Karen L. Wiltsie 2003-2004 MACPA Chair of the Board

Happy New Year! As we start into 2004, MACPA takes member-communication efforts to a whole new level, utilizing the quick-delivery advantage of the Internet. With this issue, Leaders’ Edge is reshaped into an “electronic” format.

By using the Web, we can speed up delivery of Leaders Edge articles by at least three weeks! Going virtual will also help us with something that, as your Chair, I consider a real plus - we’ll have the ability to garner immediate member feedback on important and timely issues. Electronic communications provide you with another advantage: articles in the virtual Leaders’ Edge will display live links to related articles and resources. So, as you browse items of interest, links to valuable resources and further information will be at your fingertips.

Leaders’ Edge online is just one of the ways the MACPA is meeting our strategic objectives concerning member communication. We’ll continue our weekly E-News, which covers regulatory and other professional news. Special issues of E-News alert members immediately to “hot” issues.

For example, E-News has been vital in our efforts to keep you updated on the new tax return e-file requirement. Since the announcement of the state’s e-file mandate, E-News has drawn members to a special page on our web site featuring practical tips, how to’s, links to IRS resources, downloadable client communications pieces and more.

This ability to respond quickly with resources to help our members is a reflection of the commitment and determination of many involved members. A huge portion of the work of our Association is done at the task force level, where hundreds of you generously share your talents, expertise and energy for the benefit of all.

As an Association, we are continually challenged to look for new ways to serve you, to make your jobs easier and more fulfilling.

For many of us, this month marks the start of the traditional CPA “busy season.” I know many of you will be putting in extra hours in the next few months as you serve your clients or employers. As you do so, I ask each of you to contribute to our efforts to ensure a strong future for our profession. Live by our core professional values of competency, integrity and objectivity, and consistently act in a way that will serve the public interest and honor the public trust.