GALVESTON 2018 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY RELOCATION & ISL AND GUIDE - Galveston Chamber of Commerce
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LIVE AND EXPLORE GALVESTON 201 8 M EM B E R S HI P D I REC T O RY RELO C AT IO N & ISL A N D GUIDE LEADING THE WAY LEMONADE DAY GO, SEE, DO CONNECTING BUSINESSES, BUILDING THE FUTURE, ATTRACTIONS, RECREATION, CELEBRATING COMMUNITY STIRRING UP SUCCESS EVENTS + MORE
CONTENTS
4 THE CHAMBER
Promoting and advocating
for business and
community development
22 THE ISLAND LIFE
A historic island brimming
with new beginnings
24 HISTORY
The story of Galveston
is a page-turner
28 HOUSING
A place to call home
32 EDUCATION
Preparing today’s students
for tomorrow’s world
40 HEALTH CARE
Leading the way
in health sciences
46 ECONOMY
46
An ideal location for
business development
52 EAT, PLAY, LOVE
Must-see sights, the
great outdoors and more
60 GOVERNMENT RESOURCES 64 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
62 CONTACTS TO KEEP 80 MEMBERSHIP ROSTER
ON THE COVER Produced and published by
View of downtown Galveston at The Galveston County Daily News for the
dusk from the Ocean Star Offshore Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Oil Rig & Museum at Pier 19. This publication may not be reproduced
in whole or in part without permission. Official airline of the Galveston
© 2018 ROBERT MIHOVIL, Regional Chamber of Commerce
Contents © 2018. All rights reserved.
MIHOVIL PHOTOGRAPHY
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 3
FROM THE PRESIDENT & 2018 CHAIR
2018 EXECUTIVE
WELCOME!
COMMITTEE
Dear Friends,
Welcome to Galveston Island and the region! As the oldest chamber in
Texas established in 1845, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce
promotes and advocates for business and community development. For more
than 172 years, our mission represents ongoing efforts to foster a healthy GINA M. SPAGNOLA FRED D. RASCHKE
community where businesses thrive, not just locally but regionally. President and CEO Chair
Galveston Regional Mills Shirley, LLP
As commerce leaders, we understand the strength of our business Chamber of Commerce
community significantly contributes to making Galveston Island and the
region a great place to live, work and play. We support our members’ success
and we champion community prosperity. We fill many roles, but one stands
out above all: we are the voice of the business community.
If you are a new resident, we look forward to getting to you know you!
If you are a business or would just like to stay connected, we invite you to
join the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce and unite with more than
700 businesses, organizations and individuals working together to promote a
positive business climate and develop a vibrant community.
To ensure our members obtain full value of membership, 2018 is the year
of the member. We are joining forces and collaborating with other Galveston C.B. “BIX” THERESA ELLIOTT
County chambers of commerce to expand reach, promote economic growth RATHBURN, PhD Chair-Elect
Past Chair Casa del Mar
and enhance the business community across the region. By working together, RPC Planning Beachfront Suites
we poise ourselves for a better future for our businesses, communities and and Consulting
region.
From the visionary board of directors, mighty chamber staff, dedicated
volunteers and generous investors, we could not ask for a more dynamic
chamber community. Thank you to all of our members for your membership
investment and participation our organization. We are proud to be your voice
and advocate.
Sincerely,
VICTOR PIERSON MAUREEN PATTON
Treasurer At-large
Moody Bank The Grand 1894
Opera House
Gina M. Spagnola, IOM
President and CEO, Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce
THE GALVESTON REGIONAL
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PROMOTES AND ADVOCATES
Fred. D. Raschke, 2018 Chair
Partner, Mills Shirley, LLP FOR BUSINESS AND
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
4 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ISLAND IDEAS
We are our infrastructure so
you can invest in
WATCH OUR “WAVES OF PROGRESS” THROUGH REAL-TIME UPDATES
ON THE CITY’S SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS BY SEARCHING FOR @CITYOFGALVESTON!
THE CHAMBER
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
KALEB APFFEL HOWIE BENTLEY DENNIS BYRD DR. DAVID L. KELLY DE SCHAUN
Galveston Wholesale Classic Auto Group Island Famous CALLENDER Park Board of Trustees
Building Materials Galveston UTMB Health
LARRY DEL PAPA COL. MICHAEL DR. JENNIFER KEITH GRAY CAPT. WALLY HOGAN
Del Papa Distributing FOSSUM GOODMAN CenterPoint Energy Galveston-Texas City
Texas A&M University Odyssey Academy Pilots
at Galveston
GARRY KAUFMAN STEVE MATARO ALLAN MATTHEWS STEPHEN MAXWELL DR. KELLI MOULTON
Galveston Insurance DSW Homes The Moody Foundation Frost Bank Galveston Independent
Associates School District
DAVID NORRIS BEN PETEREK CIPRIANO ROMERO JOE ROZIER RICHARD SEE III
Stewart Title Company Gulfside Cleaning The Romero Mitchell Historic The San Resort Spa
Services Law Office, PC Properties and Conference Center
6 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
JEFF SJOSTROM TODD SULLIVAN V.J. TRAMONTE
Ex-officio Evia/Sullivan Interests Joe Tramonte Realty Inc.
Galveston Economic
Development Partnership
SEA
STAR
MARIA ANTONIETA LINDSEY WHITE LEONARD WOOLSEY
VISO United Way of Galveston The Galveston County
BP Daily News
FOR MORE INFO
CONTACT US TODAY!
SSBGALVESTON.ORG BASE
GALVESTON
YEAR ROUND
MEMBERSHIPS
AVAILABLE!
CHAMBER
STAFF LOCATED ON OFFATT’S BAYOU, SEA STAR BASE
GALVESTON IS A HIGH-ADVENTURE AQUATIC
DESTINATION OFFERING MARINE AND MARITIME
EDUCATION PROGRAMS THAT FOSTER SKILLS,
GINA M. LAURA BLACKSHER, TEAMWORK, LEADERSHIP, AND INDEPENDENCE.
SPAGNOLA, IOM IOM, CTA Located on 10 acres the SSBG includes a state-of-the-art
President and CEO Vice President
of Finance
marina where the Sea Star Base fleet is docked, a swimming
pool, volleyball court, outdoor chapel, dorm-style housing,
meeting spaces and a dining facility. Activities include sailing
- adult, youth and adaptive for the disabled, Scout programs,
kayaking, swimming, volleyball, educational classes and
programs. As an added bonus the floating classroom Baysmart
Express makes its home at Sea Star Base Galveston. SSBG is
also available for special events and weddings.
ROBERT LINDSAY FRANCES MOODY
EVANS, CTA TOUCHY, CTA Director of Events SEA STAR BASE GALVESTON
Executive Assistant to Vice President of 7509 Broadway / Offatt’s Bayou / Galveston, TX 77554
the President and CEO Marketing and
Communications
409.572.2560 / Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3810 / 77552
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 7
THE CHAMBER
percent.
ADMIRAL MEMBERS
Since 2012,
Howie’s vision
for growth in
the community
still remains the
BP home while also providing respectful, same, “taking
BP’s Texas City Chemicals plant is personalized, unparalleled service care of our
a leading producer of paraxylene and levels, all at a great value. customers and
metaxylene in North America, which When the business began, the staff HOWIE BENTLEY our community.”
help make everything from clothes included Jay, Lori and couple of team Owner/dealer He has taken on
and carpets to members. Today, the Carnes Funeral Classic Auto Group several different
soda bottles and Home organization consists of 20-plus Galveston renovations to
surfboards. BP Texas funeral directors and embalmers with his dealerships
City Chemicals has 70-plus team members. The Carnes over the years,
three process units Funeral Home organization not only and they all have
and a marine terminal provides options and services to been updated
within the Port of families in the local communities, but with the newest
Texas City, and it it also handles multiple contracts, technology and efficient and energy
can produce nearly 1.5 million tons providing services for entities and saving lighting.
of chemicals each year. The plant can families all across the state of Texas. For 2018, Howie already has started
produce enough paraxylene each year While the number of family owned and a new Toyota expansion for his Service
to make seat belts for 1.1 billion cars. operated independent funeral homes and Parts Department to allow his
BP is a global producer of oil and is shrinking, Jay believes they are the Toyota customers their own parts and
gas with operations in more than 70 essence of what they do as funeral service area. He is adding 12 new
countries. During the past 10 years, BP directors. The Carnes family helps other service bays, along with two Quick Lane
has invested $90 billion in the United families during some of their most stalls for quick service.
difficult days. It is what Jay believed Howie feels being involved in the
States — more than any other energy
when he opened Carnes Funeral Home community and supporting local
company.
and it is what he believes today. businesses is a vital key to the success
BP employs about 14,000 people
Jay lives for life and likes to celebrate of his business. Shopping local on the
across the United States and supports
it. One of his passions is the Carnes island is something he works hard at
more than 106,000 additional jobs
Parade Krewe. Over the years, Jay has doing every time he starts an expansion
through all its business activities.
built a collection of parade vehicles that at his dealerships. He currently has
For information on BP in the United
he takes all across southeast Texas. plans for a future expansion of a new
States, visit www.bp.com/us.
Carnes employees, friends, friends of Pre-Owned Sales Department where
friends and community members all he will stock more than 400 preowned
CARNES FUNERAL HOME vehicles, which he anticipates to have
Jay Carnes walked out of the doors ride on them. Jay enjoys seeing children
and adults catch beads and toys the completed in 2019.
of Commonwealth Institute of Mortuary Classic Auto Group is a family-owned
Science in 1999 as a funeral director krewe throws to them in parades,
sometimes five in one day. and operated dealership that puts great
and began his journey down the funeral pride in taking care of its customers.
industry road, which led him to owning “This is what life is about,” Jay said.
Howie has received various awards from
and operating “It is about connecting with people
the manufactures for the results he and
Carnes Funeral and making them happy for whatever
his staff have accomplished over the
Home. He and second or moment you have with them.”
past several years. Howie and his wife of
his wife, Lori, 40 years, Renae, live in Galveston. Their
started building CLASSIC AUTO GROUP son Nick Bentley also is actively involved
Carnes Funeral GALVESTON in the dealership and completed NADA
Home in 2003 In January 2012, Howie Bentley Dealer Academy in 2017. All of the family
with the goal of purchased Classic Auto Group is actively involved in the community.
becoming the Galveston, selling a full line of Howie serves on the board of
funeral home automobiles, including Honda, Chevrolet, directors of the Galveston Regional
JAY CARNES of choice in the GMC, Cadillac, Buick, Toyota, Ford and Chamber of Commerce and the
Owner communities a great selection of pre-owned vehicles. Galveston Economic Development
Carnes Funeral Home
they served by Starting with 77 employees at the time, Partnership board. He is a member of
providing families and now reaching more than 157. the Galveston Rotary Club, as well a
with options Howie and his team finished a record sponsor of several organizations.
that were not sale year in 2017 with annual sales of For information about Classic
found at the $143,974,025 and more than 4,597 Auto Group Galveston, visit www.
average funeral vehicles, which is up over 2016 by 31.5 classicgalveston.com.
8 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DSW HOMES, LLC Galveston. Luis Resort, The Westin Houston
DSW Homes partner Steve Mataro He resides in Downtown and several other award-
serves as a Galveston Regional Galveston and winning regional hotels.
Chamber of Commerce board member, remains active in The Company’s entertainment
advocate for the community and numerous civic destinations include the Historic
community champion for Lemonade Day organizations in Pleasure Pier, The Kemah Boardwalk,
Galveston County. the community. Downtown Aquarium Denver and
DSW Homes, LLC is a company Frost Bank, Houston and Tower of Americas in San
built around its customers. From start which is Antonio, which all are featured on the
to finish, DSW Homes fully invests in STEPHEN MAXWELL
celebrating Forbes, Travel Channel or USA Today’s
its projects, contributing a wealth of Vice president its 150th top five lists of attractions.
diverse construction knowledge and Frost Bank-Galveston anniversary, has Landry’s also owns and operates
drawing on more two locations in numerous gaming, hospitality and
than 130 years Galveston. The entertainment venues, including the
of accumulated downtown office iconic Golden Nugget Casino and
home-building is located at Hotel brand, which has five locations
experience in the 2201 Market St. and the West branch throughout the United States,
industry. Working is located at 6801 Stewart Road. including Las Vegas and Laughlin,
as a team, Frost Bank is well known for its Nevada; Atlantic City, New Jersey;
record of financial stability and Biloxi, Mississippi and Lake Charles,
DSW Homes
high performance, offering banking, Louisiana.
creates the best
insurance and investment products and
solutions to
STEVE MATARO
services. MARATHON PETROLEUM
better serve its
Partner For information, visit www.frost Richard A. Hernandez was named the
clients, ensuring
DSW Homes bank.com. general manager of the Galveston Bay
the end product
exceeds their Refinery in February 2016.
expectations. LANDRY’S INC. Rich has been with Marathon
DSW Homes Landry’s, solely owned by Chairman Petroleum for more than 26 years
achieves and CEO Tilman Fertitta, is recognized and has held
outstanding as a world leader in the dining, a variety of
results in each of the markets the hospitality, entertainment and gaming positions
company builds, with its work focusing industries. throughout
on disaster recovery areas across Landry’s the company.
the United States. DSW Homes has operates more He started his
than 600 career with
extensive experience in FEMA, CDBG
properties in Marathon in
and CDBG-DR work. Specifically, DSW
36 states and 1990 with
Homes has participated in more than 30
a number of engineering and
programs completing more than 4,000
international RICHARD A. management
units totaling $450 million in contracts HERNANDEZ
locations. positions at
(number of units includes rehabilitation, General manager
The company the Garyville,
reconstruction and elevation projects). In Galveston Bay Refinery
owns and La., Refinery
addition to disaster recovery work, DSW TILMAN FERTITTA
operates more before moving
Homes provides services in immediate Chairman/CEO
Landry’s Inc. than 50 different to Marathon
response and consultation. With offices
restaurant Oil Company’s
across the country, DSW Homes is
brands and Upstream
ready to help make a difference in your award-winning Organization
community today. concepts. The where he worked in Gulf of Mexico
For information, visit www.dsw Signature Group operations in Lafayette, La., and
homes.com. includes Mastro’s Steakhouse and Houston. He later joined Marathon’s
Ocean Club, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Terminal, Transport & Marine
FROST BANK The Oceanaire, Vic & Anthony’s, Organization in Findlay, Ohio, and was
Stephen Maxwell is the vice Brenner’s Steakhouse, Grotto, La Griglia appointed Ashland District Manager and
president of Frost Bank-Galveston. He and Willie G’s; while the multi-unit then Marine Transportation Manager in
has been with Frost Bank since 2008. restaurant brands include favorites like Russell, Ky.
In addition to his responsibilities with Chart House, Landry’s Seafood House, He has been the maintenance
Frost Bank, Stephen is presently a Rainforest Cafe, Saltgrass Steak manager at both the Catlettsburg,
board member and treasurer of The House, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Ky., and Garyville refineries, and
Children’s Center Inc. Joe’s Crab Shack and McCormick & he also was appointed director of
A graduate of Texas A&M University, Schmick’s. In the Houston/Galveston Refining Reliability and Process Safety
Maxwell was born and raised in area, it owns the award-winning San Management. Prior to his current
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 9
THE CHAMBER
assignment at Galveston Bay, Rich was Chambers County and donated a school Immediately following Hurricane Ike,
the general manager of the Catlettsburg in Galveston. which struck Galveston on Sept. 13,
Refinery. As a conservative Republican activist, 2008, MHP launched a massive cleanup
Since moving to Texas, Rich has Mayes is secretary of the Chambers and restoration program in downtown
become involved in the community as County Republican Party and recently Galveston. MHP estimates $ 24 million
chair of the Texas City ISD Advisory co-founded the Chambers County Ethical was put forth for the cost of disaster
Council for the new Industrial Trades Government Board that gathered 3,673 relief, cleanup and building renovation
Center and is a member of the board signatures to give taxpayers a say and for the more than 20 buildings damaged
of directors of United Way Galveston stop a $57 million bond. He also led in the storm and aftermath.
County Mainland and the Texas City-La the charge to get Chambers County to In 2011, the family completed an
Marque Chamber of Commerce. adopt local debt and bond transparency $11 million renovation of the Historic
Rich graduated from The Georgia rules and enhanced ethics rules for the Hotel Galvez as part of the hotel’s
Institute of Technology with a Bachelor benefit of all taxpayers and voters. Centennial Celebration.
of Science degree in mechanical Mayes received a Bachelor of Arts in The Hendley Row Building, built in
engineering. He also completed the Plan II Honors, a Bachelor of Business 1855, is located at the intersection
Advanced Management Program at Administration in Finance, and a Doctor of Strand and 20th streets. It is the
the Wharton Business School of The in Jurisprudence from the University oldest surviving commercial building
University of Pennsylvania in 2011. of Texas at Austin. He and wife, Macy, in Galveston. The family renovated the
For information, visit www. are members of Middleton Memorial Hendley Row Building and work was
marathonpetroleum.com. Methodist Church in Wallisville. They completed in 2016 at a cost of
live in Wallisville with their three boys: $4 million.
MAYES MIDDLETON Connor, Christian and Matthew. “The Mitchell family shares a deep
Mayes Middleton is president of appreciation for Galveston’s heritage,
Middleton Oil Company, an independent MITCHELL HISTORIC and we remain inspired by the vision of
oil and gas company that operates PROPERTIES our parents.” Grant Mitchell, president
more than 65 wells in South Texas and Mitchell Historic Properties is a of MHP, said. “The buildings they saved
along the Gulf Coast and is engaged in privately owned and operated company speak to us as much as they did to
joint exploration based in Galveston and part of the them. My family is firmly dedicated to
ventures with Mitchell Family Corp. based in The preserving my parents’ legacy.”
other oil and Woodlands. For information, visit www.
gas companies. Joe Rozier, of mitchellhistoricproperties.com.
In addition to Mitchell Historic
his work in the Properties (MHP), MOODY BANK
oil and gas manages the Moody Bank serves business and
industry, Mayes operation of personal banking customers with
also runs his multiple historic the products and services of a large
ranching, cattle buildings and bank and the
MAYES MIDDLETON and farming projects owned personal service
President operations in by the family of a community
Middleton Oil Company
Chambers, of Galveston bank. Founded
Liberty, Jefferson, JOE ROZIER
General manager
preservationists in Galveston in
Kimble and Webb Mitchell Historic Cynthia and 1907, Moody
counties. Properties George Mitchell. Bank has helped
As a MHP’s inventory generations of
successful conservative small is comprised of Texans grow
businessman, Mayes thoroughly three hotels, two their businesses,
believes in being involved in his parking garages, VICTOR PIERSON realize their
community. He serves on the Board two parks/event President/CEO dreams and
of Directors of First Liberty National spaces, the Pier 21 complex, several Moody Bank manage their
Bank, the Chambers County Museum parking lots and 18 historic buildings financial assets.
at Wallisville and the Galveston with retail, office, restaurant and “We’re a
Island Pachyderm Club. He recently apartment spaces. growing, fiscally
served on the Board of Texas Public The Mitchell family is committed to strong Texas
Policy Foundation, Empower Texans the overall success and revitalization community bank dedicated to delivering
Foundation and the Executive of The Strand District, Pier 21 and an excellent customer experience with
Committee of Texas Business Galveston Island. For more than 40 quality products and services,” Victor
Leadership Council. years, the Mitchells have invested Pierson, Moody Bank president and
Mayes is one of the most generous, more than $175 million in rehabilitating CEO, said.
charitable givers in the community. historic properties in The Strand Using today’s advanced technology,
His efforts have rebuilt a church in National Historic Landmark District. Moody Bank offers the convenience of
10 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCEonline banking, online person-to-person meet the varying needs of consumers, The Daily News also publishes
payments, online bill pay, e-statements interior designers, painting contractors, Coast Monthly, a beautiful magazine
and mobile deposits. property managers, developers and celebrating life along the Gulf, and the
architects around the globe. Connection newspaper, serving the
Ready to grow your business? The Galveston office is located at communities of League City, Kemah and
Whether it’s to expand your business 6000 Broadway. Clear Lake Shores.
or operate more efficiently, Moody Bank For information, visit www.ppg For information, visit www.galvnews.
helps find the solutions. When looking paints.com. com.
for loans and lines of credit for real
estate, construction and other business THE GALVESTON COUNTY THE RECOVERY
needs, you can count on decisions made DAILY NEWS ASSURANCE PLAN
locally by bankers who understand the Leonard Woolsey is the president The Recovery Assurance Plan
dynamics of the Texas economy. and publisher of The Galveston County (RAP) is a product and service that
Daily News, the oldest newspaper in the addresses a major concern affecting
Your bank for life state of Texas and one of the founding all property owners and presents
Customers appreciate the friendly members of the Galveston Regional an innovative approach to the way
service they get from Moody Bank’s Chamber of insurance claims
knowledgeable staff. Moody Bank offers Commerce. resulting from
competitive rates on home construction, Woolsey joined catastrophic
mortgage, home improvement and equity The Daily News events are
loans, as well as auto and boat loans, in January 2014 handled. RAP
personal loans, and loans secured by and has since was founded
certificates of deposit. become active by Darrell and
in community Cindy Quinney.
Wealth management organizations, Darrell took his
You also can count on Moody Bank from chambers knowledge of
Wealth Management & Trust for the of commerce, the construction
LEONARD WOOLSEY DARRELL QUNNEY
same personal service, in-depth President/publisher The Salvation Owner trade into a
experience and sophisticated tools to The Galveston County Army and United The Recovery catastrophic
help protect your assets and achieve Daily News
Way among
Assurance Plan
loss consulting
your financial goals. One of the oldest many. operation, RAP.
and largest trust departments in Texas, Woolsey is For 20-plus
Moody Bank has been protecting nest a member of years, he has
eggs since 1927. the chamber’s provided expert
Advocacy and witness services
Galveston is home Governmental Affairs committees in cases involving property damage
“While we’ve grown to serve greater and also is involved in the chamber’s insurance claims. He has represented
Houston and Central Texas, Galveston education-related Lemonade Day. both insurance companies and trial
Island is still home,” Pierson said. Woolsey is a 20-year member of attorneys. Through that he has gained
For information, visit www. the Rotary Club of Galveston and a a wealth of knowledge about how
moodybank.com. Paul Harris Fellow. He is also a past- both sides work. The RAP product is
DISCLAIMER: Moody Bank Wealth president of Rotary Club 4118. a complete solution to ensuring the
Management & Trust products are not a Publishing since 1842, The Daily property owner is protected following a
deposit, not guaranteed by the bank or News is a longtime advocate for its loss.
its affiliates, not insured by any agency readers and advertisers on Galveston The RAP team looks at its product as
of the U.S. Government, and involve Island and throughout Galveston five steps of representation:
investment risk. A possible loss of value County. As such, its mission mirrors STEP 1 – IDENTIFYING THE
may occur. that of the Galveston Regional Chamber PROPERTY. Everything covered in the
of Commerce, which advocates for its policy will be documented with photo
PPG PAINTS & COATINGS members and the business community or video. This includes all interior
PPG has been providing quality in general on Galveston Island. and exterior finishes as well as a
paints and stains for homeowners and The Daily News, considered to be contents inventory, including model/
professionals for more than 100 years. the dean of all businesses in Texas, serial numbers where available. A
Today, PPG’s lineup has continued to maintain a standard schematic drawing also will be done as
of well-respected of excellence throughout the years. dimensions of all rooms are recorded.
residential, Published as a weekly, bi-weekly, tri- STEP 2 – IDENTIFYING THE
commercial and weekly and finally a daily publication, PROPERTY POST LOSS. Following an
industrial paint it is followed in age by the Austin event, the RAP team will attempt to
brands offers a wide American-Statesman in years of service make contact to determine whether
range of choices to to the community. a loss was sustained. If a loss was
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 11THE CHAMBER
suffered, the RAP will send a staffed the needs and regional economy. On Galveston
Public Adjuster (PA), licensed by the of students, Island, results of a 2016 study found
Texas Department of Insurance, to the patients, faculty that the university directly and indirectly
property to assess the damages. The and staff. Major accounted for $300 million in business
RAP’s PA will handle all communication projects include volume, $310 million in personal income
with carrier representatives. the Jennie and 10,000 jobs. In the county, the
STEP 3 – PREPARING THE Sealy Hospital, direct and indirect impact was $526
ESTIMATE. The PA will prepare a line infrastructure million in business volume, $670 million
by line estimate depicting all repairs improvements, in personal income and 13,000 jobs.
necessary to bring the property back to DR. DAVID L.
John Sealy A native of Wichita Falls, Dr. Callender
pre-loss condition. CALLENDER Hospital received his medical degree from and
STEP 4 – SETTLEMENT. The PA will President renovation, a new completed his residency at Baylor
settle the claim using the data collected University of Texas research building, College of Medicine. He subsequently
Medical Branch the Health completed a fellowship in head and neck
in the pre-loss phase. Upon settlement,
all proceeds will be distributed to the Education Center surgical oncology at M.D. Anderson. He
property owner. The RAP will not collect scheduled to also completed an MBA at the University
any percentage. open to students of Houston. He is a Fellow of the
STEP 5 – UPDATING. After repairs in 2019, and American College of Surgeons.
have been made, a RAP team member expansion of the League City Campus. Dr. Callender and his wife, Tonya, reside
will return to the property to update the Meanwhile, UTMB Health continues in Galveston. They have three children.
file with new current conditions. to have a significant impact on the local For information, visit www.utmb.edu.
For information, visit www.recovery
assuranceplan.com.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS
MEDIAL BRANCH
CAPTAIN MEMBERS
Dr. David L. Callender has served
as president of the University of Texas
Medical Branch (UTMB Health) since AMOCO FEDERAL Bay Area, Perry Family YMCA and League
2007. He is a head and neck surgeon CREDIT UNION City Regional Chamber of Commerce.
with expertise in head and neck cancers. Shawn Bailey serves as president
Under Dr. Callender’s leadership, and CEO of AMOCO Federal Credit AMERICAN NATIONAL
UTMB Health is advancing significantly Union. With INSURANCE COMPANY
in all three of its mission areas: more than $800 James Pozzi is president and chief
education, research and health care. million in assets, executive officer of American National
Enrollment in UTMB Health’s AMOCO FCU is Insurance Company. Founded in 1905
schools of medicine, nursing, health in the Top 25 in on the ideals of strong management
professions and graduate biomedical
Texas and Top 5 and prudent
sciences has increased more than 41
in the Houston investment,
percent since 2008, and the university
Metroplex in American
remains a leader in student diversity
terms of assets National has
and producing a well-trained health care
size for credit stood the test
workforce for Texas and beyond.
SHAWN BAILEY unions. of time, earning
The university’s Health System is
expanding access to advanced care to President/CEO Bailey has the faith of its
AMOCO Federal more than 20 policyholders and
meet the health needs of the growing Credit Union
region. The university now has three years of credit shareholders
campuses, with hospitals in Galveston, union experience alike. The
Angleton Danbury and League City. In and holds a JAMES POZZI company
total, UTMB has more than 90 clinics bachelor’s degree President/CEO surpassed more
in business American National than $100 billion
in 50 locations providing primary and Insurance Company
specialty care. administration from New Mexico State of life insurance
UTMB Health’s research enterprise is University and a master’s degree in in force in 2017.
nationally and internationally recognized business administration from Texas This achievement
for its efforts to develop better A&M University. He serves on the board marks the
diagnostics, preventives and treatments of directors for United Way Galveston culmination
to improve health. County Mainland, Texas City-La Marque of more than a century devoted to
Dr. Callender has led efforts to and Clear Lake chambers of commerce. the company’s values of integrity and
strategically improve and expand Bailey previously served on the board of financial strength. American National
UTMB Health’s facilities to better serve directors for Communities in Schools – also was named to Forbes’ 2017
12 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCElist of America’s Most Trustworthy services to the community. This year, the A graduate of
Financial Companies. Forbes chose the health system is proud to serve even The University of
company based on its accounting and closer with the opening of its Convenient Texas at Austin,
governance practices. Care Center in League City. Mihovil majored
Pozzi has been with American National Located at in photography
for 45 years, serving as senior executive 2555 S. Gulf and received
vice president, chief operating officer for Freeway in a Bachelor of
American National Insurance Company Pinnacle Park, Journalism
before his current position. He has the Convenient Care Center provides degree in 1980.
been an officer of the company for 40 one-stop, highly coordinated access ROBERT MIHOVIL After graduation,
years and is also a director and officer to adult and pediatric primary care Owner Mihovil
of various subsidiaries of the company. through Memorial Hermann Medical Mihovil Photography
established his
Pozzi holds a Bachelor of Science in Group, as well as specialty physicians, own photography
Mathematics from Texas A&M University. breast care, sports medicine and studio, where
He is a member of Fellow of the Society rehabilitation, outpatient imaging and he continues
of Actuaries (FSA) and the American lab services, and 24-hour emergency to cover
Academy of Actuaries. services. The nearly 47,000 square- assignments for a diverse clientele.
For information, visit www. foot facility offers patients convenient An active member of the Galveston
americannational.com. options such as walk-in access and community, Mihovil serves as the
online scheduling. program chairman, crime watch
GALVESTON-TEXAS CITY PILOTS The expansion complements Memorial director and is the past president
The first pilot association in the State Hermann’s existing Urgent Care clinics of the University Area Association
of Texas, the Galveston-Texas City Pilots in Webster and Friendswood. Memorial neighborhood. He is the head usher
has protected the public interests of Hermann is committed to serving at Sacred Heart Church, a member
Texans since 1845, by facilitating the the growing health care needs of this
of the Galveston Regional Chamber
safe and efficient movement of vessels community on every level.
of Commerce, Galveston Economic
in the waters For information, visit www.
Development Partnership and American
of Galveston memorialhermann.org.
Society of Media Photographers.
County, and
by exercising MIHOVIL PHOTOGRAPHY
independent Robert Mihovil is a Galveston/
SEA STAR BASE GALVESTON
judgment to Founded by Charles and Rosemary
Houston freelance photographer whose
protect lives, the Doolin, Sea Star Base Galveston is a
work has achieved national recognition
environment, nonprofit organization that helps people
through its use in news and general
property and the discover and nurture a lifelong passion
interest publications, advertisements,
economic well- for the water. In addition, SSBG offers
annual reports, illustrated brochures,
CAPT. CHRISTOS year-round marine activities and features
SOTIRELIS
being of all users membership directories, political
of the waterway. campaigns, travel guides and web sites. a 3,600-square-foot
Presiding officer
Galveston-Texas City The Pilots are Mihovil’s photographs have appeared banquet hall capable of
Pilots proud members in news and feature articles for Coast hosting large and small
of the Galveston Monthly, Coastal Living, National events, conference
Regional Geographic, Newsweek, Offshore, rooms, dorm rooms
Chamber of People, Smithsonian, Texas Highways, accommodating up
Commerce and Texas Journey and Time. The Austin to 208 guests, a
appreciate the American Statesmen, Boston Globe, waterfront pavilion,
support and Guidry News, Houston Chronicle, New swimming and SCUBA
fellowship of York Times and USA Today also have diving certification-
partners and service users in the ports published his work. qualified pool, and a seaside chapel/
of Galveston and Texas City. Mihovil’s passion for photography is amphitheater.
For information, visit www. equaled only by his love for family and The SSBG Community Sailing Center
galvestonpilots.com/galtexnew Galveston Island. His colorful imagery is the only U.S. Sailing-sanctioned
reflects the way a native Galvestonian Community Sailing Center in the state
MEMORIAL HERMANN sees and appreciates his hometown. of Texas and offers memberships for
Memorial Hermann is a proud and With 20,000 Galveston stock individuals and families. The emphasis
active member of the Galveston Regional photographs in his files, including of the Sailing Center is to teach sailing,
Chamber of Commerce. For more than major attractions, events and with a special emphasis on disabled
30 years, Memorial Hermann Southeast destinations, he maintains one of the individuals and veterans.
Hospital has provided high quality, most extensive selections of stock For information, visit www.
accessible and affordable health care images of the island. ssbgalveston.org
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 13THE CHAMBER
2017 CHAMBER AWARDS
ALWAYS IN ACTION
AND RECOGNITION
1
st place marketing campaigns
(Lemonade Day Galveston
County) – Texas Chamber of
Commerce Executives (TCCE)
ADVOCACY AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS 2
nd place marketing campaigns
(Celebrating Women: Mind,
The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce takes a stand on tough issues Body, Spirit) – Texas Chamber of
such as taxes, new regulations, assessments, insurance and federal wage laws Commerce Executives (TCCE)
affecting its members. The advocacy committee and legislative affairs committees
work in a collaborative effort to research, discuss and act on important public policy A
ward of Excellence (Lemonade
issues directly affecting the business community. In 2017, the committees attended Day Galveston County) –
Galveston County Day at the Capitol, participated in two Washington, D.C. fly-ins, wrote Association of Chamber of
ten letters of support and three resolutions. Commerce Executives (ACCE)
The Advocacy Committee promotes a positive and pro-active business 4
-star accreditation by the
environment in the Galveston area. The committee’s tasks include: United States Chamber of
Develop and support local governmental action to promote a strong business Commerce
climate and job growth opportunities
Oppose local governmental action to inhibit a strong business climate and PRESIDENT AND CEO
diminish job growth opportunities
Establish productive relationships between business interests and public officials
GINA M. SPAGNOLA
Provide forums to inform public officials and candidates for public office on CREDENTIALS AND
issues impacting the business community RECOGNITION
Provide forums to educate the membership on issues impacting the business A
ssociation of Chamber of
community Commerce Executives Disaster
Communicate official chamber positions to the appropriate public officials prior Recovery Subject Matter Expert
to their action on the issue
U
.S. Chamber of Commerce
Identify and support individuals to serve on public commissions and boards
National Business Recovery
Hold public officials accountable for their actions and the resulting impact on
the business community. This may be accomplished by the circulation of public Corps Member
official voting records to the chamber membership on any issue the chamber has Acknowledged by the State
communicated an official position. of Texas and United States
The Legislative Affairs Committee advocates through the legislature for member Emergency Response Teams
businesses to provide a voice not only at a state level, but a national level as well. Its
primary functions include: Community counsel and mentor
Monitor, analyze and prioritize public policy issues which impact chamber for natural disasters in Texas,
members and the Galveston business community Alabama, Louisiana, Missouri,
Inform the business community on federal, state and local governmental issues New Jersey, Oklahoma and
Prioritize issues that may require special attention by the chamber Canada
Make recommendations to the board of directors regarding policy issues. Institute of Organization
For the second time, the chamber will team up with Sen. Larry Taylor and Rep. Management graduate
Wayne Faircloth to host the 2018 Galveston Coastal Legislative Tour. In 2016, close
to 70 Texas legislators participated in the event. The tour provides state legislators F aculty member and Institute
with a close-up view of what is happening in Galveston County and the significance Class Advisory for the U.S.
the county plays in the economy of not only the state of Texas, but nationally and Chamber of Commerce Institute
internationally. of Organization Management
O
ne of 10 individuals invited
EDUCATION to serve on the Delegation
US-Japan Grassroots Disaster
The Education Committee connects education and business to enhance the Exchange Program
quality, accessibility, choice and usefulness of education for students of all ages Lemonade Day County Director
to support the economic, social and political viability of Galveston Island. The and National Domain Leader for
committee partners with institutions such as Galveston Independent School District,
Chambers of Commerce
Galveston College, Galveston Career Connect, Fanfare Lutheran Academy, Odyssey
Academy, Texas A&M University at Galveston and University of Texas Medical L emonade Day National Board
Branch at Galveston to offer educational programs such as Adventures in Maritime of Director
Careers, Lemonade Day Galveston County, CollegeTown Galveston, Mike Evans
14 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCEFootball Camp, Ball High IncubaTOR
and the Vivian Rose Hernandez
Junior Navigators. These programs
introduce youth to careers in the
maritime industry, provide students
the opportunity to connect with
businesses, and offers entrepreneurial
opportunities and experiences to
encourage them to follow their dreams
through higher education and/or
vocational training.
PELICAN ISLAND
AND GALVESTON
CHANNEL ADVOCACY
The Pelican Island and Galveston
Channel Advocacy Committee
supports the needs of the maritime
community and provides a forum for segment of the local economy, including mission of the committee is to promote
discussion of mutual issues of concern channel dredging, transpiration needs, and advocate for existing and future
for the businesses operating along the the Pelican Island Bridge, development land owners and businesses on Pelican
Galveston waterfront. The committee plans for Pelican Island, the Harborside Island, the Galveston waterfront and the
advocates for critical issues to the region and the Galveston Port. The Port of Galveston and its tenants.
ANNUAL MEETING
The chamber celebrated its 172nd annual meeting, An Evening in Italy, on Jan. SMALL BUSINESSES OF THE YEAR
12, 2017, in the Frances Anne Moody Ballroom at Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Benno’s
Convention Center. The 2017 annual meeting featured a stroll through Italy, awards Fast Signs
ceremony, dinner and entertainment. The awards ceremony recognized outstanding Queen’s Barbecue
businesses and individuals that make a measurable impact on the community. Tina’s on the Strand
NATIONAL CHAIN BUSINESS
2017 GALVESTONIAN OF THE YEAR BOARD MEMBERS OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR
Wayne Faircloth Theresa Elliott, Casa del Mar Whataburger
Beachfront Suites
CHRISTIE MITCHELL Allan Matthews, The Moody Foundation NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR
BEACHCOMBER AWARD Maureen Patton, The Grand The Salvation Army of Galveston
Victor Pierson, Moody Bank 1894 Opera House
VICTOR PIERSON C-CREWE AWARD
HERO OF THE YEAR PRESIDENT’S AWARD Tom Schwenk, Tom’s Galveston
Ben Peterek, Gulfside Cleaning Services Navigators Real Estate
TEXAS STRONG HEROES INTERNATIONAL IMPACT C-CREWE MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Brent Cockerham, Moody Bank BP Lindsey White, United Way of Galveston
Tena Lundquist Faust and Tama
Lundquist, Houston PetSet H. RUDY TEICHMAN MARITIME COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Raz Halili, Prestige Oysters Inc. WHEEL OF EXCELLENCE OF THE YEAR AWARD
JW Kelso D r. Jennifer Goodman, Odyssey
UNSUNG HEROES Academy
Michelle Beckwith, The San Luis MEDIUM/LARGE BUSINESS D r. Donna Lang, Texas A&M
Resort Spa and Conference Center OF THE YEAR University at Galveston
James MacAlpine, Schlitterbahn CenterPoint Energy
Waterpark Galveston Island
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 15THE CHAMBER
CITY CHAMPIONS
FRESH SQUEEZED
Howie and Renae Bentley,
Classic Auto Group Galveston
James MacAlpine, Schlitterbahn
Waterpark Galveston Island
Leonard Woolsey, The Galveston
Lemonade Day Galveston County, a County Daily News
free educational initiative, introduces youth Fred D. Raschke, Mills Shirley, LLP
to entrepreneurship and skills to prepare
them for both business and life. The program Steve Mataro, DSW Homes
culminates in the real-world experience of Congressman Randy and
youth going into business by setting up their Brenda Weber
lemonade stand.
Lemonade Day Galveston County would Rep. Wayne and Cheryl Faircloth
not be possible without the overwhelming Pastor Robin Reeves, City of
contributions from our investors and the Texas City representative
commitment of community champions. The program continues to grow as we register
and engage more and more young entrepreneurs. Councilmember Chris Lane, City
For more information about Lemonade Day Galveston County, contact the Galveston of La Marque representative
Regional Chamber of Commerce at 409-763-5326 or visit lemonadeday.org/
galveston-county.
16 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCETEAM VICTOR
included conversation pieces such
as a display of his trophies, plaques,
personal photos of fun activities, and
Day Galveston County. To Victor, information about the organizations
Lemonade Day Galveston County to which he donates. And if customers
shows others with the disorder that were lucky, he even danced for them.
anything is possible. With the proceeds, he took his class
Victor began his young entrepreneur and teachers to the movies and lunch,
career in 2013 helping his sister with he donated a portion to the nonprofit
her lemonade stand. The following organization Galveston Houston
year, Victor overheard his sister Families Exploring Down Syndrome
say she did not want to participate (GHFEDS), he bought school supplies
again and he firmly said, “I want to for his entire classroom, he saved a
do it!” So, alongside his best friend little and, best of all, he rewarded
and business partner, they opened himself.
their business called Power Rangers Victor graduated in 2017 making
Lemonade Stand. him ineligible to participate this
In 2015, Victor’s health declined. year, but he will continue to operate
He was diagnosed with hypothyroid his business and raise awareness
and suffered severe hearing loss. for Down Syndrome. Victor is the
Sadly, he was unable to participate heart of Lemonade Day Galveston
in Lemonade Day Galveston County. County. At the 2017 George P. Mitchell
But in 2016, Victor bounced back Entrepreneurs of the Year Awards,
and opened his own business the Galveston Regional Chamber of
O
n national Lemonade Day, you called Victor’s Lemonade. With his Commerce not only honored him
hear tiny voices screaming, enthusiasm and commitment to the as the winner of Lemonade Day
“Lemonade!” and you see program, it is no surprise Victor has Galveston County but inducted him as
what appears to be miles and miles always earned a trophy. the first member of the Lemonade Day
of lemonade stands. One young In 2017, his amazing team of Galveston County Hall of Fame.
entrepreneur, wearing a yellow “I am friends participated with him as Victor inspires us to dream big.
an Entrepreneur” T-shirt, stands out Team Victor and they earned the Even though faced with life’s most
above all as he proudly waves and title of Lemonade Day Galveston challenging obstacles, he continues to
greets his customers. County Business of the Year with shine and spread the light of his joy
Although born with Down Syndrome a profit of $1,315. They also won and happiness on all he meets. He is
and struggles to communicate, Victor the Fan Favorite contest on social courageous, handsome, powerful, a
Rodriquez demonstrates hard work, media with close to 3,000 votes. To true leader and, above all, Victor is an
integrity and commitment to Lemonade attract customers, Victor’s strategy entrepreneur.
“LEMONADE DAY GALVESTON COUNTY IS THE PERFECT COLLABORATION OF BUSINESS AND
EDUCATION. THE PROGRAM UNITES OUR REGION AND FAMILIES TOGETHER, INSPIRES YOUTH
TO HAVE A DREAM, AND SYMBOLIZES THE FUTURE OF GALVESTON COUNTY BUSINESSES.”
Gina M. Spagnola, president and CEO of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce
and Lemonade Day Galveston County director
LEMONADE DAY GALVESTON COUNTY IS PRESENTED BY
GALVESTONCHAMBER.COM • 17THE CHAMBER
MY GALVESTON
C-CREWE
In 2013, the Galveston Regional
Chamber of Commerce’s young
professionals group, C-Crewe,
created My Galveston, a
grassroots effort to promote
Galveston as a great place to live.
The public relations campaign An emerging group of future 2018 C-CREWE
aims to increase the number of leaders, the C-Crewe engages young COMMITTEE MEMBERS
families and professionals living professionals under 40 in the Galveston
CHAIRS
on the island, change perceptions business community and the Galveston
Kaleb Apffel, Galveston Wholesale
related to island living including Regional Chamber of Commerce. The Building Materials
safety, education and housing, and C-Crewe provides young professionals Lindsey White, United Way of Galveston
encourage population growth. opportunities to build relationship,
My Galveston encourages all serve the community, and engage with IMMEDIATE PAST-CHAIR
groups to promote Galveston political, civic and business leaders. Erin Yarbrough, Galveston ISD
Island by sharing the positive The group represents a diverse range Educational Foundation
reality of island life and presenting of companies, backgrounds and ideas.
facts, so people can make an Membership is open to people from all AT-LARGE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
informed decision when actively industries between the ages of 21 and Carrie Davis, The Grand 1894
looking at Galveston as a place to 40. Find them on Facebook at www. Opera House
live and work. facebook.com/ChamberCrewe or call Jason Hardcastle, Edward Jones
Become part of the movement, the chamber office at 409-763-5326 for Financial Advisor and HH Design House
share your My Galveston more information. Brian Lepo, Island Pier Club
testimonial on the My Galveston Lauren Millo, Moody Bank
Facebook page and use the hashtag Taylor Wilson, CrossFit Tidal Wave
#mygalveston. Together, we can Brittany Viegas, County of Galveston
make an impact on all who call the
island home today and those who CHAMBER REPRESENTATIVE
will make it their home in the future. Lindsay Touchy, Galveston Regional
Chamber of Commerce
NAVIGATORS
The Navigators consists of a special group of volunteers who
help promote the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce
business community, support chamber functions and ensure
that new and existing members have a great experience. Being
a Navigator is an important
role. Primary activities include
projecting a positive image,
reaching out to welcome new
members, and assisting with
volunteer roles at events
such as ribbon cuttings, Regional Chamber of Commerce. If you plan on attending events
anniversaries, grand openings in anyway or want to build your business contacts, being a
and luncheons. Navigator just makes sense. For information on how you or a
This group is made up of representative from your company can be part of this unique
business owners looking for an added chance to meet new group of chamber members, contact the chamber office at
customers and is open to all current members of the Galveston 409-763-5326.
18 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCETHE CHAMBER
EVENTS
The chamber offers a number of
networking events throughout the year
for members to take part in so they can
grow and strengthen their business.
GEORGE P. MITCHELL
ANNUAL MEETING REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS
The annual meeting recognizes OF THE YEAR
chamber members, its mission, its work
The George P. Mitchell Regional
and its accomplishments. The chamber
Entrepreneurs of the Year award
celebrates and honors its board
recognizes area businesses that
members and volunteers who commit to
demonstrate outstanding achievement,
using their time, talents and influence
contribute to the growth of the region
to help others thrive to create positive GOLF TOURNAMENT
and encourage others to follow their
change and build a stronger region and The chamber’s annual golf lead. In 2017, the chamber honored
business community. tournament is a chance to network at Dancie Perugini Ware, Dancie Perugini
one of the best business tournaments Ware Public Relations, and Todd R.
in the region! The 29th annual Sullivan, John R. Sullivan and William W.
tournament will be at Moody Gardens Sullivan, Sullivan Interest/Evia. Previous
Golf Course in Galveston. Join the recipients included Island Famous CEO
chamber for a day of golf, business Dennis Bryd and Farley Girls, Ryann
networking, delicious food and drinks, Duzich Culberson and Rosmond Duzich
exciting door prizes and raffle items! Thormahlen.
BREAKFAST, LUNCHEONS /
AFTER-5 BUSINESS MIXERS
The chamber regularly host networking
events such as Good Morning Galveston WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
on the first Thursday of every month Celebrating Women: Mind, Body, Spirit is an all-day conference designed to educate
and quarterly mixers. The chamber women about health and women’s issues, equip them with skills to be successful in
also hosts breakfast and luncheons life and business, inspire them to be their best and renew their spirit. The conference
for its members to hear from members showcases dynamic speakers, a vendor exhibit area featuring unique products and
of the community on topics impacting services that appeal to women, fitness breaks to strengthen and rejuvenate the body, a
business. The breakfasts and luncheons Book Nook and VIP lounge with opportunities to meet authors and keynote speakers, a
provide a powerful venue for meeting signature cocktail party to connect and network with other women and much more. The
other professionals. 11th annual event is May 4, 2018, at the Moody Gardens Convention Center in Galveston.
20 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCESafety doesn’t
come in a box.
It’s not a banner that goes on a wall.
It’s not something you do now and then.
Or when it’s convenient.
It’s using state-of-the-art simulators to
better prepare for any situation. It’s
giving offshore teams 24/7 support
from onshore experts. And it’s
empowering anyone to stop a job if
something doesn’t seem right.
Safety is never being satisfied.
And always working to be better.
bp.com/safetyUSATHE ISLAND LIFE
PHOTO BY STUART VILLANUEVA/THE DAILY NEWS
H
ave you ever dreamed of living the quiet island charter schools, three higher-level educational institutions,
life? That dream can be a reality on Galveston and even a thriving school for seniors, the UTMB Osher
Island. Lifelong Learning Institute.
With the amenities of a big city, accommodations of a The multifaceted economic base offers myriad
resort destination and tight-knit friendliness of a small opportunities in an ever-increasing job market. The
town — all set against the beautiful backdrop of the biggest industries include tourism, health care, research,
seaside — Galveston Island is an idyllic place to call home education and maritime.
for more than 50,000 people. It could be your home, too. The beautiful natural world that surrounds the Island
Located just 50 miles south of Houston, Galveston only adds to the richness of life here. Galveston Island State
features 32 miles of beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, Park has 2,000 acres of surf, beach, dunes, coastal prairie,
abundant leisure activities, excellent medical facilities, freshwater ponds, wetlands, bayous and bay shoreline.
first-rate restaurants, educational opportunities, numerous Business is bustling here, shored up by the Galveston
attractions and a vibrant historic downtown that offers Regional Chamber of Commerce with more than 700
cruising, shopping, arts and entertainment. members and a history that dates back 172 years on the
Choose where you want to live and how in a robust island.
housing market that offers something to suit any style and “Throughout the history of the city of Galveston, the
budget. From historic Victorian homes to modern beach- Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce continues to
front houses, from converted lofts in historic downtown provide leadership for our community, building on the
buildings to the latest high-rise condominiums, you’ll find successes of those before us and laying a solid foundation
your dream home on Galveston Island. for future generations,” Chamber President and CEO Gina
Education offerings include innovative public and M. Spagnola said.
22 • GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCEBishop’s Palace is an ornate
Victorian-style house designed
by the renowned island architect
Nicholas J. Clayton in 1892.
HISTORICALLY
SIGNIFICANT
T
he story of Galveston is a Galveston became an established
page-turner — adventure, port under the Mexican government
tragedy, opulence, generosity in 1825. City leaders developed the
French privateer
and sacrifice, bound by a strong wharves and railroads at the only
Jean Lafitte streak of grit and gumption that are deep-water port between New Orleans
established the trademarks of its residents even today. and Tampico, Mexico.
colony of Campeche When Europeans arrived on
on Galveston Island
In 1836, the year that Texas gained
in 1817. Galveston Island, they found it inhabited its independence from Mexico
by Karankawa Indians. The first noted and became a republic, the city of
visitor was Spanish explorer Cabeza de Galveston was born.
Vaca, who landed here in 1528. As one of the first settlements
French privateer Jean Lafitte made his in Texas, Galveston served as the
home in Galveston in 1817, and rumors state’s primary port for almost a
still are whispered of Lafitte’s treasure century, as well as a major hub for
buried somewhere on the Island. immigration. It was a gateway to Texas
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