Every year on October 11th, LGBTQ+ individuals and allies across the United States celebrate National Coming Out Day, a time dedicated to promoting visibility, understanding, and acceptance. This day, which began in 1988, encourages individuals to live their truth openly and to share their authentic selves with the world. It’s a powerful reminder that coming out, whether for the first time or the hundredth, is a personal and political act of courage and defiance against societal pressures to conform.

Fifty-four years ago, marginalized people, people of color, trans people, minority people, people who experienced their voices diminished, their lights dimmed, and their opportunity to thrive curtailed, took a stand. On that night on Christopher Street at the Stonewall Inn, LGBTQIA+ people fought back. Claiming this (what they would not have called it then, but we would now, having reclaimed words in the wake of this bold stand) queer space and fighting back against mistreatment and minimization. From weakness came strength.

In a magical blend of color, joy, and acceptance, the beloved Teletubbies made a surprise appearance at AREA15, Las Vegas’ immersive art and entertainment district, alongside Norma Llyaman and Derek Guerrero, reigning as Mr. and Mrs. Las Vegas PRIDE. The event was filled with energy, smiles, and a palpable sense of community, showcasing a unique intersection of nostalgia, inclusion, and celebration of the LGBTQIA+ spirit.

October 11th is National Coming Out Day (NCOD) to support anyone “coming out of the closet.” Tell me more about this celebratory occasion, you say? Don’t mind if I do… (I know my history teachers’ minds will be blown right now if they read this.)

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a concerning trend: the misuse of the term “PRIDE” by various entities that do not directly benefit or support the LGBTQIA+ community. This not only confuses potential supporters but also dilutes the impact of our genuine PRIDE events and initiatives. To address this issue, we urge everyone to consider using the term “PROUD” when referring to events or promotions that are not directly affiliated with the PRIDE movement.

Well, readers, October is upon us along with the witchy breeze of its autumnal magick. Revel in the glory of fallen leaves crunching helplessly beneath your feet, each one a reminder that we’re going to have to start wearing pants soon because it’s about to be way too cold for showing skin in these streets. With the release of summer’s heat, body odor, and minimalist clothing trend, the planets are coming out of their long and oppressive retrograde phases.

The crazy brainchild of our very own Mrs. Las Vegas PRIDE 2024, Norma Llyaman, has just turned one year old! OLD BROADS, BALLADS, and BOOZE. Every third Sunday Brunch at The Phoenix Bar and Lounge started as a silly idea and has grown into something quite spectacular.

Mr. and Mrs. Las Vegas PRIDE 2024, Derek Guerrero and Norma Llyaman (Jim McCoy) have been busy! Crowned officially as our current Mr. and Mrs. in June as part of our Area 15 Family PRIDE Bingo and Coronation Extravaganza, life has been far from normal for the two monarchs.

The first half of 2024 was quite an adventure! From health issues to emergency home and car repairs to accessibility issues during vacations, like a snowball effect, each challenge impacted the next. My way to withstand is to focus on the positives. We finally went on the Alaska cruise we’ve been planning since before the pandemic. Mom has wanted to go on this trip for decades, but life always got in the way.

A grassroots movement called Find Your Anchor (FYA) is making waves in the realm of suicide prevention, awareness, and education. Born out of a deep desire to save lives and spread hope, FYA harnesses the power of creativity, small acts of kindness, and community to create meaningful change. But what exactly is Find Your Anchor, and how is it making such a profound impact?