¡Hola Boyle Heights! It’s Alex, your community reporter and associate editor at the Beat back to keep you in the loop on everything happening in and around our community. Let’s get into it.
First up — FAFSA panic averted. Some of you may have heard the news about federal loans and grants being frozen and wondered what it meant for millions of students relying on financial aid. Well, we checked in with the Department of Education, and they confirmed it wouldn’t have impacted applicants.
The directive has since been scrapped, but if you or someone in your family has FAFSA questions, we’ve got helpful resources to guide you. Plus, a heads-up: The FAFSA (and Dream Act aid) deadline has been extended to April 2, 2025, for those in L.A. and Ventura counties.
Speaking of deadlines, listen up L.A. County residents. Because of the recent wildfires, the IRS has extended the tax filing deadline from April 15 to October 15. If you’re not sure what that means for you, don’t stress — we put together a guide with all the details, plus local resources to help you file.
What’s been going down in the neighborhood?
- Some small businesses in the Eastside have been struggling. A handful of beloved storefronts have shut down in recent months, and some see it as a sign of a growing small business crisis in L.A.
- East Los Soul isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Run by twin brothers from East L.A., this community-driven space brings together artists, poets, DJs, bands, and vendors for a night of pure creative energy.
- L.A. City Council just made it harder for you to have your say. The council quietly ended the option to call in public comments during meetings—a move that’s been met with major pushback from Councilmember Ysabel Jurado and residents who rely on remote access.
Now, onto the weekend lineup!
Happenings in the Heights
Thursday, Jan. 30
- Children’s Art Workshop: Celebrate Lunar New Year with a free pastel coloring workshop at Malabar Branch Library. All materials provided, just bring your creativity! 4 – 5 p.m.
- Ceramics Workshop: If ceramics are more of your jam, head to RL Stevenson Library to craft with clay! Teens encouraged to attend after school. 4 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 31
- R3 Da Chilliman Show: Head to Don Quixote for the latest entry in the UNDRGRND CONCERTS series. Tickets range from $20-50. Doors open 7 p.m.
- Eaton Canyon Fire Fundraiser Show: The Paramount is hosting a benefit concert to help rebuild WILD Records studio and support local fire victims. Minimum $25 cash donation at the door | RSVP online | Doors open at 8 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 1
- Art & Science Family Day: Connecting community through the power of art and science, Self Help Graphics is hosting a free family program at the Luckman Gallery (CSULA). Includes gallery tours, artmaking workshops and more. 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. RSVP online.
- L.A. Museum Tour: Dive into L.A.’s Latino history with a free guided tour at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. 12 – 2 p.m. | RSVP online.
Saturday, Feb. 2
- Paint & Brunch: Tap into your artistic side with Liliflor Art’s healing painting workshop at Distrito Catorce. Your ticket includes materials, discounted drinks, good vibes and more. $50 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | RSVP online.
- Long Distance Bike Ride: Gear up for a 50-mile round-trip ride from Boyle Heights to Long Beach. Meet at Esquina Bicycle Shop at 9 a.m. and hit the pavement with fellow cyclists.
Looking Ahead
- “Seeds of Resistance” at Roosevelt High – Experience powerful social justice plays inspired by local community leaders. Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. | Entry is donation-based.
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!
