Cover: Nüz for News
A look back at the stories that defined, defiled and deep-sixed Santa Cruz in 1999 as read in the words of Nüz and the cartoons of Steven DeCinzo.

Bruce Bratton: Citizens have questions--downtown plaza boosters have answers.

Notes From the Underground: Local rockers just might clean up their look, sign some really big-time deals and top the children's music charts.

Sights and Sounds: Long-running KZSC ska show broadcasts final episode Saturday afternoon.

Sit Up Straight: Christina Waters lays down the laws for dining out.

A La Carte: A restaurant at the top of the stairs surprises; Costa Brava expands.

Long Cuts: Paul Thomas Anderson's new film, 'Magnolia,' tries to out-Chekhov Robert Altman's 'Short Cuts.'

Mommy Dearest: Director Pedro Almodóvar draws influences from classic films to take a new look at a mother's adaptability in 'All About My Mother.'

The 10 Spot: The Actors' Theatre's annual festival of 10-minute plays plunges audiences into a crucible of drama.