The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

"It's What You Do With What You've Got That Counts!"

by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher/Owner

August 10, 2011

I was fortunate enough to visit the largest horse stable I have ever had the opportunity to see at the home of an Iowa millionaire who uses his wealth and influence to make a difference in the world.

Bruce Rastetter, of Summit Farms near Iowa Falls, had his 22nd annual Summer Party hosting 1200 people with the idea that the people he invites could make a difference in another person's life as they have his.

His idea was to provide the opportunity and thus each person was given a nametag and encouraged to talk to others.

In attendance were conservative Presidential candidates, Governor Branstad, the University of Iowa Football Coach, President of Iowa State College, billionaire and philanthropist Dick Jacobson, Market to Market host Mark Pearson, financial investors, farmers, businessmen, and common neighbors, and friends.

There were displays of farm equipment and farm animals, and booths to learn of current farming practices, and samples of cookies made with soy, and the most beautiful spread of food in an immaculate setting. There were even sweetly scented porta potties with marble counter tops with hands-free soap and water.

A famous band out of Chicago provided a variety of music which ended in a large display of fireworks.

The most impressive thing was the caring of his staff and of each person you met.

The only public presentation was the first award named after Dick Jacobson, to an Iowa business that had made a major philanthropic impact on an institution or organization in Iowa.

Rastetter told his guests that the networking party was to help others improve their life so one could make a difference in the world.

It reminds me of a favorite childhood movie where the grandpa told the little boy, It's not what you've got, but what you do with what you've got that counts!