Recent News
Galveston has always been an integral part of commerce in Texas.
Leading the way for economic growth and progress on the island.
GEDP Member Blend with Tom Schwenk and Coldwell Banker TGRE
Thank you, Tom and Coldwell Banker TGRE for a Memorable Evening of Real Estate Insights and Networking at Carriage Haus
On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the GEDP community came together for an unforgettable evening at the stunning Carriage Haus property. Hosted by the ever-gracious Tom Schwenk of Coldwell Banker TGRE, the event was nothing short of spectacular.
With over 65 amazing members and guests in attendance, the atmosphere was buzzing with energy and excitement. Tom shared invaluable insights into the recent shifts in the real estate market, offering his expert guidance and providing a wealth of knowledge. He also showcased this lovely Carriage Haus property, which is for sale through TGRE.
The catering by Jeannie Janota of Two Blue J's Catering was simply spectacular. Guests were treated to the most amazing food, elevating the networking experience as members fostered connections and shared ideas.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tom Schwenk for hosting such a remarkable event and to everyone who joined us. Your participation made this evening truly special.
We look forward to seeing you next time! If you want to get a notice in advance about future gatherings, please sign up for our email list. Sign up Here
Thanks for Joining Us at the Construction Consortium on Tuesday, September 17
This event as always is open to all professionals in the Galveston County construction industry, including architects, engineers, contractors, builders, suppliers, and service providers such as insurance, banking, and bookkeeping.
Sponsored by Courtney Contracting and Construction, LLC, and the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, these gatherings are essential for anyone involved in our local construction landscape.
Consortium events foster collaboration, share critical updates on industry trends, and discuss challenges and opportunities unique to our region.
It’s more than just networking—it’s about building connections that drive progress and ensure our industry thrives.
This event provides a platform for meaningful engagement, whether you want to expand your professional network, stay informed on local developments, or share insights with peers.
Don’t miss this chance to participate in the conversation and help to impact the future of construction in Galveston County.
RSVP today to palmer@gedp.org or call 409.770.0216!
Thank you for Joining Us August 21 for the Galveston Construction Consortium!
We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the recent Galveston Construction Consortium, which was held on August 21st at the USACE facility in Galveston, Hosted by Terracon and the Galveston District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The event was a great opportunity to explore key infrastructure projects like the Coastal Texas Project, featuring excellent appetizers and an outdoor cigar bar. Attendees could view a visual presentation and posters showcasing the future build.
A special thank you to our hosts, Neil Murphy and Carlos Gomez from the USACE, and Diane Tabor and Yvonne Hernandez of the Terracon team for making this event a success.
Galveston Park Board Hosts Fun August Member Blender:
(August 13th) The Galveston Park Board recently hosted the August Member Blender, an event sponsored by the Galveston Economic Development Partnership (GEDP).
With nearly 80 attendees, the gathering was a fun event filled with great networking and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Even before entering the Park Board’s downstairs facilities, attendees were met with a game of Corn Hole and offered a tour of VICi: The mobile visitor information center. Once attendees moved inside they had the opportunity to enjoy food, mingle/network and learn about the Park Board’s various initiatives and contributions to the community (also some fun take-aways.) The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the root beer floats, which added a nostalgic and fun element to this event.
Keith Gray of the GEDP kicked off the event with a warm welcome and introduced the Park Board’s executive team: Jason Hardcastle, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Kim Danesi, CEO; and Bryson Frazier, CFO. Each addressed the crowd and showed their appreciation for the support of the GEDP and those in attendance. Overall, this was a fun event, and a successful Member Blender, leaving everyone looking forward to the next gathering.
Visit Galveston Allots $615k for Immediate Tourism Recovery
This season has been challenging for many of our businesses and citizens. Luckily, we have an excellent team at Visit Galveston that is working diligently to help us reclaim as much of this season as possible. The GEDP would like to share all the proactive efforts Visit Galveston is undertaking to bolster tourism and attract visitors in the critical weeks before school resumes and in the fall shoulder season.
Visit Galveston has dedicated an additional $615,000 for immediate tourism promotion. This funding will support strategic marketing and public relations initiatives, including:
• Dynamic Messaging: Campaigns like “Galveston is Ready for You” and “Still Time to Plan Your Summer Getaway” convey Galveston’s readiness and appeal as a premier destination, fostering excitement and urgency among potential visitors.
• Enhanced Advertising: From radio and digital ads in key markets to partnerships with TripAdvisor, Expedia, and VRBO, Visit Galveston is maximizing its reach to draw tourists regionally and beyond.
• Special Events: A series of spectacular events are scheduled, including Seawall Firework Shows and a Labor Day Downtown Drone Show designed to captivate visitors and showcase the vibrant spirit of Galveston.
• Public Relations Efforts: The PR team is actively engaging media outlets to highlight Galveston as a top Texas beach destination, with features planned in prestigious publications like Travel + Leisure.
We deeply appreciate Visit Galveston’s commitment and innovative strategies to strengthen our tourism economy. Their efforts, combined with community and partner support, ensure Galveston remains a sought-after destination for travelers. We look forward to continued collaboration and success in making Galveston a year-round haven for vacationers.
See the full press release by Visit Galveston for more information. Thank you, Visit Galveston, for your dedication and hard work.
June Member Blender
Our June Member Blender, hosted by 6 Degrees Wealth and sponsored by the GEDP, was a great success. Held at Beerfoot Beach Bar, the event attracted nearly 50 attendees. Everyone enjoyed the delicious food and vibrant networking opportunities, but the highlight of the evening was the insightful presentation by Victoria Greene of 6 Degrees Wealth.
Victoria Greene, a seasoned authority recognized by Forbes' esteemed 'Best-in-State Wealth Advisors' list across multiple years, delivered an engaging and informative talk on navigating the intricacies of our economy and investing. Her expertise and approachable style made complex financial topics accessible and interesting.
Overall, it was a fun time with great company, delicious food, and invaluable insights. We look forward to seeing everyone at the next Member Blender!
Victoria Greene (L): "Take your emotions out of your investing.”
Jason Hardcastle (L): “We are bringing the moniker back; Galveston is the ‘Wall Street of the South.’"
May Member Blender
Thank you to Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO, and the Galveston Wharves for hosting the May Member Blender.
This months Member Blender was sponsored by the GEDP and the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce. The event was held at Pier 21, with great weather, spirits were high as attendees enjoyed drinks and delicious food. With a tent providing shade, guests enjoyed panoramic views of the port, including the Battleship Texas and other maritime activity. Approximately 70 individuals joined us for this gathering. Keith Gray extended a warm welcome to all, and Rodger Reese, Port Director, shared insights about the port. It was a wonderful time had by all.
May Construction Consortium hosted by GISD Construction Team
A great time was had by all at the “Coltzer Convention Center,” also known as the Beerfoot Beach Bar event room. We had just over 45 people for the May Construction Consortium, sponsored by the GISD Construction Team and GEDP.
During these meetings, the GEDP gives a short welcome and Bill Coltzer of Zero/Six (or other industry professionals) will offer a short five-minute talk, giving you a few nuggets of new information, notable codes, or ideas that are important to this area.
This month, we relayed the newly updated energy codes and how they will impact low slope roofing, the need to fireproof enclosed spaces that house relatively new technology (i.e. electric vehicles), and briefly discussed how building codes (specifically chapter 14 of IBC) do not allow windows to be sealed to cladding. Even though this has been a requirement for years, contractors continue to ignore the requirement, and the evolution of building commissioning will catch this area of non-compliance moving forward. Want to learn more or don’t understand what the heck we are talking about? Come to the next meeting of the construction consortium! Need a lifeline? Contact bcoltzer@whcoltzer.com.
There was also a demonstration of a way to test for roof leaks, using electronic leak detection. This is an easy way to find holes in waterproofing and roofing with fairly common testing equipment (click Electronic Roof Leak Detection (ELD) Services - z6consulting for more information…it is cool stuff).
The remainder of the time is used for networking, discussions, and getting to know the other locals in the same industry. We have witnessed many collaborations already in construction-related jobs from these meetings. Originally scheduled as quarterly, we are now offering these as monthly meetings. If you would like to host a meeting, or just come and see what it is all about, contact the GEDP or attend one of the posted meetings, normally on a Wednesday at 4-6 PM. There is no cost, but we encourage you to RSVP for preparation purposes. You can click the link below to become a part of this group, just fill out the form to be added to our membership and be first to know.
April Member Blender at The Lofts at Col. Bubbies
The GEDP extends a huge Thank You to Genette and Keith Bassett, for hosting this month’s Member Blender. With record breaking attendance just shy of 100 atendees, everyone was excited to get a peek at the new "Lofts at Col. Bubbies", and no one left disappointed.
This “Landmark Property” was built in the late 1870’s by Nicolas Clayton. Known as the William Lewis Moody building, it housed the Moody’s Cotton Commission and Banking operations. Later it became a warehouse for the Cohen Bros. department stores, who stored the minks in the old banking vaults. Col. Bubbies was the last to occupy the space for 42 years with his Genuine Government Surplus Store. (If you went, you still remember the smell.)
The Bassett’s have revived the building with historic charm and two floors with 8 lofts. The bank vaults are still in use as the kitchen pantry to those lucky enough to lease one of those units. Everyone was able to tour the lofts and hike up to the roof (worth it). The rooftop landing is a great space to view the port, shops, and historic Galveston.
The GEDP thanks the Galveston Symphony Orchestra for the wonderful music softly filling the air and the Bassett family for hosting this event. Thank you also to the supportive members of the GEDP for attending.
Thanks for Attending
Galveston Construction Consortium
This month, the Construction Consortium met at Mario’s Seawall Pizza. Hosted by VJ Tramonte of Joe Tramonte Realty. These meetings are created to bring those within the local and regional construction industry together to discuss different aspects of their trade and hopefully take away some nuggets of wisdom.
Keith Gray of the GEDP expressed gratitude for those in attendance and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with the Galveston Construction Consortium. We were honored to have our Texas State Representative, Terri Leo Wilson and her husband David in attendance.
VJ shared his family’s business history and reminded us to hire local. Bill Coltzer of Zero/six reinforced that these meetings are not to be another long presentation to sit through, but rather a short “nugget” of information on a particular subject.
Tonights “nugget” was about specific new codes coming that may impact builders and contractors. Time left was used to eat, drink and meet others.
Stay tuned for updates on the next meeting, and thank you to those who attended and to our host, VJ Tramonte and Mario’s Seawall Pizza.
March Member Blender at The Galveston Daily News
March 6, 2024
Thanks to all who joined in the fun at the March Member Blender, hosted by The Galveston Daily News. It was an exciting time to catch up with colleagues and meet and welcome new ones.
We are grateful to The Daily News for hosting and for providing an exciting and educational demonstration of the press. It was truly an honor to learn more about the first newspaper in the state of Texas, as well as their new endeavors on the digital marketing front. Through continuously engaging the community, informing the public on news and events, and and providing local business coverage, the News provides value to the community and businesses of Galveston. Their efforts continuously support the economic growth of Galveston by maintaining its position of spreading information and providing a variety of helpful information, ranging from job opportunities to real estate opportunities.
The Daily News has proven to be an integral player in the community in the past, present, and future.
NEWS: PELICAN ISLAND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT COMPLETE
A barge collision on Pelican Island this summer presented a great opportunity for a collaborative effort between CenterPoint Energy and Texas Gulf Construction Company, two members of the GEDP.
The collision damaged electric infrastructure that serves the island, Texas A&M University at Galveston campus, hundreds of residents and several businesses. CenterPoint Energy crews worked extensively for more than 400 hours replacing several poles, six spans of electric lines, conductors and equipment. J.W. Kelso, affiliated with Texas Gulf Construction Company provided a barge for the repairs.
This opportunity fostered teamwork and a collaborative effort between the two members to support the work and drive resiliency. “We are grateful for the partnership between these two GEDP members, as well as the support of so many stakeholders on Pelican Island,” remarked GEDP Executive Director, Keith Gray. “Working together is one of the hallmark characteristics of our island’s business and construction community and we are so excited to see this project come to completion.”
The work was completed in early November, ahead of projected estimates. “It's incredible to see community partners come together to support the success of a project. CenterPoint is proud to serve customers in Galveston and provide safe, reliable electric service,” added Jessica Sanford, service area director for Brazoria and Galveston service areas.
Chrysalis Receives FDA Approval to Initiate Clinical Trials with Chrysalin™ (TP508)Compliance Testing
GALVESTON, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Chrysalis BioTherapeutics, Inc. announced today that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the company permission to initiate human clinical trials aimed at treating acute lung failure. With approval of its Investigational New Drug (IND) Application, Chrysalis plans to initiate a Phase 1, Safety and Pharmacokinetic (PK) study for use of Chrysalin™ (Rusalatide Acetate, TP508) as an injectable drug by year-end and testing of the drug in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in 2024.
"We are so incredibly proud of GEDP member Darrell Carney and the approval for clinical trials," remarked GEDP Executive Director Keith Gray.
“Acute lung failure or ARDS is a major unmet medical problem, globally affecting over one million people each year with up to 40% of those dying within four weeks of diagnosis,” said Dr. Darrell Carney, CEO of Chrysalis. “Of those that survive, most experience loss of lung function or pulmonary fibrosis due to chronic inflammation or altered repair mechanisms.”
Preclinical studies, funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID), showed that Chrysalin™ (TP508) reduced inflammation caused by the COVID virus. Other animal studies show potential TP508 benefit in treating acute lung injury, chronic smoke inhalation, and mitigating radiation effects on brain and other tissues.
“TP508 is a natural regenerative peptide that accelerates tissue repair and revascularization while modulating the inflammatory response. Its unique mode of action targets the root causes of ARDS and stimulates normal healing processes that could reduce fibrosis and help restore lung function,” said Carney, “This could be a game changer for those with lung disease.”
“Prior human clinical trials demonstrated that local application of TP508 could accelerate healing of bone fracture and chronic diabetic foot ulcers, but we are now showing that injecting the drug has systemic effects to modulate inflammation and protect organs and tissues from trauma, ischemia and radiation,” said Dr. Laurie Sower, Executive VP at Chrysalis.
Chrysalis BioTherapeutics, Inc. is a privately held Galveston-based biopharmaceutical company with world-wide license to the TP508 technology from the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). Chrysalis is using UTMB, Houston-area, and national advisors to advance TP508 for treating pulmonary indications. Chrysalis drug development programs have been funded by NIAID and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) both part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information contact dcarney@chrysbio.com or visit www.chrysbio.com.
Thank you to everyone who attended the September 21 Galveston Construction Consortium!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who joined us for the Galveston Construction Consortium at Texas Tail Distillery. It was a fantastic opportunity for networking and exchanging innovative ideas. We look forward to welcoming you at GEDP's upcoming event!
Supporting the local construction community is paramount to fostering sustainable growth and development. Initiatives aimed at this goal encompass a range of strategies, from promoting apprenticeship programs and vocational education to advocating for fair bidding processes that empower local contractors. Additionally, fostering partnerships between construction firms and local businesses creates a network of mutual support, ensuring that resources are circulated within the community. These efforts not only bolster economic vitality but also contribute to the creation of safe, quality-built spaces that enhance the overall well-being of the community.
Thank you to those who attended the August Member Blender.
Thanks to all who came to this month’s Member Blender. We are grateful for those who continue to support business, community, and economic development on the Island.
A special thank you goes out to North American Building Compliance Association for sponsoring this month’s Member Blender, as well as a big thank you to the Sea Star Base for hosting the event.
Member Blenders are an excellent opportunity to highlight GEDP member accomplishments in our community while enjoying networking among existing and prospective members. Contact us at info@gedp.org to learn more about the GEDP and participate in future events.
Thank you to everyone who attended our June Member Blender, sponsored by 6 Degrees Wealth.
“You don’t have to cross the causeway for premier financial services and individual attention.” Well said by Jason Hardcastle - 6 Degrees Wealth, a boutique firm that provides Galvestonians thoughtful solutions and exceptional strategies regarding their investments and retirement.
We had a great turnout at our June Member Blender and appreciate all of our members and guests who continue to help us support business and community in Galveston. A special thank you goes to our sponsor, 6 Degrees Wealth, and The Galveston Artillery Club for hosting our event.
Stephanie Smolka from American Funds Capital Group offered the gathering an encouraging perspective as she shared three points of optimism in this current financial climate. What a great reminder for all of us that these harder periods in history are always shorter than the good and prosperous times.
Member Blenders are an excellent opportunity to highlight GEDP member accomplishments in our community while enjoying networking among existing and prospective members. Contact us at info@gedp.org to learn more about the GEDP and participate in future events.
Thank you to everyone who attended our May Member Blender, hosted by Galveston College.
This month, Dr. Myles Shelton, Galveston College President, shared an update on the state of the school and their goal to ensure all students leave prepared with the proper knowledge and skills for the workforce. One major initiative moving that goal forward is their investment in a new Health Sciences Education Center. This facility, opening in the fall of 2023, will better prepare students for a career in the fast-growing healthcare sector.
Member Blenders are an excellent opportunity to highlight GEDP member accomplishments in our community, while enjoying networking among existing and prospective members. Contact us at info@gedp.org to learn more about the GEDP and participate in future events.
Galveston Economic Development Partnership names Keith Gray as interim director
August 26, 2022 - Keith Gray, who has worked for 40 years at CenterPoint Energy, has been named interim executive director of the Galveston Economic Development Partnership.
“I’m very excited for this opportunity,” Gray said. “I’ve proudly served the Galveston community and its residents for many years and I’m glad to announce that I’ll continue working for the improvement of the community.”
GEDP August Member Blender at Scholes Field
Members and guests learned about the Scholes International Airport @ Galveston master plan and important city updates from Airport Director Mike Shahan and City Manager Brian Maxwell.
GEDP Board President Keith Basset introduced the new GEDP Interim Executive Director, Keith Gray. We are so thrilled to welcome him aboard!
Everyone enjoyed light snacks from Mario’s on the Seawall and refreshments including Loggerhead Lager, courtesy of Galveston Island Brewing. Many thanks to our long-time member and local photographer, Robert Mihovil, for providing his beautiful Galveston prints as Drawing Prizes.
Stay tuned for our next GEDP Member Blender and be sure to bring a guest to learn more about our vital economic organization.
