Cover Story: Frantic Search:
Bay Area maverick artist Michael Franti takes his musical mission to the Middle East.

News: Downtown Crossfire:
After the shootings in October, the hot topic in SJ is how downtown's nightclub scene should be policed. Charges of racial profiling are fanning the flames.

The Fly: As if San Jose needs another controversy, we may soon have 8-year-olds marching on the Dome, thanks to an ordinance that would restrict the use of inflatable houses in local parks.

Silicon Alleys: Synchronicity.

Techsploits: Interbreeders.

Rev: Venezuela Ride.

The Soul's Sanctum: Jennybird Alcantara's paintings explore the darker realms of human nature.

Again Young: Jonathan Demme films Neil Young in 'Heart of Gold,' with a mix of schmaltz and genuine magic.

'Classe Tous Risques': A classy re-release of a 1960 French crime thriller.

Summer Of '42: Fort Minor's Mike Shinoda talks about his family's internment camp story in 'Kenji.'

Fever Pitch: Augustana bridges Britpop and Americana to make a sound of its own.

Book Box: 'The Race for Timbuktu: In Search of Africa's City of Gold' and 'Ivan's War: Life and Death in the Red Army, 1939-1945.'

Put a Cork In It: Three of the valley's top wine shops make it easier than ever to imbibe in style.

Live Feed: San Jose: Leaner, Meaner.

5 Things: Good Sushi Restaurants.

Hucksters And Believers: The debate over evolution gets an evenhanded airing in San Jose Stage Company's 'Inherit the Wind.'

Born to Act: Opera San José's stars filled the stage with high drama and emotion for 'La bohème.'

Any Way You Slice It: Short plays are long on audience impact at Pear Avenue Theatre.