I offer you a translation of Naoko Takeuchi's words about the beginning of the DIC Sailor Moon run. This is from the Chinese version of Sailor Moon manga vol.12. It's a poignant look back to the beginning on this day when it ends.

In the Fall of '95, the United Nations began their 50th anniversay celebration. I suddenly decided to go to the U.S. to watch their Sailor Moon series!

First, I went to a 5th Ave. toy store. They have dolls for Sailor Moon, Mercury, Mars, Venus and Jupiter. However, they aren't very cute. I felt let down. (Even though the dolls are based on the original model.) Beside the dolls, there Sailor costumes for children. I think they're for Halloween. The costumes filled an entire window. This is really America! (I think she means that Americans do everything on a big scale-translator) I saw a little American girl pointing at the doll and say to her mother "Look! Sailor Moon!" I was so moved. If they can put more Japanese feeling into the merchandise, it would be even better.

Next, I went to a cartoon specialty store on ?? Street (In Chinese, the characters translate into Student Street. I don't think that's correct. Any New Yorkers out there care to help me?-translator). I was startled. The window was full of Sailor Moon related merchandise. They even have the '95 movie poster (I think that's the poster for the SS movie-transtor) and Nakayoshi. There are also reproduction of original artworks! They operate fast! The owner have quite a lot of cartoon collectibles. However, he said he likes Sailor Moon the best.

The owner also gave me a lot of Sailor Moon items with dubious origins. I should really thank him! My original purpose in coming here was to watch Sailor Moon on American TV. However, it turns out that the timeslot is 6:30 a.m. (Monday to Friday). There are two commercial breaks, not bad. Usagi's voice is a little deep, but that is only my first impression. This is the first the blonde Sailor Moon talks in English, I feel it's appropriate. I finally saw the American Sailor Moon on location, so I am very satisfied. I brought back many video tapes. So! I hope everyone can go to all the countries of the world to watch Sailor Moon!

Next to the text there are two pictures. One picture is a drawing of the Sailor Venus doll. The caption reads: The lips are too thin! Looks like a medieval Japanese. All five Sailor Senshi are holding moon wands. (Is this true? If so, it's another goof up by the toy companies-translator) The second picture is a drawing of the Queen Beryl doll. The caption reads: They also have the memorable Queen Beryl doll. She wore a purple with inlaid golden threads. There is a tiara on the head. She the most beautiful doll. I put her in my permanent collection.

Translated by:Yang Wenli