Discover the Untold Stories Behind Iconic Moments
A Night for the Island: Honoring Mike Dean and Stepping Into a New Chapter
Galveston Community Enrichment Award
An unforgettable evening in Galveston celebrated the legacy of local icon Mike Dean while welcoming a new wave of energy and commitment to the island’s future. Writer Victoria Saracco shares a personal reflection on community, mentorship, and stepping into something new with The 1839.
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TL;DR Section
Last weekend, Galveston celebrated the legacy of Mike Dean—a local icon known for his deep-rooted commitment to community, mentorship, and island culture. For me, it was a night I won’t forget—surrounded by friends, mentors, and familiar faces, all gathered to honor someone who’s meant a great deal to my own story. Mike’s impact goes far beyond business; he’s been a guiding presence in the lives of so many. The evening was made even more meaningful as I officially joined The 1839 as a 39er—a step into something bigger than myself, and a commitment to lifting up voices, sharing real stories, and shaping Galveston’s future together.
— Victoria Saracco
UNVEILING THE HEART OF GALVESTON STORIES
A Night for the Island: Honoring Mike Dean and Stepping Into a New Chapter
The event buzzed with warmth, familiar faces, and the easy charm that only this island can offer. ~ Victoria Saracco
Last weekend was one of those Galveston nights that felt like the heart of the island was on full display. My family and I had the chance to attend an event honoring someone who’s meant a lot to me personally—and to so many others here—Mike Dean.
As someone who used to work for one of Mike’s establishments and who’s grown up around the Yaga’s Children’s Fund Wild Game Cook-Off, I’ve seen his commitment to Galveston and to his people up close. It’s not just about business with Mike—it’s about loyalty, mentorship, and showing up for the community, year after year.
The event was packed with the best kind of crowd: neighbors, leaders, longtime friends, and new faces all showing up in true island fashion. It was one of those nights where you couldn’t turn around without seeing someone you knew—though it was hard to make it through the room and say hi to everyone!
Cocktail hour was a perfect mix of casual and classy—flip flops, tropical prints, and Rudy & Paco’s empanadas paired with chilled French 75s. Mike and his daughter gave a heartfelt speech that really captured who he is as a father, mentor, and island icon. You could feel the pride and love in the room.
And for me, the night held even more meaning. I’m incredibly proud to officially join The 1839 as a member of The 39ers—a group of people who believe in Galveston’s future and are committed to helping shape it. It feels surreal and exciting to be part of something that’s not just about media, but about movement—about lifting up voices, telling real stories, and pushing this city forward.
So here’s to Mike, to legacy, to community—and to new beginnings. I’m so grateful to be part of this moment, and even more excited for what’s ahead.
Victoria Saracco
Proud 39er
Victoria Saracco is a proud Galveston native and an emerging leader helping shape the future of her hometown. As an architectural designer at Zero/Six Consulting, she brings creative vision and coastal resilience to every project she touches—working to strengthen the island she’s always called home. In June 2025, Victoria was recognized as one of Galveston’s Top 40 Under 40, honoring her professional achievements and community commitment. She’s also a new member of The 1839‘s 39ers, a group dedicated to uplifting local voices and telling the stories that move Galveston forward. Whether through architecture or advocacy, Victoria is building a stronger, more connected island—one project at a time.
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