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Show THE OGDEN VALLEY NEWS Page 4 Volume III, Issue IX March 1, 2001 Pornography—An Addiction Often More Powerful than Drugs By Janet Hoffmann I was so shocked by Wendy McKay’s article in the last issue of the OVN regarding the availability of pornography on Internet sites at our public libraries. This is a very secret addiction and one that is very, very destructive. Yet people believe that there is something normal about it because sexual desires are involved. And since sexual feelings are normal, they think pornography is normal. A psychotherapist who works with people with addictions told me that pornography is not so much a sexual matter, as it is a matter of control. Individuals who get involved in pornography may think that they are in control of their sexual selves, yet they are in less control than the rest of us. They lose more and more control as they get sucked into this horrible habit. Also at issue are those people who expose themselves for someone else’s pleasure, which is a whole other matter. Pornography in all its forms is degrading to all involved. Where is the balance between freedom of choice and unfettered pornography that can destroy individual lives, families, and even whole communities? Allowing pornography to enslave our community is not freedom—it is craziness. This same psychotherapist stated that pornography is more addictive than drugs or alcohol. He said that people have a better chance of getting off cocaine than pornography. If someone started leaving drugs and alcohol around the library in places our children had access to them, we would certainly do something to stop it. Yet even though the impact of pornography can be worse, we allow this very same type of thing to happen everyday the library is open. I took the time to let our representatives and Library Board of Trustee’s Chair know that I support legislation that would make any pornography in public buildings inaccessible. Robert Arway, the library board chair, responded, saying he would like to have a public meeting so he can share the library’s views on this issue. I will be very interested to hear the library’s arguments, and to see what they are willing to do to make our public buildings safe for us and our children. Representative Joe Murray also responded, saying that the day he received my letter, was the very day that this item came up in the House for a vote. He agreed that pornography shouldn’t be accessible in public buildings, especially to our children. He voted accordingly. He said he would continue to do everything he could to help in this matter. I have sent a few letters to representatives before, but never heard back from any of them. I appreciated the two responses I received. Even though it’s important to let our representatives know how we feel, it’s easy to become so busy with life that we neglect to take the time to do important tasks such as this. Thanks Wendy for your research and taking the time to let us know what is going on. I especially appreciated the names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of those who could make a difference in this matter. Mr. Arway and Representative Murray, thanks for your replies. Tips On Getting A Good Night’s Sleep NAPSA—A good night’s sleep need no longer be a dream. Here are a few tips from IKEA, the leading home furnishings retailer, that may help open the door to more shut-eye for you. Same Time Next Time—Go to sleep and get up at the same time every day, including weekends. This way, your body can establish a regular routine. Get Regular Exercise—A regular exercise routine will do more than just keep you in shape. People who work out moderately during the day release stress and tension, which allows them to sleep better at night. Pillows Are More Than Talk—Shop for pillows with your sleep position in mind. Side sleepers need a low, firm pillow for neck support, back sleepers need firmer pillows and stomach sleepers will appreciate medium support. A Good Reflection—Bedroom lighting should be relaxing and adaptable. If you enjoy reading in bed, treat yourself to an adjustable reading lamp that fits your decor. Adjustable lamps provide a bookworm with perfect light but won’t disturb a sleep partner. Quiet On The Set—Small sounds in your bedroom may be costing you valuable sleep. Try to replace distracting items such as the ticking of a loud clock or bed legs that squeak. Wake Up And Smell The Coffee— Save the coffee beans for the morning. Steer clear of caffeine 4-6 hours before bed. Drink warm milk or chamomile tea instead. That’s So You—Make sure your bedroom is a true reflection of you— whether a casual, sensual or fun look. Add accents such as duvet covers in soft warm colors or an assortment of stylish bed pillows in different size ranges. Choose a Quilt that’s right for you. A bed quilt with down filling will keep you warm. In general, down quilts help maintain a comfortable body temperature in all seasons, but allergy sufferers should opt for synthetic fiber quilts. Just Relax—Finally, be sure when you’re ready to sleep that your bedroom is conducive to sleep. In other words, your sleeping environment should be as quiet, dark and relaxing as possible. Don’t close your eyes to the opportunity to get the rest you need. Heeding a few hints can help. Come Join the Fun with the Junior Posse Boys & Girls ages 8 - 17 (by January 1, 2001) Kick off party for all Weber County Junior Posse members on April 4th. For more information call Marv or Madelyn Evans at 745-3415. Reduced Price! Marsha Rasmussen Order Your Ogden Valley Calendars Independent Beauty Consultant Phone 745-0584 ATTENTION CONTRACTORS: FOR RENT: Office space and open storage for contractor equipment. S&S Excavating will have a fulltime mechanic for construction equipment and agricultural repair. S&S Excavating can handle all your landscape, rock placement, excavating & snow removal needs. Contact Thom Summers, Elise Summers, or Jule Phalen @ 745-2309. S&S Excavating – WE DIG OUR VALLEY! The Ogden Valley Calendars, featuring Photos of the Month, are now available at a reduced price of $4.99. Order your full-color glossy year 2001 calendars today. Call Jeannie at 745-2879 or Shanna at 745-2688 to place your order by mail or Send a check for $4.99 plus $1.00 for shipping and handling ($5.99) to OGDEN VALLEY NEWS Calendars, P O BOX 130 EDEN UT 84310. Be sure to enclose the address of where the calendar is to be mailed. |