By By Adam Prestridge
It's fun and educational not to mention a great opportunity for fellowship and getting to know new friends.
It's given this reporter the opportunity to learn the history of Atmore and its founding fathers, the pleasure of enjoying a school breakfast and lunch once again and also the chance to serve hard time in the state's prison system.
It's how this reporter spends his day off.
Leadership Atmore, a program sponsored by the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce, has been one of the best, if not the best, business-related activity I've ever been a part of. I've participated in similar leadership-based programs that have taught me a lot and have been beneficial to me in my day-to-day routine. But Leadership Atmore has a hometown spin that is very beneficial to me and my classmates, who all serve leadership roles in the community.
It's interesting to hear about the rich history of Atmore, listen to those who know this town like the back of their hand and learn from those graduates who have already completed the program. The insight each and every one involved with Leadership Atmore adds to not only the hometown flavor of the program, but also to the interest levels of each class that participates. It's amazing to listen to the individuals we all interact with in the community speak of his or her job or role in the community and how that job plays a vital part of how Atmore operates.
Not only has being a student in the Atmore Leadership Class of 2006 been a great way to learn and meet area businessmen and women who I work with in some capacity each week, but it has also been a great way for me to learn about my new community. I am then able to turn around and tell my wife about the day's activities and she too learns a bit about Atmore.
The Chamber of Commerce and the individuals and businesses that back Leadership Atmore should be commended for the great tool they have given this small town. The program is much better than a history book because we mingle with the sources of those books in our everyday life.
As for the other programs I've participated in during my career, Leadership Atmore ranks at the top of my list. I guess it hits "home" more because this is the community I live and work in. The Class of 2006 as well as those classes before us can use the lessons learned throughout each day in the community.
I definitely recommend that anyone selected to participate do so, it will be an experience you'll never forget.
As for me, even though the monthly classes will continue for several more months, I will never forget the experience and definitely never forget my classmates.
Adam Prestridge is publisher of the Atmore Advance. His column appears weekly.