WIN TWO TICKETS TO THE WORLD MIXOLOGY CHAMPIONSHIPS

The World Mixology Championship Finals are hitting Indianapolis November 8-10! Bartenders from all over the world will be mixing up their wildest creations, and Hard Truth is the exclusive American whiskey for the competition. Picture flair bartending, crazy garnishes, and drinks so fancy, you’ll wish you could make them at home.

We’ve teamed up with Hard Truth to give away two tickets to this event.

The first two people to respond to this email will win these tickets!!

☀️ This week’s INsights

This week in Indiana History - On November 7th, 1811, The Battle of Tippecanoe took place. General William Henry Harrison’s troops defeated a Native American alliance led by Tenskwatawa at what’s now Battle Ground, Indiana (Near Lafayette). While Tecumseh was away gathering allies, his brother Tenskwatawa decided to strike first at the Army camp. The two hours long battle was a decisive victory for American troops. This resulted in the destruction of Prophet’s Town, discredited Tenskwatawa, and stirred up trouble with the British, leading up to the War of 1812. And then Harrison gets the nickname “Tippecanoe,” and years later, that turns into the campaign slogan, "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too." It’s catchy—basically the original political jingle.

⚡ Hoosier Headlines ⚡

Christmas Nights of Lights Returns - Coming soon, Indianapolis is bringing back this massive drive-thru light show at the Indiana State Fairgrounds called “Christmas Nights of Lights.” It’s like a million lights all timed to holiday music, running from November 8 to December 31.

They’ve got some new stuff this year, like a “Cosmic Wall of Lights” that’s 180 feet long and two stories tall. And they’ve got your classic holiday scenes like a Nativity and Candyland, plus this giant American flag because, you know, Christmas needs a little USA in there too.

They’re open from 6 to 10 PM, with longer hours on weekends. And it’s for a good cause too—some of the money goes to local charities, including a toy drive and other foundations. So, you get a night of lights, and you get to help out. To purchase tickets, click here.

New Casino Proposed for New Haven - Full House Resorts is making some big moves, planning to relocate their "Rising Star Casino" from southern Indiana to a brand-new spot just outside Fort Wayne in New Haven.

They’re aiming for this big complex with a casino, hotel, farm-to-table restaurants, and even a greenhouse for fresh ingredients. The design has that modern-industrial look with big windows, and they’re all about the natural light.

They’re predicting the place will boost jobs and local tax revenue—and it’s got the whole “local flavor” thing with farm tours and cooking classes.

Caitlin Clark, Pro Golfer? - After a crazy rookie season in the WNBA with the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark is taking a breather from basketball and diving into golf. She’s joked about going pro, but she’s kind of serious because she’s playing in the LPGA’s "The Annika" tournament in November. Fans—and even some pros like LPGA Player of the Year Lilia Vu—are hyped about her joining. Clark’s making waves in women’s sports all around, and this golfing stint is just her way of keeping things interesting in the offseason!

Indy Impresses Swifties - Indianapolis went all-out for Taylor Swift fans this weekend! They decked downtown with Swift-themed signs, decor, and even a 300-foot image of Taylor on the JW Marriott. Fans from all over noticed—and they’re loving it! Visitors from places like North Carolina, Michigan, and Montana are seriously impressed by how the city embraced them, and some are already planning return trips. From restaurants to street signs, Indy made Swifties feel right at home, turning this concert stop into an unforgettable experience.

🎧 Listen to Our Latest Podcast 🎧

🎙 I interviewed Mark Juleen, COO of J.C. Hart , one of the biggest real estate firms in Indiana.

They specialize in multi-family apartment complexes across the state with developments in Hamilton County, downtown Indy, and Bloomington.

We cover:

• Housing affordability in Central Indiana

• The impact of new developments

• The future of Hoosier Suburban Sprawl

Listen on Spotify, Apple, or Youtube 

 💎 Hidden Gems 💎

Lyford Donut Barn - Rosendale

If you’re anywhere near Rosedale, Indiana, you’ve got to hit up the Lyford Donut Barn. This place is literally a tiny barn stuffed with donut magic. We're talking Turtle Long Johns—yes, that’s caramel, chocolate, and pecans on a donut. And then there’s the Jelly Bismark, a puffy delight filled with sweet jelly.

They’re open mornings from Thursday-Sunday - until they sell out, which is quick. So get there early, grab a Turtle Long John, and experience why this tiny barn is a local legend. Once you taste these donuts, you’ll know why people can’t stay away.

TD’s CDs and LPs - Bloomington

If you’re a music fan in Bloomington, TD’s CDs & LPs is your go-to spot. This place is like a treasure chest for anyone who loves the thrill of finding a great album deal. They buy, sell, and trade new and used music, so it’s a little slice of heaven for anyone who misses the days of flipping through bins.

And let me tell you, they’ve got deals. Used CDs? Buy three, get one free. They’ve even got $1 LPs, and if you grab 10, it’s only $5. It’s like they’re giving away records. And for the fancier $3 LPs, it’s buy five, get one free. If you’ve got a few bucks and some time to browse, TD’s is pretty much a no-brainer.

Battista’s Artisan Pizzeria - Crown Point

If you’re in Crown Point, Indiana, you’ve got to check out Battista’s Artisan Pizzeria. This place is tucked away in the basement of the Halls of Justice—yes, the Halls of Justice, where John Dillinger (the famous gangster) was arraigned. So you’re not just getting pizza; you’re getting a slice of history. And the pizza? It’s sourdough with unique toppings, and people say it’s amazing. They even have a little patio that’s perfect for pizza al fresco.

Here’s the best part: every Wednesday, you can get two pizzas for $20. But fair warning—they sell out fast, so you’ve got to be on it. Battista’s is one of those places you’ll keep thinking about long after you’ve left.

👏 1 Big wIN 👏

Schnitzelbank Receives Indiana Tourism Award

The Indiana Destination Development Corp. just handed out this big tourism award, which is like the Oscar of Indiana tourism, to the Hanselman family. They own Schnitzelbank Restaurant & Catering out in Jasper, Indiana, and it’s like, “Hey, congrats! Your schnitzel is bringing people to Indiana!” I mean, imagine getting an award for making such good schnitzel that it actually helps the state economy.

This family, the Hanselmans, they also run a Hampton Inn and a big event center called Klubhaus61 in the same area. The whole family has made Jasper a place where visitors feel like locals, and locals feel like family, which is very Indiana.

And then there’s this list of 11 other folks around the state getting Hoosier Hospitality Awards for making sure everyone who visits Indiana has a great time. These people keep Indiana running and make sure if you’re here, you’re having a nice stay—because they know if you leave happy, you might come back. Here’s the list of these awsome people:

• Joshua Alsip, VP of Regional Engagement, West Central Indiana Partnership

• Sarah Arndt-Kranc, Receptionist, Lake County Parks and Recreation

• Jamye Bley, Flea Market Office Assistant & Information Booth Greeter, Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market

• Kym Braine, Guest Services Manager, Beachwalk Vacation Rental

• Hafedh Khemir, Shuttle Bus Driver, Indianapolis Airport Authority

• Elvia Lopez, Executive Housekeeping Supervisor, Hampton Inn & Suites – Fishers

• Amy Morrison, Front Desk Associate, Embassy Suites – South Bend

• Margarita Rodriguez, Lead Breakfast Host, Home 2 Suites – Indianapolis South Greenwood

• Brenda Sears, Front Desk Associate, Comfort Inn/Sprague – Bartholomew County

• Cameron D. Smith, Operations Manager, Hoosier Cupboard Candy, Snacks and Ice Cream

• Jolene Troyer, Housekeeping Supervisor, Farmstead Inn & Conference Centers

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