Dear Readers:

As we begin a new year full of hope and optimism, The Ukrainian Observer renews its pledge to attempt to provide you during the coming year with stories about some of the most important and interesting personalities and issues in Ukraine. Again, we remind all that we earnestly seek input from our readers about their opinions as to what issues and persons are worthy of coverage.

Following our tradition, in this issue we name the persons who The Observer believes played a particularly pivotal role in Ukrainian society during the year. We chose to honor philanthropists as a group and to particularly honor two persons who have taken a commanding lead in philanthropy in Ukraine, Rinat Akhmetov and Viktor Pinchuk. After reading Jim Hydzik's article in support of this premise, you may agree - or not. And if not, we welcome mail on the subject.

As is his habit at least once a year, Mike Willard in Random Notes explains a bit about the inner working of The Observer and you'll also find the magazine the subject of one of this month's cartoons. On a more serious note, Mike holds forth in Work Place on a favorite subject, "Steadying the PR Ship".

Glen Willard has become, at least temporarily, not only editor-at-large, but also a foreign correspondent, writing from the United States on his efforts at getting a driver's license in his home state of Georgia.

Also, you'll find articles on Ukraine's history, health care system, poverty level and tourist development in western Ukraine, enough to provide a fair amount of good reading in the month ahead. As always, send suggestions, complaints, letters to the editor for possible publication, whatever, to jim.davis@twg.com.ua.

Sincerely, the Editors.