[Ma-pta-enotes] eNotes 5-22-08

[ma-pta-enotes at listserv.seq.org]

*Upcoming Events*
Saturday, May 31, Pre-participation Athletic Physicals, 8:30AM to 11:30AM, BAK Physical Therapy

*Announcements*

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO ASSIST IN WRITER'S WORKSHOP
Freshman and sophomore English teacher Ms. Kristin Broussard will institute an innovative teaching technique next year.   Students will work one-on-one with a supportive adult twice a semester to facilitate essay writing and reduce "writer's nerves."  Ms. Broussard is looking for at least 5 to 8 volunteers to help with this project.  Although these workshops will not happen until the fall, Ms. Broussard needs volunteers now to ensure that the program will be ready to go at the beginning of the fall semester.  Further details are located at the PTA Volunteers website (http://www.mabearspta.org/Volunteer.html#Anchor-Writing-26635).  Additionally, you may contact Ms. Broussard directly at kbroussa at seq.org.  Writing is an essential skill.  Please consider helping with this important task.

SAMTRANS SUMMER BUS PASSES AVAILABLE
SamTrans' 2008 Summer Youth MyPass will be available for purchase starting May 21 and we're reaching out to schools and other partners to help spread the word about this great travel bargain. The Summer Youth Pass offers a significant savings to kids 17 years of age and younger over the cost of monthly bus passes.  A GREAT value, this $35 pass allows unlimited rides on SamTrans all summer, from June 1 to Aug 31, and is available to youths 17 and younger.  SamTrans launched a special Website - www.samtrans.com/mypass - with details about the MyPass.

RED LIGHT CAMERAS LOCATED NEAR M-A
This is an advisory that as of June 10, the Menlo Park Police Department will begin issuing citations for red light violations at Bayfront Expressway and Willow Road, El Camino Real and Valparaiso Avenue, El Camino Real and Ravenswood Avenue and on the 2700 block of Sand Hill Road through the use of red light cameras.  Drivers should be cautious and careful, and observe all traffic laws, most especially around our neighborhood schools.  The minimum fine for running a red light in San Mateo County for a first-time offender is $387, of which Menlo Park gets $155.  Also, note that the new "hands-free only cell phone use while driving" law goes into effect July 1.  This applies to adults, but note that 16- and 17-year-old drivers are banned from using cell phones, pagers, walkie-talkies, laptop computers and other devices, even if they have "hands-free" features.  Please ensure your student drivers are aware of the new law.

WE WOULD LOVE YOUR HELP!  M-A PTA Fashion Show "Rock On"!!
The Fashion show for the Class of 2009 is October 25, 2008 - Are you savvy with Program Layout/Design?  Like to help with the luncheon? Work with students?  Please let us know any area you would like to assist with.  This is a fun event for all M-A families to participate in!  Event co-chairs are Julie Brody at julie at brodyfamily.net, Charlene Cogan at ccogan at apr.com, Jody Horowitz at jodyhorowitz at comcast.net and Anne Mellenthin at anne at mellenthin.com.

BEAR WEAR MAKES A GREAT GIFT!
This is just a reminder that Bear Wear makes a great gift and our on-line system is ready to serve you.  Items can be specialized for Alumni and grad class.  Also, if you know any 8th graders, remember that they would LOVE some new bear wear to start them on the right path.  Visit the M-A website and check it out.

*Athletics*

BADMINTON CCS NEWS
Alex Amato and Daniel Chao headed back for another day at CCS on Wednesday and we'll report the results next week.  Earlier this week, they played well in their first match but fell a little short and lost to a good team from Wilcox.  The second match went really well with a 2 game win over El Camino.  

TENNIS
M-A TENNIS BOYS IN CCS SEMIS
In the CCS Individual Playoffs, the No. 2 seeded team of Alec Haley/George Horowitz have reached the semi-finals!  In spite of Alec Haley suffering from a full blown case of Strep Throat, the Bears took out teams from Evergreen Valley and avenging the CCS team loss, crushed the Aptos team, all without losing a set. The Bears next take on either a Gunn team or the No. 4 seed from Harker in the semi-finals.  The Bears are on a collision course with Menlo's top team for a re-match from the PAL semi-finals, where the Bears prevailed in a tight 3 setter.   

Go Bears.   Grrrr.