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In-depth reporting by AM 580 News

Rural Issues and the Campaign: Small Town Entrepreneurs

Story air date: Thursday, October 09, 2008

Becky and Freddy Smith, owners of Ms. Becky's on Homer's Main Street

Rural America has seen an exodus of residents and businesses for decades. But now it’s evolving into a garden spot for entrepreneurs. Many don’t have much of a choice – jobs in large companies or farms are drying up, and self-employment helps pay the bills. Still others (like Becky and Freddy Smith, left) get into business for love of their communities – they’re helping small-town storefronts spring back to life. What can government do to help them out? AM 580's Tom Rogers reports on the challenges these rural entrepreneurs face, and what the presidential candidates want to do about it.