Towns Capitalize On What Makes Them Special

The center of Port Gibson, Miss., has been virtually abandoned as businesses struggle to survive encroachment by nearby 'big box' stores. "Towns all over the country -- in fact, throughout the industrial world -- are facing similar struggles as the social landscape shifts. Strip malls and mass merchants multiply, leaving traditional downtowns abandoned. Owners of farms with low (or no) profits are tempted to sell out to realtors... One group that's trying to help is the Countryside Exchange. Since 1987, it has addressed the issues of reduced agriculture and increased urban sprawl in 110 communities across North America."

Thanks to Chris Steins