The Saturday article in the LA Times had some good insights regarding the new high-gloss tourist businesses versus the poor, immigrant population that together make up downtown Long Beach.

The article says that what’s needed are businesses that can reach both demographics. What I think is needed in downtown Long Beach is a spiritual revival.

Tide Turning for Parts of Long Beach; Harbor-area and downtown attractions are drawing visitors and, in turn, investors. But some question the cost to the rest of the city.; [HOME EDITION]
Nancy Wride. Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles, Calif.: Apr 2, 2005. pg. A.1

Section: Main News; Part A; Metro Desk

Across the harbor from the ship, visitors are finally starting to fill the new Pike entertainment and restaurant center on land vacated decades ago by the original Pike amusement park. A towering Ferris wheel and vintage merry-go-round that were idle now work. Next door are the Long Beach Convention Center and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Along Ocean Boulevard, a canyon is forming amid new …