Daily editionSaturday, July 25th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 25th of July.
Community
Pat McClellan, long-time co-owner of Flora-Bama Lounge & Package, died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday evening.
He helped build the venue into a Gulf Coast landmark and inspired local traditions in Pensacola.
FOX 10Read more
Business
ZAM'S Bowls and Burritos, the first Australian-based restaurant in Pensacola, opened on July 23 on Brent Lane.
Founder Sam Prince led a ribbon cutting ceremony while workers served samples and accepted drive-thru orders.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
UWF and NWFSC announced four new engineering degree pathways that let students start at NWFSC’s Niceville campus + transfer to UWF at the joint Fort Walton Beach site.
Approved on Wednesday, July 22 by the Florida State Board of Education, further enrollment details will be shared soon.
University of West FloridaRead more
Government
On Saturday, July 25, the Escambia County School Board voted four to one to advertise a tentative 1.5 millage increase & a $686.5 million budget for 2026 to 27.
A public hearing is set for Aug. 3 at the J.E. Hall Center as homeowners may see higher taxes.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Former Pensacola City Councilman John Jerralds, who served District 5 for over a decade, passed away.
He was known for his work on minority business development (and helping revitalize westside projects) during his time in office.
Rick's BlogRead more
Escambia County confirmed aspergillus mold at Beulah Fire Station yesterday and told staff to avoid affected areas while further tests were completed.
Officials will review lab results + decide on remediation steps to keep the facility safe.
WEAR-TVRead more
Former Pensacola city councilmember John Jerralds died on Friday, July 24.
He served District 5 and worked as deputy mayor (among other roles) and his visitation is set for Aug. 6 at Joe Morris Funeral Home with a celebration of life scheduled for Aug. 7 at 11 a.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church.
WEAR-TVRead more
Fort Pickens remains closed until further notice because sand and water make the first 5 miles of the roadway unsafe, and the campground will be reassessed on Monday.
Campers will receive reservation instructions by email, and Ship Island reopens today for normal operations.
WEAR-TVRead more
Health
The FDA is investigating a separate cyclospora outbreak that has resulted in 72 cases since July 22 with the source still unknown.
Florida has experienced 158 cases since May 1 as it enters its seasonal rise in cyclosporiasis.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
July Coffee & Conversation
Tuesday, July 28th, 2026 · 7:30–9:00 a.m. — Bagelheads — No cost — Engage in networking with local professionals over coffee.
Pensacola Comedy Stand-up Night
Saturday, August 1st, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Genie's Coffee Shop — Free parking — Bring friends and prepare for laughter with comedy crafted from your suggestions.