Tony Tarquinto -- Are There Virtues in Adult Virginity?

Tony Tarquinto is 42 years old and still a virgin. And he’s not alone. Whether by choice or circumstance, there are thousands of adults who say they have never had sexual intercourse. In the US, a 2009 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine tracked sexual abstinence in 7000 people aged 25 to 45 and found that 5% of men and 2% of women were virgins. Our hyper-sexualized society doesn't make it easy for them to talk about it, but today we’ll meet an adult virgin and hear his story. Tony is in a holding pattern in south Jersey waiting for The Learning Channel to decide about filming another episode of The Virgin Diaries in which he would be featured. A few weeks ago, he drove to Asbury Park where I had the opportunity to play tour guide while we talked about his situation. Tony is attractive, articulate, and well educated. He is also politically conservative and a staunch Roman Catholic.

I’m from the hippie generation of free love, free sex, and go with the flow, so it’s nearly impossible for me to wrap my brain around what Tony is going through. Sex is a very natural part of life, and if you choose to wait until you’re married or in love to have the experience, you could be waiting a very long time. US Olympian Lolo Jones recently stated that remaining a virgin has been harder than training for the Olympics, and she plans to wait until she is married to give her husband the gift of her virginity. She is only 29 years old. Tony is almost 43. He has shared his story with the media and, while he still maintains a strong faith and high moral standards, he admits to struggling with his decision and wanting to end his virgin status. So how will Tony’s story end? Don’t miss this fascinating interview! After the interview, please check out After Hours at Jersey Coastal Live for additional information.