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Edward Bionic's avatar

It still strikes me that the imagery we are getting has one thing in common here.. It's still all people that are... Older. And white.

Certainly, it's hopefully not an indication of a fuller picture, but events like this are all too often only seen in that homogeneous tone. The lack of diversity is just all too telling all too often. So while I'm sure this was successful one one level, perhaps we should call it a START... But I still feel there is so, so, so far to go.

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Mark Pavelchak's avatar

It is fair to call it a start, or more accurately, a restart. Your spot demographic analysis of the Handshake ceremony however is a bit unfair because the circle only included those who signed a photo release, and they are more likely to be older or retired. Some of the local nonlanded clubs have many younger members. Regarding your ethnicity observation, there was a scheduling conflict with the Black Naturists Association, which had their 5th annual Black & Naked Homecoming the same weekend.

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Edward Bionic's avatar

I did add the line starting the second paragraph to address the hope of this, but thank you for clarifying

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Mark Pavelchak's avatar

One further point about your ethnicity comment: landed and nonlanded nudist clubs are a reflection of the demographics of the communities in which they are located. And the largest ethnic category (by far) of the region in which Glen Eden is located is Hispanic, not White. There are also more Asian Americans in the region than African Americans. All of that diversity was reflected in the nudists who attended Operation Handshake.

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Edward Bionic's avatar

My point, which I admittedly failed to press strong enough, I that far too often the *imagery* doesn't o enough to elect the reality. I understand there are barriers and reasons for this, but I do believe we need to try harder sometimes. I do appreciate what this event stands for and hope it's a beginning to something strong and ongoing.

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Mark Pavelchak's avatar

Evan is gonna hate me for doing this because he is so humble, but I have to add a personal note of appreciation to him for the many things he did to help make this event a success. They include: Encouraging me, helping with the writing, designing the logo and promotional banners and custom lanyards, creating the web page we used and the RSVP system. Thanks for everthing Evan, you're the best!

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Evan Nicks's avatar

Gawww, shucks. Thanks fer noticin' me.

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Evan Nicks's avatar

I for one am delighted to see so many awesome women in leadership in the region and nationally. This bodes well for the near term future of our orgs

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M.M.'s avatar

I was coming here to say this same thing! I am happy there were also men leaders, but smiled broadly at the pic with cake. Wtg! 👏👏👏

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M.M.'s avatar

Congrats on a successful event! I like the themes of wellness incorporated into the events and hope that other unifying themes will be built into future events. The positive energy really comes through! ✨️

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George Hall's avatar

Thanks for posting! So proud to put myself out there for the first time with this fine group. Even if I’m not a standout in such a large group.

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Mark Pavelchak's avatar

George, I was thrilled that you were able to attend. We made history together! One hope of mine was that the event would lead to closer ties between landed and non-landed clubs, so it was great to hear that you joined the Olympian Club.

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