Cover: Keeley Rising
With the state's Republicans in retreat, Santa Cruz Assemblyman Fred Keeley talks about the Democratic future--and his chance to be the next speaker of the assembly.

Wrappin': The thinking-person's guide to gift giving.
Piquant Packages: When desperately seeking the perfect gifts, don't forget that everybody adores fine foods and culinary specialties.

Presents of Mind: Our annual clutterless gift guide--intangible treats to tease and tantalize.

Virtual Shopping: Gift buying from home is just a click away.

Holiday Happenings: Events from now until New Year's.

Moving Companies: Local dance troupes balance surrealism and vibrant movement.

Sope's On: El Alteño's regional dining spices up Watsonville.

Dangers' Zone: Meat Beat Manifesto's Jack Dangers mixes hip-hop and electronic innovations with wild, organic funk.

Notes From The Underground: Satanica and her legions return for another daring zine effort.

Trading on Celebrity: Woody Allen turns unlikely moralist in latest film.

Yearning Lips: The heat is off in English Firelight.