June 10, 2005

Number 67

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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
Before I get started with today's column, allow me a moment to do some housekeeping and air a commercial. We are moving ahead with the implementation of an Orange Cat paid subscriber plan (tentatively called "The Cat Club") that will be voluntary, at least initially. We haven't gotten the kinks worked out yet, but we hope to appeal to members of our Orange Cat community who appreciate the newsletter and Web site and want to keep it in existence. The low fee involved ($12 annually) will help us continue our efforts and expand on them. There may also be some nice perqs for those who join up.

Anyway, I'll have more about The Cat Club in the next issue. For now (here comes the commercial) I want to let you know that we've set a goal for the rest of 2005: We'd like to double our circulation, from the 3,000 local families on our list now to 6,000 by Jan. 1, 2006. Considering that we've been growing consistently by about 1,000 subscribers annually since our inception, that sounds awfully ambitious.

But we hope we can do it - with your help. Just think, if every one of our readers signed up just one friend (or neighbor, brother, mom, or cousin) - we'd be there! So please take a moment and think about someone you know who could benefit from a subscription, and then sign them up (Oh! Only with their permission, please.) or send them an email and a link to our home page, where they can subscribe themselves. Thanks!

Okay, down to business. Boy is there a lot to tell you about in this issue: School is winding down, summer activities are warming up and I have some important safety information I want to pass along as well.

My kids are in school almost through the end of the month, much to their chagrin, but yours may already be out or nearly so. Good thing there's no shortage of things for them to do this summer. I've tried to compile a lot of dates and times in this issue, but there is just too much information out there to include listings for everything, and I'm sure I missed a few. Check out our "continuing" section for some information on ongoing summer programs starting up soon. Suffice it to say: Your local library has a summer reading club planned for the summer. Go to your branch and check out the plans - most of them are doing signups starting in the next two weeks.

If you haven't participated in summer reading clubs with your kids before, this is the year to start. The emphasis is on personal accomplishment (rather than competition), keeping reading skills up and learning that reading is just - well - fun! And your child doesn't even have to be able to read to participate. You can read to them and have them draw pictures about the stories. It's never too early to introduce kids to libraries and books. Many libraries and other venues have special summer programs: outdoor concerts, magic shows, trips, so check those out as well.

There are also a couple of new local venues you should know about. Actually the Pasadena Center for Fine Arts is not new, but it's recently been purchased by Mike and Ellen Mattesi. The couple, who moved here a year ago from New Jersey, have updated the center's class schedule and Ellen revamped the children's curriculum - just in time for summer classes. See the information on their June 19 open house in our calendar.

The other venue really is new - and it seems to be part of a trend. Amy Shachory is hosting the grand opening tomorrow of Amy's Playground, an indoor play area on Mission and Fremont in South Pasadena. Several of these indoor play areas have cropped up in the last year, including Kid's Island in Arcadia. I asked Amy what's driving the trend. "We're never going to replace the park. We take our 1 ½-year-old there every day. But when you're a mom at home and have up to 12 hours to fill in a day, having something different to do is nice," she said. And having someplace to hang out other than a crowded mall - not exactly perfect for young children - is especially nice. Also, with the heat of summer just around the corner, it can be imperative to find an air-conditioned refuge during the heat of the day. Amy's Playground costs $8 per kid ($6 for siblings and those under 2) and will have regular hours on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Check it out.

Chance are, if you're not indoors on those hot summer afternoons, you're at a pool. Every year, much as I love summer, I cringe as it approaches because I know the season inevitably brings with it the hideous tragedy of backyard drowning. How easy it is for a young child to slip away, fall (or jump) into a pool, and be gone within a matter of minutes.

I can't emphasize enough how very, very vigilant you must be if you have a pool in your backyard or you are visiting someone with a pool - even the "kiddie" variety. I talked to Gayle Northrop recently, a La Canada mom and third-generation swim teacher, about swimming pool safety and signing up your kids for swim lessons. Here's what she recommends on the safety end:

Absolutely make sure that any pool your children spend time around is fenced and locked, preferably with a combination lock. Kids will pile toys and chairs up to open a gate that's just latched, and if it locks with a key they're incredibly good about finding it and using it, Gayle says. But "a combination padlock is too tough for kids to figure out how to open," she notes. She also recommends that children never be allowed to skinny dip. "If a child associates having a bathing suit on with getting into the pool, she'll be more likely to go looking for her suit and delay the idea of getting into an unsupervised pool," she says.

Allow your child access in and out of the water at only one entry spot - like the steps or a ladder. "That way, you can keep your eyes focused on that single point when you're watching the pool to check who's going in or out of it," Gayle recommends. She also trains children who are learning to swim not to leave the steps or the wall until they are called, and trains babies to cling to their parents in the water like a monkey to a tree.

"If a child is ever missing at a pool party or a place with a pool, go straight to the pool immediately, before you look anywhere else," Gayle says. "Go to the edge and look down right below the edge of the pool" where a child who slipped in is likely to be. With dark-bottomed pools, murky water and all the floating toys that are popular these days, it can be tough to spot a child who has fallen in - so look closely.

At a pool party or swim day, designate at least one adult to keep watch over the kids, making sure he or she does not get distracted or leave the area without "handing off" the eagle-eye duty to someone else. "If the point person leaves, she has to make sure she passes off the duty and gets an acknowledgement from the new point person that they are watching," Gayle says. Too many times, one adult leaves the scene, thinking that another is in charge, only to find out later that the second person didn't hear or understand the instructions. Unfortunately, it only takes a moment for a child to slip under, and it happens even when adults are on site.

Of course, the most important thing you can do to make your children water-safe is to make sure they learn how to swim and be safe around the water. Gayle, whose mother and grandmother are both swim teachers, has some great tips on finding a good teacher and helping your reluctant child acclimate to lessons. Unfortunately, her classes are already filled up for the summer, but I'll pass along her advice on the topic next time.

Until then, be safe, stay cool and don't forget to sign up a new friend! 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 our special printable calendar, especially for readers of The Orange Cat.

Saturday, June 11, 2005

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Keep those important papers in place by creating a charming paperweight decorated with beads, animal shapes, and more. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Boardgame Afternoon: Pasadena Central Library 3-5 p.m. Challenge other game lovers to Risk, Monopoly, Chess, Connect Four, Yahtzee, Checkers, Life, Battleship and more. Teen Central, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Fantastic Flyers & Paper Airplanes: Pasadena Central Library 1-2 p.m. Create paper airplanes and other fantastic flyers. Materials and patterns will be available. Let your imagination wonder free. Who can fly their plane the farthest? Who can design the most awesome airplanes? 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Aztec Calendar Workshop: Avenue 50 Studio 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artist Leo Limon demonstrates to participants a hands-on application on the signs of the Aztec calendar. Information and reservations: Kathy Gallegos, 323-258-1435. 131 North Ave. 50, Highland Park.

S’Mores ‘n’ Scary Stories: Vroman's Bookstore 8 p.m. Resident storyteller Kris Vreeland will serve up tales to tingle your spine. We'll serve up marshmallow-y treats and tell stories outside on the paseo, so grab your favorite blanket or beach chair and dress accordingly. Ages 6 to 12. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Identity Theft: Arcadia Public Library 11 a.m. The Arcadia Police Department presents a program on preventing identity theft. Participants will learn how they can reduce their chances of becoming a victim and what to do should they become a victim. To enable parents to attend, a safety video for children ages 6 and up will be shown simultaneously in the Imagination Theater. 20 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia.

Jazz It Up: Norma Coombs Alternative School 1-5 p.m. Family-friendly outdoor jazz concert will include performances by local jazz groups, including the Pasadena High School Jazz Board. Drinks and baked goods will be available to purchase. Lots of crafts and games for kids. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Admission $3. Information: 626-398-1616. Altadena Drive and Paloma Street, Pasadena.

Sunday, June 12, 2005

Bike Parade and Festival: Bike Summer LA 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Two-wheelers take back the street, followed by a celebration in the park with solar-powered live music, organic refreshments, community booths, eco-demonstrations and fun, including a bicycle merry-go-round. Sycamore Grove Park, 4701 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

Monday, June 13, 2005

Summer Reading Program: Arcadia Public Library Sign up for the Super Summer Reading Program and receive a reading log for keeping track of hours and books read, a book bag and a bookmark. Signups will continue through Saturday, August 6. Designed for infants through kids going into eighth grade this fall. A separate program is offered for high schoolers. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Summer Reading Signup: South Pasadena Public Library Children and teens are encouraged to join this program, which runs through Aug. 13. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Tuesday, June 14, 2005

DIY Club: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 p.m. Have you created some great memories with family and friends? Need a place to put these special pictures? Join us and create a scrapbook for yourself or to give as a gift. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena-North 10 a.m. General meeting features "Member-to-Member Tip Forum," an open discussion about being moms, breastfeeding, sleeping habits, eating issues, allergies, feeding and more. Also Father's Day craft with kids. Information: 626-580-8514 or email: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com. Group has no religious affiliation. Visitors and children welcome. Trinity Lutheran Church, 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Saturday, June 18, 2005

Anime Afternoon: Pasadena Central Library 12:30 to 2 p.m. Free animé for ages 13-18. We will be showing episodes from new animé series and writing short reviews to send to the animé companies. Newbies to the world of animé are invited too! Snacks and drinks will be served. Information: 626-744-4766. Donald R. Wright Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Father's Day Event: Arcadia Public Library 2:30 p.m. Join us for some super special stories and crafts for ages 5 and up. No registration is required but attendance is limited to the first 50 children. An adult helper must accompany children under eight. 20 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrate Dad’s special day…with a handmade Father's Day card that kids can create themselves. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Dive into a Story: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Join a museum educator for an interative tour of narrative artworks and then invent your own stories. Free with museum admission of adults $8; under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, June 19, 2005

Open House: Pasadena Center for Fine Arts 1 to 3:30 p.m. Drop by to check out new programs for children and adults, including summer sessions for kids as young as 3. Information: 888-824-2456. 145 N. Altadena Dr., Suite 203, Pasadena.

Bird Walk: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 8 a.m. to noon. Join us outdoors for a bird walk. Bring binoculars, shade hat and water; please no dogs. Information: 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Monday, June 20, 2005

Summer Reading Club: Sierra Madre Public Library “Super Readers, Super Heroes,” will run eight weeks, through Saturday, Aug. 13. Children of all ages, from all communities, are invited to join. Sign-ups will begin today in the library’s Children’s Room. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Summer Reading Club; Monrovia Public Library Annual Summer Reading Club starts registration today for program that runs through Aug. 6. Club encourages children from the age of 3 up through eighth-graders to read throughout the summer and find enjoyment in reading outside the classroom. Those who do not read independently may participate with a parent in the Read-To-Me program. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Tuesday, June 21, 2005

Camp Dirt: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 p.m. Get down and dirty: Camp Dirt will put you to the test. You’ll enjoy camp songs, crafts, team competitions and a yummy dirt snack. Wear comfortable clothes - you might get wet! 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Thursday, June 23, 2005

Saturday, June 25, 2005

Armenian Storytime: Santa Catalina Branch Library 4 p.m. Monthly series of storytime programs is offered in the Armenian language. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Festival: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Dr. Craig Woodson conducts an interactive program that takes children and families on a musical trip around the world and leads an instrument-making activity using household objects. Free with museum admission of $8 adults; under 18 free. 411 West Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Make a firecracker puppet. Ages 3 and up. 848 E. Foothill Blvd., 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.

Family Fun for Nature Nuts: Descanso Gardens Family programs will be offered on five Wednesday evenings from June 22 through July 20. Garden gates will open at 5:30 p.m. for picnicking; shows begin at 6:30 p.m. Programs are interactive, usually hands-on events presented by professionals experienced in working with both the animals and children. Series: $40 per person; single events $10; children under 2 admitted free. Registration due by June 15: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens Docent Jim Jackson will lead a walking tour on Friday, June 17 from 7:15 to 9 p.m. Jackson also will talk about Descanso’s history, facts and lore. Participants must be older than 12 years, should wear sensible shoes and bring a jacket and a flashlight. $18; reservations recommended: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Twilight in the Garden: Pasadena Museum of History Magical evening for children ages 4 through 8 includes guided tour focusing on Harold Gaze fairy paintings, story time next to the garden gnomes, a garden-inspired craft, refreshments and souvenir photo. To be held Wednesday, June 17 from 6-7:30 p.m. Children invited to wear pajamas or fairy costumes. Tickets: $12 per child; reservations: 626-577-1660, ext.10. 470 W. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Children’s Workshop: The Huntington Library Totally Tomatoes workshop will be held Saturday, July 9 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Solve the riddle of the tomato’s identity in a fun workshop that will take you from laboratory to garden to kitchen. $15. Ages 7 and up. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Family Evening: The Huntington Library Join us for some cool activities on a hot summer night, Saturday, Aug. 27 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Take a guided nature walk in the gardens before dusk, visit with some nocturnal bats, and then venture out under the night sky for some summer star-gazing with the Sidewalk Astronomers. Ages 3 and up. $18 adults, $15 children. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Music for Kids: Foothills Music Together Free demonstration classes for newborns through ages 5 will be offered week of June 27, in anticipation of summer sessions starting July 5. To reserve a space in a demo class, call 626-398-4159 x2. Seven San Gabriel Valley locations.

Teen Volunteers: Sierra Madre Public Library Earn community service hours by volunteering to help during the library's summer reading club, which runs Monday, June 20 through Saturday, Aug. 13. Volunteers, who must be entering seventh grade or higher, work two hours a week signing children up for the reading program and helping them track their logs, awarding prizes, preparing crafts, and other tasks. Information: 626-355-7186. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

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 at 11 a.m. Activities include stories, songs, flannel tales and a small creative project. "Munchkin Storytime" is offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m., for children 3-5. The half-hour program includes stories, songs, flannel tales and incentive stickers. Pajamamania is an evening storytime geared to children ages 4-7, but open to everyone. Children are invited to come dressed in their pajamas, ready to munch on popcorn, listen to bedtime stories and watch a film. Mondays at 7:15 p.m., June 27, July 11, July 18, July 25 and Aug. 1. 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.

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. .

Arcadia Public Library Storytimes will be drop-in programs for the summer, with no registration necessary. Bouncing Baby Tales is for ages 4 months to 1 year and is held Tuesdays June 28-Aug. 8 at 10:15 a.m. Terrific Toddler Tales is for ages 1 –3 years and held Tuesdays, June 28-Aug. 9 at 6:30 p.m. and Wednesdays, June 29-Aug. 10 at 10:15 a.m. Super Hero Preschool Storytime is for ages 3-5 and is held Wednesdays, June 29–Aug. 10 at 6:30 p.m. 20 W. Duarte Rd., 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: 626-335-3042 or email: butlig@integrity.com .

Descanso Gardens Summer concert series begins Sunday, June 19 and runs through Sunday, July 24. Concerts are held at 2 p.m. at the "Under the Oaks" theater. All concerts are free with admission of $7 adults; $2 children 5 to 12; free children 5 and younger. See website for schedule. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

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 membership@momsclubcovina.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 is offered Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.; Pajama and Preschool storytimes for ages 3-5, Wednesdays 7 p.m. and Thursdays 10:30 a.m.; Toddler storytime for ages 1-2, Fridays 10:30 a.m.; ages 2-3, Fridays 11 a.m. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

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.

Alhambra Public Library Preschool story time for ages 3 to 5 is held Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. from June 22-Aug. 10. Features stories, finger plays, songs and puppets. Toddler story time, Fridays at 10:30 a.m. from June 24-Aug. 12. Pajama story time for ages 3 to 10, Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Features stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. 410 W. Main St., Alhambra.

Terrific Twosomes Mothers of Multiples: San Gabriel Valley-based, non-profit support organization exists as a forum for parents of twins, triplets, quadruplets and higher multipes to come together to exchange everything from advice to outgrown baby clothing! We meet on the second Tuesday evening of each month; see website for details on meeting place and time. .

Healthy Eating Lifestyle Program: Ongoing, five-session nutritional and exercise workshop is designed to help families with kids who are at risk for being overweight. Classes include smart shopping tips, family meal planning advice, creating simple recipes, games, parties and activities for kids aged 5 to 12 and their entire families. Sessions held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, and Monday and Tuesday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. Families must register and complete medical screening in order to attend. Contact health educator Kam Miller at 626-397-3660 or via email: healthy.eating@huntingtonhospital.com Huntington Hospital, 100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena.

The Bunny Museum: See the world's largest collection of bunnies and bunny artifacts, with more than 20,000 items on display. Private home is open for tours by appointment every day of the year. No appointment needed on most holidays. Call for schedule: 626-798-8848. 1933 Jefferson Dr., Pasadena.

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. .

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. Call for information and location: 626-294-3211. .

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets every fourth Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City and Duarte. Information: email Paulimorin@earthlink.net Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

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 .

Arcadia Public Library At 11 a.m. on the first and third Saturdays of each month, kids from Kindergarten to fifth grade can read a story to a friendly, gentle dog, courtesy of the Pasadena Humane Society. Program runs June 18 through Aug. 20. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Kidspace Children's Museum: Where else can kids dig, learn about fossils and the evolution of earthquakes, ride trikes and climb 40 feet into the air? Museum exhibits highlight the arts, sciences and humanities in a manner that promotes exploration, investigation and expression. Open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day. Admission: $8 for adults and children; under 1 free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Kids Island Parenting classes, infant play area, arts and crafts, music and dance studios, open play times and children's parties are offered at this indoor center for children six months to eight years. Call for information/admission prices: 626-447-8003. 1313 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Follow The Rainbow: 3,000-square-foot indoor playground has things to climb on, bounce on, dig in and play with. A safe, fun environment for young children with quieter room for reading or board and card games provided for older children. Parents can play with their kids, stand back and guide them or sit and relax in view of all the action. Open 7 days, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily admission: $7, monthly $30, annual pass $105. Birthday parties start at $300. 626-794-0925. 2525 N. Lake Ave., Altadena.

Alhambra Farmer's Market: Certified Farmers' Market is held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday. Monterey Street, Alhambra.

Acorn Gallery Art bikes exhibit will be held June 4-26 in conjunction with Bike Summer LA. Exhibit features photos of art bikes from around the world as well as homegrown art bikes and bike sculptures. Gallery is open Saturdays and Sundays in June, from noon to 4 pm. 135 N. Avenue 50, Highland Park.

West Covina Library Summer reading club runs June 27-Aug. 9. Special programs for kids and families held Wednesday evenings. Information: 626-962-3541; see web site for specific times and dates. 1601 West Covina Pkwy., West Covina.

Amy's Playground Indoor playground features 3,000-square-foot play area with maze, bouncer, infant area and free weekly crafts. Must wear socks to enter. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; call for weekend availability. Opens June 11. Adults free; kids two and older $8; siblings and kids under 2, $6. 1115 Mission St., South Pasadena.

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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