Dear Citizens of Arnold,
A few days ago a friend suggested I update this web page. As has been reported in the local media, soon I will be resigning my seat on the Arnold City Council and moving my family to the city of Pevely. My wife and I have selected a lot in a small subdivision named Pevely Heights on which to build a new home.
While going through the process of selling our current home and working with the builder of our new home has been keeping use very busy at the Venable home, I have also had a great deal of time to reflect back on my time in Arnold. Having been raised in Bayshore Subdivision in Arnold, and only having spent two years of my life not being a legal resident of this city, I can honestly say that Arnold is where my heart is. It is where I grew up, learned to ride a bike, roller skate, skate board, swim, go snipe hunting and much, much more. (Yes, that's right, I said snipe hunting.)
After 42 years of wonderful memories, it is strange to think about getting up each day in a city different than this. Knowing that each day, when you get up and head out the front door, the faces I see will no longer be as familiar. Going the corner store or the grocery around the corner, I will not be bumping into lifelong friends on a regular basis.
Still, while having this sadness about what my family and I will soon be giving up, there is also a feeling of excitement. The same excitement that I had when leaving home to join the Air Force, or each time I switched duty assignments. Each move brings new adventures, new mountains to climb and new friendships to build.
However, before I go anywhere, I want to thank everyone who has been so kind to my wife, my children and myself over the past several years. In and out of the political arena, people have been wonderful. My family has truly been blessed. And to all those people that have shared encouraging words and support as I have tried to find my way through on the Arnold City Council, I want you to know I do appreciate all you have done.
While it has not always been easy, or a pleasure to serve, I would not have given up the past six years for anything. The voters of Ward 2 gave am an opportunity that is only given to a select few people. I appreciated this more than I can ever say, and then I was humbled when the voters allowed me continue on for not one, but two more terms.
Again, for my family and myself, thank you all for you wonderful kindness.
Sincerely,
