Summer Business Mixer

BRATECC honors Mattress Mack in its Summer Business Mixer
 

On August 23, BRATECC held its Summer Business Mixer at Fogo de Chão Steakhouse. The delightful evening counted with the presence of executives and decision makers from companies such as Petrobras, Shell, Chevron, Schlumberger, as well as executives from international engineering companies, law firms, bank institutions, and consulting firms.

The pinnacle of the event was the speech of Mr. Jim McIngvale, also known as Mattress Mack - a recognized businessman, owner of Gallery Furniture, and one of Houston's most generous corporate donors over the decades. The philanthropist shared stories of terror, and solidarity, in the midst of chaos and hope, as many Houstonians stepped up to help each other: "We came together in the spirit of unity. It was the worst, and the best moment of our lives, because we found out we could do more than we had ever imagined for people we had never seen before", said Mattress Mack.

Mattress Mack was honored by Amb. Alfredo Camargo, Consul General of Brazil in Houston, and João Figueira - president of BRATECC and president of Petrobras America, for his effort during and in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. During the storm, Mattress Mack opened his enormous store on I-45 North for desperate families seeking shelter, as well as to dozens of national guard troops that needed rest. His solidarity, and his staff's solidarity went further; in November, knowing that many families were still displaced, he organized a massive Thanksgiving feast for 10,000 Houstonians, and presented 30 families with all the furniture they needed for their homes.

"I stand in humbleness to thank you for all you have done for the people of Houston", saluted Ambassador Alfredo Camargo, the Consul General of Brazil in Houston, before presenting Jim McIngvale with a token of appreciation on behalf of BRATECC. "The event was a boost of energy in the middle of a busy week", said João Figueira, president of BRATECC and president of Petrobras America. "I was admired with the humbleness and posture of Mattress Mack.", he added. 

The pleasant night was filled with networking among the CEO's, presidents, and other decision makers from organizations of great representation in the economic scenario. Brazilian specialties, such as caipirinha - a famous lemon-flavored distilled spirit from Brazil -, and some traditional Brazilian finger food were served, as guests enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere at Fogo de Chão. 

Check out the event's pictures on Facebook. Click here!