Unless you’ve been living under a very large rock, then you know times are tough. The economy’s lumbering along, nearing recession. Just last month, the unemployment rate hit a five-year high. And even though record gas prices have dropped considerably, it’s still no bargain at nearly $3.75/gallon. Throw in the housing crisis and you’ve got yourself quite a mess.

It all sounds pretty dismal. So what can you do? Well, for starters, you can vote on Nov. 4. You can also call your family members outside of our liberal bubble and make sure they vote, too—for real change, though, not for a few buzzwords thrown out by the old guard.

Party promoter Jeffrey Sanker has found his own way to make lemonade out of the proverbial lemons we’ve been handed this year. In the era of the much buzzed about “staycation,” Sanker has managed to strengthen his party empire this year by focusing his attention closer to home, calling for the revitalization of West Hollywood’s nightlife and drawing larger than normal crowds at his many club nights. And even though he’s still throwing his White Party Las Vegas party this year, he’s offering a gas rebate of up to $100 for those who road trip it across the desert. Times may be tough, but Sanker’s making the best of it. Find out all about it in our White Party feature on page 38.

Drag performer and IN Los Angeles family member Jackie Beat’s got her own strategy to defeat the tough times caused by the housing crisis. If you’re unable to buy a new home right now, why not dress up the one you’re in? Ms. Beat does just that, employing funky interior designers Miss Jonona and Señor Amor, to freshen up her living space. Read all about it on page 44.

Aside from that, we’ve got a full roster of star power lined up for you this issue: lesbian comedienne Suzanne Westenhoefer, hot bi boy Madison Hildebrand (from Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing), a cast member from Vegas’ musical Mamma Mia! and not one, but two Oscar winners—Susan Sarandon and Alan Ball. So, sit back, relax and enjoy issue 11.16. And send any feedback to me at john@inlamag.com.

John Hobbs,
Editor-in-Chief