Foster Area Business Association in mixer at the Mercado

Learn about new a new Foster Road summer event, coming up in July …

With drink coupons in hand, Venture Portland Business District Organizer & Marketing Coordinator Marina Martinez greets guests at the spring FABA networking mixer.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

The Portland Mercado was bit busier than usual on Thursday evening, May 12, as members and guests of the Foster Area Business Association (FABA) held a quarterly after-hours networking event.

There wasn’t a formal meeting, but about 25 attendees did enjoy complementary appetizers from the carts, got a first look at the new FABA website, and were afforded a first opportunity for discounted area map advertising.

New FABA Board Member Allen Rowand talks with the organization’s president, Matthew Micetic – who is also now Vice President of Venture Portland.

One FABA’s new Board members, Allen Rowand of Gray Dog Digital, explained that his role reflects involvement by two entities: “I came on the Board to become the ‘at-large representative’ between FABA and the Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association.

“There are many times when we talk about business issues at the neighborhood association meetings,” explained Rowand. “There are many opportunities for cross-promotional opportunities, so it makes sense for me to be involved in both organizations.”

Membership is still growing, FABA President Matthew Micetic, owner of Red Castle Games, told East Portland News. “In fact, we’ve had a growth rate this year of more than 50% in membership which is really great.

“Business people in the area are seeing the value of becoming involved,” Micetic said. “FABA is providing a positive way for both businesses and community to help improve our area.”

FABA members enjoy libations in The Barrio wine bar at the social mixer held at the Portland Mercado on S.E. Foster Road.

It’s now official that Micetic has also just been elected Vice President of Venture Portland, the nonprofit service organization for all of Portland’s business associations, and their liaison with the City of Portland. Venture Portland Business District Organizer & Marketing Coordinator Marina Martinez was also present at the party.

Micetic used the occasion to announce that July 9 has been set as the date for FABA’s new event, the “Foster Pub Crawl”. “It coincides with the monthly Second Saturday ‘Art Walk’,” Micetic pointed out.

“The idea behind this event is that we’re looking for ways to get people out and explore all we have to offer, along Foster Road,” he said.

For more information, see FABA’s website: CLICK HERE.

Comments are closed.