San Augustine is amplifying its cultural profile after Governor Greg Abbott announced the city’s designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. According to the Office of the Texas Governor, the city completed a multi-step certification process to earn the recognition from the Texas Music Office. With the designation, San Augustine joins other Texas communities committed to supporting the music industry and the economic and cultural benefits it brings.
The Music Friendly Texas program, established in 2016 by TMO, is unique in the nation and is designed specifically to encourage music business-related economic growth. In a quote made by the Governor's office, Governor Abbott said, "With support from the Texas Music Office, the Texas music industry accounts for more than 196,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs and generates over $31 billion in annual economic activity statewide." Moreover, the Governor emphasized the importance of the joint efforts between the state and the communities, which seek to create jobs and stimulate economic prosperity.
Representative Trent Ashby echoed the excitement, noting San Augustine's combination of history, culture, and community as a unique treasure of East Texas. As per the Office of the Texas Governor, music serves as a universal language, and the city houses several venues perfectly suited for musicians to showcase their talents. Boyd also emphasized San Augustine's strategic location and historical significance as major draws for visitors.
Betty Oglesbee, a member of the City of San Augustine Main Street Board, shared the city's readiness for musical events and productions. She detailed the variety of venues in San Augustine, including the Augus Theatre, Cotton Gin Community Center, and the soon-to-be-completed high school venue. San Augustine's commitment to the arts and the increased opportunities for musicians and local businesses to thrive were hallmarks of the recognition it received. As noted by the Governor's website, the Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony is set to take place on Friday, December 5, which will precede San Augustine Main Street’s Lighted Christmas Parade.
For more information on the program or details about the upcoming certification ceremony, interested parties can contact Main Street Manager Shelby Curtis at [email protected].
