Meet the 39ers Shaping The Future of Galveston

David is the co-founder (alongside his brilliant, infinitely patient wife Christy) of The 1839 and Falcontail Marketing & Design — two ventures built on storytelling, strategy, and a deep love for community.

At Falcontail, David has quietly helped shape the marketing presence of organizations ranging from Stanford University to local legends like Sunflower Bakery & Café. He’s known for turning big, messy ideas into sharp, strategic campaigns — the kind that move people, not just pixels.

He’s been called a creative powerhouse, a strategic Swiss Army knife, and the guy who always ‘has a guy’ for everything. But despite his track record, David avoids the spotlight, preferring to elevate others, solve impossible problems, and deliver dad jokes with unnerving confidence. His work is serious. He just refuses to take himself too seriously.

Mayor Craig Brown brings decades of public service and deep civic experience to The 1839’s Civics column. A retired pediatric dentist and Galveston resident since 1997, Craig has served the city as a council member, planning commission chair, and now mayor since 2020. His leadership has focused on flood control, infrastructure, historic preservation, and strengthening local partnerships.

Craig offers readers an inside look at how local government works — from city projects and planning to coastal resilience and tourism strategy. With a practical, people-first approach, he breaks down big issues into stories that connect residents with the policies shaping Galveston’s future.

David Finklea blends professional expertise with deep civic roots to spotlight Galveston’s vibrant culture, local governance, and community pulse. A licensed professional engineer and owner of FaustHaus, David has called Galveston home since 2018—embracing its natural beauty, diversity, and community spirit.

David breaks down complex development issues into accessible stories, helping us understand everything from new construction and neighborhood planning to smart growth, sustainability, and city strategy. Whether it’s a council decision or a new streetscape proposal, David helps readers understand how Galveston is growing — and why it matters.

Joe Jaworski brings a deep-rooted Texas spirit and sharp storytelling voice to The 1839, covering lifestyle and local sports across Galveston. A lifelong Texan and proud grandson of the Lone Star State’s revolutionary legacy, Joe’s writing reflects his passion for community, justice, and the stories that shape who we are.

Jaworski has served Galveston as a civic leader and Mayor and even ran for Texas Attorney General, demonstrating his commitment to public service and the power of informed voices. He’s also the host of “The Midterms /w Joe Jaworski” on KPFT 90.1 FM in Houston, where he shares sharp political insight and thoughtful commentary on current events.

As a new 39er, Joe is here to uplift local perspectives, champion Galveston’s vibrant culture, and bring a seasoned yet fresh take to island sports and everyday life.

Christy Landriault co-founded both Falcontail and The 1839 with her husband, David, blending strategy with soul. A lifelong nature lover and fierce advocate for Galveston’s wild spaces, she brings heart, clarity, and creative depth to every project. Her work empowers small businesses to grow with purpose—always rooted in community, beauty, and truth. At The 1839, her vision helps shape stories that matter and a platform that uplifts the island she calls home.

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.

Jeff Antonelli is the proud owner of three Shrimp ‘N Stuff locations—local favorites that have served Galveston with flavor and heart for decades. Beyond the kitchen, Jeff is deeply rooted in the community, lending his time and support to causes like the Galveston County Food Bank and numerous local initiatives. His love for the island runs deep, and in the Lifestyle section, Jeff brings stories that celebrate the people, places, and pulse of everyday life in Galveston.

Teresa Wagonseller is a fractional CFO, strategic advisor, and proud 39er helping Galveston businesses turn chaos into clarity. With decades of experience in finance, she brings both big-picture thinking and day-to-day practicality to every client—making cash flow simple, growth achievable, and success feel personal. When she’s not helping business owners build money-making machines, she’s winding down with a Tito’s in hand while her cat shows off on the deck. Learn more at Higher-Up CFO.

Josh brings regional insight and economic development expertise to The 1839, drawing on his work with the Galveston Economic Development Partnership. Since joining GEDP, he’s played a key role in fostering growth by connecting local businesses, developers, and civic leaders to resources and strategic planning initiatives. As a representative of the Houston–Galveston Area Council’s Gulf Coast Economic Development District, Josh has moderated webinars and workshops—including sessions on CARES‑Act funding and regional grant programs—equipping stakeholders with tools to boost resilience and job creation in Galveston.