University Harvests
For Alternative Fuel
By Paul Meincke

Here we are in the depths of January and it's finally harvest time in west central Illinois. But this is no ordinary harvest — the plant is Miscanthus Giganteus. This is the biggest Miscanthus research project anywhere, and the hope is that what has been grown outside Champaign will offer another option toward energy independence. Last year, the governors of Illinois and California celebrated a half-billion dollar grant from British Petroleum that teams the University of Illinois, UC Berkeley, and Berkeley Lab for research on developing bioenergy and alternative fuels. Full story.

Turn Off ‘Vampires’
To Cut Energy Bills
By Rebecca Clarren

Staff Comment Sought
On New Homepage

Public Affairs is in the final stages of an upgrade of Berkeley Lab's homepage and connecting pages. The look and feel is modeled on the Physics Division homepage and will be encouraged for use by other divisions and departments. Public Affairs welcomes any specific suggestions on content or navigation that might make the site more user-friendly. Send suggestions by Friday, Feb. 1 to [email protected].

No New Registrations
For Weight Watchers

Due to overwhelming response to the “Weight Watchers at Work” program, meetings are now full and no more registrations will be accepted. Those interested in attending Weight Watchers meetings can go here to find a nearby location.

Weekend Tree Cutting
Shuts Lawrence Road

Lawrence Road across from Building 54 will be closed for tree removal tomorrow and Sunday. Normal traffic will resume on Monday.  For more information, contact Kirk Haley (x4171).

Let Dining Services
Know What You Think

Cal Dining, Berkeley Lab's new food service provider, invites employees to offer their comments on the recent changes at the cafeteria by filling out a brief survey. The information will assist Cal Dining in providing the best possible service and menu to staff. Go here to take the survey.