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November 26, 2004 |
Number 54 |
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Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley | |||||||||||||||
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By Karen E. Klein I grew up in a family that was not big on tradition. My mother saw it as a personal failing if we did the "same old thing" every year. So I've had a lot of leeway to create new holiday traditions for my family. These are a few we've enjoyed and that you might want to try out this year. One is our annual December evening spent driving around to oogle holiday light displays in Monrovia (check City Hall for a list of light display winners, they are stunning), Hastings Ranch, Griffith Park, the Balian House (at 1960 Mendocino Lane in Altadena), on Christmas Tree Lane (Santa Rosa Avenue between Woodbury and Altadena Drive) and the 1400-1500 blocks of St. Albans Road off Huntington Drive in San Marino. We come home for hot chocolate and cookies in front of the fireplace. Another family tradition is "treasure hunting." My kids look forward to this game almost as much as they do opening presents. On Christmas Eve, we hide their "big" presents of the year and set up a series of clues that they must solve to find it. We've gotten pretty creative, hiding clues in favorite books, the washing machine, in their email accounts, on voice mail messages, etc. For the last few years, they have turned the tables on us and constructed a treasure hunt for mom and dad! There's nothing like looking at those gorgeous Rose Parade floats up close. If you don't want to get up early for the parade, go see the decoration-in-process from Dec. 28-31 at Brookside Park. Grab a burger and some red cabbage salad on New Year's Eve at Clearman's Galley, and you'll almost always spot floats heading west on Huntington Drive towards Pasadena. It's a great chance for a preview. If your kids can sit through a live theater production, catch the annual production of "A Christmas Carol" at The Glendale Centre Theatre. If that play is too scary, with its chain-rattling spirits, check out "The Nutcracker" ballet at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State L.A. Just hurry, the ballet is only there through this weekend. Here's a really fun treat, courtesy of my friend Gwen. Go over to Galco's, on York Boulevard at Avenue 57 in Eagle Rock. It's a landmark store that carries obscure and old-fashioned varieties of soda pop from all over the world. It also has vintage candy and great sandwiches. My kids loved picking out a different can of pop for each of our holiday guests one year, and then wrapping them up and setting them at the dinner table with the place cards. Another great tradition to start: Get your kids involved in doing something to help others during the holidays. Children can be oh-so-very-focused on themselves and what presents they are getting, as I'm sure you may have noticed. Open their eyes to the fact that other kids may not get much - or anything - at holiday time, and you'll teach them the beginnings of compassion. My friend Lilli recently told me about the nonprofit organization she is chairing called BookEnds. The group recycles children's books through student-run book drives, then places the books in schools and youth organizations that are desperately in need of them. After I told my kids about BookEnds, they went through all their books and came up with about four boxes for Lilli. Another way to donate is to make your Amazon.com purchases through a special website set up by a BookEnds' board member. The website gives you some great book recommendations and when you're done reading, you can click on the Amazon link at the bottom of the page and make your purchases as usual. The nice part is that BookEnds gets 10% of anything you buy! Here's another, more hands-on opportunity, not for the kids but maybe for you. As you may know, the Kidspace Children's Museum is getting ready to re-open in a brand new facility in Brookside Park. We'll give you all the details in the next Orange Cat, but meanwhile the museum's operations assistant, Lauren Harden, is looking for volunteers. Give her a call and find out more about the opportunities at the museum - for yourself or a friend. Lauren's at 626-449-9144. We hope you had a wonderful turkey day. Enjoy the holiday season and we'll be back with you in two weeks! Karen@theorangecat.org |
Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Also, see special printable [coupons] exclusively for readers of The Orange Cat. Friday, Nov. 26, 2004 Christmas Tree Lighting: One Colorado 6 p.m. Visit from Santa and the 2005 Rose Queen kicks off Pasadena's holiday season, with tree-lighting ceremony, entertainment and toy drive. Between Colorado, Union, Fair Oaks and Delacey, Old Pasadena. Candy Cane Lane: Old Town Monrovia 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Special holiday events include music, story time, pictures with Santa and contests. See website for exact schedule. Also Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Breezeway behind shops at 400 block of Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Saturday, Nov. 27, 2004 Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Little kings and queens can rule the roost with majestic crowns made with sequins, spangles, rhinestones & more. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Sunday, Nov. 28, 2004 Hike to the Falls: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 9 a.m. to noon. Hike 3.5 miles to the waterfall. Must cross water, bring hiking boots or sturdy shoes, sunscreen, snack for after the hike. Information: 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2004 Author Event: Vroman's Bookstore 1:30 p.m. Author Suzanne Collins reads from and signs "Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane," the sequel to her much-loved young adult novel, "Gregor the Overlander." Ages 8 to 12. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2004 In the Garden: Norton Simon Museum 4-5 p.m. Pumpkins, corn, bumblebees and worms make lively neighbors in this story hour for children and families held in the museum's galleries. Free with admission of $6 adults, under 18 free. Information: 626-449-6840. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Tree Lighting: City of San Dimas 5:30 p.m. Refreshments, entertainment and lighting of the city Christmas tree. Information: 909-592-3818. Rhoads Park, San Dimas. Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004 Christmas Parade: Old Town Monrovia 7 p.m. Holiday parade for the whole family. Myrtle Avenue, Monrovia. Family Night: Arcadia Public Library 7 p.m. Fun, professional performance geared to the whole family. No registration necessary. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Friday, Dec. 3, 2004 Once Upon A Mattress: Pasadena Junior Theatre 7 p.m. Based on the fairy tale of The Princess and the Pea, Once Upon a Mattress is a comical journey into the musical world of royalty, ancient curses and true love. Tickets $10 adults, $8 teens, $6 kids 3-12. Performances this weekend and next; check website for details or call 626-577-5922. Holliston Church, Scott Hall, 1305 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Santa’s Workshop: Linda Vista branch library 3:30 p.m. Children are invited to listen to holiday stories and make a craft to take home. This program is suitable for school-age children. 1281 Bryant St., Pasadena. Saturday, Dec. 4, 2004 Author Event Vroman's Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Author Eric Drachman reads from and signs "Ellison the Elephant" and "It's Me!" For ages 2-6. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Let All Voices Ring: L.A. Children's Chorus 7 p.m. Winter concert showcases four choirs of the L.A. Children's Chorus: the Concert, Chamber Singers, Intermediate and Apprentice groups. Concert features songs of peace, hope and humanity. $15 adults, $8 seniors/students. Information and tickets: 626-793-4231. Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Showdown at the North Pole Corral: Citrus Little Theatre 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Christmas play pits an evil villain against Santa and the workers at his workshop. $5. Box Office: 626-963-9411. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can make this holiday season one to remember, with a picture collage frame that’s made from all kinds of fun materials like buttons, rhinestones and more. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Winterfest: City of West Covina 2-7 p.m. Arts & crafts, photos with Santa, food, sled run and play areas. Information: 626-939-8430. Civic Center Courtyard, 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina. Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2004 Vivaldi's Seasons: South Pasadena Public Library 7:30 p.m. The children’s department invites families to a winter concert featuring violinist Paul Stein and pianist Ralph Alberstrom of the Chamber Music Express. Program features Vivaldi's best-known concertos. Community Room, 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena. Pajamamania: Monrovia Public Library 7:15 to 8 p.m. Kids ages 4 and up are invited to come to the library dressed in their pajamas. They will be served popcorn to munch on while listening to stories, watching a film and singing songs. Parents are invited to join in on the bedtime fun! 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004 Santa Paws: One Colorado 5-9 p.m. Pet owners can bring their faithful companions to pose for photos with Santa Claus. Pets receive a free holiday treat and proceeds from the sale of the Santa photos will go to the Charles Cherniss Tournament of Toys, which benefits needy children throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Between Colorado, Fair Oaks, Union and DeLacey, Pasadena. Magic of the Holidays: Monrovia Public Library 3:45 p.m. Professional magician Tony Daniels performs magic, comedy and audience participation with an emphasis on books and reading. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Tree Decorating Celebration: Lamanda Park branch library 3:30 p.m. Celebrate holiday customs from around the world, taste a yummy treat and make a special gift to keep or give as a present. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Friday, Dec. 10, 2004 Holiday Festival: Descanso Gardens 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Pictures with Santa, rides on the Enchanted Railway, holiday gifts, crafts and special Santa Brunch will be featured at this festival, which runs through Dec. 19. Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Brunch Saturday, Dec. 11 9 a.m. to noon. $25 adults, $20 children. Reservations mandatory by Dec. 1: 818-952-4403. Family night Friday, Dec. 17, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. See website for details. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge. Children's Concert: Shumei Hall 12:30 1:30 p.m. "Voices from the Blue" is performed by Christoph Bull, an internationally known organist, composer and UCLA professor. Concert geared toward kids in third to fifth grade. Reservations: 626-584-8841. 2430 E. Colorado Blvd. , Pasadena. Holiday Tree Lighting: La Pintoresca branch library 5 p.m. Celebrate with us as the community comes together in the holiday spirit to sing holiday carols, drink hot chocolate and light our community holiday tree. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004 HolidayFest: San Dimas Recreation Department 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Breakfast with Santa, snow play, entertainment and holiday craft fair. Community Building, 245 E. Bonita Ave., San Dimas. Snow Day: Old Town Monrovia 1-5 p.m. Play in real "snow" at the park, then decorate gingerbread cookies and drink milk with Santa. Library Park, 100 block E. Lime Ave., Monrovia. Gingerbread Tea: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This hour-long program features holiday stories, songs, a film and refreshments. A special bead-fusion Christmas ornament craft project is also included. Program geared toward elementary school ages, but open to everyone. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children will love using beads, glitter shapes, pipe stems and more to create Christmas ornaments. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Holiday Fest: City of San Dimas 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. An event for the entire family includes breakfast with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m.. The Mt. San Dimas snow area and slide incorporates 9 tons of snow. Also holiday craft fair, live entertainment and children's rides all day. Civic Center Plaza, 245 E. Bonita Ave., San Dimas. Kids Music Club: University of La Verne 10 a.m. "Holidays Around the World" is the theme of this special concert designed for children. Founders Auditorium, University of La Verne, 1950 Third St., La Verne. Register Early Barks and Books: Pasadena Humane Society Be a special reading buddy to a real live dog! Elementary school-aged children can read a book about dogs to a gentle dog. This program is held several times a month; check website for times and reservations. Various Pasdena branch libraries. Family Nature Walk: Children's Nature Institute Nature walk specifically designed for families with young children will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 16. Event led by family team Debbie Hill and Dorthea. Registration mandatory; limited spaces fill up fast: 310-998-1151. Eaton Canyon, 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Floral Design Class: Descanso Gardens Your child can create a holiday novelty keepsake and celebrate the natural beauty of the season in this workshop for 10- to 12-year-olds. Held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 4. Parents or guardians must attend and each adult should be responsible for no more than two children. Pre-register by calling 818-949-7980. $20, plus $10 materials fee. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge. Snappy Gingerbread Class: Descanso Gardens Adults and kids 4 and older listen to stories about gingerbread, plant a ginger rhizome, decorate a gingerbread man cookie and do other crafts. This workshop will be held Saturday, Dec. 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. and again from 1:30 to 3 p.m. $12 adult, $10 child. Reservations mandatory, 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge. Holiday Origami: The Huntington Library Origami expert Peggy Hasegawa will teach youngsters the art of Japanese paper folding and inspire their creativity with ideas for one-of-a-kind gifts and seasonal decorations. Children's workshop will be held Saturday, Dec. 11 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Ages 7 and up. $15. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino. Continuing Activities Montrose Harvest Market: Weekly farmer's market includes giant slide, obstacle course bouncer and 25-foot portable rock climbing wall. Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information: 818-957-3809. Montrose Shopping Park, Honolulu Ave. and Ocean View Blvd, Montrose. Monrovia Public Library "Time for Twos" is an introductory storytime for toddlers and their parents held Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. Activities include stories, songs, flannel tales and a small creative project. "Munchkin Storytime" is offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. for children 3-5. The half-hour program includes stories, songs, flannel tales and incentive stickers. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Sierra Madre Public Library: Two Preschool story hours are held each week in the Children's Room. Mondays at 10 a.m., and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Cathy Ryne, children's librarian, tells stories, sings songs, and organizes craft projects. 626-355-7186. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre. Excellence in Education Home school park day; bring lunch, toys, games, sports equipment. Mondays at noon. Eisenhower Park, Colorado Blvd at Second St., Arcadia.. Monrovia Reads: Hour-long story times include crafts, stories, songs and fingerplay. Ages 0-5 with parents or caretakers. Tuesdays 10 a.m., All Nations Church, 1948 S. Peck Road; Thursdays 10 a.m., Boys and Girls Club, 600 S. Shamrock Ave., Monrovia. MOMS Club of Pasadena-North Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena (north of 210 fwy) and Altadena. For more information please e-mail: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com . MOMS Club of LaVerne Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. Information: momsclublvsd@yahoo.com . Jungle Gym Rock Climbing: Toddler and children's climbing classes, homeschool groups, competitive climbing and winter adventure camp offered at gym designed for kids 14 months to 14 years. Birthday parties and family nights also available. Information: 626-446-5014. 305 N. Santa Anita Blvd., Arcadia. Adventuring Preschool Playgroup: We are moms of preschoolers in the San Gabriel Valley, exploring different free museums, parks and taking field trips together. We meet Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call Michelle for information: 626-305-7636. . Mt. San Antonio College International marketplace is held every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring arts and crafts, antiques and certified farmer's market. Parking and admission is free. Stadium parking lot, off Temple Avenue, just west of Cal Poly. Huntington Hospital: Perinatal Health Education department offers ongoing classes and support groups for new moms, including breastfeeding Thursdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Mommy & Me Tuesdays 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Postnatal Fitness Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 5:45 to 6 p.m.; Baby & Me; infant care; and infant/child CPR. Some classes involve fees. Information and registration: 626-397-8768. Monrovia Family Festival: 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays. Games, food, rides, shopping and farmer's market. Myrtle Ave south of Foothill Blvd, Monrovia. MOMS Club of Covina & West Covina Support group meets reularly for playdates, walking groups, parties for stay-at-home moms or part-time working moms seeking day time activities for children of all ages. Serves mothers in Covina, West Covina, Azusa and Irwindale. New member meetings held at 10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month. Information: email JillVidal@hotmail.com. Covina Library, 234 N. Second Ave., Covina. Vroman's Book Store: 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays. Storytime with Mr. Steve features contemporary and classic tales read aloud. Ages 2 to 8. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Eaton Canyon Nature Center Family nature walk held every Saturday morning, weather permitting, 9 to 11 a.m. Walking shoes, sunscreen, water, hats are recommended for this guided walk geared toward families with small children. Meet in front of the building. 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Pasadena Central Library and its branches offer 15 storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require pre-registration. Check website for schedules. . Pasadena Central Library: Short preschool videos shown every Friday at 10 a.m. in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium. Central Library, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. The Huntington Library Nature activities are scheduled on Saturdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can explore the world of nature at hands-on plant discovery carts located at the Lily Ponds, Desert Garden and Japanese Garden. Older kids can examine plant cross-sections under a microscope, learn how plants and animals use camouflage, compare soil and water samples, or look for local wildlife using a field guide. Younger children can make leaf rubbings, examine seed pods, create origami, or experience “a bug’s life” through insect puppet play. On the first Saturday of each month, nature crafts are also offered near the entrance pavilion. No reservations required; free with museum admission. $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students (ages 12-18 or with student I.D.), $6 for youth (ages 5-11), free for children under 5. Information: 626-405-2100. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. Glendora Public Library PJ family story time at 7 p.m. each Wednesday offers a half hour of magical stories, songs and fingerplays. A great alternative to TV! Information: 626-852-4891. Children's Room, 140 S. Glendora Ave., Glendora. South Pasadena Public Library: Family Storytime Tuesdays 7:30 to 8 p.m.; Pajama Storytime: For ages 3-5, Wednesdays 7 to 7:30 p.m.; Preschool Storytime: For ages 3-5, Thursdays 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Toddler Storytimes: For ages 1-2, Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m.; For ages 2-3 Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m. Grandparents Read-Aloud: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m. Register at 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena. Altadena Public Library: Preschool storytime Wednesdays 11 a.m. 626-798-0833. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena. Monrovia Canyon Park: Guided nature hike held 10 to 11:30 a.m. most Saturdays. Call 626-256-8282 to confirm. Monrovia Nature Center, 1200 N. Canyon Blvd., Monrovia. San Marino Public Library: Weekly preschool story time for 3- to 5-year-olds offered on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Tuesdays at 3:30 for 5- to 8-year-olds. Call 626-300-0777 to register. 1890 Huntington Dr., San Marino. Mrs. Nelson's Storytimes: Preschool storytime, for ages 2-5 and parents, Tuesdays 10 a.m. PJ Storytime Fridays at 6 p.m. All ages welcome Saturdays at 11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. San Dimas Public Library: Preschool story time is held every Friday at 11 a.m. 145 N. Walnut Ave., San Dimas. Stone Center for Children's Books Children’s storytime is held Saturdays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Information: 909-607-3670. Stone Center, Claremont Graduate University, 740 N. College Ave., Claremont. Arcadia Public Library: Grandparents and Kids reading hour is held Mondays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., from Oct. 4 through Dec. 20. This is a drop-in program, no registration required, for children of all ages to hear stories read by experienced, caring seniors. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. MOMS Club of San Dimas: Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. Information: sandimasmomsclub@yahoo.com. Blue Chair Children's Books Toddler storytime Tuesdays at 11 a.m.; afterschool storytime Thursdays, 3:30 p.m.; special events every Friday night, check website for details. 177 N. Glendora Ave., Glendora. Gymboree: Play, music and art classes offered on an ongoing basis. Free trial classes for new families. Information on classes: 626-445-1122; parties: 626-445-5161. 518 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia. Parents Without Partners Covina Valley chapter of single-parent group holds orientation meeting and dance on the second Friday of each month, 7:30 p.m. to midnight. Information: 626-294-3211. Pyramid Room, Covina Bowl, 1060 E. Rimsdale Ave., Covina. Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets weekly and sponsors play groups and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City and Duarte. Information: email Paulimorin@earthlink.net . Hurst Ranch: Living history ranch is open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Information: 626-813-0116. 1227 S. Orange Ave., West Covina. MOMS Club of Pasadena Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena, South Pasadena, San Marino and Ahambra. For more information please e-mail: membershipvp@pasadenamomsclub.com. Pacific Theatres Monday Mom Movies are first-run film screenings specifically for mothers with babies. Check website for schedule. Paseo 14, Paseo Colorado, Pasadena. West Covina Library: Homework help is offered on a walk-in basis, free of charge, Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Helpers assist youngsters in grades 1 through 8 with homework questions, homework strategies and study skills. Help is available in all subjects, including math. Tutoring is available on Saturdays by appointments. Storytimes are held Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. for the whole family and on Fridays at 10 a.m. for preschoolers. 1601 West Covina Parkway, West Covina. La Canada Farmer's Market: Held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beulan Street at Foothill Boulevard., La Canada. Alhambra Farmer's Market: Certified Farmers' Market is held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday. Monterey Street, Alhambra. Are you aware of a great event or venue that we're not listing? If so, please let us know so we can include it in the next Orange Cat. Email: karen@theorangecat.org. |
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