CPA Day and me.

• Author: Harper, Malachi
• Position: News&trends

A friend of mine, one who [former CalCPA chair] Steve Wimmers would describe as "seasoned with age," once told me that the accumulation of material possessions does not make one rich, but rather the accretion of experiences. That statement was proven true during my experiences at CPA Day at the Capitol Jan. 21.

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It began at the San Diego airport where I spent the hour before takeoff talking with graduate accounting students, local professionals and San Diego CalCPA representatives, which was a unique and career enhancing experience. After arriving at the Sacramento Convention Center, we attended a CPA Day at the Capitol briefing, which prepared us for our duties as "lobbyists" for the 150-hour requirement for California CPA licensure.

After this briefing, I again spoke with leading accounting professionals, lobbyists and elected officials, including Audra Strickland, Curt Hagman, Mark WyLand, Martin Garrick, AICPA Chair Ernie Almonte, Joel Anderson and others.

Once the "meet and greet" was over the day accelerated. First, there was an 11 a.m. meeting with Rep. Jeff Millers [R-Orange], where I listened and learned as Wimmers and Almonte explained the history of and current standing of the 150-hour rule and lobbied for the Assemblyman's support.

After lunch, it was back to the Capitol and a meeting with Sen. Christine Kehoe [D-San Diego] and Rep. Lori Saldana (D-San Diego). The wonderful experience of CPA...