President's MessageProviding Leadership in Turbulent TimesOctober 31, 2008
By Karen R. Goodfriend, CPA/PFS
Among other topics, we discussed how our profession can serve our clients and the public in this time of financial uncertainty. As I sit in the terminal, I hear CNN report alternately on the election and the financial crisis, and I reflect on how much our profession has to offer our clients and the public at this time. Whether dealing with individuals or businesses, or serving as an employee in industry, a CPA’s objectivity and problem-solving abilities provide leadership in uncertain times. We also can provide a public service by helping to educate consumers and clients in matters of personal and business finance. In my practice, I have seen clients who want to know how the financial turbulence is affecting them personally. They value objective assessments and guidance from a trusted adviser who understands their specific financial goals and who serves as a voice of reason. Helping clients to carefully plan their cash flow and navigate during the market downturn, refrain from selling investments based on emotion or fear and identify the silver linings where they exist, such as favorable tax legislation, represent a few cases in point. We can also help each other. In this unprecedented situation for our profession, we benefit by sharing ideas and resources and connecting with colleagues in our areas of specialty. If you are wondering how to get involved, here are a few examples of CalCPA activities that you can tap into: CalCPA staff and members work with the media to provide expert sources who can shed light on complex financial issues. Can you provide an expert perspective? The Financial Literacy program provides pro bono education to consumers, and volunteers are always needed to visit schools and civic groups. Training is provided. CalCPA and chapter committees serve as resources to help CalCPA members gain perspective and share ideas with colleagues in specific practice and technical areas. I just received an e-mail from our CalCPA PFP Committee chair, who is in the process of gathering personal financial planning practice resources from committee members throughout the state. Other committees are addressing tax, financial and accounting issues as events unfold in the coming weeks, months and years. Please offer your comments or contact me, CalCPA chapter leaders or CalCPA leaders if you would like to know more. — Karen Goodfriend, CPA/PFS Chapter NewsEighth Annual Estate Planning Symposium
This event features updates on transfer & fiduciary income taxes; AICPA valuation standards and the 2006 Pension Protection Act; estate and income tax planning for same-sex couples; and dealing with foreign trusts, beneficiaries and assets. Co-hosted by the Estate & Trust committees of CalCPA’s Peninsula Silicon Valley and Silicon Valley San Jose chapters, and by the Santa Clara County Estate Planning Council. Date: Tuesday, Jan. 20 Young Professionals Keeping Busy
Our Young Professionals Committee, chaired by Parisa Nesva Derani and Anthony Rozenvasser, has been busy planning some upcoming events in which you’ll want to participate: Career Panel: The International Track Date: Thursday, Nov. 13 Mark the Holiday Season by Giving New Members
On behalf of the Peninsula Silicon Valley Chapter’s officers, directors and members, we extend our warmest of welcomes to our new members. CalCPA NewsHow’s Your Succession Plan?
Is your succession plan due for a checkup? Or, perhaps, are you due to get started? National experts can help you make sure your succession plan is on track and that you maximize the value you have created in your firm. Register today for the Education Foundation’s 2008 Succession Planning Conference: CalCPA Member Discounts on CCH Tax Guidebooks
CalCPA members can order CCH’s 2009 U.S. Master Tax Guide and the Guidebook to California Taxes 2009 at significantly discounted rates:
CalCPA Leaders Wanted
If you’re interested in helping shape the next group of CalCPA leaders, nominate a member for the job. Or, if you’re interested in a leadership role, self-nomination is the best way make your interest known. The CalCPA Nominations Committee is accepting nominations until Dec. 1 for 2009–10 CalCPA officers and council members at large. Learn more and download an application. Women’s Leadership Forum
Join CalCPA Dec. 3 for a day of leadership development, professional growth and recognition at the 2008 Women’s Leadership Forum. From tips and strategies for attaining leadership positions within the profession to handling difficult situations, mentoring and public speaking, this event designed by women CPA leaders will feature top speakers dedicated to helping women advance their careers. Register today! Plus, a lunchtime celebration will feature winners of CalCPA’s first Women to Watch Awards presented in cooperation with the AICPA. Learn more or download a nominations form. Then join other women as they finish the successful day of networking at the Women’s Leadership Forum with a networking dinner. |
|
|||||||||||||||
|
| ||||||||||||||
