Prime Timers of the Desert was founded early in 1992 by a nucleus of seven men who realized from overcrowded private Christmas parties in 1991 that gay males in the area simply had to have more and continual opportunities to gather. They and a number of enthusiastic supporters offhandedly decided to call their new group “Prime Timers,” initially unaware of a national gay male organization already founded for the same purpose.

By late 1992, the structure of forming a Board of Directors and officer election process led to their affiliation with the national organization, and unprecedented club growth.

Now the largest chapter of Prime Timers Worldwide, the Palm Springs club has over 1,000 members and continues to provide venues with a “meet and make new friends” theme. Organized lunches, dinners, mixers, trips, theatre outings and more have provided activity options on a monthly basis for members. Prime Timers of the Desert is particularly well known for its annual Beaux Arts Ball on New Year’s Eve, a black tie gala.

History has recorded significant contributions by each of the club Presidents listed below, and the future remains bright for members who thrive on camaraderie and the perpetual chance to meet new men in town!

Past Presidents

2005 - 2006 Nick Maston
2002 - 2004 Ken Keener
1999 - 2001 Wayne Patterson
1996 - 1998 Ralph Sheplow

Past President Ken Keener brought us into the 21st century by pushing for this website in 2003 which you are now reading. In May 2004, we launched our private "Member's Only" section. Members can now read the entire newsletter online, view photographs from our various events in color, see who's interested in special interest activities, view birthday lists and post messages to a bulletin board.

Click on "Planned Events" above, come to a couple of events, get to know us and then consider joining our organization!

There's always something to do in Palm Springs with Prime Timers! Our Special Interest Groups are always expanding and looking for new participants. To see our interest groups or to contact one of the group leaders - click here.