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Greater San Diego Business Association )
Friends Do Business With Friends! December 3rd, 2007
In this issue...
  • Newsletter Opportunities
  • Proud Member of...
  • California Marriage Equality Update
  • Tax Changes for Domestic Partners
  • Voting Dates & Deadlines
  • HR California: Just the Fax
  • Safety Tips from SDG&E
  • Open4Biz - Member to Member Benefits!

     

  • GSDBA Subscriber,

    We present to you the December Issue of the Greater San Diego Business Association's e-News.

    The Greater San Diego Business Association (GSDBA), San Diego's Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, promotes business development to increase economic opportunities for our members, the LGBT community and all who support business equality.


     

    Newsletter Opportunities

    Articles
    Write an article about your business to increase your visiblity and market yourself to the GSDBA membership.

    New Member Profile
    Promotes members in their first year with the GSDBA!

    Business Spotlight
    Highlights longterm members!

    Information Exchange
    Gets the word out on important business topics and vital business information.

    All articles are 375 words without picture or logo / 350 words with picture or logo. Please submit all articles to joycemarieb@gsdba.org. Articles are published in order of reception.

    Out & About
    Write a brief paragraph about your recent accomplishment, award or success! Let GSDBA Members know about the recent highlights in your business! Few members take advantage of promoting their business accomplishments so be sure to take your 15 minutes of fame; you've earned it! Paragraphs are needed by December 12th for the Jan/Feb issue.

    Inserts
    Why pay postage? Advertise in the GSDBA Newsletter by including an insert! A great way to promote specials or events! Insert Reservations are Required. To guarantee your insert space contact the GSDBA office directly at 619-296-4543. The next available insert space is for the Jan/Feb issue. Standard size (8 1/2 x 11) flyers are $140 for general and associate members and $80 for nonprofit members. Postcard or Brochure inserts are $180 for general and associate members and $140 for nonprofit members due to the extra charge for non standard sizes.

     

    Proud Member of...

    Let's tout the fact that we are members of a great Chamber of Commerce! With 850 members, GSDBA is the second largest LGBT chamber in the country and is known locally and nationally for our accomplishments and the growth of our member businesses.

    As a sign of pride in membership, please use the "Proud Member of..." in all of your advertising. This logo signals to consumers your adherence to a business code of ethics and your support of the LGBT business equality movement.

    Click here to download the "Proud Member" GSDBA Logo.

     

    California Marriage Equality Update

    Governor Schwarzenegger Vetoes Marriage Bill; Signs Three Key Domestic Partnership Bills

    On Oct. 14th, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed the Assembly Bill 43 (Leno), the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, which had passed both the California State Senate and Assembly and would have granted all couples the freedom to marry. In his veto message, Schwarzenegger reiterated that all Californians are entitled to full protection under the law "and should not be discriminated against based upon their sexual orientation" but contended "voters and the state Supreme Court should decide the issue."

    However, Schwarzenegger did sign into law three bills that extend the rights for domestic partners. The first, the Name Equality Act (AB 102), will allow California's registered domestic partners to be able to choose a common family name when they register with the state and also makes it easier for a husband to take his wife's last name upon marriage.

    The Joint Income Tax Filing Implementation Bill (SB 105) was also signed, which simplifies the process for domestic partners filing their 2007 state income tax returns next year by creating a worksheet to calculate their joint income from their separate federal returns. This legislation was necessary because federal law does not treat California domestic partners as it does legal spouses.

    Lastly, Schwarzenegger signed the Fair and Equal Taxation for Surviving Partners Act (SB 559), which reverses discriminatory tax increases for domestic partners whose partner died before a 2006 law went into effect protecting them against unfair property reassessments.

    (--Quoted from The Center's November e-News)

     

    Tax Changes for Domestic Partners

    California Tax Law Changes for Registered Domestic Partners.

    On September 29, 2006, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed California Senate Bill 1827, the "State Income Tax Equity Act" into law, effective as of January 1, 2007. SB 1827 amended the California law (taxation and family codes) to provide Registered Domestic Partners with the same rights and responsibilities of married couples in the state of California. This, in turn, extended the requirement of filing a joint income tax return - namely, a "married filing joint" or "married filing separate" for California purposes. In some cases, a person may qualify in California for "head of household" filing status.

    Therefore, as of the 2007 tax year, Registered Domestic Partners must begin filing joint California tax returns. This means that Registered Domestic Partners must file jointly a California tax return on or before the April 15, 2008 deadline. This may help Registered Domestic Partners that would benefit from combining their deductions, but where both Registered Domestic Partners are wage earners, their combined incomes may place them into a higher tax bracket.

    Complicating matters is the fact that Registered Domestic Partners will be required to file different returns for federal tax purposes. Due to the Defense of Marriage Act passed by Congress and signed into law by President Clinton on September 21, 1996, the federal government does not recognize Registered Domestic Partner status. Therefore, Registered Domestic Partners cannot file a joint federal income tax return. Instead, they must continue to file separate federal personal tax returns.

    With this change in filing status, advance planning is key. It is important to speak with a tax professional to discuss how the change in California reporting status will affect you, and also whether you should currently update California withholding allowances.

    (--Quoted from GRACEHOLLIS' November legal e- Newsletter)

     

    Voting Dates & Deadlines

    Voting is one of the most important, effective ways we have to make a difference - a difference not only on issues of our own equality, but on the universal concerns we share as LGBT Americans, including the war, health care, the economy, employment, education and foreign relations.

    In order to be eligible to vote in the statewide election on:
    Feb. 5, 2008, June 3, 2008, or Nov. 4, 2008.

    Registration must be postmarked no later than:
    Jan. 22, 2008, May 19, 2008, or Oct. 20, 2008.

    If you are voting by mail, your application must be postmarked no later than:
    Jan. 29, 2008, May 27th, 2008, or Oct. 28, 2008.

    If you are not yet registered, or have moved since the last election, you must register with the San Diego County Registrar of Voters. There are three options to register - online at www.sdvote.com, by picking up a postcard registration form at the Registrar's office (5201 Ruffin Road, Ste. I, San Diego, CA 92123), at any city clerk's office in San Diego County, at the Department of Motor Vehicles, U.S. post offices and public libraries. Or, you can call the Registrar's office at (858) 565-5800 and request a registration postcard.

    (--Information provided by The Center)

     

    HR California: Just the Fax

    When parties have an established business relationship, an unsolicited fax advertisement can be deemed invited or permitted by the recipient, and not a violation of the federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act (Act) of 1991. The recipient is required to tell the other party to stop contacting it or stop sending faxes -- merely informing them that the recipient is not interested in the subject of the advertisement is not sufficient to establish a violation of the Act. Catalyst Strategic Design, Inc. v. Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc. (August 2, 2007) 153 Cal. App. 4th 1328.

    What Should You Do?

     

    (--from the November HRCaliforniaExtra)

    • Do not send unsolicited faxes.
    • Provide fax recipients with specific directions as to how to opt out of future faxes.
    • If you are the recipient of an unsolicited fax, notify the sender in writing that you do not wish to receive future faxes.

     

    Safety Tips from SDG&E

    Whether you have space-heating boilers, water- heating systems, process boilers, food-service equipment, microturbines or other natural gas-fired equipment, your safety checklist should include the following steps:

    1. Once a year, have a licensed contractor test, clean and adjust your gas equipment. This service should include checking gas connections, gas pressure, burner combustion, thermostat accuracy and system controls.

    2. To avoid illness and even death, know the warning signs of carbon monoxide:

    ·A yellow, large, unsteady burner flame in gas equipment.
    ·An unusual pungent odor caused by poor combustion when gas equipment is running.
    ·Unexplained nausea, drowsiness and flu-like symptoms among building occupants, which may indicate carbon monoxide poisoning and a need for immediate medical attention.

    3. If you suspect carbon monoxide is present, shut off the equipment and get it inspected right away by a licensed contractor or San Diego Gas & Electric®.

    4. Keep gas equipment free of dust, lint and any obstructions to airflow.

    Never use or store flammable products near gas equipment or other heat-producing devices.

    For more safety tips, visit www.sdge.com/safety or call 1-800-411-SDGE (7343). Providing you with safety information, safe and reliable energy, and round-the- clock emergency response is all part of SDG&E's commitment to safety.

     

    Open4Biz - Member to Member Benefits!



    Your business can also offer benefits to our members. Click on the Open4Biz logo to download the form from our website.


    ACUPUNCTURE

    CHRISTINE MILLER, L.AC.
    4754 Palm Avenue
    La Mesa, CA 91941
    619-302-1129
    acumiller@znet.com

    15% off of First Acupuncture visit for members and their partners.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    Christine Kinsella, L.Ac.
    TO THE POINT GASLAMP ACUPUNCTURE
    711 4th Avenue, Suite 201
    San Diego, CA 92101
    619-955-1050
    Fax: 619-955-1055 fax
    info@tothepointga.com
    http://www.tothepointga.com

    20% off acupuncture services or Chinese Herbal Consultations for GSDBA members and their partners.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    AD SPECIALTIES

    Casey Poldino
    CLEVER ADVANTAGE INC.
    611 K Street, Suite B #161
    San Diego, CA 92101
    866-698-SPIN
    Alt: 619-564-4841 fax
    Casey@cleveradvantage.com
    http://www.cleveradvantage.com

    10% discount off all Clever Advantage promotional products.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    AIR CONDITIONING

    Franco Testa
    MY PLUMBER SAN DIEGO LLP
    5490 Complex Street, #603
    San Diego, CA 92123
    858-565-2200
    Fax: 858-430-0520 fax
    Franco@myplumber.com

    10% discount for regular service with My Plumber. * With any A/C maintenance My Plumber performs for GSDBA members - My Plumber will donate 10% of the service call to The Human Dignity Foundation.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    AUDIO PRODUCTION

    Jeff Gelder-President
    GELDERHEAD AUDIO PRODUCTIONS
    P.O. Box 3386
    San Diego, CA 92163-3386
    Studio: 619-795-1740
    Cell/Pager: 760-613-0220
    info@GelderHead.com
    http://www.gelderhead.com

    I will offer a 20% discount to any GSDBA member who mentions it.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Stuart Billmeyer
    CARPET CLEAN, INC
    P.O. Box 34584
    San Diego, CA 92163
    619-291-3437
    Fax: 619-255-3058 fax
    stuscarpetclean@cox.net

    20% off Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    CHIROPRACTORS

    West Coast Wellnes Center
    DR. COLIN P. MACKAY & DR. SARAH MACKAY
    9040 Friars Road , Suite 240
    San Diego, CA 92108
    619-280-0201
    Fax: 619-280-0801 fax
    drcolin@cfoctpc.com

    Come in for a complimentary evaluation. Offer valued at $150.00. We work with all types of insurances.

    Expires: 4/30/2008

    Dr. Brian Austin
    HEALING TOUCH CHIROPRACTIC
    3985 5th Ave. Suite 100
    San Diego, CA 92103
    619-299-4847
    Fax: 619-299-4837
    ba.chiro@gmail.com
    http://www.HealingTouchHillcrest.com

    Comprehensive Wellness Evaluation: lifestyle assessment, nervous system stress test, spinal health record (x-rays), posture evaluation- Retail $595 - GSDBA Members only $45.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    COMMITMENT CEREMONIES

    Rev. Marcia J. Hootman
    MARRYU.COM
    San Diego, CA
    858-353-0784
    Fax: 858-720-1159
    revmarcia@marryu.com

    We offer a continuous 10% discount to GSDBA Members.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    CONTRACTORS

    MR. HANDYMAN
    1010 University Avenue, #1585
    San Diego, CA 92103
    619-255-2466
    Fax: 619-330-2733
    nenette@cox.net

    Receive 15% off labor only. Mention this offer when booking your job.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    FINANCIAL PLANNING/INVESTMENTS

    R. Stephan Bayani
    LINCOLN INVESTMENT PLANNING, INC.
    1643 Sixth Avenue, Suite 105
    San Diego, CA 92101
    619-795-1353
    Alt: 800-242-1421 Ext: 2756
    sbayani@lincolninvestment.com

    One complimentary hour of Financial, Retirement & Investment Consulting.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    Craig Conwell
    MERRILL LYNCH
    701 B Street, Suite 2400
    San Diego, CA 92101
    619-699-3813
    Fax: 619-567-4224
    craig_conwell@ml.com
    http://www.fa.ml.com/craig_conwell

    Free Goals Assessment, Asset Allocation Analysis, Interactive Financial Modeling for "What-If" Scenarios, Investmetn Proposals, Retirement Solutions, Mortgages + Lending and Estate Planning.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    Eric Brown, CMFC
    WADDELL & REED, INC
    1450 Frazee Road, Suite 210
    San Diego, CA 92108
    619-297-2003
    Fax: 619-297-2017
    ericbrown@wradvisors.com

    One complimentary hour of financial planning. Complimentary Asset Allocation review. Additional planning services offered with a 20% discount.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    FLORISTS

    DREAM FLORIST
    3828 5th Avenue
    San Diego, CA 92103
    619-543-9210
    619-543-9213 fax
    mmhoward2@yahoo.com
    http://www.dreamflorist.net

    All GSDBA members receive 10% discount valid with membership card on all orders.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    GREETING CARDS
    Sheri Hendrickson
    SendOutCards
    Lakeside, CA
    619-253-0524
    Fax: 619-334-3035
    HendiEnt10@cox.net
    http://www.SendOutCards.com/27072

    Free presentation & training on how to become a sender of cards. Send two complimentary cards of your choice when we get together and I show you the system. Please mention this when calling.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    HAIR STYLISTS

    Stan Bloomfield
    HAIRSPRAY
    141 University Avenue, Suite 2
    San Diego, CA 92103
    619-297-9333

    20% Discount to GSDBA members.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    HANDYPERSON

    MR. HANDYMAN
    1010 University Avenue, #1585
    San Diego, CA 92103
    619-255-2466
    Fax: 619-330-2733
    nenette@cox.net
    http://www.mrhandyman.com

    Receive 15% off labor only. Mention this offer when booking your job.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    HEALTH/FITNESS

    EDGE FITNESS PERSONAL TRAINING GROUP
    734 University Avenue, Suite D
    San Diego, CA 92103
    619-997-7488
    info@yourfitnessedge.com

    Coach Cory is offering- 10% off on 10-week personal training and nutrition programs for GSDBA members and their partners. Valid at Edge facility and with GSDBA membership card. A gym membership is recommended but not required. Call him at 619-517- 3223.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    Daniela Schellenberg, MA, CPI, CFP
    FUNCTIONAL BODYWORKS CENTER
    7248 Camino Degrazia, #292
    San Diego, CA 92111
    858-715-0255
    info@functionalbodyworks.com
    http://www.functionalbodyworks.com

    Unique health & fitness approach - Integrative progams in Pilates, Metabolic Typing Nutrition & Feldenkrais Method, private atmosphere. Comprehensive Assessment - value $125 - GSDBA members only $45 - 15% off on a 2-month program.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    HEATING

    Francesco Testa
    MY PLUMBER SAN DIEGO LLP
    5490 Complex Street, #603
    San Diego, CA 92123
    858-565-2200
    Fax: 858-430-0520
    Franco@myplumber.com

    10% discount for regular service with My Plumber. * With any A/C maintenance My Plumber performs for GSDBA members - My Plumber will donate 10% of the service call to The Human Dignity Foundation.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    HOTELS/RESORTS

    Jeff Hugger
    HANDLERY HOTEL & RESORT
    950 Hotel Circle North
    San Diego, CA 92108
    619-298-0511
    Fax: 619-260-8235
    Sales@handlery.com

    Complimentary parking for any event booked at the hotel. Also, take 10% off in our restaurant, Postcards American Bistro.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS SAN DIEGO (DOWNTOWN)
    1430 7th Avenue
    San Diego, CA 92101
    619-696-0911
    Fax: 619-239-0138 fax
    lmoore@hiexpsandiego.com
    http://www.hiexpsandiego.com

    We offer special rates for Guest Rooms and Meeting Rooms to GSDBA members.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    Dora Guillen
    HOTEL LA JOLLA
    7955 La Jolla Shores Drive
    La Jolla, CA 92037
    858-551-3612
    Fax: 858-459-7649
    dguillen@hotellajolla.com
    http://www.hotellajolla.com

    15% off Ocean View Rooms! All non-smoking hotel with balconies. Free shuttle bus to Black's Beach!

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    Ken Dolan
    MANCHESTER GRAND HYATT SAN DIEGO
    One Market Place
    San Diego, CA 92101
    619-232-1234
    Fax: 619-239-5678
    kjdolan@hyatt.com
    http://www.manchestergrand.hyatt.com

    "TAG", we're it! Experience the best of the city at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. Boasting a spectacular waterfront location and lavish amenities, this unique urban resort offers a retreat for everyone. Rates from $199 per night per room for GSDBA Members. Special Summer Rates for GSDBA Members from $149 valid June 14-17, July 29-31 and August 1-3 Call 1-800-55-HYATT or 619-239-5678 for reservations. Rates are subject to availability at time of booking. Upgrades are available.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    HYPNOTHERAPISTS

    Mitch Metzner, M.Ed., CCH
    MIND, BODY, SPIRIT CENTER OF HEALING ARTS
    3140 University Avenue, Suite 1
    619-546-0995
    Fax: 619-546-0995
    mitcheal@mitchmetzner.com
    http://www.mitchmetzner.com

    50% discount to GSDBA members.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    LIGHTING

    LaGina Glass
    OUTDOOR LIGHTING PERSPECTIVES OF SAN DIEGO
    San Diego's Specialist in Outdoor Lighting Serving All of San Diego.
    619-237-9755
    Fax: 619-237-9426
    lagina@outdoorlights.com
    http://www.outdoorlights.com

    10% off (maximum $500) to GSDBA Members and their families. Please mention ad when scheduling.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    MASSAGE THERAPISTS

    Mitch Metzner, M.Ed., CCH
    MIND, BODY, SPIRIT CENTER OF HEALING ARTS
    3140 University Avenue, Suite 1
    619-546-0995
    Fax: 619-546-0995
    mitcheal@mitchmetzner.com
    http://www.mitchmetzner.com

    50% discount to GSDBA members.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

    Frank G. Scarpaci
    PROJECT DESIGNWORKS
    P.O. Box 3788
    San Diego, CA 92163
    619-446-6780
    info@projectdesignworks.com
    http://www.projectdesignworks.com

    10% Discount off our Project Coaching & Mentoring Packages. Goto for package details.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    PAYROLL SERVICES

    Nicole Wagy
    PAYCHEX, INC
    8520 Tech Way, Suite 200
    San Diego, CA 92123
    858-467-7000 x52028
    Fax: 858-569-4104
    nwagy@paychex.com
    http://www.paychex.com

    Members receive 20% discount and will be charged $0 for setup fees for all new accounts opened prior to 6/1/2007. Members receive 10% discount for all new accounts opened prior to 12/31/2007. Does not apply to Health Insurance or Worker's Comp. Premiums.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    PHYSICIANS
    Dr. Ron Worley
    THE FOOT DOCTOR
    1855 First Avenue
    San Diego, CA 92101
    619-231-1797
    DrRDWorley@yahoo.com
    http://www.SDFootDoctor.com

    20% off out-of-pocket.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    PLUMBING

    Francesco Testa
    MY PLUMBER SAN DIEGO LLP
    5490 Complex Street, #603
    San Diego, CA 92123
    858-565-2200
    Fax: 858-430-0520
    Franco@myplumber.com

    10% discount for regular service with My Plumber. * With any A/C maintenance My Plumber performs for GSDBA members - My Plumber will donate 10% of the service call to The Human Dignity Foundation.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    PROJECT MANAGEMENT

    Frank G. Scarpaci
    PROJECT DESIGNWORKS
    P.O. Box 3788
    San Diego, CA 92163
    619-446-6780
    info@projectdesignworks.com
    http://www.projectdesignworks.com

    10% Discount off our Project Coaching & Mentoring Packages. Goto for package details.

    Expires: 12/31/2008
    REAL ESTATE INSPECTIONS

    SOCAL HOME INSPECTIONS
    P.O. Box 4509
    San Diego, CA 92164-4509
    619-884-8973
    619-280-7580 fax
    PeteTheInspector@aol.com
    http://www.PeteTheInspector.com

    10% Discount to GSDBA Members on Home Inspections and Home Energy Audits.

    Expires: No Expiration

    REAL ESTATE LOANS

    Tim Carpenter
    CAL CREATIVE LOANS
    3131 Camino del Rio North, Suite 400
    San Diego, CA 92108
    619-749-8899
    TimC@CalCreativeLoans.com
    http://www.LoanCarpenter.com

    Appraisal rebate at closing up to $500 or donation in your name to Fraternity House / Michaele's House - caring for those in need.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    Greg Von Herzen
    MISSION PACIFIC MORTGAGE
    7575 Eads Avenue, Suite 102
    La Jolla, CA 92037
    619-884-2697
    Alt: 858-456-3000
    sdloans@aol.com

    Appraisal Credit at closing up to $500.00 or a donation in your name to Gay Youth Housing through MAREYAH- Metro Area Real Estate Professionals for Youth Adult Housing.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    SKIN CARE

    Sheri Hendrickson
    SWISS SKIN SYSTEMS - ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL
    Lakeside, CA
    619-253-0524
    Fax: 619-334-3035
    SwissSkinSheri@myarbonne.com

    35% Discount to members and their families. Please call for your free consultation, more information on specials or to set up an appointment.

    Expires: 12/31/2007

    TAX PREPARATION

    Rebecca Luers, CPA
    LUERS & DYER CPAs, LLP
    3751 37th Street, #2
    San Diego, CA 92105
    619-283-7113
    Alt: 760-765-0343
    rebecca@luerscpa.com

    All GSDBA members receive 10% discount on all professional services.

    Expires: 12/31/2008

    WELLNESS

    GREAT START WELLNESS
    800-574-8574
    888-574-8574 fax
    greatstartwellness@gmail.com
    http://www.greatstartwellness.com

    Promotion Code, GSDBA, for a 15% discount on all products.

    Expires: 12/31/2007


     

    Sponsors

    The Greater San Diego Business Association (GSDBA), San Diego's Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, promotes business development to increase economic opportunities for our members, the LGBT community and all who support business equality.

     

     

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