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Current E-News
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Greater San Diego Business Association |
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| Friends Do Business With Friends! |
December 3rd, 2007 |
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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.
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Newsletter Opportunities |
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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.

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Proud Member of... |
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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.
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California Marriage Equality Update |
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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)

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Tax Changes for Domestic Partners |
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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)

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Voting Dates & Deadlines |
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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)

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HR California: Just the Fax |
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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.
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Safety Tips from SDG&E |
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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.

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Open4Biz - Member to Member Benefits! |
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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

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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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