LANG Policies & Procedures

I. MEMBERSHIP

A. ELGIBILITY

Membership is open to all gay and bisexual men, 21 years or older without regard to race, ethnicity, religious preference, national origin, physical appearance or HIV status.

B. MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCEDURE

A perspective new member must complete an application online or in writing and submit it to the Los Angeles Nude Guys (LANG) Membership Chairman.
Each perspective new member must attend a new member 'mixer' (orientation).
Upon participation in the mixer, the Committee shall meet and vote on each prospective new member. Each new member must receive a majority vote from the Committee for acceptance.
Payment of Dues - Each new member shall pay first calendar year dues of $25 which will entitle them to receive emailed or downloaded newsletters and maps. Couples living at the same address who join together shall pay first year dues of $35. Membership dues are for the current calendar year and not pro-rated, with the exception of new members who join in October, November and December, who shall pay first year dues of $30 (individual) or $42 (couples living at the same address), which shall include the remainder of the current calendar year and the following calendar year. There shall be no refunds of any dues payments except at the discretion of the Committee.
Picture for the membership album - Each new member must have their photograph taken for the membership album. Frontal nudity is not mandatory, however; a pose representing nudity must be evident.

C. MEMBERSHIP STATUS

Member in Good Standing - A Member in Good Standing meets all of the guidelines as set forth by the Article 2, Sections 1 and 2 of the Bylaws of LANG here forth to be referred to as The Organization.
Member Not in Good Standing - Suspended - A member may have his membership suspended for a violation of any of the Policies and Procedures. Committee approval may not be necessary to suspend a membership. Suspension may occur as a result of:

Any Action which puts The Organization or any of its membership in jeopardy
Not meeting responsibilities
Violation of cancellation policy
Inappropriate sexual behavior outside of a designated, discrete area
Unsafe sexual activity.

Revoked Membership - A person may have his membership revoked as stated in Article 1, section 2 of the Bylaws: "a member may have his membership revoked for just cause". Just cause may be defined as, but not limited to, not meeting any one of the conditions of a member in good standing or involving himself in any action which jeopardizes the integrity or safety of The Organization or any of its members. These charges may be brought to the attention of The Steering Committee by any member in good standing.

The procedure for revoking a membership must include:

Notifying the member in question of the charges
Allowing the member to respond in an acceptable length of time to the charges in writing and/or in person, whichever is directed by The Committee
Voting by the Committee

Any person who has had their membership revoked may not participate in any LANG events as a guest.

D. CHANGE OF MEMBERSHIP STATUS

Reissuing a membership - Any former member, who left in good standing, may rejoin within two years of their lapse of membership with the Steering Committee's approval. They will have their orientation meeting waived, but will still be required to pay $25 current year dues, which includes a $5 late fee. Reissued membership dues are for the current calendar year and not pro-rated. Any member who left "not in good standing - suspended", must re-apply for membership. If his application is approved by vote of the Steering Committee within two years of their lapse of membership his orientation meeting may be waived, but he will still be required to pay $25 current year dues, which includes a $5 late fee.
If a person has his membership revoked, he may only reapply for membership with the approval of the current steering committee.

II. STEERING COMMITTEE

A. PURPOSE

As stated in the Bylaws under Article 3, section 1, The Organization shall be governed and operated by a Steering Committee, henceforth to be referred to as The Committee.

B. NOMINATION OF STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS

A member of The Committee must maintain a "membership in good standing" status.
The current Committee will appoint a Nominating Committee by September 10.
This Nominating Committee shall:
Consist of a minimum of three (3) members with one person as Chair.
Prepare a call for volunteers to be published in the Newsletter.
Make an effort to recruit members that will make up a minimum amount of eleven candidates which are required to hold the annual election.
Prepare and supply applications for perspective candidates.
The Application shall consist of a request of pertinent information including a photo and a short biography of the candidate.
Prepare the ballots and biographies which are to be sent to the General Membership by the last day of November. A numbered ballot system is recommended, but not required.
Report periodically to the Steering Committee regarding the number of applications and their status.
Tabulate the votes at the December meeting of The Committee.

C. OFFICERS

The Committee shall elect a Coordinator to fulfill the responsibilities as defined in the definition of Committee Positions. The Coordinator shall conduct Steering Committee meetings, and coordinate the affairs of the Club. The Committee shall also elect a treasurer who will serve in the absence of the Coordinator. In the event that the Coordinator resigns or is removed from office, the Treasurer shall assume the Coordinator's responsibilities until the Committee gathers to hold a special election to fill the vacant position.
The Coordinator will be responsible, with the consent of the Committee, for appointing subcommittees and coordinators for any special events including Palm Springs events, the anniversary party or any other event that may occur.
The Committee shall elect a Treasurer who will be responsible for collecting membership dues, accounting for the income and expenses of the Club, and any financial reports as shall be required.
The Committee shall elect a Secretary who shall maintain minutes of all Steering Committee meetings and official correspondence of the organization as shall be required.

D. VOTING

Committee votes may be approved on a simple majority unless it is agreed before the "call for a vote" that a different majority be needed for acceptance.

E. EXPENSES

No expenses shall be incurred by The Committee or The Organization unless it has met with prior approval or a policy has been approved covering an expense.

F. REMOVAL OF A STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER

A steering committee member can be removed from office by a 2/3 majority vote of the Steering Committee, prefaced by evidence of a violation of the Bylaws of the organization or any activity which is a violation of the law or which jeopardizes the well being of the organization or any of its members.

G. NO TERM LIMITATION

There shall be no term limits on the number of times a member may either run or participate as a member of the Committee.

III. EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

A. HOSTING

Any Member may host a LANG event or activity with the approval of the Steering Committee. Upon hosting two (2) events in one membership year, a Member (or couple living at the same address and have a joint membership) shall be eligible for a free membership for the next membership year.
A Host shall provide the following information to the Committee:

Location
Host
Type of event or activity (i.e. pool party, jacuzzi party, cocktail party, hike, movie night, music night, etc.)
Maximum number of attendees (not including the co-hosts and Committee members)
Date, day, start and end time
Type of food members and guests are to bring to share or if host will provide food
Social and other activities allowed
Cost
Pets that reside at the event or activity location ( as a courtesy to those members and guests with allergies).

B. EVENT AND ACTIVITY CATEGORIES:

Events and other activities may be defined as:

Strictly Social -- A social event or activity with no sexual activity allowed.
Discrete Area Available -- An event where the host approves and provides a separate area where members may participate in sexual activities during the hours of the party if they choose to.
After Hours -- An event which the host may choose to extend the event after the designated hours stated in the announcement of the event. Host rules apply after the official LANG event.
Special Events -- The Organization may choose to host events beyond those submitted to the Committee by its members. These events may have special regulations and price structures.

An event need not be limited to just one category.

C. SEXUAL ACTIVITY

An event host may establish particular regulations regarding sexual activity. If sexual activity is allowed at the event, it must be confined to the designated discrete area. Anyone found to be engaging in activity which violates this policy will be asked to leave the party and his membership will be subject to suspension. Additionally, The Organization maintains a strict policy of only safe sex at all LANG Events. Anyone found to be engaging in unsafe sexual practices will have his membership suspended immediately.

D. CO-HOSTS

An average of one co-host is assigned to an event for every eight (8) pre-registered attendees.
Each member shall complete at least one co-hosting assignment, or an appropriate support service per membership year, unless they host an event. Co-hosts assist the host in the carrying out the event. Responsibilities may include, but not limited to: check-in, routine care of the property, serving of food, and returning the host's property to its original condition.
Failure to complete at least one co-hosting assignment (per year), will result in suspension of membership until co-host obligation is met. Member will be given 30 days to satisfy his co-host requirement, or have his membership suspended.
Active members are requested to choose their month of service for co-hosting upon renewal of their membership each year. Members who do not indicate their month of choice on the renewal slip will automatically be assigned the previous year's month. Members who do not respond to requests by the Co-host Coordinator to sign-up and co-host during their month of choice will be assigned to at the next event they attend.
New members will be required to attend and co-host an event or activity within the first nine (9) months of membership. Failure to do so will result in suspension of membership.
Any member who is a "no-show" for his co-hosting assignment will have his membership subject to suspension until the issue is resolved.
Any member who co-hosts a minimum of five (5) events in any given calendar year will be eligible for a waiver of membership fees for the following membership year (i.e. if a member co-hosts five times in 2004 his membership fee will be waived for 2005). Note: this policy has been suspended for 2009-10 events.
All former members of the Committee, who completed at least one full year on the Committee, shall be exempt from any future co-hosting activities.

E. EVENTS ANNOUNCMENTS

Events will be announced in the newsletter and on the website.

F. RESERVATIONS TO ATTEND ANY LANG EVENT

Reservations are required for all LANG events and activities. Reservations must be made on the LANG website no later than 10 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the event or activity unless otherwise noted in the event description as announced in the newsletter and website.
All events shall be open to any and all members on a first come, first serve basis to the maximum number of participant as defined by the host. No member in good standing shall be refused the right to make a reservation via the method approved for any event.
Members in good standing of all Gay Naturist International (GNI) affiliated clubs (brother clubs) who reside outside the Greater Los Angeles area can reserve for LANG events in the same manner as LANG members, unless the event is designated as a members only event. Members of GNI affiliated clubs must specify the affiliated club they belong to when making the reservation and be able to verify their current membership with that club if asked.

G. CANCELLATIONS

If a member needs to cancel his reservation for an event, he must notify The Organization via email, reservations@clublang.com, as soon as possible. Additionally, if a last minute cancellation is necessary the host should be notified directly.
Any member who fails to honor a confirmed reservation more than three times, shall have his membership suspended for six months.

H. ATTENDANCE

Each member and guest shall check in with the host or co-host when he arrives at the event location.
Each member and guest is expected to bring his own towel and his own beverages. Unless otherwise noted, each member and guest is also expected to bring food to share with approximately four people, as indicated in the event description announced in the newsletter and website.
No animals may be brought to any LANG event.
Sale of products at events - Only official LANG products/services may be sold or solicited at LANG events unless it has been specifically noted in the newsletter that a particular product or service will be sold at a particular event.

I. ATTENDANCE RECORDS AND COLLECTION OF FUNDS

Each party shall maintain a roster check-in sheet. This roster shall include:
A list of names compiled from advanced reservations, any other guests which have been approved for attendance, co-hosts, and Committee members.

A column to indicate attendance
A column to indicate amount paid.

Upon conclusion of the event, the roster and money received from the event must be turned in to the host. Within ten days of the event, the host shall send a check for the appropriate amount indicated by the number of attendees and the roster sheet to the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall forward the roster sheet to the Membership Services Coordinator.
A prepaid, self addressed envelope and a special return form shall be given to each host.

J. GUESTS

Any member may bring up to two pre-registered guests to any event, unless the event has been designated as a "no guest" event. A guest fee will be charged for each guest.
A Host may invite up to five guests to any event at their residence, unless the event has been designated as a "no guest" event. These guests must be pre-registered and a guest fee will be charged for each guest.
Members must arrive and depart with their guest.
Members are responsible for the behavior of their guests.
Members are responsible for explaining LANG event policies to their guests.
No guest shall attend more than two LANG events without having an application for membership on file with the Membership Chairman.
Former LANG members in good standing may only attend an event as a guest one time without renewing their membership.
Any member who knowingly invites a revoked member as a guest to a LANG event is subject to having their membership suspended.

IV. FEES AND SERVICES

A. FEES

Each member shall pay an annual renewal fee (dues), due on January 1 each year. Membership shall be considered lapsed if the annual renewal fee is not received prior to March 1. The renewal fee for single members is $20 per year, a couple residing at the same address can renew together for $30 per year. Membership renewal fees are for the current calendar year and not pro-rated.
Each member shall pay $5.00 per event, unless otherwise indicated in the official announcement of the event in the newsletter and the website.
Members in good standing of all GNI affiliated clubs (brother clubs) who reside outside the Greater Los Angeles area will be admitted for the same fee charged to members for the event.
Each guest of members shall pay $7.00 per event, unless otherwise indicated in the official announcement of the event in the newsletter and the website.
Guests who either reside at the host's residence or are out of town guests may have the "guest" fee waived unless there is a special event fee as approved by the Committee.
Hosts and co-hosts may attend the event they are hosting or co-hosting with no charge, except for special events where there is an additional cost.
Steering Committee members may attend any event with no charge, except for special events where there is an additional cost.
The specific fees for events will be determined by the host and the steering committee for each event. Additional costs may be assessed if special services are provided such as facility rental, special meals, or other activities; and must be approved, in advance, by the Steering Committee.

B. REIMBURSEMENT OF HOSTS

Hosts are to be reimbursed $2.00 for each person attending their event (except for the host and his own resident guests) unless a previous agreement has been made with the approval of the Committee.
If hosts heat a hot tub or a pool specifically for a LANG event, they are also entitled to a reimbursement of up to $25 for a hot tub or $35 for a pool.
The Treasurer shall reimburse the host in a timely manner upon receipt of the roster and funds of their event.
Supplemental expenses will not be reimbursed unless they have received Committee approval prior to the event.
Damages -- Hosts must be willing to accept that LANG may not be held responsible for any damages or expenses which are to be considered "normal" for the event which is being held. If specific damages are documented to have been created by a LANG member, who may be held responsible, the Committee may accept a request for reimbursement. Such expenses must be approved by the Committee.

C. FINANCES

The Committee has the right and authority to approve or disapprove any expenses deemed necessary to maintain and operate The Organization.
In order for reimbursement, a receipt must be submitted to The Committee for any expenditure made on behalf of The Organization.

D. RETURNED CHECKS

Any Person whose check is returned by their financial institution (i.e. nsf) must repay the amount of the returned check plus a $25.00 returned check fee.
That person’s membership will be temporarily suspended by LANG, and he will be prohibited from attending LANG events until the total balance due is paid.
Acceptable forms of repayment are Cash, Cashiers Check, or Money Order.
Returned checks that are left unpaid are subject to all applicable California Laws.
A person who bounces more than one check will be subject to having his membership revoked, and will be banned from all future LANG functions.

V. NON-LANG EVENTS

Any member may choose to host a nude event which does not meet the approval of the Committee. The event may be listed in the Newsletter and LANG website with the notation that it is a NON-LANG approved event. The member shall not receive Host credit or any reimbursements, nor shall any co-hosts receive credit for their participation.

VI. PHOTOGRAPHY

A. Photographs are allowed to be taken at all LANG events, unless otherwise indicated in the newsletter. No personal pictures may be published in any form or posted on the internet without the written consent of all recognizable people in the photograph.

B. Red Ribbon Policy -- Any person may bring and wear a Red Ribbon which indicates that they wish not to have their picture taken. A person wearing a red ribbon may not take pictures of others at the event.

C. Newsletter -- Pictures taken at LANG events may be used for print in the newsletter. No release or consent form is necessary to use such pictures. The Organization accepts no liability and cannot be held liable for the printing of any picture in the LANG newsletter.

D. All submitted photographs become the property of LANG.

E. There is to be absolutely NO photography in or around the discrete area.

F. The Committee may appoint one of its members to be responsible as the official Organization photographer, i.e. for membership photographs, archival photography at events, and newsletter preparation. Expenses are to be reimbursed for materials used for the pictures taken exclusively for LANG archival purposes and all pictures become the property of LANG.

VII. THE NEWSLETTER

A. The Organization shall maintain a newsletter which is to be distributed to its membership on a periodic basis.

B. The purpose of the newsletter is to inform the membership of the calendar of events including information about the events as determined by the hosts (see section IV. EVENTS, subsection A. Hosting); reports of past events; information about nudist/naturist experiences, places and activities; information about the nudist/naturist movement; and any other information which the Committee considers appropriate.

C. In the event of editorial differences, the Committee shall have the power, as a body, to determine the contents, design, and schedule of the Newsletter.

VIII. COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

Any complaints or issues of any nature must be addressed to the Coordinator.

IX. CONFIDENTIALITY

A. All maps, rosters and other membership materials are the sole property of LANG. Any member who does not renew his membership should attempt to return the materials to LANG or to destroy them. These materials may not be used for any other purpose.

B. All newsletters, member names, email addresses and other personal information are to be kept strictly confidential.

Revised November 11, 2007: Article I, Sections B and D, and Article IV Section A: Removed references to fees for mailed copies of printed newsletters and maps as printed newsletters and maps have been discontinued.

Revised August 17, 2008: Article I, Sections B and D, and Article IV Section A: Removed references to pro-rated membership renewals. Article IV Section A: increased reimbursement to host for cost of heating a hot tup or pool.

Revised October 12, 2008: Article I, Sections B: Established extended first year dues for new members joining in October, November, and December.

Revised July 11, 2009: Article 1 Section C Suspension may occur as a result of: added Inappropriate sexual behavior outside of a designated, discrete area. Article III Section C If sexual activity is allowed at the event, it must be confined to the designated discrete area. added: Anyone found to be engaging in activity which violates this policy will be asked to leave the party and his membership will be subject to suspension.

Revised February 14, 2010: Article IV Section A 2. Each member shall pay $5.00 per event, unless otherwise indicated in the official announcement of the event in the newsletter and the website. 4. Each guest of members shall pay $7.00 per event, unless otherwise indicated in the official announcement of the event in the newsletter and the website.

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