Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of a legend in Arkansas business, the founder of Ranger Boats, the late Forrest Wood. Forrest was born in Flippin, Arkansas, in 1932, and his life reflected everything the Natural State has to offer. As a pioneer with a love for the outdoors, Forrest spent his time raising cattle and acting as a guide on Bull Shoals Lake, the White River, the Buffalo River, and Crooked Creek. He became known throughout the region as an elite fishing guide. He eventually leveraged his skills on the water to create a float trip business, and in 1968, he began building lake boats. That year, he built six boats. Named after the Army Rangers and the Texas Rangers, Forrest Woods' Ranger Boats quickly became a household name in America. He soon went from producing 6 to 600, and his novel concept became the modern bass boat that we know today. Forrest's ingenuity and vision transformed the boating and fishing industry across our Nation. No one I know has loved or served Arkansas' great outdoors more than Forrest Wood. Whether as an entrepreneur, instructor, or former chairman of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, he was committed to ensuring people enjoy the outdoors for generations to come. He will forever be remembered as a legend in the fishing industry, and I believe his biggest asset was his redeeming personality. A loyal friend, mentor, and dedicated family man, his genuine smile and caring nature will be sorely missed. Mr.…”