[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 19 (Wednesday, February 15, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E170]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING DAVE WOOD, E. FLOYD FORBES AWARD RECIPIENT

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 15, 2006

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. Dave Wood for his 
achievement in receiving the distinguished E. Floyd Forbes Award. This 
prestigious tribute is awarded to those who have proven exemplary 
service to the National Meat Association (NMA) and the meat and poultry 
industry.
  Mr. Wood currently serves as the chairman of the Beef Division for 
Harris Ranch, Inc., a notable company who praises and recognizes his 
service, dedication and loyalty.
  Upon graduation from California State University Cal Poly, San Luis 
Obispo in 1970, Mr. Wood relocated to the San Joaquin Valley and 
accepted a position with Harris Ranch, Inc. With the inception of his 
career, Mr. Wood embarked on a campaign to expand the company's feeding 
division, successfully doubling cattle productivity. Mr. Wood's 
unwavering demeanor and strong work ethic led him to assume more 
responsibilities within the company; opening the floodgates for his 
ingenious creativity to take form. Mr. Wood's contributions to Harris 
Ranch, Inc., include the establishment of the Partnership for Quality 
(PQ) program--a marketing technique that increased Harris Ranch, 
Inc.'s, reputation by providing consumers with consistent, high quality 
beef. He also developed a line of fully-cooked premium heat and serve 
entrees as well as a number of fresh seasoned products to meet 
diversified consumer demand.
  Mr. Wood's expertise goes beyond his role at Harris Ranch, Inc., with 
the ownership and management of Dave Wood Ranches and Wood Livestock, a 
cow-calf operation that is part of the Harris Ranch Partnership for 
Quality program. He is also co-owner of the historic Dressler Ranch 
near Bridgeport, California, a cattle and stocker cattle operation and 
he serves as a partner in Wood & Devine Cattle Co., Devine & Wood 
Farming, Inc., and Double D Farms.
  In addition to those commitments, Mr. Wood has assumed leadership 
roles in several industry organizations including a member of the board 
of directors of Cattle-Fax, chairman of the Beef Committee and chairman 
of the National Meat Association's predecessor, the Western States Meat 
Association. He has sought other leadership opportunities including, 
serving as: Chairman of the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research 
Board, chairman of the California Beef Council, executive committees of 
the California Cattleman Association and United States Export 
Federation.
  Mr. Wood's legacy of good stewardship and constant regard for 
upholding the industry's high standards has led him to receive several 
awards that recognize those efforts, including the Cattle Business of 
the Century Award from the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and 
the National Cattlemen's Beef Association Environmental Stewardship 
Award. Mr. Wood was also the recipient of the 2003 Vision Award from 
the National Cattlemen's Foundation, a prestigious award given to 
individuals whose creativity and imagination inspire others and improve 
the world around them.
  On a personal level, he is a caring and loving father of David, who 
works with his father on the cattle ranch and is his pride and joy. 
Dave Wood is a gentleman who cares about his Country, his work and most 
importantly the friendships of life. Every day he tries to make a 
difference.
  It is with great pride and honor that I join Mr. Wood's family, 
friends and colleagues in commending his hard work and applaud his 
recognition as the recipient of the E. Floyd Forbes Award. Mr. Wood's 
passion and commitment make him a most deserving recipient of this 
award and a true pillar of this industry.

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