Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1376329
T his issue reminds us that there is so much more going on around our local countryside than the antiques and design shows. New ventures, new venues, new mayors — from Fayette and adjacent counties. We thrive on new stories — people doing new things. They don't have to just be about the folks coming from the city, and they don't have to be about wealth. Sometimes, oftentimes, just interesting does the trick. Occasionally, if it seems like we cover the same folks, it's because they are probably doing something new — they have a new story to tell. We're constantly evolving to cast our net wider to capture these stories. While the area is growing, we still have to sniff out what needs to be told. Importantly, look at the event listings happening outside of the show weeks. All the local businesses need these to thrive, and we are in meaningful talks to try to bring more non-showtime events out here. We love charities and nonprofits, and over the years, we've even helped birth a few. This month, we give a nod to a couple of venerable ones: Round Top Festival Institute and Camp For All, both doing great things. Our goal is to shine a light on other nonprofits when we can. The pandemic grossly blunted Festival Institute's ability to provide its great programming last year, but they're back. Spread the word and catch a concert. Or two. Or more. Having said all of that, the shows are still a vastly important and vital part of our world out here. Check out the post- coverage of the spring show. It was spectacular, full of new venues, dealers, and things to do — the shows continue to evolve and add more layers. This spring, I met countless folks who made the pilgrimage for the first time. Lots from Austin, but more than anywhere, the new folks seemed to come from Dallas. They're warming up to the special spectacle we have out here. Since our print publications are only four times a year, our digital efforts are critical. Sign up for our newsletters and follow us on social media. Our traffic and followers have grown at an astonishing rate. Personally, I don't spend a lot of time on Instagram, but, wow, I now see how important it is to our clients — and to us. Join our community, and let us hear from you. Jim Kastleman Chairman jim@papercitymag.com Jim Kastleman JACK THOMPSON 8