October 6, 2006

Number 100

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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 Dorothy Reinhold

Everyone once in awhile we run across an idea, a concept, a tip or an item that makes our lives easier, is extremely practical, solves an immediate problem or is just plain brilliant. Here are a

couple things that might make your life better. Or funnier. Or just plain happier.

A card shower: Whether for a grandparent who doesn't need or want more material stuff in his or her life, or for a child who might enjoy it as an alternative to a mound of presents, a card shower can brighten anyone's special day.

It's quite simple. The organizer contacts a bunch of people to tell them of the recipient's upcoming occasion, and to provide a mailing address and date. Each person is asked to send one greeting card to the recipient. Some folks appreciate funny cards, some love sentimental and mushy stuff, and others might enjoy arty or photo cards - you will know best for each recipient.

Everyone mails off a card to coincide roughly with the birthday, anniversary, graduation, retirement, or other occasion. The unsuspecting but lucky celebrant will be guaranteed a shower of cards over several days, given the serendipitous way the mail arrives. Imagine you child's glee at getting actual mail! Or picture your beloved grandmother as all these friends and family emerge from over the years and the woodwork to wish happiness and good cheer on the special day.

If you are the organizer and the recipient is a senior, be sure to ask the senders to include a special memory or happening of good times shared, to add to the enjoyment. There's a lot of love that can be imparted for the price of a 37-cent...uh...make that 39-cent stamp.

My brother pulled off a one-man card shower for my birthday in February. Over the course of three or four days, I got several cards a day from him. On the first day, I thought it was funny and silly. The next day, I thought it was funny and fabulous. The third day I was eagerly awaiting the mailman to see if there was anything for me besides bills! This just proves that even us jaded middle-aged folks can be impressed by a well-timed card shower.

Vanilla ice cream on oatmeal in the morning: No, I have not lost my mind, and don't bother reporting me to Child Protective Services, either. I picked this one up from my own mother, who treats my children to it when they stay overnight. She makes a big batch of hearty old-fashioned oatmeal, but instead of pouring milk and sugar on it she plops a small scoop of vanilla ice cream right in the middle of each kid's bowl.

I'll admit my protective-mother feathers were a bit ruffled when my kids first reported this to me with glee... "We had ice cream for breakfast, Mom!" But once I lifted my jaw off the floor, I realized that ice cream isn't all that different from milk and sugar. And it's a whole lot more fun.

So on a special day when you are making oatmeal (or maybe save it for a truly special occasion like a holiday or birthday), surprise your kids. And watch their eyes bug out. And then have a bowl yourself.

The very best oatmeal I ever had was at a wonderful, fancy B&B in Napa, and I had to pay $250 a night for the privilege of eating this magnificent, sophisticated bowl of porridge that was lapped with crème anglaise. That's French for - you guessed it - melted vanilla ice cream!

That's enough good stuff for today. I hope these ideas bring a smile to your face or at least a sigh of relief. We aim to please.

Editor's Note: Can anyone recommend sports programs for preschoolers in Pasadena? Orange Cat mom Patricia is looking to get her son enrolled in some athletic pursuits this fall. Let me know and I'll pass your tips along.

Also, Orange Cat mom Beth is looking for new enrollees for a PCC Parent Education Class for 4-year-olds and their parent, grandparent or caregiver. The free and fun class meets on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon at Christ the Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church in Altadena. If enrollment doesn't go up, the class will be cancelled, so if you're interested contact the PCC Community Education Center at 626-585-3038. Other classes are also available for parents and their infants through age four at a variety of locations and times.

Today's Orange Cat marks a couple of milestones, one important to all of us and one that's personal. This is our 100th issue! Just about four years ago, Brad and I got this kooky notion to put a calendar of events online for local parents - and maybe offer some parenting advice and tips along the way. Our first few issues were pretty crude and went out to just a handful of friends and colleagues.

Thankfully, we've grown from there and now are read regularly by more than 3,700 San Gabriel Valley families! Thanks to all of you for the supportive notes, comments, heads-up on local events, questions and recommendations. Without regular interaction with our readers, we'd be pretty boring. A special thanks goes out to all of you who have encouraged your friends to subscribe (more of this, please!) and placed advertisements with us. We're told that our ads and listings generate excellent consumer response, so if you haven't advertised with us and could, please consider it! Our rates are very affordable.

In a related reminder, thanks to those who have joined The Orange Cat Club, a voluntary subscription program for Orange Cat supporters. As mentioned last time, we put in many, many hours each month to bring you the best advice and the most complete information possible about family activities in the San Gabriel Valley. If you enjoy the newsletter and can afford to pay 50-cents per issue, we ask you to please do so.

If you haven't yet sent in your subscription payment, you can do so via Paypal (one year or two year) or by sending us a check. Please make out the check to KBN Publishing, Inc. and include the email address where you get our newsletters in the memo line, so we can credit you for the payment. Mail your check to 5645 Heleo Ave., Temple City, CA 91780. And don't forget that a portion of your donation this year will go to support Hillsides, a Pasadena- based residential and community treatment center for children suffering from abuse and mental illness.

The other milestone that occurs today is my oldest son's 17th birthday. Though I can't say "It seems like yesterday," I do vividly remember weeping copiously as I was being wheeled out of the maternity ward with him in my arms on our way home from the hospital. My hormone- induced sadness stemmed from the thought that this was his first journey in a lifetime that would eventually see him grow up and leave me. Think about it: I hadn't even had him for a week, and I was already crying over losing him. (Yes, that's hormone-mania for you! After another week, I was so sleep-deprived and colic-addled that I wondered whether I could get away with "returning" him for a different model.)

Seriously though, I am increasingly aware that this once-tiny boy is now a fine young man about to embark on the adventures of his own life. While that thought does still induce tears (on some days more than others, of course) it also brings joy. And it brings the often-heard admonitions about "enjoying them while they're young" and "they grow up so fast" to life: They're clichés, but they really are true. Just something for you to hold onto when your kids are driving you completely nuts: This too shall pass, and all-too-quickly.

That's it for now. Thanks for contributor Dorothy Reinhold for the fabulous tips. You can reach her at DReinhold@aol.com and you can email me at 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, Oct. 6, 2006

Unfortunate Events: Pasadena Central Library 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Today's film will be Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. Get in the mood for the 13th book, being released Friday the 13th of October, with the movie of the first three books. (115 min.) In the Children's Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Saturday, Oct. 7, 2006

The Importance of Money: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Snigglezoos Money Mammals teach children 2 - 6 about the value of money. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

School Open House: Oak Knoll Kinderhaus Montessori 12-3 p.m. Come visit our classrooms, for children 18 months through 12 years. Information: 626-345-0595. 1200 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena.

Fall Wreath: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create a wreath in lots of fun fall colors. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Fall Wreath: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. Children create a wreath in lots of fun fall colors. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Oct. 8, 2006

Hispanic Heritage: Sugarbutterbex 12 to 6 p.m. Celebrate Hispanic heritage by participating in free workshops, including face painting and sugar skull decorating. Adults and kids of all ages welcome. Information: 323-255-0021. 5110 York Blvd. Highland Park.

Monday, Oct. 9, 2006

Reality Vs Myth: Pasadena Education Network 7-9 p.m. Are you confused with the mixed messages you get about public schools for your children? Hear a panel of parents with children in Pasadena Unifed School District talk about their experiences and answer questions. Information: 866-216-7334. Baxter Lecture Hall, Caltech, Pasadena.

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006

Open House: MOMS Club of the Foothills 10 a.m. to noon. Tenth anniversary celebration will include fire department demonstration, raffle prizes, bake sale, ceramic handprints and crafts for the children. Group has no religious affiliation. Information: 323-496-0844 or email: foothillmommembership@hotmail.com St. Lukes Church, 2563 Foothill Blvd., La Crescenta.

Thursday, Oct. 12, 2006

Author Event: Vroman's Bookstore 4 p.m. Eoin Colfer discusses and signs "Artemis Fowl: The Lost Colony." 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, Oct. 13, 2006

The End: Vromans Bookstore 4 p.m. We are celebrating the release of the final book in the "Series of Unfortunate Events" written by Lemony Snicket. Come by for food, activities and games. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

ArtNight: City of Pasadena 6-10 p.m. Pasadena cultural institutions open their doors for special exhibits and performances, with shuttle service provided between venues. Park at any venue and ride to the others, or take Metro GoldLine. ArtNight is a part of Pasadena Art Weekend, Oct. 13-15. Information: pasadenaartweekend.com. Information on ArtNight: 626-744-7887. Various Pasadena art institutions.

Saturday, Oct. 14, 2006

Water Fest 2006: Arcadia County Park 10 a.m. Come for educational games and workshops for kids. There will also be water attractions and a live reptile and insect exhibit. Information: Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, 626-443-2297. 405 S. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia.

Dry-Erase Board: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. A fun-to-use dry erase board with a frame kids create on their own. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Marionettes: Kidspace Children's Museum 1 p.m. Kidspace welcomes back the famous Bob Baker Marionettes to Stone Hollow Amphitheater. Bob's marionettes have entertained thousands of children and adults worldwide over the years. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2006

Toys Go Out: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 10 a.m. Paul Zelinsky, Illustrator of Toys Go Out, will visit the bookstore. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Thursday, Oct. 19, 2006

Family Hootenanny: Monrovia Public Library 3:45 p.m. Gigi & Mike, a local folk duo, present their sing-along tour of American folk music history. Through group singing and guitar, they share and build old stories with kids through great folk songs. They also integrate how music is written, how basic percussion instruments work, and how the kids can share and participate with their families and each other through singing. All ages welcome. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Friday, Oct. 20, 2006

Tap Kids: CalTech Beckman Auditorium 10 a.m. Eight gifted rhythm tap dancers aged 15-21 put on a show for anyone who enjoys the excitement, rhythm, skill, style and high energy of this all-American dance form. Recommended for grades 3-12. Tickets: $5. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Up: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 1 p.m. Jim LaMarche, author and illustrator of "Up," will appear at Mrs. Nelson's. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Saturday, Oct. 21, 2006

Family Festival: St. Philip The Apostle Church 2-10 p.m. Church festival includes games, rides and inflatables for kids, a haunted house, music, comedy and dance, gift boutique, food and raffles. Funds raised support church school. 161 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Alexander and the Terrible: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Laugh and sing along with Alexander's misadventures in this hilarious musical, which retells the best-selling tale of one boy's truly awful - but very funny - no good, very bad day. $6 Ages: K-5th grade. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Recipe Holder: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. Children make an imaginative recipe holder that keeps recipes in clear view. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Pumpkin Festival: Kidspace Children's Museum (Also Oct. 22) This 12th Annual Pumpkin Festival will feature performers for children and adults, including Rhythm Child, tales of a golden alien in "Gustafer Yellowgold's Wide Wild World," singer-songwriter Dave Kinnoin of Sesame Street and Bear in the Big Blue House, "Lori, Lori What's the Story?", Pasadena's own Cottage Industry, and dancers from Ballet Folklorico and The Athletic Garage. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Tropical Plant Art: Huntington Library On Nov. 11 from 9-11:30 a.m., children will explore the tropical wonders hidden inside paintings then create their own landscapes by drawing plants growing in the rain forest environment. Ages 7 and up, with accompanying adult. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Holiday Origami Workshop: Huntington Library Kids will learn the art of origami paper-folding, led by Peggy Hasagawa in this Saturday workshop on Dec. 9, 9-11:30 a.m. Ages 7 and up, with accompanying adult. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Things That Go Bump: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens Saturday, Oct. 28, 5:30-9 p.m. Explore nature after dark. Discover earthly night crawlers and winged creatures. There will be plenty of live animals, activities, crafts and a night hike. $5 per person; $20 per family. Registration: Rachel Kau-Taylor, 909-625-8767 x224. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Soups On: Huntington Library Young cooks will stir up some soup in a workshop with Chef Lisa Fontanesi on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. First stop is the herb garden to stock up on some sensational fresh flavors, then it’s back to the kitchen for some culinary fun. Ages 7 and up, $25 with accompanying adult. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Lemony Snicket: University of La Verne Women's Basketball Gym The University of La Verne and Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop are sponsoring a reading and book signing with "Lemony Snicket " (Daniel Handler) and Brett Helquist on Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. Includes a musical performance by The Gothic Archies. Tickets are required and are available with the purchase from Mrs. Nelson's of any book from "A Series of Unfortunate Events," including pre-orders of "The End" (release date Oct. 13). One ticket per person. Near C and Second streets, La Verne.

Herbal Cures: Los Angeles County Arboretum Take a walk through the herb garden and learn about herbs that cure people all over the world. Oct. 7, 2-4 p.m. Rain cancels. $20 per family. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Family Story Night: Huntington Library 6:30 p.m. Join us for our fourth annual evening of thrills and chills as the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Edward Gorey come to life in candle-lit performances by the Guild of St. George. Saturday, Oct. 21, 6:30 to 10 p.m. Ages 10 and up. Adult: $30; child $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Science Saturday: CalTech Beckman Auditorium A World in Motion is a high-definition film that looks at movement in the worlds of sports, arts, technology, and nature, starring athletes, dancers, musicians, machines, and an array of animals. To be held Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. Event includes performance by the contemporary improvisational ensemble "Continuum," along with members of the Caltech Dance Troupe. Gwyneth Card of Caltech's Bioengeering Department will introduce the film and guide the post-screening discussion. Tickets: $5; note that first 500 tickets requested will be issued free. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Signs of Seasons: Los Angeles County Arboretum Come learn about the changing colors of leaves in the world and appreciate the fall season. Nov. 4, 2-4 p.m. Rain cancels. $20 per family. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Holiday Hike and Craft: Los Angeles County Arboretum Take a hike with your family through the Arboretum and make a craft together to celebrate the holiday season. Dec. 2, 2-4 p.m. Rain cancels. $20 per family. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Bread Making Workshop: Huntington Library On Saturday, Dec. 2 from 9-11:30 a.m., kids will learn about the biology of bread-making in this hands-on workshop. Participants will each take home a freshly baked loaf. Ages 7 and up, with accompanying adult. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

TheatreWorks USA: CalTech Beckman Auditorium Laugh and sing along with Alexander's misadventures in this hilarious musical based on the book, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day." Recommended for grades PreK-4. To be held Tuesday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. Reservations: 800-497-5007 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

Rock Rose Art Gallery: Family drum circle is held 12:30-1:30 p.m. Donations requested. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

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. - 11:30 a.m. 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.

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 and 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.

San Dimas Farmers Market Come and experience a night full of live music and dancing every Wednesday, beginning at 4:30 p.m. 245 E. Bonita Ave. Civic Center Park.

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.

MOMS Club of Azusa: Support group for kids and stay-at-home moms in the city of Azusa. General and new-members meetings are held on the last Thursday of every month at 3:30 p.m. Information: e-mail momsclubofazusaca@yahoo.com. Library Auditorium, 729 N. Dalton Ave., Azusa.

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.

Rock Rose Art Gallery: MOTHEREAD/FATHEREAD, L.A. is held from 10-11:30 a.m. This is a 10-week family reading program based on a simple idea: When families read together, remarkable things happen. Family ties are strengthened. Parents become reading role models for their children. Children become better readers and better learners. Information: Rosamaria Marquez, 323-222-4740. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

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 .

South Pasadena Strings: Afterschool music, art and foreign language classes for preschoolers and kindergartners. For all ages, group and private lesson in violin, viola, cello, guitar, piano, voice. Award-winning youth orchestras. For more information, email stringsprogram@aol.com, or call 626/403-4611. South Pasadena.

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.

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.

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.

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. .

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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