Alicia Whitmore
EAAlicia Whitmore
EAAlicia A. Whitmore
EA
I joined Magnus Blue in 2015 as a senior tax accountant. I help clients to realize their goals by strategizing their interests from an accounting, tax planning, and cost-effectiveness perspective. I provide high-quality services for tax and business consulting, as well as tax compliance for high-net-worth clients, c-corporations, flow-through entities, estate, and trust reporting. I also provide Internal Revenue Service and Franchise Tax Board representation services.
My commitment to our clients is to provide them with high-quality service, based on my core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. I am happy to be part of the Magnus Blue team where I look forward to fulfilling my long-term career goals.
I became an Enrolled Agent in 2015. I graduated from Fresno Pacific University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. Whilst studying for my degree I took a position with a local CPA firm in order to gain exposure and experience in all aspects of this field. Currently, I have over eighteen years of experience working in the tax accounting industry.
My home is in Carlsbad, CA where I enjoy spending time with my husband Andrew and friends. My hobbies include cycling, yoga, and traveling to new places.
Andrea Gabel
CPAAndrea Gabel
CPAAndrea Gabel
CPA
At Magnus Blue we specialize in business. I practice on the audit team, as well as in tax and consulting, for our large number of business and nonprofit clients. We use an individual approach for each client engagement, whether we are providing planning and guidance, assisting with the achievement of a set goal or determining tax impact. We apply a business approach to the specialized accounting and professional needs of our nonprofit clients and utilize the required compliance reporting to create valuable marketing tools.
I was born and raised in Marin County, just outside San Francisco. After graduating from San Diego State University with a degree in management, I relocated to Boston and practiced accounting in the private sector. I attended graduate school at Northeastern University and obtained my CPA license. I worked with a large CPA firm for five years before returning to California.
I have lived and worked in San Marcos for over fifteen years now, and my husband, Howard, and I enjoy raising our children, Alex, Ari, Jill, Emerson and Sienna, here in North County San Diego. I love the tight-knit community and have enjoyed being part of its dynamic growth.
When I am not at the firm, I enjoy painting, writing and history and can often be found at the local schools, sports fields and dance studios. I currently serve as Treasurer for the Friends of the San Diego Public Library.
April Kriz
CPAApril Kriz
CPAApril N. Kriz
CPA
I graduated from Cal State San Marcos in 2008 with a Bachelor’s in Business with an emphasis in Accounting. At that time, I was managing a national bank branch and continued to do so until my husband, Jason, and I welcomed our 2nd son. I left 12 years of banking to become a professional mom and raise our family. We have 4 children, Autumn who is 25, Kyle 14, Tyler 12, and Justin 10. We are very active in football and basketball. They keep me very busy and we love to travel and consider ourselves huge foodies.
When I was finally able to return to work full time, I did not return to banking because I knew I wanted to pursue my passion, reach my potential, and put my degree to work for me. I am privileged to be among the smartest and most fun accountants at Magnus Blue. Now that I have achieved my lifelong goal of earning my CPA, my career choice continues to be challenging and rewarding. I love being a resource for our clients and pride myself on rapid response time. I am so proud to be a part of this amazing team of professionals.
Brenda A. Cortez
Administrative AssistantBrenda A. Cortez
Administrative AssistantBrenda A. Cortez
Administrative Assistant
I joined Magnus Blue in December of 2022, just a few months before the busy tax season. With Prior experience of working at a CPA firm, I knew this is something I wanted to continue to do. I assist Tax professionals, manage the web portal, and assist with tax assemblies.
I am currently attending school and have plans to transfer to Cal State San Marcos by next year. Outside of work, I love spending time with my loved ones, especially my three fur babies. I have two dogs named Timmy and Kobe and a cat named Gideon. I love trying out new restaurants, Camping, Painting, and going on road trips.
I’m glad to be a part of such a great and professional team.
Cassandra Jacobo
Office ManagerCassandra Jacobo
Office ManagerDakota Masson
Lacerte ManagerDakota Masson
Lacerte ManagerDakota M. Masson
Lacerte Manager
I joined the firm in 2018. I specialize in managing the client web portal and assisting the tax professionals. I am a graduate of California State University San Marcos. I was recruited to the company by Paul, who is a frequent visitor at a local restaurant where I worked prior to joining the team in September of 2018. I like working for Magnus Blue because it is fast-paced and challenging. We have a strong team that has shown me “teamwork makes the dream work!”
I am a newlywed living in Vista with my husband and two dogs. When I am not working, I enjoy binge-watching shows on Netflix, traveling to the river and desert, and event planning.
Don Eppich
CPA, PartnerDon Eppich
CPA, PartnerDonald P. Eppich
CPA, Partner
I graduated from the University of San Diego in 1985 with a BBA in Accounting. During the first 10 years of my career, I worked as a controller for a small publicly held manufacturing company, as a CPA at a local public accounting firm, and as a senior financial analyst at a Fortune 500 company. I joined our predecessor firm in 1995 and became a partner in 1999. I am currently the managing partner at Magnus Blue LLP.
My practice focus is providing tax, accounting, and auditing services to closely held businesses and their owners. The industries served include agriculture, card room casinos, construction, distribution, manufacturing, professional services, and real estate.
We are very fortunate with the team that has been assembled at Magnus Blue LLP. We have a great group of individuals, who are dedicated in servicing the needs of our clients, our firm, and our community.
Away from the office, I enjoy boating with my family, playing golf with friends and associates, and volunteering with certain community organizations.
Faye Sheng
CPAFaye Sheng
CPAFaye F. Sheng
CPA
I am a Tax Manager with the firm and enjoy working with our clients; both individual and business. My responsibilities include preparing complex entity and individual tax returns, providing tax planning, research and consulting services. I find public accounting stimulating, challenging, and rewarding. I enjoy using my knowledge and skills to meet our diverse client needs and help them succeed.
I was born and raised in China, came to the U.S. in 1989. I graduated with honors from Emporia State University in with a major in Psychology and then received my Masters Degree in Accounting from the University of Texas at San Antonio. I began my career in the accounting department of a computer software company. After two years, I began my public accounting career with a CPA firm in New Jersey. I then joined Magnus Blue Associates in 2000.
Public accounting can be very intense and stressful at times, but at Magnus Blue, we have a strong team and we support each other. It is also nice to have my best friend, Sandra Miller, right next door to share the triumphs and challenges each new day brings. Our hard work and contributions are always recognized and appreciated.
I live in Encinitas with my husband, Lijian and our son, Nicholas. We are always busy with Nick and we are proud of his hard work and accomplishments. My favorite activities are listening to him play piano and taking our weekly Sunday hikes. I also enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
Hitomi Tran
CPAHitomi Tran
CPAHitomi T. Tran
CPA
I joined Magnus Blue in November of 2015, after graduating from Western Governors University with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. The drastic change from being a stay-at-home mom to a full-time professional wasn’t easy, but exciting at the same time. I’m very fortunate to start my professional career with the Magnus Blue family who welcomed me with open arms. I’m learning new skills and acquiring new knowledge every day. I’m currently studying for the CPA exams and striving to contribute to the firm in a larger capacity each day.
I was born and raised in Japan and came to the U.S in 2007 to study English. My original plan was to get my education and move back to Japan, but then I met my wonderful husband, Vinh, and now have two beautiful kids, Ken and Emma. My family enjoys playing board games, puzzles, and building Legos together. I also enjoy playing volleyball with friends, exploring new places, trying different foods, reading, crafting (knitting, sewing, and making jewelry), and surfing.
Jack Shirley
CPA, PartnerJack Shirley
CPA, PartnerJack M. Shirley
CPA, Partner
I was born and raised in Southern California. I enjoy basketball, cycling, reading, playing piano, and gardening (though I do not have a green thumb). I enjoy participating in church and community service projects. I married my high school sweetheart and I’m the proud father of four and grandfather of two.
I have 23 years of experience in individual, business, trust, and estate tax, financial management and planning, business operations, and accounting systems. I enjoy helping others to minimize their tax burdens and manage their financial affairs so they can focus on the more important aspects of life.
I have a Bachelor of Science in accountancy and a Master’s in computer information systems. I am an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the California Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Janette Pritchard
CPAJanette Pritchard
CPAJanette M. Pritchard
CPA
I joined Magnus Blue FKA Polito Eppich in the summer of 2019 as an Audit Manager providing services in audits, reviews, and compilations. My passion is to serve our clients, and develop relationships. My experience is in the construction, manufacturing, and service industries.
Prior to joining Magnus Blue LLP, I spent 15 years working for a mid-size public accounting firm in the Inland Empire (IE), practicing attestation, tax and consulting. I started my career working in the accounting services department and realized I loved it. I returned to college and finished with Master’s in Business Administration and obtained my CPA license. During this time, I was raising my daughter and never missed a soccer game. Some may ask, why did you move? My husband (Steve) and I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue our desire to live close to the beach. I was born at Camp Pendleton and simply have returned home. Our daughter Samantha is all grown up and continues to be part of our lives, along with our grandson Haakon.
Outside of work, I enjoy CrossFit, paddle boarding, hiking, a good IPA and wine.
I enjoy the team at Magnus Blue LLP, and the values demonstrated. I am so thankful and proud to have found a new home for my professional growth.
Jessica Dorsett
CPAJessica Dorsett
CPAJessica M. Dorsett
CPA
My career began at Magnus Blue, after graduating from the University of San Diego with a bachelor’s in Accountancy in 2005. I have had the great fortune of growing through the firm and working side by side with incredible people. Working in all areas of the practice throughout my career (including participating in the leadership team) enables me to provide a holistic approach to my client relationships.
Passionately serving our clients and providing high quality service is professionally and personally rewarding for me. I enjoy working closely with businesses and their owners to build long lasting relationships. I am privileged to be a part of a strong business community in San Diego where I work with amazing professionals in supporting our clients and community.
My husband, Brett, and I are raising our children, Chase, Micah and Abigail, in North County San Diego where I grew up. I have been volunteering most my life in various areas including serving on nonprofit boards and committees with top professionals in our community.
In 2020, we made a life changing decision to homeschool our children. After seeing the numerous rewards this decision brought to our family, we decided to continue with the adventure of homeschooling. Making the decision to reduce my work commitments was difficult but seeing the support of both the firm and our clients has been heartwarming and encouraging. I’m proud to be a part of a firm where “family first” is not just a catchy slogan, but is a true value.
John “Dru” Brannen
CPA, PartnerJohn “Dru” Brannen
CPA, PartnerMai Yamaguchi-Longacre
CPAMai Yamaguchi-Longacre
CPAMai Yamaguchi-Longacre
CPA
I was born and raised in Japan. I came to the US to study at California State University San Marcos. I graduated from the university in 2013 with a bachelor’s in Business with an emphasis in accounting.
After my graduation, I have worked for both a public accounting firm and in the private industry. I realized I enjoy the challenges and opportunities to learn in the accounting firm. Then I joined Magnus Blue LLP and I have I enjoyed working with everyone here and learning new knowledge and skills every day.
I currently live in Oceanside with my husband. When I have free time, I like kickboxing, hiking, and traveling with my husband. We also enjoy exploring new restaurants in North County.
Marcella Clark
Billing AdministratorMarcella Clark
Billing AdministratorMarcella Clark
Billing Administrator
I gratefully moved into the role of Billing Administrator after joining the firm in 2020 assisting with tax assembly and admin support. It’s a pleasure to work alongside professionals who are good at what they do and enjoy doing it.
My administrative background began in a hospital pharmacy setting where I worked while attending SDSU to earn my bachelor’s degree and teaching credential. From there I taught English for many years and then went on to manage a nonprofit literacy program. More recently, I graduated with certifications in business technology and accounting, an area I’d always wanted to pursue.
I was raised in San Diego and relocated to North County after my daughter decided to stay rooted in Northern California upon her college graduation. I enjoy spending my free time with family and friends, especially exploring nature–parks, beaches, and hiking spots. We are so fortunate to live in such an amazing city with endless beauty!
Mary McDannold
Firm AdministratorMary McDannold
Firm AdministratorMary M. McDannold
Firm Administrator
I have been with the firm since 2008. I am the Firm Administrator and as the title implies, I handle the administrative needs of the firm. I also assist the admin team, partners and professional staff wherever needed. I find the fast paced and diverse nature of my work both challenging and fun. I was raised in the Midwest and the work ethic I learned at an early age is boding well for me among these hard-working and dedicated pros. Before joining the team, I spent 4 years at a Marketing Development company and 10 years as a purchaser in the packaging industry.
I got my BA in Communications with a concentration in Advertising at Cal State Fullerton. I live in Vista with my husband, Steve. Our two children, Erin and Sean, have left the nest and are pursuing their careers. I love hiking, camping and most recently Pickleball! The office is my second home and I enjoy the time with my PEA family. Watching the firm grow and flourish over the years brings me joy and motivation. I am always looking for opportunities to be of service both professionally and personally.
Paul Polito
Partner, RetiredPaul Polito
Partner, RetiredPaul M. Polito
CPA, Partner
I have been a Certified Public Accountant in public practice for 50 years and I still enjoy it! I love to help our clients improve their businesses and save taxes. I also enjoy mentoring our bright young accountants adding the wisdom one gains honing skills over a lifetime.
My wife and I had a blast raising our five children. We have formed lasting relationships with many of their friends. Despite the chaos in the world today, I believe our future will be in great hands! Nowadays, I spend much of my professional time assisting clients with strategy development, working on firm improvement projects and mentoring our younger team members.
At home, my wife Helen and I are fortunate to be in fairly constant contact with our grandchildren. Also, I continue building acoustic guitars, a passion that began in my teenage years.
Don, Jack, Ryan and I are great partners because we share common values. We believe in teamwork and leading people so they can achieve their own greatness. We are indeed blessed to have a great team of self-starting, highly motivated accountants committed to delivering excellence to our clients.
I currently volunteer with the following organizations Board and Audit Committee Chair of New Haven Youth and Family Services, Board member and Treasurer of North County Trade Tech High School, Board and Audit Committee member of JP Catholic University, Finance Committee member of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church.
Priscilla Albarran
AccountantPriscilla Albarran
AccountantPriscilla Albarran
Accountant
I joined the firm in February 2021. I assist with billing and manage the e-files, extensions, and tax software. I also assist with the assembly of tax returns, client setup and support the accounting team wherever needed. I love being part of such a hard-working supportive team that strives to create the best environment for both their clients and employees.
I received my bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University in 2019. Afterwards, I spent a brief period working in Orange County before relocating back into San Diego County and finding my place with Magnus Blue. I am finalizing my notary certification and enjoy learning more every day both inside and outside the classrooms.
In my free time, I enjoy trying out new foods and exploring different types of restaurants. I frequently enjoy evening walks to wind down and soak in a bit of sunlight.
Ryan Mincks
CPA, PartnerRyan Mincks
CPA, PartnerRyan D. Mincks
CPA, Partner
I graduated from Cal Poly Pomona in 2012 with a B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. I began working with Magnus Blue after graduating and quickly advanced through the firm to become an integral part of the team.
As a Partner at Magnus Blue, I specialize in attestation services (compilations, reviews and audits) for privately held companies, tax related work for high net worth individuals, closely-held businesses and their owners, and taking part in a variety of business consulting services designed to help our clients in realizing their goals, quarterly meetings, and sale of business. My areas of concentration consist of card room casinos, construction industries and manufacturing.
One of my passions is to creatively develop schedules and reports that assist in improving efficiencies and analyzing data for both my firm and our clients.
My wife Midori and I are raising our family in Northern San Diego County where I spent most of my childhood. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, and being engaged in anything sports related. Also, my family and I are firm believers in giving back to the local community through a variety of clubs and fundraisers.
Sandra Miller
CPASandra Miller
CPASandra M. Miller
CPA
I joined the firm in 1994. I am the Manager of the Tax Department and specialize in providing tax, consulting, accounting, and estate planning services for individuals and closely held businesses.
I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I attended college and worked as an interpreter at the Australian and American Embassies. I moved to the United States in 1982, and in 1988 received my Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in Accounting from the University of Idaho. Before joining the firm, my career included one year with a CPA firmin Virginia, and five years with a CPA firm in Palm Springs.
Tax accounting suits me because I enjoy helping clients with tax planning and strategies that make their businesses more successful. I am also available to everyone here who may need guidance. We’re a team; all working together in support of our clients and each other. The energy here is positive and productive!
I live in Oceanside, with my husband, Bob, and my two huskies. I have two grown sons, Chris and Alex. During Tax Season, they sometimes come to the office to see me as this is pretty much my home for 10 weeks! When I’m not working though, I enjoy Jazzercize, traveling and spending time with my boys.