🍦 Well, That Escalated Quickly... Cold Snap Edition!

TOGETHER WITH

Hey there, chilly comrades!

If today felt like you got smacked by a sudden gust of “where did THAT come from?”—you’re not alone. Yesterday, it was all pumpkin spice vibes, and today, it's more like "maybe I should’ve worn two sweaters?"

The temperature has taken a nosedive, but no need to go into full hibernation just yet! We’ve got you covered with all the cozy happenings around town and a few insider tips on where to find the warmest spots to grab a coffee and catch up with friends. After all, we’ve only just dipped a toe into the chilly season!

In today’s South Side Scoop:

• 🗳️ Early Voting Now Open

• 🌶️ Boo Bash Chili Fundraiser for Chief Funkhouser

• 🎤 Taylor Swift Celebration in Beech Grove

Let’s get to it!

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THE DIGEST

2024 General Election: Early Voting Now Open

Early voting for the November 5 election is available for residents in Johnson and Marion counties from October 8 to November 4. Marion County residents can vote early at the Indianapolis City-County Building and Johnson County residents can vote at the Johnson County Courthouse in Franklin, with additional voting locations opening October 26th. Be sure to bring a valid Indiana or U.S. government-issued photo ID to vote. For detailed information on more locations and voting requirements, visit the state’s official website.

Boo Bash to Feature Chili Dinner Fundraiser for Fire Chief Eric Funkhouser

Whiteland’s annual Boo Bash is adding a special Chili Dinner Fundraiser for Bargersville Fire Chief Eric Funkhouser, who recently underwent brain cancer surgery. The event, set for Thursday, October 24, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Nire Event Center, will offer dinner from Whit’s Inn with donations supporting Chief Funkhouser. Alongside the fundraiser, Boo Bash will include trunk-or-treating, a bouncy house, bingo, games, and a Halloween movie—perfect for a family-friendly night of fun and community support.

Beech Grove’s ‘Main Street (Taylor’s Version)’ Gears Up to Welcome Swifties for Eras Tour Celebration

Beech Grove is hosting a special event, “Main Street (Taylor’s Version),” to welcome Taylor Swift fans as the Eras Tour stops in nearby Indianapolis. From November 1-3, local businesses along Main Street will offer themed specials, like Taylor Swift-inspired drinks, snacks, and discounts, plus a block party hosted by Silver Linings Coffeehouse and The Local Radish on November 2. Organized by Swiftie and clerk-treasurer Samantha Stratton, this celebration aims to share small-town hospitality and embrace the excitement of Swift’s tour with events, themed décor, and community vibes.

Local Business News

Franklin’s Big Lots Closing as Retailer Faces Financial Struggles

Big Lots is closing its Franklin store at 1538 N. Morton St., with an anticipated final day on November 18, as the discount retailer grapples with declining sales and consumer spending. This closure is part of a larger downsizing, with 56 stores shutting down nationwide, including locations in New Haven and New Albany. Big Lots, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September, continues to operate during a court-supervised sale process, aiming to sell its assets to private equity firm Nexus Capital Management amid economic challenges.

Celebrate the Grand Opening of J Avenue Boutique in Franklin

Mark your calendar for this Saturday, October 19, from 10:00am to 5:00pm at 197 E Jefferson St. for the grand opening of J Avenue Boutique! Explore a stylish mix of Midwest charm and Manhattan fashion with collections for women, men, and kids. The first 50 shoppers will enjoy free giveaways, plus there’ll be special sales, refreshments, and a chance to meet the friendly team. Don’t miss out on a day of fashion and fun—bring friends and family to celebrate this new addition to the Franklin community!

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WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Wednesday

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.

Silent Reading Club

The Silent Reading Club offers a relaxed evening of socializing and quiet reading on the third Wednesday of each month. Open to those 21 and older, begins with a social hour from 5-6 p.m. and silent reading from 6-7 p.m. It's free to attend, with refreshments available for purchase, and donations accepted for the Johnson County Animal Shelter. Attendees are encouraged to bring a book or any quiet activity they enjoy. For more details, contact organizer Rebekah Altepeter at [email protected].

• Date: Wednesday, October 16th

• Time: 5pm-7pm

• Location: Main & Madison Market Cafe

Singo: Whiskey Business (Southport)

• Date: Wednesday, October 16th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: SmockTown Brewery

• Date: Wednesday, October 16th

• Time: 730pm

Live Trivia: Flashback’s Bar & Grill

• Date: Wednesday, October 16th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: Mikie’s Pub

• Date: Wednesday, October 16th

• Time: 7pm

Music Bingo: Freddie’s Pub

• Date: Wednesday, October 16th

• Time: 7pm

Thursday

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!

Torchfire Film Festival

Get ready for the eagerly awaited Torchfire Film Festival, brought to you by Prolift Garage Doors. Film enthusiasts and community supporters are invited to enjoy a memorable night featuring award-winning films, guest speakers, and thrilling prize giveaways—all for just $5 per person! Doors open at 6pm. Grab your tickets here.

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 7pm

• Location: The Historic Artcraft Theatre

Ladies Night Out at For the Love of Design, LLC

Ladies Night Out features a trucker hat bar, permanent jewelry, private sales, giveaways, and a sneak peek at Christmas items. It’s the perfect chance to shop, have fun, and check out the store if you haven’t visited yet!

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 5:30pm-8pm

• Location: For the Love of Design, LLC

Marc Adams School of Woodworking Exhibit

Come celebrate the opening of the exhibit showcasing the Marc Adams School of Woodworking in Franklin! This event is free and open to the public.

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 6pm-8pm

• Location: Johnson County Museum of History

Paranormal Cirque

Under the eerie black-and-red tent known as the Clown Castle, this unique circus experience blends acrobatics, illusions, and mysterious creatures, creating a show that’s anything but ordinary. Prepare for a thrilling fusion of circus, theater, and cabaret that blurs the line between fantasy and fear, delivering unforgettable emotions and a truly paranormal experience. Purchase tickets here.

• Date: Thursday, October 17th - Sunday, October 20th

• Time: Start times vary by day

• Location: Greenwood Park Mall

Robotics Class for Kids

The Robotics Class for Kids offers an exciting, hands-on experience where children can build their own robots while learning key concepts. Guided by an experienced engineer, participants will explore the basics of robotics, assemble a robotic arm, traffic light, and windmill, and get a glimpse into robot programming. It’s a fun and educational way for kids to unleash their creativity and discover the world of robotics! Purchase your ticket here.

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 5:30pm

• Location: Knightsbridge Academy

Live Trivia: Whiskey Business (Southport)

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: BoJak’s Bar & Grille

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 7pm

Live Trivia: Planetary Brewing

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 7pm

Music Bingo: SmockTown Brewery

• Date: Thursday, October 17th

• Time: 7pm

WEATHER

Wednesday

57 🌡️ 33 | ⛅️ | 7% | 🌬️ NW 5-10 MPH

Thursday

63 🌡️ 36 | ☀️ | 7% | 🌬️ S 5 MPH

🎶 LIVE MUSIC

Wednesday

• Slippery Noodle | Slippery Noodle Blues Jam | 730pm

• Tin Roof | Ethan & Joey | 9pm

Thursday

• Tried & True | Hired Gun | 8pm

• Antilogy | Albert Nolting | 5pm

• Murphy’s Pubhouse South | Jason Squier | 730pm

• Parkside Public House | Kevmo and Friends | 6pm

• Fountain Square Plaza | Local Musicians | 630pm

• Slippery Noodle | Late Night Revelators | 8pm

• Tin Roof | Pom Teddy | 10pm

Sports 🏈 

Friday Night Lights

Friday Night Lights are coming to an end soon! Don’t miss out on your team’s upcoming game.

Center Grove (5-3) - Home against St. Frances Academy at 7pm

Franklin (3-5) - Home against Decatur Central at 7pm

Whiteland (3-4) - Home against Greenwood at 7pm

Greenwood (2-6) - Away against Whiteland at 7pm

Southport (0-8) - Away against Bloomington North at 7pm

Perry (3-5) - Away against Mooresville at 7pm

Franklin Central (5-2) - Away against Westfield at 7pm

Roncalli (3-4) - Away against East Central at 7:30pm

Greenwood Christian (6-2) - Home against Indianapolis Shortridge at 7pm

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