“I’m always searching for an excellent gift that’s sure to make a special one happy. No doubt you are too, so here’s my list and let’s go shopping right now!” - Betty

Apparel and Accessories by August Mears - One of a kind scarves, fingerless gloves and such available at Underground Treasures Boutique, 1707 Webster, Oakland (@ 17th). Call Rev. ElTyna McCree 510-435-7050.

Amoeba Records - Huge assortment of music at Amoeba Records with stores at 1855 Haight Street, San Francisco and 2455 Telegraph, Berkeley, including the recently released "Smile" album original session recordings from Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. We met Brian recently at the SF store thanks to manager Kathy Olival. Visit www.amoeba.com or call 415-831-1200 for info and tell Kathy "Hi!"

Artist Irene Hendrick - Gorgeous images in watercolor and acrylics reflect the artists' London childhood and also ones from the Bay Area you are sure to love. Irene's classes are very popular with those who want to explore painting. She also does commissioned works and exhibits.

Check out this talented artists' work at www.irenehendrick and visit her studio at Hunter's Point.

Ceremonies, Weddings, Celebrations, Blessings – Rev. Elizabeth River – What a great idea! Give to each other, to your family, or to a group of like-minded souls the gift of a ceremony designed and led by an officiant who has the style, grace and elegance of an angel come to bless you. Call to inquire at 415-663-9627 and visit reverendriver.com.

Chocolate Truffles by Chef Morgan Paschke - We met Morgan earlier this year and fell in love with the high quality and variety of fine truffles she offers. You'll be proud to give these chocolates when “decadent indulgence” is called for!  Place your special order by calling 510-381-3752. Affordable and oh so good!

Cookies by Chef Gloria Swanson - That really is her name! Gloria is known far & wide in our community for her cooking and the holiday season inspires her to bake cookies. Give a batch to your special one and enjoy the cookies and Gloria too. She's helped us many times with catering for special occasions. Visit www.chefforhiresf.com and order those cookies: 415-552-3232.

David & Ronnie Exclusive Jewelry - Available in platinum, gold and silver, the custom designs by David & Ronnie are exceptional. Call (702-597-5003) or e-mail (info@davidandronnie.com) for the discount code (“Betty”) pricing on the beautiful Round Starburst Pendent (Style #NC-34). Be sure to have a look around the website (davidandronnie.com) to see more truly beautiful and unique items for her or him.

GLBT Historical Society's Gift Shop – Unique items that make great stocking stuffers. From t-shirts to tote bags, mugs, greeting cards, fridge magnets and more, all feature the History Museum's logo and images from historical photos and graphics of the world-renowned archives.
You can contact the Museum's operations manager Aimee Forster at aimee@glbthistory.org and visit the website: www.glbthistory.org

I’m Walking As Straight As I Can – Autobiography by Geri Jewel – She’s a most inspirational writer, speaker and personality. Best known as Cousin Geri on the NBC sitcom The Facts of Life, Geri was the first person with a disability to have a regular role on a primetime series.

What’s more, she was a featured speaker this year at our own Literary Salon / Book Club at Duboce Park Café. Know someone who loves books? Visit gerijewell.com and find out more.

LadyParts Automotive - We love recommending owner Mae de la Calzada's shop where you car will get careful care under the leadership of service manager Jill Trotta. These women know how to get it done in all the ways a woman appreciates...  “and we are nice to men too!” they love to say. Truly the best car care we've ever known. Gift certificates are excellent for the Holidays and they have shuttle service so it's easy to get to and from. Call 650-369-5239 and visit ladypartsauto.com.

Michael Bruno Luggage & Gifts – A longtime Castro favorite, Michael Bruno’s has more to offer than you can shake a stick at. Chock full of choices for all price ranges, the shop specializes in luggage, personal leather goods, picture frames, clocks and backpacks. Truly worth the visit to 2267 Market Street and you can inquire at 415-552-3970.

New Year’s Eve Tickets – Party & Celebration - Dance the night away with us at the beautiful San Francisco City Club with outstanding food, a gorgeous deco venue featuring an original Diego Rivera mural, live music and popular DJ Lori Z bringing the Z Road Show. Call for a $20 per ticket discount when you say “Bay Times Special” - 415-503-1375.

Olivia Majestic Alaska Cruise – September 16-23, 2012 - We are going back to Alaska with the Women of Olivia! Mention “Betty” and get a special $100 off discount. Group pricing available, so give her a gift of a lifetime. Visiting Alaska by ship is one of my favorite things to do! Join us aboard Holland America’s Ms Rotterdam with a line-up of Olivia entertainers who’ll make you laugh and cry at the same time. Call 800-631-6277 today and say “Betty” sent you!

Panache Lighting by Jana Olson – We met Jana at the Celebration of Craftswomen last month and a one-of-a-kind lamp by her now adorns our kitchen table. They are creative, humorous, functional and joyful too. Check out the Kitchenware Lights section on the website panachelighting.com and be sure to tell them Betty sent you! Call 510-204-9375 or visit the Open Studio at their Berkeley location, 2743 Ninth Street: Dec 3 & 4, 10&11, 17th & 18. Saturdays and Sundays 11am to 6pm.

Pet Portraits - You'll love the work of artist John Benko who since 1978 has created custom modern art images, including those pet portraits we like so much. Check out his unique work at www.JohnBenko.webs.com.

Sculptures & Fountains by Sigrid Herr – Sigrid reached out to us and we fell in love with the beauty and crafting of her very special statues, fountains, frames, mirrors and more. You have to see them to believe. Perfect for wedding gifts, birth and motherhood celebrations, meditations and rituals too. Call 510-708-9635 and tell Sigrid we said “Hello!” Visit the website herrsculptures.com.