Building on more than 20 years of community trust and expertise, Diana Health’s Community Outreach Manager, Lauren Billings, sat down with us to discuss the services provided by the practice and the steps the team at Diana are taking to provide innovative, transformative care in an ever-evolving world.

Hooligans Half/Irish Pub, a thriving local establishment in Cookeville, TN, was opened in January 2012 by Mark and Susan LaRoche. With Susan’s extensive bartending experience and Mark’s background in small business, they envisioned creating a sports bar infused with Irish flair, inspired by the lively atmosphere that often accompanies pubs. 

By 2015, their sons, Kevin and Kyle LaRoche, had taken over the operations, ensuring that the family legacy continued. Though the pub doesn’t strictly incorporate authentic Irish traditions, it celebrates Irish heritage, drawing on Kevin’s grandmother’s background. The menu features classic pub grub, including hand-pattied burgers, wings, and fish and chips, with a focus on in-house cooking.

Hooligans features a variety of 31 draft beers, is a top selling Proper Twelve Whiskey account in the nation, and consistently draws a lively crowd of patrons. The pub is particularly known for its vibrant St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, which are the highlight of the year. 

The LaRoche brothers take pride in the community they’ve built, noting that the pub has become a gathering place for locals and newcomers alike. Memorable moments at Hooligans include hosting a wedding on their patio and an eclipse party that brought people together in celebration.

Looking ahead, the LaRoche family plans to expand their patio and continually improve the customer experience. Their commitment to the community and love for the pub ensures that Hooligans will remain a cherished destination in Cookeville for years to come.