| WelcomeWelcome to the latest edition of our OCLB newsletter! We hope this publication grows into a true two-way channel—where you can share ideas, offer solutions, and inspire others to get involved and do the same. |
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| 47th All Chapter Conference and CampoutAll chapters descended on San Diego beginning October 16 to vote on new initiatives and vote-in our new board members. Every year, each chapter takes their turn to host the event and to come up with a theme. We are grateful to the San Diego chapter, and to KJ and Tyler in particular, who put together a thoughtful agenda for our 47th All-Chapter Conference and Campout. This year's theme was The Wizard of Oz / Wicked. Thank you to all our friends of Oz. Your heart, brains, and courage made the event unforgettable! |
| Member SpotlightIt’s our pleasure to share another inspiring member story from our Great Outdoors community. This spotlight features Dennis Vinopal, who has been an active and dedicated member for the past 14 years. We’re grateful for his continued involvement and contributions that enrich our group. Here’s Dennis’ story, told in his own words. MY LOVE FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS My love for the great outdoors goes back as far as I can remember. As a child, I was naturally curious and loved exploring new places, but some of my fondest memories are the days I spent with my grandparents on their farm near Cleveland, Ohio, where I was born in 1943. I can still picture myself perched on my grandfather’s lap as he milked the cows, or feeling the rumble of the tractor as we rode through the fields. |
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| Join Us—Share Your Passion!We invite you to help us make our outings and events more engaging and memorable. Just know that your support is valuable whether you just attend our events or help make them possible. But, we could use more of you on the front line assisting in any way you can. Whether you love reaching out to new members and could help post events on our website or social media, or have expertise to share alongside our hike leaders, any assistance would be appreciated in helping turn our outings into truly informative experiences. Is there a subject, hobby, or area where you've built significant knowledge? If so, we would love to hear from you! Here are just a few topics and roles that come to mind.
We invite you to bring your passion and let's see what we can create together. The possibilities are endless. |
NEWSNEWS |
47th All Chapter Conference and Campout (cont.)
We were also invited to a conversation with Mike Wilkens, who discussed "Walking ancient pathways and honoring those who have come before us." We came away with a deeper appreciation for the Kumeyaay people who lived in the area of Julian, California. They historically inhabited the region, seasonally inhabiting areas between the coast and the desert. We also saw examples of their craft work and how the environment provided the materials they used to sustain their way of life.
CHAPTER AWARDS John Butta: GOLA Volunteer of the Year The event was hosted at William Heise County Park, Julian, CA. 68 people registered. To view the Wizard's entire agenda, members can see it here:
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As members, we were given a front-row seat to hear a first account of our organization's history and legacy by the GO's founders, Greg Carmack and Father Paul Breton from San Bernardino! They shared how the organization was founded, its rapid success, and the growing pains of managing this exponentially growing volunteer organization. And if that were not enough, we were treated to a documentary made about the Great Outdoors. Bravo to Tyler for bringing to life our living legacy!
And of course, we have to give kudos to the recipients of this year's club awards:
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Great Outdoors On-The-Go - OCLB Is Mobile-FriendlyGet to important and relevant information quickly while on the go with our newly designed mobile-adapted site directory. Get to any event to any chapter quickly. Many other useful links are provided.
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| Read All About It. Did you know that the Great Outdoors was founded in West Hollywood in 1978! Many of the old newsletters are now stored in the ONE Archives at the USC Libraries. The ONE Archive is the largest repository of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) materials in the world. We will be featuring more old newsletters in upcoming newsletters. |
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Beauty Shots
We would love to publish photos from our members. Please submit a photo taken by you for our next newsletter! Please provide the following information with your photo: 1) Place taken. 2) Date Taken. 3) Photographer Name Enter Your Photo! |
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UPCOMING EVENTSUPCOMING EVENTS |
Hike Difficulty Scale
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| OCLB - Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park Loop HikeSat, Nov 22, 09:00 AM
This loop trail winds through valleys studded with oak trees and has
just a few steep ascents. At the farthest point is a bench area where we
can take a snack break and take in the fantastic views. No restrooms
available on the trail. We will meet at 9:00 in the parking lot at Wahoo's Fish Taco, 27412 Portola Pkwy A, Lake Forest, CA 92610. We will begin our hike on Serrano Road, veering off on Serrano Cow Trail, then Line Shack trail to Whiting Road which will take us to the bench. For the return trek we will take Water Tank Road to Dreaded Hill Road and sync back onto Serrano Road to take us home. Bring the 10 essentials. VIEW OCLB POST |
| OCLB - Christmas Light Flight Over Riverside!XX miles / XXX' elevation gain Sat, December 6, 2025 6:00 PMExperience the Magic of the Season from 1,000 Feet Aboard Our Historic DC-3! VIEW OCLB POST |
 | OCLB-LA – The Fruitcake Follies Dinner Show: A Festive Holiday Celebration SOLD OUTSat, Dec 20, 2025 6:30 PM“THE FRUIT CAKE FOLLIES” is Los Angeles's longest running Christmas/Variety show…NOW CELEBRATING IT’S 27TH YEAR!!!! Just like those holiday variety Christmas specials we remember from when we were kids! "The Fruit Cake Follies" is all that and much MORE! It’s just a good ol’ fashioned show that’s drunk too much eggnog. Some say the show is a cross between a Perry Como Christmas special and Pee Wee's Playhouse. Others say the old Muppet Show, with the host trying to hold the show together as all these crazy characters are all around him. VIEW OCLB POST |
| OCLB - Holiday Party & Toy Drive at Gladstone's in Long Beach SOLD OUTSun, Dec 21, 06:00 PM - 09:00 PMGreat Outdoors Members: Only $40! Non-Members and Guests: $65 This party is being subsidized by the club. Actual per plate cost is roughly $80. VIEW OCLB POST |
| CORP - Outdoors Experience - Agua Caliente - Hike Leader and Trip Leader Training CampoutFri, Jan 23, 2025 8:30 AMYou may attend either one or both. VIEW OCLB POST |
| OCLB-Jumbo Rocks Camping at Joshua Tree NPFri, February 27, 4:00 PM thru Jumbo Rocks Campground, nestled near Twentynine Palms, California, is your gateway to the magic of Joshua Tree National Park. Imagine waking up surrounded by towering boulders and surreal desert scenery—perfect for camping, rock climbing, or simply soaking in the wild beauty of the high desert. Each campsite comes with a picnic table and fire pit, so you can savor delicious meals and cozy evenings under a sky full of stars. Plus, with tons of nearby hiking trails and clean pit toilets conveniently located, adventure is always within reach. Whether you're chasing sunrise hikes or swapping stories around the campfire, Jumbo Rocks promises an unforgettable desert escape. VIEW OCLB POST |
| OCLB - Atlantis All-Gay Mexican Cruise!Sat , April 18, 4:00 PM thru VIEW OCLB POST |
| OCLB - Yosemite National Park in Spring - Curry VillageFri , May 15, 4:00 PM thru
Mon, May 18, 11:00 AM Our adventure includes three nights in Curry Village (formerly Camp Curry), where we’ll stay in classic canvas tents and immerse ourselves in Yosemite’s natural wonders. Please note, our unheated canvas tents provide a rustic and authentic experience, perfect for those eager to embrace the great outdoors. VIEW OCLB POST |
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MEMBER UPDATES
MEMBER UPDATES
My Love For The Great Outdoors - By Dennis Vinopal
My love for the great outdoors goes back as far as I can remember. As a child, I was naturally curious and loved exploring new places, but some of my fondest memories are the days I spent with my grandparents on their farm near Cleveland, Ohio, where I was born in 1943. I can still picture myself perched on my grandfather’s lap as he milked the cows, or feeling the rumble of the tractor as we rode through the fields. Iloved helping feed the chickens, gather fresh eggs in the morning, and wandering into the nearby woods to pick blackberries or search for chestnuts scattered on the forest floor. Looking back, it’s no surprise that those early days made me want to be a farmer.
While my career took me in a different direction working for the LA County Agricultural Commissioner/Weights and Measures for 36 years, I never lost that urge to grow things. Later in life, I became a “gentleman grower,” nurturing 36 avocado trees at my home in La Habra Heights, still holding close the spirit of those childhood experiences.
Born with a severe hearing loss, I was a shy and quiet, often finding comfort in exploring the outdoors and immersing myself in nature’s wonders. When I was nine, my family moved to California. I still vividly recall our journey along Route 66 captivated by the ever-changing landscapes. I felt a growing desire to discover even more of the world in the years ahead.
My parents settled in Pasadena and bought a home with a large lot. In those days, I spent a lot of time in the backyard. I also, learned the joy of gardening and yard work. Since age seven and growing up, I was conflicted with my sexuality. But in those times, for many of us, it was not an option to come out gay. I did however, fall in love and marry my only and current wife in 1965.
My wife shared my passion for the outdoors and shortly, we took our first camping trip. Since we had little money then, my father-in-law gave us his depression era heavy canvas tent with a single wood pole propped up in the middle of the tent. We were also given some other basic camping equipment. I really loved the experience of camping which I continue to enjoy today.
All through my earlier years, I was very active with outdoor activities. I met co-workers who loved backpacking which I did a number of times with them. I also was a member of the Sierra Club for several years and did some great hikes and camping trips with them as well.
All during that time we raised two children and as a family we took numerous camping trips traveling all over the US and Canada! We visited many National and State Parks. The one place my family loved most was Lake Tahoe where we camped every year. My wife and I eventually bought a second home in South Lake Tahoe. When I visit there, I'm still grateful to hike every day on the many nearby trails.
After retiring and coming out, I wanted to spend more time hiking, camping, and exploring new places with others. About fourteen years ago, I joined the Orange County/Long Beach Chapter of Great Outdoors and eventually served as Treasurer and Membership Chair. Being a part of this group has been incredibly rewarding—I love the camaraderie and thoroughly enjoy participating in the many fun and memorable activities offered by Great Outdoors.
A BIG WELCOME TO OUR NEW 2024 MEMBERS
- Michael Angel
- Drew Cartwright
- Albert Chairez
- David Contreras
- Philip Dagort
- Peter Drazaba
- Ron Esparza
- Derek Hembree
- Keith Kennedy
- Sarah Langer
- James Lawson
- Paul Lee
- David Long
- Joshua Mcintyre
- Travis Mitchell
- Tristan Nguyen
- Ron Pulido
- Rudi Sugianto
- Andy Zhang
CURRENT GREAT OUTDOORS MEMBERSHIP
OCLB member count: 130
Overall member count for All chapters: 1041
BECOME A MEMBER!
Most of our events are free and open to non-members. Annual memberships are $25 per person, and includes the GO
e-newsletter, "first dibs" e-mail notifications for events, discounted member rates for GO outings, members trips,
socials, parties and more.
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PAST EVENTSPAST EVENTSSummer/Fall (Aug-Nov) |
 | Outspoken Outdoors: Audio Moments from Our CommunityEveryone has that one unforgettable outdoor adventure, the hike that surprised you, the road trip that went sideways, or the moment nature stopped you in your tracks. Now it’s your turn to share your story... in your own voice! |
OCLB - Perseid Meteor Shower 2025! One Night Only Campout! Joshua Tree National ParkSun, Aug 10 - Aug 11The Perseid meteor shower is one of the best shooting star displays of the year and it's currently active. Also known as the Perseids, it is active every year from mid-July to late August. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - Upper Rock Creek Trail BackpackWed, Aug 13 - Sun, Aug 17The Perseid meteor shower is one of the best shooting star displays of the year and it's currently active. Also known as the Perseids, it is active every year from mid-July to late August. |
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OCLB / LA - Visit to the Nixon Library in Yorba LindaSun, Aug 17, 11:00 AMYou know about Watergate but did you know that Richard Nixon was one of the most consequential presidents on environmental issues? Join the LA and OCLB chapters at the beautiful Nixon Library in Yorba Linda to find out more about the complicated legacy of our 37th president. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - Lassen Volcanic National Park CampoutThu, Aug 21 - Mon, Aug 25,Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to steaming fumaroles, meadows freckled with wildflowers, clear mountain lakes, and numerous volcanoes. Jagged peaks tell the story of its eruptive past while hot water continues to shape the land. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB – Easy Evening Walk at Fairview & Talbert Parks in Costa MesaSat, Aug 23, 05:00 PMFairview Park is the City’s largest park, hosting 195 acres of open space – natural area, and 13 acres of manicured landscape for a total of 208 acres. Within the 195 acres of open space there are two Nationally Registered Cultural Resource Historic Sites and five distinct habitat ecosystems which are home to many rare and endangered plant and animal species..
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OCLB - Park to Playa Urban HikeSun, Aug 31, 2025, 09:00aTotal round trip distance with the Culver City Stairs is 2.6 miles. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - 32nd Annual Long Beach QFilm Festival - Men in BriefsSun, Sep 07, 11:00 AMCelebrating 32 years of the best in LGBTQ independent films, the Long Beach QFilm Festival is the oldest film festival in Long Beach and the only festival dedicated to screening films that showcase the magnificent diversity of the LGBTQ community. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - Election of Officers and Board! Special Monthly Board Meeting Mixer!Thu, Sep 11, 7:00 PMAn online nomination form was made available. Members could also nominate in-person at the meeting. You must be present to VOTE! All members are eligible to run for a position! Our bylaws stipulate that chapters shall elect from their own membership: | ============================================ Annual Election Results! Two board members were unable to attend: Michael Milan (GO Board Representative) and Ray Garcia (Webmaster). A total of 12 members attended, and all votes were unanimous. |
OCLB - 7th Annual Ranchos Walk in Long BeachSat, Sep 20,10:00 AMThe 7th Annual Ranchos Walk 2025! Every year, the community is invited to hike the crest trail that links Rancho Los Alamitos and Rancho Los Cerritos.Great Outdoors participants will be walking the 3-mile route and will have access to a guided audio tour that highlights facts about the area’s history. Participation in this event is FREE and includes entry to the post-walk celebration hosted by Rancho Los Cerritos. A very big thanks to OCLB member and Rancho Los Cerritos docent Gregory J. for suggesting this event! Food and beverages were available for purchase at the post-walk celebration. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - OC Pride at the OC FairgroundsSat, Sep 27,11:00 AM - 10:00 PMWe encouraged members to join the Great Outdoors OCLB chapter at OC Pride and help us spread joy, promote activism, and share the joy of outdoor adventures. Attendees had to buy festival tickets to attend. Whether you’re loud, bold, quiet, or quirky, there’s a spot for you with us to tell our story and share our adventures. Our members are the heartbeat of the celebration. We had 8 sign ups! A special thank you goes out to: Richard Norman, Robert Sandoval, Robert McCee, Joe Semmel, Andy Achen, Angel Valdez, xxxxxx, and an extra special thank you goes out to William San Antoino for donating sunglasses that were used to reward members who joined our club. Refreshments were provided and everyone had a great time. Facebook Memories |
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LA / OCLB - Mt. Baldy Moonlight Hike with Dinner & Live MusicSun, Oct 04, 04:30 PM - 09:30 PMThis Moonlight Hike takes place three days before the full moon. An early moonrise will provide dramatic illumination of the trails, peaks and canyons. Our hike takes place near the waxing of the Hunter's Moon, also the first supermoon of the year. The moon will appear slightly larger and brighter in the sky as it will be closer to Earth than usual.
We planned a complete evening with a buffet dinner, a live band, and a moonlight hike. After dinner and taking some time to enjoy the band, we will hike along the Devil’s Backbone Trail, perhaps two to three miles, going as far as time allows as we must be back for the last ski lift ride at 9:45pm down to our cars.
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OCLB - Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach by Boat!Sat, Oct 05, 10:00 AM - 04:00 PMWe had a front-row, on the water seat for the Huntington Beach Air Show. The Great Pacific Airshow took place over the sands and ocean of Huntington Beach, California. |
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OCLB - 'You Belong Outdoors' GEAR EXCHANGESat, Oct 18,11:00 AM - 02:00 PMOne great result from our participation at the OC Pride Festival this year was that we met interesting people and decided to ally ourselves with other LGBTQ+ groups. They produced an event where LGBTQIA2S+ outdoor enthusiast of all levels can connect, share, and learn together. People were encouraged to deliver any gently used outdoor gear or apparel they would like to swap—or just show up to browse and take what you need! We were at conference on that day, but we do know of one of our members who attended. You can learn more about the group on Instagram: @youbelongoutdoorrecreation. |
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OCLB - Festival of Flight at Long Beach AirportSat, Oct 25, 09:00 AM - 04:00 PMCalling all Airmen and Airwomen! Grab that control stick, lower your flaps, open that cargo door and come celebrate flight! Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - Pool & Pizza Party 2025!Sun, Oct 26, 01:00 PM - 05:00 PMThis was the last of the summer season pool parties. A Sunday Funday around the pool! Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - Magic of the Jack-O-LanternsMon, Oct 27, 06:30 PM - 10:00 PMA Halloween gay-la! Grim-grinning ghosts came out to socialize at the Magic of the Jack-O-Lanterns at the stunning Botanical Gardens in South Bay. Facebook Memories |
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OCLB - Carlson Trail & San Joaquin Marsh Loop - IrvineSat, Nov 01, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PMThe San Joaquin Marsh is owned by the Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD). It's a hidden gem in the heart of busy Orange County. The wildlife sanctuary encompasses more than 300 acres of coastal freshwater wetlands, half of which have been restored to a natural state. The remaining acres are quality habitat and are not in need of restoration. With 12 miles of walking trails, the marsh has become one of Southern California's most notable nature respites. Facebook Memories |
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PS - Outreach 2025 PALM SPRINGS PRIDE FESTIVALSat, Nov 08, 09:00 AM - Sun, Nov 09, 05:00 PMWe had an amazing time at Palm Springs Pride this year, and it was all thanks to the teamwork and energy of our three chapters! Members from the Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and Orange County/Long Beach Chapters joined forces, coming together as one big family and sponsoring not just one, but two bustling booths right in the heart of the festival.
Our new look turned heads. Between the bright, freshly branded canopies, the sleek table cloths, and the flood of business cards, stickers, and fun temporary tattoos, everyone knew who we were! It really felt special to see our name shining everywhere, creating a strong and welcoming atmosphere for visitors from all over. Throughout the weekend, our booths buzzed with activity. We handed out delicious snacks, chatted with folks stopping by, and made tons of new friends. Many of our guests stuck around to share stories, take some goodies, and put on our tattoo. It truly felt like a celebration not just of Pride, but of community and belonging. None of this could have happened without our fantastic volunteers, they showed up with big smiles and plenty of energy, making sure our booths stayed lively and inviting from start to finish. Thanks to their commitment, we were always ready to welcome festival-goers, answer questions, and spread some cheer. A huge thank you to everyone who participated and helped make Palm Springs Pride such a memorable experience. Here’s to more joint adventures and many more moments of Pride ahead! |
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OCLB - Hipcooks Cooking Class in Santa AnaSat, Nov 15, 04:00 PMWe celebrated the bounty of the Season in a 3-hour cooking class in downtown Santa Ana!
This seasonal menu featured the best of winter flavors rolled into a beautiful 3-course meal:
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ABOUT USABOUT US |
DIVERSITY EQUITY & INCLUSIONGreat Outdoors and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact us to explore accommodations. YOUR OCLB BOARD |
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CHAPTER EVENTS Quick links to all events across Southern California! ⁛ Santa Barbara / Ventura County | 10 ESSENTIALS Navigation: A map, compass, and GPS system to help you plan your route and orient yourself Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear to keep you warm Illumination: A flashlight, headlamp, or lantern to help you see in the dark First Aid Supplies: A first aid kit to help you treat emergencies Fire: Matches, a lighter, or fire starters to use as a heat source or emergency signal Repair Kit and Tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver, and scissors to help you fix your equipment Nutrition: Extra food to be prepared for changes to your plans Hydration: Water and water treatment supplies to stay hydrated Emergency Shelter: A tent, space blanket, tarp, or bivy in case you need to stay overnight |
OCLB T-SHIRTS: $25Wear Your Heart on Your Chest. We have a limited inventory of our first run of shirts. Get one with no delay or pre-order delays while supplies last.
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Stay In Touch!
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