10:00am | The 4th annual Good Neighbor Festival was the biggest yet, said 5th District Councilmember Gerrie Schipske, whose office hosts the event each year. And in its short existence, the festival has become quite popular in East Long Beach as evidenced by the large crowd that braved near 100-degree temperatures to enjoy live music, free snow cones, raffle prizes and more. Schipske’s office also handed out more than ten Good Neighbor Awards that were given to local residents who were nominated by their neighbors for being exemplary members of the community.
The Elm Street Band kept the crowd dancing with classics from The Eagles and more, while the Long Beach Police and Fire departments cooked free hot dogs and hamburgers and local lifeguards dispensed cool drinks. Kids had carnival games to play and plenty of prizes to win.
It was an event very reflective of its community, with a family friendly atmosphere that brought together some of the area’s most prominent businesses and community organizations. The Long Beach Airport and Spring Street Business Association shared space next to Quilters By The Sea and the Westerly School of Long Beach. Check out these photos from the blisteringly hot day, and I’ll see you out there next year!
A dirty-kneed artists dives into her work.
The snow cone machine was the day’s most popular destination.
Councilmember Schipske announces raffle prizes and hands out community awards.
The bean bag toss draws a crowd.
The Elm Street Band keeps the music flowing.
Two young lovebirds tear up the dance floor.
Aspiring racecar drivers watch their pinewood derby cars speed towards the finish line.
The two chalk-art pieces created by local artists.
And they’re off! Only slightly deterred by high temperatures and melting whip cream, contestants dive into the pie eating contest.
Dedication.
There comes a time when you have to look in the mirror, wipe the pie out of your beard and ask yourself if you can eat any more.
The victor rejoices, and the other contestants are just glad it’s over.
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