CANTON – Congressional candidate Tedra Cobb, the first executive director of the St. Lawrence County Health Initiative, will be speaking Wednesday, Nov. 6 at the 20th anniversary celebration of the Initiative’s founding.

Cobb, a longtime healthcare advocate who opened her challenge to incumbent 21st District Congresswoman Elise Stefanik in the 2018 election on the issue of health care, helped found the organization in 1999.

“Twenty years ago with other dedicated members of my community I started the St. Lawrence County Health Initiative,” said Cobb. “With a $19,000 grant and a collaborative idea we helped provide life-saving preventative care and screenings to residents of the County. I am proud that the Initiative has been operational for 20 years.”

Cobb, who was also an elected member of the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators and a volunteer firefighter, said the Health Initiative has improved the lives of many in the North Country.

“Together we have provided care to thousands of our neighbors and ensured a healthier way of life for countless others. Fighting for access to quality and affordable healthcare isn't just a passion, it has been my life’s work. It is those values that I plan to take with me to Washington.”

Cobb, a Canton Democrat, is the only person so far who has announced she is running to defeat the Republican incumbent from Schuylerville.

The celebration is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Thatcher Hall, SUNY Potsdam.