Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

No matter which end your pumpkin is on,

Please be careful and safe!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

 

 



The Veil Of Invisibility...

 

A couple of weeks ago, a fellow blogger and friend, "One," posted on his blog, moanerplicities (see "My Blog List, left), an entry discussing his sense of being invisible in a predominantly white suburban community in New York state. Visible in this environment due to his race; yet, at the same time, unacknowledged and unseen by the residents because of his difference, his foreign self; obviously not one of them. In their minds, he exists solely as a reminder of that untamed and wilder world beyond theirs.

 

Rye Brook, NY, the scene of his anonymity, is an affluent and prosperous cloistered place of oversized homes and upscale businesses. To belong, one must fit into the mold of this locale: the perfect clone of her/his neighbor and all their possessions. A paradise of perceived entitlement and prosperity with the collective notion that somehow they are all born to a station in life above everyone else. The personification and replication of privilege.

 

Reading this blog entry for the first time, I immediately identified with my blogger brother who happens to also be one of my favorite contemporary GLBT novelists. In my life as a Deaf, queer naturist man, I have been in similar situations while in different places. I know the feeling that he describes. Overlooked and transparent because I am simply me and not one of them.  

 

Emerging from my thoughts, I returned to my screen and perused his posting for a second time. I wanted to make certain that my familiarity with this blogger was not influencing my reaction to his words. It was then, during this repeat reading and reflection, that realization dawned and I understood that not only had I experienced the same same in geographical settings, but in group or social environments as well. I have been there before more times than I originally thought.

 

 

 

This invisible sensation is always with me whenever I am exposed to any of the propaganda of the GOP. Especially when they are pontificating on their agenda, remedies and strategies for the GLBT population. It isn't their policy of  deliberate discrimination that evokes this emotion. After all, the traditions of common good, equality and social justice simply don't exist within the GOP. They aren't compatible with that party's overall philosophy and principles. I accept this reality. I don't like it; but, it's what they value as their worldview. And this is their prerogative, their right.

 

The cause of this feeling of invisibility is the attitude of total disdain and superiority exhibited by the GOP. When they are referring to the GLBT community, they talk around us, above us or under us; never directly to us. Similar to parents when sharing tales about their present yet silent children: patronizing. It's as though we aren't really here in this country or even on this planet. We're merely the unseen aliens existing on the planet Saturn. The fictional enemy that no one has ever laid eyes upon. Yet, we are their neighbors, their coworkers, their brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, cousins and in some cases, even their friends.

 

Perhaps this invisible status they award us is intentional: to dehumanize and to demonize. Identical to the tactics employed by the Nazis in the 1930s era to rally the German people against the Jews. Or those used by the Ottoman Turks in the 1910s that led to the deportation and butchering of the Armenian Christians. Or the Rwandan Hutus in the 1990s that caused the Tutsi genocide. Already, some of the extremists Christian clergy who support the GOP are advocating GLBT isolation and segregation. Far-fetched? Maybe. But similar thinking allowed those above named radicals to attain power in the past.         

 



Perhaps this invisible status they award us is intentional: to create fear and insecurity in order to drive us back into the closet of guilt and shame. This reason is somewhat plausible but more than likely is doomed for failure. Someone seems to have neglected to advise the GOP that there is a scientific fact that is applicable in this instance. The laws of physics hold that for every action there is an equal but opposite reaction. In other words, that which tries to suppress us only makes us stronger. What doesn't kill us empowers us.

Personally, I enjoy this veil of invisibility. I'm able to blend in and remain transparent. Knowledge is power and throughout human history, generations have been taught: know your enemy. Rather than hide, I interact and mingle, while at the same time being myself. I don't have to conceal or deny who I really am. There's no need for this camouflage. After all, they can't see me. I'm invisible to all of them!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!
To read One's original post, go to: http://www.lmross-moanerplicities.blogspot.com and go to the September 17, 2012 entry: "This State of Invisibility in Rye Brook."

Monday Memories: The Way We Were...Nude

 

October, 2012: GLBT History Month: Vintage Gay Nude Pictures: The Arts

Remembering our gay nude past so that we can celebrate our gay nude present.

 

The multiracial musical quartet above demonstrate their performing arts abilities and their proud comfort with their nudity. This photograph was made just as color photography was coming into vogue. That fact, and the haircuts, put it early-to-mid 1960s. The sunglasses worn by the black man of this quintet supports this judgment; just before the wire-rim style popularized by The Beatles. One hand and guitar belonging to the fifth member of this group is visible on the right side of this image.  

 

 

The picture above honors the visual arts. The nude artist is Swedish and his subject, likewise naked and reading a book, is Danish. The picture was taken along Sweden's Baltic Sea coast.  In the lower right-hand corner is the date: 1910. This photograph was located in an album with other photos from the pre-World War I era, so the date is probably accurate. If you look closely at the portrait, you can see the subject vaguely.

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

 





Tropical Storm/Hurricane Sandy Watch

 

Tropical Storm/Hurricane Sandy is rapidly covering the eastern coast of the United States.

It's expected to impact the Mid-Atlantic region beginning tomorrow.

Major power outages are expected.

My emergency preparations include posting DQN In Northern Virginia through Election Day.

I hope it isn't as severe as predicted.

 

If you're in the affected area, please exercise caution and remain safe!

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Friday Footnotes...

With this post, I'm introducing a new feature here on DQN In Northern Virginia. "Friday Footnotes" is just an occasional piece to offer and share updates on people and topics previously presented on this blog, along with a nudecentric "picture of the day" to help set the tone for the upcoming weekend. It's my attempt using creativity to keep everyone current and informed on what's happening in both our nude and queer worlds. It will only be posted when information is available and relevant. A means and a tool to present a conclusion to any loose ends remaining from any post.

PRINCE HARRY AND HIS LAS VEGAS PROMOTIONS



Please refer to the following posts for background on this entry:  "Nudecentric Briefs: The Royal Nakation" Thursday, August 23, 2012; "Nudecentric Briefs: The Naked Prince And His Naked Court" Monday, September 10, 2012.

The Las Vegas, Nevada, business community has fallen in love with His Royal Highness, Prince Henry of Wales. For the moment, the Prince's recent nude antics in Sin City have not only proved to be an economic boon to the popular resort, they've also topped the reputation of the last British king to bear the same name, Henry VIII.

Marketing and travel experts believe the free promotion the city gained from the publicity surrounding Prince Harry's naked romp in late August is worth approximately $23US million. The photographs alone reached almost 154 million internationally.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) says it has no means to monitor the volume of tourism generated by all the free publicity. However, LVCVA Board Chairman Tom Collins said at a recent Authority meeting: "God bless Prince Harry. He made us a bunch of money."

Ironically, the LVCVA just this past spring launched a new media campaign cautioning visitors to the city to "know the code." The code being an earlier catch phrase: "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas." His Royal Highness only wishes this were true.

OPENLY GAY BOXER CRUZ WINS HIS MATCH AND SUPPORT

 

 

For background information on this post, please refer to the October 16, 2012, blog entry entitled "Pro Boxer Orlando Cruz: Out And Proud."

 

Professional featherweight boxer Orlando Cruz, who publicly acknowledged being same gender loving in late September, 2012, won his first boxing match as an openly gay man last Friday, October 19, 2012. The Puerto Rican former Olympic pugilist defeated Jorge Pazos in a unanimous decision at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida. Cruz became the first professional American athlete in a major sport to come out as queer while still competing in his field.

Cruz was amazed at the support given to him by the audience at last Friday's bout. "That was my moment, my opportunity, my event, and I won. His mother, Dominga Torres-Rivera, was present both for the fight and at the post-event media interview.

Cruz then added: "I was very happy that they respect me. That's what I want - them to see me as a boxer, as an athlete and as a man in every sense of the word."

Orlando Cruz hopes to continue fighting and have a chance at the world featherweight boxing title. Best wishes to him as he works toward his ultimate goal. Even those who aren't fans of boxing admire him for his courage in taking this bold and historic step.

 

SAN FRANCISCO NUDITY BAN PROTEST

 

 Please refer to blog entry on October 11, 2012, "Nudecentric Briefs: SF Cover Up?" for this article.

 

This past Saturday, October 20, was the date designated by San Francisco nudists and their supporters to gather in Jane Warner Plaza, at the corner of Castro and Market Streets, to protest the proposal banning public nudity. About 100 naturists, nude, and their friends congregated to show their opposition to the measure that is now before the City's Board of Supervisors (the equivalent of a city council). The protesters ranged in age from their 20s to senior citizens. A public hearing on the measure is scheduled for Monday, November 5, 2012.

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

***

 Always place your feet on a firm and sturdy surface!

Halloween Accessories: Past And Present

With the approaching Halloween festivities, I decided to share with you a few of my nudecentric costumes from the past as well as what I'm using this year. Some of you may be a little bit at a loss as to what to do for the upcoming event; hopefully, these images may get the creative juices flowing and you can devise a creation of your own. Pictured above is my creation for this year, 2012. A simple mask (recycled from 2011) and a clip-on bow-tie.

Here's what I used last year, just a mask. The handshape is the internationally recognized sign for the phrase, "I love you." A word about the mask: it became annoying after the first hour or so. Not uncomfortable; just a nuisance. I'm not accustomed to wearing one.

 

In 2010 and earlier, in 2009, I used this hat as my Halloween creation. Simple yet it "dressed me up!" I have toyed with the idea of using the hat along with the mask and bow-tie for this year. However, I don't want to appear "overdressed!"

 

This is the weekend before Halloween. Men are hosting parties on either Friday or Saturday nights. Be careful, be safe and have fun!

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Change, Hope And Looking Forward

On January 20, 2009, I was one of the almost two million people who gathered on the National Mall in Washington, DC, on the frigid Tuesday morning to watch history being made. Sitting/standing beside the Washington Monument, I proudly honored the occasion as Mr. Barack Hussein Obama took the Oath of Office as the 44th President of the USA. Like everyone else assembled there, and those viewing inside the warmth of their homes, I was filled with a sense of both hope and change, the themes of Mr. Obama's 2008 presidential campaign.

Like almost everyone else in this country and around the world, Democrat and GOP alike, I was sick and tired of the deceit and mediocrity of eight years under George II. Mismanagement, elitist entitlement, two disastrous foreign wars, fiscal irresponsibility, partisan politics and an administration attitude of "my way or the highway" had brought this country to its' worst condition since the economic depression of the 1930s. Worse still was the policy that GLBT people weren't full citizens of this nation and therefore not worthy of inclusion nor basic human rights. The atmosphere all around was ripe for a drastic change.

 

The collective mood on The Mall that day was electrifying. People were enthused and excited about the future. A sense of universal optimism pervaded the crowd; drowning the worries about the sinking economic situation that began during the last year of George II. We knew the going was tough and that it would get worse before it got better; however, we also knew that we had elected the right man to lead us all through it. And President Obama rose to the challenge and did just that!

 

This feeling of change and hope has remained with me for the past four years. That's the reason I support President Obama and Vice-President Biden in their bid for re-election. Their opponents have criticized them for their stimulus efforts to revive the economy. However, they seem to forget that it was the GOP and a GOP president who instituted the first stimulus package in 2008, before the '08 election. Thanks to President Obama, the U.S. auto industry is alive and well today. Jobs are slowly becoming available here and the outsourcing of jobs overseas has declined. The economic situation in this country is on the road to recovery, slowly but surely.

 

 

 Our military and naval servicemembers are now disengaging from the two battle fronts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Wars initiated both by a GOP president and a GOP-led Congress. The cost of those reckless conflicts in human casualties and human lives lies on the GOP and not President Obama. Our current deficit in spending is due, in a large part, to the mismanaged execution of those ill-fated engagements. The GOP needs to take responsibility for an increase in the national debt.

 

Opponents of our Executive Branch of government attack President Obama for his healthcare act and for the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT), the law banning openly GLBT people from serving in the military. I don't understand all the hatred and hype surrounding these two issues. Where were these critics back in 2008? Were they even listening to any of then-Senator Obama's campaign speeches? These two pieces of legislation were no secrets and not enacted through executive order. They were both on Mr. Obama's and Mr. Biden's agenda during the entire election process. Neither of these are any surprise to anyone who happened to pay attention to promises made four years ago. These two items were among the many reasons that I voted Democratic in 2008. They are part of the change and hope that many of us looked forward to see brought to this nation.

 

I am behind President Obama and am casting my ballot for four more years of his leadership and wisdom. I honestly believe this is the only choice that makes sense for the survival of our country. I ask all of you to join me in this campaign for change, hope and moving forward. Our future depends on his ability and experience.

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy! 



Plan Ahead Before Voting: VIP Status

Election Day, November 6, 2012, is rapidly approaching. It's merely two weeks from today. By this time, the majority of us are probably tired of all the political rhetoric and endless presidential campaign ads. Many of us have already cast our ballots and are ready to move on with our lives. However, a number of people are waiting to vote on Election Day itself. There are some who prefer to go to the polls and wait in line. To each his own.

In many states, new voting guidelines are in effect this year; the major one being the requirement of voter identification cards. Now is the time to plan ahead in order to avoid any hassles on the day that voting takes place. There's no need to add any extra stress on what is already an anxious date.  It's not necessary to take on the additional frustration of waiting to vote only to discover that your ballot may not even count.

Our right to vote is both defined and protected by federal and state laws and statutes. Know your rights! The toll free number below is to a hotline maintained by the American Urban Radio Networks. Keep it convenient and use it as a resource should any conflicts or questions arise.

The following preparation tips are from a public service announcement appearing on Black Entertainment Television (BET). The advice is pertinent to all Americans who plan to vote on November 6. There's truth to the adage: an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure!

Think VIP!:

Verify: Verify your voter registration, either through a valid voter registration card or by contacting your local registrar of voters.

Identification: Have a current photo ID with you when you go to the polls to vote.

Precinct: Know your voting precinct (location) of where to cast your vote.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Monday Memories: The Way We Were...Nude

October, 2012: GLBT History Month: Vintage Gay Nude Pictures: Aquanudes

Remembering our gay nude past so that we can celebrate our gay nude present.

 

 Bodies of water seem to always attract naturists/nudists, and the men featured in these images are no exception. The guy above is enjoying his skinny-dipping afternoon at a local watering hole. Judging from his haircut, the two pictures are from the early 1960s.

 

 

The two guys featured above are having fun on an outing along a rocky shoreline. Something, or someone, has definitely caught their attention. Based on their hair, this one is from the late 1950s.

 

The young men pictured below are posing on the edge of a pool before resuming their aquatic antics.

Based on their hairstyles, this photo dates from the late 1950s to early 1960s. 

 

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

 





It's Almost That Time...

 

STILL LOOKING FOR THE MAN TO DO THE JOB RIGHT?

 

CAST YOUR VOTE FOR PRESIDENT OBAMA ON NOVEMBER 6!

 

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!



Purple Spirit Day: Anti-Bullying

 

 

Today, October 19, 2012, is Spirit Day, sponsored by GLAAD, supporting the initiative launched in 2010, against GLBT youth bullying. The campaign, begun by Brittany McMillian through FaceBook, was started in response to the rise in suicides among our community's teens. Persons hope to increase public knowledge to this growing national tragedy by the wearing of purple awareness ribbons or purple clothing. Demonstrate your compassion, concern and support by wearing a ribbon or a purple garment.

 

For additional information on this campaign, visit the GLAAD website: http://www.glaad.org .

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy! 

 

 

Nude Novice Notes: Body Painting Tips

COME ON OUT OF YOUR CLOSET OF CLOTHES AND WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SOCIAL NUDITY!


The Halloween holiday is fast approaching and along with it comes opportunities for parties in honor of ghosts and goblins. Costumes are a part of the tradition and it's each individuals decision whether or not to wear one. Opting out doesn't necessarily mean that a naturist/nudist can't celebrate with others. The use of body paint (body art) is one way to join in the festivities without having to put on a costume.


There are some different mediums available for use in body art. Here are some helpful hints that hopefully will make the experience easier and less stressful. The tricks should be in the Halloween spirits, not in preparing for the social!


Safety First:

Before even attempting body art, always test the product to be used on a small area of the skin. Wait for several hours to see if there is any type of reaction. This is true even if the medium is labelled "non-toxic" or "non-allergenic." Every person is different with varying levels of sensitivities. Covering any amount of a person's skin is a serious undertaking and even a small reaction can be severe. Make certain to be near a shower or sink in order to quickly wash off with a mild soap should an adverse reaction occur. If the art is difficult to remove, try using baby oil.

After washing, minor skin irritations should disappear within about 15-20 minutes. If not, and breathing problems, burning sensations, skin discomfort or swelling occur, consult a medical practitioner immediately. These are indicative of a serious allergic reaction.

There is a false speculation, sometimes referred to as the "Goldfinger myth," that covering a person's skin will smother them. People breathe through their mouth, nose and lungs, not their skin. Covering a person's skin will not suffocate them.

Mediums/Tools:

There are a variety of products that can be used in creating a body art or natural art costume.  In the photo left, this full art example is applied with professional theatrical make-up and obviously required the assistance of another person. Here are some ideas that I've personally used in the past:

Markers: These are the same non-toxic, washable boxes of felt markers that millions of school-age youth use daily. Easy to apply and to remove, they are ideal for the first-timer. They are also the most affordable and readily available. The problem is the narrow point and the time needed to apply.

Greasepaint/Theatrical Make-up: These are used in dramatic productions, both amateur and professional. They are moderately expensive and are sold in quantity. They are usually found in costume stores or theatrical supply businesses. Application is easy and the drawback lies with the amount leftover and creative design, especially for the first-timer.

Airbrush Make Up: This is the best medium that I've used to date. It's excellent and efficient for full body art and isn't time consuming. It's easy to apply and safe. It's also expensive; you pay for the benefits. These are available in theatrical supply stores and online. It takes 5-6 cans for a one color full body application. Do not use near an air circulation vent or fan.

There are other mediums on the market; but, these are unfamiliar to me so I can't comment on cost or application. Some of these that I've seen are: liquid latex, textile acrylics and something called PAX Make Up (an adhesive based paint).

Regardless of the medium, body art is very messy, even if using markers. Have at least one full roll of paper towels nearby, just in case, as well as a surface cleaner. Have several hand towels to use, if necessary, on your body or face. Some men prefer to wear latex gloves when applying body art mediums.

 

 

Preparation:

 

The first decision that needs to be made is the type of body art desired: a full body disguise or merely a partial body or facial one. It is important to remember that an intricate covering is the most time consuming. A full body creation is going to need the assistance of a friend in order to complete. For first-time body artists, simpler is better. The more experienced and proficient artists can attempt the elaborate and detailed look.

 

Tips:

 

1. Evenly apply absorbent moisturizer (cream, gel, lotion, oil) over all the body area to be decorated.

 

2. Allow at the very least an hour for the skin to absorb the moisturizer.

 

3. Do not apply any medium to greasy skin. It will smear.

 

4. Evenly distributed lighting permits the best results.

 

5. Even if merely using markers to the face, the application process is slow and tedious. Allow ample time to remove and start over if needed.

 

6. Before attempting, visualize or diagram desired design.

 

7. Keep in mind the finished image may not match the desired outcome.

 

8. Apply slowly and evenly using well executed movements.

 

9. If absolute symmetry is desired, enlist the help of a friend.

 

10. Remember, most mediums are water-based and soluble. Any moisture, including perspiration, may cause designs to easily run or smear.

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Body Readings

 



 

 

Every man's body has a story to tell. First and foremost, it obviously identifies his ethnic or racial heritage. A son of mixed race relationships clearly has tell-tale hints of both of his backgrounds. Despite some men's claims, "I don't see race." We all do. Many of us don't permit that fact to determine our actions and/or interactions with that person. Others are only able to react to a man's origins, unable to see beyond that attribute. We all know individuals who fall into that category.

 

Other physical traits apparent to those within proximity are endowment, amount of body/pubic hair, birthmarks and size. Age and ability are usually, but not always, easy to discern from a brief visual observation. These brief insights into our lives are generally given to us at birth and follow through life's journeys.

 

Artificial or man-made markings are similarly obvious, although not necessarily from a distance. These definers include surgical incisions and scars. Wounds can be intentional, such as for medical reasons or from accidents, assaults or injuries, all actions beyond our control. Maybe these are a source of embarrassment for some; for others, they are perhaps evidence of both character and valor. They sometimes indicate nothing more than being in the proverbial wrong place at the wrong time. In the photo above, this model has no problem with the surgical scar on his upper left abdomen. In the one below, this man doesn't attempt to hide the scar on his right lower arm.

 

Nipple, penile and scrotum piercings tell us of the sublimal message of the level of eroticism a man associates to those body areas. This is evidenced by the presence of the piercing and not necessarily the actual accessory. The absence of the ring or stud may also let us know the piercing could have been based on the preference of a former lover or partner.

 

Body readings are distinct from body art or body messages. Those, may or may not, be the same as tattoos. Body readings are those tell-all indicators found on a man's natural form that are clearly and especially visible when nude. 

 

Our bodies are a roadmap to our lives, both past and present. They offer to all a glimpse or insight into a man's personal history. As queer naturists/nudists, understanding this situation allows all of us to make this work in our favor. We already have an appreciation and respect for the human male body. In using the uniqueness of our own bodies and nudity, we can exude confidence and pride in being the true man that each of us indeed are. Rather than attempt to conceal or downplay what makes us special, we should own it and feel no shame.

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy! 

 

 

 

 

Pro Boxer Orlando Cruz: Out And Proud

It's now been two weeks since Orlando Cruz, a current professional featherweight boxer, came out of the closet to all in the sportsworld. Cruz's announcement was unique as he became the first athlete in professional sports to acknowledge his sexual orientation while active in his chosen career. Previously, pro athletes came out only after they had retired from their game.

The 31-year-old Puerto Rican featherweight was a member of the 2000 Olympic team from his native island commonwealth. He competes in the World Boxing Organization (WBO) circuit. His next professional match is scheduled for Friday, October 19, at the Kissimmee Civic Center, located in Kissimmee, Florida. He defends his WBO title against Jorge Pazos.

When making his public announcement, Orlando Cruz offered the following statement: "I've been fighting for more than 24 years and as I continue my ascendent career, I want to be true to myself. I want to try to be the best role model I can be for kids who might look into boxing as a sport and professional career. I have and will always be a proud Puerto Rican. I have always been and always will be a proud gay man." He becomes not only the first active athlete to come out, but also the first, active and retired, in the field of professional boxing.

Orlando later elaborated to reporters: " I don't want to hide any of my identities. I want people to look at me for the human being that I am." 

Fellow Puerto Rican celebrities have publicly offered Cruz their support. His former Olympic teammate, Miguel Cotto, has publicly given encouragement. Pop singer Ricky Martin, who came out himself two years ago, has done likewise.

October is GLBT History Month. Cruz, in becoming the first professional athlete to come out while actively competing, earns a place in the GLBT halls of fame. His courage and positive attitude are an inspiration to all. Congratulations, Orlando, for being the true man that you are!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

    

Monday Memories: The Way We Were...Nude

 

October, 2012: GLBT History Month: Vintage Gay Nude Pictures: Photography

Remembering our gay nude past so that we can celebrate our gay nude present.

 

 

One aspect of nude photography I always find refreshing are the images of the photographers taking pictures of their subjects while they, themselves, are nude. That was ultimately what attracted me to these photos initially. In the one above, the camera is a classic from years past. This image probably dates from the late 1960s, based on the footwear of the men featured. The Egyptian ankh pendant around the neck of the black man was popular during this period.

 

 

The picture below shows friend posing in front of the lens along a seaside resort. This photograph dates from the late 1950s to early 1960s, judging from the hairstyles. The men are obviously aware of the erotic nature of their antics.

 



Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!



The Real Deal

 

 

I always knew this would come out sooner or later. Is this the real face of the GOP? It's enough to make us sit back and wonder: after the gay-bashing, who's next?

 

Thanks to Maybe It's Just Me for posting this. Visit his blog, click here: http://www.southern4life.blogspot.com .

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Early Bird...

 

 

How's this for a scene at your local shopping mall? If this became the norm, I might even start going to local malls more often! Look out, the next nude man you may see there just might be me! Now the big question is: exactly what is this nude dude doing? An early bird Halloween "trick-or-treater" or is he an early bird winter holiday shopper? This decision, I'll leave entirely up to you.

 

In the meantime, have a terrific weekend! If you're headed out to shop, have your camera handy!

 

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Nudecentric Briefs: SF Cover Up?

 

FOR A NATURIST/NUDIST, THE ONLY REASON FOR OWNING A PAIR OF BRIEFS IS TO TAKE THEM OFF!

NUDE NEWS

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known as a city of individuality, oddity and tolerance, as evidenced by it's liberal policy of allowing public nudity. The city permits nakedness at plazas, parklets (miniature parks), sidewalks, streets and on public transportation. It is specifically banned in municipal parks (larger spaces), port property and a few other designated areas. Last year, local legislation was passed by the City's Board of Supervisors that prohibited sitting nude in restaurants and public benches unless a towel or other suitable barrier was used to cover the seat. This piece of legislation was introduced and sponsored by Supervisor Scott Wiener.

All of that tolerance is about to change dramatically. Now, Wiener has expressed extreme concern over increased public nudity within his own City neighborhood, the Castro, a traditional gay neighborhood which is part of his electoral district. He has introduced a bill for a new law that outlaws all public nakedness except parades and street festivals. The upcoming legislation doesn't affect being nude at public beaches or private property. Of course, the proposal has created controversy both in the broader community as a whole and likewise, within the gay population.

The proposed ordinance, presented last week, sits before the full City Board of Supervisors for a period of 30 days before the legislative review process is initiated. The draft then goes to a committee of supervisors for a series of public hearings and comments in early November. This measure is scheduled for debate at the meeting of the City Operations and Neighborhood Committee on November 5, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. Following the committee consideration and recommendation, it then returns to the entire Board in late November and could, by law and procedure, see a vote by the full Board of Supervisors as soon as early December. San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee has endorsed the draft.

"Unfortunately, the nudity situation in the Castro, rather than running its course, has gotten more extreme. Many in the community have reached the end of their rope." Wiener commented when he introduced the proposal.

Several prominent nudists, in opposition to the upcoming bill, have incorporated the issue as one of gay rights. Wiener, who is gay, has denied that charge and association. All interested persons are encouraged to contact Supervisor Wiener electronically at: scott.wiener@sfgov.org . The City is cognizant of the financial impact of tourism on its' economy. Residency isn't an issue.

Naturists/nudists and their textile supporters opposed to the pending legislation are encouraging public support at a rally scheduled for next Saturday, October 20, 2012, at the Jane Warner Plaza in the Castro.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Naked in San Francisco, The Associated Press

October Skies

As much as I bemoan, dread and regret the passing of each summer season, I must admit that there is much to be said about the blue, clear skies that frequent the final week of September and the first few weeks of October. Usually, by the mid-morning, it's comfortable enough to shed your pesky and confining clothes and enjoy the bulk of the daylight outside, completely nude. The breeze is light and variable, the air refreshing and the sunlight is invigorating and warm. Sometimes, it's generating enough heat to produce a few beads of perspiration.

The early autumn foliage transition is just sufficient as to provide a light sense of color to the landscape. The falling leaves aren't yet in the quantity to obscure the ground. The flowers of the fall season add their beauty to a vision that changes almost daily.

The air isn't heavy and laden with the allergens and mold of rotting vegetation. There's a fading yet lingering promise of life. It's as though Mother Nature has temporarily suspended the seasonal changes for, at the very least, several extra weeks. The world and nature appear calm and in harmony. One last hurrah before the onset of the killing frosts.

Picture perfect mid-days and afternoons for composing, reading or thinking; alone or with close friends. Time to savor the scenery surrounding while focusing inward. Take out the paints or charcoals and create a visual memory. A natural chapel to put aside the cares and concerns of the conflicting and hectic world and delve deep into our respective souls.

Early autumn can be a wondrous period of the year. Yes, it does offer a handful of reasons to celebrate the beauty of our nudity!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Who's Happy Now?

It's plain to see the two photos posted above are of the same two men. Actually, they're half-brothers in real life, Darius (darker skin) and Devon King and you've probably seen them perform either live or on DVD (Island Studio). Devon is openly gay and Darius is... well, a pretty damn good actor. Take a look at both of the pictures one last time before you continue reading here.

We're all familiar with the often-stated comment, "You know, I almost didn't recognize you in your clothes." Or, the other one, "You know, I didn't recognize you all dressed up." That's actually happened to me in real life; but, that's a different post at a different time. What these two comments, or similar, imply is that the speaker had difficulty identifying the man observed because he's not accustomed to seeing him dressed in a certain style or in wearing formal clothing.

As naturists/nudists, the two above mentioned statements aren't as far-fetched or off-base as they may initially seem. Only, not necessarily as they relate to clothing. As social nudists, we usually focus on the face and not the clothes. The reason for this is obvious; in a socially naked environment, we're not wearing clothes. Therefore, when communicating and interacting with others, it's the face that holds our attention.

Now, most of us are happy while we're nude. We're comfortable, content and relaxed. When in the company of our own at a nude event, we're in the midst of our element: we are home. The result is that most of us are in the best of moods and are genuinely glad to be exactly where we are. Please, look at the above images one more time, this time, pay close attention to the facial expressions.

In the left photo, Darius and Devon are wearing clothes and their faces reflect their discomfort: not very happy. In the one on the right, clothes-free, their features demonstrate their joy and pleasure. This is my point: the problem with recognition isn't with the clothes, it's with the face. We're simply not accustomed to seeing our naked brothers in clothing and miserable. Since we don't focus on the clothes, the face we see and the misery it reflects is what causes us confusion when we see our friends on the street. We're used to seeing our nude buddies as happy men.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!