The Downtown Long Beach Associates (DLBA) will highlight the importance of the ‘creative class’ as Dr. Richard Florida delivers the keynote address at the 4th Annual State of the Downtown – Building a Creative Culture luncheon, today, November 14th at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Florida is a world-renowned speaker and author of The Rise of the Creative Class best known for his provocative views on how creativity is revolutionizing the global economy. Cities with higher numbers of creative minds, according to his theory, experience economic growth and prosperity far beyond cities where the ‘creative class’ is less developed.
The DLBA invited Florida to deliver the keynote address to emphasize the importance of the creative culture to the future of Downtown Long Beach. By working to build synergies between the business, educational and creative communities, the DLBA hopes to spark a conversation about and support for making Downtown an environment of progressive thought and dynamic growth.
“Dr. Florida ’s insights and forward-thinking strategies are truly inspirational,” said DLBA President & CEO, Kraig Kojian. “His focus on the importance of developing tolerance, talent and technology will underscore the significant progress made to-date and the limitless potential for future growth in Downtown Long Beach.”
Also speaking at the event will be Mayor Bob Foster and California State University Long Beach President, Dr. King Alexander.
“The concept of developing our creative culture is one that holds tremendous promise for the ongoing transformation of our great City,” said Foster. “I am honored to be a part of this wonderful event and look forward to leading the charge as we move collectively toward this common goal.”
The DLBA is a non-profit organization operating on behalf of the property owners and tenants of the Business Improvement Districts. It is dedicated to the management, marketing, security, maintenance, advocacy, economic and community development of the assessment districts in cooperation with the City of Long Beach and the private sector.
