Still reeling from cuts to grant funding, Collier arts organizations are now weathering a 10% drop in international visitors. That amounts to about 100,000 fewer international visitors this year. Canadians and British tourists comprise the largest percentage of this decline.

Elysia Dawn, the chief executive officer of United Arts Collier, told the Collier County Commission last week that this significantly impacts Collier arts organizations. As much as 40 percent of their patrons come from out of town.

Her message was heard.

The Commission approved $5 million in supplemental funding for the Tourist Development Council to use to bring in new international visitors.

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On Aug. 19, the Collier County Board of County Commissioners awarded grants totaling $758,000 to 18 Coll

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