LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A tragedy in Arkansas would seem like a strange place for Bassmaster sponsors and employees to come together. But in the case of the recent kidnapping and murder of a real estate agent from Little Rock, Rigid Industries jumped in to help even though they were 1,200 miles away.
Beverly Carter, a 49-year old grandmother, was abducted and missing for four days. Hundreds of law enforcement officers as well as volunteers scoured the countryside in the search.
Helping in that search was Steve Bowman, tournament editor of Bassmaster.com who also serves as a Deputy Sheriff in Pulaski County, and Angie Thompson, B.A.S.S. vice-president of events and sponsorships, whose sister is a real estate agent.
“It was shocking to watch this unfold,” Thompson said. “It shook our town to the core and every woman I had a conversation with was experiencing fear and anxiety over it. So many people helped in the effort to find her, including my sister.”
Thompson stayed in close contact with Bowman during that search and during one of their conversations learned that many of the searchers, even though they were working in the day, could be more effective with a flashlight. That thought was relayed to Dave Davis of Rigid Industries, who immediately began work to ship flashlights from Gilbert, Ariz., for the effort.
Before they could arrive, a suspect was arrested and the victim’s body was found in a shallow grave more than 25 miles away from where she was abducted.
“To have one of our sponsors so ready to step up just shows how special the fishing community is even in regards to our sponsors,’’ Thompson said.
With the search over, the lights will be passed on to the Arkansas Tactical Officers Association, whose members are often at the forefront of searches.
The gift is just an example of the altruistic nature of fishermen and the companies involved with them.
“Throughout the normal course of business, strong partnerships and relationships are formed,” Davis said. “Undoubtedly, one of the most rewarding aspects of business for Rigid is the ability to help others in time of need.”
The giving nature of Rigid Industries extends to the private sector as well. Until December 31, the company is offering a mail-in rebate where customers can earn up to a $100 with proof of purchase.
Products, from flashlights to lighting for boats, ATVs and trucks, are part of the rebate program, all designed to shed more light in whatever environment you are in.
“Rigid Industries is extremely proud to provide products that make the world a safer place,” Davis said. “LED lights from Rigid can be used in almost any application using less power while providing maximum visibility and safe light.”
For more information on Rigid Industries and the rebate program log on to www.rigidindustries.com/rebate.