Playing to Strength

Mark R. Drabenstott
Vice President and Director
Center for the Study of Rural America
Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Mark Drabenstott is a seasoned observer of the rural economy who has gained national and international recognition for his economic analysis and policy insights.
Throughout his career at the Federal Reserve Bank, Mark has been an ardent observer of the leading issues facing the rural economy and food and agriculture sector. The Center for the Study of Rural America serves as the Federal Reserve's focal point for research on rural and agricultural issues.

Biography

Superstore or Big Box

Every day a new megastore opens somewhere in America. Some towns court super stores while others pass ordinances to discourage them. Some point to the creation of entry-level jobs and added revenue to local treasuries while others say these stores create net job loss and little economic gain as sales are transferred from existing merchants.

Panelists present economic, social and land use considerations. Ask questions and join the conversation.

Building Communities

Edward J. Blakely, PhD
Author of Fortress America

Internationally recognized as an expert in the field of urban community development and a successful practitioner in strategic planning, financing, real estate development and project management, Edward J. Blakely is probably best known for his book Fortress America: Gated Communities in the United States. The book follows the development of gated communities from their beginnings as retirement villages and enclaves for the super rich through their expansion into upper and middle class neighborhoods, and examines the social, political and governance issues that result.

Biography