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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties Pressroom: Mitchell Historic Properties Pressroom</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp</link>
<description><![CDATA[Mitchell Historic Properties Pressroom news and press releases]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2012 22:06:03 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Bizz Buzz - New eatery slated for island’s Pier 21</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/314642</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/314642</guid>
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<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 14:18:19 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Galveston Restaurant Group to Open New Restaurant Concept at Pier 21</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/galveston-restaurant-group-to-233805.aspx?link_page_rss=233805</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/galveston-restaurant-group-to-233805.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Galveston Restaurant Group is opening its newest dining concept &ndash; Nonno Tony&rsquo;s World Kitchen at Pier 21 late this summer. Nonno Tony&rsquo;s World Kitchen will offer Italian, Asian fusion, Creole and traditional American fare all served from an open style kitchen which will also feature a steam kettle bar and brick ovens. An extensive beer and wine list will be offered in &ldquo;Paulie&rsquo;s Bar.&rdquo;
 
 &ldquo;Nonno,&rdquo; Italian for &ldquo;Grandfather,&rdquo; is attributed to Galveston Restaurant Group&rsquo;s patriarch, Tony Smecca (Johnny and Joey Smecca&rsquo;s father). &ldquo;Paulie&rsquo;s Bar,&rdquo; another family namesake, is named in honor of Danny Hart&rsquo;s father, the third partner of Galveston Restaurant Group.
 
&ldquo;Galveston Restaurant Group definitely brings a family element to the table and we want to pay homage to the roots of our delicious food,&rdquo; say Johnny Smecca. &ldquo;Our families play a significant role in our business, providing us with more than 40 years of experience in cooking and serving our guests. Nonno Tony&rsquo;s will reflect that commitment to family and tradition, with a twist of new and exciting cuisine.&rdquo;
 
Nonno Tony&rsquo;s world flavors will utilize techniques honed at other Galveston Restaurant Group properties. &ldquo;We wanted to celebrate some of the most iconic dishes from all our restaurants,&rdquo; adds Joey Smecca.
 
Galveston Restaurant Group currently owns and operates five restaurants in Galveston and Little Daddy&rsquo;s Gumbo Bar in League City. The company is leasing space from Mitchell Historic Properties for its newest venture Nonno Tony&rsquo;s World Kitchen. &ldquo;We would like to see Pier 21 grow as a family friendly destination where visitors can enjoy a great meal, visit attractions and even stay the night,&rdquo; said Bill Ross, senior vice president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;Nonno Tony&rsquo;s World Kitchen will enhance the area and is a great addition to Pier 21.&rdquo;
                                                                              
About Galveston Restaurant Group 
Galveston Restaurant Group has brought the &ldquo;art of good eating&rdquo; to patrons since 1997. Created by Johnny Smecca, Joey Smecca and Danny Hart, when they opened their first restaurant, Saltwater Grill in 1998, located in the heart of the Galveston Arts &amp; Entertainment District. Since then, they have been creating, prospering and selling restaurant concepts that deliver the best dining experiences on the Texas Gulf Coast. Galveston Restaurant Group owns and operates Mario&rsquo;s Seawall Italian Restaurant, Papa&rsquo;s Pizza, Saltwater Grill, Sky Bar &amp; Sushi and Little Daddy&rsquo;s Gumbo Bar. Visit them online at www.GalvestonRestaurantGroup.com.
 
About Pier 21
Pier 21 is a waterfront entertainment and dining area located on Galveston&rsquo;s historic harbor in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. Pier 21 offers restaurants, a variety of attractions such as BayWatch Dolphin Tours, Pier 21 Theater and the Texas Seaport Museum as well as Harbor House Hotel and Marina. Pier 21 is part of Mitchell Historic Properties which is owned by George Mitchell and the Mitchell family. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=692748" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 18:36:45 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Buster’s Old Time Photos to Open in Historic Downtown Galveston</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/buster-s-old-time-photos-to-open-233794.aspx?link_page_rss=233794</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/buster-s-old-time-photos-to-open-233794.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Buster&rsquo;s Old Time Photos, which operates two locations in Branson, MO, is opening its first Texas location in historic downtown Galveston. This awarding-wining photo studio is a popular attraction in Branson and scheduled to open in early June in Old Galveston Square, 2217 Strand. Visitors of all ages can dress in authentic costumes and be professionally photographed with corresponding themed backdrops. Patrons can choose from the Roaring 20s, southern belle, Victorian, western and pirate themes.
 
Those dressed for the Roaring 20s will be pictured in a classic speakeasy while the old west will be captured in a saloon. Ladies can choose to be a southern belle or dress to reflect the Victorian era while pictured in a classic historic home. Another option is to dress as a pirate and be photographed on the deck of a pirate ship.
 
&ldquo;We looked at a lot of locations but we picked Galveston because of the people and the character of the town,&rdquo; says Trent Edwards, co-owner and a master photographer. &ldquo;Galveston is a lot like Branson where people are friendly and it&rsquo;s a close knit community. Plus, we see that Galveston is on an uphill climb and has huge potential for a growing business like ours.&rdquo;
 
Buster&rsquo;s Old Time Photos is a family business owned by brothers Trent and Lamont Edward and their brother-in-law Andy Metcalf. Buster&rsquo;s is named for the Edwards&rsquo; great uncle Buster Edwards who was a world traveler, photographer and jack of all trades.
 
Buster&rsquo;s Old Time Photos has operated in Branson since 2009. The studio is leasing space from Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;Historic downtown Galveston is bustling with activity right now,&rdquo; says Bill Ross, senior vice president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;Buster&rsquo;s Old Time Photos is an added attraction for visitors and in an ideal location to enhance our historic downtown.&rdquo;
 
About Buster&rsquo;s Old Time Photos 
Buster&rsquo;s Old Time Photos is a family business based in Branson, MO. Brothers Trent and Lamont Edwards and brother-in-law Andy Metcalfe opened their first location in 2009 and currently operate Buster&rsquo;s on the Landing and Buster&rsquo;s on 76 Music Blvd. in Branson. The studio is a member of Antique and Amusement Photographers International, the only professional organization dedicated to old time photo industry. The brothers wanted to find an opportunity to capitalize on living in a tourism town and their love for photography sparked the idea for the business.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=692745" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 16:46:48 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: UT renames spectrograph for Mitchells</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/309574</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/309574</guid>
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<pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 13:45:02 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Luigi's Ristorante - a Galveston Culinary Mainstay for 16 Years</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/luigi-s-ristorante-a-galveston-233686.aspx?link_page_rss=233686</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/luigi-s-ristorante-a-galveston-233686.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Luigi&rsquo;s Ristorante Italiano has been a culinary mainstay in Downtown Galveston for almost 16 years. The Tuscan-style Italian restaurant, located in the heart of the Historic Strand District, offers homemade, authentic Italian fare. Everything at Luigi&rsquo;s is made from scratch and prepared fresh. Luigi makes his pastas, breads, sausages and desserts in-house. At Luigi&rsquo;s Ristorante Italiano, the service and cuisine are nothing short of exceptional.
 
Luigi and Martha Ferre opened Luigi&rsquo;s over 15 years ago when philanthropist George Mitchell offered the couple the opportunity to open a restaurant of their very own. Since that time, the Ferre&rsquo;s have made gastric history. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s me in the kitchen, we don&rsquo;t have a chef. As the owner, I care the most about service and quality,&rdquo; says Luigi, &ldquo;our restaurant is slightly more expensive but because we make everything from scratch, the quality makes up for the cost.&rdquo; Everything from the pasta to the ice cream is made in-house and the few items that cannot be handmade, like meats and seafood, are bought fresh daily and served in the authentic Italian way from family recipes.
 
When asked about owning a business in Galveston, Luigi said &ldquo;Sometimes it&rsquo;s hard. In the summer, business is good. Winters are harder but, because we are family here, it works. I like downtown. I think Galveston is going to really grow with all the new attractions&rdquo; like the newly opened Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast attraction in Downtown Galveston and the Historic Pleasure Pier that is due to open in the summer.
 
Luigi&rsquo;s advice to new business owners is &ldquo;stay on top of your business all the time. I&rsquo;m the owner but I am also in the kitchen all of the time. Take care of the business. It&rsquo;s hard work. You will have to make hard decisions but always stay on the business. And make sure you know how to do everything! You don&rsquo;t want to be caught short handed and not know what you are doing.&rdquo;
 
Luigi&rsquo;s Ristorante Italiano, a tenant of Mitchell Historic Properties, is located at 2328 Strand in historic downtown Galveston. Luigi&rsquo;s offers daily lunch specials that vary from pasta to specialty pizzas and dinner specials that change weekly. Luigi&rsquo;s is open for lunch Monday thru Saturday from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, dinner Monday thru Thursday from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, and dinner Friday and Saturday from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Luigi&rsquo;s is closed on Sunday.
 
Mitchell Historic Properties oversees Galveston properties owned by George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown. For leasing information, visit www.mitchellhistoricproperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=692593" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2012 21:28:10 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: Peace by the Sea: Review of The Tremont House (Houston Travel Examiner)</title>
<link>http://www.examiner.com/review/peace-by-the-sea-a-review-of-the-tremont-house-galveston-texas</link>
<guid>http://www.examiner.com/review/peace-by-the-sea-a-review-of-the-tremont-house-galveston-texas</guid>
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<pubDate>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:17:16 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Pleasure Pier picks up speed in Galveston</title>
<link>http://www.statesman.com/life/travel/pleasure-pier-picks-up-speed-in-galveston-2304516.html?viewAsSinglePage=true</link>
<guid>http://www.statesman.com/life/travel/pleasure-pier-picks-up-speed-in-galveston-2304516.html?viewAsSinglePage=true</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:03:31 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Tina's Known for Signature Candle, Gifts and Clothes in Galveston</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/tina-s-known-for-signature-candle-231834.aspx?link_page_rss=231834</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/tina-s-known-for-signature-candle-231834.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Offering a start to finish personal experience, Tina&rsquo;s on The Strand goes above and beyond to make their customers feel valued. The staff at Tina&rsquo;s offers a friendly experience no longer found in most boutique shops. Regular customers are treated like family and new customers are not soon forgotten. Tina&rsquo;s even mails thank you notes to those who spend over a certain dollar amount. And if they are out of something specific, the staff is happy to call down the street to find out if a neighboring business has what you&rsquo;re looking for.
 
Despite closing their doors for eight months after Hurricane Ike filled the store with 10 feet of water, Tina&rsquo;s persevered out of manager Boyce Pryor&rsquo;s home with the support of loyal fans and vendors. With a spirit of positivity, Tina&rsquo;s came back bigger and better than ever, using their forced shut down as an opportunity to start from scratch. Their grand return is due, in part, to their most popular item, Tina&rsquo;s signature candle. Tina&rsquo;s signature candle draws orders from across the country. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a fabulous candle, and we ship thousands of them,&rdquo; Pryor says.  They also have a number of exclusive lines that distinguish them from the average boutique. Several of the clothing lines at Tina&rsquo;s are also serving another cause. From child advocacy to women&rsquo;s groups, Tina&rsquo;s believes in responsible shopping. That means they support lines that give back. They also know where their merchandise is made so you know that you are supporting American economies.
 
With unique merchandising of its upscale apparel, home d&eacute;cor and gifts, Tina&rsquo;s seasonal inventory means the store displays are always changing and bringing customers back time and again to see what new, unique items the boutique has to offer. They are even happy to ship merchandise to your home for no more than the standard cost of postage. If you feel like Galveston is too far to travel for their goods, Tina&rsquo;s also offers their services over the phone and online.
When asked about their experience on The Strand, Pryor said that it is apparent the store owners and managers on The Strand all have a great deal of respect for one another. The stores all compliment each other and The Strand is a great place for unique businesses to grow. The small, but growing, community and the history and ghosts are a great draw to customers who are interested in a special experience.
 
For more information on Tina&rsquo;s on The Strand, visit their website or call 409-762-6816. Tina&rsquo;s on The Strand is located in the Hutchings-Sealy Building, which is part of Mitchell Historic Properties. The building dates to 1895 and offers retail and restaurant space on the first floor and indoor office space on the upper floors.
 
Mitchell Historic Properties oversees Galveston properties owned by George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown. For leasing information, visit www.mitchellhistoricproperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=690627" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:16:16 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Historical Highlights from Galveston</title>
<link>http://www.bohemiantrails.com/historical-highlights-galveston/</link>
<guid>http://www.bohemiantrails.com/historical-highlights-galveston/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:43:08 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Galveston: Texas Island looks back and moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/11677891-502/galveston-texas-island-looks-back-moves-forward.html</link>
<guid>http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/11677891-502/galveston-texas-island-looks-back-moves-forward.html</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:37:02 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: FeatherFest 2012 Celebrates 10th Anniversary</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/featherfest-2012-celebrates-10th-231302.aspx?link_page_rss=231302</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/featherfest-2012-celebrates-10th-231302.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Galveston FeatherFest, the island&rsquo;s annual birding and nature photography festival, will celebrate its 10th anniversary April 12 &ndash; 15. Festival founders will be recognized at an anniversary event, Rainforest Rendezvous, on April 14 at 6 p.m. at the Moody Gardens Rainforest Pyramid. The Mitchell family and staff of Mitchell Historic Properties helped to create this annual birding festival ten years ago.
 
Honorees include Renee Adame, Galveston Park Board of Trustees and director of marketing and special projects for Mitchell Historic Properties, Kevin Karlson, Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund, Peaches and Shrub Kempner, Sheridan Mitchell Lorenz, George Mitchell, Mitchell Historic Properties, Gordon Nunn and Lyda Ann Thomas.
 
Special recognition will also be given to Peggy Boston, Kathy Adams Clark, Steven Creitz (Mitchell Historic Properties), Ted Eubanks, Susan Fennewald, Shirley Foster, Mary Hannigan, Julie Harmon, Mary Jean Hayden, Pat Jakobi, Susan Knock, Mary Jo Nashke, Alice Anne O'Donell, Sammy Ray, Sid Steffens, Jim Stevenson and Mort Voller.
 
The event is open to the public and includes a buffet reception in the Garden Lobby, followed by a spectacular, big screen photography show by Kevin Karlson, nationally-recognized author, professional birder &amp; wildlife photographer. The evening continues with exploration of the Moody Gardens Rainforest Pyramid, with more than 1,000 species of exotic plants and animals from the rainforests of Africa, Asia and the Americas.
 
Anniversary event tickets are $40 and can be purchased online until April 8 at this link: https://2012galvestonfeatherfest.theregistrationsystem.com/en/1096.
 
FeatherFest 2012 offers more than 100 unique outdoor adventures amid 200 species of birds for nature enthusiasts of all skill levels. Events scheduled in downtown Galveston include photography workshops at The Tremont House and birding workshops and field trips based out of Old Galveston Square (one block from The Tremont House). 
 
Houston Camera Exchange, official sponsor of the FeatherFest photography track, will have its latest cameras, lens and accessories at Birders&rsquo; Bazaar, the free public trade show open throughout the festival.  Representatives from Canon, Nikon, Sony and other manufacturers will be on hand to demonstrate their products. The trade show and festival headquarters will be located in Old Galveston Square, 2215 The Strand in downtown Galveston.  
Roughly half of all North American bird species &ndash; more than 300 &ndash; may be seen throughout the year in Galveston, thanks to the rich variety of natural habitats within its 32 miles. The island&rsquo;s beaches, wetlands, grasslands, woods, ponds and bays are home to many common year-round bird species, as well as numerous others that visit briefly or for part of the year.  
 
FeatherFest is a project of the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council, which supports nature tourism and education, and promotes the value of area natural habitats. Register for the festival today at  www.GalvestonFeatherFest.com or call 832-459-5533 for more information.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=690368" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2012 20:50:41 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: What's New at Mitchell Historic Properties and in Galveston</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/what-s-new-at-mitchell-historic-231003.aspx?link_page_rss=231003</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/what-s-new-at-mitchell-historic-231003.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Preservation Efforts
Mitchell Historic Properties purchases 1859 Hendley Building
George Mitchell and the Mitchell family recently added another historic Galveston building to their Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) portfolio with the purchase of the 1859 Hendley Building. MHP recently closed on the sale of the two east bays of Hendley Row located on the northwest corner of 20th and Strand. For many years this portion of the building housed Demack &amp; Co., a produce wholesaler that closed in 1999. This part of the building does not include long-time shop Hendley Market. MHP plans to renovate the building and create retail space on the first floor.
                                                           
Mitchell Historic Properties repairs cast iron on 1871 Thomas Jefferson League Building
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) is currently completing the third major restoration of the 1871 Thomas Jefferson League building since the Mitchells took ownership in 1976. The League Building was the first of more than 20 historic buildings purchased by the Mitchells in what was later to become The Strand National Historic Landmark District.
The original restoration of the League building in 1979 started a renaissance of Galveston&rsquo;s downtown area and led to further investment by the Mitchell family and other individuals and entities. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Galveston has one of the largest collections of cast-iron commercial buildings in the United States.
 

Galveston Island
Galveston Island is approaching five-year anniversary of Hurricane Ike
On September 13, 2008, Galveston Island was struck by Hurricane Ike. Hurricane Ike made landfall at 2:10 a.m. with a 17-20 foot storm surge and 110 mph winds, flooding 75 percent of Galveston Island. It is the third most destructive hurricane to ever make landfall in the U.S. An estimated $3.2 billion worth of damage was caused on the Island alone. As Galveston approaches its five-year anniversary in 2013, all tourism related businesses have reopened with the exception of one museum. All hotels have reopened and the Flagship Hotel, which was torn down, is being redeveloped as the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier which is opening in May 2012. Recently, two new attractions &ndash; Haunted Mayfield Manor and Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast opened in downtown Galveston. Galveston has weathered many hurricanes over the years, including the deadliest natural disaster in United States history &ndash; the 1900 Storm, but the island&rsquo;s resilience keeps it strong.
 
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is opening just four blocks from Hotel Galvez
The new Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is scheduled to open Memorial Day Weekend. The $60 million attraction will offer 16 rides, including a vertical-lift steel coaster, a 100-foot-tall Ferris wheel with programmable LED lights and a 200-foot-tall swing tower offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is just four blocks from Hotel Galvez and a mile from The Tremont House. The hotels offer a courtesy shuttle to transport guests on busy weekends between properties (Hotel Galvez, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina).
 
New Tanger Factory Outlets Center to open just 15 minutes from Galveston
A new Tanger Factory Outlet Center is scheduled to open on Interstate-45 in October 2012. The new Tanger Outlet location is just a fifteen minutes from Galveston. This 90-store upscale outlet will offer a Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Polo Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Puma. Other retailers include Guess, Nine West, Perry Ellis, Tommy Hilfiger, Gap Factory, and Under Armour. The new outlet will compliment the variety of shopping available in historic downtown Galveston.  
 
Frequent festivals and free events attract visitors to downtown
The calendar of events for downtown Galveston is filled with festivals and free monthly events to entertain visitors. Annual festivities include the Yaga&rsquo;s Chili Quest and Beer Fest (January), Mardi Gras! Galveston (February), Galveston Island Food and Wine Festival (April), and the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival (September). These festivals compliment the free monthly events, scheduled in March through October, that include Movie Nite (first Saturdays), Music Nite (second Saturdays) which will include some theme nights and Market on The Strand (third Saturdays, March through December). Downtown is also host to Santa on The Strand on Saturdays in December. This year&rsquo;s movie schedule features The Karate Kid (March 3), The Sting (April 7), The Blind Side (May 5), Ghostbusters (June 2), Julie and Julia (July 7), King Kong (Aug. 4), The Pink Panther (Sept. 1), Rear Window (Oct. 6).
 
New attractions and new documentary add to experience of downtown Galveston
With the addition of Haunted Mayfield Manor and Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast, downtown Galveston now offers eight attractions including two harbor tours, three museums and three movies at Pier 21 Theater. Haunted Mayfield Manor is a year-round haunted house themed around a fictional Dr. Mayfield and the 1900 Storm. Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast is a family friendly attraction that addresses the fact and fiction of pirates. Both attractions, which are located off Saengerfest Park at 23rd and Strand, feature characters portrayed by actors who interact with guests. Pier 21 Theater now airs a 57-minute documentary called &ldquo;Galveston &ndash; Gateway on the Gulf&rdquo; at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. This documentary tells the story of the more than 200,000 immigrants who entered the United States through Galveston between 1835 and 1935. It will pair well with &ldquo;Forgotten Gateway: Coming to America through Galveston Island,&rdquo; an exhibit that chronicles the Port of Galveston&rsquo;s immigration history. Forgotten Gateway is scheduled to come to the Texas Seaport Museum later this year. Pier 21 Theater also airs &ldquo;The Great Storm&rdquo; and &ldquo;The Pirate Island of Jean Laffite.&rdquo;
<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=690203" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2012 19:57:34 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Mitchell Historic Properties Restores Cast Iron of Historic League Building</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/mitchell-historic-properties-restores-230987.aspx?link_page_rss=230987</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/mitchell-historic-properties-restores-230987.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Like many old homes, historic commercial buildings also require ongoing care and, occasionally, some unique maintenance. Cast-iron buildings are no exception to this rule as George Mitchell and the Mitchell family have found with their 1871 Thomas Jefferson League Building in historic downtown Galveston. Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) is currently completing the third major restoration of this building since the Mitchells took ownership in 1976. The League Building was the first of more than 20 historic buildings purchased by the Mitchells in what was later to become The Strand National Historic Landmark District. The original restoration of the League building in 1979 started a renaissance of Galveston&rsquo;s downtown area and led to further investment by the Mitchell family and other individuals and entities.
 
According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Galveston has one of the largest collections of cast-iron commercial buildings in the United States. Cast iron was a popular structural and decorative architectural feature on commercial buildings during the mid to late nineteenth century. The Galveston Historical Foundation estimates that 44 percent of the commercial buildings in downtown Galveston have cast-iron storefronts. These buildings are reminders of a time when Galveston was a center of finance and commerce, with a bustling commercial district nicknamed &ldquo;The Wall Street of the Southwest.&rdquo;
Following Hurricane Ike in 2008, building owners found that rising saltwater and cast iron are not a good mix. The League Building was flooded along with the rest of downtown Galveston. After Ike, MHP was quick to repair the damage to its buildings. But in 2010, MHP staff noticed fractures in the cast iron columns around the League Building and its other buildings. MHP owns five cast-iron buildings. After opening and investigating a few of the columns, standing saltwater and mud was found within the panels as well as deteriorating structural conditions. Steps to repair the damage began immediately and are still underway. Workers found that some columns had concrete poured against the cast iron, others had masonry brick work inside, and some had a small concrete base around a steel structural column. All of the columns had a large amount of rust from the inside face of the cast iron. The rust and breakdown of the concrete was pushing the cast iron out resulting in the fractures and movement of the columns. Even the relatively new columns that had been added to the building in the 1970s and early 2001 were rusting on the structural steel columns.
 
&ldquo;Based on the recommendations of a structural engineer and metal smith, MHP is following a three-step process to repair the damage,&rdquo; says Joe Rozier, senior project manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;Crews begin by removing the bottom 80 inches of the column that was affected by the saltwater flooding from Hurricane Ike. Next, they remove the concrete or brick that was in contact with the interior face of the cast iron. Finally, they install a new cast iron piece and weld it into place.&rdquo;
 
To restore these columns, MHP has faced some unique challenges. Crews have to create a formwork system that supports the building&rsquo;s structural columns and the upper weight of the cast iron fronts. This requires welding two steel channels five to six feet above the sidewalk to the existing steel columns. Once these loads are transferred to the formwork, the lower four feet of the structural columns are replaced and welded into place. Simultaneously, the front and sides of the cast iron store front are cut out at 80 inches above the sidewalk and replaced. The new cast iron sections are specific to each column location and are confirmed by a laser scan of the building that was completed prior to the removal of the columns.
 
The League Building project began in 2010 and is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2012. A total of 28 cast iron columns are set to be replaced. The replacement cost for the cast iron columns is $210,600.
 
About the Thomas Jefferson League Building
The Thomas Jefferson League building was constructed in 1871 on the site of Moro Castle, Galveston&rsquo;s most famous saloon which was set ablaze to cover the burglary of the Cohn Brothers clothing emporium on December 3, 1869; a fire that destroyed a large portion of Galveston&rsquo;s central business district. Thomas Jefferson League was an attorney and the son-in-law of one of Galveston&rsquo;s founders, Samuel May Williams. The Thomas Jefferson League building was built in the Renaissance Revival architectural style. Its original iron fronts were cast by the Southern Ornamental Iron Works of New Orleans, Louisiana. The second and third floors are constructed of Houston brick and were originally crowned with galvanized iron cornices. The building was initially divided into three stores: the I. Bernstein &amp; Co. clothiers who occupied three stories of the corner of the building, the Robinson &amp; Company stationary and printing business, and Woston, Wells &amp; Vidor cotton factors and commission merchants. Throughout history, the building had a number of other tenants including the Ben Blum &amp; Co., a wholesale hardware outlet that occupied the whole building from 1921 to 1972. 
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. The Mitchell&rsquo;s ongoing preservation of Galveston&rsquo;s historic downtown helped spark the resurrection of The Strand National Historic Landmark District as a tourist destination. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=690192" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2012 18:58:39 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Mitchell Historic Properties Purchases Historic Hendley Building</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/mitchell-historic-properties-purchases-230707.aspx?link_page_rss=230707</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/mitchell-historic-properties-purchases-230707.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[George Mitchell and the Mitchell family recently added another historic Galveston building to their Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) portfolio with the purchase of the 1859 Hendley Building. MHP recently closed on the sale of the two east bays of Hendley Row located on the northwest corner of 20th and Strand. For many years this portion of the building housed Demack &amp; Co., a produce wholesaler that closed in 1999. This part of the building does not include long-time shop Hendley Market.
 
MHP plans to renovate the building and create retail space on the first floor. The Demack building has been listed on the Galveston Historical Foundation&rsquo;s Heritage at Risk list since 2003. MHP purchased the building from James K. Rourke Jr. and Jack Alexander Demack. When the Hendley Row was built, which was before the Civil War, they represented one of the largest and most substantial business houses in Texas in the 1850s. The Hendley buildings are one of the earliest surviving commercial blocks in downtown Galveston.
 
&ldquo;While renovating this building will be a challenge, it will definitely improve this part of The Strand National Historic Landmark District,&rdquo; says Bill Ross, senior vice president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;This building is very visible for visitors shopping in The Strand District and Pier 21 areas and our hope is that it will stimulate even more interest for new tenants downtown. It may also make a good visitors center.&rdquo;
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. The Mitchell&rsquo;s ongoing preservation of Galveston&rsquo;s historic downtown helped spark the resurrection of The Strand National Historic Landmark District as a tourist destination. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=690069" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Mar 2012 16:00:26 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Beat a happy spring break retreat</title>
<link>http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/02/16/3741311/beat-a-happy-spring-break-retreat.html</link>
<guid>http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/02/16/3741311/beat-a-happy-spring-break-retreat.html</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:56:37 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: I do, I do, I do!</title>
<link>http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/gallery/I-do-I-do-I-do-37205/photo-2456208.php</link>
<guid>http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/gallery/I-do-I-do-I-do-37205/photo-2456208.php</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:45:42 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: The best Mardi Gras party of all? It's beads, floats and music at tempting Tremont House bash.</title>
<link>http://houston.culturemap.com/newsdetail/02-21-12-the-best-mardi-gras-party-of-all-its-beads-floats-and-music-for-all-at-tremont-house-bash/?utm_source=sf_twitter</link>
<guid>http://houston.culturemap.com/newsdetail/02-21-12-the-best-mardi-gras-party-of-all-its-beads-floats-and-music-for-all-at-tremont-house-bash/?utm_source=sf_twitter</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:40:48 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Downtown Blooms Now Open in New Expanded Location in Downtown Galveston</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/downtown-blooms-now-open-in-new-228651.aspx?link_page_rss=228651</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/downtown-blooms-now-open-in-new-228651.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Popular florist Downtown Blooms, owned by Lee Sontag and Bradley Cardenas, is now open in an expanded location at 2309 Mechanic across from The Tremont House. The new location, which is 2,840 sq. ft., is on the first floor of the historic 1858 Berlocher Building owned by Mitchell Historic Properties.
 
Downtown Blooms has expanded its selection of gift items, fresh flowers and home d&eacute;cor as well as added space for meeting with clients. The florist and design studio has significantly increased its inventory of unique single bloom vases, variety of plants, orchids and added additional gift items. Downtown Blooms is the only retailer to carry Kringle Candles and has grown its selection to 21 fragrances. Fresh flowers are delivered on Mondays and Thursdays and new plants arrive twice monthly. Customers can also expect announcements on weekly specials on Mondays on Facebook at www.facebook.com/downtownblooms.  
 
&ldquo;One of the biggest reasons for our move was to grow and expand our services,&rdquo; says Sontag. &ldquo;In our new location we have a huge cooler for a larger inventory and plenty of space to create our unique arrangements as well as meet with our clients.&rdquo;
 
Downtown Blooms is a member of BBrooks Fine Flowers, FTD and Teleflora and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.downtownblooms.com or call (409) 974-4294.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=688199" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:00:08 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Avast, me hearties! Pirate museum opens</title>
<link>http://www.chron.com/default/article/Avast-me-hearties-Pirate-museum-opens-2966736.php</link>
<guid>http://www.chron.com/default/article/Avast-me-hearties-Pirate-museum-opens-2966736.php</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:28:16 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: New menu items created for Mardi Gras celebration</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/291570</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/291570</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:45:02 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Couples Celebrate Valentine’s Day Early with Wedding Vow Renewal at Hotel Galvez on Feb. 11</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/couples-celebrate-valentine-s-228596.aspx?link_page_rss=228596</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/couples-celebrate-valentine-s-228596.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[More than a dozen couples will celebrate Valentine&rsquo;s Day early by participating in a special Wedding Vow Renewal officiated by Justice of the Peace Jim Schweitzer at Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 11 a.m. Following the ceremony, couples are invited to enjoy a small reception hosted by the hotel. Of the dozen couples currently registered, two will celebrate their 30th and one will celebrate their 20th anniversary. Another couple from Mandeville, LA, Sean and Allison O&rsquo;Toole, are inviting family to witness the renewing of their vows which coincidentally falls just 11 days from their 11th anniversary.
 
The O&rsquo;Tooles were married at the Justice of the Peace in Galveston so they are thrilled to return and celebrate their union at Hotel Galvez. &ldquo;Life got in the way of our first wedding,&rdquo; says Allison O&rsquo;Toole. &ldquo;Fate was telling us this was our chance. This is our opportunity to have a real ceremony with friends and family.&rdquo;
 
Hotel Galvez hosted a mass wedding vow renewal last February as part of its centennial celebration and the hotel plans to continue this ceremony as an annual event. &ldquo;Hotel Galvez is synonymous with romance for many couples so we decided to make it an annual event,&rdquo; says Hotel Galvez General Manager Steve Cunningham. &ldquo;This vow renewal allows returning couples to rediscover Hotel Galvez or new couples to experience this historic hotel.&rdquo;
 
Couples have the option to participate in the wedding vow renewal only or stay the weekend and enjoy a special weekend getaway package. Advance reservations are required for both. The hotel is still taking reservations.
 
The Hotel Galvez Romantic Rendezvous and Wedding Vow Renewal includes an ocean view room for two, wedding vow renewal ceremony on Saturday morning, champagne and keepsake glasses upon arrival, rose petals on the bed as part of the hotel&rsquo;s turndown service and breakfast in bed throughout the weekend. The package, available for Feb. 10-12, is offered as a one- or two-night package and starts at $299 per night. For reservations, call (409) 765-7721 or visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com.
 
About Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa
Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, is the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast. This 224-room, 100-year-old historic hotel offers 13,000 square feet of meeting space, a 9,763-square-foot spa, fitness center, full-service restaurant, lobby bar, heated pool with a swim-up bar and Hall of History. The hotel is rated four diamonds by AAA and owned by Galveston preservationist George Mitchell as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. For reservations, call (800) WYNDHAM, or visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com. 
 
About Wyndham Hotels and Resorts
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offers upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham&reg; hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. Additional information and reservations for all Wyndham hotels are available by calling (800) WYNDHAM &ndash; (800) 996-3426 &ndash; or visiting www.Wyndham.com.
 
About Galveston Island
Galveston Island is the No. 2 tourism attraction in Texas for in-state and out-of-state travelers. Galveston is a historic beach town located just 50 miles south from Houston, Texas &ndash; the fourth largest city in the U.S. A diverse cultural town, Galveston Island is a unique destination offering 32 miles of beaches, a variety of family attractions and resorts, one of the largest and well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country and Texas&rsquo; premiere cruise port.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=688167" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:58:33 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: Mardi Gras Galveston Visionary George Mitchell Toasted with Parade and Award Created in His Name</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/th/mardi-gras-galveston-visionary-228234.aspx?link_page_rss=228234</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/th/mardi-gras-galveston-visionary-228234.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[In 1985, George Mitchell and his wife Cynthia threw one of the biggest Mardi Gras parties that Galveston had witnessed for decades. The Mitchells wanted to recreate the &ldquo;Golden Age of Mardi Gras&rdquo; with krewes, pageantry and parades that Mitchell remembered as a boy. The Mitchells backed a Mardi Gras revival to coincide with the opening of their hotel &ndash; The Tremont House. The 1985 festivities drew an estimated crowd of 75,000 revelers and also marked the resurrection of the 1871 Mardi Gras society krewe, the Knights of Momus. Mitchell collaborated with prominent Galvestonians whose generosity made the first Knights of Momus Parade &ldquo;The Age of Mythology&rdquo; a reality for Galveston. The Momus parade remains the largest and grandest parade of the carnival season.
 
What began as a single parade and ball attracting 75, 000 has now grown to 24 parades, 26 concerts and numerous balls and balcony parties including the 28th Annual Tremont House Mardi Gras Ball and Parade Viewing Party. This year, Mardi Gras! Galveston 2012 will begin with the Party Gras Procession on Friday, Feb. 10 at 5 p.m. as recipients of the George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Award, Joan and Doug McLeod, lead a Dixieland jazz band procession from M&amp;M Restaurant, 2401 Church, to The Tremont House, 2300 Mechanic. The McLeods will be presented with the first George P. Mitchell Award during a ceremony at 5:30 p.m. in front of The Tremont House.
 
The George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Parade, sponsored by Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa and The Tremont House, begins at 7 p.m. as the first parade of the Mardi Gras season in Galveston. The parade will include a special appearance by the Budweiser Clydesdales, marching bands, festive floats and beads galore. The parade begins in front of The Tremont House and continues throughout the Mardi Gras Uptown Entertainment District.
 
Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, located on the beachfront, is offering a Mardi Gras Package during both weekends which includes tickets to the Mardi Gras Entertainment District, round-trip transportation and breakfast.  The Tremont House, located in the heart of the Mardi Gras Entertainment District, will salute &ldquo;The Golden Era of Motown&rdquo; during its 28th Annual Mardi Gras Ball and Parade Viewing Party on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. During the evening, guests can enjoy a special appearance by The Legacy of The Temptations presented by Legends in Concert. Tickets for the ball are available at galveston.com/mardigrasball/.
 
A full calendar of Mardi Gras festivities is available at MardiGrasGalveston.com.
                                                                                                                         
About The Tremont House
The Tremont House, a Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, is owned by Galveston preservationist George Mitchell as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. The Tremont House is a 119-room European style boutique hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Galveston Island within walking distance of an array of shops, museums, attractions and galleries.  The hotel, which is located in the 1879 Leon and H. Blum Building, features 14,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, a bistro-style caf&eacute;, fitness center and two bars for entertainment - the 1888 Toujouse Bar and The Rooftop Bar. For reservations, call (409) 763-0300 or visit www.WyndhamTremontHouse.com.
 
About Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa
Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, is the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast. This 224-room, century-old hotel offers 13,000 square feet of meeting space, a 9,763-square-foot spa, fitness center, full-service restaurant, lobby bar and pool with a swim-up bar. The hotel is rated four diamonds by AAA and is owned by Galveston preservationist George Mitchell as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. For reservations, call (800) WYNDHAM, or visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com.
 
About Wyndham Hotels and Resorts
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offers upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham&reg; hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. Additional information and reservations for all Wyndham hotels are available by calling (800) WYNDHAM &ndash; (800) 996-3426 &ndash; or visiting www.Wyndham.com<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=687896" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:14:10 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Hotel History - Hotel Galvez Key Step in Galveston’s Recovery Following 1900 Storm</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/hotel-galvez-key-step-in-galveston-179643.aspx?link_page_rss=179643</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/hotel-galvez-key-step-in-galveston-179643.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Texas&rsquo;s only historic beachfront hotel - Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand &reg;Hotel  and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, will celebrate its centennial in 2011. The hotel is an integral part of Galveston&rsquo;s history and a symbol of the community&rsquo;s resilience following the 1900 Storm.
 
The 1900 Storm was the worst natural disaster in United States history to that point in time. An estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people died and 3,600 structures were destroyed including the entire wharf front. At the time of this hurricane, Galveston was a thriving port city with a population of 37,788. Prior to 1900, the island was home to various Texas&rsquo;s firsts including the first medical school, nursing school, country club and golf course, customs house, post office, insurance company and many other notable firsts. Following the devastation of The 1900 Storm, a group of businessmen pooled their resources and raised $1 million to build Hotel Galvez.
 
When Hotel Galvez opened in 1911, Galveston had just finished building its 17-foot Seawall to protect the Island and its grade raising project which raised the grade of land as well as hundreds of buildings from their original level to make them less susceptible to flooding in the event of future storms. The Causeway had been completed, now connecting Galveston Island to the mainland. All of these accomplishments were part of the Island&rsquo;s recovery following The 1900 Storm.
 
Hotel Galvez opened on June 10, 1911 at 6 p.m. and was immediately proclaimed &ldquo;Queen of the Gulf&rdquo; and within a year of opening, it was deemed the &ldquo;best arranged and most richly furnished seaside hotel in America&rdquo; by Hotel Monthly.
 
Over the years, the hotel served as a temporary White House for the staff of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during a 10-day offshore fishing trip and was the site for his first meeting with newly elected Congressman and future president Lyndon B. Johnson. A reception in honor of war hero and future president Dwight D. Eisenhower was also held at the hotel.  
 
In the early 1920s, families all across the country began flocking to Galveston&rsquo;s original beachfront hotel. &ldquo;Moving in&rdquo; to Hotel Galvez for the summer was a common trend among wealthy families, many of whom spent from six weeks to six months in the hotel, paying a mere two dollars a day for luxurious accommodations. The hotel provided such amenities as a barbershop, laundry, writing room, and tailor as well as easy access to the bathhouses and entertainment along the beachfront.
 
Between 1920 and 1932 Hotel Galvez served as headquarters for the International Pageants of Pulchritude, the beauty pageants that were predecessors to the Miss Universe Pageant. The hotel was also the venue for many debutante balls, as well as social activities for the University of Texas Medical School fraternities throughout the 20s, 30s and 40s. Over the years, various entertainers who performed at the famed Balinese Room were frequent guests of the hotel including Howard Hughes, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. The hotel&rsquo;s penthouse suite was the site of band leader Phil Harris and actress Alice Faye&rsquo;s wedding.
 
The hotel functioned as a working facility for the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II and in 1944 the hotel was awarded an &ldquo;honorable discharge&rdquo; from its duties. During the years, the hotel was owned and operated by several individuals and companies.
 
In 1993, it was purchased by its current owners who launched a $20 million restoration to reflect its 1911 origin. In 2005, the owners made a second renovation of the hotel removing the lobby&rsquo;s heavy drapes and restoring the windows to the original appearance and adding its Oleander Garden. In 2008, the owners added a 9,763 sq. ft. spa in the lower level of the hotel called The Spa at the Hotel Galvez that offers eight treatment rooms, an accompanying salon and fitness center.  
 
&ldquo;Hotel Galvez is a great symbol for Galveston. It is a symbol of strength and resilience,&rdquo; says C. Grant Mitchell, President of Mitchell Historic Properties and producer of &ldquo;The Great Storm,&rdquo; a multi-image documentary on The 1900 Storm. &ldquo;Its position overlooking the Gulf and its prominence are so striking that it has pulled my parents and family as a whole to restore it to its former grandeur.&rdquo;
 
In preparation for the hotel&rsquo;s 100th anniversary in 2011, hotel owners George Mitchell and the Mitchell family plan to replace the Gulf facing windows with operable, divided light windows reminiscent of the hotel&rsquo;s original design as well as to update the guest rooms with a new d&eacute;cor including new furniture, bedding, drapes and flat screen televisions.  
 
This December, the hotel is releasing a commemorative book entitled Hotel Galvez: Queen of the Gulf, by Gary Cartwright, author also of Galveston: A History of the Island. The new book includes a foreword by Peter H. Brink, former executive director of the Galveston Historical Foundation, and new color photography by the nationally known architectural photographer Carol Highsmith. The hotel will host monthly events beginning in December 2010 through the close of 2011 in celebration of its 100th anniversary. Activities include a Spanish cultural evening, a mass wedding vow renewal, outdoor concerts and fireworks.
 
The Hotel Galvez, A Wyndham&reg; Grand Hotel and a National Trust Historic Hotel of America, remains the only historic beachfront hotel in Galveston. The Hotel Galvez is rated four diamonds by AAA and is part of Mitchell Historic Properties.  
 
 
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC, and its affiliates, subsidiaries of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offer upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, China, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. All hotels are either franchised or managed by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC or managed by an affiliate through a joint venture partner. 
 <img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=666639" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Jimmy John’s to Open First Location in Galveston</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/jimmy-john-s-to-open-first-location-221798.aspx?link_page_rss=221798</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/jimmy-john-s-to-open-first-location-221798.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches is opening a location in downtown Galveston. A Jimmy John&rsquo;s franchise will lease property from Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) at 102 22nd Street near Harborside Drive and adjacent to Starbucks. MHP has agreed to build a 1,600 sq. ft. shop in a portion of the parking lot.
 
Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-March and should be completed by late this summer. Jimmy John&rsquo;s is one of six new tenants who have signed leases with Mitchell Historic Properties over the last eight months. New retail tenants include The Jewel Garden, Haunted Mayfield Manor, Downtown Blooms, Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast and the Galveston Chamber of Commerce.
 
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s exciting for Galveston to offer another casual dining option for our visitors, residents and workforce,&rdquo; says Bill Ross, senior vice president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;This location is convenient for people who work at UTMB, students at Texas A&amp;M University at Galveston and cruise passengers and employees.&rdquo;
 
About Jimmy John&rsquo;s 
According to the Jimmy&rsquo;s John&rsquo;s company website, Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwich Shops was founded in 1983 by 19-year-old Jimmy John Liautaud in a converted garage in Charleston, Ill. In just 29 years, the company has grown to more than 1,332 corporate and franchised locations in 41 states. The company is known for its obsession with fresh, quality products and high-speed execution. For more information, visit www.jimmyjohns.com.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=687010" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:06:48 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Pirates… Sailing into the Heart of Downtown Galveston</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/pirates-sailing-into-the-heart-221535.aspx?link_page_rss=221535</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/pirates-sailing-into-the-heart-221535.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Y&rsquo;ARRR sure to enjoy Galveston&rsquo;s newest family attraction &ndash; Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast. Visitors can now see pirates as well as ghosts in historic downtown Galveston with the grand opening of Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast on Friday, Jan. 27. Pirates! adjoins Galveston&rsquo;s year-round Haunted Mayfield Manor which opened in September. Both attractions, owned by Joyce McLean, are adjacent to Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand, and are tenants of Mitchell Historic Properties.    
 
Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast is a pirate-themed family experience where visitors can learn about the legends, myths and stories of the last buccaneers. The interactive entertainment venue features the deck of a pirate ship, a captain&rsquo;s cabin and actors portraying the notorious Jean Laffite and his brother Pierre, as well as the life that all pirates led. After Laffite left Louisiana he made Galveston his base of operations from 1817 to 1821. According to pirate folklore, he built a bright red mansion called the &ldquo;Maison Rouge&rdquo; which he later burned to the ground along with most of his entire encampment when he was ordered to vacate the island by the United States Navy. It is also said that Laffite interacted with Jane Long who is known as the &ldquo;mother of Texas&rdquo; and was in residence on Bolivar peninsula while he occupied Galveston and interaction with the famous Karankawan indian tribe as well as Texas hero Jim Bowie.
 
&ldquo;We are trying to tell the story of the life of pirates, how Laffite fit into the legends and give visitors an experience that will be entertaining as well as informative,&rdquo; says McLean. &ldquo;We will have live actors playing the parts of pirates on staff to heighten that experience, for visitors of all ages.   
 
Pirates! and Manor offer a gift shop with pirate and ghost themed books, costumes, toys and games as well as paranormal equipment. According to McLean, there have been paranormal investigations in the building and more are planned. 
 
&ldquo;These family friendly attractions provide a well-rounded entertainment experience for our visitors and enhance downtown Galveston,&rdquo; says Bill Ross, senior vice-president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;Families can do a little shopping, enjoy and meal and, now, learn about pirates or tour a haunted house.&rdquo;
 
Pirates! Legend of the Gulf Coast is open Mondays and Thursdays from 11 am to 6 pm, Fridays from 11 am to 7 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until spring. Admission is $10 for adults, $6.75 for children ages 5-13 and free for children under age 5. A combination ticket for both attractions (Pirates! and Manor) is available. For more information, visit www.piratesgulfcoast.com or call (409) 762-6677.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=686661" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:02:56 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: Out of Town: Texas Coast, Galveston, Corpus Christi and South Padre (South Florida Gay News)</title>
<link>http://www.southfloridagaynews.com/life-and-style/travel/5110-out-of-town-texas-coast-galveston-corpus-christi-and-south-padre-island.html</link>
<guid>http://www.southfloridagaynews.com/life-and-style/travel/5110-out-of-town-texas-coast-galveston-corpus-christi-and-south-padre-island.html</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:08:31 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Hotel Galvez to Host Wedding Vow Renewal Ceremony with a Touch of Mardi Gras</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/hotel-galvez-to-host-wedding-vow-221086.aspx?link_page_rss=221086</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/hotel-galvez-to-host-wedding-vow-221086.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[For 100 years, Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel has been a coveted site for weddings, honeymoons and anniversary celebrations. To uphold this tradition, this historic hotel is offering a Romantic Rendezvous and Wedding Vow Renewal on Valentine&rsquo;s Day weekend, Feb. 10-12, 2012. As part of this special weekend getaway package, Hotel Galvez invites couples to renew their commitment vows during an intimate ceremony at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11 as well as partake in Galveston&rsquo;s scheduled Mardi Gras festivities.
 
The Hotel Galvez Romantic Rendezvous and Wedding Vow Renewal includes an ocean view room for two, wedding vow renewal ceremony on Saturday morning, champagne and keepsake glasses upon arrival, rose petals on the bed as part of the hotel&rsquo;s turndown service and breakfast in bed throughout the weekend. The wedding vow ceremony will be officiated by an area Justice of the Peace. Following the ceremony, couples are invited to enjoy a small reception hosted by the hotel.
 
The Romantic Rendezvous and Wedding Vow Renewal package, available Feb. 10-12, is offered as a one- or two-night package and starts at $299 per night. For reservations, call (409) 765-7721 or visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com. Note: Online reservations will be available after the first of the year.
 
&ldquo;Hotel Galvez is synonymous with romance for many couples and this Romantic Rendezvous and Wedding Vow Renewal package is the perfect getaway for couples who want to rekindle a little romance and have a little Mardi Gras fun too,&rdquo; says Hotel Galvez General Manager Steve Cunningham. &ldquo;Hotel Galvez hosted a mass wedding vow renewal in February 2011 as part of its centennial celebration and we are making this event an annual tradition.&rdquo;
 
Since this weekend coincides with Galveston&rsquo;s Mardi Gras celebration, couples will also receive two tickets to the Uptown Entertainment District each day and round-trip transportation to the festivities. The beachfront location of Hotel Galvez makes it a prime viewing spot for the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Mardi Gras Parade at noon and the Krewe of Gambrinus Parade at 6 p.m., also on Saturday, Feb. 11.
 
About Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa
Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, is the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast. This 224-room, 100-year-old historic hotel offers 13,000 square feet of meeting space, a 9,763-square-foot spa, fitness center, full-service restaurant, lobby bar, heated pool with a swim-up bar and Hall of History. The hotel is rated four diamonds by AAA and owned by Galveston preservationist George Mitchell as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. For reservations, call (800) WYNDHAM, or visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com. 
 
About Wyndham Hotels and Resorts
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offers upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham&reg; hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. Additional information and reservations for all Wyndham hotels are available by calling (800) WYNDHAM &ndash; (800) 996-3426 &ndash; or visiting www.Wyndham.com.
 
About Galveston Island
Galveston Island is the No. 2 tourism attraction in Texas for in-state and out-of-state travelers. Galveston is a historic beach town located just 50 miles south from Houston, Texas &ndash; the fourth largest city in the U.S. A diverse cultural town, Galveston Island is a unique destination offering 32 miles of beaches, a variety of family attractions and resorts, one of the largest and well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country and Texas&rsquo; premiere cruise port.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=686125" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:44:44 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Major moves, fresh retail in island downtown</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/279398/</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/279398/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 22:51:19 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Downtown Blooms Moves to Bigger Downtown Location</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/downtown-blooms-moves-to-bigger-220882.aspx?link_page_rss=220882</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/downtown-blooms-moves-to-bigger-220882.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Popular florist Downtown Blooms is moving to an expanded location this February. The new location, which is 2,840 sq. ft., is located at 2309 Mechanic Street on the first floor of the historic 1858 Berlocher Building and owned by Mitchell Historic Properties.
 
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been looking for a good fit for this highly visible space and Downtown Blooms is ideal,&rdquo; says Bill Ross, senior vice president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;This type of business makes living and working downtown even more appealing.&rdquo;
 
Downtown Blooms, owned by Lee Sontag and Bradley Cardenas, originally opened in March 2011 in a small space at 217 23rd Street and prior to that handled orders from home. This flower market and design studio is is a popular choice for brides and known for its unique style and design. Downtown Blooms is also known for its unique gift items such as Kringle Candles, a selection of its single bloom vases, daily flower specials and wreaths. They are a member of BBrooks Fine Flowers, FTD and Teleflora.
 
&ldquo;This new location is eight times bigger than our current space and will allow us to expand our special event and wedding services, carry more gift items and offer space for consultation,&rdquo; says Lee Sontag. &ldquo;We love being downtown and have received lots of support from other businesses and residents.&rdquo;
 
Downtown Blooms is currently open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The owners plan to extend their hours following the move to the new location. For more information, visit www.downtownblooms.com or call (409) 974-4294.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=685985" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 21:51:04 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: The Tremont House to Host 28th Annual Mardi Gras Ball and Parade Viewing Party</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/th/the-tremont-house-to-host-28th-220819.aspx?link_page_rss=220819</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/th/the-tremont-house-to-host-28th-220819.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The Tremont House, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel, has announced that its 28th Annual Mardi Gras Ball and Parade Viewing Party on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. will salute &ldquo;The Golden Era of Motown.&rdquo; During the evening, guests can enjoy a special appearance by The Legacy of The Temptations presented by Legends in Concert.
                                                                                                    
For $200 per person, this premier Mardi Gras event includes an open bar, an extensive buffet and live music performed by three bands including New Orleans&rsquo; Dr. Michael White Jazz Quartet. Party-goers will enjoy prime viewing of the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade as floats and marching bands pass in front of the hotel. After the parade, the night&rsquo;s festivities continue into the morning in the hotel&rsquo;s ballroom which will be converted to a classic lounge from the 1960s. The Legacy of The Temptations presented by Legends in Concert will set the tone for the evening followed by Houston&rsquo;s Eclipse Band and Orchestra as they perform the unforgettable songs of Diana Ross &amp; The Supremes, The Four Tops, The Jackson 5 and other Motown greats. Breakfast will be served in the ballroom beginning at 11:00 p.m. Dress for the event is black tie or Motown glamour- themed costume.
 
A portion of the proceeds from the ball will benefit Galveston Sustainable Communities Alliance (GSCA), a non-profit organization dedicated to creating sustainable and holistic neighborhood revitalization through education, mixed-income housing and community development that provides increased opportunities for Galveston residents.
 
In celebration of Mardi Gras, The Tremont House is offering a two-night package that includes accommodations for two, valet parking and two tickets to the ball and breakfast. The package, available Feb. 17 &ndash; 19, starts at $899 for double occupancy. The weekend begins with an intimate Friday night preview performance by the Dr. Michael White Jazz Quartet in the hotel lobby from 7 to 10 p.m., culminating with Mardi Gras ball on Saturday.
 
Tickets for the ball will be available for purchase online at www.galveston.com/mardigrasball.com. The annual event, hosted by the George Mitchell family, originated in 1985 with the grand opening of The Tremont House and the revival of Galveston Island&rsquo;s city-wide Mardi Gras celebrations.
 
About The Tremont House
The Tremont House, a Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, is owned by Galveston preservationist George Mitchell as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. The Tremont House is a 119-room European style boutique hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Galveston Island within walking distance of an array of shops, museums, attractions and galleries.  The hotel, which is located in the 1879 Leon and H. Blum Building, features 14,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, a bistro-style caf&eacute;, fitness center and two bars for entertainment - the 1888 Toujouse Bar and The Rooftop Bar. For reservations, call (409) 763-0300 or visit www.WyndhamTremontHouse.com.
 
About Wyndham Hotels and Resorts
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offers upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham&reg; hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. Additional information and reservations for all Wyndham hotels are available by calling (800) WYNDHAM &ndash; (800) 996-3426 &ndash; or visiting www.Wyndham.com<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=685934" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Galveston Chamber of Commerce Moves to Downtown Location</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/galveston-chamber-of-commerce-220467.aspx?link_page_rss=220467</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/galveston-chamber-of-commerce-220467.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The Galveston Chamber of Commerce is moving to a new downtown office this spring. The Chamber&rsquo;s new office, which is nearly 4,000 sq. ft., is located at 2228 Mechanic Street on the first floor of the 1873 Washington Building at the corner of 23rd and Mechanic which is owned by Mitchell Historic Properties. In addition to housing staff, the new Chamber office will offer an interactive visitor center and a conference room for meetings and small business seminars.
 
&ldquo;The heart of most cities is in the downtown and this new location puts us in the center of our small business community as well as in a high traffic location for visitors,&rdquo; says Chamber President Gina Spagnola. &ldquo;This space allows the Chamber to expand our role in serving visitors which, in turn, serves the business community.&rdquo;  
 
&ldquo;The Galveston Chamber of Commerce will be a welcome addition in the downtown area and create an exciting synergy for our businesses, visitors and residents,&rdquo; said Bill Ross, senior vice president and general manager of Mitchell Historic Properties. &ldquo;Their office and visitor center will be a focal point and valuable resource for downtown and the entire Island. We welcome the Chamber board, members and staff and are very excited about this relocation.&rdquo;
 
Spagnola adds, &ldquo;By increasing our visibility to visitors, our vision is that some of these guests will pick up information on opening a business or a new resident welcome packet on Galveston. My husband and I are a perfect example of tourists who made the decision to relocate after seeing the quality of life here.&rdquo;
 
The Chamber is signing a five-year lease with Mitchell Historic Properties and has the option of two five-year lease extensions. The Galveston Chamber of Commerce is Texas&rsquo; first chamber and was established in 1845.
 
About The Galveston Chamber of Commerce
The Galveston Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that promotes and advocates a business growth in the City of Galveston. The Chamber currently represents nearly 900 businesses. For information, visit www.galvestonchamber.com or call (409) 763-5326.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP) oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. MHP owns and preserves approximately one-fourth of the buildings in The Historic Strand Seaport Area. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=685622" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:37:08 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: George Mitchell named one of the top 100 global thinkers</title>
<link>http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/news/2011/12/06/george-mitchell-named-one-of-the-top.html?ed=2011-12-06&amp;s=article_du&amp;ana=e_du_pub</link>
<guid>http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/news/2011/12/06/george-mitchell-named-one-of-the-top.html?ed=2011-12-06&amp;s=article_du&amp;ana=e_du_pub</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:32:17 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Mitchell Historic Properties to Attend City Council Workshop on Pier 19-22 Purchase</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/276974</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/276974</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 22:59:44 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: See what's new in Galveston</title>
<link>http://www.statesman.com/life/travel/see-whats-new-in-galveston-2010387.html</link>
<guid>http://www.statesman.com/life/travel/see-whats-new-in-galveston-2010387.html</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:07:47 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: Galveston's grand hotels offer manly pleasures</title>
<link>http://www.chron.com/life/gloss/article/Galveston-s-grand-hotels-offer-manly-pleasures-2292300.php</link>
<guid>http://www.chron.com/life/gloss/article/Galveston-s-grand-hotels-offer-manly-pleasures-2292300.php</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:39:39 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Christmas Tree Lights Up Holiday Season</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/frontpage/2011-11-26/A1/</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/frontpage/2011-11-26/A1/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:17:44 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Small Business Saturday Gets Bigger</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/275062</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/275062</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:10:44 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Mitchell looks to purchase, expand piers</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/272146</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/272146</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:35:49 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Mitchell seeks charter amendment to buy piers</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/270922</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/270922</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:05:35 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Pro Ghost Hunters Try to Contact Spirits at Hotel Galvez</title>
<link>http://www.khou.com/news/local/Paranormal-investigators-try-to-contact-ghosts-at-historical-Hotel-Galvez-132960423.html</link>
<guid>http://www.khou.com/news/local/Paranormal-investigators-try-to-contact-ghosts-at-historical-Hotel-Galvez-132960423.html</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 22:25:22 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Designer's gift in haunting combines with history</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/267734</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/267734</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:35:37 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Galveston’s Haunted Mayfield Manor Designer to Spook Martha Stewart</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/the-godfather-of-haunt-spooks-217440.aspx?link_page_rss=217440</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/the-godfather-of-haunt-spooks-217440.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Playing off the fears of others is not only entertaining for some but for Leonard Pickle it&rsquo;s his career. 
In his sophomore year of college at Texas A &amp; M University Leonard produced his first commercial haunted house.  With a budget of $300 and a $0.50 per person admission price, the operation grossed over $1,000.  His passion for scaring people was ignited.  Leonard has become one of the most sought after Haunt designers and consultants in the country having designed over 100 original and creative Haunted Attraction designs for major venues including Madison Square Garden, Universal Studios Florida, Six Flags, Paramount&rsquo;s Kings Island, Kentucky Kingdom, and SCREAMS Terror Park.  Over 1 million people from Los Angeles to New York, Orlando to Seattle, have experienced the &ldquo;Pickel Theory of Fright&rdquo; firsthand.  Pickel also designed and oversaw the construction of Haunted Mayfield Manor which recently opened on the Strand in Galveston, Texas.
 
Each year Pickel travels the world researching the field of dark amusements both past and present.  Leonard applied his expertise toward a summer seasonal haunted house in 1993, with Mayhem Manor&reg; in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, which provided Pickel a hands-on testing facility for new fright concepts.  In 1994, Leonard co-founded Haunted Attraction Magazine, the premier publication for the dark amusement industry, striving to provide information vital to the success of the industry, with in-depth articles on the country&rsquo;s major attractions.  In 2004, Leonard launched the Haunted Attraction National Tradeshow and Convention the first national convention devoted solely to the Haunted Attraction Industry, designed for Haunters by Haunters. 
 
Mr. Pickle is an accomplished speaker and is often asked to present his seminar &ldquo;Getting Started in the Haunted Attraction Industry,&rdquo; a full day workshop covering the ins and outs of operating your first Haunted Attraction.  Leonard was awarded a life time achievement award from the International Association of Haunted Attractions and was honored with a question using his name in the Millennium Edition of Trivial Pursuit. He was also appeared as an industry expert in several television programs including the Travel Channel special about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida, and America&rsquo;s Best Haunted Houses.
 
The legendary Martha Stewart Halloween Special will air October 24th on the Hallmark Channel (*check your local listings for times) and the featured guest is Leonard Pickel the &lsquo;Godfather of the Haunted House Industry&rsquo;.  Mr. Pickel, owner of Hauntrepreneurs&reg; a design and consulting firm, has taken great pleasure in horrifying crowds from coast to coast for over thirty years. This passion and knowledge has earned him the title &ndash; &lsquo;Godfather of Haunt&rsquo;.  
 
Haunted Mayfield Manor in Galveston is a tenant of Mitchell Historic Properties. For more information on Haunted Mayfield Manor, visit www.HauntedMayfieldManor.com or call (409) 762-6677.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=682728" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Oct 2011 22:52:15 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Galveston Historic Hotel – Hotel Galvez to Host Free Holiday Lighting Celebration</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/galveston-historic-hotel-hotel-216907.aspx?link_page_rss=216907</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/hgs/galveston-historic-hotel-hotel-216907.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[What do Santa Claus, the Mayor of Galveston and Queen Victoria all have in common? They will all be attending the City of Galveston&rsquo;s Holiday Lighting Celebration at Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel on Friday, Nov. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m., a free holiday event open to the public that marks the start of the holiday season in Galveston. As part of the evening, Hotel Galvez will be accepting monetary donations for the Salvation Army to help those in need.
 
The Holiday Lighting Celebration will kick off with the lighting of the hotel&rsquo;s 35-foot Christmas tree on the front lawn. The event will feature a special visit from Santa Claus by carriage, gifts and holiday entertainment provided by the Galveston Ballet, Houston Children&rsquo;s Choir, bagpipers and more. Galveston Mayor Joe Jaworski and Dickens on The Strand&rsquo;s Queen Victoria are also scheduled to make an appearance.
 
Inside the hotel, Executive Chef Antonio Rodriguez and his staff invite guests to see the hotel&rsquo;s holiday gingerbread display. The event is presented by Mitchell Historic Properties and Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel.
 
In conjunction with the Holiday Lighting Celebration, the hotel is offering a special holiday package during the Thanksgiving weekend. The Thanksgiving Getaway package, available beginning Nov. 23 or Nov. 24 includes a two-night stay, Thanksgiving brunch for two and complimentary valet parking. The two-night package is priced from $399 for a deluxe Gulf view room or $369 for a deluxe city view room, based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include tax.
 
As the holiday season continues, Santa Claus will make special appearances at Hotel Galvez&rsquo;s Sunday Brunch with Santa on Dec. 4, 11 and 18, where guests are invited to dine and take pictures with Santa. During the month of December, the hotel&rsquo;s live entertainment will take on a holiday theme every Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
 
About Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa
Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, A Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel, is the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast and was named Outstanding Property of the Year for 2010 by the Wyndham Hotels and Resorts&reg; brand, one of the highest honors in the upscale hotel chain&rsquo;s portfolio. This 224-room, 100-year-old historic hotel offers 13,000 square feet of meeting space, a 9,763-square-foot spa, fitness center, full-service restaurant, lobby bar and pool with a swim-up bar. The hotel is rated four diamonds by AAA and owned by Galveston preservationists George Mitchell as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. For reservations, call (800) WYNDHAM, or visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com and check special offers. 
 
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offers upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham&reg; hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. Additional information and reservations for all Wyndham hotels are available by calling (800) WYNDHAM &ndash; (800) 996-3426 &ndash; or visiting www.wyndham.com.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=682440" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 22:59:02 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Harbor House Hotel &amp; Marina: Five Cruise Ships to Make Galveston Home Port</title>
<link>http://www.chron.com/news/article/Five-cruise-ships-to-make-Galveston-home-port-2204494.php</link>
<guid>http://www.chron.com/news/article/Five-cruise-ships-to-make-Galveston-home-port-2204494.php</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:52:46 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Tremont House: Executive Chef Patrick Havard, The Tremont House</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/th/executive-chef-patrick-havard-216469.aspx?link_page_rss=216469</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/th/executive-chef-patrick-havard-216469.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Executive Chef Patrick Havard Adds a Taste of Texas to The Tremont House
 
Executive Chef Patrick Havard joined the staff at The Tremont House in April 2011. Havard spent the last ten years at the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston and worked most recently as chef tournant before coming to The Tremont House. He studied at The Art Institute of Houston Culinary Program and developed a love for cooking by preparing South Texas regional cuisine. 
 
Havard is a fan of Texas made products and has incorporated his favorite Texas cheeses to the sharing plates on the menu at The Rooftop Bar at The Tremont House. He has added a fresh daily soup, a Cuban style Panini with pulled pork and a short rib and blue cheese flatbread to the Tremont Caf&eacute; menu. Daily soup specials now include mushroom bisque; shrimp, poblano and corn chowder; white bean soup; classic French onion; and tortilla soup. On weekends, guests can order the hotel&rsquo;s award winning seafood gumbo.
 
Havard is plans to add a New Orleans style BBQ shrimp and grits dish, crab cakes and jambalaya to the menu. In addition to overseeing the menu at the hotel&rsquo;s Tremont Caf&eacute;, Havard oversees all meal preparation for all special events and banquets, weddings and room service.
 
Q &amp; A with Executive Chef Patrick Havard of The Tremont House
Who taught you how to cook? 
I&rsquo;m self-taught.
 
What is the most important tool to have in the kitchen?
The most important tool in the kitchen is a good chef&rsquo;s knife. I use a Sabatier; it's a classic style French made knife. But, any well-made knife will do.
 
What is your favorite item on the menu at your restaurant?
I love the BBQ flatbread in the Tremont Caf&eacute;.
 
If you could only prepare one final meal, what would be on your menu?
Fried chicken, gravy, dirty rice and a bowl of gumbo would be on the menu.
 
Who is your role model for cooking?
It changes a lot, I like chefs who push the limit, have respect for classics and always strive to put out good food. Also, I appreciate chefs who take the time to teach.
 
What advice do you have for aspiring chefs?
Never stop learning and realize that whatever situation you are in, you can learn something. Having a good attitude is more important than talent any day.
 
What is your favorite spice or spices?
Some spices I enjoy are juniper, cumin, fennel seed, smoked paprika and a good Cajun blend (I really like Paul Prudhomme's blend).

About The Tremont House
The Tremont House, a Wyndham Grand&reg; Hotel and National Trust Historic Hotel of America, is part of Mitchell Historic Properties and is managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc. The Tremont House is a 119-room European style boutique hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Galveston Island. This historic hotel features 14,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, a bistro-style caf&eacute;, fitness center and two bars for entertainment &ndash; the 1888 Toujouse Bar and The Rooftop Bar. For more information or reservations, call (409) 763-0300 or visit www.WyndhamTremontHouse.com.
 
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC and its affiliates, subsidiaries of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), offer upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham&reg; hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. Additional information and reservations for all Wyndham hotels are available by calling (800) WYNDHAM &ndash; (800) 996-3426 &ndash; or visiting www.wyndham.com.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=682231" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:15:25 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa: Houston Press - Best of Houston List</title>
<link>http://www.houstonpress.com/bestof/2011/award/best-historic-and-10-preservation-2674687/</link>
<guid>http://www.houstonpress.com/bestof/2011/award/best-historic-and-10-preservation-2674687/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:51:37 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Business Buzz</title>
<link>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/261342</link>
<guid>http://galvestondailynews.com/story/261342</guid>
<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:48:43 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Free Halloween Carnival and Children’s Costume Contest Scheduled on October 29</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/free-halloween-carnival-and-children-216278.aspx?link_page_rss=216278</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/free-halloween-carnival-and-children-216278.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Halloween fun will come alive in historic downtown Galveston with the Saengerfest Mini Monster Bash on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand. The Saengerfest Mini Monster Bash, a family friendly Halloween carnival, offers a costume contest at 3 p.m., assorted games with prizes, and trick or treating at various downtown businesses from 2 to 4 p.m.
 
Children, ages 11 and under, are invited to dress in their favorite costumes for prizes in the scariest, cutest and most creative categories. Prizes will be awarded for ages 0-2; 3-5; 6-8; and 9-11. Other activities include arts and crafts, pumpkin &ldquo;musical chairs,&rdquo; and face painting. The park will be decorated to provide the ideal backdrop for Halloween photos. Haunted Mayfield Manor is offering a discounted ticket price during the carnival hours from 2 to 4 p.m. for older youngsters and adults seeking a good scare.
 
Saengerfest Mini Monster Bash is presented by Mitchell Historic Properties and Haunted Mayfield Manor. Haunted Mayfield Manor is housed in the 1885 Butterowe Building, located off Saengerfest Park (23rd and Strand). This twelve-room haunted mansion is themed around the fictional Dr. Horace Mayfield who supervised the operation of one of the morgues following the 1900 Storm. The cost for regular admission is $10 per person while a VIP ticket is available for $15. The VIP ticket puts guests at the front of the line. Regular operating hours for Haunted Mayfield Manor are Fridays from 3 to 11:30 p.m.; Saturdays from noon to 11:30 p.m.; Sundays from noon to 8 p.m.; and Tuesdays through Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.hauntedmayfieldmanor.com or call (409) 762-6677.
 
About Mitchell Historic Properties
Mitchell Historic Properties oversees Galveston properties owned by developer, philanthropist and preservationist George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown as well as three hotels &ndash; Hotel Galvez &amp; Spa, The Tremont House and Harbor House Hotel and Marina. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=681887" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:20:40 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: New Year-Round Haunted House – Haunted Mayfield Manor Now Open</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/permanent-haunted-house-haunted-216068.aspx?link_page_rss=216068</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/permanent-haunted-house-haunted-216068.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Following The 1900 Storm, which still stands as the deadliest natural disaster in United States history, thousands of bodies were stored in numerous buildings in Galveston&rsquo;s downtown. This designation has resulted in Galveston being cited by ghost hunters as one of the most haunted cities in America. Now, in addition to the island&rsquo;s popular ghost tours, visitors can enjoy a new permanent haunted house &ndash; Haunted Mayfield Manor which opens tonight at 6 p.m.
 
Haunted Mayfield Manor is housed in the 1885 Butterowe Building, located off Saengerfest Park (23rd and Strand). This twelve-room haunted mansion is themed around the fictional Dr. Horace Mayfield who supervised the operation of one of the morgues following the 1900 Storm. While the story is fictitious, bodies of the dead were stored for identification in the Butterowe Building. Celebrity haunted house creator Leonard Pickel was involved in the design of Haunted Mayfield Manor and will be on site for the opening weekend on Friday from 6 to 11:30 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 11:30 p.m. Pickel has done work for Universal Studios, the Playboy Mansion and, most recently, Martha Stewart.  
 
Owner Joyce McLean describes the experience as a &ldquo;psychological theatrical haunt that involves the lost bride of Dr. Mayfield portrayed by actors, mechanical props and pneumatic animations.&rdquo; The cost for regular admission is $10 per person while a VIP ticket is available for $15. The VIP ticket puts guests at the front of the line. Regular operating hours for Haunted Mayfield Manor are Fridays from 3 to 11:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Sundays from 1 to 9 p.m.; and Tuesdays through Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.hauntedmayfieldmanor.com or call (409) 762-6677.
 
A second attraction called Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast is scheduled to open in early November in the same building as Haunted Mayfield Manor. Both attractions are new tenants of Mitchell Historic Properties (MHP). MHP oversees Galveston properties owned by George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown. For leasing information, visit www.MitchellHistoricProperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.
 
Haunted Mayfield Manor Contact: Joyce McLean
Cell (315) 420-6170
Email: jcalver945@aol.com<img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=681795" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Sep 2011 18:10:04 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Mitchell Historic Properties: Gracie's on The Strand Serves Galveston for 20 Years</title>
<link>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/twenty-years-of-gracie-s-on-the-215384.aspx?link_page_rss=215384</link>
<guid>http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/pr/mhp/mhprs/twenty-years-of-gracie-s-on-the-215384.aspx</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Gracie&rsquo;s offers a fun family shopping experience to both visitors and locals to Galveston Island. Specializing in gifts, home accents and accessories, Gracie&rsquo;s carries several lines including Vera Bradley bags and Waxing Poetic jewelry. They also have an extensive children&rsquo;s department which includes toys, books and accessories, including the Groovy Girls line.
 
Owners Keith and Genette Bassett have operated Gracie&rsquo;s on The Strand for 20 years. As third generation Galvestonians and long-time business owners, they never questioned rebuilding after Hurricane Ike devastated the island. &ldquo;I love Galveston,&rdquo; said Genette, &ldquo;I like the sense of community. And that was never more obvious than after Ike when everyone pulled together.&rdquo;
 
With a great selection of items for anyone in the family, Gracie&rsquo;s offers daily specials, which are posted on their Facebook page, and special events throughout the year that coincide with major downtown events like Dickens on The Strand. &ldquo;I like to say that we&rsquo;re the first to open and the last to close on The Strand. We&rsquo;re very tourist driven but we cater to locals, as well. If there are people out wanting to shop, we&rsquo;re open,&rdquo; says Genette.
 
When asked about operating a business in downtown Galveston, Genette answered, &ldquo;I think the best thing about The Strand is there is always an event going on. It seems like every weekend there&rsquo;s something being held in Saengerfest Park or downtown. There&rsquo;s always an event going on which makes it nice for locals and tourists, as well. I think there are some great opportunities for businesses in Galveston. &rdquo;
 
Gracie&rsquo;s is located at 2228 Strand in historic downtown Galveston, just across from Saengerfest Park. Gracie&rsquo;s is open Sundays through Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
 
Mitchell Historic Properties oversees Galveston properties owned by George Mitchell and the Mitchell family, including its commercial and residential properties located downtown. For leasing information, visit www.mitchellhistoricproperties.com or call (409) 763-5806.    
 <img src="http://pressroom.mitchellhistoricproperties.com/rss.ashx?id=681252" height="1" width="1" />]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:10:58 GMT</pubDate>
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