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Perry fights for Texas media
Perry works to keep Texas-related films' shooting locations local
By Christopher Crawford
Concerns regarding how to keep films about Texas, made in Texas, led Gov. Rick Perry to sign House Bill 1634 at Austin Studios, located on the site of the former airport. HB 1634 aims to make full use of the state's resources and talent as well as push Austin to the forefront of the film and television industry. The bill, which creates Texas' Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, was authored by Rep. Dawnna Dukes, D-Austin, and intends to attract production companies to Texas with publicly funded grants. The bill could give $22 million to qualifying companies, with more funds expected as in-state film and television production increases. According to the Texas Film Commission, a state agency, 23 other states have implemented similar programs, including Louisiana and New Mexico, and are now enjoying increased revenue and job growth. Carol Pirie, deputy director of the commission, said "Glory Road" is just one example of filmmakers bypassing Texas in favor of states offering financial incentives to filmmakers. The agency estimates Texas lost 29 films as a result of lacking competitive incentives, funneling $313 million and 4,500 jobs to other states. "A lot of those films that have gone to Louisiana and New Mexico are there using people that live in Austin, it doesn't make any sense," said Paul Stekler, UT professor of radio-television-film. "So they want to be here, and [the bill] helps them be here." To qualify for a grant, the production company must spend a minimum of $1 million in-state for a film or television project, or $100,000 for commercials or video games. The bill requires that at least 70 percent of the crew, actors and extras be Texas residents and that 80 percent of the film be shot in Texas. The Texan strives to present all information fairly, accurately and completely.
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Now what can we do to improve the universities administration???
posted 6/08/07 @ 10:15 AM CST
Great movie and great ideas in the movie. The Glory road university isstill in dire need of improving it's administration methods especially at the business school. (Continued…)
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