Daily editionWednesday, July 16th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 16th of July.
Community
Pensacola lost a beloved child advocate when Rev. John Powell died on July 10 at age 73 after a heart attack—he founded Truth for Youth and hosted lock-in events that helped thousands of kids.
A Celebration of Life will take place from noon to 1:30 on July 22 at Brownsville Community Center to honor his legacy.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Business
Chickpea House Cuisine is now open at 4522 Saufley Field Road, replacing the former Pizza Hut to serve fresh Palestinian dishes like Chickpea Sandwich, Chickpea Nuggets and a Hummus Plate.
The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.—it accepts cards and mobile payments and offers parking in front and behind the building.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Pensacola's PBS station WSRE, licensed to Pensacola State College and reaching over 1.5 million people, reported a $370,000 loss after Gov. Ron DeSantis cut funds for public media statewide—officials say they will rely on the station's foundation and additional fundraising to keep programming on air as federal cuts loom.
WEAR-TVRead more
Over 86 percent of voters said that high parking fees may deter Pensacola Beach event attendance, while BBB officials noted that premium rates are legal.
Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger will order a study to check if a 900-space deck and timing changes for traffic signals in the Casino Beach lot can improve access—officials say the study could provide clear solutions.
WEAR-TVRead more
The Escambia County Commission voted 5—0 to exempt the Children’s Trust from giving tax funds to the county’s community redevelopment agency trust funds for fiscal years 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2025.
The decision ends a long dispute over using these funds for infrastructure instead of youth programs.
WUWFRead more
Four days ago, Pensacola police chief Eric Randall resigned without explanation — District 4 city council president Jared Moore said there were no signs of scandal and praised his service during challenging times.
Mayor D.C. Reeves promised answers when he introduced the new chief at 10 a.m. Tuesday.
WEAR-TVRead more
Pensacola Mayor DC Reeves introduced Acting Police Chief Kristin Brown at a Tuesday morning press conference and addressed the resignation of former police chief Eric Randall, effective immediately.
WEAR News streamed the briefing at 10 a.m.
WEAR-TVRead more
Pensacola's new interim police chief Kristin Brown spoke for the first time Tuesday morning after nearly 30 years with the department and is working to rebuild trust among officers and the community — she took over after Eric Randall stepped down and will serve until her planned retirement in January 2027.
WEAR-TVRead more
Pensacola Events
Karlous Miller Comedy Show
Friday, July 18th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check website for price — Experience the laughter and entertainment of Karlous Miller live on stage.
Ben Loftin Concert
Saturday, July 19th, 2025 · 12-6 p.m. — McRee Sector of Gulf Islands Ntl Seashore — Free entry — Enjoy soulful coastal tunes from singer-songwriter Ben Loftin in a beautiful setting.
Blue Wahoos Game with Green Beret Foundation
Sunday, July 20th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Ticket purchase supports the Green Beret mission — Experience a thrilling Double-A baseball game featuring the Blue Wahoos against the Chattanooga Lookouts.
12Eleven Live at Bands on the Beach
Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 · 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. — Pensacola Beach — Free entry — Experience a night of great music as the local band 12Eleven takes the stage on the beach.
The Magic of Motown
Friday, July 25th, 2025 · 6:30-8 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check website for price — Experience the unforgettable sounds and rhythms of Motown classics.
The Greatest Showcase
Saturday, July 26th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check website for price — Experience an evening of captivating dance performances at a local gem.
Birds & Brew Gathering
Sunday, July 27th, 2025 · 4:45-7:30 p.m. — Coastal County Brewing — Registration required — Brush up on backyard birds before enjoying dinner and socializing.
Pensacola Blue Wahoos vs. Biloxi Shuckers
Tuesday, July 29th, 2025 · 5:05-6:35 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Affordable tickets — Cheer on the home team as they take on rivals in this exciting baseball matchup.
HARBOUR Concert
Thursday, August 7th, 2025 · 7-9:30 p.m. — Handlebar — Ticket required — Experience the heartfelt storytelling of Abby Holliday through her captivating music.
Crystal Plumage Live Performance
Friday, August 8th, 2025 · 8 PM – 12 AM — Woodsies Hilltop Bar — No cover charge — Experience a lively rock performance by Crystal Plumage in a vibrant Pensacola venue.