Nacogdoches may attract Hollywood as a film-friendly town

Pictured is Carol Pirie.

The “Oldest Town in Texas” is expected to be named Film Friendly by the Texas Film Commission.

Carol Pirie, deputy directory with the Texas Film Commission, will explain what the designation means for the local economy at the Nacogdoches County Chamber Fourth Friday Luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Friday, June 27, at The Fredonia Hotel & Convention Center.

“Film companies often spend hundreds of thousands of dollars in the communities where they shoot films, commercials and other productions,” said Chamber President / C.E.O. Bruce Partain. “Living in Nacogdoches, we know and appreciate our county’s scenery and landmarks, but as a recognized Film Friendly community, we have the potential to attract the eyes of Hollywood and other production companies.”

According to Pirie, whether it is a two-day television commercial or a two-month feature film, the Texas Film Commission would like Nacogdoches to be prepared to welcome filmmakers in a way that will benefit residents and businesses.

Pirie joined the Film Commission in 1987, and has been on the job through four governors, ten legislative sessions, 20 Oscar parties and the making of more than 1,600 film and television projects within Texas’ borders. She manages the Film Commission’s new Film Friendly Texas program, presenting state-wide workshops for rural communities on making the best of opportunities for on-location filming.

Pirie is a fifth-generation Texan. She arrived in Austin in 1973, and she is “forever convinced that she has the best job in Texas.”

The Texas Film Commission is an office of the Governor Rick Perry and has been assisting filmmakers and promoting Texas for more than 35 years. With its beautiful, diverse locations and its experienced crew bases, Texas has remained a competitive destination for hundreds of film and television productions. In addition to film, the Texas Film Commission has begun supporting the Texas video game community and raising its visibility as a viable market. The commission is working to increase Texas' competitive position among all media industries in the state.

RSVP for the Chamber Fourth Friday Luncheon by completing and returning a registration form found at www.nacogodches.org, or call 560-5533. Lunch is $15 at the door, or save $2 by paying at the Chamber office, 2516 North St., by June 26.

Bring a business card for a chance to win $50. In addition, all Chamber members are entered in a $250 drawing, but you must be present to win. Both drawings are sponsored by First Bank & Trust East Texas.