Daily editionFriday, August 15th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of August.
Culture
Pensacola Little Theatre repaid $65,631.69 to Escambia Children’s Trust on July 24 after its executive director resigned over disputed expenses that an independent review found resulted from reimbursement errors dating from 2023 to February.
The board said upcoming productions will continue as planned while the repayment corrects an overstatement in grant spending—ensuring funds are properly managed.
Rick's BlogRead more
Economy
The University of West Florida Haas Center research has driven a new regional campaign by Florida’s Great Northwest that spotlights the military talent available for local businesses—data shows 5,200 service members transition each year with strong educational backgrounds.
University of West FloridaRead more
Education
Earlier this week, an anonymous Facebook post claimed that Sims Middle School students were publicly shamed for unpaid lunch debts until their parents paid the balance—Superintendent Dr. Barber said families were privately notified at least three times before school began.
Donations from local community members cleared Sims' lunch debt and reduced totals at other schools, and Pensacola Butcher Shoppe owner Kevin Green paid off the entire Escambia County School District lunch debt Thursday morning.
WEAR-TVRead more
Government
Florida’s Department of Government Efficiency—DOGE—will audit Pensacola on Aug. 18—19 to review the city’s rising spending and tax increases amid a growing funding gap.
Mayor Reeves said he will ensure full transparency as the audit examines how economic growth has affected public finances.
WUWFRead more
Santa Rosa County donated two properties to the Northwest Florida Community Land Trust to support affordable housing that will allow Pensacola Habitat for Humanity to build homes in Midway/Gulf Breeze and near Milton.
The county approved the donation on Aug. 14 so low-income buyers can secure affordable ownership for the long term.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Dark Days Bright Nights 2025 Tour
Sunday, August 31st, 2025 · 4-10 p.m. — Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar — Check out Edgewood Heavy's unique Rock N Soul sound as they deliver electrifying performances.
Bulls on the Beach
Thursday, September 4th, 2025 · September 4-6 — Flora-Bama — Admission required — Experience three nights of thrilling rodeo action with professional bull riders.
Emerald Coast Beer Festival
Friday, September 5th, 2025 · 4:30-6 p.m. — Seville Quarter — Tickets required — Celebrate the 29th year of craft beer tasting with over 200 brews and live music.
Steven Ho Live
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Tickets from $64 — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Steven Ho in a prime venue.
Eazybaked Music Event
Friday, September 12th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Laguna's Beach Bar + Grill — Entry details TBA — Catch EAZYBAKED and friends bringing the beats to Pensacola Beach!