BY JEFF CHUDZINSKINorth Country This Week

MASSENA -- The newly integrated St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce recently announced Laura Pearson as the community coordinator for Massena, a position she staffs part-time.

Pearson recently told the Massena town board that she would be in Massena on Mondays and Tuesdays, while working in Ogdensburg Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Pearson noted that she would continue with that schedule until a full time coordinator could be found for Massena.

Pearson was hired for the position in February, a move that Executive Direct Ben Dixon said will serve the Massena community well.

"She has managed the Ogdensburg Chamber office during that time and is an employee of the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce as our Business Development Specialist.  She has extensive experience in membership services, fundraising, public relations and marketing, event planning, and business and community development. She has also been the Chamber’s Workforce Development Coordinator, working with numerous partners in the county to help connect employers with workforce and training opportunities, in response to this area of great need expressed by countless county businesses. Laura is also former military," he said.

"Laura has already spoken at Rotary and other organization meetings and has reached out to over 37 local businesses so far,” Town Supervisor Sue Bellor said.

Pearson said she is currently without a space so far, joking that she was living out of her van in the meantime.

"I’m promoting the eclipse and I’ve been to close to 100 businesses now because I’ve hit all of Main Street, West Main Street. I’ve been all over the place. Some of you may have seen me. If you haven’t seen me yet, you’ll see me soon, so be prepared," Pearson said.

Pearson said for those who are hoping to get in touch with her, she will be available by calling (315) 386-4000.

“My extension is five and I get emails from my voicemail, so I can return your call,” she said.

Pearson said she can also stop anywhere, saying she's met with the business luncheon group and is scheduled to go to the Massena Rod and Gun Club as well.

"If you'd like me to speak at any of your events, just let me know," she said.

One such event that is upcoming is the county business mixer April 30 at the Best Western University Inn in Canton.

"That’s always a good one to go to, and you can sign up for either of their newsletters, one for business, one for tourism. You can become a member as a business or individual just by going to their website and it’s all right here,” Bellor said.