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The Indy Hat combines style with purpose, raising funds to support adults with developmental disabilities in Indianapolis. Every purchase of their hats and apparel directly benefits the Village of Merici, a nonprofit dedicated to creating a community for those in need. Show your Hoosier pride, celebrate local traditions like the Indy 500, and make a real difference—all with one stylish hat!

☀️ This week’s INsights

This week in Indiana History - A battleship named for this great state was launched by the US Navy on November 21, 1941. The USS Indiana was being fitted out when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, signaling the start of World War II. Once the war begin, she was sent to the Tonga Islands and fought in the Pacific Fleet of the Navy. 

Nicknamed the “Hoosier Houseboat,” the USS Indiana fought valiantly for the next 4 years, earning 9 Battle Stars for her efforts and participation in the war. After World War II ended she entered drydock immediately, and was broken up and sold for scrap by the end of 1963.

Though the USS Indiana is no longer in service, if you travel around the state and have a good eye, you can still see some of her. For example, one of her anchors are on display at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne. Also, one of her bells and her wheel are displayed in Indianapolis at the Heslar Naval Armory and Shortridge High School, respectively. Finally, a pair of anti-aircraft guns, the same ones used to fight kamikaze pilots and aircraft during World War II, are currently on display at IU’s Memorial Stadium. Maybe that’s why IU football’s pass defense is so good this year…

⚡ Hoosier Headlines ⚡

Pragmatico Brings AI to Indiana - So, three guys in Indiana started an AI company called Pragmatico. Their goal is to teach businesses how to use AI without freaking everyone out, like, ‘Relax, it’s not taking your job—it’s just doing the boring parts.’

These guys have impressive resumes. One sold his company for $50 million, which I assume means he’s paying for lunch. Another started a software company, and the third guy’s big on strategy—so basically, they’re like a tech dream team. The cool part? They’re focused on helping Indiana catch up with the rest of the country on AI. But these guys are optimistic, saying, ‘We’ll get there.’ And honestly, if anyone can make AI feel less scary and more Midwest-friendly, it’s these three.

Child TikTok Star from Whitley County to Present CMAs - Jackson Laux, a 9-year-old kid named from Whitley County, is crushing it. He’s a TikTok star famous for his farming videos, which is already pretty wild for a kid who’s not even in middle school yet. Now, he’s not just farming; he’s got two massive gigs lined up. First, he’s presenting an award at the CMAs—yes, the Country Music Awards. Second, John Deere, the tractor company, made him their official "Chief Tractor Kid." I don’t know what I was doing at nine, but it wasn’t this.

So, Jackson’s job with John Deere is making social media content to hype up agriculture, showing people the behind-the-scenes farm life. Also, he gets to hang out with his favorite country artist, Luke Bryan, which feels like a win for all of us.

🎧 The 1987 Pan American Games w/ Indiana Legend 🎧

🎙 I sat down with Milt Thompson, who is a legend in Indiana and beyond.

Milt was the General Counsel for the Pan American games, and during this conversation, he recounts all the hard work that went into securing the Pan American games and his journey to Cuba in the '80s... where he met Fidel Castro. (It's CRAZY.)

You are going to learn about:

• The growth of sports in Indiana

• The Capital Improvement Board

• Indiana's elevation to global status

Listen on Spotify, Apple, or Youtube 

 💎 Hidden Gems 💎

The Palladium - Carmel

It’s a stunning, world-class concert hall with acoustics so good, people say it’s the best-sounding venue they’ve ever been to. The massive dome and beautiful design make every seat feel like the best seat in the house. Hoosiers rave about how it feels like something you’d find in Europe—right in the middle of Carmel. Whether it’s a concert or just taking in the atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that makes you glad you showed up.

The Shrine Room - Indianapolis

The Shrine Room at the Indiana War Memorial might be the most moving spot you’ve never heard of. Perched at the top of this downtown Indianapolis landmark, it’s a breathtaking tribute to sacrifice and patriotism. Red marble columns symbolize bloodshed, a stunning crystal chandelier called the Star of Destiny represents hope, and twinkling lights above evoke stars in a night sky.

Built in 1933 to honor those who served in ‘The War to End All Wars,’ the room inspires quiet reflection and a deep sense of gratitude. Often called Indiana’s best-kept secret, it’s free to visit and an unforgettable experience for anyone in Indy

The Wooden Peel - Bremen

if you ever find yourself in Bremen, you’ve got to check out the Wooden Peel. It's a cozy little spot serving some of the best pizza you’ll find in Northern Indiana—so good, in fact, that people are willing to wait up to two hours to get a taste. Yep, you heard me. Two hours. The standout is their "Garbage Pizza," loaded with toppings and flavor. Reviewers also rave about their sandwiches and mozz sticks, which are apparently next-level. And here's the kicker—a local legend says there might be an alligator in their basement. I mean, who knows if it's true, but it adds a little spice to the experience. Come for the pizza, stay for the mystery.

👏 1 Big wIN 👏

IU Football Inks Coach to 8 Year Deal

So Indiana football hired this guy, Curt Cignetti, and in one season, he’s turned them into world-beaters. They’re 10-0 for the first time ever. Like, Indiana football’s history was basically just…basketball season starts soon, right? But now? Playoff talk. People are excited.

Cignetti’s 60 years old, walks in last December from James Madison, and just calls his shot. At his first press conference, he says, ‘I win. Google me.’ Then he hops on the mic at a basketball game and goes, ‘Purdue sucks…also Michigan and Ohio State.’ Bold move. But turns out, he wasn’t kidding. They’ve crushed records, sold out games, and are ranked No. 5 in the country.

IU gave him an eight-year contract for $8 million a year. That’s $64 million…to coach Indiana football. Imagine telling someone that a few years ago. But hey, good for him. He’s got Hoosier fans believing, and now Bloomington is apparently the place to be on Saturdays. Wild times, man

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