Gateway area businesses host holiday fête

Look at how members of the Gateway Area Business Association rang in the Holiday season, while supporting those in need …

In the Hazelwood neighborhood of outer East Portland, Gateway area business folks gather to share to joy of the season.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Members and guests of the Gateway Area Business Association (GABA) welcomed the Holiday season with a jovial event at Riverview Bank, on the evening of November 30.

A festive buffet with snacks, sandwiches, and fruit, was set out – along with beverages, both non-alcoholic and fortified, from the Gateway Brewing Company.

Putting a bag of groceries in the barrel to support Snow Cap Charities is GABA President Nidal Kahl, of Furniture Plus.

Looking back over the year, GABA President Nidal Kahl commented, “The growth of the camaraderie amongst the business community, the neighborhood association, and various committees and groups that work for the betterment of Gateway, is paying off.

“And, we’re really proud of the diversity in our area, and are working together to promote more of it,” Kahl told East Portland News.

Ready to serve up some “Holiday Cheer” are Steve Wiley of Wiley Consulting Inc. and GABA Hospitality Chair Karen Montes from KMP Business Services.

“Granted, we face struggles and challenges here and there,” Kahl conceded. “But as long as we keep our eye on the future, positive changes are going to happen; I really look forward to further improvement of our Gateway District!”

Guests mixed and mingled, wished one another good cheer, and departed into the chilly night.

Sharing a moment at the GABA party are Ann Sanchez of Realty Brokers, Jason Nishikawa of Irvine & Company and Oregon State Representative Jeff Reardon (D) District 48.

Learn more about the Gateway Area Business Association by visiting their official website: CLICK HERE.

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