Charity & Community News

Posted by: Brenda Lafontaine

Media contact: John Egan, SpareFoot
jegan@sparefoot.com
512-705-6208

SpareFoot, which operates the country’s largest online marketplace for self-storage units, has established the SpareFoot Storage Industry Disaster Relief Fund to help victims of the recent outbreak of tornadoes in the South and Midwest and to assist victims of future disasters.

SpareFoot invites self-storage operators, self-storage vendors and other companies in the storage industry to contribute to the fund to help victims of the recent deadly tornadoes. To donate to the fund, visit http://selfstora.ge/SpareFootGives.

Through the Crowdrise fundraising platform, all proceeds will go directly to the American Red Cross for disaster relief.

"The recent tornadoes devastated so many communities in the South and Midwest. Storage facilities that are part of our network operate in many of these communities,” SpareFoot CEO Chuck Gordon said. "We thought the best way SpareFoot could help would be to set up this fund for the storage industry to pool money and collectively show that the industry cares about victims of these tornadoes and future disasters.”

About SpareFoot

SpareFoot, based in Austin, TX, makes renting self-storage easy. Our free marketplace lets customers find and reserve storage units online. We have the largest inventory of storage units in the U.S., with a network of more than 7,000 facilities ranging from mom-and-pops to publicly traded REITs. We reach millions of people who need storage through exclusive partnerships with brands like SelfStorage.com, ForRent.com and Penske Truck Rental.

For more information, visit SpareFoot.com.

Posted by: Brenda Lafontaine 

We are proud to announce our founder Terry Caster, and his wife Barbara’s generous donation to Rotary International. These funds will support Rotary International’s Global Polio Eradication Initiative (http://www.polioeradication.org/).  Rotary’s efforts to eradicate polio world-wide include advocacy, public awareness, and immunizations in countries such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan.  Polio remains endemic in these countries.  Polio can strike at any age, but mainly affects children under five years.  Although there is no cure for polio, it can be prevented through immunization.  The polio vaccine almost always protects a child for life.

"It is an honor to support such a worthy cause.” said Brian Caster, President and CEO of A-1 Self Storage. "We are proud to support Rotary’s lifesaving work and world-wide effort to eradicate polio.”

To read more about the Caster’s gift to Rotary International or to make a donation to this worthy initiative, please visit https://www.rotary.org/en/couple%E2%80%99s-11-million-gift-boosts-push-eradicate-polio.

Posted by: Brenda Lafontaine

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A-1 Self Storage donates money to support the 7th Annual Walk to Cure Psoriasis event to be held on October 12, 2013 in San Diego, CA.

San Diego, CA – September 5, 2013 – A-1 Self Storage, the premier provider of self storage in California, announced today their monetary donation to the San Diego-headquartered National Psoriasis Foundation to support their 7th Annual Walk to Cure Psoriasis event to help raise funds and awareness. The walk will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2013 in Old Town. Their goal is to raise $70,000.00, which will go towards funding research to finding a cure for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that appears on the skin and can occur on any part of the body. It is usually associated with diabetes, heart disease and other serious health conditions. There are five different types of psoriasis but the most common is plaque psoriasis, which appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white build-up of dead skin skills. Regardless of its appearance, it’s important to know that psoriasis is not contagious.

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) is a non-profit, voluntary health agency dedicated to finding a cure for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and eliminating their devastating effects through research, advocacy and education.  Founded in 1968, the Psoriasis Foundation has evolved to become the leading patient advocacy group for the 7.5 million Americans living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. For more information, please visit: http://www.psoriasis.org

 "It’s it an honor to support a national organization with a local presence, whose work supports approximately 80,000 people suffering from this disease in San Diego County.” said Brian Caster, President and CEO of A-1 Self Storage. "My nephew suffers from psoriasis, so I understand how devastating and frustrating it can be to the individual suffering from it.  We hope that through research and education, a cure will be eventually be found and the general public will become well aware about psoriasis and that it is not contagious.”    

To find a San Diego County A-1 Self Storage, please visit: http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/San_Diego_Region/a-1_self_storage

Or to find an A-1 Self Storage location near you, please visit:

http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/locations

About A-1 Self Storage:

A-1 Self Storage is one of the leading providers of self storage and car storage in California with 17 locations in the San Diego County area and over 42 locations statewide. A-1 is the Self Storage division of the Caster Companies, a third generation family-owned company headquartered in Southern California since 1959. The Caster Companies specializes in acquisitions, development and management of A-1 Self Storage, A-1 Car Storage and other commercial properties in California. Its Real Estate Portfolio includes over 4 million square feet in real estate properties. It is one of California’s largest independent self storage and car storage owner/operators.

CONTACTS:

Fran Laporga-Ching | A-1 Self Storage | (800) 219-4854 x 141 | press@a1storage.com | www.a1storage.com

Posted by: Brenda Lafontaine

Irvine, California – September 3, 2013 - Six years after its inception, Kure It, a nonprofit dedicated to underfunded cancer research, has reached a fundraising milestone. Just in time to make the close of August, Kure It reached its goal, thanks to a check from long-time supporters Pam and Jack Domingue of Storage Solution, Inc. The check represents a milestone for the nonprofit, but most importantly, another step forward in research focused on cancers that are often overlooked and underrepresented in funding.

This money will be granted to top researchers at leading institutions, with the aim of discovering new weapons in the war against cancer. With cancer an ever present threat to the lives of neighbors, friends and loved ones, all can relate to the need to find new ways to treat, and cure, this disease.

"Many researchers have theories and preliminary research, but lack the funds to carry out their projects to the end. It is not uncommon for researchers to spend precious time seeking funding for innovative research, when the time could be better spent in the laboratory", said Kure It founder Barry Hoeven. "We established the nonprofit to fill that gap, placing the funds directly into the hands of the researchers".

Along with fundraisers held throughout the year, which add fun to the mix while drawing support, Kure It has reached out to the self storage community, garnering support from companies and individuals. Holding to the concept that many people giving small, recurring amounts adds up to big dollars for research, the non-profit reached the $1 million dollar mark in October 2011. In 2012, the inaugural Rivals United for a Kure campaign, which rallies rival USC and UCLA football fans in the fight against cancer, resulted in $300,000 in research grants to the Comprehensive Cancer Centers at the two schools.

Pam Domingue was thrilled to give the check that sent Kure It’s total over the top. A loyal supporter, she worked alongside the Kure It team to reach $2 million by the end of August, even hosting a July fundraising cocktail party at her Huntington Harbor home. "Kure It is important to us on both personal and professional levels. Personally, cancer has impacted my family so many times and in so many ways, that we truly understand the need for more research. Professionally, we feel that as business owners, we should give back to our community. Kure It, with the creative programs they have developed for our industry, allows us to give back in minor ways, along with other businesses, and put those resources together for substantial grants, making a huge impact on research. Their creativity inspires us to give in ways that won’t have a negative impact on our business, and helps promote consumer awareness and participation at the same time.”

Kure It Director Karen Jones reports, "We have heard from Pam fairly frequently the past few weeks, checking in on our progress toward the big milestone. We couldn’t be more grateful for Jack and Pam’s support, or more thrilled that theirs was the gift that got us to $2 million.”

"We are proud to be a part of their success, and look forward to a long lasting relationship with this exceptional organization!" said Pam.

About Kure It 
Kure It is a non-profit organization providing funding for innovative research projects focused on kidney cancer and other underfunded cancers. The funds raised through Kure It directly support groundbreaking research at leading cancer centers. Since being established in 2007, Kure It has raised $2 million and supported research across the United States. http://www.kureit.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

San Diego, CA – August 16, 2013 – A-1 Self Storage, the premier provider of self storage in California, announced today their monetary donation to the Southern California Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation.  The Arthritis Foundation’s mission is to improve lives through leadership in prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases.  They’re part of a nationwide foundation with chapters in cities throughout the United States.  The Arthritis Foundation provides resources for patients suffering from the disease as well as support groups, education on how to cope with the disease and advocacy to raise awareness of the disease.

"We are proud to support the Southern California Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation” said Brian Caster, President and CEO of A-1 Self Storage. "Over 50 million American adults have been diagnosed with arthritis and 300,000 children under the age of 18 are also affected by this disease. These statistics are alarming! We are pleased to provide some monetary support to help enable the Arthritis Foundation to continue their invaluable efforts in assisting patients suffering with arthritis.”    

For more information about the Arthritis Foundation, please visit: http://www.arthritis.org/california/

To find a San Diego County A-1 Self Storage, please visit: http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/San_Diego_Region/a-1_self_storage

Or to find an A-1 Self Storage location near you, please visit:

http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/locations

About A-1 Self Storage:

A-1 Self Storage is one of the leading providers of self storage and car storage in California with 17 locations in the San Diego County area and over 42 locations statewide. A-1 is the Self Storage division of the Caster Companies, a third generation family-owned company headquartered in Southern California since 1959. The Caster Companies specializes in acquisitions, development and management of A-1 Self Storage, A-1 Car Storage and other commercial properties in California. Its Real Estate Portfolio includes over 4 million square feet in real estate properties. It is one of California’s largest independent self storage and car storage owner/operators.

CONTACTS:

Fran Laporga-Ching

A-1 Self Storage

(800) 219-4854 x 141

press@a1storage.com

www.a1storage.com

Posted by: Brenda Lafontaine

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - On June 7, 2013 while on vacation in Jamaica, Robert Bret, Executive Director of the Florida Self-Storage Association, passed away unexpectedly. He leaves behind a 13 year old daughter, Kylie, who was his whole world. 

Unfortunately, Robert was not prepared to leave this world so soon.  It is our wish that our industry colleagues join together to support Robert’s daughter where we can.  In lieu of flowers for Robert Bret's memorial service, the family respectfully requests donations are made to help his surviving daughter, Kylie, with her future college tuition expenses. Please help us to help Kylie make her way in life after this tragedy. Money does not solve everything. And it will never replace a loving father. But, your generosity will pay forward in ways we know you can appreciate.

For more information or do donate today please visit - http://www.youcaring.com/tuition-fundraiser/help-send-kylie-to-college-/67844

About Robert:

Robert served as FSSA executive director for three years. He had more than 14 years of training experience in several fields including formulating human-resources policies and procedures, employment law, developing trainings and seminars, recruitment, testing, placement, orientation, benefits and labor relations.

 "Robert was big guy. But, as big as he was physically, he was a softy. His quiet way and soft spoken humor belied that big physical presence. He was truly a gentle man,” FSSA President Lewis Pollack said in a letter to association members. "In our professional association, he was an extremely effective administrator and a real advocate for FSSA. In all the time we worked together, I never heard him raise his voice in anger or frustration—almost a feat of magic given the stresses of his position.”

"Robert was a great source of common-sense advice to University Self Storage earlier this year when we had to deal with the sudden passing of two tenants and how to handle the units,” posted Mary Fischer, property-leasing manager for the Sarasota, Fla., facility, to the online community Self-Storage Talk. "Robert was kind and patient and quick to respond.”

A military veteran, Bret served in the U.S. Army for two years out of high school before joining the Navy for another three years. Bret’s father, Robert E. Bret, was a 20-year career Navy officer who also died earlier this year.

"Robert was a big man with a big heart and a kind soul,” said Pollack, who is also managing principal for StoreSmart, a national developer and asset manager of self-storage properties. "Robert was truly a good man. He will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.”

Bret is survived by his 13-year-old daughter Kylie, mother Marilyn Bret, sister Nicole Handy, brother-in-law Michael Handy, nephew Ryland Handy, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Thank you for your support. Robert will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.

Posted by: Erin King

An Article by Steven E. Schraibman, AIA, CPE, CASp

There is an often misconceived notion amongst property and business owners that the whole nasty issue of ADA compliance will go away. The belief goes something along the idea that some magic piece of legislation will come along that will drive the disabled access activists and serial plaintiffs into the barren wasteland of forgotten legislative missteps, and then they can then simply go on with the business of, well, making business.

In California, we are particularly susceptible to this myopic mirage and every couple of years a "fix it” piece of legislation gets passed and signed into law that is supposed to do just that- fix it. But in essence this never really happens; instead of fixing on the target it simply moves the goal posts, which leaves all the players scurrying and jockeying for position. There are a multitude of reasons for this situation, much of which goes way beyond the scope of this article.

This issue is not about Democrat, Libertarian or Republican politics –it is simply about the American way. We do not discriminate. We are a nation of, to paraphrase Emma Lazarus’ immortal words emblazoned on the Statue of Liberty- "…Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free…”

We in California are not alone. There are a gaggle of other states in which business and property owners are too apparently stymied by ADA dragons and demons. States like Texas, Florida, and Alabama to name just a few.

The latest bill in California that attempts to squeeze its ungainly bulk into that misshapen mold is SB1186, which was meant to reduce or even eliminate frivolous "ADA” litigation – except that the critical part, according to property owners and advocates was left on the cutting room floor- namely the part about a notice period identifying alleged barriers at a property before a would be plaintiff can sue.

This is not the first time this has happened where such a clause was omitted in the final bill, but in addition to this ‘slap in the face’ another requirement crept in; namely Section 12 of SB1186, which essentially requires a property owner to disclose (from July 1, 2013), in the event of a sale, refinance or lease, if the property has been CASp inspected.

"SEC. 12. Section 1938 is added to the Civil Code, to read

1938. A commercial property owner or lessor shall state on every lease form or rental agreement executed on or after July 1, 2013, whether the property being leased or rented has undergone inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp), and, if so, whether the property has or has not been determined to meet all applicable construction-related accessibility standards pursuant to Section 55.53”

This essentially impacts all non-residential leases from July 1, 2013 onwards and not only impacts the property owners, but the property managers as well in that a failure to advise client’s correctly could have legal ramifications and potential loss of business implications as well.

The inspection has to be carried out by a CASp- not just any other party, which includes consultants who might otherwise be knowledgeable in all things ADA, but don’t have the CASp certification.

Properties inspected by a CASp consultant have to be brought into compliance with all applicable accessibility standards as identified in the CASp report. This means additional costs for the owner- something they might not have budgeted for.

One could also read other potential issues, such as the responsibility falling back to the owner for non-compliance issues in the actual tenant space and the cost of defending against litigation and indemnifying the tenants. Very often in the past owners would require that the tenant indemnify them against ADA barriers in the tenant space, but now an owner handing over a space that is identified as not being in compliance has additional legal exposure should they not correct the alleged access barriers.

Also if a potential tenant is looking at renting and finds two properties that are the same the prospective tenant who is savvy would likely go with the property that affords them the least exposure, i.e. the property that has been CASp certified and the identified barriers to access addressed.

If one reads into the possibilities that may evolve out of SB1186, it would appear that the long term implications seem to be leaning to all properties being CASp certified eventually and hence everything being compliant with all applicable accessibility standards. A similar situation can be found in residential real estate where in selling a house an owner must get a termite clearance.

This would in theory all but eliminate the serial plaintiffs and their cadre, but for an unwary owner or property manager, this could spell disaster. So instead of things becoming simpler, they just got more complex. And if you add to this the conflicts between the new (2010) federal ADA and the current California Accessibility code, a property owner runs the risk of being in violation of one if they are in compliance with the other.

So what is an owner or property manager to do? Well businesses in California have a gift in and it is called the CASp certificate. By having a property audited by a CASp inspector, not only is the property afforded certain "special legal rights” when it comes to litigation exposure, but in addition the owner may have a window of time to address barriers that are more significant and which may have a meaningful fiscal impact.

But aside from CASp and against traditional business protocol and current market trends in the insurance industry there is a company that is actually offering insurance in an area that is the single most litigious issue confronting business and property owners – ADA compliance.

A company based in California and with an extensive reputation in the property and real estate insurance environment – Sullivan Curtis Munroe has a unique product designed especially to afford protection from ADA lawsuits- ADA Compliance Plus®.

So to sum up it would seem that the sane approach would be to get CASp certified and obtain the ADA insurance. Don’t wait…just CASp it.

About Steve Schraibman

Steve Schraibman holds licenses as an Architect, General Contractor, Certified Professional Cost Estimator (CPE) and Certified Access Specialist (CASp). With his qualifications and broad range of experience he brings a multitude of related skills to the resolution of often complex problems that would ordinarily require the services of a number of experts.

Please visit our website at www.arcor-inc.com or call us to arrange a consultation.

San Diego (858) 481-4494 Los Angeles (310) 431-9389 N. Cal. (650) 468-0307

Posted by: Brenda Lafontaine

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Huntington Beach, CA – March 20, 2013 – A-1 Self Storage Huntington Beach announced today their monetary donation to Meals on Wheels of America. They are a non-profit organization of dedicated volunteers who prepare and deliver over a million nutritious meals and social contact to homebound seniors daily. For many seniors, the Meals on Wheels volunteer is the only person they see each day. Many seniors have been living in the same home for most of their life. They’d rather continue living there instead of a nursing home or require full-time care. Most of them were self-sufficient and productive their entire life; however, they can no longer remain at home without outside assistance. Meals on Wheels also provides other support services to help seniors maintain their independence and peace of mind.

Meals on Wheels Association of America is the oldest and largest national organization with over 5,000 local Senior Nutrition Programs throughout the United States. Some programs offer meal delivery to the homes of seniors with limited mobility, while other programs serve meals at locations, such as senior centers to those who find it difficult or impossible to prepare meals for themselves. For more information, please visit:  http://www.mowaa.org/

"Meals on Wheels is a great organization that connects those unable to cook for themselves with those who are willing to help. No elderly person should ever go to bed hungry or experience social isolation.” said Brian Caster, President and CEO of A-1 Self Storage Huntington Beach. "We at A-1 Self Storage Huntington Beach are thankful to their army of volunteers for supporting our senior citizens.”

For more information about A-1 Self Storage Huntington Beach, please visit:

http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/Huntington_Beach_CA/zip_92647/a-1_self_storage/437

For more information about self storage units in Huntington Beach, please visit: http://www.a1storage.com/p/self_storage/storage_units/huntington-beach-ca-92647/a1-self-storage-437

About A-1 Self Storage:

A-1 Self Storage Huntington Beach is one of the leading providers of self storage in Huntington Beach, California. It has been fulfilling the need for storage units in Huntington Beach for residential and business customers since November 1999. A-1 is the Self Storage division of the Caster Companies, a third generation family-owned company headquartered in Southern California since 1959. The Caster Companies specializes in acquisitions, development and management of A-1 Self Storage, A-1 Car Storage and other commercial properties in California. Its Real Estate Portfolio includes 42 locations statewide and over 4 million square feet in real estate properties. It is one of California’s largest independent self storage and car storage owner/operators.

CONTACTS:

Fran Laporga-Ching | A-1 Self Storage | (800) 219-4854 x 141 | press@a1storage.com  | www.a1storage.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

San Diego, CA – February 20, 2013 – A-1 Self Storage, the premier provider of self storage in California, announced today their monetary donation to Eternal World Television Network’s (EWTN) Programming Support.  EWTN is a television, radio, internet and publishing organization that delivers wholesome, encouraging and positive programs for all ages. EWTN offers child friendly shows and interactive games online. Family programs and talk shows provide the adult viewers a variety of entertainment. Avid sport fans will appreciate the one-on-one interviews of successful athletes who share of their lives and the excitement of their current roles. EWTN continues to grow through the generosity of its supporters and strives to provide sound and wholesome information in both English and Spanish languages to its viewers.

"Eternal World Television Network is a great network that entire families can enjoy; there’s something for everyone.” said Brian Caster, President and CEO of A-1 Self Storage. "We at A-1 Self Storage are pleased to provide support to EWTN for its child and family friendly programs.”

For more information about Eternal World Television Network, please visit:  http://www.ewtn.com/

To find a San Diego County A-1 Self Storage, please visit: http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/San_Diego_Region/a-1_self_storage

Or to find an A-1 Self Storage location near you, please visit:

http://www.a1storage.com/self_storage/locations

About A-1 Self Storage:

A-1 Self Storage is one of the leading providers of self storage and car storage in California with 17 locations in the San Diego County area and over 42 locations statewide. A-1 is the Self Storage division of the Caster Companies, a third generation family-owned company headquartered in Southern California since 1959. The Caster Companies specializes in acquisitions, development and management of A-1 Self Storage, A-1 Car Storage and other commercial properties in California. Its Real Estate Portfolio includes over 4 million square feet in real estate properties. It is one of California’s largest independent self storage and car storage owner/operators.

CONTACTS:

Fran Laporga-Ching

A-1 Self Storage

(800) 219-4854 x 141

press@a1storage.com

www.a1storage.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Karen Jones
karenj@kureit.org
(949)428-7081

Jerry Jones, The Self Storage CPA, Commits to Fund Cancer Research  

NEWPORT BEACH, CA, January 2013– This tax season, Jerry Jones, The Self Storage CPA, has committed to an even greater return - a contribution to Kure It Cancer Research. Jones will donate $50 for every self storage tax return he prepares, and will donate an additional $50 for every existing client who refers a new client.  

The self storage industry continues to make a big impact for cancer research in its unique partnership with Kure It. The creative efforts of professionals in the industry have led to over $1.6 million in donations to the organization since its establishment in 2007 by storage veteran Barry Hoeven. Because of the industry’s strong support, Kure It was able to grant nearly $1 million in innovative research grants in 2012.

Jones expressed his desire to join others in the industry who support Kure It’s research efforts. "When I read about Kure It’s accomplishments in 2012, I knew I had to get involved. I was amazed at how much they are raising, and impressed that the industry is such a big part of their success.” With more than 25 years of industry-specific experience, Jones has created a niche for himself and is now marketing his services through his new website, www.TheSelfStorageCPA.com. "I look forward to helping self storage operators maximize their profits and streamline their systems, while donating $50 to research every time I complete a tax return. It’s a win-win.”

Karen Jones, director of Kure It Cancer Research, said, "Kure It is honored by The Self Storage CPA’s commitment. It is the generosity of established storage industry professionals like Jerry that will inspire others to get involved. This support will allow us to grant even more to cancer research projects in 2013.”

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About Kure It

Kure It is a non-profit organization whose mission is to raise money for research specialists conducting innovative projects to better treat and ultimately cure kidney cancer and other underfunded malignancies.  Founded by Barry Hoeven after his diagnosis with kidney cancer, Kure It supports research being done at major institutions across the United States. Please visit our website for more information about our current researchers and their projects. www.kureit.org

 

About Jerry Jones, CPA

With more than 25 years of industry-specific experience, Jerry Jones, The Self Storage CPA, specializes in working closely with the owners, operators, and managers to ensure proper accounting procedures and will work closely with the management company to ensure proper allocation of expense items. He also can review budgets for new construction and Limited Partnership or LLC Operating Agreements. Understanding the ins and outs of limited partnerships, LLCs, and other forms of business ownership, he can help decide which entity is best for his clients. Mr. Jones can prepare tax returns for all states and gives his self-storage clients top priority during tax season, making sure that all returns are completed and all K-1’s have been mailed to the partners/members no later than March 15th each year. With clients across the U.S., location is not a problem.

www.theselfstoragecpa.com