12:00am | John F. Kennedy once stated, “Aeschylus and Plato are remembered today long after the triumphs of Imperial Athens [were] gone.. [A]nd I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over cities, we too will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” It’s the right side of the brain: the creative, the poetic, the artistic, the imaginary. And it’s a major part of why we love our city so much — so don’t hesitate or over-think it. Tell us what inspires you.
1. Best Local Long Beach Band
Long Beach’s rich history in music is undoubtedly influential — and the current time is no exception. Ranging from indie rock to punk, our city is home to some incredible bands that jumpstarted right here in LBC. Which Long Beach musician or band is the one you want blaring through your speakers the most?
2. Best Theatre Company
Home to more than its handful of theatre troupes, Long Beach’s theatre scene has blown up over the past five years with both classic and contemporary theatre that is noticed beyond the city limits. Which company, big or small, independent or public, is the one that reminds you most of the power of the live stage?
3. Best Hidden Cultural Treasure
We all have cultural spaces and places off the beaten path that, for one reason or another, captivate us. Perhaps it is their beauty, perhaps it is their history, or perhaps it is just the fact that not very many people know about it. Tell us your favorite hidden spot that is lush for you artistically or culturally — but doesn’t quite get the recognition it deserves.
4. Best Place to Buy Comic Books
We know you have your cape hidden under your bed and your mask under a pile of underwear. Whether your power is invincibility or flying, villain or hero, where is the best place to get your comi-magination flowing?
5. Best Bookstore
Despite the loss of Acres of Books, we still have a bustling literary scene. Where is the best place to get your wordy groove on?
6. Best Art Space
An art space is a key to the definition of a city and a representation of its cultural ideal. The best place for art lies in the hands of its citizens — so speak up.
7. Best Music Venue
As we mentioned, the LBC is rich with musical history. So, pray tell, wherein lies the best space to bob one’s head and swivel one’s hips to live music?
8. The Best LB Parade and/or Festival
As our city as grown, so has its celebrations of various cultures and lifestyles. Whether you’re a reggae fanatic or freedom fighter, zombie rights activist or Cambodian dancing queen, Long Beach has a plethora of festivals and parades that help celebrate the diversity that is humanity. Which is the one you seem to always be unable to miss?
9. Best Public Art Piece
Public art always has its supporters and detractors — but rarely is there a person who hates every form of it within their city. What is the best public art site you know of?
10. The Best Historic Home or Landmark
The preservation of history here in Long Beach is one of its defining characteristics, having much more stringent attitudes towards keeping the past alive than our L.A. and O.C. neighbors. Whether its craftsmen or art deco or anything in between, what is the most captivating piece of architecture for you?
10 ½. The Worst Loss (or, the Best Place That Isn’t There Anymore)
“[I]n Greek, nostalgia literally means ‘the pain from an old wound.’ It’s a twinge in your heart, far more powerful than memory alone.” (Mad Men: Season 1, “The Wheel”.)
Long Beach has lost more than its fair share of cultural landmarks over the years. When thinking back to a bygone era, what loss to the City’s skyline stings the most?
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