Editor's Note

The month of October always makes Taipei even more lively and exciting. The clear, brisk weather, the flowers, the ceremonial arches, the colorful lights, the fireworks, and the crowds that gather each evening in front of the Presidential Building--the joyous atmosphere in celebration of the nation's birthday has become richer and richer with each passing year.

This year's national day was even more significant than usual. Over the past year the nation has overcome many problems, striving continually to advance toward a more democratic and open ideal. Would holding a review of the troops on the national day affect its image? After watching the review on television and attending the festivities that night at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial, a British student exclaimed, "I always knew that Taiwan was prosperous, but it wasn't until now that I realized the strength of the society that supports its economic miracle."

The country's joy at this time is something that Chinese living or traveling abroad must long for and miss. We hope to bring you a bit of that warmth and happiness through our text and pictures.

In addition, our cover story "Two of a Kind," the environmental article "Feathered Visitors from Afar," the interview "Minister Without Portfolio--or Party-Shen Chun-shan," and the articles on folk singers, Nankuan opera, and the artist Little Fish are all designed to make this month's issue a special one.