The striking transformation of the southwest corner of Virginia and Curtis has been made possible by a coordinated effort between the staff of the Berkeley Unified School District and 150 neighbors of the Adult School who have given time and/or money to Schoolhouse Creek Commons. The late Karl Linn also provided his wisdom and guidance in the initial design and development of the Commons. The School District provided the funding to tear out the old asphalt and playground equipment, contour the land, create the entrance and pathways, and plant the grass area in the center of the Commons. The neighbors have been creating the Commons by fundraising, bringing in soil, mulch and compost, placing rocks and planting trees and plants (most native Californian) throughout the Commons. For more information on how you can get involved, call Brad Smith at 524-1938 or e-mail at brad_smith AT earthlink.net.