The Christmas Craft Bazaar is set for 3-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. In addition to the silent auction and the sale of crafts and collectibles created by Austin's most popular vendors, the event also includes elegant hand-crafted gifts made by HPUMC members, live music both days, and delicious homemade goodies.

    Proceeds from this event are disbursed among a number of charities, which in years past have included Meals on Wheels, the Montopolis Friendship Center, Metropolitan Ministries, North Austin Caregivers, Church World United, Down Home Ranch, Habitat for Humanity, and many more.

    If you wish to donate to the silent auction, please contact Rebecca Schimcek at 833-8108, or drop off donations at the church office. HPUMC is located at 4001 Speedway; 453-4206. The office is open Monday 9am - 2pm and Wednesday through Friday 9am - 2pm (closed on Tuesday).

T hirty-two people were in attendance for this month's meeting. Outgoing Co-president Bruce Nadig chaired what turned out to be an exciting, eventful autumn night.

Hyde Park resident Nancy Hohengarten said she is running for Judge next spring and asked for our support. She met with people before the meeting began and handed out descriptive literature. Check out her campaign at www.NancyForJudge.com.

    Neil Foley of 4108 Avenue D has been researching historical zoning and has found some 'moving' information. Previous resident Lyla Gaye was a suffragette of notable import. Neil is trying to gain historical zoning for his home. Of the thirteen criteria used to gauge this title, this house met seven, which is considered excellent. This house is the only Victorian, "Queen Anne" style, in the Hyde Park neighborhood! Neil received a vote of support from the HPNA for his application to receive historical zoning with only one abstaining vote.

    Students from the neighborhood college preparatory Griffin high school made a show of support for their neighborhood. Three representative students, Sarah, Shelley and Ben explained that thirteen of the school's students were signed up to spend three hours cleaning up the creek on October 13th between 3:00 - 6:00. As a graduation requirement, Griffin school students must dedicate sixty-five hours of community service to their community. If you have opportunities you believe could help these students fulfill their civic duties, please contact Founder and Director Adam Wilson at the school. Otherwise, if you've noticed an unpolluted change for the better in our scenic creek, you might thank a Griffin school student!

    A presentation was made by Solar Austin that clarified numerous options for renewable energy sources. The group began in earnest last January and has been working with Mayor Wynn and City Council ever since. Their ideas have been very popular with the general public and they contend that money can be saved in the long run. They claim, "We have a lot of sunshine to work with here," which is hard to argue with! The motion to support this effort passed unopposed with only one abstention.

    Chris Burr representing Austin Citizens for Personal Rapid Transit gave us a 30 minute explanation of Personal Rapid Transit's pros and cons as an alternative to bus service or light rail. Small 2 person vehicles running individually in tracks about 16 feet above the ground are more versatile and less expensive than much heavier guage light rail. The unmassive support structure can be built and removed in a timely manner to follow use patterns.

Glen Coleman	Pam Whittington

    The new leaders, however, are energized and ready to begin! Glen Coleman and Pam Whittington were voted in as this year's Co-Presidents. Mike Capochiano will serve as Treasurer. Finally, Marrilee Ratcliffe is this year's Secretary. J.P.Young is our new Membership Chariman. We all look forward to seeing you at next month's neighborhood meeting!

Marrilee Ratcliffe	J. P. Young