Daily editionFriday, October 17th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of October.
Community
Workers finished putting up rides and booths for the Pensacola Interstate Fair, which opened on October 15 and will run until October 25, offering rides, games, and food to local visitors.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
At its State of the University address, UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr highlighted record enrollment, growing research awards, and plans to double the football stadium’s seating capacity while boosting services for military families—he said a $2 million grant supports these new investments. He stressed that these efforts show the university remained strong despite recent leadership changes.
WUWFRead more
West Florida High was ranked 89 in Florida and 1 in the Pensacola Metro by U.S. News & World Report when it was named a Best High School for 2025–26, marking a significant recognition of its academic strength.
The honor highlights the school’s local distinction and strong performance.
Rick's BlogRead more
UWF students are interviewing Vietnam veterans at the Azalea Trace retirement community—nearly 40 veterans have shared their memories for a new oral-history project that will be made into a documentary for Veterans Day.
WEAR-TVRead more
UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. delivered the State of the University address on Oct 16 and celebrated record enrollment above 15,000 along with top rankings, major research awards and athletic success.
He detailed plans for a new stadium and expanded wellness initiatives that will drive growth across the university.
University of West FloridaRead more
Government
Military service members in Pensacola can once again visit Wild Greg's Saloon after a military board rescinded its blacklist status during an Oct. 14 hearing, according to bar owner Greg Urban.
The bar had been banned for allegations of underage drinking, drug use, and disorderly conduct, and Urban hopes the reversal reaches everyone on base.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
Children’s Trust has partnered with Community Health of Northwest Florida to fund free eye exams, glasses and follow-up care for ECPS students using a mobile optometry clinic that will start this fall with kindergarten and first-grade classes and expand to all campuses in three years—this $1.5 million project will initially serve 30 elementary schools.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Expectant mothers in Northwest Florida will soon get extra help as Ascension Sacred Heart adds telehealth visits to its maternal care navigator program—providing support for rides, food, and mental health from early pregnancy through one year after birth.
WEAR-TVRead more
Sports
Gulf Breeze volleyball won its seventh district title on October 16 by defeating Niceville three to one, with senior Sydney Sutter setting a single-season kill record.
The team, which lost eight seniors and its head coach last season, is projected to be the top seed in the regional tournament (their new lineup continues the championship legacy).
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Cain Live in Concert
Thursday, October 30th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Tickets from $30 — Enjoy an electrifying live performance by Cain at this historic venue.