My dad reminds me of the color orange. Orange represents his fun and charismatic side, like the lively energy he brings. It also reminds me of his determination and courage. Orange is a bold, strong color that has always reminded me of my dad Jason.
Growing up in a law enforcement household I’ve learned two things; I have a curfew for a reason, and “no, I don’t know that person but they know me, so let’s send them a grad card.” I wouldn’t change being the chief’s daughter for the world. I’ve always felt a sense of protection and family from our small community. My dad never came home and released his stress on our family, he never made me think he had a bad day. He always believes in my journalist dreams, and crazy bursts of ideas, and never doubts a good time.
Jason grew up in a family of seven. It was always a busy household full of kids, early Sunday mornings, and mischief. My dad was the youngest sibling, so you can already imagine the influence his older brothers and older sister had on him. I’ve heard many stories of broken windows, angry neighbors, and late-night bike rides. What else do you expect from a family growing up in the 80’s and not much to do. My dad has expressed to me he always knew he wanted to be a police officer. He said, “it always made it look fun and exciting and I wanted to get bad guys.” My dad was the first in his family to be involved in law enforcement. He says his parents always pushed him away from that profession; in dreams he would become a “lawyer” or “doctor”. He said it wasn’t until he landed his chief position in Cannon Beach that his dad told him he was proud. I am so beyond proud of my dad for following his dreams and doing his own thing even if he didn’t have all the support in the world. He has taught me to always follow my dreams and do what makes me happy.
I’ve noticed there is one strong thing that has really affected my dad through his career. It’s the difference he has made in our community. He says sometimes he forgets people do appreciate the things he does and that he does actually offer a helping hand. Small compliments or just words of encouragement are the reason he does what he does because all he ever wants is to help the people around him, I believe my dad truly has the brightest soul. I think hearing that has made me realize that everyone in the community should really take the time to appreciate the small things and let someone know if they have made a difference in your life, because that could really be all they need to have a good day, week, or even month.
Jason’s future plans are to really enjoy his days in Idaho; to start making time for family and to do the things he can only do on his days off. He is currently interviewing for a public information officer position. He is really most looking forward to having a fresh start and “letting his hair down.”
Law enforcement really made my dad who he was, he told me “I really couldn’t have imagined myself doing anything different” This just shows his true dedication through the past 20 plus years with his involvement in law enforcement. It’s who he is and even off-duty he still looks for crime and always has eyes on the back of his head. Jason is truly grateful for all the support he has gotten from the community these past years. Being chief has affected the way he raised his kids, his outlook on the community, his future, and his marriage. His message to the community is “Don’t forget who you are and what your opinion is.”
My message to my dad is, be proud of yourself and the effect you have made in this town you love ever so deeply, be proud you have something that is hard to say goodbye to.
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