[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 159 (Wednesday, September 26, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1311-E1312]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL RICE MONTH

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                     HON. ERIC A. ``RICK'' CRAWFORD

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  Mr. CRAWFORD. Mr. Speaker, as rice farmers in Arkansas' first 
district work tirelessly to harvest their rice crop, it is timely that 
September marks National Rice Month. National Rice Month is a time to 
recognize the important contributions of the 125,000 Americans who work 
in the U.S. rice industry.
  In Arkansas, the rice industry is a major economic driver. In fact, 
Arkansas' first congressional district produces half of the rice 
consumed in the United States, making us the top rice producing 
district. Rice farmers contribute $2.3 billion to the state's economic 
output and support almost 15,000 jobs in the Natural State.
  Rice isn't just good for the economy, it is also good for you. This 
nutrient-rich grain provides more than 15 vitamins and minerals and 
beneficial antioxidants. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and 
energy. Rice farmers take great pride in knowing they supply the United 
States and over 120 other countries with such a nutritious food.
  While September marks National Rice Month, in Arkansas we see the 
value of the rice industry throughout the year. I urge my colleagues 
the next time they enjoy risotto, a rice crispy treat, or gumbo to 
think about the hardworking men and women in our rice industry who make 
that meal a reality.
  One of those hardworking people is Carl Brothers, who recently 
retired from Riceland Foods after 53 years working for the company. It 
is timely that I take a moment during National Rice Month to recognize 
Mr. Brothers for his 53 years of work in the rice industry and wish him 
the best in his retirement. Mr. Brothers started at Riceland as a 
sortex operator and eventually became the vice president and chief 
operating officer. Mr. Brothers' career has led him to be an expert in 
trade expansion efforts and a valuable resource to our state and the 
U.S. rice industry. He has served in various rice leadership positions 
and been a trusted advisor to those of us in Washington for many years. 
While his retirement concludes his career at Riceland Foods, the legacy 
he leaves has positively affected the rice industry for many years to 
come.
  I thank Mr. Carl Brothers for his service to the rice industry.

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