July 22, 2005

Number 70

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

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By Karen E. Klein
When it comes to finding good service, my instinct is to search out the small and local over the big and slick. This policy, developed over years of home ownership and child-rearing (as well as years of writing about small business), has served me well. And it truly proved its worth earlier this month.

Here's how my consumer instinct plays out: I will occasionally venture into one of the big box home-products stores if I have no alternative, but I much prefer to swing by my local hardware store when I'm tackling a weekend project. The local spot, a mom-and-pop icon, offers close proximity and easy parking. But what really sells it for me is walking in and being greeted personally by one of the grizzled old duffers whose sole job is to solve my problems. Usually, that involves walking me to the proper aisle, recommending the specific product I need and talking me through the home repair or improvement I would surely have bungled on my own. I've looked for that kind of personal attention at the national chain stores, but seldom found it.

I'll never forget the time I had termites swarming out of the fireplace at my previous house, a 1920s Craftsman bungalow. I called a couple of the large termite- eradication outfits, both of whom wrote me up costly estimates for full-house tenting treatment without even inspecting the place. As a last resort, I called a small company based in my town, which sent out a woman in a pickup truck. Unlike her two counterparts, she immediately stuck her flashlight in my fireplace, looked around, and emerged holding a half-burned log.

"Here's your problem," she said, explaining that the bugs were not in my walls, but in some firewood I'd stacked in the hearth months earlier . "These old redwood homes are too dry for termites," she noted, after thoroughly inspecting the property. Not only did she save me thousands of dollars, she also bagged up the infected wood and tossed it into the back of her truck before she left.

Trading the big, impersonal corporation for the community-based outfit doesn't mean you have to reduce your standards, by the way. When my kids were small and I needed part-time daycare, I took them to the home of a retired neighbor who babysat for a handful of local families. Her expertise combined the best old-fashioned mothering instincts with the latest information on child safety and enrichment, which she picked up taking classes to ensure she always passed the annual licensing process with flying colors.

Undoubtedly, sophisticated service providers are armed with new techniques and cutting-edge ideas that sometimes deserve a hearing. But there's still a lot to be said for experience and tried-and-true methodology, not to mention kindness and caring.

The latter virtues are the ones I ran into a few days ago, when I went searching for an electician to tackle a low-voltage problem that had been plaguing our house for weeks. We'd turn on the toaster oven or the dishwasher and our lights would flicker and dim like the chandeliers in Disneyland's Haunted Mansion. The problem went from annoying to downright disabling when we no longer had enough juice to power up our microwave or clothes dryer.

Because my neighbors weren't experiencing brown-outs, I figured my trouble lay with my 1960s-era wiring or fuse box, so I set out to find an electrician. I rejected the splashy Yellow Page ads placed by regional dispatch companies and combed the one-line ads looking for a local address. I found three.

The first number was no longer in service, and the second rang and rang without an answer. But at the third number, a older man with a kind of hillbilly drawl answered immediately. "Have you called the power company?" Jerry asked after I described my problem. No, I told him, I hadn't. "Sounds like the wires at your pole are loose. They have to fix that for you for free," he told me.

Impressed by his honesty, I took his advice and called Southern California Edison. All I could do, however, was listen to a message about the "high volume of calls" and punch in my address on the automated customer-service line they had set up to record partial outages and request service. A few minutes later, my phone rang. Could it be Edison so soon? Nope. It was Jerry, checking to see how things were going. I hadn't hired him or even given him my number, so I was surprised he'd taken the trouble to retrieve it from his cell phone and call me back. But he did more than that: When he heard I'd had to deal with the automated system, he snorted derisively. "They're so busy with this heat, they won't get to you 'til next week," he said grimly. "I've got someone on the inside that I can call. Give me your address and I'll talk to them."

I was skeptical, but if he was so eager to help who was I to turn him down? Sure enough, less than five minutes after I hung up with Jerry, an Edison rep was calling to set up a service call. Within a couple of hours, the corroded wiring on my roof had been replaced at no charge and my appliances - and air conditioning, thank goodness! - were powered up for business.

What about my hero, Jerry the good-hearted electrician? I called him back later that day to update him and thank him for going beyond the call of duty. "I've been in this business 40 years, and I won't take people's money unless they need my service," he declared. I got his address and sent him a nice thank-you gift, promising to call him the next time I had a problem.

This is what endears me to small business owners - people like Jerry, who spend their lives in their communities and treat their customers not like anonymous jobs, but like favorite neighbors, mostly because they are. Would one of the big companies whose ad I saw in the phone book have done what Jerry did for me? It's possible, but in my experience highly unlikely. In this case, smaller really was better.

Orange Cat mom Melinda, while ridding her home of violent video games a few weeks ago (Bravo, Melinda!) wrote to tell me that she has discovered the El Monte Aquatic Center and is really enjoying the facility and staff. "I have nothing but positive things to say about our experiences there," she wrote. Thanks for the recommendation - check it out!

Thanks for all of you who made good-faith efforts to join The Cat Club and send us the nominal, very tiny, extremely reasonable $12 annual subscription fee last time around. Unfortunately, our mail service scrambled the links and (as many of you found out) made them inoperable. Argh! Technology, it's hard to know whether to love it or hate it. Anyway, Brad assures me the links will work this time, so please try again. Here's where you can pay via credit card over a secure connection: one year, two years. If you have a PayPal account, you can just send the money to brad@theorangecat.org. Or you can mail a check payable to KBN Publishing, Inc. and send it to 5645 Heleo Ave., Temple City, 91780. Please write your email address on your check, so we can mark you "paid."

We appreciate your patience and your good faith. Thanks for your support - and stay cool! Until next time, I'm 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, 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.

Silly Sun Visor: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids make crazy, colorful sun visors covered in feathers, sequins, spangles, and more! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, July 25, 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 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 26, 2005

Gypsy Folk Ensemble: Monrovia Public Library 3 p.m. Dance troupe performs Greek and Italian dances while sharing stories of the hero Hercules and educating children about Mediterranean costumes and cultures. Children will be encouraged to join in and learn a new dance or two. Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia.

Little Heroes: Pasadena Central Library 1 p.m. in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium. In Little Heroes, Storyteller Karen Rae Kraut will tell stories with humor, surprise guests, audience participation and musical accompaniment. Karen is also appearing at various branch libraries. Click on link for times. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Origami: La Pintoresca Branch Library 2:30 p.m. Barbara Turner from Origami Designs will lead a class in paper folding. Learn to fold and see a display of folding. Children 6-8 must have a parent accompany them. Sign up today as seating is limited. 626-744-7268 for La Pintoresca. At 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena. Also at Lamanda Park Branch Library (626-744-7266), 140 South Altadena Drive, July 27 at 10:30 a.m.

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

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Patchwork Girl of Oz: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. What happened "Over the Rainbow" after Dorothy returned to Kansas. The story of the Patchwork Girl is brought to life by Louise Reichlin and dancers of the Los Angeles Choreographers and Dancers organization. Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Thursday, July 28, 2005

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.

Friday, July 29, 2005

"Anything Goes" Pasadena Junior Theatre 7 p.m. Children's theater production of Cole Porter musical will be presented this weekend, Friday and Saturday night at 7 p.m., Sunday at 4 p.m., and next, Friday, Aug. 5 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 6 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 7 at 4 p.m. Call 626-577-5922 or email: info@pasadenajuniortheatre.org for ticket prices, location. .

Saturday, July 30, 2005

Fossil Find: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children work on fun fossil decorations - adorned with gems, plastic dinosaurs, and more! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Magic the Gathering: Pasadena Central Library 3 p.m. to 5:00 pm in Teen Central. For beginners or experienced players. Enjoy the card game that started the whole collectible card game hobby. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Heroclix: Pasadena Central Library 12 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Demonstration of how to play this tabletop game of superheroes and supervillains. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Sunday, July 31, 2005

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Learn about color, shape, line and other elements of art during this story hour for children and families held in front of Sam Francis' "Basel Mural I." Free with admission of $8 adults, kids under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2005

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

Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2005

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Listen to tales of creative kids in this story hour for children and families held in the Museum's "Nabis" galleries. Free with museum admission of $8 adults, kids under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Lazare Houetin: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. Lazare explores the deep roots of traditional African tribal dance. Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena..

Thursday, Aug. 4, 2005

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

Stamp Your Passport: Italy Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Explore the canals and monuments of Venice and Rome, and then construct your own "view painting" of a famous city. Free with museum admission of $8 adults, kids under 18 free. Information: 626-844-6980. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Aug. 6, 2005

Fanciful Fan: Lakeshore Learning Store 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children work on a feathered fan that's a breeze to make! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Evening Nature Walk: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Cool summer evenings under moonlight are great times to explore the garden’s night life: Bats, owls, frogs, and even an occasional coyote are a few of the animals that can be heard or seen. Walk will be held Wednesday, Aug. 17, from 7-9 p.m. Bring the family, a flashlight and a sense of adventure. $5 per person; children must be accompanied by adult. Space limited, register with Rachel Kau-Taylor, 909-625-8767 x224 or email Rachel.Kau-Taylor@cgu.edu. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

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.

Wet and Wild Pond Studies: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden The garden ponds are magnets for kids curious about the strange creatures who live in this watery world. On Saturday, Aug. 13, 3-7 p.m., kids can learn methods for safely analyzing water samples to search and study micro-aquatic life. There will be several stations, each emphasizing critters from different areas, from bottom dwellers to surface feeders. $5 per person, children must be accompanied by adult. Bring a picnic dinner. Space limited, register with Rachel Kau-Taylor, 909-625-8767 x224 or email Rachel.Kau-Taylor@cgu.edu. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

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.

Vacation Bible School: Oneonta Congregational Church "Serengetti Trek" program will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, Aug 1-5, for kids ages 2 years, nine months up to high school aged helpers. Afternoon activities available for third- through sixth-grades and older helpers. Register ahead or on the first day. $25; extra for optional afternoon activities. Information: 626-799-6161. 1515 Garfield Ave., South Pasadena.

Family Nature Walk: The Children's Nature Institute Nature walk especially designed for parents and young children will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 28, led by Alison Morgan. Registration mandatory: 310-860-9484 or email naturewalks@childrensnatureinstitute.org. Millard Canyon, Altadena.

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.

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

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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