Saturday, January 27, 2007

PWA Campout May 11-13 2007

The dates for the spring PWA Campout have been finalized and it is May 11-13 2007. The applications will be ready for download off this site in the next few days, keep checking back.

Thursday, January 11, 2007

Spring PWA Campout May 11-13 2007

PWA Campout Introduction
Located in the center of the DFW, Houston and San Antonio triangle. Free camping weekend for HIV+ with a limited income. Food and site provided.The campout runs from Friday noon to Sunday noon. Most gay men do not "rough it" at least when it comes to camping and this is no exception. This is more like being in a gay bar then camping. Campsites, six meals, hot and cold water, toilets and electricity are provided. The highlight of the weekend is the Saturday night show known throughout Texas as the "best drag show in Cameron" however Cameron has the ugliest women in Texas.The campers are very friendly and socializing, cruising and hiking are some but not all of the favorite activities. The most important of the few rules is "What happens in Cameron, stays in Cameron".PWA Campout – May and September
Sponsored by Texas Conference of Clubs
Application www.texasconferenceofclubs.com
For more information: untamed@sbcglobal.net
PWA Campout Camping Overview
"Outdoor Camping Trips For Adults Living With HIV/AIDS And Their Support Group"These campouts are provided by PWA Holiday Charities (Houston )and the Texas Conference of Clubs.All campers must be at least 21 years of age. This is a predominately an all gay male event. These camping trips are Free to individuals living with HIV/AIDS who may not have the financial ability to attend such camping events. A $25.00 donation is asked from campers and volunteers, who are financially able, to help cover costs of food, beverages and supplies.Campers must be in relative good health. This is not a "resort". This is camping in a moderately developed wooded area of the Texas Hill Country. Wheelchair accessibility is limited to the developed area. For those with limited mobility a travel companion is recommended. The travel companion is welcome to attend with these campers as volunteers free of charge.Transportation: Individuals without transportation are matched up with other campers or volunteers who will provide them with a ride to and from the campsite. Please be sure to fill out the transportation section on the application. A good phone number or e-mail address is needed to be able to put campers in touch.Camping Equipment: Volunteers and other campers do loan or share camping equipment for the weekend. Each camper needs to bring their own bedding (pillows, sheets, blankets) and an air mattress if they have one or can borrow one. The camping equipment is limited. If you do not have or can not borrow any camping equipment be sure to indicate this on the application.Sleeping Accommodations: There are limited sleeping spaces in the Bunkhouse (a 2 bedroom trailer). There are bunk beds and a few single and double beds. This works on first come, first serve basis, with health concerns taking priority.Food and Beverages: All meals are provided. Snacks and other food available all weekend for those who may want them or may need to have them when they take medications. Nonalcoholic beverages are provided. BYOB, is allowed and campers must drink responsibly.On acceptance of your application you will receive final instructions, a schedule with a set of rules and 2 maps (a regional and a local map) with written directions. There will also be a medical information form that you must bring with you to the campout. In the event that you have a medical emergency this information is crucial. LVL PWA Campouts reserves the right to reject any applications for any reason that it deems proper.For additional information about the campsite please go to www.texasconferenceofclubs.com
PWA CampoutCampers Perspective
Located in the center of the DFW/Houston/San Antonio triangle. Free camping weekend for HIV+ with a limited income. Food, drink and campsite provided.The Texas Conference of Clubs owns and operates a private 35-plus acre campground outside of Cameron, Texas. Cameron is located in central Texas about 80 miles northeast of Austin and 35 miles east of Temple. The conference is composed of GLBT member clubs, community organizations and independent members throughout Texas. Some of these clubs are bear, leather, nudist, bar, service and social groups. There is a variety of "runs" held on weekends throughout the year and some "unruns" that are cheaper but do not provide meals. There is regular camping too.For 10 years in May and September, the conference sponsors a Lady Victory Lust/PWA Campout for gay HIV+ men. It runs from Friday noon to Sunday noon (Gay Standard Time). Most gay men do not "rough it" at least when it comes to camping and this is no exception. It's more like being in a gay bar because there is more camp then camping. Six meals are provided along with campsite, toilets, hot/cold water showers and electricity. A wading pool is good for skinny-dipping with 25 of your closest friends and a leathermen's playground for those that like the wild side. Being a hopeful romantic, I prefer the hammock to a sling.Bring a tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillows, flashlight, sun screen and bug spray. A radio, fan and long extension cord would be helpful. A pink flamingo or a personal artistic touch is always welcomed. Some tents and air mattresses are on hand, so ask. A bunkhouse is available to those with special physical needs. The campers are very friendly and socializing, cruising and hiking are some but not all of the favorite activities. Alcohol is allowed. Beer is included with various groups holding cocktail parties at various times of the day. Clothing is optional and fun is encouraged. The highlight of the weekend is the Saturday night show known throughout Texas as the "best drag show in Cameron" however Cameron has the ugliest women in Texas. There are just limits to what makeup and alcohol can do. After the show, the campers display their vocal talents with karaoke. The most important of the few rules is "What happens in Cameron, stays in Cameron".The cost of the LVL/PWA Campout is free to HIV+ gay men on a limited income or $25 for those who are working. No membership is required and HIV- lovers are welcome to attend. You will need to arrange your own transportation. An application can be found on the TCC web site. Send it in at least a month before because space is limited. In May 2004, there were about 120 guys from Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio and the rest of Texas. Additional information and directions will be provided with confirmation of your reservation.Sponsored by Texas Conference of Clubs.