Councilmember Joni Ricks Bodie celebrates young artists at Long Beach City Hall

In the heart of Long Beach, a vibrant celebration unfolded as the city honored its young artists during the LB NOW: Long Beach Youth Art Contest Awards on July 3, 2025. The event, held at City Hall, was a testament to the creativity and courage of the youth, showcasing their artistic expressions and unique perspectives on their community.

Councilwoman Dr. Joni Ricks Bodie, representing District 9, opened the ceremony with heartfelt remarks, emphasizing the importance of nurturing creativity in young people. "It takes a lot of courage to make art and to apply for a program like this," she said, applauding the participants for their bravery. Her words resonated with the audience, highlighting the significance of artistic expression as a means for youth to voice their thoughts and feelings.

Among the winners were two young girls, Brooklyn Keep and Sariah Closter, who shared their artistic visions. Brooklyn expressed her admiration for Khmer classical dancers and her love for local landmarks like the Queen Mary, while Sariah described herself as a dancer, embodying her connection to Long Beach through her art. Their statements reflected not only their talents but also a deep-rooted connection to their cultural heritage and community.

Mayor Rex Richardson closed the event with a call to action, encouraging all young artists to continue believing in themselves and their dreams. "Your art has power, and never let anyone stifle your freedom of expression," he urged, reinforcing the city's commitment to supporting its youth.

The awards ceremony marked a significant moment for Long Beach, celebrating the creativity of its youngest residents and fostering a sense of community pride. As the event concluded, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and inspiration, leaving attendees eager for future opportunities to showcase the talents of Long Beach's youth.