Arkansas River Rice Mill is not only the only black-owned mill in the country it is also located here in Pine Bluff. The mill was started in 2021 by PJ Haynie, a farmer originally from Virginia, and Billy Bridgeforth who is also a farmer out of Alabama.
In an effort to bring awareness to the mill and build a relationship with the city and its officials, Haynie invited city officials and media for a tour Monday. Present at the tour were Mayor Shirley Washington and her office, Ward 1 council member LaTisha Brunson, and Torre Anderson from the National Black Growers Council to name a few.
After the meeting, Haynie spoke with Deltaplex News and explained more about why he invited city officials and media on an informational tour of their facility located at 4215 Emmett Sanders Road.
Haynie mentioned that Arkansas is the number one rice producer in the country. He was then asked how Arkansas River Rice differs from other mills.
Brunson mentioned that in Ward one they have recently faced a food shortage due to the recent closing of a grocery store located on East Harding and she is currently working to get another grocery store in its place.
In response, Haynie explained the overall goal to collab with the city and supply rice locally.
Arkansas River Rice ships in the states to Texas, New Jersey, Colorado, Mississippi, Minnesota, Kentucky, and Haynie went on to explain more.
For more information about Arkansas River Rice, you can visit their website at www.arkansasriverrice.com or contact them at 870-209-9988.
by Deseray McKinzy
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