“Only one week without clothes? Let’s stay naked the entire month and party-hearty!”
Our celebrity spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington!
Our very own, ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! official, unofficial spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, proudly poses in his glorious nakedness (above image)!
“I want to waste as little time as possible wearing clothes or trying to hide my body!” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~ spokes-model and gay pornography actor
This week-long festival of body and clothes freedom recreational (fun) activities is jointly cosponsored by the American Association of Nude Recreation (AANR) and The Naturist Society (TNS). As every summer is the “season of fun in the sun,” it is only logical that major national naturist/nudist advocacy organizations present an event in honour of clean, healthy naked living. The recent tendency over the last several years is to observe this occasion after the USA’s 4 July holiday (USA Day).
Recreation (simple explanation) is any undertaking we engage for enjoyment, fun, improvement, relaxation and/or socialization. Nude Recreation Week involves an emphasis on the numerous activities, leisure services and past-times, both active and passive, that people may engage in or undertake while clothes free. In essence, identical to what can be enjoyed when wearing garments. This isn’t to imply this special week is the only time we bare our bodies for fun and games. As bare practitioners, we all do that quite frequently!
This observance is a fairly recent event with the earliest documented date being 7 August 1976 as Nude Beach Day. It was first held at Truro Beach in southern California and at the Head of the Meadow Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It continued at these two locations as a single day cause for several years and eventually expanded into National Nude Weekend and added additional beaches to the locations.
As many nudist resorts weren’t located with access to a clothing optional beach, it soon became apparent that a name change and another theme was necessary. This resulted into what we know and celebrate as Nude Recreation Week.
Many clothes free destinations and resorts, looking for expansion of their financial options, now sought affiliation with the Nude Recreation Week observance. This opened the door to growth and popularity as the public no longer were as judgmental against clothes freedom as they once were.
As the public acceptance of clothing optional facilities increased, the commercial and membership restrictions against same gender loving (SGL) people remained deeply within the opinions and policies of the mainstream naturist/nudist societies. Homophobia and exclusionist policies remained in place and the largely growing SGL community of nudists took their cash elsewhere.
This resulted in the emergence of convenient, modern and new facilities that catered to the needs of the SGL community. The older and restrictive facilities soon began to notice a decrease in business and in finances. Initially, they refused to alter their policies and procedures while watching their numbers decrease and customers complain. Gradually, some of the more progressive establishments reversed and welcomed SGL customers and members.
Unfortunately, even to this day, there remains some bias within our body and clothes freedom world. As this is now the 21st century, the days of separation should be deep into the past for all of us.
Reading and writing!
Footnote:
In 2019, the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) designated the second Saturday of July as International Skinny Dip Day. Personal experience for both Aaron, my spouse, and I as well as documented confusion over the meaning of skinny dip offer some hesitation as to the acceptance and annual observance of this event.
Logo for the first observance!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, July 10, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “Nude Pride!”
NATIONAL HIV TESTING DAY (NHTD) IS SATURDAY, 27 JUNE 2026!
Prologue:
National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) was first observed in the USA on 27 June 1995. This was during the height of the global HIV/AIDS pandemic and all around the world, national, provincial, regional and state and local health agencies were frantically considering methods to try to reduce the international transmission (spreading) of this often fatal communicable disease. This observation was designed to encourage all persons to get tested for HIV, know their status and to seek appropriate care and treatment.
Reality:
HIV – human immunodeficiency virus – is the virus that causes AIDS – acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. AIDS is a direct result of HIV infection.
This is a basic fact known to humankind, with the probable exception of the current felonious and idiotic president of the usa – intentional usage of all lower case letters – proof positive that I can be just as pretentious as he is!
Our community and culture – same gender loving (SGL) – remain among the primary groups of people impacted by HIV. We have never been the sole recipients of infection with this condition but we are considered a “target audience.”
The Naked Truth:
Medicine and science have evolved since the onset of HIV/AIDS in the early 1980s. The sexual transmission of the disease is no longer considered the death threat it once was. Knowledge is indeed power! Knowing one’s HIV status and following treatment protocols provides us the gift of living life and enjoying ourselves! Take charge and take control! Have fun!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, June 26, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “SIR! Behold 57!”
Along the beach shoreline, inside a pool or just out in the open playing in the natural setting, the season is one for the proverbial “fun-in-the-sun!”
Pool!
There is one aspect of our nakedness that we as bare practitioners constantly remember: sun-sational sunscreen! The covering that we all know we can’t leave home without!
Fun-in-the-sun!
No matter who we are or what we do, when we’re enjoying nature, naturally, we need to protect ourselves from the ultraviolet sunrays that we are enjoying. Yes, it can be delightful and fun, but too long without any covering potentially can hinder our seasonal antics and cause serious health issues over time!
Before You Bare…Cover Up!
Here in the Northern Hemisphere, the Summer season doesn’t officially begin until 21 June, annually. However, the transition season of Spring is already in progress. Warmer temperatures and longer hours of daylight (sunlight) are also already upon us. As bare practitioners, our blissful dreams once again return into reality.
Aaron, my spouse, offers it best and honest. It advances our cause and needs no explanation:
“If nakedness is anticipated and/or expected it automatically loses “shock value” and instead becomes the normal, the routine. No judgment, no surprise!” ~ Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ 24 August 2022
Therefore, coherent with our community and our culture, we comply with what we consider as normal and routine. That is our nakedness!
In keeping with that reality, this post entry seeks to remind us all of our health and safety, as well as the diligence and importance of the use of sunscreen. In our eagerness to get outside and frolic in the fresh air and warm sun, many of us forget one of the basic and essential rules of summer health. We all need to cover up (protect) our skin before we uncover (expose) any part or all of our body.
This entails the use of an appropriate sunscreen applied adequately (sufficient quantity), correctly (follow directions) and, when necessary, reapplied diligently. Using sunscreen allows most of us to make the most of whatever our summer plans may offer.
What should I look for in a sunscreen?
Regardless of where sun activity is happening, a private yard, ball field or court, park, trail, beach or shore, the product (sunscreen) should contain two elements for effective protection. Always look for a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that contains chemicals that block both UV-A and UV-B radiation from penetrating the skin surface.
While no product is completely waterproof, select a “water-resistant” type that is designed for long-lasting wear, especially if perspiring heavily or swimming. Choose a variation that is both easy to apply and feels good on the skin. There are numerous commercial brands available: creams, lotions, moisturizers, gels, sprays (aerosols), and solid stick types.
What Is SPF?
The initials SPF refer to sun protection factor. It is the measure of the effectiveness of the sunscreen in absorbing UV-B radiation. If someone sunburns after about 10 minutes of sun exposure, using a product of SPF15 extends the amount of time before sunburn occurs to 150 minutes or two-and-a-half hours. After this time, it should be reapplied to continue protection.
In terms of percentages, a product of SPF15 blocks 93% of the UV-B rays. One of SPF30 blocks 97% of radiation and one of SPF blocks 99%. The difference in protection may not always justify the added expense of higher SPF sunscreens.
What Is the Best Sunscreen For Me?
This depends on many factors, including age, skin type, activity, time of day, location (proximity to the Equator) and the UV index. For most skin types, a sunscreen with a minimum SPF15 is recommended. Persons with fair or lighter skin tones (all races) and low sun tolerance (burn easily) should use a SPF30. For minimal sun exposure, 90 minutes or less, a moisturizer cream may suffice (with correct SPF level). For extended periods of sun exposure and higher activity engagement, use a longer-lasting product such as a gel or lotion. Spray (aerosol or pump) are beneficial for hairy parts of the body, including arms and armpits, back, chest, legs and the pubic region. If a person is acne-prone, choose sunscreens that are oil-free or non-carnodegenic.
For persons with sensitive skin, the chemicals in some sunscreens may cause skin irritation. Use a product that contains only physical blockers (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). A physical blocker does not penetrate the skin layers as do chemicals. Physical blockers stay on the skin surface to provide protection.
What Is the Best Way to Use Sunscreen?
If you’ve used sunscreen before and experienced sunburn, it was either applied incorrectly or it was the wrong SPF. For sunscreen to be effective, it must be in sufficient quantity, applied correctly (follow directions carefully) and thoroughly applied prior to sun exposure. It should also be reapplied when recommended by the directions. Remember the lips! Use a lip balm with a minimum SPF15.
How much?
One ounce – the equivalent of a full shot glass if mixing drinks – per adult body per application. Apply liberally all over the body, including behind the ears, on the edges of the ears and on the ear lobes. If in doubt, consult the application directions that accompanied the sunscreen.
When to apply?
At least 30 minutes before going into the sun. Reapply 15 minutes later. The extra application helps to cover body areas that may have been missed during the first application. Once in sunlight, reapply every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring and/or towel drying frequently.
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone needs skin protection. All races are susceptible to sunburn. Persons with darker skin complexions may have a higher tolerance for sun exposure but at some point will begin to experience sunburn. Bear and bare in mind that skin damage and serious complications later are the result of the failure to protect the skin.
What does the expiration date mean?
Sunscreen usually remains effective and stable for a period of three years. After the expiration date, the contents will begin to decompose and not afford the intended protection. Always check the expiration date before application. Discard any product that is past the recommended date!
African-Americans and Sunscreen:
In the Black and Hispanic communities, it’s a common misconception that their melanin-infused (darker) skin completely eliminates the necessity for sunscreen as protection. Yes, darker skin does protect from some UV rays, but all persons, no matter their skin tone, need the protection of sunscreen.
For a long time, all races believed that the darker complexions of persons of African, Hispanic and Middle Eastern ancestry/descent were fully protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Despite the fact that darker skin tones have greater genetic protection and tolerance than fairer (lighter) skin tones, everyone has a certain level of natural deficiency.
At minimum, human skin tones need at least an SPF30 for full protection from UV rays. Black people (on average) have a deficiency of about SPF17 therefore their level of melanin offers only a SPF13 level.
Concerns Regarding USA SPF Ratings?
Most consumers choose a sunscreen product based on the sun protection factor (SPF). Often selecting the higher SPF levels assuming that the level gives the best protection from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. In the USA, studies now prove that the domestic UV ratings are an unreliable measure of effectiveness.
An ideal sunscreen should provide equal broad-spectrum protection from both UV-A and UV-B rays. Throughout most of the globe, this is how sunscreen is rated. In the USA, however, the SPF value reflects the product UV-B ranking only.
Sunglasses Protection:
The most critical function of sunglasses is blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The UV-A and UV-B sun rays damage the cornea, lens and retina of the eyes and increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and photokeratitis (sunburn of the eyes).
By selecting sunglasses with 100% UV protection, polarized lenses and durable framing helps safeguard the eyes from both immediate and long-term sun damage. The use of sunglasses reduces the risk of sunscreen contact with the eyes.
Sunscreen is an important and valuable precaution in affording all of us, bare practitioners and otherwise, in the task of enjoying a healthy, productive and a very safe season of both summer and sun! Have fun and remember your sunscreen!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, May 18, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “My May Turn!”
“A very public 2026 Spring Resolution: to renew (renude) and restore spending time each day in order to return contemplation, peace and tranquility into my heart, mind and soul.” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos ~
I need to increase my diligence in adhering to my daily routine of making certain that before I retire for the evening, I have some time to pause, reflect and think. To make myself take the time to do what needs to be done. In my own way and what works best for my needs.
Naked hugs!
Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Old Man:
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Monday, March 31, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! March, 2026!”
Our Bad:
I’ll meet up with you tomorrow, here, and I’ll be bare, as usual, so we can all share the “bottoms-up!”
Today is 16 March 2026. The 2026 Spring season begins Friday, 20 March. Five days (a traditional work week) to assess where you are and in what direction you need to proceed for your goals and resolutions. The opportunity to implement Spring Resolutions will not last forever! Sometimes, in order to make a difference we need to try something different.
The Old Way:
Both my spouse, Aaron and I now disregard and/or ignore the inconvenient habit of “new year’s resolutions!” We live in the Northern Hemisphere. It is winter. The weather is cold (frigid) and inclement (rain, sleet, snow, ice). Neither one of us is motivated to initiate any life altering changes during this period of a barren environment and depressing – and uncomfortable – outdoor temperatures!
Additionally, the hours of natural daylight are reduced. Who needs another impediment?
A Different Way:
Exercise!
Instead of repetitiously trying to introduce a change in our daily routine, we opt to focus on the positive and play (have fun) while we’re confined inside due to the inclement weather conditions outside. Our goal now is to survive the hibernation as best we can and to follow the practice of “Spring Resolutions” – introduce change as the climate and daylight improves!
This “new way” not only reduces the risk of failure and frustration, but the mental process of adaptation is better in Spring than it is during the winter which enhances the chances of success! The return of colour – flowers and foliage – to the natural environment lifts the atmosphere towards productivity and being resourceful. The longer hours of daylight boosts flexibility.
We’ve also limited the number of goals! A lower number increases both achievement and concentration! One step forward makes the result realistic!
Interested? Everyone is welcome to join in! If you have already abandoned your new year’s resolutions, an opportunity to try Spring Resolutions and renew (renude) yourself is possible now!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Old Faithful:
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, March 20, 2026.
Our Bad:
Author’s Note #2: The proposed topic is: “Spring, 2026!”
“Body hair and nakedness are compatible and natural. They compliment one another; like a rose blooming on a bush of roses.” ~ Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ 28 March 2022
We are both gay men. You may see body hair as a thorn on your rose bush. I see body hair as accentuating my masculinity. We’re both gay men, we just happen to be different. You be you and I’ll be me! We can still live together in harmony.
Naked hugs!
Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The nest post entry here is planned for tomorrow, February 28, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “Bottom’s Up! February, 2026!”
Author’s Note #2: Thankfully, February is the last full month of winter! Soon, we can all run along the beach in the glory of our nakedness!
SGL, as repeatedly referenced here, is the anacronym for same gender love (bisexual or gay). SNL represents the popular USA television series: Saturday Night Live, a show that forcefully, hilariously and magnanimously ridicules and rebuffed the sorry state of affairs of American culture: actions, attitudes, beliefs, concepts, prejudices and values. Race Cooper confidently, defiantly and proudly does the same here for ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Race Cooper: Our Man:
Race Cooper (left) kissing co-star, Shay Michaels!
Prelude:
“Canadian-to-his-core (soul)!” is an ideal description of loyalist Race Cooper, now retired SGL and nakedness adult film industry role model and star. Race Cooper is his professional (stage) name, his birth and legal name is Joseph Ross Anderson. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on 5 December 1973. He received his introduction into the US gay adult film industry as a casting director at the studio office and worked diligently for a number of years. Then, in 2009, at the tender age of 36 years old, he performed his first role in front of the camera and graciously offered his buttocks to the world!
While pursuing his growing popularity while acting, he simultaneously became an advocate for film actors regarding studio executives, management and film investors concerning gross racial and ethnic disparities in practices, roles, pay scale and other matters. In his time working at the studio, he observed discrimination and marginalization against Blacks, Hispanics and surprising, fellow gay employees!
The purpose of reminding everyone of the dire need of review of the discriminatory protocols some of our same gender loving (SGL) and nakedness cohorts in the adult film industry allow, through the observations of “industry insider” Race Cooper (one of our own community and culture) is that before we point fingers outward, we all need to look inward and ensure that we are on the platform of equality, freedom and justice. Our need for respect and understanding enables us to search for accountability and truth everywhere – even among ourselves!
We need the insight of our fellow bare practitioner, bare celebrity Race Cooper, to lead us from the darkness and into the light!
“Racismand discrimination take many forms and our focus and thoughts on racism, sexuality and nudity need to change.” ~ Joseph Ross Anderson (Race Cooper) The Pink News SGL News Service, London, UK, 10 June 2020
Race Cooper, interviewing for The Pink News, London, UK 10 June 2020
Footnote:Race could not appear fully nude for his interview. Instead, he conducted the session shirtless, as close to nakedness as possible!
The examination and exploration of the topic of “race” extends beyond the limited concepts of of just Black people and White people. It includes all of us, no matter our skin tone, ethnicity, or racial heritage. “Race,” unfortunately, is also aligned with community, culture, politics, religion and value systems.
Regrettably, racism (racial bigotry and/or hatred) is a “learned” (taught) behaviour passed from one generation to the next – often without any basis of proof or scientific fact. Unchallenged, it is frequently misunderstood as the “norm” (normal) – the regular routine standard.
My spouse, Aaron, and I both offer this posting in the hope of overcoming our need to be reminded of the importance of fact and reality in our lives.
Race Cooper, The Pink News
Introduction:
Joseph R. Anderson (Race Cooper) didn’t begin his film career until 2009 at the tender age of 36 years! An age when most openly bisexual or gay porn film actors are ready to retire from performing live! His acting career spanned a total of five years. He retired from the industry in 2014.
In the same year that he started live acting, after years in the studio’s casting office, Race started publicly blogging on blogger.com, promoting his acting career and sharing information about fellow porn stars and their preferences. He swiftly acquired notoriety as “a-man-who-tells-it-all!” He also began to encourage and endorse the expansion of the “alpha” (top-man) and the “beta” (bottom-man) SGL identities to include “versatility” (both traditional SGL sexual positions)!
Race Cooper: “the-man-who-tells-it-all!”
Vital Statistics:
Height: 6′ (183 cm)
Weight: 180 lbs. (82 kg)
Hair: head – shaved; body – armpit, pubic
Penis: 8″ (20 cm) circumcised
Sexuality: gay
Sexual position: versatile (preference: beta (bottom-man)
Clothing status: bare (naked,nude)
Porn Career: Mid-level management (casting); live (2009-2014)
Race Cooper: publicity pose (frontal)
“I’m an African-Canadian. Growing up in Toronto, I got to see how lots of White Americans reacted to Black people, from Canada or the USA. Working in gay pornography, I personally saw how Black men were treated by White men with no difference between gay or straight.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News 10 June 2020
Race, based on his own experience, views racism as “a daily constant in the USA.” He acknowledges that he – at first – was paid considerably less than his Caucasian colleagues and regularly and repeatedly had his work ethic and intelligence questioned. He honestly believes that he was only hired initially in order for the studios to appear “less racist.”
“Homophobia and racism in the USA is the reasoning for discrimination and prejudice. It is part of the legacy of institutionalized slavery. In Canada, race is just a difference. You shave your pubic hair, I let mine grow naturally. We’re both gay men,we’re justdifferent in some ways.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News 10 June 2020
Canada had slavery in the 1600s only. It was never a permanent social institution like in the USA. As a slave, you were bought, you worked a couple of years, earned your freedom and then you moved on. Like an indentured servant. Enslavement was never a source of distrust, mistreatment and hatred. You worked, earned freedom and then became a neighbour – equal -not inferiour or subserviant.
Race Cooper: another movie pose!
“As a Black gay man, I know and have witnessed bias, hatred and prejudice because of nakedness, race and sexual orientation. It is unfair and unjust. It is wrong. As a performer in the porn industry, I’ve never experienced criticism for being publicly or for being socially naked. But I do know of fellow nudists who are judged because of their nudity. Clothes freedom is part of who we are. Just like race and sexuality, we don’t have a choice.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News 10 June 2020
Race was interviewed by The Pink News, a SGL news service in London, England, United Kingdom on 10 June 2020 for his views on racial inequality in the bisexual or gay film profession in light of the killing of the late George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement. He also wants the porn industry to openly admit that many White men – straight – have been cast into roles catering to SGL African-American audiences instead of actual Black gay men.
As a path forward, he’d like to see studios hire “diversity mentors” to help with casting and hopefully these mentors could advance the careers of porn actorsof colour. He also advocates the ending of “gay-for-pay” and an immediate end to the shunning of HIV+ porn actors.
All of us welcome and embrace Race in full nakedness as a man of our community and culture! His attitude that true equality is a basic human right for us all is one we can all agree!
Our man who reveals all: Race Cooper!
Thank you, Race, for your honesty and integrity!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 20, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “Bare + Black = Queer!”
It is now what is known to many as the “season of the passion!” The week in the month of February of each year that includes the designated day of the kiss: St. Valentine’s Day! Not officially observed as a public holiday in any country, it is a day recognized by multitudes as a day of bromance (same gender romance) and love!
A day for us to celebrate being together and to enjoy the camaraderie of sharing ourselves with one another and without any fear, guilt or shame!
Not only was the same gender affection and bromance deemed offensive and criminal, the fact of physical interaction between two persons of different races was actually illegal in a total of seventeen (17) states and the District of Columbia.
Prior to SIR, it was considered illegal for two individuals of the same gender to show affection for one another in public. Holding hands was grounds for arrest. Kissing was viewed as degrading, immoral and worse!
Fondling and/or any intimacy with a person of the same gender was seen as indecent and obscene in 49 of the 50 states. Illinois was the “progressive” (permissive) state!
In private clubs and private homes, same gender love was a perversion and those engaging in the activity were publicly ridiculed as known perverts!
The sky offers a natural background for a couple showing their passion as the above men are doing. Such a scene would be considered as pornographic until the Stonewall Inn Riots and the explosion of our movement for the determination and freedom of our right to be same gender loving (SGL)!
As we make plans and preparations to celebrate the St. Valentine’s Day this year, we need to recall the efforts of those who came before us and helped to create the way for our freedom to be ourselves!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 13, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “Bare Celebrity Role Models #6: Identity!”
National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is tomorrow, 7 February. In anticipation of this commemoration, this post entry is published today.
Background:
In the early 1980s, mysterious and unusual health conditions began appearing globally, and by the middle of the 1980s, this new condition was named Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome – AIDS. The transmission (spreading) capability of this rapidly growing condition was identified as the human immunodeficiency virus – HIV. The alarming rate of infections of HIV and the rising fatalities from complications with AIDS soon became a priority focus of the public health services worldwide.
Under the mandate of the United Nations (UN), the World Health Organization (WHO) soon created an independent agency to address this international health crisis. This situation resulted in the launching of World AIDS Day on 1 December 1988 with the accompanying red ribbon campaign for awareness.
Disproportionate Impact:
At the arrival of the 21st century, African Americans constituted approximately 13% of the population in the USA yet they represented almost 50% of all categories of infection rates in HIV/AIDS related statistics reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The overwhelming statistics of HIV infection rates within the African American population indicated severe obstacles, intentional or unintentional, in relaying information on disease prevention as well as general factual material to the Black communities inside the USA. The distrust between the US public health services and Blacks had only recently been publicized through the Tuskegee experiment. The residual discrimination and racism practices were another barrier reason.
There were now growing public criticism of the health agencies and departments in making HIV/AIDS prevention information available to the infected community. This concern now crossed both political and religious differences and even the presidential office demanded resolution.
In 1999, seriously alarmed over the staggering effects of HIV/AIDS on the Black community, the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the entire US Public Health Service, representatives of organizations serving African Americans, medical and research professionals, communities of faith and entertainment, musical and sports celebrities met to address concerns and solutions over the rising infection rates of HIV/AIDS. One of the results of these conferences was the decision to observe, annually, 7 February as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) not just in the Black community but nationwide for all Americans.
The very first NBHAAD was commemorated on 7 February 2000.
HIV/AIDS Basic Facts:
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that causes AIDS.
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a result of HIV infection.
HIV is not transmitted (spread) through everyday casual contact.
Only a physician (doctor) can diagnose AIDS.
NBHAAD Key Components:
Get educated!
Know the facts about prevention and transmission of HIV/AIDS.
Get involved!
Learn about opportunities available within your community for prevention efforts.
Get tested!
Know your status and encourage/empower others to do the same.
Get treated!
Receive proper healthcare and support needed to successfully live with HIV.
The four Key Components are essential criteria for all NBHAAD activities and community outreach efforts. They emphasize the “unity within the community” approach to combatting HIV/AIDS. The Get educated component is the foundation for all NBHAAD presentations and is combined with either another component or offered as the sole resource.
NBHAAD urges the discussion of HIV/AIDS!
Analysis proves that people learn and retain knowledge most effectively from people they perceive as most like (similar) to themselves. This is one of the guiding philosophies for the organizing and the support of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day!
Celebrity Involvement:
Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Los Angeles Lakers, National Basketball Association (NBA)
“Magic” Johnson is a retired professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers team who is often viewed as the greatest point guard of all time. He retired abruptly on 7 November 1991, when he announced publicly that he was HIV+. He played in the 1992 NBA All-Star Game winning the All-Star MVP Award yet completely retired after fellow professional players protested having to play with him and risking themselves for becoming infected.
He was actively featured and involved in the first annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day activities and continues to do even today.
Kory Mitchell, Gay Adult Film Actor and HIV Prevention Advocate
Kory Mitchell, a popular and versatile gay adult film industry actor and casting director for Lavendar Studios tested positive for HIV in 1991. He became certified as an HIV/AIDS prevention instructor by the Red Cross and became an advocate in prevention education in gay related film studios.
He retired from filming but remains active in advocating for education and prevention efforts at the major gay film studios. He was active in the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day planning events and in the observances from the very first through today.
Our Unofficial Official Spokes Model, Phoenix Fellington!
Our very own celebrity, our unofficial (unpaid) spokes model, Phoenix Fellington, has promptly responded to interview questions regarding his engaging in the gay adult film industry.
“Why do I do gay porn? To teach men how to have sex. Responsible and safely!” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 9, 2026, and the proposed topic is: “Locked Lips!”
A reminder before the chaotic, frantic, hectic and wild winter holiday madness descends upon us! Those “new year’s resolutions” that alarmingly and frequently last only into the very early days of the new year? You don’t have to waste effort and time considering them!
Allow yourself some time to compose, eliminate stress, and relax! Relieve the pressure of the holidays and cope with the likelihood of inclement weather. Take a calming deep breath. Plan now to “resolve” when it is conducive and convenient for you and not the hysteria of a new calendar!
Instead of attempting ‘new year’s resolutions,” implement a short prioritized listing of “Spring Resolutions” that begin the first day of Spring, 2026! A calmer time in the year is also compatible with change as well as new lifestyle!
We are all aware that the transition from winter into Spring doesn’t happen overnight. The transformation is gradual – often at a snail’s pace – but the knowledge that it is underway is both exciting and encouraging. Sometimes, that alone provides us with the determination and the energy to accomplish success!
A barren winter environment begins to surrender to the rebirth of the Spring season. Again, another slow process that we welcome annually. Being reborn along with the springtime permits us to progress “hand-in-hand” towards a bright, colourful future of happiness, health and hope. A positive perspective to accompany our “resolve!”
Hopefully, the psychological and visual reminders for betterment and change are enough incentive for us to meet expectations and goals set for our Spring Resolutions! Every success is complete, one step followed by another!
Adjustments in our routine happen on a daily basis, both planned and unplanned. A new year or a seasonal transition is an opportunity and not a requirement. The first day of Spring resolution is offered as a suggestion. It is not obligatory as a bare practitioner!
In summary, let’s be honest and real. Most people begin each and every year “resolved” to exercise, get fit, and lose weight. Generally, this “resolve” is very frustrating and doesn’t last long. Avoid the bad experience and all the ensuing negativity expressed. Spring Resolutions remove us from the “mad rush” at our local fitness center/gym. The massive crowds shrink in numbers and the attention, attitudes and outlook is more patient, positive and relaxed. A better environment offers a better chance for improvement and success!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, December 22, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Happy Christmas!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 