BUSINESS DIRECTORY COMING

The Tribune
Published: Friday, November 1, 2002
Page: D1

A new publication featuring Central Coast businesses and offering discounts at local restaurants, hotels and attractions for those who buy the $20 book will release its first issue in 2003.

SLO Passport, the brainchild of locals Damien and Tina Porter, lists everything from dining spots to spas to auto repair shops and offers a guide to local events, golf resorts and wineries. It also includes articles relating to living on the Central Coast.

The book comes with a card for discounted meals and purchases at about 200 participating businesses.

"Were trying to serve residents of the Central Coast as well as tourists," Tina Porter said.

The couple got the idea after seeing similar books in Chicago, Los Angeles and the Bay Area, she said.

About 60,000 copies of the book will be distributed at grocery stores, hotels and offices throughout San Luis Obispo County during the first week of January.

Tina, former owner of Tina's Ark pet-sitting service, and husband Damien work from their 846 Higuera St. office in San Luis Obispo. For more information, call 545-9777 or visit www.slopassport.com.