MCALLEN, TX - The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) has named five more produce industry leaders to its Hall of Fame this week, following the association’s proud 28-year tradition of recognizing people who have made exceptional contributions to the industry.
Those recognized by TIPA included Bill Burns (posthumously) of Lamar Farms, McAllen; Wallace Martin of Dixondale Farms, Carrizo Springs; Fred Karle of Karle Farms, McAllen; and Eddy Carnes of Winter Garden Produce, Uvalde.
“The Hall of fame is a great way to honor our past and present leaders while helping cultivate a future generation of agriculturalists,” TIPA President and CEO Bret Erickson said, as he commented on the more than 200 people in attendance at the event. “We have hosted this event for nearly 30 years and to have a capacity crowd speaks volumes about our inductees’ accomplishments and the respect this industry has for their hard work.”
In addition to the five inductees, John Fasano of JR Produce Supply, Edinburg, was awarded the Scott Toothaker Award for his years of commitment and service to Texas growers and shippers. According to a press release, the Toothaker award was established in 1989 to recognize those who are not directly involved in production agriculture, but who have made important contributions to the industry.
“These individuals have blazed the trail to success for one of the state’s most important industries,” said Dante Galeazzi, immediate past Chairman for TIPA and the evening’s master of ceremonies.
The Texas Produce Hall of Fame Committee accepts nominations all throughout the year, TIPA says, with the next edition of the biennial event scheduled for spring 2018. The members of the committee include Frank Schuster, Val Verde Vegetable; Richard Walsh, Wonderful Citrus; Jim Steele (ret.), Frontera Produce; Ray Prewett; and former C&V Supply veteran, Bob Peterson.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this industry and serve as Chairman of the Hall of Fame Committee,” said Peterson who has served as Chairman of the committee since 2010. “It is truly an honor. There are so many deserving people.”
A portion of proceeds from the event help support the William E. Weeks Agriculture Scholarship Fund to assist students pursuing degrees related to the industry.
