By Daniel Lapham/Staff Writer

A group of Russian leaders gained a new understanding of American life after spending a week living with host families in El Reno.

The Russian visitors came to El Reno on Oct. 5 as a part of the Open World Program, which gives leaders in Eurasia and the Baltic States the opportunity to experience the heart of America, according to the organization’s Web site.

“Open World is designed to enhance understanding and capabilities for cooperation between the United States and the countries of Eurasia and the Baltic States by developing a network of leaders in the region who have gained significant, firsthand exposure to America’s democratic, accountable government, and free-market system.”

Redlands Community College hosted the group as they engaged in dialogue with area mayors, municipal personnel, representatives of the Central Oklahoma Work Force Investment Board and Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education staff.

In addition, the delegates spent time with RCC administrators and a group of local and regional economic development personnel.

During a press conference last week at RCC, the deputy head of the accounting office of the president of the Republic of Dagestan said he now views America in an entirely different way.