July 28, 2006

Number 96

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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 Eve Bunting

[Editor's Note: In this issue, The Orange Cat is honored to publish an original essay on books and reading by Caldecott Medal-winning author Eve Bunting, a Pasadena resident who has written more than 250

books for children and young adults. Eve was born in Ireland and came to California with her husband and three children in 1958. She began writing in 1969 and her first book, an Irish folktale, was published in 1972. Among her honors are awards from 27 states, voted by children. She was twice awarded the Young Readers' Medal of California.]

My parents loved to read. But there was no library in Maghera, the little town in Ireland where I lived. And no book store either. Books had to be scrounged from wherever and treasured. My father partially solved the problem for us. He and I would go to any old country house that was being vacated and buy all the for sale books, no matter what they were.

Mostly we didn't know what they were because we bought them by the "tea chest." Tea chests were empty packing cases made of flimsy wood, probably four feet-by-four feet. Loose tea had been shipped in them to grocery stores and the tea chests were there for the taking. Perfect if you were dumping books.

My father would buy two or three of the tea chests filled with those dumped books for a few shillings and we'd struggle them home. We called them our treasure chests. We couldn't wait to pry off the tops and see what we had!

The treasure chests were placed in "the hot room" at the top of our stairs. It was the snuggliest room in the house. All of the hot water pipes ran through it, so that was where our newly washed and ironed sheets were kept, our extra blankets and towels. Anything coming from "the hot room" felt so good! My father's theory was that the rest of the house, always cold and slightly damp, wasn't good for books. Okay for us. But for the books, only the best.

We didn't have chairs in "the hot room." It was too small. There was such a coziness in sitting together on the floor, prying the nails out of the tops of the treasure chests and delving in. Often mildewed, with stuck-together pages, some books had to be abandoned.

But from those cases came "The Swiss Family Robinson," "Treasure Island," "David Copperfield" and more, more, more. I always associate the smell of mildew with books, though I haven't read any moldy ones for a long time now.

Our book source wasn't quite enough for us. My mother craved newer, more recently published ones. When she went up to the big city of Belfast she always came home laden with book purchases. And then one day she had a brilliant idea. She would start a lending library in Maghera. There would be books for everyone!

Her first thought was to use our own books. We had lots. But then, in the way of book owners, she was wary of losing some of her precious hoard. With some ingenuity she found a lending library in Belfast that would be willing to let her open a "sub-branch," so to speak.

My father put up shelving in our hallway, my mother bought a ledger to keep track of who borrowed what and had a stamp made with a shamrock on it and the words "Maghera Lending Library." The sign went up outside our house: "Maghera Lending Library, two pennies a week per book." We were in business.

The books came by bus in boxes, sturdier than our tea chests. We opened and rejoiced. Oh, it was astonishing! All these books we could read ourselves and then scatter to the whole town. For me, those books in the hallway, right at the bottom of our stairs, were heaven. I could take one to bed with me, after checking first what was suitable for a 9-year-old girl.

The unsuitable ones were the most attractive and were snuck upstairs under my dressing gown. Sometimes my deviousness ended badly. "Dracula" was forbidden but I read it and lay in bed, petrified that he was coming to get me, fangs gleaming in the moonlight, his cape a swirl of blackness that he'd drape around us while he sucked the warm blood from my body. Oh, Dracula! I have never reread that book nor have I seen any of the movies. Panic chills me at the thought!

My mother's library started with a bang as Danny O'Connor from the Market Yard set off two firecrackers to announce the big opening. The books flew off the shelves, but alas, most of them didn't fly back. Or, if they did, they were covered with tea stains, had dog-eared pages and torn covers.

"You must treasure them, keep them in good shape! These are BOOKS," my mother wailed. One day she looked in the window of Biddy O'Brien's house and saw one of her books propping up the leg of a bed. And this after Biddy had sworn by all the saints that she had taken it back to the library in time. In fact, she didn't believe she had borrowed it in the first place.

No money-maker, this library. My mother had to keep sending her personal cash to "The Head Office" (as she called it) in Belfast. She got complaining letters. Threatening letters. The joy had gone out of the endeavor. She came to the sad conclusion that not everyone loved books the way she did. The Maghera Lending Library closed its doors forever.

Maghera now has a state-of -the-art library. The last time I went to visit from California the librarian told me it is very well used. That would delight my mother. I believe in my heart that my interest in books started all those years ago, and that the Maghera Lending Library was a true success story, after all.

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 28, 2006

Youth Concert: Huntington Library 2 p.m. Members of the Foothill Youth Flute Choir, composed of students in grades 8-12, will perform classical and contemporary works arranged for flute ensemble. Free with general admission. Information: 626-405-2100. Scott Gallery Loggia, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Future America: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. -8 p.m. Live At The Lakes presents Future America, a variety show. 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina..

Saturday, July 29, 2006

The Animal Guys: Arcadia Public Library 2 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. Join us on safari as we explore the diversity of nature. Meet a fox, a coati, a prairie dog, a porcupine, lizards, snakes, frogs and more. All ages. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Introduction to Sign Language Vromans Bookstore 7 p.m. Can you count to 999 using the fingers on just one hand? Have you ever tried to dactylically (using your fingers) sing "There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly"? If you'd like to try, come join us for an introductory class in American Sign Language. For the whole family. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Sun Mobile: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children get ready for fun in the sun by making a shimmering, spangled sun mobile. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Jimmy Neutron: Kidspace Children's Museum 1 p.m. Debi Derryberry, the voice of Jimmy Neutron and many other animated children's characters, will share songs from her children's album. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Pajama Week Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore July 30-Aug 5. Party with Klutz Activity Pack. Children make picture tag charms, bracelets, and necklaces. Free. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2006

Dinosaurs: South Pasadena Public Library 2 p.m. A special dinosaur presentation by Richard Wade. Topics include how dinosaurs may have died and information about the different bones in a dinosaur. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Creatures and Critters: Santa Catalina Library 11 a.m. Young and old will enjoy StoryQuilters' program, Creatures and Critters: Clever Monkeys, Bossy Birds and Furry Friends. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Pink Panther: Civic Center Courtyard 7:45 p.m. - 10 p.m. Bring blankets and spend a night under the stars with your family watching the movie, The Pink Panther. Snacks available for purchase. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2006

Summer Musical: Wilson Middle School 7 p.m. A group of Pasadena Unified students will perform, "A Long Time Ago in a Musical Far Far Away," the story of the Joiner family who find themselves in a tightly-run, claustrophobic city where science reigns and art is illegal. They must work together to defeat a diabolically adorable Queen, restore freedom to the citizens, and make it back home in time for dinner. You can also see the performance on Thursday Aug. 3, at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Auditorium, 300 Madre St., Pasadena.

Babe: Hastings Branch Library 2 p.m. -4 p.m. Popcorn and the movie, Babe the Gallant Pig. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Circus Night: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. See feats of amazing dexterity and magical prowess at Circus Night, featuring performances by jugglers Terrel and Takako Hayes and the magic of Doug Malloy. The Hayes family has performed around the world, bringing their custom juggling to audiences as far away as Japan and as close as California. Magician Doug Malloy has performed for artists such as Michael Jackson, Muhammud Ali, and Johnny Carson. Memorial Park, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

Thursday, Aug. 3, 2006

Storyquilters Sierra Madre Public Library 10 a.m. "Storyquilters" will demonstrate their special way of telling stories with a tale. Part of Sierra Madre Public Library's Summer Family Fun. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd..

Friday, Aug. 4, 2006

Kaulana: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. -8 p.m. Live At The Lakes presents Kaulana Ka Hale Kula O' Na Pua 'O Ka 'Aina. 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina..

Saturday, Aug. 5, 2006

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

Full of Tails: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. -11 a.m. Flights of Fantasy performs "Stories Full of Tails!" Tall tales and funny tales and folktales about creatures with tails. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

We Tell Stories: Kidspace Children's Museum 1 p.m. The works of Aesop, Sandburg, Poe, Carroll, Thurber, Twain, and other writers are presented in "Let Them Eat Books," a stage performance by the We Tell Stories ensemble theater troupe. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Aug. 6, 2006

Camp Week Mrs. Nelson\s Bookstore August 6-12. Put on your outdoor duds for Camp Week. S’mores and other camp fun. Fee: $2. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2006

Wild Magic: Santa Catalina Library 10:30 a.m. See Damian the Magician perform amazing sleight-of-hand, classic tricks and new illusions. Learn astonishing tricks to share with your friends. Space is limited; call or come in to sign-up. (626) 744-7272. August 8, 15 and 22, 2006. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Pink Panther: Civic Center Courtyard 7:45 p.m. - 10 p.m. Bring blankets and spend a night under the stars with your family watching the movie, Shark Tale. Snacks available for purchase. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2006

Full of Tails: Santa Catalina Library 9:30 a.m. Flights of Fantasy performs "Stories Full of Tails!" Tall tales and funny tales and folktales about creatures with tails. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Full of Tails: Hill Avenue Branch Library 1 p.m. -2 p.m. (Aug. 8-9) Flights of Fantasy performs "Stories Full of Tails!" Tall tales and funny tales and folktales about creatures with tails. Also at Allendale Branch Library on August 8 at 3 p.m. On August 9 at 10 a.m. at Santa Catalina Branch, and 3-4 p.m. at Villa Parke Branch Library. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Lion King: Hastings Branch Library 2 p.m. -4 p.m. Popcorn and the movie, Lion King. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, Aug. 11, 2006

O-So-Fam: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. -8 p.m. Live At The Lakes presents O-So-Fam Entertainment withdance, poetry, and music. 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina..

Saturday, Aug. 12, 2006

Fish on a Line Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. -3 p.m. Kids reel in fun as they make and decorate an adorable fishy friend. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Water Festival: Kidspace Children's Museum (August 12-13) Investigate everything that is water during this second annual weekend festival at Kidspace Children's Museum. Don't forget to bring a towel, sandals, and change of clothes. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Vroman's Spelling Bee Vromans Bookstore Show off your spelling skills at our spelling bee on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. Compete with others your age or come cheer on your favorite speller. The event is sponsored by Merriam Webster and prizes will be awarded.The spelling bee will be broken up into 3 groups of 10: Junior (ages 8-10), Intermediate (ages 11 - 14), and Adult (ages 15+). To participate, please call our Customer Service Department and ask to be added to the sign-up sheet. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Summer Evening Nature Walks Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens Owls, frogs, spiders, insects and night blooming plants are a few of the natural wonders that can be heard or seen in the Garden after dusk. Sessions on Aug. 1, 7-9 p.m., and Aug. 15, 7-9 p.m. $8 per person, children must be accompanied by an adult. Register: 909-625-8767 x224 or email lorrae.fuentes@cgu.edu. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

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. Literacy Program in Spanish for Spanish speaking preschoolers and elementary school children. (Programa de alfabelzacion en espanol para ninos.)The Educa Group meets every Sunday except the first Sunday of each month. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Hill Avenue Branch Library: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. This Spanish playgroup meets every Sunday and provides Spanish literacy for Spanish-speaking children. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Monday

Arcadia Public Library Dates: Mondays, June 26 through July 31Time: 3:30 p.m. in the Imagination Theater Are you going into 3rd grade or older? Are you ready to move up in the world of reading? Then this fun club is just for you! Each week you will get to hear a story, explore a variety of interesting books, and play the Readopoly Challenge game. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

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.

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.

Pacific Theatres: Moms, dads and caregivers, here’s your chance to see a first run adult-themed movie...with your baby! No one will mind if your baby cries, everyone will have a baby and all babies cry. 11 a.m., film title changes weekly. Paseo Colorado, 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.

Hastings Branch Library 4 p.m. - 5 p.m. The Summer Reading Club Animal Storytime and Craft is for school-aged children and features a different animal each week. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Regal Entertainment Group: On Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m. throughout the summer, free family films are shown. All movies are rated G and PG and seating is first-come, first-served. Check Website for tickets and locations. .

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. On hiatus for summer. Group also sponsors Moms’ Nights Out, book club and playgroups. Information: mothersandmore@onebox.com, or 866-206-9068, x3921. Wild Oats Natural Marketplace, conference room, 603 S. Lake Ave. 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.

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

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 the 210 Freeway. 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, parent's night out program, 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.

Vroman's Bookstore Graphic Novels! will meet the third Saturday of the month beginning June 17 @ 2pm - 3pm. For our first meeting we’ll be reading Spider Man: The Sinister Six. Suggested for readers 9-14. The Young Adult Book Group will meet the last Sunday of the month beginning June 25 @ 6pm - 7pm. Our first selection is China Garden by Liz Berry. Suggested for readers 12-17 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

MOMS Club of Monrovia Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for park days, stroller walks, and all-member meetings. Serving Monrovia, Duarte, and Bradbury. For more information please e-mail: momsclubofmonrovia@yahoo.com. .

Pasadena Branch Libraries Summer movies at the Pasadena branch libraries include such "Creature Feature" films as Finding Nemo, Lady and the Tramp, Stuart Little, Lion King and more. .

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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