2009 Hometown Spirit Award Nominee:
Ian Henshaw

Nominated by: Mercedes Auger and Carol Regular, who both state on the nomination form:

“Ian Henshaw has lived in Cary since February 1990 and has led his Cary Community in promoting the warmth, hospitality, and hometown spirit for which Cary is known. Through activities with the Sister Cities Commission and his business, Oakhaven Research, Inc., Ian uses his expertise to continually assist local nonprofits, fellow Caryites and citizens of the world.

Ian is a quiet, humble father of three boys. He is a Citizen Diplomat in every sense of the word, consistently exhibiting the qualities of integrity, kindness and sound character. He has a welcoming heart and an offer of friendship to anyone he encounters.

Ian has been a member of the Sister Cities Commission since 1993. During his tenure, Sister Cities has become an established, well known organization throughout Cary and the world. Through Ian’s efforts, diplomacy and hospitality, Sister Cities established the International Hospitality Garden at Lazy Daze, the Annual 9/11 Concert and the Beaujolais Festival. Ian continues to foster and nurture the relationships between our four sister cities in France, Taiwan, Ireland and Canada. He has created bonds with his humble demeanor, warm smile and ‘can do’ attitude. His hometown spirit projects itself.

In 2007, Ian was the recipient of the Multi-Cultural Award, awarded for the resourceful promotion of Sister Cities and his appreciation of other cultures. Ian does what he loves with caring warmth, a big smile and gracious ease. While welcoming visitors, Ian continues his community work by providing free network and computer services to local nonprofit annual events, i.e., Cary Page Rotary, Women’s Center, Pinewood Derby and The Carying Place Auctions, to name a few. The hometown spirit continues through Ian’s company, Oakhaven Research, Inc. Ian exemplifies the Cary hometown spirit by mentoring young men while teaching them the skills needed to maintain a small business and regular paycheck.

Ian exudes ‘Cary hospitality’ and hometown spirit because it comes naturally to him. His twinkling eyes greet you with ‘Welcome’ and you know you’re home! He offers friendship and knows no stranger. Ian loves Cary and is respectful of cultures here and abroad. In turn, he is respected.

To quote Mary Jean Eisenhower, CEO of People to People International:

‘Dear Ian,

As I reflect on highlights from 2008…my visit to Cary is among the most treasured. I found the warmth and graciousness of the Cary Community refreshing…Many thanks for your friendship, Ian.’

We concur. Ian Henshaw is well deserving of the Hometown Spirit Award. He embodies warmth, hospitality and friendship. Ian continues to open Cary’s doors to the world."