GSDBA Jan-Feb 2012 Community Connection

The 2012Directoryis out!

The News Magazine of the Greater San Diego Business Association | San Diego’s Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce | Volume 18 | Issue No. 1 - January/February 2012

[02] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [31]

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IN THIS ISSUE

On the cover: Superhero, Chris DorazioCover photography: Kaleb Scott Photographs

[04] Letter from the CEO Planning Ahead

[12] The Ten Percentage Pledge Eclipse Choclat’s Will Gustwilleron charitable contributions

[14] Supporting StudentsNational EducatorsConference Focused on LGBTQIA youth

[28] Start 2012 Off RightDr. Bridget O’Connellgives us new tatics

DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in this publication, adver -

GSDBA, its Board, or its members. Publication of the name, photograph or likeness of any person, organization or business in this newsletter is not to be construed as any indication of

.ssenisub ro noitazinagro ,nosrep taht fo noitatneiro lauxes ehtContents of this publication may not be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the editor.

Mailing AddressP.O. Box 33848 San Diego, CA 92163

phone: 619-296-4543 | fax: 619-296-5616email: [email protected] | web: www.gsdba.org

GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine

3737 Fifth Avenue, Suite 205 San Diego, CA 92103

Volume 18 | Issue No. 1 | January - February 2012

Complimentary Copy

Copyright © 2012 GSBDA

NEWS HAS BROKEN THAT THE 2012 GSDBA DIRECTORY IS ON THE STREETS...

THE NEW DIRECTORY IS ALREADY OUT?!?

YES, SINCE THE FIRST OF JANUARY!

I WAIT EVERY YEARFOR IT....WHERE CANI PICK ONE UP?

AT OVER 120 LOCATIONS ALL OVER SAN DIEGO!!!

GREAT. IS IT ALSO AVAILABLE AS AN iPHONE, iPAD & DROID APP?

OUTTA MY WAY...I’VE GOT TOGET MY OWN COPY RIGHT NOW!

Monday Evening La Mesa Group5:30 pm to 6:30 pmMarcella Junes in La Mesa

Tuesday Morning Group8:30am to 9:30amMonica’s at the Park in University Heights

Tuesday Lunch Group12:00pm to 1:00pmKensington Café4141 Adams Avenue

Wednesday Morning Group8:00am to 9:00am Mimi’s in Mission Valley

Wednesday Lunch Group12:00pm to 1:00pmEden at 1202 University Avenue

Wednesday Evening Group5:30 pm to 6:30 pmR-Gang Eatery3683 5th Ave at Pennsylvania

Thursday Morning Group8:00am to 9:00amMonica’s at the Park in University Heights

Thursday Lunch Group12:00pm to 1:00pmTop of the Park @ Inn at the Park

Thursday Evening Group5:30pm to 6:30pmR-Gang Eatery3683 5th Ave at Pennsylvania

The Affinity for Business Groups program is designed to provide professional development for members in the same or related professions. The focus is to support one another within a specific

professional field and to help participants bring their businesses to a new level. The groups meet once a month. The format of each group is decided by the group and includes significant time for the exchange of ideas and information. Groups include guest speakers and/or group member presentations on topics of interest. Affinity Groups are FREE to GSDBA members.

NETWORKING @ GSDBABusiness Networking Groups (BNGs)Affinity for Business Groups

where great minds think alike increasing business through qualified referrals

The GSDBA Business Networking Groups (aka BNGs) are hard working business people coming together to support one

another. The BNGs’ primary goal is to assist their members obtain business leads known as “tips.” Some BNG members have been in business for many years while others are just starting out. What we all have in common is a desire to excel in what we do and the wis-dom to know it is easier to achieve success with the kind of strong support system found in a BNG.

BNG’s offer a forum where GSDBA members can increase their business through network-ing with other members on a regular basis. They offer a supportive environment that allows each member to share products or services with others who want to help them succeed. Conflicts of interest are not allowed, meaning once you join, a competitor of yours in the same business category cannot join your group.

The generation of business tips is not the only opportunity BNGs offer. In our BNG groups we share ideas, learn new and better ways to

conduct our business, create new business alliances and build new friendships. During our meetings and other BNG functions, our members get to know one another and at-tain a better understanding of each other’s business. Knowing the nature and extent of the services our members offer makes it that much easier for us to exchange valuable busi-ness leads.

Each BNG meets once a week. For the early birds, we have morning meetings and for those who prefer to sleep in, we also have noontime and evening meetings. BNG mem-bers work in a wide variety of businesses. Each group member chooses a business cat-egory for which he or she will be seeking tips. Once you begin, the possibilities are endless!

Contact the BNG Facilitator for specific in-formation about visiting a BNG for the first time or to see if there is a space available for your business category.

BNG Dues:$40 for new BNG members $35 each trimester thereafter$100 for a full year (3 trimesters)

Note to Prospective Members: If you are interested in visiting a BNG, please contact the Facilitator at least 24-hours in advance to arrange your visit. Sorry, we do not allow non-GSDBA mem-bers to present information to the group unless first approved by the Facilitator. All current BNG members must notify the Facil-itator if they want to bring a guest to their BNG. Guests and prospective BNG members may visit each BNG one time prior to join-ing, and must become a GSDBA Member to attend after that. Thank you.

FINANCIAL SERVICES & Allied FieldsCategories Include: Banking - Business Brokerages - Credit Card Processing - Escrow - Financial Planning - Insurance - Loan Modi-fiers - Real Estate Loans and more!

HEALTH & Allied FieldsGroups included are: Acupuncturists, Chiropractors, Counselors, Dentists, Health & Fitness, Holistic Health, Hypnotherapists, Massage Therapists, Nutrition, Optometrists, Personal Trainers, Physicians, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Skin Care, Spas

HOME IMPROVEMENT & Allied FieldsGroups included in this Category: Cleaning - Landscaping - Paint-ing - Handy Person - Contractors - Roofers - Organizing Services - Decorators/Designers - Architects - Plumbers - Heat/Air Electri-cians - Granite - Remodeling - Cabinet Makers - Lighting - Doors.

MARKETING & Allied FieldsCategories Include: Ad Specialties - Graphic Designers - Photogra-phers - Web Designers - Printers - Marketing.

REAL ESTATE & Allied FieldsGroups Included are:-Appraisal - Escrow - Home Inspectors-Mortgage Brokers - Real Estate Agents - Banks-Title Companies

SMALL BUSINESS Affinity GroupWith a Focus on Business Owners with 2 to 20 Employees

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Affinity GroupThe GSDBA has launched the Young Professionals Affinity group to help groom and foster the next generation of young profes-sionals into seasoned and mature leaders who are looked at to take the organization or department to the next level.

Visit our website for for more information.Click on ‘Networking’

for GSDBA members

Current Business Networking Groups:

[30] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012

Check online for contact information, meeting times and locations.

www.gsdba.org/networking. Click on Affinity Groups

Check online for

Facilitator Contact

Information

www.gsdba.org/networking. Click on BNGS

GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [03]

facebook.com/gsdba

twitter.com/gsdba

Download the GSDBA Directory App for iPhone & iPad (FREE on iTunes) and the Droid app in the Android Marketplace

Letter from the CEO

[email protected] GSDBA on...


Our VisionBuilding Business Prosperity and Equality

Our MissionThe Greater San Diego Business Association promotes prosperity and equality for our members, supporters, and the LGBT community

Eric Brown

GSDBA Corporate Partners and Sponsors

BOARD OF DIRECTORSTom Welch, ChairSecurity Business Bank of San Diego

Jon Borgeson, Past ChairCox Communications

Rebecca Luers, CPA, Vice ChairLuers & Dyer CPAs, LLP

Danielle P. Barger, TreasurerBarger Law Group, APC

Kevin Atto, SecretarySan Diego Pro Cleaning

Eric D. Brown, CMFCWaddell & Reed, Inc.

Christianna Connellfuture-ink

Deborah DimerySan Diego Recreation and Benefits Association

Lance A. GrucelaLaw Offices of Lance A. Grucela

Justin KnepperBank of the West

Ira LeavensCoastline Office Solutions

Cindy LehmanCalifornia Bank & Trust

Seth MakechnieComerica Bank

Keith RobinsonThe Dana on Mission Bay

Cory RussoBodies @ Work

GSDBA STAFFTom Luhnow, EditorChief Executive [email protected]

Sue Sneeringer, ContributorOperations [email protected]

Eric Carroll, Design & LayoutMember Services [email protected]

Matt Harding, Advertising SalesAssociation [email protected]

Emily Mitchell, Junior EditorAdministrative [email protected]

Special Assistance by Cathy Paddock, Missing Ink Printing & Graphics

Design ContributorRae Nesterwww.raediantdesign.com

20%Discount

for G .S .D .B .A . Members

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PLANNING AHEADWith the start of a new calendar year, I’m reminded of all those things one can put off but which add up to something important down the road. And we never know when the road will come to an end!

I’m referring to having a will in place, a power of attorney, and a medical power of attorney. Otherwise one’s estate goes to the next of kin (or the State of California if there is no kin). That means your sister in Ohio who you haven’t spoken to in 20 years could hit the jackpot unless you handle this and it isn’t all that complicated to do. If you have no next of kin, what about contributing to the endowment of one of our worthy LGBT non-profits so your estate continues to help others for years to come?

Necessary professionals may well include a CPA, insurance agent, and a geriatric care manager. Pick ones who specialize in the needs of the LGBT community and who stay current with changing laws and products.

Another part of planning ahead looms for baby boomers: who do we need to take care of and who will take care of us? Organized care planning and management eases the stress and possible trauma of aging incidents.

And it is never too early nor too late to have a financial adviser.

If you write a list of resolutions at the start of each year, this is a good time to include the above items. It also reduces your stress level to know these have all been handled so loved ones or strangers don’t have to decide what to do with you or your estate. There are no crises when you plan ahead, just solvable situations that have been carefully thought out and planned for.

I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that you can find all these resources in the new 2012 Directory. It’s your guide to the services our more than 920 members provide, so use them!

Grow GSDBA to 1000 Members Strong!

Be part of the Annual Membership Drive

February

1-282012

The New Year brings promise of new beginnings

and resolutions. We often begin the year with

lofty goals to be disregarded a month later. This

year can be a success if we change tactics! As we

know, “the definition of insanity is repeating the

same thing over and over again and expecting a

different result.” So let’s not be crazy, but instead

proactive, and reach our goals in 2012!

List your goals for 2012 and identify the

obstacles to reaching them. Think back to years

past…what gets in the way of celebrating your

success? Identifying and addressing obstacles can

be the game changer. The main obstacle that our

practitioners see is STRESS!

When we are under stress, be it work,

relationship trouble or financial difficulty,

our body reacts like a caveman under

attack and stops thinking about goals.

In that moment we are just trying to get

through the here and now. Thankfully,

our stressors are not like a caveman’s

(such as being eaten by a lion).

But modern-day stressors are chronic and often

triggered daily. So it makes sense that you may

wake up with the intention of eating of a salad

with lean protein for lunch but while sitting at

your desk with phones ringing, florescent lights

glaring, and a deadline looming, you reach for the

sugary or carb-loaded meal and forget that goal!

Be realistic: The stressors will be there but how

you react to them is under your control. We can

reach our various goals of weight loss, healthy

eating or quitting our vices if we address how we

manage our stress.

Stress management is best addressed through

a variety of methods. Naturopathic and

internal medicine will evaluate your adrenal

health, nutritional status and emotional

responses through specialized lab testing

followed by Nutrition, Vitamin therapy,

Botanical blends and Hormone

balancing to nourish and calm your

nervous system.

Acupuncture can restore energy pathways,

remove stagnation and stimulate relaxation.

Chiropractic, massage and physical therapy will

support optimal structural health to allow your

body to function well. If your body is suffering

from a structural problem, then the answer is a

physical solution. Chiropractic, massage and

physical therapy IS that solution.

Cal-Med Injury and Rehab, formerly known

as Robek Chiropractic, addresses Stress

Management with each patient. Cal-Med provides

optimum patient care with cohesive treatments

and philosophies ensuring that your health is a

priority through each stage of treatment. We

are excited to announce our new beginning as a

fully integrative health care facility with access

to general medical care, naturopathic medicine,

physical therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture and

massage therapy. Cal-Med supports you and your

goals; let’s celebrate your success in 2012!

Meet your healthcare team (from left to right):

Dr. Bridget O’Connell, Dr. Jeff Anderson,

Dr. Shawn Robek, Dr. Darren Farnesi

Start 2012 Off RightGSDBA EVENTS CALENDAR


The 2012 GSDBA Directory is here!Available in Print, iPhoneTM, iPadTM, Online, and AndroidTM Devices

www.gsdba.org[06] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [27]

IMAGEWEB

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WHAT IS YOUR OFFER?Not only your service or product, but also what sort of emotion are you intending to produce? Excitement Empowerment Peace

WHAT IS YOUR LANGUAGE?The images/symbols that you will utilize to transmit your message. How can you make it “your own”? Bright Modern Dark & Sexy

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CREATIVE SERVICES


The Social Networkby Matt Harding, Association Representative, GSDBA

Message from GSDBA’s Board Chair

Tom WelchSecurity Business Bank of San DiegoGSDBA Board Chair


As we reflect back over the past year we can see that great strides have been made to enhance the GSDBA and our offerings to our members. The New 2012 Business Directory includes all GSDBA members, whether you chose to advertise or not. Our membership continues to increase and has now reached over 920 members. We have developed Out-of-Region Affiliate Memberships so you can participate in other organizations for half the cost. I want to thank you for helping us to

accomplish these three organizational goals during 2011.

With the advent of the new year, we look to the future and need to strengthen our various organizational committees. Did you realize that we have ten different committees for you to participate in and grow your business? Here is a current list of our committees for you to consider:

1. Advocacy Committee2. Awards Luncheon Committee3. Ambassador Committee4. Business Networking Committee

5. Corporate Relations Development Committee6. Events Committee7. Finance Committee8. Membership Committee9. Professional Development Committee10. Technology Committee

Each one offers you a great opportunity to increase your participation and enhance your ability to meet other business owners within our organization, in addition to helping make our efforts more successful. Go to GSDBA.org to read more about the mission of each committee, when they meet and who to contact. I call upon you to join a committee during 2012 to increase your businesses’ visibility in the GSDBA. Your participation is required if we are going to make this the best LGBT business organization in the country. I wish you all a prosperous new year and look forward to meeting each of you in 2012.

Social media, social networking, online presence, blah blah blah. You’ve been hearing it for years now and like many,

probably haven’t had a chance (or desire) to do much about it.

Whether you are a social networking wiz or novice, your GSDBA profile is an incredibly powerful tool to help you grow your business, and can actually be a great tool for your total online presence. Here’s some quick tips and tools; for a quick video to show you how to do these and a lot more, visit www.GSDBA.org to check out my blog post!

Introduce yourself

Your profile is a great way to put your best foot forward. With the ability to include pictures, videos, and as much text as you like, you can tell your story to those who visit your page. The added benefit of having your information and website found by search engines, on an association website, will help you in search rankings, as well. If you haven’t set up a profile, do it now so you can reap at LEAST that benefit.

Connect

You add friends and post comments with your profile, just like other social networking sites. You can also set your page to share these updates with Facebook and Twitter instantly, making GSDBA.org a

simple and quick hub for your business social networking.

Move it to the Real World

Use your profile to connect with other GSDBA members in real life, too. Search profiles by key word or business category and reach out to your fellow members. Or check out the events page of an upcoming mixer or event – you’ll see others who are attending and can make some connections before you even arrive.

Messages you send will come from www.GSDBA.org, identifying you as a fellow member. The recipient can link back to your profile to learn all about you and your business, so you can keep your message short and sweet, and more likely to be read.

Establish yourself as an expert

Your profile includes a blog section, so if you’ve been putting off starting a blog you now have an easy place to do it. Blog posts can be written, OR post video entries. Once established, you can set up your blog to automatically feed to Facebook, another blog page, or even your own website.

Already have a blog? You can set that up to feed to your GSDBA profile, so it instantly updates!

We regularly feature blog posts of general interest on our home page as well, giving you and your business some face time with www.GSDBA.org visitors.

When a person becomes a member of the GSDBA, they often do so

with the goal of growing their business by increasing their visibility

and credibility within the LGBT community. One of the many ways

the GSDBA offers its members the opportunity to accomplish this goal

is through participation in a Business Networking Group (“BNG”).

Each BNG meets on a weekly basis and has as a primary focus the development of meaningful

business relationships between participants. Experienced business networkers know these

meaningful relationships will translate into trust, credibility and ultimately business referrals

between members.

Facilitated by Matthew Bevan, the Wednesday evening BNG has grown in size from just a

few participants to over 20 members in the last six months. With a variety of professions and

disciplines represented in the weekly meeting, each of the participants has the opportunity to

educate group members about their individual businesses, qualifications and services. Even

though business networking is the primary focus, the group members have a lot of fun making

connections and building relationships with one another.

Attorney Steven Kaftal has found that participating in the Wednesday evening BNG is instrumental

to his experience as a GSDBA member. In addition to enjoying the social aspect of regularly

interacting with the other members, Steve has found the BNG to be a “source of quality referrals

that have led to actual business.” In fact, when asked what element of GSDBA membership he

considered to be the most important to his overall experience as a GSDBA member, Steve stated

that participating in the BNG was “first on the list of things to do in the GSDBA because of the

great business relationships I have made.”

There is no shortage of success stories to be found among the participants of the Wednesday

evening BNG. Christina Higgins, a hypnotherapist, was initially invited to explore the group

by a BNG participant last June. Once Christina made the decision to join the group and had

participated for several weeks, she reports “the positive impact on business was astounding!”

Christina credits the business relationships inside the group with increased credibility and trust

among the members, which in turn has led to an increase in her business. When asked what she

most enjoyed about her overall GSDBA membership experience, Christina said that “participation

in the BNG group is the most important because of the weekly meetings and sense of loyalty

among the members. The monthly GSDBA Mixers are also a great source of new business and

a fun way to network!”

If your goal is to grow your business and referral base while increasing your visibility and

credibility within the LGBT community, now is the time to explore a BNG. As a program reserved

exclusively for GSDBA members, participation in a BNG offers numerous benefits, which will help

you get the most out of your GSDBA membership.

BNGs, an essential part of GSDBA membership

By Kevin Kellar, Kellar Law Group

Steve has found the BNG to be a “source of quality referrals that have led to actual business.”

Visit www.gsdba.org for more information


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Members talk about the striking differences between the GSDBA and other business networking associations. Not surprisingly, the members of the GSDBA have plenty to say about one of the largest business associations in San Diego. The GSDBA was founded in 1979 and continues to support small businesses in San Diego while advocating for acceptance of diversity as well as encouraging membership from anyone who supports equality for all.

Monthly mixers are a great opportunity for prospective members to see what makes the GSDBA different. Our relaxed monthly business mixers give members and prospective members a chance to meet and unwind from their busy work schedule. As Bob Eugley, owner of Mirror, Shower & Glass, pointed out: “other business association mixers feel like a shark tank where everyone is packed together and you spend more time trying to avoid typical sales people than you do trying to meet them.” And one enthusiastic member recently said, “Your people have fun! Yet I make meaningful contacts as well. What’s not to like?”

At the GSDBA, our members do act more like a family. “I feel more at home than with any other group,” says Rick Baray, Financial Planner with New England Financial. “I have tried other business associations and I don’t feel nearly as comfortable.”

Rick’s associate, Brian Jaeger, also a financial planner with New England Financial, had a similar observation: “When you are around other professionals who want to help, you just know it. Many industries are referral based, and with the GSDBA, members are happy to help.”

Joining the GSDBA has “improved my networking skills, helped in building business relationships, make new and lasting friendships, and be part of a community through an organization that stands out amongst the rest,” says Kalin Myers of Quantum Health & Wellness. Kalin says since he joined the GSDBA in June of 2011, every staff member has been helpful to provide answers and guidance on how to make the most of his GSDBA membership.

So as you can see, GSDBA is different in ways that add up to helping you succeed.

GSDBA IS DIFFERENT

by Steve Thury

“I feel more at home than with any other group”

“I didn’t know what I didn’t know! Now I can

explore in more depth the things that fit.” That

was the response from one participant at the

Speed Marketing 2 event held on November 7,

2011 by the GSDBA’s Marketing Affinity Group

(MAG). This sentiment was exactly what the

MAG group was hoping to evoke.

During this event, which was made possible by

a grant from the San Diego City Small Business

Enhancement Program, 17 participants

met with eight different GSDBA marketing

companies. From branding to website design

and development and everything in between,

participants were able to get insights on various

marketing concepts.

Using a format similar to speed dating, groups

of two or three participants moved from table

to table and spoke to marketing professionals.

Each participant had about four minutes to

discuss his or her company’s specific marketing

needs. Then MAG professionals were able to

give advice tailored specifically to those needs.

In addition to the marketing advice, each

participant was entered into a drawing for

a marketing package, which included gift

certificates from each of the marketing

companies at the event. The winner was Kevin

Wunderly from Innovatus Consulting.

Kevin, who is in the middle of rebranding his

business, was thrilled with winning the prize.

Even before winning, Kevin was inspired by

the event. He stated, “I knew immediately that

I wanted to work with some of the marketers

after meeting them for the first time at the

Speed Marketing event. It’s obvious everyone

is passionate about what they do and they

were able to answer all of the questions I

had regarding the challenges I have with my

marketing.”

If you missed this event, don’t worry. The

Marketing Affinity Group has decided to make

this an annual event! Keep a lookout for the

2012 Speed Marketing event and other events

by the GSDBA Marketing Affinity Group.

The marketing professionals included:

• Accurate Printing & Mailing

• ACT Web Consulting

• Belladia Marketing and Design

• BRANDgfx

• Cary Conrady (social media marketing consultant)

• dot-B-dot-B

• Kaleb Scott Photographs

• Melanie Peters Productions


The University of San Diego’s Division of Continuing and Pro-fessional Education is pleased to announce its new alliance with the Greater San Diego Business Association, GSDBA. “We are happy to be a part of the Cham-ber and look forward to sharing educational opportunities with its members,” said Jodi Waterhouse, Director of Corporate and Pro-fessional Education. USD and GSDBA are committed to sup-porting the economic growth and

success of members through on-going education. USD views the alliance as an important tool that will help educate GSDBA mem-bers about the unique training and development opportunities offered through USD’s Division of Continuing and Professional Education. Four GSDBA members --- Jeune Ortiz, Christianna O’Connell, Stacey McKibbin and Ann marie Houghtailing --- are now teaching in two of the university’s certifi-cate programs: Online Marketing Strategies (OMS) and Institute for Sales and Business Develop-ment (ISBD). Both programs look to bring practical solutions to business owners and professionals throughout San Diego commu-nity. Designed to meet the unique needs of working professionals,

participants in USD’s Division of Continuing and Professional Edu-cation programs learn about best practices and trends from respect-ed professionals. “The moment our students leave the classroom, they have acquired new skills that can immediately be imple-mented in the workplace,” said Waterhouse. “Most programs can be completed in as little as eight months,” added Waterhouse. Through the alliance, GSDBA members will receive a 10% dis-count on all registrations. Begin-ning spring 2012, USD will begin an open campus initiative making it possible for non-matriculated students to enroll in open classes. For more information call (619) 260-5976, or visit www.sandiego.edu/ce.

USD’s Division of Continuingand Professional Education isExpanding its Community

The University of San Diego Division of Professional and Continuing Education houses a variety of professional programs and services that extend the University’s reach to the San Diego business community, international corporations, and educators in California and beyond.

Programs include a variety of workshops, seminars, in-house training, English-language services, graduate level extension classes and certifications and non-degree credit classes. The Division is housed in the Douglas F. Manchester Executive Conference Center which is also available for the professional conference and training needs of the external community.

University of San Diego5998 Alcalá ParkSan Diego, CA 92110www.sandiego.edu/ce

Wednesday, January 18, 2012Dedication Ceremony: 11a.m.Open House:12 noon to 4 p.m.

4760 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117

*Tour this new LEED Certified platinum facility

*Find out how SDG&E is incorporating key strategies across the entire energy landscape – from generation and renewable energy to conservation and energy effi-ciency – to meet the growing energy needs of our region

Attend the Grand Opening of theSDG&E Energy Innovation Center

Innovation Center FeaturesRenewable EnergyLearn about renewable energy and see how our roof top solar system provides up to 55 kilowatts of electricity. Later this fall, we will be adding “Solar Trees” to our parking lot that will generate up to 62 additional kilowatts of electricity.

Lobby Resource CenterDid you ever wonder how solar cells work? Or how electricity is made? Then this is the place to go. Our Resource Center has what you want to know about energy.

Water-Wise WalkwayWater is a precious resource. We all have to do our part to conserve and using drought tolerant plants is a great way to save water and energy. Located in the front of our center, the Water-Wise Walkway displays over 20 types of water efficient plants and trees. Take a stroll and enjoy!

Interactive KiosksLearn about businesses and organizations mak-ing a positive impact in energy innovation and conservation.

Smart HomeOur Smart Home integrates the technology of today with the innovation of tomorrow. Learn energy-saving tips and catch a glimpse of how in the future, your home can tell you how you’re using energy.

YOU ARE INVITED!Learn more about the SDG&E Energy Innovation Center at sdge.com/eic

Call 1-800-613-8970 for upcoming tour times.

UpcomingMembership Drive

Events

EXCITING EVENTS IN FEBRUARY JOIN US! by Lance Grucela, GSDBA Board Member

February is the GSDBA's Annual Mem-bership Drive month. Come help the organization reach 1,000 members to become the largest LGBT chamber in the country! The Membership Drive is a great opportunity for current members to meet prospective members, share their experiences with the GSDBA, and bet-ter get to know one another.

The Membership Drive events highlight the myriad number of benefits GSDBA membership offers and allows prospec-tive members to become familiar with the businesses in our current member-ship. Current members are encouraged to come celebrate our record-breaking membership level of more than 900 members. Please invite your friends and colleagues to join us as we strive to become the largest LGBT chamber in the country!

This year’s membership drive kicks off with a celebration mixer on Thursday evening, February 2, on Inn at the Park’s rooftop Top of the Park. Next, the GSDBA’s continuing Professional

Luncheon Series will also be held at Inn at the Park on Tuesday, February 14 featuring guest speaker, City of San Diego Independent Budget Analyst, Andrea Tevlin. On Wednesday, February 22, come start your day and bring along a friend to network and welcome prospective members as the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Old Town hosts our Membership Drive Breakfast Mixer from 7am to 9am. Finally, on Tuesday, March 6, Scripps Mercy Hospital in Hillcrest hosts our Membership Drive Wrap-Up Mixer which will feature prizes and giveaways for both new and renewing members! Those in attendance will be given the chance to walk away with some valuable gifts as everyone learns more about the programs and benefits that the GSDBA offers member businesses.

This year's GSDBA membership drive truly has something for everyone, so don't miss out on the wonderful events we have planned. We look forward to seeing you at all of them!

Enjoy special deals for new and renewing members in the month of February and a

chance at great prizes for referring a friend!

Find out more online @ www.gsdba.org

Kickoff Celebration

Mixerat Top of the Park at Inn at the ParkThursday, February 26 - 8 pm

GSDBA Professional Luncheon Series

with City of San Diego Independent Budget Analyst, Andrea Tevlin

at Top of the Park at Inn at the ParkTuesday, February 14

11:30 - 1 pm$25 per person/RSVP

Membership Drive Breakfast MixerCosmopolitan Hotel

in Old Town

Wednesday, February 22

7 - 9 am

Membership Drive Wrap-Up Mixer Scripps Mercy Hospital

in Hillcrest

Tuesday, March 6th

6 - 8 pm

Announcing the

2012MembershipDrive

FREE Event!

FREE Event!

FREE Event!

Get a free weblink

(a $50 value) when

you join or renew during

the Membership Drive!


When I founded my company, I made an aggressive pledge to donate 10% of our net profits to charities, and throughout its his-tory, Eclipse Chocolat has seen far greater yield from well-positioned donations than any other marketing, PR or advertising in-vestment. Today, our pledge generates up to a dozen requests a week from local orga-nizations and, as the number of requests far outstrip the reach of our pledge, we can choose to participate in the opportunities that can offer the greatest exposure for our brand. Typically, our donations take form as in person product tastings at high-end charitable functions. Certainly exceptions are made for causes of particular interest, but by and large the exposure secured by participating at a non-profit Gala is far greater than the product or personnel in-vestment. Here are some of the strategies I have learned throughout the years: Plan Ahead! Project quarterly income statements and budget 10% of net for your In-Kind Donations. The charities that gen-erate the best return tend to be those that are properly organized, so commit to those who ask for donations with plenty of time and flexibility for you to strategize. When your budget is exhausted, you’ll rest as-sured that you chose the most profitable opportunities available. Cost It Out! Consider individual con-tributions as investments and quantify the return you’d like to see. If participating in an event will cost you a fixed expense, reverse engineer the margins of your busi-ness to know how much momentum you need from individual opportunities.

Make An Impression! Maximize in-dividual investments by bringing your A-game. Friendly demeanor, professional merchandising and displays, as well as take-away flyers and coupons can all en-sure your target client will be impressed and know how to find you when they’re ready. Distribute The Risk! Offer donations that distribute the greatest amount of ex-posure with the least amount of product. Donating 25-$5 gift cards for a raffle in-stead of 1-$125 raffle item will generate 25x the exposure! Cash In On The Bragging Rights! Find as many ways as possible to commu-nicate your contributions to your clientele via your merchandising, website, social media, etc. Vocally inform each and every client of your pledge and allow your ethical contributions to speak on your behalf. Make It Official! Check out www.thetenpercentpledge.com and join us in the cause to align consumer and business interests. We will happily provide you with a 10% Pledge window decal as well as highlight your company alongside others who pledge. With proper planning you can simultane-ously grow your brand while supporting your community. Altruism is not as expen-sive as it may seem! After all, if we don’t change the world, who will? -William GustwillerOwner/Executive Chocolatier, Eclipse Chocolat

Generating Viral Marketing Through Charitable Contributions

the 10%pledge




the 10%pledge


Community Property Tax LawBackground & Impact

Jim Catalano is a CPA who specializes in taxation for same-sex couples. He can be contacted at (858) 495-0555 or [email protected]

Taxes for same-sex couples have gotten far more complex in the past several years due to community property law. The background and impact of these changes have both equity and monetary significance.

Community property law was championed by Oklahoma, a conservative state that was attempting in the 1930’s to reduce Federal taxes for their wealthy citizens and stop the exodus to Texas, where taxes were lower. Although it had significant property rights for wives, that benefit & concern was overlooked since only a small group of citizens would save taxes; coming out of the depression, most people paid zero tax. The 1930 US Supreme Court ruling in Poe v. Seaborn established the legality of community property income division.

Then and now, married couples living in community property states such as California, split their community income when filing separately. The split income is often taxed at a lower bracket for each spouse creating a combined Federal tax savings.

Same-sex couples sought to use community property law on their Federal returns for the same reason – to reduce taxes. Although the Bush administration had denied this request, under President Obama, the IRS agreed. Since 2010, same-sex couples that are Registered Domestic Partners (RDP) or legally married are required to use community property law when computing their Federal tax returns.

Here’s the impact we’ve observed:• The greatest tax savings comes when both partners have the same

filing status and one earns enough to be in a higher bracket.

• If one is filing as single and the other, higher earner, is filing as Head of Household, there is often little savings.

• For couples who share one home with two or more dependents, there can be only one Head of Household; the other partner files as Single.

• Determining community versus separate income is a complex process for some couples that may require legal advice.

• The IRS’s struggle in processing these returns caused delays, requests for more info, and frustration.

Many believe when the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is repealed, that same-sex married couples will be allowed to file joint Federal returns. Unmarried RDP’s would not likely enjoy this status without congressional action. Until then, these couples are more pioneers on that road to unbiased equality.


ONE WEEK FREE TANNING

Valid for 7 consecutive days. Cannot be Combined with Other Offers. First time customers only. Valid at Hillcrest, CA salon only. Excludes Mystic Tan. Limit 1 per person. See salon associate for promotion details. Expires 12/30/2011

500 univ

ersity

Ave

(corn

er o

f 5th

& U

niver

sity

)

GRAND

OPEN

ING

HIL

LCRES

T

FOLLOW US:

www.HOLLYWOODTANSSD.com

HIL

LCRES

T


BEHANDING IN A

SPOKANE

OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO• cygnettheatre.com

JAN 19 - FEB 19GSDBA Members save $10Use Coupon Code GSDBA

WRITTEN BY

MARTIN MCDONAGH

DIRECTED BY

LISA BERGER

Warning: This play containsFoul F@&#ing language!

Insane yet alsofiendishly funny...full of grisly surprises...I found it irresistable!” THE TELEGRAM

“

Is Perfection Keeping You From Having a Brilliant Website?by Jeune Ortiz

The Cure for Perfection Paralysis

The Terrible Truth About Perfection

While doing some research I came across a book titled, Good

Enough is the New Perfect. It got me thinking about how the

elusive desire for perfection can hold us back in so many areas of

our life, including our business.

Most business owners are stretched to the max with their time

and their comfort level. You’re the accountant, customer service

manager, marketer, and janitor. Maybe you were one of these

things in a past life, but for the most part everything is new to you.

Some things might be scaring the heck out of you, and yet you

must do them all perfectly or risk losing a sale.

The load of stress that perfection adds to the mix is paralyzing.

In the business of web development, I see perfection paralysis much too often. I see business owners stressing themselves out over every little website element. Their site launch gets delayed for months or years while they consult friends or pay consultants to help them.

Meanwhile, their old junky site is still up and running and probably losing valuable sales. Their competitors who have sites up and running (perfect or not) are busy stealing even more of the market share.

There has to be something better than perfection so that you can keep moving forward. That something is called “good enough.”

I’m not proposing that sloppy, ineffective, mistake-ridden, work is good enough. I’m proposing that there has to be an understanding about when the striving for perfection starts to interfere with forward momentum.

Deep inside, you already know the truth: Perfection doesn’t exist. It is as elusive as the end of a rainbow, and worst of all it is subjective.

Do You Want A Perfect Website?If you are a budding perfectionist looking to have a perfect website then you have to:

1. Accept that your site is good enough to launch2. Commit to an ongoing improvement strategy3. Understand that the most you’ll achieve is having a brilliant

website, and that your work will not be done all at once

Launching your site is critical! Before then, nothing can be known about how well the site will convert, how the audience will react, or if the content is compelling enough for users and search engines. It’s not until the site has launched that it can be truly improved. Great websites are not born, they are created incrementally, over a period of time. (Even Amazon has never stopped the process of improvement, which means that even Amazon has not achieved perfection!)

Don’t let perfection keep you from having a brilliant website. It certainly hasn’t stopped Amazon, Google, or Facebook!

GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [13][20] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February

D id you know that San Diego has the only national conference focused on teaching educators how to help LGBTQIA youth? It’s

San Diego State University’s annual National Educator Conference Focused on LGBTQIA Youth and is slated for February 17-19, 2012 in San Diego. Other major U.S. cities have offered to host SDSU’s Center of Excellence in School Counseling and Leadership (CESCaL) conference, but they are sticking right here. This is their third conference and in those short years they have built it into a nationally recognized program to teach educators the laws and rights of LGBTQIA students, to let them know what resources are available to students and their families, how to create safe, welcoming and inclusive schools for all LGBTQIA youth, and how to become advocates for LGBTQIA youth. And they accomplish all this in three jam packed days of keynote speakers and workshops over one weekend.

When asked why they created this annual conference, the staff recited some of the statistics that practically scream for action:

• 9 out of 10 LGBT youth were harassed at school -- 84.6% verbally and 40.1% physically

• 18.8% of LGBT youth report being physically assaulted at school in the past year

• 82.9% of LGBT students report faculty/staffneverintervenedorintervenedonly sometimes when presented with homophobic remarks

• LGBT youth have a drop-out rate nearly 3 times the national average

• LGBT youth are 4 times more likely to attempt suicide when compared to their straight peers

• Up to 40% of all homeless youth identify as LGBT.

These are reasons enough for a conference where school counselors, P.E. teachers and coaches, elementary and secondary educators, as well as administrators and school board members can learn from experts on how to make change happen. This year’s conference theme is “From Surviving to Thriving.”

To learn more about the conference, go to www.lgbtqia2012.org or call 760-542-8742.

Supporting StudentsSaving Lives

By Tom Luhnow, CEO, GSDBA



GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [19][14] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012

You know they were in your kitchen.

They must have been — there’s a brand new stove

where the old one once stood. And yet, you still have

your doubts. The doorway’s not nicked. The floor is

not scratched. No footprints or gum wrappers lie in

their wake. And then, it dawns on you: these bootie-

wearing, vacuum-toting ninjas have indeed left you

a calling card — written in invisible ink, and it says:

“Here’s to Living Joyfully!”

Trained and certified to work on each and every type of appliance product that we carry, our very own Delivery, Installation and Service Team is unlike any other in America, because it’s internally staffed, and never outsourced. That translates to a level of trust, accountability and professionalismthat not only inspires confidence, but delivers joy.

Kitchen. Bath. Outdoor. Joy.

www.fixturesliving.com

NOTHING INSPIRES CONFIDENCE

like Big Burly Manly ~MenWEARING BABY-BLUE BOOTIES.

THANK YOU

mixerEXPLORE ADAMSAVENUE

the

photos by Toni Duran

AN EVENING AT

TO BENEFIT



The GSDBA 2011 Holiday Cruise

A Special Thank You to

Photos Courtesy of Premier Photography

www.premier-studio.com


THANK YOU

mixerEXPLORE ADAMSAVENUE

the


AN EVENING AT

TO BENEFIT



D id you know that San Diego has the only national conference focused on teaching educators how to help LGBTQIA youth? It’s

San Diego State University’s annual National Educator Conference Focused on LGBTQIA Youth and is slated for February 17-19, 2012 in San Diego. Other major U.S. cities have offered to host SDSU’s Center of Excellence in School Counseling and Leadership (CESCaL) conference, but they are sticking right here. This is their third conference and in those short years they have built it into a nationally recognized program to teach educators the laws and rights of LGBTQIA students, to let them know what resources are available to students and their families, how to create safe, welcoming and inclusive schools for all LGBTQIA youth, and how to become advocates for LGBTQIA youth. And they accomplish all this in three jam packed days of keynote speakers and workshops over one weekend.

When asked why they created this annual conference, the staff recited some of the statistics that practically scream for action:

• 9 out of 10 LGBT youth were harassed at school -- 84.6% verbally and 40.1% physically

• 18.8% of LGBT youth report being physically assaulted at school in the past year

• 82.9% of LGBT students report faculty/staffneverintervenedorintervenedonly sometimes when presented with homophobic remarks

• LGBT youth have a drop-out rate nearly 3 times the national average

• LGBT youth are 4 times more likely to attempt suicide when compared to their straight peers

• Up to 40% of all homeless youth identify as LGBT.

These are reasons enough for a conference where school counselors, P.E. teachers and coaches, elementary and secondary educators, as well as administrators and school board members can learn from experts on how to make change happen. This year’s conference theme is “From Surviving to Thriving.”

To learn more about the conference, go to www.lgbtqia2012.org or call 760-542-8742.





GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [19][14] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012

You know they were in your kitchen.

They must have been — there’s a brand new stove

where the old one once stood. And yet, you still have

your doubts. The doorway’s not nicked. The floor is

not scratched. No footprints or gum wrappers lie in

their wake. And then, it dawns on you: these bootie-

wearing, vacuum-toting ninjas have indeed left you

a calling card — written in invisible ink, and it says:

“Here’s to Living Joyfully!”

Trained and certified to work on each and every type of appliance product that we carry, our very own Delivery, Installation and Service Team is unlike any other in America, because it’s internally staffed, and never outsourced. That translates to a level of trust, accountability and professionalismthat not only inspires confidence, but delivers joy.

Kitchen. Bath. Outdoor. Joy.

www.fixturesliving.com

NOTHING INSPIRES CONFIDENCE

like Big Burly Manly ~MenWEARING BABY-BLUE BOOTIES.

Is Perfection Keeping You From Having a Brilliant Website?by Jeune Ortiz

The Cure for Perfection Paralysis

The Terrible Truth About Perfection

While doing some research I came across a book titled, Good

Enough is the New Perfect. It got me thinking about how the

elusive desire for perfection can hold us back in so many areas of

our life, including our business.

Most business owners are stretched to the max with their time

and their comfort level. You’re the accountant, customer service

manager, marketer, and janitor. Maybe you were one of these

things in a past life, but for the most part everything is new to you.

Some things might be scaring the heck out of you, and yet you

must do them all perfectly or risk losing a sale.

The load of stress that perfection adds to the mix is paralyzing.

In the business of web development, I see perfection paralysis much too often. I see business owners stressing themselves out over every little website element. Their site launch gets delayed for months or years while they consult friends or pay consultants to help them.

Meanwhile, their old junky site is still up and running and probably losing valuable sales. Their competitors who have sites up and running (perfect or not) are busy stealing even more of the market share.

There has to be something better than perfection so that you can keep moving forward. That something is called “good enough.”

I’m not proposing that sloppy, ineffective, mistake-ridden, work is good enough. I’m proposing that there has to be an understanding about when the striving for perfection starts to interfere with forward momentum.

Deep inside, you already know the truth: Perfection doesn’t exist. It is as elusive as the end of a rainbow, and worst of all it is subjective.

Do You Want A Perfect Website?If you are a budding perfectionist looking to have a perfect website then you have to:

1. Accept that your site is good enough to launch2. Commit to an ongoing improvement strategy3. Understand that the most you’ll achieve is having a brilliant

website, and that your work will not be done all at once

Launching your site is critical! Before then, nothing can be known about how well the site will convert, how the audience will react, or if the content is compelling enough for users and search engines. It’s not until the site has launched that it can be truly improved. Great websites are not born, they are created incrementally, over a period of time. (Even Amazon has never stopped the process of improvement, which means that even Amazon has not achieved perfection!)

Don’t let perfection keep you from having a brilliant website. It certainly hasn’t stopped Amazon, Google, or Facebook!

GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [13][20] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February



Valid for 7 consecutive days. Cannot be Combined with Other Offers. First time customers only. Valid at Hillcrest, CA salon only. Excludes Mystic Tan. Limit 1 per person. See salon associate for promotion details. Expires 12/30/2011

500 univ

ersity

Ave

(corn

er o

f 5th

& U

niver

sity

)

GRAND

OPEN

ING

HIL

LCRES

T

FOLLOW US:

www.HOLLYWOODTANSSD.com

HIL

LCRES

T


BEHANDING IN A

SPOKANE

OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO• cygnettheatre.com

JAN 19 - FEB 19GSDBA Members save $10Use Coupon Code GSDBA

WRITTEN BY

MARTIN MCDONAGH

DIRECTED BY

LISA BERGER

Warning: This play containsFoul F@&#ing language!

Insane yet alsofiendishly funny...full of grisly surprises...I found it irresistable!” THE TELEGRAM

“




the 10%pledge




the 10%pledge


Community Property Tax LawBackground & Impact

Jim Catalano is a CPA who specializes in taxation for same-sex couples. He can be contacted at (858) 495-0555 or [email protected]

Taxes for same-sex couples have gotten far more complex in the past several years due to community property law. The background and impact of these changes have both equity and monetary significance.

Community property law was championed by Oklahoma, a conservative state that was attempting in the 1930’s to reduce Federal taxes for their wealthy citizens and stop the exodus to Texas, where taxes were lower. Although it had significant property rights for wives, that benefit & concern was overlooked since only a small group of citizens would save taxes; coming out of the depression, most people paid zero tax. The 1930 US Supreme Court ruling in Poe v. Seaborn established the legality of community property income division.

Then and now, married couples living in community property states such as California, split their community income when filing separately. The split income is often taxed at a lower bracket for each spouse creating a combined Federal tax savings.

Same-sex couples sought to use community property law on their Federal returns for the same reason – to reduce taxes. Although the Bush administration had denied this request, under President Obama, the IRS agreed. Since 2010, same-sex couples that are Registered Domestic Partners (RDP) or legally married are required to use community property law when computing their Federal tax returns.

Here’s the impact we’ve observed:• The greatest tax savings comes when both partners have the same

filing status and one earns enough to be in a higher bracket.

• If one is filing as single and the other, higher earner, is filing as Head of Household, there is often little savings.

• For couples who share one home with two or more dependents, there can be only one Head of Household; the other partner files as Single.

• Determining community versus separate income is a complex process for some couples that may require legal advice.

• The IRS’s struggle in processing these returns caused delays, requests for more info, and frustration.

Many believe when the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is repealed, that same-sex married couples will be allowed to file joint Federal returns. Unmarried RDP’s would not likely enjoy this status without congressional action. Until then, these couples are more pioneers on that road to unbiased equality.

The University of San Diego’s Division of Continuing and Pro-fessional Education is pleased to announce its new alliance with the Greater San Diego Business Association, GSDBA. “We are happy to be a part of the Cham-ber and look forward to sharing educational opportunities with its members,” said Jodi Waterhouse, Director of Corporate and Pro-fessional Education. USD and GSDBA are committed to sup-porting the economic growth and

success of members through on-going education. USD views the alliance as an important tool that will help educate GSDBA mem-bers about the unique training and development opportunities offered through USD’s Division of Continuing and Professional Education. Four GSDBA members --- Jeune Ortiz, Christianna O’Connell, Stacey McKibbin and Ann marie Houghtailing --- are now teaching in two of the university’s certifi-cate programs: Online Marketing Strategies (OMS) and Institute for Sales and Business Develop-ment (ISBD). Both programs look to bring practical solutions to business owners and professionals throughout San Diego commu-nity. Designed to meet the unique needs of working professionals,

participants in USD’s Division of Continuing and Professional Edu-cation programs learn about best practices and trends from respect-ed professionals. “The moment our students leave the classroom, they have acquired new skills that can immediately be imple-mented in the workplace,” said Waterhouse. “Most programs can be completed in as little as eight months,” added Waterhouse. Through the alliance, GSDBA members will receive a 10% dis-count on all registrations. Begin-ning spring 2012, USD will begin an open campus initiative making it possible for non-matriculated students to enroll in open classes. For more information call (619) 260-5976, or visit www.sandiego.edu/ce.

USD’s Division of Continuingand Professional Education isExpanding its Community

The University of San Diego Division of Professional and Continuing Education houses a variety of professional programs and services that extend the University’s reach to the San Diego business community, international corporations, and educators in California and beyond.

Programs include a variety of workshops, seminars, in-house training, English-language services, graduate level extension classes and certifications and non-degree credit classes. The Division is housed in the Douglas F. Manchester Executive Conference Center which is also available for the professional conference and training needs of the external community.

University of San Diego5998 Alcalá ParkSan Diego, CA 92110www.sandiego.edu/ce

Wednesday, January 18, 2012Dedication Ceremony: 11a.m.Open House:12 noon to 4 p.m.

4760 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117

*Tour this new LEED Certified platinum facility

*Find out how SDG&E is incorporating key strategies across the entire energy landscape – from generation and renewable energy to conservation and energy effi-ciency – to meet the growing energy needs of our region

Attend the Grand Opening of theSDG&E Energy Innovation Center

Innovation Center FeaturesRenewable EnergyLearn about renewable energy and see how our roof top solar system provides up to 55 kilowatts of electricity. Later this fall, we will be adding “Solar Trees” to our parking lot that will generate up to 62 additional kilowatts of electricity.

Lobby Resource CenterDid you ever wonder how solar cells work? Or how electricity is made? Then this is the place to go. Our Resource Center has what you want to know about energy.

Water-Wise WalkwayWater is a precious resource. We all have to do our part to conserve and using drought tolerant plants is a great way to save water and energy. Located in the front of our center, the Water-Wise Walkway displays over 20 types of water efficient plants and trees. Take a stroll and enjoy!

Interactive KiosksLearn about businesses and organizations mak-ing a positive impact in energy innovation and conservation.

Smart HomeOur Smart Home integrates the technology of today with the innovation of tomorrow. Learn energy-saving tips and catch a glimpse of how in the future, your home can tell you how you’re using energy.

YOU ARE INVITED!Learn more about the SDG&E Energy Innovation Center at sdge.com/eic

Call 1-800-613-8970 for upcoming tour times.

UpcomingMembership Drive

Events

EXCITING EVENTS IN FEBRUARY JOIN US! by Lance Grucela, GSDBA Board Member

February is the GSDBA's Annual Mem-bership Drive month. Come help the organization reach 1,000 members to become the largest LGBT chamber in the country! The Membership Drive is a great opportunity for current members to meet prospective members, share their experiences with the GSDBA, and bet-ter get to know one another.

The Membership Drive events highlight the myriad number of benefits GSDBA membership offers and allows prospec-tive members to become familiar with the businesses in our current member-ship. Current members are encouraged to come celebrate our record-breaking membership level of more than 900 members. Please invite your friends and colleagues to join us as we strive to become the largest LGBT chamber in the country!

This year’s membership drive kicks off with a celebration mixer on Thursday evening, February 2, on Inn at the Park’s rooftop Top of the Park. Next, the GSDBA’s continuing Professional

Luncheon Series will also be held at Inn at the Park on Tuesday, February 14 featuring guest speaker, City of San Diego Independent Budget Analyst, Andrea Tevlin. On Wednesday, February 22, come start your day and bring along a friend to network and welcome prospective members as the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Old Town hosts our Membership Drive Breakfast Mixer from 7am to 9am. Finally, on Tuesday, March 6, Scripps Mercy Hospital in Hillcrest hosts our Membership Drive Wrap-Up Mixer which will feature prizes and giveaways for both new and renewing members! Those in attendance will be given the chance to walk away with some valuable gifts as everyone learns more about the programs and benefits that the GSDBA offers member businesses.

This year's GSDBA membership drive truly has something for everyone, so don't miss out on the wonderful events we have planned. We look forward to seeing you at all of them!

Enjoy special deals for new and renewing members in the month of February and a

chance at great prizes for referring a friend!

Find out more online @ www.gsdba.org

Kickoff Celebration

Mixerat Top of the Park at Inn at the ParkThursday, February 26 - 8 pm

GSDBA Professional Luncheon Series

with City of San Diego Independent Budget Analyst, Andrea Tevlin

at Top of the Park at Inn at the ParkTuesday, February 14

11:30 - 1 pm$25 per person/RSVP

Membership Drive Breakfast MixerCosmopolitan Hotel

in Old Town

Wednesday, February 22

7 - 9 am

Membership Drive Wrap-Up Mixer Scripps Mercy Hospital

in Hillcrest

Tuesday, March 6th

6 - 8 pm

Announcing the

2012MembershipDrive

FREE Event!

FREE Event!

FREE Event!

Get a free weblink

(a $50 value) when

you join or renew during

the Membership Drive!


Members talk about the striking differences between the GSDBA and other business networking associations. Not surprisingly, the members of the GSDBA have plenty to say about one of the largest business associations in San Diego. The GSDBA was founded in 1979 and continues to support small businesses in San Diego while advocating for acceptance of diversity as well as encouraging membership from anyone who supports equality for all.

Monthly mixers are a great opportunity for prospective members to see what makes the GSDBA different. Our relaxed monthly business mixers give members and prospective members a chance to meet and unwind from their busy work schedule. As Bob Eugley, owner of Mirror, Shower & Glass, pointed out: “other business association mixers feel like a shark tank where everyone is packed together and you spend more time trying to avoid typical sales people than you do trying to meet them.” And one enthusiastic member recently said, “Your people have fun! Yet I make meaningful contacts as well. What’s not to like?”

At the GSDBA, our members do act more like a family. “I feel more at home than with any other group,” says Rick Baray, Financial Planner with New England Financial. “I have tried other business associations and I don’t feel nearly as comfortable.”

Rick’s associate, Brian Jaeger, also a financial planner with New England Financial, had a similar observation: “When you are around other professionals who want to help, you just know it. Many industries are referral based, and with the GSDBA, members are happy to help.”

Joining the GSDBA has “improved my networking skills, helped in building business relationships, make new and lasting friendships, and be part of a community through an organization that stands out amongst the rest,” says Kalin Myers of Quantum Health & Wellness. Kalin says since he joined the GSDBA in June of 2011, every staff member has been helpful to provide answers and guidance on how to make the most of his GSDBA membership.

So as you can see, GSDBA is different in ways that add up to helping you succeed.

GSDBA IS DIFFERENT

by Steve Thury

“I feel more at home than with any other group”

“I didn’t know what I didn’t know! Now I can

explore in more depth the things that fit.” That

was the response from one participant at the

Speed Marketing 2 event held on November 7,

2011 by the GSDBA’s Marketing Affinity Group

(MAG). This sentiment was exactly what the

MAG group was hoping to evoke.

During this event, which was made possible by

a grant from the San Diego City Small Business

Enhancement Program, 17 participants

met with eight different GSDBA marketing

companies. From branding to website design

and development and everything in between,

participants were able to get insights on various

marketing concepts.

Using a format similar to speed dating, groups

of two or three participants moved from table

to table and spoke to marketing professionals.

Each participant had about four minutes to

discuss his or her company’s specific marketing

needs. Then MAG professionals were able to

give advice tailored specifically to those needs.

In addition to the marketing advice, each

participant was entered into a drawing for

a marketing package, which included gift

certificates from each of the marketing

companies at the event. The winner was Kevin

Wunderly from Innovatus Consulting.

Kevin, who is in the middle of rebranding his

business, was thrilled with winning the prize.

Even before winning, Kevin was inspired by

the event. He stated, “I knew immediately that

I wanted to work with some of the marketers

after meeting them for the first time at the

Speed Marketing event. It’s obvious everyone

is passionate about what they do and they

were able to answer all of the questions I

had regarding the challenges I have with my

marketing.”

If you missed this event, don’t worry. The

Marketing Affinity Group has decided to make

this an annual event! Keep a lookout for the

2012 Speed Marketing event and other events

by the GSDBA Marketing Affinity Group.

The marketing professionals included:

• Accurate Printing & Mailing

• ACT Web Consulting

• Belladia Marketing and Design

• BRANDgfx

• Cary Conrady (social media marketing consultant)

• dot-B-dot-B

• Kaleb Scott Photographs

• Melanie Peters Productions


When a person becomes a member of the GSDBA, they often do so

with the goal of growing their business by increasing their visibility

and credibility within the LGBT community. One of the many ways

the GSDBA offers its members the opportunity to accomplish this goal

is through participation in a Business Networking Group (“BNG”).

Each BNG meets on a weekly basis and has as a primary focus the development of meaningful

business relationships between participants. Experienced business networkers know these

meaningful relationships will translate into trust, credibility and ultimately business referrals

between members.

Facilitated by Matthew Bevan, the Wednesday evening BNG has grown in size from just a

few participants to over 20 members in the last six months. With a variety of professions and

disciplines represented in the weekly meeting, each of the participants has the opportunity to

educate group members about their individual businesses, qualifications and services. Even

though business networking is the primary focus, the group members have a lot of fun making

connections and building relationships with one another.

Attorney Steven Kaftal has found that participating in the Wednesday evening BNG is instrumental

to his experience as a GSDBA member. In addition to enjoying the social aspect of regularly

interacting with the other members, Steve has found the BNG to be a “source of quality referrals

that have led to actual business.” In fact, when asked what element of GSDBA membership he

considered to be the most important to his overall experience as a GSDBA member, Steve stated

that participating in the BNG was “first on the list of things to do in the GSDBA because of the

great business relationships I have made.”

There is no shortage of success stories to be found among the participants of the Wednesday

evening BNG. Christina Higgins, a hypnotherapist, was initially invited to explore the group

by a BNG participant last June. Once Christina made the decision to join the group and had

participated for several weeks, she reports “the positive impact on business was astounding!”

Christina credits the business relationships inside the group with increased credibility and trust

among the members, which in turn has led to an increase in her business. When asked what she

most enjoyed about her overall GSDBA membership experience, Christina said that “participation

in the BNG group is the most important because of the weekly meetings and sense of loyalty

among the members. The monthly GSDBA Mixers are also a great source of new business and

a fun way to network!”

If your goal is to grow your business and referral base while increasing your visibility and

credibility within the LGBT community, now is the time to explore a BNG. As a program reserved

exclusively for GSDBA members, participation in a BNG offers numerous benefits, which will help

you get the most out of your GSDBA membership.

BNGs, an essential part of GSDBA membership

By Kevin Kellar, Kellar Law Group

Steve has found the BNG to be a “source of quality referrals that have led to actual business.”

Visit www.gsdba.org for more information


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The Social Networkby Matt Harding, Association Representative, GSDBA

Message from GSDBA’s Board Chair

Tom WelchSecurity Business Bank of San DiegoGSDBA Board Chair


As we reflect back over the past year we can see that great strides have been made to enhance the GSDBA and our offerings to our members. The New 2012 Business Directory includes all GSDBA members, whether you chose to advertise or not. Our membership continues to increase and has now reached over 920 members. We have developed Out-of-Region Affiliate Memberships so you can participate in other organizations for half the cost. I want to thank you for helping us to

accomplish these three organizational goals during 2011.

With the advent of the new year, we look to the future and need to strengthen our various organizational committees. Did you realize that we have ten different committees for you to participate in and grow your business? Here is a current list of our committees for you to consider:

1. Advocacy Committee2. Awards Luncheon Committee3. Ambassador Committee4. Business Networking Committee

5. Corporate Relations Development Committee6. Events Committee7. Finance Committee8. Membership Committee9. Professional Development Committee10. Technology Committee

Each one offers you a great opportunity to increase your participation and enhance your ability to meet other business owners within our organization, in addition to helping make our efforts more successful. Go to GSDBA.org to read more about the mission of each committee, when they meet and who to contact. I call upon you to join a committee during 2012 to increase your businesses’ visibility in the GSDBA. Your participation is required if we are going to make this the best LGBT business organization in the country. I wish you all a prosperous new year and look forward to meeting each of you in 2012.

Social media, social networking, online presence, blah blah blah. You’ve been hearing it for years now and like many,

probably haven’t had a chance (or desire) to do much about it.

Whether you are a social networking wiz or novice, your GSDBA profile is an incredibly powerful tool to help you grow your business, and can actually be a great tool for your total online presence. Here’s some quick tips and tools; for a quick video to show you how to do these and a lot more, visit www.GSDBA.org to check out my blog post!

Introduce yourself

Your profile is a great way to put your best foot forward. With the ability to include pictures, videos, and as much text as you like, you can tell your story to those who visit your page. The added benefit of having your information and website found by search engines, on an association website, will help you in search rankings, as well. If you haven’t set up a profile, do it now so you can reap at LEAST that benefit.

Connect

You add friends and post comments with your profile, just like other social networking sites. You can also set your page to share these updates with Facebook and Twitter instantly, making GSDBA.org a

simple and quick hub for your business social networking.

Move it to the Real World

Use your profile to connect with other GSDBA members in real life, too. Search profiles by key word or business category and reach out to your fellow members. Or check out the events page of an upcoming mixer or event – you’ll see others who are attending and can make some connections before you even arrive.

Messages you send will come from www.GSDBA.org, identifying you as a fellow member. The recipient can link back to your profile to learn all about you and your business, so you can keep your message short and sweet, and more likely to be read.

Establish yourself as an expert

Your profile includes a blog section, so if you’ve been putting off starting a blog you now have an easy place to do it. Blog posts can be written, OR post video entries. Once established, you can set up your blog to automatically feed to Facebook, another blog page, or even your own website.

Already have a blog? You can set that up to feed to your GSDBA profile, so it instantly updates!

We regularly feature blog posts of general interest on our home page as well, giving you and your business some face time with www.GSDBA.org visitors.

The 2012 GSDBA Directory is here!Available in Print, iPhoneTM, iPadTM, Online, and AndroidTM Devices

www.gsdba.org[06] GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine | January/February 2012 [27]

The New Year brings promise of new beginnings

and resolutions. We often begin the year with

lofty goals to be disregarded a month later. This

year can be a success if we change tactics! As we

know, “the definition of insanity is repeating the

same thing over and over again and expecting a

different result.” So let’s not be crazy, but instead

proactive, and reach our goals in 2012!

List your goals for 2012 and identify the

obstacles to reaching them. Think back to years

past…what gets in the way of celebrating your

success? Identifying and addressing obstacles can

be the game changer. The main obstacle that our

practitioners see is STRESS!

When we are under stress, be it work,

relationship trouble or financial difficulty,

our body reacts like a caveman under

attack and stops thinking about goals.

In that moment we are just trying to get

through the here and now. Thankfully,

our stressors are not like a caveman’s

(such as being eaten by a lion).

But modern-day stressors are chronic and often

triggered daily. So it makes sense that you may

wake up with the intention of eating of a salad

with lean protein for lunch but while sitting at

your desk with phones ringing, florescent lights

glaring, and a deadline looming, you reach for the

sugary or carb-loaded meal and forget that goal!

Be realistic: The stressors will be there but how

you react to them is under your control. We can

reach our various goals of weight loss, healthy

eating or quitting our vices if we address how we

manage our stress.

Stress management is best addressed through

a variety of methods. Naturopathic and

internal medicine will evaluate your adrenal

health, nutritional status and emotional

responses through specialized lab testing

followed by Nutrition, Vitamin therapy,

Botanical blends and Hormone

balancing to nourish and calm your

nervous system.

Acupuncture can restore energy pathways,

remove stagnation and stimulate relaxation.

Chiropractic, massage and physical therapy will

support optimal structural health to allow your

body to function well. If your body is suffering

from a structural problem, then the answer is a

physical solution. Chiropractic, massage and

physical therapy IS that solution.

Cal-Med Injury and Rehab, formerly known

as Robek Chiropractic, addresses Stress

Management with each patient. Cal-Med provides

optimum patient care with cohesive treatments

and philosophies ensuring that your health is a

priority through each stage of treatment. We

are excited to announce our new beginning as a

fully integrative health care facility with access

to general medical care, naturopathic medicine,

physical therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture and

massage therapy. Cal-Med supports you and your

goals; let’s celebrate your success in 2012!

Meet your healthcare team (from left to right):

Dr. Bridget O’Connell, Dr. Jeff Anderson,

Dr. Shawn Robek, Dr. Darren Farnesi

Start 2012 Off RightGSDBA EVENTS CALENDAR


facebook.com/gsdba

twitter.com/gsdba

Download the GSDBA Directory App for iPhone & iPad (FREE on iTunes) and the Droid app in the Android Marketplace

Letter from the CEO

[email protected] GSDBA on...


Our VisionBuilding Business Prosperity and Equality

Our MissionThe Greater San Diego Business Association promotes prosperity and equality for our members, supporters, and the LGBT community

Eric Brown

GSDBA Corporate Partners and Sponsors

BOARD OF DIRECTORSTom Welch, ChairSecurity Business Bank of San Diego

Jon Borgeson, Past ChairCox Communications

Rebecca Luers, CPA, Vice ChairLuers & Dyer CPAs, LLP

Danielle P. Barger, TreasurerBarger Law Group, APC

Kevin Atto, SecretarySan Diego Pro Cleaning

Eric D. Brown, CMFCWaddell & Reed, Inc.

Christianna Connellfuture-ink

Deborah DimerySan Diego Recreation and Benefits Association

Lance A. GrucelaLaw Offices of Lance A. Grucela

Justin KnepperBank of the West

Ira LeavensCoastline Office Solutions

Cindy LehmanCalifornia Bank & Trust

Seth MakechnieComerica Bank

Keith RobinsonThe Dana on Mission Bay

Cory RussoBodies @ Work

GSDBA STAFFTom Luhnow, EditorChief Executive [email protected]

Sue Sneeringer, ContributorOperations [email protected]

Eric Carroll, Design & LayoutMember Services [email protected]

Matt Harding, Advertising SalesAssociation [email protected]

Emily Mitchell, Junior EditorAdministrative [email protected]

Special Assistance by Cathy Paddock, Missing Ink Printing & Graphics

Design ContributorRae Nesterwww.raediantdesign.com

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PLANNING AHEADWith the start of a new calendar year, I’m reminded of all those things one can put off but which add up to something important down the road. And we never know when the road will come to an end!

I’m referring to having a will in place, a power of attorney, and a medical power of attorney. Otherwise one’s estate goes to the next of kin (or the State of California if there is no kin). That means your sister in Ohio who you haven’t spoken to in 20 years could hit the jackpot unless you handle this and it isn’t all that complicated to do. If you have no next of kin, what about contributing to the endowment of one of our worthy LGBT non-profits so your estate continues to help others for years to come?

Necessary professionals may well include a CPA, insurance agent, and a geriatric care manager. Pick ones who specialize in the needs of the LGBT community and who stay current with changing laws and products.

Another part of planning ahead looms for baby boomers: who do we need to take care of and who will take care of us? Organized care planning and management eases the stress and possible trauma of aging incidents.

And it is never too early nor too late to have a financial adviser.

If you write a list of resolutions at the start of each year, this is a good time to include the above items. It also reduces your stress level to know these have all been handled so loved ones or strangers don’t have to decide what to do with you or your estate. There are no crises when you plan ahead, just solvable situations that have been carefully thought out and planned for.

I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that you can find all these resources in the new 2012 Directory. It’s your guide to the services our more than 920 members provide, so use them!

Grow GSDBA to 1000 Members Strong!

Be part of the Annual Membership Drive

February

1-282012

OF COURSE!

gsdba’s community

IN THIS ISSUE

On the cover: Superhero, Chris DorazioCover photography: Kaleb Scott Photographs

[04] Letter from the CEO Planning Ahead

[12] The Ten Percentage Pledge Eclipse Choclat’s Will Gustwilleron charitable contributions

[14] Supporting StudentsNational EducatorsConference Focused on LGBTQIA youth

[28] Start 2012 Off RightDr. Bridget O’Connellgives us new tatics

DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in this publication, adver -

GSDBA, its Board, or its members. Publication of the name, photograph or likeness of any person, organization or business in this newsletter is not to be construed as any indication of

.ssenisub ro noitazinagro ,nosrep taht fo noitatneiro lauxes ehtContents of this publication may not be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the editor.

Mailing AddressP.O. Box 33848 San Diego, CA 92163

phone: 619-296-4543 | fax: 619-296-5616email: [email protected] | web: www.gsdba.org

GSDBA’s Community Connection News Magazine

3737 Fifth Avenue, Suite 205 San Diego, CA 92103

Volume 18 | Issue No. 1 | January - February 2012

Complimentary Copy

Copyright © 2012 GSBDA

NEWS HAS BROKEN THAT THE 2012 GSDBA DIRECTORY IS ON THE STREETS...

THE NEW DIRECTORY IS ALREADY OUT?!?

YES, SINCE THE FIRST OF JANUARY!

I WAIT EVERY YEARFOR IT....WHERE CANI PICK ONE UP?

AT OVER 120 LOCATIONS ALL OVER SAN DIEGO!!!

GREAT. IS IT ALSO AVAILABLE AS AN iPHONE, iPAD & DROID APP?

OUTTA MY WAY...I’VE GOT TOGET MY OWN COPY RIGHT NOW!

Monday Evening La Mesa Group5:30 pm to 6:30 pmMarcella Junes in La Mesa

Tuesday Morning Group8:30am to 9:30amMonica’s at the Park in University Heights

Tuesday Lunch Group12:00pm to 1:00pmKensington Café4141 Adams Avenue

Wednesday Morning Group8:00am to 9:00am Mimi’s in Mission Valley

Wednesday Lunch Group12:00pm to 1:00pmEden at 1202 University Avenue

Wednesday Evening Group5:30 pm to 6:30 pmR-Gang Eatery3683 5th Ave at Pennsylvania

Thursday Morning Group8:00am to 9:00amMonica’s at the Park in University Heights

Thursday Lunch Group12:00pm to 1:00pmTop of the Park @ Inn at the Park

Thursday Evening Group5:30pm to 6:30pmR-Gang Eatery3683 5th Ave at Pennsylvania

The Affinity for Business Groups program is designed to provide professional development for members in the same or related professions. The focus is to support one another within a specific

professional field and to help participants bring their businesses to a new level. The groups meet once a month. The format of each group is decided by the group and includes significant time for the exchange of ideas and information. Groups include guest speakers and/or group member presentations on topics of interest. Affinity Groups are FREE to GSDBA members.

NETWORKING @ GSDBABusiness Networking Groups (BNGs)Affinity for Business Groups

where great minds think alike increasing business through qualified referrals

The GSDBA Business Networking Groups (aka BNGs) are hard working business people coming together to support one

another. The BNGs’ primary goal is to assist their members obtain business leads known as “tips.” Some BNG members have been in business for many years while others are just starting out. What we all have in common is a desire to excel in what we do and the wis-dom to know it is easier to achieve success with the kind of strong support system found in a BNG.

BNG’s offer a forum where GSDBA members can increase their business through network-ing with other members on a regular basis. They offer a supportive environment that allows each member to share products or services with others who want to help them succeed. Conflicts of interest are not allowed, meaning once you join, a competitor of yours in the same business category cannot join your group.

The generation of business tips is not the only opportunity BNGs offer. In our BNG groups we share ideas, learn new and better ways to

conduct our business, create new business alliances and build new friendships. During our meetings and other BNG functions, our members get to know one another and at-tain a better understanding of each other’s business. Knowing the nature and extent of the services our members offer makes it that much easier for us to exchange valuable busi-ness leads.

Each BNG meets once a week. For the early birds, we have morning meetings and for those who prefer to sleep in, we also have noontime and evening meetings. BNG mem-bers work in a wide variety of businesses. Each group member chooses a business cat-egory for which he or she will be seeking tips. Once you begin, the possibilities are endless!

Contact the BNG Facilitator for specific in-formation about visiting a BNG for the first time or to see if there is a space available for your business category.

BNG Dues:$40 for new BNG members $35 each trimester thereafter$100 for a full year (3 trimesters)

Note to Prospective Members: If you are interested in visiting a BNG, please contact the Facilitator at least 24-hours in advance to arrange your visit. Sorry, we do not allow non-GSDBA mem-bers to present information to the group unless first approved by the Facilitator. All current BNG members must notify the Facil-itator if they want to bring a guest to their BNG. Guests and prospective BNG members may visit each BNG one time prior to join-ing, and must become a GSDBA Member to attend after that. Thank you.

FINANCIAL SERVICES & Allied FieldsCategories Include: Banking - Business Brokerages - Credit Card Processing - Escrow - Financial Planning - Insurance - Loan Modi-fiers - Real Estate Loans and more!

HEALTH & Allied FieldsGroups included are: Acupuncturists, Chiropractors, Counselors, Dentists, Health & Fitness, Holistic Health, Hypnotherapists, Massage Therapists, Nutrition, Optometrists, Personal Trainers, Physicians, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Skin Care, Spas

HOME IMPROVEMENT & Allied FieldsGroups included in this Category: Cleaning - Landscaping - Paint-ing - Handy Person - Contractors - Roofers - Organizing Services - Decorators/Designers - Architects - Plumbers - Heat/Air Electri-cians - Granite - Remodeling - Cabinet Makers - Lighting - Doors.

MARKETING & Allied FieldsCategories Include: Ad Specialties - Graphic Designers - Photogra-phers - Web Designers - Printers - Marketing.

REAL ESTATE & Allied FieldsGroups Included are:-Appraisal - Escrow - Home Inspectors-Mortgage Brokers - Real Estate Agents - Banks-Title Companies

SMALL BUSINESS Affinity GroupWith a Focus on Business Owners with 2 to 20 Employees

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Affinity GroupThe GSDBA has launched the Young Professionals Affinity group to help groom and foster the next generation of young profes-sionals into seasoned and mature leaders who are looked at to take the organization or department to the next level.

Visit our website for for more information.Click on ‘Networking’

for GSDBA members

Current Business Networking Groups:


Check online for contact information, meeting times and locations.

www.gsdba.org/networking. Click on Affinity Groups

Check online for

Facilitator Contact

Information

www.gsdba.org/networking. Click on BNGS



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The 2012Directoryis out!

The News Magazine of the Greater San Diego Business Association | San Diego’s Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce | Volume 18 | Issue No. 1 - January/February 2012

GSDBA Jan-Feb 2012 Community Connection

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Transcript of GSDBA Jan-Feb 2012 Community Connection