Conner Ash News

Jim Gentry, CPA was selected by Small Business Monthly as one of the "100 St. Louisans You Should Know to Succeed in Business."

Like most professionals in the public accounting industry, Conner Ash team members are especially busy during tax season each year. To keep everyone fresh and energized, the firm recently hosted a pancake breakfast facilitated by Chris Cakes of St. Louis. Conner Ash also holds "3 O'Clock Fun Time" gatherings once a week during busy season, which involve various team-building events.

Conner Ash is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Louis W. Fields, Jr. With all 33 years of his professional career at Conner Ash, Lou was cherished by his colleagues and clients alike. After joining the firm in 1979, Lou became a partner in 1999. He chaired the Team Trucking and Business Valuation practices, and was also active in several professional associations. Lou was esteemed for his knowledge of the transportation industry and earned a reputation of being the "go to" person for trucking clients and associates. He was also highly regarded for his skill in business valuation engagements for use in business succession and tax compliance environments. In addition to his witty sense of humor, Lou was admired by his colleagues for his level of knowledge, client service and dedication to Conner Ash. The firm will dearly miss Lou.

Conner Ash has been recognized as one of the top 20 largest CPA firms in St. Louis by the St. Louis Business Journal. With 20 in-house certified public accountants, Conner Ash moved up 2 spots from their 2012 ranking.

Conner Ash announces the retirement of Louis W. Fields, Jr. Lou, a partner in the Assurance Services Department, was the chair of the Team Trucking practice group. Lou joined Conner Ash in 1979 and became a partner in 1999. In addition to his assurance services responsibilities, Lou, an ABV, chaired the Business Valuation group.

Conner Ash sponsored a business roundtable for trucking executives on December 14, 2012. The roundtable format allows some of St. Louis’ top trucking companies to learn about and discuss current issues that present challenges and opportunities for their businesses.

Jack Schurk has joined Conner Ash as the newest member of its growing team. As an associate in the assurance services department, Jack will focus on providing audit, analysis, and reporting services to clients in the transportation, manufacturing, and distribution industries.

On November 12th Conner Ash welcomed Julie Atchley as the newest member of the firm. As a Staff Accountant in the Business Services Department, Julie will focus on accounting and tax preparation services for a variety of closely-held businesses. Prior to joining Conner Ash, Julie worked as a staff accountant with a CPA firm in northern Missouri.

In honor of breast cancer awareness month, Conner Ash team members supported the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation by having a "wear pink day" at the office. Additionally, Conner Ash raised over $175 in donations for the foundation and distributed information to make us all more aware and knowledgeable about breast cancer and the fight for a cure.

Leilah Shabazaz, CPA, has been promoted to In-Charge Associate in the business services and tax department. Leilah earned her CPA designation in 2011 and is responsible for preparing a variety of federal and state tax returns, and compiling financial statements.