Moms Take Aim at Spencer's Explicit Gifts: MomTalk Q&A

has come under scrutiny recently. Known for its silly cards, gag gifts and novelty items, as well as some sexually explicit products, the store is a favorite among the teen crowd. Following complaints from patrons that resulted in a , Spencer's was ordered to comply with state statute that required inappropriate materials, or those items intended for a more mature audience, be corralled in an area off-limits to underage patrons.

So we wondered:

Should Spencer's Gifts, given that it is in a mall frequented by minors, be permitted to carry explicit materials as long as the store is in compliance with state statute?

Here's the view from the Patch Moms Council.

Felicitas Cortez, Orland Park

"What’s your definition of explicit? During a recent visit to the local Spencer's Gifts, I found the usual array of bachelor and bachelorette party accessories, costume props and candy underwear. Bad taste—definitely, but a stretch to describe them as explicit. Perhaps the recent crackdown and resulting press motivated Spencer's staff to cull their inventory and move the rest to the furthest back section of the store, making them compliant with Illinois statute. I also expect sales staff to be more vigilant about checking customers’ IDs for certain purchases—in our state the magic age is 18. Ask any more of the store and you’re treading tricky waters. Should the corner drug store be then expected to post warnings that condoms and massagers are sold there? It’s a matter of semantics…and packaging. Even in my day, Spencer's Gifts had a certain appeal, if you will, which beckoned teens and pre-teens to spend their mall time browsing through posters and gag items, laughing at bawdy cards and t-shirts, and yes, even making the occasional purchase. When my kids are old enough, or show interest in hanging out at the mall with their friends, I bet they will do the same. By that time, I hope I’ve forged an open line of communication, and better yet, taught them to spend their hard-earned dollars (and mine) on more worthy items. Pet rock anyone?"

Donna Cameli, Orland Park

"There isn’t much you can do if Spencer's is in compliance with state statutes, but that is the key.  I used to work at Borders Books and all of the adult materials were kept behind the counter and customer age had to be verified by the sales clerk before being released. For good reason, the managers were very insistent on compliance. If parents find they are not complying and their teens are gaining access to this material, they should be sure to bring it to the attention of the store and, ultimately, upper management. Unfortunately, the reality is there is only so much one can do to monitor their exposure to the negative things in this world. You reach a point where you just pray that your love, teaching and continued interest in their lives outweighs the pull of these outside influences."

Deb Melchert, Tinley Park

"Our sons loved to go in Spencer's when they were younger.  But then again, either Bob and or I were with, so we could monitor what merchandise they were viewing.  The main question is should Spencer's be allowed to carry explicit materials if they are in compliance with the state statute? Simply, yes if they are in compliance.  That would keep the explicit merchandise out of view of unsupervised teens."

Kathy Zwartz, Tinley Park

"I realize that businesses have rights and those rights allow them to sell many different types of merchandise, but I do not believe that Spencer's in Orland Mall should be allowed to sell these sexually explicit materials in the mall because minors can easily access the store and most likely, even with warning signs, they will be able to see the material. It is inappropriate to expose minors to this type of material because it leads to unhealthy attitudes and beliefs. There is a fine line between business law and exposure of youth to such items as vibrators and bondage fantasy kits, the type of materials Spencer's already sold to minors. Allowing the store to continue to sell these items is NOT in the best interest of many mall shoppers."

Jan Kocek, Palos Heights

"If Spencer's Gifts keeps its explicit material shelved in a manner in compliance with state statute, I see no reason for the store to be scrutinized. Placing this material in the back of the store behind a curtained doorway would be my plan of choice. I'd also make sure that the area is monitored."

Pam Evans, Tinley Park

"Yes. They should be permitted to sell explicit materials provided they are in compliance with state law.  They should be in a separate area which is closely monitored by employees.  Should those guidelines not be followed, they should lose the right to sell such items and face stiff penalties."

Next week's topic: Cheating. How far do we go to make sure our child stays at the top of their class? Do we apply so much pressure to succeed our child is then forced to cheat?

Patch's Moms Council addresses issues on the minds of parents, debate the pros and cons, and offer advice. Look for MomTalk Q&A every Wednesday at 1 p.m.