ILLUSTRATION by JOE MCGARRY

Ron Jones joined Long Beach Clothing Co. (130 Bay St., Long Beach 90802. 562.590.8444; longbeachclothing.com) in 2004, a year after Jay “Lightning” Tilles of KROQ opened the Pike clothier. He calls himself “Rj” and he’s quick to assert that LBCC (the shop, not the college) is more than a purveyor of “gear that expresses our love of the place we call home. We don’t sell fonts and tees,” he says. “We sell pride.”

Here’s what makes Rj proud to call Long Beach home:

C & C Internet Café “This is a real 24-hour Internet café, and it’s got the most massive dining menu I have ever seen. From sushi to carne asada tacos, their food selection is incredible.” 500 Pine Ave., Long Beach 90802. 562.980.9181

Houghton Park “All the skater kids I meet at the store have been to this Mecca of the Long Beach skate scene. Right next door to Jordan High, it’s a spot the north side can be proud of.” 6301 Myrtle Ave., Long Beach 90802. 562.570.1640

May’s Thai Kitchen “May’s cozy surroundings make for a great intimate setting without the need of getting dressed up. In a town where you can eat a different ethnic food for every meal of the day—and every day for months—May’s Thai Kitchen is a great spot for lunch or dinner.” 3832 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach 90804. 562.494.3003

Pan African Art Gallery & Studio “The gallery and studio are located on the same block, separated by a small church. If you’re looking to check out African-themed art, you want the gallery; the studio is for artists. The gallery offers ceramic vases, statues, busts and hundreds of paintings. The studio offers free art classes for any and all youth grades, K-12; adults can sign up for a six-week course in pottery, ceramics and painting.” 2240 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach 90806. 562.424.3015

Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles “I like Roscoe’s after hitting the bars or clubs on Pine; it’s a hop, skip and a jump away to officially closing a night of indulgence.” 730 E. Broadway, Long Beach 90802. 562.437.8355

Shades of Afrika “Don’t be fooled by the name: Shades is for everyone—and almost everything. If you need art, framing, photocopies, Internet access, incense, body oils—they’ve got it. The book selection is second to none. And live entertainment: Shades of Afrika hosts a free movie night, open mics, meditation and study groups. I go there to unwind, learn and take in the culture.” 352 E. Third St., Long Beach 90802. 562.436.2210

Shannon’s on Pine “This is the Cheers of downtown Long Beach. The cool part about Shannon’s is that no matter what day you go or what time, it’s always popping. It’s got this digital jukebox you can use to control which songs are played to your drunken whims. Great for bar-hopping, happy hour, viewing sporting events.” 209 Pine Ave., Long Beach 90802. 562.436.4363

Tags: houghton park, Long Beach, roscoe's, shades of afrika, shannon's on pine