2009-2010 Marketing Plan

Table of Contents 1

2 Welcome!

4 Strategic Plan

7 Convention & Group Sales

16 Marketing Travel Schedule

18 Convention Services

20 Visitor Information Center

22 Marketing Communications

24 Public Relations

26 Filming Industry Production

27 Advertising

28 Media Plan

29 Advertising Budget

32 Special Events

36 Professional Affiliations

37 Park Board of Trustees

38 Tourism Development Advisory Council

40 Convention & Visitors Bureau

 Welcome! 2

Dear Partners,
What a year this has been!
With the fiscal year starting with
Hurricane Ike and the economic
crisis, we all knew the year
Galveston
would not be easy. However,
Island remains a
with the remarkable resilience
highly desirable and perseverance of Galveston’s
destination tourism industry, we have
not only for its managed to reach significant
proximity to milestones and look forward to a
Houston but bright future. The determination
for its natural and achievements of this community make me very proud to be associated
with such an amazing group of professionals.
resources, rich
history and unique Galveston’s resiliency has been displayed in many ways. Convention
attractions. planners were dedicated to continue business on the Island regardless
of the hurricane. By Spring Break, tourists were back enjoying our
replenished beaches, attractions and the many new businesses adorning
We will continue the Island. Through direct sales, marketing and public relations, our
to promote tourism industry worked together to dispel the negative perception
following the hurricane and welcomed thousands of visitors to Galveston
our Island with
throughout the year. By working so close together, our partnerships were
innovative ideas,
deepened and we began to quickly overcome the challenges of Ike.
hard work and
commitment. With the future forecast of the economy, our community will continue to
be tested during the upcoming year. It is important that we work together
to evolve and grow while staying focused on our mission and strategic
goals. Continuing our combined efforts in sales and marketing, we will
increase group and leisure business on Galveston Island.

The following marketing plan overview will be our roadmap throughout

the year, creating a well-rounded and tactical program for our team to
adhere to. Under the direction of the Park Board of Trustees, the CVB has
allocated a full hotel occupancy tax penny dedicated strictly to advertising
Galveston Island. To increase group business, we will continue to diversify
our client base by identifying and soliciting meeting groups 3
that fit the footprint for Galveston. We will also work within
specific tourist market segments to expand visitation during
need periods.

Your CVB is a seasoned and dedicated team of experts

committed to the success of our industry. Galveston
Island remains a highly desirable destination not only
for its proximity to Houston but for its natural resources,
rich history and unique attractions. We will continue to
promote our Island with innovative ideas, hard work and
commitment.

Thank you for your continued support. Here’s to a great

partnership and a very successful 2009/2010.

Meg Winchester, CMP

Director,
Galveston Island Convention
& Visitors Bureau
 2009-2010 Recovery 4
Strategic Plan
VISION

The Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau along with our business
partners and citizens will work to further the success of our community as a
tourism and meeting destination.

MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of the Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau is to advance
the economic vitality of tourism on Galveston Island through the promotion
of meetings, leisure travel, special events and the Galveston Island Convention
Center at the San Luis Resort.

SITUATION

Galveston Island has reached significant milestones since Hurricane Ike.

The GICVB has reinvigorated tourism through resilient sales and marketing
efforts and brought together a partnership never before established, all the
while dealing with an economic downturn, inaccurate perception, aggressive
competition and budget cuts.

Strengths:
2 Convention Centers and resorts
Recovery and enhancement of open businesses
Galvestonian pride and resilience
Galveston History
Re-nourished beaches
Continuation of new and existing Special Events
Commitment of Galveston CVB Team and experience
Strong Hospitality Industry
Commitment of Carnival & Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
Support from clients and loyalty from Galveston lovers
Re-establishment of medical services
Proximity to Houston Metro
Enhanced Media relations
Strong relationship with partners
 2009-2010 Recovery Strategic Plan continued
5
SITUATION continued

Taking advantage of opportunities:

- Grants (state and national)
- Funds
- New Business
- Entrepreneurs
- City, State and Federal commitment to rebuild

Weaknesses:
Economy
Limited and negative media coverage
Negative perception
New and re-booked business bypassing GICVB
Physical appearance of Island
Annual Hurricane Season
Lack of staff
Distance from airport and limited transportation options
Variability of hotel rates
Lack of alternate lodging

Opportunities:
BIGGER and BETTER GALVESTON
Attract high income residents
Feeding the curiosity
Appeal to the human side and involving Galveston lovers
Telling the Galveston Story – it’s the perfect time
Touch and feel new clients
Media and client FAMS – Newsworthy
Grants and other revenue streams
New businesses and quality improvements
Attract downsized groups

Threats:
Funding
Aggressive competition
Rebuilding of business
Hurricane Season
Economy
Beach Erosion
Perception
 2009-2010 Recovery Strategic Plan continued
6
TARGET

We will increase tourism and conventions.

Maintain and increase client base
Continue backyard marketing opportunities
Galveston only events (Co-Op in specific markets)
Share the successes of Galveston Island
Partner with the GHCVB Sales Managers more actively in each market
Increase sites and FAMs
- Golf FAM
- Mardi Gras FAM
- Spring FAM
- TRN FAM
- Carnival & Royal Caribbean Cruise Line FAMs
- Special Event FAM Opportunities

Weekly Outside Sales Calls by Sales Managers

Attend Local & National Trade Shows and Industry Meetings
Increase tools for attendance building
- Website
- E-Newsletter
- Pictures on the GICC Website
- Save the Date Mailings
- Maintain Sales Press Kit
- Previous Year Convention Promotion

Work with Events and Promoters to increase exposure and attendance

- Media Tours
- Ads
- Calendars
Media Kits
Logistics
Press Releases
- Maintain & Build visitor database
- Film Production exposure – become film friendly destination

We will improve perception

Arrange Island Media FAMs
Regional media blitz for holiday and spring promotions
Build and Maintain Social Media Network
Continued monthly business updates
E-newsletter with monthly updates
Work with state/national industry partners
Work with local partners for co-op advertising
Work with publications for editorial
 Group & Convention Sales 7

As the official destination marketing organization of Galveston Island, the goal

of the group and convention sales team is to exceed the expectations of our
customers while enhancing the quality of life for our community. Our success in
bringing groups to Galveston Island
directly affects funding for our arts,
museums and historic properties
while increasing property and sales
tax collections.

By following the strategic plan, sales

efforts will proactively address the im-
pact of the current economy by adding
Our goal is value and incentives to our target
to position group market. Developing and maintaining relationships will continue to be a key
tactical element in securing future business.
ourselves as the
premiere beach Our team consists of four sales representatives; located in Austin, Dallas, Houston
and Galveston to maintain direct contact to clients in key markets.
destination in
the minds of Our team strives to uphold great local partnerships in order to showcase our
strong community spirit and add credibility to potential group business. These
all current and
relationships show a united front in our competitive bid marketing and presents
potential clients. Galveston as a cohesive package. Our goal is to position ourselves as the premiere
beach destination in the minds of all current and potential clients.

Sales Team Measurements and Key Strategies:

• Confirm 47,200 group room nights and 6000 pre/post cruise bookings
• Continue to build a strong target list for groups that fit the footprint for
Galveston utilizing the GICC
• Solicit Sunday through Thursday group business
• Continue to monitor incentives and special offers from our competitive
cities and hotels during this economic climate
• Continued development of marketing materials (e-newletters,
banner ads, special offers to maintain brand awareness and frequency)
• Remote sales managers to dominate their individual markets by outside
sales calls, involvement with local associations and relationship building
• Staff involvement in leadership of key industry trade associations for better
customer access
• Capitilize on community and industry partnerships to generate “backyard”
leads
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market 8
Texas State Association
Austin HQ for Corporate and National Associations
Texas Government

Objective
Dottie Bossley Produce 100% of quota by continuing membership and leadership roles
in TSAE, MPI, SGMP and IAEE, pursue new marketing strategies to sell
the Galveston Island Convention Center, provide resources and market
knowledge to hotel partners and work with peers in the state markets in
order to maximize exposure of Galveston Island as a destination.

The goal of Summary of Market

the group sales Factors for 08-09 success was that even though we spent the last
quarter Oct-Dec 08 managing the group cancellation and attrition from
Department the Hurricane, we focused on our loyal customers to help us through
is to increase our recovery and counted on the locals to help with soliciting State
group room night Associations. I know that the state association market’s success was due
to our strategic planning shortly after the storm. I was unsure about
production for
production with the combination an economy in recession and the
Galveston Island devastation of Ike, but our strategic plan worked.
through aligned
strategies and After Hurricane Ike, I lost at least 2 to 3 months time selling. My priority
after the storm was to keep the Oct 08 and beyond definite groups from
defined objectives. canceling. I was successful in that we only lost September groups in 2008
due to the storm and most of those groups rebooked for future years.

New Business Stategies

• Focus on Educational and State Government Groups until
economy picks up
• Increase site visits and fam opportunities
• Mass e-mail blast to offer incentives to book GICC
• Partner with Karen Villagomez with the GHCVB to increase
lead and definite production
• Continue with proven networking events, conferences and
trade shows
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market: 9
Texas State Association
Austin HQ for Corporate and National Associations
Texas Government

Site Visits, Client Destination Events/FAMs

Dottie Bossley SWSC Client Dinner – Austin
Mardi Gras – Galveston
TACVB Oscar Night – Austin
Joint CVB Event - Austin
IAEE Golf Tournament – Austin
Annual Galveston Island Golf FAM - Galveston
TSAE Golf Tournament - Austin

Targeted Industry Events/ Networking/Relationship Building

TEC MPI – Ft. Worth Texas
SouthWest Showcase – Austin
Monthly SGMP Meetings – Austin
All TSAE Luncheons – 2 Austin
IAEE monthly board meetings – Austin
IAEE monthly meetings – Austin
MPI-THCC monthly meetings – Austin

Professional memberships include:

TSAE – Membership committee member and past board member 07-08
IAEE-CTC – Board member (2009)
MPI-THCC – member and TEC Committee member
SGMP-TLSCC – member
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market: 10
National Corporate
Hyland Group Corporate Leads
Government Direct, Association and Society (outside of Texas)
Religious (over 50 rooms peak)
Fraternal
Key Accounts

Vicky
Corrington, CMP Objective
Promote awareness of Galveston Island as a meeting destination in the
National Corporate arena, with a focus on the Houston area to meet room
night booking goals. Secondary markets have been added due to the economic
downturn in order to concentrate on areas that are still actively holding
The goal of meetings.

the group sales

Summary of Market
Department
Corporate meetings came to a standstill in 2008-2009 due to high profile
is to increase corporations crumbling under financial mis-management. National focus was
group room night placed on eliminating travel and meetings expenditures with the misconception
production for that meetings were an expendable cost for corporations. The majority of
corporations put policies in place to cancel all meetings. In August of 2009, some
Galveston Island companies began to plan meetings; however, it will be a slow process
through aligned to bring corporate meetings to the level they once were. Until the return of
strategies and a strong corporate resurgence, solicitation efforts will be increased in the
defined objectives. government and religious markets.

New Business Stategies

• Solicit the Medical Meetings market has potential for Galveston
• Develop a list of community service projects to utilize these opportunities to
attract corporate meetings
• Maintain strong relationships with current clients due to increased incentives
being offered
• Continue to foster relationships with hotel partners
• Attend National Conferences and develop marketing strategies to increase
traffic at exhibit booths and explore new opportunities offered during the
conferences to promote Galveston as a destination city
• Maintain active leadership roles in professional organizations
• Facilitate corporate presentations, luncheons and site tours
• Complete Sales Calls
 Group and Convention Sales continued
11

Site Visits, Client Destination Events/FAMs/Tradeshows

• MPI-World Education Conference
• MPI—Professional Education Conference
Vicky
Corrington, CMP • EWI-Leadership Conference
• MPI-Houston Area Chapter Tradeshow
• Mardi Gras FAM
• Site tours (average 15 per year)
• BP Tradeshow
• Bechtel Tradeshow
• SGMP Annual Meeting
• Rejuvenate

Targeted Industry Events/ Networking/Relationship Building

• MPI-Houston Area Chapter Monthly Meetings
• EWI-Monthly Meetings
• MPI-Houston Golf Tournament
• SGMP Monthly Meetings
• Serve on committees in professional organizations to build solid
relationships
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market: 12
National Association
Hyland Group National Association Leads
Dallas Area Corporate
Education
North Texas Association

Cheryl Calhoun Objective

To increase productivity in these markets listed above. To further establish
an identity for Galveston in the marketplace. To overcome perceptions that
Galveston’s convention and tourism industry is still not back to normal after
IKE and that the Island was totally destroyed.

The goal of Summary of Market

The market has been quite a challenge this past year due to the aftermath of
the group sales
IKE and perception in addition to the downward spiral of the economy. The
Department corporate meetings market has almost totally collapsed. Corporations are just
is to increase not having any meetings – due to perceptions from their management,
stockholders, and the government.
group room night
production for Both corporations and associations are extremely fearful of having meetings
in “resort” locations. They “shy” away from any locations or hotels that have
Galveston Island the wording of ”resort” attached to their name or to the city. With the current
through aligned concerns about the appearances of mis-using corporate, association, and
strategies and government funds – meeting planners are avoiding any locations that might be
considered as too expensive or too lavish.
defined objectives.
Also, due to the media coverage, we have had to fight the perception that IKE
wiped out the entire Island. Many of our meeting planners from outside Texas
only saw news coverage of all the devastation and did not see any positive
stories. Therefore, we have had to overcome these false perceptions.

I am very optimistic about the future. This downward economic turn may last
until 2011 as some reports are saying. However, in my market, I am beginning
to see some positives.

The last year has been spent developing a totally new market and database.
(For national association and North Texas Corporate & Association clients.)

It will be a gradual recovery ---- however, we now have built a database of over
450 accounts for the markets listed above. Therefore, we now have a base
from which to work.
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market: 13
National Association
Hyland Group National Association Leads
Dallas Area Corporate
Education
North Texas Association

Cheryl Calhoun
Site Visits, Client Destination Events/FAMs
• Participate in the annual Mardi Gras FAM and in the Golf FAM, as well as any
other miscellaneous FAMs that we may plan.
• Research the possibility of putting together a Post-Fam after PCMA in January
in Dallas.
• Increase the number of site visits to the Island now that we are back after
clean-up from IKE.
• Participate in monthly sales calls with the GHCVB here in the north Texas area.
• Continue to participate in sales calls with the SLR here in north Texas.
• Continue to participate in the Hyland luncheon which is held the day before
Holiday Showcase in December.

New Business Stategies

• To focus more on working with the Hyland group to produce leads for Galveston.
• To work a new local tradeshow, Quest, which is held in Dallas In October.
• Pursue joining Executive Women International, Dallas Chapter, and research
more local groups such as the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce to
meet more corporate contacts in the area.
• Continue to be active in the DFW Area Satellite CVB Sales Managers’ Group
where we share information on accounts, industry trends in our market
segments, and on meeting planner changes, etc. in our territories.

Targeted Industry Events/Networking/Relationship Building

• Monthly PCMA Luncheons
• Monthly DFWAE Luncheons
• Monthly MPI Events
• Attend IAEE Monthly BOD meetings and the quarterly luncheons
• Attend the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce breakfasts
and the Executive Women’s Dinner Meetings
• Tradeshows:
PCMA Annual Meeting (no show)
DMAI Destination Showcase
ASAE Springtime
DFWAE Local Show – Association Day
Local DFW MPI Show
Holiday Showcase
Connect Market Place
Quest Dallas Tradeshow
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market: 14
Social
Military
Religious (under 50 rooms peak)

Objective
Sheri Teller To promote Galveston Island as a solid destination post hurricane IKE for group
business. To market and have FAM’s in each market category to show that we
are open and ready for business.

Summary of Market
The goal of SMERF = nitch markets

the group sales Churches & military reunions will continue to meet despite the economy as their
meetings are more of a fellowship. Social activity is needed now more than ever
Department in the depressed economy.
is to increase
group room night New Business Stategies
production for • Keep prospecting from shows and to locate groups via the internet.
Galveston Island • Concentrate on Houston area churches for retreats.
through aligned • Work closely with the Hyland Group’s SMERF Sales Representative.
strategies and • Hyland group works closely with SMERF mgr. bringing business

defined objectives.
Site Visits, Client Destination Events/FAMs
• TRN/RFN ConFAM Military
• Religious FAM
• Mardi Gras FAM
• Site Visits

Targeted Industry Events/ Networking/Relationship Building

• TRN/RFN
• Rejuvenate
• Going on Faith
 Group and Convention Sales continued
Market: 15
Tour & Travel

Objective
To promote Galveston Island as a destination of choice to Tour Operators, Travel
Agents & Group Leaders through membership association & direct sales efforts.

Sheri Teller Summary of Market

The Tour & Travel market took a substantial hit after Hurricane Ike. With the
return of Carnival Cruise Line on November 1, 2008, Travel agents continued
booking cruises from Galveston. All but one group cancelled their holiday
tour due to perception problems lingering from our recovery efforts. We are
concentrating on this market by attending trade shows and advertising and are
starting to see a resurgence in interest for Galveston as a destination.

New Business Stategies

• To develop all inclusive packages including hotels, meals and tours to
enhance our competitive edge in the market. This will allow tour operators
and travel agent the ease of promoting and booking Galveston Island.

• Monthly sales calls to top tour companies

• Participate in domestic group travel marketplaces allowing personal

contact with new tour planners, which in turn will generate prospective
clients, group tour sales leads and definite bookings.

• Work with Canadian operators to increase Winter Texan bookings i.e.,

Merit Travel & BCAA

Site Visits, Client Destination Events/FAMs

• Travel Planner FAMs

Targeted Industry Events/ Networking/Relationship Building

• Host Monthly Travel Planner FAMs
• Co-host 4 Carnival Travel Agent Events
• Attend monthly cruise ship inspections
• Bank Travel
• African American Travel Conf.
• Glamer
• NTA
• South Central Motorcoach Association
• ABA
• CLIA
Marketing Travel Schedule 16

OCTOBER 2009 - SEPTEMBER 2010

October 2009

Quest Trade Show Dallas, TX 10/7/2009

GHCVB Sales Mission /Halloween Austin, TX 10/22-23/2009
GLAMER Ft Worth, TX 10/23-14/2009
Rejuvenate Birmingham, AL 10/27-30/2009
MPI-THCC Boot Camp Austin, TX 10/29-30/2009

November 2009

NTA Reno, NV 11/14-18/2009

December 2009

Hyland Luncheon Chicago, IL 12/14/2009

Holiday Showcase Chicago, IL 12/15/2009

January 2010

PCMA Annual Dallas, TX 1/11-14/2010

ABA National Harbor, MD 1/15-19/2010

February 2010

TSAE Client Dinner Austin, TX 2/3/2010

TSAE Tradeshow Austin, TX 2/4/2010
Bank Travel Milwaukee, Mi 2/7-9/2010
TACVB Oscar Event Austin, TX 2/10/2010
MPI-PEC Cancun 2/20-23/2010
TRN (The Reunion Network) ConFAM Galveston, TX 2/22-24/2010
Destination Showcase DC 2/25/2010

March 2010

DFWAE Trade Show Dallas, TX 3/1/2010

GLAMER Dallas, TX 3/15-17/2010

April 2010

MPI Dallas Tradeshow Dallas, TX 4/1/2010

PCMA Leadership Conference Montreal 4/1/2010
IAEE Golf Tournament Austin, TX 4/10/2010
African American Travel Conference Niagara Falls, NY 4/19-23/2010
MPI-HAC Golf Tournament Houston, TX 4/21/2010
 Marketing Travel Schedule continued
17

May 2010
SGMP Kansas City, MO 5/19-22/2010
MPI-HAC Tradeshow Houston, TX 5/26/2010
ASAE Springtime DC 5/27/2010

June 2010
TSAE Golf Tournament Austin 6/9/2010

July 2010
Austin CVB Luncheon Austin 7/10/2010
DMAI Annual Meeting Hollywood FL 7/21-23/2010
MPI-WEC Vancouver BC 7/24-27/2010

August 2010
None at this time

September 2010
EWI LCAM TBD 9/23-26/2010
TTIA Travel Summit Galveston 9/17-21/2010
TSAE Annual Conference Dallas 9/17-21/2010

Ongoing Sales Missions in:

Austin
Houston
Dallas/FT Worth
2 TRN (The Reunion Network) trips locations to be determined
Convention Services 18

We are at Your Service!

The Galveston Island CVB offers comprehensive convention services support
to all groups holding conventions, trade shows and meetings. The convention
services staff will assist you with every facet of your meeting to ensure that
your show’s operation is smooth and hassle-free. It’s our responsibility for
continuously enhancing our clients’ experience through customer relationship
management and value innovation to influence repeat and referral business.

Facilitate Site Inspections

Galveston Island CVB staff will coordinate details during your visit and liaison
with local hotels, attractions, and restaurants.

Publicity
When you book your event through the Galveston Island CVB we’ll make sure
your publicity needs are met. Upon request, our staff will prepare a news
release on your behalf and send it to targeted media to generate awareness
about your event, your organization, its members and its goals.

Guest /Spouse and Children Activities

Staff is available to assist with suggestions on entertainment, recreation and
sightseeing.

Pre-promotion Attendance Builders

Prior to your event, we can provide a selection of brochures and general
information on Galveston Island to encourage attendance. Also, if group meets
requirements, we can do pre-promotion conferences.

Liaison to Public Officials

Our staff can assist with welcome letters to your organization from city and
tourism officials.

Promotional Items
The CVB offers promotional items, including logoed plastic bags and note pad
and pen or a magnet.

Group VIP Discount Program

We have a group discounts exclusively for our groups that include shopping,
attraction and dining savings.

Tours
We can help coordinate tours for your specific needs and work with the
community to develop sight-seeing programs for your meeting attendees.
 Convention Services continued
19
Special Assistance
Need to find a local caterer, unique meeting site, entertainment, transportation
or registration assistance? We’ll be happy to help you find the services you need.
We can connect you with specialists, offering the goods and services you need to
make your meeting a success.

2009-2010 Key Initiatives

• Support the efforts of the sales team by identifying and exceeding the needs
for each client for additional meeting opportunities
• Contact each client once group has contracted to uncover potential
service needs
• Educate attendees on all aspects of the tourism industry to promote
additional spending in the community
• Inform local hospitality industry on a monthly basis of GICVB activity
• Measure client satisfaction through evaluation forms
• Ensure a successful convention experience on Galveston Island
• Develop a hotel tracking system to better identify economic impact of a
group and convention business
• Maintain DMAI and TACVB group history data bases
• Maintain extensive knowledge of the services and attractions Galveston offers
• Aid and support sales managers with FAM’s and Group Welcomes
• Attend groups pre & post conferences if requested
• Attend GHLA quarterly to remain proactive within the community
• Attend classes at Galveston College to keep abreast of trends in the
hospitality industry
• Work with clients to assist sales team with future bookings
Galveston Island Visitors 20
Information Center
Objective:
Estimating 5 million visitors
pass through Galveston Island
each year, it’s our personal goal
to provide, promote, direct and
educate leisure and business
travelers on the culture, prestige,
natural beauty, recreational
opportunities and rich history
that Galveston Island has to offer.

More Visitors
Greater Visibility
In early 2009, the Visitors Center
moved to a more prominent
location to enhance visibility and
productivity. The new Visitor
Center is conveniently located at
2328 Broadway at Ashton Villa in
the Carriage House. Our knowledgeable information specialists are on hand to
assist 7 days a week from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

2009-2010 Key Initiatives

• Offer an extensive on-site library of brochures, guides, maps and other useful
information free of charge.
• Educate and motivate the day-cationers to stay-cationers to increase the
economic impact to the community.
• Maintain outreach program to all hotel taxing entities needs in the tourism
industry.
• Literature fulfillment program: visitors requests for information and
literature will continue to be solicited by strategically placing the toll free
number and website in all ads, publicity, directories, publications and other
marketing, including a contact form on the website. These requests will be
fulfilled by mailing information packets to the prospective visitor or through
phone conversation.
• Product Knowledge - keeping up with the constantly changing tourism
industry is a priority to the GICVB; this includes phone calls, site inspections,
visit with providers and staff tours and meetings.
 Visitors Information Center continued
21

• Maintain relationships with TXDOT and other CVB Visitors Centers to

promote Galveston Island.
• Maintain Galveston Island presence at the cruise ship terminal for
embarkation and debarkation.
• Promote our Hospitality Training Camp to local front line employees
encouraging them to be VIC ambassadors.
• Increase visibility for the visitor center by creating a map with the points
of interests highlighting our location and distribute to local restaurant
and hotels.
• Keep abreast of all tours, attractions and special events.
• Maintain an availability occupancy report for special events
• Promote Galveston Island by manning a mobile visitors center at various
conferences on the Island.
Directing visitors to Galveston.com for maps and downloadable visitors guides
as well as emailing our Official Travel Planner.
 Marketing Communications 22

Galveston Island has reached significant milestones since Hurricane Ike.

Perception of the Island’s recovery has been primarily positive by the media
and consumer, however many are still unaware of Galveston’s return. Dealing
with an economic downturn, inaccurate perception and aggressive competition,
using various avenues of communication will be vital to further the success of
our community as a thriving tourism and meeting destination. The goal is to
integrate public relations and advertising strategies for cohesive sales messaging
and destination awareness resulting in room night production.

MEDIA RELATIONS
Communicate current tourism information to target audiences through
vital media outlets and position the CVB as the leading resource for tourism
information.

• Qualify and oversee individual media visits and media FAMs

• Consistently update on-line press kits
• Increase positive local newspaper coverage about the importance of tourism

COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Increase participation by hospitality industry partners to generate economic
growth for Galveston Island.

• Continue Marketing Roundtable discussions with local industry

• Create cooperative marketing initiatives with partners
• Develop and distribute key messages for the entire community to utilize in
their marketing efforts

CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS
Integrate all CVB communications (web, print, collateral, kits, powerpoint, sales
efforts) with consistent branding and messaging

• Create online ibrochure for leisure and meeting’s market

• More robust internet marketing for greener and integrated approach
• Tailor email newsletters to target audiences
• Expand awareness of destination via new media channels
 Marketing Communications continued
23
ADVERTISING

Implement $925,000 ad campaign to generate brand awareness and expand

year-round bookings.

• Maintain consistency with branding colors and copy

• Alliance with fewer media outlets to stretch marketing funds
• Use media outlets to promote eco-tourism, cultural tourism and heritage
tourism in addition to our beaches.
 Public Relations 24

OBJECTIVES
• Promote Galveston as a vibrant, enjoyable destination with quality attractions,
a wide range of lodging and diverse events to draw a variety of visitors on a
year-round basis.
• Showcase Galveston as an affordable travel experience.
• Continue positive awareness of Galveston’s transformation after Hurricane
Ike, with new hotels, renovations, attractions and special events.
• To consistently tell the Galveston story to its key stakeholders reinforcing the
island’s current position from a residential, business & tourism perspective.
• To educate and cultivate stronger relationships with the media in an effort
to foster consistent, balanced, accurate and factual media (print and
broadcast) coverage.
• Position Galveston as a top meetings and events destination with premier
convention facilities, meeting friendly hotels, top dining and quality leisure
amenities.
• Leverage special events to raise the destinations profile with local and
national audiences.
• Expand Galveston’s communications presence via new media and social
networking applications.

STRATEGIES
Position Galveston as a viable, safe and affordable year-round travel destination,
elevate all areas of Galveston’s hospitality industry and promote the destination
to various types of media.
• Build awareness through media pitching to specific outlets reaching
Galveston’s most targeted audiences.
• Secure local and national TV and editorial segments that focus on Galveston’s
world class attractions, unique dining experiences, special events and historic
and natural aspects.
• Create seasonal promotions that encourage year-round travel by a variety of
visitors.
• Create promotional media blitzes with industry partners to target specific
locations reaching potential visitors.

Promote the capabilities of Galveston as a premier destination for meetings,

conferences and events.
• Promote successful meetings to trade publications; use testimonials and
interviews with third party endorsements from meeting planners.
 Public Relations continued

• Develop what is new in Galveston information to be shared with trade 25

publications.
• Create awareness of key newsworthy meetings or conferences taking place in
Galveston to local and trade media.
• Support CVB presence at trade shows with media and promotional activities.

Continue to identify media relations opportunities and activities to promote

Galveston and its industry specific aspects.
• Identify key outlets and research the potential for placement with specific
journalists.
• Develop individual familiarization tours for top-tier media with customized
itineraries.
• Expand messages to mainstream print and broadcast media in major markets
to run regular stories about Galveston as tourism and business destination.
• Attend industry specific events to develop relationships with media.

Utilize new media and social networking outlets (Twitter, Facebook,

YouTube) to reach potential visitors, journalists and bloggers.
• Optimize press releases with keyword-rich content to increase search engine
rankings.
• Drive traffic to Facebook and Twitter pages through promotional offerings,
news, and discounts.
• Create Facebook and Twitter promotions to enhance the visitor’s experience
by establishing these outlets as viable information sources.
• Enhance Galveston’s YouTube channel with visitor and travel media
segments.

Leverage special events to promote Galveston and showcase the destinations

diverse offerings.
• Generate publicity for Galveston events and attract media to cover the
destination during high profile conventions or meetings.
• Develop Mardi Gras, Homes Tour specific FAMs for local media and targeted
outlets.
• Work with industry partners to create/promote packages and promotions
in conjunction with special events. Halloween Happenings, Holiday Packages,
Mardi Gras specials and Summer deals.
• Promote special events along side similar national events to seek coverage in
national print or TV media using topics such as top 10 lists or must visit sites.
Film Industry Promotion 26

The film industry benefits

Galveston through
expenditures by cast and
crew during filming and
through increased visitation
by exposing the Island
to a broad audience. The
Galveston Island CVB,
through the Galveston Island
Film Liaison, promotes
Galveston as a location for
filming documentaries,
feature films, television
series, commercials and
music videos. The Film
Liaison also provides
scouting and support
services to the filming industry.

Promote Galveston’s position as a unique and diverse filming

destination to increase film projects.
• Create video database of Galveston locations.
• Continue full-page advertisement in Houston Film Production Guide.
• Enhance and update internal, Houston and Texas Film Commission
location photo databases.
• Actively partner with Houston and Texas Film Commissions.
• Work with local industry professionals to solicit projects.
• Provide site inspections and location scouting upon request.
• Contact previous inquiries and project producers for future opportunities
• Reduce complication of filming in Galveston
• Create procedural outline for obtaining City permits and meeting
City requirements.
• Partner with the City to create a seamless process.
• Act as liaison between producers and location representatives when
filming on private property.

Create a Galveston Production Guide

• Outline filming requirements.
• Include detailed description of select locations.
• Provide list of local film industry personnel, lodging accommodations
and production services.
• Detailed maps of Galveston Island.
 Advertising 27

The Galveston Island CVB advertising plan is designed to maximize exposure

for the destination with creative brand messaging effectively communicated
through a balanced mix of media delivering impressions and generating hotel
bookings and sales tax revenue.

BRAND POSITIONING
Galveston Island is an accessible and affordable beach destination with an
unbreakable historic spirit. Positioning the Island as “reachable,” will reinforce
an unpretentious image, and encourage visitors to travel on a spontaneous
basis. This will encourage more frequent visits. Accessible also translates on an
economic-sense, which by communicating affordability, will also drive visitors
on a more spur-of-the-moment level.

MAJOR OBJECTIVES
• Increase overall visitor volume year-round
• Increase visibility as a premier meeting destination
• Reinforce our progress while mentioning recovery
• Promote elevated brand identity to attract a more affluent year-round
customer
• Provide industry partners affordable cooperative advertising opportunities
• Increase visitation to galveston.com as the number one resource
• Keep Galveston top of mind for frequent day trippers
• Increase pre-cruise vacation stays/extensions
• Increase beach park visitation

STRATEGIES
• Communicate the story of “Galveston is Back”
• Utilize “Voted #1 Attraction in Texas for Out Of State Visitors” on everything
• Reinforce strategic relationships with key marketing partners in order to
enhance brand awareness & consistency
• Leverage our ad buys with paid and in-kind sponsorships
• Use less vendors for deeper buying power
• Focus on our attributes
• Entertain and educate the public about the fun, affordable things to do and see
on Galveston Island
• Encourage tracking via contests with partners
• Continue convention incentives during traditional slow booking periods
• Incorporate testimonials with leisure and meeting advertisements
• Implement a guest survey program through Galveston.com
 2009-2010 Media Planning 28

MEDIA OBJECTIVES

• Broaden the awareness and the perception of Galveston Island as more than
just a beach destination
• Increase intent to travel among first time and repeat visitors
• Increase traffic, click throughs and conversions on galveston.com
• Support the efforts of the group sales team to identify and secure additional
meeting and convention business
• Ultimately increase hotel occupancy and room nights

MEDIA STRATEGIES
• Get the right message in front of the right audience at the right time through
the best possible vehicle
• Schedule media in a concentrated period to create a buzz and maximize the
budget
• Negotiate maximum exposure and value added options in this economic
climate
• Utilize print publications that offer online availability and other benefits
• Seek celebrity endorsement for future advertising initiatives

LIFESTYLE TARGETS
• Families
• Couples
• Spa enthusiasts
• Active adults
• Historical and cultural enthusiast
• Eco-tourism enthusiast
• GLBT

TARGET AUDIENCE
• Active Adults 35-64 • Families
• HHI: $75,000 • Couples
• College Educated • Baby Boomers

GEOGRAPHICAL TARGETS
• Houston Metroplex • Arkansas
• Dallas Metroplex • Missouri
• Austin/San Antonio • Illinois
• Beaumont • Wisconsin
• Louisiana • Canada
• Oklahoma
 Galveston Island CVB Ad Plan 2009-2010 29
Meeting Trades OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT

TSAE Association Leadership

Full, 4C
TX Mtg's & Events
1/2, 4C
MPG Mtg. Planners Guide
Full Page, 4C
Galveston Chamber Directory
Full Page
MPI One +
1/2, 4C
Corporate & Incentive
Magazine
1/2, 4C
Meetings South
1/2, 4C
Successful Meetings Magazine
1/2 P, 4C
The Reunion Network Pub
Full, 4C
Connect
1/2, 4C
Rejuvenate
1/2, 4C
NTA Supplier Directory
1/2 H
ABA Destinations
1/2, 4C
Group Travel Planet
1/2 H
Meeting Websites - MPI,
SGMP,TSAE, TX Mtg &
Events, Smart Mtgs,
Successful Mtgs

Misc. E-Newsletter Blasts

Smart Mtg’s

Convention South
 Galveston Island CVB Ad Plan 2009-2010 30
OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT

Consumer Advertising
AAA TX Journey
1/3 P, 4C
Houston Family Magazine
Full, 4C
Modern Luxury
1/2 P, 4C
Southwest Spirit Mag
1/2 P, 4C
Buzz Magazine
1/2 P, 4C
Texas Monthly
1/2 P, 4C
Austin Monthly
1/2 P, 4C
Midwest Living
1/3 P, 4C
Texas Highways
1/3 P, 4C
Canadian Traveller
1/2 P, 4C
Coastal Living
varies
GHCVB Official Visitors Guide
1/2 H, 4C
Southern Living
1/2 H, 4C
Carnival Cruise Lines Gateways
Full Page 4C
Map Houston
1/3 Page
Texas Accommodations Guide
1/2 P, 4C
Newspaper Advertising
Hou Chron Summer Fun Guide
1/2 Page
Hou Press SFG and Ads
Full Page
Houston Chronicle Insert
16 pages
TTIA See TX First Direct Mailer
1/2 P, ADV
America's Best Vacations
1/2 P, ADV
Midwest Vacation Guide
Brochure Insert
Gannett, LA Newspaper Group
1/4 P, 4C
 Galveston Island CVB Ad Plan 2009-2010 31
OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT

Special Event Advertising

Texas Events Calendar
Full, 4C
Special Event Development
Various
Houston Film Commission
Guide
Cover Tab
Texas Approach Consumer
Shows
United States
Local Publications
Regional
Billboard Advertising
Houston Rotary Board
Inner Houston
Downtown Billboard
Galveston
Radio Advertising
Clear Channel, CBS Radio,
Cumulus & Cox
In State

Leisure Internet Advertising

Chron. Com
Houston
Misc. Leisure Travel Sites
In-State
TravelTex.com
In-State
TourTexas.com
In-State
DestinationTexas.cc
In-State
Television Advertising
Great Day Houston
Houston
Cable Networks
Houston
KPRC Channel 2
Houston
In state Opportunities
In-State
Branches of Texas Co-op
Co-op with Gulf Coast
Promotions
Regionals
2009-2010 Special Events 32

The Galveston Island Special Events Department reviews current and

prospective events for Galveston, giving special emphasis to events that
produce overnight business for the Island and promotes out of town visitors.
Other considerations include image compatibility, potential media coverage,
measurability, continuity, time of year, opportunities for growth of events and
extent of city services related to an event. The following outlines this year’s
commitments and responsibilities to city-wide and community events.

EVENT: Mardi Gras! Galveston

DESCRIPTION: Galveston Island’s
Premier event. Features spectacular
parades, extravagant balls, renowned live
entertainment, bead throwing, people
watching, and general Mardi Gras revelry.
The event draws over 300,000 visitors
to Galveston Island during the 12 day
celebration each year.
DUTIES: The Park Board is no longer the exclusive producer of Mardi Gras Galveston.
However, the CVB is still responsible for advertising the event up to a cost of
$25,000. Also, the CVB will produce the event information flyer and manage the
official website.

EVENT: Featherfest
DESCRIPTION: Galveston’s birding festival. Registered guests choose from a variety
of guided visits to area birding locations, workshops and seminars.
DUTIES: Provide Public Relations and advertising support, as well as graphic design
support. The CVB will produce the official event poster, all print advertisements,
T-shirt and patch artwork.

EVENT: The Grand Kids’ Festival

DESCRIPTION: A celebration of folk art and fun for all ages. Three blocks of fun in
historic downtown Galveston!
DUTIES: Provide logistical support including perimeter fencing, an entertainment
stage, and trash barrels.

EVENT: Texas Adopt-A-Beach Cleanup

DESCRIPTION: Volunteers will help clean Galveston’s beaches and collect data in
this national beach clean up event.
DUTIES: Provide logistical support as needed; secures portable toilets.
 2009-2010 Special Events continued

EVENT: Yaga’s World Wild Game Championship and BBQ Cook-off 33

DESCRIPTION: This event allows backyard chefs, sportsmen and women, and
outdoor enthusiasts to show off their culinary skills and enjoy some fun. This
event benefits the Yaga’s Children’s Fund which supports area children’s charities
throughout Galveston County each year.
DUTIES: The Park Board and CVB provides in-kind logistical support, which includes
providing perimeter fencing, providing trash barrels and coordinating portable toilet
needs.

EVENT: Galveston Uncorked – Event return TBD

DESCRIPTION: The event showcases wines from around the corner to around
the world. Wine enthusiasts will be able to taste a multitude of wines and figure
out what your particular palate is. In addition to a wide variety of wines, local
restaurants will be participating by showcasing their own specialties and pairing
them with wines to accent the different foods. The wine stroll will unite the restored
architecture and romantic charm of Galveston’s Historic Downtown District.
DUTIES: Provide advertising support, marketing and promotional support and
logistical support as needed.

EVENT: Texas Coast Cruisin Car Show

DESCRIPTION: Car and motorcycle show on Galveston’s Pier 21
DUTIES: Provide logistical support including site planning and coordination with the
City of Galveston. We also provided public relations support and printed event flyers.

EVENT: AIA Sandcastle Competition

DESCRIPTION: The Houston
Chapter of the American Institute
of Architects hosts this annual
competition where over 80 teams
that consist of Houston area
architects, designers, engineers,
and contractors compete with
their sand sculpting tools.
DUTIES: The CVB provides
extensive public relations and
advertising support, as well
as logistical support including
coordination of clean-up and
recycling initiative, parking plan,
sign printing, and other logistical
support as needed.
 2009-2010 Special Events continued

EVENT: July 4th Fireworks 34

DESCRIPTION: Annual fireworks display
celebrating 4th of July holiday.
DUTIES: The CVB fully funds the
fireworks display, and coordinates
logistics with the City of Galveston. The
CVB also provides public relations and
advertising support.

EVENT: Galveston Island Mullet

Toss – return TBD
DESCRIPTION: Galveston’s Mullet Toss
is a full day of fun and sun on the beach,
with competitors tossing a one pound
mullet from a 10 ft. circle for the chance
to win great prizes and bragging rights
for the year. We’ll keep the party going
between tossing rounds with fantastic
live entertainment and a homemade
bikini contest! Portions of each mullet
toss entry fee will be donated to local
charities.
DUTIES: The CVB produces the event in coordination with Cox Radio Houston. The
CVB is responsible for all logistical aspects of the event, including registration, event
layout, and contest coordination.

EVENT: ARToberFEST
DESCRIPTION: Galveston’s premier fine art festival. Postoffice Street comes alive
with local and national artists creating arts, crafts and jewelry.
DUTIES: Provide Public Relations and advertising support, as well as graphic design
support. The CVB produces the official event poster and all print advertisements.

EVENT: Lone Star Motorcycle Rally

DESCRIPTION: More than 400,000 people descend upon Galveston Island to enjoy
live music, poker runs, people watching, and some of the finest machines known to
man.
DUTIES: The CVB sponsors the event, as well as assists with the marketing,
promotional, and public relations efforts. The CVB also assists with logistical needs
as needed.
 2009-2010 Special Events continued

EVENT: Downtown Lofts Tour 35

DESCRIPTION: Public is invited to enjoy some of Downtown Galveston’s most unique
residences.
DUTIES: Provide Public Relations and advertising support, as well as graphic design
support. The CVB produces the official event poster and all print advertisements.

EVENT: Save-a-Ship Program and Veteran’s Day Salute

DESCRIPTION: A grand program to honor Veterans of the past. The program will be
complete with guest speakers, a fly over, lifesaving rescues, JR ROTC members and
representatives from every branch of the Armed Forces and entertainment.
DUTIES: The CVB produces the event along with the Park Board and Cavalla
Historical Foundation. The CVB coordinates logistical plans for the event and
produces the official program.

EVENT: Dickens on the Strand

DESCRIPTION: A holiday festival, where Bobbies, Beefeaters and the Queen herself
will be on hand to recreate the Victorian London of Charles Dickens.
DUTIES: The CVB assists with the Public Relations, marketing and promotion of the
event. The CVB also provides logistical support as needed.

EVENT: Movie Nite on the Strand/Music Nite on the Strand

DESCRIPTION: Classic movies are shown the 1st Saturday of each month at
Saengerfest Park. Local and regional bands play live music on the 3rd Saturday of
each month at Saengerfest Park.
PARK BOARD DUTIES: The CVB co-sponsors Movie Nite on the Strand and Music
Nite on the Strand with Mitchell Historic Properties. Responsibilities include movie
license rental, screen and audio rental, public relations and advertising support,
poster and flyer design and printing.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
* Additional support is offered to the following events through printing of flyers,
brochures, print and online advertising, and public relations support.
• Juneteenth Jubilee
• Galveston Island Beach Revue
• Lone Star Triathlon Ironman
• Historic Homes Tour
• Oktoberfest
• Texas Aviation Hall of Fame Fly Day
• Moody Gardens Festival of Lights
2009-2010 Professional 36
Affiliations
AAF – American Advertising Federation
ABA- American Bus Association
ASAE- American Society o Association Executives
Bank Travel
DMAI- Destination Marketing Association International
EWI- Executive Women International
Galveston Chamber of Commerce
Galveston Rotary Club
GLAMER – Group Leaders of America
Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
HAF - Houston Advertising Federation
Historic Downtown Strand Seaport Partnership
IAEE – International Association of Exhibition & Events
IGLTA – International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association
MPI – Meeting Professionals International
NTA – National Tour Association
OSSN – Outside Support Sales Network
NTA – National Tour Association
PCMA – Professional Convention Management Association
PRSA – Public Relations Society of America
RCMA - Religious Conference Management Association
TRN - The Reunion Network
SGMP – Society of Government Meeting Planners
South Central Motorcoach Association
TACVB – Texas Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus
TSAE – Texas Society of Association Executive
TTIA – Texas Travel Industry Association
Park Board of Trustees 37
The Park Board of Trustees of the City of Galveston, is a governmental entity created
by a special act of the Texas Legislature in 1962 for the purpose of directing all tourism
efforts for Galveston. The Park Board oversees the Convention and Visitors Bureau,
beach cleaning services, lifeguard services, administration of the hotel occupancy tax,
and coordination of Board approved special events.
The State of Texas requires that a nine-member board be appointed by City Council,
with four members appointed on alternate years for two-year terms and a City Council
representative appointed annually.

Jeri Kinnear, Chair Betty Massey , Vice Chair

17 Pirates Beach West Cell: 409-599-0656
Galveston, TX 77554 Office: 409-765-9770
Home: 409-737-5055 Fax: 409-762-7055
Cell: 409-682-7640 bmassey@northernendowment.org
Fax: 409-737-5655 3rd Term, 7-1-2008 to 6-30-2010
jerikinnear@att.net
2nd Term, 7-1-2008 to 6-30-2010

Edward J. Walsh, III , Secretary/Treasurer Danny Weber, Mayor Pro-Tem

Cell: 409-771-5929 5827 Avenue S
Office: 409-763-4626 Galveston, TX 77551
Fax: 409-762-2108 Home: 409-744-7025
Edward J. Walsh & Associates Cell: 409-789-1553
2302 Post Office, Suite 602 1. weber59@comcast.net
Galveston, TX 77550 2. dannyweber@cityofgalveston.org
eddie@walshcpa.com 3rd Term, 7-1-2008 to 6-30-2010
3rd Term, 7-1-2008 to 6-30-2011

Craig K. Brown Sheryl Rozier

Home: 409-750-8509 Office: 409-763-1773
Cell/Work: 409-789-5099 Cell: 832-689-1099
drcraigbrown@msn.com Structural Consulting Company Inc
1st Term, 7-1-2009 to 6-30-2011 1608 West Main
Houston, TX 77006
srozier@swbell.net
Ernest Connor 2nd Term, 7-1-2009 to 6-30-2011
Cell: 409-789-1837
Office: 409-763-5806
Fax: 409-762-3203 Melvin Williams
GPM, Incorporated Cell: 409-939-6563
2228 Mechanic, Suite 204 Office: 409-772-1015
Galveston, TX 77550 University of Texas Medical Branch
1. econnor@mitchellfamilycorp.com 301 University Boulevard
2. Eco7620844@aol.com Galveston, TX 77555
3rd Term, 7-1-2009 to 6-30-2011 1. malbrand@me.com
2. mwilliam@utmb.edu
Lauraleigh Gourley-Vogel 1st Term, 7-1-2009 to 6-30-2011
Cell: 409-771-7766
Office: 409-744-1500
Fax: 409-744-7545
The San Luis Resort
5222 Seawall Boulevard
Galveston, TX 77550
lgourley@ldry.com
3rd Term, 7-1-2009 to 6-30-2011
Tourism Development 38
Advisory Committee
Betty Massey, Chair Lauraleigh Gourley-Vogel, Vice Chair
Board Member Board Member
Mary Moody Northen Endowment The San Luis Resort
2618 Broadway 5222 Seawall Boulevard
Galveston, Texas 77550 Galveston, Texas 77550
Work: 409-765-9770 Work: 409-740-8607
Cell: 409-599-0656 Fax: 409-744-7545
Fax: 409-762-7055 Cell: 409-771-7766
b.massey@northenendowment.org lgourley@ldry.com

Karla Klay Mike Pistone

Artist Boat, Exec. Dir. The Hilton
2415 Avenue K 5400 Seawall Boulevard
Galveston, Texas 77550 Galveston, Texas 77551
Work: 409-770-0722 Work: 409-744-5000
Fax: 409-770-0712 Fax: 409-740-2209
Cell: 713-569-0722 M110353@aol.com
kklay@artistboat.org GH&LA Representative
Attractions Rep.: Eco-Tourism Appointed: August 2009 - July 2011,
Appointed: August 2009 - July 2011, 1st Term 3rd Term

Buzz Elton Lesley Sommer

The Victorian Historic Downtown Galveston Partnership
6300 Seawall Boulevard 1209 Market
Galveston, Texas 77551 Galveston, Texas 77550
Work: 409-740-1502 Work: 409-763-7080
Fax: 409-771-0497 Sommer.hdgp@sbcglobal.net
Cell: 409-771-0497 Attractions Rep.: Historic Downtown
spectrum@galveston.com Appointed: 2008 - 2010, 1st Term
GH&LA Representative
Appointed: 2008 - 2010, 3rd Term Melissa White
Schlitterbahn
Garvin O’Neil 2026 Lockheed Road
Moody Gardens Hotel Galveston, Texas 77551
Seven Hope Boulevard Work: 409-770-9283
Galveston, Texas 77554 Fax: 409-515-0686
Work: 409-683-4405 Cell: 409-599-8609
Fax: 409-683-4936 mwhite@schlitterbahn.com
Cell: 409-771-0634 Chamber of Commerce Rep.
goneil@moodygardens.com Appointed: 2009 – 2011, 3rd Term
GH&LA Representative
Appointed: 2008 - 2010, 3rd Term Marsha Wilson-Rappaport
St. Vincent’s House
Maureen M. Patton 2718 Postoffice
The Grand 1894 Opera House Galveston, Texas 77550
2020 Postoffice Work: 409-763-8521
Galveston, Texas 77550 Cell: 409-621-1211
Work: 409-793-7173 mmjournal@earthlink.net
Fax: 409-763-1068 At-Large Representative
mpatton@thegrand.com Appointed: 2008 - 2010, 2nd Term
Attractions Rep.: Cultural & Historical
Appointed: 2009 - 2011, 3rd Term
Tourism Development Advisory Committee continued
39
John Zendt
Moody Gardens
One Hope Boulevard
Galveston, Texas 77554
Work: 409-683-4301
Fax: 409-683-4926
johnzendt@moodygardens.com
Attractions Representative At Large
Appointed: 2008 - 2010, 3rd Term

Dr. Craig Brown

Board Member
2019 Avenue N 1/2
Galveston, Texas 77550
Cell: 409-789-5099
drcraigbrown@msn.com

Jan Inlow
Galveston.com
523 24th Street
Galveston, TX 77550
jan@galveston.com
Work: 409-765-3514; Cell: 409-370-9034;
Fax: 409-765-3535
Restaurant Rep.: GRA
Appointed: August 2009 - July 2011, 1st Term
Galveston Island Convention 40
& Visitor’s Bureau
Meg Winchester, Director
Key Accounts
mwinchester@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (409) 797-5163
Cell: (409) 750-0704
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Dottie Bossley, Regional Sales Director

Texas Associations, Texas State Government,
Corporations and National Associations HQ in
Austin Texas. Texas based chapters, sections,
political parties and societies HQ in Texas or
planned by any 3rd party intermediary.
dbossley@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (512) 288-0991
Cell: (512) 507-8103
Fax: (512) 288-0930

Vicky Corrington, Senior National Sales Manager

National Corporate & The Hyland Group
vcorrington@galvestoncvb.com
Cell: (713) 480-2021
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Cheryl Calhoun, National Assoc. Sales Manager

National Associations in the U.S. excluding Texas
ccalhoun@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (972) 717-0800
Cell: (214) 564-5026
Fax: (972) 717-0802

Sheri Teller, SMERF Sales Manager

Social, Military, Educational, Religious, and
Fraternal.
steller@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (409) 797-5150
Cell: (409) 599-5690
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Melody Smith, Director of Marketing

Marketing and advertising for the CVB
msmith@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (409) 797-5149
Cell: (409) 939-7630
Fax: (409) 877-4452
Galveston Island Convention & Visitor’s Bureau continued
41

RoShelle Gaskins, Public Relations Manager

Public relations, media management and
on-camera activities
rgaskins@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (409) 797-5152
Cell: (409) 682-3029
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Bryan Kunz, Special Events Manager

& Film Liaison
Event and logisic coordination for select special
events on Galveston Island - Film liaison for
incoming commercials, music videos and
motion pictures
bkunz@galvestoncvb.org
Office: (409) 797-5157
Cell: (409) 939-1814
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Renee Dondonay, Sales Coordinator
Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau
306 22nd Street, Suite 300
Galveston, Texas 77550
PO Box 1080
Galveston, Texas 77553
rdondonay@galvestoncvb.com
www.galveston.com
Toll Free: (866) 505-4456
Direct: (409) 797-5145
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Stacy Gilbert, Director Convention Services /

Visitors Center
Responsible for servicing Meetings,
Conventions, Motorcoaches & Day Groups.
Manages Visitor Center.
sgilbert@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (409) 797-5125
Cell: (409) 621-6040
Fax: (409) 877-4452

Tiffaney Hinojosa, Assistant Director

Convention Services / Visitors Center
Responsible for servicing Meetings,
Conventions, Motorcoaches & Day Groups.
Manages Visitor Center.
thinojosa@galvestoncvb.com
Office: (409) 797-5122
Cell: (409) 370-7288
Fax: (409) 877-4452