I know everyone is busy right now with the flurry of activity that comes with the holiday season – shopping, wrapping, decorating, baking, etc…, so I will keep my message this month short.  I want to thank everyone who attended the November meeting and picked up a Christmas angel, and also those of you who donated towards the bikes that were requested by some of children.  I think we all have a fond memory of giving or receiving a bike as a present.  Some of the Dad’s (and maybe Mom’s) also may have some not so fond memories of putting those bikes together.  That’s why I would like to give a special thanks to John Schutter who volunteered to put the three bikes together that Kim Prendergast went and purchased for the Christmas angel requests.  John’s probably an expert now, so if anyone needs help with a bike……..

Speaking of fond memories, please read on for some of our member’s favorite holiday traditions.  My family’s tradition is to have the big celebration on Christmas Eve, which always consists of a big dinner, (either prime rib or duck), lots of champagne, lots of presents, and then we all watch the movie Christmas Vacation together - and always laugh, it never gets old! 

Our holiday social is on Wednesday, December 16.  We will have a special meal from our caterer, Lisa, door prizes, music and more.  Following the social we will be hosting an audio conference entitled, “Latest Trends in Occupational Fraud”. Government financial managers and auditors at all levels will gain a better understanding of the challenges facing our organizations regarding the impact of fraud and corruption.  Billy Morehead, Ph.D., CGFM, CPA, is the current AGA National President, and also the Chair of Accountancy, CIS and Finance at Delta State University and he will be sharing his practical experience in auditing and academic research on internal controls and fraud.  I hope you can join us.

Also as quick reminder, the deadline to submit applications for the $500 Education Scholarship is December 31, 2009.  Candidates will need to complete an application and submit a copy of his/her transcript along with a brief essay answering the question:  Why do you think it is important for accountants and financial managers to consider public service as a career?  I encourage anyone who knows a student who is at least a sophomore at a community college or university, and enrolled in an Accounting or a Finance curriculum, to apply.  The Phoenix Chapter will be awarding three $500 scholarships.

I hope to see you at our December meeting!

Have a safe and happy holiday,

~ Lynne Davis, CPA