“Capitalizing on Rural America” is the focus of a symposium this week in central Iowa sponsored by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. Spokeswoman Nicky Schissel says while many rural communities are struggling, she believes the future is good. Schissel says “People are looking for wonderful places to live, places where the lifestyle may be just a little bit different than they find in some of the bigger bustling cities and I think we’re going to find that here in rural America.” Schissel lists the qualities communities need to succeed.She says “Strong community leadership makes a tremendous difference. Our strong community financial institutions make a big difference when they’re very active in what the community is doing, team work, the openness to new ideas.” President Bush is expected to address the conference in downtown Des Moines on Thursday night.
