February 4, 2026
Long Beach suffered a devastating earthquake in 1933, causing 120 deaths and destroying or damaging many of the downtown buildings. When the city was rebuilt afterward, many of the buildings were done in the Art Deco style that was popular at the time. A similar situation occurred in the town of Napier in New Zealand where a powerful earthquake in 1931 destroyed the town and killed 256 people. Now both places have become meccas for Art Deco enthusiasts. We went for a walk around the East Village Arts District of downtown Long Beach, checking out the buildings and the small independent stores.
If you find yourself in the Arts District, definitely drop in and say hi to Von Brinkley, who designs and sews his own clothes out of his little shop. Lauren bought a very cool jacket. Here she is modeling it with Von.
You can also get all of your mushroom needs met at Culture Shrooms.
And with Valentine’s Day coming up you may want to drop by this store.
Mal and Lauren 