Long Beach Mayor honors Heidi and Aurora for outstanding student artwork

The Long Beach Youth Art Contest Awards 2025 showcased the creativity and community spirit of local students during a vibrant ceremony on July 3. Among the standout awardees were Heidi and Aurora Vargas, both of whom shared heartfelt connections to their artwork and the city of Long Beach.

Heidi, a proud resident, drew inspiration from her school’s colors—black and yellow—reflecting her deep ties to California. Her artwork featured a bear, symbolizing her pride in the state, and she expressed her love for Long Beach, stating, “This is my favorite town.” The bear in her piece even donned a special visor, adding a personal touch to her creation.

Aurora Vargas, 13, from Keller Middle School, emphasized the importance of community in her artwork. “It isn’t a place itself that makes a community,” she explained, “the most important part is actually the people.” Aurora’s reflections on living in Long Beach highlighted her appreciation for the city, even if she doesn’t visit the beach often. “Being able to live so close to a place that people enjoy is great,” she noted.

The ceremony included the presentation of awards and certificates, with both young artists receiving recognition from the mayor. The event not only celebrated their artistic talents but also reinforced the significance of community connections in Long Beach. As the awards were handed out, the atmosphere was filled with pride and encouragement, showcasing the bright future of Long Beach’s youth.