The second big announcement this weekend from FLW Outdoors chairman Irwin Jacobs was an unexpected one – tycoon T. Boone Pickens has joined him as an equity partner in FLW Outdoors.
Pickens imediately added $100,000 of his money to today's purse, to bring the potential winning prize up to $700,000 with the Ranger bonus, and also plugged his Pickens Plan to wean America from Mideast oil. As well, Jacobs referenced the Pickens Plan and the "army" Pickens has in pursuit of that goal.
Pickens stated his belief that every barrel of Mideast oil helps fund the Taliban. With many National Guardsmen in attendance, and the heart of America represented in the stands, the statement received a strong chorus of support.
The two were fishing on Pickens' ranch in Texas, Jacobs said. Pickens asked about Jacobs' fishing enterprise, and 2 hours later the two shook hands and made a deal.
Obviously, Pickens could infuse a significant amount of capital into the organization. And he would likewise connect with the core target of his Pickens Plan – patriotic Americans.
BassFans may remember that Jacobs and Pickens are partners in wind energy. Jacobs' VEC technology is important to the future of wind-turbine production.
More on the partnership forthcoming.
Here is the official news release from FLW Outdoors, reprinted verbatim:
MINNEAPOLIS (Aug. 9, 2010) – FLW Outdoors announced T. Boone Pickens has become an equity holder and partner in the FLW Outdoors.
Irwin L. Jacobs, Chairman of FLW Outdoors, stated, “Boone and I have been friends and business associates for more than 25 years. We recently were discussing what we could do together to create a significant positive impact on the incredible outdoor resources our country has to offer. As we discussed my involvement with FLW Outdoors, Boone didn’t hesitate to recognize that fishing and the outdoors clearly represent the largest opportunity for all walks of life to enjoy one of nature’s best and most important wonders – the outdoors. Boone’s love and passion for the outdoors, along with his incredible business acumen, will surely bring a great deal of excitement and growth to FLW Outdoors and to the many constituencies we serve.”
“I’m supporting Irwin in this initiative because it presents a unique opportunity to develop an appreciation and respect for the outdoors in a new and unique manner. I think it has a great future,” Pickens said.
FLW Outdoors Chairman Irwin Jacobs (right) officially announces that T. Boone Pickens will be joining FLW Outdoors as an equity partner.“I feel privileged and honored to be a part of this as fishing, hunting and the outdoors have been an important part of my life. With partners like the National Guard and Walmart, plus many more great American companies and organizations supporting this common goal, I want and hope to see more young people and their families participating and enjoying the outdoors,” Pickens said.
FLW Outdoors is committed to having a positive impact on every community we visit in and promoting the development and well-being of children and families. Fishing goes beyond the water, and through our socially responsible activities, FLW Outdoors understand the positive impact giving back has on the public, our fans and communities.
Jacobs continued, “I don’t believe there is a more committed and/or stronger advocate for promoting America’s incredible natural resources than Boone Pickens. He truly is one of America’s greatest citizens and everyone at FLW Outdoors is humbled and proud to have him on board as a partner and confidante.”
