Date: Thu, 9 Feb 1995 14:39:57 -0600 (CST)
From: Kevyn Jacobs <kevyn@ksu.edu>
Subject: Phelps family vs. Nine Inch Nails


PHELPS FAMILY CRUCIFIED BY NINE INCH NAILS
    by Michael Bird, ksu student

	On Wednesday, Feb. 8, 1994, the Phelps family moved on, of all
things, a concert. The concert, given by alternative rock icons, Nine Inch
Nails, was marred by the appearance of the Phelps family, as the group
lined Topeka Avenue with their usual "God Hates Fags" picket signs and
favorite selected hymns.

	Why the family decided to picket the concert is unclear, although
vocalist Trent Reznor has, in the press, openly offered his questioning
his sexuality as a sign of personal maturity. The protesters did not go
unnoticed by Reznor.

	From the stage, Reznor said that "those Jesus freaks outside are
the ones going to hell," and later, "We're nearing the end of a very long
tour.  Tonight marks the first time we have been picketed by a church
group. My God doesn't hate fags... My God hates them (meaning the Phelps
family)." The comments drew thunderous applause throughout the entire house.

	Reznor's work with Nine Inch Nails is hardly for the weak of
heart. His music explores dominant/submissive relationships, and his
latest release, _The Downward Spiral_, is an exploration of the ways in
which a person can be so alienated by society, that one sometimes throws
off all the institutions that maintain sanity in search of some sort of
respite. Reznor's bleak imagery and less-than-pristine language have drawn
concern from parental and church groups.