News

Ninety-One Not-for-Profit Organizations Compete to Win $25,000 in Blackman Kallick Plante Moran's Chicago Community Champions Contest

2012-07-23T13:19:24Z

Contact:
Margarita Wagerson
248.223.3469
margarita.wagerson@plantemoran.com

Press Release – For Immediate Release
July 23, 2012

The first round of voting is open and the winner will be decided by the most online votes.

(Chicago, IL) – Blackman Kallick Plante Moran, the newly-merged sixth largest accounting firm in Chicago, announced today the first round of online voting is open for its Chicago Community Champions donation contest where 91 Chicago-area not-for-profit organizations are competing to win a $25,000 award and to raise visibility for their causes.

The participating not-for-profit organizations would use the award to support community causes such as arts and culture, education, youth development, environment, social services, or community development. Supporters can review the organizations' missions, see how they plan to use the award, and vote at bkmerger.plantemoran.com and click "Chicago Community Champions" at the top of the page.

Voting for the Chicago Community Champion will run in three rounds. The first round begins July 23 and ends August 3 at noon. The top 20 candidates will advance to a second round that runs from August 6 at 8 a.m. and ends August 10 at noon. Votes do not accumulate from the previous round. A third and final round of voting for the top 10 candidates will open on August 13 at 8 a.m. and close on August 17 at noon. All times are Central Daylight Time. The winner will be announced on August 20.

The participating organizations completed a self-nomination process and are:

Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc.
Adler Planetarium
Advocate Charitable Foundation
Alain Locke Initiative
Albany Park Community Center
Almost Home Kids
Alzheimer's Association, Greater Illinois Chapter
American Cancer Society, Illinois Division, Inc.
American Friends of the Israel Sport Center for the Disabled
Anderson Animal Shelter
ARK
Atia's Project Ladybug Fund
Bernie's Book Bank
Big Shoulders Fund
Boys & Girls Club of Elgin
Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School
Cathedral Shelter of Chicago
Center for Economic Progress
Chicago Architecture Foundation
Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Cares
Chicago Classical Recording Foundation
Chicago Opera Theater
Chicago Public Media
Chicago Sinfonietta
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Children's Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County
Children's Home + Aid
Children's Research Fund (f/k/a Medical Research Institute Council)
Child's Voice
Chinese Fine Arts Society (CFAS)
Christian Brother Services
Clean Energy Trust
Common Threads
Community Counseling Centers of Chicago (C4)
Connections for Abused Women and their Children
Connections for the Homeless
Creative Go-Round
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago
Erasing the Distance
Evanston History Center
Free Spirit Media
Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance
Generation Mirror
Great Books Foundation
Hektoen Institute
Hispanic Housing Development Corp.
Holiday Heroes Foundation
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
IMD Guest House Foundation
Infant Welfare Society of Chicago
Inspiration Corporation
Irish Music School of Chicago
Japan America Society of Chicago
Jewish Council for Youth Services
Jumpstart for Young Children
K.I.D.S.S. for Kids
KEEN Chicago
Kohl Children's Museum of Greater Chicago
LEARN Charter School Network
Lumity
Luna Negra Dance Theater
Mended Little Hearts of Chicago
Merit School of Music
Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago
National Able Network
National Football Foundation - Chicago Metro Chapter
National Latino Education Institute (NLEI)
Northwestern Memorial Hospital Physicians Group (NMPG)
One Hundred Club of Cook County (DBA 100 Club of Chicago)
One Million Degrees (formally Illinois Education Foundation)
Pioneer Center for Human Services
Posse Foundation
Ravinia Festival Association
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and NW Indiana
Seguin Services, Inc
Special Olympics Illinois
Steppenwolf Theatre Company
Strawdog Theatre Company
Thresholds
TRI Industries, NFP
Trilogy Inc.
U.S. Green Building Council - Illinois Chapter
Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
United Way of Elgin
Wounded Heroes Foundation
WTTW
Youth Job Center
YWCA Elgin
YWCA Metropolitan Chicago

Visit bkmerger.plantemoran.com for short summaries and mission statements for each candidate and access to the organizations' websites for more background. Voters are encouraged to visit the Chicago Community Champions page as often as they would like, and vote for the not-for-profit organization they would like to see continue to the next round.

About Plante Moran

Plante Moran is among the nation's largest certified public accounting and business advisory firms, providing clients with tax, audit, risk management, financial, technology, business consulting, and wealth management services. Plante Moran has a staff of more than 2,000 professionals throughout Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois with international offices in Shanghai, China; Monterrey, Mexico; and Mumbai, India. Plante Moran has been recognized by a number of organizations, including FORTUNE magazine, as one of the country's best places to work. Effective July 1, 2012 the partners and staff of Blackman Kallick joined Plante Moran.

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Blackman Kallick Plante Moran Launches Chicago Community Champions Donation Contest

2012-07-09T18:32:10Z

Contact:
Margarita Wagerson
248.223.3469
margarita.wagerson@plantemoran.com

Press Release – For Immediate Release
July 9, 2012

(Chicago, IL) – To thank the Chicago-area community for its support and to celebrate its recent merger, Blackman Kallick Plante Moran is launching an online contest to help Chicago-area not-for-profit organizations raise their visiblity and compete for a $25,000 award.

To be eligible, organizations must have a valid 501 (c)(3) status over the duration of the contest and plan to use the funds in the counties of McHenry, Lake, Kane, Dupage, Cook, Kendall, Will, Grundy, and Kankakee. Moreover, the award must be used to benefit one of these categories: arts and culture, education, youth development, environment, social services, or community development.

Organizations must first nominate themselves between 8 a.m. (CDT), July 9 and noon (CDT), July 18. Applying organizations will be asked to summarize their mission, provide a logo, and describe how the award will be used.

“We’re eager to continue the positive momentum of our merger and support the Chicago community,” said Steve Schneider, managing partner and leader of the newly joined Blackman Kallick Plante Moran offices in downtown Chicago. “We’re thrilled to launch this contest to benefit Chicago area not-for-profit organizations, which underscores our commitment to local businesses and the community.”

The first round of voting will begin July 23. The top 20 candidates will advance to a second round that starts August 6. (Votes do not accumulate from the previous round.) A third and final round of top 10 candidates will run 8 a.m., August 13 through noon, August 17. A winner will be announced August 20.

The merger of Plante Moran and Blackman Kallick on July 1 created the sixth largest accounting firm in Chicago with three local offices serving more than 5,000 clients, primarily in the manufacturing, real estate and construction, financial institutions, private equity and venture capital, not-for-profit, services and technology industries.

“There are many deserving not-for-profit organizations and philanthropic causes to support in Chicago,” Schneider said. ”Through this program, we hope to give back to a community that’s given much to us throughout the years. We couldn’t think of a better time to leverage the combined strength and networks of both firms.”

For more information about Chicago Community Champions, visit bkmerger.plantemoran.com

About Plante Moran

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Kinder and Montague on First Business News

2012-07-05T17:13:41Z

Tom Kinder and Chris Montague of Blackman Kallick Plante Moran were interviewed on First Business News "Cover Story: Not Manufacturing Jobs." Tom and Chris spoke on the recovery and hiring in the manufacturing industry.

View more videos at firstbusinessnews.com

McNally Quoted by Construction Business Owner, "Special Report: State of the Construction Financial Industry"

2012-06-28T15:41:11Z

Pat McNally, Partner in Charge of Blackman Kallick's Corporate Finance Group, is quoted in the June 2012 issue of Construction Business Owner. The article, "Special Report: State of the Construction Financial Industry" is a round-up of professions in the industry. An excerpt from the article is below.

What issues should a contractor consider when planning for business succession?

You need to start planning years in advance to maximize what you will receive and to increase the likelihood that the business you spent years building will survive. … If you are the owner of a closely-held business and want to be able to retire, you need to have a management team in place that runs the business and functions without your day-to-day involvement. Otherwise, the value of the business is dependent on you, and the value you receive in a sale will be lower because a buyer is afraid the business will not function without you. However, if you have a solid management team in place that has demonstrated an ability to run the business profitably over a period of time, you will have increased the value you will receive.

Read complete article at constructionbusinessowner.com

Langham Presents VC of the Year at the Moxie Awards

2012-06-28T15:09:21Z

Brian Langham, leader of Blackman Kallick’s Emerging Enterprises and Technology practice, prestented Paul Lee, Partner at Lightbank, with the Venture Capitalist of the Year Moxie Award. The Moxie Awards, presented by Built In Chicago and New World Ventures, celebrated the best in digital across the Chicagoland area. Winners were announced live at The Moxie Awards on June 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Park West in Chicago.

VC of the Year Video

Read a complete recap of the Moxie Awards at builtinchicago.org

Plante Moran and Blackman Kallick to Merge

2012-06-26T13:29:32Z

Contact:
Margarita Wagerson
248.223.3469
margarita.wagerson@plantemoran.com

Press Release – For Immediate Release
June 26, 2012

(Chicago, IL) – Hydrogen and oxygen are essential elements and together they make a big splash. The same can be said for the merger of Plante Moran and Blackman Kallick, two of the nation’s most well-respected accounting, tax and consulting firms who are making a big splash in Chicago.

Plante Moran and Blackman Kallick, LLP, announced today they will merge effective July 1, 2012 to form Chicago’s leading firm focused on the needs of Midwest middle-market companies.

The combined firm will be the seventh largest accounting firm in Chicago with three local offices serving more than 5,000 clients, primarily in the manufacturing, real estate and construction, financial institutions, private equity and venture capital, not-for-profit, services and technology industries.

“When I think about this merger, I can’t help but think about the synergy it creates,” said Plante Moran managing partner Gordon Krater. “The combination strengthens both firms beyond the market leadership position they currently enjoy and raises the bar to create Chicago’s preeminent accounting, tax, and consulting firm for clients and staff. It’s incredibly exciting.”

“Middle-market companies are a leading indicator of America’s future competitiveness,” Krater added. “Middle-market companies today require a higher level of sophistication and expertise in dealing with the complex issues they face as they expand globally, meet new competitors, grapple with financing alternatives, and plan for succession. Our combination establishes us as a top resource in Chicago focused on this vital middle-market segment.”

Plante Moran and Blackman Kallick have served business leaders throughout the Midwest for nearly 140 years combined. Together, they will employ 2,000 staff members in 22 offices in Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio and three offices internationally. Combined revenue for both firms in 2011 was approximately $375 million.

Steven Schneider, managing partner for Blackman Kallick, will oversee the newly joined offices in downtown Chicago.

“Through this agreement, we are reinforcing our long-standing and strong commitment to Chicago businesses, our staff, and the community,” Schneider said. “Chicago is poised, at this moment, for incredible growth as well as increased global recognition as an economic engine. By means of this merger, we are even better positioned to help our clients, both present and future, take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

Several organizations and media outlets have recognized both firms’ cultures and management. Plante Moran has been named one of the best places to work by FORTUNE for 14 years in a row, and locally by Crain’s Chicago Business in 2012 as a best place to work and a best place to work for women. Additionally, Inside Public Accounting named Blackman Kallick as a “Best of the Best” firm each of the last five years.

For more information, visit bkmerger.plantemoran.com

About Plante Moran

Plante Moran is among the nation’s largest certified public accounting and business advisory firms, providing clients with tax, audit, risk management, financial, technology, business consulting, and wealth management services. Plante Moran has a staff of more than 1,700 professionals throughout Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois with international offices in Shanghai, China; Monterrey, Mexico; and Mumbai, India. Plante Moran has been recognized by a number of organizations, including FORTUNE magazine, as one of the country’s best places to work.

About Blackman Kallick

Blackman Kallick provides audit, tax, and consulting services for privately held and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1962, Blackman Kallick is the ninth largest accounting and consulting firm in Chicago (Crain’s Chicago Business, October 17, 2011), and employs more than 220 professionals. Specialized industry practices include Emerging Enterprises and Technology, Manufacturing and Distribution, Construction, Family Office, Food, Hospitality, Insurance, Not-for-Profit, Private Equity and Venture Capital, Real Estate, and Healthcare Services. Blackman Kallick combines sophisticated, market-leading services with an accessible and personal approach.

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Crain's Chicago Business Quotes Blumenthal in "Families jump into the PE pool"

2012-05-30T15:21:09Z

Mark Blumenthal, Partner, Chairman of Blackman Kallick's Family Office Service Group, and Co-Chairman of Blackman Kallick's Private Equity and Venture Capital Group, was quoted in "Families jump into the PE pool," an article published in the May 28, 2012 issue of Crain's Chicago Business. Below is an excerpt from the article:

But, like private-equity investors in general, family offices are impatient with low returns elsewhere and are peopled with entrepreneurs who still have the itch to run companies.

“There are a lot of folks who just want to be in the hunt,” says Mark Blumenthal, a partner at Chicago accounting firm Blackman Kallick LLP. “There's been a lot of liquidity events in the last 10 or 15 years, and they weren't ready to retire.”

Read the complete article at chicagobusiness.com.

Blackman Kallick Participates in the 2012 JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challenge

2012-05-30T13:36:52Z

Blackman Kallick employees participated in the JPMorgan Chase & Co. Corporate Challenge in downtown Chicago on May 24, 2012. The annual three-and-a-half-mile race had a capacity crowd of 23,000 runners from over 600 companies.

“This year’s turnout was the highest since the firm began participating in the race,” said Trent Biederman, CPA, Audit Manager and Blackman Kallick Team Captain. “It was a great way for Blackman to get together and enjoy a run through downtown Chicago.”

This was the fifth year of Blackman's participation in the event and 37 employees joined the race.

Built in Chicago Announces Langham as a Judge for The First Annual Moxie Awards

2012-05-23T21:19:29Z

Brian Langham, leader of Blackman Kallick’s Emerging Enterprises and Technology practice, joins the panel of judges for the First Annual Moxie Awards. The Moxie Awards, presented by Built In Chicago and New World Ventures, celebrate the best in digital across the Chicagoland area.

Winners will be announced live at The Moxie Awards on June 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Park West in Chicago. Early access tickets to The Moxie Awards are now on sale: register today.

Trapp Speaks at the 31st Annual Conference on Not-For-Profit Organizations

2012-05-23T20:38:07Z

Lu Ann Trapp, Tax Manager at Blackman Kallick presents a "Form 990 Update" at the IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law – 31st Annual Conference on Not-For-Profit Organizations. The session will provide an overview of the 2011 Form 990 changes, focus on some of the more complex areas, provide helpful hints and tips to preparers and users, and will include some discussion on the new Schedule H implementation. The Annual Conference on Not-For-Profit Organizations is a one-day seminar is designed for experienced attorneys, accountants, not-for-profit executives and staff, and board members.

Date: Thursday, June 7, 2012

Chicago-Kent College of Law
565 West Adams Street
Chicago, IL

Fore more information on the conference visit cle.kentlaw.edu.

Langham Joins the First Annual Moxie Award Nominating Committee

2012-05-04T21:34:24Z

Brian Langham, leader of Blackman Kallick’s Emerging Enterprises and Technology practice, joins the nominating committee of the First Annual Moxie Awards. The Moxie Awards, presented by Built In Chicago and New World Ventures, celebrate the best in digital across the Chicagoland area. Anyone may submit their nominations by completing an online form at moxieawards.builtinchicago.org. (Be sure to consider "Blackman Kallick" as Best Service Provider.)

Winners will be announced live at The Moxie Awards on June 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Park West in Chicago.

Egelston Speaks at 6th Annual National Errors & Omissions Insurance ExecuSummit

2012-05-04T20:19:07Z

Amy Egelston, Senior Manager in Blackman Kallick’s Forensic and Litigation Practice, and Leader of the Intellectual Property and Licensing Contract Compliance Consulting, presents at the 6th Annual National Errors & Omissions Insurance ExecuSummit. The ExecuSummit takes place at Mohegan Sun Resort & Convention Center in Uncasville, CT on June 13-14, 2012. Amy joins fellow E&O experts on a panel to present on the subject of the "Keeping Damages Down - High Exposure E&O Claims." Conference attendees include attorneys and insurance professionals practicing in the professional liability arena.

For more information and registration visit the ExecuSummit's website at summit-06.com.

Egelston Speaks at ICPAS O'Hare Chapter

2012-05-04T20:08:04Z

Amy Egelston, Senior Manager in Blackman Kallick’s Forensic and Litigation Practice, and Leader of the Intellectual Property and Licensing Contract Compliance Consulting, presents "Overview of the 2010 Financial Reform Bill - Dodd Frank Act” at the Illinois CPA Society O'Hare Chapter on Wednesday, May 16, 2012. This presentation includes how new regulations have impacted the accounting, banking and securities industries. The presentation will also cover auditor quality and investor protection, current SEC and PCAOB activities, the Dodd-Frank Act and how it impacts the accounting profession, as well as current SEC and PCAOB enforcement actions related to frauds as a result of the financial meltdown.

Date: Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location: Chandler's at Schaumburg Golf Club
401 N Roselle Rd, Schaumburg, IL

Cost: $35 if registered in advance by May 8th
Cost at Door: $40 (includes dinner and CPE)

To register email Doris Johnson at ICPAS_ohare@hotmail.com by Tuesday, May 8, 2012.

View complete event overview

Dertz, Rouse, and Youngren Speak at the Delta Dental Conference

2012-04-27T21:23:30Z

Jeffery A. Dertz , Andrew L. Rouse and Douglas J. Youngren, members of Blackman Kallick’s Insurance Practice, presented at the at the 2012 Delta Dental Underwriting, Actuarial and CFO Conference on Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Jeff and Doug presented “SSAP 101 Affects Insurance Companies” which provided an overview of SSAP 101 Accounting for Income Taxes as recently adopted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Andrew presented "How to Use Your iPad for Business" a live, interactive demonstration of the most popular business applications for iPad and their practical uses.

Read Andrew Rouse's "Using Your iPad for Business: Greater Portability, Flexibility, and Organization. Fewer Trees."

Blackman Insurance Team Exhibits at IASA 2012 Annual Conference

2012-04-19T21:08:10Z

The IASA 2012 Annual Educational Conference and Business Show, taking place June 3-6, 2012 at the San Diego Concentrion Center in San Diego, California, provides a comprehensive educational program and business show targeted for financial and technology professionals in the insurance and financial services industry.

Blackman Kallick will once again be exhibiting at the conference. Visit at booth #129 to enter to win a third-generation iPad and chat with members of Blackman's Insurance Group about new accounting rules and how they affect your business. Our insurance partners are thought leaders on topics like iCOLI policies, SSAP 101 and SSAP 10R, and reinsurance.

Blackman Kallick's Insurance Practice provides audit, tax compliance, and consulting services for insurance and reinsurance companies, insurance brokers and agents, managing general agents, and premium finance companies within the property and casualty, life, accident and health, title, and warranty industries.