If you're a fan of the magazine (and since you've landed here in our blog section, I'm willing to bet you are), then you've probably perused our monthly “Hometown Hero” page. Sponsored by Shale Exploration, it spotlights local folks who — in one way or another — exemplify laudable qualities (usually involving stuff that has a nonprofit or philanthropic bent). What I enjoy most about this particular gig is the opportunity to meet these area “heroes” (although, I can promise you that each one has quickly waved off any notions of heroism). As humble as the day is long, they all have been an absolute joy to interview and just as rewarding to write about.
Case in point: Our June hero, Jamie Cashion. Ever met someone who immediately put you at ease? Who exudes an unmistakable je ne sais quoi — a “certain something” that intrigues and inspires by equal measures? That's Jamie. When I first called him to schedule our Hometown Hero interview, he immediately turned the conversation away from himself and pointed it squarely at me. (Hmmm, this reporter stuff isn't too bad!)
He asked me how my day was going, thanked me profusely for even considering him a hero and told me how “blessed” he was to be chatting with me. Never mind that his day was already packed with a string of meetings and other must-dos — Jamie is just that nice, that modest, that, well, heroic. Shale knew what they were doing when they tapped Mr. Cashion for this month's honor. Please check it out, if not for anything else than to feel completely inspired by this incredible man.
Incidentally, after I submitted the Hometown Hero text to my editor, Jamie sent me an email, very kindly asking if I could add a quote from him to the write-up. Unfortunately, the editorial deadline had passed, so I couldn't oblige him … until now. The following is a quote straight from Jamie.
“It would be really nice if anywhere in your article I could thank God first, for saving my life in 1984; my wife, Summer, for her unwavering love; my mom, Pam, (deceased) for her strength and compassion for life from her wheelchair; and my dad, Jim, for introducing me to my first fundraising experience and demonstrating that hard work in any endeavor will lead to success.”
Thanks again, Jamie! Your success is well deserved.
