Woodward, O. James III, 2005 Leon S. Peters Distinguished Service Award recipient
Item
Title
Woodward, O. James III, 2005 Leon S. Peters Distinguished Service Award recipient
Description
Talks about the changes to Fresno over the years, gives advice to young people just starting out on their own, especially in regards to getting an education. He discusses how the world of community involvement is changing and growing in scale, the importance of family and of striving to do more to help the community.
Creator
Woodward, O. James III
Mehas, Dr. Peter G.
Relation
Leon S. Peters Legacy Collection
Coverage
Fresno, California
Date
2/24/2005
Format
Microsoft word 2003 document, 3 pages
Identifier
SCMS_lspl_00009
extracted text
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Fresno has changed substantially in terms of the growth,
in terms of the population. What changes have you seen and what are some things
that if you were to do some crystal-balling, as you look at the future of
Fresno, what are some of the things that you're either encouraged by or
concerned about with the future of Fresno? And some recollections of the
transition of, through the years, what have you observed about our town?
>>James Woodward: Well, it's been quite a few years, so I could start and stop
probably anywhere. But in more recent years, we can start physically with the
skyline, which represents much more than just the physical elements. You look
behind them, and what's that bringing to the community? But beyond that, in
terms of growth, of course, in other types of physical structures and so forth,
just the housing. Just in the past few years, as we look particularly north,
northeast, and now west, even as we come to the river, that somewhat has blocked
the growth in that direction. But many, you know, many changes, certainly
physically, are starting to, I think, occur that hadn't for some time in the
stadium and what have you. Having said that, I mean, we all know we have a very
difficult job situation in terms of opportunities. There's been a lot of
attention paid to that. And I think it represents more, you know, of our current
status. I'm very encouraged by some individuals, again, on their own, taking the
initiative, in terms of the recent, the job initiatives programs and things that
we're trying to do. But, again, we've always recognized that we have an
agricultural base. We are, have been limited, to some degree, certainly in
industrial growth that would bring jobs. But, again, having said that, when you
do that, we look at other areas that have had tremendous growth in that type of
thing. And you also bring new challenges and sometimes problems. So I think
looking forward personally that we have location, there's no question about
that, we have location, which is not going to change. We still have space. We
still have room. We have, I think, tremendous opportunities, provided we have
the leadership to continue to develop our resources. And for a long time, it was
water was the focus. Now, my personal belief is that the air quality is the real
issue. And having recently spent a year on the grand jury and just looking and
weighing different current problems, I think that alone with water has to be
right at the top of the list in terms of resolution. But we can do it. I think
the only difference, you know, in comparing kind of the past, the puzzle has a
lot more parts to it now. There was a time when just a few individuals could
make quite a difference very quickly. That's not the case now in any part that
I'm aware of, and certainly not with the non-profits or anything else. The
projects are bigger, our funding resources are more limited, which we all know
is critical. But think how much that has changed in terms of funding education
at all levels, for example. Whereas we were receiving such a large segment from
the state, funding, and we all know what all three levels of government status
in terms of financial resources today. So it's quite a challenge. But, to me,
it's just more parts to the puzzle. And we still have the leadership that can
lead us through. I think a good example, frankly, as we all know, we had a
couple of school districts in recent years that have faced tremendous
challenges. But look, even though it took a while and it took some steps, look
what we have now received and are receiving a leadership, which it's going to
take to lead us out. But it will be done. It's just frustrating for some of us
who would like it to happen a little quicker. And so patience probably has to be
one of our stronger virtues in these days, and that's not always easy.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You're absolutely correct. There's a lot of pieces to the
puzzle. And there are moving parts, which makes it all the more complex. What
advice would you give to our young people? You spoke of leadership and how much
we're going to depend upon leadership. A young person starting off in their
career, eager to emulate the successes of the James, O. James Woodward the
Third, what advice would you give them about their career? How do they balance
community service, the demands of a very competitive corporate world and their
families?
>>James Woodward: That's a good question, and a tough one, because the balance I
think in our lives, all through it is the real challenge. But having said that,
I would first recommend for young people, and have, at least with my own on
quite a few occasions, if they have the opportunity to obtain as broad a base of
education as possible, I think it is extremely helpful for the reasons that I've
suggested before in terms of not only will the needs change, but our own desires
and needs will change. We don't always know at that age what direction we might
want to go. Now, I realize there's some more technical areas in technology and
engineering has always been somewhat limited in the amount of breadth you can
have to your education, but I'm just a strong advocate of--there's so much
information out there now, I'm afraid it's taking away from some of the old
information, which is pretty good stuff, and we're not getting to the
[inaudible]. So, anyway, in a broad sense, I would encourage the broadest, and
stay with it if you can as long as you can. Not that you can't go back, but it's
much tougher to go back than doing it up front. And then again, we've touched on
it so many times, but it's just so true. Balancing that, I've watched the young
people in the law firm that I'm with now, and it's evident, they're trying to
balance the family and the youngsters who are only going to be youngsters for a
short time, with the other parts that they have to do. And sometimes, frankly in
community involvement, can't have that priority yet. And that's well understood.
But, again, having said that, that doesn't mean you have to leave it out anymore
than you leave the rest of that balance out, whether it would be, in my opinion,
you know, in your faith, in your work, in your family, whatever, they may change
to some degree over a period of time, and have to for all kinds of reasons. But
somehow if we can kind of keep it at least in the back of our minds so that when
we can, and that's true of financial resources. Not everybody at all,
particularly today, heaven knows, the cost of education, everything else,
there's no way. And so that's one change I see a lot, for example, in the
non-profits in our community. Most of our projects, frankly, are larger now.
That is, they cost more. And yet the kind of local support that used to be able
to provide that cannot do that, there's no question. So you have to change the
means of which to achieve them. And that's usually going through the grant
process and whether it's through foundations or government or whatever. But
that's just a matter of having to change the way we do business, and that will
always be true. But the opportunities, I think, will always be there. It's up to
us, as best we can, to adapt to them and still be productive in whatever best
way we can, it seems to me. And I also, you asked initially really about advice
to young people in that sense. And this is probably true across the board in all
life. But there is such satisfaction gained by being able to contribute and to
be on a team and be involved in the teamwork. And it's like so many things;
you're repaid so many more times than you ever put in. That’s, but you have to
maybe try once to figure that out or really to do it to accept that or to agree
that's really true. But, as I say, I'm always, I hope with the glass half full
and not empty. I just think that's what it's all about. And the other--going the
other direction doesn't seem to have any chance at all. So you might as well go
with the one that has a chance, and it will work.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Well, you know, when we visit the Metropolitan Museum, we
all know the vision, the dream of Lew Eaton. Many of us, children, the
community, enjoy the quality of a museum like the Met because of the vision of
Lew Eaton. Woodward Park, when I was out there riding my bike out there the
other day, your family. And so it is folks who give of themselves that the whole
community benefits by. Last question, Knute Rockne, the great Notre Dame
football coach, wrote that when the final scorekeeper tallies the score, it
matters not whether you won or lost, but how do you play the game? How do you
want folks to tally the score on O. James Woodward the Third? What would the
scorecard show? What do you want them to remember you by?
>>James Woodward: Well, I think most of all, to have served the appropriate role
within the family and setting the values for my kids and those that I come, and
that, of course, extends to anybody I come in contact with. But starting at home
and building off of that. In a broader sense, in terms of beyond that, I think I
would want to be known, at least for doing a little bit more than just my part,
just a little bit. It's, again, like in athletics. Just a little bit is not
quite enough. You can't do it all, but it's not so bad to try to strive to do it
all and then work backwards, to seems to me. So, you know, I have so many good
memories of people who have contributed and have made a difference. And so I
hope it does--I think it can be a little bit contagious. And that's always been
my only problem. As much as I really respect people who are anonymous, and there
are some who prefer it that way, and I totally understand that, and I think
that's terrific. But I've always felt there's a benefit by spreading the word a
little bit in whatever you're doing, and do it the best you can.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Like any good professor, I will close this fireside chat
with an open-ended question. Is there anything that I should have asked or
didn't ask that you would like to share for posterity, as well? Other than, I
know how much you care about your family, and you're a family man, and how proud
you are of your family.
>>James Woodward: Well, that's true. It's funny you ask that, though, because
frankly that's what I'm asking the auditors these days. Is there anything I
should be asking? So it's a good question. But, no, I think we covered--I'm
just, again, as I think suggested, I've been very fortunate. I think because of
our community size and the fact that my family has been involved from pretty
much the beginning, to have that continuity today is somewhat exceptional. So
many people are moving and transient and don't have that opportunity. I find it
very rewarding right now. So if everybody just does a little bit, it's amazing
what we can do together.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You bet. Well, James, on behalf of the Fresno, Greater
Fresno County City Chamber of Commerce, I want to congratulate you for being the
2005 Leon S. Peters recipient. And when we look at all the past recipients,
certainly you're in an appropriate place, and we want to thank you for what
you've contributed to our community and what you'll continue to contribute to
our community. So congratulations, and well deserved.
>>James Woodward: Well, thank you, thank you.
in terms of the population. What changes have you seen and what are some things
that if you were to do some crystal-balling, as you look at the future of
Fresno, what are some of the things that you're either encouraged by or
concerned about with the future of Fresno? And some recollections of the
transition of, through the years, what have you observed about our town?
>>James Woodward: Well, it's been quite a few years, so I could start and stop
probably anywhere. But in more recent years, we can start physically with the
skyline, which represents much more than just the physical elements. You look
behind them, and what's that bringing to the community? But beyond that, in
terms of growth, of course, in other types of physical structures and so forth,
just the housing. Just in the past few years, as we look particularly north,
northeast, and now west, even as we come to the river, that somewhat has blocked
the growth in that direction. But many, you know, many changes, certainly
physically, are starting to, I think, occur that hadn't for some time in the
stadium and what have you. Having said that, I mean, we all know we have a very
difficult job situation in terms of opportunities. There's been a lot of
attention paid to that. And I think it represents more, you know, of our current
status. I'm very encouraged by some individuals, again, on their own, taking the
initiative, in terms of the recent, the job initiatives programs and things that
we're trying to do. But, again, we've always recognized that we have an
agricultural base. We are, have been limited, to some degree, certainly in
industrial growth that would bring jobs. But, again, having said that, when you
do that, we look at other areas that have had tremendous growth in that type of
thing. And you also bring new challenges and sometimes problems. So I think
looking forward personally that we have location, there's no question about
that, we have location, which is not going to change. We still have space. We
still have room. We have, I think, tremendous opportunities, provided we have
the leadership to continue to develop our resources. And for a long time, it was
water was the focus. Now, my personal belief is that the air quality is the real
issue. And having recently spent a year on the grand jury and just looking and
weighing different current problems, I think that alone with water has to be
right at the top of the list in terms of resolution. But we can do it. I think
the only difference, you know, in comparing kind of the past, the puzzle has a
lot more parts to it now. There was a time when just a few individuals could
make quite a difference very quickly. That's not the case now in any part that
I'm aware of, and certainly not with the non-profits or anything else. The
projects are bigger, our funding resources are more limited, which we all know
is critical. But think how much that has changed in terms of funding education
at all levels, for example. Whereas we were receiving such a large segment from
the state, funding, and we all know what all three levels of government status
in terms of financial resources today. So it's quite a challenge. But, to me,
it's just more parts to the puzzle. And we still have the leadership that can
lead us through. I think a good example, frankly, as we all know, we had a
couple of school districts in recent years that have faced tremendous
challenges. But look, even though it took a while and it took some steps, look
what we have now received and are receiving a leadership, which it's going to
take to lead us out. But it will be done. It's just frustrating for some of us
who would like it to happen a little quicker. And so patience probably has to be
one of our stronger virtues in these days, and that's not always easy.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You're absolutely correct. There's a lot of pieces to the
puzzle. And there are moving parts, which makes it all the more complex. What
advice would you give to our young people? You spoke of leadership and how much
we're going to depend upon leadership. A young person starting off in their
career, eager to emulate the successes of the James, O. James Woodward the
Third, what advice would you give them about their career? How do they balance
community service, the demands of a very competitive corporate world and their
families?
>>James Woodward: That's a good question, and a tough one, because the balance I
think in our lives, all through it is the real challenge. But having said that,
I would first recommend for young people, and have, at least with my own on
quite a few occasions, if they have the opportunity to obtain as broad a base of
education as possible, I think it is extremely helpful for the reasons that I've
suggested before in terms of not only will the needs change, but our own desires
and needs will change. We don't always know at that age what direction we might
want to go. Now, I realize there's some more technical areas in technology and
engineering has always been somewhat limited in the amount of breadth you can
have to your education, but I'm just a strong advocate of--there's so much
information out there now, I'm afraid it's taking away from some of the old
information, which is pretty good stuff, and we're not getting to the
[inaudible]. So, anyway, in a broad sense, I would encourage the broadest, and
stay with it if you can as long as you can. Not that you can't go back, but it's
much tougher to go back than doing it up front. And then again, we've touched on
it so many times, but it's just so true. Balancing that, I've watched the young
people in the law firm that I'm with now, and it's evident, they're trying to
balance the family and the youngsters who are only going to be youngsters for a
short time, with the other parts that they have to do. And sometimes, frankly in
community involvement, can't have that priority yet. And that's well understood.
But, again, having said that, that doesn't mean you have to leave it out anymore
than you leave the rest of that balance out, whether it would be, in my opinion,
you know, in your faith, in your work, in your family, whatever, they may change
to some degree over a period of time, and have to for all kinds of reasons. But
somehow if we can kind of keep it at least in the back of our minds so that when
we can, and that's true of financial resources. Not everybody at all,
particularly today, heaven knows, the cost of education, everything else,
there's no way. And so that's one change I see a lot, for example, in the
non-profits in our community. Most of our projects, frankly, are larger now.
That is, they cost more. And yet the kind of local support that used to be able
to provide that cannot do that, there's no question. So you have to change the
means of which to achieve them. And that's usually going through the grant
process and whether it's through foundations or government or whatever. But
that's just a matter of having to change the way we do business, and that will
always be true. But the opportunities, I think, will always be there. It's up to
us, as best we can, to adapt to them and still be productive in whatever best
way we can, it seems to me. And I also, you asked initially really about advice
to young people in that sense. And this is probably true across the board in all
life. But there is such satisfaction gained by being able to contribute and to
be on a team and be involved in the teamwork. And it's like so many things;
you're repaid so many more times than you ever put in. That’s, but you have to
maybe try once to figure that out or really to do it to accept that or to agree
that's really true. But, as I say, I'm always, I hope with the glass half full
and not empty. I just think that's what it's all about. And the other--going the
other direction doesn't seem to have any chance at all. So you might as well go
with the one that has a chance, and it will work.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Well, you know, when we visit the Metropolitan Museum, we
all know the vision, the dream of Lew Eaton. Many of us, children, the
community, enjoy the quality of a museum like the Met because of the vision of
Lew Eaton. Woodward Park, when I was out there riding my bike out there the
other day, your family. And so it is folks who give of themselves that the whole
community benefits by. Last question, Knute Rockne, the great Notre Dame
football coach, wrote that when the final scorekeeper tallies the score, it
matters not whether you won or lost, but how do you play the game? How do you
want folks to tally the score on O. James Woodward the Third? What would the
scorecard show? What do you want them to remember you by?
>>James Woodward: Well, I think most of all, to have served the appropriate role
within the family and setting the values for my kids and those that I come, and
that, of course, extends to anybody I come in contact with. But starting at home
and building off of that. In a broader sense, in terms of beyond that, I think I
would want to be known, at least for doing a little bit more than just my part,
just a little bit. It's, again, like in athletics. Just a little bit is not
quite enough. You can't do it all, but it's not so bad to try to strive to do it
all and then work backwards, to seems to me. So, you know, I have so many good
memories of people who have contributed and have made a difference. And so I
hope it does--I think it can be a little bit contagious. And that's always been
my only problem. As much as I really respect people who are anonymous, and there
are some who prefer it that way, and I totally understand that, and I think
that's terrific. But I've always felt there's a benefit by spreading the word a
little bit in whatever you're doing, and do it the best you can.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Like any good professor, I will close this fireside chat
with an open-ended question. Is there anything that I should have asked or
didn't ask that you would like to share for posterity, as well? Other than, I
know how much you care about your family, and you're a family man, and how proud
you are of your family.
>>James Woodward: Well, that's true. It's funny you ask that, though, because
frankly that's what I'm asking the auditors these days. Is there anything I
should be asking? So it's a good question. But, no, I think we covered--I'm
just, again, as I think suggested, I've been very fortunate. I think because of
our community size and the fact that my family has been involved from pretty
much the beginning, to have that continuity today is somewhat exceptional. So
many people are moving and transient and don't have that opportunity. I find it
very rewarding right now. So if everybody just does a little bit, it's amazing
what we can do together.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You bet. Well, James, on behalf of the Fresno, Greater
Fresno County City Chamber of Commerce, I want to congratulate you for being the
2005 Leon S. Peters recipient. And when we look at all the past recipients,
certainly you're in an appropriate place, and we want to thank you for what
you've contributed to our community and what you'll continue to contribute to
our community. So congratulations, and well deserved.
>>James Woodward: Well, thank you, thank you.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Fresno has changed substantially in terms of the growth,
in terms of the population. What changes have you seen and what are some things
that if you were to do some crystal-balling, as you look at the future of
Fresno, what are some of the things that you're either encouraged by or
concerned about with the future of Fresno? And some recollections of the
transition of, through the years, what have you observed about our town?
>>James Woodward: Well, it's been quite a few years, so I could start and stop
probably anywhere. But in more recent years, we can start physically with the
skyline, which represents much more than just the physical elements. You look
behind them, and what's that bringing to the community? But beyond that, in
terms of growth, of course, in other types of physical structures and so forth,
just the housing. Just in the past few years, as we look particularly north,
northeast, and now west, even as we come to the river, that somewhat has blocked
the growth in that direction. But many, you know, many changes, certainly
physically, are starting to, I think, occur that hadn't for some time in the
stadium and what have you. Having said that, I mean, we all know we have a very
difficult job situation in terms of opportunities. There's been a lot of
attention paid to that. And I think it represents more, you know, of our current
status. I'm very encouraged by some individuals, again, on their own, taking the
initiative, in terms of the recent, the job initiatives programs and things that
we're trying to do. But, again, we've always recognized that we have an
agricultural base. We are, have been limited, to some degree, certainly in
industrial growth that would bring jobs. But, again, having said that, when you
do that, we look at other areas that have had tremendous growth in that type of
thing. And you also bring new challenges and sometimes problems. So I think
looking forward personally that we have location, there's no question about
that, we have location, which is not going to change. We still have space. We
still have room. We have, I think, tremendous opportunities, provided we have
the leadership to continue to develop our resources. And for a long time, it was
water was the focus. Now, my personal belief is that the air quality is the real
issue. And having recently spent a year on the grand jury and just looking and
weighing different current problems, I think that alone with water has to be
right at the top of the list in terms of resolution. But we can do it. I think
the only difference, you know, in comparing kind of the past, the puzzle has a
lot more parts to it now. There was a time when just a few individuals could
make quite a difference very quickly. That's not the case now in any part that
I'm aware of, and certainly not with the non-profits or anything else. The
projects are bigger, our funding resources are more limited, which we all know
is critical. But think how much that has changed in terms of funding education
at all levels, for example. Whereas we were receiving such a large segment from
the state, funding, and we all know what all three levels of government status
in terms of financial resources today. So it's quite a challenge. But, to me,
it's just more parts to the puzzle. And we still have the leadership that can
lead us through. I think a good example, frankly, as we all know, we had a
couple of school districts in recent years that have faced tremendous
challenges. But look, even though it took a while and it took some steps, look
what we have now received and are receiving a leadership, which it's going to
take to lead us out. But it will be done. It's just frustrating for some of us
who would like it to happen a little quicker. And so patience probably has to be
one of our stronger virtues in these days, and that's not always easy.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You're absolutely correct. There's a lot of pieces to the
puzzle. And there are moving parts, which makes it all the more complex. What
advice would you give to our young people? You spoke of leadership and how much
we're going to depend upon leadership. A young person starting off in their
career, eager to emulate the successes of the James, O. James Woodward the
Third, what advice would you give them about their career? How do they balance
community service, the demands of a very competitive corporate world and their
families?
>>James Woodward: That's a good question, and a tough one, because the balance I
think in our lives, all through it is the real challenge. But having said that,
I would first recommend for young people, and have, at least with my own on
quite a few occasions, if they have the opportunity to obtain as broad a base of
education as possible, I think it is extremely helpful for the reasons that I've
suggested before in terms of not only will the needs change, but our own desires
and needs will change. We don't always know at that age what direction we might
want to go. Now, I realize there's some more technical areas in technology and
engineering has always been somewhat limited in the amount of breadth you can
have to your education, but I'm just a strong advocate of--there's so much
information out there now, I'm afraid it's taking away from some of the old
information, which is pretty good stuff, and we're not getting to the
[inaudible]. So, anyway, in a broad sense, I would encourage the broadest, and
stay with it if you can as long as you can. Not that you can't go back, but it's
much tougher to go back than doing it up front. And then again, we've touched on
it so many times, but it's just so true. Balancing that, I've watched the young
people in the law firm that I'm with now, and it's evident, they're trying to
balance the family and the youngsters who are only going to be youngsters for a
short time, with the other parts that they have to do. And sometimes, frankly in
community involvement, can't have that priority yet. And that's well understood.
But, again, having said that, that doesn't mean you have to leave it out anymore
than you leave the rest of that balance out, whether it would be, in my opinion,
you know, in your faith, in your work, in your family, whatever, they may change
to some degree over a period of time, and have to for all kinds of reasons. But
somehow if we can kind of keep it at least in the back of our minds so that when
we can, and that's true of financial resources. Not everybody at all,
particularly today, heaven knows, the cost of education, everything else,
there's no way. And so that's one change I see a lot, for example, in the
non-profits in our community. Most of our projects, frankly, are larger now.
That is, they cost more. And yet the kind of local support that used to be able
to provide that cannot do that, there's no question. So you have to change the
means of which to achieve them. And that's usually going through the grant
process and whether it's through foundations or government or whatever. But
that's just a matter of having to change the way we do business, and that will
always be true. But the opportunities, I think, will always be there. It's up to
us, as best we can, to adapt to them and still be productive in whatever best
way we can, it seems to me. And I also, you asked initially really about advice
to young people in that sense. And this is probably true across the board in all
life. But there is such satisfaction gained by being able to contribute and to
be on a team and be involved in the teamwork. And it's like so many things;
you're repaid so many more times than you ever put in. That’s, but you have to
maybe try once to figure that out or really to do it to accept that or to agree
that's really true. But, as I say, I'm always, I hope with the glass half full
and not empty. I just think that's what it's all about. And the other--going the
other direction doesn't seem to have any chance at all. So you might as well go
with the one that has a chance, and it will work.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Well, you know, when we visit the Metropolitan Museum, we
all know the vision, the dream of Lew Eaton. Many of us, children, the
community, enjoy the quality of a museum like the Met because of the vision of
Lew Eaton. Woodward Park, when I was out there riding my bike out there the
other day, your family. And so it is folks who give of themselves that the whole
community benefits by. Last question, Knute Rockne, the great Notre Dame
football coach, wrote that when the final scorekeeper tallies the score, it
matters not whether you won or lost, but how do you play the game? How do you
want folks to tally the score on O. James Woodward the Third? What would the
scorecard show? What do you want them to remember you by?
>>James Woodward: Well, I think most of all, to have served the appropriate role
within the family and setting the values for my kids and those that I come, and
that, of course, extends to anybody I come in contact with. But starting at home
and building off of that. In a broader sense, in terms of beyond that, I think I
would want to be known, at least for doing a little bit more than just my part,
just a little bit. It's, again, like in athletics. Just a little bit is not
quite enough. You can't do it all, but it's not so bad to try to strive to do it
all and then work backwards, to seems to me. So, you know, I have so many good
memories of people who have contributed and have made a difference. And so I
hope it does--I think it can be a little bit contagious. And that's always been
my only problem. As much as I really respect people who are anonymous, and there
are some who prefer it that way, and I totally understand that, and I think
that's terrific. But I've always felt there's a benefit by spreading the word a
little bit in whatever you're doing, and do it the best you can.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Like any good professor, I will close this fireside chat
with an open-ended question. Is there anything that I should have asked or
didn't ask that you would like to share for posterity, as well? Other than, I
know how much you care about your family, and you're a family man, and how proud
you are of your family.
>>James Woodward: Well, that's true. It's funny you ask that, though, because
frankly that's what I'm asking the auditors these days. Is there anything I
should be asking? So it's a good question. But, no, I think we covered--I'm
just, again, as I think suggested, I've been very fortunate. I think because of
our community size and the fact that my family has been involved from pretty
much the beginning, to have that continuity today is somewhat exceptional. So
many people are moving and transient and don't have that opportunity. I find it
very rewarding right now. So if everybody just does a little bit, it's amazing
what we can do together.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You bet. Well, James, on behalf of the Fresno, Greater
Fresno County City Chamber of Commerce, I want to congratulate you for being the
2005 Leon S. Peters recipient. And when we look at all the past recipients,
certainly you're in an appropriate place, and we want to thank you for what
you've contributed to our community and what you'll continue to contribute to
our community. So congratulations, and well deserved.
>>James Woodward: Well, thank you, thank you.
in terms of the population. What changes have you seen and what are some things
that if you were to do some crystal-balling, as you look at the future of
Fresno, what are some of the things that you're either encouraged by or
concerned about with the future of Fresno? And some recollections of the
transition of, through the years, what have you observed about our town?
>>James Woodward: Well, it's been quite a few years, so I could start and stop
probably anywhere. But in more recent years, we can start physically with the
skyline, which represents much more than just the physical elements. You look
behind them, and what's that bringing to the community? But beyond that, in
terms of growth, of course, in other types of physical structures and so forth,
just the housing. Just in the past few years, as we look particularly north,
northeast, and now west, even as we come to the river, that somewhat has blocked
the growth in that direction. But many, you know, many changes, certainly
physically, are starting to, I think, occur that hadn't for some time in the
stadium and what have you. Having said that, I mean, we all know we have a very
difficult job situation in terms of opportunities. There's been a lot of
attention paid to that. And I think it represents more, you know, of our current
status. I'm very encouraged by some individuals, again, on their own, taking the
initiative, in terms of the recent, the job initiatives programs and things that
we're trying to do. But, again, we've always recognized that we have an
agricultural base. We are, have been limited, to some degree, certainly in
industrial growth that would bring jobs. But, again, having said that, when you
do that, we look at other areas that have had tremendous growth in that type of
thing. And you also bring new challenges and sometimes problems. So I think
looking forward personally that we have location, there's no question about
that, we have location, which is not going to change. We still have space. We
still have room. We have, I think, tremendous opportunities, provided we have
the leadership to continue to develop our resources. And for a long time, it was
water was the focus. Now, my personal belief is that the air quality is the real
issue. And having recently spent a year on the grand jury and just looking and
weighing different current problems, I think that alone with water has to be
right at the top of the list in terms of resolution. But we can do it. I think
the only difference, you know, in comparing kind of the past, the puzzle has a
lot more parts to it now. There was a time when just a few individuals could
make quite a difference very quickly. That's not the case now in any part that
I'm aware of, and certainly not with the non-profits or anything else. The
projects are bigger, our funding resources are more limited, which we all know
is critical. But think how much that has changed in terms of funding education
at all levels, for example. Whereas we were receiving such a large segment from
the state, funding, and we all know what all three levels of government status
in terms of financial resources today. So it's quite a challenge. But, to me,
it's just more parts to the puzzle. And we still have the leadership that can
lead us through. I think a good example, frankly, as we all know, we had a
couple of school districts in recent years that have faced tremendous
challenges. But look, even though it took a while and it took some steps, look
what we have now received and are receiving a leadership, which it's going to
take to lead us out. But it will be done. It's just frustrating for some of us
who would like it to happen a little quicker. And so patience probably has to be
one of our stronger virtues in these days, and that's not always easy.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You're absolutely correct. There's a lot of pieces to the
puzzle. And there are moving parts, which makes it all the more complex. What
advice would you give to our young people? You spoke of leadership and how much
we're going to depend upon leadership. A young person starting off in their
career, eager to emulate the successes of the James, O. James Woodward the
Third, what advice would you give them about their career? How do they balance
community service, the demands of a very competitive corporate world and their
families?
>>James Woodward: That's a good question, and a tough one, because the balance I
think in our lives, all through it is the real challenge. But having said that,
I would first recommend for young people, and have, at least with my own on
quite a few occasions, if they have the opportunity to obtain as broad a base of
education as possible, I think it is extremely helpful for the reasons that I've
suggested before in terms of not only will the needs change, but our own desires
and needs will change. We don't always know at that age what direction we might
want to go. Now, I realize there's some more technical areas in technology and
engineering has always been somewhat limited in the amount of breadth you can
have to your education, but I'm just a strong advocate of--there's so much
information out there now, I'm afraid it's taking away from some of the old
information, which is pretty good stuff, and we're not getting to the
[inaudible]. So, anyway, in a broad sense, I would encourage the broadest, and
stay with it if you can as long as you can. Not that you can't go back, but it's
much tougher to go back than doing it up front. And then again, we've touched on
it so many times, but it's just so true. Balancing that, I've watched the young
people in the law firm that I'm with now, and it's evident, they're trying to
balance the family and the youngsters who are only going to be youngsters for a
short time, with the other parts that they have to do. And sometimes, frankly in
community involvement, can't have that priority yet. And that's well understood.
But, again, having said that, that doesn't mean you have to leave it out anymore
than you leave the rest of that balance out, whether it would be, in my opinion,
you know, in your faith, in your work, in your family, whatever, they may change
to some degree over a period of time, and have to for all kinds of reasons. But
somehow if we can kind of keep it at least in the back of our minds so that when
we can, and that's true of financial resources. Not everybody at all,
particularly today, heaven knows, the cost of education, everything else,
there's no way. And so that's one change I see a lot, for example, in the
non-profits in our community. Most of our projects, frankly, are larger now.
That is, they cost more. And yet the kind of local support that used to be able
to provide that cannot do that, there's no question. So you have to change the
means of which to achieve them. And that's usually going through the grant
process and whether it's through foundations or government or whatever. But
that's just a matter of having to change the way we do business, and that will
always be true. But the opportunities, I think, will always be there. It's up to
us, as best we can, to adapt to them and still be productive in whatever best
way we can, it seems to me. And I also, you asked initially really about advice
to young people in that sense. And this is probably true across the board in all
life. But there is such satisfaction gained by being able to contribute and to
be on a team and be involved in the teamwork. And it's like so many things;
you're repaid so many more times than you ever put in. That’s, but you have to
maybe try once to figure that out or really to do it to accept that or to agree
that's really true. But, as I say, I'm always, I hope with the glass half full
and not empty. I just think that's what it's all about. And the other--going the
other direction doesn't seem to have any chance at all. So you might as well go
with the one that has a chance, and it will work.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Well, you know, when we visit the Metropolitan Museum, we
all know the vision, the dream of Lew Eaton. Many of us, children, the
community, enjoy the quality of a museum like the Met because of the vision of
Lew Eaton. Woodward Park, when I was out there riding my bike out there the
other day, your family. And so it is folks who give of themselves that the whole
community benefits by. Last question, Knute Rockne, the great Notre Dame
football coach, wrote that when the final scorekeeper tallies the score, it
matters not whether you won or lost, but how do you play the game? How do you
want folks to tally the score on O. James Woodward the Third? What would the
scorecard show? What do you want them to remember you by?
>>James Woodward: Well, I think most of all, to have served the appropriate role
within the family and setting the values for my kids and those that I come, and
that, of course, extends to anybody I come in contact with. But starting at home
and building off of that. In a broader sense, in terms of beyond that, I think I
would want to be known, at least for doing a little bit more than just my part,
just a little bit. It's, again, like in athletics. Just a little bit is not
quite enough. You can't do it all, but it's not so bad to try to strive to do it
all and then work backwards, to seems to me. So, you know, I have so many good
memories of people who have contributed and have made a difference. And so I
hope it does--I think it can be a little bit contagious. And that's always been
my only problem. As much as I really respect people who are anonymous, and there
are some who prefer it that way, and I totally understand that, and I think
that's terrific. But I've always felt there's a benefit by spreading the word a
little bit in whatever you're doing, and do it the best you can.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: Like any good professor, I will close this fireside chat
with an open-ended question. Is there anything that I should have asked or
didn't ask that you would like to share for posterity, as well? Other than, I
know how much you care about your family, and you're a family man, and how proud
you are of your family.
>>James Woodward: Well, that's true. It's funny you ask that, though, because
frankly that's what I'm asking the auditors these days. Is there anything I
should be asking? So it's a good question. But, no, I think we covered--I'm
just, again, as I think suggested, I've been very fortunate. I think because of
our community size and the fact that my family has been involved from pretty
much the beginning, to have that continuity today is somewhat exceptional. So
many people are moving and transient and don't have that opportunity. I find it
very rewarding right now. So if everybody just does a little bit, it's amazing
what we can do together.
>>Dr. Peter G. Mehas: You bet. Well, James, on behalf of the Fresno, Greater
Fresno County City Chamber of Commerce, I want to congratulate you for being the
2005 Leon S. Peters recipient. And when we look at all the past recipients,
certainly you're in an appropriate place, and we want to thank you for what
you've contributed to our community and what you'll continue to contribute to
our community. So congratulations, and well deserved.
>>James Woodward: Well, thank you, thank you.