Mike Gatto Secures Special Science Grant for Roy Romer Middle School

Assemblyman Mike Gatto announced Friday that Roy Romer Middle School in North Hollywood was selected to receive a grant in science, technology, engineering, and math also known as (STEM). 

The STEM program will teach Roy Romer Middle School students through hands-on learning the skills they will need to score well on statewide testing. Gatto represents North Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale and other parts of Los Angeles.

This program is offered by Mad Science in participation with Time Warner Cable’s “Connect a Million Minds” initiative. Mad Science's Web site says it is "on a mission to spark the imagination and curiosity of children by providing them with fun, interactive and educational programs that instill a clear understanding of what science is really about and how it affects their world."

The STEM program will be two afterschool workshop classes offered over four weeks along with a Family Science Night for students, teachers, and parents on April 25 with the theme, Up, Up, and Away. 

According to a press release issued by Gatto, an hour-long presentation will be given followed by an hour long activity opportunity for hands-on display stations featuring optical illusions, magnetisms, dry ice, slime, and three dimensional modules, just to name a few.

“I am proud to have collaborated with Roy Romer Middle School, and Time Warner Cable to make this program available to these students. I am very pleased that Roy Romer Middle School received this wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about math and science in a fun, thought-provoking, and interesting environment,” said Gatto in the press release. “It is my hope that programs like this will increase the level of student interest and participation in math and science, as it prepares them for continued education and their professional careers.”

Women in Business

Gatto, along with State Senator Carol Liu and Assemblymember Anthony Portantino, is looking for outstanding businesswomen and community activists to be recognized at the 12th annual Women in Business Legislative Update and Awards Luncheon. The event will be held July 15 at the Castaways in Burbank.

The deadline for submitting nominations is May 2. For more information contact Gatto's office at 818. 558.3043 or www.asm.ca.gov/gatto

Krekorian Releases Budget Statement

Los Anglees City Councilmember Paul Krekorian, who represents District 2 and is the chair of the Education and Neighborhoods Committee, released the following statement Wednesday after the Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa released his proposed 2011-12 city budget:

“Neighborhood Councils provide a tremendously valuable, cost effective volunteer service to the city of Los Angeles. Though we are living through one the worst financial disasters in U.S. history, I appreciate that the Mayor has not proposed any further cuts in the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment, which has already endured significant reductions. The proposed 10 percent reduction in neighborhood council budgets will certainly be difficult and painful, but would be commensurate with cost savings realized by other city departments – including my own office.  While this will force the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment and the neighborhood councils to slightly modify their approach, I fully expect the future of local empowerment to remain bright, transparent and responsive to the residents of Los Angeles.”