Brooklyn's Progress
February/March 2007

BY KHADIJA BATUTA

The Brighton Beach Business Improvement District, one of the oldest BIDs in New York City, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2007.  At a kick-off press breakfast on Feb. 22, Brighton Beach BID President Seth Rubenstein and Executive Director Yelena Makhnin announced an exciting schedule of events planned throughout 2007 in celebration of the BID’s 20 years of service to the Brighton Beach business community.
 
Sponsored by numerous area businesses and individuals, the yearlong event schedule includes a Parade of Flags, a Family Reunion of all Brighton cities around the world, a Fashion Show, an International Dance Extravaganza, and the Brighton Cup Basketball Tournament.

Launching the 20th Anniversary event line-up will be the Business to Business on Brighton Trade Show and Luncheon, produced in partnership with the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.  The event, scheduled for Tuesday, Mar. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Atlantic Oceana Restaurant, 1029 Brighton Beach Ave., will feature key Russian businesses from the community.  Brooklyn Chamber Members and the Brooklyn business community at large are invited to network and learn more about the business opportunities in Brighton Beach.

Brighton Beach is a diverse community that includes thousands of immigrants from more than 27 countries.  The neighborhood’s resurgence began in the late 1960’s with immigrants from the former Soviet Union who put down roots and started businesses.  Over the past 30 years the community has grown dramatically with newer immigrants from Mexico, Pakistan, and Korea.  Brighton Beach Avenue, the heart and soul of the neighborhood, represents the cultural diversity and economic viability of the area with new developments such as the Oceana Condominium and Club as well as a growing plethora of businesses including nightclubs, restaurants and retail shops catering to both the Russian residents and the borough at large.

“These events reflect a community filled with accomplishments in business, culture, education, and sports,” says Ms. Makhnin.  “We are truly a living example of how people from many nations have come together to form one thriving community.  It is an exciting time to be living and working in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn.”

For trade show table and/or luncheon reservations for the Business to Business on Brighton Trade Show and Luncheon on Mar. 20, or to find out more about Brighton Beach BID events and activities planned throughout the year, please contact Executive Director Yelena Makhnin at 718-934-1908.