Daily editionThursday, October 23rd, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 23rd of October.
Community
The City unveiled a new design for Hollice T. Williams Park that will restore a historic Black neighborhood beneath I-110 and add recreation features and stormwater improvements; the $29M project, with $18.5M funded for phase one and construction set to begin in early 2026, honors Hollice T. Williams — the first Black councilman who brought lasting unity to the area.
Rick's BlogRead more
Holzerland Protection Dogs surprised retired Army Staff Sergeant Timothy Rodriguez on Wednesday at Veteran’s Memorial Park with a new puppy named Freedom — a gift after he lost his previous service dogs that helped him cope with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Rodriguez said he already felt calmer as his wife and close friends witnessed the special moment.
FOX 10Read more
Business
20-year-old Eriyona opened Garden Grounds—an organic coffee food truck—at 2577 Gulf Breeze Pkwy in Gulf Breeze.
It launched on September 22 and operates Monday through Saturday from 7 AM to 2 PM serving organic coffee and food.
Local PulseRead more
Education
Pensacola High School will soon launch a new magnet program for the 2026-27 school year, the first new public magnet in Escambia County in over 20 years, as it begins accepting applications on October 27—this program will enroll seventh and eighth graders in an accelerated curriculum based on the school’s International Baccalaureate offerings and provide a separate wing for middle schoolers.
WEAR-TVRead more
Environment
The Gulf has stayed quiet this hurricane season because a strong high pressure ridge and dry Saharan dust have stopped storms from forming—forecasters expect no tropical cyclone to develop through November 11.
As hurricane season ends on November 30, experts will keep a close eye on weather conditions.
WEAR-TVRead more
Health
The Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare and the Florida Department of Health will hold a free drive-through rabies vaccine clinic for dogs and cats on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Escambia County Central Office Complex at 3363 W. Park Place—Escambia County residents must bring valid photo ID and secure their pets in their vehicles to get the vaccine and a free microchip while supplies last.
Local PulseRead more
Real Estate
Developer George Hawthorne wants to turn the Grand Hotel into a 210-room hotel with a food hall and co-working space, but the City has not agreed to his $45M bond request for nearly $48M in renovations (the hotel closed after Hurricane Sally).
He plans to meet with City officials to rework his proposal (City leaders say they need more details before offering support).
Rick's BlogRead more
Sports
PNJ sports reporter Justin Fitzgerald gives his predictions for two district title football games this week, expecting close contests based on team strengths.
His analysis will be updated with game details + key plays as the matchups progress.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Halloween Costume Contest
Friday, October 31st, 2025 · 6 p.m. — Flora-Bama — Contest entry fee varies — Show off your creativity and compete for prizes in a festive Halloween atmosphere.
Macon Mayhem vs Pensacola Ice Flyers
Saturday, November 1st, 2025 · 6:05-7:35 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — Streaming available — Watch an exciting hockey showdown between two rivals in this anticipated match.
Color The Void Concert
Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 · 7-11 p.m. — The Handlebar — Ticketed event — Experience an evening of Alt Rock, Indie Pop, and Emo music with local talent.