Her generosity of both time and treasure has made our JCPL Foundation a success, and enabled JCPL to provide many innovative programs and unique learning
opportunities to Johnson County,” says Lisa Lintner Valenzuela, director at Johnson County Public Library. “Diane’s kindness and thoughtfulness are an example to us all. She deeply loves and appreciates Johnson County, and I feel incredibly fortunate to call her a friend.”
Along with her involvement in the library, Black leads three book clubs. She enjoys the diversity of the women in her book clubs and says she learns from them. “Their lives are so different from mine, and that is a good thing,” says Black.
Black says people need to be good listeners in addition to being good talkers, and when asked how she became such a good listener, Black says she trained herself. “I just told myself to shut up,” she says.
Black and her late husband, Bill Black, raised three children who have now blessed her with seven grandchildren, aged 8 to 18. She is proud that her family lives within a quarter of a mile from her today. Black says her greatest achievement has been her family. “I am proud of my kids,” she says. “They are good adults. They get along. They love each other.”
A photograph was published in a local newspaper years ago showing Black wearing bib overalls while walking with two of her children. Black laughingly says this is one of her favorite photos. She says she practically lived in bib overalls at one time in her life.
Farm girl, camp counselor, athlete, teacher, parent, leader - these simple roles are partnered with various educational and career accomplishments, degrees, and titles for Black. They placed Black in the Franklin Community Schools Hall of Fame in 2017. With all of those titles and accolades, she is still the woman pictured in the bib overalls. It is undeniable that Black has planted a garden and invested back in that garden in our community.
Black’s wish and hope is that every person would do something to make a difference. “It does not have to be big,” she says. “If we all helped someone else, what a difference we would make,” she says.
Black provides the example of a neighbor’s working hours being cut back, leading to financial difficulties. “If we just sent an anonymous note with $100 or even $10, with the promise of sending an additional $10 a month, think about how that might make a difference to someone,” she says.
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION EXPERIENCE
JOHNSON COUNTY TO HOST TRAVELING HISTORICAL EXHIBIT IN FEBRUARY
Writer / Teena Catt
To mark the 250th anniversary of America’s struggle for independence, two organizations, American Battlefield Trust and Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), have a collaborative project that will travel to libraries, historical societies and museums through the country.
Johnson County will be fortunate to kick off America’s 250th birthday early by hosting this exhibit at the Johnson County Historical Museum beginning on February 14 through February 28. David Pfeiffer, director of the museum, is excited to have the museum host this traveling exhibition. He credits the local chapter of DAR, the Alexander Hamilton Chapter, for securing Franklin as a host spot.
The exhibit will include 12 display panels and three interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology, unique artifacts and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped our nation. The exhibit features stories of diverse
viewpoint and experiences, retelling the stories of Patriots and Loyalists, men and women, black and Native populations, and even international allies. Rather than focus on the more famous generals and statesmen, the exhibit introduces us to drummer boys, military mapmakers and other ordinary people.
The display will introduce us to real people such as Sarah Osborn Benjamin, who supported the Patriot frontline, Winsor Fry, a former slave fighting as a Patriot and navigating life in a new nation, and Thomas Brown, a Loyalist who endured torture and eventually exile. The American Revolution Experience invites visitors to consider the choice faced
by members of the revolutionary generation as tensions mounted in the 1770s; would these ordinary citizens risk their lives and livelihoods in pursuit of liberty, or would they remain loyal subjects of the British crown, coming into conflict with neighbors and family?
While Franklin is one of 18 stops for the traveling exhibit, you can also access the exhibit online. The museum will hold the traveling display in its auditorium during regular operating hours. The museum and the exhibit is free to the public. Elevator access is available. The museum is located at 135 North Main Street in Franklin.
To learn more about American Battlefield Trust and the exhibit, visit battlefields.org. To learn more about Daughters of the American Revolution, visit dar.org.
NEW TO FRANKLIN MAYFIELD CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Everley is accepting new patients
701 W Madison St Franklin, IN 46131
Next to the Fairgrounds
Call 317-868-8000 or visit mayfield-chiropractic.com. to schedule a visit.
I have been a patient of Dr. Everley’s for several years. I feel so much better after my adjustments. She is the best!
What patients say about Dr. Everley – Cindy Graves
Cruisin’ Franklin
Writer / John Wales
Nothing is more depressing to cruisers than winter. During the dog days of summer and even spring and fall, cruisers can’t wait until that next cruise or car show. When winter rolls in, the snow falls and the salt is spread, and the hot rods go into hibernation, snuggled under their comfy car covers. Their owners, well, they just stare at their calendars hoping summer starts earlier this year.
With the depression caused from lack of “hot rod therapy,” most cruisers do maintenance on their rides or just wait for better weather. Other cruisers find ways to supplement their need for cruising in a cool ride. John Wilson is one such guy.
A proud veteran and president of the Hoosier Coachmen Car Club, Wilson wanted to cruise year-round and honor the Navy that he served. With his hot rods put up for the winter, he decided to build a rolling tribute on a vehicle that is cool and can be driven all year.
Meet Pearl, the name of Wilson’s 2016 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited. Named after Pear Harbor, this cool Jeep really stands out. “Jeepers” refers to a large group of cruisers who often plan long cruises year-round, enjoying the versatility of the four-wheel-drive vehicle while also looking cool. Speaking of looking cool, Wilson’s Jeep grabs attention at every car show or
store parking lot it enters.
While mostly stock, Pearl became a rolling tribute to the U.S. Navy as it is adorned with graphics that tell a compelling story of the service and dedication of its owner. Wilson joined the Navy in 1989, and in 1991 was stationed at Pearl Harbor on the USS Crommelin FFG-37. The frigate was named after the Crommelin brothers, the only group of five siblings to ever graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy. The ship would later be decommissioned in a ceremony at Pearl Harbor in October 2012.
Pearl features the names of every duty station and port that Wilson visited during his service. The rear fender displays the coordinates of the final resting place of his beloved ship as it was intentionally sunk during a Rim of the Pacific Exercise after being decommissioned. As a final show of respect, Wilson had a star made on the hood to honor all those lost during the deadly attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
While Wilson drives the Jeep yearround, it still makes many appearances at Franklin car shows and cruises in the summer months. Veterans, especially Navy vets, really appreciate seeing this rolling tribute that often has a U.S. flag and U.S. Navy flag waving from its rear bumper.
While stationed in Hawaii, Wilson and his wife, Sherry, couldn’t afford reliable transportation, so on weekends they would rent a Jeep to explore the island. After his tour of duty concluded, the couple moved back to Indiana and started a family. After their kids were grown, the couple wanted to experience those Jeep adventures again, so they searched for the perfect one to transform into Pearl.
Reflecting on his ride, Wilson says that “as a civilian, I have been blessed with a wonderful family, great friends, and even won the 2000 Indy 500 as a team member of Target/Chip Ganassi Racing, but the honor of serving my country and being a U.S. Navy veteran has brought me great pride, and displaying those memories on Pearl was just fitting.”
As most cruisers count the days until summer, the Wilsons are all smiles cruising in Pearl through all seasons. In the summer you might see them cruising in one of their other hot rods, but this beautiful Navy tribute Jeep is cruised year-round. If you happen to see Pearl, take a moment to soak in all the history, and perhaps take a moment of silence for those who have given their last full measure of devotion in the service of our country.
Until next time…keep cruising.
Soup Bowl Celebrates its 20th Anniversary
February 23, 2025 / 4pm - 6:30pm
Scott Hall, Johnson County Fairgrounds
Our Mission
Habitat for Humanity of Johnson County is an ecumenical Christian organization dedicated to working in partnership with families in Johnson County under the conviction that every person should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live where they feel safe and have dignity.
6
NOT SO NEWLYWED GAME
FRANKLIN COLLEGE, 101
BRANIGIN BLVD.
5:30PM
Fundraiser benefiting Turning Point Johnson County. Couples will be questioned to see how well they know each other after years of marriage!
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SH STEMS GALENTINE’S DAY FLORAL ARRANGEMENT WORKSHOP
MILLIE’S ICE CREAM, 90 W. JEFFERSON ST. 3 - 5PM
Grab your best gals and let’s create a floral arrangement you will fall in love with! Galentine’s Day and flowers go together perfectly!
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DEMENTIA
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
HAMPTON INN & SUITES, 361 PARIS DR. 1:30 - 3PM
Are you caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or any other type of dementia? Join us in the meeting room at Hampton Inn & Suites in Franklin for our Dementia Caregiver Support meeting!
23
2025 DAILY JOURNAL BRIDAL SHOW
GARMENT FACTORY, 101 WAYNE ST. 12 - 3PM
Don’t miss the south side’s premier bridal show on 23. This event is free and open to the public.
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SOUP BOWL
SCOTT HALL AT JOHNSON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, 250 FAIRGROUNDS ST. 4 - 6:30PM
For 20 years, 500 community members have gathered to choose a unique ceramic bowl crafted by a local artisan, and enjoyed soups, breads and desserts from local establishments for a good cause.
