Robert Reich kicks off campaign for governor with harsh criticism of Swift

12:00AM / Monday, January 14, 2002Print Story | Email Story

As part of the Clinton administration economic team, Robert Reich can point to a pretty strong record of achievement - namely, the longest period of economic expansion in the nation's history. But Reich's record, his nationally known name, his authorship of eight books and other accomplishments may not be enough to get him on the Democratic gubernatorial ballot. Although many political experts believe that Reich would be a strong candidate for governor, his first challenge will be to woo enough delegates into backing his candidacy. Despite Reich's national record, he lacks the political ties on a state level that some of his probable opponents, such as state senate president Tom Birmingham, boast. With just over two weeks before the Democratic caucus, Reich officially launched his campaign, hoping that a grassroots effort will land him on the ballot. He visited Pittsfield on Monday, a city he believes has great potential in his economic plan for "smart growth." "I think Pittsfield has enormous assets," Reich said during an appearance on a WUPE radio program hosted by Larry Kratka. "I believe in what's called smart growth, where you have older infrastructure you can refurbish." Among the city's assets, Reich said, are a plethora of former industrial sites available for revitalization, rail transportation and the scenic beauty of the Berkshires. Many "Knowledge intensive" industries, he added, will find the Berkshire region appealing as the economy continues to evolve. If properly directed, Reich suggested, the state's overall economy could grow through revitalizing dormant industrial zones - and without the "urban sprawl" of strip malls and other land-devouring projects. Although Reich's first order of business - and his first challenge - come from the Democrat party, the former labor secretary launched his campaign this past week by taking a clear shot at acting governor Jane Swift. He continued that message on Monday in Swift's home region. In fact, Reich said that a "vacuum of leadership" has existed beginning with the Bill Weld administration and encompassing former governor Paul Cellucci and Swift. Recent political battles over Boston's Big Dig project, at MassPort and the Turnpike Authority, Reich suggested, have led to a lack of progress. "People are fed up ," Reich said. "People want to be proud of their state government. I just think we need true leadership." Reich promised a "different" campaign that emphasizes health care and education along with economic development. The candidate also vowed to run a campaign based on issues. Although he used tough terms in describing the state's Republican leadership, he backed off from criticism of Democrats. What separates Reich from the rest of the field? "I think it's my experience, my record and my background," he said. "I was part of an administration that presided over the largest period of economic growth in our history." Although Reich has reportedly raised less than $100,000 for the campaign so far, he expressed confidence that he could raise a sufficient amount. Reich said he spoke with his old boss, Bill Clinton, a few weeks ago, but would not say whether Clinton would campaign for him. Part of his challenge will be to link himself to the prosperity of the last decade while defining himself as a leader. "I'm campaigning on my own," Reich said. "I'm not going to need a lot of other people." The Democratic Caucuses take place on February 2. Any registered Democrat can participate. Check with local town or city halls for location and information. Reich has lived in Massachusetts for nearly 20 years. A Rhodes Scholar. Reich holds degrees in law and economics. He has authored eight books. For more information, visit RobertReich.org

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McCann Recognizes Superintendent Award Recipient

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
05:32PM / Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Landon LeClair and Superintendent James Brosnan with Landon's parents Eric and Susan LeClair, who is a teacher at McCann.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Superintendent's Award has been presented to Landon LeClair, a senior in McCann Technical School's advanced manufacturing course.

The presentation was made last Thursday by Superintendent Jame Brosnan after Principal Justin Kratz read from teachers' letters extolling LeClair's school work, leadership and dedication.

"He's become somewhat legendary at the Fall State Leadership Conference for trying to be a leader at his dinner table, getting an entire plate of cookies for him and all his friends," read Kratz to chuckles from the School Committee. "Landon was always a dedicated student and a quiet leader who cared about mastering the content."

LeClair was also recognized for his participation on the school's golf team and for mentoring younger teammates.

"Landon jumped in tutoring the student so thoroughly that the freshman was able to demonstrate proficiency on an assessment despite the missed class time for golf matches," read Kratz.

The principal noted that the school also received feedback from LeClair's co-op employer, who rated him with all fours.

"This week, we sent Landon to our other machine shop to help load and run parts in the CNC mill," his employer wrote to the school. LeClair was so competent the supervisor advised the central shop might not get him back.

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