Wow, this year is flying by! With so much happening all around us, it sometimes feels like we’re just hanging on and trying not to fall off this wild ride. And yet, here we are, already previewing what’s happening for Halloween. We didn’t plan for this to turn into a Halloween Issue—but it sort of did, and we’re not mad about it! There’s plenty of fun to be found in these pages.

Let’s start with our cover “boys”: the Boulet Brothers are making an appearance right here in Sacramento at the Sinister Soirée, taking place at the historic Colonial Theatre. It promises to be a ghoulishly good time. You’ll find more details—and a link to their site—on page 18, along with the rest of Matthew Burlingame’s always-entertaining “Out & About” column.

We’re also recognizing both Breast Cancer Awareness Month (all of October) and Hispanic Heritage Month, which wraps up on October 15. Inside, you’ll find ways to stay informed, get involved, or simply learn something new.

Elsewhere in this Issue: American Airlines shuts down an anti-LGBTQ+ proposal, Jonathan Bailey pauses his film career to focus on philanthropy, the Front Runners present donations to local organizations, and Jake from Sunburst Projects sends a heartfelt letter of thanks to everyone who’s helped their mission thrive (page 7).

Thinking about retirement in the desert? Turn to page 8 for a look at Living Out in Palm Springs—a luxury community for LGBTQ+ adults 55+ who want independence, connection, and comfort in equal measure.
For entertainment lovers, don’t miss “The Rocky Horror Show,” “Sanctuary City,” “Phenomenal,” and a few frightfully fun Halloween productions at local theaters. Chris Narloch also spotlights four films worth watching—find his picks on page 14.

“Activating Taste Buds” returns this issue with a stop in Wichita, Kansas, for some truly unforgettable pizza. Also, if your appetite leans Italian, check out page 17 for Tuscan Women Cook, a hands-on culinary experience that brings travelers to the heart of Italy to learn from local nonne.
And that’s not all—you’ll also find Elvira’s brand-new cookbook, some delightfully spooky Halloween underwear, and other seasonal treats. Head to our website to read the full Issue for free on ISSUU.com, or download the PDF to your computer, laptop, phone, or tablet.

We hope this edition inspires a few ideas for Halloween fun while you enjoy this gorgeous autumn weather. Our Pet Issue hits the streets on October 22, so there’s still time to submit a photo (or two!) for our annual pet photo contest. Don’t wait too long—your little Poopsie deserves the spotlight!