You haven't seen this on the networks or cable channels, but today marks the beginning of National TV Turnoff Week. Every year, in almost every community, a small group of devotees promote the notion of abstaining from television for a week. That's like asking a Californian to go without a car for a day. Nonetheless, the struggle goes on. There are plenty of good reasons to do something other than tuning in to the boob tube, especially for young, uncorrupted minds.
Studies show that the more kids watch TV, the less likely they are to be proficient readers.
There are also some benefits for adults. During last year's tune-out week, Lee Cunningham decided to give up her television. The Los Osos woman canceled the cable and sold her tube. Cable is history. In the months of TV-less existence, she wound up accomplishing all kinds of projects around the house.