It's hard to believe we are already stepping into the 5th month of 2024. To those of you who've been immersed in tax matters, I hope your tax season went smoothly without the need for additional extensions. For everyone else, here's hoping 2024 is kicking off on a positive and productive note, teeming with new opportunities. It seems like we might finally be in for a more typical year, something we haven't experienced in a while.

The Inland Empire Chapter has already seen many exciting events this year. It all started with CPA Day at the Capitol in January, offering CPAs a fantastic chance to connect with legislators in Sacramento. The event was truly electrifying, leaving attendees inspired by the connections made. January also saw our Emerging Leaders Workshop, hosted by Eide Bailey in Rancho Cucamonga, followed by an enjoyable outing to an Ontario Reign hockey game.

The past year, 2023-2024, was a thrilling one for the Inland Empire Chapter under Brad Welebir's great leadership. Numerous engaging events and opportunities for involvement occurred. Additionally, it marked a year of change with the introduction of CalCPA's new branding and logo. We also experienced a change in the CPA exam as NASBA launched the CPA Evolution.

As we move into the next year, we will continue to see more conversations around the pipeline and how to improve the CPA profession. Many leaders in the Inland Empire, “the mighty Inland Empire” as we are known, are actively involved in leadership at the state level and AICPA and can provide input on changes to the profession. Take advantage of these opportunities to help develop the future of CalCPA and accounting. Your input is valuable and will be forwarded to people who can make a difference.

Wilson Ivanova CPA, Inc. hosted a luncheon with Denise LeDuc Froemming, CEO of CalCPA, in April. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to have direct conversations with Denise about matters concerning both our chapter and CalCPA as a whole. Denise is deeply committed to both the profession and the people within it. If you haven't had the opportunity to meet her face-to-face, I highly encourage you to seize the next chance. Her wealth of knowledge and compassion make her an invaluable asset, and she's doing an exceptional job spearheading the transformation of CalCPA.

I'm thrilled to lead the chapter for the 2024-2025 year alongside an exceptional board. Our 2024-2025 Chapter Leadership includes officers: Corey Gomez, Vice President; Brandon Ferrell, Secretary; Dennis Lee, Treasurer; Brad Welebir, Immediate Past President. Directors: Garden Duran, Shar Emami, Hailey Gomillion, Danielle Howard, and John Schultz.

Looking ahead, we have exciting events lined up for the year, including the Community College to CPA event at San Bernardino Valley College, the Par-tee Topgolf Event Installation and Scholarships, ABC Mixer and the Annual Golf Tournament. 

I invite you to join us and engage with chapter leaders and fellow members. CalCPA represents more than just an association; it's the member’s club for California's CPAs. We're here to support you every step of the way.