GBA to Georgetown Businesses: 'Roll Up Your Sleeves'

Janine Schoonover, the incoming vice president of the Georgetown Business Association (GBA), called on members old and new to get more involve in the shaping the Georgetown business community in 2013.

Schoonover offered her remarks at the 2012 annual meeting and holiday soiree Wednesday evening at the Dumbarton House.

"Georgetown is much more than Wisconsin Avenue and M Street and connecting the many shops and galleries of Book Hill with the excitement of the Georgetown Waterfront is vital," Schoonover said. Her company JSW group owns/operates several businesses in Georgetown, including Rhino Bar and Serendipity 3.

Outgoing president Rokas Beresniovas said 2012 was a "challenging, yet rewarding year for the GBA." The organization revamped its bylaws and has partnered with several new companies to market the GBA and to help monitor its finances.

Karen Ohri, the current and incoming treasurer, said the organization was "ending 2012 on a positive note." Ohri's family business is Georgetown Floorcoverings.

It was Schoonover, however, who spelled out the ambitious hopes of the GBA for 2013.

"Each and every one of you here this evening is invited to roll up your sleeves. Review the parking, zoning, trolley and transit plans. Determine your opinion as to what is best for your business... And join forces in sharing your views to the DC government using GBA to make your voice heard," she told a crowd of local business owners.

The GBA, a membership organization of local businesses, is a registered 501c6 organization that hosts workshops, networking events and helps organize its member businesses around important community issues.