Daily editionSaturday, November 8th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 8th of November.
Community
On November 6, 2025, a local group that began as a simple Saturday book club held its first Grant Giveaway at Casino Beach Bar — the event gave $70,000 to seven nonprofits and an extra $3,000 to another.
Founder Shea Morris and former Blue Angels pilot Greg “Boss” McWherter led the gathering and challenged members to add one new member by next November so future giveaways can double.
Local PulseRead more
Volunteer Jim Gramlich overhauled the historic clock in downtown Pensacola on Nov. 3 so it will soon run again after being out of operation for over a year and a half.
The tower housing the clock remains in need of repairs — it shows signs of rust and damage that will require further work.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Business
Pensacola area restaurants now accept pre-orders for Thanksgiving takeout meals to ease holiday hosting—options range from four- to 16-person deals at establishments like Buh's BBQ II, Great Southern Restaurants Grab and Go, Andy D’s Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, and Fresh Market with set pickup times and meal details provided by each. This initiative helps local diners enjoy a stress-free holiday without the usual cooking challenges.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Culture
Foo Foo Fest Week 2 brings many art events to Pensacola—Night Moves Fest starts today at Hunter Amphitheater with live music from bands like Japanese Breakfast while art installations run until Nov. 10.
Other highlights include an immersive play at Pensacola Little Theatre and art exhibits at local colleges and community centers—offering a busy cultural week.
Rick's BlogRead more
Economy
On Nov. 8, the FAA cut 4% of flights at 40 major airports and this led to six cancellations and four delays at Pensacola International Airport — more cuts will follow as the reduction increases to 10% by Nov. 13.
Travelers should check flight statuses frequently and plan ahead for changes in their travel schedules.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Pensacola will begin renewing Palafox Street with construction starting January 2026—contractors will work day and night to improve sidewalks, drainage, and accessibility while planting 52 new trees and keeping storefronts open.
The $10.7 million project is funded through local partnerships without using general funds and aims to modernize the historic corridor until vehicles can return by May.
Rick's BlogRead more
Florida House PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee Chair Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka reported that a plan to fix the school voucher crisis is underway—$16.9 million has been released to scholarship programs and $47.1 million will go to school districts beginning November 10th.
Affected families and schools are urged to check their scholarship accounts today.
Rick's BlogRead more
Travelers at Pensacola International Airport face delays and cancellations on Friday as the government shutdown enters day 38.
Airport officials warn that while most flights run on time, many passengers worry about lost paychecks and longer disruptions ahead—55 percent of travelers are considering changing their travel plans.
WEAR-TVRead more
Former county administrator Janice Gilley and Pensacola attorney Kishane Patel have been approved by the State Board of Governors to join the UWF Board of Trustees, replacing Alonzi Scott and Dick Baker.
Their terms begin Jan. 7, 2026; they must be confirmed by the Florida Senate during the 2026 session (the move is part of Gov. DeSantis’s governance overhaul).
Rick's BlogRead more
Escambia County is using a $10M grant to turn the old Century High School gym into an emergency shelter after a tornado in 2016 left the town without a local facility.
At a Nov. 6 meeting, the board approved $1,182,900 to hire contractor QSC Services to plan repairs including a new roof, floor, and hurricane-proof windows—county officials say the project will bring a much-needed resource to the area.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
At Ascension Sacred Heart, a surgeon used advanced robotic systems — the Ion and Da Vinci Five — to remove lung tumors in a single procedure that cuts recovery time and stress for patients, with a dozen cases completed since June; the method offers renewed hope during National Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
WEAR-TVRead more
Temperatures are expected to drop into the 30s next week and the Council on Aging of West Florida is asking for new electric space heaters, blankets and funds to help older adults stay safe from hypothermia.
Donations can be dropped off at 875 Royce Street or mailed to PO Box 17066 in Pensacola and seniors needing a unit are advised to call 850-432-1475.
Rick's BlogRead more
Lifestyle
Local regulars gathered at Pensacola’s iconic Azalea Cocktail Lounge on Davis Highway on Nov. 6 and enjoyed drinks and time in the game room.
The dive bar remains a celebrated local spot—known for its longstanding charm—and continues to be a favorite in our community.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola’s dive bars show off rich local history with old spots like The Azalea, The Elbow Room and Wisteria Tavern keeping their charm even after modern updates.
Many venues host karaoke and live music while friendly owners help locals enjoy strong drinks — a mix of tradition and change — that keeps the community gathering each night.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
Suerte Tequila Dinner
Tuesday, November 11th, 2025 · 5:00-10:00 p.m. — Restaurant Iron — $125 + tax & gratuity — Experience a five-course meal paired with Suerte Tequila cocktails in a cozy Southern dining atmosphere.
Fayetteville Marksmen vs Pensacola Ice Flyers
Friday, November 14th, 2025 · 7:05 – 11:05 PM — Pensacola Bay Center — Ticket prices not specified — Experience thrilling ice hockey action as the Fayetteville Marksmen take on the Pensacola Ice Flyers.
Fall Pensacola Food Truck Fest
Saturday, November 15th, 2025 · 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. — Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park — $5, kids 12 and under free — Experience a vibrant festival of food trucks, live music, and fun activities for the whole family.
Memphis May Fire Concert
Monday, November 17th, 2025 · 6:00-7:30 PM — Vinyl Music Hall — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the uplifting sounds of Memphis May Fire, a band spreading hope through music.
Floyd Nation Experience - Pink Floyd Tribute
Thursday, November 20th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience a tribute to 50 years of Pink Floyd's iconic music.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage
Friday, November 21st, 2025 · 5:00 – 6:30 PM — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Tickets available — Experience the beloved Peanuts holiday special brought to life on stage.
Downtown Disc Golf Experience
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 · 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Cost info not specified — Navigate a unique disc golf course with local flair at a scenic stadium venue.
Huntsville Havoc vs. Pensacola Ice Flyers
Wednesday, November 26th, 2025 · 6:05-7:35 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — $5 Night — Celebrate Thanksgiving early with discounted tickets and thrilling hockey action.
Thanksgiving Feast at Five Sisters' Blues Café
Thursday, November 27th, 2025 · 11 a.m.-7 p.m. — Five Sisters Blues Cafe — $24.95 for adults — Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings in a vibrant blues café atmosphere.
Birmingham Bulls vs. Pensacola Ice Flyers
Saturday, November 29th, 2025 · 6:05-7:35 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — Check FloHockey to catch the action with the Birmingham Bulls taking on your local Ice Flyers.