Hope Plumbing: Indy’s Trusted Fix for Leaks and More

We all know that plumbing issues can be a real headache. They always seem to pop up at the worst times. That's where Hope Plumbing comes in - a locally owned and operated team right here in Indianapolis, specializing in both older homes and modern systems.

Why choose Hope Plumbing? Here are a few reasons:

• Expertise in Older Homes: Got a charming vintage home with not-so-charming plumbing? These folks have the know-how to handle it.

• Comprehensive Services: From drain cleaning to gas line repairs, they've got you covered.

• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, just honest work at fair prices.

Plus, they're known for their friendly and professional service.

So, next time your pipes are giving you trouble, give Hope Plumbing a call at (317) 641-4673 or visit their website at hopeplumbing.com.

📜 This Week in Indiana History 📜

On this week in Indiana History, Indiana University was established. Considered to be one of the top universities in the midwest, IU is known for its beautiful campus, phenomenal business school, and athletic programs.

The athletic teams for the Hoosiers have had great success, most specifically in the realm of men’s basketball. They have won five national championships, with their most successful period coming under Bobby Knight, who is known as one of the greatest college basketball coaches in history.

IU is also home to a famous bike race called the “Little 500.” Every year, over 25,000 fans attend the event known as the “World’s Greatest College Weekend.” The bike race gained greater recognition in the movie Breaking Away, which was filmed on location in Bloomington, and won the 1979 Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

So rather you’re watching Breaking Away, watching an IU basketball game on tv, or watching Shark Tank with Mark Cuban (an IU Graduate) on the screen, just remember that none of that is possible without the Indiana General Assembly approving the charter in 1820.

⚡ Hoosier Headlines ⚡

Indiana Fever Sports Performance Center Coming to Downtown Indy

Last Thursday, Pacers Sports & Entertainment announced plans to build a new $78 million state-of-the-art training complex for the Indiana Fever. The complex will reside on the northeast corner of Maryland and Delaware streets in downtown Indianapolis, replacing a portion of the Marion County Jail 1 property. The complex, complete with two regulation-size basketball courts, a team store, private outdoor courtyard, spa-style retreat space, childcare space, content-production area and more, is expected to open in May 2027.

Caitlin Clark Supports Indy Ignite, then K.C. Chiefs with Taylor Swift

While we’re on the topic of your favorite WNBA team, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is making the most of her first extended period of time away from basketball. The 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year spent last Thursday cheering on the Indy Ignite, Indianapolis’ new pro volleyball team, to victory at the Fishers Event Center.

Two days later, Clark was seated next to Taylor Swift in her suite at Arrowhead Stadium as the Kansas City Chiefs — Clark’s favorite NFL team growing up — held off the Houston Texas in the AFC divisional round, 23-14. Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce had quite the showing with Clark in attendance, too, hauling in seven receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown.

Smithsonian to Bring Traveling Exhibit to Indiana in 2026

In celebration of the United States’ semiquincentennial next year — the country’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — six Indiana communities will get to see the history of American democracy up close. In 2026 the Smithsonian is bringing its traveling exhibit “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” to the Hoosier State, and applications are being accepted through the end of January to determine the half-dozen locations where the exhibit will be stationed for six-week increments. Towns of 10,000 people or less are encouraged to apply. Selected communities will receive training from the Smithsonian and Indiana Humanities to help create a unique section in the exhibit that features their town alongside a series of photos, memorabilia and archival footage centered around the topic of voting, campaigning and participation in democracy.

HC Tavern: Your New Favorite Spot in Fishers

If you’re in Fishers and want a great spot to eat, you’ve got to check out HC Tavern. It’s the kind of place that feels upscale but not stuffy—perfect for a date night or just a solid meal. Their steaks are unreal, the burgers are top-notch, and everything on the menu feels like it was made with extra care.

But the real star? The St. Elmo shrimp cocktail. It’s famous for a reason. It’s spicy enough to make your eyes water but so good you’ll keep going back for more. Seriously, it’s an experience in itself. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.

And here’s why you can trust me - I just ate all of the shrimp cocktails I could handle ⬇️

 💎 Hidden Gems 💎

Badlands Off Road Park

Attica, Indiana is home to Badlands Off Road Park, which features 1,400+ acres of diverse terrain. Sand dunes? Check. Wooded trails? Check. Gravel, mud and rocks? Check, check, check. From beginners to experienced drivers of bikes, ATVs, SUVs, 4×4s and Side x Sides, the Badlands offers a thrilling off roading challenge for the day or weekend. If you don’t have your own bike, ATV or off roading vehicle, rentals are available. Open all four seasons, the Badlands is the perfect getaway to spray mud and get a little dirty with your friends and family.

Smokin’ Jack’s Rib Shack: BBQ Heaven in Bloomington

If you haven’t been to Smokin’ Jack’s Rib Shack in Bloomington, stop what you're doing, get in the car, and head straight there. This hidden gem is a smoky, saucy dream come true. Of course they have perfectly smoked, fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, but the pulled pork, brisket, chicken, mac and cheese, cornbread and baked beans add to its flavorful southern-style BBQ menu. Who’s up for $1 ribs on Wednesday nights? 🤤🍖

What’s your Hidden Gem? Reply to this email to get it featured!

👏 1 Big wIN 👏

Imagine working five, 10, maybe 20 years at the same location. For WTHR-13 Sunrise meteorologist Chuck Lofton, how about 40? Last Thursday, Lofton announced he would retire in 2025, with his final weather forecast set to take place in June. He has become a constant in hundreds of thousands of central Indiana homes since he first joined the WTHR-13 weather team in 1985. His warmth, dedication, engaging personality, professionalism and deep connection with viewers is unmatched. Congratulations to Chuck on an incredible career, and may there be many sunny days ahead for him in retirement! 🌞

🎧 The Rise of Paco’s Taqueria 🎧

🎙 In this episode, I was joined by Seni Gonzalez, the founder of Paco's Taqueria, a successful Mexican restaurant chain in Indiana.

Seni shares her inspiring journey from moving to the U.S. at age 14 to her struggles and triumphs in building a thriving business.

You are going to learn about:

• The Family & Business Balancing Act 

• Thriving in the cut-throat restaurant industry

• Paco’s global expansion plan

Listen on Spotify, Apple, or Youtube 

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