If we can choose not to receive these, then why not allow us to block ads on our journals?

"America Online extends a variety of marketing offers for valuable merchandise that are specially selected for our members.  We've created this area to let you know more about these marketing offers, and to provide you with the option of not receiving such offers, if this is your preference.

Our special relationships with other companies often allow us to offer these products to you at significant discounts. 

Some examples of the types of products include:
  • The newest and fastest modems
  • Digital cameras
  • Scanners
  • Computer software
  • Electronics and more

If you would prefer, you can choose not to receive these marketing offers by telephone, e-mail, U.S. mail, or pop-up screens. To do so, just click on the appropriate button to the right, then follow the instructions provided.  You may choose not to have your name and address included on the mailing lists we provide to other companies, as well as other AOL companies, by clicking on the button labeled "U.S. Mail from Other Organizations".  Please note that from time to time AOL may still contact you to deliver important information about AOL features and services or your account."

AND

"Mail Preference Service

For many people, advertising mail is informative and provides value, convenience and fun.  However, direct marketing companies recognize that some people do not like to receive advertising mail.

If you want to reduce the amount of national advertising mail you receive at home, send your name and address to the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service (MPS):

DMA Mail Preference Service
P.O. Box 643
Carmel, NY 10512

After a few months, the MPS will reduce the amount of advertising mail you receive.  You will continue to receive mail from companies with which you do business.

Names remain part of the MPS for five years.  After five years, you will need to register with the MPS again.

If you continue to receive unwanted mail after a few months, the Direct Marketing Association suggests that you write directly to the mailer to request that your name be removed from the mailer's list.

Telephone Preference Service

If you want to reduce the amount of national advertising calls you receive at home, send your name, address, area code and telephone number to the Direct Marketing Association's Telephone Preference Service (TPS):

DMA Telephone Preference Service
P.O. Box 1559
Carmel, NY 10512

After a few months, the TPS will reduce the amount of advertising calls you receive from national marketers such as credit card and magazine subscription companies.  Some local organizations and charities may not participate.

Names remain part of the TPS for five years.  After five years, you will need to register with the TPS again.

If you continue to receive unwanted phone calls after a few months, the Direct Marketing Association suggests that you request your name be removed from a company's list when they call."

These two items are from Marketing Preferences in "Privacy and Marketing Settings" within the "Settings" here on AOL.