AANR and Regions to Make Most Significant Effort in Washington to Date

Beginning tomorrow, AANR members representing all regions (with the understandable exception of Canada) will be at our nation’s capital in Washington, D.C.  In all, seven Government Affairs Team members-and an extra spouse or two-will team up with others from Maryland and Virginia. Appointments have been made to meet with dozens of House and Senate offices. In addition, we will make “fly-by” visits to many, many more, stopping to answer questions and drop off literature. In all, we have come prepared with literature for at least 360 visits!

This year through the significant efforts of AANR Public Lands Liaison Steve Hubbard, several meetings have been arranged with top echelons from several agencies with the power to direct the future of nudity on public lands. What’s more, we have even scheduled informal luncheons with some members of the judiciary, so all three branches of government will be reached during the course of our visits.

Finally, we have added a new wrinkle this year by sending out press releases announcing this project to metro-D.C. media.  To date, this has resulted in coverage by The Hill and The Washington Independent The Washington Independent

We have also arranged for an interview with a Georgetown-based publication when we reach Washington.

I want to publicly thank the AANR Government Affairs teams from all regions and, especially, Alonzo and Debra Sue Stevens for an incredible amount of work which has gone into priming us for success.  I will provide details of the trip in a future report.

Should you need to reach me next week, please call the AANR office and ask to speak with my assistant Nanette Wickersham, who will be able to assist you.

SEARCH ENGINE TRAFFIC-MAXIMIZED

Those who have attended recent AANR Board of Trustees meetings know that a significant effort is being made on both our Public Relations and Brand Management fronts to maximize search engine traffic.  Put another way, we want those who consult a search engine to find AANR as a resource quickly. We have been following some excellent advice from Bill Dennis (who started the Captain Jack company) to accomplish that.  Recent efforts include an all-new blog on the aanr.com Web site called “The Alltogether.”

While we admittedly have a long, long way to go, this week we received more proof that such efforts are working.  If you visit the much hailed BING search engine unveiled by Microsoft this week http://www.bing.com and enter the word “nudist,” you will see that AANR is among the top entries.  Reports in the press say that Microsoft will spend between 100 and 200 million dollars advertising and driving traffic to the new search engine, so this is a significant development!  More traffic to aanr.com will, in turn, drive more traffic to club Web sites.

Kudos to Living Waters Spa

Living Waters was recently invited to the California State University to present guest lectures on the concept of nude recreation. This was an incredible opportunity to influence a generation of future leaders and customers. You can find a link to a YouTube video capturing this in Carolyn’s report.

White Tail Resort Makes News

White Tail Resort of Ivor, Virginia, has a story about its open house and art show this weekend, which has been garnering publicity, see

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/05/prweb2478244.htm

Finally, be sure to carefully review the report from Carolyn Hawkins below. A floodgate of public relations opportunities opened this week following releases and pitches for the World Record Skinny-Dip.

CAROLYN HAWKINS, PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR

PR has been very busy with the AANR World Skinny-Dip day and the Capitol Hill visit.

I had an interview with Wireless Flash News. Check out the link below:

http://dancirucci.blogspot.com/2009/06/worlds-largest-skinny-dip.html

I had an interview with the Todd and Don Show.

http://www.590klbj.com/ToddAndDon/Blogentry.aspx?BlogEntryID=10034375

Steve Vickers and I had an interview with the Austin American Statesman newspaper in Austin, TX. Check out link below for article:

http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/06/05/0605kelso.html

Watch the link below for Steve Vickers video from Austin Statesman.

http://www.statesman.com/news/content/multimedia/players/brightcove.html?bcpid=1459162514&bclid=1461295912&bctid=25309195001

I had an interview with National Gold Radio, London regarding the AANR World Skinny-Dip day.

I had an interview with Ocean 98 in Ocean City, MD, regarding AANR World Skinny-Dip day and “why nude weddings.”

I had a live radio interview with Jake and the morning show on AANR World Skinny-Dip day.

Congratulations to Drakes Ridge for the article in the Chicago Sun Times.

http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/travel/northamerica/1593314,CST-FTR-small0527.article

Check out link below on the Top seven nudist clubs in Midwest:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/177187/top_7_nudist_camps_in_midwest_america.html?cat=16

Congrats to Jeff and Judy Bowman on the “Lecture on Body Acceptance/Clothing Optional Philosophy Body Acceptance/Self Acceptance” at a California State

University psychology class.  Watch the video:

http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=76D82CE4CA11EFC7

I had an interview with The Hill regarding the visit to the Capitol

http://thehill.com/in-the-know/nudists-to-lobby-on-capitol-hill-2009-06-03.html

Erich had an interview with NBC regarding the Capitol Hill visit.  We will report more on that next week

Linda Berry, Director of Publications

The Cyber-Bulletin

Laguna del Sol’s popular Master of Ceremonies at Nudestock will be featured on America’s Got Talent premiering on ABC on June 23. Read more at
http://www.aanr.com/cyber_bulletin.html.

The Bulletin

The July issue is in production.

The Alltogether

Check out AANR’s blog at http://blog.aanr.com/

AANR Shopping

The shopping cart program has been updated, which should make it easier for shoppers to make their purchases. Shop now at http://shop.aanr.com

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

California Budget Cuts-Closure of State Parks

AANR sent out a CapWiz alert this week to California AANR members who have subscribed through the AANR Members section of the AANR Web site.  We are encouraging ONLY recreationalists in California and others who visit the California state parks to respond to this request.  Please pass this
information on to those who may be interested, nudists and non-nudists!

We MUST STOP the Governor’s plan to close over 200 of our state parks.  Just this week, the Governor announced a new proposal to eliminate state funding for our state park system-which will close more than 80 percent of the 279-unit state park system.  His proposal to cut $143 million from our state parks is 10 times worse than last year’s proposal. California State Parks Foundation (CSPF) is kicking off the Save Our State Parks campaign again,
and we need your help to take action TODAY and tell the Governor and your state legislators that gutting funding to state parks is unacceptable.

State park visitors need to make their voices heard RIGHT NOW.  Your action of contacting your legislators is critical.  To send a message to your legislator and the Governor, please CLICK HERE http://ga3.org/campaign/budget_may09 !  Our friends at the California State Parks Foundation have prepared an easy way for you to voice your opinion.  Please take three minutes to become an advocate for California state parks.

Subscribe to Receive Important Capwiz Alerts To sign-up for CapWiz Alerts, please click here  http://capwiz.com/aanr/mlm/signup/?ignore_cookie=1 and fill out the registration form.

If you are an existing member and would like to update your profile, scroll to the bottom of the page for this option.  Your participation in this program is an added benefit of your AANR membership. Please feel free to post this information in your club newsletter!

AANR Legislative Tracking

Statistics for 2009:

In Session: There are 16 states, DC and US in Regular Session. There is 1 state in Special Session.

States in Regular Session: AZ, CA, DC, DE, LA, MA, ME, MI, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, US

AANR Statistics:

o    3,000 bills were reviewed personally by AANR in 2009.
o    408 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2009.
o    122 bills remain on the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”
o    133 bills have been moved to the “Archived 2009 List”

AANR encourages our membership and like-minded nudists and naturists to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation. Always contact the AANR Office before taking action.  This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort.  Remember, AANR GAT works for you!

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

There are no address changes this week. Please contact me at clubinfo@aanr.com for certifying officer changes.

Have a great weekend everybody.

AANR Mourns the Loss of a Member and Good Friend

This week we were saddened to hear of the passing of K Mathesius.  Those of you who have been active in the Association’s leadership for some time may recall that K was the Secretary of the Eastern Sunbathing Association for many years and was a much loved and respected supporter of AANR all her life. According to Susan Weaver, she lived at White Thorn and spent winters at Sunsport with her partner of the last few years, Tex.

One saying of K’s was that she often pronounced “AANR” with a soft “a”
sound, so it rhymed with “honor.”  She used this pronunciation because she
said it was an “honor to belong to AANR.”

With Many Thanks for Your Quick Response

Yesterday we distributed an e-mail to all clubs asking for information relating to whether your club is adjacent to any federal lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management.  Steve Hubbard, AANR Public Lands Liaison, and I would personally like to thank the many of you who responded so quickly with information.  This will be very helpful as we prepare for visits to Washington, D.C., in just over one week.

AANR Helping Members

On Thursday, AANR Club/Member Liaison Terry Justice and I worked with a husband and wife who are members of AANR/AANR-Northwest.  They have been threatened with “legal hassles” by an ex spouse should they continue to attend clubs or practice any nudity in the presence of their daughter.  We have provided written information and discussed legal scenarios with the couple.

MUZAK Update

Those who telephone our offices at 1-800-TRY-NUDE will hear an all-new Muzak greeting if placed on hold.  Set to beach music, the message announces the world record skinny-dip event, provides dates of upcoming summer conventions, and a pitch to join or renew membership.

See You in the Funny Pages

Yesterday’s Beetle Bailey comic strip depicted America’s favorite soldier and an army buddy standing near a sign announcing a nude beach.  While Beetle states that he would prefer to look for a “spectator’s section,” his friend has doffed his shorts and is ready to join in by the second panel.  The online site for this comic lags several weeks behind print content so we are not yet able to provide a link, but perhaps you can check a day-old copy.

If you’re like me, you welcome such developments. As more people are introduced to the concept of nude recreation–whether by hearing about the World Record Skinny-Dip or by reading the funnies at their breakfast table–it helps to create a more receptive audience for our message.

E-Mail Trouble Continues-But on a Smaller Scale

Our webmaster has changed servers, so our IP address had to be changed. Although many providers now recognize our new address, there are still some e-mails that are being kicked back. Please let your friends and clubs know about this problem in case they don’t receive this e-mailed report.

The inbound e-mails are working just fine.

Linda Berry, Director of Publications

Message Boards

The AANR message boards have reopened after a renovation. New features include heightened security and a slightly different interface that will make the new boards more user-friendly.

Log in to the Member Benefits section of aanr.com, click on Message Boards in the left margin and start connecting with other AANR members.

May 28 Edition of the E-Bulletin

More than 13,200 subscribers read about an opportunity to bid on Sunshine Park, the historic nudist landmark in New Jersey. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.aanr.com .

The Alltogether

AANR’s blog at http://blog.aanr.com/ is gaining in popularity. Desert Sun in California was the first club to purchase ad space on the blog, but there are more slots available. Contact Martha Young at bulletinads {at} aanr.com for details.

The Cyber-Bulletin

A great advertising spot has become available on the Cyber-Bulletin. Visit the link to see the site at http://www.aanr.com/cyber_bulletin.html . Contact Martha Young at bulletinads {at} aanr.com for pricing.

Prime Space Available in The Bulletin

Your club or business will definitely get noticed if it has a two-page spread ad in The Bulletin. The center spread is now available for a price you can’t refuse. Call Martha Young at 800/879-6833, ext. 228 for more information.

Only One Space Available

Every person or couple who joins AANR or renews their membership receives a set of coupons with special offers for members only. There is one coupon space available for YOUR OFFER.  Contact Martha Young at bulletinads {at} aanr.com for details. It will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis so don’t delay.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

Directory Changes

I would like to welcome a new club. It is a non-landed, proprietary club.

The information is as follows:

American Association for Naturist Family Recreation
P.O. Box 6662
San Pedro, CA 90734
310.404.5153
www.aanfr.com
aanfr-mbeals@hotmail.com

There is a change of address for AANR-NW:

AANR Northwest Region
P.O. Box 937
Marcola, OR 97454

Great Lakes Sunseekers has an address change:

c/o Bruce Rosander
5250 Pockington Road
Tecumseh, MI. 49286

Sadly, I have to report a club closure.

LCNC Coastal Sun Raiders of Charleston, South Carolina, has disbanded.

Have a great weekend everybody.

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

Public Indecency Addressed at Rooster Rock State Park
Submitted by Shirley Gauthier, AANR-NW Public Lands Liaison

SOLV’s “Down By The Riverside” event provided an educational opportunity for Oregon State Park staff, law enforcement, and AANR volunteers to address public indecency concerns.  Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers, a newly formed 100% AANR club, hosted the 14th annual SOLV event.

A Rooster Rock State Park Safety meeting held in 2008 and organized by Park Ranger Lisa Midlam contributed to the creation of a sign advising beach users of indecency laws and the introduction of a visitor beach card.  This meeting included law enforcement officers (state police and Multnomah County Sheriff agencies), state park staff, and AANR members, and addressed public indecency concerns.

The sign and beach cards introduced at the cleanup welcome beach visitors, cite the Oregon State Law on public indecency and make it easy to report illegal or inappropriate behaviors by providing phone numbers for the Multnomah County Sheriff, Oregon State Police, and the Rooster Rock State Park Managers.

Multnomah County Sheriff Deputy Bryan White presented information specifically addressing Public Indecency.  Deputy White explained the law and how visitors can assist law enforcement.  Deputy White made it clear that illegal or sexual behavior will not be tolerated.

AANR is proud to partner with SOLV (http://www.solv.org/ ) and appreciated SOLV Business Manager Denise Smith attending and taking the group photo.  Thanks to Laurel MacMillan of Rural Development Initiatives (RDI) for attending.  RDI (http://www.rdiinc.org/) is a private non-profit organization.

A special thanks to the SOLV staff, Multnomah County Sheriff Deputy Bryan White, Rooster Rock State Park Rangers Mark Stevenson, Lisa Midlam, Glenn Littrell, John Cowan, David Bjorge,  Cassie Bostrom, and Gorge District Manager Kevin Price.

AANR dues-paying members who volunteer their time, energy, and finances are the driving force to promoting and preserving nude recreation.  If you missed this event join the Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers Club, August 1-2, for the AANR beach cleanup weekend at Rooster Rock-Mountaindale Sun Resort (mountaindalesun.com) and Sauvie Island.  Contact rooster.sauvie {at} yahoo.com for details.

Glassbar Island State Park – Cleanup Report for 5/16/09
Submitted by Shirley Gauthier, AANR-NW Public Lands Liaison

Glassbar Island State Park near Eugene, Oregon, became even more user group friendly at the annual SOLV “Down By The Riverside” cleanup on May 16th.   A porta-potty was installed near the nude beach area of the clothing-optional state park.  This is huge history making news for user groups.  Do take the time to do the porta-potty happy dance.

Glassbar Island Nude Beach Volunteers (GINBV) a 100% AANR club registered 29 volunteers.   Chris Orsinger, Executive Director Friends of Buford Park & Mt. Pisgah, shared that “we were glad to lend a hand with habitat enhancement and cleanup at Glassbar Island.  We look forward to collaborating in the future to advance habitat enhancement, especially floodplain restoration work that would improve aquatic habitat and water quality.”  Rick Hammond GINBV Webmaster and cleanup photographer said, “I have never seen such a diverse group at the park as I have this year on sunny days.”

Volunteers removed invasive species, planted six different wildflowers, completed litter patrols, and cleaned land belonging to the state and county.  GINBV President David Rosenblatt asked that a special thanks be given to the SOLV, Oregon State Park Dept., Lane County Waste Dept., Friends of Buford Park & Mt. Pisgah, AANR-NW for providing the hotdog barbecue, and to GINBV members who have worked daily at the park for years.

Wishing You A Very Happy and Safe Holiday

Memorial Day weekend marks the traditional start of the summer season for many AANR clubs and we want to wish you the very best for a safe holiday with good weather.

We also wish to express our deepest thanks to the men and women who have served, or are currently serving, in the U.S. and Canadian armed forces to protect the freedoms that we enjoy.  We are grateful for your sacrifice and the sacrifices that your families have made.

In observance of the holiday, our office will be closed on Monday, May 25.

e-Mail Trouble

Our webmaster has changed servers, so our IP address had to be changed. We have since learned that some of our e-mails are being kicked back because the provider does not recognize our new IP address. With time this will change, but in the meantime there are a number of people who can’t receive e-mail from us. Please let your friends and clubs know about this problem in case they don’t receive this e-mailed report.

The inbound e-mails are working just fine.

Linda Berry, Director of Publications

Miscellaneous Projects

The List of Clubs brochure has been updated and is at the printer. We are working on a commemorative T-shirt design for the skinny-dip. A brochure was designed for an AANR-East club. The July Bulletin is in production.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

Directory Changes

Mountaindale Sun Resort no longer has a toll free number and the word “resort” is neither in their URL nor their e-mail address.

Mountaindale Sun Resort

P O Box 248
North Plains, OR  97133
503.647.2449 (voice)

www.mountaindalesun.com

office@mountaindalesun.com

There is a new mailing address for Bluenose Naturists in Nova Scotia:

37 Old Enfield Road
Enfield, Nova Scotia
Canada B2T  1C9

Have a wonderful holiday weekend everybody.

CAROLYN HAWKINS, PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR

Positive Publicity

I had an interview with Sactown Magazine regarding the AANR World Record Skinny-Dip. It is scheduled for June/July issue.

We also had an interview with Fitness Magazine which is scheduled for the summer issue

This publicity came from the skinny-dip press release that was sent out.
http://www.offbeattravel.com/tji-american-association-nude-recreation.html

I had an interview on Tuesday with KQRC 98.9 radio regarding nude weddings. This was a spin off from the Flash News story.

Check the link below from George Volak, past AANR President, who now resides in the Czech Republic.

http://www.tourism-review.com/magazine.php

Click on “Active Adventure.”

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

Momentum Builds for Great Outdoors Week and Month

Your AANR GAT is once again setting another historical record.  For the first time, all United States-based AANR regions will be represented in Washington, D.C., for our annual trip to celebrate Great Outdoors Week to visit recreational leaders and pound the halls of your U.S. Congress members and senators.  We also have a rare opportunity to meet with one member of the Judicial branch of our U.S. government.  Hotel and travel reservations have been booked.  Talking points have been finalized.  Appointments are being confirmed. Two weeks to go!

Months of ground work and a very dedicated team of “veteran” volunteers, combined with some new faces will begin descending in Washington, D.C.
beginning June 5th.  Thank you to following GAT members who will be led by AANR Executive Director Erich Schuttauf:

*      John Hunter, AANR FGAT (Washington, D.C.)

*      Audrey Weber, East Chair

*      Rene Niquette, Florida Chair

*      Karen Cooksey, Florida Member

*      Dave Graber, Midwest Chair

*      Jean Graber, Midwest Member

*      Steve Hubbard, Northwest GA Chair

*      Jim Parker, Southwest Board Member

*      Don Gravalec, West Chair

*      Naomi Anderson, West Member

*      Ray Simpson, Maryland State Coordinator

This team could very well lead us into our most successful journey ever to our nation’s capitol in the name of the credible voice of reason for nude recreation.

StateNet – Capitol Journal May 18, 2009

Top Story in the Capitol Journal

In February, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) and legislative leaders thought a slew of hard fought ballot measures would keep the state from falling into insolvency. But with voters poised to reject those measures, the nation’s most populous state may be heading for disaster.
http://www.statenet.com/capitol_journal/current#sncj_spotlight

Other News This Week

BUDGET & TAXES

http://www.statenet.com/capitol_journal/current#budget_and_taxes
Stimulus spigot trickling instead of flowing

POLITICS & LEADERSHIP
http://www.statenet.com/capitol_journal/current#politics_and_leadership
Budget props might fare better in CA’s future

GOVERNORS
http://www.statenet.com/capitol_journal/current#governors
Lynch to sign gay marriage bill

_____

AANR Legislative Tracking

Statistics for 2009:

In Session: There are 20 states, D.C. and U.S. in Regular Session. DE is in budget hearings. There are 2 states in Special Session. There are 3 states in Recess. WV is in Extended Session (Recessed until 05/26/2009).

States in Regular Session: AZ, CA, CT, DC, IL, LA, MA, ME, MI, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, RI, TN, TX, US

AANR Statistics:

o    2,968 bills were reviewed personally by AANR in 2009.

o    403 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2009.

o    109 bills remain on the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”

o    143 bills have been moved to the “Archived 2009 List”

AANR encourages our membership and like-minded nudists and naturists to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation. Always contact the AANR Office before taking action.  This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort.  Remember, AANR GAT works for yo

StateNet Report:

Bills That Are Behind Us For 2009

The following bills have been tracked by your AANR GAT volunteers; this report is an example of the daily information available to GAT.  Nearly 200 bills were actively being monitored during the peak of the 2009 season. Critical bills with varying levels of concern were tracked in this fashion. This process is continuous in monitoring trends and bills that resurface in the State initiated or pop up in a different State in subsequent years. Each state operates within varying time constraints; legislative body and laws differ within those states.  While the bills below have been archived for this year, we will continue to monitor bills similar to those below. Your dues and fundraising efforts fund the important work of serving the meaning of AANR’s mission.

============

AANR StateNet Report – May 19, 2009
This report was a customized report pulled to notify Erich and Alonzo of notable legislative activities.

Washington State Department of Natural Resources and AANR Working Together There have been some positive moves regarding nude recreation on public land in Washington State. Under Washington law merely being nude on public land is not unlawful. However misunderstandings by both nudists as well as public officials have often led to serious problems for nudists and unnecessary user conflict between nudists, non nudists and landed governmental agencies.

Following up American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) successes on public lands in other states, your AANR Public Land representatives entered into discussions with Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The purpose of these discussions was to create an understanding between the nudist community and DNR to try and increase the opportunities for lawful nude recreation on public lands, while reducing conflict with non-nudists.

The first step was gained in April by a meeting between Mark Mauren DNR Assistant Division Manager, Asset Management and Recreation Division, Larry Raedel, DNR Chief Law Enforcement Officer, Erich Schuttauf AANR Executive Director and Steve Hubbard AANR Public Lands Liaison. A variety of issues were discussed in an open and frank manor and agreement reached on a few key points.

The most noticeable move, in the near term, revolved around an initiative regarding DNR lands that are adjacent to the 4 existing AANR resorts in Washington and open discussions on formalizing the unauthorized trails originating from the resorts. There are a lot of details to work out but it is a start.

AANR is committed to working with the DNR to try and work through the detail to bring this initiative to life, hopefully before the summer “sunning” season is upon us.

These efforts, as important as they are, are just the beginning. AANR’s goal is to continue to work with the DNR to find new and imaginative ways for us to move forward together. We expect to be able to report on these efforts in the near future. Until then, remember your AANR dues allow us to be “the credible voice of nude recreation” and to expand the opportunities for nudist to enjoy their right to recreate on public lands in appropriate settings.

AANR Blog

As you may remember, our good advisor Captain Jack has provided me with numerous tips for increasing the likelihood that search engines like Google will rank us more highly.  Among those suggestions was creating a daily (or at least several times per week) Web log (blog).

Today we’re pleased to announce that the blog is officially up and running with many, many thanks to Lynn von Hagel of publications for her hard work. You can access the blog by clicking here: http://blog.aanr.com/.

Named “The Altogether,” the blog is meant to evoke the colloquial expression of “being in the altogether” (naked), but also evoke the fact that we bring events, opinions, and “newsy” stuff altogether in one place.

Thanks for your help in making this happen, Lynn!

Linda Berry, Director of Publications
The Bulletin

The June issue had its final proofing today. We’ll go to the printer on Tuesday.

The Cyber-Bulletin

Read all about summertime fun in the new edition of The Cyber-Bulletin at http://www.aanr.com/cyber_bulletin.html.
Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

Happy Dance News from the Northwest
Contributed by Shirley Gauthier, Oregon State GA Coordinator

Thanks to a lot of AANR members, Oregon State Park employees and a printing company that generously prioritized our requests and demands we have beach cards to introduce at the Rooster Rock “Down by the Riverside” event May 16.

While I can’t thank everyone individually some people were especially helpful.  Oregon State Park employee Lisa Midlam who worked with me for several days and really late one evening, Rooster-Sauvie Volunteer Mark Buchweitz,  Steve Hubbard, Pat Brown, Erich Schuttauf, and Joseph Gottschall of Bellingham Promotional Products who created the card design and contributed his patience and expertise.

We were on a really tight time line to get them completed before the Rooster Rock May 16th beach cleanup.  This is a wonderful example of everyone working together contributing to a great project.

Deputy Sheriff Bryan White of Multnoman County Sheriff’s Office will be presenting a talk on public indecency at the May 16 event, and we wanted to
have the cards ready to use at that time.  Special thanks to Lisa Midlam for arranging for Deputy Sheriff White to speak.

I love being an AANR member.  It is such a pleasure working with so many volunteers that contribute time and energy adding so much value to my AANR membership. I invite you to stand up and happy dance with me.

Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers will host SOLV’s “Down By the Riverside” Beach Cleanup, Saturday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to noon at Rooster Rock State Park

We’ve got special news. A guest speaker from the Multnomah Sheriff’s Dept. will speak on the issue of public indecency at Rooster Rock and how nudists can help prevent this problem. We will also be presenting new beach cards. The new beach cards provide Oregon State Park information on how to report suspicious or illegal behavior on one side and AANR information on the other side. This is a huge demonstration of the value of our working relationship with OSP, Multnomah County Sheriff Department, and the Oregon State Parks Department who truly value and trust AANR as the credible voice for nude recreation.

Event plans include installing a new parks department sign.  The sign will welcome beach users and educate users on public indecency laws.  The sign encourages users to report inappropriate behaviors by including law enforcement telephone numbers.  Thanks to Shirley Gauthier and Lisa Midlam who worked together to create these historic documents.

We’d also like to remind volunteers that we will now be having potluck lunches.  Please bring a little something to eat or drink. We also ask that you bring a re-usable container for water, as we are trying to avoid using plastic bottles.

Please join Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers for this historic event, as we do our part to preserve, protect, and promote family-friendly nude recreation on public lands.

To sign up, go to:
http://www.solv.org/programs/down_by_the_riverside.asp#sitelist then scroll down to the “Rooster Rock Beach Cleanup” event, and click on “Register Now!”

Any questions? Drop us a line at rooster.sauvie@yahoo.com
Momentum Builds for Great Outdoors Week and Month

Your AANR GAT is once again setting another historical record.  For the first time, all United States based AANR regions will be represented in Washington, D.C., for our annual trip to celebrate Great Outdoors Week, visit recreational leaders, and pound the halls of your U.S. congress members and senators.  We are finalizing our talking points and continuing to confirm appointments.  Months of ground work and a very dedicated team of “veteran” volunteers, combined with some new faces, could very well lead us into our most successful journey ever to our nation’s capitol in the name of the credible voice of reason for nude recreation!

AANR Legislative Tracking

Statistics for 2009:

In Session: There are 28 states, DC and US in Regular Session.  NJ is in budget hearings.  There is 1 state in Special Session.  WV is in Extended Session (Recessed).

States in Regular Session: AL, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, HI, ID, IL, KS, LA, MA,ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, RI, TN, TX, US, VT

AANR Statistics:

o     2,915 bills were reviewed personally by AANR in 2009.
o     401 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2009.
o     171 bills remain on the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”
o     81 bills have been moved to the “Archived 2009 List”

AANR encourages our membership and like-minded nudists and naturists to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation. Always contact the AANR office before taking action.  This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort.  Remember, AANR GAT works for you!

CAROLYN HAWKINS, PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR
Positive Publicity

Congratulations to Lake Associates Recreation Club in Washington for being voted the #1 Campground in the 2009 Northwest Escapes contest.

http://best.king5.com/winners/northwest-escapes/4261/great-getaways/campground

Special Press Release Just For You

Summer is just around the corner, so we thought you might want to send a reopening release to your local media.  Attached you will find a template release.  All you have to do is fill in your club’s information.  You can send it out through Capwiz, which is a free service to our clubs.  Follow instructions below:

Click on { snip – see Carolyn } and it will take you directly to the media area.  Click on the state that you are interested in and it will give you all the contacts in that state- print, radio, etc.  It will let you check five at a time but you can send it as many times as you want. Once you have checked your five media outlets, go to bottom and you will see “compose message.”  Copy and paste the release or your own message into that box.  Be sure to include a subject and be sure to add your club information to the release.  Give me a call at 800/879-6833, ext. 226 if you have any questions.

You may view the AANR Convention award list here:

http://aanr-nw.org/nude/aanr-convention-awards/

It is long and has been given a separate page.

Whether your club and family are celebrating Passover, Easter, or simply enjoying the fact that spring is arriving, this time of year is very special. We hope that you will have a great weekend.

Atlanta Journal Constitution Picks Up the Nakation Trend

This week the online site for one of the Southeast’s most influential newspapers carried a report about the popularity of Nakations. In addition to referencing the CNN story from last week, the AJC online report linked back to earlier stories about nudist resorts in Georgia.

Finally, there is a location onsite where anyone can cast a vote and comment on their favorite Nakation destination. Just click here:

http://blogs.ajc.com/still-traveling-blog/2009/04/09/whoa-is-that-dude-naked/?cxntfid=blogs_still_traveling_blog

My thanks to Mary Jane of our public relations firm and to Lynn Von Hagel of the publications staff for pointing out this development.

Our Deepest Sympathy

We received word from Marlene Robinson this week that her 90-year-old mother-in-law, Mary K. Robinson, widow of George Robinson, died on April 1 from a massive heart attack. Mary and George opened Empire Haven in New York 50 years ago. Our prayers are with the family and members.

Linda Berry, Director of Publications
The Cyber-Bulletin

As the warm weather approaches, it is time to think about Nakations and the beaches. Read more in the latest issue of The Cyber-Bulletin at http://www.aanr.com/cyber_bulletin.html.

The E-Bulletin

There is still one space available, which will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Martha Young at bulletinads@aanr.com for details.

The Bulletin

When you’re finished reading your Bulletin, please pass it on to a friend who might be interested in knowing more about AANR and nude recreation.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

There are no directory changes this week. However, I do have a great big “Congratulations for a job well done” for two of our landed clubs.

Paradise Pines RV Park and Condo Association in Florida and Whispering Pines in North Carolina both received their charter this week by increasing their membership numbers greatly, despite the economy.

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate. We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

Assateague Beach Cleanup – April 18, 2009
Submitted by Ray Simpson, Maryland State Coordinator

For many years there was a place on the Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland you could enjoy if you didn’t want to have to wear a swimsuit. Government policies changed that, but you can help us get a clothing-optional section restored.

The American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) and its region affiliate AANR-East are working for change. Change starts by showing seashore staff that those who want a nude area are good neighbors. We have a CLOTHED cleanup event planned for April 18, 2009, and we would love to have FRIENDS LIKE YOU join us. We’ll be meeting at 8 a.m. in the parking lot in front of the bath house which is located right next to the concession stand in the State Park. There is more than one cleanup event that day, so be sure you look for the group with the orange hats or ask to be directed to the AANR volunteers.

To sign up and for additional information, please contact Ray Simpson our event coordinator at raysimpson@verizon.net or 301/399-9338. Please include your name, e-mail address and phone number when signing up. We will need to contact you in case of any last minute updates or changes. We’ll see you there!

Directions:

>From Rt. 50 east, one mile before the Rt. 50 bridge that enters Ocean City, MD, turn right onto Rt. 611 and follow it all the way to the end without making any other turns, and the Assateague Island State Park will be the very last right turn and the only parking lot at the end of Rt. 611.

AANR-NW GAT Monitors Proposed Oregon Legislation
By Shirley Gauthier, Oregon State Coordinator

One of the many benefits of being a member of the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) and AANR-NW is that the AANR-NW Government Affairs Team (GAT) represents you.

Currently several proposed pieces of legislation in Oregon have the potential for unintended consequences to impact family nude recreation. Our AANR dues contribute to finance StateNet, a legislative monitoring service. StateNet has flagged several Oregon bills using a vast array of key words pre-selected by the AANR GA Team in Oregon this legislative session.

Once StateNet flags a bill in Oregon, an e-mail is sent to me as the Oregon AANR-NW GAT chair. I research the bill for potential impact, sponsors of the bill and pertinent information to address the process needed to proceed. I then contact AANR-NW GAT Chair Steve Hubbard, and a decision is made on the most productive process to address the proposed bills.

One legislator, a “Friend of AANR-NW” and sponsor of one bill, responded immediately to an e-mail that he would address our concerns with the bill he had drafted. After contacting key legislators, appointments were made and Willamettans President Sue Ott and I were off to visit to the Oregon capitol in Salem. The AANR office staff in Kissimmee, Florida, supplied informational packets and support.

A senator and sponsor of another bill, along with his staff, addressed our concerns and assured us that they would share our concerns with committee members. These legislators have been receptive in the past to their constituents concerns and have always given AANR representatives their time. Legislators assured us that they would notify us of any scheduled hearings concerning the proposed bills. In addition to our scheduled appointments, we were able to drop in on legislative staffers, hand out “AANR Nudist and I Vote” buttons, and continue our networking efforts.

AANR-NW GAT is not requesting any action or funds from our members on this issue at this time.

Roll Call Released Its State-By-State Ranking of Capitol Hill Clout for the 111th Congress Last Month.

And it looks a lot like the one for the 110th, especially at the top of the list. The same 10 states Roll Call judged the most powerful two years ago occupy the top slots this time around. Only the order has shifted slightly, with PENNSYLVANIA jumping from 10th to seventh, and ILLINOIS, MARYLAND, and VIRGINIA each moving down one place. The rankings are based on several factors, including delegation size, committee assignments, number of majority party members and amount of per capita federal spending received.

To view the April State Net Capitol Journal, go to:

http://www.statenet.com/capitol_journal/current#sncj_spotlight

American Recreation Coalition – April 2009 Newsletter

Provided through AANR’s membership with ARC

(American Recreation Coalition www.funoutdoors.com )

Encouraging Signs for Travel and Recreation

While reasons for concern still exist, we have been delighted by several recent news headlines projecting promising travel and recreation trends for the months ahead. RV dealers, who were hit hard by last summer’s skyrocketing gas prices and the subsequent economic downturn and credit crunch, are finally reporting increased sales, some as high as double this same time last year. While buyers are often looking more for used models, they ultimately recognize that RV camping is a less expensive means for quality family travel. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs reported last week, “The President believes it’s important to have a strong tourism industry,” and that “he would encourage people to travel.” The U.S. Travel Association applauded the statement, saying, “These comments are extremely positive for the one million employees in this industry whose livelihood depends on business meetings and events.” The February travelhorizonsT survey of leisure travelers also reported that the U.S. Traveler Sentiment IndexT has recently spiked due to an increase in the perceived “affordability of travel.” This trend appears to be a direct result of many travel suppliers’ recent efforts to stimulate short-term demand through the aggressive promotion of discounted fares and rates. These promising trends could have positive consequences for travel to national parks this summer.

Additional topics in this issue:

* Governors proclaim June Great Outdoors Month
* President champions connecting America’s children to public lands
* GO Day continues to grow!
* National Service Bill passes Congress
* Omnibus Public Lands Management Act signed
* Floorplan loans now included in TALF
* Park concessioners meet, urge public/private promotion of parks

To access the entire newsletter, click here.

AANR Legislative Tracking

Statistics for 2009:

In Session: There are 31 states and DC in Regular Session. NJ is in budget hearings. VA is meeting in Reconvened Session. There are 10 states and US in Recess.

States in Regular Session: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, HI, IA, ID,IN, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NV, OH, OK, OR, RI, TN, TX, VT, WA,WV

AANR Statistics:

o 2,607 bills were reviewed personally by AANR in 2009.
o 368 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2009.
o 175 bills remain on the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”

AANR encourages our membership and like-minded nudists and naturists to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation. Always contact the AANR office before taking action. This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort. Remember, AANR GAT works for you!

AANR Helping Clubs and Members

It is always inspiring to learn that the efforts on behalf of members and clubs that your dues and club support make possible have made a difference in the lives of fellow members.  This week we’re pleased to bring you news in two cases.

First, we had provided assistance to a club facing legal entanglement from a third party over alleged trademark infringement in the club’s name.  By demonstrating that the club has a long history, including lineage with AANR and references in nudist literature from decades ago, we assisted the club in proving there had been no infringement.

Second, we heard from the member/mother of a six year old daughter on the West coast who contacted us some months ago for help in her child custody matter. It was alleged she was an unfit mom for taking the child to the local nude beach.  This week we learned that mom has been granted custody, and has full permission to continue bringing her daughter on trips to the beach!  We received a very warm thank-you note that serves as a reminder that there are many people who need a credible voice speaking for them on nude issues.  Thank you for making that voice possible.

Linda Berry, Director of Publications

The Bulletin

The March issue went to the printer last Tuesday (2/10) and should start mailing Friday (2/13).

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

I am sad to say that due to the economy, we are losing one of our participating businesses. Villa at Hermann in Missouri has closed as of February 11, 2009. Good luck Al and Jan, we wish you all the best in your
future endeavors.

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

American Recreation Coalition – February Newsletter

AANR is a member the ARC and works closely with this coalition centralized in Washington, D.C.  In this issue read about the following topics:

*         Partners Outdoors 2009 “Uses the Transition to Thrive!”

*         President visits “RV Capital” in Indiana, links success to helping RV purchasers get loans

*         Rep. Farr urges recreation community to streamline travel and recreation opportunities

*         National Get Outdoors Day 2009 seeks partners and site nominations

*         Credit Union National Association meeting

*         News on Obama Administration appointments

*         ARC asks President Obama to support nonprofits and service groups

*         NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” sitcom can spotlight outdoor recreation issues

Go to www.funoutdoors.com and search for the term “newsletter.”

Sign Our Nude Beach Petition – California
Printed with the permission of SCNA President Gary Mussell

The Nude Beach Alliance (NBA), affiliated with the AANR club Southern California Naturist Association (SCNA), are individuals who believe that ALL beach users should have equal access to California’s beaches. Our goal is to one day have a selected beach which is legal in a clothing optional setting. To reach that goal, The NBA endeavors to liaison with law enforcement, local supervisory boards, the Parks Department, the community and homeowners.

The NBA provides beach-goers with up to date, pertinent information including news, articles, stories, tides, maps, and laws. We condone a self-policing atmosphere to keep lewd behavior and drug use off of the beach, and endorse signage to the effect of clothing optional usage.

The Nude Beach Alliance www.nudebeachalliance.com

Advocates of re-establishing a nude section at Bates Beach have begun circulating a petition in favor of the proposal.  Click here to view the petition.

Register Now for a free subscription to StateNet Capitol Journal and get the latest political news from all 50 states via email. Go to: to signup.

AANR Legislative Tracking

Below, please find statistics we have begun compiling on the 2009 legislative session. Some thoughtful members and clubs have asked us the question, “What is the significance of these statistics?” What we hope most is that you will observe how many thousands of proposals need to be checked to see if they would impact your rights to enjoy nude recreation within appropriate settings. Without the sophisticated monitoring software that your dues make possible, there is no way that the tens of thousands of bills introduced in just a few weeks’ time could be reviewed. Thanks to your support, and assistance from volunteers, we have a solid (albeit not perfect) understanding of what we face in the states this year.

AANR GAT is closely monitoring developments in the Southwest, Northeast, and Northwest for which it would be premature to provide reports at this time. We will apprise our leadership and clubs when updates are available.

Statistics for 2009:

In Session: There are 43 states, DC and US in Regular Session. There is 1
state in Special Session. There are 3 states in recess.

States in Regular Session: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, GA, HI, IA, ID,
IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV,
OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, US, UT, VA, VT, WA, WV, WY

Number of 2009 Prefiles last week: 4,375
Number of 2009 Intros last week: 12,632
Number of 2009 Session Enacted/Adopted last week: 618
Number of 2009 Prefiles to date: 29,111
Number of 2009 Intros to date: 53,709
Number of 2009 Session Enacted/Adopted overall to date: 2,281

AANR Statistics:

o    1,682 bills were reviewed personally by AANR in 2009.

o    246 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2009.

o    179 bills have been added to the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”

AANR encourages our membership and like-minded nudists and naturists to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation.  Always contact the AANR office before taking action.  This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or
advocacy effort.  Remember, AANR GAT works for you!

Note: Due to an error in transmission, this report reached  the clubs on Tuesday 2/17 instead of Friday 2/13.

It’s That time of Year

When state legislatures are in session.  Government Affairs Coordinator Debra Stevens and I have already reviewed over 200 bills with possible implications.  Right now, we are tracking and doing research on bills in the Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, and Northwest that have raised red flags.  As we have more specifics that we can disclose, we will relay them in future weekly reports.

Kudos

To Bare Necessities for the following press from the Atlanta Journal Constitution:

Click on Cruises with a Theme

Bare Necessities sets sail on Sunday, and we wish them a bon voyage!

Kudos are also due to the Buckeye Naturists for garnering press in the Columbus Post Dispatch over a recent event in which the group attended a stage performance.  A production entitled “Sketch You Can Believe In,” in its third weekend, was recently performed before 30 unclothed members of the Buckeye Naturists nudist club..” The speaker would have to image his audience as clothed. You can read about it: here

Finally, Living Waters Spa received top accolades from www.tripadvisor.com .  We will be carrying a story about this in the next E-Bulletin issue.

Let Us Know

If you notice any changes or corrections that need to be made to the AANR Directory, please contact Terry Justice at clubinfo at aanr dot com .

Bev Price is the AANR Legislation Chair, so please contact her at bbprice at aol dot com for changes to the Procedure Manual or Bylaws.

Linda Berry, Director of Publications

The Bulletin

You won’t want to miss the March issue of The Bulletin that goes to the printer on Tuesday. You’ll find out the “inside scoop” about an AANR Trustee; learn what waterpark in the Czech Republic allows you to go naked; and find out how to be a “polite” nudist.

CAROLYN HAWKINS, PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR

Positive Publicity

The link below was in the Sunday Travel Section of The Washington Post, January 8, 2009.  It was picked up by New Jersey Star Ledger on February 1, 2009.

click here

I received a copy of the 2008/2009 edition of Thomson Life from Cariboo Nudist Society in Canada, which included a positive eight-page article on nudism.

Check out the positive links below about vacationing with no cares.

http://www.travellady.com/Articles/article-vacationingwith.html

http://www.travellady.com/Issues/April03/WheretoGetBareThisSummer.htm

I received a copy of an article from Hawaiian Magazine that features the Bare Naked Ladies calendar from the Big Island.

Out of the Office

I will be attending the AANR-Florida board meeting on Saturday and leaving for the Bare Necessities cruise on Sunday.  If you are going to be on the cruise, be sure to stop by and visit me at the AANR table.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

Here are the directory changes for this week.

The Suncoast Naturists has a new phone number: 941.927.8794

Maryland Area Naturists Association (MARNA) has a new e-mail address:

marnaswimsinmd at yahoo dot com

Potomac Rambling Bares in Virginia has a new e-mail address: prbares at prbares dot org

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

Sign Our Nude Beach Petition – California

Printed with the permission of SCNA President Gary Mussell

The Nude Beach Alliance (NBA), affiliated with the AANR club Southern California Naturist Association (SCNA), are individuals who believe that ALL beach users should have equal access to California’s beaches. Our goal is to one day have a selected beach which is legal in a clothing-optional setting. To reach that goal, the NBA endeavors to liaison with law enforcement, local supervisory boards, the Parks Department, the community and homeowners.

The NBA provides beach-goers with up-to-date, pertinent information including news, articles, stories, tides, maps, and laws. We condone a self-policing atmosphere to keep lewd behavior and drug use off of the beach, and endorse signage to the effect of clothing optional usage.

The Nude Beach Alliance Web site is: www.nudebeachalliance.com

Advocates of re-establishing a nude section at Bates Beach have begun circulating a petition in favor of the proposal. Click here to view the petition.

Updates on High Priority Bills

Well, it’s February and your AANR GAT volunteers are working hard to review and monitor bills that could affect nude recreation, positively or negatively.  No action is required from you at this time, but relevant

information would be appreciated.  The following bills were a focus of multiple teams this week:

US H 316 – Amends the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996

This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to enter into cooperative agreements with any of the management partners of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. The bill sponsor Rep. William D. Delahunt (D-MA 10) is the representative of the district that Cape Cod National Seashore is

located.  AANR is drafting a letter in support of such agreements, specifically on public lands such as the Cape Cod National Seashore.

FACT:  The Cape Cod Beach Coalition comprising of the American Association for Nude Recreation, the American Association for Nude Recreation – Eastern Region, the Naturist Action Committee, The Naturist Society, the Sunchasers Travel Club, the Pilgrim Naturists of New England, and all who love the Cape

Cod beaches have supported annual cleanups at the beach for the past 11 years. Since 1975, advocates have gathered to regain the acceptance of designated areas for nude recreation. That’s when a federal regulation was invoked banning a long tradition of skinny-dipping and au naturel sunbathing on the seashore. While the regulation remains unchanged to this day, what started as a small group has grown to over 475 volunteers who have contributed to this annual cleanup!

NE L 443 – Title: Adult Business Regulation, Summary: Provides for the regulation of adult and sexually oriented businesses.  A special concern regarding this bill is that Nebraska only has one state legislative body with an Assembly, as opposed to House and Senate bodies who both have to pass bills through the process.

Finally, AANR is closely monitoring developments in the Southwest, Northeast, and Northwest for which it would be premature to provide reports at this time.  We will apprise our leadership and clubs when updates are available.

AANR Legislative Tracking

Below, please find statistics we have begun compiling on the 2009 legislative session. Some thoughtful members and clubs have asked us the question, “What is the significance of these statistics?” What we hope most is that you will observe how many thousands of proposals need to be checked to see if they would impact your rights to enjoy nude recreation within appropriate settings. Without the sophisticated monitoring software that your dues make possible, there is no way that the tens of thousands of bills introduced in just a few weeks’ time could be reviewed. Thanks to your support, and assistance from volunteers, we have a solid (albeit not perfect) understanding of what we face in the states this year.

Statistics for 2009:

In Session: There are 44 states, DC and US in Regular Session. There are 1state in Special Session. There are 2 states in recess.

States in Regular Session: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TX, US, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WY

Number of 2009 Prefiles last week: 1,785

Number of 2009 Intros last week: 10,669

Number of 2009 Session Enacted/Adopted last week: 513

Number of 2009 Prefiles to date: 22,872

Number of 2009 Intros to date: 40,966

Number of 2009 Session Enacted/Adopted overall to date: 1,682

AANR Statistics:

o    1,288 bills were reviewed personally by AANR in 2009.

o    177 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2009.

o    138 bills have been added to the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”

AANR encourages our membership to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation.  Always contact the AANR office before taking action.  This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort.

Remember, AANR GAT works for you!

]]> http://aanr-nw.org/nude/2009/02/aanr-weekly-report-2-06-09/feed/ 0 http://aanr-nw.org/nude/2009/01/653/ http://aanr-nw.org/nude/2009/01/653/#comments Tue, 20 Jan 2009 08:47:06 +0000 Paul http://aanr-nw.org/nude/2009/01/653/ January 9, 2009
Erich Schuttauf, Executive Director

The Bulletin Did It First

The New York Times said it would sell display advertising on its front page, its latest step to seek new ways to make money as it deals with a prolonged ad revenue downturn. Real all about it at: http://uk.reuters.com/article/marketsNewsUS/idUKN0536626720090105

Update on Wayne Roberts
Wayne was operated on this week, and will be in Providence Portland hospital for about 10 days. He is resting and on pain meds. His daughter, Debbie, is keeping a close eye on him. Our thoughts and prayers are with him for a speedy recovery. We will let you know as we learn more.

Committee Reports Due Monday
All AANR committee chairs are asked to submit their reports for distribution no later than Monday, January 12, 2009. Please e-mail them to Linda Berry at editor@aanr.com.

Linda Berry, Director of Publications
Last Chance
We have already had response from 26 AANR clubs who are offering a free day pass to expired associate, direct, and club members who reinstate their AANR membership. This is your last chance to take advantage of this marketing opportunity at no out-of-pocket cost to you. Simply e-mail Linda Berry at editor@aanr.com or call her at 800/TRY-NUDE, ext. 235, to be included.

AANR-Southwest Midwinter Board Meeting
There’s still time to attend the AANR-Southwest Board Meeting tomorrow at Natural Horisun in Boling, Texas. We apologize for the date being left out of the January issue of The Bulletin.

E-Bulletin
Wow, how time flies. It is hard to believe that the E-Bulletin is in its third year. The first issue was distributed in February 2007 to 8,866 members. It has been so well received, that the distribution has climbed to 12,487. Thanks, Lynn Von Hagel, for a job well done.

The Bulletin
We’re doing the final proof on the February issue today, and it goes to the printer on Monday.
CAROLYN HAWKINS, PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR

January Board Meeting Transportation Information
If you need transportation from the airport, please give me your flight arrival information: date, time, flight number, and airline. You can also contact the shuttle driver Ed Thurman at 407/922-1112 to arrange for pickup directly.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison
We do not have any changes for the Directory this week.

I would, however, like to take this opportunity to welcome John and Jill Frick, who are now the proud owners of Whispering Pines Nudist Resort in Ocean Isle Beach in North Carolina. Congratulations and welcome aboard, John and Jill.

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate. We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

Big Presidential Inaugural Event: FREE Exclusively on HBO

The Wall Street Journal reports that a high-profile event of the “people’s inauguration” will be aired exclusively on HBO. The premium cable channel has signed a deal with the Presidential Inaugural Committee to televise 90-minutes commercial-free from the “Opening Celebration” of Barack Obama’s inauguration. The event takes place at the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday, Jan. 18. Both Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden plan to attend. (The actual inauguration is two days later, on Jan. 20.) HBO will make the celebration available on an open signal, meaning everyone with cable or satellite service can watch it for free, whether or not they subscribe to HBO.

Polar Bare Dip At Rooster Rock Is Still On! – January 10th

Our friends, the park rangers, tell us that although the river levels are very high, we should have no problem getting to one of our usual “dipping spots” this Saturday, Jan. 10th at noon. It doesn’t look like snow will block our way, and so far the weather forecast is for sun and temps in the 50s – woohoo! Sounds like picnic weather. But we will be going to a local restaurant to defrost with hot food and drink. So join us for a nude welcome to the new year in the great outdoors.

Rooster Rock State Park is located on Interstate 84 in the Columbia Gorge, about 20 minutes east of Portland. Go to the east (right) end of the parking lot and you’ll find us near the bathroom building. Don’t be late–we start walking soon so we don’t lose our nerve!

Questions? E-mail Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers at zonkersun at yahoo.com.

Inaugural Weekend Nude Swim Near National Capital Region (Baltimore) – January 17th

Coming to Maryland-DC Area for Inaugural-Martin Luther King Weekend?  MARNA’ s got an event for you on January 17. On this day, Barack Obama and Joe Biden will speak at a Pre-Inaugural Rally in Baltimore en-route to their swearing in. In attendance will be 100,000 local spectators. If you’re planning to attend, stick around a bit later for our monthly swim. Maryland Area Naturists Association (MARNA) presents:
Inaugural/Dr. Martin Luther King Weekend Swim at 6:30.

MARNA is a family-oriented nudist club renting a large pool and social hall that is a close drive to downtown Baltimore. Parties are held once a month. Join AANR’s lone club in Baltimore city or county. Call 410-949-5391 for more information.

Erich Schuttauf, Executive Director

Committee Reports

All AANR committee chairs are asked to submit their reports for distribution no later than Monday, January 12, 2009. Please e-mail them to Linda Berry at editor@aanr.com.

Agenda for January Board of Trustees Meeting

The agenda for the January Board of Trustees Meeting was e-mailed to the board and all clubs on Tuesday of this week. It is also available in the Download Zones of Member Benefits and Club Services sections of www.aanr.com . The meeting will be held January 22-24, 2009, at Cypress Cove Nudist Resort and Spa in Kissimmee, Florida.

Comic Strip Series “Luann” Ponders the Subject of Nude Travel

This week those of you who get newspapers with the strip Luann in the comics section may have noticed that clothing-optional resorts have been getting a lot of attention.

The Luann series is built around a young woman who has a number of friends. One of those friends is a paramedic who, on the prompting of his roommate, invites a female co-worker to join him for a week at an uninhabited resort in Costa Rica.  The co-worker reads the brochure more carefully before pointing out that “uninhabited” is “uninhibited” and that the place is, in fact, clothing-optional.  A very lively discussion ensues over the course of several days’ worth of panels.  Not all of the statements are positive (“she must think I’m a creep”), but the roommate’s matter of fact responses to the various objections voiced would definitely help readers at the breakfast table to reflect on whether they themselves would like to vacation clothes-free.

As the AANR PR team has also observed, the fact that the topic of nude travel is considered “safe” for the comics page is significant as we work to mainstream this travel niche.  If you would like to see copies of Luann from this week, you can find them archived on the King Features website here:

http://comics.com/luann/

[Note: clicking the numbered boxes above today's panel will allow you to see previous days and there are several.]

AANR Helping Members

Today AANR Member Liaison Terry Justice and I responded to a member and his wife from the Midwest who are being questioned about nude photos on their computer.  We have arranged to send some written material on the legal topic, as well as to talk with the couple’s legal counsel.

The E-Bulletin

This week’s E-Bulletin is the last one until January 9, 2009. Looking for a “Happy New Year” gift for your nudist friends? Sign them up at www.aanr.com for this entertaining online publication written by Lynn Von Hagel.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

AANR has a new provisional nonlanded cooperative club:

Friends of Lilly
PO Box 259
Bomansville, NY 14024

www.friendsoflilly.com

I would like to take this opportunity to wish ALL our members and our clubs, a very merry Christmas and all you could wish for yourselves in the coming new year.

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

REQUEST: Print the following in your Club Newsletter or send to your members in your E-News, when timely and appropriate.  We want the members to know what GAT does for them!

ARC President Offers Weekly Insight on How the Presidential Transition Relates to the Recreation Industry

Now that the excitement of the election season is complete, it is time to focus on the consequent changes in Washington and the implications of those changes for recreation. In his weekly “Monday Morning Washington Updates,” American Recreation Coalition (ARC) President Derrick Crandall shares news and analysis with ARC members and friends on Capitol Hill changes, Transition team activities, the emerging Obama team, special opportunities for advancing recreation, and other factors likely to influence recreation starting in 2009.  To view the reports, visit: www.funoutdoors.com .

San Onofre State Beach Updates

The Surfrider Foundation has posted their efforts to Save Trestles on Facebook which has become 10,000 supporters strong.  Trestles is the world-famous surf break which remains the only spot on the World Championship Tour of Surfing in the mainland USA.

Their plight is Trestles Beach, San Onofre State Beach, and Juaneno Burial Site must be protected and the 241 Toll Road Extension plan must be rejected.  For more information, visit: http://apps.facebook.com/causes/5626?m=ab55de80

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the United States Department of Commerce on December 18th upheld the California Coastal Commission’s objection to a proposal to construct a 16-mile toll road connecting California state Route 241 to Interstate 5 in southern Orange and northern San Diego counties.  For the entire story, see: http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2008/20081218_tca.html .

AANR Legislative Tracking

Statistics for 2008:

o    2,270 bills have been reviewed personally by AANR in 2008.

o    305 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2008.

o    37 bills are on the Government Affairs “2008 Legislative Tracking List”

o    24 bills have been added to the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”

o    111 bills moved to an inactive status in the 2008 Session.

AANR encourages our membership to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation.  Always contact the AANR office before taking action.  This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort.  Remember, AANR GAT works for you!

Erich is at Cypress Cove attending the Trade Association for Nude Recreation (TANR) meeting. He will give a full report next week.

In Our Thoughts and Prayers

Our condolences and deepest sympathy are extended to the family of Lee Baxandall, who passed away on Thanksgiving Day in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. As most of you know, Lee was founder of The Naturist Society. Lee is survived by his wife Johanna, his sister Ann, his son Phineas, two grandchildren, and thousands of naturists. Please see additional information in Debra Sue’s report below.

Debra Sue Stevens, Government Affairs

Lee Baxandall – A True Nudist Advocate (1935-2008)

Alonzo Stevens, AANR Government Affairs Chair

As most of you are aware, The Naturist Society (TNS) founder Lee Baxandall passed away on Thanksgiving Day. I first met Lee and Johanna Baxandall when we bought our condo at Desert Shadows Inn (now Desert Sun Resort). All the condo owners were invited to join our friends and family at our wedding in
2000. Lee and Johanna were in attendance. Lee shared many hours talking with us about nude recreation and the importance of advocacy. Johanna, we send you and your family our love and condolences.

Lee Baxandall began his naturist activism in the 1960s when he and his family visited the Cape Cod National Seashore to skinny-dip, leading to his induction into the AANR Hall of Fame over three decades later. Tallahassee Naturally was relentless in making their nomination a reality, “The nomination cited Mr. Baxandall’s quarter-century of public service, starting on Cape Cod in 1976, and leading to the establishment of The Naturist Society in 1980. At a time when no other national organization took an
interest in America’s vanishing free beaches, Lee sponsored the organization of more than 50 local clubs–including ours. He led the way in accepting single people, gay people, and the disabled into the naturist family. And he led us back to original principals by putting the emphasis on nature.

Most importantly, Lee saw the need for political activism. When anti-nudity bills first hit the Florida legislature in 1994, an experienced Naturist Action Committee (NAC) was there to advise us. At that time, our club took some criticism for cooperating with both national nudist organizations. In recent years, the two groups have increasingly worked together and pooled their resources. The Mid-Winter Naturist Festival each February remains the staging ground where Florida clubs plan their annual strategy for dealing
with the legislature.”

It is my hope that in 2009 AANR/GAT can focus on continuing to combine efforts with TNS and their advocacy arm NAC. Though these two national organizations may differ in mission and approach, it is clear that we both want to preserve and promote nude recreation.

For more information regarding Lee Baxandall’s life, visit:

The Naturist Society at http://www.naturistsociety.com/
Naturist Action Committee at http://naturistaction.org/

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2008 at 2 p.m. at the Seefeld Funeral and Cremation Services, 1025 Oregon Street, Oshkosh, WI 54902. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the time of the service and a reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. Please visit www.seefeldfuneral.com to send online condolences to the family.

AANR Legislative Tracking

Statistics for 2008:

o 2,204 bills have been reviewed personally by AANR in 2008.
o 301 bills have been reviewed in full text by AANR in 2008.
o 36 bills are on the Government Affairs “2008 Legislative Tracking List”
o 12 bills have been added to the “2009 Legislative Tracking List”
o 111 bills moved to an inactive status in the 2008 Session.

AANR encourages our membership to assist in the process of tracking bills and news impacting nude recreation. Always contact the AANR office before taking action. This ensures that your actions are aligned with the strategy underway for any particular bill or advocacy effort. Remember, AANR GAT
works for you!

Linda Berry, Director of Publications

The E-Bulletin

Shop Naked

Yesterday, nearly 13,000 subscribers to The E-Bulletin read about a company’s advertisement that promoted shopping naked. Sign up at www.aanr.com for this free online publication written by Lynn Von Hagel.

The Bulletin

Do you know any “Good Samaritan” nudists who are always helping others? Do you know any nudists who really go the extra mile for his/her club and for promoting nude recreation? The Bulletin is looking for human interest stories for next year. All ideas are welcomed. Please e-mail me at editor @ aanr.com or call 800/879-6833, ext. 235. Your input is greatly appreciated.

It Pays To Advertise

The saying, “It pays to advertise” really is true. That’s why advertisers in The Bulletin keep on advertising. We have rates to fit everyone’s budget, so give Martha Young a call at 800/879-6833, ext. 228, or e-mail her at bulletinads @ aanr.com.
CAROLYN HAWKINS, PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR

Positive Publicity

Chicago Free Press 2008 Holiday Gift Guide, Gifts from A to Z, mentions AANR’s nakation kit under F for flesh (or flash). http://www.chicagofreepress.com/node/2831

See one of the pages printed below.

Thanks to all of you for the prayers, cards and gifts after the death of my husband Hans. It is encouraging to know that Steve and I have so many friends within our nudist family. I appreciate all of you very much.

Terry Justice, Club/Member Liaison

Here are this week’s directory changes:

Forest Murmurs in Washington has new e-mail and Web addresses:
info @ forestmurmurs.org

http://www.nwbares.com

December 5, 2008