SIOUX CITY -- The eighth annual Midstates Community and Economic Development Conference is planned for March 19 at the Marina Inn in South Sioux City, Neb.

This is the largest rural development program in the three state area and is a joint project of 15 agencies and organizations in Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota, according to Sherry McGill, ISU Extension education director for Woodbury County. Extension has taken a major role in staging the conference since it was first organized.

McGill said the conference is designed for local leaders and offers workshops on successful strategies and innovative ideas for rural development. “These workshops are presented by local leaders who have been "in the trenches" and can answer your questions on what it takes for a successful effort,” she said.

The keynote speaker and afternoon presenter is Aaron Davis, a well-known, enthusiastic speaker who will discuss customer service, leadership, and team building. He was a member of the 1994 National Championship Nebraska football team and speaks the “bald truth” about performing like a champion to achieve incredible results. It should be thoughtful and engaging.

This year’s conference has more breakout sessions on topics such as housing and creative financing, leadership, innovative youth involvement and entrepreneurship. About 200 local leaders have been attending this conference in recent years, and a larger conference is anticipated this year, McGill said.

Registration deadline for the conference is March 7. A registration form is available online at www.extension.iastate.edu/woodbury/news/midstatesconference.htm  or contact the ISU Extension Woodbury County office at (712) 276-2157 for additional information.

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