Partners & Principals

Louis C. Grassi, CPA, CFE, Managing Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2450

E-mail: lgrassi@grassicpas.com

Louis C. Grassi is the managing partner and driving force behind the firm's growth. He began his career in 1977 and has extensive experience in tax, accounting and consulting. Lou's counsel has proven instrumental to the success of many companies in the construction, not-for-profit, manufacturing, professional service, and transportation industries.  

A nationally recognized expert, Lou is frequently called upon as a lecturer and business advisor for companies and industry trade organizations. He has authored numerous local and national articles, also serving as a contributing editor to the Corporate Controller's Manual, which serves as the benchmark resource for corporate controllers. In addition, Lou was the editor of the Journal of Construction Accounting & Taxation. Lou is also an adjunct professor at Columbia University teaching a graduate level course in finance and accounting for construction contractors.

Lou takes a proactive role with clients, performing such value-added services as profit-enhancement studies, operational reviews, performance benchmarking, incentive compensation programs, estate and succession planning, corporate restructuring, and corporate retreat facilitation.

Lou has received numerous professional awards and accolades. He has served as an executive board officer for the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and he is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Lou also serves on numerous committees and task forces within the industries that the firm serves. A member of the Young Presidents Organization, he appears in both the national and international Who's Who Directory of Finance, and he was a member of the editorial advisory board of CPA Managing Partner Report, The CPA Journal, and other industry publications.   Lou currently serves on the board of Moore Stephens North America, part of an international association of more than 360 independent accounting and consulting firms.

Actively involved in his community, Lou holds board positions with several civic and philanthropic organizations.   He is a member of the Nassau County Audit Advisory Committee, as well as a former member of the Nassau County Comptroller's transition team and past chairman of a multi-million dollar, not-for-profit human services agency. Additionally, Lou serves on the board of a bank, a REIT and an insurance company, and he is on the Board of Trustees of The New York Institute of Technology.

A graduate of Queens College, Lou holds a Business Administration degree in Accounting. He has completed postgraduate courses in taxation and earned the designation of Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) from the National Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.

Robert J. Brewer, CPA, CCIFP, Partner, Architecture & Engineering Niche Practice Leader

Phone: (516) 336-2420

E-mail: rbrewer@grassicpas.com

"One of the client successes we are most proud of centers around a client that hit two years of struggles after many years of success.  They were in the process of a turnaround and had a strong year behind them, but they needed to secure financing and bonding to complete their recovery.  However, with only one strong year of financial statements following their two-year struggle, the banks and bonding agents wouldn't touch them. We advised the client to put together an accelerated, interim financial statement to show more progress. With the interim financial statement and our relationships in the banking and surety industries, we were able to help them secure a sizable bank line, and they are in the process of lining up significant bonding potential. This specifically means a lot to me because we helped a client with great potential find the road back to success." 

Robert J. Brewer is a partner at Grassi & Co.  Rob began his career in 1987 and has experience in tax planning, accounting, estate planning, succession planning, and mergers and acquisitions. Rob's insight, wisdom and creativity allow him to provide expert business advice to a broad range of industries, including construction, not-for-profit, education, professional services, manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, printing and transportation.

Rob has written numerous articles on cash flow management, budgeting and workplace fraud. He recently developed and led a construction finance and accounting class at New York City College of Technology. He is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). In addition, he serves as treasurer of the New York City Chapter of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) and on the board of the Long Island Business Development Council. Rob still finds time to support his community by serving on the board for the Child Center of New York, a children's health and welfare organization.

Listed internationally in Who's Who of Professionals, Rob holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Hofstra University. Rob is a certified public accountant and is distinguished as one of the first in the country to earn the CCIFP (Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional) designation from the Institute of Certified Construction Financial Professionals (ICCFP).

Jed P. Dallek, CPA, MST, Tax Partner, Real Estate Niche Practice Leader 

Phone: (516) 336-2430

E-mail: jdallek@grassicpas.com

Jed P. Dallek is a tax partner at Grassi & Co.  More than two decades of tax experience in both the real estate and financial services industries provides clients a unique outlook on a full range of tax and related issues.  Jed's expertise allows him to provide such value-added services as operational reviews, like-kind exchanges, cost-segregation studies, and assistance with mergers and acquisitions. His efforts yield significant cost savings and efficiency improvements for clients.

A prolific author, Jed has written many articles about tax issues and how changes in tax legislation can affect a company's situation. He is the driving force behind numerous seminars and panel discussions on niche opportunities in the real estate market. Jed has frequently spoken at conventions and industry functions, and he has produced many successful seminars. He was a member of a national real estate steering committee overseeing all aspects of real estate development. Additionally, Jed was a founding member of the American Express Blue Box Council, created to identify business opportunities in the private and public sectors.

Jed is an active member of several professional organizations and committees, including the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), the Association for a Better Long Island (ABLI), the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), where he serves on the Partnership Committee. Jed earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Syracuse University and a master's degree in taxation from Pace University.

Ronald J. Eagar, CPA, CCIFP, Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2460

E-mail: reagar@grassicpas.com

"Upon receiving a referral from a longtime client of ours, we took on a new client who had a multitude of issues. Their business volume was down, their finances were in less than marginal shape, and they were being led down the wrong path by their previous accountants. Our team was able to restructure their financial statements, compiling them in an industry-acceptable format, and we helped them secure financing that worked with their line of business. These improvements and upward progress resolved their cash flow problems and allowed them to work on building their business. From a business that had approximately $300,000 in net worth, doing approximately $2.5 million in volume and struggling, this client has evolved into a company with a net worth of $5.5 million, doing more than $20 million a year in volume and growing." Ronald J. Eagar is a partner at Grassi & Co.  He offers more than two decades of experience in both public and private accounting.  Ron's expertise extends beyond the traditional areas of accounting and taxation; he serves as a comprehensive business consultant. He serves as a trusted advisor to companies in a broad range of industries, including construction, real estate, not-for-profit, transportation, import and export, and wholesale distributors.  Ron uses his extensive knowledge of internal controls and financial procedures to guide public and not-for-profit organizations through the stringent and rigorous process of Sarbanes-Oxley compliance. In addition, he has developed an innovative software program that has been instrumental in the firm's construction consulting practice.

Ron frequently lectures on accounting and taxation issues for industry trade organizations, and he has written many professional articles.  Ron is active in numerous accounting and industry trade associations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). He serves as an executive board member and past president of the Suffolk Chapter of NYSSCPA, and he is a member of the Construction Contractors Committee. In addition, he is treasurer of the Long Island Chapter of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), where he provides training and guidance to local CEOs and management personnel.

Ron also makes time to support his community by serving philanthropic organizations. He is the treasurer for the board of directors of Mercy Haven, a not-for-profit organization that provides housing to mentally challenged individuals in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. In addition to his CPA licensure, Ron holds distinction as one of the first in the country to earn the exclusive designation of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP). He has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Hofstra University.

William E. Fischer, CPA, Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2410

E-mail: bfischer@grassicpas.com

"One of our clients had a succession plan in place that was going to bankrupt the company. They struggled to find alternatives, so we tailored a comprehensive plan, including an S-Corp employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), along with deferred compensation arrangements. We also structured the plan to provide a comfort level to both their bank and surety. The client spent the same amount of money paying themselves their buyout and deferred compensation as they would have paid to the government (in taxes) and their employees (profit sharing) had they ignored the issue. The company now has the distinct advantage of operating in a tax-free environment, which is the equivalent of taking 40% of their overhead (taxes) and eliminating it."

William E. Fischer is a partner at Grassi & Co. Since starting his career in 1988, he has specialized in business and management consulting, in addition to auditing, accounting and tax planning. Bill works with companies in a broad range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, professional service, distribution, not-for-profit and real estate.  Bill also works with entities in both the private and public sector in high-level capacities, providing forensic accounting, litigation support and expert testimony.

Bill uses his comprehensive knowledge and innovative ideas to educate clients, sureties, banks and other professionals on a variety of subjects, and he written numerous articles on cash flow and budgeting, internal operating efficiencies, profit enhancement strategies and claims consulting.

Bill is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). To stay abreast of the issues facing our clients, Bill stays active in several industry organizations, including the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA), Queens & Bronx Building Association (QBBA) and the New York Building Congress, where he serves on the membership committee. 

A graduate of Pace University, Bill holds a business administration degree in accounting.

David Freda, CPA, CCIFP, Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2417

E-mail: dfreda@grassicpas.com

David Freda is a partner at Grassi & Co. where he specializes in working with construction contractors in all aspects of accounting including consulting, financial reporting and taxation.  In addition to focusing his efforts on construction contractors, David also works with clients in other industries such as manufacturing, real estate and transportation.

David has spent the bulk of his 12-year career with Grassi & Co. where he is considered an authority in his field.  He performs audits, reviews and compilations for clients, as well as special projects including construction cost certifications for private and governmental owners. In addition to his audit and accounting work, David counsels clients on tax matters and is fluent in all the latest tax treatments related to the construction industry. David also helps clients save money with creative tax planning strategies that take advantage of his extensive construction industry knowledge.

At Grassi & Co., David is a member of the firm's construction accounting committee and is very active in the technical development of the firm's staff through the firm's extensive in-house training program.

In addition to David's CPA licensure, he was one of the first 200 individuals in the country to earn the designation of CCIFP (Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional). He is an active member in numerous accounting and industry trade organizations including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), and the Construction Industry Council (CIC). 

In his spare time, David is an advisor to a 9/11 Memorial Foundation, which supplies donations to various charitable organizations and individuals. David earned his Bachelors Degree in Business from C.W. Post University.

Richard E. Gavin, CPA, CCIFP, Partner, Construction Niche Practice Leader 

Phone: (516) 336-2440

E-mail: rgavin@grassicpas.com 

"When formulating a succession plan for a client, we realized we had a lot of people to please. The older generation, the younger generation, and the outside credit grantors all had different needs and objectives. We created a structure that transferred the business to the younger generation without cash outlay, eliminated the personal guaranties of the older generations, and provided the credit security required by the corporate creditors-all in a way that never negatively affected the business. The operations were successfully transferred to the younger generation, and the family, who had felt pressures before we came in, was completely satisfied with the outcome."

Richard E. Gavin is a partner at Grassi & Co. and is the construction industry niche leader. He began his career more than 25 years ago and has extensive experience in operational reviews, business forecasting and projecting, business valuations, human resource advisory services, overhead analysis, internal control evaluations, and strategic tax planning.

Rick is a frequent lecturer on tax issues, financial statements, analytical reviews, fraud prevention, and internal control development. In addition to presenting to clients and contacts, Rick is an adjunct professor at Columbia University teaching a graduate level course in finance and accounting for construction contractors. Rick has numerous published articles on family business succession planning, best practices, and joint ventures. 

In order to keep current with changes and issues affecting our clients, Rick is active in numerous industry trade organizations such as the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), Long Island Contractors Association (LICA), and the Construction Industry Council (CIC).  Rick is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). He also serves as the chairman of the firm's construction accounting committee and is a member of the tax committee.

Always looking to support his community, Rick serves as the President of the Board of Directors of the Family Service League, a non-sectarian human services organization established in 1926 to address the issues of child welfare, unemployment and poverty. He also serves as the Board President for the Surety Association of New Jersey (SANJ).  Rick was one of the first individuals in the country to attain the designation of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP). He has a bachelor of business administration degree from Hofstra University.

Steven Goldstein, CPA, PFS, Partner

Phone: (212) 661-0945

E-mail: sgoldstein@grassicpas.com  

Steven Goldstein is a partner at Grassi & Co.  He focuses on tax, financial analysis, and financial planning, providing customized and comprehensive solutions to his clients.  His experience reaches across a variety of industries, including, construction, interior design, architecture and engineering, sports and entertainment, healthcare, not-for-profit, and legal services.  He began his career at Soloway, Goldstein, Silverstein & Co., P.C. in 1984 where he has spent his entire career, eventually becoming managing partner.  As of January 2010, Steven became a member of the Grassi partner group.

An active professional educator, Steven is a prolific author appearing in various trade and business publications.  In addition to his thought leadership in print, he has made appearances on local radio shows to discuss business and tax strategies.  By utilizing his varied expertise, Steven applies a unique methodology in serving his clients, empowering them to become more fiscally successful.  He maintains an extensive network of professional resources, allowing him to call on a diverse group of experts in order to best tailor each client solution.

Steven is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants (CSCPA).  In addition, Steven is active in his community, producing fundraisers to support local institutions, such as the Westport Fire Department.  Steven holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Maryland.  Steven also maintains Series 7, 66, and 63 licenses along with a Life and Health License.  He is also a board member of the T.S. Alliance, a healthcare-based not-for-profit which seeks to educate and inform the public about tuberous sclerosis complex.  He lives in Westport, Connecticut with his wife and two children.

Geri A. Gregor, CPA, Partner-in-Charge, Grassi Consulting

Phone: (516) 336-2496

E-mail: ggregor@grassicpas.com

Geri Gregor is the Partner-in-Charge of Grassi Consulting, the consulting practice of Grassi & Co., CPAs. In her role, Geri manages and directs the consulting team on projects in areas such as: business consulting, litigation support, forensic investigations and accounting, claims consulting, Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 compliance, mergers and acquisition due diligence, fraud detection, and internal audits. 

Prior to joining Grassi Consulting, Geri served as Chief Financial Officer for Great Performances/Artists as Waitresses Inc., an innovative culinary catering company.  Geri led this growing organization from a financial perspective and her broad experience in demanding accounting, measurement, and financial operations roles enhanced her ability to provide for Great Performances in both the financial and human resources directions. 

Preceding her tenure with Great Performances, Geri served as Chief Financial Officer for DOAR Litigation Consulting, one of the largest litigation consulting firms in the country.  During her time at DOAR, she focused on the development of DOAR's financial portfolio and internal accounting processes.  Under her stewardship, DOAR obtained private and public funding in excess of $65 million, enabling the Firm to double its workforce to more than 200 employees and to open satellite offices in New York City and Washington, D.C.

Extremely active in the business networking and philanthropic arena, Geri has been involved in organizations including the American Cancer Society and the Long Island Fund for Women and Girls. Currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Education & Assistance Corporation and The Sylvia Center, she served on the boards of the Long Island Business Development Council and the Girl Scouts of Nassau County ("GSNC"). She has served as Chairperson of the Fund Development Committee for GSNC and as a Junior Troop Leader in her community. She was named one of Long Island's Rising Stars under the age of 40 by the Long Island Business News in 2003 and was more recently named one of Long Island's Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business by Long Island Business News. Geri is a graduate of Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

Robert E. Grote, CPA, Partner, Manufacturing & Distribution Niche Practice Leader

Phone: (516) 336-2468

E-mail:  rgrote@grassicpas.com

"A client had no viable strategy for an exit plan, and their succession plan would have forced them to go bankrupt. We helped the client create a comprehensive plan, including an S-Corp employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), along with deferred compensation arrangements. This plan pleased both the client and their credit grantors. We created an environment where 40% of their overhead (taxes) was eliminated and laid out a successful plan for the future of the company."

Robert E. Grote is a partner at Grassi & Co. He specializes in public accounting, tax planning and management consulting. He provides expert guidance to clients in internal control assessment, fraud prevention and investigation, cash flow and budget planning and projection, acquisition or lending due diligence, and employee benefit plan development. Since beginning his career in 1993, he has served clients in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, construction, real estate, professional service, and not-for-profit.

Rob has led many educational seminars and written articles on employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and corporate succession planning. Rob takes a proactive, yet patient and team-focused approach with clients as he develops strategies and applications to help them succeed. In addition to providing excellent advice and service to clients, Rob holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the Grassi & Co. staff as the architect of the firm's Mentor-Protégé Program. The program pairs staff members with designated mentors, who help them develop technical and interpersonal skills.

Rob is active in numerous industry trade organizations, such as the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), where he serves as President. In addition, he is a member of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).  Always looking to give back to the community, Rob serves on the Board of the Nassau County Chapter of the American Red Cross and is Chairman of the organization's audit committee. Rob was named to the Long Island Business News 40 Under 40 Class of 2008, recognizing his success and accomplishments. Rob holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from St. John's University, where he graduated magna cum laude.

Stephen T. McClelland, CPA, Audit Partner, Institutional Healthcare Niche Practice Leader

Phone: (516) 918-5971

E-mail: smcclelland@grassicpas.com

Stephen T. McClelland, CPA is an audit partner at Grassi & Co and is the institutional healthcare niche practice leader. Focusing on the healthcare industry, he has deep experience serving a variety of healthcare entities including integrated health systems, academic medical centers, hospitals, long term care facilities, community health centers, home health and hospice companies, and managed care organizations. Steve has been a key player at large accounting firms such as Ernst & Young and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Steve's level-headed and flexible approach allows him to build strong relationships with clients, earning their trust as an advisor.  His experience and capabilities enable him to competently handle even the largest and most complex projects.  Steve is a strong believer in the mentoring process, having had many people in his life that fit that description, and having mentored many people throughout his career.  He is very active in professional training and plans to continue down that path.

A father of five, Steve is an active sportsman, playing baseball and basketball in his off hours.  He is also active in a variety of industry organizations, such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). Steve received his BBA in Accounting in 1993 from Dowling College.

Nick Magone, CPA, CFP, Partner

Nick often presents to professional organizations and has served as a speaker for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Business Solutions Workshop.  His workshop, "Delivering on your Trusted Advisor Status," has been presented to the Rhode Island Society of CPA's, Minnesota Society of CPA's and the New Jersey Society of CPA's.  His expertise in practice and client management issues provides practitioners with concrete examples of how he has handled a variety of practice management challenges.  In addition, Nick has testified in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and has been called upon as an expert witness for damage claims and fraud.

Nick has also appeared on the AICPA's National webcast, "Back2basics: Strategies for Today's Liability Challenges," where he shared practice management and liability strategies for accounting and bookkeeping services.  An avid author, Nick authored a Case Study on Key Considerations in Paperless Processes that was published in the AICPA's InfoTech Update.  Nick is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and Financial Planning Association.  Involved with committees at the NJSCPA, Nick has served as the Government Accounting and Auditing Committee's non-profit sub-committee chair.

Nick is a Certified Public Accountant in New Jersey and New York, a Certified Financial Planner, and has both Series 63 and Series 7 securities licenses.  He is a graduate of Seton Hall University.

When not working on innovative client solutions, Nick enjoys golf, speaking Italian and cheering on the Seton Hall Pirates basketball team with his family.  He is currently serving on Seton Hall University's Presidential Advisory Committee.

Stephen J. Mannhaupt, CPA, Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2479

E-mail: smannhaupt@grassicpas.com

"Communication is important when running a business. One client we helped was not receiving the necessary information from the field. Their work wasn't being scheduled properly, and the company was not reviewing their cash flow or profitability on a consistent basis. After performing an operational review, we recommended that the company properly reconcile their accounting information and improve their reporting. Our team helped the client review their method of collections and implemented new procedures to reduce collection time. We assisted them in implementing incentive compensation programs, which led to increased profitability. We were able to help them consolidate staff duties and reduce their payroll costs. The savings we helped our client realize was quite substantial, and they appreciated that their accountants were able to look beyond the numbers and offer them effective management advice." 

Stephen J. Mannhaupt, CPA, is a partner at Grassi & Co. He specializes in public accounting, forensic accounting, auditing, and management consulting for clients in the architecture and engineering, professional service, not-for-profit, healthcare, construction, and real estate industries. Since beginning his career in 1990, Steve has provided expert guidance to clients in specialized areas such as internal control assessment, fraud prevention and investigation, FAR auditing and corporate operational efficiency, in addition to traditional accounting, tax, and audit support.

Steve has been a part of the Grassi team for more than 15 years. An expert in his field, he has written articles on a variety of accounting topics and has conducted educational seminars for clients, accounting societies, and other professionals in banking, surety and law. Additionally, Steve has worked on consulting engagements involving fraud detection, operational reviews, internal control analysis, and the quantification of lost profits.

To keep abreast of the issues facing our clients, Steve stays active in industry trade associations, including the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA), and the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). He is a member of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA), where he is the Chairman of the construction committee, and he is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Steve is a graduate of Queens College and has had extensive Continuing Professional Education (CPE) in auditing, accounting and taxation.

Eric S. Martinez, JD, CPA, Audit Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2429

E-mail: emartinez@grassicpas.com 

Eric S. Martinez, JD, CPA is an Audit Partner at Grassi & Co. where he specializes in all aspects of accounting, including consulting and financial reporting.  He has more than 20 years of public accounting and consulting experience serving clients in industries such as aerospace and defense contracting,  manufacturing, wholesaling, distribution, not-for-profits, municipalities, technology and biotechnology. His international experience includes engagements involving Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and France.

Eric consults on and manages all aspects of internal audit and Sarbanes-Oxley engagements including overall project management, risk assessments, process documentation and evaluation, key control testing, evaluation of deficiencies and control remediation. Eric regularly reports to clients' management and audit committees and works directly with external auditors.

Before joining Grassi, Eric was a Partner/Managing Director within the Risk Management practice at McGladrey & Pullen/RSM McGladrey.

In addition to Eric's CPA licensure, he is a licensed attorney in New York State. He is an active member in numerous accounting and professional organizations including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).  Eric holds a B.B.A. in public accounting from Hofstra University and a JD from the Hofstra University School of Law.

Carmine V. Minieri, CPA/PFS, Partner

Phone: (212) 661-0945

E-mail: cminieri@grassicpas.com

Carmine Minieri is a partner at Grassi & Co.  In addition to his tax and audit work, Carmine handles clients spanning a large variety of industries, most notably labor organizations and multi-employer benefit plans.  Drawing on his formidable 27 years of experience in public accounting, he performs these services for clients across a multitude of industries, including construction, manufacturing and distribution, and non-profit.  Carmine began his professional career at a Wall Street brokerage firm where he worked for three years before transferring into public accounting.

A knowledgeable advisor to his clients, Carmine has written several published articles, primarily regarding contemporary rule changes for individual income tax returns.  He also provides training, mentorship, and support to junior Grassi staff members. By lending his knowledge to the next generation of accountants, he helps the firm provide the best experience for our clients.  He employs a "total-package" philosophy to his client service, working closely with them on all levels.

He is an active member of the Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center (EBPAQC), as well as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA).  Carmine is a graduate of Brooklyn College with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.  He is also an accredited Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) as designated by the AICPA.

Robert J. Murray, CFE, Principal, Grassi & Co., CPAs & President of GCM Systems LLC

Phone: (516) 336-2444

E-mail: rmurray@grassicpas.com

"Certain clients have unique system requirements. A client with a distribution company had a system that dictated all payroll transactions needed to be converted into billing items on their customer invoices. Additionally, these billing items needed to be sorted and sub-totaled on each invoice by truck number and route number. For twenty years, this client had been entering the same information twice, once into their payroll system and once into their billing system. We designed and implemented a custom system that included a conversion program, converting the payroll transactions into billing items without any re-entry of the data. Our solution resulted in significant time savings. The client reduced their billing staff by  three people within nine months of implementation. Additionally, the payroll is processed quicker, and the billing process is completed in a more timely fashion. Their improvement in processing time has improved cash flow significantly. Our client had searched for a cure for a number of years; we were able to provide them with a successful solution to their rather unique issue."

Robert J. Murray is a principal at Grassi & Co. He leads the firm's technology division and specializes in computer information systems. He provides turnkey solutions for all aspects of system selection and operational support. He offers a full range of services-from needs assessments and equipment recommendations to system installations, staff training and ongoing technical support. In addition to his expertise in technology, Rob also possesses extensive experience in operational reviews, forensic investigations and disaster recovery-special skills that save our clients countless dollars and headaches.

Rob began his career at Grassi & Co. in 1980 and has worked with companies in a broad range of industries, including roofing, electrical, plumbing, hazardous waste removal, painting, masonry, not-for-profit and real estate.

Frequently quoted in the media, Rob has written numerous articles on accounting systems, operational reviews and systems security. He also frequently lectures as an authority in his field. Rob holds a bachelor's degree with concentrations in public accounting and business computer information systems from Hofstra University. In addition, he has completed the stringent criteria established by the National Association of Certified Fraud Examiners to earn the meritorious Certified Fraud Examiner designation.

Vincent Paolucci, CPA, MST, Tax Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2475

E-mail: vpaolucci@grassicpas.com

Vincent Paolucci is a tax partner at Grassi & Co. Vince has been practicing for more than 25 years and has extensive experience in complex federal, state and local income tax issues, as well as in general corporate tax compliance and structure. His broad knowledge base allows him to navigate issues in multiple industries, including healthcare, retail, wholesale, real estate and manufacturing.

Vince treats each client's business as if it were his own. His in-depth industry knowledge and his ability to analyze clients' finances using an integrated approach allow him to maximize tax savings. He also helps high-net-worth individuals with retirement planning and succession planning.

Vince has authored numerous articles on tax planning and lectured on various topics before professional audiences and industry trade groups. He is active in accounting and industry trade organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA).

Vince holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from St. John's University. In addition to his CPA licensure, Vince has a master's degree in taxation from C.W. Post.

John V. Pellitteri, CPA, Partner, Healthcare Niche Practice Leader

Phone: (516) 336-2470

E-mail: jpellitteri@grassicpas.com 

John V. Pellitteri is a partner at Grassi & Co. and runs the firm's healthcare services and small business divisions. He brings almost two decades of experience in accounting, auditing, tax planning and business consulting. His comprehensive accounting and taxation knowledge, combined with his healthcare consulting experience, allows him to develop an all-inclusive assessment of practices and medical facilities. He also uses time-tested strategies to enhance clients' businesses in other industries, including not-for-profit, architectural, real estate and professional service firms.

Because of his extensive healthcare experience, John frequently lectures at industry forums, such as local medical societies, office management societies and hospital councils. He has written numerous articles on fraud prevention, human resource issues, compliance and operations.

John is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), where he served on the Federal Taxation Committee and the New York State & Local Taxation Committee.  In addition, he serves as chairman of the Medical and Professionals Committee. John is also active in philanthropic organizations and serves on the board of the Long Island Entrepreneurs Group, Inc. (LIEG) and the Health and Business Alliance (HBA), where he holds the position of treasurer. He is also a board member of the Medical Resource Group. John is a member of the "40 Under 40" alumni group of professionals on Long Island. John is a graduate of Hofstra University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in accounting.

David M. Rottkamp, CPA, Partner, Not-For-Profit Niche Practice Leader 

Phone: (516) 918-5942

E-mail: drottkamp@grassicpas.com  

David M. Rottkamp, CPA, is a Partner at Grassi & Co., CPAs.  David has more than 20 years of experience providing audit and advisory services to the not-for-profit industry and is the leader of Grassi & Co.'s not-for-profit niche practice.  David focuses on not-for-profit organizations serving individuals with special needs, educational institutions, social service providers, healthcare providers, foundations, and the arts and culture world. David's technical knowledge allows him to provide specific services, including OMB A-133 compliance audits and retirement plan audits. 

Since beginning his career, David has advised some of the area's most successful not-for-profit organizations in areas such as: financial reporting systems, implementation of the new IRS Form 990 guidelines, internal control reviews, developing financial forecasts, and providing quality board education and governance advice. Through his focus on education and board awareness he has improved the internal structure for many of his clients, demonstrating his industry leadership.

An authority in the industry, David has presented on a variety of topics and has conducted educational seminars for clients, accounting industry groups, and not-for-profit member organizations.  He has presented to the Financial Managers Association (FMA); National Association of Independent Schools (NIAS); Interagency Council of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Agencies, Inc. (IAC); the New York State Society of CPAs Foundation for Accounting Education (FAE); and, the New York Council of Nonprofits (NYCON) Camp Finance.

To give back to the industry in which he serves, David serves on the board of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Long Island Chapter as vice chairman and currently serves as chair of their audit committee.  He also sits on several other committees, including executive and finance.  Beyond his local work, David is a member of the national audit committee of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-having a unique and even broader impact on the organization's well-being.

David is a member of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA), where he serves on the Not-for-Profit committee and several of its subcommittees.  In addition, David has co-chaired the statewide Not-for-Profit Conference for the NYSSCPA over the past two years and is planning to continue his involvement in the future.  He is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). David is a graduate from Pace University, with a BBA in Accounting.

David A. Shuster, JD, LLM, Tax Principal & Director of Tax Controversy Services 

Phone: (516) 336-2436

E-mail: dshuster@grassicpas.com  

David A. Shuster, JD, LLM is a Tax Principal at Grassi & Co. and the Director of Tax Controversy Services.  He specializes in advising and representing clients in their controversies with the IRS and state taxing authorities.  David's expertise gives him the ability to provide advisory services to corporations, partnerships, private foundations, public charities, and individuals in federal and state tax planning and compliance.  David began his career at the United States Department of Justice where he was appellate counsel to the government in a wide variety of tax cases.

David is active in the professional education circuit, serving as a lecturer for Telestrat Education, a continuing legal education provider.  In working with his clients, David has ample experience in finding the fastest, most cost-effective solutions to client matters or issues.  His experience working for the United States Government allows him to identify when taxing authorities have reasonable arguments and what to do about it.  This wealth of practice allows David to approach client issues from the most knowledgeable position possible.

David received his JD and LLM in Taxation from New York University School of Law and his Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Michigan.

Alan Silverstein, CPA, Partner

Phone: (212) 661-0945

E-mail: asilverstein@grassicpas.com  

Alan Silverstein is a partner at Grassi & Co.  Drawing on his 38 years of audit and taxation experience, Alan specializes in providing comprehensive tax solutions to his clients, who run the gamut of industry, most prominently in the construction and not-for-profit industries.  Since beginning his career in 1971, Alan has cultivated a formidable base of knowledge and experience, allowing him to provide top-notch client service.

Alan employs a proactive, comprehensive kind of client service that has earned and retained him a tremendous variety of clients for nearly four decades.  He believes in managing clients from proposal to service delivery and upkeep, in order to provide customized, efficient, and effective service.  He extends this same care to junior members at the firm, mentoring and assisting them with their career paths.

Alan is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA).  He graduated from Baruch College of the City University of New York in 1971 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.

Barry L. Sunshine, CPA, Tax Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2408

E-mail: bsunshine@grassicpas.com

Barry L. Sunshine is a tax partner at Grassi & Co.  He has more than 25 years of tax experience in the Real Estate, Architecture & Engineering, Manufacturing & Distribution, Professional Services, and Financial Services industries, which provides his clients a unique outlook on a full range of tax and related issues.  Barry's expertise gives him the ability to provide value-added services such as succession planning, ownership transfers, and trust & estate planning. He works with closely-held businesses to increase cash flow and maximize tax savings. Barry also helps high net worth individuals preserve, grow, and transfer their wealth to the next generation.

A prolific presenter, Barry has led many seminars about tax issues. He has spoken on a variety of topics, including Family Limited Partnerships (FLPs), Advanced LLC and Partnership taxation, and Advanced Flow Through Entities (Partnerships & S-Corps). Barry also served as a Chief Financial Officer of a publicly traded REIT listed on the NY Stock Exchange, providing him a unique "insider's" perspective about the financial operations and challenges of running a company. This experience, along with his public experience, has helped him to identify areas for concentration when managing the financial operations of a closely held business.

Barry is an active member of several professional organizations and committees, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants (CSCPA). He has served on a number of committees within the NYSSCPA and has also been involved with CPE seminars and training.  Barry earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Master of Science in Taxation from Pace University.

David S. Warshauer, CPA, CCIFP, Partner

Phone: (516) 336-2407

E-mail: dwarshauer@grassicpas.com

David S. Warshauer is a partner at Grassi & Co. where he specializes in all aspects of accounting, including consulting and financial reporting.  In addition to his focus on the construction industry, David works with clients in a variety of other industries such as manufacturing & distribution, real estate, and professional services.

David has spent the bulk of his career with Grassi & Co. He performs audits, reviews and compilations for clients, as well as special projects including construction cost audits. He also helps clients save money with creative tax planning strategies, enhanced by his extensive construction industry knowledge.

At Grassi & Co., David is a member of the firm's construction accounting committee and is active in the technical development of the staff through the firm's extensive in-house training program.

In addition to David's CPA licensure, he has earned the designation of CCIFP (Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional). He is an active member in numerous accounting and industry trade organizations including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA) - where he serves on the advisory council, the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), and the Construction Industry Council (CIC).  David earned his bachelor's degree from SUNY Buffalo.