The Greater Brooklyn Association had its annual membership meeting on May 1st, 2024 at Heckmann and Theimann Motors. The meeting was well-attended with delicious food and beverages from GBBA members Rose City Coffee, Hip Chicks Do Wine, 503 Distilling, Charcuterie Me, The Chomp, and Archetype 12 Wines.
The master of ceremonies – Melaney Dittler, of MORE Realty, provided the current state of the Greater Brooklyn Business Association (GBBA), as well presentations from Jacob Falkinburg from Venture Portland on their role in supporting the local business associations in Portland.
Workforce Analyst and Economist, Jake Procino, from Multnomah County and Oregon Employment Department presented on the current economic outlook for Oregon, Portland and the Brooklyn neighborhood specifically. Information from a representative from Energy Exchange of Oregon on the no-cost lighting upgrade grant for small businesses.
Key Highlights: The GBBA has received a grant from Venture Portland to help fund the Brooklyn BBQ on July 25th, a Brooklyn Community event with free food, entertainment and booths showcasing GBBA members.
Membership Growth: In the 10 months since the GBBA has been reformed, the hard work of the 2023-24 board members has increased the membership to 44 members since starting to register businesses in August 2023 with more members joining each month with a goal of 50 memberships by May 31st!
The board was voted into office with Melaney Dittler as president, Laurie Lewis as vice-president, Jane Schue as Treasurer, Christie Gryphon as Membership, Matt McComas at large, Tom Martin at large, and two new members, Sarah LaPrade and Gretchen Oberle.
Thank you to all who attended this successful event.