¡Hola Boyle Heights! It’s Alex back to share the latest happening in our neighborhood.
News por y para la comunidad
You’ve probably heard by now: L.A. is broke. This week, Mayor Karen Bass dropped a proposed budget to tackle the city’s nearly $1 billion deficit. Unfortunately, it includes laying off 1,600 city workers and cuts across several departments.
Think you can create a better budget? Try your hand at balancing the books using L.A. City Controller Kenneth Mejia’s “Your City Budget” tool. You can adjust funding levels for different departments based on what you want to see prioritized. Just remember: the city’s tightening its belt due to falling tax revenues, rising payroll costs and growing liability payouts.
Once you’ve built your budget, we want to see it. Hit reply to this email or tag us on Instagram @boyleheightsbt. Want more ways on how to weigh in on the city budget? We have ideas.
And while we’re talking City Hall: Former Councilmember Kevin de León is facing an $18,750 ethics fine for voting on matters he had a financial stake in and not reporting income. That’s according to a report by the L.A. City Ethics Commission. Read more about the charges on our website.
Other stories you should know about:
- At Dolores Mission this week, church members gathered for Mass to reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis, who died after a 12-year papacy. Rooted in immigrant advocacy and social justice, the Boyle Heights parish has long been guided by his humble teachings.
- DHS said agents who attempted to speak with students at LAUSD elementary schools were conducting “wellness checks.” What are they, and how is the district responding?
- Since opening in 2022, BYO Games has been a hub for gamers on the Eastside and beyond.
Now, on to this weekend’s lineup of events. From late-night shows to community clean-ups, I’m sure there’s something for you to get out and about in the neighborhood!
Happenings in the Heights
Thursday, April 24
- May Day Art: InnerCity Struggle is hosting an art-making session in preparation for an upcoming march. Free food and supplies provided. RSVP to attend. 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
- Rock & Alt Night: The Paramount is hosting Desert Radio Live alongside musicians Catherine Kemp and Megan Bettie. $20 tickets. Doors for the 18+ show open at 7 p.m.
- Tiki Thursday: It’s going to be a tropical Thursday at La Bufadora Bar in East L.A., featuring unique cocktails, live burlesque and more. Free entry, 9 p.m. to closing.
Friday, April 25
- Community Cleanup: Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez is hosting a Lincoln Heights clean-up at the intersection of Mozart St. and Avenue 21. Volunteers must attend safety training at 8 a.m. RSVP to attend. Event runs to noon.
- Industrial Music Night: Art and Feudal are heading to The Paramount to bring you a night of industrial beats. $20 tickets. Doors for the 18+ show open at 8 p.m.
Saturday, April 26
- Service Day: Mayor Karen Bass is hosting a service day at spots across the city, including here at Hollenbeck Park. Come together, connect with your neighbors and clean up our community. To join, register online. Event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Cartoons & Cereal: Calling all Yogi the Bear fans: Enjoy a bowl of cereal while watching the popular cartoon this weekend at the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory. 9 to 11 a.m.
- Community Coffee: Head to the Wellness Center to chat with your fellow neighbors over a cup of coffee and learn about the resources available at the community hub. Spanish interpretation and childcare available. RSVP by calling (213) 784-9191 or filling out an online form. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Kite Festival: It’s that time of the year for the annual Kite Festival at Ascot Hills. Enjoy free kites, trees and compost pails while supplies last and explore sustainability booths, resources and activities for the whole family. Event runs from noon to 4 p.m.
- Día del Niño Festival: Head to Plaza de la Raza for a free “Día del Niño” themed fest. Enjoy performances, workshops, a marketplace and more. Open to all ages. 1 to 5 p.m.
Sunday, April 27
- Clothing Swap: Looking to change out some of your closet staples and try something new? Head to 3412 Stockbridge Ave. in El Sereno for a clothing swap! Plus, enjoy a sip at the mimosa and michelada bar.10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Cinco de Mayo Family Day: LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is hosting an early Cinco de Mayo celebration featuring live music, dance and workshops looking into the history of Latinos in California. Food, drinks and merch will be available for sale. 12 to 4 p.m.
If you’re looking for even more events – plus an inside look into what our team members are up to – you can check out our second newsletter online.
As always, please let us know what you think of this newsletter and send us your events to include in future editions. Hope you have an amazing weekend!
