SUMMARY: Aaron De Groft, former executive director of the Orlando Museum of Art, has died at 59 after a brief illness. His tenure ended amid controversy following an FBI raid in 2022 related to an art fraud investigation involving forged Jean-Michel Basquiat paintings. De Groft had insisted on the legitimacy of these artworks, which were found in a storage unit years after Basquiat’s death. The museum has faced lawsuits alleging fraud and breach of contract linked to the exhibit. De Groft’s death is noted with condolences from the museum, highlighting his survival by his wife and two children.

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The post Former Florida art museum director involved in Basquiat forged painting probe has died appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: A report by the Florida auditor general’s office revealed multiple issues in Mexico Beach, Florida, including turnover in key management positions, delayed financial reports, and procurement violations. From 2020 to 2024, the city saw multiple firings and resignations among its administrators, with the city administrator position unfilled for 78 days and the accountant role vacant for 495 days. The city’s financial reports were filed late, with the 2020-2021 report 173 days late and the 2021-2022 report 362 days late. Additionally, over $1 million in unbid purchases were found. The city also misclassified a part-time accountant, risking potential tax penalties.

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The post Audit finds numerous issues with Mexico Beach city government | Florida appeared first on www.thecentersquare.com

SUMMARY: Florida is experiencing unusual freezing temperatures and snow, prompting AAA to offer safety advice. To protect homes, residents should remove hoses from exterior faucets, allow faucets to drip, and ensure they know their water shutoff valve location. Frozen pipes can cause significant damage, averaging $11,000 in repairs. For cars, AAA recommends using an ice scraper, checking tire pressure, and avoiding warming the car in enclosed spaces. Drivers should check weather conditions, pack an emergency kit, and maintain a safe distance on icy roads. In emergencies, stay in the car and avoid running the engine to save gas.

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The post Not use to snow & freezing temps? Here’s how to keep your home, car safe appeared first on www.news4jax.com