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Dear Elizabeth:

I believe that we can do wonderful things when we come together with a shared mission, clear strategy and a culture that brings out the best in us individually and collectively. Formed last fall, our strategic plan was designed with an ambitious mission at the core of what our members deeply care about:

“To protect, enhance and promote the value of being a CPA in Massachusetts.”

Today, I want to share some exciting news that’s bringing us closer to achieving our mission.

We recently entered into an RFP process to find an organization that was neither a traditional lobbyist nor a traditional PR firm, but a firm that understands government relations, media relations and strategic positioning, and can both protect and elevate our brand through those channels. I’m thrilled to announce that we have selected a partner to help us do just that. Northwind Strategies, a boutique, strategic consulting firm offers extensive experience in public affairs, media relations, business development, campaign management, crisis communications and social media. Northwind has worked with several leading organizations in the corporate, nonprofit and political arenas at the local, national and international levels on similar engagements. In addition to their strategic expertise, they bring deep relationships with elected officials, reporters, producers and other thought leaders.  We are very excited to begin working with Northwind in January, and we are expecting great things from the relationship. I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together in 2016!

As most of you know, we have had a long-standing relationship with The Brennan Group, our current contract lobbyist. As we move forward in a new direction, we are confident our positive working relationship will continue in years ahead.

Amy A. Pitter
President & CEO

Upcoming Committee Meeting

Photos: 2015 New England Practice Management Conference

Over 150 partners and managing partners attended the MSCPA’s New England Practice Management Conference, which was held November on 18-20 at Mohegan Sun. With over 30 sponsoring companies and 10 national speakers, attendees demoed the newest software, heard about security updates and learned techniques to bring back to their firms and their clients. The 2016 conference will be held on November 16-18, 2016 at Mohegan Sun – register now online! For more information, contact Julia Ekelund.

Speed Mentoring (1/13)

Are you looking for advice, need help setting goals, unsure of your next step or want to broaden your network? Then, this event is for you! Speed mentoring focuses on time-efficient networking and access to experienced professionals for real-time advice and guidance. All levels are welcomed and encouraged to attend.

Video: State of the Profession Featuring AICPA Chairman Tim Christen

AICPA Chairman Tim Christen visited MSCPA members in November to present at our Town Hall event. He shared his insights and discussed how CPAs can evolve to be positioned for future success. His presentation is now available online.

Hire an Intern for Tax Season

Help yourself and, at the same time, provide a valuable work experience that will allow a student to develop skills and abilities that are difficult to learn in a classroom setting. Make significant cuts in weekend or evening hours for your staff during busy season - hire an intern!

Volunteer Opportunities

- Charles River Public Internet Center – VITA Tax Preparer
- Muslim Justice League – Volunteer CPA to review 990-EZ

Happy employees are 12% more productive. Here's how to get them.  

7 Tips for Ignoring Office Distractions and Getting Down to Business

Tony Schwartz, CEO of consulting firm The Energy Project, struck a chord with the public when he recently wrote an op-ed for The New York Times about being addicted to distraction.

5 Graceful Ways to Cut Short a Conversation

A holiday party experience can quickly go downhill when you get stuck listening to a rambler. Maximize your networking time by crafting an exit plan to escape the ramblers.

How to Soothe a Client Who Blames You

Jack Surgent's Tax Camp: Last Chance to Register! (12/8, 9 and 10)

Both businesses and individual clients will be affected by all of the tax changes that require the advisor to engage in extensive tax planning. Not only will you be updated on the most important tax issues that require your attention, but this course will also review the major trends and changes in the case and regulatory law. Included is full coverage of all tax changes with a view toward planning.

Choose one of the three sessions offered!

Regulated Investments InfoShare (12/11)

Join your colleagues and industry experts for a panel discussion on mutual fund and SEC matters, including the SEC Fund Reporting Modernization proposal, AICPA investment companies’ update and SEC accounting and disclosure items. Listen in on cybersecurity expert Shawn Smolsky as he discusses how to keep you and your clients safe.

Treasurer Deb Goldberg announced findings by her appointed Task Force on Financial Literacy. The report focused on three key demographic groups: K-12 students, college students and adults. The MSCPA is partnering with the Treasurer’s office and the Task Force to enhance our collective offerings. If you are interested in participating, please contact Kara Kieran.

A potential 2018 ballot initiative to apply a new 4 percent tax on all income above $1 million could net upwards of $2.2 billion, according to the DOR. The agency estimates the tax will be applied to roughly 19,500 filers if approved.

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