The WashingtonCPA July/August 2011 by Washington Society of CPAs

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CPA July/August 2011

Volume 54, Number 1

Social Media

How to Use Social Media to Gain Attention for Your Business Five â&#x20AC;&#x153;Must Havesâ&#x20AC;? for Every Social Media Policy Annual Award Winners

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Contents

wa s h i n g t o n

CPA www.wscpa.org • memberservices@wscpa.org Tel (425) 644-4800 • Toll free in WA (800) 272-8273 Fax (425) 562-8853 902 140th Ave NE Bellevue, WA 98005-3480

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mark A. Hugh Chair Mary D. Marino Vice Chair Randy L. Wells Secretary Lucy L. Liu Treasurer James R. Ladd Immediate Past Chair Richard E. Jones President & CEO

Peter E. Doubleday Sharon K. Philpott Joyce G. Etheridge Russell D. Price Waylon P. Jones Rosemary Sanchez Karissa A. Lackey Lisa J. Sunderman Susan E. Legel David E. Trujillo Peter R. E. Miller William L. Wells David J. Miniken Glenn G. Wisegarver Nerelys M. Ortiz CHAPTER BOARD CHAIRS Waylon P. Jones Bellevue Area Joseph W. Crowther Central Joseph M. Reid Central — North Seattle Jack W. Curnow Northwest Kathryn A. Dixon Olympia — Peninsula — Pierce County Mary H. Hawkins Sammamish Valley Connie L. Griffith Seattle H. Court Carter Snohomish County Michael K. Briggs South King County John Vogel South Sound Industry Trayson J. Harmon Southwest Lucas M. Zarecor Spokane — Wenatchee Katrina L. Cantu Yakima

Jeanette Kebede

Editor

The WashingtonCPA is published by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants for its members. Views and opinions appearing in this publication are not necessarily endorsed by the WSCPA. The products and services advertised in The Washington CPA have not been reviewed or endorsed by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants, its board of directors or staff. The WashingtonCPA (USPS 009754) is published six times annually by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants, 902 140th Avenue NE, Bellevue, WA 98005-3480. $12 of members’ annual dues goes toward a subscription to The WashingtonCPA. Periodicals postage paid at Bellevue, Washington and additional mailing offices.

Social Media 8

How to Use Social Media to Gain Attention for Your Business

11 Five Questions to Ask Yourself About Social and Professional Networking Sites 12 Five “Must Haves” for Every Social Media Policy 13 Sticky Social Media Etiquette Questions 14 How to Tend to Your Network in Only Five Minutes a Day 14 Social Networking with the WSCPA 22 Social Networking ... and Advocacy

Looking for Insurance? WSCPA has You Covered

18 2010-2011 Award Winners 23 Customizing the Ribbon in Office 2010

Departments 5

Leadership Lens

21, 28 Photo Album

News Briefs

CPE Digest

Advocacy

Registration Form

Send address changes to The WashingtonCPA,

Industry Voice

Classified Ads

c/o WSCPA, 902 140th Avenue NE, Bellevue, WA

Financial Literacy

Member Profile

98005-3480.

Events

Photos by veer.com, gettyimages.com, istockphoto.com. POSTMASTER:

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WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

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Leadership lens

CPAs Head to Capitol Hill During AICPA Spring Meeting of Council By Rich Jones, CPA, President & CEO

he governing body of the AICPA is known as the Council. The 2011 AICPA Spring Meeting of Council was held in Washington, D.C. on May 22-24, 2011. These meetings are open to the public and there were approximately 500 people in attendance. The Spring Meeting in odd numbered years is always held in Washington, D.C. and is focused on national politics and legislative issues of the day. At the conclusion of the meeting, CPAs head to Capitol Hill for meetings with their U.S. Senators and Members of Congress. During these meetings, CPAs educate their legislators and staff about current financial and tax issues that they believe are important. This year’s visits marked the fourth time I have participated in these visits and they are always the highlight of the meeting for me. Three key issues that we discussed with legislators and their staff this year were as follows:

Tax Strategy Patents

Background: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued 144 patents on “tax ideas” to date; with 166 more pending. These patents cover a wide range of tax-related activities including charitable giving, retirement planning, real estate transactions, and the treatment of stock options. The accounting profession believes that patents should not be granted for tax strategies and has been active in trying to prevent these patents from being issued. Status: Two comprehensive patent reform bills are currently pending before Congress (H.R. 1249 and S. 23). Each of these bills contains provisions that would prohibit the issuance of tax strategy patents. The Senate passed its bill earlier this year, 95-5, and the House Judiciary Committee has favorably reported out its bill to the full House and is awaiting action by the full House. In addition, a freestanding tax strategy patents bill (S. 139) was www.wscpa.org

recently introduced by Senators Max Baucus and Charles Grassley, in case the large comprehensive patent reform bill does not survive the legislative process. We asked our legislators to support these bills in the interest of the fair and equitable administration of the tax laws.

Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act of 2011 (H.R. 1864)

Tax Return Due Date Simplification and Modernization Act of 2011 (S. 845)

Background: The income of flowthrough entities is taxable to the owner of the entity, rather than the entity itself, so the owner needs to receive the Schedule K-1 from the entity before the owner can prepare its return. The current duedates for these entity returns often result in an inability for the eventual taxpayer to receive the necessary information to timely comply with its tax compliance obligations. Proposed solution: S. 845 would create the following tax return due dates for calendar year taxpayers:

Background: There are 41 states that impose a personal income tax on wages, and there are many differing tax requirements regarding the withholding of income tax on non-residents. Some states actually require withholding for as little as one day of work. This results in burdensome payroll Form Initial Due Extended tax reporting, withholding and Return Type Date Due Date compliance for employers and Partnership 1065 March 15 Sep 15 employees. 1120S March 31 Sep 30 Proposed solution: H.R. 1864 S Corporation Trust & Estate 1041 April 15 Sep 30 creates a uniform national standard that will limit state or local C Corporation 1120 Series April 15 Oct 15 taxation of the compensation Individual 1040 April 15 Oct 15 of an employee who performs Employee Benefit Plan 5500 July 31 Nov 15 duties in more than one state Foreign Bank Account Form TD F Oct 15* N/A or locality to: Reporting 90.22-1 (1) The state or local*Current law due date is June 30, with no extension allowed ity of the employee’s residence; and We asked our Senators to consider (2) The state or locality in which becoming a co-sponsor of S. 845 and the employee is physically presasked our Representatives to become ent performing duties for more an original co-sponsor of the House bill than 30 days. when it is introduced. The bill would exclude professional athletes, professional entertainers, and The AICPA will be celebrating its 125th certain public figures from the definianniversary at next year’s AICPA Spring tion of employee for this purpose, since Council Meeting to be held in Washingthese individuals are paid on a per-event ton, D.C. on May 15-18, 2012. Why not basis. We asked members of the House mark your calendar now and plan to join to consider signing-on as sponsors of this in the festivities? I am sure you would legislation and asked Senators to support find the investment of time and cost to similar legislation when it is introduced in be worthwhile. the Senate. You can contact Rich Jones at rjones@wscpa.org. WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Leadership lens

Looking Back, Moving Forward By Mark Hugh, CPA,WSCPA Chair for 2011-12

t’s an honor to be WSCPA Board Chair for the next year. As chair, it’s my turn to lead a group of volunteers who are dedicated to improving the organization and the accounting profession. While being board chair is a special honor, as the 92nd board chair in WSCPA history, I recognize that I am beneficiary of the prior work of hundreds of members who have served the organization since its founding in 1904. I have been a WSCPA member for over 20 years. For the first few years, my involvement was passive, paying dues and attending CPE. My participation increased in 1993, when I began teaching CPE classes on state taxes and now professional ethics. After 18 years of teaching, I have met thousands of WSCPA members in every city and every chapter across the state. My involvement increased again in 2005, when I joined the board of directors. In those seven years and under many different volunteer leaders, I have seen the WSCPA constantly improving to meet its vision of being essential to the success of its members: •

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The bylaws of the WSCPA were amended to streamline board governance processes and free the board from involvement in operations. This has allowed the board to focus on the WSCPA and the profession at a higher and strategic level. As a result of a strategic planning process, the board has invested in new targeted programs that recognize that members work in different size entities, whether small, medium, or large, and are at different stages in their careers, whether young professionals, mid-career professionals, or in the second half of their careers.

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In the middle of the last decade, the WSCPA recognized that it was not attracting younger members and ran the risk of declining as its existing members moved towards retirement. In 2005 there were only 300 student members and less than 7% of the membership was under 30. Thanks to initiatives targeting students and young professionals, today there are over 1,400 student members and now over 25% of the members are new professionals, one of the most active member communities. The diversity of the board improved. The WSCPA was formed in 1904 and elected its first woman chair in 1991, its 87th year. In the five-year period starting in 2008 and including my term, three out of five chairs have been or will be women. The WSCPA has been a leader in reinventing its educational programs, with increased used of webcasts and other alternatives that are more convenient, with no commuting, no cross state driving, no parking, and no bridges to cross. At the same time, live seminars will never disappear and the WSCPA is reinvigorating its conferences with better locations, improved speakers, and more networking opportunities. The Washington CPA Foundation, a separate stand-alone 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has revitalized itself to become self sufficient in its fundraising and awarding $40,000 in scholarships for the 2010-2011 academic year, as well as supporting both doctoral students in

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accounting and financial literacy for all the citizens of Washington State. In advocacy, the WSCPA recently achieved one of its strongest successes, as it was instrumental in preventing the Washington State Board of Accountancy, our regulator, from being merged into a much larger government agency. Not only would a merger have reduced the state board’s ability to understand accounting issues affecting our members, but an independent consultant’s report noted the merger would have resulted in harm to the public.

So, the last seven years has been a period of constant change and continual improvement. And now it’s my turn to keep the organization moving forward on a strategic path for the benefit of its members. I have served with many leaders of the profession on the WSCPA Board. One past chair,Tom Bourne, emphasized stewardship at the board level. During our time he noted that after having benefitted from the good work done by others before us, it was our duty to make the organization better and pass it on to the next generation. That message has always resonated with me and I look forward to working with my fellow Board members, as well as the WSCPA staff and its membership, to continue to improve the organization for the benefit of its members and the profession as a whole. You can contact Mark mark@markhugh.com.

Hugh

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

cover story

How to Use Social Media to Gain Attention for Your Business By Brett Owens

ocial media is all the rage. From Twitter to Facebook to LinkedIn, everyone absolutely adores the potential social media promises. However, can social media actually produce tangible results for your firm or company? I think it can, but not in acquiring new clients or customers because we have yet to figure out how to do this in a cost and time-effective manner. Others may disagree with me, but I stand by my opinion. Of course, hundreds of thousands of new customers are just waiting to be found through social media, but a proven, repeatable methodology has not yet been established. The big knock on social media is that it’s a time drain. From Twitter to blogging to everything in between, who has the time? Well—you do—if you’re smart and strategic about how you use, promote and evaluate social media.What you want is maximum return from a minimal time investment. Here are some ways to do that and gain exposure for your firm or company.

Connect With Clients and Customers on LinkedIn and Facebook

If you don’t yet have a profile established on LinkedIn and Facebook, you should set one up on each platform. Traditionally, LinkedIn is used for business purposes; Facebook for personal connections. However, these traditional roles are blending by the day—as our personal and work lives merge. So, I’d recommend setting up a personal profile on each. Once you have a profile set up, the next thing you need to do is “connect” with your clients on these platforms. This is pretty easy to do—these networks

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

were both built on the viral process inherent in inviting people you know to “connect.” You can even use your existing e-mail address book to search for initial connections. When you land a new customer, the first thing you should do is connect with your contacts within the company. In addition, be sure to include the links to your LinkedIn and Facebook profiles in your e-mail signature so that others can find you as well. Some companies and firms have established business pages on Facebook, an excellent way to maintain an identity that is not connected to an individual. Business pages are easy to set up, but be careful not to slip into complacency; you want to be sure these pages are updated on a regular basis. While you may initially be hesitant about connecting with clients on social media because of the platforms’ reputations, understand that social media is very mainstream and accepted as a way to communicate. However, it is not without its flaws. There are cases in which Facebook accounts have been hacked into. Fortunately, the experts who run Facebook have been very diligent to ensure they provide the guidance you need to secure your information. However, you must manually secure your page by going under Account Settings, then clicking on Change Account Security and checking the box that says, “Browse Facebook on a secure connection (https) whenever possible.” Remember, your e-mail can be jeopardized just as easily and there is risk everywhere.Yet, you shouldn’t scrap your social media efforts just because you are worried about security.

You may be wondering about Twitter. I think the noise level is still too high to be used for this purpose. Sure it can be effective, but given the intimidating complexity of Twitter, regular usage of it still has not cracked into the mainstream crowd— and I’m not sure if it ever will. However, if you’re very savvy with social media, feel free to integrate Twitter into your efforts. I think you’ll be fine either way.

Set up a Blog and Write Informative Articles on a Weekly Basis

You have a lot of expertise floating around in your head, so much that you might not realize it. Your clients and customers tap this vast pool of knowledge when they meet with you to engage your services or buy a product—it’s the value they receive from doing business with you. If you could share this knowledge with them on a regular basis, in small but consistent quantities, it would further strengthen the regard they have for you. It also may help drive new business from existing clients because one of your posts may trigger them to take action, which would, of course, involve your assistance and expertise. The best way I know to share knowledge and allow others to tap into your expertise in a scalable manner is by blogging. Blogs are very easy to create and cost nothing if you use one of the free online services. Writing as little as one article a week can reap huge rewards for you. Plus, you’re going to generate valuable content for your e-mail newsletter. More on that later. To set up your blog, I recommend either WordPress or Posterous. WordPress has a lot of bells and whistles, while Posterous is a simple no-frills platform; www.wscpa.org

social media

Facebook

www.facebook.com • •

While you may initially be hesitant about connecting with clients on social media because of the platforms’ reputations, understand that social media is very mainstream and accepted as a way to communicate.

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www.linkedin.com • • •

Twitter • •

Once you have a blog platform established, you’ll want to make a habit of writing a post at least once a week. At first this might be challenging—especially if you’re not in the habit of writing. But, like any skill, the more you do it, the more comfortable you’ll become. Dedicate yourself and keep at it. What should you write about? Really anything you want … anything you think might be of interest to your clients and prospects. The important thing is to write about topics that you are informed and passionate about. Writing shouldn’t be a chore—it should be an enjoyable experience. If you need some ideas, think about the questions that come in from clients and customers. If you took the time to answer a question, why not write a www.wscpa.org

general blog entry about the topic? It very well may be of interest to others, and remember:i blogs are searchable on Google, Bing and other engines, so you may very well recruit a new client or convert a prospective customer in the process. When in doubt, ask your connections, clients, co-workers and others what they want to hear about! There is a reason they are paying for your expertise—they think highly of it. There’s a lot that you have in your head that they’d like to hear.

Send a Monthly E-mail Newsletter

A major part of social media is e-mail, even though most people don’t include e-mail when they discuss Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you work in practice, I urge you to consider an e-mail newsletter. If you’re in business and industry with a larger company or organization, e-mail newsletters are still important, but these are probably handled by a group that

100 million users your online Rolodex post your professional profile, join groups, participate in discussions, recommend contacts www.twitter.com

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you can post to it simply by sending an e-mail to your Posterous address. Pick the one platform that suits you better. It’s the content that’s important here, not the way you deliver it.

600 million users connect and share with your “friends” post photos, make comments, share links, “like” other posts and pages

200 million users send or read 140 character messages called tweets share articles or link to a blog post or website

focuses on marketing, public relations or human resources. You might be thinking that an e-mail newsletter is going to be a lot of work. Don’t worry, I have a major shortcut on this step that will save you a lot of time, and allow you to leverage and repurpose the great content you generate when you blog. To send a monthly newsletter, you need an e-mail list and you need content. Let’s start with the e-mail list. First, you’ll want to get set up with an e-mail marketing provider. I use MailChimp, and would highly recommend them. AWeber and Constant Contact are also good options. These services start at about $15/ month, and scale up depending on the number of e-mail addresses you load into their system. If you are sending an e-mail newsletter regularly, this is money very well spent. Heck, for $15, you can barely buy three Big Macs! WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

cover story

Once you’ve signed up for an account with one of these e-mail marketing providers, you’ll then want to import the e-mail addresses of all of your clients (and even prospects).x MailChimp will allow you to do this directly, while other services may require another step of requesting the permission of your clients to be added. I think this is unnecessary. You already have the implicit permission of your clients to e-mail them. Plus, each newsletter will contain instructions about unsubscribing. Now for the content part— and my big shortcut. You can use the recent content of your blog to automatically generate this e-mail for you! This means that after the initial setup, there’s exactly ZERO work required of you each month. How cool is that?

Just as you want to engage your clients and customers with social media, you also should think about engaging employees and prospects in order to maintain a successful firm or business.

What you want to do is set up an “RSS Driven Campaign” that delivers an e-mail monthly to your list. Essentially what you do is set up an e-mail template and format it as you’d like with Subject Line,Title and so on. Then, plug in the RSS Address of your blog and voila! The e-mail will automatically be generated based on the blog articles you wrote over the last month.

Embrace Social Media for Employee Retention and Recruitment

I still stand firm in my belief that social media does not work for client retention and recruitment, but I believe it does work for employee retention and recruitment, two areas organizations do not necessarily associate with social media. With the economy improving, all

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

conditions point to a shortage of quality talent. Just as you want to engage your clients and customers with social media, you also should think about engaging employees and prospects in order to maintain a successful firm or business. Encouraging employees to establish and maintain a social media presence that fully reflects their job and company responsibilities can greatly enhance the pride they take in their work. Many people and companies want to separate personal from business when it comes to social media. Not only do I think this is a mistake—it’s not practical. In the age of the Internet, nothing is a secret—information is only a Google search away, so why not be 100 percent transparent when establishing your Facebook profile and include all aspects of your life that are public knowledge?

If you allow and encourage employees to include their role and company information in their social media identities, they will feel connected to the presence they are establishing. With an increasing amount of time being spent in social media channels, our social media identities are quickly converging with our “real life” identities. On the other side, recruiting and hiring great people is always a challenge for any size company, especially smaller businesses that might not offer the amenities of their larger counterparts. Most likely, you don’t have the resources or time you’d like to have to devote to recruitment, even though it’s one of the most important strategic activities you do as a company. If you hire poorly, the effort you’ll expend trying to straighten out— and eventually get rid of—an underperforming employee, will be agonizing. www.wscpa.org

social media

Instead of considering it an ancillary function, I believe the best way to think of the recruitment function is always be thinking about it, and the best way to do this is to constantly be passively recruiting, with a steady stream of inbound candidates coming your way. What’s one good way to continually recruit? You guessed it—social media! These days, we watch what our friends and family are doing at all times via Facebook and Twitter updates. Just scored some tickets to the latest concert? Better update that Facebook status! Why not use these interpersonal channels to let your employees share how cool your firm or company is? Often the best source of a new hire is through a referral, particularly from a great employee, so let them talk up your company or firm in their social media interactions!

Be Creative and Have Fun

By now, I hope you realize that social media definitely involves a specific strategy, but also involves having quite a bit of fun. Social media enables you to be creative with your blog, Facebook and LinkedIn posts—to the degree that you want to differentiate yourself from the competition and get noticed. Along the way, experiment with other kinds of social media as well. There are more to get involved in than there is space to explain them. Do some research and ask for recommendations, but above all, get started! You are guaranteed to see results within a very short period of time. Brett Owens is CEO and Co-Founder of Chrometa, a Sacramento, Calif.-based provider of time management software that accurately records and reports back how you spend your time. He is a blogger and founder at ContraryInvesting.com, as well as a regular contributor to two leading financial media sites, SeekingAlpha.com and Minyanville. www.wscpa.org

Five Questions to Ask Yourself About Social and Professional Networking Sites Overwhelmed by all of the social media possibilities? Don’t worry — you don’t have to do it all. Use the following questions to help you determine the best medium for your message:

set amount of time each day. Change your approach to find out what works best for you. Investing just a few minutes a day can help you manage your time and pay significant returns.

1.What’s your primary goal? Do 4. What can you offer that’s you want to connect with friends, busi- different from others? If you’re an ness contacts or both? Are you looking expert in your field or just well versed to build your professional reputation, on a particular topic, you can share your relocate to a new city, find knowledge with others. a new job, or stay up-toProvide links to relevant Determine the date on industry news? articles or videos. Ideally, Knowing your main objec- audience you wish you can offer insights on tive can help you identify to reach and find industry trends or share the best social networking some unique expertise of out which sites tool for your needs. your own.

they use and what

2. Which sites do 5. How will you monicommunication the people you want tor your progress? The to connect with use? style they prefer. more you participate in LinkedIn, Facebook and your network, the more Twitter offer the opportuyou’ll gain from it. But don’t nity to reach a wide audience, but they get hung up on the numbers. There are are used for different purposes and in many ways to get more “followers,” but different contexts. Determine the audi- those large follower or friend numbers ence you wish to reach and find out don’t necessarily mean you’re getting which sites they use and what commu- more from your network. Instead, focus nication style they prefer. on the value of the new relationships you’re developing. You’ll see a much 3. What’s your strategy? Decide higher return if you focus on quality how much time you are willing to invest, versus quantity. and then choose specific tasks that will help you achieve your goals. You may Excerpt from Business Etiquette: The decide to join five new LinkedIn groups, New Rules in a Digital Age. Reprinted with follow 10 new people on Twitter each permission of Robert Half. Learn more at month, or network on Facebook for a www.roberthalf.us/businessetiquette.

Overwhelmed by all of the social media possibilities? Don’t worry — you don’t have to do it all.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

social media

Five “Must Haves” for Every Social Media Policy By Elissa Nauful

ocial media presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses of all kinds, including accounting firms. Maybe your firm has dived right into social media, or perhaps you’ve decided to wait and see how others in the industry approach it. Regardless of where your firm stands, having a policy in place is critical. After all, employees are likely already active and engaged online. A social media policy provides them with a framework for navigating online interactions that may impact your company.

2. A clear disclaimer: This is where the legal team comes in! Employees need to know exactly which content the company is accountable for.They also need to know that if they’re participating in social media on their own, they may need to

Crafting a corporate social media policy requires input not only from the legal team, but also from the marketing and human relations staff. The end result should be a policy that meets the needs of all three departments—and includes five key elements.

add disclaimers to their own sites. The scripts for these should be provided by the company.

1. Permission to engage: For many employers, that engagement is the most frightening element of social media: these platforms give employees the power to start and participate in conversations that may reflect on the company. Therefore social media policies often list the “thou shalt not’s” of employee social media engagement. And while these certainly have their place, a well-written social media policy should be positive and encourage employees to engage in social media responsibly. Remind employees that they have a great opportunity to act as agents for the company during every interaction— whether offline or online. With that in mind, craft a list of social media “Do’s” that is at least as long as the list of “Don’ts.” Encourage employees to participate in the company’s social media campaign however they feel most comfortable. Ultimately getting employees to buy into the campaign is the best way to make the campaign successful.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

... a well-written social media policy should be positive and encourage employees to engage in social media responsibly.

This section of the policy should also include the text of the disclaimers that will be posted on any corporate social sites. These disclaimers not only limit liability of the organization administering the page, but they also provide the

“rules of engagement” for each online community. For example, a Facebook disclaimer should outline the following: who may participate in the community, what kinds of comments are appropriate, and how inappropriate interactions will be addressed. 3. A quick and dirty social media guide: iRemember that not every member of your organization will be social savvy. Offer the basics, even if it’s in an appendix to the policy document itself. Include segments on how to join Facebook and Twitter, along with a brief explanation of how each platform works. If most people in the company are more computer literate, a section on tips and tricks might be more appropriate. It’s also usually a good idea to include an explanation of how, exactly, the organization will be using social media. Provide a list of which platforms will be used,

Employees should know that they will absolutely be held accountable for what they say online. Briefly outline how the company will handle issues with social media, from who will have access to social sites in the workplace, to what will happen if an employee violates the social media policy. www.wscpa.org

social media

Ultimately, a well-crafted social media policy serves as a foundation for every aspect of corporate social media engagement.

explain the basic goals and/or purpose of each, and mention who can answer social media questions. Employees should always have at least a basic understanding of what’s happening online and whom to ask if they have questions.

who will be responsible for managing social media. These individuals will also need a more detailed policy for the daily implementation of the company’s social media strategy.

4. Emphasis on responsibility: It is absolutely critical that every employee fully understand how he or she fits into the social media picture. Employees should know that they will absolutely be held accountable for what they say online. Briefly outline how the company will handle issues with social media, from who will have access to social sites in the workplace, to what will happen if an employee violates the social media policy.

5. Assurance of privacy and confidentiality: Employees need to know that they’re not expected to be social simply because the company is going social. They also need to know that the company will respect their right to online privacy. Be sure that any social media policy outlines how social media will—and will not—be used by the company, and that individual employees may still maintain their own social sites without interference, so long as employees use social media responsibly.

Meanwhile, also focus on the company’s responsibility to provide online communities where people want to participate positively. Delineate exactly

This does not mean that they can post information on the Internet with impunity. Reiterate that confidentiality must be reciprocated, and employees will be

expected to refrain from posting sensitive information about clients, colleagues, or any proprietary systems. Assuring privacy also presumes that employees have online privacy in the first place; remind employees to revisit the privacy settings for their social profiles and increase security as needed. Ultimately, a well-crafted social media policy serves as a foundation for every aspect of corporate social media engagement. Although the document may evolve over time to reflect the changing landscape of social media, it should provide an underpinning for the company’s social media strategy.

Elissa Nauful is the Founder and CEO of Ballywho ® Interactive. She can be found @ elissan @ballywhomedia and www.ballywhointeractive.com

Sticky Etiquette Questions Occasionally we all come across situations in which we wonder, “Would Miss Manners approve?” But in the digital age of social networking, the etiquette lines can become even blurrier. Following are some common sticky etiquette questions to help tackle them: Should I personalize my LinkedIn requests to connect with others? It’s perfectly fine to use the form letter, even when connecting with close contacts. But if you wish to connect to someone you haven’t seen in a while, take the time to personalize the message.

www.wscpa.org

What’s the right way to decline a request to connect with someone? No response at all might be your best bet. Don’t feel pressured to connect with someone you would rather not form a relationship with, and don’t feel the need to explain your decision. Simply click “Ignore.” Should I friend my boss or coworkers? This is the $64,000 question, and those on the receiving end may provide the answer. If you do connect, utilize privacy settings and different friend lists to control how — and with whom — you share content. Be sensitive to how engaged your company is in digital networking.

If someone follows me on Twitter, should I follow him or her back? No, because you may end up unfollowing the person later. Before following people, check out their feed, bio and previous tweets to get a sense of them or their organization, and determine if you’ll be interested in seeing the kind of content they share. Although it’s considered good etiquette to follow someone back, don’t do it indiscriminately. It’s your feed, and you want to make it valuable to you. Excerpt from Business Etiquette: The New Rules in a Digital Age. Reprinted with permission of Robert Half. Learn more at www.roberthalf.us/businessetiquette.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

social media

How to Tend to Your Network in Only Five Minutes a Day Networking online doesn’t need to be time consuming. You can develop your professional reputation and help others in the process through simple etiquette practices that require only a few minutes each day.

Connect to WSCPA Stay connected with the WSCPA through the following social media outlets. Visit www.wscpa.org for direct links to these sites.

Facebook

Connect with other members of the WSCPA by becoming a fan on the WSCPA’s Facebook page. To become a fan, log in to Facebook, go to the WSCPA page and click the “Like” button. Student page: www.facebook.com/WSCPAstudents

3. Establish yourself as the go-to person. Consider connecting your LinkedIn and Twitter accounts to establish more visibility. Tweet your professional ideas and links into your profile using the hash tag #in. (However, think twice before connnecting your LinkedIn account to sites such as Foursquare, http:// foursquare.com, or other locationbased social networks. It’s unlikely people in your professional network really need to know where you just ate lunch.) 4. Try to add at least one new person to your network a week. Growing networks are far more effective than stagnant ones. Excerpt from Business Etiquette: The New Rules in a Digital Age.Reprinted with permission of Robert Half. Learn more at www.roberthalf.us/businessetiquette.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

www.linkedin.com

Group: Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants

Join the WSCPA group on LinkedIn to connect with other members and participate in discussions on topics such as advice on CPA exam review guides, software recommendations, and much more. To join, log in to LinkedIn, find the WSCPA group using the group search field, then click “Join Group.”

1. Be the first to have a point of view. Share a relevant news article and add value by including an observation that may not be so obvious to others. 2. Let them know they’ve been heard. Listen to what your network has to say so you can make an informed suggestion or relevant introduction.

www.facebook.com/WashingtonCPAs

Twitter

Twitter.com/wscpa Follow the WSCPA on Twitter and get professional updates tweeted right to your inbox or phone. Log in to Twitter, go to Twitter.com/wscpa and click the “follow” button. WSCPA Public site: Twitter.com/WashingtonCPAs

You Tube

www.youtube.com/washingtoncpas

Blogs Find the WSCPA blog at www.wscpa. org/blog or in various sections of the WSCPA website (such as CPE, Financial Literacy, and Newsroom).

The recently redesigned student website, www.discovercpa.org, also includes a blog with information and articles on passing the CPA exam, interviewing and career tips, for example.

The WSCPA YouTube channel features webcast samples and tips. Subscribe to the WSCPA YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/washingtoncpas.

Learn More & Earn CPE WEBINAR: Social Networking - Essentials for Business August 8 - 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Gain practical guidance on integrating social networking into your organization, strengthening customer/client relationships through social networking, and mitigating social networking risks with effective policies and internal control procedures. Register for WNR155 at www.wscpa.org/cpe/catalog. www.wscpa.org

news briefs

And the winners are... Three WSCPA members were selected as winners from 12,297 entries in the WSCPA annual dues drawing. Each of these members won a $300 Amazon gift card. Congratulations to the following members: •

•

Gary T. Irvin, CPA, MS, is a sole practitioner in Bothell and has been a member since 1997. He was selected as the winner for renewing his membership by April 30. Nancy J. Schauer, CPA, MS Tax, is a manager with Moss Adams in Tacoma, and has been a WSCPA member since 1993. She was selected as the winner for renewing her membership by May 15. Robert J. Kreitler, CPA, is a sole practitioner in Olympia and has been a member since 1978. He was selected as the winner for renewing his membership by June 1.

Members who updated their member profile and renewed their membership by June 1 were eligible for an additional drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. Of the 1,589 eligible entries, congratulations to the winner: •

Carmel D. Minogue, CPA, is a sole practitioner in Pullman and has been a member of the Society since 1998.

Thank you to all members who renewed their membership by June 1. If you have not yet renewed your membership, visit www.wscpa.org or call (800) 272-8273 (toll-free in Washington) or (425) 6444800. If you are currently unemployed or on leave for family or medical reasons please call to determine if you qualify for a reduced rate. Renew your membership by July 31, 2011 or your member benefits will expire.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

We “tweet” your firm!

wscpa

CPA Referral Service

WA Society of CPAs

Find a CPA in your city, call your firm, click here 20 minutes ago

The easy, affordable way to market your firm Is your firm currently enrolled in the WSCPA CPA Referral Service? Now’s the time to renew or enroll in the CPA Referral Service. For just $175 you can list your firm with this service. Plus, you can add satellite offices for $50 each. Act now to be enrolled in the service through June 30, 2012. How does the service work? This service is marketed in directories statewide, online directories, and via Twitter. Each firm in the referral service is promoted via Twitter to our followers. Hundreds of individuals and businesses statewide looking for CPAs visit this service at www.wscpa. org or call the Society to receive a list of participating CPAs based on services offered. A recent user of the CPA Referral Service said: “Very helpful. It was a quick and easy-to-use resource, which produced half-a-dozen suggested CPAs [in my area that met my desired service needs].” What are the benefits? Consumers seeking a CPA will learn about your firm’s services and contact information. Provides inexpensive, effective marketing for your firm. Questions? Call (425) 586-1142, or toll-free in Washington at (800) 272-8273, Ext. 1142, or e-mail memberservices@wscpa.org.

Still only $175 to enroll your firm through June 30, 2012. Enroll or renew today! www.wscpa.org (click “Find a CPA”) www.wscpa.org

news briefs

Looking for Insurance? WSCPA has You Covered

s a WSCPA member you’re entitled to participate in an array of exclusive insurance benefits. Whether you are looking for health care, liability, long term care, or term life and disability, the WSCPA has you covered. To learn more about the various insurance options, visit www.wscpa.org, log in and click Membership > Benefits > Insurance Services.

Liability Insurance

Protecting your business is just as important as protecting your health. For CPA firms the WSCPA is pleased to offer Professional Liability Insurance through Camico Mutual Insurance Company. Created by CPAs for CPAs, Camico offers superior loss prevention services and additional benefits including CPE seminars, hotlines, newsletter, pre-claim assistance and more. For more information call (800) 652-1772 or visit www.camico. com/portal/server.pt. For members in industry: protect your company with various insurance policies through Kibble & Prentice. Kibble & Prentice can provide WSCPA members with Directors & Officers, Fiduciary and Employment Practices Liability insurance. Kibble & Prentice combines national and regional relationships to assure WSCPA members the most competitive pricing, quality service, and broad access to an array of insurance services. For more information contact Morgan West at (206) 695-3115 or learn more at www.kpcom.com.

Health Care Insurance

WSCPA health care benefits are specifically designed and priced for employer groups or sole practitioners. These products are presented by EmSpring, the WSCPA’s exclusive health care broker. EmSpring is an independent, Washington-based employee benefits broker and consulting firm that specializes in www.wscpa.org

multiple employer associations and employer sponsored programs. The WSCPA has three traditional group health insurance options: • Plan 1 – requires subscribers to see in network doctors only. Lowest premiums. • Plan 2 – allows both in and out of network doctors. • Plan 3 – allows access to the Virginia Mason Clinic. The plans have a wide coverage area. If these plans do not meet your needs, EmSpring will work with you to find alternative options. For any WSCPA member, EmSpring provides free evaluations for HRIS integration, consumerdriven accounts, wellness plans, cafeteria arrangements, ERISA self-funding and fully insured individual and group programs. For details contact Sue Ferrari at (877) 550-0088 or sue.ferrari@emspring.com.

Long-Term Care Insurance

The WSCPA also offers members long-term care insurance. With today’s high cost for long-term care, it is never too early to start looking into options for you and your loved ones, including parents. For more information on discounted programs available to WSCPA members, call Jeff Peterson with Pacific Advisors at (877) 455-9580 or visit www. pacificadvisors.net.

Disability Insurance

Any lifestyle that depends on ability to earn an income can be quickly destroyed by a serious disability. Could you meet your financial obligations, such as home

Member Termination

In accordance with the Bylaws, the WSCPA has terminated the membership of a CPA for non-cooperation with an investigation initiated by the WSCPA Professional Conduct Committee.

mortgage and car payments, if you could not work for an extended period of time? Protecting your family is important. For information on disability insurance contact Jeff Peterson with Pacific Advisors at (877) 455-9580 or visit www.pacificadvisors.net.

Life Insurance

As a WSCPA member you are eligible to participate in the AICPA Life Insurance program even if you are not an AICPA member. Members of a state CPA society can receive coverage for up to $500,000. This life insurance plan offers some of the most competitive rates available. For more information visit www.cpai.com/ personal-insurance/life.

Special Member Discount from CCH! Save 30% on CCH U. S. Master Tax Guide - Order by September 1 Reserve your copy of the industry’s leading tax guide by Sep. 1 to save 30% off the list price of $88.50. The WSCPA member price is only $61.95 plus tax and shipping. Place yourxorderxatxhttp://tax.cchgroup. com/members/wscpa. Enter member discount number (Y5596). You will not be billed until after the book ships. (Cancel before shipment at no charge.)

New CPA Exam Review Discount! Lambers CPA Exam Review offers WSCPA student members a 30% discount on single self-study products.To place an order visit www. lambers.com/cpa. Use coupon code WACPA30 for single item purchases. For special bundle pricing, call (800) 272-0707, Ext. 212. WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Awards

2010-2011 Award Winners Edwin Jolicoeur

Peter Shimer

very year the WSCPA recognizes CPAs for making a difference in their communities, providing outstanding service, dedication or leadership to advance the accounting profession and the Society. The Society congratulates this year’s honorees. 2010-2011 John L. O’Brien Lifetime Achievement Award Edwin Jolicoeur, CPA For a career dedicated to the development and promotion of the accounting profession. During a career in public accounting that has spanned almost 35 years, Ed Jolicoeur has consistently given back to the profession. He served for many years inside LeMaster Daniels as the chair of the Quality Assurance committee and continues to serve as a member of the quality assurance group for Larson Allen LLP. A significant part of Ed’s practice over the past 30 years has been the performance of peer reviews of CPA firms of all sizes throughout the U.S. “His name has become synonymous with quality and a standard of integrity that serves as a role model in the CPA world,” said Mary Dowling Marino, CPA. His commitment to professional standards is evident in his service to state and local boards, technical committees and task forces of business, professional and civic organizations. Governor Chris Gregoire appointed Ed as a member of the Washington State Board of Accountancy in June 2005. Since then he has been reappointed twice and he served two terms as Board Chair. He

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

is active in the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) and serves on several NASBA committees. A WSCPA member since 1978, Ed served as a member of the WSCPA Board of Directors and a term as Vice President. 2010-2011 Vincent A. Gervais Award Peter A. Shimer, CPA For years of exemplary contributions to the profession, and the community through leadership, vision, and dedication. A WSCPA member since 1986, Peter Shimer has been with Deloitte for nearly 27 years and has been Managing Partner of the Seattle office since July 2007. “I have had the opportunity to see firsthand what an effective leader Pete is as he serves as Chair of the board of Seattle Children’s Hospital Foundation,” said Jim Ladd, CPA. “It’s clear that other business leaders share my opinion based on the many other community leadership positions he has held.” Pete currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Seattle Foundation, Seattle Children’s Hospital Foundation, the University of Washington Foster School of Business, the YMCA of Greater Seattle, the Seattle Sports Commission,

Dingus, Zarecor & Associates

the Rainier Club, and the University of Washington Foundation and is the 2011 YMCA A.K. Guy Award Committee Chair. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Business, he previously served as Chair of the Board of Governors for the Washington Athletic Club and Executive Committee member for the Alliance for Education. 2010-2011 Business of the Year Dingus, Zarecor & Associates PLLC For outstanding support of the WSCPA through volunteer service and commitment to programs. A certified public accounting firm located in Spokane Valley, Dingus, Zarecor & Associates supports the activities and programs of the WSCPA. Thanks to the firm’s encouragement, 92 percent of eligible DZA staff is WSCPA members, and many of the members serve on the Spokane Chapter board or committees. Since its founding in 2003 by Tom Dingus and Luke Zarecor, the firm has encouraged volunteerism and participates in several community events throughout the year. “One of DZA’s core values is social responsibility. We believe that we must be good citizens and always attempt to give more than we receive from our neighbors and fellow citizens,” said Tom Dingus, CPA.

www.wscpa.org

awards

PLLC

Russell Davis

2010-2011 Special Award Russell Davis In appreciation of three decades of dedicated service as the first Executive Director of the WSCPA. When Russell A. Davis joined the Washington Society of CPAs on October 24, 1955 as its first Executive Director and one of its first employees, Mr. Davis was informed that his duties would consist of public relations, coordination of chapter activities, and recruiting accounting personnel. He was not to assume responsibilities of the society officers and committee chairmen, but was allowed to familiarize himself with their activities by attending meetings. Some years later, a sympathetic member sent Mr. Davis a printed article about the difficulties of being an executive director, stating that if he attended the committee meeting, the members said, “What’s this guy doing butting into our business” and if he didn’t attend, the members said “What are we paying this guy for—he doesn’t show up at anything and just sits around in his big office.” For the next three decades, Mr. Davis helped the Society evolve from a longestablished organization fully run by its all-male board of directors to a successful modern organization with a professional staff. During his long tenure with the WSCPA, Russ Davis served as President of the State Society Executive Association (elected at the AICPA Annual Meeting in the fall of 1960) and was also elected as www.wscpa.org

Christopher Hesse

President of the Public Relations Round Table of Seattle. He was actively involved in lobbying and advocacy on behalf of Washington CPAs and promoted expanding the Society’s services to members outside the Seattle area. He was one of the forces behind the Society’s move to building and purchasing the current facility in Bellevue. The CPA Societies Executive Association honored Russ Davis in 1981 by presenting him with its first Distinguished Career Award. Mr. Davis retired from his service with the WSCPA in May of 1984 and recently turned 90. 2010-2011 Volunteer of the Year Christopher Hesse, CPA For many years of dedicated volunteer service and advocacy for the WSCPA and the profession. Chris Hesse, as the tax director of LeMaster & Daniels (and now LarsonAllen), has been a tireless volunteer for the WSCPA and the profession over the years, especially in the role of advocacy, tax policy, and serving on committees and special task forces. “Now that LeMaster & Daniels has merged with LarsonAllen, Chris will be moving out of state and I wanted to make sure he knows that his service to CPAs in Washington and the WSCPA over many years was recognized and appreciated!” explained Mark Hugh, CPA, who nominated Chris for this award. Chris is a member of the firm’s Federal Tax Services Group, which provides

Stephanie Behne

tax research and training firm-wide. He also provides external tax training for other tax professionals. A graduate of Southern Oregon State College, Chris has spoken at numerous seminars and conferences throughout the country on taxation, agricultural and estate tax topics and is a past chair of the AICPA Ag Conference committee. He has testified before legislative committees on tax policy matters and has been instrumental in federal and state tax law changes, notably the 10-year retroactive repeal of an Alternative Minimum Tax provision affecting agricultural producers, farm income averaging, and Washington state excise and estate tax issues benefiting farmers. 2010-2011 New Professional of the Year Stephanie Behne, CPA For leadership, the passion to grow and commitment to the development of the Spokane New Professional’s Committee. Stephanie Behne enthusiastically took the lead of the Spokane Chapter’s New Professionals Committee and has worked with the members of the committee to set goals, establish and plan successful events. “Stephanie has contributed to the vibrancy of the Spokane Chapter. Thanks to Stephanie’s efforts as chair of the Spokane New Professionals Committee, WSCPA members in the Spokane area have great networking events where new relationships can be developed and existing ones can be strengthened.” WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Awards

Jennifer de Leon

John Hirsh

said Lisa Sunderman, CPA. A graduate of Western Washington University, Stephanie is an internal auditor for Sterling Savings Bank in Spokane. She recently served on the WSCPA Emerging Leaders Conference Committee. 2010-2011 New Professional of the Year Jennifer de Leon, CPA For passion and commitment to the WSCPA, the profession, and the development of future leaders. A member of the Global Integration Team at UTi Worldwide in Portland, Oregon, Jennifer de Leon is dedicated to promoting the CPA profession to students and new professionals. An active member of the WSCPA, Jennifer has taken on leadership roles in the New Professionals Committee and served as chair of the Emerging Leaders Conference Committee. She has served on the Bellevue Chapter Board and the Board of Trustees for the Washington CPA Foundation. The Lead Instructor of Western Washington for Becker CPA Review, Jennifer represents Washington CPAs and encourages college students to become CPAs through a video on the AICPA’s college student website, ThisWayToCPA.com. (View the video at www.discovercpa.org, the WSCPA student website.)

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Wayne Borkowski

2010-2011 Rising Star Award John Hirsh For active participation, commitment and service to the profession through volunteer work. A graduate of the Master’s of Professional Accounting program at Seattle University, John Hirsh recently accepted a position in assurance services with Ernst & Young in Seattle. Past President of Seattle University’s Beta Alpha Psi, John spearheaded a financial literacy campaign for local high schools, an endeavor which resulted in the creation of a new campus club dedicated primarily towards financial literacy in the greater Seattle community. “John takes initiative, leads by example, and inspires those around him,” said Eric Lashley, John’s classmate at Seattle U. Last year John embarked on a journey to Malawi, Africa to assist with a business development project. That journey led to John being co-founder of the Africa StartUp project, a global student initiative aimed at alleviating poverty by providing sustainable business training in areas of the world with high unemployment and low educational levels. 2010-2011 Chair’s Award Wayne Borkowski, CPA, CMA, CFM, MBA For years of service to the WSCPA and the profession as an instructor, volunteer and former Board Chair.

David Katri

As he presented this award to Wayne Borkowski, Jim Ladd said,“On your retirement, thank you for your many years of service to the WSCPA and the profession, as a volunteer, chapter leader (one of the founders of the Olympia Chapter), a popular instructor since the mid-90s and Board President.” Wayne Borkowski is the president of Borkowski & Associates Inc., a firm dedicated to providing high quality, valueadded continuing professional education. He has spoken internationally on a variety of accounting, auditing and finance topics to professionals in public accounting, private industry, government service and education. Wayne served as a member of the AICPA Governing Council for three years, is a Past-President of the WSCPA and was a member of the WSCPA Board of Directors for six years. Wayne has received several awards for his teaching excellence including recognition as the WSCPA “Outstanding College Educator” and “Outstanding Discussion Leader,” and was twice recognized by the WSCPA for presenting the “Hottest Course of the Year.” 2010-2011 President’s Award David E. Katri, CPA, MBA For extraordinary leadership and vision in directing the future of the WSCPA. Dave Katri, who served on the WSCPA Board of Directors from 20072011, was a driving force in helping the WSCPA develop a new strategic plan and then change its governance structures to www.wscpa.org

Photo Album WSCPA Annual Meeting & Professional Issues Update Washington State Convention Center, Seattle June 1, 2011

Fire Eyes Photography

Nearly 250 people attended the Annual Meeting and Professional Issues Update featuring Robert Bunting (above). Special guests included Rick Sweeney (top center photo), Executive Director of the Washington State Board of Accountancy.

allow it to successfully implement that new plan. “Dave’s leadership and guidance over the past 5-6 years have been very impactful on the success of the WSCPA,” said Rich Jones, WSCPA President & CEO. Dave Katri is President and CEO of Clark Nuber, where he has led the firm

for the past nine years. He focuses on strategic planning, business development and firm operations. Dave’s substantial leadership and management experience come from his 23 years at the Fluke Corporation where he rose to President and COO. A member of the AICPA, Dave earned a BS in economics from the

University of California, Davis and an MBA from the University of California, Los Angeles. Submit nominations for next year’s awards at www.wscpa.org. Nominations must be received by March 15, 2012.

advocacy

Social Networking ... and Advocacy By Judy Love,WSCPA Director of Advocacy

hen I lived in Ellensburg in the 80s and 90s,“social networking” meant something very different than it does today. It meant stopping our cars in the middle of the street to chat with a friend on the sidewalk; it meant taking an extra 20 minutes in the grocery aisles to catch up on gossip; it meant reading the daily newspaper to find out what was going on in town and to keep up with local kids’ accomplishments; it even meant checking the crime blotter to be mildly concerned or amused (“A woman living on Canyon Road called police Saturday evening to complain that her neighbor’s diesel truck had been running in the driveway for the past two hours.”). Since moving to the Puget Sound, I no longer experience this type of social networking. I miss it. Even after a decade of shopping in the same grocery store, I have run into someone I know a mere handful of times; The Seattle Times does not chronicle my friends’ successes and failures; the police blotter can give me nightmares. And yet I stay connected in ways unimaginable even five years ago. Facebook, LinkedIn, Shutterfly, Skype. Electronic connections, yes, but social and professional networking, nonetheless. Were you surprised at the recent buzz over the IPO of LinkedIn? Would you have

PAC Contribution from Moss Adams

Not related to social networking in any way, but of significance enough that it bears highlighting on this page, is Moss Adams’ recent $12,500 contribution to the CPAPAC. This very generous support for the work of the CPAPAC, particularly prior to an election year that will include a Governor’s race, is welcome and much appreciated. Thank you!

Sometimes nothing can take the place of face to face meetings, as a WSCPA delegation recently experienced in Washington, D.C. WSCPA member Brett Jordan pauses in front of U.S. Capitol building before a visit to Congressman Rick Larson’s 2nd District office to discuss issues of concern to the profession as part of AICPA Council meetings in May.

predicted that an electronic Rolodex would have such staying power, or that user numbers continue to grow exponentially? Did you know that WSCPA has its own LinkedIn group just for members? Members are not only adding names to their professional network, they are using LinkedIn as a forum where they discuss such diverse topics as IFRS, comparisons and recommendations for outsourced IT management companies or scanning input software for paperless systems, and questions about which CPA exam review course to take. One member’s tongue in cheek suggestion for the best way to remember a PTIN generated a flurry of comments, some actually technical in nature, many accompanied by appreciation for a welcome break during tax season.

Daily Facebook posts and Twitter feeds include links to member firms that participate in the “Find a CPA” program, information about upcoming classes and conferences, articles about practice management issues, and announcements of changes to laws or regulations that affect your business. News of the repeal of 1099 reporting requirements in the U.S. House of Representatives, of the DOR’s tax amnesty program and SEC work on XBRL phase-in all appeared in timely posts. See page 14 for how you can connect with WSCPA members, as the numbers grow every week: WSCPA Social Networking Numbers LinkedIn

2,011 members

Twitter

949 followers 1,666 tweets

Twitter (public)

325 followers 827 tweets

Facebook

808 fans 11,000 weekly visits

Facebook new! (student members page)

70 fans

I must confess to having been skeptical about many of these social networking options and have been a late adopter of some, still resisting others. But as my government affairs counterparts at other state societies speak with conviction about the responses from their members to Advocacy Tweets and Facebook posts, I realize my days as a Luddite may be numbered. I fully expect that I will need to rethink and revise how the WSCPA communicates with grassroots volunteers and they, in turn, with individual legislators’ offices. A newly fired up group of New Professionals who want to become involved in advocacy efforts will likely drive that process. Stay tuned for these changes.

You can contact Judy Love at jlove@wscpa.org or (425) 586-1130.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

www.wscpa.org

technology

Customizing the Ribbon in Office 2010 By K2 Enterprises

ne of the best new features in Microsoft Office 2010 is the ability to customize the Ribbon, particularly for those users transitioning from Office 2003, or prior, into the newest version of Microsoft Office. When transitioning out of a legacy version of Office into Office 2010, Microsoft’s new Fluent user interface (UI) can become a productivity-squelching quagmire for those who are not fullyversed in the best ways to use it. In Office 2010’s Fluent UI, the ubiquitous Ribbon replaces traditional drop-down menus and, as such, the location of common and familiar commands and functions has changed. Thus, trying to find the commands and functions you need to work with can seem a bit daunting. Fortunately, users of all applications in Office 2010 can customize the Ribbon to meet their specific needs. Available customizations include, adding new Tabs to the Ribbon, adding new Groups and commands to default Tabs on the Ribbon, and hiding default Tabs from view. Further, once customizations have been made, users can export their customized Ribbon so that other users can import it. Perhaps best of all, because the Ribbon is common to all Office 2010 applications, the techniques for customizing the Ribbon in any Office 2010 application work for customizing the Ribbon in all Office 2010 applications. Using Excel 2010 as the demonstration tool, perhaps the easiest way to begin the process of customizing the Ribbon, is to right-click on the existing Ribbon and choose Customize the Ribbon… from the resulting pop-up menu to open the Customize Ribbon section of Excel Options, shown in Figure 1. To add a new tab to the existing Ribbon, select New Tab on the right side of the window, as shown in Figure 2. Upon adding a new Custom Tab, you may rename it by clicking on the New Tab and clicking the Rename option near the bottom right corner of the window.

www.wscpa.org

Figure 1

Figure 2

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Technology Tip

Figure 3

Figure 4

To add a command to the Ribbon, first click on the Group to which you want the command added. Next, on the left side of the window, select the command you wish to add to the selected Group and click the Add > > button in the middle of the window, as shown in Figure 3. Repeat this process for as many commands as you wish to add to the Group. To prevent an existing Tab from displaying, simply uncheck the box next to that Tab on the right side of the Customize Ribbon section of Excel Options. For example, if an Excel user rarely worked with macros, hiding the Developer Tab of the Ribbon would be a logical choice. To do so, uncheck the box next to Developer, as shown in Figure 4. Upon doing so, the Developer Tab will remain hidden until the user returns and checks the box next to Developer. As you can see, customizing the Ribbon in Office 2010 applications is neither a time consuming nor difficult task. Spending just a few minutes tweaking your workspace can translate into big productivity gains down the road. For a video demonstration of this tip, please visit www.tinyurl.com/k2tips75. K2 Enterprises provides WSCPA members with CPE courses on a variety of technology topics.Visit the CPE/Event Catalog for a schedule of classes.

Learn More Moving to Office 2007/2010: A Roadmap for Success (MTO401) Monday, August 8 - WSCPA, Bellevue Excel PivotTables for Accountants Part I (PT1401) Monday, August 8 - WSCPA, Bellevue QuickBooks Advanced Features, Tools, and Techniques (ADQ01) Tuesday, August 9 - WSCPA, Bellevue Outlook for Accountants: Get Organized Today (OUT) Wednesday, August 10 WSCPA, Bellevue For details on these technology courses, see On Fire CPE, page 25. To register, visit www.wscpa.org/cpe/catalog.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

www.wscpa.org

industry voice

On Fire CPE For Industry CPAs

Creating a Positive Work Culture with Performance Feedback (CPW) July 14, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Do you, or one of your managers, ever wish a reporting employee wouldn’t come to work? Do you want the employee to contribute more efficiently and effectively? Most likely the fix will require providing performance feedback. While performance feedback may be one of the least favorite tasks among your long list of duties, it is necessary to building a positive work culture. Come learn the keys to managing performance feedback effectively and build a positive work culture where performance feedback is not such a big deal. Financial Statement Fraud, Not Just Wall Street’s Problem (FSF) August 5, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Your clients have been hit hard by the economy. Seeking funds from creditors and investors is a high stakes game; one that can make or break the success of your client’s business. Financial statement fraud is real. Learn about the growing trend of financial statement fraud on “Main Street,” explore the most common financial statement fraud schemes, and walk away with examples of how to hone your audit plans to detect the most common financial statement fraud schemes. Moving to Office 2007/2010: A Roadmap for Success (MTO401) August 8, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

While Office 2010 offers tremendous opportunities for increased efficiencies and productivity, users in many organizations have struggled with the transition. During this seminar, you will learn how to develop a road map for successfully deploying the newest version of Microsoft Office. Explore your best licensing strategy, tools for effectively working with the new user interface, best practices for dealing with file format issues. Discover new features and functions and functionality that is no longer available. Looking for additional CPE? Learn about more seminars for CPAs working in business and industry at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog. Register at www.wscpa.org/cpe/catalog www.wscpa.org

Excel PivotTables for Accountants - Part I (PT1401) August 8, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Every accountant should know how to use the power of Excel PivotTables to analyze and summarize data. Explore drag-and-drop pivoting, grouping and ungrouping, creating calculated items and fields, and drilling down to underlying details. Discover how to work with PivotTables consolidated from multiple ranges and PivotTables dynamically linked to databases or financial accounting systems. QuickBooks Advanced Features,Tools, and Techniques (ADQ01) August 9, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Are you an experienced QuickBooks user? Then you must attend this advanced course. Learn QuickBooks techniques and features that baffle even advanced users, as well as useful workarounds for common problems. Discover the best ways to exchange QuickBooks data with others, inventory accounting issues and solutions, how to track and manage sales taxes, how to work with and resolve payroll issues, advanced financial and operational reporting matters, job costing, time tracking, and much more. Outlook for Accountants: Get Organized Today (OUT) August 10, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Learn how to use Outlook to become more organized, secure messages and other critical information, manage tasks and projects, maintain control over your calendar, and collaborate with others more effectively. Learn advanced techniques for managing all of your personal information in Outlook. Take control of the critical information stored in Outlook and find out how to effectively use this essential business application. Lean Accounting and Management: Improving Profitability by Streamlining Operations (LAMA) August 24, 2011 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Minimize waste and create wealth through a Lean accounting and management approach that improves profitability by streamlining operations. Combine management, accounting, control and performance measurement methods to support leaner operations that sustain a leaner organization over the long term. WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Financial Literacy

Sharing Too Much Information is Never a Good Thing By Amy O’Donnell,WSCPA Financial Literacy Program Manager

P2P File-Sharing: Evaluate the Risks By Colleen Tressler

e’ve all been in a conversation or read an e-mail when someone has shared too much personal information. You have probably done it yourself and walked away wondering what possessed you to share that information. Social media and the internet in general allow for some of those filters to become a little thinner than usual. Using websites likes Facebook and Twitter are great ways to connect with friends, family and even share information on behalf of your business. They can also be goldmines of information for identity thieves looking for information. Taking some simple precautions will prevent you from sharing too much information: • • • • • •

Use privacy settings on the websites and watch for updates. Know who you are connecting with on accounts like Facebook and LinkedIn. Use filters, like the lists feature on Facebook, to limit information that you share. Don’t include too much personal information on those websites, such as your full date of birth, address or phone number. Share your vacation plans after you have returned. You don’t want to announce that your home is unattended. Change your passwords and use long ones. Stay away from references that would be easy for thieves to guess such as pets or family members.

It is also possible to share too much information with file sharing. Consider the FTC article at right from the FTC. Amy O’Donnell aodonnell@wscpa.org.

can

reached

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

eer-to-Peer (P2P) technology is a way to share music, video and documents, play games, and facilitate online telephone conversations. To share files through a P2P network, you download special software that connects your computer to other computers running the same software. Because virtually anyone can join a P2P network just by installing its software, millions of computers could be connected at one time. The software often is free. Sounds promising, right? Maybe, but consider the trade-offs. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, cautions that file-sharing comes with risks. For example, when you are connected to file-sharing programs, you may unknowingly allow others to copy private files – even giving access to entire folders and subfolders – you never intended to share. You may download material that is protected by copyright laws and find yourself mired in legal issues. You may download a virus or facilitate a security breach. Or you may unwittingly download pornography labeled as something else. To secure information stored on your computer, the FTC suggests that you: •

•

Install file-sharing software carefully, so you know what’s being shared. When you load a file-sharing application onto your computer, any changes you make to the P2P software’s default settings during installation could cause serious problems. For example, if you change the defaults when you set up the “shared” or “save” folder, you may let other P2P users into any of your folders – and all their subfolders.You could inadvertently share information on your hard drive – like your tax returns, e-mail messages, medical records, photos, or other personal documents – along with the files you want to share. And almost all file-sharing applications will, by default, share the downloads in your “save” or “download” folder – unless you set it not to. Use security software and keep it – and your operating system – up-to-date. Some file-sharing programs may install malware that monitors how the computer is used and sends that data to third parties. Also, files you download may hide malware. And when you install a P2P application, you might be required to install “adware” that monitors your browsing habits and serves you advertising. www.wscpa.org

Events

20 Networking 11 Events New Professionals

•

Malware and adware can be difficult to detect and remove. Before you use any file-sharing program, get a security program that includes anti-virus and anti-spyware protection from a vendor you know and trust, and make sure that your operating system is up to date. Set your security software and operating system to update regularly. Make sure your security software and firewall are running whenever your computer is connected to the internet. Delete any software the security program detects that you don’t want on your computer. And before you open or play any downloaded files, scan them with your security software to detect malware. Close your connection. In some instances, closing the file-sharing program window does not actually close your connection to the network. That allows file-sharing to continue and could increase your security risk. To be sure your file-sharing program is closed, take the time to “exit” the program, rather than just clicking “X” or “closing” it. What’s more, some file-sharing programs automatically open every time you turn on your computer. As a preventive measure, you may want to adjust the file-sharing program’s controls to prevent the file-sharing program from automatically opening. Back up files that you’d want to keep if your computer crashes. Store them on CDs, DVDs, or detachable drives that you keep in a safe place.

If you decide that you don’t want P2P software on your computer, you can create separate user accounts and give those user accounts only limited rights. Since only a user with administrator rights can install software, this can help protect against software you don’t want on your computer. It also can keep users from accessing other users’ folders and subfolders, since users with limited rights generally don’t have access to each other’s information. Also, use a password to protect your firewall and security software so no one else can disable them or grant themselves rights that you don’t want them to have on your machine. To learn more, visit OnGuardOnline.gov, a site managed by the FTC that provides practical tips from the federal government to help you be on guard against internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information. Colleen Tressler is a senior project manager in the FTC’s Division of Consumer and Business Education. You may contact Colleen at ctressler@ftc.gov. www.wscpa.org

Puget Sound Events July 21 Aug 10 Sep 15 Oct 27 Nov 16

Horse Races, Emerald Downs, Auburn (NP02) Argosy Cruise, Pier 55, Seattle (NP03) Trivia Night, Rock Bottom Brewery, Bellevue complimentary (NP04) Scavenger Hunt, Hard Rock Cafe, Seattle (NP05) Bowling, Garage, Seattle (NP07)

SPOKANE Event Oct 20

Casino Night, Hampton Inn, Spokane (NP06)

Learn more & REgister:

www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog (enter “NP” in search box)

FEES: $20-$30 per event sponsorS

Thank you to the sponsors listed below.

Premier Partners

sponsorS

Key Partners

Supporters

Friends

South King County Chapter

Happy Hours - All members invited!

Puget Sound 2nd Tuesdays, various locations, 5-7:30 p.m. Find details at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog. (enter HH in search box) Spokane 2nd Tuesdays, CI Shennanigan’s, 5-7 p.m. WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

member discounts

Photo Album WSCPA Golf Tournament May 2011

Bear Creek Golf Club, Woodinville

Accounting Careers Symposium May 2011

UW-Bothell

High school students gather at the UW Bothell campus for the annual Accounting Careers Symposium. More than 100 WSCPA members and guests enjoyed the annual golf tournament.

WSCPA member Dan Fisher speaking to students at the symposium.

Past Chairs Dinner April 2011 Harbor Club, Bellevue

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

www.wscpa.org

CPE Digest Self-Study CPE Subscriptions

Unlimited CPE. Unmatched value. Designed for CPAs... •

Subscriptions start at only $189 (+tax) for dozens of streaming video or text-based CPE courses

•

Earn Ê to Î CPE credits for each course

•

Choose from four subscription options

WA Pros online annual self-study subscriptions provide unlimited access to text-based and streaming video CPE at unbeatable prices. These CPE packages will keep you up to date on ever-evolving rules, regulations and trends affecting public accounting, business, government or NFPs. Order at www.wscpa.org/selfstudy or call the Society, (425) 644-4800

or (800) 272-8273 (toll-free in Washington).

How to Detect & Avoid Fraud

The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation Brush up on your fraud detection and avoidance skills with this workshop, The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation, August 12 in Bellevue at the WSCPA Learning Center. Forensic interviewer, Joseph Buckley will walk you through the steps for recognizing and evaluating verbal and nonverbal behaviors during an interview. You will gain an understanding of the interrogation process, from confronting the individual to overcoming objections and Co-sponsor stimulating the admission of fraud. To learn more about this event and to register, visit www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog Pacific Northwest Chapter and search for RTI.

Need more flexibility for meeting your CPE requirements?

Saturday & EVENING WEBCASTS to help you meet your continuing professional education needs. Learn more at www.wscpa.org/cpe/catalog enter keyword “SWEB.”

to affordable CPE

Your

golden ticket

Order the Season Ticket at www.wscpa.org or call (425) 644-4800 or (800) 272-8273 (toll-free in Washington).

Only $174.50 per 8-hour CPE program!

conferences conferences

Enjoy live seminars, webcasts and conferences for one affordable price. The Season Ticket, exclusively available to WSCPA members, allows you to take up to 80 hours of CPE from June 1, 2011-May 31, 2012 for only $1,745.

300+ live seminar

webcasts webcasts

www.wscpa.org

New! Use your Season Ticket to take 2, 4, 6 or 8-hour CPE courses (excludes chapter CPE).

inars seminars Sem

Season Ticket - Your Best CPE Value

More than 200 webcasts!

nces!

13 annual confere

WashingtonCPA July/August July/August2011 2011

Conferences

new!

Far m Tax Conference

Accounting & Auditing Conference

Make sure you are aware of the unique opportunities and pitfalls impacting taxpayers in the agriculture industry. The Farm Tax Conference will give you a forum to discuss current issues affecting your farm and ranch clients.

A&A standards change every time you turn around. And no matter how hard you try to stay aware of the latest developments, you’re bound to miss a critical change. The Accounting & Auditing Conference will provide the crucial guidance you need to stay in compliance with the many A&A rules affecting your practice, business or clients. Register today!

Learn from one of the premier agribusiness specialists active in public accounting, Andy Biebl. This acclaimed instructor, who has more than 30 years of experience specializing in farm taxation, will explain what you need to know related to the following hot topics affecting this industry:

Highlights:

• • • •

The most up-to-date developments in farm tax Implications of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (health care legislation) on agricultural operators New regulations on repairs and capital improvements Section 199 production deduction, including amended return opportunities and unique rules impacting agribusinesses

Note: This conference will not cover Farm Service Agency (FSA) rules and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program limits.

8 Technical CPE credits WSCPA Members Non Members

$230 $305

Not-For-Profit Conference

General Sessions:

October 21, 2011 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:05 p.m. Meydenbauer Center, Bellevue, WA

• • • •

FASB Update Auditing Update Lease Accounting Blue Ribbon Panel Update

Concurrent Sessions:

August 18, 2011 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Three Rivers Convention Center, Kennewick, WA

• • • • • •

Technology Update for the Lay-CPA A133 Update Fraud Prevention/Detection Revenue Recognition IFRS Update SSARS Update

8 Technical CPE credits WSCPA Members Non Members

$285 $360

Register for AAC at www.wscpa.org/conferences November 17-18, 2011 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Bell Harbor International Conference Center, Seattle, WA Transforming fiscal challenges into opportunities for the NFP industry. 16 CPE credits WSCPA Members Non Members

$400 $475

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

www.wscpa.org

conferences

new!

Pacific Tax institute November 7-9, 2011 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Bell Harbor International Conference Center, Seattle

• It’s not Your Father’s Tax Practice … Risk & Regulation in Modern Tax Practice • State Tax Nexus • Tax Controversy • Accountant’s Liability • Cases and Rulings/Update • Health Care Reform

Concurrent Sessions:

General Sessions:

The Pacific Tax Institute, a new conference designed for experienced tax professionals, will explore the many changes in federal tax. Spend two and a half days at a stunning waterfront setting, taking a close look at important current federal tax issues that affect you and your clients. At this premier conference, recognized tax experts will explain everything you need to know about the following topics:

Stay at the beautiful Marriott – Seattle Waterfront! Reserve your room by Oct. 17 for the special rate of $175/night plus tax. Call (800) 455-8254 or (206) 443-5000. Mention the WSCPA Pacific Tax Institute room block. Learn more at www.wscpa.org/conferences.

• Research and Development Credit • Partnership Debt Forgiveness • Estate Planning in a Low Interest Rate Environment: GRATs. QPRTs, Charitable Trusts, Intra Family Loans

• • • • •

Economic Substance Passive Activity Rules Income Taxation of Trusts Retirement Planning FBARs

20 CPE credits WSCPA Members $775 Non Members $850

Pac i f i c N W Co n s tr u ction Indust r y Conference

new day,

new focus

November 10-11, 2011 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Bell Harbor International Conference Center, Seattle, WA

General Sessions:

The Pacific Northwest Construction Industry Conference, co-sponsored by the CFMA, will bring you up to speed on recent trends and provide essential guidance on hot topics affecting construction accounting and financial management. • • • • • • • •

Accounting Update - with a Look at FASB Revenue Recognition and Leases Projects Construction Tax Update IFRS Convergence Contractor Panel New Day, New Strategy: Repositioning After the Great Recession Fraud in the Construction Industry Surety Panel Building Your Sphere of Influence Using Social Media (non-tech credit)

www.wscpa.org

16 CPE credits (includes up to 2 non-tech) WSCPA & CFMA Members $525 Non Members $600 Plus FOUR concurrent sessions covering hot topics such as Cloud Computing, Coordinating Field & Accounting, and Developing Your Construction Niche Marketing Plan, and much more!

Education and events

Fees Date

CPE Credits

Course

Code

events by location # WSCPA education and events scheduled for July-August 2011 are listed below, chronologically by location. If you are looking for a program in another location, it may be scheduled for later in the year. Using the online CPE/Event Catalog at www.wscpa.org/CPE/ catalog, you can search by location.

For more details, search by code at www.wscpa.org/cpe

Type

2011-2012 EVENT SCHEDULE To view the complete schedule of events through May 2012, refer to the CPE/Event Catalog at www.wscpa.org or the 2011-2012 Washington Professional Education Catalog (mailed to members in late April). To request a copy of the catalog, call (800) 272-8273 (toll-free in Washington) or e-mail cpe@wscpa.org. LEARN MORE To view complete course details, please visit the CPE/ Event Catalog at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog.

WSCPA NonAICPA Member Member Member Fee Fee Discount A&A

CS EB

SUBJECTS The main subject area is listed for each program.

PFP Ethics GNP MG PD

Need help finding a seminar or webcast? Call (800) 272-8273 or (425) 644-4800.

SK TAX TEC

Facility

Accounting and Auditing Consulting Services Employee Benefits Estate/Financial Planning Ethics Government / NFP Management Personal Development Specialized Knowledge Taxation Technology

Fees Date

CPE Credits

Type

Subject

Course

WSCPA NonAICPA Code Member Member Member For more details, Fee Fee Discount search by code at www.wscpa.org/cpe

Facility

Subject

Horse Races - New Professionals Networking Event, 6-8:30 pm

NP02

Emerald Downs

Auburn Jul 21 Bellevue Jul 6

New Professionals Puget Sound Committee Meeting, 6-7:30 pm

CMNP02

WSCPA

Jul 11

Washington B & O and Sales Tax, 8 am-4 pm

WSTX01

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

Jul 12

Compilation and Review Standards Update and Review by Walter Haig, 8 am-4 pm

CRUR01

305

380

WSCPA

A&A

Jul 13

GAAP Update and Review for Small and Medium-Sized Entities (SMEs) by Walter Haig, 8 am-4 pm

GURSME01

305

380

WSCPA

A&A

Jul 13

Inside the IRS - A Tour for CPAs, EAs and Accountants, 8 am-4 pm

ITI

275

350

WSCPA

Jul 14

Money Laundering - A Guide for CPAs, 8 am-4 pm

MLCPA

275

350

WSCPA

Jul 14

Creating a Positive Work Culture with Performance Feedback, 8 am-4 pm

CPW

275

350

WSCPA

MG TEC

Jul 18

Excel Pivot Tables, 8 am-4 pm

COMEX01

240

315

WSCPA

Jul 19

Excel Data Analysis, 8 am-4 pm

COMEX02

240

315

WSCPA

TEC

Jul 20

Excel Functions, Tips, Tricks, & Techniques, 8 am-4 pm

COMEX03

240

315

WSCPA

TEC

Jul 26

Tax Aspects of Bankruptcy: All Need Not Be Lost, 8 am-4 pm

TAOB

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

Jul 27

Current Federal Tax Developments, 8 am-4 pm

CFTD

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

Jul 27

New Professionals Puget Sound Committee Meeting, 6-7:30 pm

CMNP03

WSCPA

ç Jul 28

Strategies and Tactics in the New War Against Higher Individual Taxes, 8 am-4 pm

IWAR01

285

360

WSCPA

TAX

Jul 29

Choosing the Best Entity Structure Under the New Tax Law in 2011, 8 am-4 pm

CBES01

285

360

WSCPA

TAX

ç Aug 2

IFRS Convergence - What it Means to You, 8 am-4 pm

IFRSC

275

350

WSCPA

A&A

ç Aug 2

Self-Employed Tax Clients - Using the Latest Strategies to Reduce Their Federal Tax Liabilities (Schedule C, 1120S, 1065 and LLC/LLP), 8 am-4 pm

SELS

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

ç Aug 3

The CPA’s Guide to Today’s Tax Planning Ideas and Legal Tax Loopholes - Taking Advantage of New Tax Codes, 8 am-4 pm

TGTL

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

ç Aug 4

No-Nonsense Tax, Estate, Retirement and Eldercare Strategies for Your 60+ Clients, 8 am-4 pm

NN60

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

ç Aug 5

Financial Statement Fraud, Not Just Wall Street’s Problem, 8 am-4 pm

FSF

275

350

WSCPA

SK TEC

Aug 8

Moving to Office 2007/2010: A Roadmap for Success, 12:30-4 pm

MTO401

145

180

WSCPA

Aug 8

Excel PivotTables for Accountants - Part I, 8-11:30 am

PT1401

145

180

WSCPA

TEC

Aug 9

QuickBooks Advanced Features, Tools, and Techniques, 8 am-4 pm

ADQ01

275

350

WSCPA

TEC

Aug 10

Outlook for Accountants: Get Organized Today, 8 am-4 pm

OUT

275

350

WSCPA

TEC

Aug 11

Accounting and Reporting Standards Annual Update, 8 am-4 pm

ARSU01

305

380

WSCPA

A&A

Aug 12

The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation, 8 am-4 pm

RTI

225

300

WSCPA

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Education and events Fees

Date

CPE Credits

Course

Code For more details, search by code at www.wscpa.org/cpe

Type

WSCPA NonAICPA Member Member Member Fee Fee Discount

Facility

Subject

Aug 23

Financial Statement Analysis: Basis for Management Advice, 8 am-4 pm

FSABM

275

350

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Aug 24

Lean Accounting and Management: Improving Profitability by Streamlining Operations, 8 am-4 pm

LAMA

275

350

-30

WSCPA

Aug 25

More QuickBooks for the Accounting Professional, 8 am-4 pm

COMQB02

240

315

WSCPA

TEC

Aug 25

Innovative Tax Planning for Small Businesses: Corporations, Partnerships & LLCs, 8 am-4 pm

TPOC

275

350

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Aug 26

Advanced Excel, 8 am-4 pm

COMEX04

240

315

WSCPA

TEC

Aug 29

Determining How Much Money You Need to Retire, and Tax Ideas and Money Management in Retirement, 8 am-4 pm

DRMM

285

360

WSCPA

TAX

ç Aug 30

Now I See! Comprehending OMB A-133, 8 am-4 pm

COMB02

275

350

-30

WSCPA

GNFP

Aug 30

The Best Income Tax, Estate Tax, and Financial Planning Ideas of 2011, 8 am-4 pm

IEFP

285

360

WSCPA

TAX

Aug 31

Right The First Time: Cases In Not-For-Profit Accounting and Auditing, 8 am-4 pm

CNFP

275

350

-30

WSCPA

GNFP

Bellingham Aug 9

Compilation and Review Standards Update and Review by Walter Haig, 8 am-4 pm

CRUR02

305

380

Lakeway Inn & Conf Ctr

A&A

Aug 10

GAAP Update and Review for Small and Medium-Sized Entities (SMEs) by Walter Haig, 8 am-4 pm

GURSME02

305

380

Lakeway Inn & Conf Ctr

A&A

Accounting and Reporting Standards Annual Update and Review by Walter Haig, 8 am-4 pm

ARSUR01

525

640

Campbell’s Resort on Lake Chelan

A&A

Aug 18-19 16

Accounting and Reporting Standards Annual Update and Review by Walter Haig, 8 am-4 pm

ARSUR02

525

640

Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort

A&A

Chelan Jul 14-15 Coeur d’Alene

Kennewick Aug 18

Farm Tax Conference, 8 am-4 pm

FARMC

230

305

Three Rivers Conv Ctr

Argosy Cruise - New Professionals Networking Event, 7:30-9:30 pm

NP03

Argosy Cruises

Seattle Aug 10 Spokane Jul 12

Happy Hour Networking Event, 5-7 pm

NP09

C I Shenanigans

Aug 9

Happy Hour Networking Event, 5-7 pm

NP10

C I Shenanigans

Now I See! Comprehending OMB A-133, 8 am-4 pm

COMB01

275

350

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

GNFP

ç Aug 29

Your Desk Jul 5

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation & Disclosure (FSPD) -Part 1, 7-11 am

WEB220

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Jul 5

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation & Disclosure (FSPD) -Part 2, 12-4 pm

WEB221

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 5

WEBINAR: Outlook Part 1-E-mail Management Tips & Techniques (Basic), 8-10 am

WNR128

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 5

WEBINAR: Outlook Part 2 - E-mail Management Tips & Techniques (Advanced), 11 am-1 pm

WNR129

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 6

WEBCAST: Update on IRS Tax Controversy Procedure: Dealing with the IRS in the Real World, 7 am-3 pm

WEB222

195

225

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 6

WEBCAST - EVENING: The CFO’s Role in Banking and Financing, 7-9 pm

SWEB37

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 6

WEBCAST: Cash and Credit Management, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB17

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Jul 6

WEBCAST: Audits of 403(b) Plans: A Challenging New Audit Area, 8:30am-4:30pm

WEB18

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 6

WEBINAR: PowerPoint Level 1 - Creating Professional Presentations, 8-10 am

WNR130

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 6

WEBINAR: PowerPoint Level 2 - Advanced Presentation Design, 11 am-1 pm

WNR131

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 7

WEBCAST: Budgeting Wars Prevention: How to Ensure Accountability Exists in Your Budget Process, 8-10 am

WEB223

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 7

WEBCAST: Governance-Enhancing Risk Management: Setting the Right Balance Innovation and Controls, 11 am-1 pm

WEB224

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 7

WEBCAST: High Road Corporate Governance from the Inside Out, 2-5 pm

WEB225

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 7

WEBCAST: Excel Tips and Techniques for Increased Productivity and Improved Financial Modeling--Intermediate, 8:30 am-4 pm

WEB19

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 7

WEBCAST: AICPA Guide to Business Combinations, Goodwill and Other Consolidation Issues, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB20

255

295

-30

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 7

WEBINAR: Tax Practice: Section 7216 Regulations, 8-10 am

WNR132

Webinar,Your Desk

TAX

www.wscpa.org

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Education and events

Fees Date

CPE Credits

Course

Code For more details, search by code at www.wscpa.org/cpe

Type

WSCPA NonAICPA Member Member Member Fee Fee Discount

Facility

Subject

ç Jul 7

WEBINAR: Tax Practice: Section 6694 Research Requirements, 11 am-1 pm

WNR133

Webinar,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 8

WEBCAST: The High Road Approach to Difficult Conversations: How to Face and Grow from Them, 8-10 am

WEB226

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 8

WEBCAST: High Road Leadership Strategies for Eliminating Silos, Bureaucracy or Turf Wars in Your Culture, 10:30 am-12:30 pm

WEB227

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 8

WEBCAST: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them, 1-5 pm

WEB228

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 8

WEBCAST: Washington CPA Ethics and New Developments (A WA requirement), 8-11:30 am

WEB229

159

189

Webcast,Your Desk

Ethics TEC

ç Jul 8

WEBCAST:Technology Certificate Program 1 (K2), 11 am-1 pm

WEB21

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 11

WEBCAST: Washington B & O and Sales Tax, 8 am-4 pm

WEB263

235

265

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 11

WEBCAST: Construction Contractors: Special Tax and Accounting Considerations, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB22

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 12

WEBCAST: Research and Development Tax Credits: Do You Know the Tax Savings These Create? 8-11 am

WEB230

129

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 12

WEBCAST - EVENING: Budgeting Wars Prevention: How to Ensure Accountability Exists in Your Budget Process, 7-9 pm

SWEB14

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 12

WEBCAST - EVENING: Governance - Enhancing Risk Management: Setting the Right Balance Innovation and Controls, 7-9 pm

SWEB24

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 12

WEBCAST - EVENING: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - Part 1, 3-6:30 pm

SWEB52

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 12

WEBCAST - EVENING: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - Part 2, 7-10:30 pm

SWEB56

129

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Jul 12

WEBCAST: Advanced Controller and CFO Skills, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB23

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Jul 12

WEBINAR: Excel - The Business Analytics Tool, 8-10 am

WNR134

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 13

WEBINAR:Adobe Acrobat for Accountants I - Basic Features & Functions, 8-10 am

WNR135

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 13

WEBINAR: Adobe Acrobat for Accountants II - Advanced, 11 am-1 pm

WNR140

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 14

WEBCAST: Accounts Receivable Management - “Part 1 of 6 in the Technical Controllers Series,” 8-11 am

WEB231

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 14

WEBCAST: Managing the Accounting Function so You Become Invaluable “Part 2 of 6 in the Technical Controller Series,” 11:30 am-1:30 pm

WEB232

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 14

WEBCAST: Getting Stuff Done When You Don’t Own the Company “Part 3 of 6 in the Technical Controllers Series,” 2-5 pm

WEB233

129

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Jul 14

WEBCAST: Meeting XBRL Mandates: Providing XBRL Services to Clients, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB24

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 14

WEBINAR: Adobe Acrobat for Accountants III - Tips & Techniques for the Experienced User, 8-10 am

WNR141

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 14

WEBINAR: Adobe Acrobat Forms, 11 am-1 pm

WNR136

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 15

WEBCAST: A133 Audits: What Do I Need to Know? An Auditor’s Perspective for Auditors and Auditees, 8-11:30 am

WEB234

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 15

WEBCAST: A133 Audits: How Can I Do It Better? An Auditor’s Perspective for Auditors and Auditees, 12:30-4 pm

WEB235

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 15

WEBCAST: It’s ALL in the Process! How to Generate Productivity and Breakthrough Improvements “Part 4 of 6 in the Technical Controller, 8-11 am

WEB236

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 15

WEBCAST: Setting the RIGHT Tone! A Finance Leader’s Best Tool for Employee Engagement “Part 5 of 6 in the Technical Controllers, 11:30 am-1:30 pm

WEB237

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 15

WEBCAST: Money Talks! Presenting Financial Concepts with Ease “Part 6 of 6 in the Technical Controllers Series,” 3-6 pm

WEB238

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 15

WEBCAST: Compilation and Review: Basic Review and Update, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB25

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Jul 18

WEBCAST: Paperless Office: Managing Documents in a Digital World, 8:30am-4pm

WEB27

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 18

WEBCAST: Social Security Benefits: Advising Clients, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB26

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

CS TAX

Jul 19

Jul 20

WEBCAST: Preparing Complex 1040s, Calculating NOLs, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB28

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

WEBCAST: Governmental Accounting and Auditing Update, 7 am-3 pm

WEB239

195

225

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 20

GNFP

WEBCAST - EVENING: A133 Audits - What Do I Need to Know? An Auditor’s Perspective for Auditors, 5-8:30 pm

SWEB02

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Jul 20

WEBCAST - EVENING: A133 Audits - How Can I Do It Better? An Auditor’s Perspective for Auditors and Auditees, 6-9:30 pm

SWEB07

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 20

WEBINAR: Excel - Best Unknown Features for Accountants, 8-10 am

WNR137

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Education and events Fees

Date

CPE Credits

# Jul 20

Course

For more details, search by code at www.wscpa.org/cpe

Type

Code

WSCPA NonAICPA Member Member Member Fee Fee Discount

Facility

Subject

WEBINAR: Security Tools - Up Close and Personal, 11 am-1 pm

WNR138

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 21

WEBCAST - EVENING: Lean Accounting, 6-8 pm

SWEB47

109

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Jul 21

WEBCAST: Technology Certificate Program 1 (K2), 11 am-1 pm

WEB29

Webcast,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 22

WEBCAST: Preparing Form 706: The Federal Estate Tax Return, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB30

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 22

WEBCAST: QuickBooks Accounting Software Overview and Update, 8:30 am4:30 pm

WEB31

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 22

WEBINAR: Better Reporting With the Intuit Statement Writer, 11 am-1 pm

WNR139

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 22

WEBINAR: Solving the Top QuickBooks Issues, 8-10 am

WNR142

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 23

WEBCAST - SATURDAY: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them, 11 am-2:30 pm

SWEB23

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 23

WEBCAST -SATURDAY: Governance - Enhancing Risk Management: Setting the Right Balance Innovation and Controls, 11 am-1 pm

SWEB25

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 23

WEBCAST - SATURDAY: The CFO’s Role in Banking and Financing, 11 am-1 pm

SWEB41

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 25

WEBCAST: Internal Controls for Business - To Prevent Fraud and Loss, 7 am-3 pm

WEB240

195

225

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 25

WEBCAST: FASB Update, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB32

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Jul 25

WEBINAR: Managing the Cost of Technology, 11 am-1 pm

WNR143

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 26

WEBCAST - EVENING: Budgeting Wars Prevention: How to Ensure Accountability Exists in Your Budget Process, 6-8 pm

SWEB15

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 26

WEBCAST-EVENING: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them, 6-9:30pm

SWEB22

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 26

WEBCAST - EVENING: The CFO’s Role in Operational Control, 6-8 pm

SWEB42

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 26

WEBCAST: New Federal Tax Law-Individual and Business Current Developments You Need To Know, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB34

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 26

WEBCAST: Understanding Insurance: Creating Value for Your Clients, 8:30 am-4pm

WEB33

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 26

WEBINAR: Microsoft Office 2007/2010 - What’s New?, 8-10 am

WNR144

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 27

WEBCAST: S Corporation Preparation, Basis Calculations & Distributions: Form 1120S Schedule K & K1 Analysis, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB36

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 27

WEBCAST: Secrets of Successful Insurance Planning, 8:30 am-4 pm

WEB35

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

Jul 27

WEBINAR: Excel - Beginner Tips, Tricks & Techniques, 8-10 am

WNR145

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Jul 27

WEBINAR: Excel - Advanced Tips, Tricks & Techniques, 11 am-1 pm

WNR146

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 28

WEBCAST: Partnership Preparation, Basis Calculations & Distributions : Form 1065 Schedule K & K1 Analysis, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB37

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Jul 28

WEBINAR: Excel- Auditing Your Spreadsheets to Ensure Data Integrity, 11am-1 pm

WNR147

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Jul 29

WEBINAR: Excel - The Power of Pivot Tables, 11 am-1 pm

WNR148

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Aug 1

WEBINAR: Solving the Top QuickBooks Issues, 8-10 am

WNR149

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 2

WEBCAST: Advanced Personal Financial Planning Update, 8:30 am-4 pm

WEB38

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

PFP

ç Aug 2

WEBINAR: Client Portals - How to Develop A Strategic Model, 8-10 am

WNR150

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 2

WEBINAR: Outlook Part 3 - Calendar & Contact Management Tips & Techniques, 11 am-1 pm

WNR151

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 3

WEBCAST: Governmental Accounting and Audting Update, 7 am-3 pm

WEB241

195

225

Webcast,Your Desk

GNFP

Aug 3

WEBCAST - EVENING: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - Part 1, 3-6:30 pm

SWEB53

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 3

WEBCAST - EVENING: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - Part 2, 7-10:30 pm

SWEB57

129

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Aug 3

WEBCAST: Basis Calculations & Distributions for Pass-Through Entity Owners (Schedule K-1 Analysis), 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB39

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Aug 3

WEBINAR: Auditing & Fraud Technology Tools, 8-10 am

WNR152

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 4

WEBCAST: New Federal Tax Law-Individual and Business Current Developments You Need To Know, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB40

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Aug 5

WEBCAST: Washington CPA Ethics and New Developments (A WA requirement), 8-11:30 am

WEB242

159

189

Webcast,Your Desk

Ethics

ç Aug 5

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Fraud Not Just Wall Street’s Problem, 8 am-4 pm

WEB268

235

265

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 5

WEBCAST: IRAs--Contributions and Distributions for Traditional, Roth, SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB41

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

ç Aug 5

WEBINAR: Managing the Cost of Technology, 11 am-1 pm

WNR153

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

www.wscpa.org

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Education and events

Fees Date

CPE Credits

Course

Code For more details, search by code at www.wscpa.org/cpe

Type

WSCPA NonAICPA Member Member Member Fee Fee Discount

Facility

Subject

ç Aug 8

WEBCAST: Research and Development Tax Credits: Do You Know the Tax Savings These Create?, 8-11 am

WEB243

129

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

ç Aug 8

WEBINAR: Excel - The Business Analytics Tool, 8-10 am

WNR154

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 8

WEBINAR: Social Networking - Essentials for Business, 11 am-1 pm

WNR155

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 9

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation & Disclosure (FSPD) -Part 1, 7-11 am

WEB244

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Aug 9

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation & Disclosure (FSPD) -Part 2, 12-4 pm

WEB245

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Aug 9

WEBCAST - EVENING: Lean Accounting, 7-9 pm

SWEB48

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 11

WEBCAST: Budgeting Wars Prevention: How to Ensure Accountability Exists in Your Budget Process, 8-10 am

WEB246

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 11

WEBCAST: Governance-Enhancing Risk Management: Setting the Right Balance Innovation and Controls, 11 am-1 pm

WEB247

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 11

WEBCAST: High Road Corporate Governance from the Inside Out, 2-5 pm

WEB248

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 12

WEBCAST: The High Road Approach to Difficult Conversations: How to Face and Grow from Them, 8-10 am

WEB249

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 12

WEBCAST: High Road Leadership Strategies for Eliminating Silos, Bureaucracy or Turf Wars in Your Culture, 10:30 am-12:30 pm

WEB250

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 12

WEBCAST: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them, 1-5 pm

WEB251

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 13

WEBCAST - SATURDAY: A133 Audits - What Do I Need to Know? An Auditor’s Perspective for Auditors, 10 am-1:30 pm

SWEB03

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Aug 13

WEBCAST - SATURDAY: A133 Audits - How Can I Do It Better? An Auditor’s Perspective for Auditors and Auditees, 10 am-1:30 pm

SWEB08

129

159

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

Aug 16

WEBCAST: Accounts Receivable Management - “Part 1 of 6 of the Technical Controllers Series,” 8-11 am

WEB252

129

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Aug 16

WEBCAST: Managing the Accounting Function So You Become Invaluable “Part 2 of 6 in the Technical Controller Series,” 11:30 am-1:30 pm

WEB253

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 16

WEBCAST: Getting Stuff Done When You Don’t Own the Company - “Part 3 of 6 in the Technical Controllers Series,” 2-5 pm

WEB254

129

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Aug 16

WEBCAST: Real Estate Taxation, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB42

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Aug 16

WEBINAR: Adobe Acrobat for Accountants III - Tips & Techniques for the Experienced User, 8-10 am

WNR156

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

ç Aug 17

WEBCAST: It’s ALL in the Process! How to Generate Productivity and Breakthrough Improvements “Part 4 of 6 in the Technical Controller Series,” 8-11 am

WEB255

129

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Aug 17

WEBCAST: Setting the RIGHT Tone! A Finance Leader’s Best Tool for Employee Engagement “Part 5 of 6 in the Technical Controllers Series,” 11:30 am-1:30 pm

WEB256

109

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Aug 17

WEBCAST: Money Talks! Presenting Financial Concepts with Ease “Part 6 of 6 in the Technical Controllers Series,” 2-5 pm

WEB257

129

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 17

WEBCAST - EVENING: The CFO’s Role in Banking and Financing, 6-8 pm

SWEB38

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 17

WEBCAST - EVENING: The CFO’s Role in Operational Control, 5-7 pm

SWEB43

109

Webcast,Your Desk

ç Aug 17

WEBINAR: Key Tax Issues Facing Members In Industry, 11 am-1 pm

WNR157

Webinar,Your Desk

TAX

ç Aug 17

WEBINAR: 2011 Year-End Tax Planning - Thinking Outside the Box, 8-10 am

WNR158

Webinar,Your Desk

TAX

Aug 18

WEBCAST: Accounting and Auditing Update, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB44

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Aug 18

WEBCAST: AMT and Other Topics, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB43

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

ç Aug 18

WEBINAR: Tax Practice: Section 6694 Research Requirements, 11 am-1 pm

WNR159

Webinar,Your Desk

TAX

ç Aug 18

WEBINAR: Tax Practice: IRS Regulation of Tax Practitioners, 8-10 am

WNR160

Webinar,Your Desk

TAX

ç Aug 19

WEBCAST: Other Comprehensive Basis of Accounting Fundamentals, 8:30 am 4:30 pm

WEB45

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

A&A

ç Aug 19

WEBINAR: Word - Advanced Tips, Tricks & Techniques, 11 am-1 pm

WNR161

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Aug 22

WEBCAST: Strategic Sourcing - Supply Chain Excellence, 7-9 am

WEB258

109

Webcast,Your Desk

Aug 22

WEBCAST: Fundamentals of the Corporate Income Tax Return, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB46

255

295

Webcast,Your Desk

TAX

Aug 22

WEBINAR: How to Go Paperless, 8-10 am

WNR162

Webinar,Your Desk

TEC

Need help finding a seminar, conference or webcast? Call the WSCPA at (800) 272-8273 or (425) 644-4800. To view the complete schedule of events, go to www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog. The same high quality materials and speakers featured in many WSCPA conferences and seminars are available for CPE events for your firm. To learn more, call (800) 272-8273 or (425) 644-4800 or e-mail ct@wscpa.org.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Registration

Questions? E-mail cpe@wscpa.org or call (425) 644-4800 or (800) 272-8273 (toll-free in Washington).

Code

Title

Date

City

Fee1

WSCPA CPE policies apply to all programs in the CPE Digest. Review the CPE policies at www.wscpa.org. www.wscpa.org

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

classified ads

Detailed advertising information is available online at www.wscpa.org. Classified ads are $1 per word, $40 minimum. Active e-mail and web site addresses count as two words and are $10 additional each. Positions available ads are for magazine placement only. To post a job listing, visit the Career Center at www.wscpa. org. Contact Sharon Olene-Marander at (425) 5861138,(800) 272-8273,Ext.1138,or classifieds@wscpa. org for more information. All ads must be pre-paid. See these and any new listings on at www.wscpa.org under Newsroom. POSITIONS AVAILABLE Established Bellingham CPA firm is seeking experienced auditor to join our team of professionals. 5+ years of audit experience required. Collaborative working environment, excellent advancement opportunities and salary and benefits package.Submit resume and cover letter to Varner Sytsma & Herndon, CPA’s, 2200 Rimland Drive,Suite 205,Bellingham,WA 98226, Attn: H/R

Position: Senior manager/Partner. Dynamic, growing CPA firm is adding to staff with potential for ownership. Seeking an experienced CPA with business consulting skills and an emphasis on accounting. Must show demonstrated talent working with small to mid-sized businesses. Should be able to assist with strategic thinking and planning using key metrics of clients.Will also participate in driving strategic direction of firm.This is an opportunity for the CPA who is entrepreneurial and eager to make his/her mark. Visit www.mariscpa.com. Submit resume and cover letter by email to Maris & Associates CPA’s at charlottem@mariscpa.com. We will notify you if you are a candidate for the position. Established Bellingham CPA firm is seeking experienced CPA to join our team of professionals. 3+ years of tax experience required. Collaborative working environment, excellent advancement opportunities and salary and benefits package.Submit resume and cover letter to Varner Sytsma & Herndon, CPA’s, 2200 Rimland Drive,Suite 205,Bellingham,WA 98226, Attn: H/R OFFICE SPACE

Federal Way Business district newly remodeled, partially furnished professional office building. 2-3 offices plus conference room and reception/ secretarial station. Parking, kitchen, fax, copier, internet, utilities. Contact Eileen at (206) 399-2046 or emsfw@earthlink.net. Near Downtown Bellevue with forested atmosphere on 112th Avenue NE. Upscale professional offices,some with reception,library,staff work stations, kitchen, and conference room. Tasteful décor. Collegial atmosphere. Ample client parking and reserved covered parking. Move-in incentives. Competitive rates. (425) 462-5151. Downtown Seattle partner-sized office. 11 X 14.5. Logan Bldg.5th/Union.Great location.Conference room, copier, fax, reception, kitchen, mail. Large windows, great light. Fully equipped w/phone, desk, credenza. $900. First month free. David Roth (206) 447-8665 david@legalroth.com.

WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

SITUATIONS WANTED

Barron’sTop Financial Planning firm seeking professional partnership with CPA firm.We increasingly find the need to network with other professionals. We have many ways to work together in mutually beneficial relationship. 425.228.1000 (Kevin) or kevin.a.nanthrup@ampf.com – www. randallslinde.com. MERGERS & SALES CPA looking for $150,000-$250,000 size practice to purchase in the Bellingham area. Cash purchase. Please respond to Tom by phone, (707) 545-0701 or email,TJTCPA@aol.com.

Tax Practice for Sale. SE King County (Kent, Renton,Auburn, Federal Way) 160 clients. Mostly 1040s with A&B. Some Schedule C, E, etc. Average fee about $190.Very stable, loyal client base. Call Bob 206 575-0806, or email bob@bearcreekfinancial.com. Everett Firm Looking for CPA firm and/or Registered Investment Advisory Company to purchase. We are the second largest CPA firm in downtown Everett, manage $135m and are looking to purchase another firm. Our client base is as broad as the services we offer, as we cater to individuals and small business. Please contact the owner, Brian Evans at 425-252-6909 or email to brian@bauerevans.com. You can review our websites at www.bauerevans. com and www.bondstreetwealth.com. CPAFlex pays CPAs for the value of their practice while maximizing their earnings using our proprietary delivery platform. Learn more at www.cpaflex.com. Considering SellingYour Practice? Consider all your options.We do the work. Confidential.We have buyers actively seeking practices. Call Mark Hause at 877-345-7722 or visit our website at www.accountingpracticesales.com. Accounting Practice Sales. We make dreams happen! IBA Sells Privately Held Companies. Do you represent a client who is ready to retire or has taken a company as far as they want to or can? IBA is the Pacific Northwest’s oldest business brokerage (M&A) firm.We are professional negotiators with over 4000 completed transactions. Please contact us if we can be of assistance at (800) 218-4422 or www.ibainc.com. PRACTICES FOR SALE Contact Mark Hause at Accounting Practice Sales by e-mail at MARKHAUSE@CONTACTAPS. COM or call 877-345-7722 for more information on the following practices: Anacortes CPA Firm for Sale: This CPA firm is a traditional CPA firm with income tax, writeup, along with financial services to round out the practice.The firm revenue mix breaks out 76% tax, 18% write-up, and 6% financial services.The buyer

will have the opportunity to retain the current office location indefinitely as the Seller owns the building.With a loyal client base and good fees, this firm offers opportunity to a firm looking to expand or a CPA wanting to be on their own. Bellingham CPA Firm for Sale: This CPA firm is a tax and write-up practice that focuses on small business. As a result, the firm predominantly renders tax and write-up services for a loyal group of clients who are accustomed to paying market rate fees along with being a strong referral source. The revenue dollars grossed by the firm break out 65% income tax and 33% write-up services and 2% for a small amount of compilation and review services. The client work load is continuous through the year with the normal increase in tax filing periods providing for a balanced workload and revenue stream. This practice has an excellent staff which further enhances the opportunity this firm provides for an accountant or firm looking for a quality practice to make their own. Spokane CPA Firm for Sale: This long time firm is for sale. The firm has a diverse client base that includes all professional services including auditing. The practice revenue dollars consist of 37% accounting, 9% consulting and computer services,and 49% income tax services.The highlight of this firm’s accounting segment of the practice is a quality attestation practice that includes compilations, reviews and auditing. The tax practice contains the type of work that quality firms seek with per hour realization rates that are equal to or above prevailing market rates. The consulting and computer services segment provides invaluable assistance to clients in dealing with various accounting software issues. With an excellent and mature staff providing a deep bench, this practice offers the chance to acquire a quality practice for a variety of firms seeking to acquire a balanced book of business. Volunteer Positions The following organizations need a CPA to serve on the board of directors or provide other guidance on financial matters.Learn more at www.wscpa.org (enter volunteer positions in the search box).

ArtsEd Washington - New Citrine Health - New Community Day School Association Community Employment Network - New Congress for the New Urbanism – Cascadia - New Families for Effective Autism Treatment Hearing Speech and Deafness Center (HSDC) New Horizon House - New Northeast Washington Education Council Northwest Perennial Alliance (NPA) - New Pacific Sports Arena The Center for Transgender Health & Wellness The Center for Wooden Boats The Swedish Finn Historical Society

Follow WSCPA www.wscpa.org

www.wscpa.org

MEMBER profile

Solving Financial Mysteries at Catastrophic Event Locales John W. Curran, CPA

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in Washington, D.C. and lived in Bethesda, Maryland until my family moved to Seattle when I was nine. I attended various parochial grade schools and graduated from Seattle Prep. I served in the U. S. Army after high school and attended Seattle University on an athletic tennis scholarship. I graduated from S.U. with a B.S. majoring in accounting. From an early age I had an affinity for numbers. Numbers made sense to me and a career as a CPA allowed me to work with numbers and numerical concepts. In 1962 I started working for Ernst & Ernst (now Ernst & Young) as an auditor eventually serving small business entities. I transferred to the tax department and became a tax partner in charge of the Small Business Practice. Starting in 1964, the year I became a CPA and joined the WSCPA, I worked on non-traditional accounting matters such as special investigations, business interruption insurance claims, fraud and fidelity investigations and dispute resolution matters. These special assignment engagements eventually gravitated to a full time forensic accounting practice during the last 25 years. I worked at Ernst & Young for 43 years and in 2005 became a shareholder/partner at Hagen, Streiff, Newton & Oshiro, Accountants, PC, a forensic accounting firm specializing in review of business interruption insurance claims and dispute resolution matters.

What is the most interesting, challenging or rewarding aspect of your work?

The nature of business interruption claim work is that some of the work involves damages caused by natural or man-made disasters and travel to those locations is essential to performing the work. The work has involved travel such as to New York City related to the 9-11 World Trade Center disaster. I have traveled to other disaster locales including Louisiana for Katrina and other southwest U.S. hurricanes, earthquakes in California and Seattle, as well as to Kuwait, Chile and remote locations in Canada. Because of the nature of the non-traditional accounting related work required, every engagement is a new challenge. The companies and industries also vary from engagement to engagement. The reasons for being engaged and the scope of the engagements vary with each job. The work involves critical thinking and analysis. It’s like solving a puzzle. For example, business interruption insurance claims involve determination of lost revenues and net income that did not actually occur due to some insurable peril. Litigation disputes often involve a party’s non-performance resulting in economic damages. www.wscpa.org

Various other investigations require searching for “smoking gun” type evidence.

What are the highlights of your career?

One of the most enjoyable benefits of my career is working in a professional team environment towards a goal. I worked on both the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and the 2001 terrorism collapse of the buildings involving both business interruption and property damage claims.These assignments required commuting to New York most weeks over a five year period. The work was complex, challenging, physically and emotionally demanding, but at the same time exhilarating. Working with employees and their companies, who in some cases lost all their work related possessions and sometimes lost their co-workers, required special care and consideration. Working in the New York culture was also demanding and interesting.

What are your hobbies?

Sports and travel. I’m active as a senior tennis player in local and sectional tournaments and occasionally national tournaments. I also play basketball, golf, ski and enjoy recreational biking. I belong to a book club whose members are old basketball players.

Tell us about your family.

My spouse Judy and I have been married for 40 years and raised three daughters. Jodie Wise and her husband Jeff are both CPAs and another son-in-law, Ron Kelly, is a CPA.We have exhilarating holiday dinner conversations. Our daughter Jennifer is a history educator at an all-girls high school. Our youngest daughter, Jill, passed away as a result of a traffic accident while studying abroad. This was a devastating event for our family. We honor Jill’s memory with scholarships at the schools she attended and with charitable events.

Do you have any heroes?

There are so many persons who have been or are extraordinary, courageous and heroic that I applaud them all. As a group my heroes are the military and law enforcement personnel who day and night protect our freedom. WashingtonCPA July/August 2011

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