'I was a few blocks from Ground Zero. I didn't know what happened'
Plus: The Breeders and Castro Theatre, RIP Jim Balderston, a Best of the Bay illusionist
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VOTE NOW IN OUR 2026 BEST OF THE BAY READERS' POLL!
From Best Burrito and Best Street Fair to Best Dive Bar and Best Shoe Store: Tell us what you love in our 52nd survey of the best things in the Bay Area! Polls close soon, vote now—and tell your friends!
BERNAL HEIGHTS OUTDOOR CINEMA RETURNS FOR 23RD SEASON
A film “crawl” from cafes to studios, galleries, pop-up screening rooms, and friendly public spaces. Plus: Picnic, play and watch films under the stars in neighborhood parks and playgrounds.
Today's headlines:
The world, and my life, changed on Sept. 11, 25 years ago
By Joshua Rotter
I was a few blocks away from Ground Zero. I didn't even know what happened until I went out for a coffee I will never forget.
Review: The Breeders—and the Castro Theatre—head into a new era
By John-Paul Shiver
'90s indie heroes the Deal Sisters & co. rocked the 104-year-old venue—and the Gen X/Z mosh pit sparked some thoughts.
Jim Balderston, reporter. 1955-2026
By Tim Redmond
Award-winning Bay Guardian journalist, he was the life of the party—and a very good friend.
Best of the Bay 2026 Editors’ Pick: Illusionist Kevin Blake
By Jon Bauer and Patty Riek
The master prestidigitator has performed his wry sleight-of-hand show 500-plus times at The Palace Theater.
In case you missed it:
Cruising Chinatown: Classic car parade vroomed up community pride
Fall Food Preview: Fresh openings, classic comebacks, big mall glow-ups
Fall Film Preview: Flicks you can’t miss, from starry fests to hot local docs
Fall Festivals Preview: 10 fab fairs and fests to light up the season
JOIN US FOR ANOTHER SEISMIC LITQUAKE
Litquake, San Francisco's literary festival, is back from October 8–24. Presenting 80+ events across the Bay Area, from readings and performances to panels and workshops. More than 75% of events are FREE to attend.
YERBA BUENA GARDENS FESTIVAL SEASON IS HERE
Yerba Buena Gardens Festival is back with 100+ free outdoor shows in downtown SF. With free music concerts, dance events, circus, kids’ shows, and more, YBG Festival is the place for picnics and summertime vibes.