(Tax Watch America) - It's tax season and consulting firms are touting their quick and easy services to relieve the stress caused by filing complex returns.

However, this year, businesses should be on the lookout for AI-driven "pop up" technology firms pretending to be expert tax consultants—their speedy "solutions" might land you an audit rather than tax credits.

One of the worst of these shady "fly-by-night" scamsters is a company called SPRX. Their CEO Dominic Vitucci is notorious for making claims that are too good to be true or flat out misleading, ranging from attacking the expertise of CPAs to downplaying the risks of IRS audits.

For example, Vitucci argues SPRX's AI model represents the true "expert" in the field rather than CPAs, stating, "You know what's a real expert? An AI model that is trained on the entire body of R&D tax credit rules."

He even admits SPRX "entirely automates the R&D tax credit claiming process using AI."

But to credibly claim R&D tax credits requires careful legal and regulatory analysis—beyond what AI models are capable of.

These types of claims echo the 2023 IRS "Dirty Dozen" list, which included firms that aggressively marketed the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) with misleading promises. The IRS also cautioned against over-relying on AI for tax filings, emphasizing that AI lacks the ability to make complex, accurate legal determinations.

A true tax professional would acknowledge the risk of overreliance on AI, yet SPRX's CEO never does. Nor does he explain what steps his firm takes to ensure their AI is generating accurate and defensible analysis for their clients.

Vitucci tries to console potential clients, stating SPRX will "represent them in an IRS exam if an agent ever questions our report." However, SPRX hasn't been around long enough for any of their clients to have been audited.

SPRX fails to mention that if their AI-generated tax advice results in an audit, their customers, not the firms themselves, are held legally liable. It remains unclear if SPRX would also represent clients in these scenarios during court proceedings.

AI can be risky during audit preparedness too. AI-generated claims may lack the necessary documentation and substantiation required to withstand an IRS audit, leaving taxpayers exposed to financial and legal risk.

All of these false or misleading claims paint a clear picture of SPRX: their overreliance on AI for R&D tax credits is a risk businesses cannot afford to take.

(NewsUSA) - U.S. energy demand is surging at an unprecedented rate. With economic growth, technological advances, and industrial expansion, our country’s energy demand is projected to grow by between 35% and 50% by 2040, potentially outpacing supply growth.

Much of this expected demand growth is projected to come from large-scale economic drivers like data centers and manufacturing facilities. While these projects typically take two to three years to construct, new power generation can take five years or more to come online. Failing to meet increased demand with increased generation could stifle economic growth, hamper technological innovation, and raise energy consumer costs.

The solution? A strategy that utilizes all affordable and reliable energy sources. Clean energy like wind and solar offers the ability to come online faster than other energy options, better keeping pace with our state’s growing economic opportunities. If we want to reach true American energy dominance, we must employ an “all of the above” energy approach – and that starts with policy at the state level to open the door for homes and businesses to access all available energy resources. Diversifying power supply mixes, strengthening infrastructure, and unlocking rapid deployment will enable states to meet the moment.

Enough clean power capacity – from utility-scale solar, wind power on land and offshore, and storage – to power 75 million homes was installed in 2024 alone. The overwhelming majority of new electric power capacity (93%) installed last year was solar, wind, and storage. But, the U.S. portfolio continues to be primarily composed of thermal resources, hydroelectric power, and nuclear. By continuing to install clean power as a complement to traditional energy sources, states can achieve reliable, abundant, and affordable energy.

A great example of a state pursuing an all-of-the-above approach to energy is Texas. In addition to being the country’s largest producer of liquified natural gas and oil (source), Texas is the nation’s leading producer of utility-scale solar, the biggest producer of wind, and the second largest in battery storage (source), showing that states can use a blend of energy sources to meet their growing needs.

If we want to achieve American energy dominance, we can’t leave any resources on the table. With an all-of-the-above approach to energy, our state – and our country as a whole – can secure our energy future.

(NewsUSA) - We are in an era of unprecedented energy demand growth, driven in large part by the rise of artificial intelligence, the rapid expansion of data centers and an unprecedented increase of American manufacturing. Clean energy is now the fastest-growing source of new power in the U.S., and meeting this rising demand will require a diverse, reliable mix of energy resources.

Advancing clean energy technologies is not just about meeting that demand with affordable, dependable power. It’s also about revitalizing local economies and bringing back American jobs by expanding supply chains here at home. By building solar panels, wind turbines and grid-scale batteries domestically, we strengthen America’s energy security, support good-paying jobs, and fuel the nation’s economic growth.

For our industry, this is not a new effort—it’s a renewed commitment to American manufacturing strength, innovation and global competitiveness.

Today, there are nearly 200 manufacturing facilities across the U.S., producing primary clean energy components for wind, solar, and energy storage projects. These are responsible for over 120,000 manufacturing-related jobs. Since 2022, 90 new or expanded clean energy manufacturing sites have started operations. And the momentum is only growing: 159 additional facilities are currently under construction or in development, expected to deliver another 130,000 American manufacturing jobs.

Just like any other modern sector, building a domestic supply chain doesn’t happen overnight. Delivering on this historic reshoring of manufacturing requires policy certainty. Clean energy manufacturers have seen up close the unintended consequences that Washington, D.C.’s whiplash of policy actions can have on local communities trying to revitalize their economy as they support American manufacturing and energy growth. Stable, consistent regulations give businesses the confidence to commit billions of dollars in capital investments, expand operations, hire American workers and partner with local businesses. It’s this policy stability that will allow our domestic clean energy manufacturing sector to reach its full potential.

For example, trade policy and tariffs require a strategic approach with clear timelines to allow continued certainty for American consumers, businesses and our economy. Tariffs understandably have their place as a policy tool to carry out macroeconomic policy, but if used, must be carefully timed and implemented with clear pathways that give U.S. manufacturers and suppliers the runway needed to invest and scale up.

The buildout of America’s clean energy supply chain represents far more than just new factories — it’s about energy security, economic opportunity, and a sustainable future powered by innovation built right here at home. Whether it’s solar panels produced in Ohio, steel wind towers in New Mexico, undersea cables in Virginia, or advanced batteries in West Virginia, this clean energy manufacturing renaissance can lift communities across the nation. It’s a uniquely American opportunity — and it’s abundant.

(NewsUSA) - The American energy landscape is evolving, and with it, new opportunities are emerging for economic growth, job creation, and energy independence. Offshore wind energy stands out as a transformative solution, capable of revitalizing communities and securing a sustainable future.

At the heart of this transformation is a story of vision and adaptation. In Louisiana, Chett Chiasson has overseen Port Fourchon, a port vital to America's energy sector, for the last 15 years. Building on the port's extensive experience serving offshore oil and gas operations, Chett recognizes its potential to support America’s growing offshore wind industry. Chett’s work to integrate offshore wind into Louisiana's energy heritage exemplifies the kind of innovative thinking needed to power America's future.

Offshore wind energy presents numerous economic benefits for communities like Chett’s across the country. If all the planned projects are allowed to move forward, the offshore wind industry will bring an estimated $65 billion of investment in large-scale projects by 2030, creating an estimated 56,000 jobs across various industries. These are high-paying jobs in construction, maritime trades, and manufacturing, offering vital opportunities for professional growth. Beyond job creation, offshore wind projects stimulate local economies by creating new revenue for communities like land lease payments and tax payments.

The coastal states that are pursuing offshore wind energy are densely populated without more land area to grow other power sources. These big cities with surging demand for power have limited transmission and pipeline capacity. So offshore wind power is the best option for meeting growing electricity demand in short order, as the projects have already been under development for years. And producing wind energy here at home means greater energy independence and less reliance on foreign sources.

New polling data conducted by the Terrance Group shows bipartisan support for tapping into offshore wind’s vast potential. Nearly two-thirds of voters polled in 12 states favor offshore wind development both in the U.S. and off the coast of their own states. Support for offshore wind bridges party lines, with particularly high Republican support in states like Texas and Virginia. And majorities of voters agree that we should incorporate more clean energy like offshore wind into our energy mix.

Offshore wind energy represents a transformative opportunity to power our economy, create jobs, and ensure a sustainable energy supply. By embracing offshore wind as part of America’s all-of-the-above energy mix, we can create a bright future powered by homegrown American energy.

(NewsUSA) - There is broad agreement across party lines that it takes too long to build anything in the United States.   A new energy generation project, like a solar or wind farm, that needs a federal permit takes an average of 4.5 years to secure it. Projects that only need state or local permits can go faster but still take unnecessarily long.
Some projects’ permit wait time is more than a decade. That’s twice the time it took to build the Hoover Dam or the Golden Gate Bridge.  Protecting the environment is critical, of course, but deployment of the energy infrastructure necessary to help our nation meet the growing demand for electricity while continuing to power our economy is being done in ways that are compatible with environmental protection.

While the industry has been accelerating investments in clean energy projects, manufacturing facilities and new technology, timely permitting is critical to unlocking the pipeline of projects that will unleash economic growth, create additional good-paying American jobs, and reduce costs for American consumers.

Failure to reform our current permitting system puts clean energy projects that power millions of homes at risk of significant delay, along with 150,000 jobs and $100 billion+ of investment, including over 40 GW of projects reliant on the siting and permitting of new transmission lines.

Delays create uncertainty and raise costs for project developers that ultimately get passed on to the consumer. Delays can also have ripple effects throughout the economy—throwing off project timelines, the buildout of domestic supply chains, and the jobs and economic activity tied to these projects.

The American Clean Power Association (ACP) advocates for comprehensive permitting policies, working with members of Congress from both political parties to accelerate the deployment of clean energy and cut red tape—all while maintaining robust environmental reviews.

Clean power sources like solar and wind have minimal environmental impacts and proactively take steps to reduce even those and they provide economic benefits in the form of tax revenue, land lease payments and job creation. They also generate large amounts of electricity while diversifying America’s energy portfolio, which enhances reliability while benefiting consumers.

Expanding power generation and transmission is about as fundamental as you can get – we need more electricity to power our devices, factories, workplaces; really our entire lives. Having a dependable supply of electricity is not something we should ever take for granted. Reforming the permitting process is critical to setting the U.S on a path to greater energy security.

(NewsUSA) - At first glance, a golf ball may seem simple, but OnCore Golf has proven there's much more to it than meets the eye. This innovative startup has revolutionized golf ball technology in ways that larger companies haven't been able to.

Founded by longtime friends and business partners Bret Blakely and Steve Coulton, OnCore Golf was born out of a desire to bring innovation to golf ball design. Their proprietary perimeter-weighting technology minimizes unwanted sidespin—helping golfers achieve straighter shots, even in challenging conditions.

But OnCore's journey wasn't just about physics; it was also about breaking through barriers in the traditional golf industry. As newcomers introducing cutting-edge technology, they faced resistance. However, their perseverance paid off when, after a two-year appeal, the U.S. Golf Association approved OnCore balls for use in professional tournaments.

"OnCore represents those who embrace their differences and use them to shape a unique vision for what golf can be," Blakely shared in an interview. "We don't just sell products; we inspire individuality and drive through our approach and messaging."

A Golf Ball for Every Player

OnCore offers a lineup of balls tailored to different skill levels:

• Beginner-Friendly: The Avant 55 is designed for golfers with slower swing speeds, offering a soft feel and enhanced distance.
• Intermediate & Advanced: The Elixr and Elixr 2020 feature a urethane blend that enhances distance and accuracy for skilled players.
• Tour-Level Performance:
  • Vero X1 (85 compression) is crafted for serious golfers seeking precision.
  • Vero X2 (95 compression) provides advanced players with exceptional control and responsiveness.

Smart Tech Meets Golf: The Genius Ball

OnCore isn't stopping at traditional golf balls—the company is pioneering smart technology with its upcoming Genius Ball. Equipped with microelectronics and AI-driven analysis, this revolutionary ball tracks data to help golfers refine their game.

Initially designed for chipping and putting, the Genius Ball provides real-time feedback to improve technique. A full-course version is also in development, though it will be a training aid rather than a tournament-legal ball.

For more details, visit oncoregolf.com.

(NewsUSA) - Many small, family-owned farms in America are struggling to make ends meet. But some farmers like Byron Kominek are discovering how renewable energy can help them keep their land and their way of life.

Byron’s 24-acre farm in Longmont, Colorado, has been in his family for 50 years. His family’s hay-growing business was no longer paying the bills, and Byron needed to find a new way to sustain the land that honored the hard work put in over multiple generations.

After exploring several land management options, Byron decided to build a solar farm on four acres of land, which generates land lease revenue for his family and power for more than 300 homes each year.

Byron is also exploring the emerging farming technique of agrivoltaics, which involves growing crops under solar panels. The microclimates created beneath the solar panels open the door for farmers to grow different varieties of crops. It’s a win-win for forward-thinking farmers like Byron, who are re-purposing their land to grow new crops and produce clean energy.

Byron is not alone in his adoption of American-made energy on the family farm. Approximately one-third of Colorado’s electricity is currently generated by wind or solar power, including from family farms like Byron’s, according to the American Clean Power Association (ACP).

ACP represents the clean energy industry, including companies developing wind, solar, and clean hydrogen power. Visit cleanpower.org to learn more about how renewable energy sources can help family farms thrive in the future.

(NewsUSA) - From charging our phones to fueling up for family road trips and heating our homes, nearly      everything we do uses energy. It’s critical to daily life and a prosperous future. With that in mind, Congress created new energy tax credits in 2022 that lay the foundation for generational investments in all energy to meet growing demand.

These federal energy tax credits are boosting all homegrown energy, including renewables, which has created new jobs, saved consumers money, shored up our energy security and made our electric grid more reliable when extreme weather hits.

And the numbers are significant. These tax credits will create nearly 14 million jobs over the next decade, including doubling the number of clean energy jobs—long lasting careers—from roughly 3 million today to more than 6.5 million. Right now, the credits have already delivered 1.2 million annual jobs while providing new opportunities across multiple sectors, including construction and manufacturing.

The bottom line is that energy tax credits, are and will continue to produce massive dividends for all Americans, delivering a 4x return on taxpayer investment. Here are some eye-popping stats:

These credits boost household income through wages and savings on energy costs while reducing air pollution and providing enhanced energy security for American-made power.

Considering the growing demand, we need all the power we can to produce here at home. The good news is that clean power capacity is growing and is expected to supply enough energy to power every home in the U.S. three times over by 2035 with the help of these energy tax credits.

Now is the time to embrace and foster innovation in homegrown power. Lawmakers in Washington should protect energy tax credits so we can continue to invest in all forms of energy to power our daily lives today and in the future.

(NewsUSA) - Despite the Americans with Disabilities Act being the law of the land for nearly 35 years, a startling new survey from Paralyzed Veterans of America shows accessibility remains an unfilled promise for millions of Americans.

According to the survey, over 80% of people using a mobility device faced an accessibility barrier in the past 6 months. PVA members (Veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases, like MS and ALS) cite sidewalks, restaurants, and retailers as common places with restricted access for wheelchair users and others with mobility devices.

Meanwhile, one third of respondents missed appointments and important events because of barriers, and one quarter leave and never return to inaccessible establishments. 

These barriers take a devastating emotional toll on disabled Veterans and people with mobility disabilities. When asked how barriers made them feel, respondents reported feeling subhuman and demeaned, and some reported lowered self-esteem.

PVA’s survey, conducted in April 2024, asked 1,644 individuals, including PVA members, adults with mobility disabilities, mothers with children aged 5 years and younger, and individuals age 65 and older, about their accessibility experiences.

In response to the survey, PVA is launching a new campaign, “Barriers Still Exist,” to draw attention to the accessibility challenges faced by Veterans and others with disabilities. It includes a PVA petition calling for improved ADA compliance across the country. 

The campaign also features a series of public service announcements highlighting the everyday obstacles of inaccessibility. In the newest PSA, Barriers Still Exist – RJ’s Everyday Fight, we follow U.S. Army Veteran and PVA member RJ Anderson, as he encounters endless accessibility barriers on his way to a job interview.

“As a paralyzed veteran, I know firsthand how drastically inaccessibility can alter the course of any given day,” said Anderson. “Anything from a crack in a sidewalk to a revolving door cannot only derail my plans but also be extremely dangerous for people with mobility disabilities, like me. When public paths and buildings are inaccessible, it communicates a lot – it says my plans don’t matter, my needs don’t matter, and I don’t matter. No one deserves that.”

PVA is leading the fight to build a world where accessibility for all is the norm, not the exception. Everyone can become part of the solution.  

Visit PVA.org/BarriersStillExist to watch the “Barriers Still Exist” PSAs, share them on social media, and sign the Accessibility for All petition.

When our communities are accessible, everyone wins.

(NewsUSA) - 1. Immerse Yourself in the Extraordinary Culture of Sedona

Sedona's breathtaking red rock formations are matched only by its vibrant cultural experiences. The city is a haven for creativity, featuring world-class galleries, an incredible food scene, and exciting events. Don't miss Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, one of the largest galleries in the Southwest, where you can admire stunning sculptures, glass art, and paintings.

Stroll along the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a charming enclave modeled after a traditional Mexican village. Here, you'll find boutique galleries, artisan shops, and opportunities to meet the artists themselves.

Don't miss one-of-a-kind stores like The Artists Kitchen, offering unique culinary-inspired art and goods, or explore other distinctive boutiques in the area such as Good JuJu, known for its eclectic and inspiring finds.

Sedona is also home to many annual festivals like Sedona International Film Festival and Sedona Winefest.  For a guide to everything happening during your visit be sure to visit the Northern Arizona Event Calendar. For food lovers, Sedona boasts an impressive culinary scene, with standout restaurants, great coffee shops, and dining with incredible views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sedona's natural beauty provides endless opportunities for both physical and spiritual exploration. Embark on the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail, a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of Sedona's red rock landscape. Visit a vortex, a world-class spa, or many other wellness opportunities like Horse, Heart, & Connection.  Whether you're looking for culture, cuisine, or outdoor adventure, Sedona has something for everyone.

2. Sip and Savor in Cottonwood's Wine Country

Just a short drive from Sedona, Cottonwood is a rising star in Arizona's burgeoning wine industry. Nestled in the Verde Valley, this quaint town offers a delightful mix of rustic charm and sophisticated tasting experiences. Visit Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria, where you can sample exquisite wines made from locally grown grapes. Pair your wine with house-made pasta or other farm-to-table delights for a truly memorable experience.

For a more in-depth look at the winemaking process, head to one of the nearby vineyards for a tour. Many wineries in the area practice sustainable farming, adding an eco-friendly touch to your visit. Cottonwood's wine country is perfect for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

3. Stargazing in Flagstaff: Embrace Astrotourism

Flagstaff, designated as the world's first International Dark Sky City, is a haven for stargazers. The city's commitment to preserving dark skies has made astrotourism a leading travel trend. Join guided night sky tours or visit the Lowell Observatory to marvel at the celestial wonders above. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious traveler, the starry skies of Flagstaff are truly magical.

4. Step Back in Time in Jerome: History and Charm

Perched on Cleopatra Hill, the historic town of Jerome offers a fascinating glimpse into Northern Arizona's mining past. Once known as the "Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome is now a vibrant arts community with a rich history.

Begin your visit with lunch at The Asylum Restaurant, located in the historic Jerome Grand Hotel. Enjoy stunning views of the Verde Valley while dining in this beautifully restored former hospital. Then, head to the Jerome State Historic Park or explore the Copper Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of artifacts that highlight the region's mining legacy and artistic craftsmanship.

Jerome's eclectic mix of historic sites, unique shops, and cool bars make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

5. Travel Responsibly

As you explore Northern Arizona, it's essential to travel responsibly to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Here are some tips:

• Respect Nature: Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace.
• Support Local: Choose locally owned businesses, artisans, and restaurants to contribute to the community.
• Be Culturally Sensitive: When visiting Native American sites, adhere to guidelines and respect the traditions of local tribes.

Northern Arizona's blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historic charm ensures a travel experience that is both diverse and enriching. Whether you're exploring Sedona's art scene, sipping wines in Cottonwood, or marveling at the stars in Flagstaff, this region promises memories that will last a lifetime.  Everything you could possibly need to begin your journey; you will find on sedonamonthly.com