Cover: Novel Idea
A chapter of Silicon Valley's exalted life and times lifted straight from Po Bronson's new publicity magnet, 'The First $20 Million Is Always the Hardest'; plus a Q&A with the $20 million man and related web links.

News: Gary for Mayor
After 30 years of thankless toil for whimsical and tantrum-throwing politicians, departing San Jose Planning Director Gary Schoennauer scrutinizes an entirely new set of plans--his own.

Cult of Porsche-nality: Harry Pellow climbed under the hood of his 1962 356B years ago and hasn't come out since.

Public Eye: If It Quacks. . . .

Polis Report: It was just a toy, honest.

Chan Is Missing: Asian American Film Festival dispenses images and information overlooked by Hollywood's eye.

Short Takes on Gay Days: Four directors offer visions of modern gay life 'Boys Life 2.'

Dance of Enticement: The lessons of love are tempered with a cautionary message in Mira Nair's 'Kama Sutra.'

'Pop' Goes U2: Anthem rockers turn to electronic beats on new album.

Beat Street: The Astronavigation label takes off.

French Twist: Christina Waters breaks bread at Cafe Brioche.

Bargain Bites: Andrew Pham combs through Goldilocks for authentic Filipino food.

No Fun Factor: Infinite Jester David Wallace is an infinite bore in book of essays.

City of Masks: The skies of Kurt Busiek's Astro City are overrun with caped crusaders.

Montalvo Schedule Announced: Concert series features four-score concerts in four venues.

We Mean It, Man: When irony turns to sincerity, 'Nash Bridges' becomes lovable.