In what has become a recurring event for the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), last night was the organization’s annual Pull-for-PAC Skeet Shoot fundraiser. Critical to supporting the endeavors of the association’s activities in Washington DC and Austin TX, this event has continued to grow every year in recognition among the members. This year, TIPA was able to host a sold-out shoot with every team spot filled.
23 teams registered and the more than 100 people were treated to a great BBQ dinner and drinks to kick the night off. Participants were in high spirits as can be seen by the many smiling faces in the photos below. Even though a cold front with heavy rain swept through the region earlier in the day, the rain subsided and made way for a beautiful evening, with great food, friends and gun powder in the air.
“Our annual Skeet Shoot PAC-fundraiser was the brainchild of Mark Santos of Santos International and Scott Fletcher of Allen Lund, two of our event sponsors.” said Dante Galeazzi, President and CEO of TIPA. “Now in our 5th year, this event has become more than just about the PAC. It has become a great opportunity for the members to get together, have fun, and enjoy much needed comradery as we all recover from the impacts of the pandemic.”
“Anyone who’s been in the industry for a few years understands the importance government plays for fresh produce. Whether it is international produce shipments crossing the US-MX border, or it is labor policies governing the domestic workforce, there are issues at the local, state and federal levels that the association must be engaged and active on. In order to do that, we rely on events like last night’s Pull for PAC Skeet Shoot, and judging from the great turnout - our members understand that important as well,” said Mark Santos, partner at Santos International US Custom Brokers and Chair of the TIPA TexPAC Committee. “Yesterday was a great event, with a phenomenal turn-out. Over 20 teams of shooters, more than 100 people, all having a great time. It felt like our best PAC event yet. We even had representatives from our local Congressional and regional offices, such as candidates for the Justice of the Peace and Judgeship.”
This would not have been possible without the support of so many great sponsors, especially our title sponsors Santos International & Allen Lund. TIPA would also like to recognize and thank the members of the TIPA Tex-PAC Committee, whom include: Mary Velasquez of Coast Tropical; Tony Martinez of Primo Trading Services; April Flowers of Lone Star Citrus Growers; Mark Santos of Santos International; and Scott Fletcher of Allen Lund. And of course a tremendous thank you to the cooks and servers from Grow Farms Texas & Allen Lund Company, led by pit-master Tommy Wilkins.
