County considers de-funding arts group Creative Pinellas

The Pinellas County Board of Commissioners, in belt-tightening mode as the next fiscal year approaches, is considering eliminating the arts support organization Creative Pinellas.

Established as a nonprofit in 2011, Creative Pinellas distributes grants to artists, produces exhibitions and other events, and fosters collaboration between arts communities. It is the county’s officially-designated arts agency.

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SPx podcat episode #109: Bob Martinez

Former Florida Governor Bob Martinez joins Joe Hamilton on SPx for a wide-ranging conversation on his journey from Tampa’s mayor to the Governor’s mansion to serving as the nation’s drug czar.

Martinez reflects on the contrasts between running a city, navigating state politics and shaping national policy—and how partisanship and media have transformed along the way. He also shares the story behind his party switch after meeting Ronald Reagan, his environmental legacy and lessons learned from both victories and defeats. Enjoy this candid look at leadership, pragmatism and resilience from one of Florida’s most influential political figures.

Welcome to Florida: Shorebirds

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