In this issue, frequent contributors Clare and Johan Hermans return to Madagascar, providing us a lavishly illustrated opportunity to see what most of us will never have the opportunity to study.  Speaking of lavishly illustrated, Jean Allen-Ikeson reminds us why Cattlianthe Chocolate Drop is the wonderful parent that it is and why its hybrids are so popular. Peggy Alrich and Wesley Higgins, in their monthly column - Orchids Illustrated - treat us to wonderful botanical art with the genus Renanthera as the subject and Sue Bottom finishes her discussion of leaf-spotting fungi in cattleyas and their treatment.  If this weren't enough, Tom Mirenda tries something different this month with the first installment of Form Meets Function, a department meant to examine why the plants we adore have the appearance and fragrance (or odors) that they do.  Did you know that most white species with fringes are irresistible to moths?Last but certainly not least, December is traditionally when we feature a selection of the best photographs submitted to the Orchid Photograph of the Week website posting. Our magnificent cover this month is one of the 10 feature selections this year.  As always, both species and hybrids across a wide range of genera are part of our selection.