Message From the President

Message From the President

Hanging In There

By Barry Doll, Manhattan/Bronx Chapter President

I really enjoyed watching the Olympics. Every time the USA won an event—even bronze—I was so proud of our athletes, and every time I heard our national anthem played, I got a little choked up inside with pride. Thank God all went well for the USA and the games!

When watching, one thing stood out in my mind: how the athletes continued to compete and “hang in there” and do the right thing, despite some mistakes and tough odds. Like Paul Hamm falling in his routine, yet winning gold, and Michael Phelps giving up his spot on the relay team so his teammate could get a medal—and the team still set a record. I know there are other examples, and not only by the U.S. athletes, of outstanding performances and teamwork.

It strikes me that we can learn from our athletes. Like them, we can hang in there and do the right thing when things get tough. And we can always do our best to bring home the gold for our clients and companies. Like the Olympians, we are trained professionals competing in a global business world. And when things look bleak and are difficult, let’s remember the Olympians and do the right thing. It’s our responsibility. It’s our job.

In previous columns I have discussed the benefits of joining one of the committees our chapter offers. In this column I want to highlight two committees in particular: the Professional Education CPE and the New to Industry committees.

The Professional Education CPE Committee strives to identify topics that qualify for CPE but are not currently offered by the Foundation for Accounting Education. Such topics can be suggested by members of the board, committee members or an outside sponsor. In identifying these topics, the committee aims to choose those that will be most beneficial and useful to your careers.

Seminars planned for this year, which usually grant up to three credits, include Exchange of 1031 Property, Estate and Gift Planning, Ethics, Year-End Tax Planning and Check 21 Regulations (see our event listings online for more information).

Chapter members who are interested in organizing and planning CPE programs for their fellow colleagues are welcome to join. Please contact Judy Seidman at jseidman@friedmanllp.com.

The New to Industry Committee offers members the opportunity to gain practical experience by providing venues to network with other financial professionals with similar backgrounds.

Members participate in seminars that are critical to enhancing the technical skills of accounting professionals who have recently entered the private sector. The committee considers internal controls and corporate governance issues post–Sarbanes-Oxley; tax seminars reflecting the heightened “tax shelter” concerns expressed by the IRS and many state and local governments; as well as developing and enhancing managerial skills.

If you are in industry and want to participate on this committee, please contact Anthony Cetta at anthonyjcetta@aol.com.
Let me hear from you with any comments or thoughts.

Barry Doll can be reached at hidolly97@aol.com.