Cover: Politics as Unusual
Left over dreams and the righting on the wall. A look at Campaign '96 in Santa Cruz County.

Endorsements: Metro Santa Cruz's opinions on national and local elections.

Fisticuffs in The 15th: An acrimonious state Senate race pits the only Republican who could possibly win against the only Demo who could possibly lose.

Only in Santa Cruz: A socialist-leaning, Marxist-lecturing, draft-card burning, folk-song singin' mayor finds himself designated "fascist pig" by City Hall protestors.

Do or Die: 2nd District Supe race will decide board's majority.

Davis and Keeliath: Republican long shot chases after Demo favorite in 27th Assembly District race.

Show of Willy Power: Post-modern rockers from Chicago raise the rafters with their aggressive punk-inspired hillbilly--just don't call it rockabilly.

Altared States: Passion, danger and tenderness merge in eloquent statements on Latino experience.

Heals Belles: 'Through the Veil' follows one woman's cycle of spiritual death and renewal.

In the Mood Indigo: An appealing new bistro charms its East Cliff neighborhood with stylish atmosphere, friendly staff and promising, vivacious menu.