Upcoming & Past GO Events (All Chapters)

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• PS - Virtual Campfire Event

  • When
    Wed, December 09, 2020
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (PST)
  • Location
    The Internet
  • Spaces left
    21
  • Registered
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  Sunset Virtual Campfire

  Enjoy a mid-week virtual getaway evening with friends around a virtual campfire in the comfort of your own home! We'll have a images of a campfire and you can join in the conversation. Share your stay-at-home isolation with a dozen or so of your GOPS friends! 

  WHAT TO BRING: 

  You can join the Zoom meeting using your computer equipped with a camera and microphone (preferred); you can also use a smartphone with a camera.  Bring your own beverage and snacks.  It's becoming summer, so dress accordingly. 
  

  Dennis Curran is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

  Topic: PS - Virtual Campfire

  Time: Wednesday, December 9, 2020; 07:00 PM Pacific Time 

  Register early! Registration closes December 8.  Login information will be emailed to registrants a few days before the event.

  
  

  Event Leader: Dennis Curran Email click here

  Health Problems/allergies:   It's virtual! No one leaves their home! So there aren't any! 

  
  

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• PS - Holiday Party - 2020 Virtual Edition

  • When
    Sun, December 13, 2020
  •  
    3:00 PM - 6:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Online zoom call
  • Spaces left
    90
  • Registered
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  HOLIDAY PARTY!!!

  
  

  Home for the holidays? Cancelled cruise?

  Well...cheer up.. we have a party for you!

  It's been a loooooong year! It’s time to say ‘good riddance 2020’! 

  Don your outrageous holiday sweater and join us for the fun:

  • Ugly holiday sweater competition - first, second, and third place gift cards

  • Raffles for lots of Amazon gift cards (you must be present to win)

  • Talk to old friends, and meet some new friends

  • We’ll play games

  • Audio visual highlights of Holiday parties past 

  • Special guest, and maybe we’ll get a visit from Santa

  • And more surprises

  • And more raffles

  • And new lyrics for Twelve Days of Christmas": ".....9 streaming binges, 8 canceled plans, 7 TP rations, 6 feet apart, 5 nasal swabs......"

  Party Schedule

  2:30 to 3:20pm Talk with friends and learn to use Zoom

  3:20 pm Welcome, Yearly Recap and Volunteer Awards

  3:50 pm Holiday Poll & Raffles

  4:10 pm Team Scavenger Hunt and Prizes

  4:30 pm Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest & Raffles

  5:00 pm Wrap up and Goodbyes

  5:00 to 6pm Talk with friends in breakout rooms

  So don your gay apparel, your Santa Hat or Elf Ears, prepare a plate of holiday snacks and Zoom in for some Holiday cheer with your Great Outdoors friends. We've missed seeing you in person and we're looking forward to seeing you as we wrap up this year and look ahead. Join the meeting and see your old friends!

  Event registration is online. You will be sent the Zoom Login information in the Confirmation and Reminder emails. If you are not familiar with using Zoom...it is easy and safe. Join the meeting early (after 2:30pm) and we'll teach you to use Zoom. We’re here to help! Click here for information about using Zoom.

  For questions, please contact Dennis Curran via email.

  
  
  

  ZOOM Basics

  

  • Download the ZOOM APP click here, for your computer, phone, or tablet. Once downloaded, follow the prompts.
  • To join the meeting, click on the hyperlink provided by the host. The Meeting ID & Password will also be shown.
  • Follow the prompts to open and join the meeting. You will be asked for permission to use your camera, microphone and audio:  Be sure to approve all requests.
  • Mute and Chat are two controls at the bottom of the screen you can use.
  • Name option – hover over yourself, select rename, and enter your first and last name
  • The host will open the meeting 10 minutes early to help as needed.
  • Zoom video tutorials click here 
  • Toolbar at bottom of screen:

  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• PS - Monthly Membership Meeting - December 2020

  • When
    Tue, December 15, 2020
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Online Zoom meeting
  • Spaces left
    30
  • Registered
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  Due to the Coronavirus epidemic, the GOPS Monthly Core Group Meeting is being held as an on-line meeting of the Core Group Members, and is available to the public. The Core Group members will meet in an on-line meeting starting at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, December 15, 2020.

  GOPS Members can attend by registering for the meeting; Core Group members do not need to register. For best results, plan to use a computer or tablet equipped with a camera and microphone. Information on how to enter the meeting will be provided to registrants on Sunday, December 13.

  
  

  
  

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• PS - Camping Adventures - Virtual Tour

  • When
    Wed, December 16, 2020
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Zoom on line

  

  Camping Adventures

  Discover the variety of camping opportunities available and what makes camping fun. Nearby locations will be featured showing local attractions and activities. Different geographical locations will be presented which accommodates all 4 season camping opportunities. Both tent and RV camping will be included. Discover why camping is so popular and how to enjoy it.

  Presented and hosted by THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT.

  Register and get the zoom link at The Center website click here.

  

  In our four (4) session series, online discussions will welcome participants to share some of their outdoor experiences and connect individuals with common interests inspiring a sense of community. Identify outdoor resources available to visit and explore. Inspire us to appreciate living in a community with some of the best natural resources at our disposal.
  

  
  

  Contact: Scott Connelly,   Email click here 
  

  
  

  
  

  Take the road less traveled. Join us for a look at some of the backcounty 4x4 routes and discover what you may find along the way.

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• PS - Virtual Campfire Event

  • When
    Wed, December 23, 2020
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (PST)
  • Location
    The Internet
  • Spaces left
    21
  • Registered
    Be the first

  Register

  Sunset Virtual Campfire

  Enjoy a mid-week virtual getaway evening with friends around a virtual campfire in the comfort of your own home! We'll have a images of a campfire and you can join in the conversation. Share your stay-at-home isolation with a dozen or so of your GOPS friends! 

  WHAT TO BRING: 

  You can join the Zoom meeting using your computer equipped with a camera and microphone (preferred); you can also use a smartphone with a camera.  Bring your own beverage and snacks.  It's becoming summer, so dress accordingly. 
  

  Dennis Curran is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

  Topic: PS - Virtual Campfire

  Time: Wednesday, December 23, 2020; 07:00 PM Pacific Time 

  Register early! Registration closes December 22.  Login information will be emailed to registrants a few days before the event.

  
  

  Event Leader: Dennis Curran Email click here

  Health Problems/allergies:   It's virtual! No one leaves their home! So there aren't any! 

  
  

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• CORP - Outdoors Experience - Committee Meeting

  • When
    Tue, January 19, 2021
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Zoom online

  Register

        OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE COMMITTEE  

  Tuesday, January 19, 2021  at 7 pm

  Topics include planning and conducting outdoor events and developing an online leadership training programs.

  Review draft COVID training protocols and procedures.

   Zoom Meeting - link to join will be sent to registrants in separate email.

  Scott   email click here

  
  

   
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• CORP - Outdoors Experience - Committee Meeting

  • When
    Tue, January 19, 2021
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Zoom online

  Register

        OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE COMMITTEE  

  Tuesday January 19, 2021 7 pm

  Panning and conducting outdoor events and developing an online leadership training programs.

  Topics: Update on COVID-19 protocols for leaders and Planning/developing online leadership refresher training for leaders.

   Zoom Meeting - Will be sent in separate email to registrants.

  
  

  Scott   email click here

  
  

   
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• PS - Exploring the Backcountry in 4WD - Virtual Tour

  • When
    Wed, January 27, 2021
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Zoom on line

  

  Exploring the Backcountry in 4WD

  Where does this road go and what is out there? Take the road less traveled. Join us for a look at some of the nearby backcountry 4x4 routes and discover what you may find along the way. Buckle your seatbelt for a ride to some amazing places.

  Presented and hosted by THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT.

  Register and get the zoom link at The Center website click here.

  

  In our four (4) session series, online discussions will welcome participants to share some of their outdoor experiences and connect individuals with common interests inspiring a sense of community. Identify outdoor resources available to visit and explore. Inspire us to appreciate living in a community with some of the best natural resources at our disposal.
  

  
  

  Contact: Scott Connelly,   Email click here 
  

  
  

  
  

  Take the road less traveled. Join us for a look at some of the backcounty 4x4 routes and discover what you may find along the way.

  Show details
• CORP - Online Training - Outdoors Experience - Interest Survey

  • When
    Sat, January 30, 2021
  •  
    9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Zoom online

  Register

        OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE 

        Hike Leader and/or Trip Leader  

  Let us know if you are interested in participating in our online training program currently under development.

  The January 30, 2021 date is a target date and subject to change. We will canvass all those signing up and select the best date(s).

  Leadership training courses provide the fundamentals including screening participants, risk management, leadership styles, trip planning, managing a group, organizational rules, dealing with an emergency, conservation practice, etc.
  

  We will be using Zoom for multiple media presentations along with our training manuals with reading/study material for self study. Online discussion of  actual real life situations and scenarios. Group discussions and collaboration will be emphasized. We will spread the sessions out over different times with flexible schedules.

  The dates and times will be adjusted to accommodate users. 

  Estimated registration fee is $5 for one or $10 for both sections. No fee for certified leaders if attending  for refresher update. Any fee will be collected at a later date.

  
  

  DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

  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, practical problem solving on a class group hike exercise.

  Course Format: The training includes online instruction and presentations with Q & A trail-based scenarios.

  Pre-Course Assignment:  Review training manuals.

  Course Length/Hours: TBD  Flexible dates and time

  Resources Required by Participant: Zoom application

  
  

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

  TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II

  
  

  One of the premier features of Great Outdoors is overnight trips. As a leader you will propose, research and design overnight trips. You will manage and administer the trip using leadership and group management skills. Completing this course will provide participants with Trip Leadership Certification.

  Course Outline:

  • Create a new trip or update a former trip.

  • Planning, scouting, securing reservations.

  • Finances and budget.

  • Create a trip description and promotion.

  • Secure all logistics including any permits, and support staff as necessary.

  • Communicate with participants to provide information and answer questions.

  • Conducting your trip, safety issues, group management issues - preventing and solving.

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

  Schedule: TBA 

  Course Preparation: We will send you a link to the Outdoor Experience Training Manuals. You are encouraged to review the material ahead of time. Printed copy of the manual, along with additional documents and information  available upon request.

  Contact:

  • Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here
  • 
    

  Suggested Reading:
  

  1. Wilderness Navigation: Finding Your Way Using Map, Compass, Altimeter, & GPS. Bob Burns, Mike Burns
  2. The National Outdoor Leadership School's Wilderness Guide.  Mark Harvey

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• PS - Yosemite High Sierra Camps - Virtual Tour

  • When
    Wed, February 17, 2021
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Zoom on line

  

  Yosemite High Sierra Camps

  A Unique Backpacking Experience.

  Why are these camps so special? Backcountry glamping! You will see and hear about some of the most scenic trails in North America. Understand why so many hikers apply for the lottery and hope to get a chance to stay in the camps and hike the trails. Our presentation will take you on a virtual journey from preparation, acclimation, and adventures on the trails with a PowerPoint presentation with some great photos and stories of actual events. There will be veteran Yosemite High Camp hikers present to share experiences.

  Presented and hosted by THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT.

  Register and get the zoom link at The Center website click here.

  

  In our four (4) session series, online discussions will welcome participants to share some of their outdoor experiences and connect individuals with common interests inspiring a sense of community. Identify outdoor resources available to visit and explore. Inspire us to appreciate living in a community with some of the best natural resources at our disposal.
  

  
  

  Contact: Scott Connelly,   Email click here 
  

  
  

  
  

  Take the road less traveled. Join us for a look at some of the backcounty 4x4 routes and discover what you may find along the way.

  Show details