Cover: Garden Plot
Local educators turn to nature for life's little lessons. Plus: Charter schools prove to be a brave new educational tool; and Tutoring--it's not just for dummies anymore.

News: Labor Pains
Are you working more and enjoying it less?

Understanding Gun Violence: Join Together Online, a project of the Boston University of Public Health, provides community resources for those trying to make sense out school shootings.

Up to the Task?: See how your kids' school did in the state Standardized Testing and Reporting program.

Food Freaks: Food tourism is fueling an economic boom in Sonoma County.

Heard It Through the Grapevine: Get to the root of all things wine.

Wed Menace: Comic author Suzanne Finnamore on 'Runaway Bride,' divorce rituals, and why weddings are not romantic.

Movie Buff: Santa Rosa businessman finds the Holy Grail of movie lore.

Out of the Gate: Texas guitar legend "Gatemouth" Brown makes a rare North Bay appearance.

Sad and Lonely: Freedy Johnston's guitar-rock gently weeps on 'Blue Days, Black Nights.'

Blues Kingsnake: 'The Lost Tapes' reaffirm Muddy Waters' lofty status in the history of the blues.

SF Club Guide: Disco divas, hip-hop connoisseurs and salsa suaves to flannel-clad pinball players, jazz luminaries and more from the City by the Bay.

Short Stuff: 'California Shorts' showcases local authors.

Batman Spoof: Film parody 'Mystery Men' retains wit of original comic book.