Pasadena Ghost Walk!

It's Halloween!

Walk Through One of Southern California's Most Haunted Cities:    Pasadena  

As the sun goes down over the buildings and theaters of Old Town Pasadena, things seem a little bit more terrifying.

Pasadena is known for its Rose Bowl, historic buildings, and its majestic Tournament of Roses parade.

But underneath it all are tales of untimely death, disease, the occult, and the paranormal.

A Victorian Hotel, which is now apartments, whose guests never checked out and a phantom stage manager amongst many more.

Ghostly tales adorn this 2-hour long tour through the streets and alleyways of the historic district.

Join me on a guided tour from Haunted OC.com as we embark onto our newest ghost tour in Los Angeles County.

Wear comfortable shoes as we explore the darker part of Pasadena.

Buy your ticket at:

https://hauntedoc.com/ghost-tours/pasadena-ghost-walk/

Cost: $42/person plus fees

Cancellation policy: No tickets are refundable or transferable to other dates.

Meeting Location:

120 S. Raymond, Pasadena, CA 91105

Tour group meets in the parking lot between the Stats and Fishbecks Patio Center

Parking

Limited metered street parking is available as well as in the School House parking garage (33 E. Green Street) on the corner of Raymond and Green St.

You may also consider taking the Metro. The tour starting location is near the Del Mar station. The Metro fee is $1.75 each way and eliminates parking hassles.

Start Time & Duration

Tour begins promptly at 7 pm and runs approximately 2 hours

Please allow extra time for unforeseen heavy traffic or parking delays. Haunted OC.com is not responsible for late arrivals or guests who show up at the wrong tour departure location.

Important Information

Under no circumstances are tickets refundable or transferable to other dates.

Restrooms are not readily available once the tour begins.

Haunted OC.com does not permit smoking or vaping on their tours. Guests who arrive under the influence or become disruptive will not be allowed to tour.

Other details

To join the Pasadena Ghost Walk, you must purchase a ticket for Saturday, Oct. 26th, 7 p.m. with Haunted OC.com.

Buy your ticket ASAP before this tour fills up!

I plan to arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes early (~6:30 p.m.) to greet any Great Outdoors attendees.

Ensure you use the restroom before the tour, as restrooms are not readily available.

Optional after the tour

If anyone is up to grab a bite or some drinks after the ghost tour, let’s go.

Questions? Contact Michael M. (GO OCLB Board Rep)

Email:  [email protected]

      OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE

Hike Leader - Morning 4 hrs
Trip Leader - Afternoon 4 hrs

You may attend either one or both.

Full Weekend Schedule:

Friday Nov 15 2 pm -

Fun short hike. We will discuss and demonstrate The Ten Essentials and safety on the trail.  

Saturday Nov 16  8-5 - Training class at the Preserve Administrative Building.

• 8 am - 12 pm  Hike Leader Training
• 1 pm - 5 pm Trip Leader Training
• 6pm    Hosted Dinner at members' residence in Desert Hot Springs

Sunday Nov 17  8:30 am - 11 am - Training hike at the Preserve where participants will be confronted with a variety of situations that one may encounter on the trail.

Registration: You may request printed manual(s) be mailed to your during registration process, ($25 each). You will be refunded upon check in at the training.

DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

8am - 12 pm

Be a Hike Leader!  Not just someone who knows the way, but someone who applies safety, best practices, fun, and local knowledge to make a successful outing. In addition to the course outline we will discuss any issues with past hikes and plan for future hikes. We will review basic hike leader procedures and techniques and latest technology and information.  Completing this course will provide participants with Day Hike Leader Certification. Also a good refresher for hike leaders.

Hike Leader Syllabus

Prerequisites: Great Outdoors member (click here to join). The course is  for anyone interested in becoming a hiker leader, learning more about leading effective hikes, or becoming a more confident and capable hiker.

This Hike Leader Certification course is for hikers who are interested in learning new skills as well as experienced hike leaders  who are looking to update or refresh their outdoor leadership skills. It is suitable for all ranges of hiker abilities, from novice up to very experienced hikers.

Objectives: Introduce participants to the skills, knowledge and attitudes of a trained hike leader, including appropriate risk management for day hikes. Present skills for leading a safe, environmentally responsible and enjoyable hike.

Content/Topics Covered:  Hike planning, description, screening participants, trail group management, emergency management, medical issues on the trail, map reading and navigation, outdoor techniques, environmental protection, and problem solving techniques and scenarios.

Course Format: The training includes in person instruction with group discussion and problem solving  applications and trail-based scenarios.

Pre-Course Assignment:  Review training manuals and video:

Link to Training Resources: Click Here

How to Lead a Hike: Video: Click Here

Printed manuals will be available at the training location. 

Option to have manual(s) mailed to you upon registration. Registration fee is fully refundable upon check in.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

• Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here

LA – GeoTours Morocco

Great Outdoors LA invites you to Morocco from Nov. 22 to Dec. 2, 2024. This trip is being organized and sponsored though GeoTours, which is an LGBTQ-friendly company that organizes regular tours to places all over the world at very reasonable prices compared to other tour companies. Although not sponsored by Great Outdoors, this is an exclusive GOLA invitation that will be led by our long-time GO member and hike leader Joe Holliday, along with GeoTours. Click here for the trip itinerary and details: https://www.geotours.us/tour/morocco-2024/. Registration closes May 1, 2024.

Why Morrocco? Although it's a favorite destination for Europeans, many Americans feel unsafe traveling in Arab countries. However, Morocco is considered one of the safest Arab countries in which LGBTQ groups can travel, and it has some of the best scenery and tourism of any region in northern Africa. Therefore, we are inviting this group of travelers to a wonderful place where they may not feel comfortable going individually but can have an “opportunity to learn about life in a different country through immersion into the culture. Seeing something from the outside versus experiencing it from the inside provides two completely different insights into a way of life.” -- Gay Travel in Morocco: An Overview (journeybeyondtravel.com).

Personal Considerations: While several LGBTQ groups visit Morocco every year with no problems, all participants will need to understand and acknowledge the following cultural note to ensure the group's safety:

It’s important to note that in Morocco homosexual acts are illegal and punishable by prison. Even though this is not always enforced, it’s smart to use street sense and avoid public displays of affection, as this is culturally frowned upon for both opposite and same-sex couples. As in any country, we ask our travelers to respect local customs (hats off in mosques, no kissing in public, etc) and most people will not be hostile. Transgender travelers should be especially aware of potentially abusive behavior, particularly to transgender women, due a lack of education in the country and conservative Muslim values. Please review and consider the additional information provided prior to deciding whether to participate or not:

Additional resources include:

· https://queerintheworld.com/lgbt-rights-in-morocco/

· Gay Morocco | LGBTQ+ Travel Guide, Morocco Gay Rights & Safety Tips (iglta.org)

· LGBT Rights In Morocco: Everything You Should Know Before You Visit! (queerintheworld.com)

· LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index: 203 Countries Ranked in 2023 (asherfergusson.com)

We plan to donate to local LGBTQ groups in Morocco to help the country's progress toward more equality.

This is the first of what we hope will be several trips around the world (Iceland, New Zealand, Peru, etc.).

Itinerary:

Friday 11/22/24 – Depart USA

Depart USA or depart earlier to have more time in Morocco.

Saturday 11/23/24 - Arrive Casablanca, Morocco

Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco's largest city. One night in Casablanca at Idou Anfa Hotel (4*).

Sunday 11/24/24 – Casablanca-Rabat-Chefchaouen

Visit the old Kasbah of Rabat, Morocco’s capital city, and go inside the richly decorated mausoleum of King Mohammed V. Continue to Chefchaouen, one of the most beautiful small towns in Morocco. One night at Dar Ecchaouen (4*).

Monday 11/25/24 – Chefchaouen-Volubilis-Fes

Enjoy a morning walking tour in the old medina of Chefchaouen, with beautiful pastel-blue buildings. Visit Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Fes, the imperial capital for much of the last 1000 years. Two nights in Fes at Riad El Yacout (4*) or equivalent.

Tuesday 11/26/24 – Fes

Spend a full day in Fes, the most complete medieval city of the Arab world. Take a walking tour of the medina, the bustling old part of the city, with a chaotic and exhilarating mélange of artisan quarters: brass & copper craftsmen, wedding goods, carpenters, bakers, butchers, spice sellers. Soak in a fine panoramic view of the colorful vats of the leather tanneries. Night #2 in Fes.

Wednesday 11/27/24 – Fes – Middle Atlas Mountains – Sahara

Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Sahara, passing through cedar forests with Barbary Apes. Stop at Ziz Gorges, deeply eroded by water and with very colorful geology. Arrive in Merzouga, a small town on the edge of the Saharan sand dunes. One night in Merzouga at Riad Azawad (3*) with dinner included.

Thursday 11/28/24 - Sahara Desert near Merzouga

Spend the day experiencing the Sahara Desert: visit a village of the Gnaoua people, descendants of West African slaves. Ride a camel for an hour over the impressive sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. See the Saharan sunset over the dunes. Spend the night at Azawad Luxury Desert Camp, with dinner included, followed by Berber musical entertainment.

Friday 11/29/24 - Merzouga – Ouarzazate

Sunrise over the desert and then ride a camel (or walk) 3 miles over the dunes to Merzouga. Breakfast in Merzouga before continuing to Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with walls towering 1000’ high. One night in Ouarzazate at Dar Chamaa (3*).

Saturday 11/30/24 - Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou - Atlas Mtns - Marrakech

Explore Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a wonderful kasbah with narrow, winding lanes. Drive over the High Atlas Mountains, across Tizi n’Tichka pass at 7400' altitude. Two nights in Marrakech at Riad Nesma (4*).

Sunday 12/1/24 - Marrakech

Tour Marrakech, one of the great medieval cities of the Islamic world. Djemaa el Fna, is the wonderful city square of Marrakech with great activity, entertainment, and food. Free afternoon for shopping or more sightseeing of Marrakech.

Monday 12/2/24- Marrakech - USA

Morocco tour ends, with a departure from Marrakech airport, or stay longer in Morocco on your own.

Details:

https://www.geotours.us/tour/morocco-2024

Additional details will be discussed in an online forum and provide you with an opportunity to ask questions prior to the final cancellation deadline. We will also have an additional forum closer to the trip departure date.

Tour Dates: Nov.22-Dec. 2, 2024 (actual tour: Nov.23-Dec.2)

Land Only Tour Cost: $1890. Price based on a minimum of 12 paying participants. Otherwise, the price may increase or cancel the tour. Price is also based on sharing a room; single supplement is +$500 but single rooms are limited to approx. 5 or 6 on a first come basis. There will be 12 rooms total for the group. (Estimated additional cost of international flights to be arranged on your own: $1350. LAX-CMN; RAK-LAX)

Cost Includes: Hotels, guide, bus, entries, breakfasts, 3 dinners, and tips

Looking to Share a Room?: Will send the contact info to the members who wish to consider this option.

Group Size: 12-20 G.O. members

Tour Locations: Rabat, Chefchaouen, Volubillis, Fes, Sahara Desert (Merzouga), Ouarzazate, Atlas Mountains, Marrakech (see website for exact dates and route map)

Walk/Hike limits: At least one hike up to 5 miles and one hike on sand dunes

Weather: Inland California climate (high 65-75, low in 50s in November)

Cancellation policy: see Geotours website

Registration closes: May 1, 2024. Click here to register now:

https://www.geotours.us/tour/morocco-2024/

Please also register via the GOLA website (link at beginning of the email, or on website).  The trip leader needs to monitor how many travelers of each type have registered and will use this registration for various updates and communications. 

GOLA Website Registration Types:

• One Traveler - Wants a Roomie

Registrants are responsible for finding their own roommate. GOLA will provide connections for those interested in sharing a room. 

• One Traveler - Has a Roomie

When registering type the first and last name of your roommate.

• Solo Traveler - Does not want to room with anyone

As noted elsewhere, solo travelers will pay an surcharge of approx. $500.

Trip insurance: Highly Encouraged. See Details link above for more information

Have additional questions: Reach out to GeoTours, Joe Holliday  or John Butta

Noon, Sunday, December 22

@ The Red Lion Tavern

2366 Glendale Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90039

For over 60 years, The Red Lion Tavern has been one of Los Angeles’ most beloved neighborhood taverns.  This L.A. landmark continues to serve up traditional German food and a wide selection of German beer in a cozy old world atmosphere.

Our special holiday menu in the outdoor beer garden will include: 

• Coffee, Tea, Water, or Soda
• One drink coupon (Beer, cider or other)
• Sausage Platters and Warm Pretzels to share
• Individual starter of Small Dinner Salad or Small Caesar Salad
• Individual entrées; with choice of:
• • Hungarian Goulash (beef)
  • Red Lion Schnitzel (pork)
  • Chicken Schnitzel 
  • Bratwurst / Bratwurst on a roll
  • Nurnburger / Nurnburger on a roll
  • Veggie bratwurst / Veggie bratwurst on a roll (vegan)
  • Other by special request only
• Dessert tbd

Registration: The event is free for GOLA members.  However, a refundable $20 deposit from members will be required during registration. Refunds will be made in cash when members arrive. Members may bring a non-member guest for $25.  The $25 will include 1 year of GOLA membership. Payment must be made at time of registration and paid online with a credit card within 15 minutes. You must register before December 14, 2024.

Cancellations: Contact John Butta no later than Dec 14, 2024.  No refunds will be made for cancellations after Dec 14, 2024. 

Attendees are encouraged to dress in festive clothes. 

This event is being jointly planned by the         Los Angeles and Palm Springs Chapters

LA - Central Coast and Morro Bay Camping

Sites have been reserved and REGISTRATION will open January 1, 2025

Please check back here for updates; or contact John Blasco at [email protected]