
Lappin
Some business practices at the Palm Beach Pops are leaving the orchestra founded by maestro Bob Lappin exposed to lawsuits and the scrutiny of the IRS, forensic accountants have told the non-profit.
Red-flagged by the Alpern Rosenthal financial sleuths: The Pops is plunking down $20,000 a year for the health insurances of Lappin’s fiancee and his maids.
Also, pops staffers have improperly factored in Lappin’s salary in the books, making it look like he took no pay when, indeed, he’s compensated handsomely. And Lappin is reimbursed for his use of a private jet he co-owns and limo rides, even when it’s unclear whether he is on Pops business or pleasure!
What’s more, the scathing report spells out how the group’s bylaws make Lappin, who’s also the Pops’ CEO and a board member, the sole person in the organization who gets to select, elect and reject members of the Pops board of directors. The board, which includes Lappin’s personal friends and business associates, then approves the conductor’s pay package — about half a million per season!
The forensic report caused such a ruckus that eight board members have resigned over the past month. Only six board members remain, just weeks before the new season’s opening concert.
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