Hello, my name is Shawn Cardwell, a long-time resident of Grant County. I had a wonderful time growing up here and am having a heck of a time raising my family here, too! This magazine is my way of contributing to the conversation and culture of our region, a way to meaningfully participate with the purpose of moving the needle just a little towards unity and away from division.
I am overwhelmed by the faith this community has put in me with the revival of Venue Magazine – from founder Melea Johnson graciously allowing me to become the next steward of this publication, to the stories and sentiments the subjects within these pages shared. I am humbled and grateful.
I hope you will join me in celebrating our community in all its prosperity, its quirky ways, its long history and its imminent future. I look forward to introducing y’all to the many people, businesses and organizations that inspire me, and uncovering even more.
In the meantime, take care of yourselves and each other. Drink water, wear sunscreen (especially at the Grant County Fair). And please, vote!
All the best, Shawn Cardwell
