Block by Block: Volume 3
I've come up with a plan, to visit every business in the shore and share my experiences. To put my plan in action I needed company and a writer, so I called my good friend Lisa Ramelow and said ... Let's Meet on 2nd Street!!
Join Lisa and I as we explore Belmont Shore Block by Block!
- Heather Kern, Executive Director BSBA
Block By Block; Volume 3 - Park to St. Joseph - south
Written by Lisa Ramelow
Heather Kern and Lisa Ramelow
We visited 9 businesses!! The diversity of Long Beach was illustrated on this block alone: a shop for grandparents, a jewelry store where LGBTQ is celebrated, a place for teens to hang out, vintage clothing for the cool kids, a Long Beach legacy business (Hofman Hospitality) AND a bakery where a dog (or his owner) can order up his own birthday cake!
Park Ave. to St. Joseph Ave., southside.
There are a lot of memories stored away on this block: the historic Dodd’s Bookstore was a staple here, as was the well-loved Hof’s Hut, which was the only breakfast place around in the ‘70s. And don’t forget that Steak-o-Rama was here as well! Let’s go!
Venturing into all the businesses on this block, just confirmed something I already knew.
Well, I thought I knew.
But then when you meet the business owners and listen to them talk about their businesses, it is so strikingly clear.
What is it?
The absolute love, drive, and devotion that each and every business owner has, and feels, for their business, for what they provide, for what their product or service can give to others.
Their passions are unstoppable.
Not one business owner has mentioned anything about their business as a way to support themselves, nor have any of them spoken of how to gain customers or make more sales.
Instead, they just talk about what they love.
Anna Blazevich, Owner of Hummingbird Heart, Candice Cuellar, Owner of Alf's Body Art, and Lisa Ramelow
Stop #1 - Hummingbird Heart Kombucha & Elevated Bottle Shop
This was quite the experience for me, because I really had no idea what kombucha or elevated and zero proof beverages are. It just sounded like something I wouldn’t like the taste of, so I never took the time to find out about it.
Candice, who owns Alf's Body Art on the street, joined us. She is already an avid fan and existing frequent shopper here.
I took copious notes as owner Anna Blazevich talked about her interest in health, sustainability, and fair trade.
And how she loves “tinctures, tonics and elixirs.”
It was fascinating to me.
She had grown up in Manhattan Beach, and one day had gone to the Queen Mary as a child. She pointed at the coast that curved around creating a south-facing beach with awe, and said to her brother, “what’s that?”
“That’s Long Beach,” he said.
She eventually moved to Long Beach, and then discovered the Belmont Shore neighborhood. Many times after picking up her young son from school, she would drive to the Shore, where they would first stop at Babette’s so he could get his favorite macaron. Then they would head off to the Livingston playground.
She had said for years that she wanted to be the first to open a kombucha shop on 2nd St.
And it was her son, now 12, who encouraged her. “Mom, if anyone can do it, you can.” So she did.
Anna took so much time (and patience) explaining what all of these “potions” could do for me, so I bought one that helps you sleep, and she tucked in a bottle of Lavender for me to try as well.
Stop #2 - Sweet Threads
Next we visited Sweet Threads, a children’s boutique - they just celebrated their 10th anniversary in business! This isn’t easy to do with a retail store anymore since purchasing habits have changed so much.
They carry baby and children’s clothes; they are all so soft, and have an earthy and adorable look. There were tiny sunglasses for babies, mermaid outfits, and sparkles for little girls.
Shella Garcia, Owner Sweet Threads and Candice Cuellar, Owner Alf’s Body Art
The owner, Shella Garcia (pictured with Candice Cuellar), lovingly pointed out the wall in the back of the store. It was made up of small cubbies to hold a curated collection of toys from yesteryear – there was Gumby and Pokey, a Strawberry Shortcake Doll, antique metal lunch boxes, and even a Kewpie doll.
I told Shella I would be in there all the time if I was a grandmother. She noted that about half their clientele are grandparents.
Stop #3 - The Dog Bakery
On we went to the Dog Bakery, this time with my dog, Gracie along with us.
Heather said "It's just like walking into any bakery, with a long full case of baked goods but all for our furry friends!"
The Manager, Brenda Rivera told us of the shop’s history – and that they have been in Belmont Shore for 4 years now.
Lisa’s dog Gracie (and Heather’s feet)
Brenda told us that owner Rocky is passionate about dogs, and has been involved in dog rescue for many years, and that he strives to improve the lives of all dogs.
Yet another business owner, completely committed to what he loves doing.
Pictured is one of their “celebration cakes”. Brenda told us that they make 100 cakes each week!!!!
Stop #4 - Yogurt Land
Next door was Yogurtland. Yes, it’s a chain, but that’s OK, there is room for everything in our little community here.
We ran into local realtor, Kendra Miller, and her son, Levi (pictured). Kendra pointed out an important role that Yogurtland plays in the neighborhood – it’s a place where teenagers can go to socialize.
Long gone are the days when young people would “head to the mall,” and there are fewer and fewer places for them to go.
Yogurtland provides that safe space.
Stop #5 - Blue Diamond Jewelers
We stopped in at Blue Diamond jewelers and spoke to director, Debbie.
She explained they have 4 locations, but said that Long Beach has the most diverse population of any of them. In fact, while we there, two women came in to check on the progress of their rings for their upcoming wedding.
Debbie said the owner, Mr. Altaf, created his concept of wanting people to feel comfortable and welcomed, and knowing they want what is best for you.
She mentioned they will clean all rings at no charge, so we handed over our rings and headed over to our last stop, Saint and 2nd.
Stop #6 - Wolff Chiropractic
written by Heather Kern
We had a difficult time catching Dr. Wolff so I caught up with him by myself. His office is on Park, a side street to 2nd. There are many offices, salons, and shops on our side streets that you may not notice. You might be surprised when I tell you he's been in this office for 25 years and his neighbors at Mane Designs have been here even longer! I caught him between appointments so we had a quick chat. Of course we quickly started talking about back pains and exercise activities, like rowing, tai chi and pickle ball. Why those? because I started doing Tai Chi, I have always wanted to row and pickle ball because everyones talking about that lately. I discovered that he loves sailing which is reflected in his logo.
Dr. Wolff is very friendly, stop by and say hi to him! However, it will have to be a Monday, Wednesday or Friday and not between 1pm-3pm! :-)
Stop #7 - Mane Designs Salon
We visited Mane Hair Salon, and learned it has been there 45 years! Gene, a stylist in the salon has been there 40 years and in the chair was one of his original clients that has been coming to Gene and Mane Designs for well ... a very long time! Owner, Jan, came regularly to get takeout from La Strada, so I really enjoyed seeing her and giving her a big hug. I asked her what she used to order and she couldn't remember. I sent her photo to my former server, Miguel, and said, "btw, do you know what she used to order?" Of course, Miguel answered, "Cesar salad with salmon, and extra parm." Of course he knew!!
Stop #8 - Burnout Vintage
Next we wandered into brand-new “Burnout Vintage,” which actually carries some vintage items as well as new things. The store has a real Rock and Roll vibe. It's curated with all kinds of fun displays. Heather spoke at length with owner, Brad about all things vintage and Belmont Shore, while I was busy trying on the “titties and beer shirt” and the black leather shorts! Hahaha
Last stop ... Saint & Second
On to Saint and Second – it truly has one of the best views on the street.
We were joined there by local estate planning attorney, Deanny Lungu, who was happy to join us for this “Meet us on 2nd” series.
This property has been owned by the Hof’s family since 1951, and it’s where the original Hof’s Hut was located.
Heather calls herself a “true Hof’s-geek” and she began explaining to the host how the building used to be painted teal and pink when it expanded in the 80's. He wasn’t sure what she was talking about, but kindly listened.
Then Heather went on to describe EVERY Hof’s Hut, including the Bixby Knolls location, and the "dearly departed" Marina location. I don't think she's gotten over the loss yet.
I think I blew her mind a bit when I told her I worked as a hostess at the Marina location when I was 16-years-old. At that time, they required all the women to wear a “cascade,” which was this phony hairpiece of curls that was bobby-pinned onto the back of your head.
I would ride my bike to work, in a dress, over both bridges - the little one connecting Belmont Shore to Naples, and then the big one over the Marina. Once I was at work, I would lock up my bike, and then put on my “cascade” - I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing that thing outside of Hof’s Hut!!
OK, back to Saint and 2nd:
We made it in time for the social hour and ordered some drinks.
Deanny ordered the Truffle Fries, and asked that the sauce be put on the side. She intended that there would be just one bowl of sauce for dipping. But the chef elected to “deconstruct” the entire dish. It was pretty funny the way it looked when it arrived at the table (see photo).
We looked out at the view and talked about 2nd St. and all its changes.
I commented that I frequently hear people say they miss a certain place or store or restaurant.
I do understand that.
But I always tell them to keep their eyes (and hearts) open to the new places. They are bringing in fresh new energy, commitment, and love for their community.
The “newer” business owners are really just the same as the business owners from long ago.
Because they LOVE what they do. And so much so, that they took a chance. They took a chance and turned their passions into brick-and-mortar businesses.
They want to share their love of whatever product or service they provide, to all their neighbors, to everyone.
Drop in and say hi, and let them show you what they love, and why they do it.
I guarantee you will be as moved as we were.
It was a heartwarming day.
Directory of the 4800 Block - South
4804 E. 2nd Street - Burnout Vintage
4810 E. 2nd Street - Hummingbird Heart Co. Kombucha & Elevated Bottle Shop
4812 E. 2nd Street - Sweet Threads
4814 E. 2nd Street - Blue Diamond Jewelers
4816 E. 2nd Street - Yogurtland
4818 E. 2nd Street - The Dog Bakery
4828 E. 2nd Street - Saint & Second
ON PARK AVE:
188 Park Ave - Mane Designs Salon
194 Park Ave - Wolff Chiropractic