When you think of the gay men of West Hollywood, your first thought might not be dessert. 

Matt Wilson and Joe Serpico want to change that. Their business, Bug & Bear’s Cannoli, is bringing Italian confections made with love to Los Angeles. 

Named after the husbands’ nicknames for each other, they’re planning to bring their farmer’s market favorites to their  “pop n’ pop” owned brick-and-mortar cafè in West Hollywood (7990-7992 Santa Monica Blvd). 

They’re also one of eight teams competing on Season 19 of Food Network’s The Great Food Truck Race, hosted by Tyler Florence, on Food Network and HBO Max. The couple will compete for $50,000 on this season’s savory vs. sweet battle.

The brand is built on the couple’s love story and family recipes passed down for seven generations from Joe’s Sicilian great-grandmother. They have a memorable cannoli trailer you may have seen at WeHo Pride, which was designed by the legendary mid-century artist SHAG. 

Their cafe was also designed by SHAG with glowing paw-print floors, a mossy canopy, and a ceiling that shifts from daytime sky at the entrance to dusk in the back. Their menu will feature their heirloom cannoli, fried lasagna, zeppole, pizza roll calzones, espresso and matcha drinks, cannoli-making classes, and even wine & beer after 8 pm. 

The couple took some time to talk to the LA Blade about their business, relationship, and queer representation on reality television. 

So much of your brand is about your relationship; how did you two meet?

Matt: I went to a local bar on a Monday night to play pool, and Joe was sitting across the room. The second I saw him, I froze. I remember thinking, “That’s the most handsome man I’ve ever seen.” I worked up the courage to walk over and say hello… then completely chickened out and went back to my pool table. A few minutes later, Joe turned around and looked at me, and my arm shot straight up into what I can only describe as a really dorky Forrest Gump “Lieutenant Dan!” wave.

Joe: He still doesn’t live that wave down. I was actually there waiting for a date, and this random guy across the bar throws up this frantic wave like he’s flagging down a plane. I couldn’t help but laugh. It broke the ice before we’d even spoken a word.

Matt: That gave me the courage to walk back over. We started talking, and that’s when I found out he was waiting for someone else. I figured I had nothing to lose, so I gave him my number, started walking away, then turned back and asked, “Can I kiss you?”

Joe: We kissed, he walked out, and my actual date showed up a few minutes later. I’ll be honest — I spent the whole date thinking about Matt. Not long after, I got up and left.

Matt: The very next night we had our first official date at Casa Vega. We’ve been together every day since.

Joe: Looking back, it’s amazing that one awkward wave, one kiss, and one leap of faith led to a life together, Bug & Bear, and everything that’s happened since.

Your company is the nicknames you have for each other; where did those come from?

Joe: I’ve called Matt “Love Bug” since the very beginning of our relationship. What I didn’t know at the time was that his mom used to call him that when he was growing up — nobody had called him that since he was a kid. The first time I said it, something just clicked for both of us.

Matt: I remember thinking, “I’m going to marry this man.” I’ve always called Joe “Baby Bear.” It just fit him perfectly. Over time, “Love Bug” naturally became “Bug,” and “Baby Bear” became “Bear.”

Joe: When we started the business, we never even considered another name. Bug & Bear wasn’t something we came up with for branding — it was already who we were. The business simply became an extension of our relationship.

Speaking of your relationship, what is it like working together?

Matt: People ask us that all the time! We spend almost every waking hour together, and we genuinely love it.

Joe: We’re very different in the best ways. I handle a lot of the finance and operations side; Matt leads on brand and story, and we’ve learned to trust each other completely in our lanes. Building Bug & Bear together has made our relationship stronger, because we’ve had to learn how to communicate through the stressful moments just as much as the exciting ones.

Matt: At the end of the day, we still make each other laugh, and I think that’s incredibly important.

Speaking of important things, why are cannolis important to you? 

Matt: Cannolis represent home to us. They’re more than a dessert — they’re how Joe’s Sicilian family showed love, and when he taught me his great-grandmother’s recipe, it became something we could build a life around together.

Joe: Every cannoli we make is a reminder that food has a way of bringing people together, no matter where they come from. We always say we’re not really in the cannoli business — we’re in the business of creating moments and memories.

Can you tell me a bit more about your great-grandmother?

Joe: The recipe comes from my Sicilian great-grandmother, and honoring that has always mattered to us. We haven’t tried to reinvent it, because it’s already incredible. Instead, we built a brand around respecting that tradition while giving ourselves permission to have fun with flavors and presentation.

Matt: That’s why we like to say we’re “Traditionally Untraditional.” We want people to experience something rooted in family history while still feeling fresh, creative, and uniquely Los Angeles.

Any secrets for good Italian cooking for LA residents?

Joe: Don’t rush it. Whether it’s cannoli cream, Sunday sauce, or fresh pasta, great Italian cooking is about patience and quality ingredients. My great-grandmother never overcomplicated anything — she just used great ingredients and let them shine.

Matt: Food made with love really does taste different.

What was it like starring together on Food Network’s The Great Food Truck Race?

Joe: Surreal is the right word. One day you’re serving customers at a farmers market, and the next you’re racing across the country with cameras following you everywhere. It pushed us in ways we never expected.

Matt: But it also reminded us why we started Bug & Bear in the first place. We wanted people to experience not just our cannolis, but who we are. Watching people fall in love with our food and our story has been incredibly rewarding.

How do you think LGBTQ visibility is important on reality television?

Matt: Representation matters most when it feels authentic. Joe and I never went into the show thinking we had to represent every LGBTQ couple. We simply wanted to be ourselves.

Joe: We happen to be two husbands building a business together and chasing a dream. If a young LGBTQ person watches and thinks, “That could be me someday,” that’s incredibly meaningful to us. We hope people see that love, hard work, and family are universal.

Opening up a new dessert spot sounds exciting. How has that been going?

Joe: It’s incredibly exciting because it’s no longer just a dream — we’re officially pulling permits and getting ready to begin construction. I’ve been heads-down on the operational side, making sure everything lines up before we open the doors.

Matt: The café has become much bigger than just opening a dessert shop. We want it to be an experience. From the outside, it’ll have the same playful SHAG-inspired spirit as our trailer, but when you walk inside, it’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the whimsical world where Bug and Bear actually live. Our hope is that people don’t just come for dessert — they come for a place that feels warm, welcoming, and full of joy.

Why did you choose West Hollywood?

Matt: West Hollywood has always felt like home. It’s creative, diverse, welcoming, and full of people who appreciate unique small businesses.

Joe: As a married gay couple, it felt meaningful to open our first café in a community that has celebrated LGBTQ people for generations. We also love that people actually walk around here — we wanted to be part of the neighborhood, not just another place people drive past. We can’t wait to become a place where neighbors stop in for coffee, dessert, or simply to say hello.

How do you think we can keep West Hollywood LGBTQ?

Joe: Continue showing up for one another. Support LGBTQ-owned businesses. Go to local events. Celebrate queer artists and entrepreneurs. Protect the spaces that make West Hollywood feel like West Hollywood.

Matt: Community doesn’t happen by accident. It’s something we all create together, and we’re incredibly grateful to now be a small part of that community ourselves.

What was it like partnering with SHAG for the design of both your trailer and the shop?

Matt: It’s honestly been a dream. We’ve admired Josh’s work for years because his art captures this timeless, playful version of Southern California that feels both nostalgic and optimistic.

Joe: When we started imagining Bug & Bear, we kept coming back to that feeling. Working with Josh has been incredibly collaborative because he understands we’re not just designing a café — we’re creating a world. We want guests to feel like they’ve stepped inside the home of Bug and Bear.

How did that relationship start?

Matt: Long before Bug & Bear existed, I worked at the SHAG Store in West Hollywood. That’s where I got to know Josh, and over the years we became friends. I’d always admired his work, not just because it’s iconic Southern California art, but because it creates a feeling of joy, nostalgia, and escapism.

Joe: When Matt and I started Bug & Bear, Josh believed in what we were creating and wanted to be part of the journey from the very beginning. He designed our logo, then brought our food trailer to life, and now he’s helping us create the world of our first café. 

We’re incredibly lucky and grateful to have his support — his artwork has become such an important part of Bug & Bear because it perfectly captures the whimsical, playful, welcoming feeling we want every guest to experience. His art doesn’t just decorate our business. It helps tell our story.

You can see their run on The Great Food Truck Race on Food Network and HBOMax. You can also keep up with their cafe and pop-up locations on their Instagram

The Los Angeles Blade is excited to announce our partnership with the LA Chapter of the StartOut. Founded in 2009 as a national organization with individual chapters, it has built a community of over 18,000 members.

Over 700 founders are supported every year, connecting them with knowledge, peers, capital, and resources to build scalable businesses – strengthening the economic power of the queer community. Los Angeles Blade publisher Alexander Rodriguez joins the Leadership Council for StartOut LA. The Blade will be responsible for highlighting StartOut members, entrepreneurial hot topics and issues related to the queer community, and tentpole events occurring throughout the year. In addition, the Blade will co-present The Founders Series. Debuting next week, The Founders Series will highlight and interview LGBTQ entrepreneurs who have made an impact in the business world at large.

This marks a new chapter for StartOut Los Angeles. Newly appointed (in 2025) co-chairs Caio Buchalla and Daniel Cafiero bring expertise and experience from the San Francisco chapter of StartOut and are founders themselves, co-founding OVE, using verified payment systems, all securely linked and authorized, through a user’s fingerprints. Unique and innovative, indeed. The two spent the first part of their current run understanding what was missing in the city’s startup ecosystem and how StartOut LA should be structured and how the organization could offer the most support.

Highlights from this year thus far include:

• StartOut Connect at The West Hollywood EDITION

The year began with StartOut Connect, a high-level networking event that brought together founders, investors, and community leaders. StartOut had a full house (160 guests), sponsored by Gaingels, J.P. Morgan, and Holland & Knight. Because of its success, the goal is to make StartOut Connect an annual event.

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• StartOut Capital Circle

The organization hosted an intimate dinner at Jerry Bloom’s home with 36 investors. The goal was to build stronger relationships within the investment community and create more opportunities for LGBTQ+ founders. The event was sponsored by Morgan Stanley and Silicon Legal Strategy.

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• A Conversation with Lucy Guo

StartOut LA’s third major event was a conversation with Lucy Guo, founder of Passes. Once again, it was a full house (120 guests) and gave founders and entrepreneurs the opportunity to learn more about her journey in technology, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship.

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Main events for the second half of the year are in production and will be announced within the next few weeks. StartOut’s main goal is to continue creating opportunities for founders, investors, and community leaders to meet, build relationships, exchange ideas, and create new businesses together.

StartOut LA Co-Chair Caoi Buchalla told the Blade, “I’m really excited about StartOut Los Angeles joining forces with the Los Angeles Blade. Having the media behind organizations like ours is incredibly important, not only for StartOut, but for everyone working to support founders, investors, and our community. We should use the power of the media for good, to inspire people to get involved, take risks, start new businesses, and help our community continue to grow.”

Brian Richardson, the CEO of StartOut, also commented on the new partnership, “At StartOut, we know community support, networking, and mentorship can make the difference for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs; that’s why we are working hard to nurture Los Angeles’ queer entrepreneurial community, alongside offering the best training and education available. Our partnership with the Los Angeles Blade will help us share our founders’ stories, reach new members, and continue to move our community forward, together.”

The Blade is looking forward to serving as the media partner for StartOut. With all of the negative news about the plight of LGBTQ culture, economy, and political rights, it is imperative that we share and spotlight the power and impact our queer entrepreneurs have in the economy and in the business world.

For more information, head to StartOut.org

The latest Honda Civic hatchback and Subaru Impreza are two of the segment’s stars. Both offer sensible pricing, excellent utility and enough personality to avoid feeling like appliances.

The Civic is more polished. The Impreza, more rugged. Luckily, neither is trying to be obnoxiously flashy. 

HONDA CIVIC

$28,000

MPG: 30 city/38 highway

0 to 60 mph: 8.9 seconds

Cargo space: 24.5 cu. ft. 

PROS: Fuel efficient. Spacious cargo area. Good resale value.

CONS: No all-wheel drive. Fussy infotainment. Low rear headroom.

WHAT’S NEW: Only minor updates for 2026. The biggest change carries over from last year’s refresh: the addition of the hybrid, which has become a star performer. 

The Honda Civic hatchback won’t scream for attention. It won’t arrive wearing sequins and carrying a smoke machine. It’s more like Nomi Marks from “Sense8”: intelligent, sophisticated and impressively capable.

The styling remains handsome and clean. Long hood. Low roofline. Crisp lines everywhere.Honda resisted the urge to make this vehicle look like a spaceship or an angry robot. That’s refreshing.

Inside, the dashboard is simple and elegant. The honeycomb air-vent treatment remains one of the coolest interior details in the segment. Materials feel expensive. Controls are easy to understand. And visibility is excellent. 

I love how the cargo space is generous, with rear seats that fold flat. A bicycle, several suitcases or enough supplies for an ambitious weekend road trip fit without much hassle.

Then there’s the hybrid. The system produces a healthy amount of power while delivering fuel economy that borders on the absurd. Around town, handling feels smooth, quiet and surprisingly quick. You almost glide through traffic. The standard gasoline engine isn’t bad, but the hybrid is stellar.

The Civic also shines on twisty roads. Steering is precise. Body motions stay controlled. The suspension strikes a sweet balance between comfort and sportiness. 

Biggest weakness? No all-wheel drive. For drivers in snowy climates, that’s not so good. 

Still, the Civic’s stellar combination of efficiency, quality, and driving enjoyment remains incredibly hard to beat.

SUBARU IMPREZA

$27,000

MPG: 27 city/33 highway

0 to 60 mph: 8.5 seconds

Cargo space: 20.4 cubic feet

PROS: All-wheel drive. User-friendly tech. Safety cred.

CONS: No hybrid version. Some road noise. Modest cargo room.

WHAT’S NEW: The Impreza receives relatively minor updates for 2026. Subaru continues refining this hatchback rather than reinventing it.

If the Honda Civic is urbane, the Subaru Impreza is unfussy. There’s a kind of Kristen Stewart energy here. Cool without trying too hard.

The styling isn’t dramatic, but it works. This hauler appears ready to tackle rain, snow, dirt roads or an impromptu weekend escape.

And all-wheel drive comes standard on every Impreza. (Most competitors only offer front-wheel drive or include all-wheel drive as a pricey option.)

The result: Slippery roads simply don’t create much anxiety. The suspension absorbs bumps nicely. Long trips are comfortable. Visibility is great, thanks to relatively thin roof pillars and large windows.

I like how the cabin is functional rather than fancy. Materials don’t quite match the Civic’s upscale vibe, but everything feels sturdy. A large infotainment screen dominates the dashboard and generally works well, though some drivers may prefer more physical buttons.

Cargo space is respectable, and the design makes loading bulky items easy.

Performance depends heavily on trim. The base engine gets the job done, but nobody will confuse it for a sports car. The RS trim’s larger engine provides more power and makes the ride livelier. But even then, acceleration remains merely adequate.

The Impreza’s real appeal lies elsewhere, with a mix that few rivals can match: hatchback practicality, standard all-wheel drive, strong safety scores and reasonable pricing.

Perhaps that’s the key difference between these two hatchbacks. The Honda Civic impresses immediately. The Subaru Impreza grows on you. 

Fortunately, choosing between them is less stressful than deciding who gets the last mimosa at brunch.

Many people come to Los Angeles to realize their creative dreams. Cities like West Hollywood offer resources for artists to give them a leg up. Now the city partners with BIG Outdoor, a media owner specializing in large-format digital signage, to galvanize the Sunset Strip area with dynamic Netflix ads or art installations as well as free resources for entrepreneurs. 

On July 7th, the launch of the SunCienega Success Lab will take place at their Sunset Strip location. The lab offers free workspace, mentorship, educational programs, and resources to support business growth. Applicants, including locals and underserved businesses, were eligible to apply. 

City of West Hollywood Mayor John Heilman says, “By offering free workspace to local entrepreneurs at the SunCienega Success Lab, the City of West Hollywood and BIG Outdoor are making sure innovation has a home in our community.”

The collaboration started as an idea 6 years ago when Big Outdoor took over the lease of 8501 Sunset Blvd. This year’s inaugural class includes:

Michael Meo, who founded Build Momentum, a founder-led venture firm partnering with technological experts to help build venture-scalable companies.

Artem Korolev, Founder of Sixtwenty, Inc., which is developing WYM, a wellness brand that pairs a premium toothpaste with an AI companion app.

Ali Rad Design, a luxury residential design studio specializing in interior and landscape design. 

The goal of this partnership is to transform underutilized real estate while also empowering local businesses. Brad Berkley, CEO of BIG Outdoor, adds, “We didn’t simply redevelop a building—we created a place where entrepreneurs, creators, and small businesses can grow, collaborate, and succeed.”

The Success Lab features six dedicated workstations in three offices, a shared lounge, and a conference room. Eligible applicants include locally licensed startups, nonprofits, minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, and other qualifying entrepreneurs. The facility will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The program will expand from free workspaces for those participants to include a speaker series and mentorship programs, which will roll out later this year. 

If you’re interested in applying, Albin Gielicz, Director of Community Relations, adds, “In Spring 2027, we will reopen the application process for small businesses located in West Hollywood that hold a current business license. We will review the applicants and make a decision by May 1, 2027.”

Ragtops rock! For drivers looking to carve their own lane, the world already has enough sensible crossovers, minivans, and pickups. These three convertibles trade practicality for sunshine, wind, and the occasional wild-hair day. 

BMW Z4 

$58,000

MPG: 25 city/33 highway

0 to 60 mph: 5.2 seconds

Trunk space: 10.0 cu. ft. 

PROS: Strong engines. Uber comfy. Stylish. 

CONS: Expensive. Final year of production.  

Act fast, Bimmer fans, this is the last year the BMW Z4 roadster will be produced. Along with the entry-level xDrive30i and high-performing M40i, there is a Final Edition model.

Since 2002, the Z4 has expertly balanced performance, comfort, and style. The long hood and short rear deck still look fantastic. The stance is athletic. And with the top down, this car gains an extra dose of drama.

Under the hood, BMW offers turbo power that feels eager rather than overwhelming. Acceleration is brisk. The steering precise. The chassis composed. 

Upgrading to the premium models lets you scoot from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. But—ka-ching!—the MSRP soars to $79,000.

Available in manual or automatic transmissions, this convertible can sprint through mountain roads on Saturday and soothingly devour highway miles on Sunday.

As for the interior, it blends luxury and functionality. Materials feel expensive. Controls are easy to use. And the seats are supportive. 

For me, other ragtops may be more party hearty, but the Z4 is low-key, impeccably tailored and still the center of attention. Think suave James Bond versus sparkling RuPaul. 

MAZDA MX-5 MIATA

$32,000

MPG: 26 city/35 highway

0 to 60 mph: 5.5 seconds

Trunk space: 5.0 cu. ft. 

PROS: Nimble. Lightweight. Affordable. 

CONS: So-so power. Wind noise. Limited space

For decades, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has followed a simple formula: Keep it light, keep it balanced and make every drive feel special. The result: Automotive comfort food that never gets old.

Many vehicles grow larger every year, but the Miata has remained Lilliputian in a way that feels rebellious. You sit low. The controls are user-friendly. Visibility is excellent. 

No, the engine power won’t blow you away. But this beachcomber isn’t about brute force. It’s about how the Miata makes you feel wonderfully alive, whether tootling along city streets or a winding road. 

Inside, the dashboard is sparse but echoes a traditional sports car. Large analog tachometer and analog speedometer. And while the 8.8-inch infotainment display is dinky, it works nicely. 

Alas, storage is limited. The cabin is snug. And taller drivers may wish for a bit more room.

Yet somehow even those compromises feel almost charming. This ride knows exactly what it is and refuses to apologize. Sort of like showing up to Pride wearing what makes you happy rather than chasing trends.

MINI COOPER

$27,000

MPG: 28 city/39 highway

0 to 60 mph: 7.9 seconds

Trunk space: 5.2 cu. ft. 

PROS: Playful styling. Fun handling. Extra stowage. 

CONS: Ride can be firm. Not a speed demon.   

Mini Coopers approach life with a wink and a grin. Rounded headlights. Compact dimensions. Cheerful styling. It all works to create a vehicle that looks like it’s having fun before you’ve even started the engine.

Driving this ragtop is equally entertaining. The steering is quick, and the chassis feels eager to please. Overall performance is lively rather than blistering. 

The cabin leans heavily into Mini’s playful design language. Circular elements appear throughout. Details feel intentionally quirky. Many modern interiors seem created by committees that fear excitement. This cabin feels designed by someone who enjoys color, personality and perhaps spontaneous dance breaks.

Unlike the BMW Z4 and Mazda Miata, the Mini offers a small rear seat. “Small” is doing some heavy lifting there, but the extra space adds flexibility. It may not be enough room to comfortably squeeze in friends, but you can easily stow a few bags here.  

To me, driving this convertible feels like attending the world’s friendliest block party. People notice it. People smile. Sometimes people even wave.

At my stage of life — “somewhere between 40 and death,” as the iconic line goes in the musical “Mame” — I want some pampering. A lot of pampering. 

Luckily, for anyone who constantly craves a soothing spa, steam room or sauna, there’s the completely updated Mercedes S-Class. This flagship sedan is now so full of glitz, glamour, and gee-whiz gadgetry, it gives new meaning to the term “auto erotica.” 

Does this make the S-Class a “gay” ride? For me, any vehicle that pushes my buttons like this one is a Kinsey 6.

MERCEDES S-CLASS

$122,000 (est.)

MPG: 21 city/31 highway

0 to 60 mph: 4.3 seconds

Trunk space: 19 cu. ft. 

PROS: Exceptional comfort. Ultra-quiet cabin. Cutting-edge safety.

CONS: Price climbs fast. Tech learning curve. Sportier competitors.    

The S-Class continues to define what luxury really means, with a bolder silhouette, larger grille, and striking, next-gen LED headlights. There’s also an optional illuminated Mercedes star on the hood. Overall, nearly 2,700 parts are new or improved, so more than 50 percent of this vehicle has been updated. An extreme makeover, to be sure. 

At the same time, this latest S-Class leans harder into intelligence and electrification than ever before. Under the hood, a range of turbocharged inline-six and V8 engines — paired with mild-hybrid systems — deliver power in a way that seems almost edited for smoothness. Braking is solid and strong, too, but never abrupt. All the engineering is fine-tuned and intentional.

Yes, the top-of-the line S580 version is more expensive, almost $140,000. But it’s also blisteringly fast, zipping from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. That’s as lickety-split swift as a Lamborghini Revuelto supercar, which has a starting MSRP of $610,000 and can easily exceed — yowza! — $800,000.

Colors? There are 150 to choose from for the exterior and 400 for the interior. You can even customize the illuminated door sills, interior stitching and wheel accents.

And the ride quality? Sublime. Adaptive air suspension reads the road constantly, leveling out imperfections before they even register. Rear-axle steering enhances maneuverability, making this full-sized sedan feel surprisingly nimble in tight spaces. On the highway, the S-Class simply glides like a private yacht on the calmest of seas — extremely quiet, composed and completely unbothered.

Whenever you slide inside, the cabin immediately sets the tone. A massive OLED digital display — the same high-def technology used for cinematic viewing and gaming monitors — anchors the dashboard, running the latest MBUX infotainment interface. Highly customizable, this software allows for advanced voice commands that feel natural, not forced. And an augmented-reality navigation system takes your route and overlays it onto live camera feeds. It’s intuitive — mostly, as there is a learning curve for all this cutting-edge gear. Overall, though, such amenities make older setups feel like dial-up internet. 

A Burmester surround-sound stereo is available in 3D or 4D, with up to 31 speakers, 1,690 watts and tactile transducers in the seats that vibrate and pulse with the music. Those seats are, of course, extremely comfortable. And the seatbelts? These are now heated. 

Let’s not forget the latest cabin air-filtration system, which can remove ultra-fine particles to deliver air quality that rivals medical environments. Clean air, yes, but even this seems like a special treat. It’s like being swaddled in couture, not ready-to-wear. 

And lastly, there’s the rear-seat area, which — to be honest — is where the S-Class really shines. Executive packages offer multi-contour reclining seats with rapid heating and ventilating, heated armrests and massage functions. You can opt for a footrest, which ups the glam factor to give you a calf massage. Dual 13.1-inch display screens come with their own remote controls. There’s also a video-conferencing feature, to help transform the rear cabin into a fully connected mobile office. For me, it feels less “back seat” and more “private lounge.” 

Even in fiction, high-tech luxury carries weight. Tony Stark helped cement the idea that state-of-the art vehicles can be aspirational, not just practical. The magical S-Class fits right into that narrative — minus the flying suit (for now).

Lotions, gels, and lubes. Oh my! Pride season is on the horizon, and everyone wants to look and feel their best in their own skin. With so many skincare products on the market, it’s hard to discern what the right regimen is for you.

Some have an all-in-one bottle (those never work well), and others can’t figure out what works for them, so their bathrooms are littered with various body washes, lotions, serums, etc. In the end, they’re doing a disservice to their skin. It’s particularly difficult for those with sensitive skin, as many products contain harsh chemicals that can react poorly, and for those who shave, it’s even worse. As the name suggests, queer-owned Hey Sweet Cheeks is a skincare and sexcare brand specializing in maintaining blemish-free, glowing cheeks (and we’re not talking about your face). With their unique pH-balanced and hypoallergenic formulas, Hey Sweet Cheeks keeps your skin ready from “prep-to-play.” Does it stack up to the claims? As a new advertiser with the Blade, I wanted to test out a few of their products for myself.

First up, BARE IT ALL BHA blemish-clearing body wash. It all begins with proper cleansing, and body wash is key. BARE IT ALL is light on fragrance, for sensitive skin, that’s also refreshing. I noticed a noticeable change in softness and shine. The gentle combination of salicylic acid and oat milk efficiently kept skin clear and hydrated, which is particularly important after shaving. If you’re as physically active as I am, then you know how important body wash can be to removing sweat and dirt and feeling clean. Some products are overly fragrant, and others can leave your skin feeling heavy. After showering with BARE IT ALL BHA, my skin didn’t feel dry nor did it feel oily with residue – just clean and refreshed. 

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Second on the list, IT’S GLOWTIME skin-perfecting body-clearing lotion. Lotion is especially important after shaving sensitive areas. Skin can irritate very easily, and blemishes/ingrowns are painful and unsightly. Consistent use of IT’S GLOWTIME proved to not only maintain the integrity of my skin, but kept it soft and hydrated through its most vulnerable moments, one being walking while freshly shaven. Many of us know how quickly a fresh shave can turn into a beautiful disaster. The right lotion can make all the difference. IT’S GLOWTIME absorbed into my skin easily and evenly, giving it instant hydration. It also kept my legs and cheeks soft and smooth throughout all my travels. 

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Lastly, to round out this “prep-to-play” review, I chose the water and silicone hybrid-based lubricant BACKSIDE GLIDE. The hybrid formula is unique. It seems to be the best of both worlds – the smooth, silkiness of silicone, but not difficult to clean up, like most silicone lubes. Water-based lubes are generally easier to clean up than silicone-based ones; however, they tend to dry out more quickly, causing irritation or reapplication. The hybrid combination in BACKSIDE GLIDE gives you the longevity of silicone lube, but it’s less messy and easier to clean as with water based lubes. If you’re looking for a longer-lasting lubricant with that silicone feeling, but without the mess, then BACKSIDE GLIDE is for you. 

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Overall, I really enjoyed all three of these products. As someone who works out regularly and sweats often, my skin is prone to blemishes, discoloration, and ingrown hairs. I found that consistent use of these products improved the overall health of my skin while also maintaining clear skin.  Hey Sweet Cheeks body wash and lotion is an easy and great two-step regimen that anyone can add or replace in their skincare routine. Follow it up with their water/silicone hybrid lube, and you’ll be ready for Pride season! So if you’re struggling with sensitive skin and blemishes in more sensitive regions of your body, then these products could be your solution.

Be sure to visit Hey Sweet Cheeks. Hey Sweet Cheeks is a proud advertiser of the Los Angeles Blade and will be on the scene for our free Pride singles mixer on June 16th at Mattie’s in West Hollywood. Details coming soon!

Steven Dehler is ISSA certified and a bodybuilding specialist. As a model, dancer, and musician, he performs throughout SoCal and is a co-host of the On the Rocks: Where Celebrities & Cocktails Mix podcast.

As renewed national attention on the Epstein files forces another public reckoning around power, accountability, and the failures of institutions to protect survivors, advocates, lawmakers, and community leaders gathered in Hollywood on Thursday night for the 2026 Bridge to Justice Gala hosted by the Survivor Justice Center.

Held beneath the polished backdrop of a Hollywood gala, the evening’s conversations focused on far more than celebrity or recognition. Again and again, speakers returned to the realities survivors face long after public attention fades: navigating restraining orders, immigration systems, housing insecurity, legal retaliation, and institutions that often fail to deliver protection.

The Los Angeles-based nonprofit provides free legal representation and holistic support to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in under-resourced communities. 

Throughout the night, advocates emphasized that awareness alone does not create safety, particularly for survivors already marginalized by poverty, immigration status, race, gender identity, or documentation status.

Actor and activist Alyssa Milano received the organization’s 2026 Voice for Justice Award for her years of advocacy and for helping amplify the #MeToo movement into a global cultural reckoning in 2017, building on the longstanding work of activist Tarana Burke.

Nearly a decade later, Milano reflected on both the progress and the limitations of that moment.

“There have been a lot of changes, but not enough has changed,” Milano told the Los Angeles Blade. “I think we’re still in the middle of a reckoning. People are aware now that we’re not going to hide in corners anymore, and that we’re going to talk to each other and support each other through the process of being a woman and what that journey means for us.”

When asked about escalating attacks on transgender people nationwide, a topic Montoya connected to her own experiences as a survivor and trans woman, Milano rejected efforts to separate trans rights from broader struggles around bodily autonomy and gender justice.

“Trans rights are human rights,” Milano said. “I truly believe that oppression is one of the most painful things in the world, and any kind of hierarchy is painful for everyone. Until we can all be free, none of us can be free.”

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California State Senator Susan Rubio was honored with the Phoenix Award for her legislative work expanding protections for survivors across California, including the landmark Phoenix Act, which extended the statute of limitations for many domestic violence-related crimes.

Rubio, one of the few Latinas serving in the California Senate, spoke about the need for survivor protections that account for the realities faced by immigrants, low-income communities, transgender people, and survivors who remain vulnerable even after leaving abusive situations.

“One thing I really want to focus on is creating policies that help everyone,” Rubio said. “One of the bills I’m currently working on would alert victims when their abuser is nearby. We already have Amber Alerts that notify the public during emergencies, and I want to figure out how we can use evolving technology to notify survivors when an abuser is in their vicinity so they can get to safety.”

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Applause repeatedly interrupted the evening as survivors and advocates spoke candidly about abuse, retraumatization within the legal system, and the exhaustion of continuing to fight for safety years after escaping violence.

Rubio also spoke openly about how her own experiences as a survivor continue to shape her work in office.

“This issue is deeply personal to me,” Rubio said. “I’m a survivor myself, so this work comes from personal experience. I know how hard it is for victims to find support.”

Later in the conversation, Rubio revealed that she is currently on her third restraining order against her abuser, describing how abuse can continue through legal systems long after physical violence ends.

“Even when the abuse is no longer physical, survivors can still experience emotional abuse, financial abuse, and the exhaustion of constantly navigating the legal system,” Rubio said.

The gala also featured survivor testimony and remarks from legal advocates working directly with clients navigating housing instability, restraining orders, immigration challenges, and family court proceedings.

That conversation felt especially urgent as speakers connected attacks on reproductive freedom, immigrant rights, and transgender dignity to broader political efforts rooted in exclusion, fear, and control.

While much of the evening centered on difficult realities, speakers also emphasized solidarity, coalition-building, and hope as necessary forms of resistance.

Nearly a decade after #MeToo reshaped public conversations around abuse and accountability, the evening made clear that many survivors are still fighting for something more basic: the ability to live safely, to be believed, and to move through the world with dignity.

“Hope is a practice,” Milano said. On Thursday night in Hollywood, that practice looked like survivors, lawmakers, and advocates refusing to stop demanding more from the systems that have too often failed them.

Watch the full interview with Alyssa Milano here.
Watch the full interview with State Senator Susan Rubio here.

Rose Montoya (she/they) is a trans Latina advocate, educator, and creator with over a decade of experience advancing trans-inclusive policy, shifting public perception, and building community power. 

Some people move to West Hollywood and find themselves. Others, like Marco Colantonio, seem to arrive already equipped with their own blueprint for the place and promptly get to work. From founding the hyperlocal media outlet, Weho Times, that would rather proudly snatch the mic than whisper in the margins to building a real estate career grounded in something far more human than square footage and cookie-scented open houses, Colantonio has always worked with intention and heart. And he does this all with a fresh-pressed suit and smile from sea to shining sea.

In our conversation, Colantonio traces a path that’s anything but ordinary. From hospitality entrepreneur to caregiver, from being outed in a cheeky headline to becoming a voice for others who deserved to be heard on their own terms. Along the way, WeHo transforms from backdrop to wingman, a place where personal truth, storytelling, and a well-timed leap of faith all meet up for vodka sodas at Micky’s happy hour. The result is a perspective shaped not just by his accomplishments and accolades but by who he has chosen to be, and the communities he’s helped make just that much more seen and a lot more livable. The house is open.

What first drew you to West Hollywood, and more importantly, what kept you there?

My journey to West Hollywood wasn’t linear—it was deeply personal. I was working in hospitality on the East Coast and eventually developed a small global restaurant company, with Denver becoming our home base. Around that time, my father moved there, and shortly after, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I stepped away from a high-profile career to care for him.

When my father passed, something shifted in me. I was tired of looking in the mirror every morning and pretending to be someone I wasn’t, instead of embracing my true self. That was the moment I came out—fully and honestly—and it changed the course of my life. Around that same time, I was “outed” in The Denver Post—and I say that a bit tongue-in-cheek. I was already a recognizable figure in the community, and a friend of mine happened to be the gossip columnist. The headline read something like, “Well-known restaurateur and man about town comes out of the pantry.” It was very Denver… and very of its time. But storytelling and community had always been part of who I am. I even started a gay nightlife blog with a friend called GAY5280.com—which was a lot of fun, though definitely not paying the bills.

After that chapter, I made the decision to move to West Hollywood and start over—completely. I was 40 years old, and WeHo gave me something I didn’t fully realize I was searching for: a place where I could be fully seen, supported, and safe. It was a dream—a queer, tolerant, vibrant community where you could truly begin again.

What kept me there was something even more profound. Early in my real estate career, I was managing a building on Harper Avenue when a young lesbian couple applied for an apartment. They didn’t meet the landlord’s financial criteria—on paper, they didn’t qualify. But they were both working two jobs, determined, and I asked them why this apartment—why West Hollywood?

Their answer has stayed with me forever. They said, “We just want to live in a neighborhood where we can walk down the street holding hands and feel safe—without being judged or harassed.”

I advocated for them, and the landlord approved their application. They became incredible tenants—but more importantly, that moment defined my purpose. That’s what West Hollywood meant to me—and still does.A place where anyone—any two people—can walk down the street holding hands and feel safe. That’s not just a neighborhood. That’s a promise.

And it’s one I’ve carried with me ever since—so I guess, in a way, I did get the key to the city.

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Take us back to the early days of WeHo Times… What was the original vision behind it, and what space were you trying to fill in the community with its creation?

West Hollywood embraced me in a way that was transformative. I became close with a Human Services Commissioner—my dear friend, Steven Davis—who encouraged me to apply for a Board for Commission seat. I was ultimately appointed, unanimously, to the Disabilities Advisory Board by the City Council. Sitting across from each councilmember during that process, I was struck by their passion and commitment. It inspired me.

At the same time, I formed friendships with some of the most respected voices in LGBTQ journalism—Paulo Murillo, Karen Ocamb, Tom Senzee, Dana Miller, and James Mills. Their passion for truth, accountability, and community storytelling left a lasting impression on me.

When WeHo News disappeared and WeHoVille emerged as a dominant platform, I became a contributor—but I often felt there wasn’t room for diverse perspectives. West Hollywood may be small in footprint, but it has a global impact. I believed it was too important to have a single voice shaping the narrative.

So late in 2016, I launched WeHo Times. It started light—community features, nightlife, culture—but very early on, everything changed. We broke what became one of the most significant stories in the city’s history: “Sex, Politics, Meth and Death in West Hollywood.” It was the story of Gemmel Moore, who died of a methamphetamine overdose in the home of a powerful political donor.

That story changed my life. It gave a voice to someone who no longer had one and helped spark an investigation that ultimately led to justice. When Ed Buck was finally convicted, Gemmel’s mother, LaTisha Nixon, reached out to me with a message I will never forget—thanking me for listening, for believing her, and for having the courage to publish when others would not.

That remains the single most meaningful accomplishment of my life.

WeHo Times became more than a publication—it became a platform for accountability, truth, and community voice. From there, I was fortunate to see the publication evolve in extraordinary ways. I credit Paulo Murillo, who took over the fledgling platform as Editor-in-Chief and Publisher. With his talent as both a writer and photojournalist, along with his unwavering passion and commitment, he transformed WeHo Times into the #1 online source for news, culture, and entertainment in West Hollywood. I’m grateful to continue contributing today through my real estate column and to remain part of a platform that continues to inform, engage, and serve the community.

How would you describe the energy of West Hollywood during that era in contrast to today? What role did community-driven journalism play in sculpting queer identity and visibility in WeHo during this?

That era was electric! West Hollywood was nearing the end of its 20s as a city and about to enter its third decade, and many of the pioneers who fought for cityhood were still deeply engaged. Activism wasn’t just present—it was amplified. People believed their voices mattered, and they acted on it. You saw it in everything—from John D’Amico’s rise to City Council, to grassroots movements like Save Tara, to Stephanie Harker’s fight to preserve Plummer Park. These weren’t symbolic efforts—they created real change.

Community-driven journalism played a critical role in that environment. It informed, challenged, and amplified voices that might otherwise have been overlooked. It helped shape identity, visibility, and civic engagement within the LGBTQ community. There was a sense that every issue mattered—and that you could make a difference. And people did.

Do you feel some things have been lost while others have been gained regarding how LGBTQ+ narratives are shared? Then vs now?

Be careful what you wish for. We’ve gained visibility, representation, and broader acceptance—and that’s something to be grateful for. But there has also been a shift. The urban village feeling that once defined West Hollywood has, in many ways, disappeared as the city has evolved.

That said, I remain hopeful. West Hollywood is still a beacon for the LGBTQ community—especially for younger generations discovering their voice. My hope is that new voices continue to emerge, stay engaged, stay loud, and remain connected to the core values that built this city: tolerance, acceptance, hope, and community.

Growth is inevitable—but engagement is a choice. And I believe the future depends on a community that continues to care, participate, and hold leadership accountable. West Hollywood should never simply blend into Los Angeles—it should always stand apart.

WeHo has long been seen as the queer cultural hub of the West Coast. When did you first start taking notice of a shift toward Palm Springs?

I’ve been coming out to Palm Springs for about 20 years, but around seven years ago—just before the pandemic—I started to notice a real renaissance. The city was getting its swagger back. The energy was shifting. The crowd was getting younger, the social scene more dynamic, and there was a renewed focus on hospitality and experience.

Then the pandemic accelerated everything. Angelenos and WeHo residents needed an escape—a place that felt open, sun-filled, and livable just a couple of hours away. Palm Springs offered that in a way no other place could. And it hasn’t slowed down since.

To me, Palm Springs is the gayest city there is. It’s evolved into something incredibly special—a sister city to West Hollywood, but with its own rhythm, its own identity, and a lifestyle that feels both elevated and effortless.

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You’ve described Palm Springs as something of a “next chapter.” In your opinion, what about this gay oasis is so appealing to the queer community today?

Everything! Palm Springs is truly a happy place. Years ago, someone said something to me at a bar on Arenas that always stayed with me: “If you ever move here, leave the baggage behind—no one wants to hear it.” And there’s truth in that. There’s a lightness here—a reset.

The city celebrates community in a very intentional way. The Pride flag flies high year-round. Modernism Week feels like a season that never ends. There are still clothing-optional resorts, a sense of freedom, and a culture that embraces individuality. Palm Springs doesn’t just welcome you—it lets you be.

Do you think Palm Springs has become LA 2.0 or is it something entirely independent in character and vibe?

Palm Springs is its own world—completely independent in character and spirit. West Hollywood is dense, urban, and immediate. Palm Springs is space, light, and ease. It’s not LA 2.0—it’s something entirely its own. And that’s exactly why people are drawn to it.

How has your background in media influenced the way you approach real estate today?

Journalism taught me that knowledge is power—and more importantly, that integrity matters.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about transactions—it’s about impact. It’s an honor and a privilege to help people navigate one of the most meaningful decisions of their lives and guide them toward their next chapter. 

What are queer buyers today looking for that might differ from previous generations?

Marriage equality changed everything. Before that, queer buyers had to navigate very real concerns around legal protections, ownership rights, and recognition—especially when purchasing property as a couple. Those uncertainties absolutely influenced how, and even if, people chose to buy. Today, that’s no longer the barrier it once was.

What I see now is a shift in mindset. Queer buyers are approaching homeownership with a level of confidence and long-term vision that simply wasn’t as accessible before. They’re building wealth, putting down roots, and making decisions as couples and families with the same sense of security as anyone else.

In a place like Palm Springs, that also translates into lifestyle. Buyers aren’t just looking for a place where they feel safe—they’re looking for a home that reflects who they are, how they live, and the community they want to be part of. It’s no longer just about protection—it’s about possibility.

You’ve witnessed both the nightlife-driven era of WeHo and the more lifestyle-oriented culture of Palm Springs. Do these two worlds intersect?

Absolutely. In many ways, they’re part of the same journey. West Hollywood has always been electric—it’s vibrant, alive, and full of energy. Palm Springs is a different kind of magic—more grounded, more effortless, but no less vibrant.

It really is a tale of two queer cities. One celebrates where you are. The other embraces where you’re going.

And understanding that journey is what allows me to guide my clients—not just to a home, but to the life they’re stepping into next.

For more info, head to MarcoHomes.com

Michael,

I’m 34, and after being on the dating scene for about 12 years, I’m coming to the conclusion that I don’t want to be in a relationship. 

I don’t love hanging out with the same person over and over again. I don’t feel all gooey when I’ve been with someone for a while. I run out of things to say, and also, it just gets boring.

I like my space. I don’t like having to share the bathroom or have someone next to me all night, especially when they want to go to sleep holding me. I know that sounds like heaven to a lot of people but it just feels intrusive to me. 

It’s a pain to have to compromise what I want to do. When I want to go someplace on vacation, or try a restaurant, or get up early to go to the gym, or sleep in, I don’t want to have to run that by someone else and get their OK. Life’s short. I want to do what I want to do.

I feel like we are constantly bombarded with the message to date and find a mate, but I don’t really see the point.  I don’t think I’m an introvert—I have a lot of friends—but I also like to spend time by myself and not be accountable to anyone.

When I think about marriage, it seems like a very old-fashioned concept, developed for straight people who want to have children. Historically you needed one person to work and another one to stay home and raise the kids. And you needed to stay together to give your kids two parents and a stable home. I get that.

But if I’m not having kids, what’s the point? I don’t need a husband to have sex. I can and do hook up all the time. It’s so easy to find someone online. And I get to have a lot more variety when I’m single than when I’m dating. Even though my relationships are always open, when I am dating someone, I always hook up a lot less, because I have to worry about the boyfriend’s feelings being hurt if I hook up “too much.”

I know I sound unromantic and maybe selfish but this is how I see it.  

My friends are all about having a boyfriend. They think I’m being ridiculous. Can I get another opinion?

Michael replies:

You make great points. Relationships do require us to give up some of our independence. They can feel stifling at times. And when the excitement of a new partner fades, things will at times feel “boring” in all sorts of ways, including sex. You can choose to avoid all of this by remaining single.

But relationships also give us tremendous overlapping opportunities to grow, including:

Being pushed to develop a clear sense of self: When we must constantly decide what we are willing to do or not do as part of a couple; and when our partner inevitably and frequently has interests, values, and priorities that conflict with ours, then we are challenged, over and over, to decide what is most important to us and how we want to live our lives.

Frequent opportunities to build resilience: All those old issues from our past that get us upset or riled up? We have to work through them so that we can stay (pretty) calm rather than losing our minds when our buttons are pressed.  

Improving our ability to have hard conversations – and without rancor: Unless we’re able to disagree, speak up, or confront when it’s important to do so, we are going to twist ourselves into a pretzel striving to accommodate the other person. And being able to engage in tough talks in a loving way is necessary if we want to have a loving relationship.

Becoming a more generous person: You wrote that you like to have things your way. But part of life, whether or not we are partnered, involves being thoughtful, considerate, and willing to put someone else first at times. Great relationships require us to do all of these things regularly—and many of us find that contributing to the happiness of someone we care about can increase our own happiness.

Besides these ongoing challenges, relationships give us the experience of someone knowing us deeply, and knowing someone deeply.  There can be great comfort in going through life with someone with whom we have this intimate connection, along with ongoing shared experiences of trust, support, comfort, and love. Long-term companionship is also an adventure: Can we keep the relationship vibrant and fun as we both keep changing over time? 

If you choose to remain single: Many people play their friendships on the easy setting, keeping things pleasant, on-the-surface, and non-confrontational; and cutting people off when things aren’t going well. Hanging in there to deal with the rough stuff can lead to deeper, longer friendships, and plenty of personal growth.

I do have a question for you: I am curious what sort of relationships you saw growing up, and what your own relationship experiences have been.  

Intimate relationships aren’t for everyone, and you get to decide what is right for you. But if your negative view of relationships is influenced by having witnessed or experienced intrusive or just plain awful relationships, maybe you want to do some work (therapy, for example) to heal from this stuff, rather than letting your past limit your future. A healthy relationship means being part of a couple while also remaining a vibrant individual, not being stifled, bored, and losing your independence.  

(Michael Radkowsky, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who works with couples and individuals in D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and New York. He can be found online at michaelradkowsky.com. All identifying information has been changed for reasons of confidentiality. Have a question? Send it to [email protected].)