Woody Baldwin
Tue, 16 Jun 2009

Where does Woody Baldwin stand on the
subject of sex in the Prime Timer chapters?  

Prime Timers [of the Desert] is a social club for mature gay males, providing opportunities for its members to meet, socialize and make new friends. It is strictly social. There are no sexual references or links on this site, and no sexual activity of any kind at our events. Our nonprofit organization welcomes male members regardless of ethnic origin, race, political or religious values.

I have been very vocal regarding any behavior, of the chapter clubs, that would indicate Prime Timers is a sex club.  Prime Timers was founded to provide a social organization where men could come together and meet, as a group of friends who would fulfill the needs of those persons who, as I explain it; have through no fault of their own, fallen through the cracks of gay society and need like minded companionship.  The organization is also intended for those of us who are fortunate enough to have friends, but enjoy more variety in our lives.  Prime Timers (to my knowledge) do not screen members but are open to anyone.  I have found that the "undesirables" usually weed out themselves as they realize they don't fit with the group.  There have been isolated cases where the governing board of a chapter has refunded the offender's dues and suggested he look elsewhere for his companionship.

Chapters have fallen apart on the subject of sex parties.  Most chapters have, as a part of their membership roster, an opportunity for the member to indicate his interests in a number of activities.  These generally list some sexually-oriented interests such as nudity, sexual events, etc.  When chapters have come to me for advice: I tell them that in regards to events such as these; to let those who want to participate do so as a non-chapter sponsored event.  In other words, it is not advertised in their chapter newsletter. If there are those who wish to have a nude gathering; they check the membership roster to find those who have checked nudism, and contact them individually.  I see this no different than a person trying to find a bridge foursome.  That is what the roster is for.

When a group caters to a class (such as "gay" and "bisexual"), it would be naive to assume that there will not be instances of sexual behavior.  In our Austin chapter, as I hope is true of other chapters, at our general meetings mention of sex is never made, except perhaps as humor.  This does not rule out having other organizations that cater to gays speaking to the group about their activities.  As one visitor said, "It could be a meeting of the Rotary".

Where does Woody Baldwin stand on sex? I do not condemn those persons who choose ways of expression that are different  from mine.  As long as they are not hurting others by their behavior, and are not molesting children, I remain a "live and let live" sort of person. 

Cheers!
Woody