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Reading Room:  TV or Not TV?  |
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MaryJane
Queen Bee
16458 Posts
MaryJane
Moscow
Idaho
USA
16458 Posts |
 Posted - Mar 23 2004 : 2:14:23 PM
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Here's a sample from the "Plateful" issue of my magazine, to hit newsstands on April 3.
What is it about books that have me hooked?
For starters, I can cite several (change that to many) books that have nudged me, pushed me (reluctantly), poked at me, even waited for me, until I got it right — got right my direction, got right my course. If you make books your religion, the right one will jump off the shelf and into your hands ABSOLUTELY EVERY TIME. I promise. If you are faithful to books, they will be faithful back. That doesn’t mean you have to read them cover to cover even. Sometimes a book falls open to the right page — a quote that stays with you, an idea that won’t go away. . .
read the rest of the article online:
http://www.maryjanesfarm.org/About/farmlife/plateful-tv/
Please feel free to reply with your comments and ideas.
- MaryJane
Watch for my new book, "MaryJane's Gathering Place - Ideabook, Cookbook, Lifebook - for the farmgirl in all of us," to be published by Random House's Clarkson Potter/Publishers in Spring 2005. |
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Clare
True Blue Farmgirl
2173 Posts
NC WA State
USA
2173 Posts |
Posted - Mar 23 2004 : 2:50:21 PM
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Mary Jane, I read your article about TV viewing and the offers that are coming in for you to participate in a TV program. I shall offer my humble take on the whole thing.
Part of what is appealing about you and your products and ideas is
that they are natural. TV is not natural, for the most part. I am
not a heavy television watcher, but when I do watch I mostly watch
PBS and/or how to shows. While those are usually good, you have to
make sure you tune in at the appropriate time, or plan ahead to
record a show.
Your idea for producing DVDs is a good alternative. You could offer
different DVDs on different topics and people could order what
interests them and appeals to them and do it in their own time frame,
and repeat viewing as needed. Plus, I would think that you'd have a
greater profit margin and greater creative control than over a tv
show that would be mass marketed by someone else.
That being said, I think if you could get PBS interested on a
national scale, that might be a good alternative to the other
networks or syndication. PBS's ideals are more in keeping with your
philosophy; however, most PBS stations right now are in a major
financial crunch, so while you might reach a wide market, there may
be questions about profitability. Also, local PBS stations choose
alot of their own programming, so the chance of being picked up in
regional markets is questionable. Perhaps if you participated in a
pledge drive on a national level, that might generate enough interest
to get things going in local markets. That might work best after
your books are published, or at least one of them is out.
So I guess in my final analysis, I vote for DVDs as being true to the
mission. But that means I need to update my technology and get a DVD
player! haha.... I'm still in video mode!
I hope my ramblings help in your decisions. I know there are alot of
opportunities opening up to you right now. Making the intial
decisions about how you'll proceed with your business and philosophy
are critical and some of the most important ones that you will make.
And as we have learned from others, staying true to your values and
ideals and not getting side tracked is equally as important. Sincerely, Clare
Gardener, Stitcher, Appreciator of all things Natural, & Spiritual Explorer |
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miss_alaineus
Farmgirl at Heart
2 Posts
Lisa
IL
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - Mar 24 2004 : 11:06:59 PM
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Hi Mary Jane
I read your article about TV and I have to agree with Clare - DVD's are the way to go - for all the reasons you both offered. Here's a thought: people could buy the DVDs, or after you have a sizeable collection of them, you could offer a subscription service - so many rentals for X price, with a generous amount of time to view the show and return postage included. I don't know how much profit could be made with that plan, but I think it would work well for getting your ideas out to the public.
-- Lisa
Gardener, Lover of good books, Appreciator of great art, Mother of amazing children! |
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Juliekay
True Blue Farmgirl
237 Posts
237 Posts |
Posted - Mar 25 2004 : 10:40:09 AM
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Mary Jane,
If you do make DVD's I look forward to buying them. I would like to learn more skills for self-sufficiency, like raising chickens, sewing, etc.
Julie |
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sourjayne
worker bee
67 Posts
sarah
seattle
washington
67 Posts |
Posted - Apr 02 2004 : 10:23:23 AM
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MaryJane received an e-mail response to the TV question from a friend of hers, and she asked me to post it on here to share it with you all.
Sarah (sourjayne)
From: Brad Halter
Sent: Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Subject: TV
Hi!
While at the family gathering in Florida, I did have time to read your excellent essay on television. Your "quandary" seems to me to be a very interesting and important one, for which of course no one else can provide the definitive solution for you.
But perhaps we can enter into an exchange of thoughts on the subject and see if that bears any useful fruit. No doubt you have already done some reading on the question of TV and have thought seriously about it. It occurred to me on a second reading of your essay that you are a model for what can be accomplished by people who do not watch TV.
The question of whether or not to make use of TV would I suppose depend on what you want to accomplish -- what content you want to communicate. Therefore, to answer the question, I'd think it would be necessary to have a good understanding of the nature of the TV medium.
Since I can't claim to possess this, any suggestions I might have would be of limited value. But based on a few books I've read and personal intuition, I think that TV, as with other media such as speech and print, by its very nature is biased toward admitting and communicating well some types of content and does not communicate other types well or at all. Furthermore, also because of the nature of the medium, TV tends to assume a certain regard for its viewers, tends to adopt a certain attitude toward its content, and, because of its popularity, is a very strong influence determining the character of public discourse in our society. A book I have read recently makes the case that TV has determined that the quintessential characteristic of that discourse today is one of (perhaps Huxleyan) entertainment, regardless of content.
So, lots of interesting and thought provoking stuff here. I'll be
interested in knowing your further thoughts and those of your readers on the subject.
Should be good material for future magazine articles.
Brad |
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Ranchmom
Farmgirl at Heart
2 Posts
2 Posts |
Posted - Apr 08 2004 : 11:03:51 AM
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Hi Mary Jane,
I agree that a DVD natural living compendium might be better suited to your message rather the dubious medium of the tv(primetime/cable/satellite). We watch PBS mostly because the content matter and commercials on mainstream tv have become so inappropriate for our 4 kids(even the teenagers). Maybe you could produce a DVD encyclopedic library of a variety of homesteading/natural living topics that could be watched at the viewer's convenience ie: canning- the DVD could be stopped and rewatched if necessary to learn the desired skill, etc. I would be very interested in a series of this sort because I don't have time to watch a program at a certain time and am not disciplined enough to set the VCR to record a program at a certain time. Perhaps a companion book could be published as an alternative to the DVD so people could have a choice. It sounds like a wonderful idea since local mentors are hard to find and it seems that alot of people are interested in these"lost arts". A couple of friends and I are always talking about learning how to do this or that and we try to fit it into our schedules as best we can but sometimes the lessons are cost prohibitive/too far to drive(ie:spinning class 1 hour away) and we turn to books to learn. I'm looking forward to seeing your new book as well! Diane
The gloom of the world is just a shadow. Take Joy!-Tasha Tudor |
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FarmChickSerena
Farm Chick
45 Posts
Serena
WA
USA
45 Posts |
Posted - Apr 09 2004 : 11:11:37 AM
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MaryJane,
I too was raised with no TV. Never had it. When I moved out and eventually got one, I overloaded on it for a while. Eventually, it just wasn't that important. I did enjoy occasionally watching some shows from time to time like Oprah and Martha. However, I haven't seen either show for quite a while. We listen to a lot of NPR. We really enjoy "This American Life" and of course, the news.
All this being said, I don't see what the harm is in having a show. Why shouldn't there be a great show out there (like yours would be) that we could all have access to if we chose to? I enjoy having a television so I can tune in if there's something I'm interested in.
You have worked hard to become a voice for something meaningful and good. Why limit yourself? If your fans didn't want to watch you on TV, they could buy your DVDs (they could be sold and rented a few episodes on each). Many TV shows are doing that now (Sopranos, 24, etc.)
I also grew up in an extremely wholesome home. My mom subscribed to all of the same food beliefs as you, grew much, supported the local co-op, etc. My first paying job was in a natural foods bakery/restaraunt/store at the age of 14. Although I was raised that way, again, when I moved out on my own, I mostly strayed from being faithful about really healthy food choices. It was your voice a few years ago that inspired me to get back on track.
If your voice is what our society is hearing, you could inspire them as well.
Serena |
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sourjayne
worker bee
67 Posts
sarah
seattle
washington
67 Posts |
Posted - Apr 22 2004 : 11:28:54 AM
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Here's another TV response MJ would like to share with you all:
Sarah (sourjayne)
From: Phil Jackson
To: MaryJane Butters
Sent: Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Subject: TV or Not TV?
Mary Jane,
Read your article and feel that you hit the bulls eye on the TV issue. It's funny, reading your article, I realized that what's missing in TV for me is my inner voice of conversation. It is present in verbal communication, and it is present in books. But not TV; the visual message is overwhelming. That's why I think TV is numbing. But before we throw the baby out with the bathwater, I contend that TV does have a role.
It might not be our favorite medium, but it is the prevalent medium and it is powerful if used well. I don't believe that you will create the "numbing" programming we all decry. Instead, I think you will reach people where they "live" and show them how to live better. And who knows, you might even encourage someone to watch less TV. After reading your article, I'm going to stay away from TV more.
Got to study for the Master Gardener's examination!!!!
Organically yours,
Phil Jackson
Sarah (sourjayne)
No artificial sweeteners added. |
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Moon
Farmgirl at Heart
5 Posts
Topanga
California
5 Posts |
Posted - Apr 24 2004 : 12:15:46 PM
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Mary Jane,
In response to your TV quandary, I felt a need to speak out against the mass opinion that I read in the magazine and on this website and say that I believe that producing a television show about your farm and natural living, would help bring about a huge social change in what television brings us, over time.
Television is such a misused educational tool. It has such power to reach so many, many people. You have been offered a podium to speak your message about natural living, to offer an alternative to the only world a lot of spiritually starved people know, to open the eyes of teenagers and school children of the next generation sitting in some apartment or suburban house after school showing them about how maybe there is a better life...about values that could change our ill society for the better.
By providing the public with your information on a large scale...and being successful...more venues will open up for other people who have a similiar message to express, and that's how you can create real social change.
As long as you remain in creative control of your program, as long as you always maintain the title of executive producer, then you'll have final say of what goes into your program and what goes out to the public.
It would change your life for a while, no doubt. But I see it as a giant act of compassion in sacrificing some of your time to use the medium for all it could be. To show the world what TV could be: education, better living, the voicing of information.
Television is not the corruption. What's put on television is the corruption. But it has an amazing potential to heal.
DVD's limit your message to white-collar middle class workers who can afford to rent/buy DVD's and own a DVD player. Television cuts across all demographic and economic boundaries.
It's the most powerful tool America isn't using.
Just my opinions,
Best wishes
~Moon |
Edited by - Moon on Apr 24 2004 12:24:28 PM |
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Clare
True Blue Farmgirl
2173 Posts
NC WA State
USA
2173 Posts |
Posted - Apr 25 2004 : 07:35:49 AM
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Hello Moon!
I just wanted to thank you for your fresh perspective on this subject. It's easy to say hogwash to the mainstream ways; but you are right, that if used judiciously, a tv show by Mary Jane could eventually affect a social change. I imagine Mary Jane is rethinking her Mission Statement regarding this whole issue to see how it will fit into what her ideas are for herself and her farm. Not to mention her personal needs and ideas that will have to be in balance as well. And..it is all a balancing act.
Wouldn't it be great if a tv show such as one Mary Jane would produce became a part of a school curriculum? Be used in after school outreach programs, and mentoring programs etc.? And that 3-5pm after school tv time slot does need some new choices. I am all for social change and do realize that it takes a huge committment, but if we all do our own small part, it does add to the whole.
Gardener, Stitcher, Appreciator of all things Natural, & Spiritual Explorer |
Edited by - Clare on Apr 25 2004 07:37:48 AM |
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Aunt Jenny
True Blue Farmgirl
11381 Posts
Jenny
middle of
Utah
USA
11381 Posts |
Posted - Apr 25 2004 : 10:00:57 PM
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Personally, I don't watch alot of tv. What I do watch are mostly educational things and like that. I would enjoy anything (books, tv, DvD's or whatever) that MaryJane does. We need better examples in every part of life, and unfortunatly, for most of us, tv is part of life. I will get a book out every single time over tv, but I could knit and watch a show if it is a good one. Anything is better than some of the junk on it now!!
Jenny in Utah
Bloom where you are planted! |
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sourjayne
worker bee
67 Posts
sarah
seattle
washington
67 Posts |
Posted - Apr 27 2004 : 09:33:25 AM
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This is from another woman who wrote to MaryJane to share her thoughts on the subject.
Sarah (sourjayne)
Just read about the various TV opportunities for Mary Jane in the new issue.
Obviously there are pros/cons either way. Personally I prefer the written word. It is far less intrusive and one has time to form a true self -opinion and not just parody what is heard on TV. But if the goal is inform as many people as possible that they can change their lives even in small ways for their better health and that of our planet, then it is a viable
venture.
Just think of all the people out there that would be starting their own chicken flocks, like me!
Sincerely,
Sheryl Eggleston
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teripittman
Farmgirl in Training
16 Posts
Teri
Camas
WA
USA
16 Posts |
Posted - May 11 2004 : 04:30:11 AM
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"DVD's limit your message to white-collar middle class workers who can afford to rent/buy DVD's and own a DVD player. Television cuts across all demographic and economic boundaries."
You must not know the lower class folks I know. They all have DVDs. They are down to about $60 now, you know.
I can't think of any television shows that have really created a lifestyle change. I can tell you that many people were impacted by Mother Earth News and Prevention magazines. Those magazines created real change in people's lives. Television is entertainment, pure and simple. You'll reach a lot of people who'll watch it and forget about it.
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RachelLeigh
True Blue Farmgirl
635 Posts
Rachel
Rainier
WA
USA
635 Posts |
Posted - May 11 2004 : 05:02:31 AM
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| As someone who happened upon your magazine and now feel extremely inspired, I think a TV show would actually be very beneficial. It does not have to be hyped up or hugely advertised because your, your products, and your lifestyle will sell themselves. In the society of today, many people are craving a change. That is why Oprah, Dr. Phil, Martha Stewart are all so popular. They offer "advice" about life improvements. People, I think, would be equally if not even more inspired by what you have to offer. You, unlike Dr. Phil, have not molded yourself an image to get on television. The very core of your being is what you represent. And although you do not have a television, very few of us can say we are TV-free. Your talent and message could reach those, like myself, who are starving for a more worthwhile life and find seeds of wisdom within your words. |
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jpbluesky
True Blue Farmgirl
6066 Posts
Jeannie
Florida
USA
6066 Posts |
Posted - Jun 10 2004 : 11:06:06 AM
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MaryJane,
Your magazine thus far has been able to avoid the control that advertisers will impose upon any medium with time. You have been quite smart in keeping large and annoying ads out of your publication while still promoting things that you sell and also encouraging new products through essay type articles and recommendations. It works and works well. Your magazine is complete within itself.
This would not be the case for a TV show, unless it WAS on PBS. Your commercial sponsors would eventually control your show, unless you can stay amazingly powerful in your objectives. Even Oprah and several other socially redeeming programs are basically commercial avenues. Do you want that?
Where is your heart leading you? Away from the farm? I am sure that is impossible. I know you have to be quite savvy to have achieved as much as you have to date without losing your farmgirl dreams, but use caution on losing what makes MaryJanes Farm so unique and real....those farmgirl dreams are golden. |
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CabinCreek-Kentucky
True Blue Farmgirl
8529 Posts
Frannie
Green County
Kentucky
USA
8529 Posts |
Posted - Nov 25 2005 : 6:46:34 PM
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Maryjane .. i'm just getting around to reading your last March post ... (and the article you cited). I believe 'things in moderation' is a good credo to live by in this day and age. hmmmm .. i did, indeed, leave the "ALL" things ... off .. i think there are probably some things in life that even in moderation would not be good for us. But TV .. and ...
a-hemmm ... (clearing of throat here) "computers" are time-robbers for many people .. and 'life-lines' for others. I would think that even some 'books' are not real 'healthy for our souls' if we 'waste time' reading them. Some music is good for us .. some probably bad. I think if we use our common sense .. we will know what makes us happy and what does not .. but in this technological world of ours (and i don't expect we'll be returning to the stone age or anywhere between there and prsent day technology in the future of this world) .. DVD's, rented movies, etc. are but one other type of 'TV' watching .. i do believe we do watch those on a TV screen. How about 'going to the movies' .. is that a good'un or a bad'un? Can surely be either.
I personally do watch (and enjoy) TV, books, movies, music, and the computer .. and find a little time in my life for each of them. I'm a pretty responsible person in control of my time and my life .. and i believe i have figured out a very healthy balance between them all .. and they ALL offer something that is positive in my life.
Now .. as far as 'getting the word' out ... i believe TV is a great medium for you and your Farmgirl message. You would reach so many people that you would not reach just through your book or magazine. there are indeed people out there that don't like to sit and read .. and that does not make them 'wrong' or not 'in the right place in life'. It is simply their choice of what they enjoy doing. Yes, there are lots of things on TV (and in books) that i don't think are the best messages .. but i believe that books, TV and computers are mediums that are 'here to stay' .. and a great way to reach a huge amount of people with the concepts you would like to share. I say .. go for it! Your heart and head will lead you down the right paths. AND .. if from time to time .. you don't like the trip you're taking .. you can always go down another road. I surely would tune in to watch you show! True Friends, Frannie |
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BlueApple
True Blue Farmgirl
430 Posts
Julia
Oregon
USA
430 Posts |
Posted - Nov 26 2005 : 05:43:36 AM
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Frannie, well said! I would definitely tune in to watch anything MJ wants to share!
Julia
BlueApple Farm |
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Reading Room: TV or Not TV? |
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TV or Not TV?
