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Posts by: SoCalNudist

Nudist Clubhouse Events Who's going to the Expo?
SoCalNudist Posted: May 27, 2013	We'll be there both days helping out at C/O's booth, and looking to meet and visit with all attendees who stop by. We're also planning on attending both parties. Although just like last year, when we get to the parties completely depends on our LA Kings schedule in the Stanley Cup Playoffs IF they win this Tuesday night, and move on to the next round. Go Kings!
Couples Spring - Summer ? SOON !
SoCalNudist Posted: May 10, 2013	Hey SDS, There is a network of C/O B&B's and we even have a group started here on NCH, Clothing Optional Bed & Breakfasts. We operate the B&B in Southern California and have a number of other homes in AZ, OR, FL, and Mexico. Check it out.
LA Naturists Bare Burro 5k
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 5, 2013	The run, or walk, as some of us will do starts at 10:30 AM. Check-in starts at 8:00 AM. You need to register with Olive Dell to take part in the race.
Club Events SCNA's St. Paddy's Day Party
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 23, 2013	This time last weekend we had 35 members and guests join us for a great St. Paddy's Day celebration. My wife cooked up a big batch of corned beef, cabbage & veggies while everyone else brought a variety of scrumptious side dishes and desserts. The Jameson and Guinness were quite popular and tasty also. We've hosted this party for the last 4 or 5 yrs., and this was the 1st time that the weather was nice enough for everybody to stretch out on the lawn or patio and start on their all over tans. We were even able to get our horseshoe set out and get in a few games. The Jacuzzi got a good workout and was full all day also. Next month we'll be going out as a group to celebrate Earth Day (4/20) at the Deer Park Resort, and then a bunch of us will head over to Olive Dell for their 5K "Bare Burro" Race the next day. We also have two Nude Yoga classes running every month now. Visit www.socalnaturist.org to learn more about these events and how to join in on the fun!
Clothing Optional Bed & Breakfasts CO or Nude... what works best for a B&B?
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 14, 2013	To give you an update Sunbunny, as with many new concepts, it's taking a little more time to get off the ground than we expected. As committed "Absolute Nudists", the idea of a clothing-optional B&B was just a great concept and opportunity, hitting a niche that we felt was wide open. But running one is not for everyone, there's lots of different conditions that need to be fulfilled, and you have to own the right kind of property. For us though, the time was right, and with some work (and money) we were able to put it together. Unfortunately, we're not seeing quite as many guests as we originally had hoped for at this point. Just like this website, lot's of well-wishing lookie-loos, but not as many able, or willing, to actually pull out the card, and book a stay. As the weather turns warmer though, we hope that changes this spring and summer! FireProf, you're right, C-O has done a great job in organizing this network and is the reason we decided to team up with them. In operating their own C-O B&B they made all the beginner's mistakes, and now offer new hosts like us an invaluable wealth of info in operating one, from securing your property, promotion and booking, to some great breakfast recipes! Since most of the homes in the network only have 2 rooms, accommodating 4 couples is not really possible, at least in the present C-O home network. Although we've yet to have more than one couple here at Arroyo Del Sol at the same time, I don't think it would really be a problem to have two unrelated couples with one or more reluctant spouses together, but it really depends on the persons involved. The weekend we visited C-O at their home, there was another couple staying there with a shy wife, who soon became comfortable once we all got to know each other, just chatting around a nice pre-dinner appetizer.
Clothing Optional Bed & Breakfasts CO or Nude... what works best for a B&B?
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 12, 2013	Amen to what C/O and Fireprof have written! As a fellow B&B owner, and part of the C/O Home Network, it's all about offering comfort for our guests. We give them the opportunity to enjoy our properties in the way they're most comfortable. Of course as nudists, we believe that's without clothes, but it's their choice, not ours. The whole beauty behind the concept is to offer a reluctant spouse a more intimate, relaxing, and less intimidating opportunity to experience social naturism than that available at many larger resorts, or with a larger group. Like many of you, there's times when you want to enjoy a larger, more exciting, active and social atmosphere, but there's also times when you just want to have a quiet, relaxing chance to finish that book, or work on that tan naturally, lounging in the sun, on the patio, or in the pool, with a nice glass of wine or frosty beer! Plus it's just wonderful to wake up to a nice home-cooked meal without having to worry about getting dressed!!
Absolute Naturists Lighthouse Beach (NY-USA) No Longer Nude
SoCalNudist Posted: Feb 13, 2013	******************************************************************** NATURIST ACTION COMMITTEE ADVISORY ****************************************************************** http://www.naturistaction.org ******************************************************************** Copyright 2013 by the Naturist Action Committee, which is responsible for its content. Permission is granted for the posting, forwarding or redistribution of this message, provided that it is reproduced in its entirety and without alteration. DATE : February 10, 2013 SUBJECT: Fire Island National Seashore / Lighthouse Beach TO : All naturists and other interested parties Attention naturists: This is an Advisory from the Naturist Action Committee (NAC). Recently, Fire Island National Seashore Chief Ranger Lena Koschmann distributed a "to whom it may concern" letter, declaring that nudity would no longer be allowed on the property the National Park Service manages on behalf of the public. The area affected by the sudden decree includes the popular and traditional clothing-optional portions of Lighthouse Beach. BRIEF DISCUSSION While the letter from the Chief Ranger comes as a surprise to some, it reflects a number of familiar issues. For Ms. Koschmann, Fire Island is a relatively recent posting; her previous assignments with the Park Service have all been at sites where clothing-optional recreation is not the norm. Nevertheless, it would be a mistake to attribute this declaration entirely to a Chief Ranger who has been unfamiliar with the diversity that is a fundamental part of the clothing-optional use of public land. Nor would it be proper to place the entirety of the blame on Hurricane Sandy for the abrupt change in policy, though it's certainly the case that nothing on Fire Island is the same post- Sandy as it was before the storm. Official concern predates both Koschmann and Sandy. On good weekends, Lighthouse Beach has been host to thousands of beachgoers. It's inevitable that among such large numbers, there have been those who have misbehaved environmentally, as well as socially. Two groups, Long Island Travasuns and Save Lighthouse Beach have been working to educate uninformed visitors about proper clothing- optional beach etiquette and expectations. Both groups have proven themselves to be worthy stewards of the beach, and the marked improvement in overall behavior among visitors over the past three years can be attributed, in large part, to the performance of these two naturist groups. The National Park Service (NPS) receives little direct revenue from those who have used the clothing-optional areas at Lighthouse Beach. The overwhelming majority of visitors pay a fee to park at Robert Moses State Park, then they walk to the federal land. NPS receives none of the parking fee. Lighthouse Beach has become a cost center for NPS, and not a profit center. Cost centers are more easily marginalized in hard economic times and periods of recovery from disasters. For Fire Island, Superstorm Sandy certainly qualifies as a disaster. NPS personnel are still focusing, months later, on the ecological effects and damage to local infrastructure. Immediately after the storm passed, naturists were horrified to note that the dunes at the clothing-optional areas had been washed away. Dunes in a seashore environment are important for a number of reasons, but those dunes also acted as a visual barrier that separated compulsorily clothed areas from those that have been clothing-optional for years. Although it's not the only factor, this Sandy-related threat of increased user conflict has played a part in the thinking of Seashore management. WHAT IS NAC DOING? On the morning the disturbing letter was released, the Naturist Action Committee took immediate action. As it has done successfully for certain other public land issues, NAC has retained legal counsel in Washington, DC. Intimately familiar with environmental issues and Department of Interior policy matters, NAC's professional counsel is just one facet of NAC's overall response to this critical situation. The Naturist Action Committee is working closely on this matter with local naturists and naturist groups. In an hour-long phone conversation on the day after Lena Koschmann's letter, NAC gave AANR an overview of the situation, pertinent facts concerning the Seashore, and an overview of the action NAC intends to take. WHAT IS NAC ASKING YOU TO DO? This is an Advisory. NAC is not asking you to take specific action at this moment, though the proper time for that may not be too far in the future. At the present time, it's important to remember: 1) A barrage of uncoordinated complaints directed toward Seashore officials would be wasted effort. There will be a time at which your involvement will be essential, and NAC will ask for your forceful participation then. Keep your powder dry. 2) Ad hominem attacks on Chief Ranger Koschmann or others are never appropriate and are likely to serve only to solidify attitudes against us. 3) There will be a time for face-to-face meetings with Seashore managers. Now is not that time. 4) In a situation like this, it's important for you to stay informed. However, you must not be taken in by rumors. Watch for further NAC Action Alerts, Advisories and Updates. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION You can find additional information, including this NAC Advisory and the complete text of the Koschmann letter, at http://naturistaction.org/FIIS or by visiting the NAC web site www.naturistaction.org and clicking on ALERTS. PLEASE HELP NAC CONTINUE HELPING NATURISTS! The Naturist Action Committee is a nonprofit volunteer organization committed to vigorous activism on behalf of the responsible clothing- optional use of public lands. NAC relies entirely on the voluntary financial support of people like YOU. The essential response to the frightening threat at Lighthouse Beach will be expensive, and it comes at a time that finds NAC's war chest seriously depleted. Won't you please send a generous donation to NAC? NAC PO Box 132 Oshkosh, WI 54903 Or call toll free (800) 886-7230 (8AM-4PM, Central Time, weekdays) to donate by phone using your MasterCard, Visa or Discover Card. Or use your credit card to make a convenient online donation: www.naturistaction.org/donate/ Thank you for choosing once again to make a difference. Naturally, Dick Springer Board Member Naturist Action Committee --------------------------------------------------------------- Naturist Action Committee (NAC) - PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903 Executive Dir. Bob Morton - execdir@naturistaction.org Board Member Dick Springer - dandespringer@gmail.com Online Rep. Dennis Kirkpatrick - naturist@sunclad.com ---------------------------------------------------------------
Club Events SCNA's Super Bowl Party & Chili/Soup Cook-Off
SoCalNudist Posted: Feb 4, 2013	After the previous day of cloudy overcast skies, and rain the night before, we woke to a glorious sunny SoCal day that hit 80 degrees by mid-afternoon. Perfect weather for more than two dozen of our members and guests to start working on their tans while lounging in the backyard before the big game. We had 4 different chili's, 3 soups, and in honor of the game's host city, a gumbo, not to mention a table full of appetizers, snacks, and deserts! Prizes were given for the favorite chili and soup voted on by all, as well as a Super Bowl Trivia quiz, and the traditional Super Bowl Pool! By the time half-time hit, it had cooled off enough outside so that those not really into the game came inside to warm up by dancing with Beyonce and watching the commercials. Although Cynthia and I were rooting for the 'Niners, congrats to the Ravens, and both teams for delivering an exciting game despite the blackout! Great game and party! Next up, Nude Bowling!
Movie Buffs The Academy Awards
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 29, 2013	Since we have many friends involved in or around "The Industry", we've not only attended many Oscar telecast parties, we've now hosted one for the last few years. Needless to say, we watch the whole broadcast, and make a point to see as many of the nominated films as possible before the awards.
Club Events Nude at the Getty Event
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 22, 2013	We hope you'll both join us next year also, FP! We have many more fun events going on all over SoCal this year, just check www.socalnaturist.org! By the way, here's to a Belated Happy Birthday!
Club Events Nude at the Getty Event
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 20, 2013	We had 20 members and guests, some driving up all the way up from San Diego and OC to join us for a fabulous afternoon up at the beautiful Getty Museum. The weather was spectacular, offering crystal clear views all the way out to Catalina in one direction, and up to the snow covered San Gabriel Mtns. in the other. The winner of our scavenger hunt was "MikeyAngelo" who only missed 2 out of the 83 questions on the nude artwork, and finished in just over 2 hrs! Afterwards, many of us went down to the Cafe and had a great meal! Good time was had by all!
Club Events Nude at the Getty Event
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 16, 2013	Any naturists in Southern California are welcome to join us on Saturday. RSVP now!
Club Events Nude at the Getty Event
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 7, 2013	As we have done the last couple of year's, the SCNA is beginning the New Year with our annual Nude at the Getty Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, 1/19/13! No, you won't be able to get nude, but for those of you locals that would like to participate, we've put together a scavenger-type hunt that is based on answering a series of fun questions about the different nude paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and photos at the beautiful Getty Museum right off the 405 Fwy in the Santa Monica foothills. You don't have to know anything about art, the answers are right in front of you, as long as you can find the right pieces, and read the descriptions accompanying the piece. The person or team that has the most correct answers in the shortest time will win a nice prize! Even if you don't want to participate in the hunt, you're still welcome to come up and meet a number of local naturists, learn more about the SCNA, and all the different C/O parties and events that we will host throughout the year. Other than the Getty's parking fee ($15), we’re asking for a $5 donation to participate in the hunt in order to cover our costs. We'll be meeting at noon along the tables at the western end of the tram's Arrival Plaza. If it’s raining, or really cold, we’ll meet inside the Entrance Hall at the chairs behind the Information Booth. You can RSVP, by calling (818) 225-2273, or sending an e-mail to scna@socalnaturist.org no later than Friday, 1/18/12. Come on out and join us for a fun-filled afternoon, at a beautiful museum with some spectacular views of the city, check out some gorgeous works of art, and maybe meet and connect with some new like-minded nudist friends.
Nude Yoga Nude Yoga Classes
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 7, 2013	After looking for over a year, the SCNA has found not one, but two teachers who are willing to help establish a mixed-gender beginners Nude Yoga class in the greater Los Angeles area. One is located in Canoga Park, and will be conducted on Sat mornings. The other is in Culver City and currently will take place on Monday evenings. If you're interested in more info, please visit www.socalnaturist.org or contact me here. Namaste!
Music FAVORITE ALBUMS OF 2012
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 5, 2013	In no particular order: The Black Keys - El Camino Michael Kiwanuka - Home Again Alabama Shakes - Boys & Girls Lianne La Havas - Is Your Love Big Enough? Tame Impala - Lonerism Poolside - Pacific Standard Time Band Of Horses - Mirage Rock Calexico - Algiers Gary Clark Jr. - Blak and Blu Bruce Springsteen - Wrecking Ball
Nudist Individuals Naked and Clothed Role Reversal
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 28, 2012	In September we had a similarly interesting experience. A local filmmaker, David Fenster, staged an event he called the “Cabeza Debacle” at a small art gallery. The event was designed around the exploits of Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca, a 16th century Spanish explorer who was one of four men, out of 600, that survived their landing in Florida in 1528. Over the next 10 yrs. Cabeza de Vaca, went through a profound transformation from conquistador, to slave of the local indigenous Indian tribes, and ultimately evolving into being treated as a healing shaman by some of tribes he came in contact with. The event consisted of a communal reading of his journal entitled “La Relacion” detailing his adventure. It was followed by a clothing-optional screening of a 1991 Mexican film, “Cabeza de Vaca”, illustrating many of the scenes from this journal. Before the film was screened, we had been invited to talk about naturism as practiced currently, and the transformative mindset that some of us have to go through in practicing it. Fenster’s vision for this event was for the audience to experience Cabeza de Vaca’s metamorphosis, experiencing text and other forms of communication in unconventional ways…and seeing how those forms change when altered from the norm. It also related to the same way that Cabeza de Vaca experienced his shift from Catholic Spanish culture to being nude amongst the Indian tribes. The audience, which consisted of approx.15-20 adults, evenly mixed gender-wise, was invited to disrobe for the discussion and screening. All but 2 or 3 took advantage of it, disrobed, and we had a great discussion about naturism. Some of the attendees admitted that this was the first time they had ever been socially nude, and while somewhat weird for them, they were open to it, and really enjoyed the experience. The experimental nature of the event attracted an open-minded group who helped make for a very interesting evening!
Absolute Naturists The Fight for Nudist Rights Has Begun! SIGN THIS PETITION TODAY!
SoCalNudist Posted: Oct 9, 2012	******************************************************************** NATURIST ACTION COMMITTEE ACTION ALERT ****************************************************************** http://www.naturistaction.org ******************************************************************** Copyright 2012 by the Naturist Action Committee, which is responsible for its content. Permission is granted for the posting, forwarding or redistribution of this message, provided that it is reproduced in its entirety and without alteration. DATE: October 7, 2012 SUBJECT: San Francisco, California TO: Naturists and other concerned citizens Dear Naturist, This is an Action Alert from the Naturist Action Committee. NAC is asking for your immediate involvement in an effort to prevent a citywide ban on nudity throughout San Francisco. ACTION SUMMARY 1. Contact the members of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in writing. 2. Attend a meeting of the City Operations & Neighborhood Services Committee on November 5, 2012 at 10 AM. BRIEF HISTORY / BACKGROUND The San Francisco Park Code has prohibited nudity in the city’s parks for many years; however, non-sexual nudity is not prohibited or restricted in other areas of the city. Nudity figures prominently in several widely known and heavily attended events, such as the Bay to Breakers parade, the Folsom Street Fair, the World Naked Bike Ride and the Critical Mass bike rides. Several years ago, a small group of San Francisco nudists began to take regular walks in the city, focused principally in the city’s famed Castro district. After several attempts at prosecution resulted in acquittals by juries, the city abandoned its efforts and tacitly acknowledged that non-sexual nudity was legal. In the last couple of years, what was initially a small group of nudists has grown significantly and has concentrated in the Castro District’s Jane Warner Plaza, a small pedestrian area with limited seating in the heart of the Castro. As the number of nudists has increased, complaints about the nudity have increased as well. In 2011, the Supervisor for the Castro District, Scott Wiener, introduced an ordinance requiring that nude persons sitting on public chairs or benches place a covering between their bodies and the seats and prohibiting nudity in restaurants and other food establishments. This ordinance has not diminished the number of nudists using the Plaza. Allegedly responding to increased complaints about the nudity in the Castro, Sup. Wiener on October 2 introduced a proposed ordinance which would add a new section to the Police Code prohibiting nudity in on public streets, sidewalks, parklets, and plazas, and on public transit vehicles, stations, platforms, and stops, except as part of permitted parades, fairs, and festivals. Violation of the proposed ordinance would carry a fine of $100 for the first violation and increased fines for subsequent violations, but would not be considered a criminal offense, which would presumably mean that defendants would not be entitled to trial by jury. NAC IS ASKING YOU TO TAKE ACTION ACTION 1: WRITE TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS NAC asks that you write to the members of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors (BOS). Send your comments by e-mail or surface mail. Those who will be at the meeting on November 5 are also encouraged to write. WHO SHOULD WRITE? NAC is requesting ALL NATURISTS and other concerned individuals to contact San Francisco supervisors on this important matter, regardless of your place of residence. San Francisco understands the importance of out-of-town and out-of-state visitors who come to enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere of diversity and its acceptance of a broad range of individuality. The opportunity to experience those opportunities applies to those visitors, as well as to San Francisco residents. While all are encouraged to make their voices heard, the participation of San Francisco residents is, of course, particularly important. Send a letter, a fax or an e-mail. Phone calls may be less effective in this specific context, but if that’s your best option, make that call! WRITE AND SEND YOUR LETTERS / FAXES / EMAILS NOW! San Francisco Board of Supervisors: Paper mail address is the same for each Supervisor City and County of San Francisco 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place San Francisco, CA 94102-4689 Dist. 1 Eric Mar Eric.L.Mar@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7410 FAX (415) 554-7415 Dist. 2 Mark Farrell Mark.Farrell@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7752 FAX (415) 554-7843 Dist. 3 David Chiu David.Chiu@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7450 FAX (415) 554-7454 Dist. 4 Carmen Chu Carmen.Chu@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7460 FAX (415) 554-7432 Dist. 5 Christina Olague Christina.Olague@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7630 FAX (415) 554-7634 Dist. 6 Jane Kim Jane.Kim@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7970 FAX (415) 554-7974 Dist. 7 Sean Elsbernd Sean.Elsbernd@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-6516 FAX (415) 554-6546 Dist. 8 Scott Wiener Scott.Wiener@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-6968 FAX (415) 554-6909 Dist. 9 David Campos David.Campos@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-5144 FAX (415) 554-6255 Dist. 10 Malia Cohen Malia.Cohen@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-7670 FAX (415) 554-7674 Dist. 11 John Avalos John.Avalos@sfgov.org TEL (415) 554-6975 FAX (415) 554-6979 NAC encourages you to send copies of your faxes and paper mail to: NAC, PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903. Send copies of your e-mails to: SF@naturistaction.org NOTES: 1. Supervisor Wiener is the author of the proposed anti-nudity ordinance. 2. Supervisors Chu, Olaque and Elsbernd are members of the committee that will hear the proposed ordinance on November 5. 3. All supervisor positions in ODD-NUMBERED districts are up for election in the polling scheduled for November 6, 2012. Incumbent supervisors will serve through the end of the year. 4. Supervisor Elsbernd is term limited and is not eligible to run in the upcoming election. WHAT SHOULD YOU SAY? a) Be polite. b) Be known. Give your name and address. If you are a San Francisco resident, a California resident or a frequent visitor to San Francisco, be sure to point that out. Anonymous letters have very little impact. c) Be focused. Keep your correspondence brief and on target. d) Be positive. Remember that we’re trying to ENCOURAGE the Supervisors to respond positively to our concerns in this matter. Please do not take a scolding tone. By all means, be vigorous in the presentation of your ideas. For example, if you are among those who are disappointed that Supervisor Wiener has chosen to use dated pejoratives like “nudist colony” in his public comments, then you should say so. Regardless, you must not allow your correspondence to become a personal character assassination or an ad hominem attack. e) Be clear. Say that you SUPPORT diversity in San Francisco, and that regular clothing-optional public activities are an important part of that diversity. f) Be sure to make a request that your correspondence (letter, fax, e-mail) be included in the permanent public record of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. IMPORTANT! OPINION SURVEY DATA Supervisor Wiener and others have suggested that the majority of San Franciscans are offended by non-sexual nudity. That’s not true. In late 2009, the Naturist Education Foundation (NEF) commissioned a reputable polling organization, Zogby International, to conduct a statistically valid opinion survey of adult California residents. NEF asked for fairly tight geographical sampling within the state. The result is that we know what San Franciscans think about nudity. Zogby tells us that the statewide margin of error for any question is +/-3.4 percentage points. Margins of error are higher for geographical subgroups. Question number 5 in the 2009 NEF California Poll was: “Do you agree or disagree that you are personally offended by the non-sexual nudity of others?” Here are the survey responses for SAN FRANCISCO Strongly agree 16.4% Somewhat agree 18.3% Somewhat disagree 17.0% Strongly disagree 46.1% Not sure 2.2% The numbers speak for themselves. Combining “somewhat” and “strongly,” MORE THAN SIXTY-THREE PERCENT of San Francisco residents say they are NOT personally offended by the non-sexual nudity of others. View the statewide 2009 NEF California Poll: www.naturisteducation.org/nef.ca.poll.2009/ Additional talking / writing points: 1) The author of the proposed ordinance makes a point of allowing nudity for certain events. It’s clear from that context that nudity itself is not universally offensive. At the same time, personal freedoms are daily liberties. They are not things to be kept in a closet and trotted out only for special events. 2) Uncertainty about the legal status of public nudity deters attendance at major events and other, less widely known and attended events, creating a potentially significant loss of tourist revenues. 3) San Francisco’s reputation for progressive ideas serve as a model to which other cities aspire, That model would be irreparably tarnished if San Francisco were to be just like any other city. 4) The proposed ordinance ignores the opinion of a majority of the residents of San Francisco, as shown by the NEF-California Poll. (See discussion above.) 5) Officials have sometimes pointed to lewd behavior as a reason for prohibiting nudity. In doing so, they have confused simple nudity with lewd behavior. Police presently have the authority and responsibility to stop lewd activity, and naturists encourage them to exercise that responsibility appropriately. These suggestions are specifically for residents of San Francisco: 6) The controversy over nudity at Jane Warner Plaza is local, not citywide. It does not require a drastic citywide solution which is out of proportion to the extent of the controversy. 7) Legislation should be designed to efficiently solve a specific problem, without creating potentially significant unpredictable side effects. 8) The proposed ordinance, by restricting the personal liberties which make San Francisco unique, would diminish rather than improve quality of life in the city. 9) Any ordinance restricting public nudity should ensure that the right of free speech and expression protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution is not in any way abridged. Limiting public nudity to permitted events would chill this right. ACTION 2: ATTEND THE COMMITTEE MEETING ON NOVEMBER 5 If you’re in the San Francisco area, or can be there on November 5, NAC requests that you attend a public meeting of the City Operations & Neighborhood Services Committee that is scheduled to be held on Monday, November 5, 2012. City Operations & Neighborhood Services Committee 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 244 San Francisco, CA 94102-4689 Monday, November 5 - 10:00 AM If you’re planning to attend the meeting, please contact: NAC board member Charles Harris carlopianoforte@gmail.com (415) 492-1455 or NAC executive director Bob Morton execdir@naturistaction.org (512) 282-6621 WHAT IS NAC DOING? The Naturist Action Committee has been working on this matter with individual local residents of San Francisco, and especially in the Castro district, where much of the focus has been. NAC has been involved since before the time Supervisor Wiener introduced his proposed ordinance. NAC personnel have ridden in the San Francisco installment of the World Naked Bike Ride. NAC participated in the Nude-In on September 22, and along with Supervisor Wiener, NAC director Charles Harris was one of 27 people who attended the Castro/Eureka Valley Neighborhood Association meeting on September 26 to discuss the nudity issue. NAC alerted local naturists to that meeting and is working with Gay Naturists International to improve local awareness. MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES Additional information and links are available, along with this NAC Action Alert on the web site of the Naturist Action Committee. www.naturistaction.org Select "Alerts" and find this NAC Action Alert under Current Alerts. PLEASE HELP NAC TO CONTINUE HELPING NATURISTS! The Naturist Action Committee is the volunteer nonprofit political adjunct to The Naturist Society. NAC exists to advance and protect the rights and interests of naturists throughout North America. Fighting for clothing-optional freedoms in public places is expensive. To do its job, NAC relies entirely on the voluntary generosity of supporters like you. After you've contacted the Supervisors and made your plans to attend the Committee meeting on November 5, please take a moment to send a donation to: NAC PO Box 132 Oshkosh, WI 54903 Or call toll free (800) 886-7230 to donate by phone using your MasterCard, Visa or Discover Card. Or use your credit card to make a convenient online donation: www.naturistaction.org/donate/ Thank you for choosing to make a difference! Naturally, Charles Harris Director Naturist Action Committee --------------------------------------------------------------- Naturist Action Committee (NAC) - PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903 Executive Dir. Bob Morton - execdir@naturistaction.org Board Member Charles Harris - carlopianoforte@gmail.com Board Member Allen Baylis - rab@baylislaw.com Online Rep. Dennis Kirkpatrick - naturist@sunclad.com ---------------------------------------------------------------
Club Events SCNA's Zorthian Ranch Pool Party
SoCalNudist Posted: Oct 8, 2012	This past weekend the SCNA hosted a great party at a very special location, not only for our members, but for other local non-landed clubs, Naturists in the OC (NitOC), and the Camping Bares from San Diego, some of who both came up to join us for a wonderful day! We had close to 50 nudists who took over the Zorthian Ranch for our last Pool Party of the year. The Zorthian Ranch is a 48-acre mountainside artist's enclave alternately described by some as an “Art Utopia” and an “Art Junkyard” by others that is still used for fashion and movie shoots. Due to its unique architectural features, sculptures, and topography it has been the scene of many legendary parties and musical events over the years including the New LA Folk Festival. The Ranch was the life work of the late Jirayr Zorthian (1911-2004) dubbed “The Last Bohemian”, a joyous, vibrant artist with a prodigious appetite for life, whose 42 WPA-era murals adorn Federal buildings from the Pentagon to Post Offices, and whose sensual nudes still breathe on canvas. Many of his sculptural works are on display along with the horses, llamas, goats, and chickens that live there also. C'mon now, how many of you have llamas that visit your party! We took over the pool area, the Plaza Del Primavera, where we BBQ'd and had a tasty pot luck, all overseen by the Deck Of Zorbachus, a unique stage, where we had a DJ spinning tunes all day long. Those who weren't sunning, dancing, or eating in the Plaza, were enjoying the pool in what turned out to be a perfect sunny Southern California day, not too hot (85 F)and not too cool. At some point almost everyone took the opportunity to stroll the grounds and take in the artwork and amazing structures that exist throughout the property. Everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves, and the SCNA will definitely have another event there next year!
Nudist Legal Discussions NAC Alert for California and Other Concerned Naturists
SoCalNudist Posted: Sep 5, 2012	******************************************************************** NATURIST ACTION COMMITTEE ACTION ALERT ****************************************************************** http://www.naturistaction.org ******************************************************************** Copyright 2012 by the Naturist Action Committee, which is responsible for its content. Permission is granted for the posting, forwarding or redistribution of this message, provided that it is reproduced in its entirety and without alteration. DATE: August 31, 2012 SUBJECT: California TO: Naturists and other concerned citizens Dear Naturist, This is an Action Alert from the Naturist Action Committee. NAC is asking for your immediate involvement in an effort to have the State of California create officially designated areas for clothing-optional recreation in state parks. ACTION SUMMARY 1. Attend a meeting of the California Park and Recreation Commission on September 28. 2. Contact the Commission in writing. CALIFORNIA STATE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION The California State Park and Recreation Commission is NOT the same thing as the State Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). The Commission has specific authorities and responsibilities which are defined in California law. Those include the approval of general plans for units of the State Park System, classifying units of the System, establishing general policies for the guidance of the Director of State Parks in the administration, protection and development of the System, and recommending to the Director a comprehensive recreation policy for the state. In the wake of the recent scandal involving the California Department of Parks and Recreation, NAC is looking for the appointed State Park bureaucracy to assert some leadership. The Commission has the authority and the responsibility to establish general policy and to recommend policy to DPR, and that’s what NAC is seeking. ACTION 1: ATTEND COMMISSION’S PUBLIC MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 28 If you’re in the southern California area, NAC requests that you attend a public meeting of the State Park and Recreation Commission that is scheduled to be held in Santa Monica on Friday, September 28, 2012. DATE: Friday, September 28, 2012 TIME: 9:00 a.m. LOCATION: Annenberg Community Beach House Garden Terrace Room 415 Pacific Coast Highway Santa Monica, California 90402 The Commission’s agenda and public notice of the meeting are available at: www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=936 The naturist issue is not on the agenda for the meeting. Regardless, we need to let the Commission know of our concerns and our expectations. Members of the public will have an opportunity to give brief statements during the public comment portion of the meeting. Whether you speak or not, your presence at the meeting is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT to lend support to the message of naturists. We seek the setting aside of areas for clothing-optional recreation in State Park units. There are few items on the meeting agenda for September 28, and the meeting is likely to move quickly. Please plan to be at the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica no later than a half hour before the start of the meeting. Those who wish to speak must sign up to do so before the meeting commences. NOTE: The Commission has not met since January 27, 2012. NAC was there for that meeting, and with your help and participation, we’ll make a significant showing at this meeting, too. However, at this rate, your next chance to address the Park and Rec Commission may be in late May of 2013. Don’t miss your opportunity to make a difference in September! If you’re planning to attend the meeting, please contact: NAC board member Allen Baylis rab@baylislaw.com (714) 962-0915 or NAC executive director Bob Morton execdir@naturistaction.org (512) 282-6621 ACTION 2: WRITE TO THE COMMISSION If you’re unable to attend the meeting, you can still help. NAC asks that you write to the Commission. Send your comments by e-mail, fax or surface mail. Those who will be at the meeting on September 28 are also encouraged to write. WHO SHOULD WRITE? NAC is requesting ALL NATURISTS and other concerned individuals to contact California officials on this important matter, regardless of your place of residence. California understands the importance of out-of-state visitors who come to enjoy the state’s beaches, lakes and streams. The opportunity to provide diverse recreational opportunities applies to those visitors, as well as to California residents. While all are encouraged to make their voices heard, the participation of Californians is, of course, particularly important. Send a letter, a fax or an e-mail. Phone calls will likely be ineffective in this specific context. California State Park & Recreation Commission PO Box 942896 Sacramento, CA 94296 FAX: (916) 654-6374 Louis Nastro, Assistant to the Commission E-MAIL: LNastro@parks.ca.gov Send a copy to: California Department of Natural Resources Natural Resources Agency 1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1311 Sacramento, CA 95814 FAX: (916) 653-8102 E-MAIL: secretary@resources.ca.gov NAC encourages you to send copies of your faxes and paper mail to: NAC, PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903. Send copies of your e-mails to: CA@naturistaction.org WHAT SHOULD YOU SAY? When you write: a) Be polite. b) Be known. Give your name and address. If you are a California resident or a frequent visitor to California, be sure to point that out. Anonymous letters have very little impact. c) Be focused. Keep your correspondence brief and on target. d) Be positive. Remember that we’re trying to ENCOURAGE the Parks Department to do something. Please do not take a scolding tone. e) Be clear. Say that you SUPPORT the designation of clothing-optional areas in units of the State Park System. f) Be sure to make a request that your correspondence (letter, fax, e-mail) be included in the permanent public record of the California Park and Recreation Commission meeting of September 28, 2012. Additional talking / writing points: 1) This is NOT just about San Onofre State Beach. Although that beach was the first State Park unit at which DPR killed its policy for managing clothing-optional recreation, it has not been the last. Ticketing for mere nudity in State Park units has spread throughout the entire state of California. A unified policy is exactly what the Commission is responsible for creating, but the present lack of a comprehensive statewide policy threatens ALL clothing-optional areas in California State Park units. Consider the implications for Black’s (Torrey Pines), Gaviota, Bonny Doon and many others. 2) Parks Department policy against clothing-optional recreation is completely out of sync with public sentiment and the expressed preferences of California residents. A public opinion survey on this topic was commissioned in 2009 by the Naturist Education Foundation and was conducted by the prestigious polling firm of Zogby International. In that statewide poll: 79 percent of Californians believe people should be allowed to enjoy nude sunbathing on a beach or other location that is designated for that purpose. 60 percent of Californians say that they are not offended by the nonsexual nudity of others. 62 percent of Californians agree that the California Department of Parks and Recreation should exercise the legal authority it presently has to designate clothing-optional areas in state parks. View details of the 2009 NEF California Poll: www.naturisteducation.org/nef.ca.poll.2009/ 3) Former officials of the Parks Department attempted to justify their vendetta against clothing-optional recreation by saying they were “doing the will of the people.” That was clearly no more true than many of the other deceptions for which those same officials were responsible. 4) For thirty years, the Department’s Cahill Policy allowed a means to manage for clothing-optional recreation in units of the State Park system. The nullification of the Cahill Policy has left the department with no statewide policy to address a form of recreation that’s obviously popular with the public. It’s the duty of the Commission to address matters of policy. 5) Officials of the Parks and Rec Department have pointed to lewd behavior as a reason for prohibiting nudity. In doing so, they have confused simple nudity with lewd behavior. Rangers presently have the authority and responsibility to stop lewd activity, and naturists encourage them to exercise that responsibility appropriately. However, that specific authority is separate and different from the legal authority the Parks Department has to establish areas for clothing-optional recreation. MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES Additional information and links are available, along with this NAC Action Alert on the web site of the Naturist Action Committee. www.naturistaction.org Select "Alerts" and find this NAC Action Alert under Current Alerts. PLEASE HELP NAC TO CONTINUE HELPING NATURISTS! The Naturist Action Committee is the volunteer nonprofit political adjunct to The Naturist Society. NAC exists to advance and protect the rights and interests of naturists throughout North America. Fighting for the clothing-optional recreational use of public land is expensive. To do its job, NAC relies entirely on the voluntary generosity of supporters like you. After you've made your plans to attend the Commission meeting on September 28 and/or contacted the officials at the Commission and the Natural Resources Agency, please take a moment to send a donation to: NAC PO Box 132 Oshkosh, WI 54903 Or call toll free (800) 886-7230 to donate by phone using your MasterCard, Visa or Discover Card. Or use your credit card to make a convenient online donation: www.naturistaction.org/donate/ Thank you for choosing to make a difference! Naturally, Allen Baylis Director Naturist Action Committee --------------------------------------------------------------- Naturist Action Committee (NAC) - PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903 Executive Dir. Bob Morton - execdir@naturistaction.org Board Member Allen Baylis - rab@baylislaw.com Board Member Charles Harris - carlopianoforte@gmail.com Online Rep. Dennis Kirkpatrick - naturist@sunclad.com ---------------------------------------------------------------
LA Naturists NAC Alert - Important!!
SoCalNudist Posted: Sep 1, 2012	******************************************************************** NATURIST ACTION COMMITTEE ACTION ALERT ****************************************************************** http://www.naturistaction.org ******************************************************************** Copyright 2012 by the Naturist Action Committee, which is responsible for its content. Permission is granted for the posting, forwarding or redistribution of this message, provided that it is reproduced in its entirety and without alteration. DATE: August 31, 2012 SUBJECT: California TO: Naturists and other concerned citizens Dear Naturist, This is an Action Alert from the Naturist Action Committee. NAC is asking for your immediate involvement in an effort to have the State of California create officially designated areas for clothing-optional recreation in state parks. ACTION SUMMARY 1. Attend a meeting of the California Park and Recreation Commission on September 28. 2. Contact the Commission in writing. CALIFORNIA STATE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION The California State Park and Recreation Commission is NOT the same thing as the State Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). The Commission has specific authorities and responsibilities which are defined in California law. Those include the approval of general plans for units of the State Park System, classifying units of the System, establishing general policies for the guidance of the Director of State Parks in the administration, protection and development of the System, and recommending to the Director a comprehensive recreation policy for the state. In the wake of the recent scandal involving the California Department of Parks and Recreation, NAC is looking for the appointed State Park bureaucracy to assert some leadership. The Commission has the authority and the responsibility to establish general policy and to recommend policy to DPR, and that’s what NAC is seeking. ACTION 1: ATTEND COMMISSION’S PUBLIC MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 28 If you’re in the southern California area, NAC requests that you attend a public meeting of the State Park and Recreation Commission that is scheduled to be held in Santa Monica on Friday, September 28, 2012. DATE: Friday, September 28, 2012 TIME: 9:00 a.m. LOCATION: Annenberg Community Beach House Garden Terrace Room 415 Pacific Coast Highway Santa Monica, California 90402 The Commission’s agenda and public notice of the meeting are available at: www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=936 The naturist issue is not on the agenda for the meeting. Regardless, we need to let the Commission know of our concerns and our expectations. Members of the public will have an opportunity to give brief statements during the public comment portion of the meeting. Whether you speak or not, your presence at the meeting is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT to lend support to the message of naturists. We seek the setting aside of areas for clothing-optional recreation in State Park units. There are few items on the meeting agenda for September 28, and the meeting is likely to move quickly. Please plan to be at the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica no later than a half hour before the start of the meeting. Those who wish to speak must sign up to do so before the meeting commences. NOTE: The Commission has not met since January 27, 2012. NAC was there for that meeting, and with your help and participation, we’ll make a significant showing at this meeting, too. However, at this rate, your next chance to address the Park and Rec Commission may be in late May of 2013. Don’t miss your opportunity to make a difference in September! If you’re planning to attend the meeting, please contact: NAC board member Allen Baylis rab@baylislaw.com (714) 962-0915 or NAC executive director Bob Morton execdir@naturistaction.org (512) 282-6621 ACTION 2: WRITE TO THE COMMISSION If you’re unable to attend the meeting, you can still help. NAC asks that you write to the Commission. Send your comments by e-mail, fax or surface mail. Those who will be at the meeting on September 28 are also encouraged to write. WHO SHOULD WRITE? NAC is requesting ALL NATURISTS and other concerned individuals to contact California officials on this important matter, regardless of your place of residence. California understands the importance of out-of-state visitors who come to enjoy the state’s beaches, lakes and streams. The opportunity to provide diverse recreational opportunities applies to those visitors, as well as to California residents. While all are encouraged to make their voices heard, the participation of Californians is, of course, particularly important. Send a letter, a fax or an e-mail. Phone calls will likely be ineffective in this specific context. California State Park & Recreation Commission PO Box 942896 Sacramento, CA 94296 FAX: (916) 654-6374 Louis Nastro, Assistant to the Commission E-MAIL: LNastro@parks.ca.gov Send a copy to: California Department of Natural Resources Natural Resources Agency 1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1311 Sacramento, CA 95814 FAX: (916) 653-8102 E-MAIL: secretary@resources.ca.gov NAC encourages you to send copies of your faxes and paper mail to: NAC, PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903. Send copies of your e-mails to: CA@naturistaction.org WHAT SHOULD YOU SAY? When you write: a) Be polite. b) Be known. Give your name and address. If you are a California resident or a frequent visitor to California, be sure to point that out. Anonymous letters have very little impact. c) Be focused. Keep your correspondence brief and on target. d) Be positive. Remember that we’re trying to ENCOURAGE the Parks Department to do something. Please do not take a scolding tone. e) Be clear. Say that you SUPPORT the designation of clothing-optional areas in units of the State Park System. f) Be sure to make a request that your correspondence (letter, fax, e-mail) be included in the permanent public record of the California Park and Recreation Commission meeting of September 28, 2012. Additional talking / writing points: 1) This is NOT just about San Onofre State Beach. Although that beach was the first State Park unit at which DPR killed its policy for managing clothing-optional recreation, it has not been the last. Ticketing for mere nudity in State Park units has spread throughout the entire state of California. A unified policy is exactly what the Commission is responsible for creating, but the present lack of a comprehensive statewide policy threatens ALL clothing-optional areas in California State Park units. Consider the implications for Black’s (Torrey Pines), Gaviota, Bonny Doon and many others. 2) Parks Department policy against clothing-optional recreation is completely out of sync with public sentiment and the expressed preferences of California residents. A public opinion survey on this topic was commissioned in 2009 by the Naturist Education Foundation and was conducted by the prestigious polling firm of Zogby International. In that statewide poll: 79 percent of Californians believe people should be allowed to enjoy nude sunbathing on a beach or other location that is designated for that purpose. 60 percent of Californians say that they are not offended by the nonsexual nudity of others. 62 percent of Californians agree that the California Department of Parks and Recreation should exercise the legal authority it presently has to designate clothing-optional areas in state parks. View details of the 2009 NEF California Poll: www.naturisteducation.org/nef.ca.poll.2009/ 3) Former officials of the Parks Department attempted to justify their vendetta against clothing-optional recreation by saying they were “doing the will of the people.” That was clearly no more true than many of the other deceptions for which those same officials were responsible. 4) For thirty years, the Department’s Cahill Policy allowed a means to manage for clothing-optional recreation in units of the State Park system. The nullification of the Cahill Policy has left the department with no statewide policy to address a form of recreation that’s obviously popular with the public. It’s the duty of the Commission to address matters of policy. 5) Officials of the Parks and Rec Department have pointed to lewd behavior as a reason for prohibiting nudity. In doing so, they have confused simple nudity with lewd behavior. Rangers presently have the authority and responsibility to stop lewd activity, and naturists encourage them to exercise that responsibility appropriately. However, that specific authority is separate and different from the legal authority the Parks Department has to establish areas for clothing-optional recreation. MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES Additional information and links are available, along with this NAC Action Alert on the web site of the Naturist Action Committee. www.naturistaction.org Select "Alerts" and find this NAC Action Alert under Current Alerts. PLEASE HELP NAC TO CONTINUE HELPING NATURISTS! The Naturist Action Committee is the volunteer nonprofit political adjunct to The Naturist Society. NAC exists to advance and protect the rights and interests of naturists throughout North America. Fighting for the clothing-optional recreational use of public land is expensive. To do its job, NAC relies entirely on the voluntary generosity of supporters like you. After you've made your plans to attend the Commission meeting on September 28 and/or contacted the officials at the Commission and the Natural Resources Agency, please take a moment to send a donation to: NAC PO Box 132 Oshkosh, WI 54903 Or call toll free (800) 886-7230 to donate by phone using your MasterCard, Visa or Discover Card. Or use your credit card to make a convenient online donation: www.naturistaction.org/donate/ Thank you for choosing to make a difference! Naturally, Allen Baylis Director Naturist Action Committee --------------------------------------------------------------- Naturist Action Committee (NAC) - PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903 Executive Dir. Bob Morton - execdir@naturistaction.org Board Member Allen Baylis - rab@baylislaw.com Board Member Charles Harris - carlopianoforte@gmail.com Online Rep. Dennis Kirkpatrick - naturist@sunclad.com ---------------------------------------------------------------
Absolute Naturists Comparing the Old and the New
SoCalNudist Posted: Aug 30, 2012	Thanks for this topic, Sunbunny, and kudos to Andy Bee for starting the ASA Days group in the first place! As a long-time collector of many of the nudist magazines that these pictures were taken from, and a nudist history buff, a couple of comparisons are interesting to note between nudism then and now. The first thing one has to realize is that there was no such thing as the internet back then, so these nudist magazines were the primary source for information on social nudism at the time. They were the general public’s first and most accessible vehicle for information about everything from club listings to the questions and topics many of us still wrestle with here in Absolute Nudists, and on NCH. In 1958, after a long protracted legal battle, Ilsley Boone won a Supreme Court decision in which his publication, “Sunshine and Health” along with its depiction of nudism, were declared not to be “indecent or pornographic”, and could legally be sent through the US mail to subscribers. This opened the floodgates for the production of nudist magazines, and by the early 60’s there were hundreds of titles, with many legitimate titles vying for space with a slew of salacious “faux nudist” girlie mags. Besides trying to promote nudism to the general public as a healthy recreational alternative and/or lifestyle choice, the men and women producing the legitimate titles were also in the business of selling magazines, and long before they had to compete with the girlie mags, they all realized that nothing sells magazines like photos of beautiful women. The added bonus of them being nude, whether airbrushed or not, certainly didn’t hurt either. The post-WW II years thru the late 60’s, maybe 70’s, are considered nudism’s “Golden Age”. The first thing that’s quite different is that there were many more landed clubs throughout the US in which a person could go to experience social nudism, than exist today. Even though social nudism was not a new idea in the US, during this period it seems that more people became aware of it, and were open to trying it out. Until the 70’s there was no such thing as a nude cruise, and there were very few, if any, high-end nudist resort destinations. Most of the clubs were rustic and rural camps. Although at this time, the rules and regulations were much more restrictive at most clubs than they are now, you’d never know that by looking at most of these pictures. Everyone seems to be having FUN! Beauty pageants at the clubs were a big thing at the time, but have since become passé. Again, even though it was a more socially restrictive time, children and families were present and depicted a lot more than they are now. Of course there was, and still is, a camp that believe this was due to some of the publisher’s surreptitious appeal to the pedophile crowd in selling magazines, that eventually became the basis for later legal prosecutions brought against them. When reading through the magazines I’m always amazed by how many of the questions and topics remain the same between now and then. The issue of single men at the resorts (although you’d never know that was a problem by just looking at the pictures), nudist etiquette in different situations, raising a nudist family, first-time stories, how to get a non-nudist spouse involved, the question of what was considered pornographic or “inappropriate”, the acceptance of nudism in a textile society, etc. are just a sample. Some of the topics that were beginning to be more openly discussed in the magazines during the turbulent 60’s, were also a reflection of the social upheavals that were taking place in general society at the time. The issue of race at nudist clubs, the liberalization of sexual morals and how they were affecting nudism, the greying of the nudist leadership, and how young people were not being attracted to the resorts were just beginning to be brought out at the time. Although I don’t have hard numbers to back it up, from reading these magazines, and talking with some of the old timers who went through this period, it seems to me that there were many more clubs, and many more people were involved in social nudism despite the overall conservative social milieu of the late 50’s, and early 60’s, from whence most of these pictures and stories in the ASA days came.
Club Events SCNA's Ice Cream Social
SoCalNudist Posted: Aug 28, 2012	This past weekend the SCNA hosted our annual Ice Cream Social Pool Party for 45 of our members and guests. The weather was perfect, in the low 90's with a slight breeze and next to no humidity. The pot luck lunch was amazing with delicious Tip-Tip, London Broil, baked salmon, chicken, and a variety of great refreshing salads. And then there was the Ice Cream...8-10 different flavors with loads of fresh toppings available, or Root Beer for a frosty float! Our local AANR-West GAT rep, Walt Stephens, and his wife Mindy, joined us to present the club with the Best Newsletter and Best Website awards for non-landed clubs of our size that were announced at the recent AANR national convention. Congratulations go to our newsletter editor, webmaster, and former SCNA President, Gary Mussell! A number of SCNA members will travel out to the Olive Dell resort this coming weekend to help celebrate their annual Labor Day Luau. On 9/15, we head the opposite direction up to Bates Beach to help out on California Beach Cleanup Day. The following weekend members of the SCNA will join up with NitOC, and the Camping Bares for a nude hike down to Deep Creek Hot Springs. Come on out and join in the fun!
Absolute Naturists Most Fun While Nude
SoCalNudist Posted: Aug 2, 2012	Although we didn’t have a nude wedding, we had a nude honeymoon, spending a week at what was then Gran Lido Braco in Jamaica. Outside of an offsite trip to Dunn’s River Falls, it was the first time we got to spend more than a weekend totally nude, on their glorious beach, in their wonderful pools while enjoying the Jamaican sun, and rum! Almost as fun, was the Pudding Toss at the Naturist Society’s Western Gathering at De Anza Springs Resort a few years ago. Great messy, sploogy fun, and tasty too! It’s amazing what fun a bunch of nudists of all ages can have with 10 gallons of pudding! Seeing as the temps were near 100, the cleanup at the end of a cold hose was pretty interesting also.
Club Events NUDE BOWLING!
SoCalNudist Posted: Jul 29, 2012	Yesterday we had over 30 nudists attend our Nude Bowling event with members of NitOC, the Olympians, and a sizeable contingent of YNA members joining the SCNA for a cross generational, fun-filled afternoon! We also celebrated two birthdays, and had prizes for the winning team and high score bowler. Everyone enjoyed it so much, we're going to schedule another Nude Bowling day sometime in the fall, as we had to turn some people away due to space limitations. Hope you can join us then!
Nudist Legal Discussions California Parks Director Resigns
SoCalNudist Posted: Jul 21, 2012	By Associated Press, Friday, July 20, 5:58 PMAP SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The director of California’s state parks resigned and a deputy was fired Friday after officials learned the department sat on nearly $54 million in surplus money for years while parks were threatened with closure over budget cuts. Ruth Coleman, director of the state Department of Parks and Recreation, stepped down, and chief deputy Michael Harris was let go amid questions about the underreported funds that date back 12 years, announced state Natural Resources Agency Secretary John Laird, whose agency oversees the parks department. Laird said it’s not clear why the account balances weren’t properly reported and many questions remained. So far, there’s no indication the money was stolen, but Laird said the investigation is ongoing. He declined to speculate if it was an accounting mistake or if there was intentional wrongdoing. “I’m obviously deeply disappointed and feel truly sorry (for) everybody that was involved,” Laird said. “It’s my take that the challenges to parks are so much greater than this and we still have to meet them. We’re going to do our best and move ahead.” Coleman, who joined the department in 1999 and served under three governors, said she was unaware of the surplus but accepted responsibility for the accounting problem. “I am personally appalled to learn that our documents were not accurate,” she wrote in her resignation letter released by the governor’s office. Gov. Jerry Brown accepted Coleman’s resignation and appointed California Natural Resources Agency Undersecretary Janelle Beland as acting interim director of the department. The shake-up comes at a time when state lawmakers and park advocates have been trying to find ways to keep most parks open despite ongoing budget cuts. Last month, park officials announced most of the 70 state parks once slated to close would remain open. The Sacramento Bee first reported Coleman’s resignation after inquiring about the possibility of a surplus in connection to a secret vacation buyout program for employees at department headquarters. The newspaper reported Sunday that a high-ranking official acted without authorization in allowing dozens of employees to sell unused vacation time back to the state. Officials estimated the scheme cost taxpayers more than $271,000. State officials said the “hidden assets” that prompted the investigation were found by a new park fiscal staff member, Aaron Robertson, while the attorney general’s office was looking into the unauthorized vacation buyouts. The administration said it disclosed the accounting problem within 48 hours of the discovery. Friday’s announcement sparked outrage from state lawmakers, including Democratic Sen. Noreen Evans of Santa Rosa, who crafted legislation allocating new funds for the beleaguered parks system in the face of $22 million in budget cuts. “This discovery uncovers the ultimate betrayal of public trust,” Evans said in a statement. “If one department can hoard $54 million for 12 years, who else is playing the same tricks of deceit and thievery?” Separately, state Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg called for an oversight hearing. State officials said the attorney general’s office is investigating and finance officials will conduct a full audit of the department. Deputy Finance Director Michael Cohen said the administration will move to make sure the same problem isn’t happening in other special funds. A preliminary investigation shows the parks department underreported two funds as far back as 2000. The state parks and recreation fund, which is generated from park fees and rentals, held $20.4 million more than was reported. The off-highway vehicle fund, which is generated from registering ATVs and similar types of vehicles, held $33.5 million more than reported. Laird said it’s difficult to say whether the money would have prevented the state from targeting dozens of parks for closure. “It would be hard to assess. Of course it would assist,” he said. California operates 279 parks, which include famous beaches to redwood forests. The parks that were at risk of closure got a reprieve last month after the governor signed Evans’ bill allocating new funds for the next year. The state has also reached agreements with nonprofits, local governments and others to keep 40 parks open at least for a few years. Jerry Emory, communications director for the California State Parks Foundation, a nonprofit that raises money to benefit state parks, said the organization was stunned by the accounting problem. However, he said the foundation does not expect donors to pull back because the state has already reduced maintenance and operating hours. “What’s happening in Sacramento is very unfortunate,” Emory said. “We hope it gets corrected and it never happens again in the future, but we have our eye on the prize, which is always to make sure state parks stay open and accessible to Californians.” Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/california-parks-director-resigns-deputy-fired-amid-financial-questions-hidden-54m-surplus/2012/07/20/gJQAJFP1yW_story.html We can only hope that the interim director, Ms. Janelle Beland, and whoever else is appointed after her, will have a more open and accepting attitude about nudist concerns and the beaches affected. If the money stays with the Parks Dept., at least the 70 parks slated for closure may get a reprieve.
Club Events NUDE BOWLING!
SoCalNudist Posted: Jul 12, 2012	The SCNA has finally found a small bowling alley (8 Lanes) in the San Gabriel Valley that we will take over completely for 3 hrs on Saturday afternoon, 7/28/12, for a private nude bowling party. We'll have a pot luck of snacks and finger food. The alley will provide shoes to the bowlers and sell soft drinks, water, beer & wine. Just be sure to bring socks, and towels to sit on. Since we have also invited some other local non-landed clubs, NitOC, YNA, and AANFA to join us, and space is limited, paid RSVP's take precedence. For more info on how to join in on the fun, visit www.socalnaturist.org and click on our calendar.
Nudist Club Trip Reports Olympians & SCNA at Glen Eden
SoCalNudist Posted: Jul 10, 2012	This past weekend members of the Olympians & SCNA met at Glen Eden to enjoy the beautiful weather at this top notch resort and have a great BBQ dinner potluck. As they were grilling up the burgers, brats, and dogs many of the members teamed up for a fun game of bean bag baseball. Thanks to Ronni, Jerry, and Earl for organizing this enjoyable outing!
Absolute Naturists TRIVIA QUIZ
SoCalNudist Posted: Jul 1, 2012	1. American League for Physical Culture 2. New York 3. Cafe Michelob
Nudist Club Trip Reports Sun Meadow - Idaho
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 20, 2012	The Naturist Society is holding their Western Gathering at this lovely resort 8/2 - 8/5/12 this year. If there are any Southern Californian's who would like to drive up and share gas costs for this event, please contact me asap. Thanks!
LA Naturists The Naturist Society's Western Gathering
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 19, 2012	Please contact me, SoCalNudist, if interested. Not sure why my info was not logged after I posted this.
Sports Talk 2012 Stanley Cup Finals
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 12, 2012	The drought is over! Finally, after 45 yrs. our Kings have brought the Cup to LA. So sweet that they were able to do it on home ice! What an amazing playoff run. GO KINGS!
LA Naturists AANR's Face & Body Painting
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 8, 2012	My wife and I, along with a number of other SCNA members, will be joining the fun at Deer Park. In addition to the Body Painting event, they'll be hosting a Nude Olympic Games (tug-of-war, relay races, etc.)and a Toga Party!
Sports Talk 2012 Stanley Cup Finals
SoCalNudist Posted: May 30, 2012	As long-time fans suffering through years of mediocrity, we've finally got an excellent group hitting their stride at the right time, and are hoping that our LA Kings can finally bring the Cup home this year! GO KINGS!
Club Events SCNA Pool Party - Sat., 6/9/12
SoCalNudist Posted: May 23, 2012	The Southern California Naturist Assoc. will host a pool party at a beautiful house located in an exclusive Brentwood neighborhood on the westside of LA. There is a heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, and a large backyard for sunning. SCNA will fire up the grill for burgers, hot dogs, and/or chicken as well as providing water & soft drinks. Attendees are expected to bring a pot luck side and your own chair if you want one. Amongst other games, we'll have a raffle for some great prizes! For more info on how to join in on the fun visit www.socalnaturist.org or call (818) 225-2273
Movie Buffs What're You Watching ?
SoCalNudist Posted: May 5, 2012	The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (David Fincher Version) Finally saw the english version with Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara. While it was well done, I've got to say that I much prefer the Swedish version. For me, Noomi Rapace captured the character of Lisbeth much better and closer to the book, as did the rest of the film. The only thing that was better in the english version were the opening credits set against Trent Reznor & Karen O's cover of Led Zep's "Immigrant Song". Very creepy in that Fincher way.
Sports Talk NHL Playoffs
SoCalNudist Posted: May 4, 2012	How 'bout those LA Kings? As longtime fans, we're obviously hoping for a sweep of St. Louis on Sunday, and then on to the next round. Jonathan Quick is one of the most amazing goalies, and the team has been playing together with more determination and power than we've seen in a long time. Go Kings!
Nudist Club Trip Reports Great Weekend at Deer Park & Olive Dell
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 26, 2012	Even though I was not able to participate in this year’s Bare Burro 5K run, due to a bout of Plantar Fasciitis in my right foot, Cynthia and I still wanted to head over to the Olive Dell Ranch on Sunday to cheer on the runners, and meet up with old friends. We began the weekend the previous day at Deer Park, with fellow SCNA members, helping to celebrate Earth Day with Carla and other residents, by planting some trees, shrubs, and ground cover, and after relaxing in the pool, we ended up at their clubhouse for dinner and karaoke. The Deer Park members love their karaoke and have some excellent singers. Among other songs that he performed, all the SCNA members in attendance got up as a group to back up Ricc on the Joe Cocker version of “With A Little Help From My Friends”. Other than that, Brian was the only other SCNA member to get up and sing, with valiant attempts at various Billy Joel tunes, and “The Music Of The Night” from the Phantom Of The Opera. After a few more beers, Cynthia and I adjourned to one of their cozy cabins for the evening. We left Deer Park around 9:00 am on Sunday morning, stopping for some breakfast before heading up to Olive Dell. Since breakfast took a little longer than we expected, by the time we were driving into the upper parking lot to drop off our chairs and towels, we had missed the race’s start, and runners were already coming into the finish area. The same gentleman, Patrick, who won last year, running again in what he called “Mexican Sandals”, won again this year with a time of 21:59. Everyone’s time was a little longer this year since, according to one of our friends who also ran, the course was slightly longer than last year. Also this year, Olive Dell hosted 145 runners as opposed to approximately 100 the previous year. This event is obviously growing in popularity, not only among the local naturist community, but the local running community as well. The only thing better than enjoying a beautiful sunny day, running or walking nude through the gorgeous hills surrounding Olive Dell, is to enjoy their pool, hot tub, and other facilities while visiting with old friends, making new ones, and is just what we set out to do for the rest of the day. We also noticed quite a few younger naturists in attendance with a sizeable contingent of the Young Naturists of America who showed up. On the patio, Olive Dell had set up a booth where they were promoting their upcoming Memorial Day Pirates Celebration and writer/director JP Riley was selling DVD’s of his film “Act Naturally” that had been filmed there at Olive Dell. Fun events like this are really an excellent opportunity for naturists of all ages to get out and get involved with each other, as well as introducing first-timers or non-naturists to the great recreational option of enjoying life as nature intended! Kudos once again go out to Olive Dell owners Bobby and Becky Kilborn, and all the other member/volunteers who did such a great job organizing and hosting this annual event, which is fast becoming an enjoyable staple in the local naturist calendar.
ASA Days SWALLOWS SUN ISLAND
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 9, 2012	I recently discovered some interesting background on when the Latimers took over Swallows in 1964 from the Zehners. According to various sources, Milton Luros, the porn magnate who produced and distributed the most popular nudist magazine titles of that era through his Parliament News Corp., actually financed the purchase of Swallows, and installed the Latimers as figure-head owner/operators. How long Luros was involved in the actual ownership is in question. In 1963, T. Latimer, who was president of the ASA, negotiated a deal with Luros’ company to distribute Stan Sohler’s “Sun Era” magazine as the “Official Journal of the ASA.” In 1964, this designation was switched to Ed Lange’s “Nudism Today” title. Also in 1964, both Latimer and Luros were coming under fire from the Los Angeles CDL (Citizens for Decent Literature) for the magazines. Luros was also getting heat from various nudist leaders as well for some of the photos and articles appearing in the magazines. Apparently, Luros installed the Latimers at Swallows to insure less hassle for his photographers. It was only a few years later that, even though Luros, Sohler and Lange were eventually indicted and cleared of obscenity charges, they were making tons of money and pushed the envelope a little too far which lead to the end of the “golden age” of nudist magazines.
Movie Buffs What're You Watching ?
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 9, 2012	The other night I went to a screening of Morgan Spurlock's new documentary, "Comic-Con Episode Four: A Fan's Hope" with Morgan and one of the subjects of the film, Holly Conrad, answering questions after the film. If you're a fan of comics, Comic-Con's, a collector, artist/writer, into cosplay, or someone who can identify with geeks and nerds worldwide, you must see this film! Essentially it's a homage to the thousands who gather in San Diego every year for the Con, and follows a number of subjects before, during, and after their time at the 2010 Con. Holly is a costume designer, two up and coming artists, a comic book retailer, and a couple who get engaged at a Kevin Smith panel are among the primary subjects. The cool thing is that this film is already available online, on VOD, or Xbox 360, in addition to screens nationwide. Stan Lee and Joss Whedon were also involved in the production and are featured among other celebrities. Overall, a positive, fun film that takes a look at this pop-culture phenomenon!
Club Events SCNA's "Think Green" Party Report
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 18, 2012	After experiencing 3 straight weekends of 80-90 degree temps, we had nearly 2” of rain, and with the temp averaging about 55, we still had over 20 local naturists join us for our “Think Green – Jacuzzi Party” yesterday. Inside the fireplace was roaring, and the heaters were cranked, so everyone was comfortable being nude. It’s a rare experience in Southern California to have “raindrops keep fallin’ on my head” while in a nice warm Jacuzzi! Needless to say, it was full all day. We also finally found a wonderful Nude Yoga teacher named Molly, who joined us, and led two classes throughout the day for a good workout, that also helped to warm up those who participated. Of course, we had some great corned beef, carrots, potatoes, cabbage, an assortment of green salads and veggies along with homemade Irish Soda Bread, all finished off with some delicious Fireplace S’mores, among other scrumptious desserts. After eating, those who weren’t socializing around the fireplace discussion, started an Xbox Kinect Sports Tournament, or jumped back into the hot tub to top off a great afternoon! Next month, SCNA members will travel as group to the Deer Park Resort and plant trees, shrubs, and flowers to help them celebrate Earth Day on the 21st. Some of us will then hop on over to Olive Dell the next day to take part in their 5K Bare Burro Run. Join us!
Movie Buffs What're You Watching ?
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 6, 2012	Just saw "The Iron Lady" last night, and while Meryl was amazing as Maggie Thatcher, the movie itself was just OK. Saw "The Help" a few nights ago, and even though Viola and Octavia were excellent and also deserved Oscars, I was really disappointed that that Bryce Dallas Howard wasn't recognized for her spot-on portrayal as that slimy, mean-spirited, and entitled southern belle, Hilly. I also enjoyed Terrence Malick's "Tree of Life" which also starred, "The Help's" Jessica Chastain. This is a film that you'll either love or hate, my wife walked out when it got to the "Big Bang" sequence, it was just too weird for her. A very slow, impressionistic film that's primarily about a Texas family in the '50's, that, at least for me, paid off in the end. Technically gorgeous, but trying, if you're not familiar with Malick's work.
Music First and most memorable gigs.
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 6, 2012	1st concert was, Cat Mother & the All-Night Newsboys, produced by the headliner, followed by, as they were introduced, CTA - Chicago Transit Authority, who later dropped Transit Authority from their name, and the headliner was the Jimi Hendrix Experience at the LA Forum on 4/26/1969. At 14, going to our 1st concert, my best friend and I were still geeky enough to wear clip-on ties, which we soon pulled off as soon as we walked in, and saw everyone's freak flag waving high. Probably did nothing to disguise our geekiness though. Also remember the cloud around the inside of the upper seats of the Forum where we were seated, and getting high from just running up and down the stairs and breathing. This was a second-hand smoke that we really enjoyed! Besides that show, some of the most memorable shows were Van Morrison at the Troubadour, where portions of the live "It's Too Late To Stop Now" disc were recorded. The version of "Caravan" was from the show we were at. Springsteen and the "E" St. Band at the Roxy in '78 that appeared on his "Live-75/85" box set. Elvis Costello and the Attractions at the Whiskey on Sunset Strip. Frank Zappa & the Mothers along with the LA Philharmonic premiering "200 Motels" at UCLA's Pauley Pavillion, or as Frank said, "When you play music in a hall designed for basketball, you take your chances" "All right, Zubin, hit it!" Yes, these were all shows from the '70's, so whenever someone states that the music in the 70's sucked, I usually have to do a "spit-take". As a buyer for a chain of record stores, Licorice Pizza, until '86, I have many more, but these were some of the most memorable.
Club Events SCNA's "Think Green" Jacuzzi Party
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 6, 2012	Any naturists in Southern California on Saturday, 3/17, should consider joining members of the SCNA in celebrating the sentiments of St. Patrick's Day, and Earth Day, with a "Think Green" party theme. The SCNA will provide the corned beef, soft drinks, and water! Attendees should plan to bring a potluck item that is either "Irish" or "green" representing the bounties Mother Earth. Although the party is clothing optional, and most of us will be exercising that option, wear something green - a bow tie, hat, socks, scarf, body paint, or....? No pool, but a warm Jacuzzi is available, and weather permitting, sunning on the porch and/or lawn. We'll also have a yoga teacher attending, who will conduct a nude yoga class for those who wish to participate. Please call (818) 225-2273 for more info, and to RSVP. Space is limited.
Club Events SCNA's "Nude At The Getty" Scavenger Hunt
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 22, 2012	We had 45 local naturists, from 2 months old (Ashley, along with new mom, Melissa DejaNude) to 70 yrs young, show up yesterday for our Scavenger Hunt at the beautiful Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Even though we were inside for most of the day, the weather cooperated, with the rainstorm clearing up just before we began, and giving everyone a gorgeous afternoon with some spectacular views from the Santa Monica foothills, where the Museum is located, all the way out to the Pacific. We had a number of families attending and had everyone, including the singles, team up, and then sent them all off on the hunt at noon, answering questions about the many Nude artworks housed in the four main Pavillions. We gave everyone a 3hr. time limit to finish, but the winning team, "The Bare Johnsons", finished in just over an hour and 40 min. After we graded the rest, announced the winners, and handed out the prizes, many went back to check out the rest of the museum, but about half joined us down in the Cafe for a late lunch and lively conversation until sundown. A number of docents, museum officials, and other guests near our group gave amazed looks and smiles when they found out we were a local nudist group who can even find a way to have fun with our clothes on. All in all everyone mentioned that they thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon, and can't wait for the next time the SCNA hosts this enjoyable and educational event.
Absolute Naturists Benefits of The Non-Landed Nudist Club
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 19, 2011	As one of the leaders of the largest non-landed clubs in our area, the Southern California Naturist Association, I’d like to echo many of the points made. From a prospective member’s standpoint, a non-landed club usually is: 1)Cheaper than a landed club 2)For many, closer than a landed club 3)Offers a smaller, more accessible environment for entry into social nudism for first-timers 4)Depending on how it’s organized, as in our case, offers a safer, more protective environment than any beach, or even landed club. 5)When traveling to local resorts as a group, restrictions on single members are usually waived, and whether at a beach, or resort, the group acts as a safe haven for those more socially inhibited. 6)Offers the possibility that you may meet the best friend you never knew you had. From a leader’s/organizer’s standpoint: 1)It’s much more work than you think. 2)Finding new party houses, or member’s willing to host a party, is a constant challenge. 3)You will make very little money, and in many cases will be lucky to break even. 4)You need to tap into your member’s volunteerism/participation as much as possible to avoid burnout. 5)If your organization also pursues avenues of activism and education, like ours, all of the above is magnified. 6)Also, due to all of the above, you must do this as a labor of love, and because you strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy social naturism as much as you do.
Absolute Naturists Top 10 Best Nudist Clubs/Resorts/Beaches
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 19, 2011	Of the places we've visited our top 10 are: 1) Grand Lido Braco 2) Laguna Del Sol 3) Desert Sun Resort 4) Blacks Beach 5) Lupin Lodge 6) De Anza Springs Resort 7) Olive Dell Ranch 8) Deer Park Resort 9) Glen Eden 10) San Onofre Beach Even though we've never been there, from the reports of various friends who have, I believe the Terra Cotta Inn would also be in this list.
Movie Buffs What're You Watching ?
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 18, 2011	Last night we went and saw an absolutely brilliant piece of pure cinema, "The Artist"! Hope this garners a few Oscar's this year.
Club Events SCNA's "Nude At The Getty" Scavenger Hunt
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 17, 2011	We had such a great time with this last year, we're doing it again! The Southern California Naturist Association would like to invite anyone in the Southern California area to join us on Saturday, 1/21/12, for a "Nude at the Getty" Scavenger Hunt! Unfortunately, you won't be able to get nude, but for those of you that would like to participate, we've put together a scavenger-type hunt that is based on answering a series of questions about many of the different nude paintings, sculptures, statues, tapestries, and artworks at the beautiful Getty Center Museum right off the 405 Fwy. in the Santa Monica Foothills. You don't have to know anything about art, but as long as you can read, find the nude artworks, and answer the clues in the alloted time to get through the museum, the person, couple, or team that has the most correct answers will win a prize! Even if you don't wont to participate in the hunt, you're still welcome to come on up and meet a number of local naturists, find out more about the SCNA, and all our different events that we've planned throughout the year! Other than the Getty's parking fee ($15) it's FREE to join us this afternoon, but we would appreciate an RSVP, so we know how many will be attending, and can bring the correct number of questionnaires. We'll be meeting at noon along the tables at the western end of the tram's Arrival Plaza. For more info, or to RSVP, call (818)225-2273, send an e-mail to scna@socalnaturist.org, or visit www.socalnaturist.org by 7:00 PM on Friday, 1/20/12, letting us know your name, and how many of you will be meeting us. Come on out and join us for a fun-filled afternoon, check out some gorgeous works of art, and maybe meet and connect with some new like-minded nudist friends!
Absolute Naturists AANR & TNS Memberships
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 17, 2011	My wife and I have been members of both TNS and AANR for years, and feel that every naturist should support both organizations in whatever way possible, as both organizations offer support to naturists in different ways. Our local club, the Southern California Naturist Association, also believes in supporting both organizations, to the point that we offer discounts to first-time members subsidized by the SCNA to entice our members to join either or both, even though it’s not a requirement for SCNA membership. As many of our members are refugees from Elysium, and free beach activists, we’re naturally more inclined to support the grass-roots culture and efforts engendered by TNS, but we also see the need to support AANR, because they also do good work on many fronts. Although lately, especially in California, it seems our support has increasingly been taking to offering a dissenting opinion, or to be the “squeaky wheel” to the “credible voice of reason”, whenever we see them getting off track.
Music Your Favorite Albums Of 2011
SoCalNudist Posted: Dec 14, 2011	For me they are: Adele - 21 The Black Keys - El Camino Raphael Saadiq - Stone Rollin' Tom Waits - Bad As Me Wilco - The Whole Love
Club Events SCNA's Harvest Feast and Hot Tub Party
SoCalNudist Posted: Nov 6, 2011	The Southern California Naturist Society will host a Pre-Thanksgiving Harvest Feast and Hot Tub Party on Sat. 11/19 at a member's home this year. The club will provide drinks and a delicious oven-baked Turkey, with the attending guests bringing all the rest of the season's traditional side dishes and desserts. Games, good people, and a warm Jacuzzi should make for a great day! Space is limited, so if you're in the area, and would like to attend, call (818) 225-2273 and RSVP!
Nudist Legal Discussions Southern California Beach Report
SoCalNudist Posted: Sep 24, 2011	Following recent reports of naturists being warned of arrest for nudity on Gaviota Beach near Santa Barbara, Dennis Craig Smith, noted naturist author and leader of the Friends of Gaviota Beach, and Gary Mussell, president of the Southern California Naturist Association and Friends of Bates Beach met with Richard Rozelle, Parks Dept. Superintendant for Ventura and Santa Barbara counties along with Dan Falat, the district's supervising ranger on 9/1/11 to discuss the recent increased law enforcement activity at Gaviota after several years of cooperation between the two sides. Dennis brought with him a letter from Eric Hellstrom, who was Falat’s predecessor, which spelled out the understanding that has kept the peace between nudists and deputies. Dennis was eager to explain how that agreement had worked to everyone’s benefit. Instead, Rozelle cut him off and said, “It doesn’t matter. Eric isn’t here anymore. Conditions have changed.” Falat agreed with his boss: “I am paid to enforce the law, not ignore it. My officers will follow the law until it is changed.” What does this mean for California naturists, visitors, and naturists in general? In Southern California, there is now only one naturist beach that is virtually free from negative law enforcement activity, and that is Black's Beach in San Diego. That does not mean that you can't, or shouldn't, go down to Gaviota, Bates, or even San Onofre , and enjoy a wonderful nude day, but you need to be prepared in case you are confronted by law enforcement. As noted by officer Falat, in his jurisdiction, he only has 9 deputies per 8 hr. shift to cover all parks and beaches from Lompoc to Goleta, due to the budget cuts in California. In the event of any confrontation, whether it's just a warning to get dressed, or issuance of a citation, there are a few things to remember: 1) Be courteous and comply with the officer's request. Rudeness, arguing, or refusal can result in a citation, or possible arrest. 2) In any situation, note the officer's name, badge number, and enforcement agency (park ranger, sheriff, etc.) 3) If you are involved in, or witness an incident at any State Beach (e.g., ticketing, harassment, official or personal, please contact Allen Baylis by phone at (714) 962-0915 or by e-mail at rab@baylislaw.com Alternatively, you may contact NAC Executive Director Bob Morton by phone at (512) 282-6621 or by e-mail at execdir@naturistaction.org For those of you unaware, Allen Baylis is a lawyer on the board of the Naturist Action Commitee, and leader of the Friends of San Onofre, who has successfully defended all the citations issued there, to this point. Whether you're a naturist in the area, or not, you can help in the defense of naturist's rights everywhere in the US by making a donation to the Naturist Action Committee at: www.naturistaction.org
Absolute Naturists Family Nudists
SoCalNudist Posted: Sep 10, 2011	A couple of notes and experiences on some of the topics brought up… As FireProf noted with his kids, and as any parent knows, whether your kids have been raised as nudists, or not, eventually they start breaking away from what they’ve been taught, or how they’ve been raised. Whatever you want to call it, peer pressure, adolescence, testing the waters, all children eventually start listening and believing in their friends opinions more than yours. It’s a natural, healthy part of growing up, and essential in children developing their own personality by questioning authority. And for parents, it can be hell… maddening, frustrating, worrying, humorous, exhilarating, and wonderful to watch, all at the same time. If they survive, (because they also think they’re indestructible at this age) all you can hope for is that eventually they’ll come back around to the principles and love you’ve laid down for them early in life. FireProf’s experience is proof of that, and for this he and his wife are truly blessed and lucky. Case in point: My wife and I were visiting one of our local nudist clubs and there was a young female resident maybe 14-16 yrs. old wearing a bikini top all day long. In a conversation with one of the other residents later, we learned it was because she wanted to get tan lines, so she would fit in better with her non-nudist friends. Another note about perceptions, and how they change, in relation to the misguided notion by most “textiles”, and many “nudists”, that nudity around children is unhealthy or wrong. One of the fun activities at most of TNS’ Western Gatherings is when they screen early nudist films, most of which are truly awful examples of the exploitation of nudism at the time, but looking back at them now, can induce everything from guffaws to groans from a nudist audience. The film they showed this year was Doris Wishman’s first “nudie-cutie” filmed at a Florida nudist club in 1960 called “Hideout in the Sun”. One of the interesting things about this film was that while all adults throughout were filmed with their genitals hidden by camera angles, poses, shrubs, flowers, even beach balls, when nudist families with children were filmed, the children were fully exposed. Quite a bit different from today with the “child porn hysteria” that’s bolstered by the aforementioned notion that nudity around children is wrong. While it’s occasionally nice to take a break and get away to an adults only resort, my wife and I generally prefer a healthy, family-oriented club for our visits.
Absolute Naturists Are you an Absolute Naturist?
SoCalNudist Posted: Sep 6, 2011	Yabba-Dabba-Do!
Music "I'm Gonna Add Some Bottom..": The Best Bassists
SoCalNudist Posted: Aug 30, 2011	In addition to the aforementioned, a few of my faves are: Pino Palladino (Who, John Mayer) Jack Casady (Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna) Stanley Clarke (Return to Forever) James Jamerson (Funk Bros./Mowtown) Donald "Duck" Dunn (Booker T & the MG's/Stax) Lee Sklar (JT/Phil Collins/The Section) Chris Squire (Yes) Carol Kaye (Beach Boys and millions of others) Aston Barrett (Bob Marley & the Wailers) Michael Manring Nick Lowe Phil Lynott (Thin Lizzy) Bruce Thomas (The Attractions) Max Bennett (Crusaders/Zappa/Joni Mitchell) Bill Black (Elvis Presley) Phil Lesh (Grateful Dead) Marcus Miller (Miles, David Sanborn) Willie Weeks (Stevie Wonder,Clapton, G.Harrison)
Absolute Naturists Is there anyone you'd be embarrassed to have see you naked?
SoCalNudist Posted: Aug 30, 2011	Like many of you have said, No, I wouldn't be embarassed, but some family and friends would be embarassed with my nudity. Earlier this month though my wife and I had a breakthrough with her brother, who we were visiting. He and his wife own some secluded property up in the gold mining hills of Calaveras County and are nude quite often on their own. Up until this visit though, my wife has never been nude in front of her brother. One afternoon after working around the property, he came up to the pool nude where the rest of us were lounging around, and after that none of us bothered much with clothes for the rest of our visit!
Absolute Naturists Talk about your Nude Summer
SoCalNudist Posted: Aug 30, 2011	After starting out the summer on a good note with a trip to Olive Dell for their Pirates of the Caribbean Festival on Memorial Day, I was sent to Memphis, TN to work for most of the summer. With the heat and humidity there this summer, I don't understand why everybody isn't nude 24/7, and I sure was, whenever possible. Also took the opportunity to visit some of Tennessee's clubs, Rock Haven Lodge and Cherokee Lodge, both which were very enjoyable. Early August I got to come home for a break, so my wife and I headed up to Laguna Del Sol and ran into someone many of you know here as FireProf, and his lovely wife. We had a great time with them for a few days before we headed up to visit my wife's brother, who owns some secluded property up in the gold mining hills of Calaveras County, and where we were all able to relax au naturel. After a few days there, we cut over to Lupin Lodge for TNS' Western Naturist Gathering where we had a wonderful time catching up with old friends, taking part in the activities, and enjoying a great resort. Back in Memphis now till the end of Sept, but I'll be visiting the 40 Acre Club in Missouri after Labor Day.
Nudist Club Trip Reports Cherokee Lodge & Resort, Crossville TN
SoCalNudist Posted: Jul 23, 2011	Just got back from my 1st visit there, and had a great time. It was mid-week, so there weren't a lot of folks there, but those that were there were real friendly,including a 61-year old who was fulfilling an item on his "bucket list" with his first social nude experience! Owners and staff were very gracious and went out of their way to make sure all of us guests were well taken care of, and had an enjoyable time. I did and I just wish I had more time to spend there. Recommended!
Sports Talk Stanley Cup Finals
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 2, 2011	Looks like it's going to be an exciting final! Some great, high level hockey being played by both teams, Go Nucks!
Nudist Club Trip Reports Olive Dell Nudist Ranch
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 2, 2011	Cynthia and I really enjoyed this past weekend at Olive Dell. Always nice to see old friends and make new ones. Their Pirates of the Carribean celebration was fun, with the highlight, for us, being the firebreather`s show. The dinner that Bobby cooked up was amazing, huge portion of BBQ`d ribs done just right. Even though it would`ve been nice if it was a little warmer, especially on Sunday, we both came home a little red. Sunday, I entered their Texas Hold`em tournament and ended up the Bubble Boy, just getting knocked out before the payout. We got to round out the weekend with a nice lunch and visit with our daughter and grandaughter, who`s growing up way too fast! We hope you all enjoyed your weekend too!
Music Best Guitarists
SoCalNudist Posted: Jun 2, 2011	In addition to all the axmen noted already: Lowell George Ry Cooder Leo Kotke Sonny Landreth Albert Lee Steve Cropper Nels Cline Trey Anastasio Larry Carlton Joe Messina David Lindley Dave Edmunds Lee Ritenour James Burton Mark Knopfler Bill Frisell Michael Hedges And since most all of the previous Guitar Gods mentioned in this topic studied, or were influenced by: Robert Johnson Jimmy Reed Chuck Berry Elmore James Slim Harpo Charlie Christian Mississippi Fred McDowell Reverend Gary Davis Elizabeth Cotton Andres Segovia Mississippi John Hurt T-Bone Walker Although they're mostly recognized as brilliant songwriters, if you really listen to what they're doing, they're also great guitarists: Paul Simon and James Taylor
Absolute Naturists The Price Of Nude Recreation & Enjoyment
SoCalNudist Posted: May 25, 2011	As treasurer, and board member of the Southern California Naturist Association (SCNA), the largest non-landed club in Los Angeles County, I'm intimately aware of the cost, in dollars, time, and effort in operating a naturist club. Through our contacts and discussions with the leadership at both AANR-West, TNS, other non-landed clubs, as well as ALL the landed resorts in California and elsewhere, I can attest to the fact that no one, I repeat, NO ONE is getting rich at this, and quite a few clubs are struggling to keep afloat in the current economy. This also goes for both the national organizations who are struggling, not only to get new members, but to retain their current membership. Ultimately, those of us who are involved in running the various clubs do so because we love the naturist lifestyle so much, we've committed to doing whatever we can, putting our money, and our time, where our mouth is, like SunBunny, FireProf, and many others of you, to help promote and protect this wonderful lifestyle. For example, all who serve on the SCNA board, from the president down, are all volunteers, doing what we can to keep the club going as an alternative to those naturists in the area who can't afford a membership, or the drive in that legendary LA traffic, to one of the local landed clubs. Our membership fees go primarily to the production, printing, and mailing of our award-winning (from AANR) monthly newsletter, and the upkeep of our website, not to mention hosting our parties and events. We're also involved in educating and promoting naturism in our community by offering 4 different monthly dinner Meetups for "newdists" throughout LA who are curious about the lifestyle, their recreational options, and our place in it. We've also spearheaded a now 4 yr. campaign to regain a clothing-optional section of Bates Beach in Ventura County that was lost in the same way that San Onofre is being threatened now. The SCNA supports both AANR and TNS, and while we don't make it a requirement to join either organization, we highly recommend it to our members, to the point that we offer discounts to join each organization subsidized by the SCNA. As SB said, every naturist needs to decide how important this lifestyle, and form of recreation, is to them, and then do whatever you can to support it. If possible, join and support your local club, whether landed, or non-landed. If you're a home nudist, not ready for social nudism, or out of reach to any club, join AANR, TNS, or both, if possible. We're all aware that times are tough and money's tight now, but none of us can afford to lose any more beaches, clubs, or land, because we're counting on someone else to step up.
Absolute Naturists YOUR Nude Quote of the Day
SoCalNudist Posted: May 22, 2011	It's not really original, supposedly it's attributed to Oscar Wilde, but my favorite nude quote has always been, "If God had meant us to be naked, we would've been born that way!"
Club Events Pirates Of The Caribbean at Olive Dell Ranch
SoCalNudist Posted: May 19, 2011	Aaargh, Matey's! Memorial Day Weekend, 5/28-30, members of the SCNA will head over to Olive Dell Ranch to take part in their Pirates Of The Caribbean themed weekend celebration. An auction and flea market, fortune-telling booth, a Walk the Plank Dunk Tank,"Pelt the Pirate" booth, and Tug of War are just some of the activities they have planned. Prizes for the best Pirate costume, and Sat. nite will be topped off with Captain Bobby's BBQ Rib dinner, followed by a dance. Come on out and join in the fun, landlubbers, or you'll be a-wishin for a place in Davy Jones Locker when you find out what you missed!
Absolute Naturists The Nudist Click Moment
SoCalNudist Posted: May 18, 2011	Summer of '75 I had just moved to San Diego, and a work friend asked if I wanted to check out Black's Beach. Once I dropped my suit, and jumped into the Pacific, that proverbial "lightbulb in my head" clicked on and I thought, "this is so natural, this feels so good, this is so right, this is the way it's supposed to be"! Jump ahead to the mid '90's, and after a few month's dating, I revealed my naturist beliefs to my future wife, and convinced her to give it a try at Elysium with me. At the end of a wonderful day, she didn't want to get dressed and said "I can't believe I've never tried this before". We've never looked back since.
Music Music Subscription Services
SoCalNudist Posted: May 16, 2011	Years ago I tried out Rhapsody as well as some other sites, but have stuck with Rhapsody because it's the one site I've found in which I can listen to most of the new releases every week, entirely all the way through, instead of 30 sec tastes from each song.
Movie Buffs What're You Watching ?
SoCalNudist Posted: May 9, 2011	Just saw a really fine film starring Rachel Weisz called "Agora". It's a historical drama which takes place in 4th century Alexandria, Egypt and has themes that still echo today, the relationship between religion & science, and the effect and rise of two of the major religions in the area, Judaism and Christianity. Rachel plays Hypatia, a mathemetican, teacher, and philosopher at the center of this cultural maelstrom and the other characters in this film. Recommended.
Movie Buffs Summer Releases 2011
SoCalNudist Posted: May 9, 2011	Since I'm also something of a comic geek, but in no particular order: Thor Green Lantern X-Men: First Class Capt. America: The First Avenger Cowboys & Aliens Super 8 Bridesmaids - Kristen Wiig & Maya Rudolph just crack me up Hangover Pt. 2 - sequels can be hit or miss but I'll give this one a go The Tree of Life - Brad Pitt & Sean Penn directed by Terrence Malick Larry Crowne - I'll go see just about anything Tom Hanks is acting in Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark - Written by Guillermo Del Toro
Club Events Spring Celebration and Jacuzzi Party
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 28, 2011	The SCNA will gather at one of our member's homes on the Westside of Los Angeles to celebrate Spring and the return of our "Sun season" with a party featuring a potluck, games, a warm jacuzzi to soak in, and a warm sun to soak up some rays! Visit www,socalnaturist.org, or call (818) 225-2273 to find out how you can join us!
Absolute Naturists Your Nudist Story
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 21, 2011	Growing up in south central LA in a very Catholic family, and going to Catholic school (yes, I was even an altar boy) I had no exposure to nudism at all, until I discovered some tattered old nudist mags in a vacant field near our house, where we all used to play. Besides getting my first glimpse at basic human anatomy, the thing that struck me most about the pictures was that, everyone seemed to be having so much fun without clothes! A seed was planted. Once in high school I had also started sleeping nude whenever possible. Fast forward to the summer of '75 when I had briefly moved to San Diego and a work friend asked if I wanted to go check out Black's Beach. Once I got over my initial fear, dropped my suit, and jumped into the Pacific, for me, it was literally like the proverbial lightbulb clicking on in my head. I thought, "this is so natural, this is so right, this feel so good, this is the way it's supposed to be!" After that summer I became a Dad, and between raising a daughter, and having to move back to LA for work, I kind of put my nudist activities simmering on the back burner. Jump ahead to the mid '80's when work moved me back down to SD, and I not only resumed going to Black's, but eventually hooked up with the 1st social group I belonged to, a bunch of folks founded by one of the west coast's leading nude activists, Clara Bailey. They're called the Camping Bares (An Anarchist Disorganization Dedicated to the Destruction of the Fabric of Our Society) and yes, they know how to have fun! My one regret about this time is that, as I was getting back into nudism, I wasn't able to get my daughter into it also. But like many teenagers who are learning to cope with the changes their own bodies are going through, the last thing she wanted to think about was seeing Dad naked. Cut to mid '90's when work moved me back to LA, and there was nowhere to go nude, except this Eden in Topanga Canyon called Elysium. I became a member after my first visit, and shortly thereafter, introduced my future wife to nudism up there also. We even took our honeymoon in Jamaica at what was then known as Grand Lido Braco, spending the entire week on the nude side. Once Elysium closed in 2001, we floundered around a bit until we hooked up the survivors from there who had formed a travel club, the Southern California Naturist Association. Over the years we've become more involved with the club, to where I'm now Treasurer and on the Board of Directors. And yes, we're still having fun!
Absolute Naturists Nudist Living - A Weekend Seminar
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 21, 2011	I've attended most all of the Naturist Society's Western Gatherings for the last 14 yrs. and the type of seminars or workshops many of you are talking about, whether for women only, men only, or mixed, happen at each one. I'm sure they also happen at their other gatherings throuout the US. I urge all of you to check out the next one that's closest to you this summer!
Absolute Naturists What Can You Do to Promote Positive Naturism?
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 21, 2011	Every month, the non-landed club I belong to, the Southern California Naturist Association (SCNA) sponsors 4 different dinner Meetups throughout the greater LA area. These Meetups are clothed affairs at public restaurants that afford people interested in nudism generally, and social nudism in particular, an opportunity to learn more, connect with other local, like-minded people, and share their experiences. I moderate 2 of these Meetups every month in Pasadena and Torrance, Ca.
Club Events SCNA Visits Deer Park and Olive Dell
SoCalNudist Posted: Apr 12, 2011	Members of the Southern California Naturist Association will travel to the Deer Park Resort in Devore on Sat, 4/16 to join in their celebration of Nude Earth Day by helping to plant some flowers and plants. We'll then plant ourselves in and around the pool to soak up some sun also. The following day, Sun 4/17, various members will head over to the Olive Dell Resort in Colton to take part in their 2nd annual 5K Bare Burro Run. Some of us will run, some of us will walk, and some of us will just relax. Join us at either or both events for great weekend with great friends!
Music Best all around drummer ? (any age group)
SoCalNudist Posted: Mar 19, 2011	R.I.P. Joe Morello Maybe not the "best" drummer, but an elegant, economical stickman fond of unusual time signatures with the Dave Brubeck Quartet ala "Take Five"
Club Events SCNA's "Think Green" Jacuzzi Party - 3/12/11
SoCalNudist Posted: Feb 20, 2011	As we do every year, we are combining the sentiments of St. Patrick's Day and Earth Day into a "Think Green" party theme. SCNA will provide the corned beef! You should plan to bring a potluck item that is either "Irish" in origin, or represents the blessings of Mother Earth. Plan to wear something green--a bow tie, a hat, socks, or....???? Our member's home does have a Jacuzzi (no pool) and you can use the large patio for sunning, weather permitting! To find out how to join in on the fun, come to one of our Monthly Meetups, visit our website, or call (818) 225-2273. More Information: http://www.socalnaturist.org
Club Events "Nude At The Getty" Scavenger Hunt
SoCalNudist Posted: Jan 3, 2011	The Southern California Naturist Association would like to invite anyone in the Southern California area to join us on Sunday, 1/16/11, for a "Nude at the Getty" Scavenger Hunt! Unfortunately, you won't be able to get nude, but for those of you that would like to participate, we've put together a scavenger-type hunt that is based on answering a series of questions about many of the different nude paintings, sculptures, statues, tapestries, and artworks at the beautiful Getty Center Museum right off the 405 Fwy. in the Santa Monica Foothills. You don't have to know anything about art, but as long as you can read, find the nude artworks, and answer the clues in the alloted time to get through the museum, the person, couple, or team that has the most correct answers will win a prize! Even if you don't wont to participate in the hunt, you're still welcome to come on up and meet a number of local naturists, find out more about the SCNA, and all our different events that we've planned throughout the year! Other than the Getty's parking fee ($15) it's FREE to join us this afternoon, but we would appreciate an RSVP, so we know how many will be attending, and can bring the correct number of questionnaires. We'll be meeting at noon along the tables at the western end of the tram's Arrival Plaza. For more info, or to RSVP, call (818)225-2273, send an e-mail to scna@socalnaturist.org, or visit www.socalnaturist.org by 7:00 PM on Saturday, 1/15/11, letting us know your name, and how many of you will be meeting us. Come on out and join us for a fun-filled afternoon, check out some gorgeous works of art, and maybe meet and connect with some new like-minded nudist friends!
Club Events SCNA Nude Thanksgiving Feast
SoCalNudist Posted: Nov 8, 2010	Cynthia & I will be hosting a Nude Thansgiving Feast for the SCNA and our friends this weekend. Good Food, Good People, and Good Times the order of the day!
Club Events SCNA Halloween/Thanksgiving
SoCalNudist Posted: Oct 26, 2010	A number of members of the Southern California Naturist Assoc. will be joining the good folks out at the Deer Park Resort in Devore for their Halloween party on 10/30. Cynthia and I will be hosting our Thanksgiving party on Sunday, 11/14. Contact me for more info. Cheers!

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