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Keeping our clients informed of legal issues and developments effecting their organizations or businesses is one of our top priorities. Our attorneys publish relevant and timely practice area advisories and newsletters, as well as contribute to a number of industry and business publications. Our unique joint venture has also been the focus of articles written by journalists in the legal industry.
| Upcoming Events |
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Measuring Fair Value for Illiquid Financial Instruments
Monday, September 13 - Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Risk Magazine
Downtown Conference Center at Pace University, New York, NY
Joseph W. Bartlett will be a speaker at "Measuring Fair Value for Illiquid Financial Instruments," a seminar hosted by Risk Magazine. The seminar will focus on how practitioners can improve the reliability of their valuation models, better articulate and communicate valuation uncertainty to both internal and external stakeholders, allocate sufficient resources to the valuation process and undertake independent verification and validation processes.
Cross-Border Employment Law Matters: Protecting Your Client from Liability
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Sullivan & Worcester LLP, 1290 Avenue of the Americas, 29th Floor Conference Room
New York, NY
This Luncheon Seminar is the first in a series dealing with important U.S. employment and labor relations matters. Our speakers will focus on the most critical business and legal aspects of the employment relationship under both Federal and State law. They will place particular emphasis on the most significant regulatory requirements for employers in the U.S. and highlight the most common areas where employers are vulnerable to liability. Cross-border differences in interviewing, hiring and firing employees will be discussed. View agenda (PDF).
Combined Reporting
Monday, September 27 - Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Northeastern States Tax Officials Association
The Boston Park Plaza Hotel
Joseph X. Donovan will be a panelist at the 2010 Northeastern States Tax Officials Association (NESTOA) Annual Conference. Mr. Donovan's topic, "Combined Reporting," will discuss an overview of combined reporting law, including:
- Implementation in Massachusetts
- Water's Edge Issues in Massachusetts
For more information, visit NESTOA.
IAPP Privacy Academy 2010
Wednesday, September 29 - Friday, October 1, 2010
Baltimore, MD
ZAG/S&W LLP is an event sponsor at the International Association of Privacy Professionals' (IAPP) Privacy Academy on September 29 - October 1, 2010. The conference will provide practical tools and advice from privacy experts spanning all industries, sectors and operating environments. From social networking to mobile privacy to vendor management to advocating for your privacy program in a difficult economy, the Academy offers critical thinking and operational know-how to give attendees an edge in today's market.
ZAG/S&W looks forward to welcoming all IAPP Privacy Academy attendees at the ZAG/S&W Breakfast on Thursday, September 30 at the Hilton Baltimore.
For more information, visit IAPP.
Second Annual Northeast State & Local Tax Forum
Friday, October 1, 2010
New Hampshire Society of CPAs
Manchester, NH
Joseph X. Donovan will be a speaker at the Second Annual Northeast State & Local Tax Forum taking place in Manchester, NH on October 1, 2010. Mr. Donovan will discuss "Sales Factor: Cost of Performance, Netting Issues, Sourcing of Royalties, Treatment of Intercompany Transactions and More."
For more information, visit the New Hampshire Society of CPAs.
Front & Center Speaker Series: James Kwak Speaks about Crisis and Reform in the Financial Sector
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
ZAG/S&W LLP, One Post Office Square, 21st Floor
Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W LLP will host the second installment of the Front & Center Speaker Series, featuring author James Kwak, on Wednesday, October 6, at 6:00 p.m. at ZAG/S&W LLP, One Post Office Square, 21st Floor. A reception will follow.
James Kwak is the co-founder of The Baseline Scenario, a widely-cited commentary on the global financial crisis, and is the co-author of 13 Bankers: The Wall Street Takeover and the Next Financial Meltdown. He has published articles for Foreign Policy, The Washington Post and Huffington Post, among others, and has appeared on Bill Moyers Journal. At our Speaker Series, he will address issues related to the global financial crisis.
Kindly RSVP by September 30 to 617.338.2844.
28th Annual New England Business & Securities Law Conference
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE)
Boston, MA
Howard E. Berkenblit will serve as co-chair and Shy S. Baranov will participate as a faculty member at MCLE's 28th Annual New England Business & Securities Law Conference 2010. Mr. Baranov will discuss "Practical Considerations for Private and Public Companies Using Social Media."
Government Contracting Ethics and Compliance
Wednesday, October 20 - Thursday, October 21, 2010
American Conference Institute
Hilton Washington Embassy Row, Washington, D.C.
John A. Howell will present at the American Conference Institute's 3rd Advance Forum on Government Contracting Ethics and Compliance. His panel discussion, "Complying with Trade Agreements and Certifying Country of Origin," will focus on:
- The Buy American Act and the Trade Agreements Act — what do they mean and when do they apply?
- Making sense of specialty metals requirements
- Meeting country of origin requirements when using stimulus funds
- Determining country of origin and key considerations when certifying your goods
- Case by case determination of substantial transformation
- Implementing effective origin determination processes, based on range and types of products involved
- Developing standardized policies and instructions for the field
- Penalties and sanctions for improper/fraudulent certifications
For more information, visit the American Conference Institute.
Challenging the Standard Models - How Can These Players Help?
Wednesday, October 27 - Friday, October 29, 2010
Entrepreneurial Partnerships Innovation Conference (EPIC)
City Winery, New York, NY
Joseph W. Bartlett will present "Challenging the Standard Models - How Can These Players Help?" at the annual Entrepreneurial Partnerships Innovation Conference, sponsored by the Institute for International Research, to be held in New York on October 27-29, 2010. The theme of this year's program is New Business Models and Partnerships for Funding & Monetizing Underutilized Assets.
7th Annual East Coast Emerging Growth Conference
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
America's Growth Capital
The Westin Copley Place, Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W is a sponsor of the "7th Annual East Coast Emerging Growth Conference," hosted by America's Growth Capital (AGC). The program will consist of company presentations and panel discussions, focusing on key trends in the technology and emerging growth sectors, including business services, clean tech, digital media/Internet, FinTech, information security, semiconductors and software.
Credit Bidding by Secured Lenders in Bankruptcy Sales
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
(1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.)
Strafford Webinar/Teleconference
Amy A. Zuccarello was a panelist at a live web seminar entitled "Credit Bidding by Secured Lenders in Bankruptcy Sales" on August 17, 2010.
The seminar provided strategies for decision making in credit bidding to resolve the myriad of disputes among lenders and unsecured creditors, including a discussion of the Philadelphia Newspapers case and overcoming legal challenges to the lender's right to credit bid.
Ms. Zuccarello and her fellow panelists offered their perspectives and guidance on these and other critical questions:
- What issues arise when the lender bids for a basket of assets that includes assets of value in addition to the lender's collateral?
- What rights do minority lenders in a syndicated loan facility have to block the agent from credit bidding?
- How does a lender's right to credit bid differ under a Section 363 sale versus a sale under a plan of reorganization?
- What are the trends in enforcing intercreditor agreements in bankruptcy?
In-Depth Review of Significant Apportionment Factor Issues
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Summer Institute in Taxation, New York University
The Westin New York at Times Square, New York, NY
Joseph X. Donovan discussed "In-Depth Review of Significant Apportionment Factor Issues" at this panel discussion. Topics included:
- An intensive study and discussion of payroll, property and receipts factors
- An examination of issues such as throwback and throwout
- Assigning receipts from performing services and from holding intangibles
- Assigning receipts from dock sales and drop shipments
- Utilizing gross receipts or net gains
What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About the Taxation of Business Entities
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE)
MCLE Conference Center, Boston, MA (1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.)
Richard L. Jones participated as a faculty member at MCLE's seminar "What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About the Taxation of Business Entities."
Topics of discussion included:
- How to Analyze Whether Your Client Should Incorporate or Establish an LLC or Partnership
- Taxation of Compensation Payments to Owners, Employees and Other Service Providers, Including the Potential Application of Section 409A
- Issues Relating to Granting Equity Awards — Such as Options and Profits Interests
- Taxation of Business Income from Operations
- Tax Considerations in Buying and Selling Businesses
- Massachusetts State Tax Issues
- "Ask the Experts" Q&A Session
17th Annual Northeast Bankruptcy Conference
Thursday, July 8 - Sunday, July 11, 2010
American Bankruptcy Institute
Ocean Edge Resort, Brewster, MA
Patrick P. Dinardo was a panelist at the 17th Annual Northeast Bankruptcy Conference, sponsored by the American Bankruptcy Institute, on July 8-11, 2010. His topic focused on "Trial Tactics for Bankruptcy Litigators."
ZAG/S&W LLP Co-Sponsors Breakfast Briefing
Thursday, June 24, 2010
ZAG/S&W LLP
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY
ZAG/S&W LLP hosted a breakfast briefing, co-sponsored with the Israel Ministry of Finance in New York, in our New York office on June 24, 2010.
The program featured The Israel Infrastructure Fund, with special guest Avraham Shochat, former Finance Minister of Israel, and Shamrock Israel Growth Fund. Remarks were given by Zvi Chalamish, Chief Fiscal Officer, Israel Ministry of Finance, New York.
ACC Israel Annual Conference
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Dan Accadia, Herzliya, Israel
ZAG/S&W LLP, in partnership with ACC Israel, participated in the ACC Israel Annual Conference on June 16, 2010. The conference took place in Herzliya, Israel.
The speakers and their topics included:
- Andrew T. Solomon - "Agreements to Agree, Joint Ventures and the Duty to Negotiate in Good Faith — A Litigator's Comments on Virtual Contracts"
- Laura Steinberg - "When a Company Learns About an Actual or Potential Claim"
- Howard E. Berkenblit and Oded Har-Even - "Raising Capital in 2010 — What Israeli Companies Listed on Nasdaq Need to be Aware Of"
GreenPearl Events: Office Leasing, Finance & Investment
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The New Investment Alternative: Exploring the Rise of Data Centers in Investor and Developer Portfolios
McGraw Hill Conference Center, New York
Hugh P. Finnegan was a moderator at GreenPearl Events' "Office Leasing, Finance & Investment" conference on June 10, 2010. Mr. Finnegan's topic, "The New Investment Alternative: Exploring the Rise of Data Centers in Investor and Developer Portfolios," discussed:
- Supply vs. Demand: In an increasingly technology-dependent business climate, is the current data center infrastructure adequately meeting demand?
- How would current owners stand to benefit by repositioning properties to data centers? And, what's required?
- Where is the most new data center development occurring: suburban or urban locations?
- What is "co-location" of data centers?
- Analysis and review of cap rates on recently closed deals
Annual Seminar for Benefits Professionals
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Westin Hotel
Waltham, MA
ZAG/S&W LLP and Pinnacle Financial Group co-sponsored an informative workshop on health and welfare benefits, retirement plan and data privacy issues, as well as other topics of interest to benefits professionals.
ACG Growth Conference 2010 & ACG Capital Connection
Wednesday, June 9 - Thursday, June 10, 2010
Boston Park Plaza Hotel
Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W LLP was a sponsor of the ACG Growth Conference 2010 & ACG Capital Connection, the largest M&A conference on the East Coast. Each year, ACG Boston brings together and connects many of the country's most dynamic capital providers with the most influential business leaders focused on M&A transactions and in growing their companies.
Massachusetts Biomanufacturing Roundtable
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Massachusetts Life Sciences Collaborative
Joseph X. Donovan, Douglas S. Stransky and Jill Tenley Oldak presented on the tax climate for Massachusetts biomanufacturers to the Massachusetts Biomanufacturing Roundtable, which was chaired by Abbie Celniker, CEO of Taligen, Bob Steininger, SVP of Manufacturing at Acceleron Pharma, and Mickey Koplove, VP of Bioprocess Strategy at Pfizer.
Massachusetts Tax Update
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Boston Bar Association, Tax Section | State Tax Committee
Boston, MA
Joseph Donovan was a panelist at the Boston Bar Association's "Massachusetts Tax Update." This seminar provided a comprehensive review of legislative changes, regulations and other administrative pronouncements, as well as new case law addressing Massachusetts tax issues.
ERISA Reporting and Disclosure Requirements: Form 5500 . . . and Beyond!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
New England Employee Benefits Council (NEEBC)
Massachusetts Medical Society, Waltham, MA
David A. Guadagnoli presented "ERISA Reporting and Disclosure Requirements: Form 5500 . . . and Beyond!" at this how-to workshop sponsored by the New England Employee Benefits Council. This half-day program featured a brief look at the rules surrounding related ERISA disclosure mainstays, including plan document requirements, summary plan descriptions, summary of material modifications and summary annual reports, as well as a review of both the substantially revised Form 5500 and the new filing system. This was a hands-on session and participants had the opportunity to ask questions specific to their organizations. Covered topics included:
- What plans are subject to ERISA?
- Which plans (including Section 403(b) arrangements) require Form 5500 filings, what must be filed, and when?
- A review of the new Form 5500 and the Department of Labor's electronic filing system
- The "nuts and bolts" of ERISA disclosure requirements, including plan documents, SPDs, SMMs and SARs
- How to avoid common pitfalls
Privacy and Data Security Issues Related to Marketing to Minors
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Federal Communications Bar Association's Privacy & Data Security Committee / Young Lawyers Committee
ZAG/S&W LLP, Washington, D.C.
ZAG/S&W LLP hosted a seminar, "Privacy and Data Security Issues Related to Marketing to Minors," sponsored by the Federal Communications Bar Association's Privacy & Data Security Committee and the Young Lawyers Committee. The event took place on May 19, 2010 in the firm's Washington, D.C. office.
Topic: A host of federal and state laws govern the protection of privacy and the security of personally identifiable information of minors collected and/or used for advertising or promotional purposes. The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, Michigan and Utah's Child Protection Registries, and increased scrutiny of the FTC, FCC, State Attorneys General and legislators across the country all create a complex regulatory and enforcement landscape for media and communications companies and their clients wishing to reach children, tweens and teens via email, twitter, text messages and new emerging technology.
The 3rd Annual Worldwide Tax Update
Tuesday, May 18 - Wednesday, May 19, 2010
ZAG/S&W Conference Center
Boston, MA and New York, NY
ZAG/S&W LLP held its 3rd Annual Worldwide Tax Update, an annual symposium on international tax developments and tax planning in the United States and throughout the world (this year, the Americas and Spain). This complimentary one-day event — held first in Boston and then repeated in New York the next day — served as a source of new tax ideas and techniques, as well as a forum to learn about rapidly developing and changing tax rules. In addition to the United States, tax advisors from Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Spain provided updates on current tax law developments.
Taxation of Distressed Debt (Including Credit Opportunity Funds)
Monday, May 17 - Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Financial Research Associates, LLC
The Princeton Club, New York, NY
Joseph W. Bartlett was a panelist at "The Private Investment Funds Tax Master Class," a program presented by Financial Research Associates. Mr. Bartlett's topic, "Taxation of Distressed Debt (Including Credit Opportunity Funds)," discussed:
- Loan origination and "loan-to-own"
- Trade or business issues
- Withholding (portfolio interest exception)
- OID
- Market discount rules
- UBTI/ECI concerns
Intermediate U.S. International Tax for Non-International Tax Professionals
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
BNA Tax & Accounting Audioconference
Douglas S. Stransky discussed U.S. tax issues for companies seeking to expand internationally. This program offered a more in-depth overview of international taxation than the basic "Introduction to U.S. International Tax for Non-International Tax Professionals" and was designed as either a stand-alone program or a continuation of the introductory course.
The objectives of Mr. Stransky's 90-minute audio discussion will include providing participants with a conceptual understanding and practical application of the following:
- Outbound Transfers under Code Section 367
- The Foreign Tax Credit
- Subpart F and PFIC Rules
- Code Section 1248
- Code Section 482 and Transfer Pricing Overview
- Tax Treaties and Code Section 894
- Outbound Tax Planning
- U.S. Taxation of Foreign Persons
What Every Real Estate Lawyer Needs to Know About Representations, Warranties, Indemnity Agreements & Insurance
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
MCLE Conference Center
Boston, MA (1:30 - 5:30 p.m.)
Richard H. Goldman chaired and Sander Ash spoke at a Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) program on "What Every Real Estate Lawyer Needs to Know About Representations, Warranties, Indemnity Agreements & Insurance." The seminar covered the following topics:
- What provisions should be included in purchase agreements relating to the status of leases and rents, tenant defaults, brokerage, rights of first refusal, options to purchase, and other important clauses
- The representations and warranties that commercial lenders should require from a borrower as a condition of closing, including, but not limited to, status of the borrower, legal compliance, financial covenants, pending or threatened litigation, and remedies for a breach of representation or warranty
- Issues involved in environmental indemnifications and allocation of risk between landlords and tenants
- The role of the attorney in advising a client on issues to be addressed by owners (landlords), tenants, and lenders
Intellectual Property Group Update
Monday, May 10, 2010
ZAG/S&W Conference Center
Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W LLP hosted a seminar presented by the firm's Intellectual Property Group. This complimentary program, followed by a cocktail reception, covered:
Homeland Security Companies from Israel Offering Cutting Edge Technologies and Products
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
ZAG/S&W LLP Conference Center
One Post Office Square, 21st Floor
Boston, MA (6:00 - 9:00 p.m.)
ZAG/S&W LLP welcomed the delegation of Homeland Security Companies from Israel that offer cutting edge technologies and products.
From their unique perspective, Israel's HLS and security manufacturers have gained unparalleled expertise and a global reputation for developing leading-edge security solutions. Israeli HLS technology companies range from massive multinational entities to promising young start-ups, providing all types of services: from low-tech logistics and consulting to the most sophisticated software and instruments available. They understand that maximum security lies in the successful integration of multiple technologies. Israeli security and HLS companies successfully partnering with key world players to ensure public safety, protect airports, seaports, government offices, financial institutions, recreational centers, international events and more.
Each visiting company gave a brief presentation at the beginning of our program. Click here to view the list of companies and their profiles.
Tax Issues in Investments and Workouts
Thursday, April 29 - Friday, April 30, 2010
American College of Investment Counsel's Annual Spring Investment Forum
The Four Seasons, Chicago, IL
Joel R. Carpenter moderated the "Tax Issues in Investments and Workouts" panel at the American College of Investment Counsel's Annual Spring Investment Forum. The panelists discussed:
- Substantial modifications and deemed exchanges of debt instruments
- OID consequences
- Investment unit rules
- COD income and possible NOL implications
- Tax and accounting aspects which are of particular concern to insurance companies
Sustainability: Green Leasing & Building
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
MCLE Conference Center
Boston, MA
Victor N. Baltera chaired and Christopher M. Flanagan spoke at a Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) program on "Sustainability: Green Leasing & Building." The seminar covered the following topics:
- What a sustainable or green building means
- What a green lease means
- Government incentives for green building design and green leasing
- What standards apply to measure green building design
- What lease provisions landlords and tenants seek to assure green building design and how the parties' perspectives differ
- What sustainability provisions are often found in building construction contracts
- What risk allocation provisions are often found in green building contracts and leases
Introduction to U.S. International Tax for Non-International Tax Professionals
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
BNA Tax & Accounting Audioconference
Douglas S. Stransky discussed U.S. tax issues for companies seeking to expand internationally. The objectives of Mr. Stransky's 90-minute audio discussion included providing participants with a conceptual understanding and practical application of the following:
- International Tax Overview
- Structuring Foreign Operations
- Foreign Tax Credits
- Controlled Foreign Corporations
- Planning Opportunities
American Needle, Case in Point: Is the NFL a Single Entity?
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
ZAG/S&W LLP Conference Center
Boston, MA
The Sports Lawyers Association and ZAG/S&W LLP held a panel discussion of American Needle v. NFL and the potential impact the Supreme Court decision may have on the sports industry. Our panel included:
Cross-Border Real Estate Deals: Current Tricks of the Trade
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
ZAG/S&W LLP, 1290 Avenue of the Americas, 32nd Floor
New York, NY (12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.)
This Luncheon Seminar, the third in a series dealing with important U.S. issues in cross-border real estate transactions, focused on business and legal aspects of such transactions: particularly those negotiation, documentation and government approval parts of the process that require a special knowledge of the U.S. and New York real estate markets. Cross-border differences in contracting, pricing and valuation were highlighted. Common problems and approaches were explored and discussed, including broker compensation issues, effective negotiation strategies and dealing with municipal and state government agencies and authorities.
Advanced Forum on Government Contract Cost & Pricing
Tuesday, April 27 - Wednesday, April 28, 2010
American Conference Institute
Marriott Key Bridge, Arlington, VA
John A. Howell spoke at the American Conference Institute's "Advanced Forum on Government Contract Cost & Pricing" on April 27-28, 2010. Mr. Howell's topic, "Current Pricing Issues in GSA Multiple Schedule Award Contracts," discussed:
- Deletion of price reduction clause: Status of recommendations from the MAS Advisory Panel
- Type of pricing data being required by GSA negotiators
- How GSA is approaching time-and-materials (T&M) contracts: What charges from sub-contractors can be passed through to government and the types of permissible mark-ups
- How the Department of Defense is using the GSA schedule
- Justifying government vs. non-government pricing
- Reducing defective pricing risks
- Current bid protest issues being brought to GAO and the courts regarding the GSA program
- Managing GSA defective and price reduction audits
- How defective pricing and price reduction claims can escalate into allegations of fraud under the civil and criminal False Claims Act
Front & Center Speaker Series
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Featuring the Experiences and Observations of U.S. Senator Paul G. Kirk, Jr.
The Langham Hotel, Boston, MA (5:00 - 6:00 p.m.)
The "Front & Center" Speaker Series debuted with a presentation by U.S. Senator Paul G. Kirk, Jr. on Tuesday, April 27, at 5:00 p.m. at the Langham Hotel in downtown Boston. A reception followed at ZAG/S&W LLP.
Bankruptcy Court Invalidates Springing Subordination Provisions in Credit Default Swap Transaction
Thursday, April 22 - Saturday, April 24, 2010
American Bar Association Business Law Section Spring Meeting
Denver, CO
Pamela Smith Holleman presented "Bankruptcy Court Invalidates Springing Subordination Provisions in Credit Default Swap Transaction" at the American Bar Association Business Law Section Spring Meeting in Denver, Colorado.
New England Region Spring Conference
Friday, April 16, 2010
International Fiscal Association
Boston University School of Law, Boston, MA
Douglas S. Stransky participated as a panelist in the International Fiscal Association's New England Region Spring Conference on April 16, 2010 at the Boston University School of Law. Mr. Stransky discussed "International Tax Reform and the Obama Administration Proposals."
The International Fiscal Association (IFA) is the leading worldwide organization dealing with matters of international taxation. Its primary objective is the study and analysis of the tax law as it affects international commerce and transactions. Lewis J. Greenwald, a partner in ZAG/S&W's Tax Department, is the Vice President of the IFA New England Region.
Crisis or Opportunity? M&A and Asset Acquisitions in Times of Crisis: What to Look for When Acquiring and Financing Acquisitions in a Volatile Market
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
American Bar Association, Section of International Law
Grand Hyatt Hotel, 109 East 42nd Street, New York, NY
James R. Silkenat was a moderator at the American Bar Association's Section of International Law seminar on "Crisis or Opportunity? M&A and Asset Acquisitions in Times of Crisis: What to Look for When Acquiring and Financing Acquisitions in a Volatile Market." The program featured speakers from The Netherlands, Spain, Argentina and China.
The FBA Judicial Reception
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Massachusetts Chapter of the Federal Bar Association
ZAG/S&W LLP was a proud sponsor of the Federal Bar Association's Judicial Reception honoring Judge Richard G. Stearns.
Careers in Communications Law
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Federal Communications Bar Association
George Mason University School of Law, Arlington, VA
Ronald P. Whitworth was on a panel entitled "Careers in Communications Law" at George Mason University School of Law in Arlington, VA on March 31, 2010. The panel was part of the Federal Communications Bar Association's "Law School Initiative" series designed to generate law student interest in careers in communications law.
Roundtable Discussion: Timber REITs
Thursday, March 25, 2010
REITWise® 2010: NAREIT's Law, Accounting & Finance Conference
Orlando Marriott World Center, Orlando, FL
Ameek Ashok Ponda participated as a discussion leader of the "Roundtable Discussion: Timber REITs" panel at REITWise® 2010: NAREIT's Law, Accounting & Finance Conference, held at the Orlando Marriott World Center in Orlando, Florida.
Water Technology Forum by Israeli-Based Companies
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
1200 New York Avenue NW
Washington, D.C.
ZAG/S&W LLP, in partnership with the Embassy of Israel in Washington, D.C. and the U.S.-Israel Science and Technology Foundation, sponsored a "Water Technology Forum by Israeli-Based Companies" on March 23, 2010. The program was held at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in Washington, D.C.
After facing water scarcity concerns for many years, Israel has become a world leader in water resource management and conservation, and water-based alternative energy technologies. Israeli water engineers developed the world's first drip irrigation system in the mid-1960s. Ever since, new water conservation technologies have contributed to the country's flourishing agricultural sector. Today, Israel is known for its advanced technologies in the fields of desalination, water treatment and reclamation, and water safety and conservation, and is using its expertise to tackle worldwide environmental and energy challenges.
This Water Technology Forum:
- Explored Israeli water conservation and water-based technologies
- Highlighted innovative Israeli companies in the water sector and alternative energy sectors
- Discussed the ways in which Israeli water technologies are being implemented to solve problems in the U.S.
The program featured three experts on innovative water conservation and alternative energy solutions:
Booky Oren, executive chairman of the Miya Water Company, is recognized as an authority on the development of dedicated solutions for water conservation. Mr. Oren has more than 24 years of experience in various managerial roles in a wide variety of companies, ranging from startups to multinationals, both private and public, in a broad variety of domains, including consumer goods, B2B, finance, high tech and the water industry. In the water arena, Mr. Oren served as the corporate vice president for business development at Netafim, the largest micro-irrigation company in the world. Previously, Mr. Oren was also the chairman of Mekorot, Israel's national water company. In November 2009, Mr. Oren chaired WATEC Israel, a global water conference held in Tel Aviv.
Minister Ohad Cohen, commercial attaché, Embassy of Israel, has a long history of supporting international economic cooperation efforts of the State of Israel. He joined the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor (MOITAL) in the Government of Israel in 1997 in the Middle East Department where he coordinated with Israeli participants in the Israeli-Jordanian-American Qualified Industrial Zone (QIZ) Committee. He has also served as the Director of the Southern European Department of MOITAL and the Commercial Attaché of the State of Israel to Sweden, Finland and Norway.
Bob Hull, a 17-year Virginia State Legislature representative, sponsored the bill creating a Virginia-Israel Partnership Council that advises the Governor on ways to improve economic and cultural links between the Commonwealth and the State of Israel, with a focus on the areas of commerce and trade, arts and education, and general government. He was a key part of the initiative to launch the Virginia-Israel Bilateral R&D Agreement through which Virginia will apply Israeli reverse osmosis water technology to treat water at a major Virginia industrial site. He has also visited the state of Israel twice as a representative of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Valuation of Hard-to-Value Securities and Portfolios 2009
Monday, March 22 - Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Financial Research Associates, LLC
New York, NY
Joseph W. Bartlett was a speaker at "Valuation of Hard-to-Value Securities and Portfolios 2009: Mitigating Operational Risk Associated with the Valuation Process," sponsored by Financial Research Associates, LLC. The two-day conference discussed issues pertaining to valuation, including:
- Investor due diligence
- Evaluating risk across an entire portfolio
- Recognizing red flags and warning signs at an early stage
- An in-depth look at the valuation committee and each party's roles and responsibilities
- The latest FASB changes including the most recent amendments to ASC-820 (FAS157)
- How auditors deal with different valuations
- The hottest valuation oversight issues from regulatory experts
Establishing International Operations
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Financial Executives International (FEI)
Newton Marriott, Newton, MA
Douglas S. Stransky was a panelist at "Establishing International Operations," a seminar sponsored by Financial Executives International on Wednesday, March 17, 2010, at the Newton Marriott.
Comprehensible Communications And More
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
The New England Chapter of the ESOP Association
Doubletree Hotel, Westborough, MA
David A. Guadagnoli was a panelist at this one-day seminar presented by The New England Chapter of the ESOP Association. Mr. Guadagnoli discussed "Communicating Culture" which addressed:
- What makes up a company's ESOP culture, and how does it develop?
- If you already have an ESOP culture, how do you make it grow and thrive for the benefit of new and existing employee-owners?
Life Cycle of a Distressed Asset
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Real Estate Lenders Association
Langham Hotel, Boston, MA
Sander Ash moderated and Pamela Smith Holleman spoke at the Real Estate Lenders Association's (RELA) Boston breakfast meeting on March 16, 2010. The panel discussed the "Life Cycle of a Distressed Asset."
Hot Topics in GSA Contracting
Friday, March 12, 2010
Government Contracts Section of the Federal Bar Association
ZAG/S&W LLP, Washington, D.C.
ZAG/S&W LLP hosted a seminar, "Hot Topics in GSA Contracting," sponsored by the Government Contracts Section of the Federal Bar Association on March 12, 2010. The panel provided a perspective into schedule formation and performance issues, audits and investigations, recent developments, and other pressing schedule concerns.
Featured Speakers:
- David Drabkin, Chief Acquisitions Officer, U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)
- Robert Bourne, Director, MAS Program Office, Office of Acquisition Management, Federal Acquisition Service
- Carolyn Alston, General Counsel, Washington Management Group
- Susan B. Haeseler, Director, Raytheon IDIQ Team and Service Center
- Raymond C. Moehler, Raytheon IDIQ Team and Service Center
Moderator:
Jewish Law Students Association (JLSA) Speaker Series
Thursday, March 11, 2010
New England School of Law
Boston, MA
Pamela Smith Holleman discussed her practice areas of business bankruptcy and litigation at this program sponsored by the New England School of Law - Jewish Law Students Association.
How to Accumulate and Manage Wealth
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Boston Bar Association, New Lawyers Section
Boston, MA
Amy E. Sheridan was a panelist at "Developing a Road Map for Saving and Investing: How to Accumulate and Manage Wealth," a seminar sponsored by the New Lawyers Section of the Boston Bar Association. The panel discussion focused on saving, investing and wealth management best practices. Topics of review included:
- How to evaluate your financial situation, understand your saving/investing needs and develop a plan of action to reach your goals
- Tax and retirement planning considerations
- Best practices for allocating your investments in accordance with your risk tolerance, time horizon and financial goals
Multi-District Litigation: Boon or Bane?
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA
Joshua L. Solomon was a co-speaker at "Multi-District Litigation: Boon or Bane?," sponsored by the Boston Bar Association on February 16, 2010. Mr. Solomon discussed strategic considerations in multi-district litigation proceedings and traps for the unwary at the brown bag lunch.
Israel's Economy and Opportunities Presented with the New Administration
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
ZAG/S&W Conference Center
Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W hosted Asaf Vitman, Israel's Minister of Economic Affairs in the United States, at the ZAG/S&W office in Boston. Mr. Vitman presented and discussed Israel's economy and the opportunities that we are presented with the new administration.
Israel's Economy - A Vision for the Future
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
ZAG/S&W Conference Center
Boston, MA
Sullivan & Worcester's joint venture law firm (ZAG/S&W LLP) with the Israeli law firm Zysman Aharoni Gayer, was pleased to sponsor and host a reception in honor of "Israel's Economy - A Vision for the Future." The keynote speaker was Yarom Ariav, Director General of Israel Ministry of Finance. Special guest speaker was Timothy Cahill, Treasurer and Receiver General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
New Ways to Raise Capital - Recent SEC Reforms
The New Reg. D and Rule 144
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
ZAG Main Office
Tel Aviv, Israel
Howard Berkenblit, Edwin Miller and Oded Har-Even from Sullivan & Worcester's joint venture law firm, ZAG/S&W LLP, with the Israeli law firm Zysman, Aharoni, Gayer & Co., presented on "New Ways to Raise Capital - Recent SEC Reforms." Attendees learned how and why:
- Shelf registrations can be more widely used to raise money more quickly and cheaply
- PIPE transactions are regaining popularity, with more favorable terms for companies
- Alternative strategies such as "registered direct" offerings should always be considered
Israel's Biomedical Industry
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W hosted a breakfast with special guest speaker, Rafi Hofstein, Ph.D, co-chairperson of BioMed Israel. Dr. Hofstein spoke about Israel's biomedical industry and discussed the upcoming BioMed Israel Conference being held June 5-7 in Tel-Aviv, Israel.
Boston-Haifa Life Sciences Initiative
Sunday, October 15 - Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Boston, MA
ZAG/S&W participated in the Boston-Haifa Life Sciences Initiative (BHLSI), a week-long Israeli BioBusiness Delegation held in Boston (Oct 15-18). ZAG/S&W hosted a full day event with an entrepreneurship seminar in the morning and a BHLSI Angel/Investor Forum in the afternoon. There was also a reception at the Boston Harbor Hotel in the evening bringing together leading scientific and business leaders from the Boston area.
Shmuel Zysman (ZAG/S&W), Erez Aharoni (ZAG/S&W), Robin Blatt (Boston Haifa Life Sciences Initiative), Harvey Bines (ZAG/S&W), Shy Baranov (ZAG/S&W) and Avi Faigenbaum (Mati Haifa).
ZAG/S&W LLP sponsors the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in Israel
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Sullivan & Worcester's joint venture law firm (ZAG/S&W LLP) with the Israeli law firm Zysman Aharoni Gayer, was a sponsor of the 4th Annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. Entrepreneurs from across Israel gathered at the 4th Annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards to celebrate entrepreneurial achievement. At this event Ernst & Young honored those who have managed to turn a bright idea into a brilliant business, through passion and perseverance. Categories of achievement included: Technology, Retail & Consumer Products, Industry, Services, Startup Entrepreneur and Social Entrepreneur. In addition to these category awards there was an overall Entrepreneur of the Year Award presented.
Investing in Israel
Wednesday, June 1, 2005
A Wall Street Transcript Conference
The Harvard Club of New York
New York, NY
Howard Berkenblit, Partner at Sullivan & Worcester and ZAG/S&W our Israeli/US law firm joint venture, moderated a panel discussing "Current Legal, Accounting and Disclosure Issues Impacting Israeli Companies in the US." The panelists, including Richard Sanders, Chair of the Technology Litigation Group at Sullivan & Worcester and Partner at ZAG/S&W, looked at the investment and offering landscape for Israeli companies in the US, accounting, SEC and tax issues impacting Israeli companies and the US commercial and IP litigation environment.
Despite the enormous geopolitical challenges that it faces, Israel has become a leader in biotechnology, security, semiconductors, telecommunications, software and Internet technologies. This Wall Street Transcript conference was an opportunity to learn about Israel’s competitive advantages, whether these advantages are sustainable and if Israel will become a serious competitor to India and China. There were opportunities to meet some of the Israeli companies that are shifting paradigms with their technologies.
For further details on this conference please visit the Investing in Israel Conference website.
The Wall Street Transcript Presents Investing in Israel
Wednesday, June 2, 2004
The Harvard Club
New York, NY
Howard Berkenblit, ZAG/S&W senior associate, was a member of the panel "Legal, accounting and financial issues impacting investing in Israel" and addressed corporate governance issues.
American Technion Society - New England Region
2003 Annual Event
"The Middle East Peace Process"
Wednesday, October 29, 2003
Hyatt Regency Cambridge
Cambridge, MA
ZAG/S&W LLP was a proud sponsor of the American Technion Society - New England Region's 2003 Annual Event. The American Technion Society is a non-profit organization established to support the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, in Haifa, Israel. The keynote speaker at this year's event was Ambassador Martin S. Indyk, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel and a leading figure in developing and managing U.S. policy in the Middle East over the past nine years.
Cooperation for Energy Independence of Democracies in the 21st Century
Tuesday, August 26 - Thursday, August 28, 2003
Inaugural Conference
Jerusalem, Israel
ZAG/S&W LLP sponsored this inaugural program designed to be an interactive forum for participants to define a strategy to strengthen the United States and Israel, to effectuate energy policy and to find ways in which the US and Israel can cooperate in fostering the development of the energy markets.
Attendees were encouraged to participate through five expert panels discussing:
- the state of renewable/sustainable energy
- international considerations
- economics
- the future of transportation
- Israel's R&D capabilities
Stephen L. Huntoon, ZAG/S&W of counsel, moderated one of these panels and Robin Remis, ZAG/S&W senior associate, served on the Conference Leadership Committee and was a participant in the conference.
For more information please go to www.energycooperation.org.
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