Legal

2007 has come to a close and, as people do, on January 1^st I spent some time considering the ups and downs of 2007.  I'd like to share a few highlights with you now.

As a newcomer to adult, my real introduction to the industry came with the Adult Entertainment Expo of 2007.   It was like a study session for the industry-on steroids.  I learned a great deal and, of course, caught the obligatory AEE cold.

By March, Jeffrey Douglas and I were in Portugal, fighting Stuart Lawley and ICM to defeat a .XXX top level domain.  With the support of countless industry professionals, we were victorious and the ICANN Board voted against .XXX.  Upon our arrival back to the states we learned of the disappointing 2257 decision by Judge Miller--a loss of one battle, but the war on 2257 continued. 

No rest for the weary,  FSC hosted Celebrating Free Speech lobby days in April, which proved instrumental in keeping an 8% multi-use tax for all things adult off the books in California. By May, FSC released its three-year strategic plan, communicating to our membership and the industry a long-term strategic approach to member benefits, organizing the industry and protecting the rights of adult businesses and their consumers. 

Over the summer, FSC provided analysis and "Frequently Asked Questions" for DOJ's 2257 proposed rules and regulation; recruited Joy King of Wicked Pictures to our board; hosted a membership meeting with a distinguished panel of  FSC's Presidents (Nick Boyias, Scott Tucker, Gloria Leonard, Julie Stewart and Jim Everett) as well as keynote speaker Bruce David, editor of Hustler magazine. 

Late summer's activities focused on 2257 as FSC launched a public comment campaign for input to 2257's proposed rules and regulations.  Simultaneously, FSC commissioned a report by Georgetown Economic Services to show the negative impact 2257 has on the industry, providing a sound argument against the proposed regulations as well as a solid foundation for future litigation. 

Understanding that not all threats to our industry come from the government, FSC announced the creation of a task force to study and develop a plan to address an issue seriously threatening the well-being of the industry: Piracy. Watch for an announcement resulting from the task force at our membership meeting at AEE.

In October, FSC made a splash with Presidential candidate Mike Gravel speaking at our Red, White and Blue Bash, encouraging industry professionals to speak up and speak out.  Later in October, the industry realized a significant victory with the 6^th circuit decision ruling 2257 unconstitutional on its face.  FSC immediately analyzed the decision and provided a "Frequently Asked Questions" document, to members and the industry, deciphering the significance of the decision.  The 6^th Circuit decision, coupled with the public comment reports and statements prepared by FSC, has provided the most positive foundation for future litigation and all-out war on 2257 we have experienced to date.  Special thanks to Rondee Kamins and Mike Murray-their 6^th circuit victory has helped us all. 

In the fall, FSC made two visits to our nation's capital, lobbying on Capital Hill and building coalitions with national partners like the Library Association and the ACLU.  FSC conducted a membership survey  that asked what you want and need in a trade association and then we responded to your requests.  As a result, FSC has partnered with Lockton, one of our nation's largest insurance brokers, to provide members with health, worker's compensation, and property and casualty insurance. Additionally, we have worked with ZEI to provide software discounts to our members.  We will continue to survey and respond to the needs of our members.

The learning curve for me this year has been astronomical, but it pales in comparison to FSC's accomplishments, made possible by the extraordinary efforts of staff, board, members and industry volunteers.  This has not been an easy year, but it has been one of the most exciting and substantive years of my life-that's what living is all about.  I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the people in the industry who have helped me and FSC pave our road to success.  From generous donors to advisors to people who rolled up their sleeves and worked on the front lines, the industry has been good to FSC and to me and our staff, and board.  We will hold fast in our commitment of excellence to our members and the industry.   I am honored and proud to be part of this incredible industry.  Thank you all for your support.

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