August 11, 2006

Number 97

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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

Let me start by thanking the gracious and talented Eve Bunting for appearing as a guest writer in this column last time. I greatly enjoyed reading about her homegrown library and her

lifelong love of books. Wouldn't it be great if we could all instill that excitement for reading in our own children?

Of course, books have got a lot of competition these days! My kids have discovered You Tube this summer and are spending a lot of time making spoof videos with their friends and posting them online. Considering how busy they were during the first part of this summer - what with summer school, honors class summer assignments and internships - I'm just glad they're finally relaxing and having fun.

I got some wonderful, thought-provoking responses to my recent column about feminism, but before I get to those, here's an administrative reminder:

This is our last issue of The Orange Cat until Sept. 8. Brad and I are taking a break for the rest of the month, so you'll find that today's calendar stretches into early September. We will be back on our every-other-Friday schedule starting Sept. 8.

Another important announcement, from our friends at the Huntington Hospital Blood Donor Center in Pasadena: There is currently a critical shortage of blood. Blood donors are greatly needed. All donors will have their parking validated and receive a thank-you gift. You can schedule an appointment at 626-397-5422.

Okay, moving on. Is feminism dead? Not according to Orange Cat reader Mara: "I don't think that feminism is dead or irrelevant," she wrote. "The definition of feminism has changed over the last 30 years, but there has been no functional media representation of that new definition."

Interesting. Perhaps, as Mara suggests, definitions are changing and society at large has been slow to pick up on those changes. Several other readers agreed, and all - those working outside the home and those working inside - suggested that today, feminism should enable women to strike the appropriate balance in their lives, whatever that means.

Orange Cat reader Charlene, for instance, is a stay-at-home mom. "I am college-educated and have worked hard for many years of my life, trying to set a firm course for my career, and yet, when my son was born, I chose to work at home as a full-time mom," Charlene wrote. "Women have fought hard over the last century for some very basic rights, and we really need to continue to strive for complete equality in every aspect of life. With that being said, feminists need to realize that what they fought for was a right for women to choose their own path and gain equal respect in whatever pursuit they follow."

Charlene is happy with her decision, yet says she often feels that other women are judgmental. "Some feminists perceive that women are undoing all that has been done by simply not choosing to be a part of the workforce and instead stay at home and take care of their children," she said, though she noted that she's in good company: "Sandra Day O'Connor, who arguably made big strides for women by becoming the first woman on the Supreme Court, took five years off work to raise her children."

I know how Charlene feels. Why do women waste time with all the in-fighting between the stay-at-homes and the work-outside factions? How counterproductive can we get, especially since there are still larger issues we need to address! "Women have to stop fighting each other if we want to continue to strive for complete equality in every aspect of life and career," Charlene continued. "I think younger women are not as concerned about feminism because they see that women outnumber men in college, that women are able to have careers in almost any field they choose, and that there are many high-powered, high-profile women working in this country. The problem is, there are still some areas in which women are barely represented. Case in point, one woman on the Supreme Court!"

Absolutely true. Here's another perspective, from Stacy, a full-time human resources manager and working mother of two children, ages five and six. Every day, she said, she struggles to find the proper balance between her job and her family. "I would be absolutely lost if it were not for my husband," she wrote, "who consistently helps with the children at least 50 percent of the time, and often more."

She and her husband have staggered their work hours this summer, for instance, to accommodate their children's day camp schedules. "It's a long day, but the schedule seems to be working for both of us," Stacy wrote.

Having a sympathetic and supportive spouse seems to be key for family balance in general. "Were it not for my husband's willing ability to shuttle our children around, make dinner and change diapers, I think I would fall apart for good," Mara wrote. Stacy would like to nominate her husband for an award. "He takes his parental responsibility very seriously, the kids adore him, and he is a great dad," she wrote. "He recognizes the value of a balanced life, both for himself, and for me. He recently encouraged me to take time after work to start an exercise program, which left him the responsibility of dinner preparation. To me, that was a gift, and I realize how unique my husband is."

He sure sounds like a keeper to me! And so does Kat's husband, who is a bona fide feminist in his own right: "His studies in college were English Lit and Minority Women's Studies, with a gender studies undercurrent, and he's got high aspirations: He'd like to - through his writing, and lecturing/touring - reduce the occurrence of rape," Kat wrote. "He’s working to challenge people's preconceptions with regard to gender and identity, and chose to use a woman's first name since 1996. When we met, I did the usual double-take, but that was about it - he acts like a guy, he is a guy ... but most guys wouldn’t have the gonads to live such a challenging life."

Wow. Kat's definitely right. At least, I've never met a man who would choose a feminine first name to make a statement. Kind of gives new meaning to that old song about "The Boy Named Sue."

Like our other readers, Kat also thinks feminism needs some re-defining, especially if it is going to be relevant to a younger generation. "I think it needs to be repackaged to get jaded (or ignorant) people’s attention," she wrote. "As for myself, I think of feminism the same way that I think of libertarianism. They both have amazingly spot-on ideas, but both have gotten bad reps. It’s always about education, or re-education."

That's for sure, and I think our readers - grappling with the practical realities right here in the trenches - are in prime position to do some of that educating. Mara wrapped up all our readers' thoughts nicely: "These are the things I think about when I think of feminism. It invariably involves children and who takes care of them, and who still makes the decisions about how to take care of them (male-dominated government and non-educators). I don't have a clear definition yet, but I'm willing to work on one."

I am so impressed with these and all the other comments I got, which were to a woman thoughtful and articulate. If I wasn't able to excerpt your email here, please rest assured that I read it and nodded right along. What a terrific group of folks are in our community!

Well, that's it for now. I've just returned from a mini-vacation up in the Bay Area - boy, is it gorgeous up there! Next time you're in San Francisco, reserve a day to Bike The Bridge. What a great way to get tourists out exercising in beautiful surroundings on their vacation! And, if you can, check out the farmer's market at the Ferry Building. This is Mecca for organic produce lovers, cooks and foodies - something I've read about for years and always wanted to visit - and it is really amazing. Never before have I sampled 10 different varieties of lusciously ripe, juicy nectarines and peaches at one vendor's stall!

Next week, we head down to San Diego for a few days, and then we come back for school registration and a school activity retreat for the boys. Before we know it, the school year starts again (shhh ... I'm not allowed to mention that inevitability at my house!). Hope you have a chance to relax and enjoy the rest of your summer. With any luck at all, the worst of the heat is behind us, right? Well, we can dream.

See you again in the fall! 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. 11, 2006

O-So-Fam: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. O-So-Fam Entertainment, featuring dance, poetry and music. For more information contact the West Covina Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430. 1200 Lakes Drive.

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. For more information contact the West Covina Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430. 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.

Monday, Aug. 14, 2006

Full of Tails: San Rafael Branch Library 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 pm. Flights of Fantasy performs "Stories Full of Tails!" Tall tales and funny tales and folktales about creatures with tails. 1240 Nithsdale Road, Pasadena.

Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2006

Mad Science: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. Mad Science for kids. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Thursday, Aug. 17, 2006

Summer Fun Days: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Investigate the shiny surfaces of artworks by Larry Bell, Robert Irwin, Helen Pashgian and others and invent your own translucent creation. Free with general admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Yo-Yo Skills: Hastings Branch Library 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Learn how to spin a yo-yo like a pro. An expert yo-yo enthusiast will show off his skills and tricks! Pasadena Central Library Teen Central. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, Aug. 18, 2006

Future America: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Future America Variety Show. For more information contact the West Covina Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430. 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina.

Saturday, Aug. 19, 2006

Family Day: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Discover the many clever ways artists make prints, and then create your own. Free with general admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Royal Crowns: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children make handmade crowns fit for royalty. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Graphic Novel Reading Group: Vromans Bookstore 2 p.m. Join Steve Ross and the rest of this young adult reading group as they discuss "Runaways" (any title from the series) by Brian K. Vaughan. Even if you haven’t read the selection, this is a great time to get together with peers and talk about graphic novels. Best for ages 9 to 14, but all are welcome. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2006

Wild Magic: Santa Catalina Library 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Come see what Damian the Magician can do. See amazing feats of sleight-of-hand, classic tricks and new illusions. Learn thrilling tricks to share with friends. Space is limited. Call or come in to sign-up. (626) 744-7272. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2006

Fancy Nancy: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. Fancy Nancy Fashion Show. Go ahead and dress up. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Friday, Aug. 25, 2006

Dynotones: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. The Dynotones, surf music. For more information contact the West Covina Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430. 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina.

Saturday, Aug. 26, 2006

Charles the Clown Arcadia Public Library 3:30 p.m. Clown around with Charles as he slowly transforms right before your eyes into a real clown! 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Bead Jewelry: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create jewelry using all sorts of beads - from fire trucks to animal shapes. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Youth Dance Ensemble: Kidspace Children's Museum 1 p.m. Experience dynamic hip-hop dance with Lula Washington Youth Dance Ensemble. Based in South Central Los Angeles, the Lula Washington Dance Theatre, including the Youth Dance Ensemble, performs works that reflect African-American culture and history. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Aug. 27, 2006

Stories in the Afternoon Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Celebrate the importance of family through tales and activities beside Henry Moore's Family Group. Free with general admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2006

Klutz Art: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. Klutz thumbprint art. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Friday, Sept. 1, 2006

Future America: Lakes Entertainment Center 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Future America Variety Show. 1200 Lakes Drive.

Saturday, Sept. 2, 2006

Puppets: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children give these puppets personality by adding wiggly eyes, buttons, colorful clothes, and more. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Sept. 4, 2006

Labor Day Picnic Descanso Gardens 4 p.m. Kids can enjoy a day at the park at Descanso Gardens. They can visit the Reptile Room or go on a guided tour. Families may bring their own food, or buy from Patina's menu. Price is free with admission which is $7 for adults, $2 for children 5-12 and free for children 5 or younger. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge.

Friday, Sept. 8, 2006

The Incredibles: Pasadena Central Library 3:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. See the movie, The Incredibles: A family of undercover superheroes, while trying to live the quiet suburban life, are forced into action to save the world. Children's Room, Central Library. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Saturday, Sept. 9, 2006

Stick Puzzle: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids design fun, four-piece stick puzzles, then take them apart and piece them together again. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens 7:15 p.m. Docent Jim Jackson will lead a night time tour of Descanso Gardens and share its history on Friday, Sept. 15. Participants must be at least 12 years old, should wear sensible shoes, and bring a jacket and flashlight. Space is limited; registration: 818-949-7980. $15. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

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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