The History of NEBA
(Northeast Business Alliance)
More than a decade ago, various individuals and organizations realized the importance of promoting local residents to shop “in their own backyard”. The Northeast Business Alliance, often called NEBA, began in 1999 as a networking venue for northeast El Paso business and civic groups. This non-profit organization created bumper sticker promoting “Shop Northeast”. Original Officers and Board Members of NEBA
Lifelong northeast resident Tony Lewis (Tony Lewis Collision and Paint Center) served as the first president of NEBA. Other members include Adrian Madrigal from the Small Business Administration, and Bob Snead of the Black Chamber of Commerce. Tony Benitez, a New York Life agent, served as the first Secretary and Carl Robinson serves as the first Treasurer of the organization. The board grew to also include Bill LaRue of the National Bank of El Paso, Beth Newman, of Jean’s Tax and Bookkeeping Services, Jody Todd of Jots and Junque by Jody, and Donna Brown, HR Consultant. Early NEBA Meetings
A vision for the newly-formed Northeast Business Alliance germinated in the basement of the Northeast Shopping Mall. The group developed plans and strategies for helping northeast businesses. A very successful “after hours” event was held where businesses could promote themselves as a group– with food, entertainment, and vendors tables where area residents could see what the community had to offer. This also gave business’s a chance to network together. Soon afterward, the group began meeting at the Denny’s on Trans Mountain/ Woodrow Bean on a monthly basis; to network, learn from each other, and to listen to guest speakers from the community. Getting the Word Out to the Community
Donna Brown created and distributed the first NEBA newsletter. Tom Stady of S & T Marketing led other volunteers to enhance Northeast El Paso Business’ image by creating a “Clean-up Committee”. This group collected trash from unsightly parking lots and area streets to enhance the neighborhood. Around this time, a group of NEBA members began working with the Flag Foundation that was responsible for the giant flag (and memorials) at Diana and Highway 54. Later NEBA meetings moved to the Northeast Optimist Club. Clark Peters of Northeast Healthy Communities became the President soon afterward; followed by Rickie Williamson of El Paso Disposal. He served as President until NEBA disbanded. Renewed Commitment
The original NEBA board members decided to resurrect the organization in 2007. They sponsored a Holiday Reunion to discuss how they could create a successful version of the Northeast Business Alliance. New bylaws were enacted to support a new vision that more closely aligned to the needs of northeast businesses and the community. They now meet the third Tuesday of each month. Everyone is welcome to NEBA meetings.
