Hometown
Hero
CHEF T’S
CHICKEN EXPRESS
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE INDIANA VALOR
WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM
Top Tier Cakes
Gene A. White
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.
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“Abby
- Kody M.
Abby Shuck Todd Shuck Monica Park Kalin Roberts
MEET JENNA ELKINS
Writer / Katie Hosea
In the world of celebrations, few things make a moment more memorable than a beautifully crafted cake. Top Tier Cakes, located just north of Franklin at 225 North U.S. Highway 31 in New Whiteland, has all things sweet!
Jenna Elkins, the owner of Top Tier Cakes, is dedicated to turning life’s most special moments into sweet, lasting memories. Specializing in tiered wedding cakes, Elkins also creates cake pops, cupcakes, cookies and dessert jars. Her journey to becoming a business owner is a story of passion, dedication, and a love for food and artistry.
Her love for baking started at an early age. “Both of my parents were very active in the kitchen,” she says. “So much of what I did with my mom was in the kitchen.”
From these early kitchen experiences, Elkins developed a deep appreciation for food and exploring recipes. Her first job in high school was at Ritter’s Frozen Custard, where she worked in customer service and eventually began making ice cream cakes. It was there that she realized her passion for combining two of her favorite things: art and food. “I’m a big foodie,” she says with a smile.
To refine her skills, Elkins took culinary courses in high school and later attended culinary school. This foundation that started with her love for baking led to Top Tier Cakes, a childhood dream.
After working for various companies on the northside of Indianapolis, Elkins decided to open her own bakery on the southside. Two years ago Top Tier Cakes was born. While she did not realize owning her own bakery was a real goal, it came about at the perfect time.
“I get to see customers through all the happy stages of their lives, like weddings, first birthdays, anniversary parties and more,” Elkins says.
With the help of her husband, Kyle, and his coworkers, they revamped the bakery into the perfect setting for her baking creations. “This whole place is my happy place,” she says.
Whether it’s a wedding cake or a simple birthday treat, Elkins pours love and care into every dessert she creates.
Each cake at Top Tier Cakes is a blend of skill, experience and love. Elkins’ wide range of flavors like strawberry, chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, lemon, orange almond, and more, is the result of years of learning and experimentation. “Every flavor is my favorite for a different reason,” she says.
For Elkins, each cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. “My favorite part is creating unique items that I know are going to make them happy,” she says, reflecting on the joy she gets from the reactions of her customers. Whether it’s a wedding cake or a simple treat, she finds fulfillment in knowing that her desserts are bringing joy.
For couples planning their wedding, Elkins offers an intimate cake tasting experience. For $25, couples can sample three different flavors with up to three guests in the tasting room. This personal experience
allows the guests to discuss their wedding vision and collaborate with Elkins to create a custom design that’s perfect for their big day. On the wedding day itself, Elkins delivers the cake personally, ensuring everything is just right.
She currently works on her own, so she is along for every step. She genuinely enjoys every task at Top Tier Cakes, from washing dishes to piping her handmade buttercream on a spectacular tiered wedding cake.
For those interested in placing an order, Elkins recommends reaching out a few weeks in advance. “That way I can make the perfect design for your event,” she says.
Whether it’s for a wedding, birthday or holiday, Top Tier Cakes has you covered.
To place an order, visit toptierindy.com, and don’t forget to follow Top Tier Cakes Indy on Facebook for weekly flavor drops every Thursday.
CONNECT
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WHAT A WISH
LOCAL RESIDENT
JULIAN MEIER TALKS MAKE-A-WISH EXPERIENCE
Writer / Teena Catt
Sixteen-year-old Franklin resident Julian Meier went to Boston in December. On a Thursday he learned that he was awarded a Make-A-Wish Foundation Celebrity Wish to meet his favorite band, Twenty One Pilots. The band was to play in iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball concert on Sunday. Hurried plans had to be made at home, and arrangements had to be made with his parent’s workplaces. By Saturday, Meier, his parents Jordan and Jessica, and his 5-year-old sister, Mila, were on their way to Boston, Massachusetts.
While that trip and its planning process was quick, his medical journey has been a drawn-out, arduous process throughout his entire life. Constant trips to the doctor’s office were the norm for Meier during his early childhood. His original diagnosis was idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets.
For 10 more years he was often sick, and he had to be isolated from others. Finally, in 2023, as his health problems continued, a bone marrow test was given, where evidence of blasts, chunks of non-immature blood cells that are produced in the bone marrow, were found. The fear of leukemia loomed. A bone marrow transplant was in his near future.
“It was a rough two months,” Meier says. The pre-surgery chemotherapy was especially hard on Meier. On February 21,2024 he underwent a bone marrow transplant. His donor was from Australia. His post-surgery stay was extended because his labs were not good enough, he was constantly ill, he could not eat, and he had to be fed intravenously. Finally his caretakers decided to start him on a new medicine, and it was a game changer. In three days he was like a new kid, according to Jessica. After 60 days at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, he was able to return home.
One year later, Meier continues to improve. His platelets are normal now, but his goal is to get his red and white blood cell count up before he can feel safe in public. Meier does online classes from his home. To stay busy, he plays video and strategy games, plays the ukulele, and is teaching himself two languages. Because of medication side effects, he must be careful in the sunlight, so being outdoors is not an option on warm, sunny days.
To keep himself motivated and not get down, Meier has relied on his faith in God. He cites his favorite scripture from the Bible as Romans 5:3-4. “This verse is at the core of who I am,” he says. “I have suffered much in my short life, but each storm I have weathered. This happened to me for a reason, and I have come out of it a stronger person. I do not yet know why God has built this perseverance, character and hope in me, but I reckon one day it will be made clear.”
As a fan of the band Twenty One Pilots, Meier was thrilled to get the opportunity to see his favorite band. The lyrics to several of their songs helped Meier push through some of his hardest times in the hospital. He said the lyrics “We’ve made it this far, kid” from the song “Migraine”, as well as the line “Overtake your former self” from the song “Not Today” are two examples of how music can be healing.
The band members expressed how touched they were to hear what their lyrics meant to Meier. Normally a Celebrity Wish includes either meeting a band or attending a concert; Meier was able to do both. The Meiers felt spoiled on the trip. They were treated to wonderful dinners out, and were able to visit some of Boston’s historical sites and neighborhoods, as well as the concert. “It for this.”
families with children in the stem cell
On February 21, 2025, Meier got to “ring the bell” at Riley. He will have reached a one-year milestone after his bone marrow transplant. His next hope is to get those blood cell counts where they need to be, so he can resume a normal life. His family has hopes that in the future they can give back to Riley Hospital by creating a scholarship for
They plan to continue to host fundraisers with the plan of establishing that scholarship someday in honor of Meier.
To learn more about stem cell donation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, visit the following websites: nmdp.org; versti.org; wish.org; rileychildrens.org.
ward.
CHEF T’S CHICKEN EXPRESS
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE INDIANA VALOR WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
Todd Gross knows good food. More importantly, he knows that a great meal is about more than just taste. It’s about community, family, and the experience of sharing something delicious with the people you love.
That’s why, in March, he will open Chef T’s Chicken Express in Franklin, a fastcasual restaurant dedicated to high-quality chicken, bold flavors and affordable prices. With 14 different sauces, a fiery ghost pepper creamy mac and cheese, crispy fried cod, and a promise of fast service, Chef T’s Chicken Express is set to bring something unique to Franklin’s already thriving food
scene. But for Gross, this venture is about more than just feeding people. It’s about giving back.
“I’ve always loved the sense of togetherness that food brings,” Gross says. “Franklin has that small-town warmth where people look out for each other, and I wanted to be part of that.”
A DREAM BUILT ON FAMILY AND FLAVOR
Gross has spent years in the food industry. Along the way he has learned the ins and outs of running a restaurant efficiently, from managing operations to ensuring excellent
customer service. His experience has given him a deep understanding of what people look for when they dine out, allowing him to craft a restaurant experience that meets their expectations.
Food is often at the heart of family and friend gatherings. It’s where we catch up, celebrate and just enjoy being together. Gross wants Chef T’s Chicken Express to bring that same joy to the families of Franklin.
The menu reflects a love for homemade flavors and comfort food, featuring crispy, golden-brown chicken made fresh to order,
paired with signature sauces varying in flavor and intensity. Alongside the chicken, guests will find sides like rich, cheesy mac and cheese and flaky fried cod, a nod to traditional Midwestern fish-fry favorites.
CHOOSING FRANKLIN: A NO-BRAINER
When it came time to choose a location for Chef T’s Chicken Express, Franklin stood out immediately. The town’s strong sense of community, support for small businesses and appreciation for quality food made it the perfect fit.
“Opening a business in Franklin has been a delight,” Gross says. “The people here are welcoming, supportive and genuinely excited when a new business comes to town. The process has been so much easier than I expected because everyone - city officials, other business owners and even customerswants to see you succeed.”
Gross has found inspiration in Franklin’s many family-run businesses, which have built loyal followings through consistency, quality and a commitment to the community. He hopes to do the same, ensuring that every meal served at Chef T’s Chicken Express meets the highest standards.
“I want people to walk in knowing they’re going to get great food, fast service and fair prices,” he says. “We’re not cutting corners. We’re making food the way it should be: fresh, flavorful and made with care.”
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
Beyond serving up delicious meals, Gross is dedicated to making a difference in Franklin. Each month, Chef T’s Chicken Express will donate 10% of its profits to a local charity, helping to support those in need.
“This community gives so much and I want to give back,” Gross explains. Whether it’s helping a local food pantry,
supporting youth programs or assisting families facing hardship, Gross wants this restaurant to be more than just a place to eat. He wants it to be a part of something bigger.
For Gross, the decision to give back is personal. As a family man, he understands the struggles that many face and believes that businesses have a responsibility to help where they can. He hopes that by making generosity a core part of Chef T’s Chicken Express, he can inspire others to do the same.
A PLACE FOR FAMILIES, FRIENDS AND FLAVOR
The buzz around Chef T’s Chicken Express is growing, with locals eager to try the menu and experience the welcoming atmosphere Gross is creating. He aims to have a go-to spot for busy families looking for a quick, satisfying meal, as well as a gathering place for friends who want to enjoy good food together.
Chef T’s Chicken Express will operate as a carry-out-style restaurant, offering quick and convenient service for customers on the go. However, during the warmer months, guests will have the option to enjoy their meals in a welcoming outdoor seating area. This space will provide a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, allowing diners to savor their food while enjoying the fresh air.
“I want people to feel at home here,” Gross says. Whether you’re grabbing dinner after a long day, bringing the team in after a game or just craving some really good chicken, Chef T’s will be ready for you.
With a commitment to the community and emphasis on family-friendly dining, Chef T’s Chicken Express is set to become a Franklin favorite. Gross hopes that his restaurant will not only satisfy cravings, but also strengthen the bonds that make the town so special.
At the end of the day, for Gross it’s all about what food has always meant to him: bringing people together, one meal at a time.
KICKING DOWN BARRIERS
INDIANA VALOR READY FOR INAUGURAL SEASON
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
For Katrina Emry Farrow, sports have always been a way of life. A Franklin Community High School graduate from the class of 2000, she spent her youth on the soccer field and in the gymnastics gym, continuing both sports through college and into adulthood. But football? That was something special - an unwavering passion instilled in her by her father, John Emry.
Now, more than two decades later, she has returned to Franklin as a mother, business owner and state-winning gymnastics coach. But she wasn’t quite done competing. At 43, she set her sights on an ambitious new challenge: trying out for the newly formed Indiana Valor, the state’s professional women’s tackle football team in the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA).
“I’m not your typical football player, but I don’t need to be,” Farrow said. “As long as the legs do the things, then we’re good.”
She earned her spot on the roster as a kicker, consistently drilling 30-yard field goals. In addition to her role on the team, Farrow also contributes to media coverage, helping to promote the Valor’s debut season.
A NEW ERA FOR WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
Women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth across the country, and Indiana is no exception. With the rise of basketball star Caitlin Clark putting Hoosier athletics in the national spotlight, the time was right to bring professional women’s tackle football to the state.
Enter Kristian Aleixo, the founding owner of the Indiana Valor. A race-car driver and author, Aleixo had a bold vision for women’s football in Indiana.
“The goal for Indianapolis is to become the women’s sports capital of the world by 2050,” Aleixo said. “You have to include America’s
most popular sport, which is football.”
The WFA, established in 2009, is the longest-running and most competitive women’s tackle football league in the country. Featuring 60 teams across three divisions, the league has become a proving ground for elite female athletes. Indiana had a WFA presence years ago, but the Valor’s formation marks the return of a serious contender in women’s professional football.
Tryouts for the Valor took place in October, drawing more than 175 women, including a strong showing from Johnson County. Many players were recruited through social media and word of mouth, led in part by Franklin resident Melissa Ward. Six Johnson County athletes made the final roster, despite only one having prior tackle football experience.
Unlike most expansion teams, which start in Division 3, Aleixo pushed for the Valor to debut in Division 2, a move that speaks to
his confidence in the team’s potential. His goal? To win a championship and earn a fast promotion to Division 1.
CHASING THE DREAM
For Farrow, playing football at this level is more than just an athletic challenge; it’s a personal milestone and a statement to women everywhere. She’s not alone in that sentiment.
Chelsea “Red” Grady, one of Farrow’s teammates, shared how life-changing this opportunity has been.
“As a member of the Indiana Valor, what excites me the most is this new chapter I’ve decided to explore, and at my age it’s a fun but challenging one,” she said. “It won’t be easy, but it’s the mental and physical journey I’m ready to take on with these girls.”
Grady, like many of her teammates, understands the significance of this moment, not just for herself, but also for the next generation of female athletes.
“As a woman playing a sport that’s been widely known for men, we’ll have our skeptics,” she said. “Personally, that only makes me dig my cleats harder into the turf, to show not only ‘them’ that we can do it, but to the younger girls that they can too. Most importantly, this is showing my two daughters that they can do anything they desire in life as long as they’re passionate about it, just like their mom.”
Brittany Korreck, another member of the Valor, echoed those sentiments. A lifelong athlete with a deep love for football, she never had the opportunity to play at a competitive level until now.
“I played soccer since fifth grade and loved it, but football was always my favorite sport,” Korreck said. “Being the only girl in the neighborhood games wasn’t a problem when we were just having fun, but as my love for the sport grew, so did the obstacles. Girls were picked last at recess, and playing on a legitimate tackle team wasn’t even an option.”
That changed when she stumbled upon a Facebook post about the Valor.
“A friend from church saw a post about Indiana starting a new pro football team and said, ‘Why does this sound like something you’d love?’” Korreck said. “I said, ‘Because I would! I didn’t know this was a thing!’”
She reached out to Ward, started attending optional practices and soon realized she was on the path to fulfilling a lifelong dream.
“I am quite literally fulfilling my childhood dream of playing professional football,” she said. “I am beyond excited to play for this state and represent the Indiana Valor with style. I hope to inspire others, especially the young girls who now have an option and something to work toward.”
A SEASON OF FIRSTS
As the Valor team prepares for its inaugural season, the energy surrounding the team is electric. Players, coaches and fans alike are ready to prove that women’s tackle football belongs in the mainstream.
For Farrow, this journey is about more than just playing football. It’s about breaking barriers, embracing new challenges, and showing that passion and determination
have no expiration date.
“This is something I never would have imagined doing, but here I am,” she said. “I love football and now I get to be part of something bigger than myself. I hope this team inspires more women to go after what they love, no matter their age, background or what anyone else says.”
With talent, drive, and a growing fan base behind them, the Indiana Valor team is ready to take the field and make history. And with players like Farrow leading the charge, they just might change the game for good.
For more information, visit wfaprofootball. com or follow on Instagram @ indianavalorfootball.
MARCH CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ACROSS
4. Cavities
8. Full house, e.g. 12. Well-put 13. Rephrase
14. Call from the bridge 15. Anonymous name 16. “Anything ___?”
17. Be judgmental
18. Capacitate 20. Book’s last word 22. Closing document
23. Castle dwellers
27. Pipe type 29. Clearly embarrassed
30. Kind of hour
31. Wasn’t straight
32. Palindromic turkey
33. Feature of some lions
34. Part of T.G.I.F.
35. Japanese bread?
36. Game played standing
37. Gas, to a Brit 39. Mention 40. Shade 41. Tied up
44. Bad driver’s shout 47. Mah-jongg piece
49. Time to look ahead
50. Bump from office
51. Abu Dhabi leader
52. Fall from grace 53. Pluck
54. To-do 55. Snaky
DOWN
1. Chinese gemstone
2. Aware of
3. Least shaky
4. Pie baker’s utensil
5. Went nowhere
6. Poetic contraction
7. Took the tiller
8. Tough
9. “That’s it!”
10. “___ so fast!”
11. Anil or woad
19. Bit of sweat
21. Doze
24. It may be heightened
25. Advanced
26. Understands
27. Radar screen image
28. Liturgy
29. Seek a seat
32. Strikes out
33. Better half
35. “___ rang?”
36. Sidetrack
38. Butler at Tara
39. Cuban singer Cruz
42. Like some grins
Disavow
JOE GRUSS AND BOURBON BATTLES
A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN JOURNEY INTO WHISKEY
Writer & Photographer / Christina Cochran
In 2020, while many were navigating a world turned upside down by COVID-19, Joe Gruss embarked on a path that would redefine his connection with the community and his passion for whiskey. Today Gruss is the creator of Bourbon Battles, a successful YouTube channel that celebrates the shared joy of whiskey, bringing people together over a good pour and meaningful conversations.
THE ORIGINS OF BOURBON BATTLES
Gruss’s love for whiskey started back in college, but the journey to Bourbon Battles began in earnest with a simple whiskey tasting at a friend’s house in 2020. That experience sparked a deeper appreciation for rare bottles, leading Gruss and his wife to start building a collection. Around the same time, the pandemic forced him to adapt
professionally. His office closed, and face-toface client meetings were no longer an option. To maintain contact with his clients, he started a professional YouTube channel called Contractor’s Corner.
This initial experience with content creation made Gruss realize how accessible YouTube could be. Soon after, while chatting with a friend, he had the idea to create a whiskeyfocused channel. Armed with nothing more than his iPhone and a $1.99 app, Bourbon Battles was born - a testament to how passion and resourcefulness can bring creative ideas to life.
THE PHILOSOPHY BEHIND BOURBON
For Gruss, bourbon isn’t just about the drink; it’s about the people and the experience. He
emphasizes that whiskey is not meant to sit unopened on a shelf. “No matter the price, the first thing I’m excited to do is open it and share it with people,” he says.
He believes that the real magic lies not in the price of the bottle, but in the memories made while drinking it. “The difference between a $1,000 bottle and a $15 bottle isn’t much in quality,” he says. “It’s about the experience you’re having while drinking it and who you’re sharing it with.” Whether it’s a rare find or a $20 bottle, Gruss finds joy in sharing these moments, much like sharing a cigar with someone.
A DEEP DIVE INTO WHISKEY
Gruss and his wife frequently travel to Kentucky to tour distilleries and delve into the science of whiskey making. His wife, a microbiologist by education, appreciates
the technical aspects of the process, even though she’s not a fan of bourbon herself. Gruss is particularly fascinated by the juxtaposition of old and new distilling techniques, marveling at how traditional methods still produce exceptional whiskey.
His explorations have also led him to local whiskey culture, including joining a bourbon club started by Butch Rhorer in Franklin called Bonded in Bottle. Through this club and events like tastings at the Elks Lodge, Gruss has forged connections and built a sense of community around a shared love for bourbon.
THE GROWTH OF BOURBON BATTLES
Gruss’s YouTube channel is fueled by authenticity. He films one to two videos a week, often without preparation or rehearsals, preferring to let his passion guide the content. His natural approach resonates with viewers, as evidenced by moments like being recognized by a fan while vacationing in Mexico.
A highlight of Bourbon Battles was its advent series, when Gruss shared 60-second videos leading up to Christmas. These quick, engaging snippets allowed viewers to learn about different bourbons in a fun and accessible way. His primary focus is on providing value to his audience and educating them about bourbon without overwhelming them. One of his key messages is that whiskey doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. “You don’t have to chase after hard-to-find bottles,” he says. “There are plenty of good, quality whiskeys
that you can grab off the shelf, share with your friends and have a great time.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Gruss’s involvement in the local community extends beyond his YouTube channel. He has collaborated with Johnson County’s Haberdasher Distillery and has been invited to speak at events like a recent charity bourbon tasting at the Elks Lodge, which he describes as a huge success. He is excited about the potential to expand his events, particularly into the corporate world, where he hopes to lead bourbon tastings and classes. To contact Gruss for such an event, you can email him at bourbonbattlesblind@gmail.com
While Bourbon Battles is currently a hobby, Gruss is open to making it a more lucrative venture in the future. For now, he balances his passion for whiskey with his work and family life, cherishing the connections and experiences that
bourbon brings. You will be able to find Gruss and Bourbon Battles at the 2025 Raising Spirits event, which raises money for local Johnson County charities.
A MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY
Gr uss wants the community to know that enjoying bourbon doesn’t have to be intimidating or costly. “Drinking bourbon is fun,” he says. “Do it with your friends, do it responsibly, and don’t drink and drive.”
Through Bourbon Battles, he has created more than just a YouTube channel; he’s built a platform that celebrates the joy of shared experiences, the craftsmanship of whiskey, and the power of community. As he looks to the future, Gruss remains committed to his mission: bringing people together, one bottle at a time.
HOMETOWN HERO Gene A. White
In Indiana, we tend to equate the month of March with what we natives call Hoosier hysteria. Though class basketball and time has changed the dynamics of tourney time, Indiana’s passion for basketball cannot be denied.
The most famous example of occurred in 1954 when the small school of Milan (with an enrollment of 161 students) defeated Muncie Central (with an enrollment of over 1,600) to win the state title. This classic story of David versus Goliath was depicted in the 1986 film “Hoosiers”. As Hollywood stories often go, the movie version is not totally accurate, but the emotions, and the passion of the team and the town portrayed, run remarkably close.
Gene A. White, or “Whitey” to his closest friends, played center on that renowned Milan team. “I wasn’t much of a scorer,” White said. Accounts indicate he was well-known for his rebounding and defense. White’s induction into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame came in 2024, while the team induction took place in 2004. A more modest man may not be found. When asked about his induction, he shrugs his shoulders and seems baffled as to why he was selected.
With a little internet research, you can easily find the reason for his induction. Along with his high school achievements, White went on to coach at Batesville High School as well as Milan High School, leading them to a sectional title. Later, he coached women’s basketball at Franklin College and was named Indiana Collegiate Conference Coach of the Year three times.
In 1954 times were much different than they are today. There were no summer sports camps, AAU tournaments or weight training for the players. “We were what appeared to be just a regular team,” White said. That team went on to make basketball history in Indiana. White offered up insider details about that experience. He recalls sitting in the locker room before the final game. “We played up against Oscar Robertson, who played on the Muncie team,” he said. “When the Muncie Central players marched by our locker room, their eyes looked towards us almost as if they
were afraid of us. I do not know if that is true or not, but it was fun to see. We were good at holding the ball and slowing the game down. We played together as a team and we played like it was just any other game.”
Remembering the aftermath of the game is still a magical memory. Following the win at Hinkle Fieldhouse, the team was driven around Indianapolis’s monument circle three times backwards. This created somewhat of an unexpected traffic jam. White said he later learned the police escort got in a little trouble for that escapade. According to a quote by White in Greg Guffey’s book “The Greatest Basketball Story Ever Told”, the team returned to a downtown hotel where they celebrated by “drinking Cokes and watching TV.” The next day revealed their celebrity status among spectators and radio listeners. It was a drive home the team would never forget. Cars lined the country roads, and every intersection in small towns held a group of people holding signs and cheering them on. White said he has since talked to people who traveled out of state just to join the welcome-home party.
In 1990 at the grand opening of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, the Milan players were asked to play against the “Hoosiers” film cast. The Milan team alumni were bigger and older than the cast, but White says “we put it on them pretty well.”
White has made Franklin his hometown since 1985. He and his wife, Anita, have two daughters, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. In addition to coaching, White taught math at Franklin Community High School.
While the storyline in the movie parallels Milan’s journey to the 1954 state title, much of the movie features fictional situations. When asked if Milan’s coach, Marv Wood, was like the character Gene Hackman played, White replied, “not at all.”
White said Hollywood inserted a romantic interest in the film, whereas Wood in fact was married. Coach Wood was much younger than Gene Hackman too. It was Wood’s wife who suggested the team have a reunion every year. Every year since, most of the team has met for a reunion. Those still alive celebrated the 70year reunion in 2024.
In December he celebrated turning 89. Through the years he has enjoyed gardening in his spare time. His wife says there were some years his garden was the size of a basketball court. White said he always favored baseball over basketball, and he enjoys watching his favorite team the Cincinnati Reds. Naming Zane Gray as a favorite author, he enjoys reading books.
When asked what he thought about Indiana Fever sensation Caitlin Clark, White says “she is good. She is extremely good at finding open people on the court. She is a deadly shooter.”
White also offers a message for young athletes today: “My philosophy isn’t to win or lose, but to focus on always improving.”
To learn more about the 1954 Milan team, visit milan54.org
HE SHED, SHE SHED
Writer / John Wales
HE SHED
Owners: Jason and Lori Smith
The Cove is a rustic, country-style sports barn located next to the Smiths’ pool. Jason chose the theme based upon his proud Hoosier heritage. It is a collection of Indiana sports memorabilia, arcade games, pool tables, darts, multiple TV screens and a fully stocked bar.
It occupies a 36-by-25-foot detached garage the couple detailed with 110-year-old barn wood, a large sign displaying The Cove from the concourse bar of Victory Field, and an old scoreboard from Center Grove High School.
The Cove has become a popular space for parties for family and friends. The Smiths have hosted Super Bowl parties, graduation celebrations and even gender reveal parties. Jason says they enjoy using the space for quiet romantic date nights as well elaborate masquerade balls.
Jason recalls that his favorite memory made in the space was their first End of Summer Disco Dance party. A team of family and friends helped transform The Cove into a functioning ‘70s-themed disco hall. Everyone came in costume, and there was no shortage of memories made that day according to Jason.
Like many man caves, The Cove is always evolving, and the couple looks forward to adding more Hoosier history to the space and hosting many more parties!
SHE SHED
Owners: Beth and Charlie Manzione
Beth, an artist, has a love for New Orleans’ rich culture of history, art, cuisine and spiritual lore. She loves it so much she and Charlie created their own New Orleans-inspired courtyard at their residence. The couple tend to be more private and their space is primarily for their personal enjoyment.
The space occupies a deck, a workshop, and a 75-by-25-foot courtyard behind their home enclosed by a tall privacy fence. The space is multifunctional - the couple enjoys their morning coffee on the deck, and they gaze at the stars in the evenings. In between, Beth creates beautiful art in the form of paintings, cut glass and wooden framing.
The courtyard is adorned with many of the New Orleans-themed paintings Beth has created. The couple was very intentional with every aspect of their courtyard. They enjoy watching the accent lighting come to life as the sun goes down, making the space feel magical, “like we are between worlds,” Beth says.
Their creation has been a labor of love, with every step of the process being thought out with a balance of form and function. It’s a small backyard nestled in a sweet little town, yet it is a space that feels expansive and full of mystery.
The next addition to the space will be a small plunge pool and additional landscaping. Beth’s beautiful New Orleans-inspired murals create a welcoming and mystical space that allows her artistry to flourish. Their beautiful creation was on display at a previous Franklin Garden Walk.
Do you have a space you would like to share with our readers? Send a few pictures and a description to walesatwork@yahoo.com and your space might make a future appearance in Franklin Magazine.
BOUND TOGETHER BOOK CLUB MARCH PICK
“THE
SECRET BOOK OF FLORA LEA” BY PATTI CALLAHAN HENRY
Writer / Teena Catt
One of my favorite literary genres is historical fiction. For readers who feel they do not enjoy history, the March book club selection would be a great one to try out, because the book is less of an account of historical facts, and more of a story told during a historical time.
“The Secret Book of Flora Lea” by Patti Callahan Henry takes place in World War II, when children were evacuated by train loads from London to country villages to escape the predicted city bombings. This was known as Operation Pied Piper. Two sisters, 6-year-old Flora Lea and her 14-year-old sister, Hazel, were fortunate to be able to stay together when a single mother and a teenage son chose to live with them in their country home. To cope with the wartime horrors and the separation from their mother, Hazel invents a story for just her and her sister, where they can escape to a magical land called Whisperwood.
All is well until one day Flora Lea disappears without a trace.
Twenty years later, Hazel is working in a rare book shop and comes across a book titled “Whisperwood and the River of the Stars”. The book mirrors the story Hazel made up and told only to Flora Lea. Forever haunted by the day her sister
disappeared, Hazel embarks on a journey to discover how her story came to print and who wrote it - and perhaps to learn the truth behind her sister’s disappearance.
For readers who are fans of Callahan’s books, the Johnson County Public Library will host the New York Times bestselling author at an event on March 26 that will be held at The Historic Artcraft Theatre in Franklin. Callahan will be in conversation with award-winning Indiana author, Susan Crandall. Callahan will be introducing her newest novel, “The Story She Left Behind” (projected publication date is March 18). Free tickets to the event are available through March 26 through the library website.
Wild Geese Bookshop will have other books by Callahan to purchase at the event.
As a reader, you can participate in our Bound Together Book Club by simply reading the monthly book selection and following along on Franklin Magazine’s Facebook page. It is a wonderful way to be engaged with fellow readers in the community and stay informed of upcoming book-related events.
* * *
We promised to publish reader reviews
from our Franklin Magazine Facebook page for our January Book Club pick, “Beautiful Ugly” by Alice Feeney. Here are comments from our members:
Terry Adams: “Fast read, lots of unexpected twists. The ending was a bit disturbing.”
Jess Legan: “Couldn’t put it down but the ending was…what’s the word? Unbelievable.”
Katie Findley: “I got a little bored in the middle but enjoyed it overall. Such sad themes along with the twists!”
Michelle Coburn: “I would give it four stars! It was an interesting premise that kept me hooked.”
Diana Smith: “You may think you have it figured out, only to be wrong several times. I would reread this again. I thought it was that good.”
Amy McInteer: “I didn’t like it and I’ve enjoyed her other books. Just a little too far out there for me.”
Follow our Franklin Magazine Facebook Page because we will soon be asking for your reviews of the February book, “Horse” by Geraldine Brooks.
MARCH
Submit Your Events!
7
HEARTLAND FILM FESTIVAL
THE HISTORIC ARTCRAFT
THEATER, 57 N. MAIN ST. 5 - 9:30 PM
The Historic Artcraft Theatre in downtown Franklin is an official venue for the Heartland International Film Festival.
8
ANTIQUE & VINTAGE MARKET
JOHNSON COUNTY
FAIR GROUNDS, 250 FAIRGROUNDS ST.
9 AM - 3 PM
Enjoy the next secondSaturday Market at the Johnson County Fairgrounds in Franklin. This show features vendors from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and more.
VICTORIAN TEA
JOHNSON COUNTY
MUSEUM, 135 N. MAIN ST.
1 - 3 PM
Join the museum for its annual Victorian Tea with sweets, sandwiches and a presentation. Tickets are $20. A table of six can be purchased for $100.
11
FRANK’S OPEN STAGE
RICHARD’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA, 229 S. MAIN ST. 6 - 9 PM
Frank’s Open Stage, featuring a variety of musicians, returns to Richard’s every Tuesday. Enjoy songs from a variety of talented performers, many of them local.
15
CROP ‘TIL YOU DROP
JOHNSON COUNTY
FAIRGROUNDS - SCOTT HALL, 250 FAIRGROUND ST. 9 AM - 8 PM
Enjoy a full day of crafting activities, including lunch, dinner and snacks. There will be goody bags, door prizes, raffles, drawings and vendors. Check out the link for ticket information.
18
ARTCRAFT BINGO
THE HISTORIC ARTCRAFT THEATER, 57 N. MAIN ST. 5:30 - 9:30 PM
Enjoy bingo games for a chance to win fun prize packages and cash prizes. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., followed by the main event at 7 p.m.
CANDLES AND SOURDOUGH AT WOVEN CO.
WOVEN CO.
CANDLE STUDIO, 200 E. JEFFERSON ST. 7 - 9:30 PM
Create your own custom candle, then learn to make sourdough.
22
INDY SOUTH TRAIN SHOW
JOHNSON COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS, 250 FAIRGROUNDS ST. 10 AM - 2 PM
See running model train layouts, trains, rolling stock, books, DVDs and memorabilia to purchase. Food is available. Entry is $5 per person.
STORYTELLERS FROM THE PAST: HOOSIERS IN HOLLYWOOD
JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM, 135 N. MAIN ST. 1:30 - 3 PM
27
AUTHOR EVENT WITH ALEX ASTER
THE HISTORIC ARTCRAFT THEATER, 57 N. MAIN ST. 6:30 - 8 PM
Enjoy an evening with the New York Times bestselling author of the “Lightlark” series, Alex Aster. Alex will discuss her new romance novel “Summer in the City”.
SENIOR MOVIE SERIES
THE HISTORIC ARTCRAFT THEATER, 57 N. MAIN ST. 1:30 - 4 PM
Enjoy a free movie at The Historic Artcraft Theater if you are 55 or older.
