Galveston, Texas, Mayor Lyda Ann Thomas said recently in a letter to the meetings industry that the city is on its way to recovering from the damage caused in September by Hurricane Ike.

“Thanks to our forefathers' creation of the seawall, our tourism infrastructure held strong and our local industry is recovering quickly,” she wrote. “The rebuilding and restoration is in full speed for a greater and grander Galveston Island.”

Major hotels and the Galveston Island Convention Center at the San Luis Resort have opened their doors for tourists, events, and conventions, Thomas said. Attractions, restaurants, and retailers are open.

“The entire hospitality community is eagerly anticipating rolling out the red carpet and showcasing the city. On behalf of the City of Galveston, I want to thank you for your continued support of Galveston Island now and in the future,” she said.