Originally published in The Vidette-Messenger of Porter County on February 9, 1956.
Comic Book Group, Named By Mayor, Will Meet Friday
A committee of three women, appointed by Mayor John E. Wiggins, will meet Friday with City Judge William Conover to discuss the city’s comic book ordinance.
The measure banning lewd and indecent comic books from local newsstands was passed last April 26 by the City council.
Members of the committee are Mrs. George Nightingale, 300 Chester; Mrs. Leonard Wetmore, 102 Brown, and Mrs. Lester Mankin, 405 Randle, Mayor Wiggins announced.
Judge Conover and the women will meet to determine the function of the committee of three in the executive of the ordinance’s provisions.
In part, the ordinance sets out that it is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to exhibit, sell or circulate any indecent or lewd book, pamphlet, article, picture or other thing of an immoral or scandalous nature, which glorifies or makes crime or any law violation appear attractive or desirable.
When the ordinance was passed last year, it was reported that the committee of three was to act as an advisory group to screen all complaints that may be made concerning violations of the ordinance.
The committee is to report all violations to the chief of police or any other law enforcement agency for prosecution.
Fines of $50 to $200 are set out for persons found in violation of the ordinance.
