I'm giving it a try here in southern Nevada. I started some Black Prince seedlings about a month ago and few Ace 55 and German Queen 10 days ago. Hopefully I will get some sort of late Fall crop from these, although I might be cutting it a little close with the Ace and Germans. Last year I had tomatoes well into December. I've posted some pictures of my tomatoes and other plants on the blog linked below.

Here is a link that might be useful: Container Gardening in the Desert

You still have time to start from seed (close, don't delay), but it might make the most sense to pick early varieties, cherry types, etc. But that sounds like what you are pretty much going for anyway.

You can start them outside if need be, but I really do prefer to grow them inside under lights for the first month, even (and sometimes especially) for fall crop. The reason why is that cooler temps promote root development, and hot/warm temps promote top growth. Of course, this does mean you have to harden them off rather carefully, but I find the end result far outweighs the trouble.

You need a good root system, especially when setting plants out when it is still somewhat hot. I'm not saying this is the only way to do it, just telling you what I do/prefer.

If you start outside, don't put them out in all day blazing sun - 5-6 hours of good morning sun would probably be best for now. Or some shadecloth.

Suze - I decided to stick with buying transplants this year. After a rocky start, they are doing well. I appreciate the good advice, as I've only planted tomatoes in the spring before this year.