Today marked a very special milestone at our beloved La Pintoresca Branch Library – the 10th anniversary of Chocolate Storytime! It was a heartwarming and family-friendly affair that brought together people of all ages for a delightful hour of storytelling, music, and community bonding.

The theme for 2024 Black History Month, African Americans and the Arts, developed by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (http://www.asalh.org), was shared with the audience, enriching our understanding of African American culture and heritage.

We were honored to have Mrs. Barbara Bigby, a retired school teacher and passionate advocate for our community, as our special guest reader. She read Rachel Isadora’s, “Uh-Oh,” and the charming, “Grandma’s Purse” by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. Her presence added a touch of wisdom and warmth to the event as she read to both children and adults, engaged the audience in movement activities, and shared about herself.

Our featured artist, the incredible talent of Cellist AJ McQuarters from South Pasadena, continued to add to the soothing, magical atmosphere. AJ is a senior in high school, and member of several music organizations, including the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) (http://www.asalh.org). AJ mesmerized the audience with enchanting melodies, including pieces like “The Swan” from “The Carnival of the Animals” and “Élégie (Elegy)” by Gabriel Fauré. He also accompanied the audience in singing the “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” also known as the “Black National Anthem.” AJ’s final piece, a rendition of “Cello Concerto in D minor” by Édouard Lalo left everyone spellbound, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

During the question and answer session, AJ revealed that he had been playing the cello for 13 years, a passion instilled in him during his homeschooling years when his parents integrated it into his curriculum. His initial inspiration stemmed from his older sister, a viola player. AJ also recounted a profound experience with Yo-Yo Ma of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, expressing that the impact of Ma’s mastery on the cello was indescribable and deeply resonated within him. In a captivating show and tell segment, AJ demonstrated the intricacies of the cello, discussing its components, the range of sounds it produces, and techniques for holding the instrument and using the bow, encapsulating his profound connection to music and its instruments.

We also covered a range of exciting upcoming events. One highlight is the Pasadena Black History Parade, which is Southern California’s largest and most longest running parade. It’s set to take place on Saturday, February 17. Additionally, we mentioned the ICYOLA Black History Month concert hosted by Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. This event is scheduled for Saturday, February 24, starting at 11 am. Attendees familiar with their performances were particularly impressed by ICYOLA, led by orchestra conductor Chuck Dickerson, as the largest predominantly African American orchestra in the nation. Their performances, including the annual season finale were described as truly inspiring.

Attendees engaged in a Jean-Michel Basquiat-Inspired crown craft, provided by the library and led by Alicia Leilani Randall, which provided a creative outlet for our young attendees to express themselves and explore their artistic talents. Guests used oil pastels, tempera paint, and more to create the motif that has become synonymous with the artist’s work. Ten yeas ago, Alicia was a six-year old participant, and as the years progressed, she became the art director. Now, in 2024, she is still volunteering her time facilitating the art activities.

Girl Scout parents and friends were asked to introduce themselves. Among them were the Moore-Nguamba family. Siwatu and Dr. Rashidah Nguamba are the parents of Nzoi and Nzuri. Dr. Nguamba has been practicing as an obstetrician-gynecologist for over 20 years and runs her own local practice. Also in attendance were Dr. Shauna Bigby and her mother-in-law, Mrs. Barbara Bigby, both natives of Pasadena. Dr. Bigby and her husband, have three children, and she works as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner and manages a college health clinic. Additionally, Keyonda McQuarters, a wife and mother of four, including the Cellist, AJ, shared that she homeschooled her children for a significant period, and now two of them are enrolled in Spanish immersion programs.

Of course, what’s Chocolate Storytime without chocolate treats? Guests indulged in an array of delicious confections, complemented by Louisiana fried chicken, red beans and rice, and sweet rolls, generously sponsored by Snacks Director, Shauna Bigby, and family.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us in celebrating this special occasion and made this day possible, including those who were at home holding down the forts, including Dr. Alfred McQuarters, Darren Bigby, Louis Randall, Barbara Lindsey, Adora Roberson, Icee, and Betty J. Ford. The event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the library staff–Annmarie Kolakowski, Rosa Cesaretti, Maria “Lupita” Barajas, Joy Grierson, and Carlos Perez–whose hard work ensured a seamless and memorable celebration.

Attention high schoolers! If you’re looking to earn community service hours while having fun and making a difference, volunteering at Chocolate Storytime is the perfect opportunity for you. Join us in spreading joy and literacy in our community while gaining valuable experience and connections.

As we reflect on a decade of Chocolate Storytime, we’re filled with gratitude for the love and support of our community. Check out the gallery of pictures from today’s event and some throwbacks from 2014. Here’s to many more years of laughter, learning, and chocolate-filled adventures at our beloved library!