Leakey, Texas, a small town known for the picturesque Frio River and a vibrant local music scene, has garnered a new distinction. Governor Greg Abbott announced the city has been officially recognized as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community, an accolade granted by the Texas Music Office (TMO). As reported by the Governor’s office, this certification represents the city's commitment to fostering economic development and creating jobs within the music industry.
"Congratulations to the City of Leakey on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Governor Abbott, noting that the music industry in Texas is both a significant employer, with over 196,000 jobs, and a major economic driver, generating upwards of $31 billion annually. Despite the Governor's focus on job creation and economy, the sentiment on the ground speaks to a deeper cultural pride. Local officials and residents praise the designation, recognizing the integral role music plays in their town. “Many things come to mind when I think of Leakey, but two in particular are the Frio River and music that flows along with it,” Representative Wes Virdell told the official state publication.
The Music Friendly Texas program, the first of its kind since its inception in 2016, encourages cities and communities in Texas to cultivate music business-related economic progress and job opportunities. Leakey's own have embraced the recognition with heart-felt anecdotes and anticipation for future growth. Real County Judge Bella A. Rubio reminisced, “Growing up in Leakey and having the pleasure of listening to local musicians play instruments such as the harmonica, guitar, and banjo on their front porches was the very thing that always brought such joy and peace to my soul,” as mentioned on the Office of the Texas Governor website.
The certification is not just an honor, but a harbinger of potent economic vitality. “This recognition not only celebrates our deep love for music but also strengthens the economic vitality of our town. We may be small, but we have a big soul. Music is an important part of who we are,” said Songs on the Frio President Jan Larsen, with a palpable sense of local pride. In Leakey, it seems music is more than entertainment, as Rio Bella Resort & Rustic 83 owner Carole Petrovics puts it, “In Leakey, music unites us.” Stakeholders believe that this new designation will open doors for the community and visitors alike, as per the Office of the Texas Governor website.
To mark this significant achievement, Leakey will hold a Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony on October 11. The event, set for a 6:00 PM start at Bent Rim Grill, promises a celebration replete with local officials, community leaders, and, naturally, musical entertainment. Gini Mascorro of TMO will present the designation. Further inquiries can be directed to Real County Judge Bella A. Rubio at [email protected], or by phone at 830-232-5304. The event and its details are outlined in the Governor’s news release.
Leakey joins the distinguished ranks as the 90th Music Friendly Texas Certified Community, testament to a program that has blossomed since the TMO's foundation in 1990. The office proudly stands as the longest-running state music office in the nation and continues to support the economic and artistic growth of Texas music across the state.
