🍦 Mid-Week Musings: Weather Whiplash & November News You Need!

TOGETHER WITH

Happy Wednesday, neighbors!

November 6th has arrived, and with it, that unmistakable pre-winter mood swing. One minute it’s crisp and cozy, the next it feels like we’re in line for early spring. Do we reach for the winter coat or chance it with a hoodie?

As we wade into mid-week, keep an eye out for any stray jack-o'-lanterns that didn’t quite make it to the compost—those little guys are practically trick-or-treat leftovers by now. And if you’re starting to think about holiday plans, don’t panic; you've still got a few more days to pretend Thanksgiving isn't sneaking up faster than a squirrel on an acorn.

So grab your coffee, ignore the weather apps, and dive into this week's updates. Because around here, we might not know what the weather’s up to, but we always know how to keep you in the loop!

In today’s South Side Scoop:

• 🎅 Santa’s Coming to Town - Greenwood Park Mall hosts Santa photos Nov. 7–Dec. 24, with special pet and sensory-friendly sessions.

• 🛣️ New Roundabout Project - A roundabout at Paul Hand Blvd and Graham Rd will soon connect Whiteland and Franklin.

• 🥳 Local Events This Week - From yoga nights and family hikes to trivia and live music, the South Side has activities for everyone!

Let’s get to it!

A MESSAGE FROM….US!

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THE DIGEST

New Roundabout Connects Whiteland and Franklin, Boosting Growth and Traffic Flow

A new roundabout at Paul Hand Boulevard and Graham Road is nearing completion, connecting Whiteland and Franklin to improve traffic flow and drive economic growth in Johnson County. Jointly funded by Whiteland, Franklin, and Johnson County, this collaborative project will support local businesses and meet rising development demands. Local leaders view this project as a successful model of community cooperation that has already attracted major investments like Malarkey’s $200 million project, bringing 200 jobs to the area. Completion is expected by Thanksgiving, promising smoother connectivity for residents and businesses.

Snap a Pic with Santa at Greenwood Park Mall

Santa’s coming to town! From November 7 through December 24, families can visit the Von Maur entrance at Greenwood Park Mall for photos with Santa, with times available on the mall’s website and options to reserve a spot. A pet-friendly photo session is set for December 1 from 6:30-7:30pm, allowing pets to join in the holiday fun. Additionally, a Caring Santa event on December 8 from 9-10:30am provides a sensory-friendly environment for children with special needs. Families attending Caring Santa should use entrance one and head to Von Maur Court.

Reservations Open for Greenwood’s Annual Breakfast with Santa Event

Greenwood Parks and Recreation will host its Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday, December 14, offering families a festive holiday experience. The morning includes a hearty breakfast catered by Smokehouse BBQ, a chance for kids to decorate their own donuts, and a special photo opportunity with Santa Claus. The event has two seating options at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., with each table accommodating up to six guests, making it ideal for families and small groups. Reserve your table today!

Local Business News

Olive Branch Farm Plans New Community Gathering Center in Greenwood

Olive Branch Farm is developing "The Center at Olive Branch Farm," a community hub for Greenwood residents focused on learning, wellness, and connection. Set on 23 acres, the Center will offer a restaurant, café, bakery, gardens, and artisan shops, along with classes, nature trails, and performance spaces. Owners Josh and Sarah Brown envision the Center as a neighborhood space where families can gather, learn, and celebrate together.

To shape this vision, the Browns are inviting the community to a planning workshop with design experts from TPUDC. The Opening Presentation for the Olive Branch Farm community planning process will be held on Wednesday, November 6, at 6 p.m. at the Aberdeen Event Barn (5028 Abbeygate Blvd.). Find additional meeting days and times here.

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WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Wednesday

Sip & Salt Yoga Ladies Evening

Join Lisa at Salty Woods for the perfect night out for relaxation and fun! For $40, enjoy a rejuvenating salt yoga session, along with a refreshing margarita and some well-deserved girl time. It’s a chance to unwind, connect, and recharge with friends in a peaceful setting that’s great for the mind and body. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just looking for a unique way to relax, this evening promises a blend of wellness and fun!

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 6pm

• Location: Salty Woods - 200 Byrd Way Ste 115, Greenwood

Hikes with Tykes

"Hikes with Tykes" is a nature program by Franklin Parks & Recreation for children ages 2-5. Held every Wednesday from now through November 21, each session includes a short hike and a hands-on activity in different park areas. The cost is $10 per session, and registration is required; register online at franklinparks.com or at the Cultural Arts & Recreation Center front desk. Join in tomorrow for a SPOOKY edition exploring Greenlawn Cemetery. Note: this is a parent and child activity; no drop offs.

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 10am-11:30am

• Location: DriveHubler.com Amphitheatre - 237 W Monroe St, Franklin

Tots on the Turf at Greenwood Fieldhouse

Bring your little ones (5 and under) to Greenwood Fieldhouse every Wednesday from 9am to noon for open play on the turf! Kids can explore a variety of sports and activities like basketball, soccer, t-ball, football, and golf. The cost is $5 per child, per session, making it a fun and affordable way to get active.

Singo: Whiskey Business (Southport)

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: SmockTown Brewery

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 730pm

Live Trivia: Flashback’s Bar & Grill

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: Mikie’s Pub

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 7pm

Music Bingo: Freddie’s Pub

• Date: Wednesday, November 6th

• Time: 7pm

Thursday

Aberdeen Farms Fall Flower Arrangement Class

Join a fun pumpkin flower arrangement class at Aberdeen Farms! Led by a pro, this class welcomes all skill levels and provides everything you need to create a beautiful fall centerpiece. Pre-payment is required; call Terri at 317-590-6544 to reserve your spot. The class is limited to 25 people, so bring friends or come solo to meet new ones.

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 11am-12:30pm

• Place: Aberdeen Farms - 5028 Abbeygate Blvd, Bargersville

uPaint a Story

Get your little ones ready for some Thanksgiving fun! This hands-on activity is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, where they’ll create adorable turkey-themed salad plates using their handprints. The event includes a storytime, painting session, and a snack. Registration is available online here, but walk-ins are welcome too!

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 11am-12:30pm

• Place: UPaint Pottery Studio - 3113 W Smith Valley Road, Suite D, Greenwood

Perry Seniors Community Dinner & Bingo Fundraiser

This dinner and bingo fundraiser includes a $15 dinner featuring chicken and dumplings, mashed potatoes, green beans, a roll, and drinks, with desserts available for purchase. After dinner, there will be six bingo games, with the final game offering a $100 gift card prize for a coverall. The event also includes raffles and a 50/50 drawing. Reservations are encouraged; call 317-783-9231 to reserve your spot!

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 6pm-8:30pm

• Place: Southport Community Center - 6901 Derbyshire Rd, Indianapolis

Roaring 20's Triple "B" Bingo - Bags, Bourbon & Brews

Bags, Bourbon & Brews is a fundraiser supporting adult day programs and resources for seniors and caregivers in Morgan, Johnson, and Hendricks Counties. Sponsorships range from $65 to $1,000, and tickets include dinner. Individual tickets are $65, while a table of eight is $520. The event features a cash bar, a mystery bags raffle, and door prizes. For details, contact (317) 432-5159.

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 5pm-10pm

• Place: Franklin Elks Lodge #1818 - 56 E Jefferson Street, Franklin

Designer Bag Bingo by Boys & Girls Club of Johnson County

The Boys and Girls Club of Johnson County is hosting Designer Bag Bingo at The Clubhouse at the Legends Golf Course in Franklin. Doors open at 5:30pm. A table for 10 costs $400 and includes access to all games, light hors d'oeuvres, and a drink ticket per guest. To reserve a table, contact Natalie Fellure at [email protected].

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 6:30pm-9:30pm

• Place: The Legends Golf Club - 2555 Hurricane Road, Franklin

Franklin Community Band - A Tribute to Our Heroes

A Tribute to Our Heroes will feature a live performance by The Franklin Community Band. Doors open at 6pm. This patriotic concert will honor veterans and everyday heroes with inspiring music from composers like George Cohan, Richard Rodgers, and Irving Berlin. Special guest tenor Eric DeForest will join the band to perform some patriotic classics. Donations will be accepted to support relief efforts for those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 7pm

• Place: The Historic Artcraft Theatre - 57 N Main St, Franklin

Franklin College Dance Performance

Sacred Steps: Interfaith Understanding Through Dance is an event featuring dance performances and a discussion on the themes of spirituality, gratitude, and the role of dance in connecting faiths. It will take place in the Clarence E. & Inez R. Custer Theatre at Old Main (Branigin Boulevard and Monroe Street) at Franklin College. The event is free and open to the public, but please register in advance here.

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 7pm-9pm

• Place: Clarence E. & Inez R. Custer Theatre - 101 Branigin Blvd, Franklin

Urban Air Jumperoo

Join in for Jumperoo every Thursday from 10am-12pm! Perfect for bonding with your little ones (5 and under) – $10.99 per jumper, parents play free!

• Date: Every Thursday

• Time: 10am-12pm

• Place: Urban Air Adventure Park - 1172 North Main Street, Franklin

Live Trivia: Whiskey Business (Southport)

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: BoJak’s Bar & Grille

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: Planetary Brewing

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 7pm

Music Bingo: SmockTown Brewery

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Time: 7pm

WEATHER

Wednesday

67 🌡️ 46 | ⛅️ | 10% | 🌬️ WNW 5-10 MPH

Thursday

61 🌡️ 38 | ⛅️ | 8% | 🌬️ NNE 5-10 MPH

🎶 LIVE MUSIC

Wednesday

• Slippery Noodle | Slippery Noodle Blues Jam | 730pm

Thursday

• Tried & True | John Ryan | 8pm

• Parkside Public House | Mars | 6pm

• Fountain Square Plaza | Local Musicians | 630pm

• Slippery Noodle | The Skeleton Crew Band | 8pm

• Tin Roof | Pom Teddy | 10pm

Sports 🏈 

Friday Night Lights

Sectionals continue! Check out where your team will be playing this weekend!

Center Grove (6-4) - Home against Franklin Central at 7pm

Franklin (4-6) - Away against East Central 7pm

Greenwood (4-7) - Away against Martinsville at 7pm

Perry (5-5) - Away against Warren Central at 7pm

Franklin Central (6-3) - Away against Center Grove at 7pm

Roncalli (6-4) - Home against Bishop Chatard at 7:00pm

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