Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses. I just saw a coffee shop already teasing the return of pumpkin spice lattes in August. That’s way too early. It should be illegal to sell pumpkin spiced lattes before the first day of fall. Enjoy summer while we still have it!
In Today’s News N’ Roses:
Friends In Deed Launches Back-to-School Drive with Amazon Wishlists
Boxing Under the Stars at City Hall – Aug. 22
Events This Wednesday & Thursday
Live Music Lowdown
Let’s get to it.
— Matthew Ramirez
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THE DIGEST
Friends In Deed Launches Back-to-School Drive with Amazon Wishlist
Pasadena nonprofit Friends In Deed is making it easier than ever to help local kids gear up for the school year. Their annual Back-to-School Drive is now live, and this year, you can donate classroom essentials with just a click through their Amazon wishlist.
The goal? To hand out 400 full backpack kits to students from low-income families by August 9. Food pantry clients get early access on August 2, and donations are already rolling in.
If you’re thinking of helping out, the deadline to donate school supplies is July 25, and backpacks must be received by August 1. High-need items include spiral notebooks, composition books, paper, pens, and sturdy (non-red/blue) backpacks. Want to get your office, school, or place of worship involved? Group collections are encouraged and make a huge impact.
Boxing Under the Stars at City Hall – Aug. 22
Mark your calendar: the Centennial Square Boxing Show is back for its 10th year on Friday, August 22 from 7–10PM, right in front of Pasadena City Hall. It’s free, it’s family-friendly, and it’s one of those only-in-Pasadena events you don’t want to miss.
This year’s lineup features Olympic-style amateur bouts with boxers from all over SoCal, including nine from our very own Villa Parke Boxing Program. These athletes have been putting in serious work, and it shows.
If you’ve never been, it’s a great night to come out, grab a spot in the square, and see some real heart in the ring.
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
Wednesday
🔬 HMRI’s Annual Science Day: If you’re curious about cutting-edge research happening right here in Pasadena, don’t miss Science Day at HMRI. You’ll meet the brilliant minds behind breakthroughs in heart health, brain aging, and mental wellness—and this year’s alumni panel is very unique and talented. Wednesday, July 23 from 10:00AM–2:00PM.
🎼 Music at Noon: Putter Smith & Jeff Colella: Take a midweek break with world-class jazz at Pasadena Presbyterian Church. Bass legend Putter Smith teams up with pianist Jeff Colella for a free 30-minute concert that’s as soulful as it is refreshing. Wednesday, July 23 from 12:10PM–12:40PM.
🍸 After Hours Social Mixer – Pasadena Chamber: Join us at Brookside Golf Club for an easygoing evening of networking, appetizers, and happy hour drinks (first one’s on the house!). Great vibes, great company—bring $5 cash and get connected. Wednesday, July 23 at 5:00PM.
🎻 Musical Power, Inspiration, and Reflection: Beethoven, Mozart, and Moeran: Join us at Crowell Library for an intimate string trio performance led by LA Philharmonic alum Paul Stein. You’ll hear timeless works from Beethoven, Mozart, and Moeran—plus some personal insight into the art of ensemble playing. Wednesday, July 23 from 6:30PM–7:15PM.
🎨 Color Theory Class + Community Open Studio: Whether you’re diving into color mixing techniques or just want creative time with access to Remainders’ full studio, Wednesday night is your night. Join a hands-on color theory class or come by for the Community Open Studio—pay what you can and make something awesome. Wednesday, July 23 at 6:00PM.
🎭 PCC Centennial Show: Pasadena City College is marking 100 years with a trio of free performances directed by Nicole Javier. Swing by the Center for the Arts Theater to support local student talent and enjoy an evening of storytelling on stage. Wednesday, July 23 at 7:30PM.
☔ FUMC Summer Musical: Singin’ in the Rain: Don’t miss this joyful, family-friendly production of Singin’ in the Rain at First United Methodist Church—part of their annual summer musical tradition. It’s free to attend, with optional pre-show dinners and a chance to support the local food pantry. Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00PM.
Thursday
🌹 Tournament House Tour: Step into Pasadena history with a free guided tour of the iconic Wrigley Mansion, home of the Tournament of Roses. You’ll hear stories of the Rose Parade, the Wrigley family legacy, and get a peek behind the scenes of one of Pasadena’s most famous landmarks. Thursday, July 24 at 2:00PM.
🍑 South Pasadena Farmers’ Market: One of the most charming markets around, South Pas Farmers’ Market sets up under the trees every Thursday with fresh produce, prepared foods, live music, and a friendly neighborhood vibe. Swing by after work, grab dinner, and shop local. Thursday, July 24 from 4:00PM–7:00PM.
🍹 National Tequila Day at The Ice House: Comedy and tequila? Say less. Head to The Ice House for a lively night of stand-up, tequila tastings, and cocktails crafted just for the occasion. It’s the perfect excuse to sip, laugh, and celebrate National Tequila Day—Pasadena style. Thursday, July 24 (all day event).
🖌️ Opening: Reveal – Uncovering Layers of Creativity: ArtCenter’s latest grad show challenges you to look deeper—beyond the finished work and into the process, meaning, and materials behind it. Reveal opens Thursday and runs through January, but why not be among the first to see what these emerging artists are uncovering? Thursday, July 24 (all day event).
🧵 Vroman’s Summer Reading Program – Crochet Workshop with Maya: Teens, this one’s for you—learn to crochet (or bring your WIP!) with Maya at Vroman’s. It’s a cozy, creative space to pick up a new skill, hang out with fellow crafters, and unwind after hours. Thursday, July 24 at 6:00PM.
🥾 Thursday Evening Conditioning Hike, La Cañada Flintridge: If you’re up for a solid 5-mile workout with canyon views and a killer sunset, this Sierra Club hike is a great way to end your Thursday. Meet at Palm Crest Elementary—don’t forget water, layers, and a headlamp! Thursday, July 24 at 6:45PM.
Save the Date
🍽️ Dine LA Restaurant Week: Starting July 25, Dine LA is back—your excuse to eat your way through Pasadena and beyond. No tickets needed, just grab a reservation at one of the dozens of participating spots and ask for the Dine LA menu. From sushi to steak, there’s a prix fixe plate for every palate. Friday, July 25 through Friday, August 8.
🎨 Pasadena Bead & Design Show: Discover handcraft at its finest with over 300 artisans showcasing jewelry, textiles, beads, gemstones, and wearable art at the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday–Sunday, July 25–27 from 10AM–5PM. Enjoy workshops, live demos, and rare finds from makers across the country.
🎥 Mount Wilson Observatory’s Matinees on the Mountain: Take movie night to new heights—literally. Head up to Mount Wilson for an afternoon of classic sci-fi, silent films, and family-friendly flicks in their historic 256-seat auditorium. Grab lunch at the Cosmic Cafe, explore the grounds, and settle in for a cinematic treat above the clouds. Saturday, July 26 from 3:00PM–5:30PM.
🐱 CatCon: If you’re a cat person (or just cat-curious), this one’s for you. CatCon returns for its 10th anniversary with 150+ vendors, celeb meet & greets, giveaways, and the biggest feline adoption lounge around. It’s like Comic-Con—just fluffier. Saturday, August 2 from 10:00AM–5:00PM.
🛍️ Rose Bowl Flea Market: Mark your calendars—the second Sunday of the month means vintage heaven at the Rose Bowl. With over 2,500 vendors offering antiques, clothing, art, and more, it’s a goldmine for treasure hunters and bargain lovers. Interested in selling? Call R.G. Canning at (323) 560-7469 to learn how to become a vendor. Sunday, August 10 (VIP entry at 5:00AM, general admission at 9:00AM).
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
Transportation Advisory Commission Meeting – July 24
Pasadena’s Transportation Advisory Commission (TAC) meets on Thursday, July 24 at 5:00 p.m. to discuss policies shaping the city’s transportation system. The public is welcome to attend and hear updates or share input. Held at City Hall Basement – Fair Oaks Conference Room, 100 N. Garfield Ave.
Barger Calls for Dedicated Altadena Rebuilding Authority—No New Taxes
At a packed community meeting on July 21, Supervisor Kathryn Barger laid out a bold recovery plan for Altadena: a dedicated rebuilding authority focused solely on post-fire restoration—with no new taxes for homeowners.
Barger called for centralized oversight, faster permitting, and real-time coordination across agencies like Edison, Pasadena Water and Power, and local water companies. Her goal? Prevent delays, cut costs, and keep Altadena from getting lost in the shuffle of LA County’s 10-million-person bureaucracy.
She also praised local tools like the One-Stop Permitting Center and previewed new tech like eCheck, an AI plan-screening tool to help speed up rebuild approvals. Barger made one thing clear: “We cannot afford to wait for federal aid. Altadena needs action now.”
NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER
Wednesday
79 🌡️ 60 |☀️| 💨 S 7 mph
🌆 Air Quality Index: 55 (Moderate)
Thursday
80 🌡️ 60 |☀️| 💨 S 8 mph
Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler radar.
LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN
🎼 Music at Noon: Putter Smith & Jeff Colella: Take a midweek break with world-class jazz at Pasadena Presbyterian Church. Bass legend Putter Smith teams up with pianist Jeff Colella for a free 30-minute concert that’s as soulful as it is refreshing. Wednesday, July 23 from 12:10PM–12:40PM.
🎶 Joy of Music with Craig Newton: Craig Newton returns to South Pasadena Library Park for a lively, family-friendly music show featuring ten instruments and interactive songs. It’s part concert, part musical playground—and a great way to spend a summer evening outdoors. Wednesday, July 23 at 6:00PM.
🎻 Musical Power, Inspiration, and Reflection: Beethoven, Mozart, and Moeran: Join us at Crowell Library for an intimate string trio performance led by LA Philharmonic alum Paul Stein. You’ll hear timeless works from Beethoven, Mozart, and Moeran—plus some personal insight into the art of ensemble playing. Wednesday, July 23 from 6:30PM–7:15PM.
🎶 Refuge: Songs of Immigration Choral Concert: Join OcTech for an emotional and inspiring evening of music that honors the immigrant experience in America. Featuring works by modern composers and a world premiere, this powerful choral performance celebrates the voices and stories that shape our nation. Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00PM.
THANKS!
Thanks for reading News N’ Roses today. If you found something useful, share it with someone who loves pizza. It’s my favorite food by far. 🍕
 | Matthew Ramirez Publisher | News N’ Roses |
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