Beth Gooch Bartlett and Brittany Thompson Kissell with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs recently passed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination and earned their Certified Public Accountant certificates and licenses. 

The Uniform CPA Examination is one of the nation's most comprehensive examinations. The exam is delivered in a computer-based format eight months of the year at test centers throughout the United States. Sections covered in the computer-based test include auditing and attestation, financial accounting and reporting, regulation and business environment and concepts. To be eligible to sit for the exam, candidates must have completed a minimum of 150 semester hours, which include a baccalaureate or higher degree from an academic institution recognized by the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy, with a minimum of 24 semester hours in accounting and 24 semester hours in general business subjects.

Upon passing the exam, Bartlett and Kissell can apply for membership in the Tennessee Society of CPAs (TSCPA) and its West Tennessee Chapter. TSCPA is the state professional organization of CPAs with more than 8,500 members in all areas of public practice, government, education, business and industry.
Bartlett is a senior accountant in Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs Dyersburg office.  She earned her Master of Accountancy and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin and has been with ATA since 2002.  Her practice focuses on governmental auditing, tax and financial institutions auditing.  She is an American Cancer Society volunteer and is a member of Lakeview Baptist Church, where she currently serves as church treasurer.  She and her husband, Kelly, live in Ridgley.

Kissell is a staff accountant in Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs Union City office.  She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin and has been with ATA since 2007.  Her practice focuses on governmental auditing and tax.  She is a member of First Baptist Church, Troy.  She and her husband, Brian, live in Troy.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine.  The firm was named in the Tennessee Best Employers Top 25 list in 2009.  Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is an independent member of the BDO Seidman Alliance.  Firm offices are located in Tennessee and Kentucky.  Tennessee offices are in Dyersburg, Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.  Kentucky offices are in Fulton and Murray.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC at 731.885.3661 or visit www.atacpa.net.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is constantly growing and improving the way it does business. To continue providing the highest level of customer service, the firm is pleased to announce that Tommy Legins has been named partner. 

“Tommy has been an asset to Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs since he joined the firm in 2007,” said Alfred H. Creswell, CPA, chief managing officer for Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC. “He has an excellent reputation in the community and has worked hard to develop his skills as an accountant and leader. We are proud to welcome him as partner and look forward to a bright future together.”

Legins has been with ATA since 2007 and has been in public accounting since 1990. His practice will focus on tax, QuickBooks consulting and small businesses. He earned his BSBA in accounting from the University of Tennessee at Martin. In addition to being a Certified Public Accountant, Legins has earned the Certified Valuation Analyst accreditation from NACVA. He is a member of the TSCPA and AICPA. 

As an active member of the community, Legins is the past president of the Martin Rotary Club, the treasurer for the Housing Corporation for the Tennessee Tau Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, the treasurer and board member for the Martin Business Association and an advisory board member for the Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse. He is a member of First United Methodist Church in Martin where he serves on the finance committee. He and his wife, Camille, have a son, Spencer. 

“During my career with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, I have experienced a company that works hard for its clients,” said Legins. “The focus on customer service and professional excellence is what makes ATA such a great company. I am honored to be named partner. I am especially glad to have this opportunity in my hometown.”

Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. It has 16 partners and 135 employees in its eleven offices. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Murray (Ky.), Paris, Trenton and Union City. 

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business Tennessee Magazine in March 2007. In 2009, it was named one of the 25 Best Employers in Tennessee.

A subsidiary of Alexander Thompson Arnold, ATA Technologies provides solutions to information technology needs throughout the region and received the 2006 Emerging Business Award from the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. Its services include network management, business solutions, offsite backups, disaster recovery planning, security solutions, auditing and computer forensics.

Tommy Legins, a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, has recently earned the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) Credential by the National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts (NACVA).

Legins met the requirements to earn the CVA credential, which include holding a valid CPA license, be a practitioner in good standing with NACVA, passing a comprehensive five-hour proctored exam, and successfully completing a valuation case study. CPAs who have earned the CVA Credential must obtain 36 hours of professional education every three years in business valuation or valuation-related applications to maintain their credential.

The National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts (NACVA) trains and certifies Certified Valuation Analysts (CVA) to perform business valuations as a service to both the consulting community and to individuals and businesses. Through training and rigorous testing, CVAs demonstrate they are qualified to provide capable and professionally executed valuation services. A primary requirement for becoming a CVA is to hold a valid license as a Certified Public Accountant.

Legins was recently named partner with ATA. He has been with the firm since 2007 and has been in public accounting since 1990. His practice focuses on business valuation, tax, QuickBooks consulting and small businesses. He earned his BSBA in accounting from the University of Tennessee at Martin. He is a member of the TSCPA and AICPA.

As an active member of the community, Legins is the past president of the Martin Rotary Club, the treasurer for the Housing Corporation for the Tennessee Tau Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, the treasurer and board member for the Martin Business Association and an advisory board member for the Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse. He is a member of First United Methodist Church in Martin where he serves on the finance committee. He and his wife, Camille, have a son, Spencer.

Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is an independent member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. It has 16 partners and 135 employees in its eleven offices. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Murray (Ky.), Paris, Trenton and Union City.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business Tennessee Magazine. In 2009, it was named one of the 25 Best Employers in Tennessee.

Red Howe, Rick Melton and the Howe & Melton team have been providing professional accounting services since 1954. The Murray-based practice is starting a new chapter on November 1, 2009 when it merges with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, headquartered in Union City, Tennessee.

“This is an excellent opportunity for our firm,” said Red Howe. “One of the reasons we decided to join the Alexander Thompson Arnold team is its local focus. ATA has the resources of a large firm, which can be a great advantage for our clients, but they focus on providing personalized customer service. Our clients will see many positive things from this merger and will continue to work with the same employees they know and trust.”

“Joining forces with ATA has been very exciting for Red and me, because we’re seeing how our clients will benefit from the additional resources,” said Rick Melton. “Without a doubt, our clients and staff have been at the heart of this decision. We will still be working with our clients and leading the local efforts, but we’ll have so many more opportunities for growth as part of Alexander Thompson Arnold.” 
“The marriage of our firms is a win-win situation for everyone,” said Art Sparks, partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs. “ATA’s heritage is customer service centered and locally focused, which fits nicely with the integrity of Howe & Melton. We look forward to continued growth and prosperity with this partnership.”

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City, Tennessee and Fulton, Kentucky.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs at 270.753.2424 or visit www.atacpa.net

Arthur L. Sparks, Jr., CPA, a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, was recognized as one of Tennessee’s Best Accountants by Business TN Magazine. This is the second consecutive year that Sparks has received the honor.

Business TN Magazine recognized Tennessee’s 54 top accountants in its March/April 2009 issue. The list was compiled with the input of Tennessee businesses and lawyers who utilize accounting services and accountants themselves. After countless hours of interviews and research, Art Sparks was honored to be among the top 54 accountants in Tennessee.

This list was compiled by the magazine because experienced CPAs are vital to a business’ growth and success. From business plan to succession strategy, they have a hand in every aspect of a business’ life cycle. For companies in a post-Sarbanes-Oxley world, they are more crucial than ever.

For over 30 years, Sparks has dedicated his life to providing quality accounting services. He has been a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs since 1980, where his practice focuses on auditing and quality control systems. He is a former board member for the State Board of Accountancy; is an active member of the American Institute of CPAs where he has served as a Peer Review board member and chairman of the Oversight Task Force; and is on the board of directors and the chairman of the Peer Review Committee for the Tennessee Society of CPAs. He has also served in all offices of the West Tennessee Chapter of TSCPA.

A graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin, Sparks is active in his community. He is a past president of Rotary Club and is a Paul Harris Fellow. He’s a board member for the Community Foundation of Obion County and served on University of Tennessee’s Development Council. He has received the Distinguished Service Award from UT Martin and serves on UT Martin’s Alumni Council. He is also UT Martin’s Skyhawk Club past president. An active member of the Obion County Chamber of Commerce, he has served as the chamber’s board president.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs at 731.885.3661 or 800.273.3240 or visit www.atacpa.net.

Steve Carmichael, CPA, a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, was invited to participate on an expert panel of certified public accountants at the Tennessee Bankers Association’s 2009 Executive Management in San Diego, Ca.

Carmichael and members of the panel of accounting experts discussed accounting and tax matters that have recently been of interest to the public and financial institutions. These included new AIPCA pronouncements, new opinions issued by the SEC, news about problems with nation’s banks, the contents of proposed and recently passed tax legislation as it pertains to financial institutions and the results of recent tax cases involving banks. The panel also answered questions from the group.

The Tennessee Bankers Association held its 2009 Executive Management Conference in January in San Diego. Approximately 75 bankers attended the conference. The conference featured new management tools available to bankers, personnel and technology issue, and legal and accounting developments that bankers face in day to day management of financial institutions. In addition to other programs, the Executive Management Conference had a panel of attorneys and a panel of certified public accountants which addressed the group of attendees. Carmichael participated in the CPA panel.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs at 731.285.7900 or visit www.atacpa.net.

Glendora Greenway, a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs and president-elect of the Rotary Club of Dyersburg, completed the three day Rotary President-Elect Training Seminar on Sunday, March 26 in Nashville, Tenn. Rotary club leaders represent key community leaders throughout the world. Greenway will begin her duties as president of the Dyersburg Rotary Club on July 1, 2009.

A graduate of the Arkansas State University, Greenway is active in her profession and her community. She has been a member/partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs since 2001. She is an active member of the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA), American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) and the Tennessee Bankers Association (TBA). With the TSCPA, she is a member of the Federal Taxation Committee, and past member of the Small Business Committee, Financial Institutions Committee and the Governmental Committee. She is the past president of Dyer County Exchange Club, a 2003 graduate of Dyer County Leadership, and the president-elect and treasurer for Dyersburg Rotary Club.

Rotary is a volunteer organization of 1.2 million business and professional leaders united worldwide to provide humanitarian service and help build goodwill and peace. About 33,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas conduct projects to address today’s challenges – including literacy, disease, hunger, poverty, lack of clean water and environmental concerns – while encouraging high ethical standards in all vocations. To learn more about Rotary, visit www. Rotary.org.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs at 731.285.7900 or 800.273.3240 or visit www.atacpa.net.

Phillip C. Creswell with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs recently passed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination and earned his Certified Public Accountant certificate and license. 

The Uniform CPA Examination is one of the nation's most comprehensive examinations. The exam is delivered in a computer-based format eight months of the year at test centers throughout the United States. Sections covered in the computer-based test include auditing and attestation, financial accounting and reporting, regulation and business environment and concepts. To be eligible to sit for the exam, candidates must have completed a minimum of 150 semester hours, which include a baccalaureate or higher degree from an academic institution recognized by the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy, with a minimum of 24 semester hours in accounting and 24 semester hours in general business subjects.

Upon passing the exam, Creswell was inducted as a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs (TSCPA) and its West Tennessee Chapter. Creswell is a senior accountant in Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs Union City office. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin and has been with ATA since 2004. His practice focuses on governmental auditing and tax.

Creswell’s involvement extends to the community. A native of Union City, he is active in the Union City Rotary Club, Union City Athletic Booster Club, and First United Methodist Church. He serves as the treasurer for the Union City Greyhounds and is a board of trustees’ financial advisor for UTM’s Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. The son of Al and Michelle Creswell, Phillip and his wife Katie reside in Union City.
Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

David Hart, a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, has recently been awarded the Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) Credential by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). The CFF Credential, established in 2008 by the AICPA, is granted to qualified CPAs with considerable professional experience in financial forensics.

The credential, Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF), combines specialized forensic accounting expertise with the core knowledge and skills that make CPAs among the most trusted business advisers. The CFF encompasses fundamental and specialized forensic accounting skills that CPA practitioners apply in a variety of service areas, including: bankruptcy and insolvency; computer forensics; economic damages; family law; fraud investigations; litigation support; stakeholder disputes and valuations.

Hart met the requirements to earn the CFF credential, which include demonstrating significant business experience in the area of financial forensics as well as completing a minimum of 75 hours of life-long learning and education activities in the area of financial forensics. The CFF Credential is granted exclusively to CPAs who are members in good standing of the AICPA which binds them to the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. CPAs who have earned the CFF Credential must be recertified every three years to maintain their credential.

Hart has been with ATA since 1997. His practice focuses on business valuation, auditing, tax, and client development. He earned his BSBA from University of Tennessee at Martin in Accounting. In addition to being a CFF, Hart is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Valuation Analyst. He is a member of the TSCPA, AICPA, Ky. Society of CPAs and TGFOA. 
As an active member of the community, Hart is a member of UT Martin’s Skyhawk Club board of directors, the president and head coach for Tennessee Wings AAU Girls Basketball, and a volunteer coach for the Westview High School girls’ basketball team. He and his family are active members of First United Methodist Church, where Hart is the finance committee chairman.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

Stephen M. Eldridge, a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, recently earned his Certified in Governance of Enterprise Information Technology (CGEIT) certification through the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).

ISACA designed the CGEIT certification for individuals, through recognition of their professional knowledge and experiences to enhance their professional standing. It demonstrates a visible commitment to excellence in Information Technology (IT) governance practices.
The CGEIT certification process was specifically developed for professionals who have a significant management, advisory, or assurance role relating to the governance of Information Technology (IT). The certification promotes the advancement of professionals who wish to be recognized for their IT governance-related experience and knowledge. It is also designed to support the growing business demands related to IT governance; increase the awareness and importance of IT governance good practices and issues; and define the roles and responsibilities of the professionals performing IT governance work.

Eldridge has been with ATA since 1999. Eldridge’s practice focuses on auditing, tax, and client development, and he is the partner in charge of the firm’s SAS 70 audit practice. He earned his BSBA from Union University in Finance and Accounting. In addition to being a CGEIT, Eldridge is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Information Systems Auditor and a Certified Information Technology Professional. He is a member of the TSCPA, AICPA, ISACA, TGFOA, TGA, Jackson Area Technology Group and Utility Technology Association. 

As an active member of the community, Eldridge is a board member and chairman of the finance committee for Youth Town and is a club member and former board member of the Jackson Rotary Club. He is also actively involved with Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Relay for Life. A 2005 graduate of Leadership Jackson, he is the president-elect for the West Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants. 
Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

Jay Davis and Karie Spencer with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs recently passed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination and earned their Certified Public Accountant certificate and license. 

The Uniform CPA Examination is one of the nation's most comprehensive examinations. The exam is delivered in a computer-based format eight months of the year at test centers throughout the United States. Sections covered in the computer-based test include auditing and attestation, financial accounting and reporting, regulation and business environment and concepts. To be eligible to sit for the exam, candidates must have completed a minimum of 150 semester hours, which include a baccalaureate or higher degree from an academic institution recognized by the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy, with a minimum of 24 semester hours in accounting and 24 semester hours in general business subjects.

Upon passing the exam, Davis and Spencer were inducted as members of the Tennessee Society of CPAs (TSCPA) and its West Tennessee Chapter. 
Davis is a staff accountant in Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs Union City office. He earned his degree in finance from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and has been with ATA since 2007. His practice focuses on governmental and financial institution auditing and tax. Davis is married to Angela and has a son, Tucker.

Spencer is a senior accountant in Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs Milan office. She earned her degree in accounting from Union University and has been with ATA since 2006. Her practice focuses on financial institution auditing and tax. Spencer and her husband, Brad, live in Jackson, Tenn.
Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

Amanda Wood, CPA, a manager with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, was recently named as a Certified Internal Auditor ® (CIA ®) by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).

The CIA designation is awarded to internal audit professionals who have met the rigorous requirements of the IIA’s CIA program, including a four-part examination, as well as high standards of character, education and experience. The exam reflects the current state of the art in internal auditing and evaluates technical competence in important subject areas related to internal auditing. 

A Summa Cum Laude graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin, Wood joined Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs in 2000 where she is a manager. Her practice focuses on internal bank audit and interest rate risk. She is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA) and the Institute of Internal Auditors. She currently serves on the TSCPA Young CPA Committee. 

Wood’s involvement extends to the community. Currently a member of the Jackson Cotillion Club, she served as treasurer for Madison County CASA and is active with Madison County’s Relay for Life. She and her family are members at White’s Chapel Missionary Baptist Church where Wood has served as assistant treasurer and Sunday School teacher.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

Established in 1941, The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is an international professional association of more than 150,000 members with global headquarters in Altamonte Springs, Fla. Throughout the world, The IIA is recognized as the internal audit profession’s leader in certification, education, research and technological guidance.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC at 731.427.8571 or visit www.atacpa.net.

Tamara Stanfill, CPA with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, was recently appointed to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) State Tax Council.

Stanfill joined the Alexander Thompson Arnold CPA team in 2007. As a senior accountant, Stanfill focuses on tax issues; individual, partnership and corporate income tax; bankruptcy tax returns; and tax and business consulting. She is a University of Tennessee graduate who has taught at Jackson State Community College, Union University and Lambuth University. She is an active member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs. Stanfill is also an active member of Exchange Club.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is the leading small business association representing small and independent businesses. A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization founded in 1943, NFIB represents the consensus views of its members in Washington and all 50 state capitals.
NFIB's mission is to promote and protect the right of our members to own, operate and grow their businesses. NFIB also gives its members a power in the marketplace. By pooling the purchasing power of its members, the National Federation of Independent Business gives members access to many business products and services at discounted costs. NFIB also provides timely information designed to help small businesses succeed.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business TN Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs at 731.427.8571 or 800.273.3240 or visit www.atacpa.net

With computer systems getting more complex, businesses are seeking the most well-trained and experienced information systems professionals. That is why ATA Technologies LLC proudly announces that Michael Laffoon and Daniel Simons recently passed the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam.

“The CISA certification signifies that ATA Technologies is committed to serving our clients,” said Michael Laffoon, ATA Technologies partner. “It goes beyond providing quality IT services. It shows that we provide the highest level of service possible.”

The technical skills and practices that CISA promotes and evaluates are the building blocks of success in the field. Possessing the CISA designation demonstrates proficiency and is the basis for measurement in the profession. With a growing demand for professionals possessing information systems audit, control and security skills, CISA has becomes a preferred certification program by individuals around the world. The CISA program is sponsored by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).

ATA Technologies was founded in 2004 as Trinity Solutions LLC and became a subsidiary of Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs on January 1, 2007. ATA Technologies provides information technology solutions, so business owners can focus on their businesses. Its services include network management, security, business solutions, disaster recovery planning, and off-site backup solutions. Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs also has two accountants, CPA Stephen Eldridge and Drew Malone, who have earned the CISA certification. Together, the team conducts SAS 70 and IT audits. 

For more information, call ATA Technologies LLC at 731.664.0102 or visit www.atacpatech.net.

Jack Matthis, member/partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC, has earned his Certified Bank Auditor (CBA) certification.

The Certified Bank Auditor (CBA) Common Body of Knowledge defines the banking industry’s benchmark for core skills and critical issues that should be mastered by all bank auditors to succeed in their professions. It is recognized throughout the financial services industry as the only certification program that tests candidates in four bank-specific areas: accounting, auditing principles and bank laws/regulations, auditing practices, and general business.

A graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin, Matthis joined Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs in 1997 and was named member/partner in 2007. His practice focuses on external bank auditing, bank taxation, mergers and acquisitions, bank consulting, loan review and governmental auditing. He is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA) and serves on the TSCPA Financial Institutions and Scholarship Committees. 

Matthis is also involved in the community. He recently received the Star Performer Award from the Leadership Jackson Alumni Association and has been Volunteer of the Month for the Jackson-Area Chamber of Commerce. A 2003 graduate of Leadership Jackson, he has served in many capacities with the organization and currently serves on its board of directors. Other organizations in which he is involved include Salvation Army, American Red Cross Jackson Area Chapter, Exchange Club of Jackson, Relay for Life and West Jackson Baptist Church.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business Tennessee Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC at 731.427.8571 or visit www.atacpa.net

Mike Hewitt, member/partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC, has been appointed to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ PCPS Technical Issues Committee for 2007-2008.

Hewitt has served on this committee since 2004 because of his governmental expertise. A graduate of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, he joined Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs in 1978 and was named member/partner in 1982. He has held several positions with the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA) including serving on its governmental and scholarship committees. Hewitt has served on the boards of many local organizations including the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, STAR Center, Salvation Army and Trinity Christian Academy.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business Tennessee Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City.

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) is the national, professional organization for all Certified Public Accountants. Its mission is to provide members with the resources, information, and leadership that enable them to provide valuable services in the highest professional manner to benefit the public as well as employers and clients.

For more information, call Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC at 731.427.8571 or visit www.atacpa.net.

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is constantly growing and improving the way they do business. To continue providing the highest level of customer service, the firm is pleased to announce that Stephen Eldridge and John Whybrew have been named partners. 

“Stephen and John have both been remarkable assets to Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs,” said Alfred H. Creswell, CPA and chief manager for Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC. “These young men have worked hard and developed areas of expertise in our profession to set themselves and our firm apart from other accountants in the region. We are proud to welcome them as partners and look forward to a brilliant future together.”

Stephen Eldridge has been at ATA since 1999. Eldridge will focus on auditing, tax, and client development. He will also be the partner in charge of the firm’s SAS 70 audit practice. He earned his BSBA from Union University in Finance and Accounting. In addition to being a Certified Public Accountant, Eldridge is a Certified Information Systems Auditor and a Certified Information Technology Professional. He is a member of the TSCPA, AICPA, ISACA, Jackson Area Technology Group and Utility Technology Association. 

As an active member of the community, Eldridge is a board member of the Jackson Rotary Club and Youth Town and is heavily involved with Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Relay for Life. A 2005 graduate of Leadership Jackson, he is also the Secretary/Treasurer for the West Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants. He and his wife, Lolly, recently had their first child, Madeline Grace. Eldridge is the son of State Representative and Mrs. Jimmy Eldridge. 

“During my career with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, I have experienced a company that works hard for its clients and looks for ways to improve its service,” said Eldridge. “This environment has encouraged me to strive for excellence in my work. I am honored to become partner with this organization. I am especially glad to have this opportunity in my hometown.”

John Whybrew has been with ATA since 2000. Whybrew will work with governmental audits, contractors and assist with A & A compliance. He will also be the partner in charge of the Milan office and will be responsible for the governmental audits from the Trenton office. He earned his BBA from Lambuth University and his Master of Accountancy from UT Martin. In addition to being a Certified Public Accountant, John is also a Certified Fraud Examiner. He is a member of the TSCPA, AICPA, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the Mid South Chapter of the ACFE.

Whybrew is also involved in the community. A 2007 graduate of Leadership Jackson, he is a member of the Exchange Club of Jackson, serves on the planning committee for the Madison County Relay for Life, and is involved with two state committees for the TSCPA. He has been married to Jennifer since 1999. They have a daughter, Claire, and one on the way. John is the son of John Whybrew and Susan and Clift Adams.

“Becoming a partner with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs is a tremendous privilege,” said Whybrew. “The culture at ATA is one that respects our clients and staff and strives for excellence. That is why ATA has the distinction of being one of the best accounting firms in the Mid-South. It is a huge responsibility to continue that legacy, and I am honored to have the opportunity as partner.”

Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs PLLC is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Mid-South and was named the ninth largest accounting firm in the State of Tennessee by Business Tennessee Magazine in March 2007. Founded in 1946, ATA offers a comprehensive array of tax, audit, accounting, consulting and wealth management services and is a member of the BDO Seidman Alliance. It has 14 partners and 125 employees in its ten offices. Firm offices are located in Dyersburg, Fulton (Ky.), Henderson, Jackson, Martin, McKenzie, Milan, Paris, Trenton and Union City. The Jackson office was awarded the 2006 Pinnacle Award for Service Excellence from the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. 

A subsidiary of Alexander Thompson Arnold, ATA Technologies provides solutions to information technology needs throughout the region and received the 2006 Emerging Business Award from the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. Its services include network management, business solutions, offsite backups, disaster recovery planning, security solutions, auditing and computer forensics.

More information about the firm is available at www.atacpa.net and www.atacpatech.net. Look in the white pages for the office nearest you.