L.A. Mama Weekly Roundup

L.A. Mama This Week:
http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_9186341

BYE-BYE BPA: California came one step closer to banning the chemical Bisphenol A from toys and child-care products. The Toxin-Free Toddlers and Babies Act, which was approved by the Assembly and now goes to the Senate, would prohibit BPA from being used in baby bottles, formula cans and the lining of other canned products. It would also tighten restrictions on phthalates - plasticizers that have been linked to hormonal abnormalities and allergies.

Activist mom: Tanya Anton, author of the "Westside Guide to Public Elementary Schools," joined a parents' march in Sacramento this week, protesting the plans to cut $5 billion from public education funding. At http://go-mama.blogspot.com, she writes about her experience there and impressions of the budget impasse between Republicans and Democrats over the issue.

Taking it to the street: And for those who couldn't make it to the state capital, another rally to protest the education funding cuts is slated for 9 to 11 a.m. Friday outside the office of Assemblywoman Karen Bass, 5750 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. "The only thing mothers really want for Mother's Day is a decent education for their kids," organizers say. "We need your support to make our voices heard and stop the budget cuts."

Prepping for the big one: No one wants to think about it, but we Californians are at risk of natural disasters and should be prepared. California Volunteers, a new effort launched by first lady Maria Shriver, makes it easy to complete and print out a family plan in case of fire or earthquake. It also includes local volunteering resources. Visit www.california volunteers.org.

Discounts galore: GoCityKids has some nice new discounts this week: 10 percent off private swimming lessons at Happy Swimmers; 25 percent off at One Good Bumblebee. Got to the site http://gocitykids.parentsconnect.com/deals/?area=195

Mom's day treat: Just in time for Mother's Day, Mothercraft is holding a half-day retreat on Saturday at the Malibu Beach Inn. It includes yoga on Carbon Beach, along with lunch and a life-coaching session. The cost is $105. See mothercraftcoaching.com.

barbara.correa@dailynews.com