It is with much pleasure and gratification that I encourage you to read the messages from the presidents of the five societies for whom Microscopy and Microanalysis is the official journal. Each of the five presidents graciously agreed to write a message for this first issue of 1998. Writing such messages is often a burden on an already overtaxed schedule and we very much appreciate the effort they all have made. These contributions reflect one of the primary goals of the News and Commentary, that is, to be an arena for contributions from all of the societies affiliated with the journal—contributions of interest to a broad spectrum of microscopists. We hope to truly make this journal an endeavor reflecting international exchange and cooperation. Again, I thank these presidents for taking the time to write these words. So please, respect this effort and take the time to read their comments. The five presidential messages are presented in the order of their listing on the front cover of the journal, which reflects the order in which the particular society became affiliated with Microscopy and Microanalysis.