From Angola’s First Black Family to Hollywood: The Inspiring Journey of Filmmaker Stefon Whitaker

In the quiet lakeside town of Angola, Indiana, a young boy once dreamed of telling stories that reached far beyond his neighborhood. That boy — Stefon Whitaker — grew up to become a rising filmmaker whose work now spans Hollywood soundstages, major productions, and his own creative company.

But Stefon’s story isn’t just about film. It’s about legacy.

Breaking Barriers: The Day Family Legacy

In a recent Make My Move video, Whitaker shared a remarkable truth about his roots:

“My family’s legacy has kept me connected to Angola. The Day family was the first Black family to live in the town of Angola, which was really groundbreaking at that time.”

That moment in local history changed Angola forever. The Day family’s courage opened doors in a small northern Indiana town that had seen little diversity before. Their presence helped shape a new chapter of Angola’s identity — one built on perseverance and quiet strength.

Growing up on Stokoe Street, Stefon was surrounded by generations of that same pioneering spirit. His mother, aunts, uncles, and brother all grew up there, and their stories became the heartbeat behind his creativity.

Small-Town Beginnings, Big Dreams

While Angola is known for its 101 lakes and summer getaways, it’s also where Whitaker discovered his love for storytelling. As a kid, he was inspired by everyday life — the local shops, familiar faces, and weekend walks around The Mound, Angola’s historic downtown circle.

“A lot of what has made me a storyteller and filmmaker definitely comes from everything I experienced out here in Angola,” he said.

Those early experiences gave him a deep appreciation for community and place — themes that still shape his work today.

From Full Sail to Film Sets

After high school, Stefon attended Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, where he studied film production. There, he learned the tools of the trade: directing, cinematography, and the art of turning small moments into big stories.

He later founded SW Films in 2017 — his own production company dedicated to visual storytelling, music videos, and commercial work. His career quickly expanded, leading him to major sets and industry connections. SW Films Web: SW Films

Stefon has since worked on large-scale Hollywood films like:
🎬 Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
🎬 The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
🎬 and music video productions including Baby Keem & Kendrick Lamar’s “Family Ties.”

He’s also collaborated with brands like Nike, serving as an assistant director and visual producer.

Bringing It All Back Home

Despite his growing success, Whitaker hasn’t forgotten where it all started. His dream is to one day premiere one of his films at The Brokaw Theater, Angola’s historic movie house.

“To be able to show my films at the Brokaw Theater, I think that’ll be really cool. I’ve thought about that moment for a long time,” he said.

That vision — of coming full circle from the first Black family on Stokoe Street to a hometown film screening — captures what makes Stefon Whitaker’s story so powerful.

Legacy, Vision, and Community

Today, Whitaker represents not just Angola, but the resilience of every small-town kid with a big dream. His story honors his family’s trailblazing history while inspiring the next generation to create, lead, and give back.

“Angola will always be part of my story,” he says.

From the calm of northern Indiana’s lakes to the bright lights of film production, Stefon Whitaker’s journey is living proof that history, creativity, and courage can start anywhere — even on a quiet street in Angola.

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10 Indiana Towns Where Your Retirement Dollars Actually Go Further/ Not Just for Retiree's !

 If you’ve ever daydreamed about trading in high-cost suburbia for a cozy, affordable life in a small town, Indiana has some serious hidden gems. These ten Midwestern places prove you don’t need a big budget to live well — community, charm, and cost of living matter more. Whether you’re already enjoying Social Security or planning ahead, here’s where your check can stretch without stretching your patience.

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1. Wabash

Tucked into north-central Indiana, Wabash offers a sweet dose of small-town living. With around 10,000 people, it’s just the right size: neighbors know your name, local businesses feel personal, and downtown walks feel like neighborhood strolls. The historic buildings, friendly pace, and bargain housing make this a top pick for living well on a fixed income.

The Honeywell Center brings in shows (not at big-city prices), and you’ll often find free or low-cost community events. Want to soak up nature? Paradise Spring Historical Park and the meandering Wabash River offer peaceful, free fun.

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2. Greencastle

College town energy meets small-town affordability in Greencastle. Home to DePauw University, it brings lectures, concerts, and cultural events you can enjoy without spending much. But the best part? Costs stay grounded.

Walk around the courthouse square, shop local, and enjoy quiet afternoons without breaking your budget. Housing, groceries, and community amenities are kind to fixed incomes. The library fills your days with free events — book clubs, film nights, lectures — no fee required.

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3. Angola

If your ideal view includes lakes and a relaxed vibe, Angola might be your kind of place. Located in northeast Indiana, it’s just a short drive from over a hundred lakes — perfect for fishing, boating, or quiet reflection.

The downtown feels friendly and unhurried. Parks, free concerts, and state park access (like Pokagon) make entertainment affordable. Housing is gentle on wallets, and the cost of daily life stays reasonable, even in the colder months.

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4. Princeton

In Indiana’s southwest corner lies Princeton, where small-town heart meets practical living. The historic downtown is intact, locally owned shops thrive, and big “must drive” errands are rare.

Employment is stabilized by a nearby Toyota plant — which helps keep the local economy steady. Lake Gibson gives options for lakeside recreation, and healthcare is within reach thanks to local services.

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5. Tell City

Riverside charm and Swiss-inspired touches make Tell City a standout. Nestled on the Ohio River’s edge, this town of about 7,500 blends scenic views with low living costs.

Walk the riverfront at sunset, catch local festivals (often free or low-cost), and savor quaint shops without “tourist markup.” River-view housing doesn’t always require river-view pricing, and the community leans into affordability without losing character.

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6. Salem

In southern Indiana you’ll find Salem — small (around 6,000 people) but mighty in warmth and value. The county seat status means local services are solid, but not expensive.

Historic streets welcome slow strolls. Community favorites like the Stevens Museum offer free admission. Restaurants serve comfort food with comfort pricing. Day-to-day life is calm, neighborly, and manageable on a fixed income.

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7. Brazil

Don’t let the name mislead you — Brazil, Indiana is all American, with old-town charm and real value. The downtown retains character without being cute for tourists.

Forest Park’s 200 acres of trails and ponds cost nothing but time, and local theatre, affordable shops, and friendly neighbors make this town feel like home. Healthcare is nearby, and housing options cover a wide budget range.

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8. Washington

Named like the capital but with small-town sensibility, Washington (population ~12,000) delivers without the high price tag. The historic downtown holds on to authenticity, local shops stay grounded, and civic pride is real.

Free museum access, roaming parks, and food that fills your plate (and your stomach) without emptying your wallet make this town a surprisingly strong contender. Whether renting or buying, residents consistently find housing that fits their fixed incomes.

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9. Portland

Up by the Ohio border, Portland offers straightforward living and a close-knit feel. The downtown is stable — no flash, no hype, just dependable local businesses.

Parks, walking paths, and family-friendly spaces cost nothing. Diners serve up hearty breakfasts at yesterday’s prices. Library programs, community gatherings, and social services all reflect this town’s priority: serving people, not just profit.

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10. Hartford City

Rounding out the list is Hartford City. With about 6,000 folks calling it home, this town keeps things simple and welcoming. Historic buildings line quiet streets where you can soak up stories just by walking around.

The parks, trails, and green spaces are free. Local restaurants keep things honest. Senior programs, social activities, and civic services are built for real people living on real incomes. You get a town that doesn’t expect you to spend big just to belong.

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Why These Towns Shine for Modest Incomes

These Indiana towns share a few traits that make them especially friendly to people living on Social Security, pensions, or modest incomes:

• Low cost of living — housing, groceries, utilities tend to stay well below metropolitan levels

• Community-centered amenities — small theaters, parks, libraries, and festivals often come with free or minimal costs

• Local services nearby — healthcare, shopping, and basic infrastructure are close, so you don’t have to drive hours for fundamentals

• A slower, human pace — places where neighborly connections matter more than businesses trying to charge a premium

If you’re considering downsizing, relocating for retirement, or just chasing a simpler life, Indiana offers hidden corners that welcome you without squeezing your wallet.

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Indy Chicken Soup tip: Before you pack your bags, visit a few of these communities. Take a walk downtown, chat with locals, check the housing market, and see which town’s rhythm matches your favorite tempo. Small-town life is full of character — and maybe your next best chapter is in one of these gems. 

Why Nike’s Stock Has Been Slipping Since 2021

Nike is one of the biggest names in sportswear, but even giants can stumble. Since 2021, Nike’s stock price has been on a rocky path, and by 2025 it’s well below its peak. So what happened?

Supply Chain Snags

Remember the pandemic shipping mess? Nike was hit hard with factory shutdowns in Vietnam and shipping delays that raised costs and slowed deliveries.

China Troubles

China used to be one of Nike’s strongest markets, but in recent years sales there have dropped. Local brands are gaining traction, and the slowing economy hasn’t helped.

Too Much Inventory

Nike ended up with piles of unsold shoes and apparel. To clear it out, they had to discount products, which cut into profits.

Shifting Strategy

Nike is trying to sell more directly to customers through its website and stores, while pulling back from some wholesalers. It’s a smart move long-term, but the transition has been bumpy.

Competition & Costs

With rivals like Adidas, Puma, and even smaller lifestyle brands grabbing attention, Nike faces stiff competition. Add in higher shipping, labor, and tariff costs, and profits have been squeezed.

The Bright Side

Nike isn’t down for the count. The company is refocusing on core sports like running and basketball, trimming back excess inventory, and investing in digital sales. If tariffs ease and consumer spending holds up, the Swoosh could bounce back.

For now though, Nike’s stock story from 2021 to 2025 is a reminder that even the most iconic brands can’t outrun global challenges. BJ 😟

Bull or What? Are Air Fryers Really Healthier Than Microwaves and Stovetop Frying?

Hey "Indy Chicken Soupers", I've got a question for ya! Air fryers have exploded in popularity over the last few years, with many claiming they’re the healthier alternative to deep frying and even stovetop cooking. But is this fact or just hype? Let’s break it down and see where air fryers really stand when compared to microwaves, pan-frying, and traditional ovens. Plus, we’ll share which air fryer models are considered the best today.

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Are Air Fryers Really Healthier?

Compared to deep frying:
Yes—air fryers use hot circulating air and require little to no oil. A tablespoon of oil in an air fryer can replace cups of oil in a deep fryer. This means fewer calories, less fat, and lower risk of heart disease compared to traditional fried foods.

Compared to stovetop frying:
Still healthier. Pan-frying usually needs more oil, and food absorbs it while cooking. Air frying, on the other hand, gets the crispy texture with minimal grease. That said, stovetop cooking does allow for fresher seasonings and sauces.

Compared to microwaving:
Microwaves don’t add oil at all, so in some cases, microwaving can be just as “healthy.” However, microwaves don’t crisp food—air fryers provide texture while still keeping calorie counts low.

Compared to ovens:
Air fryers are basically mini convection ovens. They cook faster, use less energy, and produce crispier results. Nutritionally, they’re about the same as oven-baking, but with convenience on their side.

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Downsides of Air Fryers

• Portion size: Most air fryers have smaller baskets, so big meals may require multiple batches.
• Texture limits: While they crisp well, they can’t replicate the exact deep-fried crunch.
• Not a magic fix: Air-fried junk food is still junk food. The healthiness depends on what you put inside.

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Best Air Fryers in 2025

1. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer

• Two baskets for cooking different foods at once.
• Great for families and meal prepping.

2. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1

• Compact, affordable, and versatile.
• Crisp technology makes fries and wings extra crunchy.

3. Philips Premium XXL Air Fryer

• One of the originals with reliable performance.
• Larger capacity, ideal for whole chickens or family meals.

4. Cosori Pro LE Air Fryer

• Budget-friendly but high performance.
  
  
  
• Easy presets and sleek design.

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The Bottom Line

Air fryers are healthier than deep frying and stovetop frying, and they’re more satisfying than microwaving. They’re not a miracle tool, but they make it easier to enjoy crispy, lower-fat meals at home. If you want healthier fried-like food with less mess, an air fryer is a solid investment.

For families, the Ninja Foodi DualZone leads the pack. For budget-conscious buyers, Cosori Pro LE offers great value.

So—bull or what? Not bull. Air fryers live up to the hype when it comes to healthier, crispy cooking.

Go Bigger! trust me on this one.... BJ 

Swap 2 Simple Ingredients and Lose Weight and Become More Healthy !

 "Indy", Switch These 2 Things in Your Diet and Watch the Weight Come Off

When it comes to losing weight and improving overall health, sometimes the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. If you’ve been struggling to see results, consider swapping just two simple items in your diet:

✅ Sea salt instead of regular table salt
✅ Raw sugar instead of refined white sugar

These small changes may seem too easy to matter, but research and real-world results show they can kick-start better health and even help with weight management.

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1. Why Choose Sea Salt Over Table Salt?

Most people don’t realize that common table salt is highly processed. During that process, natural minerals are stripped away, and additives such as anti-caking agents are often introduced.

Sea salt, on the other hand, is typically less processed and retains trace minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. While both salts contain sodium, sea salt offers a more natural balance that may help your body maintain hydration, reduce bloating, and support healthy digestion.

📸 Insert “Before” picture here: bloating and processed food lifestyle

📸 Insert “After” picture here: healthy plate sprinkled with sea salt

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2. Why Switch to Raw Sugar Instead of White?

Refined white sugar goes through multiple steps of bleaching and chemical processing, leaving behind nothing but empty calories. This type of sugar spikes blood sugar levels increases cravings and contributes to weight gain.

Raw sugar, sometimes called turbinado or natural cane sugar, is less processed and still contains molasses, which gives it a slightly richer flavor and a small amount of minerals. While you should still use any sugar in moderation, raw sugar is a gentler alternative that may help curb sugar crashes and overeating.

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The Bottom Line

These swaps aren’t magic, but they’re practical and effective steps toward cleaner eating. By replacing highly processed ingredients with natural alternatives, you’re giving your body a better chance to balance itself—helping you drop unwanted pounds and boost your health over time.

✨ Small steps = big changes. Start today and let your new lifestyle build momentum! 

 BJ  

The 5 Best Plants for Growing Indoors in Indianapolis

 Hey Indy friends,

As the days grow shorter and the cold sets in, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with some indoor greenery. Houseplants not only brighten your living space but also help battle dry air and winter blues—something every Indianapolis resident can appreciate. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just dipping your toes into the soil, here are five of the best indoor plants to grow in Indy—plus some seasonal care tips just for our Midwest weather.

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1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Nicknamed the “unkillable plant,” the snake plant is perfect for Indy’s darker, shorter winter days. It thrives in low light and only needs water every 2–3 weeks.
🌬 Seasonal Tip: With indoor heating, let the soil dry out completely before watering—snake plants hate soggy roots.

2. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

This trailing beauty is great for shelves or hanging baskets. Pothos is forgiving if you forget to water and adapts to most light conditions.
🌬 Seasonal Tip: In winter, move pothos a little closer to a window to soak up weak sunlight. Rotate the pot every few weeks so it grows evenly.

3. Spider Plant

Pet-friendly and playful, the spider plant is known for sprouting “babies” you can repot or share. It loves bright, indirect light.
🌬 Seasonal Tip: Indianapolis homes get dry in winter, so give spider plants a light misting to keep their tips from browning.

4. Peace Lily

With its elegant white blooms and deep green leaves, the peace lily adds drama to any room. It’s great at signaling when it needs water by drooping slightly.
🌬 Seasonal Tip: Place peace lilies away from cold drafts (like doors or windows) since they’re sensitive to sudden temperature drops.

5. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ultimate low-maintenance plant. The ZZ thrives in low light and needs water only once a month.
🌬 Seasonal Tip: With Indy’s dry indoor air, wipe down ZZ leaves with a damp cloth once in a while—this keeps dust away and helps them “breathe.”

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✨ Why Indoor Plants Are Perfect for Indianapolis Residents

• Combat dry winter air caused by heating systems.

• Bring color and life indoors when skies are gray.

• Easy to care for even if you’re busy or traveling.

So whether you’re living in a Fountain Square loft, a Broad Ripple apartment, or a classic Meridian-Kessler home, these plants are the perfect companions to carry you through Indy’s winter months.

Until next time,
🌿 Indy Chicken Soup — warming up your home and heart, one story (and plant!) at a time. 

BJ

Where to buy- "Snakeroot Botanicals" Open 7 Days A Week 11-7pm 1054 Virgina Av Indianapolis Ind

Website: Here

Dick the Bruiser: The Life and Legacy of Wrestling’s “World’s Most Dangerous Wrestler”

When fans talk about the golden era of professional wrestling, one name always rumbles to the top: Dick the Bruiser. Known as the “World’s Most Dangerous Wrestler,” his tough-guy persona and real-life brawling ability made him a legend in the ring and beyond. From his early athletic days to his dominance in the wrestling world, Dick the Bruiser built a career that still inspires awe among wrestling fans today.

Early Life and Football Background

Dick the Bruiser was born William Fritz Afflis on June 27, 1929, in Delphi, Indiana. Before he ever set foot in a wrestling ring, Afflis was already known for his brute strength and toughness. He attended Purdue University, where he excelled in football, eventually making it to the NFL. From 1951 to 1954, he played for the Green Bay Packers as an offensive lineman. His reputation for being rough on and off the field carried over seamlessly when he transitioned into professional wrestling.

Wrestling Career Highlights

Dick the Bruiser officially launched his wrestling career in the mid-1950s, quickly earning a reputation for being one of the toughest competitors around. His gravelly voice, barrel-chested frame, and no-nonsense fighting style fit perfectly with his nickname.

• Signature Style: Bruiser was famous for his hard-hitting brawls, wild punches, and an intimidating presence that made fans believe every fight was real.

• Championships: Throughout his career, he won numerous regional and world titles, particularly in the World Wrestling Association (WWA), the Indianapolis-based promotion he co-owned.

• Tag Team Success: One of his most iconic partnerships was with his cousin-in-law, The Crusher. Together, they became one of wrestling’s most feared and beloved tag teams.

• Wrestling Promoter: Beyond competing, Bruiser played a major role in promoting wrestling in the Midwest through the WWA, giving young talent—including future stars like Hulk Hogan—a platform early in their careers.

Personal Life and Legacy

Outside the ring, Dick the Bruiser was just as colorful. Known for his booming voice and commanding personality, he remained a larger-than-life figure even in retirement.

• Family: He married his wife Louise and together they had children, keeping family life relatively private despite his fame.

• Indianapolis Connection: Bruiser made Indianapolis his home, where his WWA promotion was a wrestling stronghold for decades. Fans across Indiana remember him as much a hometown hero as a national star.

• Passing: Dick the Bruiser passed away on November 10, 1991, at age 62, after suffering a heart attack while lifting weights at home—a fitting end for a man who lived and breathed strength.

Why Dick the Bruiser Still Matters

In today’s world of scripted storylines and high-flying wrestling moves, Dick the Bruiser stands as a reminder of when wrestling felt raw, gritty, and dangerous. He embodied toughness in and out of the ring, carving out a legacy as one of the sport’s true icons.

Whether remembered for his wild tag team matches with The Crusher, his time in the WWA, or his influence on future wrestling stars, Dick the Bruiser remains a cornerstone of wrestling history. His larger-than-life persona continues to inspire fans who crave the days when wrestling’s brawlers felt unstoppable.   BJ

 Dick The Bruiser in Action...................

Did You Wear One of These Watches Back in the 60's ?

 

The Glow of Radium Watches – Time’s Radioactive Secret

In the 1960s, the soft green glow of a wristwatch or bedside clock seemed like a marvel of modern science. Painted with radium-based luminescent paint, these timepieces gave off a gentle light that helped people read the hour at night. To many, it was a comforting innovation—a small glow of progress in the palm of your hand.

But behind the glow lay a silent danger. Radium, a radioactive element, exposed workers and consumers to serious health risks. The “Radium Girls,” factory workers who painted the dials, became infamous victims of radiation poisoning, suffering severe illnesses after being told the paint was harmless. For consumers, prolonged exposure to radium-based products increased the risk of cancer.

Today, radium watches are prized by collectors—but they’re also a reminder of how innovation can sometimes outpace safety.

Future Shock : Could today’s wearable tech—like smartwatches that constantly track our biometrics—become tomorrow’s cautionary tale?

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 Asbestos – The “Miracle Fiber” That Turned Deadly

For decades, asbestos was considered a miracle material. Fireproof, durable, and cheap, it was used in everything from insulation and floor tiles to shipbuilding and brake pads. Builders and homeowners alike hailed it as a wonder fiber that could withstand the harshest conditions.

But the very fibers that made asbestos strong also made it deadly. Tiny particles inhaled into the lungs could remain there for decades, leading to illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Entire industries fought to downplay these risks, even as workers and families suffered the consequences.

The legacy of asbestos still lingers. Buildings across the world require costly remediation, and the health effects continue to be felt by those exposed decades ago.

Future Shock : What about modern “miracle materials” like nanotechnology or forever chemicals (PFAS)? Will we look back and see similar hidden dangers?

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 Leaded Gasoline – The Fuel That Poisoned the World

In the early 20th century, adding lead to gasoline was hailed as a breakthrough. It boosted engine performance, reduced knocking, and helped fuel the booming automotive industry. For decades, leaded gas-powered millions of cars, buses, and trucks around the world.

But there was a dark side. The fumes from leaded gasoline released toxic particles into the air, exposing entire populations to dangerous levels of lead. Studies eventually linked lead exposure to developmental problems in children, neurological damage, and a host of other health crises. Despite mounting evidence, oil companies fought to keep leaded gasoline on the market far longer than they should have.

It wasn’t until the 1970s and 80s that countries began phasing it out. By then, generations had already suffered its effects.

Future Shock : With electric vehicles on the rise, will the materials in today’s batteries—like lithium and cobalt—become tomorrow’s environmental hazard?

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 X-Ray Shoe Fitting Machines – Fashion Meets Radiation

In the mid-20th century, a trip to the shoe store often came with a futuristic perk: the X-ray shoe fitting machine. These bulky devices, also called fluoroscopes, let customers slip their feet inside and watch glowing images of their bones wiggling inside the shoes. Salesclerks used them to ensure a perfect fit, and kids loved the novelty of seeing their skeletons.

At the time, X-rays symbolized progress and cutting-edge technology. Doctors used them in hospitals, so why not in stores? Parents saw it as modern, safe, and even fun. What few realized, however, was that these machines exposed both customers and clerks to dangerous levels of radiation. Unlike medical X-rays, which were used sparingly, these shoe-fitting devices could be used repeatedly in a single visit.

By the 1950s and 60s, evidence began piling up that unnecessary exposure carried serious health risks, including burns, radiation damage to bone marrow, and an increased risk of cancer. Slowly, regulations phased them out, and by the 1970s, most had disappeared from shops.

Today, surviving machines are quirky museum pieces—a reminder of when “cool technology” blinded people to the dangers it carried.

Future Shock : Could today’s obsession with wearable health devices—like continuous glucose monitors or body scanners—be seen in hindsight as exposing us to hidden risks we don’t yet understand?

BJ 😟

The Best Smash Burger in Indianapolis

 

The Legend of "Workingman’s Friend":  Indy’s Smash Burger Icon

Origins & Atmosphere

Workingman’s Friend (originally Belmont Lunch) opened in 1918, founded by Louis “Louie” Stamatkin, a Macedonian immigrant. His small lunch counter catered largely to railroad workers and locals in the Belmont/Brookside area. 

Over the decades, it stayed in the same family. Today, Becky Stamatkin, Louie’s granddaughter, runs the place. 

The place has a no-frills, old school dive feel: cash only, worn-in booths, glass block windows, a classic grill, nostalgic charm. It’s not trying to be trendy—it is the trend. 

What Makes Their Smash Burger Special

• Technique: They form fresh ground chuck into balls, then cook them on a hot flat-top grill. Once they hit the griddle, they “smash” the patty down with a spatula. That creates a thin, crispy, edged crust—lacy, crunchy edges with rich browning (the Maillard reaction) balanced against juicier interior bits. 

• Simplicity: No over-the-top toppings. Typically, cheeseburger style with onion, maybe some classic condiments. The burger IS the thing. 

• Value & Character: The price is very reasonable (classic burgers under $10 in many cases), but more than that, people come for the vibe: historic, local, authentic. 

Accolades & Local Reputation

Workingman’s Friend has been repeatedly named the best burger in Indiana in various outlets:

• Thrillist and other “best burger in the state” type lists. 

• Food & Wine also praised it. 

• In “Taste Test: Indy’s Smashburger Boom” (May 2025), it’s included among the very top smash burger spots in the city. 

• Holdup a Minute !

Workingman’s Friend is iconic, but Indy has more than one strong smash. Here are several contenders, each with its own twist.

	Smash'd Burger Bar (Irvington) Classic Midwestern beef cheeseburger, plus creative monthly specials. Great atmosphere, waffle fries, consistent quality. Their claim: “best smashed burgers  in Indy” 10 Johnson Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46219 (317) 419-2894 Daredevil Hall They mix up premium meat blends (chuck + short rib + brisket), sometimes fancy toppings (avocado, bacon, even peanut butter). Broad menu, nice space. Great for when you want a splash‐up version of a smash.  2721 E 86th St Ste 180 Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 757-2888 Natural State Provision  Southern-inspired, relaxed bar/dive feel, solid classic smash with option for double, plus good sides. Ideal if you want something a bit more modern but still faithful to the smash style. 414 Dorman St Indianapolis, IN 46202 (317) 492-9887 One Trick Pony  Known for their “Old John” Diner-Style Burger, customizable toppings, multiple patties if you want more. Also, local touches like using regional producers. 9713 District N Dr Ste 1210 Fishers, IN 46037 (317) 953-6398 x 104
	BJ