Lighting Technician Balbino Mercadel is one of the many on-site workers who is keeping the Lab in a safe and stable condition while Lab employees shelter-in-place. Balbino found his way into lighting and light technology in the U.S. Navy. Following his dad, who was also a Navy veteran, he worked top-side until he experienced sea-sickness when the ship zig-zagged in open water. After a few … [Read more...]
Extension of Administrative Leave to April 15
Dear colleagues, The extension of the Bay Area's shelter-in-place status means the Lab will remain in safe and stable standby mode until at least May 4, when the current shelter-in-place orders for our area are scheduled to be lifted. The prolonging of our standby status means some employees will soon run up against the previously announced Administrative Leave limit of 16 days. We are pleased … [Read more...]
Clarification on Recent UC Budget and Staffing Announcements for Fri., April 3
Colleagues, As you may be aware, top leadership at the University of California and its campuses have, in the last few days, communicated with UC employees about a worsening system-wide budget crisis and its implications for UC’s people. Yesterday, in a letter signed by the chancellors of 10 UC campuses, President Napolitano assured employees that “there will be no COVID-19 related layoffs for … [Read more...]
Culture Connections: Virtual Experiences for You and Your Family
With another weekend of shelter-in-place, the editors of Elements scoured the internet for access to free (mostly) art, music, theater, dance, history, and nature presentations that will help keep you and your family entertained for hours. While these types of activities are normally enjoyed in-person, the following organizations, companies, troupes, and performers have revamped their offerings to … [Read more...]
Health Services Clinic Closed; Alternate Arrangements Available
The Lab’s Health Services Clinic is closed and has shifted to providing services via telemedicine. Essential workers on Lab sites are asked to use Concentra Urgent Care (2850 Seventh Street, Suite 100, 510-845-5170) in Berkeley for work-related health services until further notice. On-site emergency services are still available, if needed, via 911 and the Lab’s Fire Station, which remains fully … [Read more...]