The small city of Fate, Texas, just got a little bigger on the cultural map as Governor Greg Abbott announced its designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. According to a recent press release from the Governor's Office, the title comes after an extensive certification process by the Texas Music Office (TMO), making Fate the 84th city to join this melodious alliance. The certification is part of a program initiated in 2016 to foster economic growth and job creation in Texas cities through music.
Gov. Abbott rang in the celebrations with praise for the city's efforts, "Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state." In his statement released by the Governor's Office, he emphasized the significance of music in creating jobs and boosting economic activity statewide, with the Texas music industry reportedly generating over $31 billion annually and accounting for 196,000 direct and indirect jobs. To keep this symphony going, the state is maintaining its cadence of collaboration with communities across Texas.
Local officials are echoing the Governor's excitement. State Senator Bob Hall congratulated Fate and noted the city's commitment to the arts and its contribution to the district's leadership in strengthening the state's music economy. "This recognition is a testament to Fate’s commitment to fostering creativity, supporting local businesses, and enhancing quality of life through the arts," he said in a statement to the Governor's Office. Meanwhile, Mayor Andrew Greenberg acknowledged music as a "unifying force" and said the designation reflects the city's heart and commitment to a vibrant artistic environment.
The economic tune of this certification is expected to be a boon for local venues and businesses. Matt Wavering, the City of Fate Economic Development Director, told authorities that live music acts as an energy source and a draw for cultural tourists. He argues that it's not just about melody and rhythm but also about stimulating the local economy. Laura Smith, owner of Mamarita's, chimed in, highlighting the commercial upswing brought on by their live music venue, The Fate Food Haul. According to her experience, music is "an engine for economic growth and community connection," as mentioned in the same press release.
The celebratory chords will officially be struck at the certification ceremony on June 16, cohosted by TMO and the City of Fate. Gini Mascorro, TMO Community Relations and Outreach Specialist, is set to present the designation during Fate's City Council meeting. Those who are interested can dive deeper into the rhythms of the Music Friendly Texas program and its impact on communities across the state by checking out their website. The Texas Music Office, recognized as the first and longest-running state music office in the nation, continues to champion economic development in the music sector and bolster Texas' reputation as a cornerstone of cultural and musical prosperity.
