October 20, 2006

Number 101

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

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By Karen E. Klein

I spent a fine weekend afternoon recently in a library, which is a delightful way to spend a lovely afternoon, except that this

time I was in a meeting room listening to a presentation on college. Specifically, on paying for college.

With two boys in high school, the college topic in general looms larger and larger for us and will undoubtedly be taking up a lot more of our family's time over the next few years. Regular readers will know that I'm not a nostalgia hound, but getting into college is one of those processes that we really did have easier in the "good old days."

The seminar leader, certified financial planner Brian Mark, asked how many adults in the room had studied for their SATs way back when. Not a hand went up. Study? Not me. I was told it was a waste of time to study, since the SATs measured what you should already know after nearly 12 years of formal education.

Well, the principle still holds, but boy - have times changed. Brian admitted that he didn't study either, but he sure would if he were taking the test today. You probably read this week about the 300 millionth American joining our ranks. And Brian told the seminar participants that this year and next year (when my older son graduates from high school) we're predicted to have the two largest high school graduating classes in U.S. history.

Of course, more of those high school grads will be applying to colleges than ever before. And that's a good thing. High school diplomas used to qualify industrious people for steady blue-collar employment and provide salaries high enough to sustain them in middle-class lifestyles. We all know that that's not true anymore.

We can gripe about outsourcing and listen to would-be politicians rail against the growing practice of sending blue-collar jobs overseas, but I don't think we can escape the fact that we're part of a global economy and will increasingly be impacted by it. And if it's affecting us now, think about how profoundly it will affect our children.

The only remedy is for them to be prepared for higher-level jobs - the kind that require not only undergraduate college degrees but probably post-grad degrees as well. But first, they have to get into college. And then we have to pay for it. And therein, as they say, lies the rub.

I have friends who won't pay for their children's college costs. They expect their kids to finance their own educations, through a combination of work and loans. That's their prerogative, of course, but I disagree with their decision. College isn't an option for the privileged, like it was when my parents graduated from high school and went straight to work, or even like it was when I went to UC Irvine and then on to USC. It's an expensive necessity that can make a huge difference in my childrens' futures, and something I feel obligated to help them achieve without saddling them with a huge amount of debt before they even get started in life.

Just how expensive is it? Brian provided some helpful numbers: Total cost (including housing, books, fees and tuition) for one year at an average U.S. public university is $14,640. If you're talking about the University of California, however, the figure is between $21,000 and $24,000. At the average private university, the cost is around $30,300. At an elite private college, a year starts around $40,000 and goes up from there.

How can parents possibly hope to pay that much and still stay financially solvent - let alone save money for retirement? Brian had some creative and helpful thoughts, ranging from financial aid (everyone - even upper-income earners - should apply, he said) to merit-based scholarships to tax strategies to loan programs designed specifically for college tuition.

His recommended strategy: Have your student apply to six to 10 colleges where she will be a highly attractive prospect. Colleges, particularly smaller institutions, compete for high-achieving students, he said. They will often help arrange for a coveted student to attend, including working out a family financial package that might include grants, scholarships, work-study programs and loans.

Another idea, particularly effective if your children are still young and you're quite sure they will go to college, is to save money on a monthly or quarterly basis through a 529 account (a tax-free educational program named after a tax code). We established accounts for our kids several years ago through Golden State Scholarshare, which is California's 529 plan, and we've accumulated nest eggs for each of them. They won't pay for everything, but they give us a place to start.

Next question: How hard will it be for your student to get into the college of his choice? That depends on your kid and on the college in question, experts say. Is he determined to attend what Brian called "window sticker" schools? (Elite institutions that parents "advertise" by putting school stickers on the rear windows of their cars. Bragging rights, right?) While they may help your child get his first job the truth is that his success in life will depend much more on his work ethic and skills than on what college he attended.

Last year, I explored the idea of hiring a private college consultant. I asked consultant Angie Crowther how tough it is to get admitted to one of the U.S. News and World Report's top-ranked schools. "The most selective schools are so competitive that I'm not sure it's possible to get accepted without a detailed, guided, very high-maintenance plan of action," she said.

Sounds exhausting. I'm not so much interested in my boys getting into "name-brand" universities as I am in finding the best fit for each of them academically and socially - and for us financially. Angie reassured me that that goal is reachable, and without help from high-priced consultants. "The truth is that you and your family can do all the same tasks that college counselors can do," she said, "it's just easier for them, because they do it all day long. Probably, you can guide your children with a little bit of elbow grease and research."

Here are some questions that Angie offered for those whose kids are starting to think about choosing colleges: What climate do your kids prefer (if they don't like the snow, then that narrows it down considerably)? Do they want to stay in California, or do they want to leave the state? How certain are they about their chosen majors and careers? (If they are definite about a particular field, then they should only consider colleges that offer that major. If they are undecided, then they should consider colleges that offer a wide variety of majors, like a state school as opposed to a specialty school like MIT, CalPoly, or Oberlin.) What size school do they prefer?

Once they've narrowed down the choices to a few schools, Angie said, they should check out the stats for those schools' entering freshman classes. "This information is on the colleges' websites," she said. "Compare those stats with your children's numbers (GPA, SAT/ACT, AP courses and test scores, class rank). If the stats are drastically higher than your children's, then they must decide to either put great effort into raising their grades, raising the difficulty of their courses, raising their SAT scores - or to apply to different schools."

Going back to those SAT scores that Brian talked about: My sons have been going through practice questions this week to prep for the PSAT, which they're both taking on Saturday. I had them start taking the PSAT as freshmen, even though it's not required, just to get them familiarized with the standardized testing process.

My older son, who's a junior, will take the SAT this spring. Brian said studies show that students who study for the SAT for a half hour to an hour a day for 40 days before the test score 100 to 200 points higher than those who go into testing day "cold." He suggested several ways to prepare for the SAT, including books, websites, DVDs and formal courses, usually offered on Saturdays and costing $1,000 and up.

Which to choose? If your student is self-motivated and will study on his own, it's much cheaper to buy a book or subscribe to a web testing program than it is to pay for a course. But if your child needs the structure of a class, with homework, it may be worth it to pay for one. We'll see how things go this year before we decide.

Well, so much for college prep, except to say that I'm absolutely not advocating any kind of parental panic on the topic. It's like anything else in life: You have to be balanced about it. I have a friend whose daughter did very, very well on her SATs and probably could have gotten into a top school at a substantial discount if her parents had been a little more informed about the process and more proactive on her behalf. But as it is, this girl is attending a good school on a partial scholarship and I'm certain she'll do fine in life. So, don't panic and don't pressure your kids (I see that going on all the time, too).

But even if they're little, it's not a bad idea to start thinking about it. Particularly in the sense of starting a college savings fund or establishing a Scholarshare account.

Speaking of accounts, many thanks to those who have contributed to our supporting account, The Orange Cat Club, which is a voluntary subscription program for Orange Cat readers. As we've been reminding you, 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!

You can pay 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.

Enjoy your weekend, have a happy and safe Halloween and we'll be back again next month! 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. 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.

Pumpkin Festival Cal Poly Pomona 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pick your own pumpkins in a real pumpkin field at$4 each (baseball to volleyball size). Bring gloves and a wagon. Also features food and game booths, an insect fair, petting zoo, horse rides, entertainment and children's activities. Also held Sunday, Oct. 22. 57 Freeway at Temple Avenue exit, Pomona..

Grossology: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. Attend a "Grossology" party. All sorts of gross fun. There will be a $2 fee per child. Please RSVP to (909) 599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Artist Faire: West Covina YWCA Oct. 21 (6-9 p.m.) and 22 (noon-5 p.m.). At the 2006 Artist Faire there will be works by local artists of various ethnic and cultural heritage traditions, food, and entertainment. Admission is free. 961 South Glendora Ave., West Covina.

Sunday, Oct. 22, 2006

Making a Scene: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Visit the exhibition "The Collectible Moment" then join artist Rebecca Tuynman for a drop-in workshop in which participants create photo-collages based on images in the exhibition. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Pumpkin Carving Party: Sugarbutterbex noon to 6 p.m. Bring your pumpkins and we'll provide the tools, the inspiration, the music and most importantly the cleanup! $5. Information: 323-255-0021. 5110 York Blvd., Highland Park.

Monday, Oct. 23, 2006

Book Reading and Signing: Vromans Bookstore 11 a.m. Jim LaMarche reads from and signs "Up." 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2006

Tia in Concert: Pasadena Central Library 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Singer-songwriter Tia performs a special concert for preschoolers and their families. (45 min.), Children's Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Goosebumps: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Ghoulish Goosebumps! Come for a beast of a time as with ghastly fun based on the series by R.L. Stine. Bring your appetite for a creepy, crawly treat. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena.

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2006

Bump in the Night: CalTech Beckman Auditorium 8 p.m. Get ready for "A Midsummer Night's Scream" as the Demons of Darkness creep off the bookshelf. Join us as Joshua Kane hosts a legion of fairies, changelings, and creatures of the night, in dramatic readings from Yeats, Shakespeare, Rossetti, and others. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Pizza Party: Monrovia Public Library 3:30 p.m. Teens are invited to a pizza party and a murder. Amateur detectives can match wits with one another and attempt to solve a Halloween mystery. All materials provided. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Halloween Party: Arcadia Public Library Cay Mortenson Auditorium 6:30 p.m. Halloween stories and a craft, for ages 5 and up. 20 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia.

Friday, Oct. 27, 2006

Creepy Cuisine: Alhambra Public Library 3:30 p.m. Teens make disgusting "creepy cuisine" and watch some classic horror flicks. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Saturday, Oct. 28, 2006

Annual Halloween Bash: Vromans Bookstore 10 a.m. Treat yourself to some ghost and monster stories and of course plenty of sweet treats. You can trick-or-treat in costume and create some crafts. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Pumpkin Junction Descanso Gardens 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parades of costumed children, country fair animals, antique farm tractors and a plethora of pumpkins will be part of two-day festival. Activities include opportunities to learn to play a harmonica, chances to win art scholarships, crafts and music. Also held Oct. 29. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

The Hundred Dresses: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 2 p.m. Theatre for Young Audiences presents theatrical adaptation of the book by Eleanor Estes in which a young immigrant girl is teased at school because she wears the same dress every day. $5. Citrus Little Theatre, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Trick-Or-Treat Bag: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids will love trick-or-treating with goodie bags that they decorate themselves. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Howl-O-Ween Party: One Colorado 7 p.m. Prizes will be awarded in this costume contest for pets. Information: 626-440-0443. Three Dog Bakery, 24 Smith Alley, One Colorado, Pasadena.

Halloween Party: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Come in costume for a Halloween party for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Children will hear stories, sing songs, make a craft, have a Halloween treat and watch a short film. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Sunday, Oct. 29, 2006

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Enjoy crisp days and falling leaves through books and fun activities beside Jacob van Ruisdael's "Three Great Trees in a Mountainous Landscape with a River." Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Horsemanship Demos: Ridge Riders Equestrian Center 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. The Ridge Rider's 50th Anniversary Playday with horsemanship demos and BBQ. Registration Begins at 8:30 a.m., demonstrations are from 2-4 p.m. BBQ Begins at 4 p.m. A full-day of events. Click through for lots more info. 300 S. Citrus St., West Covina.

Fancy Nancy: Kidspace Children's Museum 12:30 p.m. Robin Preiss Glasser is the illustrator for many children's books such as Fancy Nancy, You Can't Take a Balloon in the Metropolitan Museum, Daddy's Girl, and Lynne Cheney's Patriotic series. Recently Fancy Nancy was nominated for a Quill Award. Bring your costumes and fancy gear for a special story time, dress-up, and book signing with Robin. Festivities begin in the amphitheater with readings and activities, followed by a signing, where several of her books, including Fancy Nancy, will be available for purchase and personal autograph. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Oct. 30, 2006

Haunted House: Westfield West Covina 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Scary Lane Haunted House. Entrance fee: 1 buck. Every person in costume receives a full-size candy bar. In the mall parking lot facing Interstate 10. 112 Plaza Drive, West Covina..

Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2006

Horribly Halloween: Lamanda Park Branch Library 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Visit the Pumpkin Patch for a ghouls and goblins storytime with fun stories, treats (no tricks) and a Halloween craft. Wear your costume! 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Halloween Cupcake: Lamanda Park Branch Library 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. Join us for a Halloween cupcake decorating party! We will provide the cupcakes, frosting, sprinkles and more. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Trick-or-Treating: One Colorado 4-7 p.m. Young ghosts, witches and other critters are invited to go store-to-store for Halloween treats supplied by the shops and restaurants of One Colorado. This trick-or-treating event is timed to appeal to young children (accompanied by adults!). Colorado Boulevard, between Union, Fair Oaks and DeLacey streets, Pasadena.

Trick-or-Treating: West Covina Library 3:45 p.m. Halloween party aimed at teens. 1601 West Covina Parkway, West Covina.

Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2006

Dino Parties: San Rafael Branch Library 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Watch dinosaurs roam on the big screen during November's movie time at the San Rafael Branch Library. And from 3-4 p.m. at the Lamanda Park Branch Library (140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena) there's a Dinosaur Dazzle Party for Dino lovers ages 6 and older. Play Dinosaur Bingo and Dinosaur Trivia for prizes, eat dino snacks, watch a dinosaur film and choose a book to take home and keep. 1240 Nithsdale Road, Pasadena.

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Discover the imaginative way words can be used through books and activities, then craft your own alphabet creation inspired by the exhibition 'Ooo: Early Prints by Ed Ruscha.' Free with museum admission. Program also being held on Sunday, Nov. 26 at 2 p.m. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, Nov. 2, 2006

More Dinos: Linda Vista Branch Library 10:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. At the Linda Vista Branch, dino-mite stories, crafts, snacks, free books and a special guest will greet pre-schoolers at this storytime. At 3:30 p.m. at the Santa Catalina Branch (999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena) and from 4-6 p.m. in the "Dino Den" at the Hastings Branch (3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena), watch dinos on the big screen every Thursday during November. 1281 Bryant St., Pasadena.

Friday, Nov. 3, 2006

Buckamoo: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore Ellen Kelley, the author of Buckamoo Girls, will be visit the store. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Dinosaur Movies: Linda Vista Branch Library 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Watch dinosaur movies each week in November to celebrate Children's Book Month. 1281 Bryant St., Pasadena.

Weird Nature: CalTech Beckman Auditorium 10 a.m. Film and discussion on animals and the strange, built-in equipment they use to catch their prey. $5. Grades 3-12 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Nov. 4, 2006

Christmas Boutique: First Lutheran Church of Temple City 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Handmade quilts, skirts, aprons and many other items for sale. Information: Pat Becker, 626-446-9366. Also Sunday, Nov. 5, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Parish Hall, 9123 Broadway, Temple City.

Dino-mite: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Storytime for preschoolers ages 3-5 with some "dino"-mite stories, and a free paperback book. Also, at 3-4 p.m., more dino-mite fun with the movie, Ice Age, a free paperback book, and dino snacks. Children's Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Hansel and Gretel: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Two curious children discover the friendly creatures of the forest, and a peculiar old woman who loves little children so much that she could just gobble them up! Puppeteers from Jim Gamble Productions retell this tale, set to the melodies of Engelbert Humperdinck. $6. Grades K-3. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Handprint Keepsake: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. A personalized handprint project that's sure to become a keepsake. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Nov. 6, 2006

Open Enrollment: Pasadena Education Network 7-9 p.m. Get information about the open enrollment process for the Pasadena Unified School District and ask questions of district officials. Information: 866-216-7334. Baxter Lecture Hall, Caltech, Pasadena.

Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006

Oh California: Monrovia Public Library 3:35 p.m. Musician Craig Newton will present a musical journey through California state history. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Saturday, Nov. 11, 2006

Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 2 p.m. Moms, dads and kids are invited to discover the wisdom in their own backyard with "Zen Stories from the Neighborhood," an author discussion and storytelling event. The event includes tandem readings for parents and children by Sierra Madre author Karen Maezen Miller and local children's storyteller Sally Roberts. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Nov. 18, 2006

Science Saturday: CalTech Beckman Auditorium 2 p.m. "Polar Bears On Thin Ice," a high-definition film, will be presented with Jillian Dempsey of Caltech's chemistry department introducing the film and leading a post-screening discussion. Meet the polar bears of Churchill, Manitoba, and find out how climate change and human encroachment on their habitat impact their quest for food and survival. $5. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

What to Cook?: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Get some quick ideas for a delicious holiday meal and then create a "food collage" inspired by artworks in this program for children and families. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Puppet Variety Show: San Marino Public Library 2 p.m. Celebrate children's book week with Franklin Haynes' marionettes, presenting "Frankie's Toy Box," a family-friendly show. Information: 626-300-0777. 1800 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Register Early

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2006

Lemony Snicket: University of La Verne Women's Basketball Gym 7:30 p.m. 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.

Thursday, Nov. 2, 2006

Signs of Seasons: Los Angeles County Arboretum 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. 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.

Saturday, Nov. 18, 2006

Festival of Bands: Citrus College 4 p.m. Eighteen of the biggest and most accomplished bands from Southern California will demonstrate their skills in music and choreography as they compete for the field show championship. Tickets on sale now. Children under three are free. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

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 & 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 12-1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups, family parties and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre and Temple City. We also are currently enrolling residents of Arcadia with the understanding that they will form their own chapter in June 2007. Information: email momsclubofsierramadre@yahoo.com. Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Monrovia Public Library Best Books is a weekly program for elementary-aged youth, held Tuesdays in October and November from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Students will take a magical journey through an exciting book, with a librarian reading a chapter or two aloud, then offering a snack, followed by a bit more reading. Youth are invited to bring copies of their own books to read long. October's selection is The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. The program will not be meeting on Oct. 31. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

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 12:30 p.m.; 2-year-olds Mondays at 10 a.m. Children of all ages are invited to practice their reading with the Barks and Books program on the third Saturday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Information and registration: 626-300-0777. 1800 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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