Typhoon Morakot hit Taiwan Aug. 7-9, unleashing 3,000 millimeters of rainfall (the annual average) on the southern part of the island. This caused massive flooding and mudslides in mountainous areas.

Beautiful Mount Ali in Chiayi County and the Maolin National Scenic Area in Kaohsiung County - major tourist attractions - suffered the worst damage in living memory. Indigenous mountain communities have seen their farmland washed away; they are facing severe economic hardship. In addition, traditional lifestyles are being threatened as many may be forced to relocate to urban areas.

Recognizing the desperate need of so many, Taiwan this Month donated NT$100,000 to Taitung, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Chiayi and Tainan counties. We would like to call upon our readers to do the same. Please provide whatever you can.

On a more positive note, the Deaflympics will be held in Taipei Sept. 1-15 with some 4,000 athletes and 1,500 assistants attending. A lot of preparation has gone into hosting the event, and numerous citizens are volunteering to ensure that the Games run smoothly. The opening ceremony at the Taipei Stadium promises to be an unforgettable extravaganza. It will include performances by famous singers, a parade of athletes and much more. In addition, a special concert, Power in Me, will be held Sept. 6 at 7.30 pm at the Zhong Shan Hall.

As always with big events, traffic is a concern. The best way to get around the city is sure to be public transportation, including the city's convenient bus and mass rapid transit (MRT) lines. Leave the car at home for a less stressful, more enjoyable time.

Enjoy the Deaflympics!

Louise Byström
Editor-in-Chief