August 19, 2005

Number 72

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

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By Karen E. Klein
The sky was deep blue and dotted with puffy white clouds blown about by the warm tradewinds. Coconut palms and flowering plumeria trees waved overhead and streams of international tourists wandered by: The afternoon could not have been lovelier. Maybe that's why we were so astonished at what we saw last week in Hawaii.

In the middle of a plaza, three boys huddled together on a bench. All of them had utterly tuned out the passersby. They were oblivious to the sky or the view. Instead, they were staring intently at electronic devices they held just inches from their faces, which were screwed up with concentration as they muttered furiously to themselves.

"What are they doing?" I asked my sons. "Those are PSPs," they said, explaining that the boys were playing video games on handheld PlayStation devices. Those kids could've been mired in a garbage dump or perched on the top of Mt. Everest: I don't think they would've noticed. Nothing could compete with the blips and flashing lights that so fascinated them on the screen.

Child advocate and author Richard Louv believes that today's children are increasingly disconnected from nature. After all, why explore the outdoors when there are myriad electronic distractions in the house? And now, with things like PSP and Internet-enabled cell phones, you can even bring the indoors outside!

I don't know about your kids, but mine are definitely at risk for nature-deficit disorder. Give my boys a choice between an afternoon playing the latest video game and the chance to take a hike in the foothills, and there's no question which they would choose. It's not for lack of exposure - they've visited all the nature centers, hiked many of the local trails and skipped rocks over loads of streams. They love sports and will be the first on the field for a soccer match or baseball game. But nature for nature's sake just doesn't interest them.

In his book, "Last Child in the Woods," Louv argues that because kids today are not spending enough (or any, in some cases) time exploring nature, they are less likely to value it and preserve it when they become adults. I would add that because they are not connecting with nature, they are missing out on something elemental that should be a part of growing up.

I don't know whether the great outdoors is an acquired taste or what. Maybe my boys have been overexposed, and will come to appreciate nature as they get older? I hope so. I only know that growing up in the concrete sterility of a West L.A. suburb, I longed for nature even though I had never spent any time there at all. I read about rivers and woods and literally dreamed about seeing them for myself. I begged my urbanized, older parents to take me hiking or camping, to no avail. And I still remember vividly the glorious moment I first waded in a free-flowing stream, on a Girl Scout weekend at Lytle Creek.

As I've gotten older, I've retained a strong need to be outdoors, especially in the wide-open spaces you typically only visit when you escape civilization for a while. I'm sure I would be utterly miserable living for any length of time in a crowded city, no matter how cosmopolitan and sophisticated it was. Without my "nature fix" - even if it's just a chance to dig around in my backyard on weekends - I would probably go stir crazy.

That's why I was so careful to plan our Oahu vacation so that we stayed outside of Waikiki Beach, in a fairly remote part of the island surrounded not by cars and tourists but by towering mountains and a rural valley. On the leeward side of the island, where many of the working class residents live, we were awakened not by bustling traffic but by a couple of hyperactive roosters, competing to see who could crow loudest and longest. Here's the best part: We stayed in a one-bedroom, two-bath condo with all the amenities, a 10th floor lanai overlooking a pristine cove with frolicking sea turtles and the beach just outside our back door. And it cost $71 a night.

How'd I pull it off? Through TUG, the Timeshare Users Group, a Website for people who own weeks at timeshare resorts. Once they buy those weeks (typically after high-pressure sales pitches), timeshare owners sometimes find themselves stuck with annual fees for vacations that they don't want or can't use every year. TUG is a place where they can advertise their timeshares for sale or rent - and also a place where vacationers can find some great deals from owners anxious to recoup what would otherwise be a loss on their units.

I'll tell you, I love a high-class hotel as much as the next person, but when you're vacationing with children it's much easier to stay in a condo. Not that cooking and cleaning is my idea of relaxation, but it beats having to race out to restaurants three times a day with kids who are always hungry and must eat three squares on a daily schedule. Adults can adjust their mealtimes fairly easily when on vacation, and skip a meal when it's inconvenient, but most kids cannot. So it's a joy to stay in a place with a kitchen, where they can scrounge a bowl of cereal in the morning or make themselves a sandwich at noon. A couple of nights we even grilled our dinner on the communal bar-be-que off the condo lobby and ate out on the lanai admiring our gorgeous view.

One of the best things about vacation is that my kids are temporarily away from their powerful electronic distractions and must spend a lot of time interacting with each other and with us. (No, I will not be purchasing PSPs any time soon!) Between swimming, hiking, incredible snorkeling and exploring, they did get a major dose of nature and thoroughly enjoyed it. I just hope it was enough to inoculate them for the next few months.

If you want to inject your kids with a sense of the wonders of the natural world, one of our readers recommends Chino Hills State Park. The park offers a junior ranger program every Sunday at 10 a.m. where kids get a badge and a nature logbook. Each week they can collect stamps, do puzzles and draw plants in their logbook. The park rangers also conduct campfire programs on Saturday nights. Sounds like fun, in a natural sort of way.

While we're talking about doses of nature, you'd better believe I took my trusty vial of ammonia along when hiking jungle trails like this one in Waimea. Because even though I slathered myself with insect repellent first, I still felt like a walking blood donation center for mosquitoes. Next time I venture into the wilderness (or the backyard after sunset) however, I won't need that jug of ammonia. A couple of friendly Orange Cat readers contacted me after our last issue with sources for AfterBite, the ammonia-based anti-itch lotion that I had found effective in the past but could no longer find at local stores. Turns out you can buy the stuff at Drugstore.com or at the Sherwin-Williams paint store on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena. Thanks guys. You are life-savers!

Another recommendation from a reader, Orange Cat mom Joanne, who has two children in full-time daycare. They nap on cots and were very frustrated because they did not have fitted sheets, blankets and pillows to sleep with. Last year, Joanne found a lady who makes custom cot sleeper sets that she says are "amazingly great quality and soft." She bought two and her kids love them, so she thought it would be valuable to let parents here know that the woman has started a business stitching and selling the bedding. It looks nice, thanks a lot Joanne!

Speaking of daycare, did you know that there's an agency right here in the SGV that can give you referrals to local, licensed daycare providers in your area? It's the Child Care Information Service (CCIS). The agency serves Altadena, Arcadia, Duarte, La Canada, Monrovia, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Pasadena and San Marino. If you're scouting out daycare, be sure to check out the group's "links" page, which includes lots of great information on the subject.

Finally, thanks so much to all of you who have sent in your subscriptions and become members of the Orange Cat Club! We really, really appreciate your support. If you haven't signed up yet, please do so. The $12 annual fee ($22 for two years) won't break your bank and it will really help us keep the Orange Cat healthy and purring right along. You can pay with any kind of credit card (including American Express or Discover) or your PayPal account via PayPal (One Year or Two Year) or you can pop a check in the mail. Please make it out to KBN Publishing and send it to: The Orange Cat, c/o 5645 Heleo Ave., Temple City, CA 91780.

My summer is going too fast - what about yours? Let me know how things are in your corner of the valley: 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, Aug. 19, 2005

Chocolate Milk Challenge: Kidspace Museum 2:30 p.m. Concoct the best chocolate milk in the universe, then taste it. 480 North Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Aug. 20, 2005

Desk Caddy: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Keep kids' desks neat and organized with desk caddies made from all kinds of collage materials! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Trunk Show: Pandora's Box 3-8 p.m. It's time once again to step into Pandora's Box, the unique trunk show featuring jewelry and accessories by Northeast Los Angeles artists. Show features handmade jewelry and accessories. Information: 323-258-1435. Avenue 50 Studio, 131 N. Avenue 50, Highland Park.

On Vacation: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. What games do you like to play when school is out? Learn about sports, toys and other kinds of entertainment enjoyed by children in the past, and then invent your very own game in this program for children and families. Free with museum admission of $8 adults, under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Native America: Kidspace Museum 12 p.m. -2 p.m. A performance of stories and music from native California, Arizona, and northern Mexico, performed by Martin Espino, Native American musician and storyteller. Then join an interactive workshop to make and play a flower rattle. Limited space; please sign up outside the Celebration Center on August 20. 480 North Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

UV Friendship Bracelets: Kidspace Museum 1 p.m. -3 p.m. Create a friendship bracelet with ultraviolet beads that change color when exposed to the sun. 480 North Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Aug. 21, 2005

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, Aug. 22, 2005

Pencil Stacking: Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. You have one minute. Stack the pencils as high as you can and win a prize! Entry fee: $2. RSVP requested. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Human Board Game: Pasadena Central Library 7 p.m. Humans are the playing pieces for various board games. For teens. 285 East Walnut Street.

Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2005

Shrek 2: West Covina Civic Center 7:45 p.m. Movies in the Park presents the children's movie, Shrek 2. Presented by the West Covina Community Services Department. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2005

Movies in the Park: City of San Dimas 7 p.m. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the movie "Robots" outdoors. A snack bar will be available. Civic Center Park, San Dimas.

Bluez Boyz: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. The Bluez Boyz perform music from the Big Band Era through the new millennium. This Conejo Valley-based 13-piece group has performed before crowds of all ages in more than 50 local performances. Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Saturday, Aug. 27, 2005

Seeing Eye Dog: Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop 11 a.m. Author Nancy Offley, author of "The Story of Snickers," and "Rugby and Rosie" appears with a guest who has been blind since birth to demonstrate the working relationship between a seeing eye dog and its owner. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Cute Critters: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children will use pipe stems, buttons, wiggly eyes, and more to create charming critters! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Aug. 28, 2005

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 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, under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2005

Bob Baker Marionettes: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. Academy Award winning Bob Baker has performed his puppetry and marionette magic for millions of people for more than 50 years. His work has appeared in such films as Close Encounters and Bedknobs and Bromsticks and he has performed countless times around the world. Memorial Park, Walnut and Raymond, Pasadena.

Thursday, Sept. 1, 2005

Support Group: Mothers and More Pasadena 7:30 p.m. General meeting includes presentation on "On-Ramps and Off-Ramps in Women's Careers." Visitors welcome; adults only. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, Wilson Ave. between Cornell and Arden roads, Pasadena.

Friday, Sept. 2, 2005

Laughter Workshop: Pasadena Laughter Club 6:30 p.m. The founder of the Laughter Yoga movement, Dr Madan Kataria, gives a public workshop. $20 suggested donation; bring a cushion. Armory Center for the Arts, 145 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Sept. 3, 2005

Explore, Express: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Choose from messy art, movement and music activities, all designed for children age 4 and under. 480 North Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Sept. 5, 2005

Backyard Picnic: Descanso Gardens 4-7 p.m. Say goodbye to summer at annual family picnic. Event features live swing music of the 1930s and ‘40s and lively soda jerks dishing up fountain favorites for dessert. A special treat for children will be a chance to meet and greet live cows or ride the Enchanted Railroad. Bring your own picnic, or order from Patina: 818-790-3663 no later than 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2. Free with admission of $7 adults, $2 kids 5-12, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Register Early

Library Storytimes: Arcadia Public Library Age-appropriate storytimes are designed to introduce babies, toddlers and preschoolers to reading and the fun of visiting the library. Weekly programs include stories, flannel boards, finger plays, videos, music and crafts. Fall session runs Sept. 13-Oct. 19. Registration begins Saturday, Sept. 3; Arcadia residents 10 a.m., all others noon. 20 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia.

Meat-Eating Plants: The Arboretum Come and see amazing plants that eat living, breathing bugs! On Saturday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. you can also tour the tropical greenhouse and make your very own toy pitcher plant. Each family will receive a Venus flytrap plant to take home. $20 per family; registration: 626-821-4623. Under big oak tree, Ayres Hall, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Kids' Art: The Arboretum Fine art drawing classes offered to help kids ages 4-12 develop attention span, artistic ability and self-confidence. Saturdays, Sept. 24-Nov. 19, noon to 1 p.m. $117. Registration: 818-248-2764. 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.

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.

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. .

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 .

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 Story times for kids 3-5 are held Tuesdays and Wednesday, 10:30-11 a.m.; infants and toddlers Thursdays 10:30-10:45 a.m. 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.

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.

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 .

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.

Stroller Strides: Summer exercise classes for parents and their babies are being held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Brookside, Lacy and Finkbiner parks. First class free, subsequent classes cost $3.75 to $10 each. Check website for schedule or call 888-250-1761or email susanlile@strollerstrides.net for more information. Pasadena, San Marino and Glendora.

Child Care Information Service: Referrals to licensed child care providers are available to all families, regardless of income. Referrals are random, based on geographic area, ages of the children and availability of child care spaces. Cities served are Altadena, Arcadia, Duarte, La Canada, Monrovia, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Pasadena and San Marino. .

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.

Pasadena City College: Registration continues year-round for Parent Education courses, which feature parent-child interaction, playtime, crafts, songs and parenting advice and information from seasoned instructors. Classes available for infants through per-Kindergarten and their parents or caregivers. Some multiple-child classes and special Dad's evening courses available. Information: 626-585-3038. Classes held at various San Gabriel Valley locations.

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.

Lamanda Park Branch Library Super Hero movies shown each Wednesday. Watch your favorite super heroes in the movies. Light refreshments will be served. Also at other Pasadena branch libraries. See Web site for details. 140 South Altadena Drive.

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.

Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Accepting enrollment for fall in music programs for students and adults, infants to senior citizens. Music for Young Children program includes parents and young children making music together and establishes the goundwork for music literacy and later instruction on an instrument. Classes also include young musician's program, recorder ensemble and world drumming for students Kindergarten to sixth grade. Individual instruction also available. Information and registration: 626-683-3355. 100 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

The Little Gym: Features non-competitive motor skill development sessions for fitness and fun. Summer classes include gymnastics, sports skills and karate, plus three-hour summer camps for toilet-independent children ages 3 to 10. Registration is flexible and can accomodate a busy summer schedule. Information: 818-249-4496. 2196 Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

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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