Hello friends,

October may just be my favorite month! I love the crispness in the air, the colors of the leaves, the harvest moon, sweaters, vegan pumpkin pie, and Halloween. This year for my Halloween Sunday (which will be published 10/25), I’m paying homage to some of my favorite characters.

Also, on Halloween, a New Jersey land trust charity, D&R Greenway, is holding a drive-through masquerade parade for families. I’ve created a large-scale painting for the event, and Earl and Mooch will be part of the fun!

A few recent virtual event “conversations” I’ve had are now available online. Check out my discussion with Lynn Johnston, legendary cartoonist for For Better Or For Worse. Due to COVID-19, this event was open to everyone to watch virtually for the first time ever. Lynn and I went over several topics, including the process of cartooning and the life of a cartoonist.

The Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco hosted a conversation with author Glen David Gold and me, in which we discussed the MUTTS 25th anniversary and The Art of Nothing. It’s always a joy to talk comics with my friend and comics historian, Glen. Doubly nice was that the event benefitted Muttville.

On November 7, for the Charles M. Schulz Museum, I will be in conversation with another good friend Tom Gammill, best known as a writer/producer for Seinfeld and The Simpsons. We will be talking about all things MUTTS and, of course, Peanuts. This will be a lot of fun for me and, hopefully, for everyone who watches. Learn more and RSVP here.

Speaking of Peanuts, last week I was in conversation with arguably the most gifted and influential book cover designer ever, Chip Kidd. He has just released a new book, The Peanuts Poster Collection. We spent an hour together at this virtual Strand Bookstore event gushing over the artistry of Charles Schulz. You can watch it anytime here.

Here’s some special news that warmed my heart. I woke up this Tuesday hearing from my erudite friends telling me that the New York Times Mini Crossword had a clue for MUTTS. Especially heartening was how it was stated: “A long-running comic strip that advocates for pet adoption.”

I want to remind you all not to forget to vote. If you haven’t registered yet in the U.S., it may not be too late. Consider being a poll worker too! Here’s a link that may be helpful for any questions you may have.

“Voting is the expression of our commitment to ourselves, one another, this country, and this world.” — Sharon Salzberg

This promises to be an eventful month for all of us. Be kind to your neighbor, get outside, and enjoy nature whenever you can. Lastly, remember to wear a mask.

Patrick

Comments (3)

vegan pumpkin pie. really?

michael edwards

Free Guard Dog!

Gloria Nieto

Thanks, Patrick! As long time readers, our family enjoys your comics immensely and the daily thoughts too. We have always had rescued animal companions, which include two senior dogs, one senior all black cat, and one ex-feral all black cat. We support Pet’s Lifeline shelter in Sonoma, CA and Muttville in San Francisco.
My husband and I are now seniors ourselves, and feel it is so important to raise kids with the values of having animal companions that are rescued, not purchased, and to value the lives of all beings. Your comics resonate that humanity, we thank you for that. You draw with such heart.
thank you so much,
Claire Ginesi
Sonoma, CA

Claire Ginesi