Freetime: March 7

FEATURED EVENT

ST. THOMAS CHILI COOK-OFF, March 9 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Franklin, 600 Paul Hand Blvd.

Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children under 8. All the chili you can eat.

Vote with your cash for your favorite chili. Drinks and desserts available for an additional donation. Door prizes awarded throughout the evening.

Call 317-535-8985 with questions. A portion of the proceeds benefits the St. Thomas Clinic.

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ARTS

SOUTHSIDE ART LEAGUE is hosting a two-artist-show by Indianapolis artists Barbra Thomas and Kristen Kloss at the gallery from now through March 30. The guest artists will each be exhibiting a collection of abstract paintings. Meet the artists at a SALI Open House on March 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

SOUTHSIDE ART LEAGUE WINTER EXHIBIT, now through March 30. Member artists will be exhibiting art works that follow the theme “Faces and Figures.” You have to come see it, because the subjects are not all humans as you might expect. A wide variety of styles, subjects, media and prices will be available. Visit the gallery at 299 E. Broadway St., Greenwood, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Closed Sunday through Tuesday.

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CHURCH EVENTS

LIVING ROOM CONVERSATIONS, 6:30 to 8 p.m. every second Monday at Grace United Methodist Church, 1300 E. Adams Drive, Franklin. The topic for the next conversation will be Civic Renewal. Small groups meet monthly to discuss timely topics, with a different topic each month. All are welcome; enter on the west side of the building. Visit livingroomconversations.org for more information.

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CLUBS & HOBBIES

INDIAN CREEK SWIM CLUB will be offering swimming lessons at the high school in the following blocks: March 11-21, April 8 to May 16, May 20 to June 27, July 1 to Aug. 1, Aug. 12 to Sept. 12 and Sept. 16 to Oct. 31. Those interested can get further information by going to www.indiancreekswimclub.com, calling 317-878-2128, or emailing [email protected].

FRANKLIN REGIONAL SWIM TEAM is offering swim lessons for children and adults. For information on private or group lessons, visit www.frstswimming.com.

THE GREENWOOD GATORS swim club is offering swim lessons. For more information, visit greenwoodgators.net.

EVENING STAR QUILTERS is hosting two quilt artists, Lisa Dodson and Monica Kindraka Jensen, on March 12 at 5:30 p.m. in the Craft Room at Mill Race Center, 900 Lindsey St., Columbus. Dodson’s presentation will focus on why many quilters shop at art and craft stores to find quilting supplies and why art quilts are gaining in popularity and acceptance throughout the world. Jensen’s presentation, called “Garlic Series,” will feature her discussing what she learned from each of the heads of garlic. All interested quilters are invited to attend.

FRA BRANCH 130 is still looking for a few good men and women to join the fun! Monthly meetings are held on the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Greenwood VFW, 1842 Veterans Way, Greenwood. The U.S.S. Indianapolis Memorial Branch holds its breakfast meeting the second Tuesday of each month at Denny’s South Park at Main St. and I-65 in Greenwood at 9 a.m. We would be glad for you to join us and we will buy your breakfast on your first visit. For more information, visit www.fra130indy.org.

JOHNSON COUNTY STAMP CLUB meets at 1 p.m. every third Tuesday of each month at the Trafalgar Library, 424 S. Tower St. Come and enjoy monthly stamp exchanges/offers. U.S. and worldwide collectors of all ages are invited. For more information: [email protected] or 317-989-6799.

LEARN THE ART OF WOODCARVING, every Wednesday evening from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Franklin Parks and Recreation building. Everyone of all ages welcome. Instructors available. No carving tools needed. Contact Steve McClain at 317-696-5713 for inquiries.

NIMBLE THIMBLES QUILT CLUB meets the first Friday of each month at 9 a.m. at Purdue Extension Office, 484 N. Morton St., Franklin for socializing, demonstrations and displays of finished projects. The business meeting will begin at 12:30 p.m. Yearly membership is $20. New and experienced quilters are welcome. For more information, contact club president Vicki Craig at [email protected].

NINEVEH SENIOR CENTER now open with limited activities. Coffee provided for events. Membership is $25 per year. Weekly activities: Euchre on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. and bid euchre on Thursdays at 6 p.m. Chair exercise classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m.

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COLLEGE EVENTS

FRANKLIN COLLEGE welcomes George Anders, LinkedIn senior editor-at-large and author, to campus on, Mar. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Napolitan Student Center. Anders will speak on “Why We Need Liberal Arts Majors.” Anders will discuss why, in our rapidly-changing economy, the case for the liberal arts is especially compelling today and how to ensure that people with these strengths find the recognition and success they deserve. Copies of Anders’ books will be available for purchase at the event; he will also be available to sign books. This event is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending are asked to register at: https://bit.ly/anders_convo. For more information, contact the Franklin College Office of Communications at 317-738-8185.

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COMMUNITY CLASSES/TRAINING

FIRE EXTINGUISHER TRAINING, March 14, June 27, Sept. 26, Dec. 19 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The Greenwood Fire Department is hosting free fire extinguisher training events at the Greenwood Community Center, 100 Surina Way. This event is a chance to learn essential fire safety skills and gain confidence in handling fire extinguishers. Firefighters will guide participants through hands-on exercises, teaching them proper use techniques and what to do after the use of one. Limited spots available, so those interested should sign up at shorturl.at/tDEP0.

TOP FLOOR WOMEN. Indy’s Premier Southside Networking Events invites all women looking for personal and professional development to join us the first Wednesday of each month from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at JPtheGeek offices, 156 S. Park Blvd., Greenwood. For more information, to register for the event, register as a speaker for an upcoming month or even become a coffee sponsor, go to www.topfloorwomen.org.

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

INDY SOUTH TRAIN SHOW, March 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St., Franklin. Free parking. Admission: $5, children ages 14 and under free with adult. All gauges. Food available and door prizes. Contact Ben Scamihorn at 812-841-0220 for questions or tables.

RUMMAGE AND BAKE SALE at the Nineveh Senior Center, 3208 E. Rodeo Drive, on March 29 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and March 30 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come shop the loads of bargains available. Biscuits and gravy, pancakes, chili, hot dogs, dessert, soda and water will be available for purchase.

EDINBURGH PIXY THEATRE: Upcoming Events: Check out www.facebook.com/PixyTheatre for event information and event descriptions or call 812-526-6513.

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COMMUNITY MEETINGS

AG DAY BREAKFAST AND MEETING, March 20 at 7:30 a.m. The Johnson County Ag Day Breakfast and Purdue Extension annual meeting will be at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Scott Hall. Doors open at 7 a.m. and breakfast will be served for a $2 farmer’s share donation, followed by a short program and open house. The Farm Family of the Year and Friend of Extension will be recognized. RSVP by March 6 at 317-736-3724.

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DANCE EVENTS

INDY/GREENWOOD SENIOR DANCERS at MJ Ballroom, 88 U.S. 31 S. First class free. No partner needed. Ballroom social group class on Mondays at 9:30 a.m; line dancing group class, Mondays at 10:30 a.m.; ballroom social dance party mixer, Wednesdays 1 to 3:30 p.m. Snacks and drinks available.

INTERNATIONAL DANCE, first Wednesday of the month, 10 to 11 a.m. Each dance is taught. MJ Ballroom, 88 U.S. 31, S. Cost is $3.

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCE, every first Thursday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Garfield Park Arts Center. Each dance is taught. All ages welcome. Cost is $1.

LINE DANCE at Beech Grove Senior Center, 602 Main St. Every Thursday, 10 to 11 a.m. Line Dance for 55 and over. Newcomers welcome. Each dance is taught if needed. Free.

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GARDENING/NATURE

BEAUTY AND THE BEASTIES, March 28 at 6 p.m., Trafalgar Library, 424 S. Tower St. Naturalist Sarah Gray will talk about how to develop a home garden that uses native plants and is good for the animals that like to live there. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 317-517-0566.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

YOGA AT TAB – Ashley Baremeister, certified yoga instructor, will be offering six sessions of gentle yoga (chair and floor options available $15/$90 total) March 11, 18, 25, April 1, 15 (no class on April 8) from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at Tabernacle Christian Church, 198 N. Water St., Franklin. Call Karen 317-850-7460 for more information.

FRANCISCAN HEALTH will host a joint pain seminar on March 16 at 9 a.m., Franciscan Health at Stones Crossing, 1703 W. Stones Crossing Road, Greenwood. The orthopedic joint pain seminar is for those dealing with hip and knee pain. Dr. Timothy Williams will share information on the latest procedures in joint replacement, managing arthritis and answer questions about related treatment options. The seminar is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating. To register, call 877-888-1777.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS, hosted by Johnson County Parks and Recreation, 2949 E. North St., Nineveh. Join park staff for a Wednesday morning stroll around the park. We will meet at the park office at 8:30 a.m. We’ll always walk at least one mile and up to an hour. Come for all or just part of the walk. Open to everyone, but no pets. Come and have a nice chat and get fit. Canceled in the event of inclement weather or holidays.

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JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY – EVENTS

135 N. Main St., Franklin

HYPstory: JUMANJI, March 8 at 6 p.m. Join JCPL and museum staff for the first HYPstory (History for Young Professionals) event of the year. Listen to a short talk at the county museum on the history of board games, learn about author Chris van Allsburg and the classic children’s book Jumanji. After the talk, join the group for a viewing of Jumanji at the The Historic Artcraft Theatre. The event is free and open to the public, but you must purchase a ticket to see the movie. The first 10 people to register and attend the discussion will receive a free ticket to see the movie afterwards!

SOLAR ECLIPSE SPEAKER EVENT, March 9 at 1:30 p.m. Join JCPL and the Johnson County Museum of History for a fascinating lecture in the stars! Come listen to Dr. Catherine Pilachowski, a professor of astronomy from Indiana University’s Solar Eclipse Task Force. Dr. Pilachowski will be giving a presentation on the upcoming solar eclipse here in Johnson County, a literal once in a century event. For further information, visit our website at www.johnsoncountymuseum.org or call 317-346-4500.

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LIBRARY COMMUNITY EVENTS

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—EVENTS AT CLARK PLEASANT LIBRARY: 350 Clearwater Blvd., Whiteland—

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DR. SEUSS! March 9 at 11 a.m. Share your favorite Dr. Seuss book with us through stories, activities and an edible “Cat in the Hat” craft! For more information: https://jcplin.libnet.info/event/9499523.

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—EVENTS AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY: 401 State St.—

PROJECT PROM. Going to prom but don’t have formal wear? Drop in and pick up free dresses, tuxes, shoes and accessories! March 16 and 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 17 and 24 from 1-4 p.m. and March 20 from 3 to 5 p.m. For more information: https://www.pageafterpage.org/projectprom.

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—EVENTS AT GREENWOOD LIBRARY: 310 S. Meridian St.—

READ ACROSS AMERICA WITH BLUEY! March 4-8. Join us for a wackadoo time celebrating all things Bluey all week long!! Meet Bluey and Fable the Fox! Drop by the Kids Department and enjoy games, crafts and other activities related to everyone’s favorite blue heeler and friends. Stop by the Studio and check out the Exhibit Hall for even more Bluey fun throughout the week! Check website for dates and times of the special storytimes and meet and greet appearances with Bluey and Fable the Fox.

THE STUDIO/PAPER WISTERIA CHANDELIER, March 7, 2024, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Craftiness level: beginner-intermediate. Participants will create their own wisteria chandelier out of crepe paper and a metal hoop. Use basic crafting skills to turn everyday materials into a beautiful piece of decor. Registration required. Ages 18+.

INDIANA’S BACKYARD BIRDS, March 7, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Discover the captivating world of Indiana’s backyard birds in a presentation from Indiana Audubon that unveils the wonders of each season. From the melodious songs of spring to the thrilling fall migration, you’ll gain insights into local avian life year-round. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned birder, this presentation offers inspiration and practical tips to deepen your connection with Indiana’s feathered inhabitants. Join us and become a part of our growing birding community, celebrating the beauty of our avian neighbors together.

VOTING MACHINE DEMO, March 14, 6 to 7 p.m. Curious about how Johnson County voting machines will work for elections this year? Want advance knowledge before you cast your ballot in May? Come join staff from the Johnson County Clerk’s office, which will be on hand to demonstrate a voting machine and answer questions about voting in the upcoming election. Please register in advance online or by calling 317-881-1953.

DRESS LIKE A BOOK CHARACTER, all day March 19. Let’s have some spring break fun! Dress up like your favorite book character, then come visit us at the library to earn a cookie! We’ll have a fun, literary photo booth available that day to capture your amazing costumes!

SPRING BREAK MOVIE AFTERNOON, March 21 at 1 p.m. Join us for an all-ages movie afternoon featuring Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (rated PG). We’ll have activities and snacks, so sit back, relax and join us for a movie!

SILLY SAFARIS, March 21 at 6 p.m. For the family – Join Silly Safaris for some animal fun as only they can do! This is a free program, but tickets are required for everyone attending as space is limited.

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—EVENTS AT TRAFALGAR LIBRARY: 424 S. Tower St.—

FAMILY STORYTIME, March 7 at 10 a.m. Enjoy stories, songs and more with your family! For more information: https://jcplin.libnet.info/event/9623279.

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—EVENTS AT WHITE RIVER LIBRARY: 1664 Library Blvd., Greenwood—

CHILDREN’S CRAFT CELEBRATION, March 7 at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy crafts tailored to different age groups, including toddlers, preschoolers, young school-aged children and older children! For more information: https://jcplin.libnet.info/event/9409945.

TOT ART, March 8 at 10 a.m. Create tot-friendly art projects! Dress for a mess. For more information: https://jcplin.libnet.info/event/9078749.

NATIONAL MARIO DAY, March 10 at 1:30 p.m. Compete in a Mario Kart 8 tournament! Ages 12 and up. First and second place win prizes. Snacks and drinks provided. For more information: https://jcplin.libnet.info/event/9635897.

TALES FOR TAILS, March 11 at 6 p.m. Read with a registered therapy dog! Sign up for a 15-minute session at the Welcome Desk or call 317-535-6206. For more information: https://jcplin.libnet.info/event/9194834.

LIVING WITH CANADA GEESE: Tips and Best Practices, March 12, 6 to 8 p.m. Fed up with goose poop on your lawn or sidewalks? Join us as Jessica Merkling, an urban wildlife biologist with the Indiana DNR, shares ways to manage a peaceful coexistence with Canada geese. She will cover the basics of living with and managing Canada geese in urban, suburban and rural environments. This presentation includes best practices for dissuading Canada geese from an area and provides information about both short-term and long-term solutions. Call 317-885-1330, or visit www.pageafterpage.org/events to register for this free event.

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SUPPORT

RHYTHMIC DRUM HEALING CIRCLE, March 18 and April 22 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Tabernacle Christian Church, 198 N. Water St., Franklin. Drums and other musical instruments are provided; no experience needed. Come and experience the healing power of drumming. Call 317-850-7460 for additional information.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE DROP-IN DAY. Johnson County is hosting a Community Resource Drop-In Day. Several organizations and providers will be providing access to community resources. The event will be held the second Tuesday each month from 3 to 6 p.m. at Herring Hall at Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St., Franklin. Anticipated organizations and providers on site include: Johnson County Health Department (birth certificates, vaccine and testing information); Johnson County Public Library (cards and services); WIC; mental health providers; substance use treatments providers; Naloxone (Narcan) training; advocacy groups; adult education opportunities; a notary; insurance navigation and case management support and general community services. It is a free public event and no registration is required. For more information or to ask questions, contact Erica Ratz at [email protected] or 317-883-7081.

FRANCISCAN HEALTH INDIANAPOLIS will be hosting a monthly Lung Support Group at the Indianapolis hospital, 8111 S. Emerson Ave., entrance 1, starting on March 21. The meetings will take place on the third Thursday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Cardiac Testing Conference Room. The Lung Support Group provides support for people living with lung disease. Meetings include a guest speaker and focus on education and treatment information. RSVP for the meeting and transportation a week prior to the event. For more information, call 317-528-8901 or email [email protected].

ATLAS (Assisting through loss after suicide) Suicide Bereaved Support Group for those who have lost someone to suicide. Facilitated by suicide loss survivors and individuals familiar with suicide loss. Teens (13-17) meet second Tuesday of the month and adults (18+) second Wednesday of the month. For more information, visit https://upstreamprevention.org/community-coalitions/suicidepreventioncoalition/atlas or call 317-824-9617; leave a message with your number and we will call you back.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP, led by the Main Street Hospice staff, is a place for all those who have experienced the loss of someone they love. Public is welcome to come and listen or share their grief stories. Sessions are the first Tuesday of each month, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Main Street Hospice office, 10 Highland Ave., Franklin. For information call 317-736-0055.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meets weekly in Franklin: Open Meetings: Mon. 7 p.m., According to Bill Group, 100 E. Madison St.; Tues. 7 p.m.; Wed. 6 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Sat. 8 p.m., Franklin Serenity Group, 550 E. Jefferson St., 2nd floor; Thurs. 6:30 p.m., Sobriety Now Group, 1300 E. Adams St.; Fri. 7 p.m., Tara Treatment Center, 6231 U.S. 31. Closed Meetings: Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Mon. 7 p.m., 550 E. Jefferson St.; Wed. 8 p.m., 100 E. Madison St.; Thurs. 7 p.m. (men only) 550 E. Jefferson St.

PROJECT SAFE PLACE, 24-hour crisis intervention service for youths ages 7 to 17. To receive help, a youth may walk into a nonresidential Safe Place site and ask for assistance or call 317-738-5437.

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VOLUNTEERING

LOCAL VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS are looking for volunteer drivers who can take local veterans to and from their medical appointments. Johnson County Veterans Transportation Network and Roudebush VA are recruiting. A vehicle and scheduling will be provided and other benefits include a free meal ticket, a free flu vaccination, free physical and more. Those interested should call Johnson County coordinator Jan Pennington at 317-473-5906.

MAIN STREET HOSPICE IN FRANKLIN IS CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS. To provide companionship to a patient in assisted living, long-term care, or a private home? Can you knit or crochet lap blankets? Would you like to assist with birthdays, events and seasonal projects? For more information, call 317-736-0055 or visit www.mainstreethospicein.com.