Behind the Ads: Propositions 37 and 32
California isn't a battleground state in the presidential contest -- and that leaves plenty of room on the airwaves for ads on other statewide issues, like commercials for and against Prop. 37, the measure to require labels on genetically modified foods sold in California.
Election Canvassing 2.0
If TV and radio ads aim to persuade the masses, phone banks and door-knockers provide a more personal touch to campaigns. This year, new digital technologies are taking that kind of voter targeting to another level -- one that some people might find a little too close for comfort. But will it make a difference in the election's outcome?
Divided Families Grapple With Immigration Law
California is home to more undocumented immigrants than any other state. As they settle down and marry, that can make for some complicated relationships, in part due to a federal immigration law passed nearly 16 years ago. It forces thousands of married couples who try to "get legal" to live apart across international borders. Thousands more stand to be split up, even though President Obama has promised to change the rules by early next year.
Book Review: 'Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore'
Before his first novel was published this month, San Francisco writer Robin Sloan spent years in the tech world, holding jobs as Current TV's "futurist" and managing media partnerships for Twitter. According to book critic Oscar Villalon, it's not surprising that Sloan's first novel "Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore" reads as a celebration of both digital and print culture.