Rep. Mark Sigrist

Sadly, many leaders are fixated on creating distractions and division.

https://www.ohiohouse.gov/members/mark-sigrist/news/rep-sigrist-rejects-hb-249-calls-out-performative-neutrality-in-controversial-bill-143058

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Mark Sigrist (D-Grove City) yesterday condemned the passage of House Bill (HB) 249 which restricts drag shows to certain locations and creates a new definition for “adult cabaret performances”.

“Let’s be honest about what this bill does,” said Representative Sigrist. “It singles out our neighbors and tells them: you are different, and you are not welcome in our community. That is what ‘othering’ looks like, no matter how carefully it’s dressed up. The only thing this bill adds to Ohio law is the ability to discriminate against those whose clothes and appearance don’t match their biological s*x, threatening an already marginalized community into hiding. I have met the people this bill will affect, and they deserve a government that sees them fully, not one that politely denies prejudice while quietly codifying it.”

HB 249 would prohibit a person from engaging in an “adult cabaret performance” outside of certain establishments that regularly feature nudity or s*xual exhibits or performances. While the new definition of “adult cabaret performance” does include n**e performances, the bill also includes entertainers “who exhibit a gender identity that is different from [their] biological s*x using clothing [or] makeup”. Penalties for performances outside of designated areas would range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a fourth-degree felony, depending on the offense.

Proponents of HB 249 have claimed that the bill is necessary to protect the innocence of children; however, under Ohio law, it is already illegal to allow juveniles to view live performances that are obscene or harmful. Opponents of the bill argue that the overly broad definition of adult cabaret performances incites First Amendment concerns as the bill can be interpreted to fit numerous types of performances including those which do not exhibit nudity or overtly s*xual acts.

HB 249 now heads to the Senate.

So honored to play a small part in the MaKenzie Love debut yesterday at the Statehouse.

So grateful for all the “behind the scenes “ work done by so many of our Central Ohio friends and colleagues!!

ACLU Ohio and others suing ICE, more federal agencies in Columbus The lawsuit accuses federal immigration agents of arresting Ohio immigrants without warrants or proof of flight risk and asks for class action status.

I highly encourage everyone to research and consider enrolling in Smart 911. By registering online, you can provide 9-1-1 and first responders with vital information that can be lifesaving in emergency situations when time is of the essence.

It has been recognized for saving lives and reducing emergency response times across the country. You can register at the Smart911 Website.

Smart911 This service helps 9-1-1 protect your family by providing more information to first responders. You should sign up too, it is free!

Wow!

Absolutely insane shot of Red Blood Moon during last night's Lunar Eclipse over New York. 🔴🗽

Absolutely. Here is a more descriptive, third-person caption that focuses on the grandeur of the scene and the symbolism of the moment.

A Celestial Torch: The Great Lunar Eclipse of 2026 🌑🗽

Last night, the heavens and the harbor aligned for a rare, breathtaking display of cosmic symmetry. As a Total Lunar Eclipse reached its peak, the moon was transformed into a deep, rust-colored orb, appearing to rest perfectly atop the torch of the Statue of Liberty.

This "Blood Moon" occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that filters out all but the longest, reddest wavelengths of light. To see this celestial phenomenon paired with one of the world's most iconic symbols of freedom is a powerful reminder of the beauty found in both human achievement and the natural world.

Highlights of the Night:
The Totality: The moon reached its most intense crimson hue, a stark contrast against the dark, hazy New York sky.

The Composition: The silhouette of Lady Liberty, standing firm against the ripples of the harbor, created a sense of timelessness.

The Atmosphere: The city lights of the Manhattan skyline in the distance provided a modern frame for this ancient astronomical event.

There is something profoundly humbling about a moment like this. While the city below continues its restless pace, the universe operates on a scale that demands we stop, look up, and appreciate the rare alignment of our world with the stars.

Fast Facts about Last Night's Eclipse:
Type: Total Lunar Eclipse (Blood Moon)

Location: Viewed from New York Harbor

Symbolism: The "Enlightening the World" torch meeting the light of the lunar totality.

I wanted to make everyone aware of an event I’m helping with. This event focuses on social media safety and mental health and will include a screening of a documentary that explores the harmful impacts of social media. Following the screening, there will be a panel of expert guests and a Q&A session. This event is for the parents/guardians of pr***en and teen children and is parent/guardian-only event. Dr. Jamie Lusher and Counselor Heather Fairs will be emceeing the event from SWCSD.

Congratulations on this life-affirming achievement. Thank you for showing us such a positive example of teamwork!!

Pleasant View Middle School has been recognized by Nationwide Children’s Hospital as the newest Project ADAM Heart Safe school in the district!

Project ADAM is a comprehensive sudden cardiac arrest preparedness program focused on preventing death in children and adolescents through education, planning, and the implementation of life-saving protocols.

As part of the designation process, Pleasant View Middle School established and trained a dedicated Cardiac Emergency Response Team (CERT). Team members completed specialized training and drills to ensure they are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a cardiac emergency.

This designation reflects Pleasant View Middle School’s ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the entire school community.

Today’s Summary: I am so grateful for everyone standing up for their neighbors, and thus humanity. This amazing human resolve to challenge our government to truly be for ALL people, is fundamental to our democracy and will continue to make a difference. Thank you for caring for each other. mark