June 2, 2006

Number 92

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

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

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By Karen E. Klein

Since Elizabeth Vargas quit her job as ABC news anchor last week, the debate over women in the workplace has been raging anew. I'll leave you to come to your own conclusions about feminism, opportunities for

women in high-visibility jobs and maternity leave. My take on it is that every woman has to do what she thinks is the right thing for herself, her children and her spouse - without worrying about what other people think or what they expect her to do.

Does what's "right for society" ever figure in to that equation? Sure. My friend who had twin girls resumed her full-time legal career when they were about six months old. She was not only confident that she'd found an excellent daily caregiver for them, but she was convinced that it was important for her daughters' future that she return to her high-level position in a field where women are often stymied by the "glass-ceiling" mentality. She'd broken through that barrier, and she knew that if she stayed at her firm and excelled, her example would make it easier for the next generation of women to do the same.

Other women - like Vargas, if her departure truly is voluntary - make different choices. I certainly can't imagine raising two small children while trying to meet the time constraints of a demanding job like news anchor! But then, I'm almost never surprised anymore by what some people think women should be able to do.

In the last couple of months, I've gotten press releases from companies that encourage women to remodel their homes and offices themselves and take their children with them on business trips. Yes, I'm serious. Nothing wrong with the do-it-yourself movement for crafty, capable women, I'm sure. But how many female entrepreneurs really have the time to "build their own conference room and receptionist tables!" or "lay stone in the entry way that will add a decorative element and stand up to foot traffic!"

As if women juggling the demands of running their own companies and still trying to be there for their children, husbands and aging parents also have time to do major remodeling on the weekends! If such women exist, I'm not sure I want to meet them, frankly. And I notice that men are not usually the targets of these bright ideas and heavy expectations. Maybe it's because male business owners draw their boundaries better, and wouldn't consider trying to do more than they're capable of?

Another business guru touted the idea of taking "very young children" on business trips. "Her clients have done everything from take children to look at real estate investment properties in other states to meeting with vendors for their family businesses," the press release said. I can only imagine how my children would have reacted if they'd had to spend eight hours a day meeting with vendors or looking at investment property. Maybe there are children who enjoy such pursuits, and can melt quietly into the background so mommy can negotiate terms, but I don't know of any.

My point is this: It's stressful enough being in business or holding down a job, raising a family and doing all the other things women are called upon to do these days (keeping a marriage healthy is an additional challenge that comes to mind). I'm glad that there are ambitious, energetic people out there, but I hope they're not held up as role models in a way that makes the rest of us, who are struggling just to get through a normal day, feel like lousy failures. Talk about the "superwoman syndrome"!

Do what it takes to make sure your family is safe and well-fed - physically as well as emotionally and intellectually. Try and keep your home clean and comfortable so that it's functional and cozy enough for you and your friends. Squeeze in some time regularly for your spouse, and don't forget to spend time on yourself, too - I can't tell you how important it is for your long-term health and happiness. Beyond that, if you want to do-it-yourself that's wonderful. But don't think that you're a failure if you don't.

With summer descending like a steam roller this week, I'm reminded that it's time to be on the lookout in your own community (and elsewhere) for lots of family-friendly summer programs starting up later this month. We simply don't have time or space to list them all here, but most local cities and many of our great venues host summer concert series, outdoor movie programs and other fun things from June through about mid-August. Take a picnic dinner and enjoy the warm weather!

One thing I did with my kids every summer was the library reading program. Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Monrovia, Arcadia and almost all of the local libraries (and bookstores like Vroman's) run weekly reading clubs that keep kids reading for fun (and points and prizes) all summer. Even if you've got preschoolers who can't read, you can usually sign them up and read to them. Even if you're "reading" picture books to toddlers, this is a fantastic tradition to start now and continue all during your kids' childhoods. And several libraries have established special reading clubs for teens and pre-teens also. So, drop by your local library and inquire about when reading club sign-ups will be taking place. If your older child doesn't want to participate in the club, she could volunteer to help the librarian. Making the local library a second home for your kids is a great investment in their educational futures.

In the "great events outside our area" category, Orange Cat mom Kristen suggests the family concerts held at the Ford Amphitheatre near the Hollywood Bowl. "The `Big! World! Fun!' family concerts are $5 for parents and kids are free. My family has enjoyed going to a several of them during the past two years," she writes. Thanks Kristen!

We're still getting tips and feedback from parents on the column Dorothy Reinhold wrote a couple issues back about birthday party gripes. Here are some creative thoughts from Ruth, who eschews goodie bags in favor of giving each party guest a small gift, usually related to the party theme: "One year it was a Lego theme, and kids took home small Lego kits (<$5). Another year it was a games-in-the-park theme and all the kids got playground balls to take home," she wrote.

Ruth has also let guests paint T-shirts and wooden boxes that they took home, given them 6-inch washable inkpads and stamps to make crafts with at the party and then take home; given out kites with the kids' names painted on them; and handed out beach toys during a beach party. "Last year, my son's friends went to see the Star Wars movie and they each got a Star Wars T-shirt to wear home. This year, the 10-year olds are taking home Nerf dart guns," she writes. What a thoughtful party-giver! I love it; thanks for the suggestions, Ruth.

Speaking of Dorothy, she writes the "Tried & True" column in the food section for the Pasadena Star-News and San Gabriel Valley Tribune. Here's one of her easy, quick mom-tested recipes, for Sweet and Smoky Apricot Chicken Stir-Fry. This version serves four: Heat 1 T. olive oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet. Stir-fry 1- to 1.25-lbs skinless, boneless chicken breasts (cut into chunks) with 1 red bell pepper, also cut into chunks, for five to seven minutes or until chicken is cooked. While that's cooking, get out a bowl and stir together 1/2 cup apricot preserves, 2 T. soy sauce (low-salt version preferred), 1 T. sherry or chicken broth, 1 T. vegetable oil, 1 T. cornstarch, 1 t. minced garlic and 1/2 t. ground ginger. When the chicken is cooked, pour the sauce into the skillet and boil it for one minute, until thickened. Serve over steamed rice and garnish with roasted, salted cashews (great from Trader Joe's) and cilantro (if desired); dust with smoked paprika if you like.

"This is so lightly sweet and just plain delicious ... every age in my family liked it!" Dorothy writes. "Put the rice on to cook in your rice cooker the moment you walk in the door, and then get changed and look at the mail. Once you get ready to cook this, it's a 10-minute job, the rice will be ready, and you're set. I also like to cook rice ahead, and just nuke it to reheat as needed, so that isn't even a concern on a busy night. Serve with sauteed sugar snap peas."

I haven't tried this one, but it sounds delicious. If you cook it up, let me know what you think. I'm Karen@theorangecat.org and as always, I welcome your feedback and suggestions. Bye for now!

Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Also, see our special printable calendar, especially for readers of The Orange Cat.

Saturday, June 3, 2006

20th Anniversary Concert: Ambassador Auditorium 7 p.m. The Los Angeles Children's Chorus presents this concert that reflects the group's two decades of choral artistry and excellence. All five of the LACC choirs will perform. Tickets $60, $40, $20 adults; children 18 and under half-price. Information: 626-793-4231. 300 W. Green St., Pasadena.

Sunday, June 4, 2006

Celebrate the Arts Day: Marengo Elementary School 12-4 p.m. The event will provide families with an afternoon of art, music and dance, and will showcase local visual and performing artists. Crafts, origami and music features. Art activities $1 - $2. 1400 Marengo Ave,, South Pasadena, CA..

Wednesday, June 7, 2006

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Enjoy stories about fun in the outdoors, then create a make-believe picnic in the Sculpture Garden in this "garden party" story hour for children and families. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, June 10, 2006

The Origins of Flight: Arcadia Public Library 2 p.m. An introduction to falconry features owls, hawks and falcons. Ages 7 and up only for safety reasons. Imagination Theater, 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Pull-Along Turtle: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children make and decorate a play turtle using pom-poms, tissue, pipe stems, and more. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Michelle Markel reads from and signs "Dream Town," a whimsical journey through the neighborhoods of Los Angeles. This is a feast for the senses that celebrates the city we all know and love. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, June 12, 2006

Ice Cream Social: San Rafael Branch Library 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. The annual sweeeeeet summer party! Drop by for ice cream, fun, and special prizes. Everyone welcome. 1240 Nithsdale Road, Pasadena.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Translucent World: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Workshop with artist Amy Green explores the special exhibition "Translucence: Southern California Art from the 1960s and 1970s" and includes the opportunity for participants to make see-through artworks using wire, Styrofoam and tissue paper. As the day goes on, participants will add their creations to an imaginative translucent world installation in the museum’s garden. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Father’s Weekend: Kidspace Children's Museum June 17 and 18. Father and child can work together to craft a memorable project in a Father's Day Workshop, then enjoy a barbeque picnic lunch. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Bob Baker Marionettes: Kidspace Children's Museum 11 a.m. Celebrate Father's Day a little early with the renowned father of marionettes - Bob Baker. Mr. Baker's one-of-a-kind, hand-made marionettes have entertained thousands of children and adults worldwide since 1961. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Father's Day: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Celebrate Dad's special day with a paperweight that kids create themselves. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Monrovia Summer Bridge: Encompass Program for ninth graders entering Monrovia High School will be offered by Encompass from July 31 to Aug. 18. Course will run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature visual art-making with group activities to increase self-awareness, foster appreciation of differences and prepare Monrovia students for high school. Regular uition for the program will be waived and participating students will be asked to pay only a $100 materials fee. No student will be turned away for lack of funds. Information and registration: Ben Wright, 626-358-3442. Old Town Monrovia.

Family Evening: Huntington Library Enjoy one of the longest days of the year on June 16, 6-9 p.m., as the summer solstice approaches. Guided walk included. Adult: $30. Child: $25. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Plants in the City: Huntington Library June 17 9-noon. Learn about different trees and plants and the benefits of plants in an urban environment. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Children's Chorus Auditions: Los Angeles Children's Chorus Auditions for boys and girls ages 8 to 12 will be held Thursday June 15, Friday June 16 and Saturday June 17. Previous singing experience is not necessary. Children audition in groups of five; no preparation needed. Audition appointments and information: 626-793-4231. Pasadena.

Young Writers & Artists Camp: Cal State Los Angeles A three-week summer program, designed for young writers and artists, will be held July 10-27 from Monday through Thursday, 9-12:30. The program is conducted under the direction of distinguished university faculty members and a staff of classroom writing teachers. For grades 2 through high school; $260. Information and registration: Cathy Morales, 323-343-5901 or email Dr. Carolyn Frank at carolcsula@aol.com. 5151 State University Dr., Los Angeles.

Pasadena Day Jams: Pasadena Music Camp Rock music summer camp for beginners and experienced musicians, ages 9-15, will run July 31-Aug. 4 and Aug. 7-11. Learn guitar, bass, drums, keyboards and vocals from professional musicians and teachers in a friendly and creative environment. Information: 818-442-9294. New Horizon School, 651 N. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

California Deserts Day: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens On Sunday, June 4, explore diverse desert regions like the Colorado, Mojave and Great Basin. Play wildflower bingo, visit live desert creatures, examine unusual plant adaptations from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 per person; $20 max per family. Registration: 909-625-8767 x224. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Family Nature Series: Descanso Gardens Summer evening program begins June 21 with family picnics and a program by The Animal Guys, who will bring captive-bred and rescued animals from around the world. Series includes five Wednesday evening programs that run through July 19. Picnicking begins at 5:30 p.m., programs start at 6:30 p.m. Series price $45 per person; individual events are $12 per person. Children under two admitted free. Series registration through June 14 at: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens On Friday, June 16, starting at 7:15 p.m. there will be a guided tour featuring the nocturnal animals and insects that call Descanso home. Docent Jim Jackson will lead the tour and share the history of Descanso. Participants, who must be older than 12 years, should wear sensible shoes and bring a jacket and flashlight. $15. Reservations: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Fabulous Flags Huntington Library 9 to 11:30 a.m. June 10. Compare the designs of flags from around the world, and learn the meanings of the colors and symbols. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

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.

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

L.A. County Arboretum: Arboretum Bookworms, for ages 3-8, meets on the third Sunday of every month from 2-3 p.m. Children explore the arboretum and its library, enjoy plant and nature tales and make and take crafts. Meet at the main entrance. Free with admission of $7 adults; $2.50 children 5-12; free children 4 and under. Information: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Hill Avenue Branch Library: 10 a.m. - noon. This Spanish playgroup meets every Sunday and provides Spanish literacy for Spanish-speaking children. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Monday

Allendale Branch Library: Family videos, suitable for school-age children, are shown on Mondays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Victory Park Community Center: "Single Mommy and Me" group meets on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. for fun and friendship. For information, email founder Dianne Duncan: webeduncans@charter.net. 2575 Paloma St., Pasadena.

PEN Meeting: Pasadena Central Library 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Pasadena Education Network (PEN) meets regularly on the second Monday of the month. Learn more about Pasadena public schools from other parents. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Tuesday

MOMS Club of Covina & West Covina Support group meets regularly for playdates, walking groups, parties for stay-at-home moms or part-time working moms seeking daytime activities for children of all ages. Serves mothers in Covina, West Covina. New member meetings held at 10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month. Information: email admin@momsclubcovina.com. Our club has no religious affiliations. Saint Louise de Marllac Catholic Church, at Covina Blvd. and Bonnie Cove, Covina.

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. .

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets every fourth Tuesday 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 momsclubofsierramadre@yahoo.com. Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Wednesday

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.

Alhambra Public Library Preschool Story Time 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Featuring stories, finger plays, songs and puppets. For kids, ages 3 to 5. Then, at 7 p.m., Pajama Story Time, for ages 3 to 10. Stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

MOMS Club of Azusa: Meetings held monthly are open to all stay-at-home moms from Azusa. Children welcome at meetings, which are held on the last Wednesday of every month 11 a.m. Information: MOMSCLUB@aol.com or Summerlh@earthlink.net. Azusa City Library, auditorium, 729 N. Dalton Ave., Azusa.

Thursday

Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. Family films, rated G and PG, are shown on Thursdays. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Mothers and More Pasadena: Support group meets regularly for moms-only coffees and lunches focused on career planning, transitions to paid work and challenges or opportunities with current employment. Chapter meetings occur first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. and are open to visitors. Group also sponsors Moms’ Nights Out, book club and playgroups. Information: mothersandmore@onebox.com, or 866-206-9068, x3921. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, 1030 E. California Blvd, Pasadena.

Friday

Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Fridays. Board Games are placed out on tables for everyone to play with. For all ages. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Fibromyalgia Support Group: A free support-and-information group for fibromyalgia sufferers and their families meets every third Friday of the month, 5-6:30 p.m. Reservations required. The group facilitator, Charles Yarborough, is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pain syndromes. Information: 626-319-8725. 1028 N. Lake Ave. Suite 108 Pasadena.

Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Preschool films. A 30-minute program with picture book stories on the big screen for ages 3-5. Weekly on Friday. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Pasadena Laughter Club: Free group meets each Friday from 6-7 p.m. Families invited, no age restriction. The only condition for participation is the willingness to laugh for no reason. Information: info@laughteryoga.us or 626-755-5999. Yoga Kingdom Sanctuary, 553 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena.

Alhambra Public Library 10:30 a.m. Toddler Story Time, for ages 12 to 24 months. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Saturday

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.

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.

Claremont University Stone Center for Children's Books: Saturday Storytimes are held from 10-11 a.m. each week. 740 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Los Angeles County Arboretum: Garden Sprouts program invites kids ages 5-8 to plant and tend a garden, play nature games and learn gardening crafts. This is a drop-off program held on the first Saturday of each month from October through June, 9-11 a.m. $30/quarter or $12 per Saturday. Family Adventures program is held on the first Saturday of the month, 2 p.m. under the big oak tree in front of Ayres Hall. All ages learn, make and take crafts, enjoy a nature walk. $20 per family. Iformation: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Alhambra Public Library 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Saturdays. Story Time for children of all ages. Provided by volunteer story readers. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Other

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 .

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. .

Pasadena Central Library and its branches offer many storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require pre-registration. Check website for schedules. .

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. Grandparents and Books Read-Alouds are scheduled for Thursday afternoons from 3–5 p.m. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Pasadena Central Library Gentle, affectionate dogs from the Pasadena Humane Society love it when children read to them. At the Central Library and various branch libraries. See library calendar for details. 285 East Walnut Street, 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: Pajama Storytime Fridays at 6 p.m. All ages welcome Saturdays at 11 a.m. Also, Saturday storytime is from 11 a.m. to noon. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

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

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

MOMS Club of San Dimas: Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. .

Gymboree: Play, music and art classes offered on an ongoing basis. Free trial classes for new families. Information on classes: 626-445-1122; parties: 626-445-5161. 518 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia.

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.

Take the Baby and Run: Bring your baby and your stroller for a great one-hour workout. Held Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. Information: 818-517-3082. Mention The Orange Cat and get your first class free. Lacy Park, San Marino.

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.

Pasadena Libraries Elementary age children can read a book to a gentle dog at various Pasadena library locations through the Barks and Books program. .

MOMS Club of the Foothills: Support group for at-home moms meets regularly for general meetings, speakers and mom's night out. Information: email foothillmommembership@hotmail.com or call 323-496-0844 .

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.

Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore: Art classes with Gloria Aluzas provide an opportunity to complete a piece a child can be proud of! Call or visit the store for details. Ages 6-10: Mondays at 4 p.m. Kindergartners: Thursdays at 4 p.m. Information: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

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

GymnastiKids: Gymnastics classes for all ages in a non-competitive, fun-filled environment; free trial classes. Also offering summer camp featuring safe, beginning gymnastics instruction through positive games and organized activities. Camp will run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with early dropoff available. Pre-registration accepted now: 626-796-5437. 2237 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

The Little Gym: Features non-competitive motor skill development sessions for fitness and fun. Information: 818-249-4496. 2196 Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

Allendale Branch Library 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Board game mania is held monthly, featuring games of all kinds, like Monopoly, Checkers, Chess, Cranium, Risk, Scrabble and more. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Are you aware of a great event or venue that we're not listing? If so, please let us know so we can include it in the next Orange Cat. Email: karen@theorangecat.org.

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