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Newton Tax Firm Outlines Sales Tax Holiday Rules for August 16th & 17th

August 7, 2014 // by admin

Rodman & Rodman, P.C., an independent accounting and tax firm based in Newton, MA, outlines the rules that will be in effect for Massachusetts’ Sales Tax Holiday Weekend on August 16-17, 2014.

“The Commonwealth of Massachusetts will not be collecting the 6.25 percent sales tax on non-business purchases of $2,500 or less made by individuals” explains Thomas Astore, CPA, JD, and Partner at Rodman & Rodman, P.C. “Business purchases and purchases made by corporations remain taxable. Massachusetts businesses open during this weekend and selling taxable items of tangible personal property are required to participate in this sales tax holiday.”

Rodman & Rodman outlines items that are eligible as well as those that are excluded from the Sales Tax Holiday:

Business purchases are excluded, which also means any purchase made with a business check or business credit card.

All services are excluded. Only tangible purchases are eligible. Airline tickets and sporting events are considered services.

Motor vehicles (which include ATVs and small motorcycles), motorized boats, telecommunications services (including prepaid calling arrangements and cards), gas, steam, electricity, tobacco products and meals are excluded from the sales tax holiday. But, telecommunications equipment (cell phones and related items for personal use) is eligible.

Any single item with a price that is in excess of $2,500 is excluded. If the single item’s price exceeds $2,500, it will be taxed in full. For example a $3,000 plasma TV will be taxed on the entire $3,000 sale price.

When more than one item is purchased at the same time, and each item has a price of $2,500 or less, then all of the items may be rung up on one receipt and all the items are tax-free.

There is no sales tax on clothing unless the sale price exceeds $175. For an article of clothing exceeding this amount, the $175 will be deducted from the price and the remaining amount will be taxed.

If a store coupon or discount provided by a retailer or manufacturer reduces the sales price of the item, the discounted sales price determines whether the sales price is within the sales tax holiday price threshold of $2,500 or less.

Prior sales and lay-a-ways do not qualify for the tax-free status under any circumstances.

Special order items such as furniture are eligible so long as they are ordered and paid in full on the sales tax holiday weekend, and the cost of each item is $2,500 or less, even if delivery is made at a later date.

Internet purchases are exempt from sales tax as long as they do not exceed $2,500 (and meet other criteria) and are made and paid for on August 11 or 12, Eastern Standard Time.

For specific tax questions contact Rodman & Rodman, P.C. at (617) 965-5959.

About Rodman & Rodman P.C.

Founded in 1961 and listed in the Boston Business Journal’s “Top 50 Firms,” Rodman & Rodman, P.C. provides accounting, tax and business services to small and medium-sized companies. The Rodman & Rodman “Green Team” is a specialized green energy and clean technology accounting and tax services practice within Rodman & Rodman, P.C. that serves “green” clients throughout the U.S. The company is Green Business Certified. For more information, email info@rodmancpa.com, visit their website at www.rodmancpa.com or contact (617) 965-5959.

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How to pay off debt the smart way

August 5, 2014 // by admin

MILLBURY, MA…

Between mortgages, car loans, credit cards, and student loans, most people are in debt to one degree or another. While everybody would like to be debt-free, for most people it’s a matter of managing debt better since you are likely to have some type of debt most of your life—particularly if you own a home. Yet most people don’t know how to manage debt so they can actually reduce their debt to eventually be close to debt-free.

“You don’t need to shell out your hard-earned money because of exorbitant interest rates or always feel like you’re on the verge of bankruptcy,” said Paul Dion, a Millbury, MA-based CPA who works with individuals and small business on tax strategies. “It is possible to pay off your debt while at the same time saving money so you can pay that debt off even faster.”

Dion recommends first assessing the depth of your debt. Write it down using pencil and paper or use a spreadsheet like Microsoft Excel. You can also use a bookkeeping program such as Quicken. Include every instance you can think of where a company has given you something in advance of payment, including your mortgage, car payment(s), credit cards, tax liens, student loans, and payments on electronics or other household items through a store.

Record the day the debt began and when it will end (if possible), the interest rate you’re paying, and what your payments typically are. Next, add it all up–as painful as that might be. Try not to be discouraged! Remember, you’re going to break this down into manageable chunks while finding extra money to help pay it down.

“It’s really a matter of identifying and addressing the high-cost debts first. That usually means credit cards. You don’t need to cut those up, just don’t use them,” said Dion. “Then you want identify the card with the highest interest and pay off as much as you can every month. Pay minimums on the others. When that one’s paid off, work on the card with the next highest rate.”

Dion recommends doing whatever you can to retire debt. That includes taking on a second job and using that income only for higher payments on your financial obligations. Or substituting free family activities for high-cost ones and selling high-value items that you can live without (e.g. Do you really need the 800-channel cable option or that satellite dish on your roof? You’ll be surprised at what you don’t miss.

“As you save and make payments you are not only retiring your debt, but building a stellar credit rating. If you ever move or buy another car, you’ll want to get the lowest rate possible. A blemish-free payment record will help with that,” said Dion. “One thing you never want to do is miss a payment, especially when you are paying off credit cards. Credit card companies can be quick to raise interest rates because of one late payment. A completely missed one is even more serious.”

For more information and guidance on retiring debt, you can call Dion for a complimentary initial consultation at 508-853-3292.

ABOUT PAUL DION, CPA

Beyond simple “bean counting”, Paul Dion, CPA and associates work side by side and speak in common English to help clients fully understand their tax situation and take proactive steps to pay the least amount of tax legally allowed while minimizing the risk of an audit. Clients save money and sleep well as night.

Business services include small business accounting, payroll, cash flow management, strategic business planning, new business formation, internet controls, QuickBooks, part-time CFO, bank financing, succession planning and non-profit organization direction.

For a free book, more information or a complimentary consultation, please visit www.PaulDionCPA.com or contact Paul Dion CPA, via Info@PaulDionCPA.com or (508) 853-3292. Offices are conveniently located at 22 West Street, #6, (Felter’s Mill), Millbury, MA 01527.

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Sponsorship opportunities for 4th annual Run for Faith

August 5, 2014 // by admin

The Run for Faith takes place on August 24 at 8:30am at Plimouth Plantation.

PLYMOUTH, MA…

The Run for Faith recently announced the availability of sponsorship opportunities for new corporate sponsors for the fourth-year event, which will take place on Sunday, August 24 at 8:30am at historic Plimouth Plantation.

The Run for Faith offers several layers of sponsorship opportunities, which includes: Hummingbird Sponsorship ($2500); Song Sparrow Sponsorship ($1000); Red Robin Sponsorship ($500); and the Chickadee Sponsorship ($250). Each sponsorship contains different levels of exposure for businesses; the greater the sponsorship amount, the greater exposure for your company.

“Businesses in the community have really responded to the Run for Faith in our four years. Our family has been part of the Plymouth business community and many fellow business owners knew my mother and wanted to help,” said Matthew Romboldi, Run for Faith organizer and son of Faith Marcia “Marcy” Romboldi, in whose memory the race is held. Faith lost her battle to ovarian cancer in 2010.

Adds Romboldi, “More and more sponsors have come on board because the money we have raised has gone to several very worthy causes, including scholarships for Plymouth high school students and the Yawkey Center for Cancer Care and ovarian cancer research.”

In its brief history, the Run for Faith has donated more than $15,000 to the Dana Farber’s Yawkey Center for Cancer Care, $15,000 in scholarships to graduating Plymouth North and Plymouth South high school students, and $6,000 to the Plymouth Public Library. With the 4^th annual Run for Faith set for Sunday, August 24, organizers are counting on year four of this four-mile race to break previous fundraising efforts and new sponsors are a significant part of that endeavor.

Those interested in being a sponsor can contact Matt Romboldi at 508-400-0751 or email info@runforfaithplymouth.org.

The four-mile Run for Faith race loop captures spectacular views of Cape Cod Bay, the Eel River and scenic horse farms. The course features rolling hills and unmatched history. Water stations are plentiful and the event is professionally timed by Spitler Racing Systems. There is also a Stroller Division, so runners can run with their young children.

The Run for Faith is a gold member in the Bayside Runner Racing Series. The entry fee is $25 – which will once again go to scholarships for Plymouth high school students, the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, the Plymouth Public Library and other Plymouth charities and non-profits. Runners can register at www.runforfaithplymouth.org.

Prizes will go to top finishers, male and female, and awards will be given to top finishers for various age groups. Post-race “light refreshments” will include bananas, oranges, bagels, muffins and scones. To amuse younger family members, a jumpy house will be available. A number of vendors will be on hand to sell their wares before and after the race.

The Run for Faith is organized by Run for Faith, Inc., which is 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created to commemorate the special life of Faith “Marcy” Romboldi who gave so much of herself to both individuals and the community.

Faith, or “Marcy” as she was known by her friends and family, was a teacher, member of the Red Hat’s Society, Sweet Adeline’s, and Daughters of the American Revolution. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2008. Marcy’s ability to fight this vicious disease with incessant might and unsurpassed grace will never be forgotten and surely serves as inspiration to those who were close. Mostly, Marcy will be remembered for her acts of kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness. Many will remember her for her two best accessories- a lovely hat and a radiant smile!

For more information, please visit www.runforfaithplymouth.org, or email info@runforfaithplymouth.org. You can view the course online at: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/42074524.

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Allie or Enemy? New England Franchise Relationship Law panel discussion sponsored by New England Franchise Association (NEFA) on October 1.

August 1, 2014 // by admin

Allie or enemy? Franchisor/franchisee relations have always been a bit tenuous. A variety of new legislation is being proposed in several New England states to address this issue.

“Franchise Relationship Law” is the topic of the next New England Franchise Association (NEFA) event set for Wednesday, October 1, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. In addition to the panel discussion, the event will include an initial hour of open networking and dinner. The event is sponsored by the law firm of Wiggin and Dana LLP.

The panel discussion will be held at the Woburn Hilton, 2 Forbes Road, Woburn, MA.

Cost is $59 for members and $79 for non-members.

Panelists include Jim Coen, newly appointed Planet Fitness Executive Director as well as Executive Director of the Maine Franchise Owners Association; Rory Valas, Esq., Principal with the law firm of Valas & Associates, P.C., Boston, MA ; Timothy J. Bryant, Esq., a Partner with the law firm of Preti Flaherty, Portland, ME; and Gregg Rubenstein, Esq., a Partner with the law firm Nixon Peabody, Boston, MA. Suzanne Cummings, founder of Cummings Franchise Law, P.C. will moderate the panel.

ABOUT NEFA

New England Franchise Association (NEFA) is the trade organization for franchisors and franchisees in the region. The mission of NEFA is to bring franchise executives, franchisees and suppliers together to share ideas for success.

Franchising more than ever before, has an unprecedented opportunity to make a major positive impact on the future New England economy. In a 2001-05 study conducted by PriceWaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the International Franchise Association (IFA) found that in New England over 875,000 jobs are a result of franchising, the total output is over 100 billion dollars a year, and there are over 35,000 franchise establishments in the six New England states.

EVENT INFO

Space is limited. For more information and to reserve a seat for this event, please visit the New England Franchise Association via the organization’s website www.NEFranchise.org or email to info@NEFranchise.org.

Allie or Enemy? New England Franchise Relationship Law panel discussion sponsored by New England Franchise Association (NEFA) on October 1.Read More

SCI Underwriting Management announces Property, Auto, Crime and Cyber Liability products for Aging Service industry clients.

July 31, 2014 // by admin

Rob Jurgel, president of SCI Underwriting Management, LLC

SCITUATE, MA…

SCI Underwriting Management, LLC, a managing insurance agency with a focus on the aging service industry, recently announced the availability of four new products: Property (Ultimate Cover), Nursing Home Auto Coverage; Crime Coverage Form PI-ULT-009; and Nursing Home Cyber Security Liability Benefits. These four new products supplement SCI’s other offerings for the aging service industry market, which includes Personal and General Liability.

“During our brief history, we have developed a niche for offering insurance products to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, continuing care retirement communities and other care providers that serve the aging service industry. The focus of the facility continues to be on “tougher to place” aging service accounts. To better serve our current client base and attract prospects, we have added coverage where there is also a need at facilities of this nature,” said Rob Jurgel, president of SCI Underwriting Management, LLC.

The Ultimate Property Cover Program (UC) provides a very broad cause of loss coverage form for both real and personal property. This form was designed to cover property risks with above average protection and construction. The UC was designed with flexibility in mind; it can be extended to include simplified language Inland Marine and Crime coverage’s.

Nursing Home Auto Coverage covers owned auto including transportation of residents; non-owned/hired auto; hired car physical damage; and rental reimbursement for private  passenger vehicles. Garage keepers liability coverage is also available. Minimum liability limits are $1,000,000 and minimum physical damage deductibles are $500/$1,000.

Crime Coverage Form PI-ULT-009 provides automatic limits of $5,000 each for Money and Securities Inside the Premises, Money and Securities Outside the Premises, and Money Orders and Counterfeit Paper Currency. Any of these limits can be increased for additional premium. There is also a $25,000 limit for Kidnap and Ransom-Extortion. The form also provides options for adding coverage for Forgery or Alteration, Computer Fraud, or Employee Dishonesty for additional premium.

Nursing Home Cyber Security Liability includes a number of important coverages, including coverage for damages to third parties caused by a breach of network security; coverage for loss resulting from administrative or operational mistakes; breach of privacy coverage, which includes damages resulting from alleged violations of HIPAA, state, and federal privacy protection laws and regulations; and coverage for expenses resulting from a breach of consumer protection laws.

“To get these four coverages, many of these facilities have to approach four different companies. And if they have had more than their share of claims, they can be shut out or pay an extremely high premium,” said Jurgel. “SCI not only provides one-stop shopping for these coverages but with our team of risk professionals, we can pinpoint problem areas and help that facility minimize risk.”

SCI Underwriting’s risk management services include Professional Liability Risk Assessment, and a One-Day Focused Consulting Review. SCI’s other risk management offerings include and AssistLine hotline for subscribing clients to obtain answers to questions and resource information related to risk reduction; Online Learning and an Incident Reporting Event Management service.

For more information, please visit www.sciunderwriting.com or call 781-378-1050.

SCI Underwriting: More than Insurance, Solutions

Based in Scituate, Massachusetts, SCI Underwriting Management LLC is a Managing General Agency that focuses on accounts in the Aging Services Industry. Primarily backed by Lloyd’s of London, SCI offers a variety of insurance coverage for Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, Independent Living, Continuing Care Retirement Communities, as well as Home Health. Part of their services includes risk assessment and risk management to target potential liabilities and minimize risk.

For information, please visit www.sciunderwriting.com or call 781-378-1050.

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Lyman Orchards is Newest Grocery Partner of Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café

July 29, 2014 // by admin

Recognizing the high quality of Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café’s baked-fresh-daily bagels, Lyman Orchards has recently become a grocery partner and will offer Between Rounds signature bagels at their Apple Barrel Market.

Lyman Orchards’ Apple Barrel Market, located at 32 Reeds Gap Road in Middlefield, CT is renowned for their fruit orchards and delicious seasonal and traditional pies. The market will now offer a variety of Between Rounds bagels in their bakery line.

“Lyman Orchards is a Connecticut institution – recognized as the 12th oldest family-owned business in America. We’re honored that our bagels will hold a premiere position in the Apple Barrel Market,” said Jerry Puiia, co-owner of the Between Rounds franchise. Between Rounds is the brainchild of brothers Jerry and Joe Puiia, who are Staten Island, NY natives. Between Rounds current locations include South Windsor (corporate headquarters), Vernon, Manchester and Tolland.

Grocery Retailers Carrying Between Rounds Bagels

For more than 20 years, Highland Park Markets, which has stores in Suffield, Farmington, Manchester, Coventry and Glastonbury, has been carrying Between Rounds bagels as their privately labeled brand, but switched to the Between Rounds brand name two years ago. West Side Marketplace in Rocky Hill has been carrying the signature brand for four years. Geissler’s stores, which are located in Agawam, Bloomfield, East Windsor, Granby, Somers and South Windsor, have been carrying them for almost a year and the family-owned Gardiner’s Market in South Glastonbury has just started carrying Between Rounds products.

About Between Rounds

Founded in 1990, Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café is a unique bakery café and bagel shop renowned for their fresh, baked-on site bagels and baked goods as well sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, specialty coffee and a unique line of giftware. Between Rounds offers patrons an upscale, fast-casual dining experience with free Wi-Fi.

Between Rounds is expanding. Traditional full-store and kiosk franchise opportunities are available. In 2013, the company was selected as a Military Friendly Franchise®, which places Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café in an elite group and is testimony to the company’s commitment to supporting military veterans interested in franchise opportunities.

Between Rounds’ current locations include South Windsor, Vernon, Manchester and Tolland. Corporate headquarters are located at 19A John Fitch Blvd, Route 5 in South Windsor, CT. For more information about Between Rounds franchise opportunities contact (860) 291-0323 or visit www.betweenroundsbagels.com

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Florence resident Mark Goggins appointed to Nonotuck Resource Associates Advisory Board

July 29, 2014 // by admin

FLORENCE, MA…

Since 1972 Nonotuck Resource Associates has helped transform the lives of hundreds of people with intellectual and physical disabilities by offering the personalized service of shared living and Adult Family Care (AFC) services. Nonotuck’s Board of Directors has played a significant part in creating and maintaining the values that help guide the development of services for the ever increasing need for families for these non-traditional, value based programs. That Board recently added Florence resident Mark Goggins.

“The Nonotuck Board of Directors provides a clear voice to our organization that offers insights and leadership to its employees.” said George H. Fleischner, CEO of Nonotuck Resource Associates, Inc. “Mark will be an excellent addition to the Board. With his background as a loan advisor, he brings in-depth knowledge of the business world and finances to the table that will be a huge benefit to the Board.”

Currently, Goggins is a senior loan advisor at Mortgage Master, Inc. in West Springfield, Massachusetts. He previously worked as a loan originator for Applied Mortgage Services, Inc. in Northampton, Massachusetts. Goggins holds the following licenses: NMLS #19008, MA Lender License MC5019, and MA LIC #ML019008.

“I’ve known George for over 15 years and have long been an admirer of Nonotuck’s work,” said Goggins. “I’m delighted to be asked to serve on the Board and to help this company continue the important services we provide.”

Goggins is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and hold a bachelor’s degree in political science. Married, he resides in Florence with his wife Rebecca and their daughters McKenna and Brynn.

For complete information on Nonotuck Resource Associates, including office locations, you can visit www.nonotuck.com or call Nonotuck’s main office at 413-586-5266 x104.

Caregiving with Love – Nonotuck Resource Associates, Inc.

Founded in 1972 by a group of parents who had the courage and foresight to seek community care for their loved ones, Nonotuck has since helped transform the lives of hundreds of people with intellectual and physical disabilities by providing the personalized service of Shared Living and Adult Family Care. Each day Nonotuck addresses the ever increasing demand from families for these non-traditional, value based, in home services with love and care. If you are interested in finding out more about this unique service and our locations please visit www.nonotuck.com or call 413-586-5256 x 104.

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Rodman & Rodman P.C. Expands their Renewable Energy and Cleantech Specialty Practice

July 28, 2014 // by admin

Rodman & Rodman, P.C., an independent accounting and tax firm based in Newton, MA, has promoted and appointed several staff members to their Renewable Energy and Cleantech specialty practice, known as the “Green Team”, which serves clients throughout the U.S.

Elysha IMG_5237finLPcrop-214x300 — Elysha Sturm

Kathy-B-IMG_5905FinlpCropped-for-web — Katherine Bautze

Katherine Bautze has been promoted to Marketing Director for the Green Team and will develop and implement communications programs that manage the company’s Renewable Energy and Cleantech specialty brand. She will oversee all marketing efforts and external vendors. Previously, she held the position of Marketing Coordinator. Ms. Bautze has more than 20 years of administrative, bookkeeping and managerial experience. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, MA, and is a resident of Sudbury, MA.

Mark Vitello, a Certified Public Accountant, has been promoted to Supervisor at Rodman & Rodman and will provide specialized tax advisory services and business strategy to small and medium sized companies. He will serve as the marketing lead on Rodman’s Green Team responsible for building the firm’s brand and client base among companies and organizations involved in renewable energy, cleantech, and energy efficiency. Previously, he held the position of Senior Accountant for two years, and prior to that, Staff Accountant for almost four years. Mr. Vitello holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Information Systems as well as a Master of Accounting and Information Systems (MACIS) at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University’s Pamplin College of Business in Blacksburg, VA. He is a member of the Massachusetts Society of CPAs (MSCPA) and he resides in Wellesley, MA.

Elysha Sturm, Staff Accountant, has been appointed to the Green Team and will provide accounting and tax service to renewable energy and cleantech companies across the U.S. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Suffolk University and is in the process of pursuing a Master’s degree in Taxation from Suffolk University as well as CPA certification. Ms. Sturm often speaks to undergraduates about career planning and is leading volunteer community outreach initiatives among Rodman staff. She is a member of the Massachusetts Society of CPAs (MSCPA) and resides in Foxboro.

For three consecutive years, Rodman & Rodman has been named one of the “Best Accounting Firms to Work For” in Accounting Today.

About Rodman & Rodman P.C.

Founded in 1961 and listed in the Boston Business Journal’s “Top 50 Firms,” Rodman & Rodman, P.C. provides accounting, tax and business services to small and medium-sized companies. The Rodman & Rodman “Green Team” is a specialized green energy and clean technology accounting and tax services practice within Rodman & Rodman, P.C. that serves clients throughout the U.S. The company is Green Business Certified. For more information, email info@rodmancpa.com, visit their website at www.rodmancpa.com or contact (617) 965-5959.

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Volunteers needed for 4th annual Run for Faith on Sun., August 24

July 28, 2014 // by admin

PLYMOUTH, MA…

The fourth annual Run for Faith recently announced it is looking for volunteers to man registration tables, water stations and other day-of-race functions. The four-mile race will take place at 8:30 am on Sunday, August 24 from Plimouth Plantation.
“Volunteers have played an integral part of the Run for Faith. I will never forget those people who volunteered for the first run, which took place right before Hurricane Irene hit,” said Matt Romboldi, one of the founders of the race run in memory of his mother, Faith “Marcy” Romboldi, who lost her battle with cancer in 2010.

Adds Romboldi, “The volunteers for our run were at first people who knew my mother or other members of our family. Now, our volunteers corps has grown to include people who have run in the race, heard about the scholarships we have given, or want to be part of the effort to raise money for the Dana Farber.”

In its brief history, the Run for Faith has donated more than $10,000 to the Dana Farber’s Yawkey Center for Cancer Care and more than $5,000 in scholarships to graduating Plymouth North and Plymouth South high school students. With the 4th annual Run for Faith set for Sunday, August 24, organizers are counting on year four of this four-mile race to break previous fundraising efforts and volunteers are a significant part of that endeavor.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Matt Romboldi at 508-400-0751 or email info@runforfaithplymouth.org.

Interested sponsors can contact Matthew Romboldi at 508-400-0751. For more information, please visit www.runforfaithplymouth.org, or email info@runforfaithplymouth.org. You can view the course online at: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/42074524.

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