Archive for May, 2007
USAToday: 10 Great Places to Leave the Swimsuit at Home
In the Friday, June 1st, 2007 edition of USAToday
Vacationers rated access to nude recreation higher than golf or tennis in choosing a destination, according to a recent poll by YPB&R/Yankelovich Partners
Three of the best clothing optional beaches, according the USAToday’s listing, are found in the great Pacific Northwest . . . Wreck Beach in Vancouver, BC, Rooster Rock State Park and Collins Beach, both in the Portland, Oregon area. The List:
- Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii
- Wreck Beach, Vancouver, British Columbia
- Cap d’Agde, France
- Hawksbill Bay, Antigua
- Haulover Beach, Miami Beach, Florida
- Gunnison Beach, Sandy Hook, New Jersey
- Collins Beach/Rooster Rock, Portland, Oregon
- Orient Bay, St. Martin
- Samurai Beach, Port Stephens, Australia
- Blacks Beach, San Diego, California
4 comments May 31, 2007
Wreck Beach Video
May 29, 2007 (Runs 3:54)
Meet the daring, baring Canadians who think Wreck Beach is one of Canada’s Seven Wonders.
Alternatively, you can view the video from the CBC web page here
Ever wanted to take a short tour of Wreck Beach in Vancouver, meet the people caring for this beach, understand why it’s one of the finest nude beaches in North America . . . if not the world?
Well worth watching.
Add comment May 31, 2007
Kennedy Hot Springs History
M. VAN BOSSUYT/JULY 1977
Great article in last Sunday’s Seattle Times Pacific Northwest Magazine supplement on the history and demise of Kennedy Hot Springs.
1 comment May 31, 2007
Minor Cleanup Party this coming Sunday
As in past cleanups, let’s meet around 11am at the gate, signin, and proceed up FS 850 to park in the clearcut area. The cleanup and soak will last to around 3pm when I will go back down to let vehicles back out (or later if there is consensus). those who might need to leave before 3pm, please park before the gate.
Objectives:
- Cleanup the litter on the areas off the gated area down to Highway 2. We owe this to the Forest Service as it is the people who head up to Scenic that are tossing this trash. I did some cleanup last week but I’m sure there is more.
- I need a few people to litter patrol the FS Road from the gate to the clearcut, and one or two to do the same on the first bypass trail.
- The road cut at the second bend could use some filling to help ease vehicle across without bottoming out; likewise, there is a tree snag partially blocking the road near the clearcut which we need moved out of the way.
- From the clearcut, those that like to hike, there are a few fallen trees and snags down in the BPA loop that could use an assist off the road. For the rest, up the second bypass trail to pick up litter on the road and the side slopes.
- I need to re-plant a new ‘No trespassing’ sign near the second tower. I have the signs and post. Likewise, just inside the trailhead we need to figure out how to correct the floded over ‘No Trespassing’ sign high in that tree.
- As we head up the upper BPA Road, we should check the culverts and unblock them as necessary. Where streams cross the road, we will assess if there is anything to do that will keep the streams in their course, and protect against erosion on the downslope side (usually means partially blocking the flow to slow the water down and create sedimentation filling).
- We will do litter control on the trail and correct errant seepages on the water bars we placed two years ago.
- Litter patrol the pool area and the downslope area from the pool.
- Enjoy a soak!!!!
Everyone, good shoes and gloves. Bring water, something to snack and a smile.
Is there anyone out there that is good with making conceptulized drawings? We need someone who can look at the hot spring site, visualize what the pools might look like in place, and produce a nice drawing in colored pencil. A 2007 Permission Card to the individual who can make drawings for us.
Rick
11 comments May 31, 2007
Another Black Bear near Scenic
A black bear roaming the lower areas of the clearcut (near where FS850 enters). Seen near dawn grubbing for it’s breakfast of bugs, it wandered on up the slopes into the heavy canopy above the clearcut, seemingly avoiding the human-made bypass trails.
Although the bear knew I was there and less than 100 feet away, it paid me no attention other than glancing my way every so often to see if I’d come any closer.
Add comment May 31, 2007
Nude Camping and Guard Duty
Catching the afternoon rays on a stony outcropping
The nice thing is that once had I re-posted the property once again I pretty much had the property all to myself to wander around nude . . . hot springs are, after all, nude-friendly and expected. From where I perched high atop an outcropping of bedrock in the BPA clearcut I could easily spot any attempted approach long before any trespassers knew I was there to discourage them.
Not my normal backpacking tent but I’mcar-camping and enjoying the luxury
I should have brought my propane grill . . . I certainly had the room in the car . . . but I waffled to test out a new butane expedition burner that, with tank, weighed in around four ounces. The unit performed well and cooked my chilli, refilled my thermos with coffee and repeated the process the following morning with breakfast . . . scrambled eggs (the real ones) and toast. Also served to heat up the water for me to freshen up the next morning. I’m impressed, especially since the tank seemed to still have a lot of butant left in it. However, it will never replace the multi-fuel stove I’ve had for years. Butane does not perform very well at altitude. The multi will burn cheap, reliable kerosene, gasoline, lighter fuid . . . what not.
A camp chair was pure decadence. Very comfortable, though. I brought the coleman lantern, of course. For casting the glow of reassuring warm light around your campsite, nothing beats a kerosene burning coleman lantern. Except maybe a fire.
The dark does close in around you and a campfire feels good,keeps you warm, and dispels the evening bugs
Standing near a campfire also warms you appreciably as the evening turns nippy. Absolutely clear sky above, stars pinpoint sharp. A cold night, especially so in the mountains. The camp chair set close to a cheery fire, a few requisite marshmallows toasted on the flames and eaten with relish releases the pressures and stresses of life. Clients and customers can wait. While my cell phone will work here . . . with a little bit of aligning and finding the sweet spot . . . it’s only purpose now is to alarm for seven o’clock in the morning. I try to take up reading a book I had put off for a long time but the stars continually pull me away. So much different out here.
Despite the fact that I usually don’t go to bed very early, there is something magical about the crystal clear night skies in the mountains, totally devoid of light pollution. It mesmerizes you into a very relaxed state. I bank the remaining coals of my fire and let it burn down. Inside my tent it’s into the sleeping bag, zip up the door and stare at the night sky through the mesh panels for awhile before falling into a deep sleep.
From the inside of my tent the following morning,watching a bear scratch out its’ morning meal
less than a 100 feet away
The bear is paying me no attention . . . intent on slowly pulling apart this old tree stump and licking up bugs and such. He . . . or she . . . is in no hurry and after steadying my initial surprise I just sit there and watch the bear. I will admit that I did calculate how much time it would take for me to sprint naked to where my car was parked. I figured the bear, if so inclined, would beat me there first. So I watched instead.
The bear did hear me turn my camera on . . . stared directly at me in my tent for half a minute. He knew I was there . . . just wasn’t in the least bit interested. I snapped a few pictures. Eventually the bear wandered higher up onto the slopes and into the thick forest canopy. I got up and judiciously did my morning cooking near my car least I had a re-interested bear join me for breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast.
I kept camp for the rest of the day and took side excursion hikes over the property. A great two-day break from the city.
Add comment May 28, 2007
NAC Advisory: Oregon House Bill 3317
DATE: May 27, 2007
SUBJECT: Oregon House Bill 3317
TO: All Naturists and other concerned individuals
Dear Naturist,
The Naturist Action Committee (NAC) advises you of Oregon legislation. This legislation is NOT a present threat to naturists.
Oregon House Bill 3317 was poorly written 2007 legislation intended to redefine and punish the crime of so-called “private indecency.” HB 3317 was a bill the Naturist Action Committee would surely have opposed vigorously if it had shown any signs of viability, but it was clear from the beginning that this bill was going nowhere. NAC kept a close eye on it and tracked it carefully.
You didn’t see anything about it earlier on the NAC Web site or in the form of a NAC Action Alert or Advisory, because NAC tries to reserve those communication tools for meaningful issues. HB 3317 was a non-starter.
However, there has been a recent flurry of questions to NAC concerning the status of HB 3317, so NAC is issuing this Advisory.
THE CURRENT STATUS OF HB 3317
HB 3317 officially died altogether on May 1, when it failed to advance from the committee that sponsored it.
A VERY BRIEF HISTORY
House Bill 3317 was introduced on March 12, 2007, through the House Judiciary Committee. The measure was proposed in response to a local situation in Rainier, Oregon. An individual in that town had become known as Rainier’s so-called “Naked Neighbor,” because for years, he has been nude in his own back yard.
The Naked Neighbor’s nudity does not contravene Oregon’s current law, since he and those who have viewed him are all on private property. There were those who wanted to see the law expanded to prohibit nudity in one’s own back yard. The effort died aborning.
WHAT IS NAC ASKING YOU TO DO?
This NAC Advisory is intended for informational purposes only. It concerns legislation that is not a present threat to naturists. The Naturist Action Committee is not asking for you to take specific action at this time.
MORE INFORMATION
You can access additional information on the Web site of the Naturist Action Committee.
Select “Alerts, Advisories and Updates.” Under Current Updates, you’ll find the text of this NAC Advisory, along with links to the complete text of Oregon House Bill 3317.
PLEASE HELP NAC TO HELP LOCAL NATURISTS
The Naturist Action Committee works to advance and protect the rights and interests of naturists. Even when legislation dies on its own, monitoring and tracking it is expensive. NAC relies entirely on the voluntary support of involved naturists. Please donate generously to NAC:
NAC
PO Box 132
Oshkosh, WI 54903
Or use your credit card to make a direct donation online through NAC’s web site:
www.naturistaction.org/donate/
Thank you for choosing to make a difference.
Naturally,
Mark Storey
Board Member
Naturist Action Committee
Naturist Action Committee (NAC)
– PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903
Executive Dir. Bob Morton – execdir@naturistaction.org
Board Member Mark Storey – storey98@aol.com
Online Rep. Dennis Kirkpatrick – naturist@sunclad.com
Add comment May 27, 2007
Arcadia on Memorial Day
Preface: Arcadia is typically not considered a nudist venue by many but I find their grounds beautiful and the opportunity to enjoy being nude without any sexual or lewd emphasis. Arcadia does not allow children, therefore taking it out of the typical ‘family-friendly’ definition. However, that does not mean you can’t enjoy the opportunity to enjoy being nude in a beautiful setting. Therefore, I’m going to include Arcadia events in my blog and leave it to the reader to make judgemental decisions. Rick
MEMORIAL DAY CAMPOUT WITH CAMPFIRE AND POTLUCK ON SATURDAY.Memorial Day Weekend – and didn’t make plans yet?
That happens with busy people. …And then with gas prices where to go close and yet enjoy the adventure?
How about Arcadia!
Arcadia offers lodgings, with kitchens even, RV and camping space.. LODGINGS ARE STILL AVAILABLE.
“SUNNY WEATHER DAY PASS”
For a day’s getaway you can come and use the day use pass for only $20.00 per person from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
(That day pass includes use of our beautiful park like setting, all day hot tubbing and sunbathing, barbecue access, picnicking, and a social setting to visit with others. A real bargain! )
Time for some play – hot tubbing and socializing with other fun people. Maybe a little song and a little dance to!
Call Arcadia now ! That is telephone: 360-426-7116!
Kathy
ArcadiaP.S. Our new Grecian pool nearing completion!
1/2 full last night, near full today!
3 comments May 23, 2007
NAC Action Alert: California: American River – May 23, 2007
ACTION ALERT
DATE: May 23, 2007
SUBJECT: California: American River
TO: Naturists and other concerned citizens
Dear Naturist,
In conjunction with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the California Department of Parks & Recreation is continuing its development of a joint General Plan / Resource Management Plan for the Auburn State Recreational Area (Auburn SRA). Naturists have already made themselves a significant part of that process, and it is essential that we continue our high level of involvement.
IMPORTANT TO ATTEND PUBLIC WORKSHOP #2
NAC is strongly requesting your attendance at an important public workshop. This is the second in a series of public events that will help shape the future of the Auburn SRA.
DATE: May 30, 2007
TIME: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM PDT.
LOCATION:
Canyon View Community Center, Foothills Room
471 Maidu Drive
Auburn, CA 95603 Google Map
NAC will have personnel at the public workshop / meeting. It’s important that naturists have a significant turnout. Even if you don’t intend to speak, please plan to be there.
A BRIEF HISTORY AND DISCUSSION
The American River area is largely funded by the Bureau of Reclamation. Under a 1977 contract, it has been operated by California State Parks as the Auburn State Recreation Area. Generations of Californians and others have enjoyed the tradition of nude recreation along the river.
Decades ago, a large dam was planned for the American River. Preparation for the dam project included construction of a diversion tunnel to take the river’s water around the dam site. To avoid the tunnel, river rafters have had to remove their craft at the Highway 49 bridge, near the confluence of the river branches, more than 3 miles upstream from the dam site.
Geologists found the dam to be sited on an unstable fault, and the project was eventually abandoned. The river channel reclamation effort at the dam site now includes plugging the diversion tunnel. Rafters will eventually be able to take the main channel. A few CA Parks officials concluded that the prospect of user conflict between rafters and naturists should be resolved in advance by banishing the naturists.
In the summer of 2006, rangers from the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation began telling park users along the American River that nudity would no longer be permitted on the river near Auburn, and that signs banning nudity would be posted in the area. The clothing-optional sites that were most threatened by the proposed prohibition were located northeast of the town of Auburn, below the confluence of the North and Middle branches of the American River and above the site of the indefinitely delayed Auburn Dam.
The Naturist Action Committee issued an Action Alert on June 10, 2006, asking naturists and others to write to California Parks officials and to attend the first workshop session in the General Plan process. The response was tremendous! Letters poured in, and naturists made up a full third of all the public participants at the initial workshop.
Naturists made their point, and the Auburn SRA Superintendent and his superiors definitely got the message. Eventually, NAC was asked, very nicely, to please turn off the flow of letters.
NAC Update 6-16-2006
NAC Update 8-3-2006 [added-Rick]
The Naturist Action Committee thanks you for your help! You absolutely made a difference in 2006. Now, it’s time to sustain our momentum by attending Public Workshop #2 in 2007. It’s important that you be there.
WHAT IS NAC DOING?
It’s been a little less than a year since the first workshop, and the Naturist Action Committee has used the time wisely. NAC has continued working closely with California Parks officials. The Superintendent at the Auburn SRA knows very clearly that naturists will NOT be ignored. He has reversed the earlier plan for a ban on benign nudity, and he is now working toward viable plans to manage FOR responsible clothing-optional uses of the resource.
NAC is also working with local individuals and groups who may not be directly affiliated with major naturist or nudist organizations, but who are sincerely committed to preserving opportunities for clothing optional recreation on public land. NAC expresses its thanks to those individuals and groups.
We definitely have momentum on our side now. We must continue to press our advantage.
WHAT IS NAC ASKING YOU TO DO?
The Naturist Action Committee is asking you to attend the important public workshop on May 30. See the details above. This is the second of three planned public workshops. The process will result in a General Plan/Resource Management Plan for the Auburn State Recreation Area. The Plan will be developed and released jointly by California Parks and the Bureau of Reclamation.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
NAC is asking ALL NATURISTS and other concerned individuals to attend, regardless of your residence. The area at issue is U.S. public land being administered as a California public park. This is a matter that affects us all.
Even if you do not intend to speak at the Public Workshop, your presence is important as support for those who will be speaking on behalf of naturists.
IF YOU SPEAK AT THE WORKSHOP It’s understandable that you might be perturbed at previous attempts to exclude naturists from public lands on the American River. However, please remember that we overcame that obstacle as a result of our flood of correspondence and our disciplined performance at the previous meeting. We’re winners now, and while we must remain vigilant, we should act like gracious winners at the upcoming workshop.
If you speak at the workshop, you must avoid making personal attacks based on the early confrontational approach of some CA Parks officials. We’re well past that now, and we need to continue working together with officials to assure a future for naturists in the General Plan for Auburn SRA.
MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES
Additional information and links are available, along with this NAC Action Alert on the web site of the Naturist Action Committee.
Select “Alerts” and find this NAC Action Alert under Current Alerts.
PLEASE HELP NAC TO CONTINUE HELPING NATURISTS!
The Naturist Action Committee is the volunteer nonprofit political adjunct to The Naturist Society. NAC exists to advance and protect the rights and interests of naturists throughout North America. Fighting for the clothing-optional recreational use of public land is expensive. To do its job, NAC relies entirely on the voluntary generosity of supporters like you.
After you’ve made your plans to attend the public meeting in Auburn on May 30, please take a moment to send a donation to:
NAC
PO Box 132
Oshkosh, WI 54903
Or call toll free (800) 886-7230 to donate by phone using your MasterCard, Visa or Discover Card. Or use your credit card to make a convenient online donation: www.naturistaction.org/donate/
Thank you for choosing to make a difference.
Naturally,
R. Allen Baylis
Board Member
Naturist Action Committee
Naturist Action Committee (NAC) – PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903
Executive Dir. Bob Morton – execdir@naturistaction.org
Board Member Allen Baylis – rab@baylislaw.com
Online Rep. Dennis Kirkpatrick – naturist@sunclad.com
Add comment May 23, 2007
Make Wreck beach in Vancouver one of the 7 Wonders of Canada
From: Judy Williams
Sent: Friday, May 18, 2007 2:25 PM
Subject: Seven Wonders of Canada-Voting Begins May 15-25, 2007!
Dear Wreck Beach Friends:
Please re-distribute the e-mail below to all your list serves, e-mail lists, naturist friends, and acquaintances. Just having Wreck Beach on the short list of 52 CBC Wonders of Canada nominees is a tribute to naturist solidarity everywhere. Bless you all for helping protect this precious beach by voting to have it recognized as one of Canada’s seven wonders. Through such recognition, comes protection, so we urge you to please vote! We are thrilled to have made the “short list” from 1800 nominations. We have been on CBC radio with the two other beaches
running, and appeared in a prominently-featured article in 24-Hours Newspaper yesterday, and will be featured in a cross-Canada news story to promote the Seven Wonders of Canada CBC Contest Tuesday, May 22, on CBC National Television News…at 6:00 p.m. and later!
Recently the CBC Radio and Television launched a contest to find the Seven Wonders of Canada. They are searching for places which fulfill the following criteria:
1. Essential ‘Canadian-ness’ – historically significant, character filled, valued
2. Originality/uniqueness of the pitch and place
3. Spectacular physical site or amazing human creation
4. Ability to inspire
5. Range within the final seven – diversity of location, type of wonder
Thanks to your many passionate submissions, Wreck Beach is on the list of 52 nominees! 1800 nominations were received so we are already a winner, but what the heck? We thought we’d also try for the Seven Wonders list too!
http://www.cbc.ca/sevenwonders/vote.html
Many thanks for your support!
Judy Williams
Chair – Wreck Beach Preservation Society
James Loewen,
Vice-Chair- Wreck Beach Preservation Society
1 comment May 22, 2007
