A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...
May 4, First Fridays in Bixby Knolls
May the Fourth be With You!
Attention jedis, wookies, clones, jawas, ewoks, bounty hunters, and droids: the force will be strong on Friday, May 4th as Bixby Knolls brings a bit of Star Wars onto Atlantic Avenue. Dress as your favorite character and you just might win a prize. Plus, there's always plenty of art, music, and great dining to enjoy.
Ingredients of the night include: Live art and interactive art activities, free comic books, Mr. DJ, CSULB dance troupe, jazz, pop, swing, student recitals, Gringo de Mayo troubadours, the Knolls Ranger, classic cars, dramatic scenes and musical revues, gift items, antiques, funky hair, the Big Red Bus, and plenty of the unexpected.
Councilmember James Johnson’s “First Books at First Fridays” at the Dana Branch Library features City Prosecutor Doug Haubert and a library scavenger hunt with prizes! SafeMoves.org will be constructing a "mini-city" for kids to ride their bikes through as they learn about traffic safety.
Event begins at 5:00pm
Stop by Bella Cosa (3803 Atlantic) from 6:30pm – 8:00pm to find all the information about First Fridays, maps, business info, and restaurant recommendations.
When the businesses start to close, "First Fridays After Hours" begins. Nino's Italian Restaurant, The Factory, and EJ Malloy's go late into the night with food, drinks, and music. Why go home early? Stay out late and continue the energy.
Dine on Art-Lantic Avenue at one of our tasty restaurants then grab the Big Red Bus that will transport you venue to venue from designated stops at the participating businesses.
Full listing of participating businesses at: www.firstfridayslongbeach.com
Can you correctly name who said each quote listed in the Venue Descriptions?
VENUES
A Castle of Books
4302 Atlantic Avenue
562-448-2262
May 5th (the Saturday) is Free Comic Book Day, stop in a day early to pick out your comic book!
Check out the vast selection of books and you can also pick out a FREE BOOK!
"We got white books, black books, Spanish books, yellow books, hot books, cold books, romance books, tight books, big books, horror books, fat books, scary books, crime books, kids books, silk books, Naugahyde books, snappin' books, horse books, dog books, mule books, fake books! If we don't have it, you don't want it!”
" - You're not all-powerful, Ani.
- Well, I should be."
About U
4342 Atlantic
"I will not condone a course of action that will lead us to war."
Aura Thai
4085 Atlantic Avenue #C
562-426-3000
Best new Thai eatery in Bixby Knolls!
MUSIC – Hedgehog Swing
Gage started playing in the styling of 1930's gypsy guitarist, Django Reinhardt, back in early high school at Long Beach Poly. He teamed with Brandon on saxophone to form a quartet with violin and upright bass. Meanwhile Luca has studied guitar since he was a kid, soon to meet up with the other young gypsy jazz aficionados, and formed an ensemble. They can be seen around Long Beach playing in bars & restaurants.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hedgehog-Swing/126201607438996
"There will be a substantial reward for the one who finds the Millenium Falcon. You are free to use any methods necessary but I want them alive - no disintegrations!
- As you wish."
Averyboo Arts
6:30-9:00pm
3908 Atlantic Ave
http://www.averyboo.com
ART ACTIVITY: Carve and paint an art candle for Mom for only $5 - comes with a gift bag. While supplies last.
SPECIAL: Kids in full STAR WARS costume will receive a pass for a free return Open Studio visit.
PLUS, sign up for a 5-Day Summer ART Camp and receive an early bird discount! Camp Info: http://www.averyboo.com/camp.html
ART: View our wonderful student work
ARTIST: Resident Instructor, Toni Ivashkov will be making & selling her natural sculpture earrings. Great gift for Mother's Day!
"Better dead here than deader in the Core. Ye gods, whatta meesa sayin'?"
First Fridays Information Center
Find all the information about First Fridays, maps, business info, and restaurant recommendations.
Bella Cosa Boutique
3803 Atlantic Avenue
562.426.2100
website
The Southern Corner of First Fridays has it all! Check out the music, local artists and vendors!
ART: Tanya Quinn of Tease
http://www.tspaceonline.com/
MUSIC: Majic Bullet Theory
Founded by Trumpeter/Producer Dave Williams in 2002, MajicBulletTheory is a collective of Highly Skilled Jazz/Funk Musicians, specializing in Original Works and Jazz/Pop Standards...A Jazz Sextet/Septet, augumented by Turntabilism, MBT has a unique, memorable, infectious sound that resonates with people from all walks of life.
http://www.facebook.com/mbtjazz
"His cells have the highest concentration of midi-chlorians I have seen in a life-form. It was possible he was concieved by the midi-chlorians."
Bella Pizza LB
(previously Red Brick Pizza)
4085 Atlantic Avenue #B
562-283-0152
MUSIC – Hedgehog Swing
Gage started playing in the styling of 1930's gypsy guitarist, Django Reinhardt, back in early high school at Long Beach Poly. He teamed with Brandon on saxophone to form a quartet with violin and upright bass. Meanwhile Luca has studied guitar since he was a kid, soon to meet up with the other young gypsy jazz aficionados, and formed an ensemble. They can be seen around Long Beach playing in bars & restaurants.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hedgehog-Swing/126201607438996
"Son, my place is here, my future is here. It is time for you to let go."
Bixby Exchange
4350 Atlantic Ave
ART: Lisa Mosely
Lisa Mosely, a native Californian is a graphic designer, illustrator and photographer. In 2009 after being laid off from her job Lisa began the process of reinventing herself. Through this personal development process Lisa found what she most enjoyed; her passion for creating art. Her inspirations derive from growing up in sunny southern California with its beaches, mountains, cities, cultural diversity, and her past travels, and places she dreams of some day visiting. As a graduate with an Associate’s of Science Degree in Graphic Design and with her many years of experience as a wedding and portrait photographer, Lisa’s art reflects a range of paintings in various mediums; graphic design, photography and illustrations. Her dream is to inspire and bless both the young and old through her artwork displayed in homes, galleries, and businesses throughout the world.
http://www.piecesofinspiration.com/
SPECIAL: HUGE BLOWOUT SIDEWALK SALE
discounts 50-75% off on womens, mens and children's clothing.
"Human-cyborg relations. And this is my counterpart R2D2."
BKBIA Office
4313 Atlantic Ave
562-595-0081
website
MUSIC: Doug Means Project
With some of today's music being more about the gimmick and less about the talent, the Doug Means Project (DMP) offers real music that is authentic and organic. Through the lyrics exuding the ups and downs of life, Doug believes the content will help people live their lives better. The DMP is a funky blend of rock, reggae and hip-hop.
www.Dougmeans.com
"Still, she's got a lot of spirit. I don't know, what do you think? You think a princess and a guy like me-
- No."
Cafe' Bixby & Pizza
3900 Atlantic Avenue
562-427-2233
The KOMBIs
The Kombis play music from all eras, in all styles, on unique instrumentation. Artists covered include: The Beatles, Coldplay, Haircut 100, The Eagles, James Taylor, Green Day, Led Zeppelin (have you ever heard Kashmir played on mandolin?), The Cure, Fleetwood Mac, Elvis (both of 'em), CCW, Steely Dan and the list goes on.
Steve Desmond has been performing in both original and cover bands for many years. His voice is rich and distinct and his ability to capture the essence of a song is superb. He's been called a human jukebox because of his extensive repertoire of songs. Bobby Bancalari is a classically trained musician who wanted to become a rockstar. So, his influences include Bach, Biber, Emerson Lake & Palmer and Earth, Wind & Fire, to name an eclectic few. Though proficient on many instruments (plays a mean Hammond organ, too), he really shines on the mandolin. Mel Bay named him "one of the best mandolinists in the world" in a 2000 publication.
http://www.myspace.com/thekombis
"I have you now!"
Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
4105 Atlantic Ave
562-492-9020
website
" - Why, you stuck up, half-witted, scruffy-looking Nerf herder.
- Who's scruffy-looking?"
Cold Stone
4247 Atlantic Ave
EVENT - FREE Kids Scoop
Create Your Own (ice cream & 1 mix-in) with purchase of a Love it Signature Creation
offer expires May 31st.
"Bring me Solo and the Wookiee. They will all suffer for this outrage."
Dana Library Community Room
3680 Atlantic Avenue
562-570-1042
website
Councilmember James Johnson’s “First Books at First Fridays” at the Dana Branch Library features City Prosecutor Doug Haubert and a library scavenger hunt with prizes! Event begins at 5:30pm.
SafeMoves.org will be constructing a "mini-city" for kids to ride their bikes through as they learn about traffic safety. The "mini-city" will be in the library's parking lot, and SafeMoves will have extra bicycles on hand, though we do encourage kids to bring their own bikes too. The "mini-city" bike rodeo will be from 5-6pm. The "mini-city" will be a recreation of a city, with intersections, crosswalks, streets, etc. Kids will go through this "obstacle course" and will stop along the way to learn about pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety. Reading will be from 6-6:30pm.
Bring the family for reading fun at First Books at First Fridays, a monthly event held at Dana Branch Library.
Take advantage of the Library’s special late hours for another fun First Books at the Dana Branch Library. Bring the whole family as we promote literacy in the 7th District and the City of Long Beach. Don't forget your library card!
"There's always a bigger fish."
Edward Jones
3916 Atlantic Ave
"I see your point, sir. I suggest a new strategy, R2: let the Wookiee win."
EJ Malloys
4306 Atlantic Avenue
562-424-5000
website
MUSIC - Kelly Fitzgerald
www.Kellyfitzgerald.net
"Mos Eisley Spaceport, You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. We must be cautious."
Elise's Tea Room
3924 Atlantic Avenue
532-424-2134
EVENT: Held2Gether Improv Show
Menos Uno
Why wait for Cinco de Mayo, when we've got a great First Fridays show on Cuatro de Mayo! Check out Held2gether's totally unscripted, mostly family-friendly improv comedy! As always, the show is FREE!
"We will deal with your Rebel friends soon enough."
Everyday Zen Relaxation Studio
3740 Atlantic Avenue
562-424-2444
website
EVENT – Prenatal Happy Hour
Please register here: http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=4ssuvzcab&oeidk=a07e5rnbw09bbc3bbfe
At Everyday Zen Relaxation Studio, we're spending the whole of 2012 in celebration of the Divine Feminine. This means we're looking at ourselves and the world around us and exploring what it means to be feminine and how we can honor its power and mystique. As a precursor to Mother's Day, we thought this would be a wonderful time to embrace pregnancy and motherhood. So we've put together a wonderful Prenatal Wellness program that includes rejuvenating massage, healing Reiki, nourishing skin care, yoga, essential oils and belly art.
Your whole prenatal team will be present on Friday, April 6th from 5:30 to 7:30 to introduce you to their services and help you put together a wellness program to help you feel and look amazing throughout your pregnancy.
Your Massage Therapists, Amanda and Shellsea will be present to offer complimentary Mini-Prenatal Massages.
Your Reiki Master, Keicher Payne will be offering complimentary Mini Reiki sessions and Tarot Readings.
Your Prenatal Radiance Guide, Laura Jane will be presenting you with your very own Prenatal Radiance program which includes postural therapy, yoga and meditation.
Your Group Yoga Guides, Veronica Silva and Cassandra Vitale will teach the benefits of prenatal yoga and the bonding opportunity present in Mommy and Me classes. They will also provide class schedules and help you fit this rejuvenating practice into your busy schedule!
Your Belly Henna Artist, Jenny Ahn will decorate your tummy with a beautiful henna design for just $30.
The night will also include a pregnancy-friendly essential oil demonstration.
We will serve light snacks and belly-friendly herbal teas.
We will have introductions and demonstrations starting around 6:15, so please try to arrive around this time. This is a lovely opportunity to get guidance for yoga and movement, learn some wonderful meditation practices, get relief for those fatiguing prenatal side-effects and meet other Moms-to-be. So spread the word and join us!
"Try not. Do... or do not. There is no try."
EXPO Arts Center
4321 Atlantic Avenue
562-595-0081
MUSIC – Timbreline
Certainly not your typical instrumental jazz combo, although that's where it begins. The instrumentation, however, sets it apart from virtually any other instrumental ensemble in the area. Using acoustic guitar, mandolin, fiddle, and acoustic bass, TimbreLine presents a repertoire that covers not only a huge number of jazz standards, but Djangoesque swing tunes, bluegrass fiddle tunes, and popular tunes tastefully rearranged to make pleasing instrumentals,--as well as a sprinkling of originals.
http://www.timbreline.fourfour.com
"Remember...the Force will be with you, always."
The Factory
4020 Atlantic Avenue
562-595-4020
www.digitalinstallers.com
"That's no moon. It's a space station."
First Bank
4040 Atlantic AvePay homage to the Star Wars saga with a legendary film fest in our lobby with popcorn, lightsabers and a Star Wars shrine.
"These aren't the droids you're looking for."
Lions Pride Martial Arts (612 E. Carson St)
Student demonstrations and traditional Lion Dancehttp://lionspridelb.squarespace.com/
FreeSpirit Yoga
3910 Atlantic Avenue
562-989-9959
website
ARTIST: Charles Hetenyi
water colors, acrylics, graphic prints
http://www.charleshetenyi.com/
"It's a trap!"
G & G Studios
4122 Atlantic Ave
2:30pm - 9:30pm
EVENT: St. Baldricks Fundraiser
Support St. Baldricks Organization to help cure cancer for children.
We will be accepting donations and hosting a shave down, from 2:30-9:30, to show support. Our goal is to raise $1000, but of course more would be better!
Here is a direct link to sponsor us: www.stbaldricks.org/events/gandgstudios
ART – Cindy Lou & Sandy Sue Pickup Quilts & Discount Fabrics
They create custom quilts, pillow cases and purses
Contact them directly at 866-253-5787 or at www.pickupquilts.com
"I'd just as soon kiss a Wookiee."
Gallery Expo @ Expo
4321 Atlantic Avenue
562-208-4226
"Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering. I sense much fear in you."
Georgie’s Place
3850 Atlantic Avenue
562-426-9115
MUSIC: Hot Club de Bop - music for you to dance the night away to
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Hot-Club-De-Bop/183547225028878
" - I love you.
- I know."
Giltcomplex Antiques
4270 Atlantic Avenue
562-427-2290
Music & Antiques
"Never tell me the odds."
Historical Society of Long Beach
4260 Atlantic Avenue
562-424-2220
www.hslb.org
ART - Long Beach Day Nursery Centennial exhibit
The HSLB and the Long Beach Day Nursery present this exhibition of historical photographs, toys, and quilts to tell the story of LBDN. The exhibit honors Executive Director Emeritus Mary B. Soth — with great enthusiasm and tireless dedication, Mary led LBDN from 1979 to 2000.
The exhibit runs through December 2012.
"That boy is our last hope.
No. There is another."
It’s A Grind Coffee House
4245 Atlantic Avenue
562-981-0028
website
MUSIC - Sista Jean & CB
SISTA JEAN makes no bones about what she wants to sing about. Whether it’s Americana, Blues, Rock, R&B, or Jazz, her stories come in many colors and rhythms. Influenced by the west coast sound, her presence is amazing.
She started as a BG singer for the studios in Los Angeles over twenty-years ago and still has the fire inside to groove with the best in the business.
www.facebook.com/SistaJeanCB
"Size matters not. Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you? Hmm? Hmm. And well you should not."
Jammin’ Music & Arts
4228 Atlantic Avenue
562-490-0222
website
MUSIC – Student Showcase & Drum Jam
6:30-7:30 – Our students perform for you in the Student Showcase
7:30-9pm – Join in the fun with our Drum Circle and live music
MUSIC: (8-9:00pm)The Jammin' Music Cantina Band will perform songs from the Star Wars movies. Hand drums will be available for audience members who would like to play along with the band!
"Will someone get this big walking carpet out of my way?"
Jones Gallery
4321 Atlantic Avenue
ART – Live Graffiti Painting
"Luke, you can destroy the Emperor. He has foreseen this. It is your destiny. Join me, and together we can rule the galaxy as father and son."
Long Beach Clothing Company
4218 Atlantic Avenue
562-988-5900
website
MUSIC - Shop till you drop, and the DJ will drop the beats!
"Punch it!"
Long Beach Shakespeare Co.
Richard Goad Theater4250 Atlantic Ave
"Oh, my! What have you done? I'm BACKWARDS. You flea-bitten furball!"
Melinda McCoy's Flowers
611 E. Carson St.
562-424-0901
website
MUSIC: The Rock Club
EVENT: Sultans Car Club of Long Beach
Starting in 1962 at Jordan High School, the club has been displaying their cars locally. In 1991 the club reactivated and has been going strong ever since, participating in car shows all over Southern California.
Melinda McCoy’s will have over 10 of the Sultans classic cars on display!
http://lbsultans.com/home.html
" - Are you an angel?
- What?
- An angel. I've heard the deep space pilots talk about them. They're the most beautiful creatures in the universe. They live on the moon of Iego, I think."
The Mirage Mediterranean Grill
539 E. Bixby Road
562-424-4774
"The Force is strong with this one."
Nino’s Italian Restaurant
3853 Atlantic Avenue
562-427-1003
MUSIC: John Avenue Blues Band
The music is blues, the attitude is rock, and the combination is a "Blues Explosion" that comes at you like a freight train. From the strike of their very first note until their last note fades into the distance, John Avenue Blues Band will not only take you on a journey into the world of the blues but it will take you there in style and intensity, just be ready for one hell of a ride.
John Avenue Blues Band is made up of three talented and experienced musicians. From the first time the three of us got together, we knew we had something good, something that worked. Incorporating rock influences with traditional and not so traditional blues material gave us a sound that is reminiscent of bands from the 60's as well as a contemporary sound of today's modern Blues/Rock bands.
“Long Live the Blues”
http://johnavenuebluesband.com/
AFTER HOURS MUSIC - DJ Phil
www.Palindromeentertainment.com
"And now, young Skywalker... you will die."
Paper Crew
3920 Atlantic Ave
"That blast came from the Death Star! That thing's operational!"
Pixie Toys
3930 Atlantic Avenue
562-490-0702
Vangie Ogg Photography website
"Aren't you a little short for a stormtrooper?"
Reptiles Unlimited
4236 Atlantic Ave
Looking to plan a Reptile Party, stop in to Reptiles Unlimited to begin planning yours!
www.reptilesunlimited.com
"Great shot, kid! That was one in a million!"
Rick Wickeds
4234 Atlantic Ave
SPECIAL: Jarritos truck in front of the shop passing out free drinks http://www.novamex.com/jarritos
MUSIC: DJ's spinning tunes all night
GoodJob Gian http://www.facebook.com/GoodJobGian?ref=ts
Oh Jericho http://www.facebook.com/pages/Oh-Jericho/222006104489752
ART: Chelsea Jane the Tattoo Artist http://www.facebook.com/chelseajaneface
Handmade Goods Jewelry by Yaya http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=829599928
"We're doomed."
Roy Robbins Gifts & Stationery
4244 Atlantic Avenue
562-424-2210
website
SPECIAL: First Friday Featured Item - introducing the CORKCICLE
Keeping your wines at just the right drinking temperatures—it’s a great dilemma. Too cold and it could mask the vintner’s uniquely crafted complexities. Too warm and the flavors may take a back seat to the alcohol. The answer to this perplexity? Corkcicle.
Placed inside the bottle, Corkcicle chills the wine from the inside.
MUSIC - DJ Tom
"Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope."
Salon Medusa
4232 Atlantic Avenue
562-427-7977
website
ARTIST: Artist of the Month - Vangie Ogg
I'm a portrait and headshot photographer.
My shooting style is fun, relaxed, and allows for kids and grown-ups to be comfortable in front of my camera either in a natural light or studio set up. Sessions take place in my clients' homes, place of work, or a favorite outdoor location throughout the Los Angeles and Orange County.
www.vangieogg.com
"Scoundrel? Scoundrel? I like the sound of that."
Salon 36
4136 Atlantic Ave"Sir, I don't know where your ship learned to communicate, but it has the most peculiar dialect."
Starbucks
4406 Atlantic Ave
"No, I AM your father."
The WORKSHOP
4242 Atlantic AvenueThink you know Star Wars trivia?
Stump Graham with a Star Wars Trivia question and receive 20% off one item in the store.
EVENT – Spring Cleaning!
FREE 7-minute safety check for those who bike to First Fridays
Ride your bike to First Fridays and use the bike valet station
Bike LB – free basic bike maintenance 6-9pm
"I find your lack of faith disturbing."
