Features

Arsonist Strikes Julia Morgan Shed 

Flames threatened one of Berkeley’s most venerable architectural landmarks Sunday morning when an arsonist torched a recycling shed adjacent to the Julia Morgan Theater at 2640 College Ave. 

Acting city Fire Chief David Orth said the flames, which were reported at 6:30 a.m., totally demolished the eight-by-ten-foot shed where recyclables were stored and caused minor damage to the front exterior and several windows of the theater. 

Prompt action by firefighters limited the damage to about $15,000, he said. 

Willard Park Chopper  

Residents of the Willard Park area were surprised to see a helicopter landing at the site at 4:15 p.m. Saturday. Acting Fire Chief David Orth said the aircraft was there to transport a critically ill patient from nearby Alta Bates Medical Center to Stanford for emergency treatment.