Fall, also known as autumn, is a time of change. The autumnal equinox occurs in the month of September when the sun slowly moves south. Weather grows cooler and tree leaves change hues. Farmers work long hours to harvest crops grown through the spring and summer months. Many mark this time of year with fall festivals and other celebrations. Consistent with theme of change, Chocolate Storytime guests … Continue reading Autumn Change of Heart
In August, demonstrating her bilingual skills, Alicia Randall read “A Lola Le Encantan los Cuentos,” the Spanish version of “Lola Loves Stories,” and explained the story in English. Other books read were, “Twenty Yawns” by Jane Smiley and illustrated by Lauren Castillo, “Hair Dance” by Dinah Johnson and illustrated by Kelly Johnson, and one of our all time favorites, “Black All Around” by Patricia Hubbell … Continue reading Alicia Reads Spanish Version of “Lola Loves Stories”
How honored we felt to welcome Fire Chief Bertral Washington and the Pasadena Firefighters to our Story Time! This visit was a continuation of the First Aid Badge work some of the Girl Scouts began just a few weeks ago, making it both inspiring and educational for everyone involved. Chief Washington shared his remarkable journey, beginning with his roots in Inglewood, California. He talked about … Continue reading Inspiring Sparks: Fire Chief Washington and First Responders Visit Chocolate Storytime
La Pintoresca Library had a “pocket poem” writing contest for last month’s National Poetry Month, observed during the month of April, and our very own Alicia Randall won for the elementary school division! For this month’s May 2016 Chocolate Storytime, Alicia recited her poem for the guests. See Alicia’s winning poem, “When I Turned into a Dog,” below: I made friends with a hog But … Continue reading Butterflies, Hula Hoops, Poetry & Chocolate
We read wonderful books and created spring pop-up cards afterwards. Kids used ink pastels and recycled paper. Continue reading March 2016 Chocolate Storytime
Concert soprano soloist, conductor, composer, studio vocalist for film and television, and professional ensemble singer Zanaida Robles opened up the 2nd year anniversary of Chocolate Storytime leading guests in a stirring rendition of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing”accompanied by Ms. Betty J. Ford on the piano. Afterwards, she encouraged young people to follow their dreams and spoke of her relationship with Ms. Ford and the importance … Continue reading Celebrating 2 Years with Zanaida Robles
This year, Chocolate Storytime visited Jackson STEM Dual Language Academy. Parent volunteer Natasha Bowswer worked with Chocolate Storytime coordinator, Ayesha Randall to bring volunteers from the community to read to the students in a series of sessions. Among the storytime readers were Tyron Hampton, Pasadena City Councilmember; Julianne Reynoso, Pasadena Unified School District Executive Director, Elementary Schools; Harlan Redmond, executive director of Harambee Ministries; Pat Smith, … Continue reading Chocolate Storytime Visits Jackson Elementary
The featured book for November 2015 was “Sweet Potato Pie” by Kathleen D. Lindsey. Special guest, community volunteer extraordinaire, Ms. Betty J. Ford, shared a song with the kids. Afterwards, eight-year old Alicia Leilani led the students in creating miniature accordion thankful books. In addition to chocolate goodies, sweet potato pie from 27th Street Bakery were all donated by retired school teacher, Barbara Lindsey of Inglewood. Mrs. Abby … Continue reading Giving Thanks 2015
What a great way to celebrate Chocolate Storytime’s one year anniversary! The culmination of Black History Month 2015 was an exceptional Chocolate Storytime lineup of artists, musicians, and special guest, Mr. Jarvis Emerson, Community Services Supervisor of the City of Pasadena’s Jackie Robinson Community Center. Mr. Emerson made himself comfortable on the rug and read Whose Knees are These?, Grandpa’s Face, and a beautiful poem, … Continue reading Chocolate Storytime Celebrates 1-year Anniversary with Jarvis Emerson
Chocolate Storytime 