July 8, 2005

Number 69

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

The Back Fence

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By Karen E. Klein
My kids are keeping plenty busy this summer. In fact, they're too busy for my taste. There's summer school ("necessary for advancement"), summer work for fall honors classes (a bad idea, obviously cooked up by someone who doesn't remember being a kid), summer basketball practices and games. In-between, there's almost no down-time, something I cherished during childhood summers.

But it wasn't all that long ago that my kids had too much free time over the summer and relied on me to rescue them from daily boredom. Constant kid entertainment is tough to provide when you are also trying to meet work deadlines and keep a household running smoothly - or at least limping along.

I remember that the same old outings, week in and week out, got dull. So I was always on the look out for new or offbeat parks and activities. Here are a few of my favorites:

The Montebello Barnyard Zoo isn't too far away and it's a nice combination petting zoo, playground with unique equipment, and park. If your kids like animals, this is a super place to spend an afternoon. Admission is $2 and it's closed on Mondays.

Whittier Narrows Nature Center and San Dimas Canyon Nature Center are great for hiking, birdwatching, and getting in touch with the wild. Call ahead to find out about activities like ranger-guided walks, animal interpretive programs, and hay rides. When my boys were toddlers we spent a windy afternoon in San Dimas Canyon as leaves showered down from a stand of enormous sycamores. The boys had as much fun running around trying to catch them before they hit the ground as they have had at many costly venues. Amazing how even the simplest things can be amusing to preschoolers.

For a much tamer excursion, try Lacy Park in San Marino. This was the first park I ventured to when my oldest, Matt, was just a few weeks old, and it's still a great place to meet other parents or hold a play day. The playground has attractive equipment and it is small enough to be manageable - meaning that you can sit on the sidelines and keep an eye on the whole place. If you get tired of sitting, you can meander along nearly two miles of stroller paths, and older kids can bike or rollerblade along with you. The huge grassy area in the center is perfect for kite-flying, baseball, or soccer. Admission is free on weekdays, but there's a small fee for non-residents on weekends, so be prepared. Parking can also be tight.

Monrovia's Canyon Park and Arcadia's Wilderness Park are tucked into the rugged San Gabriel foothills, close enough to be convenient but really different from the manicured city parks and suburbs that kids see every day. Take the hike in Monrovia Canyon - it's do-able even for young ones, though you won't want to drag the stroller along.

Monrovia's Grand Avenue Park isn't exactly in the wilderness category, but it's a quiet spot near enough to the foothills to feel secluded and sort of secret, and it's rarely crowded.

The beach is still our favorite summer outing, though we haven't gotten there yet this year. We like Seal Beach, near the pier, and Huntington State Beach, where there are fire rings. Sleep in and arrive in the early afternoon. With a little planning, you can stay for a hot-dog roast (don't forget the marshmallows), watch the sunset and avoid rush hour traffic all at the same time! How's that for a deal?

What if you're still looking for something your kids can do - without you - later this summer? The dog days of August tend to stretch on interminably: It's too hot to play outside and most of the day camps and other structured programs are over. But if your kids are basketball buffs, like mine, you could check out the A-Game Fundamental basketball clinic in Monrovia. Run by long-time local coach Rodney Jefferson, it's a terrific home-grown program that teaches basic basketball skills, hard work and reliance on the team. Along with hands-on practice, Rodney always lines up special guest speakers, including former local high school players who have gone on to play for college teams and the NBA. This year, he has former Monrovia High School player (now Chicago Bulls team member) Corie Blount on the schedule, among others. The best part? The half-day program, including lunch, costs only $60. It's August 1-5, for kids going into 5th through 11th grade. Call Rodney at 626-303-3223 or email him at: jejeffers6@aol.com to get a registration form.

If your kids are not going to be in school this fall, you may be looking for activities to line up for then as well. One local opportunity I've recommended for years are Pasadena City College's Parent Education classes. The fall semester runs Sept. 6 through Dec. 16 and registration for continuing students starts July 25. New students can register beginning Aug. 8 if they have submitted an application by Aug. 5. (Call PCC's Community Education Center for registration details and to obtain an application: 626-585-3038.)

Parent Ed has been around for decades, providing support for moms, stimulating play activities and socialization for kids and wise teachers for guidance. I participated with both my boys for four or five years before they were in school full-time and I still cherish the memories. My first teacher, Susanne Spandau, wrote me recently to say she is retiring after a quarter century in the program. Many other teachers are veterans like Susanne. They are wonderful resources for women who have left the full-time workforce to become moms, only to find that there is no blueprint for their new job.

Looking for something to do tomorrow? I just heard about a grassroots, nonprofit agency dedicated to inspiring under-served children with a love of reading. Since reading is one of my favorite activities, and one I'm thrilled to have passed along to my kids, I thought I'd let you know about a volunteer opportunity you may want to take advantage of - and bring your kids along! It's Reading To Kids, a group that hosts once-monthly reading clubs at four Los Angeles elementary schools. Pairs of volunteers are assigned to read aloud to small groups of kids in a fun, interactive environment. They involve about 250 volunteers each month, who work with 750 great elementary-school kids. Even if you're busy tomorrow, get in touch with the group if you can and give it a try. I intend to.

As we told you last time, we're soliciting friends of the Orange Cat (that means you!) to sign up for The Cat Club, our subscription service. It costs a measly $12 annually - $22 for two years - and it will help us keep this little newsletter healthy and growing. Would you take a moment to sign up now? Thanks! Once we get your subscription fee, we won't bug you again for your money. We promise. Take care and stay cool! 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.

Friday, July 8, 2005

Puppet Show: Arcadia Public Library 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Storytelling puppet fun for the whole family; two shows will be presented. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Saturday, July 9, 2005

City of the Angels Kateri Circle Pow Wow: Whittier Narrows Regional Park 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Two-day gathering features Native American dancers, dance competitions in multiple categories, musicians, artisans, and native food and crafts for purchase. Hours Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A Catholic Native American Mass will be celebrated on Sunday at 10 a.m. Information: Eva Walters, 626-334-1140. 750 S. Santa Anita Ave., Area B, South El Monte.

Super Critters: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. Find out about super critters such as a kinkajou, a python, and an alligator. By Pacific Animal Productions. Also at branch libraries. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena..

Peter Rabbit: Vroman's Bookstore 10 a.m. Peter Rabbit joins us at storytime, just in time for the centennial celebration of Beatrix Potter's work. Have a picture taken with her famed rabbit. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Community event: Kidspace Children’s Museum 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Accessibility and learning for all children will be celebrated with a day-long event featuring interactive programs devoted to exploring ability and accessibility in the local community. Admission $8 children and adults; infants under 1 free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Brookside Park, Pasadena,.

Sunday, July 10, 2005

Beatrix Potter Day: The Huntington Library 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Peter Rabbit will hop in for a visit, along with storytellers from the Beatrix Potter Society of America. A special display of Beatrix Potter materials from the Huntington’s collections will be on view and local libraries will have books to share. Public talk is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Potter's life. Free with admission of $15 adults, $10 students (ages 12-18), $6 youth (ages 5-11), free children under 5. 626-405-2100. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

Juggling Show: Monrovia Public Library 3 p.m. Former circus clown Donna Wood-Babock performs high-energy juggling show with plenty of audience participation. Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia.

Meet the Firemen: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 10:30 a.m. - 12:30. Take a fire truck tour and chat with the firemen from the La Verne Fire Department. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Gutsy Girls: Allendale Branch Library, Pasadena 11 a.m. Storyteller Victoria Burnett will tell tales, complete with music and audience participation, of girls who used their wits and courage to overcome the odds. Burnett has represented California at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee. For elementary school-age children or older. Also at La Pintoresca Branch July 12 at 3 p.m. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena-North 10 a.m. General meeting features Sarah Taylor, a financial planner, who will speak on college and retirement planning. 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, July 13, 2005

Parachute Express: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. Music for parents and children. This award-winning, musical trio is known for contagious, wholesome fun. Their happy tunes and toe-tapping, hand-clapping music. Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Author Event: Vroman's Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Chris Robertson presents and signs "Little Miss Liberty," a lighthearted tribute to the Statue of Liberty, who celebrates her 120th anniversary this year. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Live Family Entertainment: Sierra Madre Public Library 10 a.m. "Ricky Raccoon and the Recycling Ray" will be presented by Swazzle for children and their families. Information: 626-355-7186, after 11 a.m. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Dads That Rock West Covina Civic Center 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The West Covina Community Services Department presents Dads That Rock, part of the Summer Concert Series. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Saturday, July 16, 2005

Humane Society: Arcadia Public Library 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come learn all about your favorite animals, including cats and dogs, as they visit from the Pasadena Humane Society. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Beach Bag: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children will design a colorful beach goodie bag. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena..

Design a Superhero: Pasadena Central Library 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Teens use superhero software to create their own characters. In the Technology Learning Center and Teen Central. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena..

Harry Potter Returns: Vroman's Bookstore Midnight-1 a.m. Both Pasadena and Hastings Ranch stores will be open for the midnight release of J.K. Rowling's newest installment, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince." Potter fans unite the next morning from 8 - 9 a.m. for a party featuring trivia, refreshments, giveaways, and a sneak preview of the audio version read by Jim Dale. Witches, wizards and muggles of all ages are welcome and encouraged to dress up for the occasion. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Cassini Mission: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. JPL astronomers will discuss the mission to Saturn, hands-on activities and crafts will be provided for kids and a star-gazing session will be held. $3, kids under 2 free. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

A Summer Picnic: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Discover images of your favoirte foods and fancy table settings in the museum's artworks, and then create your own imaginary picnic in this special program for children and families. Free with museum admission of $8 adults, free kids 18 and under. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, July 17, 2005

Anime Review: Pasadena Central Library 3 p.m. An afternoon of free anime for lovers of Japanese animation who are ages 13-18. Snacks and drinks will be served. The main feature this month will be the series Get Backers, about a pair of young detectives. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena..

Monday, July 18, 2005

Art Classes with Gloria: Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop 4 p.m. Art classes for 1st grade through 6th grade are offered at Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop July 18th and 25th. Cost: $45. Please call Mrs. Nelson's to sign up for classes (909) 599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

Talking Hands: Hill Avenue Branch Library 11 a.m. Kathleen Zundell and Alan Schwartz captivate children with mime, movement and sign language to present folktales from around the world. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Book Chat: Pasadena Central Library 3:30 p.m. Teen chat about the book A Northern Light, by Jennifer Donnelly. It is the story of 17-year-old Mattie Gokey, who has to choose between family, love and college. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena..

Shark Tale: West Covina Civic Center 7:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. Movies in the Park presents the children's movie, Shark Tale. Presented by the West Covina Community Services Department. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

Joanie Bartels: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. Award-winning children's entertainer Joanie Bartels has sold over 3 million records and 100,000 videos. She is the first female children's artist to receive RIAA Gold Record. Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Thursday, July 21, 2005

Family Entertainment: Sierra Madre Public Library 10 a.m. "Cat Tastrophe - Nature's Super Hero," is a show being performed for children and their families by the Wonders of Wildlife group. Information: 626-355-7186, after 11 a.m. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Kindergarten Art: Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop 4 p.m. Art classes for Kindergarten age students on July 28. Cost: $45. Call to sign up: (909) 599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

La Palabra West Covina Civic Center 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The West Covina Community Services Department presents La Palabra, part of the Summer Concert Series. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Support Group: Mothers and More Pasadena 7 p.m. "Mothers and Job Discrimination" is the topic of tonight's general meeting, open to members and non-members. No children, please. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, Wilson Avenue, Pasadena.

Saturday, July 23, 2005

Juggler David Cousins: Arcadia Public Library 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Cousin holds five world records in juggling. Two interactive show times presented. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Register Early

Summer Science Camp: Youth Science Center Begins July 18 and runs weekly through August 12. Science, math and computer classes for grades K-8. Los Altos Elementary School, 15565 Los Altos Drive in Hacienda Heights. Click for schedule and class fees or phone 626-854-9825.

Sign Language: South Pasadena Public Library Back by popular demand, Kris Vreeland will offer sign language classes this month on Thursdays at 2 p.m. Visit the library to register for the series. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Creative Writing Workshop: South Pasadena Public Library Kids ages 10 to 14 can register now for a five-session course on creative writing to be held from 10-11 a.m. on Saturdays from July 16 through Aug. 13. Course includes book discussions, hands-on training in using library resources and discussion of their own literary efforts. Registration: 626-403-7358 or visit the library's children's department. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Miracle of Mime: Alhambra Public Library 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on July 13. Sign up now to see mime Judi Garratt, a veteran performer who presents zany and charming characters. Watch her become a collapsing doll, a flirtatious frog, an inept clown, and a boisterous balloon. Call (626) 570-3215 or stop by the Children's Room. 410 West Main Street, Alhambra.

Classical Music Appreciation: Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Musicologist and pianist Priscilla Pawlicki teaches the fundamentals of classical music listening and explains how to enhance your concert-going experience. Class held Aug. 10 at 1 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. Reservations mandatory: 626-683-3355. 100 North Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Family Adventures: Los Angeles County Arboretum Join us for a coffee expedition on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 2 p.m. as we explore the world of this tasty drink. We'll hike up to Tallac Knoll to discover the coffee bush, taste the fruit of a coffee plant, smell and taste a sweet coffee drink, and make a coffee dye. $20 per family. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

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.

Rick Raccoon: Alhambra Public Library 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on July 20. Sign-ups start July 11 at 4 p.m. The "Swazzle Puppet Performance Company" presents Rick Raccoon, a super garbage collector and his team of super raccoons who battle a giant junk monster and rid the environment of pollution. This show will be held outside the library. 410 West Main Street, Alhambra.

Art Drawing: Los Angeles County Arboretum KidsArt teaches drawing so that students have the opportunity to learn fundamental skills and "see" in a new way. KidsArt teaches students how to measure with the eye, how to break something into its parts and put it back together again to make a whole picture. Ages 4-12. Tuesdays at 9:30-10:30 a.m. Five-week session runs Aug. 2-30; $75 includes materials. Registration: 818-248-2764. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

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.

Alhambra Public Library 2 p.m. July 12 through July 30. The Scholastic Book Fair features some of the most popular books for all ages, including the newest titles, award-winners, classics, and interactive products. Proceeds help the library. Hours: Tuesday, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 410 W. Main St., Alhambra.

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. .

Hill Avenue Branch Library Watch super heroes in the movies; Thursdays at 11 a.m. throughout July. There's a hero of green, a hero from long ago, a family of heroes, teeny-tiny heroes, girl heroes, boy heroes and a hero who swings through the trees. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

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.

Orangewood Park: Free lunches served noon to 1 p.m. through Sept. 2. For children under 18 years old; first come, first served until food runs run out. 1615 W. Merced Ave., West Covina.

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.

Norton Simon Museum: On select Thursdays throughout the summer, the museum will present "Stamp Your Passport," a program for children 5 and up and their families. Participants join museum educators between 1 and 2 p.m. for lively discussions in the galleries followed by fun hands-on activities. Sessions will be held July 7, 14, 21, Aug. 4, 11 and 18. Free with museum admission of $8 adults; under 18 free. Information: 626-449-6840. 411 W. Colorado 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.

One Colorado Every Tuesday in July, at 11 a.m., kids will be treated to entertainment ranging from marionettes to a mini-circus, to lullabies and juggling. Each performance is accompanied by a drop-in arts workshop sponsored by Armory Center. Art projects are tailored to the theme of each show, whether creating puppets, making crazy crowns, or designing instruments. All ages. Colorado Blvd. between Fair Oaks and DeLacey, Pasadena.

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. Adults free; kids two and older $8; siblings and kids under 2, $6. 1115 Mission St., South Pasadena.

South Pasadena Public Library Super Saturdays is a special 2 p.m. weekly program for kids running through the summer on Saturdays, June 25, July 9, 16, 23, 30 and Aug 6 and 13. Art, music, science and storytelling will be featured. Information: 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

South Pasadena Public Library: Super Reader craft days will be held June 27, July 2, 11, 25 and Aug. 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Create costumes, action figures and do other craft projects at the library. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Pasadena Laughter Club Group meets every Friday, 6-7 p.m. Laughter Yoga is a simple yet profound technique, physically-oriented and does not rely on the mind at all. As a result you don't need to be happy, have a sense of humor, or even have a reason in order to laugh. Laughter Yoga is non-religious, non-sectarian and non-political and is suitable for all ages; families welcome. Yoga Kingdom Sanctuary, 553 S Lake Ave, Pasadena.

Altadena Public Library: Reading club, weekly musical shows, kids' workshops and activities are taking place over the summer. Check Web site for times, dates. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

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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