Search for Neutrinos
Deep in the Earth

Homestake

Homestake, a historic gold and silver mine in South Dakota’s Black Hills, has been selected as the site for an underground laboratory complex that could become the largest and deepest in the world. Work at the lab will help illuminate both a tiny particle known as a neutrino and some of the universe’s biggest mysteries. “We’re very, very pleased with the result,” said Kevin Lesko, a Berkeley Lab physicist who led the Homestake effort. The project was awarded grant money of up to $15 million to proceed with a conceptual design. Eventual construction and experiments, however, will hinge on approval of the final design and authorization by the National Science Board and Congress. Full story.

Vulnerability Scanning
Audit Next Week

Berkeley Lab is undergoing a system test and evaluation of its computer security policies and controls by an outside auditing firm as part of a larger certification and accreditation of its systems. Beginning Monday and continuing through Thursday, the auditor will perform vulnerability scanning and other tests on site. The Lab's Computer Protection Program will work closely with the auditors to minimize the possibility of disruption from their scanning and testing. For more information, contact the Computer Protection Program.

Laptop Ergonomics
Prevents Injuries

Many people don’t associate laptops with musculoskeletal problems, but laptops can pose worse problems than desktops if a user’s posture is not kept in check. A laptop’s attached screen and keyboard means laptop users can’t align the display with their eyes. They also can’t align the keyboard and mouse with their hands and arms. This often results in a bent neck or elevated arm and shoulder postures. Laptop users who want their neck, back, and arms to outlive their laptop should check out the three new slides in the ergonomics section of the "1 Minute 4 Safety" website.

Health Services Offers
Free Cholesterol Checks

The Lab's Health Services will be offering free cholesterol screening in Building 26 next Thursday morning, by appointment only. The screening will include a total cholesterol level and a high-density cholesterol level (HDL) measurement. Fasting is not required and there is no charge. Screening is recommended for men over 35, women over 45, and young adults with cardiac risk factors. Call x6266 to make an appointment.

Get a Lab Rubdown
During Massage Week

The Lab's Health Care Facilitator's office wants to remind staff that July 15-21 is “International Massage Week.” Massage provides relief to people of all ages, from professional athletes to weekend warriors. Massage is one of the oldest healing arts. Chair massages are available every Tuesday in Building 26 (Health Services). Call x4501 to make same-day appointments or go here for more on cost and scheduling.

Amusement Park
Tickets for Sale

The Lab's Employee Activities Association has discount tickets for Waterworld ($17) and Discovery Kingdom ($25) available. To purchase, contact Valarie Epsinoza-Ross or Arabella Schmidt.