Daily editionThursday, July 31st, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 31st of July.
Education
The University of West Florida appointed Dr. Mary Anderson as interim vice president for the Division of Academic Engagement and Student Affairs, effective immediately (as of today), to lead programs for student success.
She brings over 25 years of experience in student affairs (having served as Associate VP and Dean of Students) and will guide the division during this transition.
University of West FloridaRead more
Gulf Breeze High seniors celebrated a nine-year tradition by painting parking spots even in mid-90s heat, as nearly 500 students competed for 338 premium spaces sold for $120 each on July 1 + the proceeds funded teacher grants.
Creative designs ranged from college logos to nostalgic themes, marking a memorable end to their high school journey.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves faced multiple challenges in recent weeks—his administration botched a recycling program, a police chief resigned, and neighborhoods became unsettled; crisis communications expert Ryan Wiggins praised Reeves while urging his team to manage public concerns more effectively.
Rick's BlogRead more
The City of Pensacola will hold open houses on August 5 at Sanders Beach Community Center and August 19 at Devillers Square as part of the Southern Cities Economic Inclusion Cohort to boost opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.
A Business Resource Breakfast Roundtable will run on August 13 at the Bowden Building—gathering local business resource groups to share information and address service gaps.
Rick's BlogRead more
Health
During the week of July 21–27, five restaurants in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties received major violations during inspections by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, with two getting administrative complaints and three facing high-priority issues such as dead roaches, flying insects, and unsafe food temperatures.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Lifestyle
USA TODAY Bars of the Year 2025 featured 29 top bars nationwide yet left out any Pensacola favorite—local readers voted for their top pick from a list of 15 popular bars after the poll closed at midnight July 30, with results to be announced at noon today.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Real Estate
The Dawson Company and Corporate Contractors Inc. announced a $200M plan to redevelop Maritime Park, with Phase One featuring the Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel and Rhythm Lofts to form a walkable waterfront that respects Pensacola’s heritage.
Community champion Quint Studer and business leader Diane Hendricks — who aim to boost tourism and local economic sectors — lead a project set to spur long-term growth for the area.
Rick's BlogRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Zumba Master Class with Kramer
Sunday, August 10th, 2025 · 2:30-4:30 p.m. — Zelica Grotto MOVPER — Free venue parking — Dance and sweat it out in this high-energy Zumba Master Class with international presenter Kramer.
Cathedral Bells Concert with Yot Club
Monday, August 11th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Handlebar — $10 cover — Experience ethereal indie sounds from Cathedral Bells and Yot Club in a vibrant setting.
Gallery Night Pensacola
Friday, August 15th, 2025 · 5-9 PM — Visit Pensacola — Free entry — Celebrate art and culture as Palafox Street transforms into an open-air gallery each month.
SPLASH & DASH Aquathlon
Saturday, August 16th, 2025 · 12:30-2:45 p.m. — 1340 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL — Registration Fee Required — Experience the thrill of swimming and running in this exciting Aquathlon event.
Jessie Ritter Live
Sunday, August 17th, 2025 · 12-6 p.m. — Flounder's Chowder House — Free show — Experience the heartfelt country-pop sounds of Nashville-based singer/songwriter Jessie Ritter.
One More Time: A Tribute to Daft Punk
Thursday, August 21st, 2025 · 8 PM – 12 AM — Vinyl Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an immersive tribute to Daft Punk with authentic costumes and a full-scale pyramid stage.
Argonaut 5K Run
Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 · 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — University of West Florida — Supports UWF cross country program — Run for a cause on the scenic campus.
Rosie O’Grady’s Dueling Piano Show
Saturday, August 30th, 2025 · 8-11 p.m. — Rosie O'Grady's Inc — Reservations recommended — Experience a vibrant, interactive piano show with top talent and audience participation in Pensacola.