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Dear Friends,
In an effort to bolster local businesses, Los Angeles County just launched the Entertainment Business Interruption Fund, a $4.1 million grant program aimed to serve businesses that were impacted by the Hollywood strikes and the pandemic. Through a motion I coauthored with Supervisor Horvath, the Department of Economic Opportunity is now taking applications to provide relief to prop houses, florists, caterers, and other small and micro businesses that need a helping hand to rebuild. These small businesses are an integral part of the industry and are crucial to keeping productions afloat.
The entertainment industry makes up a significant portion of our local economy. According to the latest Otis College Report on the Creative Economy, prior to the strikes, the industry directly employed more than 1 million workers and brought in more than $208 billion in revenue. Research indicates that the double strikes cost the California economy between $3 to $4 billion. Los Angeles County bore the brunt since our communities have the highest concentration of production facilities, studios, unions, guilds, and associations.
With that in mind, the Entertainment Business Interruption Fund, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, will provide grants of $10,000 for businesses with less than $1 million in revenue and $25,000 for businesses with revenue between $1 million and $3 million. To qualify, businesses must make at least 70% of their revenue from the entertainment industry. The fund is slated to serve about 230 small and micro businesses countywide. I highly encourage business to access this important opportunity to get support as they reopen and revitalize. The deadline to apply for the grant is May 24, 2024 at 5 p.m. Click here to learn more and apply today.
Best wishes,
Kathryn Barger
Supervisor, Fifth District
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Meet Minnie, a gentle and snuggly two-year-old Siberian Husky, and Eloise, a silly and strong two-year-old pit bull mix. If you'd like to open your heart and home to a new pet, consider adopting one of them from the Palmdale Animal Care Center, which is open for drop-ins Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
National Therapy Animal Day
April 30 was National Therapy Animal Day! Whether they're bringing smiles to kids in the hospital, visiting seniors to combat loneliness, helping young readers build confidence at the local library, or offering comfort to veterans, time spent with therapy animals has benefits for everyone. I was proud to coauthor a motion with Supervisor Hahn to commemorate the day. Check out my video presentation below to see how Noodle the Australian Labradoodle is bringing joy to others as a therapy dog.
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May is Mental Health Month! Check out events hosted with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health's Take Action campaign to get involved. All month long, you can take part in 5K run/walks, arts and culture experiences, yoga/meditation events, block parties, and much more. I'll be kicking off the month at an event in the Antelope Valley tomorrow morning, Saturday, May 4 that includes a resource fair, live entertainment, and giveaways.
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On Monday, we honored the life of Los Angeles County Fire Captain Henry H. Flores, who faithfully served his department and our communities for 23 years. His decades of dedication included receiving an Exemplary Service Award at a Medal of Valor ceremony for his team's brave emergency response. His unexpected passing leaves a hole in the hearts of his loved ones and the department, but I hope his family and friends find strength and comfort remembering how much his life profoundly impacted others.
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Congratulations to All Saints Church in Pasadena on the 20th anniversary of their Foster Care Project! Their community has been steadfastly committed to meeting the tangible needs of foster families, including setting up a visitation room for youth on their campus and providing Christmas gifts, Easter baskets, back to school supplies, and Thanksgiving dinners to show they care.
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On Tuesday, the last day of Armenian History Month, I was proud to honor three exceptional members of our Fifth District communities. This year, I celebrated the contributions of Dr. Vartan Tachjdian, Talin Yacoubian, and Nyree Derderian, all of whom have dedicated their careers and volunteer efforts to serving others. Click the link below to read their stories.
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As a result of lots of local advocacy over the last year, President Biden signed a proclamation this week that expands the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by 105,919 acres. This action will drive the federal government to invest more resources to permanently protect and conserve these important natural lands. As more development comes to Los Angeles County, it is critical to conserve open spaces that help residents and visitors connect to nature and wildlife. I was proud to introduce a motion last year to support this effort to preserve land for future generations to enjoy.
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The L.A. County Fair is back! This year, the theme is Stars, Stripes, and Fun, celebrating our County's diverse cultures and communities. Get all the details about the attractions, food, and excitement in store at the fair, which is open from May 3 to 27. L.A. County Day is tomorrow, May 4, and admission is just $8 for L.A. County residents!
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Through the Los Angeles County Museum of Art's sculpture loan program, my office was proud to partner with the Pearblossom Town Council to bring a sculpture to the Antelope Valley. Saddle, created by Sir Anthony Caro, will be at the Pearblossom Community Center for the next 10 years and is now the largest piece in Pearblossom's new sculpture garden. The community will celebrate the sculpture garden unveiling at their annual Sunshine Arts Festival next Saturday, May 11 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., which will also include arts activities and live performances for children and families.
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Are you looking to get hands-on experience in the arts sector? The Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture has announced its paid arts internships for college students at local nonprofits countywide. Explore diverse opportunities including education, marketing, fundraising, event planning, administration, and much more.
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Enjoy the Autry in a new way at a different time of day! Head to the museum after hours for May Music Nights featuring local bands from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on select Thursdays throughout the month. Check the lineup below.
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