the pride
West Hollywood Man Charged With Killing Dog, Burglary of Former Roommate’s Home
West Hollywood family faces legal battle after confrontation with MAGA influencer
Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias
Mayor Konstantine Anthony Defends Actions Amid Controversy Over Video
By Dolores Quintana
A gay couple and their infant child, who were targeted during a neighborhood walk, have launched a GoFundMe.
tropes regarding LGBTQ individuals and child welfare in an accusatory fashion on April 16.
all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a prominent hate group.
While such digital "ambush" interviews are often designed to elicit a volatile reaction for social media engagement, this specific encounter has resulted in a complex legal situation for one of the parents, Anthony Vulin and David MillerRobinson.
In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers.”
27-Year-Old Suspect Faces Animal Cruelty and Burglary Charges
After a Violent Attack
Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from conservatives following the circulation of a video showing him being spanked by a drag queen during an event on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has responded that some of his critics are motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the incident was harmless.
A West Hollywood family is seeking community support following a legal dispute sparked by a confrontation with a right-wing “political commentator” in West Hollywood.
"My husband and I have fought incredibly hard to build the life we have today," stated Anthony Vulin in a public appeal. The family has launched a fundraising effort on GoFundMe to secure legal representation for David as he navigates the ensuing court process. They noted that the unexpected financial burden of a defense is significant, as they also manage the demands of caring for a newborn.
The incident occurred during a routine evening walk when a gay couple and their newborn infant were approached by Ryley Niemi, the "political commentator" known for verbally aggressive man-on-thestreet interviews. According to the video, the interaction devolved when Niemi questioned the parents using discredited
In the video, posted by the Wisenuts podcast, Mayor Anthony is seen being spanked by a drag artist, backed by the Village People’s “Macho Man.” Anthony described the events as “shenanigans” and emphasized that it was
Prosecutors have filed multiple felony charges against a 27-year-old man accused of breaking into his former roommate’s West Hollywood apartment, killing the victim’s small dog, and damaging property during the incident.
He added, “On a busy Saturday filled with various independent gatherings, I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats’ private fundraiser for their organization. Notably, there were no officially endorsed candidates or state and federal political figures present. The event was open to young adults ages 15 and above. However, there were no attendees below 18. Additionally, no children were present.”
They added that the “hostile and discriminatory encounter” was “deeply upsetting and destabilizing for our family.”
While not specifying the particular hate group in question, it is possible that Anthony was referring to the Twitter account, now known as X, called “Libs of TikTok,” which
The appearance of such a provocateur in West Hollywood is previously unknown in the usually safe and LGBTQ+ majority environment.
vulnerable and that Bhatia knew or should have known this at the time of the crime.
The attack occurred around 11:30 p.m. on September 4, when Bhatia allegedly forced his way into the apartment.
you about it. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It
directly via email at kanthony@burbankca. gov. He stated, “If you want to talk to me about what happened over the weekend, send me an email. Send me an email. I will talk to
This confrontation mirrors a growing trend of "influencer" confrontations in the United States. Similar incidents, such as one involving “pro-life” influencer
later found dead. Authorities also accuse Bhatia of vandalizing property inside the home before fleeing.
October 9.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats voiced their support for Mayor Anthony and strongly denounced the sensationalized and inaccurate portrayal of their event for political purposes that promoted fear, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry. The Democrats reaffirmed their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers, refusing to engage with what they referred to as “fake outrage.”
previously led to physical altercations, which shows the volatile nature of these deliberately provocative interactions.
If convicted on all counts, Bhatia could face up to seven years and eight months in state prison.
Anmol Bhatia faces one count each of first-degree residential burglary, felony animal cruelty, and vandalism involving more than $400 in damage. Prosecutors have also alleged that the victim, who is at least 65 years old, was particularly
Beverly Hills police arrested Bhatia on September 21 following a two-week search.
Bomb Threat Temporarily Halts
Investigators said video evidence shows him violently slamming the dog to the ground, stomping on it, and then throwing the lifeless animal off a balcony onto a nearby construction site, where it was
He was arraigned on Tuesday at the Airport Courthouse and entered a not guilty plea. Bail was set at $175,000, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for
The case is being handled by the Animal Cruelty Section of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, West Hollywood Station.
West Hollywood Mobilizes Emergency Safety Response Following Rainbow District Incidents
City leaders and the Sheriff’s Department deploy additional patrols and mental health resources.
City Manager are working with the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station to increase visibility through additional deputy patrols and the deployment of more Security Ambassadors.
Thomson Hall, where the documentary was set to be screened.
After 20-Minute Delay
By Dolores Quintana
Sheriffs Say a Man Was Arrested After Allegedly Exposing Himself to a Woman
West Hollywood city officials and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department have launched a coordinated safety response following a series of violent incidents in the Rainbow District over the past week.
The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) faced a momentary setback on Saturday night due to a bomb threat.
Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station are asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims following the arrest of a man accused of indecent exposure.
Lung stated, “Our standard security measures remained in place during this time, and the screening commenced with a slight delay. To our knowledge, this was a general threat and not directed at the film or the artist.”
The city council emphasized that public safety remains the top priority for the City of West Hollywood, which maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding threats to the community. Detectives are currently investigating each case to identify those responsible.
with an incident that occurred on Sept. 19, 2025. Investigators said Harrington allegedly approached a woman inside a laundry room and exposed himself before leaving the area. No further confrontation was reported.
informed CTV News Toronto that the threat had been conveyed to the festival’s private security by a passerby. “Out of an abundance of caution, the Toronto police and the private
security swept the scene and cleared it within
Toronto police also clarified that the threat had a general nature and did not specifically
WeHo LASD Detectives Seek Possible Additional Victims After Indecent Exposure Arrest
Authorities believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward.
The recent activity included two shootings and two physical altercations, prompting immediate concern among local residents and business owners. In response, the West Hollywood City Council, Community Safety Team, and
In addition to increased enforcement, the City is highlighting available mental health resources to address the emotional distress caused by these events. Maple Counseling offers free clinical services to those who live, work, or attend school in West Hollywood. Residents can access these year-round services by calling (310) 271-9999.
Jackie Harrington was taken into custody on Sept. 28, 2025, in connection
Judy Lung, TIFF’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, confirmed to CTV News Toronto via a written statement that the festival was alerted to an investigation “in the vicinity of the red carpet” at Roy
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact West Hollywood Station Detectives at 310-855-8850. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
LA County Supervisor and former West Hollywood City Councilwoman Lindsay
The investigation remains ongoing.
Horvath released a statement that said, “Gun violence anywhere is devastating and frightening, but especially in a close-knit community like West Hollywood, which has taken safety seriously and significantly invested in protecting its residents.” The statement added that the Supervisor has spoken with Captain Larkin and Sheriff Luna to make clear that solving the crimes is a top priority and to make sure they have all the resources necessary to do so.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding these crimes to contact the West Hollywood Station at (310) 855-8850. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by texting their ZIP code to 888-777 to receive timely safety alerts and advisories directly from the Sheriff’s Department.
Savannah Craven, have
Daylight shooting in West Hollywood leaves one man hospitalized
Detectives are investigating an assault with a deadly weapon on Norton Avenue.
Detectives from the West Hollywood Station are seeking public assistance following a daylight shooting on Tuesday that left one man hospitalized.
Officers responded to the 7900 block of Norton Avenue at approximately 12:07 p.m. after receiving reports of an assault with a deadly weapon. Upon arrival, emergency responders located an adult male suffering from at least one gunshot wound.
Medical personnel transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he is currently listed in stable condition. While a preliminary investigation confirmed that multiple rounds were fired at the scene, authorities stated that no other victims have been identified.
The shooter remains at large, and investigators have not yet released a description of the suspect or a potential motive. Detectives are currently canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses and surveillance footage that may have captured the incident.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact West Hollywood Station detectives at 310-8558850. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222TIPS (8477) or submit a tip via the "P3 Tips" mobile application.
Billie Eilish and James Cameron to debut 3D concert film at Westwood’s Village Theatre
Paramount Pictures will present the hightech May 6 premiere at the historic movie palace before the legendary venue begins a year-long restoration.
Paramount Pictures announced today it will partner with the historic Village Theatre in Westwood to host a special premiere of Billie Eilish—Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live In 3D) on May 6, 2026.
Directed by Academy Award® winners James Cameron and Billie Eilish, and captured during Eilish’s sold-out world tour, the film brings an innovative new concert experience to theaters on May 8, 2026.
Said Cameron, "I have known the Village Theatre in Westwood as an iconic picture palace since before I started directing, back in the Cretaceous. It is moving, to me, to know that Billie and I are premiering our new film in 2026 at a theater that has so much meaning to LA’s cinematic history. It’s also uplifting that friends of the Village Theatre have banded together to protect and preserve it, in an age when our dream of cinema itself is at risk.”
“Premiering this movie at the legendary
Village Theatre in my hometown is a dream for me,” said Eilish.
For the premiere, Dolby has fully refurbished the Village Theatre’s projection booth, ensuring the one-night-only event is presented at the highest technical standard, including immersive 3D.
“We believe deeply in the theatrical experience for generations to come,” said Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, Co-Chairs of Paramount Pictures. “Before the Village Theatre begins its next chapter, it felt especially meaningful to open its doors for legendary filmmaker James Cameron and Billie Eilish, a cultural icon and L.A. native.”
American Cinematheque and the Village Directors Circle, led by filmmaker Jason Reitman, will be announcing a limited number of premieres and screenings this summer to support the 12-month restoration and renovation that will commence this Fall.
The Village Theater has been closed since July 2024, and that year alone saw the premiere of Challengers and Abigail in April. It has been the site of many premieres and special screenings, including the Beyond Fest screening of James Cameron’s The Abyss: Special Edition, and is beloved by cinema fans in Los Angeles. Its historic value and prestige
cannot be understated.
Said Reitman, “James Cameron, Billie Eilish, and Paramount could have chosen any theater in LA to debut their groundbreaking concert film. We’re thrilled that they picked the Westwood Village. The restoration of the Village Theatre wouldn’t be possible without the support of our brilliant directors and deep community, including LA’s own Billie Eilish!”
Located in the heart of Westwood, the Village Theatre has stood as one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable movie palaces since 1930.
WESTSIDE LIVING SPRING 2026
As the Palisades continues the important work of rebuilding, Westside businesses in the home improvement and construction industries are stepping up in a big way. From roofing specialists and flooring providers to suppliers of fireresistant materials, local companies are not just offering services—they’re offering support, urgency, and a deep commitment to restoring the community they call home. Many of these businesses have been
working around the clock to meet increased demand, prioritize local projects, and provide guidance to homeowners navigating the rebuilding process. Whether it’s helping families choose safer, more durable materials or expediting timelines to get people back into their homes, these professionals are playing a critical role in the recovery effort. But as residents begin to rebuild, there’s an important choice to keep in mind: hire local.
Choosing local contractors, suppliers, and service providers doesn’t just ensure a higher level of accountability and care—it keeps dollars circulating within the community. These are the same businesses that sponsor local events, support schools, and employ our neighbors. When you invest in them, you’re investing in the long-term strength and stability of the Palisades. Rebuilding isn’t just about homes—it’s
about community. Every roof installed, every floor laid, and every improvement made by a local business contributes to a stronger, more resilient neighborhood. As we rebuild the Palisades, let’s also rebuild our business community. Supporting local isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a responsibility we share in creating a vibrant, connected future for everyone who calls this place home.
Building Smarter: Fire‑Safe Upgrades For Westside Homes
For homeowners in Brentwood, Bel Air, Santa Monica and the Palisades, rebuilding and remodeling now come with a new non-negotiable: planning for the next fire before it starts. In neighborhoods surrounded by canyons, open space and coastal winds, fire safety is no longer an afterthought—it is part of smart home design. Whether you are rebuilding in the Palisades or simply upgrading an older home elsewhere on the Westside, the choices you make today can dramatically improve your home’s chances of surviving a future wildfire. The best place to start is at the top. Roofs are often the first point of vulnerability, as wind-blown embers land on shingles, gather in valleys and collect in gutters. Upgrading to a Class A fire-rated roof—such as composition shingles, metal, clay or concrete tile— provides a much more durable barrier than older wood shakes. Sealed edges, metal flashing, and non-combustible gutter guards help keep embers from slipping under the roofing or smoldering in debris. Adding ember-resistant attic vents, along with boxed-in or soffited eaves, closes off the small gaps that often become entry points for sparks. From there, attention should turn to windows and exterior walls. In intense heat, single-pane glass can crack or fail quickly, allowing flames and embers inside. Dual-pane windows, especially with at least one pane of tempered glass, are far more resistant to heat and impact. On the walls, non-combustible materials like stucco, fiber-cement boards, brick, or masonry create a tougher skin for the house. Even on wood-framed construction, combining these exterior finishes with fire-resistant insulation and upgraded interior drywall can buy precious time if flames approach. The ground level is just as important as the structure itself. Creating “defensible space” means managing the landscape so that fire has fewer opportunities to reach the building. The first five feet around the home should be treated as a non-combustible zone: concrete, pavers,
gravel, and carefully placed planters instead of wood mulch, stacked firewood or dense shrubs. Beyond that inner ring, regular pruning, removal of dead plants and leaves, spacing between shrubs, and the use of more fire-resistant plant species all work together to slow a fire’s spread and keep flames on the ground. Finally, routine maintenance ties all of these upgrades together. Cleaning gutters and roofs, clearing under decks, checking vents and seals, and keeping irrigation systems
in good working order are simple tasks that strengthen your investment. As Westside communities rebuild and harden homes against future fires, these improvements do more than protect structures—they provide peace of mind. Each step, from a safer roof to smarter landscaping, helps ensure that Brentwood, Bel Air, Santa Monica and the Palisades are not just beautiful places to live, but better prepared for whatever comes next.
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Alpine Floor and Home: A Family Flooring Legacy Serving the Westside Since 1968
Founded in 1968, Alpine Floor and Home has proudly served the Westside of Los Angeles for more than 58 years, earning a reputation as one of the area’s most trusted and established flooring companies. Built on quality craftsmanship, honest guidance, and long-standing customer relationships, Alpine Floor and Home continues to thrive as a proud family business.
Johannes van Ierland, the owner of Alpine Floor and Home, has played a central role in guiding the company through decades of growth and change. His leadership, experience, and commitment to high standards have helped shape Alpine into the respected Westside institution it is today. While Johannes now works primarily in the back office, his presence and oversight ensure that the company’s core values remain firmly in place.
Today, Alpine Floor and Home is led by a true father-and-son team. Jani van Ierland, Johannes’ son, runs all sales operations and serves as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In this role, Jani oversees day-to-day sales, customer relationships, and marketing strategy. By combining modern design knowledge and forwardthinking sales practices with the traditions of a family-run business, Jani continues to
build on the company’s strong foundation. For over five decades, Alpine Floor and Home has served homeowners, designers, builders, and commercial clients throughout the Westside of Los Angeles. The company is known for offering the largest inventory of carpet, wood, laminate, and luxury vinyl tile, providing customers with unmatched selection in styles, colors, and price ranges. In addition to traditional flooring, Alpine Floor and Home also specializes in concrete refinishing, offering durable and contemporary solutions for residential and commercial spaces.
A point of pride that truly sets Alpine Floor and Home apart is its installation team. All installers are full-time employees on payroll—never subcontractors. Many members of Alpine’s installation crews have been with the company for more than 20 years, bringing unmatched experience, consistency, and accountability to every job. This long-tenured team ensures highquality workmanship, reliable scheduling, and peace of mind for customers from start to finish.
At its heart, Alpine Floor and Home remains a family-owned and operated business. Many customers are long-time and multi-generation clients, a testament to
the trust and relationships built since 1968. Personalized service, attention to detail, and integrity continue to define every project, large or small.
As Alpine Floor and Home looks toward the future, its mission remains unchanged: to provide exceptional products, expert guidance, and dependable service to the
Westside community. Or, as the company’s long-standing slogan proudly says, “Let us floor you.”
Alpine Floor and Home 3961 S. Sepulveda Blvd 310-390-7639 alpinecarpetoneculvercity.com
FIRE REBUILD & RECOVERY – PALISADES & WEST L.A.
Palisades Fire Recovery Hub
Central information on rebuilding, safety and assistance for Pacific Palisades and nearby neighborhoods.[recovery.lacounty]
• Website: recovery.lacounty.gov/disasters/palisades-fire
• General help line: Dial 2-1-1 in Los Angeles County LA City & County Rebuilding (West L.A. & Palisades) One-stop locations for rebuilding questions, permits and inspections. [recovery.lacounty]
• City of L.A. One-Stop Rebuilding Center (West L.A.): 1828 Sawtelle Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
• LA County rebuilding info and permit guidance: recovery.lacounty.gov/rebuilding
LADWP – Power & Water Restoration (Palisades)
Power and water restoration updates plus local inspection support. [recovery.lacounty]
• Restoration & rebuilding hub: ladwp.com (search “Restoration and Rebuilding Efforts”)
• Palisades Inspections & Permitting Support Center: 16925 Marquez Ave., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
• LADWP customer service: 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397) Palisades Recovery Coalition & Local Support Community-led help with long-term recovery, case management and neighborhood resources.[recovery.lacounty]
• Palisades Recovery Coalition: palirecovery.org Westside Disaster Recovery Center – In-Person Help
In-person assistance for Westside residents on housing, insurance and local services. [recovery.lacounty]
• UCLA Research Park (formerly Westside Pavilion): 10850 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Stonewall victory as federal government restores the Pride flag to national monument
Federal officials settle a lawsuit by agreeing to return the rainbow symbol to the historic LGBTQ+ site’s main flagpole.
Federal officials will return the Pride flag to a prominent flagpole at the Stonewall National Monument, according to court documents filed Monday that settle a legal challenge over the banner’s recent removal, as reported by the Associated Press.
The settlement ends a dispute between the Trump administration and advocacy groups that began on Feb. 9, when the government took down the rainbow flag from the site’s federal flagpole. Under the terms approved by a judge, the Interior Department and the National Park Service committed to maintaining the flag permanently at the Manhattan monument.
The site, which commemorates the 1969
uprising at the Stonewall Inn that sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, will now feature a three-flag display. Per the settlement, the National Park Service will hoist the Pride flag within the week, positioning it below the U.S. flag and above the agency’s own banner to comply with federal flag code.
While other Pride flags remained on
the surrounding fence and a nearby citycontrolled pole throughout the dispute, the removal of the specific federal banner prompted a lawsuit from historic preservation and advocacy organizations, including the Gilbert Baker Foundation.
"This is a victory for the LGBTQ+ community and for our entire city," New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in
a statement. He characterized the reversal as a safeguard against attempts to diminish the historical significance of the Greenwich Village landmark.
The settlement stipulates that the 3-by-5foot flag will remain in place indefinitely, with exceptions made only for routine maintenance or practical requirements.
Bar Next Door Partners With Prince St. Pizza for 3rd Anniversary Celebration
The Sunset Strip bar will debut a new "Bar Pie" menu and offer free pizza this Sunday.
Bar Next Door will commemorate its third anniversary on Sunday, May 3, with a public celebration featuring the premiere of a "Bar Pie" menu developed in partnership with the neighboring Prince St. Pizza.
The event, which begins Sunday evening, serves as the official launch of a permanent weekly programming staple. To mark the milestone, the bar will offer complimentary bar pies and drink specials while supplies last.
The new culinary program features thin-crust pizzas named after notorious gangsters, including the "Mickey Cohen" with sunset sauce and pecorino, the spicy vodka-based "Lucky Luciano," and the "Al Capone," which incorporates fennel sausage and black garlic.
Beverage specials for the anniversary are named after two women from Hollywood’s history. These $16 signature cocktails, such
as the tequila-based "Thelma Todd" and the yuzu-infused "Black Dahlia". alongside $8 Skyduster beers and glasses of sparkling Lambrusco. For dessert, the venue will
serve the newest WeHo sensation, Henry’s Secret Ice Cream.
Located on the Sunset Strip, Bar Next Door specializes in a "golden age of
Hollywood" aesthetic. Moving forward, the collaborative pizza menu and associated drink pairings will be available every Sunday as a recurring residency.
