JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
A NEW STANDARD IN FINANCIAL ADVISORY SERVICE FOR FRANKLIN’S HIGH EARNERS
Writer / Katie Hosea Photographer / Christina Cochran
Pillar Wealth was founded with a singular vision: to offer a more personalized and comprehensive wealth management experience than what was available in the market. Seth Shepherd, a former advisor at Charles Schwab, realized that Franklin and surrounding areas lacked financial advisory services that catered specifically to high earners with complex financial needs. Driven by a desire to serve his clients better, he approached his good friend and fellow advisor, Kevin Good, with an idea to build a firm that didn’t just focus on investment portfolios, but also provided deep strategic advice about business, real estate, and long-term financial planning. They recruited child prodigy (as Good calls him) Wyatt McCullough to round out the team, and together they created Pillar Wealth.
The Pillar Wealth team is diverse and talented. Seth Shepherd leads the team as the Certified Financial Planner. Seth graduated from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business and was managing a large book of high-net-worth clients before co-founding Pillar Wealth. Kevin values connecting with clients on a deep personal level. Kevin graduated from University of Indianapolis in 2007 and is a serial entrepreneur who has founded and sold several successful companies. Kevin also owns over 35 residential and commercial real estate units in Franklin, which positions him well to help clients with trusted business and real estateinvesting advice.
Wyatt leads market and financial planning research and oversees the implementation of client planning and investment objectives. The Pillar team thinks of him as an Investment Accountant because he enjoys spreadsheets almost as much as he enjoys finding tax savings for Pillar’s clients. Wyatt graduated with a dual major in Finance and Accounting from Franklin College and has always had a heart for personal finance, tax planning, and entrepreneurship.
Together, they offer a dynamic and diversified approach to managing complex financial situations as a team for their clients instead of
the traditional “solo advisor” approach. The decision to establish Pillar Wealth in Franklin wasn’t just a business choice; it was a personal one. All three team members live in the Franklin area and are committed to serving the community they call home. Kevin, who has worked with clients in downtown Franklin for years, emphasized the importance of being a part of the local fabric—of being a “pillar” in the community. This value is reflected in the firm’s name, which symbolizes their dedication to supporting the people around them in meaningful ways. Located in the historic Jessen building in the heart of downtown, even their brick and mortar exemplifies the “pillar” structure they are founded on.
Pillar Wealth focuses on high-performing business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and families who recognize the complexity of their financial lives. The firm works with clients who understand the challenges of managing wealth on a large scale—clients who may be losing money due to inefficient strategies or lack of coordination across their financial landscape. Pillar Wealth’s integrated approach to investment management, business advisory, and real estate planning ensures that clients’ financial resources are working together in the most efficient and effective way possible.
Getting started with Pillar Wealth begins with a conversation. The team takes a thoughtful, client-centered approach to ensure that each
prospect is a good fit. The process starts by uncovering the core purpose and goals that drive the client’s life, then aligning financial strategies to support those aspirations. “We don’t want our clients to serve their money,” says Seth. “We want money to serve their purposes in life.” This philosophy underscores every decision Pillar Wealth makes in managing their clients’ financial futures.
One of the unique features of Pillar Wealth is their commitment to maintaining a high level of service for their clients. To ensure that each client receives the personalized care they deserve, the firm has capped the number of clients at 111. This exclusive group of clients, known as “The 111,” will receive the highest level of financial care possible—tailored to meet the complex needs of high-income individuals and business owners. With plans to reach this cap by 2026, Pillar Wealth only takes on three new clients per month, ensuring that each relationship gets the attention it deserves. Prospective clients who recognize the need for a more sophisticated approach to managing wealth are encouraged to visit pillarw.com and reach out for an initial consultation.
While the team is not new to the industry, their firm was created with a clear focus: to provide a bespoke, industry-leading wealth management service that’s truly customized to the unique needs of Franklin’s high-earners. With a distinctive fee structure and comprehensive approach, Pillar Wealth is reshaping how financial advisory services are delivered to the area’s most successful families and business owners.
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 7, 2024
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DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY LIGHTING AND WINTER MARKET
THE ULTIMATE LOCAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
Writer / Olivia Alvey
Experience a real-life Hallmark movie with family, friends and neighbors during the first weekend of December, right here in Franklin.
Franklin’s 67th Holiday Lighting and Winter Market starts at 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 7, and features a winter market, a lighted parade, the courthouse lighting and more.
Discover Downtown Franklin, the event host, recognizes the holiday lighting as one of Franklin’s most beloved events of the year with nearly 13,000 in attendance just last season. Danny Causey, director of Discover Downtown Franklin, looks forward to seeing the community gather to celebrate one of his traditional favorites.
“Tradition is super important and popular because it’s what connects you to your family, it’s the memories you have as a child, and a ton of these people who started coming as kids are now bringing their grandkids,” he said. “It’s one of my favorite days.”
Discover Downtown Franklin relies on generous donors to bring the holiday tradition to life.
“When you see the holiday lighting posters around town and our posts on social media, those are the businesses that are really putting their money where their mouth is and supporting the community,” Causey said. “We’re so thankful for them.”
Discover Downtown Franklin gives special thanks to the donors who make the events that they host throughout the calendar year possible. Families and businesses are encouraged to sponsor a tree sign and donate throughout the year, as any amount can help make a difference.
In addition to the main events happening Saturday, people can listen to live music, shop locally at downtown businesses, and visit local restaurants or food vendors for hot food on a winter day.
“There’s a ton of free, super affordable activities for families and kids,” Causey said. “There’s no cost barrier of entry. It’s a free event for everyone. It’s the epitome of our community coming together and everyone having a great time.”
The winter market operates from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. with more than 100 vendors, which is a huge expansion from last year. People can find handmade and hand-grown products outside on North Main Street and inside at the Elks Lodge on Jefferson Street during market hours.
You’ll want to grab a chair, blanket, and some hot cocoa for the lighted parade down Jefferson Street at 5:30 p.m., hosted by the Franklin Chamber of Commerce. Businesses and organizations will walk through the downtown area to celebrate the holiday season with the community. Rumor has it there could be a special appearance by Santa Claus!
After the parade, event-goers gather around the Johnson County Courthouse each year to count down the anticipated presentation of colorful lights atop the historical landmark. The lights are visible on each side of the building where the public can gather before 7 p.m. when the lights are turned on.
Don’t miss out on this memorable and special day in Franklin to kick off the holidays!
Visit festivalcountryindiana.com for more information about this event and other exciting events to add to your holiday plans in Franklin and our surrounding communities.
AND PLAY LOCAL
Santa’s Helpers
A FRANKLIN TRADITION GROWS
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
In Franklin, Indiana, the holiday season glows with joy and generosity, thanks to the efforts of Santa’s helpers, who bring magic and goodwill to the community. From cherished visits with Santa to heartfelt acts of kindness, these local organizations and volunteers are making the season brighter for families across the area. Here’s a closer look at their unique holiday offerings.
TOODLEYDOO TOYS: A MAGICAL SANTA EXPERIENCE
One of Franklin’s most beloved holiday traditions is the private Santa experience at Toodleydoo Toys. Families from nearby towns like Plainfield and Noblesville journey to Franklin to share a special moment with Santa in a setting designed to capture the spirit of the season. Toodleydoo began its Santa visits with Jon Rogers, a larger-than-life local figure who embodied Santa’s warmth and joy, mesmerizing visitors with enchanting tales of the North Pole. Even after his passing in 2016, Toodleydoo has continued the tradition, working with Santas who each bring a unique magic to the experience.
The Santa visits take place in the Santa Shack, a charming replica of the original shack that stood in downtown Franklin years ago, rebuilt by local high school students from Central Nine Career Center. Parents treasure the attention to detail that makes each Santa visit at Toodleydoo feel authentic. Every year Toodleydoo receives heartfelt messages from parents thrilled that their children still believe in Santa. To preserve the magic of believing, Toodleydoo’s private, personalized approach makes each Santa experience a memory to be cherished. toodleydootoys.com
JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY: A HOLIDAY TRADITION WITH MR. AND MRS. CLAUS
The Johnson County Museum of History, a staple of the Franklin community, has welcomed Mr. and Mrs. Claus each December for over two decades. Portrayed by Ken and Patty Everroad, the couple creates an unforgettable Santa experience for children who come to share their Christmas wishes. Visitors can take photos with Santa,
enjoy crafts in the museum’s lower level, and explore various photo ops as they wait in line. A tree-decorating contest, known as Decka-Tree, adds a festive touch to the museum’s second floor, which transforms into a winter wonderland filled with trees decorated by 15 local organizations.
This holiday tradition wouldn’t be possible without the support of local sponsors, including Franklin Sylvan Learning, Paul Humble’s American Family Insurance, and the Tri-Kappa sorority, which helps sponsor Santa’s presence. In addition, the museum hosts a free concert by the Matinee Musicale on December 21, adding a harmonious note to the holiday celebrations. johnsoncountymuseum.org
COMPASS PARK: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
On the morning of December 7, Compass Park offers a delightful Breakfast with Santa event as part of downtown Franklin’s holiday lighting celebration. With a hot buffet featuring all the breakfast favorites, it’s a treat for the whole family. Children can bring letters for Santa, enjoy breakfast together and meet Santa himself. Tickets are affordable, with adults at $10, children at $7 and each additional child for $5, making it an accessible, heartwarming holiday event. The gathering is a wonderful opportunity for families to share a festive meal and experience the excitement of the holiday season together. compasspark.org
THE HISTORIC ARTCRAFT THEATRE: CLASSIC CHRISTMAS AT THE MOVIES
With the help of dedicated volunteers, the Historic Artcraft Theatre in Franklin brings holiday magic to life each year. Thousands of visitors gather to enjoy classic holiday films each year like “Elf”, “A Christmas Story”, “White Christmas” and more. Guests are treated to the best buttered popcorn, a wide selection of candies and sodas, and unique gift options including T-shirts, sweatshirts, movie posters, mugs, Christmas ornaments and gift cards. Sitting in this historic theater surrounded by an audience’s laughter and cheers makes these timeless classics feel new again, transporting viewers back to the magic of Christmases past. historicartcrafttheatre.org
Through the efforts of Toodleydoo Toys, the Johnson County Museum of History, Compass Park, Franklin Community Schools, Tri-Kappa, the Historic Artcraft Theatre, and Franklin Parks and Recreation, the holiday season in Franklin is one of joy, giving and cherished traditions. Each program offers a unique way for families to connect, celebrate and experience the magic of the season.
FRANKLIN COMMUNITY SCHOOLS: GOOD CHEER AND CHRISTMAS ANGELS
The spirit of giving is central to the holiday season, and Franklin Community Schools brings this message to life through involvement in the Good Cheer food drive. The schools work together to collect food and donations for families in need, helping to ensure that everyone in the community can enjoy a joyful
holiday meal. Each individual school also “adopts” families through the Christmas Angels program, and they collect specific items for families in need. This program emphasizes the value of kindness, showing students that the season is not only about receiving, but also about giving back.
TRI-KAPPA: GIFTS OF BOOKS AND JOY
The members of Tri-Kappa, a local women’s philanthropic organization, play an important role in spreading holiday cheer by donating and wrapping over 100 books each year for local children. This tradition has become a beloved part of the season, as the books are wrapped with care and love to bring joy to each child who receives one. Cara Broniszewski, a Tri-Kappa member, proudly notes that these small gifts carry the spirit of the holidays, creating memorable moments and sharing the magic of reading with the community’s youngest members.
FRANKLIN PARKS AND RECREATION: LETTERS TO SANTA
Franklin Parks and Recreation brings the magic of Santa’s letters to life with their Letters to Santa program. The Santa Shack, situated on the corner of West Court and Jefferson streets in downtown Franklin, invites children to write letters to Santa, and in return they receive a personal response from him. This simple act of kindness allows children to experience the joy of receiving a letter from Santa himself, creating a treasured holiday memory that keeps the magic alive. franklinparks.org
THE DOC IS IN JOHNSON
MEMORIAL HEALTH WELCOMES
DR. NICHOLAS
ST. GERMAIN
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
Dr. Nicholas St. Germain is a transformative figure at Johnson Memorial Health (JMH), bringing both his unique skills and compassionate approach to the community of Johnson County.
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives, St. Germain’s journey into medicine began with an unexpected start in software development. A Massachusetts native, he graduated from Georgia Tech in Atlanta with a degree in business, initially aspiring to build software to help veterans. He found the work rewarding and gained invaluable experience, but soon realized that he wanted a career with a more direct and hands-on impact. He wanted to see the tangible results of his efforts in real time, and ultimately decided that medicine, specifically orthopedics, would allow him to do just that.
medical school he moved to Kentucky for his residency at the University of Louisville, where he thrived in a hands-on learning environment. During this residency, St. Germain was given significant responsibility early on, which he credits with accelerating his understanding and mastery of the field. He describes this experience as pivotal in shaping his approach to patient care.
and Amanda Smith, NP-C to bring these new services to the well-established JMH orthopedics and sports medicine practice. Recognizing the community’s need, St. Germain committed himself to filling this gap, making it easier for patients to receive specialized orthopedic care close to home.
St. Germain attended medical school at the University of Massachusetts, where he quickly discovered that orthopedics was his calling. It combined everything he valued: a problem-solving approach, the ability to work with his hands, and a pathway to developing long-term relationships with patients. After
Following his residency, St. Germain spent a year in fellowship training at Norton Orthopedic Institute in Louisville, where he specialized in using robotic technology for joint replacement surgeries. This experience introduced him to cutting-edge tools like the ROSA robotic system and OrthoGrid by Zimmer Biomet. These technologies allow for greater accuracy in joint replacements by creating a precise surgical roadmap, resulting in faster recoveries and longer-lasting joint replacements. St. Germain was thrilled to bring these advancements with him to Johnson Memorial, where the addition of robotic-assisted surgery marked a significant leap forward for the hospital.
St. Germain joins the veteran team of James Friedlander, MD, Martin Turner, DO
One of St. Germain’s defining qualities is his commitment to conservative treatment approaches. Rather than immediately recommending surgery, he begins by exploring other options like physical therapy, activity modification and joint injections. For him it’s about treating the patient, not just their X-rays. He believes in taking a holistic view of each individual, understanding their lifestyle, background and unique challenges. This patient-centered approach reflects his belief that medicine isn’t one-size-fits-all; each care plan is customized.
St. Germain is also known for his commitment to open communication and honest conversations. He understands that surgery is a major decision, and he strives to ensure his patients feel fully informed and comfortable with every step of
their treatment plan. Rather than rushing through consultations, he takes time to thoroughly discuss the options, answer questions and set realistic expectations. His patients appreciate this transparency and attentiveness, which fosters trust and reassurance.
As a surgeon, St. Germain is a firm advocate of minimally invasive techniques. His approach involves using smaller incisions and strategically moving muscles aside rather than cutting through them. This technique results in less trauma to the surrounding tissue, reduced pain and shortened recovery times. Patients can often return to their daily lives sooner, with fewer complications, which aligns perfectly with St. Germain’s goal of restoring quality of life to his patients as quickly and safely as possible.
Beyond his expertise in the operating room, St. Germain has built a collaborative, teambased approach with the staff at Johnson Memorial. He emphasizes that successful patient outcomes rely on the collective efforts of a skilled and dedicated team. St. Germain expresses deep gratitude for the support he receives from the hospital’s administration,
operating-room staff, nursing staff and anesthesiologists, who share his dedication to exceptional patient care. This sense of teamwork is echoed by the broader Franklin community, which has welcomed St. Germain with open arms.
Under St. Germain’s leadership, Johnson Memorial has also pioneered same-day hip and knee replacement surgeries, allowing patients to return home the same day as their procedure. This new option offers significant benefits for patients, enabling them to begin their recovery in the comfort of their own homes, which research has shown can contribute to faster and more comfortable recoveries. For St. Germain, providing same-day surgery is a testament to Johnson Memorial’s commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.
St. Germain is clear with his patients that he is just a phone call away. He encourages them to reach out directly with any questions or concerns, an invitation that speaks to his dedication and accessibility. In his eyes, patients at Johnson Memorial aren’t just numbers in a large health care system; they are individuals with unique needs and goals. His
open-door policy further reinforces the trust and rapport he builds with each patient. Looking back on his journey, St. Germain is proud of the role he plays in improving the lives of his patients and grateful for the opportunity to serve a community in need. From his early days as a software developer to his role today as a skilled orthopedic surgeon, he has followed a path defined by his desire to help people and make a difference. For St. Germain, every patient is a story, a person with dreams and challenges, and he feels privileged to be a part of their healing journey.
Dr. Nicholas St. Germain’s arrival has transformed Johnson Memorial Health and the lives of countless residents in Johnson County. His blend of technical expertise, patient-centered approach and communityfocused philosophy embodies the very best in modern health care, bringing a new level of orthopedic care to the region. Whether through advanced robotic surgeries, minimally invasive techniques or compassionate patient relationships, St. Germain remains committed to helping his patients move forward with confidence and strength.
HOMETOWN HEROES Pastor Joseph Sanford
Writer / Teena Catt
While relatively new to his role as senior pastor, and having started his appointment in July 2023, Pastor Joseph Sanford was not new to Franklin or Grace United Methodist Church (GUMC).
Sanford had served as youth pastor there beginning in 2008. Upon his return to Franklin, he recognized tremendous changes as far as the growth in Franklin in his years between ministries. He brings along family growth with him. Now married with four children, Sanford returned to Franklin with his wife, Lauren, as well as his son, Noah, 20, twin daughters, Juliette and Lyla, 9, and daughter, Audrey, 6.
Sanford grew up on a farm in Hancock County and showed sheep in 4-H. He said that while he enjoyed rural life, he favored the arts over sports and farm-related activities. As a youth and young man, he thrived in a camp setting. A good portion of his youth and young adulthood was spent at church camp either as a camper, counselor or full-
time staffer. He describes himself as having been “spiritually raised at camp.”
Already invested and involved in Johnson County’s community, Sanford serves on the Good Cheer of Johnson County board, and on the United Way of Johnson County board as well. He serves on various committees with his church as well. Currently the congregation is participating in Operation Grocery Sack, which provides extra pantry items for the Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County. Twenty-five baskets of food will be delivered to the families of Needham Elementary
School, and 25 baskets of food will be delivered to Webb Elementary, neighbors of the church. In addition to that, United Way’s Angel Store is hosted at the church.
When asked by Associate Pastor Jenothy Irvine if he could imagine and achieve anything in the next 10 years, Sanford laid out a plan of collaboration between agency leaders and business leaders in the community. His wish would invite those people who love Franklin and are invested in assisting the growing needs of the community. He envisions informal lunches including
agencies relaying current needs, and those sitting around the table responding with ideas and solutions.
GUMC continues a tradition of responding to needs in our community in a variety of ways. Every week the congregation serves a free meal on Friday night called Soup’s On. In addition to this, they also hold their annual Potato Drop, where 10-pound bags of potatoes can be picked up, as well as their annual Christmas Day dinner.
As the holiday season approaches, ministers, pastors and church staff prepare for additional people to attend services. “Where we see the most influx of new people attending church is on Christmas and New Year,” says Sanford.
To meet the growing and varied needs of his congregation, Sanford says his church hosts a variety of services. While it may be the most wonderful time of the year, it can also be difficult for those who are facing the season alone or who do not have fond memories of
Christmas gatherings - or those who lost a family member and are going through their first Christmas season without their loved one. GUMC has a service called the Comfort and Joy Service, which will take place on December 12.
Beginning on Sunday, December 1, Sanford has prepared a four-week sermon series titled “The Heart That Grew Three Sizes”. This Grinch-themed series offers a seasonal message sure to delight and enrich the hearts and souls of all ages. The kickoff Sunday will include a chili luncheon, and a showing of
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” following the service. Sanford is also excited to include “The Service of Light” this year, a Christmas Eve service.
“I am conflicted on being named a Hometown Hero,” Sanford says. “While honored and at the same delighted to share my passion for serving God, my job is overseeing the church. But the overall work of the church is done by the people of the church. My goal is to fan the flames and identify our church’s vision.”
HOG WILD
FRANKLIN ROTARY PRESENTS THE JIM RHOADES MEMORIAL HOG ROAST
Writer / Teena Catt
Seated around an old round table at Don and Dona’s Restaurant, a discussion about how low the Good Cheer Fund was at the time was taking place. The year was 1997. The late Jim Rhoades owned and operated Rhoades Hardware Store on Jefferson Street located near the railroad tracks at the time. He and his friends and family decided to use the parking lot and host a hog roast, in hopes of raising extra money to improve the low funds. Rhoades convinced a local salesperson to set up grills, and he set up tables in the parking lot and asked for free-will donations for a pulled-pork dinner and bean soup.
That first year they profited $300. In the first few years it seemed like a blustery cold day was to coincide with the cookout. After a few years a local church let them use a large tent for shelter. The event has now snowballed into a major undertaking and extraordinarily successful endeavor. Last year over $61,000 was raised to benefit not only the Good Cheer Fund, but also Johnson County’s Interchurch Food Pantry, making a dramatic difference in food insecurity for residents of Johnson County.
After Rhoades passed in 2005, the Franklin Rotary adopted this fundraiser, carrying on his memory and continuing to benefit the
community. “I think it is a wonderful thing that it still goes on,” said Jayne Rhoades, who was Jim’s wife and working partner in the hardware store. “I am humbled and indebted to the rotary that they continue to honor Jim’s legacy. They could have let that part go, not using his name, but they have kept that going and I am thankful for it.”
Franklin Rotary’s motto is “Service above self.” Eric Leugers, the chairperson of the Jim Rhoades Memorial Hog Roast, said the goal of rotary is to serve the community with a heavy emphasis on leaning into the needs of the community they represent. “There are a lot of blinders out there regarding food insecurity in our county,” he said. “Until you get out there and involved, people do not fully understand.”
Statistics show that one out of eight people in Indiana faces hunger. One in seven children in Indiana does not know where their next meal is coming from. In today’s unpredictable times, the annual hog roast serves as a helping hand to provide healthy food and assistance to families in Johnson County.
There are many hands involved in making this event successful. With the cost of groceries inflated and the increase of need, it is an ongoing challenge to meet that need. Along with the rotary, there are a total of around 60 to 70 volunteers, many of whom have been around since the hardware store parking lot days. First Class Catering in Columbus, Indiana, now cooks the meal served. They have provided a substantial price cut in their cost because the founder, Caleb Blackerby, believes in the cause. The menu consists of fried chicken, pork, green beans, mashed potatoes and fried biscuits. Under Joey Dunn’s leadership, Indian Creek’s FFA donates and cooks 650 pork chops and homemade ice cream. Multiple businesses and individuals donate to the cause. The Interact Club from Franklin Community High School volunteers at the dinner. The Franklin Community Band plays at the event. The Nimble Thimbles Quilt Club has donated items and hosted a quilt for raffle. Last year their donations were over $3,000.
“When Jim passed in 2005, the concern was how do we keep this going, then COVID happened and the concern was how do we keep this going, then the passing of the former owner of Malone’s Catering who prepared the meal for years, and the concern was how do we keep this going?” said Leugers. “The power of this community and their recognition of the needs of our community keeps it going.”
The 2024 Jim Rhoades Memorial Hog Roast will take place December 5, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Scott Hall at the Johnson County Fairgrounds. Dine-in and drive-through are available.
To contribute to this event, visit franklinrotary.org. To learn more about the beneficiaries, go to jccf.org and jcpantry.org.
Cruisin’ Franklin
CRUISING TO THE RESTORATION CHURCH CAR SHOW
Writer / John Wales
The glistening chrome, the polished paint gleaming in the bright sunlight on a beautiful Saturday - for car people, it’s the highlight of their week. Summer is car show season, but when the weather stays nice, the season stretches all the way through October.
Each year in central Indiana there are hundreds of car shows for us gear heads to attend. Most of them run shows locally that benefit charities. The season kicks off in March with the Autorama World of Wheels. This is an indoor show that features nationally touring show cars as well as local builds that make the stringent cut, as all entrants must be accepted and approved by the show chairman.
The outdoor shows really kick in around May as the weather has warmed and the spring rain dissipates. Each weekend, shows can be found all over Indiana and they continue as long as weather permits. As October nears, fewer and fewer car shows are scheduled for fear that cold, rainy weather might come along and prevent even the diehard cruisers from leaving their garages. If the World of Wheels is the beginning of car show season, then the Restoration Church Car Show has quickly become known as the last “big show” of the year.
Pastor Dave Stephenson of the Restoration Church located in Whiteland, Indiana, started noticing that the church had a lot of members who were into old cars. He considered starting an impressive car show, and along with Danny McDermott and an army of church volunteers, they set out to do just that!
This year’s show was the fourth annual show, and each year it has grown, making it one of the most attended shows in central Indiana. Always held on the first Saturday in October, the church leaders hoped that the late date would help draw in those looking for those final shows of the year. While there were a
handful of shows that followed this year in the area, many still look to the Restoration show as the grand finale.
All of the proceeds from the show go directly to the church’s children’s ministry. This year saw 340 cars registered for the show, with an additional 40 that arrived after the publicized registration time cutoff. Around 75 to 100 church volunteers are on hand during the show, making sure the event is well-run and creating a great day for all involved. “We love doing it,” said Stephenson.
Several factors contribute to a successful and enduring car show. The first is good weather. In the car show world, weather will make or break a show. “We always schedule a rain date, but in four years we have been blessed with perfect weather,” Stephenson shared. Many other factors help grow a show, including the awards presented, prizes, the timing and flow of the event, and activities that make the show fun for all in attendance.
This year’s show saw 96 awards presented including a top 40, and best-in-class trophies that look like miniature automotive creepers. In a local show first, championship rings were included as well. Along the way to the awards ceremony, participants and spectators are treated to a DJ spinning classic car tunes, food offerings including barbecue, and games.
Few shows can rival the prizes that this show offers in the raffle drawing. This year’s grand prize was a Yamaha golf cart. In years past, the grand prize has been an LS engine and a car trailer, making the raffle tickets a cheap way for any entrant to leave the show with a cool prize in tow.
Perhaps the best part is that, thanks to the proceeds going towards the children’s ministry, the church will soon break ground on a new children’s wing of the church, including a gymnasium to offer sporting opportunities to the growing church’s youth members.
The show has also helped in growing the membership of the church, as many show entrants returned to the church a few
weeks later for their annual chili cook-off and realized they had found a welcoming congregation who enjoys fellowship through these outreach events. Once a year, the church even takes their service on the road and offers a service at Lake Lemon, inviting the congregation to a powerful church service followed by a day of family fun at the lake.
The plans for the 2025 Restoration Car Show are already well underway. Each year the team sets a goal, and next year they are aiming for over 400 car show entries! With a 17.5-acre campus, they have plenty of room to hit that target and beyond.
“We are so appreciative of those who come out to the car show and what they do to help the children,” Stephenson said.
Speaking on behalf of the car community, we thank Stephenson, McDermott and the entire staff of volunteers who work so hard to make their show a can’t-miss event. Be sure to mark your calendars, as October 4, 2025, will be the date for next year’s show. Of course, if you would like to visit before then, the church offers weekly Sunday services, and many of the members regularly drive their favorite hot rod to the service as well as the other regular events they schedule.
The 2024 car show season may have ended, and for us car people, the dreariness of winter has set in. We will use these next few months to do any needed repairs, modifications or upgrades to our beloved rides, so they will be ready when the sun and warm weather return.
Until then…keep cruising!
DIZZYING DISPLAY
PAYTON BOHLER’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY LIGHTS ARE ENJOYED BY LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
Payton Bohler has always had a passion for Christmas. For as long as he can remember, decorating for the holiday season has been more than just a fun activity; it’s a cherished tradition. Ever since he was a little boy, barely 3 or 4 years old, Bohler was drawn to the sparkle of Christmas lights and the magic they brought to his home. As he grew older, this love blossomed into something much bigger, eventually inspiring his business, PT’s Lawn Care and Holiday Lighting, which combines his skills in landscaping with his love for festive lights.
The spark for his elaborate Christmas light displays began in 2013, when he was only 11 years old. That year he decided to take his lighting skills beyond the usual by decorating his family’s chicken coop with thousands of lights. His display that year featured about 9,000 to 10,000 lights, drawing local attention and admiration. Each year since, Bohler has expanded his collection, and now his family home is adorned with a breathtaking
85,000 to 90,000 lights. Christmas isn’t just a season for Bohler; it’s a journey of creativity, nostalgia and joy that has become a gift to his community.
One of Bohler’s favorite aspects of decorating is his love for vintage Christmas decorations, especially the classic blow molds that harken back to simpler times. His passion for vintage decor was sparked by his grandmother, who gifted him his first blow mold when he was just 8 years old. Every year he decorates her original 1960s aluminum tree at the family home in her honor. Sadly, Bohler’s grandmother passed away last year, but he keeps her memory alive with every light strand he strings and every blow mold he places in his display. In her memory, he has continued to build his collection, even receiving a recent donation of 86 blow molds from a kindhearted woman who wanted to support his Christmas display.
Each year Bohler’s decorating process takes
about a month and a half. His designs are meticulous, with a blend of tradition and innovation. While he sticks to a similar theme each year, he enjoys adding new scenes and decorations to keep things fresh. He also finds ways to integrate technology into his display, timing certain lights to music for a truly immersive experience. But even with his knack for electrifying the holiday season, there’s always one practical challenge: power. Fortunately, Bohler’s dad, Pete Bohler, is always willing to help, adding more and more outlets to the exterior of their home to support the growing number of lights. So far this year, Pete has installed three additional outlets just to keep the lights running smoothly.
Bohler’s creativity isn’t limited to his family home; he also brings his holiday spirit to Farm Girl Mercantile, the charming shop owned by his mother, Tracy Bohler. The store’s light display has a similar feel to the one at their home, inviting visitors to step into a nostalgic Christmas wonderland. Bohler says working
alongside his mom is one of the best parts of the season. Tracy has always fostered a love for Christmas in him and his sisters, Sofia and Savannah, creating holiday traditions that he holds dear. He jokingly recalls how his mom was the one who taught him the essential art of “tree fluffing” - an important skill in the Bohler household.
One of Bohler’s proudest achievements is the annual canned food drive that his family hosts alongside the light display. They encourage visitors to pull into their circular driveway to fully appreciate the light show, and in return, guests often bring donations for the Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County. The drive has grown each year, with last season marking their largest collection of food yet. Bohler and his family are hopeful that this year they’ll exceed their previous record, helping even more families in need during the holiday season.
Bohler’s light display is more than a hobby; it’s become a cherished community event. Each year locals and visitors alike stop by to experience the magic, nostalgia and warmth of a classic Christmas brought to life through
his creativity. From the carefully arranged blow molds to the whimsical Rudolph scene from the 1964 film, Bohler’s home is a tribute to the Christmases of yesteryear, made new again with each strand of lights and every decoration placed.
For Bohler, Christmas is a time to remember family, honor tradition and share joy. His love for the holiday season, instilled by his mom and nurtured by his grandmother’s memory, shines brightly in every bulb and every decoration. Through his elaborate displays and dedication to spreading holiday cheer, Bohler has turned his passion for Christmas into a legacy that brightens the lives of
everyone who visits.
If you’d like to learn more about Bohler’s holiday displays, visit PT’s Lawn Care and Holiday Lighting on Facebook.
For a touch of Christmas magic and for yearround charm, explore Farm Girl Mercantile at farmgirlmerc.com.
To support the food drive and see the light display in person, be sure to check out Christmas Acres this holiday season: facebook.com/share/ f6K8gVL3no3FU93b/?mibextid=LQQJ4d.
A TRUE TRIBUTE
FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES
REMEMBER KRISTI BAYLISS
Writer / Teena Catt
In the November issue of Franklin Magazine, we featured a story of courage and hope. We told the story of a Franklin teacher who was awaiting a liver transplant. At the time of the interview, Kristi Bayliss had a MELD (model for end-stage liver disease) score of 26-27. The highest possible score is 40. Bayliss received a diagnosis in 2004 of autoimmune hepatitis. On October 23, 2024, she received a call for a donor liver, but that liver proved not to be viable. The next week, she received a second
call about a donor liver transplant surgery, to take place the evening of October 30. It is with deepest regret and sadness to report that Bayliss did not survive the surgery.
Her wish was to not only tell her story, but also, most importantly, to bring awareness to organ donation. Through this journey, Bayliss was able to meet Kirby Cochran, City of Franklin police chief and a liver transplant recipient. After speaking to one another
on the telephone, Bayliss invited Cochran and his wife, Lori, who is employed by the Indiana Donor Network as an organ import coordinator, to speak to her classroom. Bayliss was more worried about her students than herself, Cochran said. Bayliss wanted to provide her students with a better understanding of her illness and impending journey.
“The first thing I noticed about Kristi was her cheerful outlook,” Cochran said. “Even though she shared her fears, she remained positive. Her compassion for others was simply humbling.”
It was during this initial conversation that Cochran learned of her passion for organ donation, and her desire to someday work for the Indiana Donor Network. “Even though I only knew her for a brief time, I realized that no matter what, she would certainly be an inspiration for her students, family and friends,” he said. “I am certainly honored to have had the opportunity to meet Kristi and her family. I will never forget her smiling face, her cheerful outlook and her sincere compassion for others.”
Bayliss’ legacy lives on through the lives she impacted. The following are testaments to her life told by colleagues and friends:
“One short paragraph could never be enough to share the positive impact that Kristi Bayliss made on not only myself, but Custer Baker Intermediate School and Franklin Community Schools as a whole,” said Whitney McCarthy, sixth-grade science and social studies teacher at Custer Baker. “From the moment that Kristi started teaching
at Custer Baker, her love for students and teaching was palpable. I have been beyond blessed to teach alongside her for the past two and a half years. I have gained a wealth of knowledge from her experience in special education and beyond. Kristi loved her students and was fiercely dedicated to their success. She always had an uncanny ability to know just what each student needed and how to reach them exactly as they were. Kristi always put others first. She never let her diagnosis hinder her ability, attitude, or commitment to her family, friends, colleagues and students. I can never express in words how meaningful her friendship, love and support have made me a better teacher. It is an honor to have been her friend, co-coach and co-teacher for the time I knew her, and I will strive to continue her legacy of love and care.”
“Kristi was by far one in a million,” said Libby Findley, fifth-grade high-ability math teacher at Custer Baker. “Her kindness and compassion towards others never went unnoticed. She was by far the most selfless person I have ever known. Even as she was feeling bad herself, she always took the time to check in on you. It was common for me to find little positive notes or gifts on my desk when I got to school. I looked forward to her smile and hugs in the hall as we would pass. I will miss those, and the mornings spent in her room just laughing, and sometimes crying. Her absence will always weigh heavy on my heart, along with others at Custer Baker. I look forward to the day that I can get another hug, and we can laugh together again.”
Strength and determination are attributes that come to the minds of those who worked with Bayliss at Custer Baker.
“She refused to give up on life and lived it through to the end, impacting others at each turn,” said Tricia Bender, Custer Baker school counselor. “The day she shared with her students about her liver disease, she took the time to tell every student and answer any questions they had about her upcoming surgery honestly. Her openness, kindness and strength helped so many of her current students understand what was going on. Although it was difficult for students and staff to hear all that she would go through, we became educated. What better example could be said for a teacher who was teaching until the end?”
Jennifer Robertson, Dana Petro and Michelle Bright, along with Bayliss, dubbed themselves the Wolfpack. They had the following to say about their friendship.
“Every friend group has individuals who take on certain roles. In our group, Kristi was the sweet and kindhearted one that kept us out of trouble. She was our voice of reason, the one who would let us know when we took things too far, our designated driver, and the one who thought of everyone else before herself. Our families spend most Saturdays and all the holidays together. Kristi particularly enjoyed the days by the pool, concerts, vacations and dancing. She would also occasionally talk to us about participating in charity walks and various activities. Kristi loved our kids like her own, and she knew all our favorite things. She always made our favorite desserts for our birthdays. Kristi loved to travel, and she always joked that she would pack for 10 days, even if she were just going for two. Kristi was constantly telling us how thankful she was for our friendship, but we would argue that we were the lucky ones. We are each other’s chosen family, and we enjoy making life fun. Even when she did not feel well, she made plans and kept them.”
To learn more about organ donation and transplants, visit:iuhealth.org/living-liverdonor-evaluation-form indianadonornetwork.org.
Leading the way in Patient Safety
Johnson Memorial Health has earned the nation’s top distinction for patient safety with an “A” from the Leapfrog Group. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is an elite designation from a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the U.S. This honor belongs to every one of the providers and associates at JMH who work each day to provide exceptional health care for our patients.
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.
