Getting people to put down the remote control is no easy feat. But, as mentioned in a previous post this is National Turn off the TV Week. I know you're dying to know but -- "NO, the TV has not been banned from my household. Honestly, I just forgot. Besides, we've already given up bread this week and I don't know how much oppression I can take. Whether or not you have taken up the challenge to turn off the TV or have become part of the movement as a service provider, I thought I'd share some suggestions from the Riran Project entitled, " Getting Unplugged: How to Break the TV Habit." Some of the ideas are clever and creative such as: "Make a new rule -- 'No watching TV if the sun is shining,' which, frankly would be much harder for couch potatoes living in Phoenix than those who live in Seattle. Others are benevolent; "Give your extra TVs to charity." Still others are super simple: Move or change the furniture so it's not quite so comfortable to veg out." I especially like the suggestion to require a trade off of 30 minutes of reading, games or outdoor time to 30 minutes of TV viewing. Again, I think this is more than a TV were talking about abandoning -- it's a way of life and part of our culture. Be patient and remember that every active minute stolen from the TV is a victory.
RED HOT ACTION ITEM: In your next newsletter or program guide include an article with suggestions of your own to help people kick the TV habit. Also, post a COMMENT below to share your suggestions and ideas.
