Nominations are open for the Downtown Long Beach Alliance’s highest honor: the Spirit of Downtown Awards, which recognize people who have “significantly and positively shaped” the Downtown community.
“As we continue to navigate challenges and opportunities, it is essential to honor the stellar individuals who shape our Downtown positively,” DLBA President and CEO Austin Metoyer said in the announcement Tuesday.
Help us serve small businesses in Long Beach.
We support small businesses. That’s why the Long Beach Business Journal is hosting free workshops for entrepreneurs trying to market themselves to potential clients, funders and the media.
We need your help paying for this vital community resource. Make a donation to cover things like our printing costs, staff time and audio-visual equipment that will be used to benefit the small business community.
“Their dedication and innovative spirit are instrumental in driving our community forward,” he added.
The Spirit of Downtown Awards were established in 2012 to posthumously recognize Mark Bixby, Shaun Lumachi, Larry Allison and Bill Baker for the commitment, leadership and innovation they dedicated to the community.
More recent recipients include The Pie Bar owner Laurie Gray (2018) and former mayor and now Congressperson Robert Garcia (2021). Last year, Carole Sergy of Beautify Pine, Farmers & Merchants Bank CEO Henry Walker and members of the East Village Arts District Community Watch Group were among those awarded the honor.
Winners will be honored on April 13 during the DLBA’s annual Celebrate Downtown event.
Nominations close March 17 at midnight and can be made here.