December 10, 2004

Number 55

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Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

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By Karen E. Klein
One of my girlfriends sent me a column a couple weeks ago, titled something like: "A Dear Santa Letter From a Mom." You may have seen it: The poor woman asks Santa for things like "a car with fingerprint resistant windows and a radio that only plays adult music" and "a refrigerator with a secret compartment behind the crisper where I can hide to talk on the phone."

I chuckled, recognizing many of the requests. But here's the one that really hit me: "It would be helpful if you could coerce my children to help around the house without demanding payment as if they were the bosses of an organized crime family," the letter goes.

Boy, can I relate to that one. Getting my boys to do yard work on the weekends is not an easy proposition. Not only do they ask, "how much are you paying for this?" but they also whine and pout the entire time they are raking, pruning and pulling weeds. It gets to the point where it would be easier and more pleasant just to do the work myself, though I try to resist that temptation.

The business owners I interview have been telling me for nearly a decade now that the work ethic among young people these days just ain't what it used to be. I've tended to take the comment with a grain of salt, figuring that no boss thinks his or her employees are working hard enough. But I have to admit that my own kids - and their friends - don't value work like I wish they did; nor do they understand the value of money like I think I used to as a kid.

That realization came home to me last week, when my older son came home from school on foot, carrying his bike helmet. "Matt's bike got stolen!" his younger brother announced at the front door. I was aghast - the bike wasn't brand new, but it had been expensive when I bought it for him a couple of years ago and it was still in perfectly good condition.

I would have been devastated, as a kid, if my beloved banana-seater with the pink-and-purple streamers on the handlebars had been stolen from the school bike rack. But Matt, it turned out, wasn't taking the loss overly hard. "Eh - I needed a new one anyway," he shrugged, heading to the refrigerator for a snack.

My reaction was not good, to say the least. The worst part of this situation was that he had confessed, several days earlier, that he didn't bother to lock up his bike at school. Both his brother and I had warned him strenuously that this was a big mistake. We made him promise to take the 10 seconds or so needed to secure the bike every morning.

But apparently he'd been running late that day and hadn't gotten around to fastening the lock. When he finished basketball practice a couple of hours after school was out, his helmet was on the ground in the bike cage, but his bike had vanished.

I pride myself on being able to deliver a darn good "Mom lecture" when one is called for. I launched into a doozy that day, throwing in some nostalgic phrases like "money doesn't just grow on trees you know!" and "I'm very disappointed in your attitude young man!" Matt took it well, emitting just a sigh now and then, but I wondered if and when his attitude would ever really change.

A financial advisor recently sent me a memo outlining his theory on a phenomenon that may be related to what I've been dealing with. He calls this malady "affluenza." It's "an extreme form of materialism that affects people across all income levels and all ages." He also calls it "brand-name dropping" and "the new wealth effect." Kids who feel little to no appreciation when their parents give them substantial gifts - and the slackers who have no interest in doing anything meaningful with their lives - are the principal victims of affluenza.

I protected my boys from ear infections, had them vaccinated for mumps, measles and rubella. How did my kids catch this disease? We aren't wealthy people, at least not compared to lots of friends and family members. When they were little, and I was struggling to establish my freelance writing career, we went through some lean years when we often fell back on "the austerity budget," i.e., spend as little as possible until the next check arrives. I really don't feel we've indulged our kids. They had to work all summer one year to buy a videogame system long after all their friends had them. Even now that our lives are a little cushier, they don't have the TVs, fancy clothes or expensive gadgets many other kids their ages do.

I tend to think it's a problem that affects not just my children, but many others here in Southern California. What we do about it, I'm not sure. One of my thoughts was to take my kids out of their comfort zone and let them really see how the rest of the world lives - send them off to work on a farm for a month, maybe, or have them join a missions trip across the border? I'm open to suggestions, if you have any.

One final note: There was a happy ending to the bike story. Matt rode his dad's bike to school for a week or so (I certainly wasn't buying him a new one) and kept a lookout for his bike. Finally, he spotted it in the rack one morning - unlocked. Thinking fast (he may have "affluenza" but he's not dumb), he raced into the gym and got a spare combination padlock from his PE locker. Back at the bike rack, he threaded the lock through the bike chain so the thief couldn't ride it away. He brought it home that night, stopping along the way to buy a new bike lock at the drug store - with his own money.

Fittingly for the holiday season, our calendar this issue is literally stuffed full of great events for families. A couple of highlights:

Kidspace opens the doors at its brand new location, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd. in Brookside Park, next weekend. The museum, for those who aren't familiar with it, was in Pasadena for 25 years before it shut down in 2002 to prepare for the move. The new facility features 20 exhibits and two acres of gardens, waterways and outdoor learning environments. It will be open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with tickets going for $8 (that's for adults and children; babies under one year are free). In order to celebrate the grand opening, the museum will be open to the public for free from Thursday, Dec. 16 through Saturday, Dec. 18. Doors open at noon Thursday and free parking is available in Rose Bowl Parking Lot I. Don't miss your chance to get an early glimpse of the place!

Here's a fun idea from Orange Cat reader Gigi Johnson (actually, she tells me her husband is one of our Orange Cat dads - she reads over his shoulder). Gigi, a longtime singer and parent of three, is co-hosting a series of folk music evenings that she calls "Starlight and Hot Cocoa." (See our calendar listings for details on the first event to be held in Monrovia on Dec. 15.) "Families just don't seem to sing much any more. The songs we grew up with aren't in their lives, except perhaps at Scout camp," she wrote me. "Parents aren't as comfortable as older generations on singing with their kids. We're trying to bring family singalongs back into the family and back into children's lives, one evening at a time."

My teenagers are at the wrong age for this sort of thing (I can only imagine the eyeball-rolling that would occur if I suggested that we attend), but I hope many of you can take part. Another suggestion - head up to Altadena and drive south down Santa Rosa Avenue - aka Christmas Tree Lane. If you haven't seen those amazing deodar cedars lit up like fairyland, you are really missing something special.

Maybe one cure for "affluenza" is getting kids involved in doing for others this holiday season. Take part in a Toys for Tots or canned food drive, participate in a church outreach event or find a new way to help - there are so many opportunities this time of year. Here's an idea: The Duarte Lions Club and City of Hope sponsor an eyeglasses recycling program that collects used eyeglasses, recycles them and distributes them to organizations hosting optical missions in developing countries. The prescription glasses go to people with poor sight who cannot purchase new lenses because they are inaccessible or prohibitively expensive. For information on donating your used eyeglasses (with or without cases; glasses must not be broken), contact Michele Kirschenbaum at 626-277-5650 or email mkirschenbaum@coh.org.

Whatever you do, please have a happy and safe holiday. Watch out for those parking lots at the mall, enjoy the time with your family and please pray for peace on earth, and we'll see you again on Jan. 7, after the holidays. 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, 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.

Christmas Is: Haugh Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. Annual holiday-themed musical produced by Citrus Music Department and Ben Bollinger. Performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8 p.m. and 2 p.m. through Dec. 19. Adults $18, kids 16 and under $15. Tickets: 626-963-9411. Citrus College, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Holiday Tree Lighting La Pintoresca branch library 5 p.m. Celebrate with us as the La Pintoresca 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.

Snow Festival: City of Arcadia 12-3 p.m. Play in 50 tons of snow, visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, make gingerbread and holiday crafts at this holiday wonderland. First Avenue between Diamond and Bonita streets, Arcadia.

Weird Nature: Caltech's Science Saturdays 2 p.m. High-definition film produced for the BBC and Discovery Channel sets animal action against dramatized human backdrops to reveal the extraordinary ways animals move. Caterpillars become wheels, a salamander transforms itself into a "rubber tire" for a fast getaway, bushbabies bounce and snakes soar through the air. Post-screening discussion led by Caltech biology prof Alex Backer. For kids 6 and up. $5. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Holiday Concert: Caltech 8 p.m. Vocal quartet Broceliande performs an assortment of medieval and Renaissance Christmas carols and songs, accompanied by Celtic harp, cello, guitar, bouzouki, oboe, flute, melodeon, recorder, whistle and drums. $15 adults; $5 youth. Dabney Lounge, Caltech, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Musical Circus: Pasadena Symphony 8:30 to 10 a.m. "Mr. Beethoven Comes to Visit" in this special presentation for children ages 10 and under. Ludwig Von Beethoven makes a visit to the symphony to spin stories that include excerpts from some of his famous works. Plus our musical "petting zoo" that allows kids to hold and "play" symphony instruments. Information: 626-793-7172. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

Central Chat: Pasadena Central Library 1-2 p.m. Book discussion group for ages 13-18 talks about hilarious humor books. What do you think is the funniest book of all time? Which books have left you in stitches? Which authors are always hilarious, no matter what they write? Bring two or three hilarious humor books to share. Teen Central, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Sunday, Dec. 12, 2004

Renaissance Singers: The Huntington Library 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Ring in the holidays with Renaissance vocal ensemble, which sings works spanning more than a millennium, from the early chants of the Middle Ages to the complex polyphony of the Renaissance. Many traditional holiday pieces, are featured. Free with admission of $15 adults, $10 students 12-18, $6 for 5-11, free under 5. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Edwardian Christmas: Pasadena Museum of History 1-4 p.m. An Edwardian-style Christmas at the Fenyes Mansion features a delightful Edwardian theatrical comedy, musicians, carolers, interactive children's story theatre, artist's boutique, refreshments & more. Adults $10, children free. Information: 626-577-1660, ext. 10. 470 W. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Monday, Dec. 13, 2004

Youth Symphony Concert: Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Winter concert features the works of composers from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including Corelli, Beethoven, Berlioz, Moussorgsky and Saint Saens. Information: 626-793-7172. Pasadena High School auditorium, 2925 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena.

Santa Jim: Hastings branch library 7 p.m. Santa Jim, also known as Jim Lewis, will have the young at heart mesmerized with his stories of reindeer, elves and snowy Christmas night. Fun for the entire family. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Santa Jim Tells Holiday Stories: Hill Avenue branch library 4 p.m. Holiday stories for the whole family. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

8th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: San Rafael branch library 3:30 p.m. It's time for our annual holiday preschool story time. We'll welcome the holiday season with stories, songs, a special craft and snacks for everyone. 1240 Nithsdale Road, Pasadena.

Chamber Music Express: Altadena Public Library 7 p.m. Concert is titled, "The Voyage of the Viola, Part II, The Case of the Missing Ingredient." It features Paul Stein on the violin, Hui Liu on viola and Cynthia Williams on piano. Great for families with school-aged children. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2004

Support Group Meeting: MOMS Club of Pasadena-North 10 a.m. General meeting of stay-at-home moms group features Pam Erdman, a marriage, family and child therapist, speaking on anger management. Visitors and children welcome. Information: 626-580-8514 or email: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com Group has no religious affiliation. Trinity Lutheran Church, 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2004

Starlight and Hot Cocoa: Monrovia Coffee Company 6:30 to 8 p.m. First in a series of folk music nights aimed at helping families rediscover the joys of singing together. Led by guitarist, singer and songwriter Mike Salas and singer/parent-of-three Gigi Johnson. Neither kids nor singing talent is required for attendance. Information: email info@gigij.net. 425 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

After School Holiday Tree Trimming Hill Avenue branch library 3 p.m. Children of all ages are invited to make tree decorations and trim the library tree. Snacks will be served. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Christmas Madness: Santa Catalina branch library 3 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend a winter of wonderland excitement! Come and create an ornament to hang on our tree and or to take home. Supplies and a tasty treat will be provided! 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, Dec. 16, 2004

Grand Opening: Kidspace Museum 12-5 p.m. New facility opens with 17 new exhibits, 14 gardens nestled in two acres of outdoor learning environments and integrated educational programming. Free admission today; Friday, Dec. 17, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 18, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Information: 626-449-9144. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Night: Arcadia Public Library 7 p.m. Stories, videos, crafts and other surprises for the family. No registration needed. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Holiday Storytime: Allendale branch library 10:30 a.m. Come to the library for this special holiday storytime. Listen to stories, sing carols, make a tree decoration and help us decorate our library tree. All materials will be provided. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Tree Decorating Party: Allendale branch library 3:30 p.m. Join us at the library for a lively holiday party. Listen to Christmas carols as we decorate the library tree. Materials and snacks will be provided. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Winter Bingo: Hastings branch library 4 p.m. Books, bingo and fun for kids, who are invited to listen to some winter stories and enjoy a few rounds of winter bingo along with a few delicious treats. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004

A Winter Greeting: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Explore snowy scenes and more, then make your own greeting card inspired by one of the museum's artworks in this program for children and families. Free with museum admission of $6 adults, free under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring a Gingerbread Man to life with buttons, ribbon and lace. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Dec. 19, 2004

Bird Walk: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 8 a.m. to noon. Join us for a bird walk. Meet at nature center building and bring binoculars, shade hat and water. Please, no dogs. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Family Celebration: West Covina Rose Float Foundation 2-5 p.m. Get a sneak preview of West Covina's Rose Parade float, listen to choral performance and visit Rose Queen Ashley Moreno and her Royal Court. Rose Float Decorating Tent, Brookside Park, Seco Street and Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004

Community Caroling: Old Town Monrovia 6:30 p.m. Carol down Old Town Monrovia's Myrtle Avenue with a group from Mayflower School and the City of Monrovia. Open to anyone who is interested in joining. Christmas tree, Library Park, Myrtle Ave., Old Town Monrovia.

Sunday, Dec. 26, 2004

Hike to the Falls: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 9 a.m. to noon. Falls are beautiful this time of year - come see them! Moderate 3.5-mile hike includes boulder-hopping, stream-crossing. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes and a hat are recommended. Call for groups of 10 or more. 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Monday, Dec. 27, 2004

Kwanzaa Monday: La Pintoresca branch library 11 a.m. All are welcome to celebrate the joyous and festive occasion of Kwanzaa with our community. Enjoy tasty dishes prepared by members of the Pasadena Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2004

Anime Afternoon: Pasadena Central Library 3-5 p.m. Calling all teen lovers of Japanese animation! We’ll be showing movies and episodes from popular television shows and reviewing them. Donald R. Wright Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

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.

Christmas Carol Puppet Show: Alhambra Public Library Kids and adults alike will laugh on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. as delightful handmade puppets present a Christmas Carol show you will never forget. Master puppeteer Ric Morton has been entertaining audiences for 30 years with his unique puppet magic. Sign-up in the Children's Room or call 626-570-3215 for reservations. 410 W. Main St., Alhambra.

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.

Recycled Garden Art: Huntington Library Recyclers become trash transformers at this Saturday, Jan. 15 workshop from 9 a.m. to noon. Young gardeners ages 8-11 can discover how to turn recycled materials and cast-off items into scarecrows, garden ornaments and outdoor works of art. Members: $25. Non-members: $35. Registration mandatory: 626-405-3586. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Paint Me a Portrait: Huntington Library Youngsters can spend Saturday morning, Jan. 8, exploring the art of portraiture in the exhibition "Celebrities, Friends, and Strangers: Portraits by Don Bachardy." A portrait painting session follows for some creative fun. Ages 7 and up. $15. Registration mandatory: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

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.

Crafting Green Gifts: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Learn how to make pressed flower gift cards, leaf rubbing gift wrap, bird feeders, tree ornaments and other garden gifts using natural and recycled materials. Workshop held on Sunday, Dec. 19 from noon to 3 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult, materials provided. $15 per child (no charge for accompanying adults). Space limited, reservations: 909-625-8767. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

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.

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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