Reorganization 1996
by Woody Baldwin

To: Independent (non-chapter) members

It is my pleasure to report to you that non-chapter Prime Timers members now enjoy a much improved status in their organization.  With the return recently to the original objectives of Prime Timers (to have fun), Original Prime Timers Worldwide, Inc. has developed a management structure that reflects what we have learned from ten years experience, our triumphs as well as our mistakes.

To be sure you as an independent member are always adequately represented in the club's operations, our bylaws provide for a vice president whose primary responsibility is to see that those members who cannot or choose not to belong to a chapter, receive all the benefits Prime Timers can give them.  I am fortunate to be the first man to fill that office; we also have a vice president in charge of chapters.

As you may know, I was the founder of Prime Timers and served as the international chairman for the first seven years.  I have long believed that the best way to cope with aging and retirement is to keep busy.  Prime Timers has more than adequately filled that need.  It was an easy adjustment to make because I believe so strongly in what our group stands for, and I know of no one who has had a more fulfilling retirement -- thanks to Prime Timers.

Rob Tornack of Victoria succeeded me as president in 1994 and brought some much-needed structure to the organization.  The 'loose ship' I was running was fine when the club was composed of ten or twelve chapters; but when we got larger, we needed more structure and this was Rob's primary contribution, and we shall always be grateful to him for that.

When Prime Timers Worldwide was established under the leadership of Cal Hackler in November, 1996, we vowed to take the high road and return to the positive, upbeat, loving organization that Prime Timers had always been —hence the word "original" in our corporate name.  Prime Timers Worldwide is carrying all the "international members" of Prime Timers International until June 30, 1997, at which time we hope you will choose to join Prime Timers Worldwide as have 90% of the chapters.

We will strive vigorously to get the "Prime Times" (our newsletter) and roster updates out on time every quarter.  We will keep your dues as low as possible and we will solicit your opinions at all times about better ways to serve your wants and needs.  We hope to increase the number of area gatherings patterned after the very successful one we have in the South Central Region every Labor Day weekend in Oklahoma City.  At the Convention in Palm Springs in October, we will have a forum so independent members can meet together and bring your concerns to the Board during our meeting there.

I am here and want you to call or write me so we can become acquainted; and together we can make this segment of Prime Timers a truly satisfying experience.  My address and telephone number is: Woody Baldwin, P.O.Box 436, Manchaca, TX 78652.  (512) 282-2861. 

Remember, you always have a friend in,
Woody Baldwin, Vice President, Independents.