Massena Federation of Teachers President Erin Covell, left, was one of many local officials to hear from Bob Brown of the Reconnecting McDowell economic development project, right. Photo submitted by Ryne Martin.

POTSDAM -- Representatives from an economic development initiative in West Virginia met this week in Potsdam with officials from around St. Lawrence County, according to Assemblywoman Addie Russell, D-Theresa.

Bob Brown, the American Federation of Teachers in-district coordinator for the Reconnecting McDowell project in West Virginia, made a presentation to local labor leaders, school officials, and government officials, including representatives from Russell’s office.

Russell said McDowell County in West Virginia formed the project in response to the loss of their coal industry, hoping to save their economic future.

“St. Lawrence County labor leaders are now looking at steps to find partners to address the economic challenges facing the region,” Russell said. “Partners in West Virginia from businesses, foundations, government, non-profits, and labor have signed a covenant to assist in the areas of education; services for students and their families; transportation; technology; housing; and jobs and economic development. The program’s goal is to make educational improvement in McDowell County the route to a brighter economic future.”

Russell’s 116th Assembly District includes all St. Lawrence County communities along the St. Lawrence River, plus Canton and Potsdam.