Indy Star — The intrigue behind the curtain cloaking the HJR-3 debate “When the Indiana Senate cast its vote Monday on the proposed same-sex marriage ban, it all seemed pretty straightforward, even predictable. The vast majority of Republicans voted for the measure and it passed 32-17. But outside public view, another story was playing out.
Read on »Indiana
Zombie HJR-3: Out-of-state groups want to force HJR-3 onto 2014 ballot
According to RTV-6 News – Group may force HJR-3 on 2014 ballot: Posted: 02/19/2014 Rafael Sanchez INDIANAPOLIS – A national pro-marriage group is considering whether to take legal action to force HJR-3 on the Indiana ballot in November 2014. The measure came to a halt on Monday, when the Senate did not return the bill
Read on »The End of HJR-3 for 2014 (with some thoughts on HB-1153)
Because in the past, I’ve been terrible about writing down the follow-up of the Indiana Marriage Discrimination Amendment, here’s a wrap-up post in case this comes up again in two years – HJR-3 passed through the state legislature, but we essentially “won” because we succeeded in keeping it off the ballot in 2014. After my
Read on »HJR-3 to be heard in the Indiana House Monday at 1:30 p.m.
After some committee shenanigans, (in which Brian Bosma moved the bill from House Judiciary committee to the Elections and Apportionment committee when it became clear that it wouldn’t pass the first one) HJR-3 passed out of committee on Wednesday, and will be heard on the floor of the Indiana House on Monday at 1:30 p.m.
Read on »Todd Rokita embarrasses Indiana twice (at least)
Indiana State Representative Todd Rokita (R) has been making the news cycles recently to discuss his ignominious role in the government shutdown. He’s blissfully unaware of how ridiculous he sounds in this soundbite that gets prominent discussion on The Daily Show yesterday evening: But what takes the cake is Rokita’s sexist remarks to a CNN
Read on »Go Ahead and Play Project by the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana
UPDATE: Here’s a cool promo video for the Go Ahead and Play Project. I’m very pleased to have contributed to a fun local public art project organized through The Women’s Fund of Central Indiana – the Go Ahead and Play project. Go Ahead and Play will place 20 pianos, all transformed into works of art
Read on »What DOMA means for Indiana: nothing changes, but everything changes
Both the ACLU (our friends!) and the Indiana branch of the American Family Association (not our friends at all!) are noting that the DOMA decision by the Supreme Court doesn’t have any direct effect on same-sex marriage in Indiana, according to the Indy Star. Indiana has a law on the books banning same-sex marriage, and
Read on »BMV seeks ‘clarity’ on Indiana Youth Group license plates
Despite the fact that a recent judge’s ruling determined that the state improperly revoked IYG’s specialty license plate, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is asking for ‘clarity’ on the issue, before resuming sales of the specialty plate that both benefits the Indiana Youth Group and earns the State additional tax revenue. I’ve written about
Read on »The 25th Annual Circle City Pride Celebration, June 8th
The Circle City Pride Celebration is a week of events, culminating in the Pride Parade and Festival on Saturday, June 8th. Visit their site for a list of the events; there’s lots to do this year throughout the week. But definitely the highlights are the parade and festival on Saturday. The Cadillac Barbie Pride Parade
Read on »Anti-Gay Churches will not have booths at Pride this year
After meeting with concerned LGBT citizens and with the two churches who had purchased vendor booths for the 25th Circle City Pride Festival this year, the organizers of Indy Pride have decided to return their booth fees and decline their attendance at the festival. I’m very glad that this has been worked out, and that
Read on »Anti-gay churches have booths at Indianapolis Gay Pride event
2013-05-29 UPDATE: According to a facebook note from the Indy Pride Organizers, These two churches will no longer have booths at this year’s Pride celebration. Last year and for the past few years apparently, there have been two churches from Indianapolis — Castleview Baptist Church and A.C.T. For The Gospel — who have had booths
Read on »IYG and the homophobic Indiana State Legislature
Indiana Youth Group is a social advocacy group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered youth that has been around since 1987. They provide lots of important services to help young LGBT people in Indiana, including counseling and social services for at risk youth, advocacy on their behalf in schools, and health education. IYG has been
Read on »Indiana’s 10 Most Endangered Places 2013
Indiana Landmarks calls your attention to the 2013 list of Indiana’s 10 Most Endangered historic places. Jeopardized by neglect, deterioration, and lack of development prospects, these irreplaceable landmarks face imminent threats. Included on this years’ list: Anderson Athletic Park Pool, Anderson Bowen House, Delphi Brookview-Irvington Park & State Boulevard, Fort Wayne Eagle Cotton Mill, Madison
Read on »The Brutal Republican Power Grab of Indiana Senate Bill 621 (SB 621)
This is an Indiana Senate Bill targeted at Indianapolis and designed to take away a great deal of political voting power of Indianapolis residents. If you are a resident of Indianapolis proper, READ THE TEXT of this bill and see the direct impact this bill has on you. Hell, even if you’re not an Indianapolis
Read on »Indiana House Joint Resolution 6 (HJR-6) Marriage Discrimination Amendment
Contact your state legislators to oppose HJR6, the Marriage Discrimination Amendment.
Read on »Indiana Senate Bill 621 (SB 621)
Bill introduced in the Indiana State legislature this week: Indiana Senate Bill 621 (SB 621) The analysis of this bill by Indy Democrat Blog: “Where to begin? It’s pretty easy. Almost everything in this bill is designed to reduce the power of Democrats in Marion County. From reducing the power of the County Commissioners (the
Read on »Big Ten Women’s Rowing Championship
Yeah, I’ll put real captions on these when I can fill in the right races.
Read on »Indiana Governor’s Race: Dumb vs. Dumber
I was incredulous yesterday when the John Gregg, the Democratic candidate for Indiana Governor actually went on record as being against same-sex marriage, because – how dumb can you be? That position is clearly on the wrong side of history, is clearly not a Democratic position, and will lose you your base in Indiana. It
Read on »Indiana Tops Nation For Sex Assaults Of High School-Age Girls
Via Shakesville a report on sexual violence against high-school age girls from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts Indiana at the high the highest percentage of crimes at 17.3 percent of girls in grades 9 through 12 have been raped. I’m trying to find a link to the original report from the
Read on »Rally for Marriage Equality, Indiana Statehouse
The Indiana Humanities Council
Yes, I have gotten really lazy with the blogging, as MJ calls me out in a comment on the last link blog post I just put up. Indiana Humanities Council :: Home Page "the Council encourages Hoosiers to think, read and talk. How? By creating its own programs, such as Community Conversations, Evenings at the
Read on »Fishers, Indiana and “Best Places to Live 2010”
Money Magazine ranks Fishers, Indiana number 8 on the list of “best places to live” in 2010. The criteria? “These terrific small cities — even now — boast plenty of jobs, great schools, safe streets, low crime, lots to do, charm, and other features that make a town great for raising a family.” Interesting idea.
Read on »Dan Coats bumper sticker
Just spotted a Dan Coats for Indiana sticker on minivan on College Ave. I thought the Republicans were really ignorant, but that’s just chillingly nihilistic. He’s such a terrible candidate for the state of Indiana that there’s no way to plead ignorance on the issue – if you’ve got the brains to go get a
Read on »links for 2010-02-04
Coats registered to vote in Virginia, not Indiana – Ben Smith – POLITICO.com Carpetbagger Dan Coats, resident of Virginia, plans to run for Evan Bayh's senate seat in Indiana. Crud, I was going to vote against Bayh in the primary. (tags: indiana politics) AIG Bonuses In 2010 Total $100 Million So, when are we going
Read on »Indiana Girl sues school over prom tux denial
I so shocked by this that I can’t believe it. I’m giving the school a call later today to tell them what I think, because I can’t imagine how on earth this principal dares to do such a thing. The audacity. You have GOT to be kidding me about this. There is no way in
Read on »Mary Ann Sullivan for State Representative
Mary Ann Sullivan is the Democratic candidate for my district – Indiana House District 97. She’s running against ‘cut and run’ Jon Elrod, who was going to leave the District high and dry to run against Andre Carson, but then ran back to District 97 when he realized he couldn’t beat Andre. I’ve met Mary
Read on »Jill Long Thompson gaining in Indiana Gov. Race
The latest Indy Star poll that showed Obama edging out McCain by 3 percent also shows Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson moving up in the polls – within spittin’ distance of ol’ Ditch Mitch, actually. Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels holds a four-point lead in his bid for a second term, including support from one
Read on »Indiana as a swing state
Last night we were watching Anderson Cooper’s 360 and the identified Indiana as one of the five states they’re watching as “battleground” states. No kidding — we were not red, but “pink” on their chart. Blue Indiana notes that a new Star poll coming out will show Obama on top, and sure enough — WTHR
Read on »Symphony on the prairie
A Beatles Tribute concert at the Noblesville venue. A lovely event, but oh my was it crowded.
Read on »Hoosier Political Report
Taking Down Words was one of my favorite local political blogs for a long time, and I really miss it. Since Jennifer Wagner switched over to a new URL and format — Hoosier Political Report — things just haven’t been the same, and sadly, it’s going to get booted from my feed reader soon. Rather
Read on »Indiana teacher suspended for giving students a book
Showing up on CNN yesterday, this Indiana story: Perry Township teacher Connie Heermann a 27 year teaching veteran, was suspended from her job at Perry Meridian High School for a year and a half without pay, for giving her high school English class the book Freedom Writer’s Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used
Read on »links for 2008-05-07
Indiana Native Plants and Wildflowers Society Promoting use of native flowers and trees in landscaping (tags: Indiana gardening plants flowers) Kickball.com – World Adult Kickball Association I’m sorry. Archery, fencing. Even bowling. But not a sport who’s acronym is “WAKA.” It’s not like I’m a huge soccer -excuse me- “football” fan or anything, but even
Read on »Indy Star Voter Guide
If you always wonder, when standing in the voting booth, how to pick candidates for the less well-known political offices, the Indy Star’s interactive voter guide goes through each of the candidates, provides information about them, and lets you make selections and print out a cheat sheet to take to the voting booth with you.
Read on »Video Debunk: Kantor video about “Indiana” is faked
There’s a video clip circulated by notorious nutjob Michelle Malkin making the rounds; it’s of Democratic advisor Mickey Kantor, who is currently advising on the Clinton campaign. The scene is an edited clip from the 1993 movie “The War Room” about the 1992 Bill Clinton campaign. The movie followed Kantor, Stephanapoulos and Carville as they
Read on »District 7 candidate Woody Myers threatens to sue blog
I’ve mentioned before that I’m voting for David Orentlicher in the primary as the Democratic candidate for Julia Carson’s former seat in the U.S. Congress. The slated Democratic candidate and current office holder is André Carson (elected in March in a special election) but I’m just not convince that Carson has enough experience. David has
Read on »The New York Times comes to Kokomo, Indiana
My family is originally from southeastern rural Iowa, and regardless of the small town life aspect, they’re very well-educated and don’t talk like hayseeds and goobers. Sit down and talk to them about the election and they have intelligent, thoughtful conversations about the issues. They have slightly different political agendas than those of us who
Read on »links for 2008-04-12
The Bilerico Project | Indiana | An Open Letter to Gary Welsh of Advance Indiana Things that I shouldn’t get such delicious glee from, but do, nonetheless. (tags: funny Indianapolis local politics blogs) Shakesville: What you don’t know CAN hurt you Wow – an incredibly insightful piece on Obama and his uncomfortableness dealing gay issues,
Read on »Credibility
My post below about Butler student Evan Strange who asked Chelsea Clinton an inappropriate question spawned an interesting response. I received several emails from Butler student Lauren Laski defending her fellow student. I’m not going to go into detail of what they said, other than that Lauren really needs to take a logic course while
Read on »Butler student insults Chelsea Clinton
Leave it to an idiot Hoosier to embarrass the state of Indiana now that we’re in the national spotlight. I’m sure it’s the first of many bonehead moves Hoosiers will make when they see television cameras. From the Chicago Tribune: INDIANAPOLIS – The college student who got a stinging brushback from Chelsea Clinton when he
Read on »links for 2008-03-13
Carson wins seat in 7th District race | IndyStar.com (tags: local news Indianapolis) Gay Iranian teen loses asylum appeal – CNN.com Basically, Britain is sending a gay teenager to his death in Iran. Nice. (tags: lgbt rights equality)
Read on »Dealing with some denial of service attacks on the site
I have been dealing with a denial of service attack on my site recently. I suspect that I’m the target of some unethical behavior in the gay Republican base in Indianapolis politics, specifically because of this post I wrote about Marion County’s special election to replace Julia Carson. It’s been almost exactly a year since
Read on »March 11 District 7 Special Election
I’ve been saying I’m going to write about the March 11th special election, and I haven’t forgotten that. I actually have had a REALLY long post written about it since Friday, but I’ve revised it 10 times and can’t quite get out what I really want to say… so I’m starting over. Hopefully you’ve all
Read on »So much to blog, so little time
I actually have things to write about lately, but haven’t geared up to do it. Lets see, where were we when we last tuned in? Oh, yeah, I was probably playing Packrat. Well, the gloss has come off that Facebook game somewhat, as I got collected most of the cards I could get a hold
Read on »HB 1197 – Data Breach Bill
A message from local blogger Chris Soghoian on legislation in the Indiana statehouse: 11 Indiana State Senators will be voting on an important data breach bill next Tuesday (the 12th). This bill (which I helped to draft with my local state representative) will shed a significant spotlight on companies who lose or misplace sensitive consumer
Read on »marriage discrimination attached to Gov’s Property Tax Bill
Indiana Republican Foul play at work – because looked like SJR-7 the marriage discrimination bill that has failed to pass the Indiana House the last two years, might again fail, Representative Eric Turner, ranking Republican on the House Rules and Legislative Policy Committee, filed a amendment to House Joint Resolution No. 1 (HJR1) a proposed
Read on »links for 2008-01-15
OHIKEA!: The site for Ohio IKEA News The IKEA in West Chester Ohio will open on March 12th. (tags: shopping interiorDesign)
Read on »District 7 Special Election will be Tuesday, March 11th
From the [link deprecated: http://www2.indystar.com/articles/7/254061-5937-127.html – Indy Star] via Taking Down Words: Republican and Democratic state party officials have agreed on Tuesday, March 11 as the date for a special election to select Rep. Julia Carson’s successor. State Democratic Party Chairman Dan Parker said Friday he and GOP Chairman Murray Clark had recommended the date
Read on »The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette on the Marriage Discrimination Amendment
Courtesy of blueindiana.net, I enjoyed this editorial from the The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette on the plans to re-introduce SJR-7 – the marriage discrimination amendment – into the short legislative session this year (when, of course, there are much more pressing issues like property tax reform that need to be addressed.) There is no reason for
Read on »Goodbye, Julia
I did indeed love you. Check out this wonderful video of Julia speaking at the Rosa Parks Memorial. Sparkling, funny and well-loved.
Read on »Rishawn Biddle Gets Fired
I’ve been trying to avoid writing about local politics of late, just because the bile and animosity therein was way to much to deal with given my increased workload at my place of employment, and because others do a much better job of saying what I would anyway. On occasion here, I’ve ranted about Indy
Read on »Bart Peterson’s Letter to Marion County Property Tax Payers
Making the rounds via email: July 20, 2007 Dear Neighbors: We have taken the first important steps toward long-term property tax reform. The Governor’s order of a Marion County reassessment is welcome news to our friends and neighbors who have been shocked by the unacceptable tax bills issued this month. Thanks to the reassessment, Marion
Read on »Indianapolis Pride 2007 Photos
4 Deaths from Rare Brain Disease in NE Indiana
A very disturbing Associated Press report about a rare set of deaths in the Fort Wayne area. FORT WAYNE, Ind. — A rare degenerative brain disorder was suspected in the deaths of four people in northeastern Indiana during the past five months, health officials said. Allen County Health Commissioner Deborah McMahan said the deaths were
Read on »Crothersville Hate Crime Murderers May Get Off Easy
Advance Indiana continues to follow up on the story I noted earlier of the brutal hate crime beating murder of Aaron Hall in Crothersville, Indiana. Gary Welsh reports the criminals are being charged lightly given the bias and brutality of the crime, and may even get off with an outrageous manslaughter conviction. Read the details.
Read on »Another Indiana Hate Crime Death
From WTHR, a story on a man who was beaten to death in Crothersville, Indiana because his attackers thought he was gay: Police found Aaron Hall’s badly beaten body hidden inside a garage on Sunday. Charged in connection with the murder were 19-year-old Garrett Gray, 18-year-old Coleman King and 21-year-old Robert Hendricks. Police made the
Read on »Indiana Intolerance – Day of Silence Leads to Anti-Gay Bomb Threats
The “National Day of Silence” is an annual, nationwide school event designed to bring attention to the bullying, harassment and violence directed at gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered kids in school settings. I’ve tried to mention it mentioned the event the past couple of years here to promote what I think is a worthwhile event.
Read on »Jesus MCC’s New Campaign
The second part of Jesus MCC’s anti-discrimination campaign is rolling out here in Indianapolis, and it involves six potentially provocative billboards like this one: I like it.
Read on »Regarding SJR-7
I just wanted to say that there are a lot of hard working people who were tireless in getting SJR-7 stopped in its tracks. I’m afraid to start naming them, because I’ll manage to leave someone out – but every single person who was involved in the grassroots effort worked hard – much harder than
Read on »SJR-7 Language rejected as flawed by ultra-conservative Bork
Bilerico contributor Don Sherffick testified before the recent House Committee meeting on SJR-7, noting that the language for the flawed second paragraph of the bill originally came from an early draft of the Federal version of the amendment – a draft that was later re-written considerably. That revelation caused some comment and concern amongst committee
Read on »Statewide religious coalition speaks out against SJR-7
From iconindiana.org: Indianapolis – The Interfaith Coalition on Nondiscrimination (ICON) today spoke out against Senate Joint Resolution 7 (SJR-7) in a letter to the Indiana General Assembly. The letter, which is signed by 130 Indiana clergy, leaders of faith communities, and other religious professionals, opens with, “Our backgrounds and those of the people we serve
Read on »Lilly Opposes SJR-7
As reported in the Indy Star (and by bilerico.com, Advance Indiana and Taking Down Words): Eli Lilly has joined several other large Indiana corporations (Cummins, Wellpoint, Dow AgroSciences) in opposing SJR-7, the Marriage Discrimination Amendment: “As a result of this uncertainty (over what the amendment’s impact might be,)” Murphy wrote, “some employees may choose to
Read on »Indiana Newspapers Against SJR-7
I was in the middle of putting this post together when Bilerico beat me to it… Newspapers that have come out against the SJR-7 marriage discrimination amendment legislation: The Marion Chronicle-Tribune The Bedford Times-Mail [link deprecated: http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/journalgazette/news/editorial/16859370.htm The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette ] The Indianapolis Star The Bloomington Herald-Times The Evansville Courier & Press The South
Read on »Colts raise $20,000 for Anti-Gay Group
This is being discussed in the comments on my post on Tony Dungy – but it bears pulling up to it’s own entry – at the Indiana Family Institute Dinner, the Colts sent merchandise to be donated off in an auction, which raised $20,000 for the organization to oppose gay rights and to support SJR-7.
Read on »House committee tables SJR-7 vote
According to Bil from Bilerico: The House Rules and Legislative Affairs committee listened to three hours of testimony regarding SJR-7, the proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage and civil unions. After several members of the committee commented that they’d like more time to review the testimony before voting on the matter, Chair Scott Pelath
Read on »Cummins plans to testify against proposed ban
From the Indianapolis Star: No private employers testified against a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage when it was before the Senate, but that will change when discussion begins today in the House. Cummins Inc. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Tim Solso has sent a letter to House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer, D-South Bend, encouraging him
Read on »Tony Dungy against same-sex marriage
According to the Indianapolis Star: Colts coach Tony Dungy said he knows some people would prefer him to steer clear of the gay marriage debate, but he used a speech Tuesday night to clearly stake out his position. Dungy told more than 700 people at the Indiana Family Institute’s banquet that he agrees with that
Read on »SJR-7 Assigned to Committee
House Joint Resolution 15 (HJR-15), the legislation formerly known as SJR-7 and the marriage discrimination amendment, has been assigned to committee in the house. It’s been placed in the House Rule and Legislative Procedures Committee. Please contact the members of this committee (information below) to oppose this legislation – for Democrats, remind them that putting
Read on »I Am Not An “Activist”
I hate the word activist. Mainly because it’s one of those right-wing propaganda, tar-and-feather, hot button words that Frank Luntz cultivated to brand liberals as crazy folks who are out to burn down your house and roast your kids on the bar-be-que. (Read more about Frank Luntz and his language campaign – it’s important to
Read on »SJR-7 and Eric Miller
Due to supervising all the work on my old house over the past few weeks, and the work on our current home (which is still ongoing. Sigh.), and a busy time at work, and preparation to go to SXSW, I’m guilty of quite a few “drive-by” posts: where I mention important things without enough context
Read on »Apparently, I’m Chopped Liver
Hmmmm – I guess my 20,000 visitors a day don’t rate a mention on Indiana Equality’s thank you letter for the Rally organizing… Many, many other businesses, organizations and bloggers contributed greatly to Monday’s success by promoting participation in the rally. A big thanks to Advance Indiana; American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees
Read on »Contacting Your Legislators about SJR-7
I’ve mentioned this several times, but it bears repeating. If you haven’t contacted your legislators about SJR-7 (or even if you already have!), you can do so in a number of ways. Two sites have easy contact forms you can use, that look up your legislators for you based on the information you provide. You
Read on »Bias Crimes Legislation Pending Before Indiana House
Bias Crimes Legislation Pending Before Indiana House. Make Your Voice Heard! Tell Your State Representative why Bias Crimes legislation is good for Indiana. House Bill 1459 (Bias Crimes) authored by State Representative Greg Porter (D-Indianapolis) will be considered by the full House of Representatives during the week of February 19th. HB 1459 amends Indiana’s sentencing
Read on »Video from the Rally
Video of the Rally and Protest outside House Speaker Pat Bauer’s office. Updated with a better copy of the video… The young man you see in the foreground here on the left is the fellow that Mark St. John grabbed by the arm and dragged out of the protest to argue about why the Democrats
Read on »500 attend Rally, House Democrats Hide from Constitutents
About 500 people attended the Rally in the Indiana Statehouse, organized by Indiana Equality to address SJR-7, the amendment to ban same-sex marriage, and to support the hate crimes bill, which will include sexual orientation and gender identity. There were several speakers, including Candace Gingrich, lgbt civil rights activist and sister of Newt Gingrich. See
Read on »Grassroots Organizing Against SJR-7
I attended a summit this evening of a bunch of different organizations and groups that are opposing SJR-7, along with a bunch of individuals – it was a group of around 30 people, all of whom are active in working on gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered issues at one level or another in Indiana. The
Read on »Rally Reminder
Please don’t forget there’s a rally tomorrow against SJR-7 at the statehouse — indoors, 1 – 2:30 p.m. in the North Atrium of the Indiana State House, 200 W. Washington St. (enter North Entrance, off Ohio Street). Candace Gingrich will speak at 1:40 PM. Many of you have President’s Day off tomorrow – please attend
Read on »Comparing the Indiana Legislature to the 20’s KKK is NOT Hyperbole
I’m sorry, RiShawn Biddle, but if you studied your history, like Chris Douglas and Gary Welsh have pointed out to you in several posts, you’d know better that to call it hyperbole. RiShawn is an editorialist for the Indianapolis Star, and posts to a “blog” on the newspaper’s site — which I still maintain is
Read on »SJR-7 Will Eliminate Purdue’s Health Care Benefits
As Gary Welsh rightly points out in a must-read article on SJR-7 and Purdue University’s health care benefits, the infamous second paragraph of the proposed amendment will indeed eliminate health care benefits for unmarried partners that are currently used by 31 employees of the university. The question is raised in the Lafayette Journal and Courier
Read on »Rally at the Statehouse – next Monday
The rally — called the “Read the Fine Print” — will feature Candace Gingrich, sister of Former Speaker of the US House of Representatives Newt Gingrich. WHAT: “Read the Fine Print!” Rally at the Statehouse WHEN: Monday, February 19, 2007 from 1:00 pm — 2:30 pm (Presidents Day) WHERE: Indiana Statehouse, North Atrium, 200 W.
Read on »Right-wing lies about SJR-7
On the opinion page of today’s Indy Star, Sheila Suess Kennedy, associate professor of law and public policy at the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs in Indianapolis, (and one of my neighbors – she and her husband live a couple blocks away) comments on SJR-7, the amendment to ban equal marriage rights:
Read on »SJR-7 Passes Senate
The bill to amend the Indiana Constitution to ban Marriage Equality passed the Senate today. As Gary Welsh notes on Advance Indiana, the right-wing hate battalion have managed to achieve something that even the KKK weren’t able to do when they held total control of state government – disenfranchise an entire unfavored minority group. Here
Read on »SJR-7 Passes Indiana Senate
The controversial, discriminatory Senate Joint Resolution 7 – to amend the Indiana Constitution to bar equal marriage rights – had a second reading in the Senate today, and was passed by the Senate, much to the State’s disgrace. Apparently an amendment to remove the highly ambigous second paragraph of the bill was voted down, even
Read on »The importance of contacting your elected officials yourself
I’m going to emphasize my point at the very beginning of this post, rather than toward the end: If you don’t want people to speak on your behalf — to potentially agree to things you don’t agree with, or to make decisions for you — then you have to speak up yourself. If you don’t
Read on »SJR-7 Update
SJR-7, the bill to amend the Indiana Constitution to prevent equal marriage rights for gay people, was passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee today, and will soon be presented to the full Senate for voting – probably next week. That’s pretty bad news, especially since two amendments to the legislation that were presented were
Read on »My Thoughts on SJR-7
The SJR-7 legislation to amend the Indiana constitution is going to be heard in committee tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. The committee will meet in the Senate Chambers – 3rd floor of the Indiana Statehouse (200 W. Washington Street in Indianapolis). Everyone is invited to attend – a good crowd against the legislation will make
Read on »Tony Dungy to Speak For Anti-Gay Hate Group
This is really disturbing – Colts coach Tony Dungy will be speaking at a dinner for the Indiana Family Institute, which is a right-wing hate group whose primary purpose is to promote hatred towards gay people. Make no mistake about what their goals really are – in the same way the the Irish Republican army
Read on »“What You People Should Do”
I’m shamelessly cribbing this post by Chris Douglas from bilerico.com, because it’s so true and bears repeating in as many places as possible — so hopefully people like RiShawn Biddle with see it. As long as we’re contemplating the advice from the straight community about the strategy employed by various sectors of the gay community,
Read on »Steph Mineart’s Corollary to Godwin’s Law
I’ve had an observation rolling around in my head for many years, but as far as I can tell, I haven’t put written it on my site yet, although I know I’ve pointed it out in email on the gayindy mailing at various times. It popped back into my head as I was thinking about
Read on »bilerico’s new policy
I read with excitement this piece on Bilerico.com: Looking at last year’s news cycle, one option had a high degree of success at influencing voters’ behavior, setting back a large segment of the conservative movement, and generally providing a modicum of entertainment value for the masses. What was it? “Outing” the hypocrite. Think Ted Haggard
Read on »Rishawn Biddle and Questions on Hate Crimes
Over on the Expresso blog, Rishawn Biddle asks this question regarding the current hate crimes legislation in the house. 3.) Can the supporters of the hate crimes penalities proposed in House Bill 1459 muster up evidence that gays are being murdered or assaulted at any higher rate than the rest of the population? More importantly,
Read on »Rally at the Indiana Statehouse to Oppose SJR-7
A while back, I wrote about SJR-7, the bill to amend the Indiana constitution to eliminate equal marriage rights for same-sex couples, and I urged people to contact the legislators responsible for this atrocious piece of legislation. Well, there’s more you can do. Indiana Equality is organizing a rally at the State House to oppose
Read on »Anti-Marriage Equality Amendment Introduced to Indiana Legislature
As Bilerico is reporting – the massively flawed legislation to put an anti-marriage equality amendment (banning civil marriage for same-sex partners) on the ballot for voting had been re-introduced to the legislature. Here’s the proposed bill: DIGEST OF INTRODUCED BILL Definition of marriage. Provides that marriage in Indiana consists only of the union of one
Read on »House District 97 Vote Recounts
Taking Down Words gives a nice run-down of what’s going on in my district with the “still-up-in-the-air-due-to-polling-screw-ups” race between Mahern and Elrod, who are just 65 votes apart. Seems that the touch-screen voting stations available at each of the polling places weren’t counted, and the state has just now decided to turn them on and
Read on »Four Indianapolis Races Affected by Missing Votes
According to the Indianapolis Star: Sadler said vote tally cards from 66 precincts remain out or have been misplaced with other election material. Election workers are searching for those documents this morning. She said the initial emphasis is on the 27 precincts that are involved in the four tight races. Sadler said that voting machines
Read on »Drinking Liberally Election Night Party
Drinking Liberally Election Night Party Election Night — Tuesday, 11/7 6pm-whenever Spencer’s Stadium Tavern 802 S. West St (SW Corner of West & McCarty) Drinking Liberally Indianapolis is having a special “Election Night” edition of their regular weekly gathering (usually held on Thursday nights, but switched to Tuesday this week for the election.) I haven’t
Read on »Indy Star survey on Marriage Equality
The Indy Star has an online poll on it’s front page, asking: Should the Indiana General Assembly amend the state constitution to ban same-sex marriages? Please go vote NO on the poll.
Read on »Local progressive websites I added to my newsreader
A couple of local progressive websites I discovered through actblue.com, the online donation clearinghouse for democratic candidates. I added them to my feedreader under politics. http://www.indianaprogressives.com/ http://indyfordemocracy.com/
Read on »A Commonplacebook Candidate Endorsements
These are Marion County, Indiana Democratic candidates who have shown strong stances and leadership on progressive issues including improving education, finding health care solutions for all Hoosiers, property tax reform and equality for GLBT citizens. I’ve personally shaken hands with all of these candidates at one time or another and discussed issues with them. I
Read on »Blogger Forum with Progressive Candidates
I attended a blogger forum at lunch to day, where three local progressive candidates for office met with local bloggers to answer questions and talk about their political issues and campaigns. The candidates were: Russell Brown ( Democratic candidate, Senate District 31) Dr. David Orentlicher (Democratic Representative, House District 86) John Barnes (Democratic candidate, House
Read on »Eric Dickerson’s not just slinging Mud
Indy Star Matt Tully’s analysis of the recent polling in the Carson/Dickerson battle for made my jaw drop in shock: No mudslinging: Carson took hard personal shots at Dickerson last month, but the Republican remained positive. He knows there is nothing to gain by trading potshots and respectfully argues that Carson’s time as an effective
Read on »Books I’ve read Recently
Garden Accents: Simple-To-Build Projects to Enhance Your Yard or Garden (How-to Gardening) Quite a few interesting building projects for hardscaping your garden. I read this over while drawing up plans for our flowerbeds. Pit of Vipers (Nancy Drew (All New) Girl Detective) #18 by Carolyn Keene There are 21 books out now in this all
Read on »People You Meet While Gardening
I met two interesting people this weekend while planting bulbs in my front yard. One of the is our neighbor, Craig, who owns the house to the north of us, and is moving back in. He’s not new to our neighborhood — his family has owned the house for decades — but he’s just now
Read on »Friends of Tom Delay plan attack ads on behalf of Indiana’s Chris Chocola
Associates of disgraced former house majority leader Tom Delay are funding attack ads under the name “Americans for Honesty” for nine Republican congressional candidates in embattled districts, including on behalf of Representative Chris Chocola of Indiana, according to the New York Times. A previously unknown group led by a Republican political consultant in Houston is
Read on »Oh my god, Did Bauer just throw us under the bus?
Thanks to Bil for pointing out this jaw-dropping statement from Indiana Minority Leader Pat Bauer, D-South Bend: “I just think that the only way for (Republicans) not to (continue to) demagogue it is to have a redundancy. It’s too bad it has to go in the constitution, but so be it,” Bauer said. “It’s not
Read on »Republicans for Voldemort
Susan Fuldauer Fundraiser
We are strapped for cash and time, so we can’t go to this, but I wanted to be sure to pass it along because it’s an EXCELLENT cause… Get tickets to this event to raise money for Susan Fuldauer. You will get food, drink, comedy and the pleasure that your donation is going toward removing
Read on »Hey, I got called the D-Word
No, no, not “difficult.” The other D-Word. The one that’s the equivalent of the N-word. You know… the one that if you had the balls to say it to my face, you’d be riding to the hospital in an ambulance. Yeah. THAT D-word. And who busted out this lovely phrase? Only our Indianapolis’ Finest —
Read on »Fishers Renaissance Faire, 2006
The “dangerous” gay community
From today’s Indianapolis Star: But lawmakers and judges are a different matter. Legislators have been carrying guns into the Capitol for years, exercising what they say is their Second Amendment right to bear arms. Twenty-five of Indiana’s 150 senators and representatives had permits to carry concealed weapons in 2003, according to a study published by
Read on »Indy Undercover
I mentioned Indy Undercover on IndyScribe, but I’ve now read several of the posts, and want to comment here on it separately. Indy Undercover a site about law enforcement issues in Indianapolis, purportedly written by an law enforcement officer. It’s getting lots of traffic and comments from other people who claim to be law enforcement
Read on »Make Sure You’re Registered to Vote!
In all the recent hullabaloo surrounding the GOP purging voter rolls in Indiana, it turns out that although I returned my postcard with my corrected new address on it promptly, my voter registration was not updated. I talked to at least one other person who discovered that they are no longer registered to vote either
Read on »More Gatsby
“Self-control!” Repeated Tom incredulously. “I suppose the latest thing is to sit back and let Mr. Nobody from Nowhere make love to your wife. Well, if that’s the idea you can count me out. . . . Nowadays people begin by sneering at family life and family institutions, and next they’ll throw everything overboard and
Read on »Local News and Online Reporting
WTHR has this story on their website: Study: Omega 3 can save lives Experts say beefing up intake of Omega 3 fatty acids can save lives more than AED’s and implanted defibrillators. Omega 3 is found in foods like fish and nuts, and some experts believe they can lower the risk for heart attack because
Read on »How To Identify Where A Driver Is From
1. One hand on wheel, one hand on horn: CHICAGO 2. One hand on wheel, one finger out window: NEW YORK 3. One hand on wheel, one finger out window, cutting across all lanes of traffic: NEW JERSEY 4. One hand on wheel, one hand on newspaper, foot solidly on accelerator: BOSTON 5. One hand
Read on »Daily Show: Terror Threat #1…Indiana!
Here’s a show for all you guys who think we’re in such terrible danger — a little examination of all the terrorist targets in the state of Indiana, as reported by our crack team of Department of Homeland Security staffers. Gotta protect those pie-giving angels of Indiana!
Read on »Welcome to the party, kids.
According to WISH-TV: House Republicans want Indiana to lead the way in alternative fuels INDIANAPOLIS House Republicans announced a plan today they say will help Indiana lead the way in alternative fuels such as biodiesel and ethanol. House Republican challengers and incumbents met this morning near the Indiana State Fairgrounds to release their plan for
Read on »AFA Sues Michigan State To Block Same-Sex Benefits
Advance Indiana comments on a recently announce lawsuit from the American Family Association — suing to block same-sex couples from receiving university health care benefits on the basis of Michigan’s ban on same-sex marriages. I’m blogging this specifically for my mom and other family members — THIS IS THE REASON THESE BANS ARE SO DANGEROUS.
Read on »Drinking Liberally: Indianapolis
Great idea — Drinking Liberally: “An informal, inclusive progressive drinking club. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don’t need to be a policy expert and this isn’t a book club – just come
Read on »RiShawn Biddle Doesn’t Know Anything About Blogs
I participated in a panel of bloggers this morning, addressing the PRSA (Public Relations Society of America, Hoosier Chapter) to talk about local blogs with public relations people. Here are my fellow panelists: RiShawn Biddle, Editorial Writer, The IndyStar, and Expresso blog Jennifer Wagner, Taking Down Words blog Gary Welsh, Advance Indiana blog Matt Tully,
Read on »Indiana’s Billionaires
According to Forbes Magazine, Indiana is home to three billionaires. William Cook #170 73 , self made Source: medical devices Net Worth: $3.2 bil – Country of citizenship: United States Residence: Bloomington, IN, United States Industry: Health Care Marital Status: married , 1 child Northwestern University, Bachelor of Arts / Science Melvin Simon #355 78
Read on »Daylight Savings Time and Cable
I noticed with some grumpiness this morning that although my digital cable had adjusted correctly to the new daylight savings time, my DVR settings did not, so my show recordings are all off by an hour — instead of recording Desperate Housewives, then Gray’s Anatomy, my DVR recorded Gray’s Anatomy and the evening news instead.
Read on »How to Evaluate Candidate’s Stands on the issues
On Bilerico, Sheila Kennedy provides a great checklist of things to think about when candidates start talking about their pet issue this campaign season. Read the whole post (it’s great!) but here are the highlights: when Congressional candidate A unveils his “Major Initiative to Solve the Boll Weevil Problem,” I suggest the following four questions
Read on »e-mail – a tool for good, and for evil
Every once it a while, you get an e-mail that’s so shocking that it could either destroy your soul, or make you a completely better person. Recently I got blind carbon-copied on an exchange a friend of mine had with “respected activist” Marla Randolph Stevens, a former resident of Indiana and former “political activist” here
Read on »Advance Indiana, Carson’s Challenger, and Ted Fleischaker
Julia Carson is facing a democratic challenger to her office — a gay man, Kris Kiser, with very little political experience. Much of the GLBT community supports Carson, who has been a friend of ours politically and gone to bat on gay issues with no hesitancy whatsoever. Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) and Rep. Tammy Baldwin
Read on »Kids suspended for massive food fight
I love kids, and this is why. Rock on, kids. Associated Press, CHESTERTON, Ind. — A massive middle school food fight left several students suspended and the eighth-grade class footing the cleaning bill that included the cost of scraping mashed potatoes off the ceiling. Last week’s fight at Chesterton Middle School left ceiling tiles damaged
Read on »Giant Cross in Terre Haute
The Cross Tabernacle Church has erected a nearly 50 cross near U.S. 41 outside Terre Haute. If I’m not mistaken, there are a number of giant things in that area that we’re planning to photograph on a weekend roadtrip already, so we’ll probably grab a picture of it, too.
Read on »Political Sites I Like
If you’re looking for intelligent stuff about Indiana politics, these guys are great: http://advanceindiana.blogspot.com/ http://www.masson.us/blog/ http://www.takingdownwords.com/taking_down_words/ And on a national level: http://www.democraticunderground.com/ http://www.goodasyou.org/ http://americablog.blogspot.com/ http://www.biggaypicture.com/ http://atrios.blogspot.com/
Read on »Photos of the Rally at the Statehouse
Marti has photos of yesterday’s Rally at the statehouse, [link deprecated: http://statehouse.transadvocate.com/] from beginning to end. There’s apparently some question of the number of attendees. Fortunately, I know how to count, so I think we can solve the mystery.
Read on »When you pay attention to work, you miss all the good stuff
For the past couple days, StAllio! has been covering a fun controversy brewing in Indiana politics concerning the “Bloody 8th” congressional district race between Republican incumbent and right-wing loony John Hostetler, and his hottie Democrat opponent, Sheriff Brad Ellsworth. Ellsworth’s daughter is an IU student, and happened to have a facebook page where she’s alleged
Read on »IU Student Republicans are having a party
and you’re invited! If you follow the rules, that is. Taking Down Words reprints a party invitation sent out by the IU GOP group. Poor kids, they don’s seem to know what college is for.
Read on »Indiana’s Seatbelt Loophole law
I’ve commented on the current seatbelt law on both Doug Masson’s Blog, and on Taking Down Words, but since I keep doing that, I should probably talk about here on my own site, too. Both of those sites have been in favor of closing Indiana’s truck seat belt law, and both of them have been
Read on »Indiana Equality Presents “Our Families Count” Rally at the Statehouse
INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Equality will host a Statehouse gathering, the “Our Families Count!” rally, on February 9, 2006 from 1pm – 3pm. This event has been organized in response to a recent spate of legislation aimed at relegating lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Hoosiers to second-class status. “With daylight-savings time, toll roads, and property
Read on »Indiana Lobbying Reform Bill dies
Gary at Advance Indiana has an excellent post on the lobbying reform bill that just died in Indiana’s legislature. Indiana has a serious loophole in it’s lobbying laws that allow what amounts to corruption on the part of many lobbyists, including right-wing homophobe Eric Miller. Check out Gary’s article to get up to speed on
Read on »Human Rights Ordinance Elimination Bill Withdrawn
Representative Thompson withdrew his amendment today to House Bill 1010 which would have eliminated local human rights protections in cities throughout Indiana. The House reconvened at 1:30 pm today. Rep Thompson withdrew his amendment and the House was recessed until 5:30pm tonight. This amendment may be only temporarily dead; it could still be attached to
Read on »Indiana Bill Amendment Would Make Illegal Local LGBT Non-Discrimination Policies
TODAY the Indiana House of Representatives will debate an amendment to House Bill 1010 that would prohibit cities and counties from providing equal rights protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity — like the Human Rights Ordinance we worked so hard on here in Indianapolis. Please Contact your State Representative immediately (TODAY!) and tell
Read on »More Indiana State Legislature Attacks on Gay People
Bills that affect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered folks in Indiana: Preference of Marriage Bills House Bill 1335 (Preference for marriage over other relationships) and House Bill 1202 (Preference for marriage; instruction by schools) – Introduced by Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) These two bills, would have Indiana law declare that marriage is preferred, encouraged, and
Read on »People Moving Out of Indiana
According to United Van Lines, Indiana is one of the states with a high “outbound” moving rate. Last years outbound rate for Indiana was less than 2004, but still significantly unbalanced at 59.9% outbound. During the year 2005, many people packed up and moved their homes to the Southeast and West, while the Midwest and
Read on »Buy Blue Local
Buyblue.org is setting up local chapters to help gather data and spread information on Democrat friendly local businesses. You can contact them if you are interested in setting up a buy blue local group in your area.
Read on »Mitch Daniels Year in Review
Taking Down Words takes a long and interesting look at Mitch Daniel’s performance in his first year as Indiana Governor.
Read on »Indiana Bill Watch
If you’re at all curious about the Indiana State Legislature, you may find the Bill Watch section of the state’s website interesting. It posts text of the bills that are currently being considered in the State legislature. You can also search for particular bills if you know the number if them, and do keyword searches.
Read on »Bomb Threat at the City-County building
People were evacuated from the City-County building today at 12:20 due to a phoned in bomb threat. Hmm. I’m guessing people are a little upset at last night’s city-county council meeting.
Read on »Hate Crime Legislation: A Respectful Response to Common Assertions
I had this article on my site a few years ago while the State legislature was debating the hate crimes legislation. It was written by Chris Douglas. I’m re-posting it because he needed to find it again, and because it’s an informative and well-written piece. It’s quite long, though, so I’m putting the body of
Read on »You’ll need to tell me more before you get my money
I got a fundraising letter from a local gay organization today (quoted below the jump line) in my inbox today… the kind that drives me absolutely bananas. I’ve written it on my site and on the gayindy.org mailing list dozens of times, and I’ll say it again: this is not enough information for me to
Read on »Last night’s City county council meeting about the HRO
Advance Indiana does an excellent job of narrating the action from last night’s city county council meeting, so I won’t duplicate the effort here. If you want to see it for yourself, the committee meeting will be broadcast several times on Channel 16, so haul out your TIVO. I was asked to speak at the
Read on »Not My Man
Caught sight of this over on Taking Down Words: a site dedicated to ripping on Mitch Daniels called NotMyMan.org. Now the design is a bit squidgy — aside from the big ol’ typo in a graphic on the front page and suspect rounded corners, the text doesn’t play well with CSS/web standards. And I question
Read on »Anti-Gay Christians Burn Flag at Bloomington Business
According to the Indiana Daily Student: About 25 members of the Old Paths Baptist Church protested Monday afternoon outside The Inner Chef, chanting anti-gay slogans, burning a gay pride flag and brandishing signs with messages like “Fags Die, God Laughs.” Bobb Easterbrook, a clerk at the store, was the only person working there at the
Read on »Pennsylvania understands education
In yesterday’s elections, all eight members of the Pennsylvania school board that introduced intelligent design as an alternative to evolution in biology class were swept out of office.
Read on »Patricia Miller’s failed Orwell plot
Regarding Indiana’s proposed Orwellian plan to criminalize “unauthorized reproduction”: State Sen. Patricia Miller, R-Indianapolis, issued a one-sentence statement this afternoon saying: “The issue has become more complex than anticipated and will be withdrawn from consideration by the Health Finance Commission.” Scott was lamenting yesterday that we look even more like hicks now that the entire
Read on »Criminal Penalties for women concieving out of wedlock
Yep, that’s what state lawmaker Patricia Miller (R) is proposing legislation for here in Indiana. A bill will be heard by the Health Finance Commission intended to restrict any form of “assisted reproduction” defined as “causing pregnancy by means other than sexual intercourse, including intrauterine insemination, donation of an egg, donation of an embryo, in-vitro
Read on »Job Posting: Executive Director, Indiana Youth Group, Inc.
If you know anyone qualified for this position, please pass this along. Indiana Youth Group is a lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender youth agency with a 15 year history in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Executive Director (ED) is a member of a two-person management team directly responsible for the organization’s achievement of its mission. The ED and the Operations Director
Read on »Indiana Lt. Governor Becky Skillman’s Van, parked in a handicapped spot
From Taking Down Words:
Read on »Mitch “The Blade” Daniels and the New Orleans Disaster
I put this story in the middle of several others yesterday, but I realize now that it needs special attention on it’s own: Mitch “The Blade” Daniels and the New Orleans Disaster: Mike Parker, the former head of the Army Corps of Engineers, was forced to resign in 2002 over budget disagreements with the White
Read on »Rep. Espich on supporting bigotry: “I sure do!”
Representative Jeff Espich (R 82) was asked, “You don’t support bigotry do you, Sir?” His reply? “I sure do!” There were around 150 people protesting against House Speaker Brian Bosma’s Beer Bash for Cash last night at the Rathskeller in the Antheaneum, and my partner Stephanie and I were two of them. The problem with
Read on »I really want to be proud of where I live
But it’s really hard to do when my elected officials embarrass the crap out of me every time I turn around. Turns out the Evan Bayh and Richard Lugar are both at the top of the list of politicians who take sleazy free vacations from lobbyists. Way to represent, guys. And because I was in
Read on »Holiday World Has a Blog
This is pretty fun, and funny; the staff of Holiday World, the Indiana amusement park, has a blog.
Read on »Factual Errors in anti-gay amendment arguments
Courtesy of Jeramy Townsley, Adjunct Faculty, Psychology, IUPUI and Univ of Indpls Below are numerous factual errors from the anti-equal marriage rights advocates who are seeking to prevent equal marriage rights for gay people, with factual analysis and studies included illustrating the mistaken ideas in their arguments.
Read on »Governor Daniels calls Democrats Terrorists
House Democrats in Indiana were concerned about two bills that threatened the rights of Hoosiers; a bill that created an “Inspector General” position for the Governor’s office, which would allow the Governor to appoint his own prosecutor and basically screw up the balance of power between government branches, and a bill requiring voters to present
Read on »Indiana Women To Row Across The Ocean
In November of this year, two young Indiana college students, Sarah Kessans and Emily Kohl, will attempt to row across the Atlantic Ocean in a 2,900 nautical mile rowing race from the Canary Islands to the West Indies. The race is one of the most extreme physical sports challenges in the world; more people have
Read on »Statehouse Rally for Equal Marriage Rights – March 8
I will be attending this rally on March 8th, and I’m inviting you all to join me. I will be one of the crowd-control folks in a lovely orange vest. If you want to get together for a sign-making party, please let me know; this event is only a few short days away. In response
Read on »Statehouse Rally for Equal Marriage Rights – March 8
In response to the State Legislature’s current bill (SJR 7) seeking to limit equal marriage rights for same-sex couples by amending the constitution, gay rights advocates and their friends and families are planning a Rally/Silent Protest at the east steps of the Indiana Statehouse on Tuesday, March 8 at 11 a.m. to protest this piece
Read on »My letter to the Indy Star about SJR-7
I’m writing to the citizens of Indiana regarding Senate Bill SJR-7, the anti-gay hate bill that just passed the Senate and will be moving to the house soon. It’s fascinating to me that at the turn of the last century, Indianapolis was a mover and shaker on the national cultural scene. This city was at
Read on »Marriage Discrimination Amendment Bill Passes Senate (SJR-7)
You may have read that yesterday the Senate passed SJR7, the bill designed to codify hate and discrimination against gay people into the Indiana Constitution. Soon it will pass the House, and then it will need to pass in another legislative season, and be voted on by the people of Indiana before it becomes the
Read on »PARODY of the "Citizens Concerned for the Constitution" Logo
Eric Miller’s right-wing anti-LGBTQ+ hate group “Advance America” used to be called “Citizens Concerned for the Constitution.” This group has spent years lobbying in the Indiana State legislature on anti-LGBTQ+ legal issues intended to marginalize and eliminate LGBTQ+ folks from Indiana’s population. These are the folks that introduced legislation in the 1990s to get LGBTQ+
Read on »Rock Indiana Counter Rally Key Information
WHEN, WHERE AND WHAT TIME? Tuesday, March 8th at the State House – Capitol Ave. East steps (facing Capitol Ave.) From 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Parking will be a free for all, but Circle Center Garage may offer the best option. Carpool if you can. Make it as fun as possible – under the
Read on »ROCK INDIANA – On MARCH 8th!
This is a rally I’m planning on attending to speak out against SJR7, which will put anti-gay hatred into the Indiana constitution. We are going to step outside of our homes and places of employment for one day – March 8th – to demonstrate and protest – not only against Eric Miller and his pro-marriage
Read on »Appeals Court Upholds State’s Gay Marriage Ban
Yes, I did read about it. I’m too pissed about it to blog anything about it right now, though. But never fear! Because Indianapolis is the “Most Family-Friendly City in The Midwest!” I hate Brian Bosma.
Read on »What I mean by “Remedial Education in Civics”
I got an e-mail from someone asking me why I thought Rep. John Hostettler (R-IN) needed some emergency education on the subject of the job he’s been elected to do.
Read on »Indiana Democrats Admit They Have No Principles
In response to criticism that several local Democratic candidates took money from gay rights organizations in Indiana, and then came out with policy stances against gay rights during the election, Indiana Democratic Party Chairman Kip Tew had this to say: “The race was about winning. I will not allow us to go down without a
Read on »When is Doris Anne Sadler going to lose her damned job?
This is the second Indiana election where she’s screwed the pooch. Damn.
Read on »Terrorists in Carmel, Indiana? Bullshit!
At a recent rally in Venice, Florida in support of President Bush, Katherine “Fixin’ the Votes” Harris told the crowd that Bush is winning the war on terror. As an example, she cited that the mayor of Carmel, Indiana had told her they had recently arrested a Middle Eastern man with hundreds of pounds of
Read on »Indiana under George Bush
Source: DNC Research Read more in this downloadable file about Indiana stats under the Bush administration. 47,380 more Indiana workers have become unemployed since Bush took office. 26,900 of Indiana workers have lost their unemployment benefits since january 2004. 69,800 Indiana manufacturing jobs lost since Bush took office. 46 percent of Indiana taxpayers will receive
Read on »Organic and Grain-Fed Indiana Farms
Roseland Organic Farms Sources of Grain Feed Meat Mostly Organic – Indiana Emerald Isle Organic Farm Michaela Farm
Read on »Two Indianapolis men sentenced for killing trans teen, friend
From the Indianapolis Star on the death of Nireah Johnson and the sentencing of her killers: Two Indianapolis men declared their innocence today even as a judge sentenced them to prison for killing a cross-dressing teen and his female friend. Superior Court Judge Robert Altice sentenced Paul Moore to a combined 120 years in prison
Read on »One Good Thing About Indianapolis
Some fashion trends appear and disappear on the coasts without ever making it to the Circle City. Case in point: Tall Von Dutch Lug Boots. These are apparently out, according to Gawker.com. Thank Jeebus we dodged that bullet.
Read on »My Younger Brother’s Model Airplane Club
My brother Scott put together this website for the Hamilton County RC Flyers model airplane club, of which he is a member. Cool.
Read on »Huntington Indiana Police see UFO
HUNTINGTON, IND. — Three police officers who say a strange object drifted through the skies over this northeastern Indiana city are trying to find someone else who saw it — whatever it was.
Read on »Indiana Sex Offender Registry
The name, age, address and physical description of convicted sex offenders, as well as the crime they committed, are listed on the Indiana Sheriff’s Web site under the link for Indiana Sheriffs’ Sex Offender Registry. An amendment to Indiana’s sex offender registry law, also known as Zachary’s Law, took effect in June after the Indiana
Read on »Indiana Hate Crime: Man attempts to kill female partner of his ex-wife
From the Indy Star: A Shelbyville man shot and wounded his estranged wife’s female companion early this morning at their home and then killed himself at his home, Franklin police said. Arnita Petre, a 44-year-old special education caseworker from Franklin, was listed in critical condition at Methodist Hospital on this afternoon. James Enyart, 34, was
Read on »New Marsh Store Opens in Noblesville
“Marsh Supermarkets on Monday opened its new lifestyle market at 14450 Mundy Drive in Noblesville. Immediately, customers grabbed the store’s 250 grocery carts, and many more waited in line for their turn to shop.” I believe this is the store that’s near my mom’s house. Which is pretty cool.
Read on »Nancy Reagan Opposes Putting Ronald on the Dime
Yeah, Nancy. It’s nice to know that cooler heads prevail at times. “When our country chooses to honor a great President such as Franklin Roosevelt by placing his likeness on our currency, it would be wrong to remove him and replace him with another,” she said. “It is my hope that the proposed legislation will
Read on »Indiana Fall Leaf Guide
Watch the leaves turn color live on Indiana’s tourism site. This is a neat little site that has a lot of other fun ideas for things to do in Indiana. It usually lists all the seasonal festivals (this past weekend and next is the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival) and there’s a cool page that
Read on »Indiana ranked 13 in list of “smartest states”
Massachusetts and Vermont took top honors on the annual ranking of states by level of intelligence. Iowa ranked #8, Indiana was #13, and California slid in at a not-so-surprising #44. New Mexico took the lowest ranking of #50. The Smartest State Award is based on 21 factors that compare the 50 states in more than
Read on »17-year-old Indianapolis Youth Killed Because She Was Trans
From the Indianapolis Star: Gregory Johnson and his friend Brandie Coleman were killed and left in an SUV set on fire in the 6700 block of Fall Creek Parkway, North Drive. Johnson, they say, was a sweet and funny young man who liked to dress as a woman, fooling his dates. They suspect one of
Read on »Bank seizes HIV, AIDS donations to AIDServe Indiana
According to Gina Barton, the Indianapolis Star [link deprecated: http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1914935211.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=Feb+22%2C+2001&author=GINA+BARTON&pub=Indianapolis+Star&edition=&startpage=A.1&desc=Bank+seized+HIV%2C+AIDS+donations” title=”Indy Star Article Archives”]: Nearly $175,000 worth of donations for people with HIV and AIDS was seized by Fifth Third Bank to pay off the debts of AIDServe Indiana, a troubled statewide agency that closed in November. The money, raised at the annual AIDS walk
Read on »Bob Knight – good riddance
He demanded respect from his players without respecting them or others. He demanded discipline from others without controlling his own temper. Obviously, he expected others to live up to standards he didn’t choose to live up to himself.
Read on »Gay/Straight Marriages and the Georges tragedy
This is in regards to Ruth Holladay’s recent column on the Georges murder tragedy. (excerpted below) I think we as a community, and Ruth Holladay, need to separate our issues here, because we’re talking about several different issues as though they’re a single issue. We’re talking about people, regardless of their orientation, being honest with
Read on »A Family By Choice
By Kathleen Schuckel Reprinted from The Indianapolis Star INDIANAPOLIS (Sun. Jan. 9, 2000) — Butch Kimmerling adopted his 8-year-old foster child to keep her from becoming a gay man’s daughter. Kimmerling, 52, is now accused of molesting the little girl, and has admitted it. Even as Kimmerling prepares to go to court soon on 10
Read on »Man Charged With Molesting Adopted Child
Kimmerling had fought attempt by gay couple to adopt 8-year-old girl
Read on »Anti-Gay Hate Crime Legislation
To my esteemed legislators: When I was in college in August of 1989, I was raped. My rapist picked me out in a gay bar, followed me home, and came back to next night to attack me in my home. He did this because I am a lesbian, and he felt he was “teaching me
Read on »The Official Roslyn’s Bakery Costume – Halloween 1999
For those of you who don’t know, Indianapolis’ Roslyn Bakeries (well-known local establishments for years) were closed because of the unsanitary conditions of their factory.
Read on »Bobby Knight in Heaven
Author Unknown After Bobby Knight dies and enters the Pearly Gates, God takes him on tour. He shows Bobby a little two-bedroom house with a faded Texas Tech banner hanging from the front porch. "This is your house, coach. Most people don’t get their own houses up here," God says. Bobby looks at the house,
Read on »Quayle Quotes
Recently, Dan Quayle announced his intentions to run for President of the U.S. in 2000. Since many younger voters may not have been watching the news when these were said the first time, we provide you with this list of famous Quayle quotes.
Read on »Families Never Sought Gay Men Found Dead On Estate
By Ken Kusmer / Associated Press INDIANAPOLIS — From rural communities across Indiana, young gay men have moved to the big city, leaving behind their families to find a place where they could openly express their sexuality. When some of them began disappearing, no one came looking for them. Years later, at least four gay
Read on »