Our Partner & Principal team strives to help our clients succeed, and our success hinges on our clients’ success. To see what sets us apart, we invite you to learn a little more about each of us. PARTNERS & PRINCIPALS
Louis C. Grassi, CPA, CFE Managing Partner 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, real estate, architecture & engineering, manufacturing, and professional service industries. Lou takes a proactive role with clients, performing such value-added services as profit-enhancement studies, operational reviews, performance benchmarking, forensic accounting, cost analysis, incentive compensation programs, estate and succession planning, corporate restructuring, and corporate retreat facilitation. Under Lou’s guidance, Grassi & Co. has been ranked among the Top 25 “Best of the Best Firms” by INSIDE Public Accounting for six consecutive years, and ranked as the 9th largest firm on Long Island by Long Island Business News. 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 and 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 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 large not-for-profit human services agency. Additionally, Lou serves on the Board of Flushing Financial Corp, BRT Realty, and a mutual 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. James A. Anziano, CPA Audit Partner janziano@grassicpas.com James A. Anziano is an Audit Partner with Pustorino, Puglisi & Co., LLC – A Division of Grassi & Co. Jim joined the firm in 1977, upon graduation from college. His experience and expertise includes investment partnerships and hedge funds, as well as investment advisors.
Jim is currently a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Jim has a bachelor’s degree from Pace University. Robert J. Brewer, CPA, CCIFP Partner, Architecture & Engineering Practice Leader rbrewer@grassicpas.com

Robert J. Brewer is a Partner at Grassi & Co. Rob began his career in 1987 and has extensive 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). He also 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. In addition, Rob leads the continuing professional education program at Grassi & Co., which keeps the firm abreast of changes in law, policies and procedures. 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 is a CPA 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). Rob holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Hofstra University. Jeffrey G. Cohen, CPA Tax Partner jcohen@grassicpas.com
Jeffrey G. Cohen, CPA, is a Tax Partner at Grassi & Co. Jeff has over 20 years of experience in the industry and specializes in manufacturing and distribution with an emphasis on Pharmaceutical companies. His specific tax planning experience in those industries that include research and development credits, cost segregations studies, domestic production exemption, defined benefit pension plans, IC-DISCs, NYS Qualified Empire Zones and the Excelsior Program, as well as tax credit utilization. Jeff’s expertise, particularly in food manufacturing and distribution, will allow him to further delve into specific markets and further solidify Grassi & Co.’s service offerings.
In addition to Mr. Cohen’s CPA licensure, he is the Treasurer of Long Island Elite (LIE), an award winner for the Long Island Business News “40 Under 40”, a Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and a Member of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, Nassau Chapter (NYSSCPA). Mr. Cohen holds a B.S. in Business from the State University of New York New Paltz. Anthony Dattoma, CPA Tax Principal adattoma@grassicpas.com Anthony Dattoma, CPA is a Tax Principal at Pustorino, Puglisi & Co. – A Division of Grassi & Co. He has been a member of the firm’s Tax Department for over 20 years, possessing a wide range of tax experience including tax work corporations, partnerships, trusts & estates, exempt organizations as well as individual taxation.
Anthony 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 has and continues to serve on committees of The NYSSCPA with extensive service on the committee for closely held businesses. During his committee service he has lectured at State Society sponsored annual conferences. Anthony graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Baruch College and a Master’s degree in Taxation from Pace University. Ronald J. Eagar, CPA, CCIFP Partner reagar@grassicpas.com
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 bfischer@grassicpas.com
William E. Fischer is a Partner at Grassi & Co. He began his career in 1988 and has focused his efforts on providing in-depth business and management consulting in addition to auditing, accounting and tax planning. Bill works with a broad range of industries including construction, manufacturing, professional service, not-for-profit, and real estate development companies. In addition, Bill works with 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 has authored numerous articles on cash flow and budgeting, internal operating efficiencies, profit enhancement strategies and claims consulting. 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). To stay abreast of the current issues facing our clients, Bill stays active in numerous industry trade associations such as the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA), Queens & Bronx Building Association (QBBA) and the New York Building Congress where served on the membership committee. In addition, he was asked to serve on the Finance and Insurance Advisory Committee of the New York City Buildings Department. Bill is a graduate of Pace University with a Business Administration Degree in Accounting. David Freda, CPA, CCIFP Partner dfreda@grassicpas.com
David Freda is a Partner at Grassi & Co. 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 and real estate. 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. He gets involved with joint venture dispute resolutions, as well as forensic accounting, specifically for contractors. David also helps clients save money with creative tax planning strategies that take advantage of his extensive construction industry knowledge.
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). David currently serves as chair of the NYSSCPA Construction Contractors Committee, is an instructor of construction finance and accounting at the NYC College of Technology, and is a frequent speaker on financial and tax issues related to the construction industry. At Grassi & Co., David is a member of both the firm’s construction accounting committee and tax committee and is very active in the technical development of the firm’s staff through the firm’s extensive in-house training program. 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 rgavin@grassicpas.com
Richard E. Gavin is a Partner at Grassi & Co. and is a senior partner in the construction niche practice group. 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. He authors a column in the Construction Industry Council News about business and financial issues facing construction contractors. 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). In 2011, Rick was named as a member of Long Island Business News’ “50 or so Around 50 Class of 2011.” Rick has a Bachelor of business Administration degree from Hofstra University. Steven Goldstein, CPA, PFS Partner sgoldstein@grassicpas.com
Steven Goldstein is a Partner at Grassi & Co. He focuses on financial analysis, tax and financial planning, providing customized and comprehensive solutions to his clients. His experience reaches across a variety of industries, including, construction, labor unions, 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 & Co. 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 chair of the Gotham NYC Construction Group. Steven is also active in his community, producing fundraisers to support local institutions, such as the Westport Fire Department. 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. Steven holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Maryland. Geri A. Gregor, CPA Partner, Consulting Division Leader ggregor@grassicpas.com
Geri Gregor is the Partner-in-Charge of Grassi & Co.’s consulting practice, as well as the leader of the firm’s Construction Industry practice area. In her role, Geri manages and directs the consulting team on projects in areas such as business advisory services, forensic and litigation support, risk management, and technology consulting. In addition, she oversees all aspects of the growth and development of the firm’s Construction practice.
Prior to joining Grassi & Co., 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, she served on the boards of the Long Island Business Development Council, the Girl Scouts of Nassau County (“GSNC”), and was a founding board member of the Sylvia Center. 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. In 2009, the Women Builders Council recognized Geri as one of their “Outstanding Women.” Geri was recognized in 2010 as a “Top Woman in Business” by the Queens Courier and Queens Business magazine and received the “Making a Difference for Women” award from Soroptimist International of Nassau County.
Geri is a graduate of Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. Robert E. Grote, CPA Partner, Manufacturing & Distribution Practice Leader rgrote@grassicpas.com
Robert E. Grote is a Partner and the Manufacturing & Distribution Practice Leader at Grassi & Co. He specializes in accounting, tax planning and management consulting. Rob consults with clients on profitability enhancement, employee benefit plan design, corporate structuring, inventory management, succession and estate planning, research and development tax credit utilization, corporate and individual tax planning and projections, and other methods to maximize his clients’ success. Since beginning his career in 1993, he has served clients in a variety of industries, including manufacturing and distribution, construction, and not-for-profit. Rob is the manufacturing and distribution niche practice leader at Grassi & Co.
Rob has led many educational seminars and developed thought leadership on employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs), corporate succession planning, lean concepts and lean inventory, operational reviews, and the utilization of IC-DISC. Rob takes a proactive, yet patient and team-focused approach with his clients as he develops strategies and applications to help them succeed. Rob is active in numerous industry trade organizations, such as the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), where he is the immediate Past President, and currently serves as the Chairman of the chapter’s Corporate Development Committee. In addition, he is a member of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). 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. Phillip Laycock, CPA Audit Partner playcock@grassicpas.com
Phillip Laycock, CPA is an Audit Partner at Grassi & Co. He has 20 years of experience in the industry and specializes in manufacturing and distribution. His areas of expertise include chemical and food processing, automotive sale and repair, financing, leasing, interior design, construction, real estate development, energy, shipping, investment advisory and legal services, printing, multimedia, franchising, hospitality, direct mail and internet sales.
Phil is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and is a licensed CPA in both Illinois and New York. Phil graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. David Lazar, CPA Tax Principal dlazar@grassicpas.com
In his role as Tax Principal, David specializes in the construction, real estate, hedge funds, private equity funds, professional services and financial services industries. His areas of expertise include, tax returns, tax projections, domestic and international taxation and state and local taxation.
Prior to joining Grassi & Co., David worked at Ernst & Young in New York where he was a Senior Tax Manager in the Real Estate and Private Equity Partnership Group. There he focused on Real Estate Partnership Taxation, Private Equity Partnership Taxation, State & Local Taxation, REIT Taxation & Due Diligence, REIT Audit Provision Review, Structured Financing Taxation and Foreign Informational Forms. Prior to Ernst and Young, David was with the Blackstone Group as Vice President of Tax where he planned tax strategies and tax return positions, including foreign partnership filing requirements, foreign partner Federal and State tax advance payment calculations and NYC UBT calculations. He also reviewed all Blackstone Investment Advisor tax returns, over 15 entities with over $300 million of net income. David earned his Master of Business Administration from New York University and his Bachelor of Science, Accounting from Binghamton University. He is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Member of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants and is NASD Series 7 licensed and a Notary Public. Stephen J. Mannhaupt, CPA Partner smannhaupt@grassicpas.com
Stephen J. Mannhaupt 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, 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 18 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), Nonprofit Coordinating Committee of New York (NPCCNY), 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 past Chairman of the construction committee, and is 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. Robert Manzella, CPA Audit Partner rmanzella@grassicpas.com Robert S. Manzella is an Audit Partner with Pustorino, Puglisi & Co., LLC – A Division of Grassi & Co. Robert joined Pustorino, Puglisi & Co., LLP in 1974. He has a broad range of auditing experience including expertise with construction, not for profits, oil and gas, as well as service, sales and distribution clients.
Bob has been involved in committee work for the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA) having served previously as Chairman of the New York State Committee on Auditing Standards and has. In addition to serving on many other NYSSCPA committees he was a long standing member of the NYSSCPA Accounting Oversight Committee. He also has been a member of the Accounting Advisory Committee for his alma matter, Iona College where he has also been a guest lecturer. Eric S. Martinez, JD, CPA Audit Partner emartinez@grassicpas.com
Eric S. Martinez is an Audit Partner at Grassi & Co., with deep experience as a financial accountant and risk advisory consultant. Eric has significant experience working with organizations in the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, Aerospace and Defense Contractors, Technology and Biotech, Apparel Manufacturers and Distributors and Physician Practices, among other industry segments. 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 their 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 Minieri, CPA Partner 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 29 years of experience in public accounting, he performs these services for clients across a multitude of industries, including construction, manufacturing and distribution, and not-for-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, most recently in the area of not-for-profit organizations. 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. Carmine 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 is currently serving as a member of the Employee Benefits Committee of the NYSSCPA. Carmine is a graduate of the City University of New York – Brooklyn College with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Robert Murray Partner, Technology Consulting Division rmurray@grassicpas.com
Robert J. Murray is a Partner in Grassi & Co.’s Technology Consulting Division where he specializes in client computer information systems. His expertise provides turnkey solutions for all aspects of system selection and operational support. He provides a full range of services, from needs assessment and equipment recommendation to system installation, staff training, and on-going technical support. In addition to his expertise in technology, Rob’s extensive experience allows him to conduct operational reviews and forensic investigations and to develop disaster recovery plans.
Rob began his career at Grassi & Co. in 1984 and has worked with companies in a broad range of industries, including roofing, electrical contracting, plumbing, hazardous waste removal, painting, masonry, not-for-profit organizations, and real estate companies. Rob is frequently quoted in the media and has authored numerous articles on computerized accounting systems, operational reviews, and systems security, in addition to being called upon to lecture as an authority in his field. Rob received a Bachelor of Arts Degree with concentrations in Public Accounting and Business Computer Information Systems from Hofstra University. In addition, he has successfully completed a stringent set of criteria established by the National Association of Certified Fraud Examiners to earn the meritorious designation of Certified Fraud Examiner. Carl Oliveri, CPA, MBA, CFE Audit Principal coliveri@grassicpas.com
Carl joined Grassi & Co. in June 2011 as an Audit Principal. Carl possesses over 13 years of experience working with construction contractors, particularly with regards to financial statement preparation (audit, reviews and compilations), income tax preparation, cash flow, and operations forecasting. His other industry exposure includes real estate management and development. Carl possesses practical experience in litigation and cost claim support as well as expertise with related negotiations. Carl’s professional associations include the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), Chairperson of Construction Contractors Committee, Subcontractors Trade Association and the Queens Chamber of Commerce. In 2011, Carl earned the designation of Certified Fraud Examiner and is now a member of both the worldwide and New York City Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.
Carl earned his BS in Accounting and his MBA with a concentration in Management from the York College of Pennsylvania. John V. Pellitteri, CPA Partner, Healthcare Practice Leader jpellitteri@grassicpas.com
John V. Pellitteri is a Partner and the Healthcare Practice Leader at Grassi & Co. John also firm’s small business division. 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 John’s extensive experience in healthcare, he is a frequent lecturer at healthcare industry forums such as local medical societies, office management societies, and hospital councils. John has authored numerous articles on fraud prevention, human resource issues, compliance and operations and was the main author for the Financial Success Advisor column in the previously published Nassau/Suffolk Hospital Council’s Health & Hospital News. 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. Additionally, 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 also serves as the treasurer. He is also a board member of the Medical Resource Group. He was also selected as one of 2005′s 40 Under 40 Rising Star professionals in the Long Island area by the Long Island Business News. John is a graduate of Hofstra University with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Accounting. Gary R. Purwin, CPA Audit Principal gpurwin@grassicpas.com Gary R. Purwin is an Audit Partner with Pustorino, Puglisi & Co., LLC – A Division of Grassi & Co. Gary joined the firm in 1983, upon graduation from college. His experience and expertise includes broker dealers and other financial services, not-for-profit clients, as well as the oil and gas development and production industries. He holds a Series 27 license to be a financial operations principal with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Gary is currently a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA) where he serves on the Stockbrokerage committee, and the Connecticut State Society of Certified Public Accountants (CSSCPA). Gary has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Pace University. David M. Rottkamp, CPA Partner, Not-for-Profit Practice Leader drottkamp@grassicpas.com David M. Rottkamp is an Audit Partner and the Not-for-Profit Practice Leader at Grassi & Co. David has more than 24 years of experience providing audit and advisory services to the not-for-profit industry. He is the not-for-profit niche practice leader at Grassi & Co. 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 (NAIS); 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 chairman and currently serves on their executive, governance, finance and audit committees. Beyond his local work, David is a member of the national audit committee of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and also serves on their budget review committee, 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 chaired the statewide Not-for-Profit Conference for the NYSSCPA over the past two years and will be continuing his involvement in 2011. 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. Chuck Schwartz President, Technology Consulting Division cschwartz@grassicpas.com Chuck Schwartz is the President of Grassi & Co.’s Technology Consulting Division. Possessing over 27 years of experience, Chuck has spent the majority of his career devoted to delivering technology solutions to Not-for-Profit organizations, Health and Human Services organizations, healthcare providers, professional private sector companies, and public companies. Chuck’s specific areas of expertise includes IT infrastructure design and implementation, software & systems selection and implementation, systems & HIPAA security and compliance, and senior level IT managerial consulting. During Chuck’s most recent years he provided services to and supported many of the Metro New York areas leading Human Services organizations including F-E-G-S Health and Human Services System, Family Service League of Suffolk County, Make A Wish Foundation of Metro New York, GBC Health (formerly known as Global Business Coalition of HIV AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis), Henry Street Settlement, and the Institute for Community Living. The services provided to these organizations have included interim CIO services, network infrastructure reviews, billing and administrative management systems selection, fundraising and membership management system selection and implementation, and regional and global network design and implementation. Chuck’s career has also included board member representation for the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island, and working with Long Island’s United Way on special IT initiatives for at risk agencies. Throughout his career, Chuck has presented on a variety of IT topics including Computer Technology Security Best Practices and Creating Paperless Administrative & Back Office Processes. Chuck is also an instructor in the Massapequa Public Library Adult Education technology program, and has been teaching there for over 10 years. Chuck is a graduate of SUNY Empire State College, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. In 2003, Chuck was elected to SUNY Empire State Gallery of Distinguished Graduates. David A. Shuster, JD, LLM Tax Principal dshuster@grassicpas.com 
David Shuster is a Tax Principal at Grassi & Co., serving as its Director of Tax Controversy Services. His practice focuses on advising and representing clients in their controversies with the IRS and state taxing authorities. David also advises 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. There he briefed and orally argued cases in nearly all of the federal circuit courts of appeals. He also advised and assisted the Solicitor General’s office in its Supreme Court litigation. Prior to joining Grassi & Co., David was a tax partner at an international law firm, where he focused on tax controversy, planning, and compliance issues. David’s collective experience helps clients seek the fastest, most cost‑effective solutions to their tax matters and issues. David serves as a speaker for Telestrat Education, a continuing legal education provider. He also serves as a board member for several organizations, including Beach Point Club in Mamaroneck, the Scarsdale Parks and Recreation Council, the Scarsdale Baseball Club, Maroon and White (a high school parent booster club), and the Scarsdale Educational Foundation Steering Committee. David also is a board member of Backyard Sports Cares, a not‑for‑profit organization committed to the improvement of children’s lives through participation in sports. Previously, David was also a board member of the Scarsdale Youth Hockey Association. In 2011, David was inducted into Long Island Business News’ Leadership In Law Class of 2011 for the In-house Counsel category. David received his JD and LLM in Taxation from New York University School of Law and his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan. Alan Silverstein, CPA, PFS Partner 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 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. Rocco Totino, CPA Partner rtotino@grassicpas.com Rocco Totino is a Partner with Pustorino, Puglisi & Co., LLC – A Division of Grassi & Co. He joined the firm in 1974, upon graduation from college. His experience and expertise includes but is not limited to the retail, import-export and fashion industries, as well as pension and other benefit plans including Taft-Hartley plans.
Rocco is currently a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the New Jersey State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSSCPA). Rocco graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree from Baruch College. Alice H. Varisano, CPA Partner-in-Charge, Tax Services avarisano@grassicpas.com Alice H. Varisano is the Partner-in-Charge of Tax Services at Grassi & Co. She has been practicing for more than twenty-five years and has extensive experience in domestic and international taxation, business/program analysis, budgeting, cost reduction/control, continuous process improvement, and staff development. Her work extends across a variety of industries, including Manufacturing & Distribution, Healthcare, and Retail & Consumer Products.
Prior to joining Grassi & Co., Alice spent eighteen years working in public accounting for Big 4 firms, followed by six years working as the CFO of a publicly traded international Manufacturing & Distribution company. This work provided her with the industry knowledge necessary to understand client financial issues on an experiential level and to offer effective and efficient tax solutions. Alice approaches engagements with a emphasis on the relationship formed with a client. She works closely with her clients to best help them take advantage of tax opportunities, allowing them to focus on managing their businesses with the confidence and assurance that their taxes are in capable hands. In addition to her tax work, Alice is an accomplished presenter and author. A member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), Alice earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from St. John’s University and her Master of Science in Taxation from CW Post. David S. Warshauer, CPA, CCIFP Audit Partner 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 on the executive board of the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA) and 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). David has also lectured for the NY State Society of CPA’s on construction and auditing issues and currently teaches a Construction Finance Education class at CUNY and SUNY Farmingdale. David was recently featured in the 2010 Who’s Who in Accounting for Long Island Business News. David earned his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Buffalo. |