Franklin Little League Celebrates 70 Years of Community & Character
Photo By: Beachy photo and Film
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6 CAPTURED MOMENTS Heartfelt Storytelling With Nering Photography
(317) 412-4652
HOMETOWN HERO Dr. Phillip Mirise, Cedar Lane Dentistry
Captured Moments
HEARTFELT STORYTELLING WITH NERING PHOTOGRAPHY
Writer / Christina Cochran Photographer / Rachael Nering
“Every couple has a love Mstory, and their wedding is a part of that. Therefore, I feel their photos should reflect all the elements that make up their story.”
For Rachael Nering, wedding photography is not about creating something staged or picture-perfect.
“People are no longer looking for those ‘picture-perfect,’ posed images that belong on a Hallmark card,” she says. “Rather, they want something that reflects their genuine connection and all the elements of their day — the laughs, the intimate glances, and the emotional, unnoticed moments.”
It is that belief that shapes every wedding she photographs and every interaction she has with her couples.
“It really is about staying alert and being
present for my couples throughout their day,” she says.
Rachael’s approach is deeply personal, informed by her own experience as a bride.
“The photos I look back at the most from our wedding are the unplanned ones,” she says. “It was the photo of my mom holding my ring lovingly before she gave it to my husband. The photo of my husband and me looking out at our family and friends for the first time at the start of the ceremony. The photo of our twin nephews crying as they came down the aisle, and the photo of our friends high-fiving us as we walked into our reception that I cherish most.”
“These are the images I look back at,” she adds. “I feel couples today are looking for these types of wedding photos as well, so I am always on the lookout for these
moments when I photograph a wedding.”
MOMENTS THAT MATTER MOST
“When it comes to the elements that make up a wedding day — moments, people, emotions, and details — I feel most connected to moments,” she says. “When you look back at your wedding day, it’s the moments that matter most.”
Because of that, she prioritizes capturing “hugs, quiet conversations, tears, and laughter — that people will hopefully look back on and smile.”
“I show up with a calm presence, a supportive smile, encouraging words, and step in to direct when needed,” she says.
Rachael Nering
CREATING SPACE FOR AUTHENTIC EMOTION
“One of the biggest ways I do this is by meeting with a bride before the wedding to discuss what family photos will look like and how that flow will go,” she explains. “I like to have a list of groupings beforehand so the bride doesn’t have to direct on the day of or be the ‘bad guy’ if only certain groupings were requested.
“When I lead the charge during family photos, it alleviates a huge amount of stress for brides and their families,” she says. “That allows them to feel comfortable enough for authentic moments to unfold later on.”
“Let’s face it,” she adds, “those moments during a bride’s day are what it’s all about, not a perfectly posed, interrupted picture. I know when moments are ‘mine’ during the day — family photos, telling people where to stand, and who’s up next — and which moments are definitely not ‘mine.’ First looks and getting ready.”
FLEXIBLE PACKAGES, INTENTIONAL COVERAGE
“Smaller weddings offer a special advantage — they show me what a bride cares about most in her photos,” she says.
“This is because a bride choosing an intimate wedding package will have me arrive and leave during the windows that matter most to her.
“Knowing this as a photographer is so beneficial to fulfilling the vision a bride has for her wedding,” she says. “Because every bride values different things, I remain flexible with my packages. Brides don’t have to stick within the three set packages — they are all tailorable.”
A THOUGHTFUL CLIENT EXPERIENCE
“I strive to be organized while also personable with all my clients, no matter what type of photography they’ve booked,” she says. “I’m always upfront about rates and next steps.”
“Previews are sent within 24 hours, and full galleries are delivered within three weeks, along with a surprise — photo
books, exclusive for weddings.
“These details are just as valuable as the photos themselves, because they shape a client experience that is memorable and meaningful.”
LOOKING AHEAD
“I’m focused on making the experience as special as possible for every client,” she says. “I’m constantly brainstorming ways to make things even better. I want the experience to be special because clients deserve more than just a ‘good’ experience.”
And that philosophy — rooted in moments, trust, and heartfelt storytelling — is exactly what defines Nering Photography.
CONNECT
@neringphotos on Instagram rachaelnering@gmail.com
HOMETOWN HERO Dr. Phillip Mirise, Cedar Lane Dentistry
Writer / Teena Catt
Soft-spoken with a composed nature, Dr. Phillip Mirise moves about his office, seeing his patients and putting even those who are anxious at ease. His caring nature and serene personality enable him to even make the words “root canal” seem less severe.
Dr. Phillip Mirise grew up on the east side of Indianapolis. He was a first-generation college student at Indiana University, where he decided to pursue his studies and a career in dentistry. While at IU, he met his wife, Gwen, who was an education major.
After dental school and one year as an associate in a dental practice, they stumbled onto the current log cabin structure that now houses Cedar Lane Dentistry. Another dental practice had occupied most of the space, as well as a hair salon. Firm believers that God directs where you should be, Mirise says he was able to not only buy the current practice but the building as well.
Clients appreciate the unique interior of the office space. Each
room has hand-painted murals created to relax patients. One room features a space theme, one has a jungle theme and another is an ocean scene complete with a dolphin and other sea life.
Once the practice took off, Gwen quit her teaching job and helped more in the office. As the practice grew, they eventually took over the space the hair salon had been renting from them. They fell in love with the community, where they felt the people were down to earth. They eventually built a home in Union Township. Their children, a son, Cordin, and daughter, Kendall, grew up around the practice. They helped stuff patient bags with samples of toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss.
Mirise says he responded to the community’s need for quality dental care when they decided to offer a Free Dental Day for the public.
Several years later, they still host a Free Dental Day on the first Saturday of December. Mirise says it takes not only his family but staff who have generously volunteered their services to pull off a successful event year after year. In the early years of Free Dental Day, people would line up for hours, some showing up at midnight and sleeping in their cars to snag the first appointment times. The first several years, they would see more than 100 patients. They have fine-tuned the process through the years. Today, clients are given a number so they can anticipate their waiting time. Anyone who is disabled receives an appointment time.
From the very beginning, Greenwood Oral Surgery has partnered with Cedar Lane Dentistry and generously agreed to see up to 10 cases for free. This service is for complicated cases such as wisdom teeth extractions. Free Dental Day at Cedar Lane Dentistry addresses cleanings, simple extractions and fillings. Other community partners have volunteered services, providing refreshments in the parking lot for those waiting to be seen.
Dr. Mirise recalls one of those early years when it was 5:30 p.m. and he was still attending to patients. He had told his staff to go home. He recalls this as “his darkest hour,” when he says Gwen walked into the room with her cheerful attitude and told him he was doing great and there were only 27 patients left to be seen.
While his children grew up around the dental office, Mirise says he encouraged them to find their own direction in life. Cordin started his studies at Indiana University as a psychology major. When he started shadowing cases, he was afraid too much of the heaviness of the job would follow him home. He switched his major to dentistry and is now working alongside his father at Cedar Lane Dentistry.
Dr. Phillip Mirise says he is extremely fortunate to have his children work beside him. His daughter, Kendall, is currently in
dental school, and she plans to join the practice soon.
Dr. Cordin Mirise wrapped up their family sentiment about Free Dental Day.
“It’s an opportunity to make dentistry something that doesn’t have to be a luxury.” The family practice, and what Cedar Lane Dentistry exemplifies — from the Mirise family members down to every staff member — adopts the philosophy of giving back to the community.
This concept is also evident on Thanksgiving Day. Since 2009, the Mirise family has volunteered at the Johnson County Thanksgiving Banquet. They have served in numerous ways, but for the past 10 years, they have delivered meals to homebound people throughout the county. “It is a privilege for our family to go and deliver a hot meal to their doorstep,” Mirise says. They believe their family has experienced the opportunity to meet many genuine people, and they make it a point to listen to those who seem especially lonely.
While Dr. Phillip Mirise is quick to praise those around him, it is evident that he leads by example in the practice of compassion, modeling to his children through work and service. He is proud of what he calls an honest living.
SEVENTY YEARS STRONG
FRANKLIN LITTLE LEAGUE CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF COMMUNITY & CHARACTER
Writer / Teena Catt
While National Little League was founded in 1939, it was 17 more years before Franklin started its own Little League program. Little League Baseball is the largest organized youth sports program in the world. The nonprofit organization currently has more than 180,000 teams and holds the motto, “Character, Courage, and Loyalty.”
Franklin Little League was founded in July 1956 by LeRoy Heminger, Harry Gaddis, Noble Tharp, and Delbert and Denzil Shireman, who were among those instrumental in forming the league. Newspaper archives from The Franklin Evening Star recorded a meeting held at the Indiana Masonic Home to introduce the Little League program to key community
members interested in forming a Franklin league. Franklin Elks Lodge #1818 also supported the program.
On June 9, 1956, the first Little League parade was held to kick off the opening season. More than 25 cars, trucks and station wagons traveled from the high school — then located where the current Boys & Girls Club stands — to the fairgrounds, where a ceremony marked the official opening of Franklin’s first Little League season. The parade consisted of more than 200 boys, officials from the city, county and Little League, beauty queens entered in the Miss Universe contest, a fire engine, the color guard and Western movie actor Winston Wayne.
LeRoy Heminger, president of Little League, spoke briefly about the program and its ideals. After a flag-raising ceremony, the first game was held between the Yankees and the Tigers before a capacity crowd. Mayor Jarve Alexander threw the opening pitch to Judge Robert B. Lybrook, who stood behind home plate.
For years, games were held on various ball diamonds throughout the city. Northwood Elementary School, Province Park and the Franklin Boys Club all hosted games before the city created Scott Park on the north side of Franklin. Currently, Scott Park includes five ball diamonds and a concession stand. Plans are underway to expand the park.
Chip Orner, director of Franklin Parks and Recreation, provided details of the expansion. Thirty-five acres have been purchased, extending the park north behind the Walmart store. The main entrance will be off Commerce Park Drive while maintaining the Younce Street entrance. The expansion will make the park eight times larger than it is now. Plans include eight baseball diamonds, soccer fields, pickleball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits and cornhole areas. The creek that borders the north side of the current park will become a dividing line, with a pedestrian bridge connecting both sides. Restroom and concession facilities will be located on each side. Plans include adult- and youth-sized diamonds and likely turf infields with grass outfields. The park will also connect to the Greenways Trail and feature a playground and splash pad.
The land acquisition includes a pond, and the parks department is considering fishing piers as part of the expansion.
Parking currently includes 150 spaces, which has caused traffic issues with overflow parking in nearby residential areas. Improved parking plans include 800 spaces.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with diamonds opening in phases to avoid interfering with the baseball season. Completion is anticipated by 2028. Jim Cruser, current board president of Franklin Little League, has served in various roles for 37 years. In addition to his years on the board, he has coached and umpired countless games.
“We are here for the kids. Always have been, always will be,” Cruser says.
Cruser says Franklin Little League is the least expensive league in its district. Registration costs are $90 per child for T-ball and $100 for other leagues. Challenger League is free. Baseball teams ages 4-16 make up the T-ball and Little League divisions, while Big League teams for ages 17-20 are travel teams run through the Little League program. Challenger League is an adaptive program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges.
Cruser says Franklin Little League has experienced success both through team achievements and individuals who advanced to professional levels. In 1966, Franklin’s AllStar team of 11- and 12-year-olds advanced to the Indiana Little League championship game, losing in the semifinal to Kokomo.
“It was a great experience for a group of 12-year-old boys from the Franklin area. We went to Anderson the day before the game and were paired with Little League families from Anderson and spent the night in their homes. Many memories that will never be forgotten,” recalls Vic Spicer, a team member.
Bob Heuchan also reflected on that 1966 team. As a member of the All-Star team that made the final four, he says they earned six wins and it was an unforgettable experience. Many members of that team still live in the area.
“We all share memories of Coach (Luther) Wrenn’s great knowledge of baseball, Luke
and Barney pitching, the bus rides on the ‘Big Goose’ — the blue-painted Boys Club bus — post-victory trips to Burger Chef, being shown live on Channel 6, beating Orchard, ‘Hanky Panky,’ and the wisdom and antics of Coach (Bill) Doss,” Heuchan recalls.
As strong as the 1966 team was, Heuchan says the 1965 team may have been the best Franklin ever had. That team narrowly missed making the final four, losing to a talented Frederick Douglass team led by a future Chicago White Sox pitcher.
Franklin’s roster included 11-year-old Luke Wrenn and power hitters Tony Goff, Roger Fanon and Bob McMillin, who combined for more than 30 home runs during the regular season, Heuchan says. Heuchan has spent his lifetime in Franklin Little League — as a 1966 All-Star, coach and now a grandfather watching his grandsons play.
Other key years for FLL include 2012 and 2014, when the Senior Boys won district championships; 2017, when the
Minor Boys won district; and 2025, when the Senior Boys won another district championship.
Noel Heminger, Franklin resident and former Franklin Community High School athletic director, fondly recalls his time with FLL.
“Great memories and a great group of guys. Perhaps that is why I continued playing in college as well as coaching,” Heminger says.
Heminger played FLL in the early 1960s, continued through high school and at Eastern Illinois University. He served as head coach at FCHS from 1975-95 and was also a scout for the Kansas City Royals. His father, LeRoy Heminger, founded FLL.
Notable standouts who began their baseball journeys with FLL include Randy Phillips, who was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1966 and played as a relief pitcher in the minor leagues.
Brian McMillin played in the Minnesota Twins minor league system from 1998-2001, reaching the Class A level before transitioning into coaching and instructional roles.
In 2023, FCHS standout Max Clark was selected by the Detroit Tigers. Clark is recognized for his exceptional talent and for inspiring young players in the Franklin community.
Cruser says Franklin Little League is preparing for Opening Day and its
Homecoming Celebration. He hopes many alumni will attend to celebrate the league’s 70th anniversary. Opening Day will take place April 18 at 10 a.m. at Scott Park, and the ceremony will be open to the public. The celebration will include a flag ceremony and announcements for Player of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Coach of the Year. Alumni will have opportunities to share memories and stories. Food trucks, bounce houses and a dunk tank will be featured.
Jeff Mercer Jr., Indiana University’s baseball coach, will throw the first pitch. Mercer is a former FLL player and FCHS standout.
Cruser says he is proud to have coached Mercer and Clark during their Little League years. He emphasized learning the game, playing by the rules and maintaining an “It’s just a game” mentality.
Cruser is seeking additional memories and historical information about Franklin Little League. Those memories may be emailed to jcruser.hbs@gmail.com.
BREWING COMMUNITY
BIGGBY COFFEE BRINGS NEIGHBORHOOD HOSPITALITY TO FRANKLIN
Writer / Katie Hosea
Photographer / Emily Stewart
For many in Franklin, the day doesn’t truly begin until the first cup of coffee is in hand. At BIGGBY Coffee, located off Interstate 65, that daily ritual is about more than caffeine.
BIGGBY prides itself on creating a space for community, conversation and connection. Owned by Shiv Patel and managed by Sapna Patel, this neighborhood coffee shop has quickly become a welcoming gathering place for residents looking for both great drinks and genuine hospitality.
BIGGBY Coffee was founded in 1995 with a simple but powerful vision: to create a friendly, neighborhood-focused coffee shop where everyone feels at home. That same vision guided the opening of the Franklin location in 2024.
“BIGGBY Coffee was founded with the idea of creating a welcoming, neighborhood coffee shop where people feel at home,” Sapna explains. “The Franklin location was opened with that same friendly, community-focused
experience in mind, and we are proud to be growing alongside the Franklin community.”
From the moment customers walk through the doors, that sense of warmth is clear. Bright smiles from baristas, familiar greetings and an upbeat atmosphere make it easy to see why many customers stop by not just for coffee, but for the experience itself. A regular from the neighborhood, Jackson Triwedi, explains, “I like Biggby because it feels more homey than your run-of-the-mill coffee shop. More attention to detail on your drink.” For Sapna, serving customers is the most rewarding part of the job. “Many people start their day with caffeine, and for most, that means coffee,” she says. “I love knowing that I get to help kickstart their day and be a positive part of their daily routine.”
No two days behind the counter are the same, and that’s exactly what makes the work meaningful.
“Every day I experience different emotions
and interactions with different customers,” Sapna shares. “It makes me happy knowing I can help make someone’s day a little brighter through friendly service and a great cup of coffee.”
Franklin’s close-knit feel plays a big role in shaping the atmosphere at BIGGBY Coffee. Regulars stop in often enough that friendly faces quickly become familiar ones, and small conversations turn into lasting connections.
“The best part is the Franklin community itself,” Sapna says. “I get to see familiar faces, build relationships and feel more connected to the people around me. Even small conversations help bring us together and create a true sense of community.”
Of course, the coffee itself is a big part of what keeps customers coming back. The Franklin BIGGBY menu features a wide range of options, with flavored lattes, iced coffee and signature drinks topping the favorites list. Customer go-tos like the Butter Bear and Teddy Bear are especially popular, while seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice, peppermint and red velvet offer something new throughout the year. Along with its coffee, BIGGBY offers smoothies, teas, energy drinks and convenient on-the-go breakfast choices.
Staff favorites often lean toward creativity.
“Those usually include custom creations, cold brews with flavor boosts and our seasonal specials,” she adds. “I often recommend customers try those as well.”
Customization is where BIGGBY
Coffee truly shines. Unlike many coffee shops, BIGGBY encourages customers to make their drinks exactly how they like them.
“What really stands out to me is the level of customization,” Sapna explains. “Customers can adjust sweetness, choose their milk options or add flavors of their choice to their drinks. Whether someone wants a simple black coffee or a fully customized signature drink, we are always happy to make it exactly the way they want.”
Beyond the menu, the BIGGBY experience is rooted in people first. Friendly baristas and a welcoming environment are intentional choices, not happy accidents.
“One thing that truly sets BIGGBY Coffee apart is our focus on people,” Sapna says. “We continuously make an effort to ensure every customer feels special and valued.”
That commitment extends beyond the walls of the shop. Franklin’s BIGGBY Coffee actively supports the community through partnerships with local schools, organizations, churches and community events.
“Supporting the local community is very important to us,” Sapna shares. “We enjoy partnering through fundraisers, sponsorships and hands-on involvement whenever possible.”
Looking ahead, the future feels bright. “We are excited to continue building strong relationships with the community and to
keep growing alongside Franklin,” Sapna says. “As more people discover BIGGBY Coffee, we look forward to being a long-term part of their lives.”
For first-time visitors, the message is simple and welcoming.
“BIGGBY Coffee is a friendly, judgment-free zone,” Sapna explains. “If you’re not sure what you want, our baristas are more than happy to help you find something you’ll love. I’d say — give us a shot, and we’ll pull the best shot for you!”
To follow along with BIGGBY’s baristas and flavors, find them on Facebook or TikTok at BIGGBY Coffee – Franklin.
“We are grateful for the continued support of the Franklin community,” Sapna adds. “We invite everyone to stop by, say hello and enjoy a great cup of coffee. We hope BIGGBY Coffee becomes your next favorite spot.”
CONNECT
Scan, Sip and Save for Biggby Rewards 2120 E King St Franklin, IN 317-377-4115
BOUND TOGETHER BOOK CLUB
“THEO OF GOLDEN”
Writer & Photographer / Teena Catt
A novel making buzz in the book world today is “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi. Originally self-published by the author, the novel gained momentum, leading to a major acquisition by Atria Books (Simon & Schuster) for republication in late 2025. The novel tells the story of an 86-year-old widower finding beauty in the fictional town of Golden, Georgia.
Theo is a kind Portuguese stranger who arrives in the small town of Golden and visits a coffee shop where 92 pencil portraits line the walls. Theo begins purchasing these portraits and, one by one, returns them to their subjects. He plans to meet the “rightful owners” on a bench by a fountain in the center of town. With each exchange, a meaningful story is shared and friendships are born. Lives are transformed when they meet Theo.
The popularity of this story is understandable. The story of giving and receiving, of seeing and being seen, grips the reader’s heart. Levi has beautifully crafted a novel about the power of generosity, the importance of wonder, human connection and creating small acts of kindness.
I read this novel twice last year. Yes, it is that good. The first time I read it independently, and the second time was for a book club selection. I highly recommend it as a book club pick, as it generates thoughtful questions
and meaningful conversation. Book club questions are available on Levi’s website. Without offering a spoiler alert, this novel contains key events and revelations that bring about changes in the lives of the people of Golden.
Allen Levi, an attorney, judge, singersongwriter and author, lives near a small town in middle Georgia. “Theo of Golden” is his first novel.
I was intrigued enough by this book to dig deeper and discovered there is a coffee shop
in Columbus, Georgia, that inspired Levi in his creation of “The Chalice,” the fictional coffee shop in the novel. On a recent road trip, I convinced my husband we needed to visit Fountain City Coffee. Sure enough, pencil portraits lined the walls. I sat at a table in “book reader heaven” and sipped my latte, thinking how amazing it is that someone could look at a wall of random portraits and create such an incredible story.
“Theo of Golden” will stay with you long after you finish the book. It is a solid five-star read for me. A sequel, “Ellen of Golden,” is coming.
A TASTE OF GREEN
CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN FRANKLIN, IN
Writer / Chef Kathy Jones
Hello, Franklin friends! Chef Kathy Jones here, and can you believe St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner? This town knows how to celebrate, and while the parades, the music, and the green outfits are fantastic, you know what’s always on my mind? The food!
St. Patrick’s Day often conjures up images of corned beef and cabbage, and while I respect the tradition, I have a little secret: my favorite kind of celebration is simple, hearty, and centered around a few classic comfort foods— maybe with a little Irish twist.
MY ST. PATRICK’S DAY MUST-HAVES
When I’m planning my own celebration, I keep it grounded. Give me something savory, something gooey, and something to wash it all down with.
AWESOME FISH & CHIPS
Speaking of simple, hearty perfection, sometimes you need something crispy, flaky, and golden. My absolute favorite St. Patrick’s Day indulgence (aside from the grilled cheese) has to be classic Fish and Chips. Skip the frozen stuff and make it at home. Use a light, crisp batter made with a touch of local craft beer—it makes the coating unbelievably airy. Serve up a generous fillet of cod or haddock, paired with thick-cut, double-fried chips (fries, for my non-Irish friends) that are soft on the inside and perfectly crunchy outside. Don’t forget a side of homemade tartare sauce and a splash of malt vinegar! It’s a satisfying, comforting dish that is the culinary equivalent of a warm Irish welcome.
THE PERFECT HAM AND CHEESE
You can’t go wrong with the classics. My version of St. Paddy’s fare starts with the ultimate grilled ham and cheese sandwich.
But we’re not talking about just any sandwich. We’re talking about using locally sourced, thick-cut ham— maybe even a honeybaked variety—paired with a robust Irish cheddar. The sharp, nutty flavor of the cheddar cuts through the sweetness of the ham beautifully. I like to spread a little Dijon mustard mixed with a touch of local honey on the bread before grilling it in butter until it’s perfectly golden brown and the cheese is oozing out the sides. It’s comfort food perfected.
A TOUCH OF THE EMERALD ISLE
To give it that Franklin-meets-Dublin feel, I love incorporating ingredients that nod to Irish cuisine. Instead of just plain white bread for my sandwich, I’ll sometimes use a hearty, thick-sliced Guinness brown bread. The subtle malty flavor of the stout adds an incredible depth that complements the ham and cheese.
Another great addition is a simple side dish of Colcannon—a traditional Irish mash of potatoes, cabbage, and/or kale. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a wonderful way to bring the green to the plate without resorting to food coloring.
THE ESSENTIAL PAIRING: A GOOD BEER
And what’s a hearty meal without the perfect beverage? For me, the whole experience is elevated by a cold, quality beer. Whether it’s a classic Irish stout or one of the excellent brews from our local Johnson County microbreweries, a pint is the perfect companion to my ham and cheese. There’s
something about the way the slightly bitter, refreshing notes of a good beer cleanse the palate after a bite of salty ham and melted cheese that is just pure bliss. It’s the simple things, right?
CELEBRATING LOCALLY
Franklin is buzzing with energy around March 17th. I encourage everyone to head out and support our fantastic local restaurants and pubs. Many will be serving their own takes on Irish classics, and it’s a great opportunity to explore what our community has to offer.
But if you’re staying in, remember this: the best St. Patrick’s Day meal is the one you share with people you love. Whether you’re making a traditional feast or just enjoying a perfectly grilled ham and cheese and a cold beer (like me!), savor the moment and celebrate the wonderful spirit of Franklin, IN.
Sláinte!
Chef Kathy Jones is a Franklin resident and an advocate for simple, delicious, and locallysourced food.
SPRING BREAK STAYCATION
FAMILY FUN & LOCAL ADVENTURES IN FRANKLIN
Writer / Katie Hosea
Spring break is right around the corner, and in Franklin it officially falls during the last week of March, the perfect opportunity for families to unplug from routines and rediscover all the fun right in our own community. From outdoor adventures to creative classes and foodie challenges, Franklin offers something for toddlers, teens and everyone in between.
One of the most exciting ways to explore the city is through geocaching, a modern-day treasure hunt that turns Franklin into an interactive playground. Using GPS coordinates, participants search for small hidden containers — called geocaches — placed throughout parks, downtown areas and neighborhoods.
Inside, you’ll find a logbook to sign and sometimes small trinkets to trade. Best of all, getting started is free. Just download a geocaching app and head out for an adventure that blends problem-solving, exercise and local exploration.
Families looking to maximize spring break entertainment should check out the Get Out Pass, available at getoutpass.com. This all-access pass unlocks indoor and outdoor fun across Indiana
For a hands-on, creative experience, families won’t want to miss the Easter-themed cookie decorating class hosted by Emily Austin of EA Cookie Co. This class will take place at Millie’s Ice Cream Shop on March 28, with two session options from 3-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Recommended for kids ages 8 and up, this class is also a wonderful activity for families to enjoy together. Participants will learn decorating techniques, create beautiful Easter cookies, and leave with both treats and memories. Registration is available at mycustombakes.com/eacookieco.
Teens looking to sharpen their culinary skills can also head to the Johnson County Public Library’s Franklin branch for the “Ultimate Grilled Cheese” cooking class. Participants will learn how to make grilled cheese and experiment with different ingredient combinations, taking this classic comfort food to the next level. This class is designed specifically for teens, making it
a fun and relaxed way to learn kitchen skills during spring break. Registration is required for this event.
Spring break is also a great excuse to eat your way through town. Families with school-age kids and teens can turn dinner into a competition by sampling wings from local favorites like Buffalo Wild Wings, The Willard, Wingstop, Wings Etc., Greek’s, Hangry Joe’s and other local spots. Create scorecards, rank sauces and debate crispiness to crown Franklin’s best wings by the end of the week. Families can even create their own brackets to make a March Madness Wing Challenge. It’s a delicious way to support local restaurants while creating a fun family tradition.
Teens and school-age kids who love science and space can take part in the Spring Break STEAM Astronomy Camp at Clark Pleasant. This engaging program offers hands-on learning and exploration during the break. Families can find details and sign up by visiting the Johnson County Public Library website at jcplin.libnet.com.
Indiana spring weather is famously unpredictable, offering everything from sunny afternoons to chilly rain. When the weather cooperates, kids and teens can enjoy nature walks at Blue Heron Park & Wetlands, where trails and wildlife provide
the perfect outdoor escape. When indoor fun is needed, 10 Pins delivers with mini bowling and arcade games that entertain the entire family.
Spring break in Franklin proves that adventure doesn’t require a packed suitcase. With creativity, community events and familyfriendly attractions, the last week of March is packed with opportunities to make meaningful memories right here at home.
AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2026
MARCH
Submit Your Events!
7
BOSTON TEA PARTY SPRING TEA
Johnson County Museum, 135 N. Main St. Franklin 1-3 p.m.
Step back in time for a special event where history and hospitality come together.
FRANKLIN COMMUNITY PERCUSSION CONTEST
Franklin Community High School2600 Cumberland Dr, Fieldhouse open and JH Main Gym reserved
GARDEN DESIGN WORKSHOP
Two Trees Flower Farm, 2095 S. Nineveh Road South Franklin 10-11:30 a.m.
Join Two Trees Flower Farm for a fun and inspiring morning of dreaming and planning your next garden space. Bring your ideas and questions. Tickets are $40.
JOCO EHA ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR
Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St.
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Annual craft fair with two buildings full of vendors selling various crafts and other products of all types, including clothing, jewelry, home decor, health and beauty and more.
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ANTIQUE & VINTAGE MARKET MARCH
Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Enjoy the next 2nd Saturday Market at the Johnson County Fairgrounds in Franklin. This show features vendors from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and more.
REVERSE RAFFLE AND DINNER
Franklin Elks Lodge, 56 E. Jefferson St. 6-9 p.m.
Enjoy dinner and a reverse raffle with the chance to win up to $5,000 in prizes. Proceeds support the Elks cancer fund. Must be 21 years old or older to attend.
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DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN EASTER EGG HUNT
Franklin Amphitheater, 237 W. Monroe St. 10-10:15 a.m.
Come out for an Easter egg hunt right in the heart of Franklin. Children ages two through 10 are welcome to participate in this family friendly event.
Byron H., patient
Byron H., patient
Advanced cancer care focused on you.
Byron H., patient
After a cancer diagnosis, you want to know your care team is following the right treatment plan for you. That’s why we’ve partnered with Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center. Together, we’re bringing a new level of cancer care to Indiana. So you can simply focus on getting better. eCommunity.com/cancer
After a cancer diagnosis, you want to know your care team is Advanced cancer care focused on you.
