Getting to know your neighbors and community leaders can be fun! This week, we would love to invite you to know a bit more about Mayor Jeff Dodson of the Town of Woodstock. As he gears up for the Woodstock Music Festival this Saturday, May 18th at Holiday Raceway, he took the time to chat with me and answer a few questions, both serious and silly.
- Can you share a bit about your family and some of the responsibilities you have as Woodstock Mayor?
“I’m blessed. Me and my wife, Cheryl, have five children. Cheryl is on the Board of Education. We have a busy life with five grandchildren too. At one time we were foster parents. But we sure are blessed.
As mayor, I’m in charge of the daily operations of the town. Not only that, but I’m also the spokesman. It’s my job to tell the world what a wonderful place Woodstock is to live. I’m extremely proud of how far we’ve come and grown as a town. I think it’s all moved at a pretty good pace. I love being the Woodstock mayor, especially with things like the music festival. What was originally a small idea, for it to become what it is today, is something wonderful.”
- If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
“Jesus. You could have whatever you wanted… or maybe not. But great company nonetheless!”
- Can you share a mantra or quote that inspires you in your personal and/or professional life?
“I used to have a fear of getting in front of people, but during the time I was a boxer, I had a trainer who always said, ‘What’s the difference between the hero and the coward? It is what they do that makes them different, because they both feel the same.’ That was Cus D’Amato.”
- If you had to describe your leadership style with a movie or tv show title, what would it be?
“Moneyball!”
- If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
“Don’t stress it! It all works out – life will work itself out.”
- What’s your favorite way to relax and unwind after a busy day or week?
“Unwind? What’s that? I’m kidding. Music, definitely listening to it daily. Spending time with my grandkids is something I always enjoy. About once a year, I’ll take off and go hiking for about 3 days by myself.”
- If you could magically solve one problem in your community overnight, what would it be?
“Trash!”
- If you were given the chance to switch careers for a week, what would you choose to do?
“Ring announcer or sportscaster.”
- If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to benefit your community?
“I’d turn myself into a road grader and a paving machine!”
- What would your dream lineup look like for a future Woodstock Music Festival?
“I’ve honestly been too pleased already with what we’ve had. Of course you want to stay as local as you can get, but what we want the music festival to be about is the folks who come to it. I’ve been pleased with every artist we’ve had play. I think we’re in our lane and where we should be with it.”
Connection fosters a closer sense of community, and we are grateful for those who are willing to share a bit about themselves. Do you have someone you would like to see featured? Give us a call to let us know!
