Posted on 10/20/2001 7:51:14 AM PDT by Theodore R.
Our Opinion: Dalton J. Woods was a trailblazer Oilman, GOP loyalist, died last weekend.
Editorial Board
Posted on October 20, 2001
When the late Dalton J. Woods addressed a Leadership Shreveport group in the mid-1980s, he spoke about taking personal responsibility and working hard. "Don't blame others for your problems" was one of his messages that day to the diverse audience of civic-minded young adults.
To illustrate, he told a story - much-shortened here - of a Good Samaritan who encountered a dying snake and who was so moved by the snake's sad story that he placed the snake in his pocket and thereby saved its life. Instead of keeping its promise, the snake ultimately bit the man. When questioned by the incredulous Samaritan, the snake replied, "You knew I was a snake when you put me in your pocket."
He went on to tell his own tale of growing up poor, working hard, being fiscally conservative and contributing to society, but also expecting others to do the same. Although he didn't point it out that day, the audience knew Woods to be one of Shreveport's movers and shakers: a successful oilman, wealthy Republican, friend and local host of governors, congressmen and presidents. His comments were discussed in various venues throughout the year-long leadership program.
Even those who didn't agree with Woods that day - when "politically correct" speech was fairly new in these parts - found his candor to be a breath of fresh air. "At least he said what he thinks with none of this bending over backward not to offend someone," one participant said.
Such stories would be remembered and repeated many times during Woods' life, which ended last Saturday at age 80 after a courageous battle with cancer.
A staunch conservative and devoted Republican, he served in a number of areas, including the Republican National Finance Committee and Republican Senatorial Trust. In our community and state he performed many roles, including leadership in public and private schools and on the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors.
In these ways and so many more, Woods contributed to our city, state and nation. His presence, advice, counsel and especially his candor will be sorely missed.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.