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Members' 25-Year Reminiscences Russell L. Lambert, AICP Yuma, Arizona Memories: In early childhood on a farm in Indiana, I experienced the cause and effect of actions on the land. My father and grandfather were constantly "teaching" what soil management meant to the life of a family relying on its bounty. Little did I know that years later such education would lay the groundwork for a call to the planning profession. As a student planner in California in the mid-1970s, I felt a tremendous opportunity to contribute to the future of the locale, region and the State. The sense that "I can conquer the world" wafted into my life after graduation. I wanted to make a real difference in the way development was evaluated and improve community well being for the future. That's not to say that every work experience led to feeling of success. Nor did attaining a "crown jewel" in planning, becoming a certified planner, help me to achieve the answer to many prayers ... professional recognition. Certainly, knowledge is helpful but experience was what shaped my learning of what a planner is and does. However, it was the mentoring, teaching and patience of great planner mentors who helped me see development from the various perspectives and issues that began to make "community planning" a real love and joy. Greig showed great patience in teaching me the ropes of enforcement ... why and how laws implement plans. Leonard showed wisdom and latitude in "prescribing" work assignments that stretched me to think about "cause and effect." Lynne showed thoughtful patience when the chips were down and encouraged me to push through the tough times looking ahead to what the "quality" community should be. John spoke and showed me volumes about the private practice side of planning. That perspective alone provided key understanding of creating "livable" spaces that make great places. Mike showed me wisdom in directing understanding of planning relationships and policy values that shape community futures. A joint city/county land use plan resulted in certainty for our community's future. Laurie opened the doors for creative thinking while Cliff provides opportunities for stretching our community's horizon. I'm not sure who will be the next mentor or encourager in my life but the message planning has provided me is most profound … Pass it on! What we gain from achieving for ourselves pales before the riches of sharing a vision, goals, and a future of what "place" should be. I'm grateful for each person who has shaped my life. I only hope I can give back as much as those who gave to me. With that kind of commitment, our environments will certainly be more sensitive to people and places. That's what I see as the profession's pursuit ... sharing ideas, creating livable spaces, and improving dialogue with community leaders that guide creative decision-making for our future! I can't wait for the next 25 years! Education Student member of AIP in 1977-1979, from my recollection Work History Santa Barbara County, California Madera County, California Monterey County, California Private firm — San Luis Obispo, California City of Yuma, Arizona City of Somerton, Arizona
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