Commentary by AANR President John Kinman
That’s the title of an article that will run (or has run by the time you read this) by the new owner of Pasco Naturally.
For the second time in 15 months, the AANR Board of Trustees voted to suspend the charter of a major club in Florida. The particulars were different, but both centered on the board’s feelings that the marketing practices of the clubs were contrary to our principles and standards related to sexual exploitation of the human body. In 2008, the issue was Caliente which invited swinger groups to sponsor “theme nights” at the resort and planned to sponsor a booth at “Swingfest.” This year it was Paradise Lakes which scheduled a “Miss G String” contest with non-nudist models and planned to air the event on the Playboy Channel under the theme “69 sexy things to do before you die.”
The AANR ruling documents provide that “A charter may be temporarily suspended by the President if charges are filed by the pertinent regional division or the suspension is approved by the board of trustees; such suspension to be effective until the next in-person meeting of the board of trustees.” Suspension is not a finding of guilt. It gives the association time to complete further investigation and gives club management time to develop an appeal before the charter is revoked. In both cases, club management decided to withdraw from AANR before the process could be completed.
Management of both clubs told me that economics were the reason for their decisions. They claim that traditional nudists do not spend the dollars on room rentals, meals and drinks that are necessary for the resort to be profitable. They need to reach another audience with the propensity to spend more money. I understand the problem. AANR, itself, has experienced a drop in membership as have nearly all membership organizations. As we manage our organizations, we need to adapt and do things differently in order to survive. However, we also need to step back and remember what we stand for.
In the past several years, AANR has been very successful in changing public perception about nude recreation. Major media outlets have featured nude recreation as a legitimate recreational choice. AANR has also been very successful in changing the viewpoint of elected officials and government agencies. We have differentiated ourselves from the adult business industry. We are being recognized as the credible voice of reason for nude recreation. The affiliation with AANR has enabled many clubs to get building permits, liquor licenses, and sometimes to be allowed to exist. That public trust cannot be jeopardized.
This past summer, AANR sponsored The AANR World Record Skinny-Dip. Club owners and beach organizers reported that many people participated who had never before been nude in mixed company. The press reports were the greatest we have ever seen for an event. Clubs signed up new members. The event portrayed wholesome family nude recreation. No one confused it with a strip show or a swinger convention. The event told me that, with focused marketing, our resorts and AANR can grow in membership without a sexual tone.
One of the resort owners told me that “the only thing acceptable to AANR is sitting on a log watching a campfire.” I think that most AANR members would disagree with that assessment. Times have certainly changed from the 1950s when I became involved as a child. We have more tolerance. But, most of us see that there is a line which should not be crossed if we are to be true to our brand and to the promises we gave to public officials. The AANR plaque on the wall of a club or participating business needs to stand for something. Sometimes we need to take a stand to enforce that.
I am sorry to lose two clubs with wonderful facilities which have provided a destination resort for many AANR members and potential members. My wife and I have visited both many times. I also feel for the members who have invested thousands of dollars to buy a condominium in a resort that has changed its image. My personal hope is that the management of these resorts re-examine their marketing strategy and agree to uphold the principles and standards of AANR.
After years of fighting for our right to exist, it’s a bit strange to hear from a club owner that we may be “outdated.” We walk a tough line between ultra-conservatives who would outlaw our clubs and the adult industry which wants to piggy-back on our success in bringing public acceptance. We know our niche and what it takes to protect our brand. And, we draw the line.
Tags: AANR, AANR World Record Skinny-Dip, American Association for Nude Recreation, nude, nude recreation, nudist
I wholeheartedly agree with AANR’s position in this matter. Wholesome family nudism is what we stand for. My wife and I introduced ourselves to social nudism in the US back in the 1980’s at Paradise Lakes. At that time PL was much more of a family-oriented resort, and we became members. Over time, especially with the construction of the new section, we observed the gradual change toward what PL is today. We let our membership lapse and for the last 10 years or so have chosen to visit Cypress Cove when we vacationed in Florida. Cypress Cove does it right; first class amenities and lodging and a totally family-oriented and “clean” approach to nudism.
We have never been to Caliente; we have heard about the atmosphere there and don’t want to be a part of it. I don’t think we’re fuddy-duddies; we just don’t think that nudism needs to embrace swinging, exhibitionism and a “sexy” atmosphere.
It’s too bad that PL and Caliente have put themselves in a situation where they “need” that sort of thing nto be profitable. Cypress Cove shows that it isn’t necessary, as does Lake Como.
I encourage AANR to maintain the attitude expressed in the column. It reflects our views and makes us happy and proud to be members (since 1985!)
Thanks for standing up for your (our) principles. I am not an AANR member but I do belong to a naturist resort.
I want to commend the AANR for standing for what is right concerning these two clubs. Although neither club was mentioned, I am quite certain that I get an e-mail from each of them as we visited them last year. The raciness in the e-mails makes this almost 40 year old blush and I have a hard time differentiate the e-mails they send with hard core porn. I will agree that both facilities are very nice and accomodating but we have found that people at other AANR clubs are much more our type as far as not having too worry about whether or not you are being hit upon.
AVITW:
GOOD FOR AANR! ALTHOUGH THERE IS (OR “SHOULD BE”) A “PLACE” FOR “OTHER ACTIVITIES” INVOLVING NUDITY, SOMEHOW, THE AANR “BRAND” DOES NOT SEEM COMPATIBLE WITH SUCH ACTIVITIES.
SADLY, EVEN “TRADITIONAL” AANR CLUBS AND ASSOCIATED ACTIVITIES ARE “PRICING OUT” MANY PEOPLE WHO “MIGHT” ENJOY OUR LIFESTYLE. A PART OF THIS IS THE “DEPARTURE” FROM THE “SIMPLE LIFE” THAT WAS FORMERLY ASSOCIATED WITH THE “NUDIST LIFESTYLE”. LUXURIOUS FACILITIES AND “UP SCALE ACTIVITIES” DO “REQUIRE” ADDITIONAL FUNDING. THE QUESTION ARISES, “WHICH WAY TO GO”? AND “WHO DECIDES”?
THE TWO CLUBS MENTIONED “OBVIOUSLY” WISH TO GO IN A DIFFERENT DIRECTION. SADLY, SUCH ACTIVITIES WILL “SOON” ATTRACT THE ATTENTION OF “THE PURITANS IN GOVERNMENT” PANDERING FOR VOTES. THEN, THERE WILL BE “NO OPTIONS”.
THE “ONLY ANSWER” IS TO “OPEN UP” PUBLIC LANDS (PARKS AND BEACHES” TO “NUDE RECREATION”. THIS IS WHERE AANR HAS “FAILED” TO TAKE THE LEAD. SADLY, ONE “SUSPECTS” THAT THERE ARE “POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC” REASONS FOR THIS ALSO. ENJOY, TOM
The sexual aspect is precisely why my parents dropped out of nudism back in the 1970s. I was raised to think of the human body as something to appreciate, but that everyone has one. From a feminine aspect, how harmful to the psyche to have to endure more sexism with a Miss G String contest! Women have to deal with that in our clothed lives — why should we have to deal with it when we’re supposed to be relaxing?
I’m sorry for the families who invested their money in memberships and facilities. I don’t think AANR is outdated; we need the guidelines to show the outside world that nudists do not view the body solely for sexual purposes.
I completely agree with you. The only complaints I have is
the c/o resorts. A nudist resort is just that, nudist resort
and I do understand that new people need an adjustment period
and have no problem with that, or needing some cover for things like sunburn, but letting people remain clothes gives
me the willies, I can walk the street clothed for free, so
I ask myself why would anyone want to go to a nudist resort and remain clothed? My wife swore she would never be nude
in front of anyone and would never attend a resort. After
25 years of marriage, I convinced her to go, but she swore that she would never undress while there. 30 minutes after we arrived she was disrobed and now loves it, we go every chance we get. The only other thing is most will not allow you to take pictures, and I understand that some do not want
their picture taken and I respect that, but we would like to take pictures of our self and with others willing to do so.
If by chance some one else gets in there I ask their permission and if they do not want to be in it I just crop them out.I do not let any pictures with others get out of
what I call my private collection, but I do often share my
pictures of me and my wife with others. Most resorts that we
attend issues arm bands, could it be possibly to have
different colors, say red no pictures and say green it is
OK. I think a lot of the clothed people that attend c/o
resorts are taking pictures and that is the reason for the clothing, hid the camera. I have no problem with anyone who
wants a picture of me taking one, but I do frown on the candid shots, so we stay away from c/o resorts. Just my two
cents worth. Thanks
I am not sure how much credence I should put to an
article on correct thinking when in the same bulletin
the resort advertisement is run. It seems that the Board
drew the line just short of monetary concerns.
Thanks AANR for keeping to your standards , I can feel confident that when I go to a AANR club that there will not be any sexual overtones.
As usual AANR has come through and done the right thing. The damage done by a club that openly advertises sex in their club would damage the movement with reprecussions evident for many years. The momentum that we have gathered in the last several decades would be totally wiped out if this were to become the norm. Thank you AANR, for upholding our principles.
This article seems to portray an accurate picture of the position that resort owners find themselves in. Of course the reason for this is that operating a resort costs a lot of money which means guests have to pay a lot of money. What I find sad is that the majority of people who wish to exercise their right to be nude do not have a place to go that is cheap or free and where they can do this without being subject to arrest. What is missing is the existence of areas that do not require a great deal of monetary input to operate. There are vast geographic areas of the United States which do not allow this experience. I would be happy having portions of public beaches, state parks, and private lands available for recreational nudism all over the place.
My Internet research found this in a General Laws of New Hampshire: “No person shall, within the view of any dwelling-house, or of any public road, street, or wharf, in the day-time, without necessity, bathe, or swim, or expose his person indecently in dressing or undressing for the purpose of swimming, or bathing, or otherwise”. Of course this was written over 100 years ago but remains in effect. I assume the updated version would also include “her person”. So I continue to plant trees and shrubs around my property so that I can’t be seen from streets or my neighbors’ houses. I think I’ve already blocked the view from the wharf.
Agree fully.
But, be careful with political labels. The inclusion of the the term “ultra-conservative” is counterproductive as it is used inappropriately here.
I consider myself a “conservaive”. Many of my friends would add the modifier “ultra” to my self description. I am also a “born-again Christian”.
But, my wife and I enjoy nude recreation as promoted by AANR.
We, (Christians, conservatives) as a class, have been repeatedly demonized by your competitive organization, the reason I switched membership at AANR.
Please, be very careful of labels. Social nudism draws its support from all segments of our society (except, perhaps, fundamental Islam). The use of a political label, for a lifestyle that is apolitical in nature, is counterproductive.
You choose to chastise Paradise Lakes for their marketing schemes and or perceived behavior but continue to accept their advertising money. Some may see this as hypercritical. I have been to Paradise Lakes and found the party atmosphere refreshing.
I would like to congratulate the direction of AANR for taking this important decision in the direction to defend our lifestyle!
Unfortunately, this is not something restricted to the USA. The same problem exists in Europe and here in Brazil.
Many “Naturists/Nudists Clubs” create some “Sex theme parties” to make more money… but this is not our lifestyle and of course if the managers know how to do business they will find other way to increase the incomes.
Have respect for others… being tolerant… does not mean giving up our historic values and transform the Social Nudity of our lifestyle into something pornographic and erotic! Otherwise we’ll be ending our lifestyle!
Congratulations and continue in this way because only by that we will be philosophically right!
Andre Herdy
Former President from FBrN
Well said, and dead on point. Taking a stand for what is right is as American as apple pie and I am proud to be part of an oranization that understands its principles and sticks by them. Thank you and keep up the good work!!
Whilst I somewhat agree that times, like people, change, I prefer the definition and attitude of the AANR regarding socal and family nudism. Its a shame that some “nudists” should think that taking ones’s clothes off with others is an invitation. I suppose “swingers” perhaps have their places in out world but promiscuity, at least in my opinion, is certainly not welcome in my world of social nudism. But then I am not, never have been, nor shall I ever be one of those “Progressives” that profess, “If you dig it, do it”. Hang tough AANR.
Thanks, John for preserving the integrity of AANR.
Just as their is big difference between Love and Lust. Their is a major difference between nudity and sex. Thanks to AANR and other organizations we nudists have been able to change years of predujice against the naked human body and the “sdult sex business”. Know these clubs are selling their souls for a few pieces of silver. If they would look at all their options they could find ways to bring new money without sacrificing their core values. Keep up the good work AANR,
I think this was a good move on AANR’s part.
These two clubs have such outrageously high prices to visit that only THE RICH people go . No wonder they have to stoop to sleazy lows to attract visitors.
If this were really about AANR taking a stand for what is right why was the adult atmosphere ignored for decades? Paradise was created by a swinger from it’s very conception and it has always been a sexually suggestive resort, with sexy clothes modeled around the pool area on weekends, with lingerie dances on the calendar every Friday night for many years, with bootie and boob contests around the pool area, and most blatently, sex in the pools after midnight.
None of this is new yet AANR turned and looked the other way for very many years. Paradise was it’s major source of income and I see a clear lack of principles on the part of AANR for pretending that Paradise was a family oriented place at any time.
My first visit was in 1987 and even then it was not family oriented. However, I don’t think this is wrong for Paradise to be that way. You have to do what it takes to make a place profitable. AANR is being the hypocrite here by pretending that the last few decades at Paradise was within their guidelines.
I have got to say that I am dissapointed tat AANR hasn’t at least moved into the modern times. To think the body as A-Sexual is living in the dark ages. Going so far as to promote sex is a whole other subject. As for me it bothers me not and we need to have opinions from all sides as well as members. Even Swingers and Nudists can co-exhist and should. We all need to get alone and support our rights of free speach and personal freedoms.
You are going to start loosing members by the score and loose site of the big picture of protecting our rights to be naked.
I am a member of Cypress Cove and will no longer visit either Paridise Lakes or Caliente mainly due to the swingers attitude. The last time I was at Caliente, a man walked up to me and said that his wife across the pool wanted me. My response was “if she wants me, I guess you are not doing your job”. To me marriage is a sacred institution and should not be shared with just anyone.
I applaud ANNR for not belittling its Mission Statement, it has been an uphill struggle just to get to where we are now, and I know the puritanical thinking of the media is just waiting for ANNR to make a bad call.
I do agree with AANR’s stand on this issue. I thought it was strange for places like Caliente’ to be staging sexy lingerie nights and G-string shows. When I attend any nudist camp or resort, I and my wife expect just that…nudity, not sex. There is a huge difference. When I first talked my wife into attending, she was very reluctant at disrobing at first. But then very shortly after, grew confident and comfortable that there were no “oglers” sizing her up. It also helped that it was hotter than Hell. But the point is, I don’t believe she would have been so accepting to disrobe if there were “sexy” shows going on or lingerie competitions. Leave that stuff for the strip clubs and Internet.
Good for AANR! We have heard about but never been to either of those clubs. We have brought up our daughter to see nudity as non-sexual and places like that only drive away families who don,t want there children exposed to that.
I’m going to address this topic by looking at it from a different direction. I’ve been a Premier Member of AANR for over five years, but I’ve lived the “nudist” lifestyle for over thirty years. I married a great lady and she attended one of the local resorts with me. She decided that the lifestyle wasn’t for her, and that’s fine. She suggested that I continue to go to without her. I called the local resort about becoming a member. I was told that my Wife had to join too. I was told in fact that I shouldn’t even attend the resort without my Wife. So, it leads to this question, don’t most of these resort or club members see this is about sex. No matter how much they try to deny it or justify it, I think their policies speak for themselves. If I go to a club or resort, I should be judged on my character not my sex. I understand each club has their own rules, but look at your policies before stating membership is down, or we need to do “this”…..I guess what I’m saying is, even the AANR guiding principal has “changed” and should be reviewed as needed.
“SUCH ACTIVITIES WILL “SOON” ATTRACT THE ATTENTION OF “THE PURITANS IN GOVERNMENT” ” We own in Paradise Lakes. Can someone in this forum put some legal background to this? What might happen legally? What is possible under Florida/Pasco law? What might be consequences for owners? Thank you very much for your input.
About AANR’s standpoint – we totally agree, but James Warner has a valid point, why the ad?
Way to go AANR!! Thank you so much for standing your ground and keeping the wholesomeness in this lifestyle.
Sorry, We missed the explanation on the ad. It is acceptable and makes sense.
We applaud your stand on the principles upon which the AANR was founded. As a former member of Caliente, we had not rejoined because of their decision to leave the AANR.
While it is understandable that many nudist resorts are hurting financially, it is not acceptable to sacrifice principles to alleviate the financial burdens. There are other ways.
Our comment to the AANR – keep up the good work.
We are shocked to hear that Paradise Lakes joined Caliente in turning their backs on the AANR policy. My family has enjoyed the amentities at these two resorts since they opened but their greater focus on a Hedonism atmosphere conflicts with a family resort. We introduced our sister to nudism when she turned 70. We stayed at these 2 resorts and Cypress Cove. Although the other 2 offer more amenities, they have lossed our family’s vacation business. We are 18 in total traveling to Florida next summer far a family reunion and a three week vacation. None of us want to stay at Paradise Lakes or Caliente. We guess they can do without some family business in hopes of making it up at the bar.
We hope Lake Como does not give in to its’ neighbors direction.
Thank you.
I agree with Bill about AANR’s (illegal?) discrimination against married men. Discriminating against sexual oriented behavior is appropriate. But it is not okay to discriminate against a social class of people based on race, gender, occupation, address, social class, religion, marital status, or any other such arbitrary profiling. How about walking your talk about being a “credible voice of reason” and promoting healthy nudism for all people, not just families and singles. Prejudice went out of vogue in the ’60’s, and nudist clubs are not dating services.
We really enjoy going to the camps, we feel comfortably being around others that are nude also. If I have to start worring about anything sexually coming up I would stop going. I can understand a female covering up for certain times of the month, but clothing optional bothers me. several years ago we encountered a young couple, she had a ring in her vaginal area, that bothered me, but they continued to drink and before you know it I thought they were going to make out in front of everyone. I enjoy being outside nude and if I am going to pay money to be at a camp, I want to be comfortable and relaxed. After all nudism is very realxing, thats why we are members of AANR. Thanks for keeping it wholesome.
I also agree with AANR’s position on the two clubs. The article and the replies suggest that other AANR clubs trying to survive without swingers’ money perhaps need to:
1) modestly upgrade their amenities to be less “basic”, such as providing a simple snack bar, even if operated by the members. Today, many folks don’t enjoy living the “rustic” life much, and
2) be creative in efforts to increase attendance. One suggestion is to designate some weekends as “All Nude”. These would promote what we’re all about, by requesting that everyone on the grounds be nude for the entire weekend, except for shoes/hats, medical needs, first-time visits, etc. This could result in the return of former members who want no clothing in sight, attracting new members, and most importantly remind all what the real purpose of the nudist movement is.
I can’t believe how many bloggers think John Kinman’s article is about substance when even he makes it abundantly clear its about perception. As “cyndiann” points out, Paradise Lakes (PL) has been about “sexualized nudism” since its inception.
So what happened that caused AANR to suspend its charter? PL reached a point where the underground “word of mouth” marketing regarding the sexual side of PL, in conjuction with its traditional nudist marketing was no longer enough to sustain profitability. PL felt it had no choice but start publicly promoting what it formerly kept hidden behind the curtain because thats the side of nudism that pays the bills. The fact is that the sezualized nudists subsidize the family nudists. If you are a family nudist you should thank a nudist swinger whenverer you encounter one because he/she is keeping your nudist club open for your family enjoyment. AANR knows this. As long as the sexual side of nudism stays behind the curtain and does not jeopardize AANR’s brand, AANR will turn a blind eye. It does this with many, many clubs.
But as soon as a club goes public with marketing that touts its sexual side, AANR will react just as did Captain Renault in “Casablanca”: ” I am shocked, shocked to find out there is gambling in Casablanca!”
AANR did the right thing. They can only tolerate so much sexuality and it must stay covert and not be overt. Currently, this is the only way to maintain the venues for all nudists; the sexualized nudists and well as the nudists with their victorian attitudes and coolers full of off-brand soda and homemade sandwiches.
For it is the image of the latter of these two groups of nudists that the AANR brand is based on and continues to gain acceptance with the public at large and with public officials. The dilemma is that this is the decending number of nudists day by day while the romatic/sexualized nudists are in the ascension. Clubs seek to attract young people. Young people have a much more liberal attitude about sexuality and clubs must accomodate them.
Pole dancing is a perfect example of a nudist activity that sits atop the fence of an acceptable or unacceptabe nudist activity. Young nudist love it and will come out to club specically for it. Old nudists hate it and will stay away from a club that permits it. What to do? Paradise has chosen their direction.
Given its current brand identity and all the government affairs work they have done, I applaud AANR for its action. I also applaud Pardise Lakes for volutarily giving up its charter and seeking to influence AANR’s brand in a more liberal direction, or even to possibly establish a new nudist brand. AANR is outdated. Its brand has us driving an old car down an old road when most new nudists are actually driving a newer model car in a different direction.
Integrity. No one likes to see a organized entity such as AANR seem like its flexing its muscles at any club, but when you stand for something, you need to believe in its enirtrely or not believe in it at all. A simple search on google for nudism (or even clothing optional lifestyle) brings up multiple links to sex sites, along with legitimate links to bonafide nudist information. Changing the perception that nudity and sex are interconnected exclusively is not something that’s going to happen quickly. But having the AANR take a stand and prove that its principles really do mean something will go a long way towards proving that nudity is much more than a condition that leads to sexual enlightenment. In fact, it was nudity in the context of nudism that taught me greater respect for women in seeing them for thier true beauty as a person, rather than objectify them through sexualization.
I hope news of AANR action leaks out to the world so that everyone can truly see that there is a difference between nudism as a lifestyle and nude activity designed to elicit sexual sensationalism for profit. I support the cause through my membership in AANR and only wish that where I live I could truly practice the lifestyle I truly enjoy. I can also feel the pain of the economy affecting the ability to survive in nudism, but my perspective falls from that as a consumer, rather than ownership.
Someday America won’t be so uptight about nudity and seeing and interacting around nudity will not be such an issue. SO keep up the good work and I’ll stand behind you in all your efforts to promote nudism as the wholsome lifestyle that it really is.
Way to go AANR! Now it’s time for all who agree to speak up too! When you see an article equating nudism with sex, post a comment on the website. It only takes 2 minutes, but it reaches many people. When we speak up for real nudism, we make it more difficult for the sex industry to confuse the public and legislators. We need to report any questionable resorts to AANR to keep these places in line. If someone wants to be in the sex industry, fine, but then they have NO RIGHT to describe their business/lifestyle as nudist. We DO have the right to decide what nudism is and is not, because we are the nudists, and we have a long tradition in AANR to back us up, it’s as simple as that.
Thank You AANR!
I have read the article and totally agree with AANR and its principles. I am an AANR member, and am proud of our leadership in taking a stand on our principles regarding the two clubs and their new business direction.
It is sad that a club owner would make a comment like that, regarding AANR and the supposed obsolescence of its principles (this is what I believe he was meaning in his comment to you); it deserves far more respect for having helped to protect the rights of nudists over the years rather than being told it has outlived its usefulness. I think we need to stay the course, to remain true to ourselves as AANR members. Once we get off of the path, we tend to become like the town of Cap D’Agda, in France, a free for all swingers destination unlike what it once was back in the 1980’s, a naturists paradise. Nudist swingers, couples/singles, have a right to pursue their hedonism in their own privacy, but not at the expense of poisoning the clean nudist family oriented environment. Sex is good, but there is a time and place for everything, especially when children are present. A line must be drawn, and I’m glad and proud that our AANR leadership were the one’s who did it. Resort owners need to decide as to what type of environment they want for their business, a hedonistic moneymaker or clean family environment, then stick to it.
Thanks to AANR for GETTING IT! What bothers me most about Paradise Lakes is not swingers or sex or sexualization. It is SEX-ISM!
To bring more females into nudist venues we have to convince the masses – especially the female companions and family members of nudists – that we don’t all look like Penthouse models! You know and I know that this mis-perception is more common than not in the textile world.
PLUS – all beauty contests are sexist. G-string contests and female boob and butt contests are worse.
Do you really think the average woman wants to go to a place where the female body is being judged like a piece of meat? Where women are being displayed like cattle at an auction?
And gee, do ya think families want their little girls being exposed to a bunch of ogling, drinking men when they go to the pool?
It’s about BODY ACCEPTANCE folks! Women go to AANR clubs because they feel ridiculous in bathing suits – which are designed to show off “your assets.” Only young perfect bodies look decent in them.
We escape all that nonsense at venues like Lake Como and Cypress Cove, not to mention our wonderful clothing-optional beaches and hot springs on public lands, which AANR has been actively supporting and protecting since Erich Shuttauf’s tenure.
AANR’s actions regarding Caliente and Paradise Lakes are a victory for American girls and women of all ages, shapes, imperfections and culture.
Businesses are free to make money with SEXIST gimmicks like skin contests and strip shows. There will always be an interest in that.
But thanks for finally keeping the AANR club roster free from those types of businesses.
There will no doubt be more battles to be fought on this front, but your actions in Florida have set a valuable precedent.
WITH GRATITUDE.
I was a member of Paradise Lakes back in 91-92. My time there was genuinely great. However that was also when the owner’s cared about the club and the people in it. Security around the pool prevented gawker’s even at night. The event’s were many and all had a great time. Fred Bishoff was the owner at that time. Then one day I see a couple, and as the man sat down I noticed a “Swingers” magazine he was reading. Well I am not a swinger or even in that kind of lifestyle. But I also didn’t appreciate that kind of magazine in view of children. I vowed I wouldn’t go back. I do have friends in the area and they convinced me to come back to Paradise a few years ago. I went at night for a swim with my friend’s only to find two women at the conversation pool, obviously
interested in each other to the point of actually performing a sexual act in front of myself and many other’s.
I not only was totally disgusted and outraged at this behavior, but could not believe that such activity was allowed. The club was deffinately on a downward spiral from which it could not recover. I have not returned and NEVER will. I became a member of Cypress Cove this year, which I should have done in 1998. I have been a “Premier Member” of AANR for 5 years. I know in my heart that the money I have given for my membership in AANR has gone to the right source. The credile voice of reason has spoken. The current economy should not be a deciding factor in what kind of business you run. “They say that nudist don’t spend any money” WHAT!!??? I’ll have you and anyone reading this to know that I and my wife and stepdaughter have rented rooms, eaten meals, and bought drink’s. Many time’s. Also that as a member of the AOL Nudist Chatroom our members were about 50 in strength bringing an average of about $30,000 to any club/resort we came to for an average stay of 3-5 day’s. Twice a year!! However Lake Como didn’t appreciate this fact and we later decided that Cypress Cove would be the location to come to for our “Gathering’s”. We no longer have “gathering’s”, mini-gathering’s if you will nowaday’s. And many time’s friends from around the country ask to come visit……you will find them at Cypress Cove because I refuse to take them anywhere that doesn’t adhere to a family oriented nudist lifestyle. And here’s another tidbit for your enjoyment…they: Caliente’ CLAIM to make this decision based on the economic times, however this was planned by the owner’s and developer’s in 1998. Funny thing is I have it on good authority that a “Swinger’s Convention” is being held at….wait for it…….none other than …….Comfort Inn!!! So please explain how this makes Caliente’ or Paradise ANY MONEY???? Guess what?? It doesn’t!! So marketing is all B.S. I also know that this “convention” is being done “on the cheap” so much for the money making opportunity. I guess when everyone moves out and they have no financial base they will come to us looking for some members. I am sorry for those who have made a financial commitment, they should not be seen as the cause. Nor should the financial economic times we live in.
I agree that sexually oriented advertising has no place in AANR, and that clubs which endorse sexually oriented activities should at least be identified so we know what to expect when visiting or can decide not to visit. However, AANR openly tolerates sex discrimination, which is against AANR policy. AANR is supposed to be about body acceptance.
I am a member of AANR, but am not allowed to join either of the local clubs. Why? Because I have a male body. My body is so unacceptable that I cannot even visit a local club unless I bring someone with a female body with me as atonement.
Perhaps if clubs would open their membership to all upstanding citizens who wish to join, they wouldn’t have the financial difficulties they do. By the way, I’ve never heard of an unaccompanied female having the same problems of exclusion that unaccompanied males are routinely forced to endure.
I strongly disagree that PL was always that way. When my wife and I first joined in 2002 there WERE security people on the prowl all the time and people who were being sexual in public were called out and occaisionally ejected. There were of course some swingers around but kept their activities behind closed doors. Seems to me that renting out rooms produces more revenue than allowing them to foul the waters of the pools anyway. So if they made the changes for money they missed the obvious. We quit over all the open display going on right about the time Caliente opened. Personally I think that responsible nudists and AANR should take the position, that clubs not wishing to conform to decent codes of conduct, be persued by local authorities to be regulated and licensed for what they are; ADULT BUSINESES.
I wish the people owning or building a family oriented club would keep fees low so normal to low income people could afford to visit. Most of us dont need concrete or asphalt to walk on. I wont pay 100. aday for a room or trailer, i wont pay 100. plus 35. for ground fees plus AANR fees either. I wish clubs would forbid alcohol, and smoking and drugs. I’am happy with a above ground pool or pond. There’s nothing natural about Club Paradise.
My spouse ( Suzanne ) and I are former AANR members as well former Cypress Cove members; we agree with AANR’S stand with this issue. A family nudist is not a swinger’s resort and going to one or the other is a personnal choice; don’t mix them please!
We wish we’ll renew our membership soon with AANR.
My spouse ( Suzanne ) and I are former AANR members as well former Cypress Cove members; we agree with AANR’S stand with this issue. A family nudist resort is not a swinger’s resort and going to one or the other is a personnal choice; don’t mix them please!
We wish we’ll renew our membership soon with AANR.
My name is Robb. I have rented a “vacation condo” at Paradise Lakes for many years during our Michigan winters, usually in February. I didn’t go in 2009 because of health issues. My most recent trip was in December/January, 2007/2008.
What I like about Paradise Lakes is the fact that you are in what is essentially a normal residential setting. There are apartments, nice, large homes, townhouses and the “facilities” like tennis courts, volleyball, and a pool that isn’t at “The Club”, and others.
I love being able to take a walk out the condo door in the nude. . . or go put the trash in the Dumpster without pants on, or take a shower outside the pool area just like I was in the shower at home. It’s marvelous.
As an aside, I still don’t understand why the whole complex is spit into 5 (or six) condominium associations. It has brought about infighting and hassles without end. That’s one of the reasons I haven’t purchased a place in Paradise Lakes. But that’s a whole different subject.
In January, 2007, I was there as usual. It was the “Gasparilla Pirate Festival” in Tampa. Paradise Lakes participated in the Pirate theme throughout the week.
On Saturday, there was a “Gasparilla Pirate Festival” dress-up theme party at the “Club’s” main bar. I went to the party.
I was absolutely appalled at the behavior of the people at the party, especially those on the dance floor. It was sickening. I had in mind that I would notify AANR about what was going on. I hung around just to see how bad it would get and to “gather eyewitness evidence”.
In the end, knowing that my name would probably be used which would lead to being “black balled” from ever coming back, I chickened out and never wrote the letter. I wish I would have now.
Paradise Lakes SHOULD NOT BE AN AANR SANCTIONED CLUB under its present management. The things that go on there are not keeping with AANR sanctioned clubs or their rules. You were absolutely correct to “jerk” their sanction. They don’t qualify as an AANR sanctioned club.
What has taken AANR so long to notice what was going on at Paradise Lakes? I suppose it’s because of people like me who know and see the happenings at Paradise Lake and don’t have the guts to report it. I was one of them. I saw the way things were, what was going on and didn’t say a thing.
I believe in the AANR standards and policies. I personally honor those policies and standards. For keeping quiet and NOT REPORTING what was going on at Paradise Lakes, I’m truly ashamed of myself.
Robb
I am truly grateful that AANR is standing up for what is right and not loosing sight on what it stands for. My wife, Cora is a new nudist, one year this month, and if she thought that AANR condoned swingers she would vacate in a second. Again, I am glad to see that AANR still stands for wholesome famaly nudism and values and support AANR fully for that reason.
First, I believe AANR must maintain the standards I hope most of its members espouse, so its sanctioning of Caliente and Paradise Lakes was the only action possible. Merely from a public relations standpoint, AANR must distance itself from businesses that move in the direction of sexual cabaret.
I think part of the problem here is that Pasco became overpopulated with nudist facilities, and this large number of resorts in close proximity was ultimately economically unviable, leading the owners of the two resorts to explore a sexual voyeurism market. Time will tell if this will be financially successful for them. One has the most sympathy with property owners at the two resorts who don’t like the change in direction, but seem powerless to do anything.
Lake Como is a cooperative, and it’s most unlikely the 100+ shareholders would countenance such a move. (Speaking as one of those shareholders.)
Cypress Cove is the only nudist resort near Orlando, and it has maintained naturist standards with a large membership and profitability, and it affords facilities comparable to Paradise Lakes. I was at its “Body of Art” festival a few years ago, when all 99 hotel rooms were full, proving that successful outside marketing need not require a lowering of AANR standards.
Sunsport Gardens, though not having such deluxe facilities, is also growing, including bringing in younger members through offerings like its weekly drum circle. One might note that its largest source of new members is from users of Haulover’s naturist beach in S. FL.
Perhaps the biggest marketing mistake AANR ever made was adopting the name American Association for Nude Recreation. Something like Federation of American Naturists would have been a much better choice, and more in line with the other INF national members. “Nude recreation” is simply too broad a term and may make the public relations efforts to define itself more difficult.
Thank God for AANR! I am the oldest of five kids. My family entered the nudist lifestyle several years ago because of the strong moral standards of AANR and the Naturist Society.
Is AANR outdated? Are the moral guidelines given by Jesus outdated? He said “love your neighbor,” and “anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” We have enough sex shops, strip bars, and tv shows in this country that promote body degradation. My family desperately needs the support of organizations dedicated to family-friendly nudism and respect of women.
Let’s not forget that the naturist movement has not progressed to where we are today through the kinds of “entertainment” Paradise Lakes is allowing. If it is true that we are living in a U.S. that is becoming polarized into religious prudery on one side and sexually-oriented nudism on the other, then the voice and principles of AANR are all the more important.
Often the swinger groups and others who engage in sexually-oriented social nudity “validate” society’s erroneous belief that nudity is always associated with sex and/or indecent and immoral behavior. For body freedom to gain popularity and acceptance by society it must continue to be represented by morally upright, respectable organizations like AANR.
Jim Tervort said “I strongly disagree that PL was always that way. When my wife and I first joined in 2002 there WERE security people on the prowl all the time and people who were being sexual in public were called out and occaisionally ejected.”
Jim, just to let you know there was one small period in time when Paradise had just gotten a new owner when your statement was true. However, Paradise has been in existence for decades and was swinger friendly both before and after that time (and was AANR all that time). It was built by a swinger, quietly supported swingers till Fred sold it and then after a few months it was once again swinger friendly (to put it mildly).
I’ve talked with many employees of Paradise and Caliente and they are the ones who can undoubtedly tell you who has the most money. The rich are into swinging and spend more than nudists, that is fact.
Even Lake Como was very swinger friendly for years till Paradise opened up and Como went co-op. Far as I know Como was an AANR club when it was open to swingers too. Swingers are everywhere and not going to go away.
I strongly agree with the AANR on this. I have been to two of there resorts this summer because of the family values and the non-sexual atmosphere. I would have never tried this otherwise. I am glad they are keeping up there standards.