Arkansas Rice Industry Meeting Draws Large Crowd, Political Officials
Pictured from left to right are Arkansas Rice Producers' Group Chairman Gary Sebree, Sen. Jim Luker, Betsy Ward, Ben Noble, Rep. Robert Moore, and Reece Langley.
USA Rice Federation President and CEO Betsy Ward gave an update on USA Rice's financial and program activities while VP for Government Affairs Reece Langley talked about preparations for the next farm bill, regulatory issues impacting rice farmers, and the importance of the active involvement of rice industry members in the political process.
Arkansas state Sen. Jim Luker (D-Wynne) and state Rep. Robert Moore (D-Arkansas City) talked about their recent visit to Cuba and told attendees that the rice market potential is there if the administration would act to open trade.
In addition to Luker and Moore, several noted political officials and candidates were present for the meeting, including Sen. Bobby Glover (D-Carlisle), Rep. Jerry Brown (D-Wynne), and Rep. Monty Davenport (D-Yellville), candidate for state land commissioner. Others in attendance included former state Sen. Tim Wooldridge and Chad Causey, former chief of staff to Rep. Marion Berry (D-AR), who are both widely known to be considering a run for congressman Berry's open seat in this year's election.
The Arkansas Rice Council Board and newly appointed Arkansas Rice Producers' Group Board met directly following the general session at the Brinkley Convention Center.
Contact: Stacy Fitzgerald-Redd, (703) 236-1458
