By Ashley Mackin | SDUN Editor 
At the Hillcrest Business Association’s (HBA) Annual election meeting on Oct. 10, five new business owners in Hillcrest were elected to the HBA’s Board of Directors. The meeting is also used to re-elect those who wish to continue involvement with the Board, and is voted on by the entire HBA membership.
The elected 2011-2012 board members include: Reem Ali of Bayu’s, Natalie Behlman of Petco Unleashed, Michael Brennan of Urban Green, Jillian Dicola of Hollywood Tans and Alonzo Ortiz of Comerica Bank. Their term runs for two years before re-election occurs.
These Hillcrest leaders will join the current board: Ron Baranov of Baranov Properties, Amy Capano of Cathedral, Sean Cute of The Ruby Room, Johnathan Hale of Hale Media, Pete Katz of Katz Properties, Nick Moede of Rich’s, Jesse Thomas of Café Libertalia, Michael Wright of City Deli, Delour Younan of Hillcrest Shell, and Glenn Younger of Grah Safe and Lock.
The HBA Board of Directors act as the decision making body of the organization and their service is entirely volunteer based. The Board of Directors approves the HBA’s budget, major projects, and events and works to positively impact the business district of Hillcrest. They serve as a voice for the 1,300 Hillcrest businesses within the Business Association.
Lisa Weir, HBA communications and marketing manager, said, “We’re always looking for energetic Hillcrest businesses to represent the HBA. This year we’re thrilled to welcome the newest members of our board. They come from different business backgrounds representing retail, banking, architecture and restaurant service and most importantly, they bring their voices and input as creative and motivated business leaders in our neighborhood.”
Weir added, “We’re working on some major projects for 2012 and we know that these leaders will make a huge impact on Hillcrest.”
Urban Green owner Brennan said, “I’ve taken part in numerous HBA events in the past and have a great appreciation for what they do for our business community.”
He added, “During the last year I offered my Landscape Architectural services to the HBA in their effort to plan and install a pride flag and LGBT monument at Normal Street…. Through this design process I became more interested in the HBA as well as the projects and events they organize.”
Ortiz of Comerica Bank said, “I joined the board because I am really excited that I can help improve and make a difference in our community. I’ll help organize networking events and have the opportunity to learn more about what makes each business successful. In this business community, we are stronger when we help each other by sharing our expertise.”
