By Steve FlairtyNKyTribune ColumnistOn the occasion of the 25th anniversary of one of the state’s premier magazines, Kentucky Monthly, my wife and I recently attended a celebratory get-togethe
My first encounter with legendary journalist and KET host Al Smith was in late 1973, where he was publishing the Logan Leader newspaper in Russellville. At the time I ran a monthly advertising publication out of Bowling Green, but printed it in Indiana.
Al Smith, a great journalist, in the comfort of his home office.
I wanted to get closer to home, so Russellville filled that need. In doing so, Al and I became friends, and frequently saw each other in our travels across Kentucky.
Al passed away on March 20, 2021, at the age of 94.
In December 2002, Kentucky Monthly Magazine’s publisher Steve Vest asked me to do a feature story on Al. I must admit to being a bit nervous about the assignment. After all, he had spent a lifetime interviewing people in high places for newspapers and television. Still, I was up for the challenge.
After more than 34 years, Kentucky Explorer, from Jackson, Kentucky, has published its last issue.
Readers enjoyed historical articles, old photos, genealogy tips and personal essays, in the black and white magazine which was printed on newspaper stock. Beginning with the February 2021 issue of Kentucky Monthly Magazine, a section of each issue will include content, and even be styled to resemble, the familiar pages of Kentucky Explorer.
Today, as Kentucky Explorer owner Charles Hayes and staff contemplate retirement, the reins have been handed over to Steve Vest, editor and publisher of Kentucky Monthly Magazine.
“For more than 22 years Kentucky Monthly has celebrated the people, places, events and culture of the Commonwealth. We’ve always seen Kentucky Explorer an ally in that pursuit,” said Vest