NEWS RELEASE                          

March 24, 2008                                       

Chamber of Commerce Accepting Applications for Fifth Class of Leadership Otsego County

(GAYLORD) The Gaylord/Otsego County Chamber of Commerce has announced that they are now accepting applications for the fifth class of Leadership Otsego County, which will start in September.  

Leadership Otsego County is the Chamber initiative that identifies emerging leaders in Otsego County who might participate in future civic leadership roles.  It provides them with the essential leadership skills to plan for and respond to future Otsego County challenges, while helping them to gain an understanding of the various sectors of the community and the needs within each sector. The program enhances participant’s skills and knowledge through a broad-based, practical curriculum, addressing the components of effective leadership.  The sessions provide exposure to the challenges facing our community and the opportunities for creative solutions, increase their understanding of the various sectors of the community and how they relate and interact, and foster a commitment to community service.

Leadership Otsego County is open to any Otsego County resident with an interest in learning about and becoming involved in the community. Employers can take advantage of the program by sponsoring promising employees.  “It is a great opportunity for companies to invest in their potential leaders”, said Bob Kasprzak, Executive Director of the Chamber.  “An active community leader is an asset to any business or agency”, continued Kasprzak.  A maximum of 15 individuals will be selected to participate in this class.  Participants must attend all sessions and activities and will be required to submit a detailed application.  Class selection will be made by the Leadership Otsego County Steering Committee.

Leadership Otsego County is made up of nine “learning experiences” provided by teams of community leaders who have a wide range of education, skills, and community experiences.  Each “learning experience” is a daylong session, involving presentations, "issues" research, site visits, panel discussions, and hands-on exercises.  Participants will learn how dialogue, systems thinking, community connections, and diversity are influencing a new style of leadership.

The current class, who are completing their activities this month and will graduate at a June 3rd celebration, include Maggie Cotant, Vicki Courterier, Susie Marshall, Kevin McKinley, Tammie Rich, Jennifer Rooyakker, Amber Theriault, Brian Webber, Jenna Willobee and Amy Wolcott.  LOC Alumni include Jennifer Barr, Harry Madagame Jr., Josh Kent, Steve Wright, Tim Baker, Lisha Schilling, Matt Rooyakker, Curt Reppuhn, Jim Berigan, Rose Boone, Michael Burrington, Justin Kowatch, Holly Matewicz, Jonathan Mays, Matt Pearson, Adam Slosar, John Burt, James Camiller, Drew Driver, Jamie Gleason, Caroline Gornick, Lori Hunt, Judy Koronka, Matt Nowicki and Kevin Wahr.

Applications are available at the Chamber of Commerce office at 101 W. Main Street in downtown Gaylord, or by calling 732-6333.  Applications must be submitted by June 2, 2008.