Cover: Where The Action Is
A political action committee sparked the biggest controversy in last month's election, but few people know the real story on PACs --and how much influence they have on local elections.

News: Nüz
Residents bid farewell to two councilmembers--and say hello to three familiar faces.

Bruce Bratton: Housing and traffic problems affect biotech industry; KUSP plans changes.

Wafer Clause: 'The Crime of Father Amaro' is a justly popular--and scandalous--melodrama from Mexico.

Surround Sound: Local music icon Rick Walker makes music from anything and everything he can lay his hands on.

The Rock Show: Keepin' It Real.

Sward Swallower: Local poet Robert Sward finds himself tangled up in the web of mysticism and offbeat wisdom that is his father's legacy.

Soif's Up: Streamlined for action, downtown Santa Cruz's urbane new wine bar offers comfort and dazzle to grateful bon vivants.