Chris Isbell may not be the most famous contemporary native of Arkansas, but in the world of business he should be considered one of the most inspiring. Isbell has a rice farm in England, Arkansas, and his example should be a lesson to the Arkansan who lives in the White House, and to farmers everywhere who depend on the government dole.

Most rice farmers, including those in Arkansas, are content to tend their plants, destined for Uncle Ben's and Carolina boxes all around the country. When crops are plentiful, they are equally content to participate in the federal crop support program for rice.

Isbell was not content with the traditional way of doing business. He wanted to work harder and make more money. Isbell grows Koshihikari rice, a variety not known to many Americans. But the Japanese prize it as much as they despise conventional American rice.

A rice taster at the Japan External Trade Organization praises Isbell's Arkansas product: "The taste completely matches up to Japan's. California rice loses it's taste when it is cold, but Isbell San's Koshihikari is delicious even when cooled."

Although Japan allows rice imports, Isbell has found a surprised and enthusiastic market among Japanese citizens living in America. His agricultural achievement challenges American commodity farming as much as it does Japanese prejudices and trade barriers.

Productive, competent farmers like Chris Isbell should be an inspiration not just to farmers, but to ship builders, TV makers, computer chip designers, and car companies.

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