About The LA/OC Jacks. (Not to be confused with the outdated website laocjacks.org)
We've been covered in the media.
The LA/OC Jacks is a private, clothing optional social group party for gay/bi men. We've been getting together for 30 years thanks to founder/pioneer MIKE. https://www.ocweekly.com/the-martha-stewart-of-sex-parties-6402374/Mikey's Summer Message | June 20, 2021 | Happy PRIDE! Mike is the "OG" -- an original. And one of a few pioneer founders in SoCal who organized these type of events. 'Mikey' started at a time when it was unfavorable and risky to do these events in residential homes. He opened his house in conservative, anti-gay Orange County ... and dared to allow our community a safe place to not only play, but also, to meet others and bond as long-time friends. We thank and salute you, "General Mike." You are a visionary. -Marcus LoganFounder Mike Diagnosed With Worsening Dementia | Apriil 2023
Starting last August, those closest to "Major Mike" started noticing that he would ask the same questions over and over and get the calendar days mixed up. He was taken to the Veterans Hospital where brain scans and tests were done, and he was diagnosed with early stages of dementia, which then became precipitously worse as the months went by. More tests are coming, and as of now, it is not Alzheimer's.
Mike is starting to stabilize and not get worse, but dementia with him switches on and off. There are times when he is totally fine and can recall and do things right. Then suddenly, he forgets what he was saying. It is not linear. Those of you who have talked to him realize that something is wrong. To keep the event flow going smoothly, we are having Mike stay with his daughter instead of being present, with the exception of a few occasions, and he should be fine during the new specially scheduled DAYTIME events. If you do see him, know that Mikey loves hugs, so please give him a hug and thank him...
In the 1990s, Gays in the Military was being protested as policy. And then in 1992/93, the Hawaii Supreme Court told a lower court that they had to have a compelling reason that the State would suffer, in order to retract 3 marriage licenses accidentally issued to gay couples.
As news of this spread, it caused fears that people would flock to the 50th State, get married, then return to their home state where marriages would HAVE to then be honored. Republicans and Conservatives/Evangelicals were up in arms. And Orange County was very Republican.
Yet, in 1994, Mike opened up his home and his house would be packed every weekend with guys (who were mostly in the closet and fearful). There were NO good meds for HIV/AIDS, and men were still dying. Mike arranged for free HIV tests and counseling. Most of the men came to meet others for socializing and just watching ... there was actually not that much 'naughty action' happening. Guys started bringing food, drinks, game cards, etc. The neighbors all found out and were so cool and supportive when they heard the rumors. It got all over town. City hall and the police department all knew. People saw Mike's picture in the paper (see our "ABOUT" tab for the article link).
It was a huge risk, that came with a lot of negatives. Mike would charge $5-10, and people would come, make a mess, steal things (it is no change from today, though most guests are respectful).
A guest wanted to start something in L.A. that was by invite only, and this happened in the early Aughts, after a test was done when about 22 L.A. guys went to Mike's O.C. party and "gave a show" to everyone. It was an amazing scene to see, and grew interest in guys trying to get into the elite, invite-only L.A. Division events.
Mike turns 73 on July 5th, 2023, which we will celebrate on Sat July 8th (mark your calendars)! His O.C. events starts its 30th year on May 27th, 2023, and we will have him present for both of these evening events.
Please stop by while Mike still has some memory of what he started, give him a big hug, and say "Thank you, Major Mike." # # #TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF MEMBERSHIP OR ATTENDANCE TO OUR EVENTS (partial and not complete): The use of any image of any person on this website does not imply their participation with our organization, or their sexual orientation. They are simply pictures that have been made public on other websites. However, some of the men whose pictures are featured on this site are personal friends or business colleagues of us/our team, and they actually do visit our parties, or they are compensated to attend. Some perform at our events in various capacities. There are actually straight (heterosexual) allys that sometimes attend our events to socialize in a non-sexual way and to support their gay/bi-sexual friends/family members, as well as provide financial contributions to the non-profit/community causes we donate most of our funds to. Nightclubs/bars, events/venues, bathhouses around the world -- they all use pictures of attractive models in their advertising/promotions whom do not patronize or are featured at those venues/events. All guest information is never sold or shared, except by legal subpoena, lawsuit or lawsuit demand, or by law enforcement for the sole purpose of criminal or civil action. General information using your "Alias" name which you openly share with others at the event may at times be included in our private Newsletters to other members, unless you specifically state that you would not want that share. Mike Gailey's The LA/OC Jacks www.theLAOCjacks.org by Dan Michael Gailey Los Angeles | Orange County