Dear Readers:

In view of the seemingly endless rumors that roil Ukraine in regard to the dangers of the closed Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, we attempted to dig far enough into the steaming nuclear pile to capture some kernels of truth. The results, as related in our cover story, lay to rest some fears but make it clear that more strong action and less demagoguery would be in the best interests of all concerned.

Political analyst Taras Kuzio returns with the first in a series of pieces penned especially for the Observer, this one dealing with the stark choices currently on the agenda for Ukraine's citizens.

In his piece, "The Economic Effects of Corruption," Oleksandr Shepotylo points out a number of interesting and disturbing facts, not least of which is that, based on statistics adjusted for purchasing power parity, Ukraine has the second highest level of bribery in the world. In his offerings this month, Mike Willard holds forth on subjects as old as one of America's last afternoon dailies and as up-to-date as the current trend for virtually every one in the world to have his or her own Internet blog.

In his column, Volodymyr Senchenko makes some very strong points about Stalinist repression, Arthur Bleu looks at the art world that has to be enjoyed via the microscope and Serhiy Kharchenko tells one of the funniest stories ever penned about a Soviet-era butcher.

Also, Valerie Wright talks about the peculiar charms of Ukraine's khytri zinky (cunning women), Roger Hudzenko relates a curiously cultural short story and Glen Willard covers an assortment of interesting subjects.

Enjoy your February and enjoy this month's Ukrainian Observer. As always, complaints, suggestions or story ideas: send them to jim.davis@twg.com.ua.

Sincerely, the Editors.