By Sally Essex, 1889 Dry Gulch Drive - 09/29/08
It is a sad day when the library agrees to include in its selection of books one on gay sexual practices falling within the description of pornography.
In an age when sexually transmitted diseases run rampant and are denied, when teenagers experience increasing confusion in finding “their way” and many adults abdicate responsibility for guidance, it is hoped the library would weigh in with discernment and sound judgment.
C.S. Lewis has an apt insight: “Virtue — even attempted virtue — brings light; indulgence brings fog.”
A decision to place sane limits on book selection also constitutes good fiscal management, I would suggest. As a tax payer who influenced others to vote for library support during the last election, it is believed it acts, at all times, in the public interest. I can only hope that those responsible for these decisions display the clarity and courage required to honor the trust the public places in them.
Reader Comments
thedukeofhelena wrote on Sep 29, 2008 9:17 AM:
" Here's another thought Sally. You might as well have me removed from my hometown of Helena for being gay too. It's basically what you're really saying and what you really want. Not very wise. Try it and see what kind of Pandora's Box you open. "
al wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:35 AM:
" Since Ms. Essex has judged the book in question ("The Joy of Gay Sex") to be pornographic, we must assume that she has read it. If so, is she now somehow corrupted because she knows, in specific detail, the ins and outs of homosexual sex? Is she now questioning her own sexuality?
I suspect she would say that reading the book (if in fact she has done so)
has not effected her in any adverse way. If so, her arguments for banning the book might sound a bit hollow.
Plus, despite Ms. Essex's assertion about "good fiscal management", I doubt that the library will go broke stocking the latest gay sex guides. Give it a rest. "
electstat wrote on Sep 29, 2008 6:25 AM:
" Wow. The library carries books! What a great concept! An even better one, don't check out the book if you don't want to read it. Don't use the library as a babysitter if you haven't taught your children whatever family values you choose. As a tax payer, maybe you should be asking for any religious material to be removed so that we keep that separation of church and state. "
Sep 29, 2008
Sep 25, 2008
A Secular Foundation CYDFI
How many shoes, shirts, school supplies and toys does it take to fill a 40-foot shipping container? And how long will it take to raise $8,000 to send that container to Africa?William Mansfield, an employee at the Helena Community Credit Union, has less than two weeks to accomplish both, and he’s banking on the generosity of local citizens to help finish the job.
Financial donations can be made at Children and Youth Development Foundation International, P.O. Box 5685, Helena, MT 59604.
Financial donations can be made at Children and Youth Development Foundation International, P.O. Box 5685, Helena, MT 59604.
An Honest Obit
DOUGLAS -- A celebration of life for James William "Jim" Adams, 53, will be held at a later date.
He died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas.
Jim, who had tired of reading obituaries noting other's courageous battles with this or that disease, wanted it known that he lost his battle. It was primarily as a result of being stubborn and not following doctor's orders or maybe for just living life a little too hard for better than five decades.
He was born June 8, 1955 in Garrison, N.D. the son of James William and Ruby Helen (Clark) Adams.
He was sadly deprived of his final wish, which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date. True to his personal style, he spent his final hours joking with medical personnel, cussing and begging for narcotics and bargaining with God to look over his loving dog, Biscuit, and his family.
He would like to thank all "his ladies" for putting up with him the last 30 years.
During his life, he excelled at anything he put his mind to. He loved to hear and tell jokes and spin tales of grand adventures he may or may not have had.
He is survived by five sons, Jeremiah Adams and his wife, Nicole, Mica Olivas, Wade Olivas, Brice Simpson and Cole Adams; sister, Jerri Giegerich; two ex-wives, Vickie Harrison and Marilyn Williams; four grandchildren; two nieces; and two great-nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law.
In lieu of flowers, he asks that you make a sizeable purchase at your favorite watering hole, get rip roaring drunk and tell the stories he no longer can.
Gorman Funeral Homes - Converse Chapel of Douglas is in charge of the arrangements.
He died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas.
Jim, who had tired of reading obituaries noting other's courageous battles with this or that disease, wanted it known that he lost his battle. It was primarily as a result of being stubborn and not following doctor's orders or maybe for just living life a little too hard for better than five decades.
He was born June 8, 1955 in Garrison, N.D. the son of James William and Ruby Helen (Clark) Adams.
He was sadly deprived of his final wish, which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date. True to his personal style, he spent his final hours joking with medical personnel, cussing and begging for narcotics and bargaining with God to look over his loving dog, Biscuit, and his family.
He would like to thank all "his ladies" for putting up with him the last 30 years.
During his life, he excelled at anything he put his mind to. He loved to hear and tell jokes and spin tales of grand adventures he may or may not have had.
He is survived by five sons, Jeremiah Adams and his wife, Nicole, Mica Olivas, Wade Olivas, Brice Simpson and Cole Adams; sister, Jerri Giegerich; two ex-wives, Vickie Harrison and Marilyn Williams; four grandchildren; two nieces; and two great-nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law.
In lieu of flowers, he asks that you make a sizeable purchase at your favorite watering hole, get rip roaring drunk and tell the stories he no longer can.
Gorman Funeral Homes - Converse Chapel of Douglas is in charge of the arrangements.
Sep 23, 2008
A missing line per Bob
By Bob Cypers, 6635 Sleeping Giant View - 09/23/08
Ms. Marshall had it right, she just left off one line.“Public libraries shouldn’t be used as political tools to advance liberal social agendas.” The next line should read “or the religious far-right agendas.” If you chose to remove a book because you don’t agree with it on religious or political beliefs, then let’s remove any book that pertains to religion. The Bible must go! I don’t think there is a place in our libraries to promote religion.If you don’t want your children to read “The Joy of Sex,” then don’t let them. And they’re not going to experiment with anything else; after all, all of our kids are perfect.It’s called freedom to read what we want; get over it or remove Moby Dick because it shines a bad light on a cripple. FREEDOM!
I completely agree with Bob
Ms. Marshall had it right, she just left off one line.“Public libraries shouldn’t be used as political tools to advance liberal social agendas.” The next line should read “or the religious far-right agendas.” If you chose to remove a book because you don’t agree with it on religious or political beliefs, then let’s remove any book that pertains to religion. The Bible must go! I don’t think there is a place in our libraries to promote religion.If you don’t want your children to read “The Joy of Sex,” then don’t let them. And they’re not going to experiment with anything else; after all, all of our kids are perfect.It’s called freedom to read what we want; get over it or remove Moby Dick because it shines a bad light on a cripple. FREEDOM!
I completely agree with Bob
Sep 21, 2008
Don’t print derogatory ‘opinions’
By Robert Bayuk, 801 N. Warren - 09/21/2008
When a patron enters the Lewis and Clark Library, peruses the bookshelves, discovers materials he or she finds offensive, wants it removed from circulation because it offends their delicate sensibilities and then wants everyone to wallow in their misery, polite society has a term for such a person: propagandist.
The Independent Record, however, has bigger fish to fry than worrying about a reprobate attempting to censor books and I will spell it out for all of you: Homosexuality is genetic and it has been proven scientifically. So the IR must now stop publishing all letters to the editor, feature articles and “Your Turn” commentaries which debase gay men and lesbian women as diseased or monsters, degenerates, or any other derogatory terminology used to cast aspersions upon them.
The IR would not publish hateful letters about someone’s skin color, eye color or genetic background. So it can now cease publishing such letters about our gay brethren and, instead, begin publishing articles about our ever-evolving humankind.
When a patron enters the Lewis and Clark Library, peruses the bookshelves, discovers materials he or she finds offensive, wants it removed from circulation because it offends their delicate sensibilities and then wants everyone to wallow in their misery, polite society has a term for such a person: propagandist.
The Independent Record, however, has bigger fish to fry than worrying about a reprobate attempting to censor books and I will spell it out for all of you: Homosexuality is genetic and it has been proven scientifically. So the IR must now stop publishing all letters to the editor, feature articles and “Your Turn” commentaries which debase gay men and lesbian women as diseased or monsters, degenerates, or any other derogatory terminology used to cast aspersions upon them.
The IR would not publish hateful letters about someone’s skin color, eye color or genetic background. So it can now cease publishing such letters about our gay brethren and, instead, begin publishing articles about our ever-evolving humankind.
Sep 18, 2008
Libraries are no place for censorship
By IR Staff - 09/18/08
Quite a controversy has been stirred in the past few weeks over a single book at the Lewis and Clark Library.
The book, “The Joy of Gay Sex,” was petitioned to be removed from the library’s shelves after a Helena man stumbled upon it on one of his frequent visits to the library.
In a public hearing Tuesday night, the testimonies of supporters advocating to keep the book slightly outnumbered those who wanted it removed from the shelves.
The debate over this book, which has been available at the library since the early 1990s, resides over whether the content of the book belongs in a public library setting, paid for by taxpayer money, for all to see.
But the heart of the argument goes beyond the content of a single book and points to the type of resource a public library should be.
And it should be a place free of prejudice.
That means making available books that serve a wide variety of interests. A library should be the vehicle to learn, the portal to information.
Much like a newspaper, a library should be a reflection of the community in all the books and services it offers.
On the eve of Banned Book Week, Sept. 27 to Oct. 4, the only national celebration of the freedom to read, it’s relevant to note the history behind the challenge of books in libraries, schools and bookstores.
Thousands of books have been challenged over the years, for reasons ranging from violence or sexuality, profanity and slang, racial and social.
It’s interesting also to look at some classics that have banned from libraries in the past:
-- “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain
-- “Forever ...” by Judy Blume
-- “Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
-- “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling
-- “Beloved” by Toni Morrison
Indeed, nearly every book on the library shelf could potentially offend or disgust a reader. And there are some subjects which have no place anywhere.
Yet it would be a far greater disservice to a community — and to democracy — to have a library that censors what people can and cannot see.
Reader Comments:
PaulCohen wrote on Sep 18, 2008 12:44 PM:
" In testimony given at the most recent library board meeting I addressed the canard of this being a free speech and censorship issue. You can see my testimony at www.thepathoftruth.com, on the Notice Board, along with a summary of testimonies from the first board meeting with commentary. More from this week's board meeting is in the works.
The IR should know better that to stake out such a position. Come on, people, you won't even let someone write a letter to the editor here that mentions p...orn...ography, yet you champion keeping a book in the library that has vile depictions of homosexual orgies. Do you also disallow the use of the word "hypocrites"?
I said many things in an interview granted to Alana Listoe, very little of which made it into your paper, and what did was out of context. And you have the nerve to disallow discrimination based on standards of decency whereas you exercise discrimination based on prejudice against decency and godly reason? Shame on you.
Skosena, you say you are a "bible believing christian." You are nothing of the sort, except by your own false definition. Jesus Christ laid down His life to deliver people from their sins, but you are in agreement with providing information that validates them in sin, even laying a trap for those not yet ensnared. You are worse than a sodomite.
Al, who appointed you to preach your brand of "morality"? You contradict yourself. You also confuse terms. What you call freedom is lawlessness. Freedom brings life, but lawlessness death. Your free tongue is lawless, evilly surmising my motives, even stating them as fact without evidence. I have no desire whatsoever to try to protect you from the consequences of your sins. God forbid that I should try to deny you the destruction you demand. You fully need and deserve to reap the fruits of your ways, as you do even now and will.
Nevertheless, I speak the Truth for the sake of all, and should any of you be ashamed of your conduct and repentant, I would be glad of that. "
patriot wrote on Sep 18, 2008 11:07 AM:
" The IRs opinion concerning the removal from the library The Joy of Gay Sex seems a little contradictory. The second to last paragraph, Indeed, nearly every book on the library shelf could potentially offend or disgust a reader. And there are some subjects which have no place anywhere. So, how do we define nearly. By definition, is the IR going to be the Censor and make the determination of what is appropriate and not offensive. Why not place the book along side copies of Playboy and Playgirl to be fair to people of all sexual orientations. Or the library can have separate sections, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Straight Sexually Oriented People and Not so Straight. Ardent Christians are opposed to the ardent liberals, somehow we should be able to compromise.
Its not surprising the IR has responded to this controversy with an opinion that is not very well written and fails to articulate the true meaning of freedom of speech and the press. I would like to thank the IR for affirming my impression of the IRs journalistic mediocrity. "
cest moi wrote on Sep 18, 2008 10:11 AM:
" This situation serves the families of Helena by bringing to parents' attention the quality of literature at Lewis & Clark Public Library.
Conversely (or not - who knows?), this situation lets young children know the quality of literature at Lewis & Clark Public Library.
But let's keep hammering this censorship issue - after all, it's all about choice, and we want our children to make well-informed choices; especially about sex. And if children can't get information from their parents or their churches regarding morality and life choices, then it's the public libraries' responsibilty to provide the necessary resources to help shape your children's lives.
I stand by my comment yesterday encouraging families to have their children wash their hands after visiting the Lewis & Clark Library. "
skosena wrote on Sep 18, 2008 9:08 AM:
" I am a bible believing christian...I am morally opposed to the gay life style. That being said....I think the book should STAY... I want our library to serve and educated all kinds of interests. There are those that do not agree with my faith....or hunting...or having children...but we should not and can not dictate to one another what we believe or embrace. And as a parent it is my job to monitor and police what my children read and where they browse in the library. "
al wrote on Sep 18, 2008 7:58 AM:
" Kudos to the IR for taking this public stand against the most recent attempt at library censorship. The self-appointed moralists behind such efforts to censor are less concerned about "protecting society" than they are about furthering their own agendas and aspirations. Freedom-loving people must never fail to confront them and deny them. "
Colton wrote on Sep 18, 2008 7:50 AM:
" Question? What is the IR point of view on current library Electronic Access Policy? Specifically paragraph 4 - "All Internet resources accessible through the Library are provided equally to all library users."
Does this mean the IR condones men viewing explicit pornography at a computer station next to an 13 year old girl trying to complete a homework assignment at an adjacent computer?
Or has fear of censorship has replaced common sense? "
monkey wrote on Sep 18, 2008 7:49 AM:
" It's nice to see this from the Library Staff. I'm sure no one will be surprised when you vote to keep the book, regardless of how many of us parents send in comments that we don't want that trash in our library. And good job trying to compare the joy of disgusting gay sex to The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. You've just spurred me on to encourage every parent I know to oppose this book. Obviously it's not going to matter how many do, your "staff" has their mind made up. SAD. "
Quite a controversy has been stirred in the past few weeks over a single book at the Lewis and Clark Library.
The book, “The Joy of Gay Sex,” was petitioned to be removed from the library’s shelves after a Helena man stumbled upon it on one of his frequent visits to the library.
In a public hearing Tuesday night, the testimonies of supporters advocating to keep the book slightly outnumbered those who wanted it removed from the shelves.
The debate over this book, which has been available at the library since the early 1990s, resides over whether the content of the book belongs in a public library setting, paid for by taxpayer money, for all to see.
But the heart of the argument goes beyond the content of a single book and points to the type of resource a public library should be.
And it should be a place free of prejudice.
That means making available books that serve a wide variety of interests. A library should be the vehicle to learn, the portal to information.
Much like a newspaper, a library should be a reflection of the community in all the books and services it offers.
On the eve of Banned Book Week, Sept. 27 to Oct. 4, the only national celebration of the freedom to read, it’s relevant to note the history behind the challenge of books in libraries, schools and bookstores.
Thousands of books have been challenged over the years, for reasons ranging from violence or sexuality, profanity and slang, racial and social.
It’s interesting also to look at some classics that have banned from libraries in the past:
-- “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain
-- “Forever ...” by Judy Blume
-- “Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
-- “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling
-- “Beloved” by Toni Morrison
Indeed, nearly every book on the library shelf could potentially offend or disgust a reader. And there are some subjects which have no place anywhere.
Yet it would be a far greater disservice to a community — and to democracy — to have a library that censors what people can and cannot see.
Reader Comments:
PaulCohen wrote on Sep 18, 2008 12:44 PM:
" In testimony given at the most recent library board meeting I addressed the canard of this being a free speech and censorship issue. You can see my testimony at www.thepathoftruth.com, on the Notice Board, along with a summary of testimonies from the first board meeting with commentary. More from this week's board meeting is in the works.
The IR should know better that to stake out such a position. Come on, people, you won't even let someone write a letter to the editor here that mentions p...orn...ography, yet you champion keeping a book in the library that has vile depictions of homosexual orgies. Do you also disallow the use of the word "hypocrites"?
I said many things in an interview granted to Alana Listoe, very little of which made it into your paper, and what did was out of context. And you have the nerve to disallow discrimination based on standards of decency whereas you exercise discrimination based on prejudice against decency and godly reason? Shame on you.
Skosena, you say you are a "bible believing christian." You are nothing of the sort, except by your own false definition. Jesus Christ laid down His life to deliver people from their sins, but you are in agreement with providing information that validates them in sin, even laying a trap for those not yet ensnared. You are worse than a sodomite.
Al, who appointed you to preach your brand of "morality"? You contradict yourself. You also confuse terms. What you call freedom is lawlessness. Freedom brings life, but lawlessness death. Your free tongue is lawless, evilly surmising my motives, even stating them as fact without evidence. I have no desire whatsoever to try to protect you from the consequences of your sins. God forbid that I should try to deny you the destruction you demand. You fully need and deserve to reap the fruits of your ways, as you do even now and will.
Nevertheless, I speak the Truth for the sake of all, and should any of you be ashamed of your conduct and repentant, I would be glad of that. "
patriot wrote on Sep 18, 2008 11:07 AM:
" The IRs opinion concerning the removal from the library The Joy of Gay Sex seems a little contradictory. The second to last paragraph, Indeed, nearly every book on the library shelf could potentially offend or disgust a reader. And there are some subjects which have no place anywhere. So, how do we define nearly. By definition, is the IR going to be the Censor and make the determination of what is appropriate and not offensive. Why not place the book along side copies of Playboy and Playgirl to be fair to people of all sexual orientations. Or the library can have separate sections, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Straight Sexually Oriented People and Not so Straight. Ardent Christians are opposed to the ardent liberals, somehow we should be able to compromise.
Its not surprising the IR has responded to this controversy with an opinion that is not very well written and fails to articulate the true meaning of freedom of speech and the press. I would like to thank the IR for affirming my impression of the IRs journalistic mediocrity. "
cest moi wrote on Sep 18, 2008 10:11 AM:
" This situation serves the families of Helena by bringing to parents' attention the quality of literature at Lewis & Clark Public Library.
Conversely (or not - who knows?), this situation lets young children know the quality of literature at Lewis & Clark Public Library.
But let's keep hammering this censorship issue - after all, it's all about choice, and we want our children to make well-informed choices; especially about sex. And if children can't get information from their parents or their churches regarding morality and life choices, then it's the public libraries' responsibilty to provide the necessary resources to help shape your children's lives.
I stand by my comment yesterday encouraging families to have their children wash their hands after visiting the Lewis & Clark Library. "
skosena wrote on Sep 18, 2008 9:08 AM:
" I am a bible believing christian...I am morally opposed to the gay life style. That being said....I think the book should STAY... I want our library to serve and educated all kinds of interests. There are those that do not agree with my faith....or hunting...or having children...but we should not and can not dictate to one another what we believe or embrace. And as a parent it is my job to monitor and police what my children read and where they browse in the library. "
al wrote on Sep 18, 2008 7:58 AM:
" Kudos to the IR for taking this public stand against the most recent attempt at library censorship. The self-appointed moralists behind such efforts to censor are less concerned about "protecting society" than they are about furthering their own agendas and aspirations. Freedom-loving people must never fail to confront them and deny them. "
Colton wrote on Sep 18, 2008 7:50 AM:
" Question? What is the IR point of view on current library Electronic Access Policy? Specifically paragraph 4 - "All Internet resources accessible through the Library are provided equally to all library users."
Does this mean the IR condones men viewing explicit pornography at a computer station next to an 13 year old girl trying to complete a homework assignment at an adjacent computer?
Or has fear of censorship has replaced common sense? "
monkey wrote on Sep 18, 2008 7:49 AM:
" It's nice to see this from the Library Staff. I'm sure no one will be surprised when you vote to keep the book, regardless of how many of us parents send in comments that we don't want that trash in our library. And good job trying to compare the joy of disgusting gay sex to The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. You've just spurred me on to encourage every parent I know to oppose this book. Obviously it's not going to matter how many do, your "staff" has their mind made up. SAD. "
Sep 17, 2008
It really is no one else’s business
By W. Craig Heymann, 1618 Lyndale - 09/17/08
Vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin recently delivered a baby with Down syndrome. Unlike most women, Palin chose to carry the pregnancy to term, endearing her to flocks of single-issue conservatives.
We’ve also learned Palin’s 17-year-old unmarried daughter is pregnant (that “abstinence only” thing didn’t quite work out) and has also made a choice — to become a young mother. Unlike many unmarried pregnant teenagers, Bristol has a loving family with whom to consult.
Conservatives are right about one thing: These matters are nobody’s business but the Palins’ and that’s precisely the point — they would deny these choices to you.
Republicans believe Big Business should be freed of “intrusive” regulation while simultaneously advocating that the most intimate aspects of your personal life be subject to religiously influenced government coercion, to wit: Asarco, W.R. Grace and even Derek Brown’s construction company should have the unregulated right to pollute your air, your home and your water, but your most personal decisions should be subject to religious scrutiny — nay, criminal prosecution.
Note to Christian conservatives: Your moral position is not as virtuous as you think. Your efforts to save so-called “dead babies” will result in real dead women. Ask any woman over 60.
Vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin recently delivered a baby with Down syndrome. Unlike most women, Palin chose to carry the pregnancy to term, endearing her to flocks of single-issue conservatives.
We’ve also learned Palin’s 17-year-old unmarried daughter is pregnant (that “abstinence only” thing didn’t quite work out) and has also made a choice — to become a young mother. Unlike many unmarried pregnant teenagers, Bristol has a loving family with whom to consult.
Conservatives are right about one thing: These matters are nobody’s business but the Palins’ and that’s precisely the point — they would deny these choices to you.
Republicans believe Big Business should be freed of “intrusive” regulation while simultaneously advocating that the most intimate aspects of your personal life be subject to religiously influenced government coercion, to wit: Asarco, W.R. Grace and even Derek Brown’s construction company should have the unregulated right to pollute your air, your home and your water, but your most personal decisions should be subject to religious scrutiny — nay, criminal prosecution.
Note to Christian conservatives: Your moral position is not as virtuous as you think. Your efforts to save so-called “dead babies” will result in real dead women. Ask any woman over 60.
Ban the Bible
If anyone gets to pick which books to toss out of the library if found offensive, I first suggest banning the bible. Its full of descriptive sexual acts, murder and mayhem.
Because of this so called word of God, for many generations; Jews, Muslims, Native Americans, Africans, Homosexuals, Women, Heretics...... all have been killed because this book says its ok to do so. The killings have subsided, but today many use it to wantonly discriminate
Public voices opinion over
By ALANA LISTOE - Independent Record - 09/17/08
Mike Cronin, of Helena, testified that the public library has an obligation to provide all material to clients and does not have any obligation to serve as parents.
He was one of about 20 people who spoke at a public hearing Tuesday night in support of keeping the book, “The Joy of Gay Sex,” at the Lewis and Clark Public Library.
More than a dozen people testified for removal of the book. Helena resident Wayne Beckman was one of those individuals saying the books showed immorality.
“People die from this,” Beckman said while holding up a picture he printed from the book, adding it causes HIV.
The request to remove the book came from Paul Cohen, of Helena, who found the book on one of his frequent visits to the library in February. Per library protocol, the book was reviewed by the library’s collection review committee, which recommended keeping it. Library Director Judy Hart accepted their recommendation of retaining the book saying that it is the library’s obligation to provide information to all segments of society.
Cohen testified that the library does not have its own mind.
“It’s here to serve us, rather than us serving the library,” he said. “Any Helena citizen can purchase it and keep the book at home — no one is being denied the freedom of speech.”
Many supporters of Cohen said the material is pornographic and shouldn’t be purchased with taxpayer money. While opponents said it’s not up the board or the community to judge what the informational needs of individuals are. Several opponents of removing the book suggested the library create a section where access to material is limited to adults.
Bernadine Abbott-Hoduski, who worked on a recent campaign for the library mill levy, said in order to get the people of Helena to vote favorably she had to promise the library will not discriminate.
She said she doesn’t feel that her fellow citizens, the library or the board should be permitted to tell her or her children or grandchildren what they can read.
“Every citizen needs to be treated with respect,” Abbott-Hoduski said.
The book has been in the library’s circulation since 1993, with several replacement copies purchased as new editions were printed, most recently in November of 2007. It was checked out three times before removal for the review procedure.
Because Cohen challenged the decision by Hart, the Library Board of Directors held the public hearing on the issue. They had no dialogue with attendees or fellow board members at the meeting and made no decision.
Nedra Chandler, a public-meeting moderator from Helena, facilitated the hearing. She enforced a time limit for each testimony (three minutes), as well as prohibited booing or clapping.
Written comments will be accepted at the library until Oct. 3 at 4 p.m. Comments have a limit of one page per person.
A decision is expected at the Oct. 21 board meeting.
Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or alana.listoe@helenair.com
Reader Comments:
rlabelin wrote on Sep 17, 2008 9:55 AM:
" I think Paul Cohen should read more books. Might I recomend farenhieht 411. Or maybe he will want it out of the library too as most facists would. "
naturalblonde196 wrote on Sep 17, 2008 8:25 AM:
" Just have a section of the library behind the checkout like in the convenience stores that have an X-rated section. Only adults can check them out. I for one don't want my children to be able to just pick it up and look at it. "
akraft9 wrote on Sep 17, 2008 8:07 AM:
" Keep the book! "
greenanvil wrote on Sep 17, 2008 7:44 AM:
" By all means the library should keep the book in circulation. There are books in the library about cooking and smoking meat, how to prepare meals with meat, and the vegans and vegetarians are not protesting the presence of those books. There are books in the library to help backyard mechanics work on their cars. I've not heard of a mechanic from a local garage protesting the presence of those books. This wasn't about censorship. It was about hate-mongers picking a fight, jamming a stick into the hornet's nest to see what happens. Don't make the public library a place to spread your hatred and fear. "
gun961960 wrote on Sep 17, 2008 7:27 AM:
" Wayne Beckman....here people are having a dialogue on a sensative issue and you step up with mis-leading information that is just plain bigotry. What you could of said was that unprotected sex can cause HIV....but what you chose to say instead was that gay sex causes HIV...which is now been proven over and over to be something from the past. You sir are a fear monger, a bigot, and other names that are unnecessary to point out. The leading demographic for contracting HIV now is young white heterosexuals!!! I still don't understand why the moral police is reading this book? Like I said if you don't wish to know the joys of gay sex then perhaps you should not read the book??? Just a thought. "
Because of this so called word of God, for many generations; Jews, Muslims, Native Americans, Africans, Homosexuals, Women, Heretics...... all have been killed because this book says its ok to do so. The killings have subsided, but today many use it to wantonly discriminate
Public voices opinion over
By ALANA LISTOE - Independent Record - 09/17/08
Mike Cronin, of Helena, testified that the public library has an obligation to provide all material to clients and does not have any obligation to serve as parents.
He was one of about 20 people who spoke at a public hearing Tuesday night in support of keeping the book, “The Joy of Gay Sex,” at the Lewis and Clark Public Library.
More than a dozen people testified for removal of the book. Helena resident Wayne Beckman was one of those individuals saying the books showed immorality.
“People die from this,” Beckman said while holding up a picture he printed from the book, adding it causes HIV.
The request to remove the book came from Paul Cohen, of Helena, who found the book on one of his frequent visits to the library in February. Per library protocol, the book was reviewed by the library’s collection review committee, which recommended keeping it. Library Director Judy Hart accepted their recommendation of retaining the book saying that it is the library’s obligation to provide information to all segments of society.
Cohen testified that the library does not have its own mind.
“It’s here to serve us, rather than us serving the library,” he said. “Any Helena citizen can purchase it and keep the book at home — no one is being denied the freedom of speech.”
Many supporters of Cohen said the material is pornographic and shouldn’t be purchased with taxpayer money. While opponents said it’s not up the board or the community to judge what the informational needs of individuals are. Several opponents of removing the book suggested the library create a section where access to material is limited to adults.
Bernadine Abbott-Hoduski, who worked on a recent campaign for the library mill levy, said in order to get the people of Helena to vote favorably she had to promise the library will not discriminate.
She said she doesn’t feel that her fellow citizens, the library or the board should be permitted to tell her or her children or grandchildren what they can read.
“Every citizen needs to be treated with respect,” Abbott-Hoduski said.
The book has been in the library’s circulation since 1993, with several replacement copies purchased as new editions were printed, most recently in November of 2007. It was checked out three times before removal for the review procedure.
Because Cohen challenged the decision by Hart, the Library Board of Directors held the public hearing on the issue. They had no dialogue with attendees or fellow board members at the meeting and made no decision.
Nedra Chandler, a public-meeting moderator from Helena, facilitated the hearing. She enforced a time limit for each testimony (three minutes), as well as prohibited booing or clapping.
Written comments will be accepted at the library until Oct. 3 at 4 p.m. Comments have a limit of one page per person.
A decision is expected at the Oct. 21 board meeting.
Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or alana.listoe@helenair.com
Reader Comments:
rlabelin wrote on Sep 17, 2008 9:55 AM:
" I think Paul Cohen should read more books. Might I recomend farenhieht 411. Or maybe he will want it out of the library too as most facists would. "
naturalblonde196 wrote on Sep 17, 2008 8:25 AM:
" Just have a section of the library behind the checkout like in the convenience stores that have an X-rated section. Only adults can check them out. I for one don't want my children to be able to just pick it up and look at it. "
akraft9 wrote on Sep 17, 2008 8:07 AM:
" Keep the book! "
greenanvil wrote on Sep 17, 2008 7:44 AM:
" By all means the library should keep the book in circulation. There are books in the library about cooking and smoking meat, how to prepare meals with meat, and the vegans and vegetarians are not protesting the presence of those books. There are books in the library to help backyard mechanics work on their cars. I've not heard of a mechanic from a local garage protesting the presence of those books. This wasn't about censorship. It was about hate-mongers picking a fight, jamming a stick into the hornet's nest to see what happens. Don't make the public library a place to spread your hatred and fear. "
gun961960 wrote on Sep 17, 2008 7:27 AM:
" Wayne Beckman....here people are having a dialogue on a sensative issue and you step up with mis-leading information that is just plain bigotry. What you could of said was that unprotected sex can cause HIV....but what you chose to say instead was that gay sex causes HIV...which is now been proven over and over to be something from the past. You sir are a fear monger, a bigot, and other names that are unnecessary to point out. The leading demographic for contracting HIV now is young white heterosexuals!!! I still don't understand why the moral police is reading this book? Like I said if you don't wish to know the joys of gay sex then perhaps you should not read the book??? Just a thought. "
Sep 15, 2008
Jesus not the messiah
Article offensive to Jewish faith
By Janet Tatz, 907 Hide Out St. - 09/15/08
I am writing in response to an article that appeared in the City/State section of Wednesday’s paper.As a person of the Jewish faith, I was thoroughly offended by the proselytizing and misinformation that was printed in this free advertisement for a concert that was masquerading as a newsworthy article.There are several branches of Judaism, but none called Messianic Judaism. For Goetz to be quoted in the IR by saying that, “There is no doubt that Jesus is the messiah,” is an affront to Jews and people of other non-Christian beliefs.Just as politics and politicians can deceive, religious zealots can be a dangerous and divisive lot. The Independent Record acted irresponsibly in printing this “article” which is offensive, inaccurate and provocative.
By Janet Tatz, 907 Hide Out St. - 09/15/08
I am writing in response to an article that appeared in the City/State section of Wednesday’s paper.As a person of the Jewish faith, I was thoroughly offended by the proselytizing and misinformation that was printed in this free advertisement for a concert that was masquerading as a newsworthy article.There are several branches of Judaism, but none called Messianic Judaism. For Goetz to be quoted in the IR by saying that, “There is no doubt that Jesus is the messiah,” is an affront to Jews and people of other non-Christian beliefs.Just as politics and politicians can deceive, religious zealots can be a dangerous and divisive lot. The Independent Record acted irresponsibly in printing this “article” which is offensive, inaccurate and provocative.
Sep 14, 2008
Paul gets more attention, again
Paul is having a hey day. This book is the best thing that has happened for his ministry. He actually loves the book and how useful it is for him.
Public hearing set about library book
By ALANA LISTOE - Independent Record - 09/14/08
Helena resident Paul Cohen is asking the library to remove a book from its circulation.A formal public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday before the Lewis and Clark Library Board of Trustees, at which time public comment will be accepted on the matter.Helena resident Paul Cohen likes to visit the local library a few times a month, always browsing through the “new books” section.“It was routine for me to do that,” he said.In February however, Cohen’s visit became anything but routine when he found “The Joy of Gay Sex” on the bookshelf.Offended by the content Cohen immediately filled out a request for reconsideration of library material form.
Describing the drawings in the book as “pornographic” he wrote that the library is negligent of providing a “safe place” for children and adolescents when they have access to the material.Per protocol, the book was reviewed by the library’s collection review committee.Library Director Judy Hart accepted their recommendation to keep the book in the collection.“It is the library’s mission and policy to provide access to a marketplace of ideas, accounts and approaches that are varied, divergent, and inclusive, including that which may be controversial or a minority point of view,” Hart wrote in a letter to Cohen in July. “It is, however, our obligation to provide information to all segments of society.”Dissatisfied with the decision Cohen appealed to trustees in August where about half of the 20 people present testified in support of removing the book.“We welcome this process,” Hart said of Cohen’s request of a formal hearing. “Every person needs an opportunity to express their feelings about particular items and it’s our and the board’s obligation to provide a venue for that.”Hart said her earlier decision was based on policies, needs of the community and obligation to serve the entire community.“In some cases not everyone is going to like some choices as well as others,” she said.The book has been in the library’s circulation since 1993, replacing it several times as new editions came out.Most recently, the library purchased the third edition in November 2007, and it was checked out three times before it was pulled for review in February.Cohen operates a Christian-based ministry with no denominational affiliation and has lived primarily in Helena since 1987.“There are a lot of things in the library that are garbage,” he said. “Lots of people would find things objectionable. This was a no-brainer objection.”Cohen said the book shouldn’t have been purchased with public dollars and should be disposed of.“I’m not trying to censor the book,” he said, adding that if people want to read it they can buy it at a bookstore.No decision will be made at the upcoming hearing.“The board is there to listen,” Hart said.The facilitated meeting provides an opportunity for opponents and proponents to speak up, and written testimony (one page per person) will be accepted until Oct. 3, at 4 p.m., Hart said.A decision is expected at the Oct. 21 board meeting.
Public hearing set about library book
By ALANA LISTOE - Independent Record - 09/14/08
Helena resident Paul Cohen is asking the library to remove a book from its circulation.A formal public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday before the Lewis and Clark Library Board of Trustees, at which time public comment will be accepted on the matter.Helena resident Paul Cohen likes to visit the local library a few times a month, always browsing through the “new books” section.“It was routine for me to do that,” he said.In February however, Cohen’s visit became anything but routine when he found “The Joy of Gay Sex” on the bookshelf.Offended by the content Cohen immediately filled out a request for reconsideration of library material form.
Describing the drawings in the book as “pornographic” he wrote that the library is negligent of providing a “safe place” for children and adolescents when they have access to the material.Per protocol, the book was reviewed by the library’s collection review committee.Library Director Judy Hart accepted their recommendation to keep the book in the collection.“It is the library’s mission and policy to provide access to a marketplace of ideas, accounts and approaches that are varied, divergent, and inclusive, including that which may be controversial or a minority point of view,” Hart wrote in a letter to Cohen in July. “It is, however, our obligation to provide information to all segments of society.”Dissatisfied with the decision Cohen appealed to trustees in August where about half of the 20 people present testified in support of removing the book.“We welcome this process,” Hart said of Cohen’s request of a formal hearing. “Every person needs an opportunity to express their feelings about particular items and it’s our and the board’s obligation to provide a venue for that.”Hart said her earlier decision was based on policies, needs of the community and obligation to serve the entire community.“In some cases not everyone is going to like some choices as well as others,” she said.The book has been in the library’s circulation since 1993, replacing it several times as new editions came out.Most recently, the library purchased the third edition in November 2007, and it was checked out three times before it was pulled for review in February.Cohen operates a Christian-based ministry with no denominational affiliation and has lived primarily in Helena since 1987.“There are a lot of things in the library that are garbage,” he said. “Lots of people would find things objectionable. This was a no-brainer objection.”Cohen said the book shouldn’t have been purchased with public dollars and should be disposed of.“I’m not trying to censor the book,” he said, adding that if people want to read it they can buy it at a bookstore.No decision will be made at the upcoming hearing.“The board is there to listen,” Hart said.The facilitated meeting provides an opportunity for opponents and proponents to speak up, and written testimony (one page per person) will be accepted until Oct. 3, at 4 p.m., Hart said.A decision is expected at the Oct. 21 board meeting.
Sep 13, 2008
Amusing comment from Milton
By Milton Crum, 915 Saddle Drive, Apt. 124 - 09/12/2008
Before demeaning community organizers, Sarah Palin and other Republicans should remember that “Jesus was a community organizer; Pontius Pilate was a governor.”
Before demeaning community organizers, Sarah Palin and other Republicans should remember that “Jesus was a community organizer; Pontius Pilate was a governor.”
Ordering defendants to support Faith Based nonprofit groups
People want to change the law so they can continue this illegal practice. They say its was voluntary, but in reality did the defendant really have a choice. NO! its amazing how supposed legal professionals pretend not to know any better. Its sad
Judges across Montana have been ordering defendants to make donations to charitable organizations instead of, or in addition to, paying fines to the state, said District Judge Ed McLean of Missoula, chairman of the Judicial Standards Commission.‘‘I know it was fairly common,’’ McLean said. ‘‘It’s safe to say that it was going on in about 10 or 12 locations across the state.’’Once the commission realized the practice was so widespread, it had to do something, McLean said.In some cases, judges were giving defendants the option of donating food. In others, they were ordering people to give money to a certain task force or nonprofit group, such as a boys and girls club.In one case last year, a Clinton man was ordered, as part of a plea agreement, to donate $100 annually to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, in the name of the woman who was killed in a crash he caused while driving drunk.District Judge John Larson of Missoula, who presided over that case, agreed that including donations in sentences had become ‘‘quite common.’’He declined to comment on his feelings about the change, saying his personal views are irrelevant because the issue has been decided.McLean said he doesn’t dispute that judges like Larson and Luth had honorable intentions, but the fact remains they were violating Montana statutes and the Canons of Judicial Ethics.
Judges across Montana have been ordering defendants to make donations to charitable organizations instead of, or in addition to, paying fines to the state, said District Judge Ed McLean of Missoula, chairman of the Judicial Standards Commission.‘‘I know it was fairly common,’’ McLean said. ‘‘It’s safe to say that it was going on in about 10 or 12 locations across the state.’’Once the commission realized the practice was so widespread, it had to do something, McLean said.In some cases, judges were giving defendants the option of donating food. In others, they were ordering people to give money to a certain task force or nonprofit group, such as a boys and girls club.In one case last year, a Clinton man was ordered, as part of a plea agreement, to donate $100 annually to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, in the name of the woman who was killed in a crash he caused while driving drunk.District Judge John Larson of Missoula, who presided over that case, agreed that including donations in sentences had become ‘‘quite common.’’He declined to comment on his feelings about the change, saying his personal views are irrelevant because the issue has been decided.McLean said he doesn’t dispute that judges like Larson and Luth had honorable intentions, but the fact remains they were violating Montana statutes and the Canons of Judicial Ethics.
Sep 10, 2008
The Big Bang Experiment
Large Hadron Collider fired up in 'God particle' hunt on September 10th my son's 14th birthday, now he can think of this positive event instead of 9-11. Of course unless the earth is destroyed, but then he won't be around to dwell on it. ;)
I'm excited about this and it makes my heart sing, humanity can and will advance with or without God.
I read a fiction book recently called "Blasphemy"by its about a collider in New Mexico and how the locals are not happy about it, and a local minister gets upset and things get out of hand. The interesting part about this book is God is speaking through the collider computer system and of course in my opinion really as usual doesn't explain anything.
But, you have to read it to see what happens. A fun book to read especially now with what is going on in Europe.
I'm excited about this and it makes my heart sing, humanity can and will advance with or without God.
I read a fiction book recently called "Blasphemy"by its about a collider in New Mexico and how the locals are not happy about it, and a local minister gets upset and things get out of hand. The interesting part about this book is God is speaking through the collider computer system and of course in my opinion really as usual doesn't explain anything.
But, you have to read it to see what happens. A fun book to read especially now with what is going on in Europe.
Sep 4, 2008
Patriot Day (Christian) Prayer Breakfast at Fort Harrison
Patriot Day prayer breakfast set for Friday
By the Independent Record - 09/04/08
The Sixth Annual Patriot Day Commemorative (Christian?) Prayer Breakfast will be held Friday, Sept. 5, from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the Helena Armed Forces Reserve Center Gymnasium at Fort Harrison.The breakfast is sponsored by the Montana National Guard and the Helena Patriot Day Coalition.It is being held to commemorate the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, organizers said.The breakfast gathering will include a variety of events including keynote speaker Gen. John E. Walsh, the incoming Montana adjutant general.The cost of the breakfast is $7, and it begins at 7 a.m., followed by the program at 7:30 a.m.Tickets are available at the (Christian) Cornerstone Bookstore, Helena Chamber of Commerce, MTNG Public Affairs office (324-3007) or (Christian) Volume One Bookstore.
is this even legal? Where is the money raised going? Who are the "Helena (Christian?) Patriot Day Coalition" Once again, it seems implied if your not a Christian your not patriotic enough.
By the Independent Record - 09/04/08
The Sixth Annual Patriot Day Commemorative (Christian?) Prayer Breakfast will be held Friday, Sept. 5, from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the Helena Armed Forces Reserve Center Gymnasium at Fort Harrison.The breakfast is sponsored by the Montana National Guard and the Helena Patriot Day Coalition.It is being held to commemorate the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, organizers said.The breakfast gathering will include a variety of events including keynote speaker Gen. John E. Walsh, the incoming Montana adjutant general.The cost of the breakfast is $7, and it begins at 7 a.m., followed by the program at 7:30 a.m.Tickets are available at the (Christian) Cornerstone Bookstore, Helena Chamber of Commerce, MTNG Public Affairs office (324-3007) or (Christian) Volume One Bookstore.
is this even legal? Where is the money raised going? Who are the "Helena (Christian?) Patriot Day Coalition" Once again, it seems implied if your not a Christian your not patriotic enough.
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