Franklin Magazine August 2024 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

True Movement

Le Rose Dance Academy Is Celebrating 30 Years

Hometown Heroes

Firefighters Eric, Caleb and Dylan Funkhouser

Breaking Barriers

HER PROGRAM AT JOHNSON MEMORIAL HEALTH OFFERS NEW HOPE FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

6 TRUE MOVEMENT

Le Rose Dance Academy Is Celebrating 30 Years

10 CRUISIN’ FRANKLIN

12 RENOVATION SENSATION

Couple Transforms House on Banta Street From “Hexed” to Homey

16 BREAKING BARRIERS

HER Program at Johnson Memorial Health Offers New Hope for Women’s Health

19 FRANKLIN LAWN TIPS

20 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Hoosier Insurance Guy

22 A FAVE IN FRANKLIN

Richard’s Brick Oven

Pizza Remains a Scrumptious and Savory Local Staple

24 HOMETOWN HEROES

Firefighters Eric, Caleb and Dylan Funkhouser

25 FOLKS OF FRANKLIN

Q&A with Maggie Tolbert

26 MAKING THE MOST OF THE LAST DAYS OF SUMMER AROUND TOWN

28 NEW STARTS FOR AGED HEARTS

Taffy’s Touch Gives New Hope for Senior Dogs

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TRUE MOVEMENT

LE ROSE DANCE ACADEMY IS CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

In 1995, at the age of 18, Amanda Nixon, then known by her maiden name Purlee, took over a well-known and well-established dance studio previously owned by Verna Purdy Cross. Over the past 30 years, Nixon has not only maintained the studio’s reputation, but also significantly expanded its influence. Her dedication and passion for dance have touched the lives of countless young dancers, both novices and seasoned performers, as well as their families. Now, as she prepares to celebrate three decades of leadership, the impact of her commitment is evident in the thriving community she has fostered and the numerous dancers who have flourished under her guidance at Le Rose Dance Academy in Franklin.

In 1970 Cross, a determined single mother who had developed a love for dancing at the age of 21, embarked on a journey that would leave a lasting legacy in the City of Franklin. She is deeply grateful to her first dance instructor, who played a pivotal role in her journey. After enrolling her two daughters, Tara and Angel, who were 5 and 3 years old, Cross decided to join them and explore dancing too. “I just started dancing for fun,” she recalls.

However, her passion for dance quickly grew and her instructor recognized her potential, encouraging her to open her own studio. This encouragement marked the beginning of what would become a significant and enduring contribution to the Franklin community’s dance culture.

Cross converted her garage on Palmer Street into a modest dance studio, beginning with just five dancers. Despite the humble beginnings, her passion and dedication to dance quickly attracted more students, causing her to outgrow her garage. Over the

Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran

years she relocated her studio several times to accommodate the growing number of dancers. Eventually she found a permanent home in the upstairs rooms of a historic downtown Franklin building.

Throughout her years of running the studio, Cross instructed many young dancers who cherished their time at her school.

Among these early students was Lisa VanVleet, who passed on her love of dance to her daughter, Jessica. Cross’s thenstepdaughters, Molly Munn and Laura Britt (their maiden name is Baxter), also found their passion for dance at Cross’s studio. “My dance years were some of my best memories growing up as a child,” Munn says. “I learned self-confidence beneath those blinding lights on stage, while of course imagining everyone sitting in the audience in their underwear, as Verna would say!”

Another notable student was Nixon, who would later take over the studio

and continue Cross’s legacy. In their youth, Munn and Nixon showcased their exceptional talent in a tap routine that won them a regional competition under Cross’s instruction. Their victory earned them the opportunity to travel to New York City, where they competed against dancers from around the globe. The experience was unforgettable, as they not only represented their hometown, but also demonstrated their skill and dedication on an international stage.

Their performance in New York City marked a significant milestone for the dance studio, and an incredibly proud moment for Cross. “Dance partners share more than steps; they share trust and develop a unique bond,” Munn says. “Amanda was not only my dance partner. She became part of my forever family along with her immediate family. When I am old and can barely remember my name, I’ll still remember the steps to our tap number we did in NYC, ‘Cleaning Up the Town.’”

The bonds formed at Cross’s dancing school were strong and enduring, creating a close-knit community that spanned generations. As these former students grew up, they often reminisced about their formative years spent dancing under Cross’s watchful eye. Her teaching extended beyond just dance; it instilled confidence, discipline and a sense of belonging in each student.

Just as Cross’s first instructor had encouraged her in her career path, Cross began to train and encourage Nixon to pursue a career in dance. “She was extremely organized and had a passion for dance,” Cross recalls. Nixon also had tremendous support from her parents. Her late father, Lee Purlee, always encouraged her to spend her life doing what she loved. Her mother, Barbara Purlee, was an early fixture behind the scenes while Cross was the owner, and remains essential to the studio three decades since her daughter took over. “They were the perfect package, and I knew the studio was meant to be hers,” Cross says.

Nixon took over the business at 18, freshly graduated from Franklin Community High School in 1995. She always knew she wanted to pursue dance, but was unsure of how it would play into her life. At the time she was an instructor for Cross, while also employed by the National Cheerleaders Association. When the opportunity to take over the studio presented itself, she made the life-changing decision to do so, with encouragement from her parents and Cross. Cross remained an instructor for another 10 years. Nixon renamed the studio Le Rose Dance Academy and stayed at the Jefferson Street location in the historic Wigwam building for three more years, before moving to the current location on Commerce Drive in 1998.

Since then, Nixon not only continued to grow and expand the studio, but also became a mom. Balancing motherhood with her career as a business owner and instructor wasn’t always easy, but Nixon says her son, Tyler Williams, “has always been the brightest light” in her life.

Through the years Nixon continued to expand her studio space, while also creating a competition team named The Rosettes in 2003. In addition to numerous competitions, her team was selected to dance at the Indy 500 and has performed at the Circle of Lights celebration in downtown Indianapolis six different times. Nixon also took The Rosettes to Disney World on a few different occasions to attend their impressive dance workshop, providing her students with remarkable opportunities to showcase their talent and gain an invaluable experience.

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One student was Dr. Amanda Dininger, owner of Blue Iris Optometry in Franklin. Dininger was a student from 1985 to 2003, and then taught at the studio part time from 2012 to 2020. Now her daughter, Mollie Rose (named after Nixon’s middle name of Rose), is a dancer for The Rosettes. “When I was little, I remember watching the older girls and idolizing them, Amanda especially,” Dininger says. “As I got older and moved up to their group, Amanda took me under her wing and instantly became the big sister I never had. We’d spend hours dancing together every Saturday. She would even let me hang out with her when we weren’t dancing. The transition when Amanda took over the studio from Verna was seamless. Amanda has continued the legacy Verna created, and has

continued to elevate it in an ever-evolving dance climate. Now I get to watch Mollie dance under the direction of my best friend.”

Through all of the competitions and monumental dance experiences, Nixon consistently prioritizes the well-being of her students and their families. She not only runs a successful and impactful dance studio, but also contributes significantly to the community. She offers free dance workshops at Franklin elementary schools, provides yearly dance scholarships, participates in parades, and was a 2023 Leadership Johnson County graduate. Her dedication and love for every student and Franklin underscores her commitment to making a positive difference through dance.

Nixon continues to honor Cross’s vision, celebrating the impact the studio has had on countless lives. The studio remains a vibrant part of Franklin, filled with echoes of laughter, music and the rhythmic sound of dancing feet. Cross’s dream, which began in a humble garage on Palmer Street, has blossomed into a beloved institution at 717 Commerce

Drive, with 290 dancers enrolled in 2024. It consists of five studios, a kids lounge where dancers can do homework or have a snack between classes, as well as two lobbies for parents to bond while their kiddos dance. Le Rose Dance Academy represents 30 years of building confidence, and is cherished by the generations of dancers who have passed through its doors.

Visit lerosedance.com to learn more.

Le Rose Dance Academy

•AGES:WALKERS-18+

•RECREATIONAL, PRE-COMPETITIVE, & COMPETITIVE

•BEGINNER THROUGH PRE-PROFESSIONAL

•CELEBRATING OUR 30TH SEASON TEACHING DANCE IN JOHNSON COUNTY!

Cruisin’ Franklin

Writer / John Wales

Franklin in the late ‘80s was a cruising destination. Teenagers from all over central Indiana made their way slowly around the courthouse square. On nice Friday and Saturday evenings it could take over an hour to make a single lap around downtown. Cars and trucks of all ages would endlessly loop the courthouse, but one model in particular really stood out, thanks in part to Vanilla Ice.

The Ford Mustang is an American icon. Production began on March 9, 1964, and the beloved pony car exceeded all sales estimates from the start. The car embodied youth, and the teenagers of the ‘60s saw them as an escape from the bulky, finned and overly chromed cars of their parents.

Ironically, the Mustang started to grow larger and slower in the coming years. For the second generation, Ford made a radical change to the model and created the Mustang II. Based off of the Pinto chassis, the car was smaller and considerably less powerful. For many diehard Mustang fans, this model

appeared to signal the end of the road for the mighty Mustang.

In 1979, feeling the pressure from their customer base, Ford introduced the third generation with the larger Fox Body frame. This new model instantly brought the legendary Mustang back into prominence. Popular rapper Vanilla Ice was topping the charts with his song “Ice Ice Baby,” which included the line “Rollin’ in my 5.0” - a nod to the 5.0 engine displacement of the Mustang. Ford was once again attracting the youth market, as well as reviving the love affair of those who made the first-generation Mustang so popular.

As a teenager in Franklin, if you were able to cruise in this new Mustang or its sister, the Mercury Capri, you got the attention of all around, especially those of the opposite sex. The third generation also saw the return of the convertible option, which increased visibility.

Jason Smith from Greenwood was one of

those Franklin cruisers. His first ride was a Mercury Capri and he spent nearly every weekend circling the courthouse along with hundreds of other local teens.

With his love affair of the Fox Body Mustangs in high gear, Smith has gone on to own a stable of Mustangs, all of them with his beloved Fox Body feature. 1993 marked the final year of this generation and Ford wanted to offer something special. As a swan song of sorts, they introduced the 1993 Mustang LX Convertible Feature Limited Edition. Only 3,003 of these Feature convertibles were produced. Of those, only 1,503 were painted Canary Yellow. Smith listed this limited edition model as his dream car. He knew he had to have one, but was very specific. He wanted to find one with low mileage, and it had to be a five-speed manual transmission.

While touring a national Mustang event in 2013, he happened upon a Canary Yellow convertible with black interior and three foot pedals, making it the manual transmission he

desired. It was flawless and he soon discovered why; there were only 2,452 original miles on the odometer. He knew he had to buy it, but unfortunately it wasn’t for sale. With a sigh, he gave the owner his contact information with the hopes that he would change his mind.

To his great surprise he received a call from the owner over a year later! Smith became the new owner on April 20, 2015. Through the years he has owned multiple Mustangs, which helps keep the mileage low on this one, as it currently shows only 2,976 miles.

A couple of Saleen Mustangs are also part of Smith’s stable, and he is considered a Fox Body Mustang authority, as he currently serves as president of the Indiana Shelby American Automobile Club. He also realized just how much he missed that first ride, so he acquired another 1982 Mercury Capri as well.

The Feature convertible and the Capri are really the bookends of his collection. “One is a reflection of what started it all for me back in

1987,” Smith said. The other is his dream car that took 22 years to become a reality.

The Canary Yellow Feature can be seen on occasion cruising The Suds in Greenwood

and hitting up the car cruises in downtown Franklin. With such low mileage, it doesn’t appear often, so be on the lookout for this amazing ride.

HUBER FORD

RENOVATION SENSATION

COUPLE TRANSFORMS HOUSE ON BANTA STREET FROM “HEXED” TO HOMEY

Writer / Frieda Dowler

It only took Chan Cornett 20 minutes to decide to buy the home at 161 Banta Street in Franklin. However, his wife, Marci, needed more convincing. Closing her jaw after it had dropped when Chan said, “This is the one,” she listened as he promised her a beautiful home if she would trust him.

Chan and Marci were introduced to Franklin by a friend, and liked the vibe of the small town. So in 2010 they moved their business to Franklin, where Cornett Roofing manufactures roofing products on Amy Lane, off of Arvin Road. Soon after Chan and Marci became empty nesters, they began a house search. They were already invested in the community, so why not live in Franklin too? They loved the walkability of the downtown area and knew it was going to become a place they dreamed of living in - one that included knowing your

neighbors, where contributing to the community was appreciated.

In 2016 they looked at several houses, before Chan noticed the house at 161 Banta. His realtor tried talking him out of going to see the 1928 Craftsman-style brick house, because the realtor knew the house as the “hex house.” The house was in shabby condition on the outside, but once inside, it got worse. Chan knew it would be a complete gut job. However, because he is a general contractor, he had vision to see beyond the current condition and he resolved to make it into something special.

Chan began the year-long process of turning the house from hexed to homey. When they made an offer on the house, they gave the owner three months to vacate. It took that three months, plus two 40-yard dumpsters, to hold the collection of belongings

Photographer / Emily Stewart

inside. Chan took advantage of that time and began building an oversized garage that would house his hobbies and park their cars in. Solar panels from Cornett Roofing were installed to supply energy to the garage. One thousand solar panels also power his manufacturing facility.

One of the reasons Chan and Marci wanted to look at this particular house was because of the size of the lot it was on. Most of the houses in the downtown area don’t have garages or much property to build one on. The lot size was perfect because they could build a garage on it. Chan could also see the living possibilities for them inside of the house.

With Chan acting as his own general contractor, they began

taking the house down to the studs and pulling out the floors. They enlisted family members for the demolition process and professional subcontractors for some of the other work. They had hopes of saving some of the original features of the house, but much of it was damaged because of animals living inside. They were able to save a fireplace surround and mantle, French doors, windows, exterior doors, and a chandelier.

The big changes on the downstairs level in the house were in the dining room and kitchen. A wall was removed between them to share a single space, separated by a counter. Bigger changes happened upstairs, where the ceiling and walls were reconfigured to make a luxury suite. A vaulted ceiling graces the lounging area, the

main bathroom with claw-foot tub, the main bedroom, ample closets, and a dressing room for Marci, with the original diningroom chandelier hanging on high ceilings.

The exterior red brick was whitewashed to give it a new life. Chan used one of his company’s roofing products to give the house an impressive clay tile look. The product is made from metal, but one would likely never know it.

It’s a top seller among his roofing products, especially in some of the historic restoration projects his company gets involved with.

The landscape also matches the home’s fresh look. Hardscapes

were created for ease of entrance from the street. In the space between the home and the garage is an outdoor lounge area. Colorful sun sails provide shade. The softscape is in keeping with the structure of the home and complements its architecture. The idyllic home is one to be proud, of with old-house charm and new-house features.

The Cornetts love living in Franklin. They made the commitment to Franklin in 2010, to help stimulate the economy by providing jobs and paying taxes. They are now committed to being a leader in their industry, being responsible in reducing environmental impact, and supporting the local community with charitable contributions.

Chan and Marci agree that

Franklin is becoming the town they wanted it to be when they chose to live here. They enjoy walking to concerts at the amphitheater, playing pickleball at Youngs Creek Park, and dinner at their favorite spots. They applaud the efforts the town leaders have made to preserve and grow the values that continue to make Franklin an enjoyable place to live, do business and play.

They love Franklin so much that they continue to invest in what makes Franklin a destination by owning a downtown business. The Upstairs Basement on Jefferson Street is operated by Chan’s sister, Laney Cornett. Their desire is to be contributors, thereby stimulating the heartbeat of small-town life.

Chan and Marci’s story is country boy meets city girl. Just like old house meets modern living, they’re great at making it work. As a blended family, they share seven grown children. Grandchildren are being added, filling their regular Sunday dinners with joy.

As the fifth owner of the home built by a doctor nearly 100 years ago, Marci and Chan agreed to show their newly renovated home during the Franklin Historic Home Tour in 2018. That was the last home tour event hosted by Franklin Heritage, Inc. But if you went inside their home, you would agree that Chan held to his promise to Marci. He created a beautiful home in the heart of downtown Franklin.

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ROOFING SERVICES:

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ROOFING TYPES:

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Breaking Barriers

HER PROGRAM AT JOHNSON MEMORIAL HEALTH

OFFERS NEW HOPE FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

Writer / Katie Hosea Photographer / Emily Stewart

Dr. Emily Cline, MD, has passionately served women and families of Johnson County for more than 28 years with Johnson Memorial Health (JMH) as a board-certified OB-GYN. Alicia Fischer, also an employee of JMH in patient accounts, was a patient of Cline’s in 1998. She and her husband, Eddie, felt so strongly about the care they received that they named their daughter Emily. Now, more than 25 years later, Emily Fischer works for JMH in a pediatrician’s office.

In January 2017, after a brief period in Knoxville, Tennessee, Cline returned to JMH to embark on a new chapter in her career: the creation of the HER program. This initiative was born out of Cline’s recognition of a significant gap in women’s health care - namely, the lack of spaces where women could openly discuss and address their health issues without fear of judgment or stigma. Cline is now a Greenwood resident and currently works in the JMH Primary Care Center in Whiteland.

Cline’s HER program was created to provide a safe and supportive place for the discussion and treatment of women’s health issues, mainly urinary incontinence. Cline says the goal was to create a program that provides “community, education, resources and wellness” for women facing health challenges in silence, affecting their quality of life and mental health as a result.

The HER program was designed to be a sanctuary for women facing a variety of health challenges. Cline’s vision for the program was clear and ambitious: to create a community-oriented, educational and resource-rich environment for women’s health. She wanted to establish a space where women

“I really firmly believe, and I’ve been like this my whole medical career, if you get patients in, women particularly, and if you give them the information they need to make good decisions on their own health care, they will by and large pick the thing that is best for them.”

- Dr. Emily Cline

could find wellness and support, free from the constraints of societal norms that often discourage open discussion of women’s health issues.

In her time as a physician, she’s seen countless women ignore health concerns because society taught them not to talk about those concerns, and put everyone else before themselves. Her goal is to change that, and help women realize that while some health concerns may be common, they can still be treated to improve overall quality of life.

According to Cline, societal norms can discourage open discussion of women’s health issues, leading women to confide in

a few trusted individuals who might also be unaware of treatment options. “We are trained to not talk about those things, so if women talk about it, they talk about it in very small groups with their close friends or their families,” she says. “The people they talk to probably also don’t know there are treatments.”

Such issues that have driven Cline to create a program that is informative and provides access to women in need. The HER program puts an emphasis on providing resources and treatments for issues like urinary incontinence, pelvic and organ prolapse, pelvic pain, and endometriosis. Cline reflects on the issues concerning women’s health.

“They are unmentionables,” she says. “We must be ladylike and we can’t talk about these things in public. We are brought up with this sense that these things are normal. Scrubbing toilets comes ahead of getting your bone health take care of.”

While these health concerns often go untreated, they can lead to serious physical and mental health issues. Women with health concerns they feel are unmentionable, and therefore go untreated, often have decreased self-image, depression, interference with relationships, and isolation from their social network. “If you have to run to the bathroom every 30 minutes, are you going to say yes to going to the movies with your friends?” Cline says. These are missed opportunities that women face regularly, but they don’t have to. The population is aging and the population of women who need these services is continuing to grow. Throughout her career, Cline has seen many women suffering in silence.

By breaking the silence and creating a safe place for women to talk about their health concerns, Cline is breaking the mold. These issues are no longer unmentionable in the HER program. They need to be discussed so that women can be treated. Cline focuses on reducing stigma and increasing awareness. “I really firmly believe, and I’ve been like this my whole medical career, if you get patients in, women particularly, and if you give them

the information they need to make good decisions on their own health care, they will by and large pick the thing that is best for them,” she says.

Cline specializes in treating very common concerns often left out of routine exams. Treatment is highly individualized and focuses on treating the root cause of the problem, whether it be mechanical (related to the structural issues in the body) or functional (related to the muscles, bones, joints and nerves).

For example, urinary incontinence, a condition that affects many women but is rarely discussed openly, can be managed through a variety of treatments. Cline offers minimally invasive surgical options that involve smaller incisions, quicker recovery times and less pain, compared to traditional surgeries. Additionally, she provides injections that can help to improve the function of the urethra and reduce symptoms of urinary incontinence. Each patient’s treatment plan is crafted based on her specific needs and preferences, grounded in evidence-based practices.

The HER program also allows women to call or email to schedule appointments without the referral of their primary care physician. This reduces the stress around discussing uncomfortable topics and creates a more direct route to adequate care. When new patients call, the navigator will complete an indepth intake with lab work and an extensive history, to ensure Cline is well-informed and ready aid the patient in accessing the right treatment during her appointment.

In the future, Cline hopes to expand the HER program to a brick-and-mortar establishment with more expansive resources. Her goal is to create a space for women to come and put their health first. She envisions this space as providing communal rooms free educational discussions, community space, areas for women to bring their children and be together, coffee shops and other amenities, and a navigator to guide them to the resources they need. Women are often the ones bringing each member of their family to the doctor, and it is important to build a space they are comfortable in. “They will bring their family

to get good care if you open a door for them to walk through, but they have to know the door is there,” Cline says.

Cline is grateful to serve the community of Franklin and admires the city. Her favorite thing about Franklin is the growth and rejuvenation of downtown. She is always happy to go through town and see people out walking, and she enjoys the local events at the DriveHubler.com Amphitheater. She also loves to visit the farmers markets on Saturday mornings. Cline is thankful the city came together and helped so many small businesses make it through hard times during the COVID pandemic. “It’s real, it’s authentic and it’s not trying to be anything else,” she says of Franklin.

Cline’s work through the HER program represents a significant step forward in women’s health care for the community. By creating a

space where women can openly discuss their health issues without judgement and receive the expert care they deserve, she is challenging outdated norms and offering hope for a better future for women’s health. Her dedication to her patients and her vision for expanding the HER program reflect her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of women in our community and beyond.

For an opportunity to hear more from Cline about the HER program, visit johnsonmemorial.org/her. Look out for an upcoming event at the Artcraft Theatre in November, which will include free snacks and drinks, a free movie, and discussion on the importance of women’s health and breaking the silence about bladder leakage. To schedule an appointment, call 317-530-3111.

FRANKLIN LAWN TIPS

To help Franklin residents know what needs to be done this time of year to make our lawns beautiful, we asked Lawn Health Manager, Clint Gilmore, of Warweg & Company of Franklin to give us a few tips.

GET WEEDS UNDER CONTROL.

“This will involve spraying weeds almost monthly through October to give your lawn all the root space it needs to grow. Some weeds require different weed controls so do your research before applying anything,” advises Clint.

PLAN ON WHEN TO FERTILIZE.

“From now to the end of the year most lawns

will need three applications of fertilizer to recover from summer stresses. Look at the months of July, September, and late October November to evenly feed the lawn. Selecting the right fertilizers based on current weather conditions is important, ask an expert,” says Clint.

WATER THE LAWN IN ABSENCE OF RAIN.

“Watering the lawn when no rainfall occurs is vital in keeping the turf from going brown and dormant. Usually, two times a week for around thirty minutes is enough to keep soil moisture. Early morning is the best time to water,” Clint recommends.

AERATE AND SEED YOUR LAWN IN FALL, THIS IS THE MOST CRUCIAL STEP!

“This is the most vital step in improving or repairing a lawn. Aeration by itself will help ease compaction and improve the root health of the lawn. Some lawns may require multiple passes if they have not been aerated yearly. Indiana is famous for high clay content in soil that makes it difficult for grass roots to spread and develop. Coupled with seeding in the fall you can vastly improve a lawn by the following spring in appearance, color and thickness,” says Clint.

HOOSIER INSURANCE GUY

“Who’s your insurance guy?”

Have you heard this before? This simple question inspired Franklin native and resident Jordan Curtis to use it as inspiration for his company name, Hoosier Insurance Guy. He opened for business in December 2018.

Seven years ago, the 39-year-old Franklin Community High School graduate found himself eager for a new career. He wanted to transition from the restaurant industry to a second career, but wasn’t sure of his calling. A friend suggested he get into insurance alongside him at Bankers Life. He did that for a year before becoming an independent broker for American Senior Benefits, where

he still works today.

As a broker, Curtis compares all insurance plans on the market and creates a recommendation based on his clients’ needs.

“My main focus is Medicare,” he says. “It’s very confusing. Some plans are better than others. I help seniors navigate their options, making sure they understand what’s included in their plans and how to utilize those benefits.”

After seven years of covering the entire state of Indiana, Curtis says he is ready to “bring the circle closer to home.” The family man, with twin 12-year-old boys, an 18-year-old

stepson, and his wife, Ashley, wants to focus on serving Franklin seniors. “Seniors are the forgotten generation of our society,” he says. “They are easily taken advantage of.”

One of his biggest “moral paychecks,” he says, was assisting a woman who was over 80 years old at the Franklin Active Adult Center several years ago. This elderly woman had repeatedly been denied for Medicaid, and had been seeking approval for 20 years. Curtis was able to advocate for her and make her feel heard. He shared the news that she had not only been approved for Medicaid, but also for the Medicaid Savings Program, including food, dental and vision benefits. “I could hear her crying on the end of the other line,” he says.

Curtis believes his affection for the senior population was formed when he was an adolescent, after the tragic death of his father from a car accident. He grew increasingly close to his grandparents. He was also influenced by John Gore of Franklin, who passed in 2016. Gore hired a 14-year-old Curtis at his local bowling alley, Hi-Way Lanes. Curtis says Gore was a mentor to him, and the bowling alley had many older patrons. A bowler himself, Curtis formed friendships with his mature teammates and opponents.

“I love having the opportunity to help people, especially this population,” Curtis says. “I can help with Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare and other retirement investments. Retirement is a huge part of life. Medicare is evolving and only getting more complicated. Seniors need an advocate who knows how it works.”

If you or someone you know is looking to retire soon, is worried about long-term care insurance, or has general questions about insurance, Curtis would appreciate the chance to chat. Let the Hoosier Insurance Guy be your insurance guy!

CONNECT

WA FAVE IN FRANKLIN

RICHARD’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA REMAINS A SCRUMPTIOUS AND SAVORY LOCAL STAPLE

Writer / Christina Cochran

hen it comes to pizza in Franklin, the residents have spoken. Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza, located at 229 South Main Street, tops the list of local favorites. This beloved eatery, opened in 2009 by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Chef Richard Goss and Meg Jones, has become a cornerstone of the community.

Richard’s offers an authentic dining experience, thanks in part to its brick oven, which was meticulously crafted by Richard’s father and local masons with bricks brought in from the chef’s home state of Vermont. This centerpiece bakes pizzas at a blistering 650 to 700 degrees, delivering the unique Neapolitan style that transports diners straight to the old world. With over 30 fresh toppings to choose from, each pizza promises a taste adventure.

The restaurant boasts a beautiful back garden for summer dining, and a cozy interior where the warmth of the brick oven creates a welcoming winter refuge. The ambience, paired with the vibrant arts garden and performances by talented musicians and artists, make Richard’s a lively spot year-round.

“I’ve worked at Richard’s for 10 years and there are so many things I could say that make this place so special: the delicious food, the funky atmosphere, the most amazing and loyal regulars, the beautiful arts garden, the talented musicians and artists that perform,” says Manager Kaelyn Feyerabend. “I could go on all day, but what really makes this place stand out is the staff. The people I work with are some of the most generous, hard-working, wonderful people I have ever met, and I am extremely lucky to get to work with people I consider my best friends every day. We are all a true family, and it really shows in our craft and service, and our guests’ experiences. I also feel it’s important to mention the owners, Meg and Richard. I just would like to thank them for always

having my back and creating such a fun, safe and welcoming work environment - best bosses I could ever have.”

Richard’s menu is another highlight, featuring popular items at affordable prices. From baked pasta, pinwheels and bruschetta to gyro calzones and build-your-own-skillet lasagna, there’s something for everyone. Seafood ravioli with tomato cream sauce, kids pasta dishes and gluten-free crust options cater to diverse dietary preferences. Desserts like limoncello mascarpone cake, fine wines, an amazing craft beer selection, and handcrafted cocktails that include the well-known Meg Martini, complete the dining experience.

Tuesdays are a special treat at Richard’s with open-mic night, hosted in collaboration with Frank’s Guitars. The restaurant opens its doors at 5 p.m., and it’s not uncommon to see a line of eager patrons waiting to get in.

The love for Richard’s is evident in glowing testimonials from locals in the community. “They take pride in their work and use quality ingredients,” says Anthony Hampton. “I love how they support local arts and music too. Cheers to Richard and Meg. I’ve always been such a huge fan of what they do, and I’m happy to have them so close by.”

Angie Hayden echoes this sentiment, saying “it’s different than anywhere else - great salads, great pasta, great service.”

Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza is more than just a restaurant; it’s a beloved institution in Franklin, cherished for its team’s commitment to quality, community and creativity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal regular, you’re sure to feel right at home.

Learn more at richardskitchen.com.

HOMETOWN HEROES

Firefighters Eric, Caleb and Dylan Funkhouser

Writer / Teena Catt

Anyone who knows or has met the Funkhouser men, including Eric and his 19-year-old twin sons, Caleb and Dylan, will wholeheartedly agree that father and sons are enthusiastic about their firefighter careers and making an impact on society. Their winning personalities leave those they encounter with an impact, knowing they just crossed paths with three confident and caring men.

As patriarch of the family, Eric did not set out with a life goal to be a firefighter. He was a college student when his mother pointed out an ad in the newspaper seeking volunteer fire department personnel. He started a position as a volunteer earning $5 an hour. Through the years he found that his love for firefighting outweighed work as an electrician, and once he reached the necessary pay rank to support a family, he fully pursued his career, working his way up through the ranks. Today he is fire chief for

Bargersville Community Fire Department. On October 1 he will have served 25 years in the industry.

His passion for his career did not go unnoticed in his household. As young boys, Caleb and Dylan listened and watched. They listened to their father tell stories of his days at work, and they would watch the department’s year-end videos repeatedly. Eric gives his wife, Brooke, credit for creating an atmosphere where they can talk about their day, and openly discuss the good and the bad associated with their jobs.

Caleb and Dylan started pursuing their careers even while in high school. They finished their Firefighter 1 and 2 courses the summer before their first year of college, and finished their basic emergency medical technician course at the end of their first year at Franklin College. With the goal of finishing their college courses in time, they now plan to focus on what they love most. Both accepted full-time positions with

Monroe Fire Protection District on April 1, 2024.

Dylan recalled a particularly busy week recently, where the department had three working fires and a car fire. When asked about the stress involved with the job, Dylan says it is crucial to “stay clear headed all the time. You get called out on a job in a moment, and you just go out and do your job. Afterwards you think, ‘Guys, that was crazy what just happened.’” He adds that on the job, everyone has a task and a game plan is in place.

Not every run is a success story. Caleb points out that “you have to prepare for the worst, and hope for the best.”

“I love what I do,” Eric adds. “When people call in on their worst day ever, when they are dialing 911, I am able to be on the opposite end and help those people.”

FOLKS OF FRANKLIN

Q&A WITH MAGGIE TOLBERT

Writer & Photographer / Amy Skirvin

Where do you live?

I live in Franklin across from Fletcher in the Pennington Mobile Home Park.

Do you work in Franklin?

Yes, I work at the Franklin Dairy Queen. I have worked here for 30 years, almost 31. Before I worked here I worked at the DQ in Bedford for 18 years. When it closed I moved here to Franklin to work at this Dairy Queen.

Where do you like to shop in Franklin?

Well, I go to all of the shops. I like Kroger, Walmart and Meijer. And I also like Marshall’s and Kohls. Oh and I like going to the antique shops to look at things downtown. I really like Salvage Sisters on Jefferson.

Where do you like to eat in Franklin?

I like Applebee’s, Chili’s and Bob Evans. I really enjoy the salad bar and the little steak, sides and Texas toast at Athen’s too. Since I live off 31 I eat mostly at those restaurants. But I have heard really good things about the Blue Cactus.

What do you like to do for fun in Franklin?

Well I enjoy going to see the Franklin Fireworks on the 4th but I haven’t done that in a couple years. I like basketball a lot so sometimes I go watch the basketball games at the high school. And I watch Colt’s games on TV. I also like going to church.

What makes Franklin special to you? There are so many nice people in Franklin. When I came here 30 years ago there used to be signs up that said, “Come grow with us!” They welcomed people in Franklin. I think Franklin is still like that.

Summer isn’t quite over yet, and there’s still some time to have fun before it’s back-to-school time.

There are still several concerts at the amphitheater at 237 West Monroe Street, including Toy Factory performing at Hops & Vines at 7 p.m. on August 10, Crush at 7 p.m. on August 16, and Groovesmash at 7 p.m. on August 24. The farmers market takes place from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday through September 14 at the amphitheater.

As a Franklin College undergrad who grew up in this town, I also plan to enjoy some outdoor dining at some Franklin favorites while I still have a chance. These are a few of my favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

First, we begin with the most important meal for any student (or anyone really), breakfast. Located at 77 West Monroe Street, Ann’s Restaurant is home to a personal favorite called the Grizzly Cub Breakfast. The fulfilling, savory platter

consists of your choice of eggs, meat, potatoes, and toast or pancakes. Since its establishment in 1952 the diner-style restaurant has welcomed locals and visitors with open arms.

I also recommend heading over to Main & Madison Market Cafe for a cold iced tea and delicious chicken salad on a croissant, with a side of their delicious chips. The cafe is in the building where the first hospital in Johnson County once operated after opening in 1906. The historic building opened its doors in 2018 as what we know today as Main & Madison. It is located at 100 North Main Street. You can find light yet fulfilling food, great pastries, and amazing coffee, while enjoying the rich history and modern vibe of the brick building. The cafe has just what you need to get through the rest of your day until dinnertime.

Speaking of dinnertime, it’s always a good time to meet a couple of friends for more tasty food at The

Willard. After all, it is known as the place where friends meet. Gather around in the historic ambiance of the brickhouse for a juicy burger or mouth-watering wings and a cold beverage. Home to generations of different families throughout the century, the bar and restaurant at 99 North Main Street saw various stages of remodeling before it became The Willard. In addition to burgers and wings, visitors can learn more about the restaurant’s intriguing history.

In case you haven’t noticed, Franklin’s rich history keeps a strong hold on not only the citizens and visitors, but also the food. As a Franklin College student it’s refreshing to know that wherever I choose to eat in Franklin, I’m getting the best service and, better yet, the best food.

Visit festivalcountryindiana.com to learn more about all the fun things to do in and around Franklin.

NEW STARTS FOR AGED HEARTS

In 2020, during a time of uncertainty when the world was dealing with the challenges of a global pandemic, Nikki Sanders began a journey that would change the lives of hundreds of senior dogs. Her story began with a simple yet life-changing decision: to foster a senior dog.

Sanders found Taffy, an elderly and blind Pomeranian. “She had been surrendered to a local shelter due to her age, blindness and overall health,” said Sanders. She fostered Taffy for only three months.

Taffy required a significant amount of care toward the end of her life. “I would spoonfeed her water, give her meds and take her out multiple times a night,” said Sanders. “I just wanted her to be comfortable.”

Over the next three months, Taffy’s health declined rapidly. The timing, coinciding with the quarantine period, allowed Sanders to provide 24/7 care.

Sanders saw beyond the physical demands that sweet Taffy needed. She saw Taffy’s steady trust in her human despite her difficult past. This experience planted the idea in Sanders’ heart, one she knew she had to act on. Thus, Taffy’s Touch Senior Dog Rescue was born.

Senior dogs often come with a variety of health issues ranging from kidney and heart disease to dental problems and tumors. For these reasons, seniors are often overlooked. Shelters are often not equipped to deal with

these seniors due to lack of funding, resources and staff. These animals are euthanized.

“One story that stuck with me is a senior dog named Stitch,” said Sanders. Stitch was one of the many dogs scheduled for euthanasia at a local shelter. The reason? Aggression. The volunteers at the shelter advocated for Stitch’s sweet nature; many dogs are misunderstood due to the high stress of a shelter environment. So, Taffy’s Touch took Stitch in as a foster.

“Once Stitch was given the opportunity, she showed everyone how loving and gentle she really was,” said Sanders.

Stitch was eventually adopted into a loving home where she spent her final year surrounded by caring and loving people. “This story and many others is my ‘why’ - the reason I do this everyday” said Sanders.

Sanders works full time as a social worker at Johnson Memorial Health. She has five dogs of her own, two teenagers and a husband. She is on the front lines if adoptions fall through or seniors get returned to a rescue.

“When a dog is returned to a foster-based rescue like Taffy’s Touch, it creates a significant amount of stress,” said Sanders. Without a dedicated facility and relying solely on foster homes, managing returned dogs is a challenge. Suddenly, the rescue is left scrambling to find a place for the dog to go.

In those situations, Taffy’s Touch turns to its 6,100-plus followers online to make an urgent plea for help. Sanders, the founder, often steps

in to care for these dogs temporarily, and thankfully some amazing supporters have stepped up as well.

Recognizing the need for a more stable solution, the rescue is now in the process of securing a small commercial facility called Aging Hearts Senior Dog Center, located in Plainfield. This space will serve as a temporary shelter for many dogs on the euthanasia list.

Taffy’s Touch Senior Dog Rescue is 100% volunteer based. Sanders has organized over 30 home-based fosters, and together they have saved close to 500 senior dogs from not just Indiana, but also Kentucky, Illinois and Ohio.

“We rely on our volunteers in many ways including transportation,” said Sanders. “We rely on foster volunteers to provide care to our seniors by proving transportation, running tables at local events, assistance with supply drop-off and so much more.”

Taffy’s Touch covers all medical expenses for seniors in their care, and monetary donations are essential for the survival of this nonprofit organization. Veterinary bills add up quickly with life-enhancing surgeries and medications. Additionally, new foster homes are always needed in order to continue rescuing dogs from shelters. The Taffy’s Touch website offers ways to donate and apply to become a foster, allowing more dogs to find loving homes.

“Fostering can be difficult, but the reward outweighs the many struggles,” said Sanders.

Those interested in supporting Taffy’s Touch can donate, apply to foster, or apply to adopt online at taffystouchrescue.com.

Writer & Photographer / Lynsey Duke

the of summerdog days

Scan here or Go to Franklin Magazine Facebook Page to vote for your favorite dog by August 15th. Winner announced on August 16th and will receive a $30 gift card to Tractor Supply Co. in Franklin.