News Releases • VonLehman CPA & Advisory Firm: Cincinnati, Ohio / Northern Kentucky

VonLehman's Adam Davey Talks Business, VonLehman New Hires, VonLehman's Harper Writes on Real Estate

admin@localhost.sk — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:39:30 -0600

CINCINNATI, OH January 26, 2012 – VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm has joined other regional leading professional services firms to help launch “Business Made Simple,” a straight-forward business talk show program focused on regional and general-interest business issues and broadcast on Insight Cable in Northern Kentucky. Adam Davey, CPA, CVA and CFE was one of the program’s initial guests, discussing issues of business entity determination for new business owners. The focus of the show will be timely business topics, with the initial programs in 2012 addressing start-up issues. Rick Robinson of Graydon Head & Ritchey LLP was moderator, and along with VonLehman’s Davey, insight was provided on capital issues by Mickey Fritz, a Financial Advisor with Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc. VonLehman will offer start-up business support materials for each program, available via email or via www.vlcpa.com. According to Davey, “Starting a business is exciting, but VonLehman always encourages clients to do their homework thoroughly up-front, so that they can focus on the daily business later on, not fixing entity or similar start-up issues. Completing that work at the beginning makes business ownership a bit less stressful. Shows like ‘Business Made Simple’ are great for getting that important message out to our community.”

VonLehman has hired several new staff members, including Patricia Meyers and Katy Wenstrup-McFalls. Patricia “Tricia” Meyers graduated from Seton Hall University in New Jersey and worked for a global accounting and business advisory firm in New York City for several years before returning to the Cincinnati area. Tricia has extensive audit experience in fraud, investigation and dispute service. Katy Wenstrup-McFalls graduated from Thomas More College, was licensed as s CPA in November, 2011 and has extensive regional experience working with both private and public companies in a number of industries.

VonLehman’s Joe Harper, CPA, was recently published in CPAMerica’s National Publication “Wealth Advisor,” in an article entitled, “Real Estate Investing, Do Your Homework First.” Even considering the volatile state of today’s volatile real estate market, Mr. Harper was glad to be asked to write on the topic. According to Joe, “I wrote the article to highlight the turn in real estate. Why wait until the recovery in real estate is half over to get back in the market. Watch the key indicators and plan accordingly.”

About VonLehman

Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy – including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See http://www.vlcpa.com for more information.

VonLehman's AlphaMark Ranks Well on Morningstar List

swarden@vlcpa.com — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:14:05 -0600

CINCINNATI, Ohio, November 8, 2011 -- VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, is pleased to announce that sister firm, AlphaMark Advisors, has been ranked well, yet again, by Morningstar. Morningstar ranked The AlphaMark Small Cap Growth Fund (AMSCX) in the top 17% YTD 2011 for all of the Small Cap Growth Funds that it follows and ranked AMSCX top 1% for year 2010!

VonLehman Tax Alert -- Ohio Tax Amnesty Program

swarden@vlcpa.com — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 11:40:58 -0600

CINCINNATI, OH, November, 9, 2011: VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, is announcing that The Ohio Legislature added an amnesty program to the State Budget Bill which was signed into law by Governor Kasich on June 30, 2011. The amnesty period will run from October 1, 2011 until May 1, 2013. Much has been written regarding the Department of Taxation’s focus on Ohio use tax over the last year. The Department believes that there are many small to medium size businesses which may have Ohio use tax that is not being reported to the State.

This amnesty program gives Ohio businesses that may be unaware of the use tax, the opportunity to report prior year’s use tax without incurring penalties or interest. Also a no-interest payment plan is available to those businesses with use tax liabilities that exceed $1,000. Those businesses that were registered for use tax prior to June 1, 2011 and are behind in meeting their use tax obligations may still avail themselves of amnesty however only penalty (not interest) will be waived and the no-interest payment plan is not available.

The Ohio Department of Taxation has developed a series of fact sheets explaining how use tax commonly applies in specific types of businesses such as construction contracting, manufacturing, retail and service related enterprises. The Department is also making presentations around the State regarding amnesty programs with a special focus on use tax.

If you are not familiar with use tax, it can be generally described as the flip side of sales tax. If a Company was not charged sales tax (such as from out of state purchases, inventory used in a non-exempt way originally purchased for resale, etc.) this could result in use tax due. Also certain services are taxed in Ohio and if the service provider does not charge sales tax, then the business should self assess and pay the applicable use tax.

For more information on the amnesty program, you can visit Ohio’s website, tax.ohio.gov. You can also find more information on this website as to what services are taxable within Ohio, what are typical taxable transactions, etc. In addition, we would be happy to assist and/or answer questions you may have regarding this amnesty program. Please contact Cheryl Rinaldi with any questions at (859)331-3300 or via email, crinaldi@vlcpa.com.

About VonLehman

Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. Locally owned, VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy – including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See http://www.vlcpa.com for more information.

VonLehman's Adam Davey Receives Award

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 10:03:14 -0500

Andy VonLehman Helps Raise $40K for The Point

swarden@vlcpa.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:00:22 -0500

CINCINNATI, OH, September, 6, 2011: VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, is pleased to announce that Andy VonLehman, Shareholder and former President of VonLehman, recently helped to raise $40K for The Point/The Arc of Northern Kentucky. VonLehman, who chaired the 21st Annual Golf Classic, hosted the event at the Triple Crown Club.

To review the original article in Cincinnati Express, click here.

About VonLehman

VonLehman’s Davey Named as “Forty Under 40,” Alphamark Funds Strong Despite Market Uncertainty

swarden@vlcpa.com — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:41:41 -0500

CINCINNATI, OH., August 29, 2011 – VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm is pleased to announce that Adam Davey, CPA, CVA and CFE has been named one of the Cincinnati Business Courier’s Forty Under 40 for 2011. Davey, a Shareholder at VonLehman, has been with the firm since 1994. The Courier’s “Forty Under 40” recognizes the Tri-State’s next generation of young leaders and innovators – people who have already made a mark professionally and in the community. According to Brian Malthouse, VonLehman’s President, Adam has been a leader at VonLehman since he began. “Adam is always ready to take on new challenges and brings a remarkable depth of expertise and commitment to every client engagement he becomes involved in. He also makes a huge difference in our community through his work on various boards such as the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Children’s Home of Northern Kentucky. We couldn’t be more proud of Adam’s many accomplishments.”

Alphamark Funds Strong Despite Market

AlphaMark Funds, a VonLehman sister company, has released its funds’ July 2011 results. The AlphaMark Small Cap Growth Fund continues to exhibit strong performance and is responding very well to the ever changing market conditions. As previously noted, the AlphaMark Funds employ a high quality earnings momentum at a reasonable cash-flow valuation strategy. Alphamark has been able to successfully navigate the headwinds over the last 2 years as well as produce significant gains as the momentum has turned.

About VonLehman

VonLehman Employees Recognized, AlphaMark Releases 2nd Quarter 2011 Economic Update

swarden@vlcpa.com — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 14:44:09 -0500

CINCINNATI, OH, July, 7, 2011: VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, is pleased to announce that two of its CPAs, Kris Morgan and Joe Harper, have been recognized for their expertise. VonLehman sister company, AlphaMark Advisors, is also pleased to announce strong performance results of its funds, and the release of it’s “2nd Quarter, 2011 Economic Update."

VonLehman’s Kris Morgan, CPA, has been chosen as a member of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Foundation, an organization “dedicated to developing a diverse group of leaders who serve as catalysts for a stronger community.” Kris has been named part of 2011’s “Leadership Northern Kentucky Class,” the 33rd class in the Chamber’s history. VonLehman has seven former graduates of the program on its current staff.

"Out of many qualified applicants, we have assembled a diverse group of individuals from throughout the region who, through their professional and community activities, have demonstrated a commitment to improve the quality of life for our region. The LNK program will prepare class members for more active involvement in community affairs through effective leadership," said Ruth A. Eger, Executive Director of the Northern Kentucky Leadership Foundation.

The Leadership Northern Kentucky program seeks to “provide the foundation for a lifelong commitment to leadership by creating awareness of key issues that affect the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati region and to challenge emerging as well as existing community leaders to bring positive changes to the community through informed leadership.” The program is eight months long, and features 50 members from varying business sectors in the region.

VonLehman’s Joe Harper, CPA, has been published in CPAmerica’s “Wealth Advisor,” with an article entitled, “Do Your Homework When Investing in Real Estate.” The national publication focuses on financial planning, estate planning and investment planning, and presents an in-depth look at retirement planning, stock portfolios, asset allocation, estate taxes and other issues involved in the accumulation of personal wealth.

AlphaMark Advisors has announced strong performance growth for both their Small Cap Growth Fund (AMSCX) with +32.64% per year over the last 2 years as of June 30, 2011, and their Large Cap Growth Fund (AMLCX) with 16.88% per year over the last 2 years as of June 30, 2011. “Both funds continue to exhibit strong performance and are responding very well to the ever-changing market conditions. We have been able to successfully navigate the headwinds over the last 2 years as well as produce significant gains as the momentum has turned,” says Michael Simon, CPA, CFA and President of AlphaMark Advisors.

About VonLehman
Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy – including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See http://www.vlcpa.com for more information.

VonLehman voted "Top Workplace" and Befriends Facebook

swarden@vlcpa.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:05:29 -0500

CINCINNATI, OH, June 20, 2011: VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, has been named one of the Cincinnati Enquirer's Top Workplaces survey. Placing in the top 20, at a solid #18, VonLehman launched their Facebook presence with the announcement.

Brian Malthouse, President of VonLehman adds, "I am thrilled that our employees feel VL is one of the Top Workplaces. This is a goal I set for the organization when I took over as President and we have worked very hard in earning our employees' vote of confidence. We are nowhere without our employees and I am very proud that our culture is working and being recognized. Thanks to every single employee of VonLehman.”

Lisa Prather, VonLehman’s Director of Human Resources says, “What an honor. Our employees are the reason VonLehman is such a great company. At every level of VonLehman, you find talented, committed people. We’re thrilled to know our employees think as much of us as we do of them. Thank you for this recognition, fellow employees.”

About VonLehman

Ohio Business ALERT: Ohio Use Tax Announcement (UTEP)

swarden@vlcpa.com — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 14:53:32 -0500

CINCINNATI, Ohio, June 1, 2011: VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, announced today thatThe Ohio Department of Taxation has announced its intention to audit or send a tax bill to any Ohio Company that is not registered for Ohio use tax. This process will begin this summer. If your Company is already registered for Ohio use tax, you don't need to read any further! Note that use tax is generally the flip side of sales tax. If a Company was not charged sales tax (such as from out of state purchases, inventory used in a non-exempt way orginally purchased for resale, etc.) this could result in use tax due. As the State knows there is virtually no buiness that is totally exempt from use tax.

The State of Ohio has combed their tax rolls for Ohio taxpayers registered for the CAT (Commercial Activity Tax), Ohio withholding tax, Ohio sales tax, etc. and found that there are 380,000 Ohio taxpayers who are not registered for Ohio use tax. They intend to send out letters starting August 1, 2011 to these targeted businesses. The letters will "encourage" the company to contact the Ohio Department of Taxation, self-assess the estimated use tax for the past four years and pay the use tax plus interest (no penalty) to the State.

If a company receives a letter and fails to respond, Ohio has said that they will audit the company or send a bill that estimates how much tax the company may owe and the company could be liable for up to seven years back tax plus penalty and interest.

The State of Ohio also has a voluntary disclosure program that a Company may avail itself of if they think they have use tax exposure. This program allows self-assessment of estimated use tax for the past three years (versus four) and payment of the tax plus interest (no penalty to the State). This program is available only if the Company has not been contacted. Therefore a Company that is contacted in August can not use this program. Between now and the date of contact, however, the voluntary disclosure program can be utilized.

Action Points:

1. Determine if your Company is registered for Ohio use tax. If so, you needn't do anything.
2. If your Company is not registered for Ohio use tax, review your potential exposure for the last four to seven years to determine if pre-emptive action is warranted.

We would be happy to assist and/or answer questions you may have regarding this forthcoming Ohio program. Please contact Cheryl Rinaldi (CRinaldi@vlcpa.com) with any questions at (859)331-3300.

VonLehman and Financial Resource Associates Join Forces

swarden@vlcpa.com — Tue, 17 May 2011 11:51:55 -0500

As in the Cincinnati Business Courier: VonLehman and Financial Resource Associates join forces, forming a unique Critical Business Planning service for regional companies.

CINCINNATI, Ohio, May 1, 2011: As of the early morning hours of April 28, 2011, VonLehman (http://www.vlcpa.com), a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm with 65 years of accounting and business strategy success and Financial Resource Associates, Inc. (http://www.finresource.com/), a leading regional crisis management and corporate finance firm with over 30 years of turnaround expertise and critical strategic business planning services, have combined their talents to form a first-in-region “Critical Business Planning” resource.

According to Brian Malthouse, President of Von Lehman, “businesses in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Region have needed this resource for years. We’ve finally found the right partner to make it a reality – our new Critical Business Planning team will allow comprehensive forward thinking – top-to-bottom strategic assessment of all critical business areas.” Adds Leonard Eppel, President of Financial Resource Associates, “As a business owner, recognizing your exact position, your true business situation, is critical to recognizing your choices – at any stage of a business’s life cycle. From there, you build a strategy and plan your future. Our expertise alongside VonLehman’s is a powerful combination and a first for this business region.”

Critical Business Planning Team is FIRST of its kind in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Market\
Allows business owners at any stage of their life cycle to assess their situation and make strategic choices
VonLehman and Financial Resource Associates are joining forces, pooling talents

Critical Business Planning Services – include, but are not limited to:

* Comprehensive Business Assessment
* Business Evaluation
* Turnaround Services
* Crisis Management
* Negotiation Advisory Services
* Expert Witness Services
* Early Stage Recognition of:
* Recovery-Environment specific business factors impacting growth
- potential growth inhibitors
- potential growth opportunities

AlphaMark Quarterly: Market Counters One-Two Punch with Resiliency

admin@localhost.sk — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:24:28 -0500

VonLehman's AlphaMark Releases Quarterly Economic Update

CINCINNATI, April 14, 2011: VonLehman’s sister company, AlphaMark Advisors, a recently-named "Category King" by the Wall Street Journal for its AMSCX Small Cap Growth Fund, has released its "AlphaMark First Quarter, 2011 Economic Update." To download a PDF of this Update with supporting graphs, please click HERE.

The Market Counters One-Two Punch with Resiliency
During the first quarter of 2011, there were many opportunities to question one’s rationale for investing in the stock market. The Mid-East has seen significant turmoil and conflict resulting from unrest amongst its people. Oil prices have risen significantly during the quarter as a result. A devastating earthquake/tsunami hit Japan causing widespread devastation and loss of life. In addition, damaged nuclear reactors threatened the safety of Japan and surrounding areas. It seemed as if there was no end to the bad news. With all of this bad news the stock market recorded its best first quarter since 1998! The S&P 500 was up 5.92% for the first quarter of 2011. It almost seems unthinkable, but there it is. Some of the reasons for this resiliency may give us clues as to what the rest of the year may look like.

Middle East: Bad News or Good News
In January, Tunisian president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali resigned after widespread protests. The people were frustrated with economic conditions, corruption and unemployment. This unrest spread across the region forcing out Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak and igniting a serious conflict in Libya. Any time that there is conflict in the Middle East the price of oil rises. The world economy is very sensitive to the price of oil and the strain of increased prices was sure to put a dent in the global economy. No doubt global growth would have been stronger had the price of oil remained subdued. Looking forward over the next 6 months, we suspect that leadership in Libya will change, stabilization in the region will occur and as more control of the natural resources of the area goes to less corrupt governments, the price of oil will fall. Over the next few years the long term effect of these changes will only be a good thing if new leadership is truly for the people. One of the goals of Al-Qaeda is to overthrow those dictatorships and monarchies in the Middle East that have pro-western ties. The revolts are obviously happening, however, the people are not interested in a Taliban style government. The revolts are not about replacing one regime with a new regime, but more about change to give the people more say and power. This should ultimately lead to less corruption and more stability. So, the recent events in the Middle East are very possibly a good thing short term and long term. The US has its hands full with Afghanistan and has offered limited help and no desire to take leadership on the events unfolding in Libya. This too, is also a welcome change as the rest of the world can see how it feels to play the martyr. Over the long term, this should help bolster US/global relations.

Japan and the Aftermath
The earthquake/tsunami and the aftermath are truly tragic for the Japanese people. The loss of life and the nuclear fears were horrific to watch as the events unfolded on the news. It looks as if the immediate fears of nuclear Armageddon has abated and Japan is moving towards finding the path to rebuild and trying to get back to business as usual over the next few years. The short term economic effect will likely be a drop in Japan’s GDP of roughly 0.5% for 2011 because of the loss of manufacturing activity for auto and technology. Over the long term the World Bank has stated that the rebuilding costs will likely approach $235 billion. Japan has been stuck in a deflationary environment. The possibility of some sort of inflation relating to a massive rebuilding program may be a good thing for Japan. As one of the world’s largest economies, it is a long term benefit to the world if Japan can find a silver lining in this very dark cloud that has caused so much pain and devastation.

Why was the market able to rebound?
We hate to be repetitive, but the US economy is doing fairly well, with the exception of housing and construction. These two areas of the economy have yet to see a sustainable recovery. The March jobs report was stronger than expected, with the private sector adding 230,000 jobs in March following an increase of 240,000 jobs in February. Although the report was very positive, there were still job cuts made by state and local governments as they are grappling with their budgets. The unemployment rate stands at 8.8 percent, down significantly from the recession high of over 10%. Amazingly, the aforementioned global crises did not seem to significantly deter US employment additions. Without any doubt, these numbers would have been far stronger if the ensuing recovery had not been interrupted by these events. We watch both the Payroll Report as well as the ISM report to get a gauge on economic activity and whether or not we are comfortable with current and future conditions. Both of these reports are showing significant strength and momentum. Any reading above 50 on the ISM Index indicates an expanding manufacturing environment. Although the ISM Index does not account for the service side of the economy, it has been a very useful tool in predicting overall economic activity. Even after ups and downs during the first quarter of 2011, the US economy is still on a path of economic recovery. We are confident that there will be a return to high quality investing and our strategies weigh heavily towards owning high quality companies that are experiencing earnings momentum. As the recovery continues and businesses are experiencing stronger growth, we look forward to watching our investments flourish. We have positioned investments to take advantage of the recovery and will continue to monitor and seek out the best possible companies.

About AlphaMark Advisors
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the AlphaMark Funds, please call Michael Simon at 859-957-1803 or email at msimon@alphmarkadvisors.com.

About VonLehman
Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy – including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See http://www.vlcpa.com for more information.

VonLehman Hires Kautz as COO

swarden@vlcpa.com — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:35:50 -0500

CINCINNATI, OH., March 21, 2011 – VonLehman, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm has hired Patty Kautz, CPA, as its Chief Operating Officer -- the first in the firm’s 65-year history. According to VonLehman President, Brian Malthouse, “With VonLehman’s continued growth and expanding service areas, it made sense to have someone exclusively overseeing and implementing growth strategies for our Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky operations. As both a CPA and a former client, Patty’s background was ideal.”

Ms. Kautz, a Youngstown native, has been an accounting professional in the Cincinnati business community since graduating from the University of Cincinnati in 1988. Her professional experience includes a decade of work as a CPA for a global accounting firm and thirteen years as Chief Financial Officer for privately-held Forge Lumber LLC. “I’ve respected VonLehman for years. I was always impressed with their teams’ service ethic and degree of expertise in any engagement we worked on together. It’s a pleasure to be working alongside those teams now.” Ms. Kautz is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants (OSCPA).

VonLehman HealthCare Expert Invited to Speak

swarden@vlcpa.com — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 12:37:47 -0600

CINCINNATI, OH, March 3, 2011: Dave Macke, FHFMA, MBA and Shareholder at VonLehman & Company has been invited to speak at the Midwest Care Alliance Conference in Dublin, Ohio. Mr. Macke, a nationally recognized expert on healthcare finance and Medicare/Medicaid cost reporting, will discuss Hospice & Home Care financial issues. According to Mr. Macke, "Home, Hospice & Palliative Care providers see their industry changing rapidly, and I'm glad to assist them by providing up-to-date information and financial strategies for cost reporting, so they can focus on the critical services they provide."

VonLehman Recognized Nationally

swarden@vlcpa.com — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 12:11:45 -0600

CINCINNATI, OH, February 21, 2011: VonLehman & Company, a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, announces several national recognitions of its expertise. Jamie Burns, CPA, CITP, has been designated by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) as a Certified Information Technology Professional. This credential requires a CPA to prove broad-based knowledge and real-world experience in core areas such as information assurance, internal controls, business improvement, data analytics and enhanced business reporting. CPAs with the CITP certification are recognized for technology expertise and the ability to bridge the gap between business and technology. According to Tom Ruberg, CPA and VonLehman Shareholder, “This certification underscores VonLehman’s forward thinking philosophy – both for our employees and our clients. Jamie’s training and expertise ensures that our clients’ technology, core systems and controls are designed to support their overall business strategy and add value going forward.”

VonLehman’s Dan Owens, CPA, MBA, CCIFP was also recently nominated for appointment to the Board of Trustees of the nationally-renowned Institute of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professionals (ICCIFP, see iccifp.org). Dan has published several articles for the ICCIFP, and is well known for his expertise in Construction accounting.

AlphaMark Ranks #1

VonLehman Sister Company, AlphaMark Advisors, is proud to announce that Morningstar has ranked AMSCX as the #1 Fund of all Small Cap Growth funds for the one-year period ended February 28th, 2011 and a top 6% Fund for the same year-to-date period.

VonLehman's AlphaMark is #1 in Small Cap Funds

swarden@vlcpa.com — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 09:53:14 -0600

AlphaMark Small Cap Growth Fund (AMSCX). As of 01/15/2011, the AMSCX is the #1 fund out of 749 small cap growth funds for the trailing 12 months according to Morningstar. Over the last 12 months AMSCX has returned 43.17%.

Many of the top performing small cap funds contain so many holdings that the only way to outperform is by making sector bets. The AlphaMark Small Cap Growth Fund has never relied on timing sectors. Our bottom up research, both quantitative and qualitative, has led to superior stock selection with less risk than a sector rotation strategy. AMSCX has been exceeding expectations as the quality small cap earnings rally continues. As you may remember, early in 2010, low quality small cap stocks had stolen the spotlight. As domestic and global economic troubles resurfaced, investors fled to quality. Although we believe that there are many positives in the economy, it is likely that fear and uncertainty will continue to dominate the investment landscape until there is proof of an employment comeback. During investing environments like this, it is prudent to invest in companies that have proven track records, are experiencing earnings momentum, have quality balance sheets and are priced at a level that will allow for future price appreciation. These are the traits of the companies that the AlphaMark Funds seek.

Investing
AlphaMark fund reaches top in 2010
Business Courier - by Steve Watkins , Courier Staff Reporter
Date: Friday, January 14, 2011, 6:00am EST

Last year was proof you can win big by going small.
AlphaMark Small Cap Growth Fund cranked out the biggest gain of any local mutual fund last year by investing in small stocks. The fund soared 38.1 percent. Not only did that trounce the S&P 500’s 15.1 percent gain including dividends, but the fund also handily beat the higher-performing small stock indexes. It topped the Russell 2000 Growth’s 29.1 percent return and the small-cap Russell 2000’s 26.9 percent gain.
Even more impressive: The fund ranked third among all U.S. small-cap growth funds last year, according to mutual fund analysis firm Lipper. It soared far ahead of the average peer fund, which rose 27.6 percent.
How did it do it? Start with Netflix Inc. The movie rental company’s stock rocketed 180 percent for the year. AlphaMark enjoyed practically all of that gain, holding the stock all year until December. It finally sold Netflix because the stock was no longer small. It grew to a $10 billion company.
“We usually buy under $2 billion,” said Michael Simon, the fund’s manager who is also founder and president of Fort Mitchell-based AlphaMark Advisors.
That wasn’t his only success story. He still holds Deckers Outdoor Corp. which makes Ugg boots. It surged 88 percent last year from AlphaMark’s March 8 buying point. Clothing designer Phillip-Van Heusen Corp. soared 78 percent.
Simon credits his concentrated stock portfolio for the fund’s success. He holds just 25 stocks at any one time. Many small-cap funds own more than 100 names.
“When you diversify like that, it’s hard to outperform (the index),” he said.
He uses a strict screening process using earnings momentum to identify candidates. Stocks need three years of earnings and sales growth. He looks for at least 14 percent increases for each. And he seeks returns on equity of at least 15 percent. He looks at fundamentals and gauges valuation, too.
It’s no surprise that the fund did well. Momentum stocks really took off beginning in August, said Gary Miller, downtown-based manager of the Victory Small Company Opportunity Fund. Earnings momentum was the key.
“That was right in the sweet spot of the market last year,” he said.
AlphaMark’s concentrated portfolio probably worked in its favor, Miller said.
“It’s risky, but that’s how you outperform the index if you’re a good stock-picker,” Miller said.
The fund is just over two years old. So the question remains whether it can keep it up. It fell short of the small-cap group in 2009. But that was an anomaly, Simon said.
“That year was a junk rally, and we’re a high-quality portfolio,” he said. “We do see this as sustainable.”
AlphaMark has run the same strategy for its own clients for more than five years. Its long-term results are strong. In 2007, a strong earnings year, it soared 25 percent.
Simon doesn’t know if this year will be like that. But he thinks 2011 will be better for small stocks than big companies. The economy isn’t completely healed, and the jobs market is still holding companies back.
“Smaller companies are more nimble and can find newer, quicker ways to make money,” he said.
The fund has grown to $16 million in assets. That’s tiny by mutual fund standards, but it’s 60 percent bigger than the $10 million it had at midyear. A couple of new distribution channels through brokerage firms just opened, Simon said.
He expects real growth to come once the fund hits the three-year mark in October. Many investment pros require that track record before they’ll steer clients to the fund.
On the flip side, only one local fund posted a decline last year. The Touchstone Market Neutral Equity Fund fell 3.9 percent.
Market-neutral funds aim to make money in good and bad markets. But it lost money in a strong year for stocks and fell short of peer funds, which slipped 1.9 percent. A Touchstone spokesman wasn’t available to comment.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the AlphaMark Funds, please call Michael Simon at 859-957-1803 or email at msimon@alphmarkadvisors.com.,

Regards

Michael L. Simon, CFA, CPA
President
AlphaMark Advisors
859-957-1803

VonLehman Recognized by United Way, AlphaMark Tops Small Cap Funds, VonLehman Grows

admin@localhost.sk — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 07:49:14 -0600

CINCINNATI, OH, December, 2010 – VonLehman & Company, Inc., a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm, announced today that it has been recognized as one of the United Way’s “Live United 100” -- a leader in 2010 charitable giving to the United Way of Greater Cincinnati. Lisa Prather, Human Resources Director at VonLehman says, “VonLehman is committed to community involvement and charitable giving, especially in these rough economic times. UWGC improves lives throughout our region, and we support their dedication and mission.”

United Way of Greater Cincinnati was founded in 1915. The annual fundraising campaign became a partnership with American Red Cross, Cincinnati Area Chapter, in 1956. Today the organization covers ten counties: Hamilton, Brown, Butler and Clermont in Ohio; Boone, Campbell, Grant, and Kenton in Northern Kentucky; and Dearborn and Ohio counties in Southeast Indiana.

According to Carol Aquino of the United Way of Greater Cincinnati, “Von Lehman's support is helping to ensure that the building blocks for a better life for all - a quality education that leads to a stable job, income that supports a family and good health - are a reality for families and individuals throughout our region.”

VonLehman Reviews Sweeping New Tax Law for Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Businesses
VonLehman Shareholder and CPA Curt Wenzler has provided extensive review and comment on the impact of the sweeping "Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010." An email of his comments are available by request by contacting VonLehman at info@vlcpa.com. Additional information is also provided online via www.vlcpa.com/articles. VonLehman’s Ted Funk will also be addressing the new tax law in an upcoming publication for the Home Builders’ Association of Northern Kentucky.

Morningstar ranks AlphaMark Small Cap Growth (AMSCX) Top 1% in the country and The Wall Street Journal selected AMSCX as a Category King
VonLehman’s colleagues at AlphaMark Advisors are proud to announce that as of December, 2010, Morningstar has ranked the AlphaMark Small Cap Growth Fund (AMSCX) in the top 1% of all Small Cap Growth funds that it follows for the year to date time period. AMSCX posted +35.68% return year to date through December 7th, 2010. In addition, the December 6th, 2010 edition of the Wall Street Journal selected the AlphaMark Small Cap Growth as one of the Category Kings of all of the Small Cap Growth funds that it follows.

VonLehman Continues to Grow
VonLehman continues to add staff, with additions to its Audit Services Group and Medical Services Group. Scott Jump has joined VonLehman’s Blue Ash office in the Audit department, while Rhonda Bothman has joined VonLehman’s nationally-known Healthcare Services Group as an associate accountant, splitting her time between both the Blue Ash and Fort Mitchell offices.

VonLehman's Dan Owens Nationally Published: "Trustworthy Cost-to-Complete Estimates"

swarden@vlcpa.com — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 08:00:00 -0600

VonLehman & Company, Inc., a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm announced today that Shareholder and key construction industry expert, Dan Owens, CPA, MBA, and CCIFP has been published in a nationally-renowned trade publication.

The article, "Trustworthy Cost-to-Complete Estimates" is published in the December, 2010 issue of the nationally distributed newsletter, "Inside the Institute" a professional publication of the Institute of Certified Construction Industry Professionals.

Dan Owens has been with VonLehman since 1983 and has earned numerous certifications. He received his Masters of Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Cincinnati and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the College of Wooster, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa with honors.

Mr. Owens' expertise lies in meeting the accounting, audit, tax, and consulting needs of closely-held businesses, their owners, and not-for-profit organizations. He has extensive experience in the construction, manufacturing, not-for-profit and governmental industries. Dan performs peer reviews on other CPA firms and is Chairman of VonLehman's Construction/Real Estate Service Group.

About VonLehman

Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy - including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See www.vlcpa.com for more information.

About the ICCIFP

The Institute of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professionals, Inc. (ICCIFP) is a not-for-profit corporation established to promote the highest standards of construction financial management through the credentialing of construction financial professionals. ICCIFP is an independent, separately incorporated entity affiliated with the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) that issues credentials to individuals who successfully meet ICCIFP standards. Credentialed individuals may present themselves to the public as certified construction financial professionals. See www.iccfp.org for more information

VonLehman's Dan Owens Nationally Published: "How to Manage Costs in These Tough Times"

swarden@vlcpa.com — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 08:00:00 -0600

Dan Owens, Shareholder, CPA CPA, MBA, and CCIFP with VonLehman, has published an article on construction cost management, entitled "How to Manage Costs in These Tough Times," in the nationally distributed newsletter, "Building For Success." The article appeared in 2010's winter issue.

This newsletter is published by CPAmerica, the nation's largest association of independent CPA firms, of which VonLehman is a long-standing member.

Dan Owens has been with VonLehman since 1983 and has earned numerous certifications. Mr. Owens’ expertise lies in meeting the accounting, audit, tax, and consulting needs of closely-held businesses, their owners, and not-for-profit organizations. He has extensive experience in the construction, manufacturing, not-for-profit and governmental industries, and is active in the firm's Construction/Real Estate and Not-for-Profit/Governmental Service Groups. He also performs peer reviews on other CPA firms.

About VonLehman

Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy - including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See www.vlcpa.com for more information.

About CPAmerica

The CPAmerica network includes more than 70 major, independent member firms nationwide. In strategic alliance with Horwath International, the network includes more than 15,000 professionals in 85 countries around the world with combined annual firm revenues exceeding $2 billion. See www.cpamerica.org.

VonLehman Launches New Website, Hires for Growth

swarden@vlcpa.com — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:00:00 -0600

VonLehman & Company, Inc., a leading regional CPA and business advisory firm announced today that it has launched a newly expanded website and has hired several new employees. According to VonLehman President, Brian Malthouse, "We've seen some solid growth, some real improvement in many facets of the regional business environment in recent months. We're adding employees and upgrading our online resources to further support our clients and employees in that growth trend going forward."

The new VonLehman website offers clients a secure portal to access various financial data, along with essential news archives, business trend data and extensive information on VonLehman educational seminars, workshops and CPE programs.

VonLehman has hired Patrick McGlinchey as a Tax Processor in its accounting division in the Blue Ash office, and hired Aaron Bessler and Lindsey Huff as Staff Accountants and Suzanne Warden as Marketing Coordinator in their Fort Mitchell office. Newcomer Aaron Bessler says of his decision to join VonLehman, "Throughout my interview process I was impressed by their breadth of expertise, and their obvious commitment to their employees' growth and life balance. VonLehman has been here and had a great reputation since 1946, and that says a lot to me."

About VonLehman

Founded in 1946 and with offices in both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, VonLehman is a leading full-service CPA and business advisory firm. VonLehman provides forward-thinking accounting, tax and strategic business advice to closely-held businesses, not-for-profits and governmental entities throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. Specializing in sectors that drive the tri-state economy - including manufacturing and distribution; construction and real estate development; professional services and healthcare, VonLehman provides clients with the depth of services and resources expected from larger national firms, but with an unmatched measure of personal care and attention. See www.vlcpa.com for more information.