Several of our business clients in Florida have been the target of a recent scam and we felt that it was important to notify you of this potential threat.  Our clients received a very official looking letter from “Compliance Services” requesting an “Annual Minutes Requirement Statement”.  The form is populated with corporation information that is very accurate and states that a $125.00 fee must be sent as well.  The Division of Corporations has confirmed that it is a scam and the PO Box where the information is to be sent is a UPS box that forwards all mail to California.  This scam alert has also been posted on Sunbiz.org.  If you have any questions, please contact your local Hill, Barth and King professional.

The accounting and business consulting firms of Hill, Barth & King LLC (HBK) and Gilbert, Wallace, Stewart, Stramel & Sowers, P.A. (GWSSS) announced that they have signed an agreement to merge effective November 1, 2010.

The staff from the iconic Fort Myers firm GWSSS (in business since 1948), will relocate to HBK’s Fort Myers office. Not only will this move increase the breadth of talent of the firm and add more depth to their presence in Southwest Florida, it will prepare the firm for the impending economic growth.

“HBK’s resources will enable us to provide options and specialized services that our growing clients need,” said Sowers. “The depth of services HBK’s Tax Department offers, including estate planning, will enable us to continue to exceed client expectations”. Stramel agrees, stating “Our team is excited about joining HBK and we will continue in the future to provide our clients with the personal attention they have come to expect. Additionally, HBK Sorce Financial LLC investment, advisory and financial planning experience will allow our clients additional opportunities to meet their financial goals.”

“This merger was about as close to a perfect fit as you can get. Both HBK and GWSSS have similar philosophies of a culture based on strong values and building trusting, long lasting relationships with our clients,” Chris Allegretti, HBK’s Managing Principal and Chief Executive Officer states, “Our clients benefit from the collective experience of our industry groups which include construction, healthcare, condominium/homeowner associations and family-owned businesses. Our teams are focused on developing industry capabilities, attracting top people and continually building value for our clients.”

HBK ranks as the 71st largest accounting firm in the United States. With the addition of Gilbert, Wallace, Stewart, Stramel & Sowers, P.A., HBK and HBK Sorce Financial employ over 280 professional and support staff, who serve clients in offices located throughout Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania.