Celebrating milestones

Goodbye 2007! Hellooo 2008! If there was anybody ready to begin a new year, it’s me. Like most human beings, I look at January as a fresh start and 12 months of endless opportunities—not only on a personal level, but also for the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Kentucky has the distinct honor of hosting the nation as it officially kicks off the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial celebration. On Feb. 11 and 12, Hodgenville and Louisville will present several events honoring the country’s 16th president. But it doesn’t stop there. Over the next two years, programs and tributes will occur in several states celebrating Lincoln’s life and legacy. Kentucky Monthly is doing its part by publishing regular sections about Lincoln and bicentennial events.

The international spotlight will also shine on Louisville and the state as the 2008 Ryder Cup converges on Valhalla Golf Club in September. The Bluegrass is pulling out all the stops as it presents the Cup Experience—a series of community and statewide events and activities taking place during the prestigious golfing event. As the official state magazine of the Cup Experience, we will bring you information all year long leading up to the September event.

Speaking of September, that is the month Kentucky Monthly turns the big one-oh. Yep, for nearly 10 years we have brought you the best the Bluegrass State has to offer. Time flies when you’re having fun, doesn’t it? To mark our 10th anniversary, the magazine has put together a new cookbook chock full of our favorite Kentucky recipes. Look for it on the bookshelves this spring.

To launch 2008, we took extra care to pick the features that would help our readers get this year off to a great start. For organizing your home we give you wonderful tips, hints and how-to’s.

Maybe you need some personal inspiration? The life, faith and actions of the 2008 Kentuckian of the Year Michala Riggle is a story of motivation and service to others.

Eastern Kentucky University’s new president, Dr. Doug Whitlock, is a perfect picture of devotion to one’s alma mater and hometown. So, if you’re heading for the gym for the first time in months, even years, take this issue with you. Or, if you need a break from rearranging your living room, take a few moments to read the following pages. Who knows? You might even find a new resolution to add to your list. Happy New Year!