Daily editionWednesday, October 15th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 15th of October.
Community
Lewis Bear Jr., a major Pensacola philanthropist, was honored two weeks ago with Lewis Bear Jr. Way dedicated on Ninth Avenue, and his wife Belle Bear was inducted into the Florida Women's Hall of Fame in Tallahassee the next day—both honors recognize their lasting civic contributions in Northwest Florida.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Legendary attorney Bill Clark died on October 10 and was known for defending free speech and building a trusted law firm—he taught Media Law for 11 years at UWF and a memorial service is set for 11:00 a.m. on October 18 at First Presbyterian Church, with his wife Martha and daughters Mary Ellen, Ginny, and Peggy surviving him.
Rick's BlogRead more
The Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation will host its annual Garden Gala on Sunday, October 26 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The Shop at Baldwin Turf in Niceville — the event will raise funds to support local foster children with a dinner, wine tasting, live music, and silent auction.
Local PulseRead more
Bishop William Wack of the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee released a letter on immigration enforcement in Northwest Florida during Respect Life Month.
He urged his community to reflect on family separation and the impact of deporting working parents—issues that affect local lives.
WEAR-TVRead more
Culture
Lifelong resident Pat Page and neighbors documented the history of the Navy Point neighborhood in Warrington on October 10th by sharing local memories through community displays—an effort that honors local heritage.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
The University of West Florida Dr. Grier Williams School of Music will host the Kamerman Piano Series featuring guest pianist Matthew Graybil at Rolfs Music Hall on Oct. 26 at 3 p.m. The free event requires tickets—local audiences will experience an internationally recognized performer on the UWF Pensacola campus.
University of West FloridaRead more
Education
West Florida High School of Advanced Technology will open its doors on Oct.18 for eighth graders and their parents to preview its 12 career academies—students meeting the admission criteria can apply by Dec.5 through the Escambia County lottery system.
WEAR-TVRead more
The University of West Florida is considering a proposal that would remove Juneteenth from its paid holiday calendar and add a two‑week winter break, a full Thanksgiving week, and a spring break — the board of trustees will vote on the change on Dec. 11 while the proposal remains open for public comment.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Starting next summer, Florida House Bill 147 will require teachers to swear an oath to support, protect and defend the U.S. and state constitutions before entering classrooms.
Local educators say the pledge is redundant since teachers already sign a similar oath—union leaders are calling on lawmakers to explain why this new requirement is needed.
WEAR-TVRead more
Sports
Pensacola Sports and The Lewis Bear Company will host the Bud Light Charity Challenge Tennis Tournament at the Roger Scott Tennis Complex on Oct. 17—18 to support Arc Gateway services and local sports programs.
The two-day event will feature matches, food, drinks, music and a silent auction with free admission for spectators.
Local PulseRead more
The latest FHSAA football power rankings shifted local playoff projections as seven area teams are expected to make the state playoffs if the season ended today.
Pace improved to No. 2, Pine Forest jumped into the playoffs at No. 5, and Tate lost its playoff spot—changes that will affect home game hosting and travel plans.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
PBS StudioAmped Featuring Blue Mother Tupelo
Thursday, October 16th, 2025 · 7-11 p.m. — Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio — Free entry — Experience an engaging live music performance by Blue Mother Tupelo at WSRE PBS.
Macon Mayhem vs Pensacola Ice Flyers
Saturday, October 18th, 2025 · 6:05-7:35 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — Tickets available — Catch the thrilling hockey action as Macon Mayhem faces off against the Ice Flyers.
The Longest Table Fundraiser
Sunday, October 19th, 2025 · 2:30-5:30 p.m. — Bayview Park — $50 per person — Enjoy a unique dining experience with Southern hospitality, delicious food, and live music all to benefit the Gulf Coast Kids House.
D. Scott Riggs Live Performance
Thursday, October 23rd, 2025 · 6-10 p.m. — Five Sisters Blues Cafe — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Gulf Coast musician D. Scott Riggs blending Delta, Piedmont, and Country Blues.
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
Friday, October 24th, 2025 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — First United Methodist Church — Not specified — Immerse yourself in a spine-chilling musical experience featuring Halloween classics performed by candlelight.
World Ballet Company - Cinderella
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting tale of Cinderella brought to life by the World Ballet Company.
Jessie Ritter Live Performance
Sunday, October 26th, 2025 · 12-4 p.m. — Flounder's Chowder House — Free show — Enjoy heartfelt country-pop tunes by Jessie Ritter in a family-friendly setting.
Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen
Monday, October 27th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check event page for pricing — Experience the powerful fusion of folk, blues, country, and rock n roll from Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen.
Matisyahu Concert
Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Vinyl Music Hall — $66-$132 — Catch Matisyahu live with last-minute tickets available for an electrifying concert experience.
Nekrogoblikon Concert
Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 · 2-5 p.m. — Vinyl Music Hall — Tickets starting at $52 — Experience a high-energy performance from the eccentric metal band Nekrogoblikon.