Tuesday

04-29-2025 Vol 1945

Boyle Heights Community Update: Budget Cuts, Local Events, and More

Hello Boyle Heights! This is Alex bringing you the latest community news and events happening in our beloved neighborhood.

In recent news, Mayor Karen Bass has introduced a proposed budget aimed at addressing Los Angeles’ significant budget deficit, which is close to $1 billion.

Unfortunately, this budget proposal includes measures that will lead to the layoffs of 1,600 city workers along with cuts to multiple departments.

If you think you could devise a better budget, take a shot at it using L.A. City Controller Kenneth Mejia’s ‘Your City Budget’ tool.

This tool allows you to adjust funding levels for various departments based on the issues you want to see prioritized, but keep in mind that the city is facing tight fiscal constraints due to declining tax revenues, increasing payroll expenses, and rising liability payouts.

Once you’ve created your budget, we would love to see it! Feel free to reply to this email or tag us on Instagram @boyleheightsbt.

If you’re looking for more ways to contribute your voice regarding the city budget, we have several ideas for you.

While we’re on the topic of city governance, it’s worth mentioning that former Councilmember Kevin de León is currently facing an ethics fine amounting to $18,750.

The fine is related to allegations that he voted on matters in which he had a financial interest and failed to report income.

You can find further details regarding these charges on our website.

Shifting our focus to community initiatives, this week at Dolores Mission, church members came together to honor the legacy of Pope Francis, who recently passed away following a 12-year papacy.

The Boyle Heights parish, grounded in advocacy for immigrants and social justice, has been influenced by his humble teachings for many years.

In another notable development, the Department of Homeland Security recently stated that agents attempting to engage with students at LAUSD elementary schools were performing ‘wellness checks.’

We look forward to learning more about how the district will respond to this matter.

For gamers in the area, BYO Games has proven to be a popular hub since it opened in 2022, attracting gaming enthusiasts from the Eastside and beyond.

Now, let’s take a look at the exciting lineup of events happening this weekend in Boyle Heights! There’s something for everyone, from late-night shows to community beautification efforts.

**Upcoming Events**:

**Thursday, April 24**:
– **May Day Art** – InnerCity Struggle is hosting an art-making session to prepare for an upcoming march, providing free food and supplies. RSVP to attend from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

– **Rock & Alt Night** – The Paramount will feature Desert Radio Live along with musicians Catherine Kemp and Megan Bettie. Tickets are available for $20, and the 18+ show starts at 7 p.m.

– **Tiki Thursday** – Join us for a tropical experience at La Bufadora Bar, featuring unique cocktails and live burlesque. Entry is free starting at 9 p.m. until closing.

**Friday, April 25**:
– **Community Cleanup** – Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez is organizing a clean-up in Lincoln Heights at the intersection of Mozart St. and Avenue 21. Volunteers must complete a safety training at 8 a.m., and the event will last until noon.

– **Industrial Music Night** – Art and Feudal will present a night of industrial beats at The Paramount. Tickets are $20, with doors opening for the 18+ show at 8 p.m.

**Saturday, April 26**:
– **Service Day** – Mayor Karen Bass is leading a service day at various locations, including Hollenbeck Park. Join the community to connect with neighbors and help clean up the area; registration is required online. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

– **Cartoons & Cereal** – Enjoy a nostalgic morning of Yogi the Bear cartoons alongside a delicious bowl of cereal at the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory from 9 to 11 a.m.

– **Community Coffee** – Attend a coffee gathering at the Wellness Center where you can chat with neighbors and learn about available community resources. Spanish interpretation and childcare are provided; RSVP by calling (213) 784-9191 or filling out an online form from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

– **Kite Festival** – Join us for the annual Kite Festival at Ascot Hills, featuring free kites, trees, and compost pails while supplies last, along with sustainability resources and activities for families, from noon to 4 p.m.

– **Día del Niño Festival** – Celebrate early with a free “Día del Niño”-themed festival at Plaza de la Raza, featuring performances, workshops, and a marketplace from 1 to 5 p.m.

**Sunday, April 27**:
– **Clothing Swap** – Give your wardrobe a refresh at a clothing swap happening at 3412 Stockbridge Ave. in El Sereno. Enjoy drinks from the mimosa and michelada bar while you exchange clothes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

– **Cinco de Mayo Family Day** – Join LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes for an early Cinco de Mayo celebration filled with live music, dance, and workshops centered around Latino history in California. Food, drinks, and merchandise will be available from 12 to 4 p.m.

Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on this newsletter, or send us details about events for future editions.

Wishing everyone an incredible weekend!

Until next time, Boyle Heights, see you on the streets!

image source from:https://boyleheightsbeat.com/eastside-events-april-shows/

Charlotte Hayes