¡Hola Boyle Heights! It’s Alex back to share the latest happening in our neighborhood.
News por y para la comunidad
Noticing more trees lining our streets lately? Well, there’s a reason why: The city of L.A. recently planted 1,400 new trees across Boyle Heights in a push to improve air quality, cool our blocks and make walking a little more enjoyable. Why does this matter?
Research shows that neighborhoods with more trees live longer, healthier lives. Plus, who doesn’t like a shadier walk on a sunny day?
And there’s more: The city’s Department of Recreation and Parks is updating its Park Needs Assessment — a big deal for Boyle Heights, which has long been tagged as “high need” for green spaces. This new report will help decide where park money goes.
Your voice matters: Fill out this city survey online or look out for in-person community meetings happening this summer. Details are on our site.
Other stories you should know about:
- After years of setbacks, Lorena Plaza has opened its doors to unhoused and low-income Angelenos. The mixed-use development brings 48 units of housing and will offer case management, life skills classes and other resources for its residents.
- Most L.A. County departments would be required to reduce spending by 3% under an austere budget proposal unveiled this week. The $47.9 billion plan for the fiscal year reflects “extraordinary budget pressures,” with a total of $88.9 million in funding cuts.
- Following attempted entries by immigration agents in LAUSD schools, educators are training students and demanding district alerts to create “safe haven” schools.
Now, on to this weekend’s lineup of events. From late-night shows to fun workshops, I’m sure there’s something you’d want to check out in and around the neighborhood!
Happenings in the Heights
Thursday, April 17
- Sisterhood Expo: East Los Angeles Community College is hosting a showcase of businesses in art, music, fashion, food and services along with workshops designed to empower women entrepreneurship. RSVP to attend. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Kid Art Workshop: Got kids? Bring them to Stevenson Library to create a fabric collage. Materials will be provided. Event starts at 4 p.m. after school.
- Nirvana Tribute: The Paramount is hosting the tribute band “Smells Like Nirvana” playing the greatest hits of the iconic American rock band. $25 tickets. Doors open at 7 p.m.
- Norteña Night: Eastside Luv is hosting the group Carlos y Charlos for a night of música norteña. Doors open at 8 p.m. with $10 for entry. Showtimes start at 9 p.m.
Friday, April 18
- Día de los Niños: Bring the whole family to Eastside Café in El Sereno for a watercolor painting session led by artist Luna Flores. The workshop runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
- Dreamy Alt Night: Head to The Paramount to listen to vibey music by Ola Magenta, Stryrax, Pardon Me Sir and Mexico City Heartbreak. $20 tickets. Doors open at 7 p.m.
- Selena Tribute: Las Sombritas are coming to Eastside Luv to play Selena’s biggest hits. Enjoy free admission from 8 to 10 p.m. Happy Hour, $10 entry after.
- Sonidero Night: Don Quixote is hosting an anniversary for Sonido YamBoa Hugo Actual with performances by various sonidero groups. $20 tickets. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Saturday, April 19
- Book Workshop: The Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory is offering a free workshop focusing on Sandra Cisneros’ “The House on Mango Street.” Discuss the book, then hit the streets to photograph the neighborhood – camera provided! RSVP online or by calling (213) 293-6170. 10 a.m. to noon.
- El Sereno Workshop: Head to Elephant Hill’s native plant garden for a workshop exploring local fire risks in Northeast L.A. and how to protect your home. 10 a.m. to noon.
- Queer Mercado: Enjoy a picnic day at the East L.A. Civic Center. Shop from local vendors while enjoying live performances. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Drum Fun: Join a drum circle at Stevenson Library to connect with the power of rhythm. RSVP by calling (323) 228-7037 x 102. Event starts at 1 p.m.
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!
