Cover: Wrappin'
Our annual guide to getting the jump on holiday gift giving.

Presents of Sound: Our crack critics track down the best local CDs for giving and keeping this season.

Bearing Gifts: So many parties, so little time--a few good ideas for hostess gifts with more pizzazz than cost.

It's a Wrap: Local artist Trudi Eldridge masters the fine art of wrapping paper design.

Holiday Calendar: Upcoming events in the Santa Cruz area.

News: Seeing the Light
Peninsula scientist Berhard Haisch and two associates think they have uncovered a sea of light in physics which turns Newton's law on its head and opens the door for science fiction-like science.

Paper Home: Bruce Bratton uncovers the secrets of Metro Santa Cruz's new home, the Leonard Building.

Sights and Sounds: A trio of psychobilly bands take the Aptos Club to hell and back.

Notes From the Underground: Royal Crown Revue takes out a Palookaville crowd with tommy-gun swing and pachuco boogie.

Digit Goes to College: Walter Kirn's novel 'Thumbsucker' takes an idiosyncratic look at the coming-of-age novel.

Smartmouth: Capitola Esplanade favorite Caffé Lido returns after a menu makeover and a facility facelift.

A La Carte: There's no need to go to bed early when Avanti is open late.

Ending in Style: Director Don McKellar talks about how Canadians face the final days in his new film 'Last Night.'

Running on Empty: 'Sleepy Hollow' missing more than just its head.