Bagby Update-9/25/2009

The following was posted on the AANR Blog (blog.aanr.com today). The AANR-NW GAT thanks everyone who provided information, time and energy contributing to restoring nude use at Bagby Hot Springs.

This afternoon we were delighted to receive good news from your AANR-Northwest GAT Team. An agreement has been reached with officials of the United States Forest Service overseeing Bagby Hot Springs that restores the long-accepted policy allowing nudity.

According to the team, Bagby officials acknowledge that, in the long term, there are some details which need to be worked out clarifying conditions where nudity is permitted. In the interim, however, they have agreed to return matters to “status quo.” Put another way, nudity may be enjoyed under the same conditions as it has been for the past 18 years.

We have received assurances that verbiage confirming this decision will soon appear on the official Bagby Hot Springs site which may be accessed by clicking here.

For now, please join me in thanking the Forest Service for its assistance and your AANR-Northwest Government Affairs Team for their hard work! _______________________________________________ eNews mailing list eNews@aanr-nw.org http://aanr-nw.org/mailman/listinfo/enews_aanr-nw.org

The AANR-NW eNews is an opt-in newsletter. You may view current and archived issues at http://www.aanr-nw.org . See the sidebar for recent posts by date or category.

Terwilliger Hot Springs located near Blue River, Oregon will be close for a period of time to repair and rebuild the pools.

Starting May 4 the pools will be closed for a period of four to five weeks. The plan is to have at least the upper pools completed and the hot springs reopened by Memorial Day Weekend.

For more information go to Terwilliger Hot Springs web site.

Thank you,

Shirley

“UNCLAD – The Fine Art of the Figure” is an annual exhibit celebrating the nude figure in art. This highly anticipated annual event draws thousands of visitors together each year for an experience that is unexpected, somewhat provocative, and highly engaging. The intrinsic nature of the subject has motivated artists to explore and push their boundaries, producing a show that inspires, opens minds, starts discussions, stirs emotions, and touches lives.

Since its inception, UNCLAD has been a phenomenon that has taken on a life of its own. Eight years ago, Gayle Picken, who was married to a sculptor and managed their Camano Island gallery, decided to celebrate her husband’s birthday in an innovative fashion. She invited several local artists to participate in a nude art show at their gallery and, much to her surprise, her phone started ringing off the hook. Artists she didn’t even know asked if they could be in the show, excited they had found a venue for displaying nudes. That first year, 29 artists participated, crowds poured into the gallery, and the show was born.

Since then, the show has grown exponentially in terms of numbers of participating artists, quality and diversity of the artwork, and attendance. Last year the show featured artwork by 95 artists from across North America and attracted over 3000 visitors. More than 30 volunteers helped with planning, promoting, setting up, and greeting visitors during the show.

As UNCLAD expands to become a festival known throughout the country, the core idea remains the same as it did during the very first show. The stark-naked truth is — that this show called UNCLAD is all about having fun in the business of art. For so many people–artists, art enthusiasts, and the community in general–UNCLAD provides excitement, pleasure, anticipation, and a great source of inspiration.

MISSION

Our mission with UNCLAD: to create a beautiful art event that engages people in the world of art and inspires artists to push forward.

When:
Nude Showing will be on Saturday March 14th from 7PM to 9PM

Where:
Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center
Address: 27130 102nd Ave NW, Stanwood

Driving Directions: View Map
1. From I-5, take Exit 212 (Stanwood – Camano Island) and head West.
2. In about 7 miles, you’ll come to a light at 102nd Ave NW (Bank of America & Bob’s Market). Take a RIGHT on 102nd Ave NW.
3. The Floyd Norgaard hall is 2 blocks on your left. Parking is available at the church lot behind the building.

Where to Stay in Stanwood:

The Medallian Inn in Arlington is only 15 minutes from the UNCLAD 2009 show. For reservations call: 360-657-0500. Mention the UNCLAD art show for a special rate!

Experience 4-star luxury at the Tulalip Resort featuring 170 spacious rooms and suites, delicious dining choices, the world-class T Spa and the outstanding work of Tulalip tribal artists. Only 30 minutes south of the Unclad show. Reservations: 866-716-1762 or www.tulalipresort.com .

Over the Mark Clark Bridge on Camano Island, there are several Bed & Breakfast Inns to choose from. Turn your visit into an island getaway!

For more information about the other fine Bed & Breakfast Inns on the island, see Camano Island Lodging.

Hear short
audio clips of the weekly reports (turn on your sound).

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.

Subject: February indoor swim night
Date: Sunday, February 08, 2009 11:41 AM

Hello all,

Time is getting close again for the night Hidden Springs indoor nude recreation night on Sunday evening February 22 from 7 pm until 9 pm.  This is the next to last event of this season, so if have been thinking about participating but haven’t done so, this is one of the last chances you have,

At the Athletic club we have the use of the pool, two hot tubs (each at different temperature), two saunas (also each at different temperature). These areas are ideal for socializing with friends you haven’t seen for a while. For the more active we have the availability of a volleyball, basketball court and three racquetball courts. If you are looking for an additional treat for your tired muscles a massage therapist will be available. With pre-registration we will give the therapists information so you set up a time slot prior to the event.

The cost for the event is still only $10 for AANR/TNS members and $12 for non members (prices are per person) when pre-registering. If you elect to pay at the door, then the prices are $15 and $17 respectively.
Pre-registration closes on Wednesday February 18.

For pre-registration or more information contact Hidden Springs at hsevents@verizon.net or leave us a voice mail at 503-841-1995.

For those of you less familiar with these events, they are held in the greater Portland (OR) area and detailed information will be given to you upon registration.

Saturday January 24th – Hidden Springs Bare Bowling Event

Hint: Pre-register and save $5!

With all the holidays behind us, life can return to normal and if a normal life includes a bare bowling event we have another one coming up on Saturday January 24. Our last bowling event was sparsely attended mainly because of the holiday season and I am looking forward to a great turnout for this upcoming event.

The event will be held from 7 pm until 9 pm and the cost is $13 per person if you are an AANR/TNS member or $15 per person when you are not a member, when pre-registering.

Prices at the door will be $18 per person for AANR/TNS members and $20 per person for non-members. Pre-registration for this event will close on Wednesday January 21. Admission includes the use of bowling balls and shoe rentals with the request that socks must be worn when using rental shoes.

For more information including location of the venue which will be in the greater Portland (OR) area, contact Hidden Springs at hsevents@verizon.net or leave us a voice mail at 503-841-1995.

Chris Brokke

Polar Bare Dip at Rooster Rock is Still On!

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 50′s – 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 min. 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? Email Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers at zonkersun@yahoo.com

The New Year has barely started and we have another indoor nude recreation night planned on Sunday January 11 from 7 pm until 9 pm.

Come have a great time in the pool, two hut tubs or two saunas or treat yourself to a relaxing massage. For the more energetic amongst us we have a basketball/volleyball court and three racquetball courts at our disposal.

Pre registration prices are $10 per person for AANR/TNS members and $12 per person for non members.

Pre-registration closes on Wednesday January 7. After pre-registration closes the prices are $15 per person for AANR/TNS members and $17 for non members. Upon registration we will disclose the facility we use, so contact Hidden Springs at hsevents@verizon.net or leave a voice mail at 503-841-1995.

Hope to see you all on January 11.

P.S. The facility is in the Portland, Oregon area.

Mountaindale Sun Resort is canceling anything special at the clubhouse for New Years Eve.

We’ve got power, about a foot of snow at the moment, are digging our way out, and weather reports are showing more in store.  Road up to the club is passable now but may not be later.  Power was out for days at a time and we had 24 inches of snow.

Most who got caught on the hill during the storm want to be somewhere else this week.

Anyone wanting to gather at the clubhouse is welcome but nothing special planned.

Thank you,
Dale S.
President, MSR

Rooster-Sauvie Volunteers host The 7th Annual Rooster Rock Polar Bare Dip – Saturday Jan. 10th!

We’re the new AANR beach club in Portland, and our first event of the new year is coming up!

Hey folks, this event is getting bigger every year. We’ve got brave (crazy?) people who jump into the cold water, and we’ve got people with more sense who cheer us on from shore and get a good laugh.

We’ll meet on Saturday, Jan 10th, at 12 Noon, at the East end of the parking lot at Rooster Rock State Park. (In the Columbia Gorge, 25 min. east of Portland on I-84, just past Corbett.) Look for the AANR flag, surrounded by people with nervous smiles, asking themselves, “WHY are we doing this, again?”

After the polar dip we’ll pick up any trash on the way out, and go for some hot food & drink.

See you there!