New Jersey bucks downturn, holds full-day.

• Author: Goldie, James
• Position: Chapter News

Despite challenging economic conditions, the New Jersey Chapter marched forward with its Full-Day Seminar on Friday, May 15th, at the Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph, New Jersey. It was the Chapter's third meeting of the year at its new facility, secured with the help of an active Board powered by past presidents. The Chapter is renowned for the heavy involvement of its ex-officers and its ability to attract new talent. In spite of the economic malaise gripping the Northeast, the Seminar was attended by over 125 tax executives, whose support made the meeting a success.

The primary sponsor of the seminar was KPMG LLP, who brought a covey of talented speakers to the meeting. Kicking off for KPMG was Thomas A. Stout, Jr., who led a plenary session focusing on legislative developments in Washington. He was followed by Scott Vance and Greg Bocchino from KPMG's national office, who co-presented on Planning for Section 199 Issues, and Mary Fung and Darren Mills, who teamed up to cover Mergers and Acquisitions--Tax Issues During Troubled Times. In the state area for KPMG, Fred James discussed the State Consequences of a Federal Audit, while Russell Levitt provided a New York State and City Update. From KPMG's international practice, Marc Skaletsky and Rahul Gomes gave a Hot Topics Update, and Rema Serafi and Luca Bonardi discussed the benefits of Economic Valuation Services.

Talented speakers from other outstanding organizations added to the mix. Peter Daub (Baker & McKenzie) gave a Cross Border M&A Update, and Brian Gleicher and Jennifer Acuna (White and Case) discussed difficulties that can arise in The Competent Authority Process. Kathy Burns (Ernst & Young) discussed state aspects of FIN 48 and FAS 5, drawing tough...