Pasadena’s New Rose Queen

Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses. Halloween’s almost here—consider this your gentle reminder to buy candy that kids actually want. You’ve got 48 hours to make it right. 😁 

In Today’s News N’ Roses:

• Arcadia Senior Crowned 107th Rose Queen

• PUSD Prepares to Support Families Amid Possible SNAP Disruption

• Events this Wednesday & Thursday

• Live Music Lowdown

Let’s get to it.

—Matthew Ramirez

🎃THE DIGEST

Arcadia Senior Crowned 107th Rose Queen

On a warm October afternoon, surrounded by family, friends, and flashing cameras, Serena Hui Guo, a senior at Arcadia High School, was crowned the 107th Rose Queen on the steps of the historic Tournament House.

Guo, momentarily stunned by the announcement, smiled through tears before saying she was “so excited” to continue the journey with the rest of her court.

This year’s 2026 Royal Court includes Livia Amy de Paula (Temple City High), Riya Gupta (Caltech), Sophia Bai Ren (Arcadia High), Keiko Rakin (Alhambra High), Naira Elaine Wadley (John Muir High), and Olivia Hargrove (Pasadena City College). Each member receives a $7,500 scholarship and will represent Pasadena at events leading up to the 137th Rose Parade on January 1, 2026, themed “The Magic in Teamwork.”

Guo, captain of her school’s Congressional Debate Team and a varsity volleyball player, hopes to pursue a career in law. “Thank you all for putting the responsibility on me to represent you as a community,” she said. “I’m so proud to be able to do that.”

PUSD Prepares to Support Families Amid Possible SNAP Disruption

With a federal shutdown continuing and potentially disrupting CalFresh/EBT benefits as early as Nov. 1, the Pasadena Unified School District is stepping up to help families who rely on food assistance.

The district confirmed that school meal programs won’t be affected — students will continue receiving free breakfast, lunch, and supper across all schools and after-school programs.

PUSD is also partnering with the LA Regional Food Bank’s BackPack Program to send home monthly bags of groceries to students at select schools, and is working with county and community organizations to expand food access.

Families can reach out to their school’s community advocate or email [email protected] for help or enrollment details. Even with the uncertainty ahead, Pasadena has a way of showing up when it matters most. The district’s message is clear — no student should go hungry, and no family has to face this alone.

WHAT’S HAPPENING👻

Wednesday

• 🪐 Pasadena Rotary Weekly Club Meeting with Dr. Morgan Cable, JPL: Discover the mysteries of Saturn’s moon Titan as JPL scientist Dr. Morgan Cable shares insights into the search for life beyond Earth at this week’s Rotary luncheon. Wednesday, October 29 at 12PM.

• 🎨 Artist Talk with Kate Muehlemann-Cataldo: Join Pasadena Village for a heartfelt artist talk with LGBTQ+ painter and hospice nurse Kate Muehlemann-Cataldo, whose work explores themes of trust, care, and connection between queer elders and youth. Wednesday, October 29 at 2PM.

• 🎃 Carved: Stroll through Descanso Gardens’ glowing Pumpkin Trail, packed with hand-carved gourds, whimsical light displays, and larger-than-life wood spirits. It’s a magical, family-friendly Halloween tradition you won’t want to miss. Wednesday, October 29 at 6PM.

• 🧵 Community Open Studio – Pay What You Can: Bring your creativity (and maybe a friend!) to Remainders Creative Reuse for an open studio night with full access to sewing machines, art supplies, and craft tools. Perfect for personal projects or a fun family art night. Wednesday, October 29 at 6PM.

• 🎭 ha ha ha ha ha ha ha: Award-winning performer Julia Masli brings her unpredictable solo show to Pasadena, turning audience problems into hilarious, off-the-cuff theater with no script and no safety net. Wednesday, October 29 at 8PM.

Thursday

• ⛳ Tee Off for a Cause: 9th Annual Birdie Tussle Golf Tournament: Join Pasadena High and John Muir High for a fun day on the green at Brookside Golf & Country Club, complete with contests, prizes, and community spirit—all to support local student-athletes. Thursday, October 30 at 6AM.

• ☕ Village Connections: An Introduction to the Braille Institute: Enjoy coffee, conversation, and a welcoming discussion about the services and support offered by the Braille Institute for individuals with low vision, hosted by Pasadena Village. Thursday, October 30 at 2PM.

• 🥕 South Pasadena Farmers’ Market: Stroll beneath the trees and shop fresh, California-grown produce, local eats, and handmade goods—all with live music and a friendly neighborhood vibe just steps from the Gold Line. Thursday, October 30 from 4–7PM.

• 🎃 Carved: Stroll through Descanso Gardens’ glowing Pumpkin Trail, packed with hand-carved gourds, whimsical light displays, and larger-than-life wood spirits. It’s a magical, family-friendly Halloween tradition you won’t want to miss. Thursday, October 30 at 6PM.

• 🦸 BOO-gee Time on the Bungee!: Suit up in your favorite superhero costume and soar into a high-flying Halloween workout at Bungee Fitness Studio—complete with spooky beats, thrilling moves, and tons of fun! Friday, October 31 with classes at 4PM (Kids), 5PM (Adults with Kids), and 6PM & 7PM (Adults).

  

• 🖼️ Opening: “Here I Am”: Celebrate creativity and inclusion at Kidspace Museum’s newest art exhibition with Tierra del Sol Foundation, showcasing powerful works by artists with disabilities exploring identity and place. Thursday, October 30 at 6:30PM.

• 🚀 Mars Symphony: Experience a mesmerizing fusion of live music, science, and visuals as CaltechLive!, JPL, and the Caltech Management Association take you on a journey through humanity’s exploration of the Red Planet. Thursday, October 30 from 7:30–9PM.

• 🎃 Boo Bash with the Badge – Trunk or Treat Halloween Extravaganza: Celebrate Halloween with the Pasadena Police Department at this family-friendly “Trunk or Treat” filled with decorated police vehicles, games, music, and loads of candy. Come in costume and enjoy a safe, spooky night in the heart of Pasadena. Thursday, October 30 from 4–7PM.

• 🎭 ha ha ha ha ha ha ha: Award-winning performer Julia Masli brings her unpredictable solo show to Pasadena, turning audience problems into hilarious, off-the-cuff theater with no script and no safety net. Thursday, October 30 at 8PM.

Save the Date

• 🛍️ Pasadena City College Flea Market: Hunt for treasures and unique finds among 400+ vendors offering everything from vintage collectibles to quirky bargains at PCC’s beloved open-air market. Sunday, November 2.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. These are just the things you need to know. I’ll always let you know if something is sponsored!

🌽CIVIL NEWS

City Council Approves Pay Raises, Plans Emergency SNAP Meeting

The Pasadena City Council voted to raise its pay for the first time since 1999 — councilmembers will earn $3,000/month and the mayor $4,500/month starting Winter 2026. The move also includes $18,000/year for childcare and added security support.

Mayor Victor Gordo and Councilmember Justin Jones called an emergency meeting for Oct. 29 after learning that SNAP (CalFresh) benefits could be disrupted due to the federal shutdown. About 1 in 8 Pasadena residents rely on SNAP, and city parks may soon serve as temporary food distribution sites.

NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER🍂

Wednesday

90 🌡️ 67 🌤️| 💨 NW 4 mph

🌆 Air Quality Index: 26 (Good)

Thursday

87 🌡️ 61 |🌤️| 💨 SW 3 mph

Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler Radar.

🕷️LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

• 🎷 Jumpin’ Joz Band at Edwin Mills: Swing into the night with Jumpin’ Joz, serving up a lively mix of jazz, jump blues, and vintage swing that’ll have you dancing from the first note. Wednesday, October 29 from 6–10PM.

• 🎸 Doug MacDonald at Edwin Mills: Settle in for an evening of smooth, timeless jazz with guitarist Doug MacDonald, a true “player’s player” known for his warm tone, impeccable swing, and deep love of the classics. Thursday, October 30 from 6–10PM.

• 🚀 Mars Symphony: Experience a mesmerizing fusion of live music, science, and visuals as CaltechLive!, JPL, and the Caltech Management Association take you on a journey through humanity’s exploration of the Red Planet. Thursday, October 30 from 7:30–9PM.

THANKS!🕸️

Thanks for reading News N’ Roses today. If you found something useful, share it with someone who hasn’t bought their Halloween candy yet. They’re getting whatever’s left on the shelves, and it’s the least you can do for the kids.

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