MOMENTUM
A New Year, Endless Possibilities
HappyNewYear!Aswewelcome2025,Iwant toextendmywarmestwishestoeveryonefor ayearfilledwithsuccess,growth,andnew opportunities
Thisnewyearistheperfecttimetobuildon provenstrategiestopositionourfirmfor evengreatergrowth Byaddingtoourpool oftalentedprofessionals,ourabilitytodeliver efficient,tailoredsolutionstoourclientswill befurtherenhanced.Overthecomingmonths, wewillberollingoutplansthatreflectourdedication toexcellence,professionalism,andcommunityimprovement Theseincludeinitiativesfocusedonemployeedevelopment, strategic partnerships, and staying ahead of industry trends to remain a trusted advisor in an ever-evolving business landscape These efforts will expand our capabilities and reinforce the strong foundationuponwhichwecontinuetobuild.
As we meet the challenges the New Year brings, I invite you to embracetheopportunitiesaheadwiththesamedeterminationand collaborationthathavebeenthecornerstonesofoursuccessforover 55years.Together,let’smake2025anotherexceptionalchapterinthe remarkablestoryofourFirm
We are also mindful of the challenges many in Southern California arefacingduetotherecentfires.Inourcommitmenttosupporting those in need, our Firm is making a monetary donation to The Salvation Army Southern California Division, and we encourage others who are able to support organizations, firefighters, first responders,andvolunteerswhoaremakingadifference.
Sincerely,
Gilbert R. Vasquez Managing Partner
Supporting Our Community During the Los Angeles Fires
AswewitnessthechallengesbroughtbytheLosAngelesfires,our heartsarewithallthoseaffected.Wearegratefulfortheheroic effortsoffirstresponderswhocontinuetobattlethefires,aswellas thecountlessindividualsandorganizationssupportingour communityduringthiscriticaltime.
Inourcommitmenttosupportingthoseinneed,ourFirmis makingamonetarydonationtoTheSalvationArmySouthern CaliforniaDivision.Thisremarkableorganizationprovides immediatereliefandcaretofamiliesinneed.Theirmissionof compassionandcareisvitalintimeslikethese.
Ifyouwouldliketolearnmoreabouttheirworkorcontribute directly,pleasevisitSALARYMYUS/SOCALFIRES Together,wecanhelpbringhopeandhealingtothoseinneed.
PHOTO: THE SALVATION ARMY
Meet the newest member of our team!
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA
BARBARA HALL
Audit and Consulting
Partner
Barbara Hall, based in our Irvine office, brings over 20 years of expertise in audit and consulting. Her leadership experience includes roles at top firms like Wipfli LLP and RSM US LLP, where she developed specialties in healthcare audits, artificial intelligence implementation, and California financial reporting for skilled nursing facilities
To learn more about Barbara’s career journey, click here.
Happy Anniversary!
Thank you for your hard work and dedication, you are an inspiration to us all.
LOS ANGELES
Lani Santos
Daniel Espindola
Melissa Ojeda
Maria Eileen Usi
Samuel Tolentino
PHILIPPINES
Angeli Presto
Lei Alzaga
Jay De Guzman
Renaliza Talagtag
Mikaella Sambajon
Marilin Angeles
Jemimah Maclang 2
Jay Toledo 1
Sarah Tan
Kenneth Hernandez
Alvin Garcia
Dave Carciller
Jimme Balatico
Ranjan Balajadia
Donna Jane Tolentino
Myrene Dimasacat
YMark Lloyd Gaviola
MG Cahucom
Joy Moran
Maurice Taguinod
Angelika Ignacio
Christopher Villamejor
Cristhel Rulona
Rizz Vergara
Mariella Cariaga
Kimberlene Perez
Rai Lemence
Clarice Atienza
Lovely Francisco
Rex Dicos
Abegail Cajayon
Vanessa Pelaez
Dana Moyano
Happy Birthday!
We wish you joy and prosperity in the year ahead.
LOS ANGELES
JAN
Eileen Usi
Arianne Alba
Cid Conde
Maggie Guardado
Yvette Sibal
Jake Waggoner
Francis Roque
Eden Marfori
Marilin Angeles MAR
Geli Matondo
Cristy Canieda
Jay Toledo
Emer Fabro
FEB
Laura McLaughlin
Daniel Espindola
Kimberly Bejec
Jason Tagasa
Carlos Cruz
PHILIPPINES
JANUARY
Lorielyn Gumansing
Ronelle Aceron
Madela Zafra
Rizz Vergara
Shannah Gorgonia
Marjorie Quindoza
John Cabaces
Eileen Bacaltos
Kristel Dunuan
Sharmaine Bulario
Leah Zaldua
PHILIPPINES
FEBRUARY
Caitlin Manila
Queenie Cortes
Joram Panahon
Mitch Dichoso
Rose Luteriña
Yancy Batalla
Alvin Garcia
Jimme Balatico
Joshua Libunao
Precious Alcaraz
MARCH
Gevelyn Penoliar
Trixia Bianson
Kimberlene Perez
Abegail Cajayon
Nice Cañeda
Angeli Presto
Maurice Taguinod
Jim Morgia
Francesca Dela Chica
Rachel Estoque
Stefany Maligat
Jacob Mendoza
Glayn Fermin
Quennee Lalogo
Welcome Emirrah Gayle Contreras
Congratulations to Erlyn Olan, Accounting Manager from our Philippines office, and John Gabriel Contreras! Wishing your little one a life filled with good health, love, and endless happiness.
Hello Luisa Maven Yray
Congratulations to May Yap, Senior Auditor from our LA office, and Reyven Yray on this wonderful new chapter! May your little one bring boundless joy, love, and cherished moments into your lives.
Halloween Celebration
October 2024 | Glendale Office | Los Angeles, California
Our team embraced the Halloween spirit with a creative twist everyone had a great time painting their own masterpiece!
Congratulations, May!
October 2024 | Glendale Office | Los Angeles, California
Congratulations, May Yap! We’re all thrilled for you and can’t wait to meet your baby girl soon!
PHILDEV Foundat
a! We are honored to the US and PhilDev’s mission to empower the next generation of innovators!
NEVHC CEO Luncheon
October 2024 | Odyssey | Granada Hills, California
Vasquez is proud to sponsor the NEVHC CEO Luncheon, celebrating CEO Kim Wyard’s remarkable 50 years of leadership and NEVHC’s ongoing mission to provide quality healthcare.
Vasquez 55th
October 2024 | The City Club | Los Angeles, California
Celebrating 55 years of excellence, Vasquez + Company has grown from a small practice in Los Angeles, to the largest minority-owned firm in the country. We’re thankful for our clients, partners, and team members who have been part of our journey. Guided by Founder Gilbert R. Vasquez's vision, we look forward to continuing our legacy of integrity, innovation, and strong relationships.
Click here to watch the event highlights
Gracelight One-Year Anniversary
October 2024 | Perch LA | Los Angeles, California
Gracelight marked its one-year anniversary as Gracelight Community Health with a lively mixer which members of our Firm participated in.
Thanksgiving Celebration
The Firm’s Thanksgiving celebration featured a toast to all Vasquez members for their hard work, dedication and teamwork which helped to make 2024 so successful.
LA Holiday Dinner
December 2024 | Eden On Brand | Glendale, California
Our LA office celebrated with a holiday dinner and wrapped up the year with an unforgettable Fire and Ice-themed celebration! The event brought everyone together for a night of fun, flair, and festive spirit.
Philippines Year-End Party
December 2024 | Seda | Bonifacio Global City, Metro Manila
The Vasquez Advantage, our Philippine office, ended the year in style with a spectacular celebration! The event dazzled with an ethereal atmosphere, as everyone embraced a stunning modern rococoinspired theme.
Vasquez Outreach at Ma-Ma’s Hope Haven of Norway
December 2024 | Ma-Ma’s Hope Haven of Norway | General Trias, Cavite
As part of the Vasquez Giving is Living program in the Philippines, the team spent a meaningful day at Ma-Ma’s Hope Haven of Norway. The event was filled with joy, highlighted by presentations from the beneficiaries.
Children, teens, and seniors came together to share stories, songs, and smiles, making it a memorable day of love and connection. A big thank you to our donors and volunteers for their support. Together, we made a lasting impact!
Exciting News from Our Philippine Office!
We’re now The Vasquez Advantage!
Though our name is new, we’re still the same trusted team. This change reflects the edge we’ve always offered in auditing, accounting, taxation, and consulting.
At the heart of this rebrand is a renewed focus on showcasing the “advantage” we provide to our clients: expertise, efficiency, and unparalleled service.
Check out our brochure to learn more about our services and how we can help streamline your operations here.
We’re excited to continue this journey with you and can’t wait to see where this new chapter takes us!
Q:Howlonghaveyoubeenwith V+Co.?
A:6.5years.
Q:Whatdoyoulikebestaboutworking forV+Co.?
A:Thepeopleandtheflexiblework environment.Also,workingondifferent typesofprojectsiswhatIlovethemost. Tohavetheopportunitytoconstantly learnandgrowfromnewchallengesis whatkeepsmeinauditingaftersomany years.
Q:Doyouhaveamottoorpersonal mantrathatyoufollow?
A:“Livebyfaith,growingrace,andwalk inlove.”
“Takeresponsibilityofyourown happiness,neverputitinotherpeople’s hands.Acceptyourself,loveyourself,and keepmovingforward.Ifyouwanttofly, youhavetogiveupwhatweighsyou down.”–RoyT.Bennett.
Eva Aquije
MANAGER - AUDIT
LOS ANGELES
Q:Whatdoyouliketodoinyourfree time?
A:LovetowatchagoodChineseor Koreandrama,acomedywillalsomake myday.
Q:Whatisoneskillyou’dlovetolearn?
A:Bakingandcooking.
Q:What,ifanything,areyou currentlybinge-watching?Or reading?
A:FamilybyChoiceandSnowstormof Love.
Q:What’sonyourbucketlist?
A:AfoodtouraroundAsia.
Q:Whatarethe3placesthatyou wouldliketotravelto?
A:Spain,Italy,andJapan
Q:Whatare3wordsthatbest describeyou?
A:Empathetic,driven,andreliable.
Aryana Martinez
ASSOCIATE MANAGER - AUDIT PHILIPPINES
Q:Howlonghaveyoubeen withV+Co.?
A:I’vebeenwithVasquezfor3yearsand 4months.
Q:Whatdoyoulikebestabout workingforV+Co.?
A:Definitely,thework-lifebalance I appreciatethatV+Costrongly promotesitwithintheOrganization sinceitenablesmetofullyenjoy personaltimewithoutsacrificing professionalgrowth.Thereby,creatinga positiveworkingenvironment.In addition,atV+Co,Icanworkwith collaborativeandhighlycompetent individuals.Theirexpertiseoffersmean avenueforlearningandimprovement
Q:Doyouhaveamottoorpersonal mantrathatyoufollow?
A:“Ican,andIwill.”It’saconstant reminderformethatIcandoanything ifIjustputmyheartandmindintoit
Q:Whatdoyouliketodoinyourfree time?
A:Ienjoycookingandbinge-watching KoreanandChineseseriesduringmy freetime.
Angelika Ignacio
RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST PHILIPPINES
I am Anj, and I love music. It all started when I was a kid. Believe me, my godmother, not my parents, taught me how to handle a microphone and sing all the classic hits of Celine Dion and April Boy Regino. They said I’m an old soul.
Singing is my passion. I also spent my younger years serving as one of the choir members at our church. Whenever I hold a microphone, I can sing all night. Whether I’m sad, happy, or lonely, I sing. I even make up songs for my dogs whenever I’m bathing them. That’s how passionate I am about singing.
I guess my greatest achievement in singing so far was having the chance to showcase it with my lovely coworkers at the year-end party 2024. I was anxious about it and even wanted to quit on the same day as the competition. However, like my song “Don’t Stop Believing” , it became an anthem of hope, resilience, and the power of believing in yourself, no mattertheodds.
Music encourages me to keep moving forward, knowing that anything is possiblewiththerightmindset.
Why change is good,
and needed,
for the profession AICPA
Listen Now
Carla McCall, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of the firm AAFCPAs, began her one-year term as AICPA chair in May. In this JofA podcast episode, she said that "whirlwind" was a good description of the first few months in the role, "but in a good way."
"If you truly love what you do, somehow it doesn't seem so arduous and it goes by real quick," McCall said, labeling interactions with numerous people in the profession as "rewarding."
In this episode, McCall reflects on what she's learned about herself, why her firm has benefited from her "front-row seat," and her message to accountants about doing their part to grow the talent pipeline.
Optimize FAR Compliance with Vasquez + Company LLP
Are you capitalizing on opportunities from federally funded contracts?
Vasquez + Company LLP helps ensure your overhead rates align with FAR Part 31 standards, safeguarding compliance and unlocking profit potential
With a dedicated team, we leverage industry knowledge and cutting-edge technology to provide comprehensive FAR consulting solutions. From overhead rate audits and accounting system evaluations to DCAA audit assistance and project accounting outsourcing, we’re committed to supporting your government contract success.
Click here to read our FAR consulting brochure
Self-Care Strategies for the Busy Workweek
In today's fast-paced and demanding work culture, it's easy to forget the importance of self-care. With busy schedules, deadlines, and endless to-do lists, it's no surprise that self-care often takes a backseat. However, taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining emotional well-being, and it's important to incorporate self-care strategies into your busy workweek to avoid burnout and maintain overall health.
The Importance of Self-Care for Well-being at Work
Self-care is crucial for emotional well-being, and it's particularly important in the workplace When you neglect self-care, you can become overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious. This can lead to decreased productivity, decreased job satisfaction, and increased physical and emotional exhaustion. Incorporating self-care into your daily routine can help to combat these negative effects and improve your overall well-being.
Self-Care Strategies that can be Easily Incorporated into a Busy Workweek
Take breaks. It can be tempting to work straight through the day without taking breaks, but this can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. Instead, try taking short breaks every hour or so. Get up, stretch, and take a quick walk to clear your mind.
Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness can help you reduce stress and increase focus. You can practice mindfulness by taking a few minutes each day to meditate or simply pay attention to your breath. You can also practice mindfulness while doing everyday activities, such as washing dishes or taking a shower, by focusing on the sensations in your body and being present in the moment.
Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water is important for overall health and can help you stay focused and alert during the workday. Keep a water bottle at your desk and make sure to refill it throughout the day.
Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can lead to decreased productivity and increased stress. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and establish a consistent sleep routine to help you fall asleep more easily.
Connect with others. Social connections are important for mental health Make time to connect with friends or family, even if it's just a quick phone call or text message.
Engage in physical activity. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and boost mood. Find a type of exercise that you enjoy and try to incorporate it into your daily routine, even if it's just a quick walk or a few minutes of stretching.
Set boundaries. It's important to set boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain work-life balance. This can include setting specific work hours, turning off work-related notifications outside of those hours, and saying no to tasks or projects that don't align with your priorities.
Practice deep breathing. Deep breathing is a simple yet effective way to reduce stress and anxiety. Take a few deep breaths throughout the day, inhaling for a count of four and exhaling for a count of six. This can help you feel more calm and centered.
Plan healthy meals and snacks. Eating a healthy diet can help improve your mood and energy levels. Take the time to plan out healthy meals and snacks for the workweek, and bring them with you to work. This can help you avoid the temptation to grab unhealthy snacks or fast food on the go.
Practice gratitude. Practicing gratitude can help shift your focus from what's going wrong to what's going right. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on things you're grateful for, whether it's a supportive friend or a sunny day outside.
Practice self-compassion. It's easy to be hard on ourselves, especially when we're feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a good friend.
Set realistic goals. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to feelings of failure and stress. Instead, set realistic goals that you can achieve, and break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Take a technology break. Constantly checking emails and social media can be exhausting. Take a break from technology by turning off your phone or computer for a few hours, or setting aside designated times for checking and responding to messages.
Try aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. If your workplace allows it (some may not), try using a diffuser with essential oils like lavender or chamomile in your workspace to help create a calming atmosphere.
Create a calming workspace. Your workspace can have a big impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Try adding plants, photos, or other items that bring you joy and help create a calming atmosphere.
Take a power nap. Sometimes a short nap can be just what you need to recharge and boost productivity. Try taking a 20-minute power nap during your lunch break or a quick break during the day.
Engage in a creative hobby. Engaging in a creative hobby, such as painting, writing, or knitting, can help reduce stress and promote mindfulness.
Make time. for a creative activity that you enjoy outside of work.
Take a mindful walk. Instead of rushing through your daily walk or commute, try practicing mindfulness by paying attention to your surroundings and focusing on your breath. This can help reduce stress and promote mental clarity.
Schedule a self-care date. Set aside time for a self-care date with yourself, whether it's getting a massage, a manicure, taking a yoga class, or simply treating yourself to a favorite meal. Make this a regular practice to prioritize your own well-being
Practice positive affirmations. Positive affirmations can help shift your mindset and promote self-confidence. Try repeating positive affirmations to yourself throughout the day, such as "I am capable and confident" or "I am deserving of self-care and relaxation."
Self-care is essential for well-being, and it's important to incorporate self-care strategies into your busy workweek to avoid burnout and maintain overall health. By implementing self-care strategies, you can help reduce stress, improve your overall well-being and thrive in the workplace.
Copyright © 2024 LifeCare, Inc. All rights reserved.
This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.
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How to become a CMA
Hold an active IMA membership
Complete and pass Parts 1 and 2 of the CMA Exam
Hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university or a related professional certification
Have two continuous years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management
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Philippines USA
ENTRY LEVEL
ENTRY LEVEL
Noteworthy Dates
1
NEW YEAR'S DAY
Happy New Year Everyone!
20 MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY
Honoring the achievements of Martin Luther King, Jr.
14
VALENTINE'S DAY
Observed in honor of St. Valentine as a day for the exchange of valentines and other tokens of affection.
PRESIDENTS DAY
A federal holiday primarily honoring the lives and accomplishments of U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln but has been expanded to include the honoring all U.S. Presidents. 17
9 DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME
Note that not all areas of the U.S. observe Daylight Saving Time, such as Hawaii and most of Arizona. To confirm if your area or a client’s area observes this change, visit a reliable source like timeanddate.com.
See what our clients are saying
I’m pleased to write this positive testimonial for a junior accountant at Vasquez who consistently exceeds expectations. Since joining as a contractor, she has shown professionalism, reliability, and strong attention to detail Her ability to handle multiple projects accurately has been invaluable, and her eagerness to take on new challenges truly stands out An outstanding team member and talented accountant!
Atchley & Associates, LLP
I want to extend a BIG thank you for the tremendous effort and dedication! We genuinely appreciate your hard work in getting us across the finish line
Larson Gross - Accountants, CPAs & Business Consultants
We thank you all for your teams’ valuable work ethics! Great team effort!
South Central Family Health Center
It's always a pleasure working with the entire team.
Arizona Water Company
