Daily editionThursday, August 21st, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of August.
Business
After more than a year working with county officials, Costco received approval to build its 172,580-square-foot warehouse store at 225 E. Nine Mile Road featuring a liquor store, tire center & gas station.
The company must demolish an existing building and finish final permitting reviews before construction begins.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Culture
Rev. HK Matthews, a dedicated civil rights advocate in Escambia County, died and left a powerful record of calling out injustice without fear—he challenged local leaders who downplayed the continued struggle for equality.
His legacy reminds Pensacola that the fight for fairness is ongoing.
Rick's BlogRead more
Education
A father filed complaints against Escambia County Public Schools for using AI tools like Waterford.org and Age of Learning to collect student data without parental consent, which he said violates FERPA and COPPA.
Rafael Lopez also asked federal agencies to investigate the issue—he urged the local school board to review the matter at its next meeting.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
NASA has launched a citizen science project called NASA Response Mappers that invites residents in hurricane-prone areas to submit geotagged photos before and after storms, giving disaster responders extra ground details to complement satellite images.
The project runs from Aug. 1 to Oct. 31 and comes amid Hurricane Erin weakening to 100 mph winds — officials stress that photos should only be taken in safe conditions.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Century Town Council voted last night to hire former state representative Dave Murzin as the town’s full-time administrator, authorizing Mayor Ben Boutwell to negotiate his employment agreement for final approval on September 2nd.
Murzin will work to fix nearly $15M in lost grants — missing utility bills and cash flow issues — amid years of fiscal mismanagement.
Rick's BlogRead more
Health
Sandy Sansing Automotive donated $100,000 to the Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research to support research for childhood cancer, reflecting its 40-year commitment to community giving—strengthening efforts to help local families.
This donation builds on a legacy of local leadership and care.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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!
Black Jacket Symphony - The Era of Yacht Rock
Saturday, September 13th, 2025 · 6:30-8:00 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic albums live with the Black Jacket Symphony’s Yacht Rock tribute.
Gary Allan Concert
Thursday, September 18th, 2025 · 6:30-8:00 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating blend of country roots and rock and roll from Gary Allan.
Gulf Coast Summer Fest
Saturday, September 20th, 2025 · 1-2:30 p.m. — Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park — Ticket required — Experience the sensational guitar stylings of Blake Aaron, a contemporary jazz gem.