Heaven McKinney, owner of The Grind Coffee Bistro, celebrated the grand opening of her new location at Arkansas Baptist College on Tuesday, coinciding with her birthday. This marks her third branch, following the original store in West Little Rock and a recent drive-thru stand in Bryant. The Grind joins two other Black-owned eateries in the university’s student union, thanks to a partnership between Arkansas Baptist College and ReMix Ideas, an organization dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses. The initiative not only revitalizes the food court but also provides internship opportunities for students. The event featured speeches from McKinney and Benito Lubazibwa, founder of ReMix Ideas, highlighting the importance of community and mentorship in business growth. McKinney credited Lubazibwa for his support, especially during the uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The expansion reflects her commitment to her family and community, emphasizing the value of hard work and dreams.
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