Church group opposed to new restaurant on Indianapolis southeast side

UPDATE: Marion County's alcoholic beverage commission shot down a request for a new restaurant on the city's southeast side. The business, called "Show Me's," wanted to located near Southport Road and Emerson Avenue.

The owners say the establishment is a "sports-themed" restaurant, but leaders of a nearby church protested the request, claiming the business was too racy.

"Their waitresses are inappropriately attired and that sends a message making those women as sex objects, not as human beings. It degrades women," said Kevin Bausman with Southport Presbyterian Church.


"Somehow its going to turn into strip club. Not the case, Mr. Coty's been in business for 20 years, never been involved in a strip club. Its not zoned for that, it would never take place," said restaurant attorney Bart Herriman.

The commission's vote to deny the liquor license was unanimous. The recommendation now goes to the state alcoholic beverage board for review.

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The business called Show Me's would be located near Southport Road and Emerson Avenue. The owners call the establishment a "sports-themed" restaurant, but leaders of a nearby church say the restaurant is too racy.

"Their waitresses are inappropriately attired. And that sends a message making those women as sex objects, not as human beings. It degrades women," said Kevin Bausman of the Southport Presbyterian Church.

"Somehow it's going to turn into strip club. Not the case, Mr. Coty's been in business for 20 years, never been involved in a strip club. It's not zoned for that, it would never take place," argued the restaurant's lawyer Bart Herriman.

There is no word at this time on a final decision by the commission.