Rick's Podcasts: Recent Episodes
Rick Outzen
Author and newspaper publisher Rick Outzen explores the news behind the headlines with newsmakers and the journalists that cover them.
The full show for Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023: Eric Gilmore, D.C. Reeves, Andy Prince and Jim Ryan.
Andy Prince of Manchester Orchestra discusses Night Moves Fest that will kick off 2023 Foo Foo Fest on Nov. 4. For tickets, visit nightmovesfest.com.
Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore discusses the lessons he learned helping Lafayette County recover from Hurricane Idalia.
Escambia County Commissioner Lumon May expresses his frustration in getting the Escambia Children's Trust to pause while it gets its house in order.
The full show for Monday, Sept. 23, 2023: Peter Steenblik, Aaron Katersky, Jeff Gaddy and Marcel Davis.
Pastor Marcel Davis shares his concerns about Baptist Hospital no longer providing medical services near its E Street campus.
Levin Papantonio Rafferty attorney Jeff Gaddy discusses the $1.4 billion settlement in the opioid case against Kroger.
The third element of Baptist's redevelopment vision for the redevelopment of its E Street campus was: "Baptist ensuring there is a solution for health care that meets the needs of the neighborhood and surrounding areas."
On May 23, 2022, Baptist VP Jennifer Grove told the Pensacola City Council that execution of that element was on them.
"The third element is on us," said Grove. "We will ensure that there is a solution for healthcare services that meets the needs of the surrounding neighborhood."
She continued, "We are fortunate that we have access to the data for patients, how they access our services there, and ultimately to receive what sort of services. So absolutely we will ensure not just that we will serve them just over two miles up the street, but that there will be an appropriate healthcare solution for the needs of the immediate neighborhood within this redevelopment vision as well."
The full show for Friday, Sept. 8: Walker Wilson, Jason Nathanson, Buck Mitchell and Matt Posner.
The Pensacola & Perdido Bays Estuary Program invites the community to celebrate National Estuaries Week from Sept. 16-23. National Estuaries Week is a nationwide celebration of our bays and estuaries and the many benefits they provide to local communities. Matt Posner shares the details.
The full show for Thursday, Sept. 9: Jennifer Brahier, Brandi Gomez, Brad Garrett, and Tosh Belsinger.
Tosh Belsinger discusses the plans for the East Garden District. Read "East Garden's Transformation."
Pensacola City Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier discusses Opening Doors. She also talks about the rise of fentanyl deaths in our community.
The full show for Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023: Eric Gilmore, Quint Studer, Ginny Cranor, Lindsay Durtschi and Jim Ryan.
More and more parents are asking where have all the books gone as school libraries have been emptied and slowly refilled books approved by the religious right. Lindsay Durtschi discusses the problem.
Pensacola Fire Chief Ginny Cranor shares details of the city's Smoke Alarm Saturdays initiative.
Quint Studer shares what he's learned serving on the board of bi4, a nonprofit dedicated to improving health in underserved communities in Cincinnati.
The full show for Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023: Eric Gilmore, Jim Ryan, Sally Lee, D.C. Reeves and Marci Duncan.
Take Stock in Children recently welcomed 32 new scholarship recipients at the annual Take Stock Kickoff Dinner. Fifteen new 7th graders, 12 new 8th graders and five new 10th grade students were added through a special Florida Power & Light donation. There are now 152 students in grades 7-12 in Escambia County’s program. Sally Lee discusses the program.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves discusses Kaycee LaGarde's departure, the latest on ST Engineering and downtown growth.
University of West Florida Department of Criminology, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies and UWF Department of Theatre will present the James Meredith Trial Reenactment and Q&A at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 16, in the Mainstage Theatre at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Building 82, on the Pensacola campus. This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required for this event.
Criminology, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies will be collaborating with the Department of Theatre to put on a trial reenactment of the James Meredith trial. He was represented by Constance Baker Motley and integrated into the University of Mississippi. The performance will include theatre students, legal studies students and local attorneys. The trial will be reenacted from 4 to 5 p.m. A short Q&A and refreshments will follow. The event is generously co-sponsored by the Escambia Santa Rosa Bar Foundation.
Direct Marci Duncan discusses the reenactment.
ABC News' Jim Ryan gives an early report on Hurricane Idalia's impact on the Tampa area.
Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore gives a brief update from Lafayette County as Hurricane Idalia passes over.
In June, Florida House Speaker Paul Renner wrote Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Carlos Muniz, asking him to form a committee to assess the consolidation of the state’s 20 circuit courts. The Florida Justice Association questions the logic of consolidating a court system in a state that is growing exponentially. FJA chair Steve Cain shares his thoughts.
Hurricane and tropical storm watches have been issued for nearly every inch of Florida’s west coast as Idalia gathers strength in the Gulf of Mexico and moves north. Tampa Bay could see half a foot of rain as Idalia moves inland as a Category 3 storm late Tuesday or early Wednesday. Jim Ryan shares the latest.
Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore shares the latest info before he heads to Tallahassee to help with the hurricane recovery.
The 3M board of directors approved a $6 billion settlement for its defective earplugs that damaged the hearing of hundreds of thousands of U.S. military and veterans. Attorney Bryan Aylstock, whose firm, Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz, tried several of the cases in federal court in Pensacola announced the settlement on WCOA this morning.
The full show for Friday, Aug. 25, 2023: Jason Nathanson, Chip Simmons, Brenton Goodman and Royal Oakes
Levin Papantonio Rafferty brings back the People's Law School in September. Attorney Brenton Goodman has the details.
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons shares the details regarding a recent murder outside a bar on Nine Mile Road.
ABC's Jason Nathanson reviews 'Gran Turismo' and Adam Sandler's 'You Are So No Invited to My Bat Mitzvah' - which led to a discussion of Jason's Bar Mitzvah.
The full show for Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023: Troy Rafferty, David Peaden, Ryan Wiggins, Robert Bender and Brad Garrett.
Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender discusses the June 2021 decision to seek legal opinion on 401a retirement plan. County Clerk Pam Childers didn't speak up until after the decision.
In February, the longtime executive director of the Home Builders Association of West Florida (HBA) switched jobs to become the external affairs manager for Florida Power & Light. To honor his years of commitment and generosity to HBA members and the community, the association dedicated its boardroom in his honor.
Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore shares the latest on the TS Idalia.
Full Show for Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023 : Wes Moreno, Dondi Frenkel, Jennifer Brahier, Juliana Child, Randi Lawrence and Nathaniel Rakish.
The Pensacola Children’s Chorus (PCC) announces the start of their 34th season with an exciting lineup for our Mainstage Performances. This year, you can expect more opportunities to enjoy some of Pensacola’s best performers, including the addition of Hauntcert, a family-friendly Halloween concert, on Oct. 28 at the Saenger Theatre.
As always, be prepared to be dazzled by our regular season performances. Christmas on the Coast, held on Dec. 8-10, , is a dazzling holiday spectacular that transforms sunny weather into a winter wonderland. One World, Many Voices, held on March 3, 2024, celebrates the power of what is accomplished when voices unite in song. Our final performance, Showtime, scheduled for May 10-12, 2024, is a Broadway-quality variety show featuring the best music from both stage and screen.
Reserve your favorite spot to some of the best shows in town before they go on sale to the general public with a Season Subscription! Avoid expensive third party taxes and fees that are typically incurred through external box offices, and receive personalized concierge service from our friendly staff for all your ticketing needs. Plus receive invitations to subscriber-only receptions prior to each show, as well as opportunities for an exclusive backstage tour and annual appreciation parties. On sale through our website until Friday, Sept. 15.
There’s still time for new singers to join~ no experience necessary and scholarships available through PCC’s Triple-A Commitment. Named for the 3 “A’s” of the initiative’s name (Affordable & Accessible Arts), this program establishes $15 as the lowest monthly tuition for each program. Maximum tuition ranges from $55-$95/month based on age. Utilizing a sliding scale model, families can select the price that works best for their personal finances.
For more information, visit www.pensacolasings.org.
Don’t miss out on major online savings! Advance Super Saver half-price admission tickets and Super Saver discounted unlimited ride wristbands are on sale now through Wednesday, Oct. 18, ONLY at PensacolaFair.com. Each Super Saver admission ticket and ride wristband is valid for one use only.
The 89th Annual Pensacola Interstate Fair will be held October 19-29, 2023. Plan ahead and save big now for 11 days of rides, food, fun, music and gaming!
The prices for the Super Saver half-price admission tickets and discounted unlimited ride wristbands are as follows:
• Adult Admission Tickets - $7 for ages 12 and up ($14 at the Fair; savings of $7)
• Child Admission Tickets - $3 for ages 4-11 ($6 at the Fair; savings of $3)
• Advance Weekday Super Saver Ride Wristband - $20 ($25 at the Fair; savings of $5.) Good for Mon-Thurs use only (also accepted Sunday, Oct. 29.) Can be upgraded at main ticket booth or fair office for weekend use (for an additional $5.) Valid for one use only.
• Advance Any Day Super Saver Ride Wristband - $25 ($30 at the Fair; savings of $5.) Good for any day of the Fair. Valid for one use only.
• Parking Ticket $5, give to attendant upon exiting.
Escambia County Administrator Wes Moreno discusses why he and Mayor D.C. Reeves want to a play active roles in the Continuum of Care that deals with the area's homeless.
The University of West Florida launches the Office of Workforce Development, and UWF President Martha D. Saunders has named Dr. Sherry Hartnett its first director. Dr. Hartnett discusses her new assignment.
Ryan Wiggins from The Lincoln Project recaps the first Republican presidential debate. DeSantis disappeared and Nikki Haley and Mike Pence stood out. But none of it mattered.
Late yesterday afternoon, Judge William Stone denied two motions made by Escambia County Clerk Pam Childers in the lawsuit concerning the county commissioners' 401a retirement plan. Attorney Troy Rafferty explains their impact.
The full show for Tuesday, Aug. 22: Steve Brendtro, Shannon Nickinson, Mayor D.C. Reeves, Stephanie White and John Cohen.
Escambia Children's Trust board member Stephanie White talks about her expectations for the new executive director.
Steve Brendtro discusses the feasibility study on the possible incorporation of the Perdido area.
And the full show for Monday, Aug. 21: Jeff Bergosh, Erica Foster, Martha Saunders and Tom Rivers.
UWF president Dr. Martha Saunders announces new enrollment record and discusses the Office of Workforce Development and UWF football.
On Friday, the Pensacola Foo Foo Festival Committee announced the launch of the new 2023 Foo Foo Festival website, detailing this year’s initial day-by-day 10-Year Anniversary calendar of events. Chair Therese McKenzie shares the details.
The Pensacola News Journal also anonymously received the text messages from County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh's personal cell phone that had been stolen from the county's server. Bergosh believes texts were released to damage his poltically.
The full show for Friday, Aug. 18, 2023: Walker Wilson, Jason Nathanson, Laura Gilliam, Steven Portnoy and Therese McKenzie.
Jason Nathanson reviews "Blue Beetle" and discusses Rolling Stone's 50 biggest mistakes in TV History.
The full show for Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023: Kaycee Lagarde, Lumon May, Christy Laggan, Paula Shell, Joe Zarzaur and Jim Ryan
A Santa Rosa County jury awarded $16 million for medical malpractice and wrongful death to the family of a woman who died while in the care of Armor Correctional Health Services in the Santa Rosa County jail. Misty Williamson contracted pneumonia while under the care of Armor Correctional Health Services in the county jail. Armor health care providers delayed transfer to the emergency room. When she arrived at the ER, her pneumonia had turned into sepsis. Williamson died in the emergency room from septic shock.
Zarzaur Law, P.A., brought suit on behalf of the client’s family, arguing that Armor’s neglect and delay in transfer to the emergency room caused her untimely death. The verdict included $6 million in compensatory damages and $10 million in punitive damages for the surviving spouse and children. Joe Zarzaur discusses the case.
On Tuesday, Aug. 15, WCOA celebrated the second anniversary of "Real News with Rick Outzen" with a live remote from the newly renovated Atlas Oyster Bar.
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott brought fresh donuts and talked about his “Keeping Our Kids Safe” tour that he is making around the state.
“We all want our kids to be safe,” he said. “Think of how the world's changed. When we raised our daughters, we weren't worrying about school shootings. We were worried about drugs, but not this fentanyl that just with a few grams will kill you. And the social media was not even around. If they had cell phones, it was to call us or their girlfriends.”
Rather than spend money to hire more IRS agents, Sen. Scott wants the funds spent on school safety. He said, “Why not take that money and put it into training law enforcement in our schools? Pretty basic. If we do, we could do that every private and public school in the country.”
Other elements of this plan included securing the borders to curb the influx of fentanyl and holding Big Tech accountable.
Sen. Rick Scott praised local leaders for turning around the Pensacola area. As Florida’s governor from 2010-2018, he played a significant role in the expansion of the Navy Federal Credit Union in Beulah and the construction of ST Engineering facility at the Pensacola International Airport.
“When I came to campaign in 2010, downtown was pretty dead,” said Sen. Scott. “And you look at what's happened in, 13. You look at the jobs, the airport. I mean, it's pretty impressive that everybody here has done a great job. My job as governor was just to try to be helpful as much as I could.”
The second hour included Atlas co-owner Collier Merrill and Chef Justin Hughes, Dee Dee Davis, Jennie Noonan, City Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier, Community Health CEO Chandra Smiley, Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender, Supervisor of Elections David Stafford, Attorney Troy Rafferty, Port of Pensacola director Clark Merritt and Sena Maddison.
On Tuesday, Aug. 15, WCOA celebrated the second anniversary of "Real News with Rick Outzen" with a live remote from the newly renovated Atlas Oyster Bar. Over two hours, we interviewed 20 elected officials and community leaders, including Sen. Rick Scott.
This podcast covers the first hour and includes Sheriff Chip Simmons, former mayors Grover Robinson and Ashton Hayward, Triumph Gulf Coast chair David Bear, PYP president Justin Oswald, DIB executive director Walker Wilson, state senate candidate Frank White, Mayor D.C. Reeves and Escambia County Commission chair Lumon May.
We celebrate the 56th anniversary of Rosie O’ Grady’s on Wednesday, Aug. 16. Buck Mitchell has the details.
The Escambia County Commission approved the 2023-24 budget in record time. County Administrator Wes Moreno talks about what happened behind the scenes.
he NOAA has upgraded its hurricane forecast from “near-normal” to “above-normal.” The hurricane prediction increased to six to 11, up from five to nine. Forecasters expect two to five major hurricanes. Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore discusses the predictions.
The full show for Friday, Aug. 11, 2023. We covered Community Health Northwest Florida celebrating National Health Center Week. Jason Nathanson reviewed "Jules" and "Painkiller. Dr. Eman El-Sheikh discussed the University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity expanding CyberSkills2Work, and DIB executive Walker Wilson discussed how the Pelican Drop meeting went.
DIB Executive Director Walker Holmes discusses the meeting held to decide the future of the Pelican Drop.
The University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity received a $2.5 million grant from the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Program to expand CyberSkills2Work. Over two years, the expansion will prepare more than 1,520 newly credentialed cybersecurity professionals. Dr. Eman El-Sheikh shares the details.
What happens when “Ghandi” meets “E.T.” You’ll find out in the new movie “Jules,” starring Sir Ben Kingsley as a lonely man in a small town who has a spaceship crash in his backyard. Jason Nathanson reviews and the new Netflix series "Painkiller."
Community Health Northwest Florida celebrated National Health Center Week to showcase the impact of community health centers serving a growing number of patients in Florida and across the country. Nationwide, one in 11 people get medical care from a community health center, including 400,000 veterans, nearly 9 million children and 1.4 million people experiencing homelessness. Community Health takes care of 55,000 people in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
Mayor D.C. Reeves announced that he had executed the contract with Warehouse 4 Sports to convert the Port of Pensacola’s Warehouse 4 into an indoor sports facility for pickleball, basketball, volleyball and other sports. The operator has 18 months to complete construction.
Rob Fabbro of Warehouse 4 Sports said, “The focus for day play will be pickleball, but then the facility can change. We can take down the nets and fences and turn it into something else. We really see a big demand for youth sports, table tennis and all kinds of pro sports.”
Mayor D.C. Reeves touted the results of Pensacola's effort to improve its 3-1-1 service. Lissa Dees shares the details.
Escambia County received a $40 million bid for all of OLF 8. County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh says the Eisenhower Property Group’s proposal has many of the same issues as the D.R. Horton proposal because it asks for several variances and digresses from the DPZ master plan. He wants the county to move ahead with infrastructure on the 250 acres set aside for economic development and job creation.
Ronnie Joyce is celebrating his 90th birthday with a special concert starting at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12, at the Hadji Shrine Temple. Tickets can be bought at the door. He talks about his career covering sports for the PNJ, WCOA and BLAB TV.
Healthy Gulf will host a Zoom meeting on how to find who is polluting our community. Christian Wagley has the details.
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons discusses making Bristol Park a special event zone, guns violence and recent arrests.
Gulf Breeze Will Do, a women’s philanthropic group, is recruiting new members to help expand their giving capabilities with a membership mixer and recruitment social from 5:30-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 23, at Buenos Dias Café, 911 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze.
Onn Monday, a “ghost kitchen” company called Virtual Dining Concepts sued one of the biggest entertainers on the internet for $100 million dollars.
Jimmy Donaldson, better known online as “Mr. Beast,” is the most popular creator on YouTube, boasting more than 174 million subscribers (plus 38.6 million on Instagram and 21.6 million on Twitter). In 2020, Donaldson launched the MrBeast Burger – a line of fast food products sold through apps like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats (there is also a physical location in New Jersey). Last week, Donaldson sued VDC for breach of contract – saying the company delivered “disgusting, revolting and inedible” to customers.
ABC's Mike Dobuski has the details
Pensacola Beach traffic has hit new records this summer. Commissioner Robert Bender talks about it and last week's board meeting.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves talks about the recent arrests in the antisemitic vandalism case, building American Magic HQ and his first budget.
Sena Maddison remembers the “music man” Catt Sirten, who was well-known for his Sunday Jazz Brunch on 92ZEW, Radio Avalon, and Brown Bag in Bienville.
Aylstock Witkin attorney Sam Geisler discusses the lawsuits against contractor Skanska USA for the damage caused by their barges to property and our local economy. Geisler said, "Ultimately it comes down to accountability, and that's what we hope to secure for the region. We're going to fight on. "
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses the FBI investigation into how his stolen text messages end up in the hands of attorneys suing the county. He also covers the troubled Perdido Key roundabout and OLF 8.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses the FBI investigation into how his stolen text messages end up in the hands of attorneys suing the county. He also covers the troubled Perdido Key roundabout and OLF 8.
Thirteen pending insulin price-fixing lawsuits against the companies that dominate the insulin manufacturing and pharmacy benefit management markets have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation. Attorney Troy Rafferty has the details.
Odd Colony's Brett Schweigert discusses the brewery's weekend events and the rise of businesses on North Palafox Street.
Port Director Clark Merritt discusses the latest grant that will help the city complete the work on Warehouse 10, which will be the headquarters for American Magic.
The Florida Public Archaeology Network, a program of the University of West Florida, has received a $99,968 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Estuarine Research Reserve System Science Collaborative. The grant funds the project “People of the Apalachicola Region: Exploring cultural heritage as a vector for ecosystem planning, management and adaptation.” Nicole Grinnan has the details.
Covenant Care is opening their first children's grief house to continue their 40-year legacy of community service and support for children and teens experiencing grief in Northwest Florida. Nonie's Place on North Palafox Street provides a centralized location for Covenant Care to continue their current programs and services for children and families experiencing the loss of a loved one and help provide the care these children need to process their grief. Aaron West has the details.
The first Pensacola Chapter of the American Aviation Historical Society will hold its inaugural meeting on August 10, 2023, at the Oaks Restaurant (Top Side)-NAS Golf Course. The meeting will begin at noon and will include a buffet lunch and a presentation by the Director of the National Naval Aviation Museum, Captain Sterling Gilliam.
On Friday, Sept. 15, Gallery Night’s “Art of Fashion” event is featuring a “Pensacola Project Runway” Design Contest themed “From Sand To Sassy.” Michelle Ortiz shares the details.
We've seen an increase in people sleeping on the sidewalks and doorways on South Palafox Street. Councilwoman Allison Patton gives an update on what is being done to find shelter for these people.
United Way of West Florida will be hosting its 2023 Annual Meeting, this year’s theme is Agents of Change. The meeting is 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 15, at University of West Florida Conference Center, 11000 University Parkway | Building 22. Tickets are $25 each or $175 for a table of 8. Learn more at www.uwwf.org/annual-meeting-2023.
86 Forks Bar + Table is celebrating Bay Buns Day (Aug. 21) with a special contest. The winner gets free Bao Buns for an entire year. Aimee Wilson has the details.
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Skanska USA’s attempt to limit liability after its barges broke loose and damaged the Pensacola Bay Bridge during Hurricane Sally in 2020. Locals consider the 40-page decision a victory for those who have filed lawsuits in state courts against the construction company. Some of the lawsuits involve property damaged by the barges, but the majority of the cases are businesses, such as Bagelheads, Flowers by Yoko and Dog House Deli, that claim economic damages due to the bridge's closure.
Levin Papantonio Rafferty partner Brian Barr has the details.
Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier said that citizens questioned how the traffic count for Summit Boulevard increased from around 5,000 cars a day in 2019 when the Florida Department of Transportation studied the traffic flow to closer to 12,000 four years later, according to the most recent study.
“In my opinion, at the very least, we have to be able to understand why we went from 5,000 to 12,000, if we really did,” said District 1 Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier. “Was it a mistake in data or is there a trend that we need to pay attention to before we go changing roads? Those are the simple questions right there. So I agree that there needs to be more shaken out of this so that we understand what has happened.”
Mayor D.C. Reeves responded to the recent wave of antisemitic vandalism. He said, "This is not a community in which we're going to tolerate people that that are intentionally trying to hurt and intimidate another group of people."
On Monday, Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-Fort Walton Beach) sent out a request for campaign contributions. He wrote, “A Super PAC being run by the Lincoln Project’s Leftovers has even launched a six-figure effort to take my seat!”
Ryan Wiggins, the chief of staff for The Lincoln Project, responded. “This is the first I had heard about it. I wrote my team, ‘Hey, are we launching the six-figure campaign to take Matt’s seat? It’s going to take more than six figures, and it'd be nice for y'all to tell the chief of staff these things. It turned out, no, not at all.”
Wiggins added, “I'm not trying to take Matt Gaetz’s a seat. I'm trying to make Matt Gaetz irrelevant by taking back the House and taking his president away.”
The America’s First Settlement (A1S) Trail Urban Adventure is slated to take place August 12, between 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. to celebrate Pensacola’s 464th birthday. Michael Carro shares the details.
Commissioner Robert Bender recaps the National Association of Counties' annual meeting in Austin, Tex.
Escambia County Commissioner Lumon May discusses the recent shootings and health care for the E Street area after Baptist Hospital leaves.
ABC's Jason Nathanson reviews "The Beanie Bubble" on Apple TV+ and discusses the success of "Barbie."
The Friends of the West Florida Public Library book sale is 3-7 p.m. Friday, July 28; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, July 29; and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, July 30. No admission charge to the sale. On Sunday, take advantage of the $7 bag sale. Visit facebook.com/friendsofwfpl for details.
To develop a plan that will guide its investment in local projects through 2026, the Escambia Children's Trust wants to engage a broad cross-section of the community.
“The philosophy is that the Children's Trust belongs to the residents of Escambia County,” said Tammy Greer, the Trust’s executive director. “And we want to make sure that as we're trying to figure out what the next steps are, we have the public's input. It’s pretty much just that simple; we want to hear from the community.”
All residents are invited to join the conversation at the upcoming Town Hall sessions: 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 8, at the Molino Library, 6450-A Hwy. 95A; 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug.9, at the Brownsville Community Center, 3200 W. DeSoto St.; and 3-5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 10, at the Tryon Branch Library, 1200 Langley Ave.
For more information, please visit future.escambiachildrenstrust.org.
Alexandra “Cookie” Echsner-Rasmussen was recognized as the recipient of the 2023 Young Lawyers Division William S. Meador Award. The award is given each year to a young attorney who distinguishes themselves by their commitment to our community through charitable and civil service. The award was established in 2005 to honor the legacy left by William Meador of practicing law with integrity, sincerity and courtesy while recognizing his commitment of giving back to the community.
County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh outlines some of the aspects of the 27-page offer that DR Horton has made for 297 acres of OLF 8.
Deputy Airport Director Ken Ibold (not Ibolt) discusses Titan Element 1 and the future growth of the Pensacola International Airport.
Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier previewed her July 26 town hall and also complimented Mayor D.C. Reeves' thoughtful approach to city issues.
The 2023 Judge Ross M. Goodman Civility and Professionalism Award was presented to Robert N. Heath, Jr. Established in 2021, the award is bestowed to an Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association member whose dedication to civility, professionalism and ethics exemplifies the character as well as a commitment to the profession and the administration of justice of Judge Ross Goodman, the inaugural recipient.
David Magee, bestselling author and founder of the William Magee Institute for Student Wellbeing at the University of Mississippi, discusses student mental health and substance misuse. He will be the speaker for the next CivicCon on Tuesday, Aug. 15, at the Brownsville Community Center. To reserve space. go to Eventbrite.
Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, produced by Paquin Entertainment Group, opens at the Pensacola Fairgrounds beginning Saturday, Aug. 5. Art historian Fanny Curtat discusses Van Gogh and the exhibition.
Brews for the Bays ends on Tuesday, August 1. Logan McDonald does a big push for this fundraiser that benefits Pensacola and Perdido Bays Estuary Program.
Chain Reaction, Pensacola’s Teen Leadership Institute, is holding Back-to-School Kickoff from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 7 at the Pensacola State College auditorium. The theme is “Adventures are Out There: Serve More, Love More.” Kristen Fairchild has the details. Only have 100 seats available so make sure to RSVP through Chain Reaction’s member portal or by contacting CR at info@mychainreaction.org or (850) 471-4685.
Mayor D. C. Reeves covered the dropping of mandatory recycling on the show, but he also discussed the machete attack and changing the city's height restrictions in the downtown area.
Scott Satterwhite explains why he joined the PenAmerica lawsuit against the Escambia County School Board for its book banning.
He expects to receive a revised offer for OLF 8 from DR Horton and Stirling Properties this week, dispelling any rumors that the deal was dead.
Charter Schools USA gave its first progress report to the State Board of Education last week. Dr. Eddie Ruiz discusses the update and busts a myth about the high salaries for Warrington Prep teachers.
Community Health's Tara Woodall talks about her work with high school students as part of her women's health practice.
Quint Studer has a new book "Sundays with Quint" - a compilation of 52 of his Sunday newspaper columns. Read more.
Lincoln Project Chief of Staff Ryan Wiggins doesn't mince any words while discussing the presidential dreams of Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The University of West Florida Usha Kundu, MD College of Health will launch an Entry into Practice (Direct Entry) Master of Science in Nursing program in Fall 2023. The five-semester, in-person graduate program will be offered on UWF’s Pensacola campus and Emerald Coast location, is a direct pathway to the nursing profession.
“The Entry into Practice Master of Science is unique because this is designed for students that already have a bachelor's degree,” said Dr. Crystal Bennett, the UWF School of Nursing director. “They’ve already attended a university, already have a bachelor's degree, possibly in the sciences, but it could be in another discipline. This program allows them to change their careers, go into nursing and complete an entry-level nursing degree in five semesters.”
The deadline to enroll in the upcoming fall semester has been extended to Friday, Aug. 4. Dr Bennett said, “Folks can call 850-473-7756. Don't worry if you get a voicemail; my staff is working really hard, and they will return your call. “
FloridaWest Board of Directors selected Brian Hilson as its new CEO. Hilson has more than 40 years of experience leading programs that address all phases of community-based economic growth. His efforts in Alabama resulted in more than 100,000 new jobs and more than $3 billion in investment over the past 40 years.
A year ago, attorney John Mayes launched MarketableSports. He and his team since broadcast over 85 75 area high school, college, and semi-pro games. They also broadcast a few concerts at the Handlebar and had a weekly show in the Fall at the Pensacola Beach Hilton. You can see their replays online at https://marketablesports.live/.
The City of Milton is seeking bids to redevelop eight acres along the Blackwater River. Ed Spears has the details.
Escambia County Administrator Wes Moreno discusses the infrastructure projects planned for the Brownsville area.
20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon championship, capturing his second career Grand Slam. Alcaraz put aside a poor start and surged down the stretch to end Djokovic’s 34-match winning streak at the All England Club. Tom Rivers was in the press box for the match.
Culinary Productions will open a new event venue this November at the corner of Tarragona and Wright streets. The 5000-sq.-ft. event space will allow Mike DeSorbo, owner of Culinary Productions, to host events for 200-plus people for daytime and nighttime events. Mike shares the details.
District 2 Commissioner Mike Kohler will host a community meeting from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, July 17, at the Warrington Presbyterian Church, 406 S. Navy Blvd. Residents of District 2 are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. During the meeting, Brock Developers from Atlanta, Ga. will present plans for Bayou Davenport and Warrington revitalization.
ECAT Director Rodriques Kimbrough discusses how Rebuild Florida will help Escambia County Area Transit.
Commissioner Steven Barry discusses how the county will spend the Rebuild Florida funds.
ABC's Brad Garrett discusses the dangers of ghost guns and the GOP's bashing of the FBI.
The Dixon After Hours Performing Arts Academy students present their production of Shrek The Musical JR. at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 14 and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, July 1, at the UWF Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Building 82, 11000 University Parkway. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased through here. Dixon School of Arts and Sciences Principal Dr. Kevin Kovacs has the details.
UWF professor Dr. Cynitha Smith-Price discusses Zeta Phi Beta, Inc.'s initiative to help expectant mothers.
Valerie’s House, the leading nonprofit dedicated to helping children grieving the death of a loved one, is pleased to announce the appointment of Crista Brandt as the Northwest Florida Director. Brandt brings her extensive managerial experience and personal passion for supporting grieving children to this pivotal role.
Brandt’s journey with Valerie’s House began when she spearheaded the launch of the Pensacola Chapter in late 2020. As a dedicated volunteer for two years, Brandt played a crucial role in serving grieving families in the community. Now, as the Northwest Florida Director, she will lead Valerie’s House, Pensacola full-time, providing invaluable support to those grieving a loss.
Rebekah Jones discusses Josh Fox's movie "Whistlerblower: Rebekah Jones" and its Kickstarter Campaign.
Dr. Michelle Grier-Hall of Community Health Northwest Florida discusses the rise of infant mortality rates in Escambia County.
The National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) is excited to host another Visitor Appreciation Day: Kids’ Day on Saturday, July 15 as a way to recognize the Pensacola community for their loyal support. Dianna Hayden has the details
Ray Palmer, President and CEO of Pensacola Sports, has been appointed Chairman of the board of directors of Sports ETA, the only trade association for the sports events and tourism industry in the U.S.
Pensacola Sports hosts its Kick Start Soccer free clinics offered in Pensacola from July 18 - 20, at the Brent Raider Soccer Filed, 4711 N. W Street. The clinics are designed to kickstart interest in soccer in kids who have never been exposed to the sport or have not had a chance to gain formal instruction in the sport, all while providing a healthy and safe outlet for free time during the summer. Amy Marquez shares the details.
Azalea City Con is the newest pop culture convention on the Gulf Coast. On Saturday July 15 and Sunday July 16, fans will join together at the Holiday Inn, Downtown Mobile, Alabama to celebrate their love of film, art, comics, superheroes, cosplay, video and board games, and all things nerdy. Martha Howard shares the details.
Proper Burger - behind Vinyl Music Hall - is expected to open in August. Rafael Simpson has the details.
An update released Thursday by the Colorado State University tropical forecast team calls for 18 storms, nine of which are expected to become hurricanes and four of which will reach at least Category 3 status.
This is an increase of three storms, two hurricanes and one major hurricane since their previous outlook, which was released in early June. The increase in storms and the overall outlook takes into account four storms that have already occurred this year.
Eric Gilmore talks about how we should prepare for the uptick.
The Pensacola Mural Fest has released its Request for Qualifications for 2023's pilot mural celebration, the RFQ and Press Release are attached.
The pilot mural celebration will be held Saturday, November 4th and Sunday, November 5th during Foo Foo Fest along the Barrancas Avenue corridor between Garden Street and Main Street. Our team has identified 5 buildings along the Barrancas Avenue corridor where artists will be painting large-scale murals, and we are looking for talented local muralists to paint them. Painting will begin October 28th concluding with the celebration on November 4th and 5th.
Artist applications are due July 10th. The requirements are included in the attached document.
Preston Forshee has the details.
The Santa Rosa Island Authority is thrilled to announce that local naval aviator and retired Marine Corps Major Paul Entrekin is celebrating his 30th season as Air Boss of the Pensacola Beach Air Show this year. We have Paul on the show.
Blue Wind hits a production milestone, and FloridaWest's Danita Andrews has the details.
Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender reports on record traffic count over the July 4th holiday and previews Red, White & Blues week.
Warrington Preparatory Academy has hired Erica Foster as its founding principal. She and Charter Schools USA state superintendent Eddie Ruiz discuss a job fair set for Monday, July 10 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and the future of the charter middle school.
Autism Pensacola's Mary McClellan talks about Sensory Street coming to downtown Pensacola July 13-15.
It’s the end of an era – the last Indiana Jones movie starring Harrison Ford opens in theaters this weekend. Jason Nathanson shares his thoughts about “Indiana Jones And the Dial of Destiny.”
Robbie Schrock shares the details of the 2023 Pensacola Beach Air Show set for July 5-8.
Port of Pensacola Director Clark Merritt explains a proposed rule that could impact port business.
Pensacola International Airport Director Matt Coughlin explains why flights are being delayed.
The Pensacola & Perdido Bays Estuary Program is opening its 2023-2024 Community Grant Program. The program will award $250,000 in total funding to help restore and protect our waters. Award amounts will range from $10,000 to $50,000. Logan McDonald has the details.
The University of West Florida received the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Community Outreach first place award at the 2023 NCAE-C Symposium. Dr Eman El-Sheikh shares the details.
Escambia County Commissioner Steven Barry announces that he will run for a fourth term in 2024.
Commissioner Lumon May discusses the Escambia Children's Trust and the proposed Children's Resource Center.
Most of the American public probably didn't know PFAS from potato salad until the 2019 film "Dark Waters" exposed the truth of these harmful chemicals polluting water in a small West Virginia community. Wes Bowden served a leadership role in the national PFAS litigation and discusses the $12.5 billion settlement agreement with 3M over water pollution.
Pensacola Sports Hall of Famer Bill Vilona discusses sports reporting and the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.
Pensacola Beach Chamber CEO Meg Peltier has all the details of the beach's July 4th fireworks show.
In 2009, Francisco Cofre was shot during a mass shooting in Destin, Fla. Tonight, he will share his overcoming adversity and describe how his life has changed as he returns to the place where it happened. Grace McCafferty shares the details.
Commissioner Jeff Bergosh explains why he hired Jesse Casey to help with constituent services in District 1.
“No Hard Feelings?” - Jennifer Lawrence stars in the film, playing a woman trying to seduce a teen. Will it have you laughing this weekend? Jason Nathanson has his review.
Nick Zangari and Sena Maddison discuss the top albums of 1973 by Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, Aerosmith, Billy Joel, Marvin Gaye, Queen and many more.
Levin Papantonio Rafferty announced that the third largest multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the country--MDL 2846 IN RE: Davol, Inc./C.R. Bard, Inc., Polypropylene Hernia Mesh Products Liability Litigation--has exceeded 20,000 case filings. LPR partner Tim O'Brien serves as Plaintiffs' Co-Lead Counsel in the MDL, along with Kelsey Stokes of Fleming, Nolen & Jez, LLP. He discusses this massive, national litigation.
PenAir Credit Union, Pensacola’s oldest and largest credit union, has unveiled its new brand that embodies the credit union’s passion and purpose for enhancing lives. Pam Hatt shares the details.
Beginning in Fall 2023, the University of West Florida will offer a new Executive Master of Business Administration: Leadership Practice and Purpose. Tim Kinsella, executive director of UWF’s Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz Center for Leadership, has the details.
Award-winning filmmaker Dayna Reggero of the Climate Listening Project brings her latest documentary Gulf Coast Love Story to Pensacola on Wednesday, July 19. Healthy Gulf is hosting the screening at 5:30 p.m. at the downtown Pensacola library.
Gulf Coast Love Story brings to the screen the hopes and struggles of Gulf coast communities on the front lines of fossil fuels and climate change. The film listens to a poet, chef, musician, dancer, photographer and painters along the beaches and the bayous of the Gulf Coast. These are the stories of people and communities that are remembering, healing, visioning and building a movement for a healthy future amidst oil rigs and petrochemical plants.
Learn more at: https://daynareggero.com/
Beginning in Fall 2023, the University of West Florida will offer a new Master of Science in Administration with a specialization in sport administration. Dr. Gil Fried has the details.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves discusses his recent trip to Washington, D.C. to meet with Sen. Rick Scott and others about adding another terminal to the Pensacola International Airport. He also covers the Children's Resource Center and the budget.
On June 20, 2013, the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners voted 4-1 to take over the Escambia County Jail and Central Booking & Detention . Sheriff David Morgan had asked for $5.2 million to upgrade the facility to meet DOJ standards. Interim County Administrator George Touart said he take over the facilities and make the necessary changes for $2.6 million. Seven months later, the CBD exploded, costing taxpayers much more over the next eight years. David Morgan discusses the vote.
Rebekah Dawson discusses how Feeding the Gulf Coast is helping to feed children this summer.
Madrina Ciano previews the Festival of Speed, which is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, at the Five Flags Speedway. The event is powered by Step One Motorsports.
Community Health Northwest Florida is asking for donations to help those displaced by recent flooding. Walter Arrington has the details.
The Spearman Brewing Company was Pensacola's first brewery. It opened on May 18, 1935, shortly after the end of prohibition, and was popular among local military personnel during World War II. Mike Moon and Stephen Struck have written a book about the brewery, filled with photos of the plant, its merchandise and various marketing campaigns. Contact him to buy a copy at spearmanbeerguy@gmail.com.
The Levin Papantonio Rafferty law firm is sponsoring the Juneteenth UnityFest from 12-4 p.m. on Monday, June 19, at Adoration for a New Beginning Church, 920 W Government St. Pastor Marcel Davis shares the details.
Due to the Thursday evening and early Friday morning severe storms, the Escambia County Emergency Operations Center activated to Level Two this morning. A Level 2 EOC activation is a partial activation that includes essential Emergency Support Functions related to this type of incident for response and recovery.
Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore and County Commissioner Robert Bender gave updates on WCOA this morning.
Everyone wants to know why Donald Trump didn't just hand over the documents. I didn't ask a political pundit for the answer. No, I asked retired FBI profiler Brad Garrett.
The International Paper Pensacola Mill will be awarding a total of $63,000 in foundation grants to non-profit organizations in 2023. Whitney Fike has the details.
United Way of West Florida announced the allocation of almost $470,000 in grant funding for Fiscal Year 2023-24 to partner programs. These transformational investments will enable our community-based organizations to continue their critical work in addressing the most pressing needs and creating lasting change throughout our region. Mary Zaledonis has the details.
The Studer Community Institute is hosting "Investing in Human Capital" from 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Rex Theatre. Quint Studer shares the details. Register here.
Lauren Bonner, this's year Fiesta Pensacola queen, discusses the Fiesta festivities and her artwork.
Visit Pensacola CEO Darien Schaefer discusses Pensacola making Resonance Consultancy’s America’s Best Cities of 2023.
The annual Pensacola Sports Racquet Round-Up - a series of free summer tennis clinics offered around the Pensacola area - opened for children between 5-12 of all skill levels. Amy Marquez has the details.
Commissioner Robert Bender shares the weekend's traffic numbers on Pensacola Beach and gives an update on county business.
Levin Papantonio Rafferty is hosting the first Juneteeth UnityFest on Monday, June 12. Troy Rafferty has the details.
Escambia County Supervisor of Elections David Stafford discusses the new voting laws, especially for voting by mail.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh talks about last week's BCC meeting, his Beulah town hall and the opening of a new park on Lillian Highway.
The City of Pensacola in partnership with Community Health Northwest Florida plans to ask the Escambia Children's Trust for a grant to buy the Morris Eaddy Activity Center to create a Children's Resource Center. Mayor D.C. Reeves gives a preview of the announcement.
At the box office this weekend, get ready to go back into the “Transformers” universe. “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” is the 7th film in the franchise, this one a sequel set in the 90s. And it’s expected to narrowly defeat “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” for box office supremacy. Jason Nathanson has thoughts.
Palafox Market celebrates its 16th anniversary tomorrow. Cailin Feagles has the details..
Upward Intuition will host the official opening day event at the Blake Doyle Skatepark starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 10. Jon Shell has the details.
The Westside Community Redevelopment Agency will decide whether to purchase the Pensacola Motor Lodge, 2305 West Cervantes Street, for $855,000. Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier talked with Rick Outzen about the motel.
“First off, you've got to know that this particular motel has hundreds of police calls a year,” said Brahier. “The purchase would be twofold. It would clean up something that's taking a lot of resources from the city, and it would potentially create 30 transitional housing.”
University of West Florida President Dr. Martha Saunders spent 10 minutes with Inweekly publisher Rick Outzen on WCOA.
“This has been a good year for numbers,” said Dr. Saunders. “ I just got word this week that we broke our all-time record. We have 10,000 applicants for our freshman slots, the most we have ever had, and we will close the application process earlier this year just so we can get them all processed.”
Earth Ethics is hosting viewing of "Plastic Wars" at 6 p.m. on Monday., June 12, at Ever’man Education Center, 327 W Garden Street, to kick off this year’s Plastic Free Campaign. The film viewing will be followed by a short discussion on the impacts of plastics and upcoming actions that are planned for Plastic Free July. Feel free to bring popcorn, snacks, and drinks.
Escambia County consistently ranks near the bottom of the state in kindergarten readiness rates. The odds of those rates improving anytime soon appear remote, considering the shortage of slots available for children at early learning centers. ECT executive director Tammy Greer discusses the early learning crisis.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida CEO Paula Shell talks the Big Brother and Big Sister honorees for 2023.
Former Mayor Grover Robinson discusses his takeaways from creating a homeless initiative during a pandemic.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves discusses placing staff on administrative leave as he makes changes at city hall.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh hosts a town hall from 6-8 p.m. tonight at the Beulah Middle School, 6001 W. Nine Mile Road. Bergosh discusses the meeting's agenda.
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are bringing back the Fred Waters Clinic from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, at Blue Wahoos Stadium. The clinic offers instructional training for baseball and softball, and it's free for boys and girls ages 7-12. Bill Vilona has the details.
Escambia County District 2 Commissioner Mike Kohler and Parks and Recreation will hold a public meeting Wednesday, June 7 at 4 p.m. at Lexington Terrace Park, 900 S. Old Corry Field Road, at the large pavilion at the front of the park. Commissioner Kohler previews the park options that will be discussed at the meeting.
Dr. Eddie Ruiz, Charter Schools USA's Florida state superintendent, discusses his expectations for Warrington Middle School.
The Federal Reserve recently released its Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2022, which found that slightly more than one out of four Americans went without some kind of medical care because of the high cost. Community Health Northwest Florida is a significant part of the solution.
Community Health CEO Chandra Smiley says, "At Community Health, we're here to take care of anyone who needs healthcare services. We don't want anyone to forego those wellness visits or those primary care visits or getting those prescriptions filled because we know that access to healthcare and staying on top of that will avoid complications down the road."
How will Ron DeSantis' Make America Florida campaign do against MAGA Donald Trump? The Lincoln Project's Ryan Wiggins doesn't pull any punches.
"It's a mess right now, and it is a mess that I think people are just tired of," Wiggins said. "Like, it seems like we have not been out of an election cycle since 2016 and America's tired. We want to make politics boring again."
The Choral Society of Pensacola presents “Christmas Messiah” on Saturday, Dec. 3, at noon, at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 1212 E. Moreno St. Tickets are $5-$20. Visit choralsocietyofpensacola.org for more information. The Friday show sold out.
O’Riley’s Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox, will host its annual Santa Pub Crawl Saturday, Dec. 3, to benefit several charities. Event registration is from 4-10 p.m. at O’Riley’s. General admission will require only the toy donation. The T-shirt Tier will require the toy donation and a $10 cash donation. The VIP Tier will require the toy donation and a $35 cash donation. More information can be found at orileyspub.com.
The University of West Florida hosts its first regional football game tomorrow. Will Kennedy previews the game.
Despite the Oscars slap drama, is Will Smith on his way to another Oscar nomination? His slavery drama Emancipation is out Friday in limited release, streaming next week on Apple TV+. Jason Nathanson has seen it and can tell you if it’s awards worthy. Also out this week, the series Willow, a sequel to the cult-hit 1988 film from George Lucas and Ron Howard.
As part of its 30th-anniversary celebration, Community Health Northwest Florida is hosting a tailgate party from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. Themed around College Football Conference Championship Saturday, this block party celebrates the opening of two new CHNWF patient care locations on North Palafox Street. CEO Chandra Smiley has the details.
New study finds that chemical hair relaxers, which are marketed specifically to Black and Brown women and young girls, cause uterine cancer and other serious diseases. Mike Papantonio of Levin Papantonio Rafferty shares the details.
Pensacola Fire Chief Ginny Cranor discusses annual “Keep the Wreath Green” Fire Safety campaign.
For over two weeks parents across America have been following this disturbing crime, many thinking of their own kids and the 20 million students, many away from home for the first time. Brad Garrett, a retired FBI profiler, discusses what the crime scene tells him like where the victims were killed, how they were killed, apparently asleep in the early morning hours, and the significance of using a knife.
The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce is offering a snow-white sanded holiday season through the month of December on Pensacola Beach with activities guaranteed to get even the worst Scrooges in the holiday spirit. Chamber President Meg Peltier lays out the schedule.
Escambia County Commissioner Steven Barry explains the partnership with the Escambia Rural Electric Cooperative to provide high-speed internet to rural Escambia County.
K9s United, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting law enforcement K-9 units with vital equipment and training to protect and serve our communities, invites dog lovers to join the organization’s K9 Corps to provide monthly contributions to the cause. Founder Debbie Johnson shares the details.
To celebrate the creation of the University of West Florida's School of Education, the College of Education and Professional Studies has created a scholarship opportunity for educator alumni. Dean Dr. William Crawley discusses the program.
The most recent statistics, based on the second quarter of 2022, ranked Pensacola International Airport #82 out of over 400 airports in terms of total passenger travel. Airport Director Matt Coughlin has the details.
Historian Joe Vinson talks about the Towers at Cordova Park and the Pensacola Opera House.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves talks about his inauguration speech, first day on the job and the transition report.
Jenny Noonan and Sena Maddison talk about the importance of high-speed internet expansion on Escambia County and its impact on attracting remote workers to our area.
The 2022 Pensacola Double Bridge Run - on Saturday, Feb. 4 - is limited to 4,000 runners and slots are filling up quickly. Runners are encouraged to secure their spots and beat the price increase that takes place on Thursday, Dec. 1. Registration is currently $55 for the 15K course and $40 for the 5K course. On December 1, the registration fees increase to $65 for the 15k and $55 for the 5K. Register online at pensacolasports.org.
Escambia County EMS has dealt with an average of over 40 opioid overdoses a week. Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore says the county is ready to launch its Coordinated Opioid Recovery (CORE) program.
Will Kennedy previews the football playoff game between the University of West Florida Argos and the Delta State University Statesmen.
Escambia County Commissioner Steven Barry discusses the latest on expanding high-speed internet throughout the county.
Pensacola City Council President Delarian Wiggins talks about yesterday's kick-off to Mayor DC Reeves' administration. Of Reeves, Wiggins said, "He wants to be the people's mayor. He wants to bring new, fresh ideas and to really look at how this city has worked in the past and to bring a new dynamic. I think that he's great. I think he's gonna do a fantastic job."
President Biden took part in the annual White House Thanksgiving turkey pardon. Karen Travers was there.
The Children's Theater Company in collaboration with the Dixon School of Arts and Sciences and their theater and music faculty presents its first show tonight. Eric Dozier and Mehr Mansuri share the details.
Levin Papantonio Rafferty (LPR) law firm last week announced that Walmart has agreed to pay $3.1 billion to settle national opioid lawsuits, bringing the total settlement from national retail pharmacy companies (including CVS and Walgreens) to $13.8 billion. LPR attorney Jeff Gaddy has the details and discusses what the settlements mean for Escambia County.
Joe Vinson, one of the of the "Emerging Artists" at the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival, has a special; exhibit at Voices of Pensacola. "Lost Pensacola" includes 12 different poster designs about lost Pensacola landmarks, each done in a style reminiscent of the building's heyday. The subjects include:
• Panton, Leslie & Co. trading post
• Fort McRee
• Fairnie Hill Place
• The Towers at Cordova Park
• Pensacola Opera House
• Mollie McCoy's bordello in the red-light district
• John Sunday House
• San Carlos Hotel
• Frisco Passenger Depot
• Spearman Brewing Company
• Spanish Village
• Abe's 506 Club
After the county and city's swearing-in celebrations, Mayor D.C. Reeves, Commissioner Lumon May and Councilman Delarian Wiggins will host a community celebration from 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. at Legion Field, 1301 W. Gregory St.
Five people are known to be dead and many more injured after police say a 22-year-old man walked into the club around midnight on Sunday morning and opened fire using a long gun.
He was taken down by people in the club who fought him and held him until police arrived several minutes later. Medics and police say those heroes inside of the club saved lives by stopping the shooting. It unfolded at Colorado Springs’ only gay nightclub on a weekly drag night. The suspect has a history of issues involving guns and police.
ABC News' Alex Stone is on the scene in Colorado Springs with the latest.
DIB Executive Director Walker Wilson introduces downtown's newest business, Maker's Coffee, to WCOA listeners.
Jason Nathanson and Sena Maddison talk about how Taylor Swift's concert ticket sales crashed Ticketmaster.
Children of all ages are invited to enjoy a morning of holiday fun with Santa and Santa’s elves, Saturday, Nov. 19 from 8 a.m. to noon at Gulf Coast Kid’s House, 3401 N. 12th Ave. in Pensacola. Stacey Kostevicki has the details.
State Senator Doug Broxson discusses being the new chairman of the powerful Appropriations Committee.
He said, "$112 billion will come across my desk, and we'll have to spend it according to the needs of Florida. Frankly, about 95% of that is pre-spent through education and children and family and healthcare, roads, prisons, law enforcement, just running the government. But what's left is a lot of money."
Sen. Broxson said the recovery from Hurricane Ian and Nicole will be big ticket items. He is looking forward to the special session on insurance. "The impact of our insurance industry has got to be reevaluated, and we're going to do that in special session in a few weeks. And if we don't, then increased premiums are really a form of a hidden tax that people simply cannot afford."
He continued, "So we have a lot of pressure to get it right and to get the rates going the other way rather than doubling every year as they have for the last two years."
Lincoln Project Chief of Staff Ryan Wiggins discusses what she learned from the 2022 election results.
"Trump was a symptom of the political movement," Wiggins said. "He was not the political movement. And I think in a lot of ways that political movement has outgrown Donald Trump. And so, I mean, you're going to see this continue to play out with these far right-leaning people."
She added, "I think the midterm said this--'we want to move back more to the middle.' I don't think that this was a referendum that said America wants to move left, or America wants to move into the progressive space. I think what it said was we are more moderate than this extremism."
At the University of Virginia, a former honors student gunned down and killed three fellow students. The same day, four students from the University of Idaho were murdered by unknown person, though as a statistical matter it is most likely to have been a male person. ABC News' Brad Garrett has the latest info on both.
HCA Florida West Hospital received an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group. This national distinction celebrates HCA Florida West Hospital’s achievements in protecting hospital patients from preventable harm and errors. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vinay Pallekonda has the details.
Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar celebrated its one-year anniversary and Veterans Day by partnering with Summit Holdings to deliver food for homeless veterans at Pensacola Veterans Village. Kelly St. Myer shares the details.
Quint Studer reflects on the impact of the Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee's report that was released a decade ago.
The public is invited to learn about the future of the Carpenter Creek and Bayou Texar Watershed Management Plan during an open house event Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 5:30 p.m. at the Bayview Community Center. Crissy Mehle previews the meeting.
The University of West Florida’s Makerspace opened at the Museum of Commerce on Friday, Nov. 11. The Makerspace, approximately 1,000 square feet dedicated to creative, entrepreneurial and artistic activities, was funded through the Next Big Thing program, led by UWF President Martha D. Saunders. Thomas Asmuth has the details.
Dan McFaul, the managing partner of Ballard Partners' Washington, D.C. office, discusses the 2022 election results and who will be GOP Speaker designate.
Jenny Noonan joins Real News to discuss her successful fundraiser for the Pensacola Opera and the commercial real estate market.
County Commissioner Robert Bender sets the record straight on the flooding issues in the Ferry Pass area.
Will Kennedy previews tomorrow's UWF vs. North Greenville football. Kick-off at 4 p.m. Tailgate starts at noon.
Bros starring Billy Eichner, it’s said to be the first gay-centered rom-com from a major studio to open across the country. But is it funny? Jason Nathanson can tell you. Also opening this weekend, the creepy thriller Smile, which Jason has not seen because he’s scared of horror movies. Streaming, it’s the highly anticipated sequel Hocus Pocus 2, which Jason was brave enough to see, and the highly divisive Marilyn Monroe movie Blonde, on Netflix.
The Phantom of the Opera, Ballet Pensacola’s 2022-2023 Season opener, tells the story of a masked figure lurking below in the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror on all the inhabit it. Artistic Director Darren McIntyre previews the show.
Donna Dickey previews Bands on the Bayou featuring DLP. The concert is 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, at Bayview Park, 2001 E. Lloyd St.
On Sept. 2, First City Mural Fest released its Request for Qualifications for its upcoming pilot mural celebration. The pilot mural celebration will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 at Emerald Republic Brewing Company. The First City Jurors will select muralists from the Pensacola area to paint panels at Emerald Republic. Holly Benson discusses the details.
Responses are due on Wednesday, Oct. 5. Interested artists can find the RFQ at www.firstcitymuralfest.com.
The Choral Society of Pensacola opens its season with a program of jazz from both sides of the Atlantic. The concert begins at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6 in theSanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resources Center, 913 South I Street. Artistic director Peter Steenblik shares the details.
Buy your tickets at Eventbrite.com or by calling 850-484-1806. Prices in advance are $20 (adult), $18 (senior/military), $10 (student), $5 (child), and $15 (groups of 10 or more). Prices are $5 more at the door.
Ray Guillory is running for the Escambia County School Board District 2 seat. He discusses what separates him from his opponent.
One of the most anticipated and expensive TV shows of all time debuted last night! The first two episodes of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power are out now on Prime Video. Jason Nathanson tells you why it cost a reported billion dollars to make, how it compares to the Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon, and whether or not it’s any good. And if the U.S. Open is catching your attention, you might want to check out the new documentary McEnroe debuting Sunday night on Showtime
Will Kennedy previews tomorrow's football game with Warner. He also talks about former UWF QB Austin Reed's debut with Western Kentucky.
Host Rick Outzen discusses the latest on the Washington High melee and how the school district is making games safer.
Principal Richard Shackle tells parents about the new security measures for football games.
Christy Rogers talks about the upcoming season and the value of buying season subscriptions.
“The U.S. and the Holocaust” is a new three-part, six-hour documentary coming to PBS this fall. In advance of this television event, WSRE PBS will present a free 40-minute preview screening of the film followed by a panel discussion led by Steve Nissim at the Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio on Thursday, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m.
The Gulf Coast Citizens Diplomacy Council is hosting "Local STEAM to Global Innovation" event Sept. 22-23. Jena Melacon has the details.
And tonight in a primetime address to the nation, President Biden will speak of “the continued battle for the Soul of the Nation.” Karen Travers is on Air Force One and has the details.
The Workplace Promise Institute is coming to the Pensacola Beach Hilton Sept. 7-9, with CEUs offered by the UWF. Hear the inside stories from whistleblowers like Tyler Shultz who exposed Theranos and Rebekah Jones on COVID-19 data. Whistleblowers of America founder, Jackie Garrick will enlighten on peer support and workplace best practices to overcome retaliation. harassment and discrimination. Attorneys will provide up to date information on employee's rights and investigators will share insights into real crime stories, such as Special Agent Retired, Bruce Sackman, author, Behind the Murder Curtain. Register at www.workplacepromiseinstitute.org.
The former head of safety and security for the Escambia County School District, Steve Sharp, talks about how he handled security at football games when Jim Paul was the school superintendent.
Rick Outzen shares the latest information on the fight at PHS vs. Washington football and the rumors about why the next two home games have been moved to Tate at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The Pensacola Police Department has yet to release the police reports, and the Escambia County School District has been mum on safety concerns.
It’s likely that moms and dads are hugging their kids a little tighter as they send them back to school this year. The mass shooting in South Texas in May was a horrifying worst-case scenario for every parent in the world. Jim Ryan discusses what families can do to ease the anxiety that comes with returning to campus.
On Oct. 8, up to 40 teams, supported by thousands of spectators, will be competing for bragging rights in the 8th Annual Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival. The races take place on Bayou Texar, just off Bayview Park, near Downtown Pensacola. They are looking for teams, vendors and sponsors. Chairman Chris Bruner has the details
Eric Stevenson attended the PHS vs. Washington football game and shares what he saw and heard. He also talks about parents being left in the dark on school safety issues.
The Escambia County School District has moved two PHS football games away from campus to Saturday mornings. Host Rick Outzen discusses the need for transparency.
The Levin Papantonio Rafferty law firm is hosting a free town hall to discuss legal action that’s being taken to help veterans and their families who got seriously ill after drinking toxic water at the Camp Lejeune Marines Corps base. LPR partner Brian Barr discusses basic facts of the case.
The town hall is 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31, at the Monument to Women Veterans Museum, 980 E. Heinberg St. To learn more, visit here or call Brian Barr (850) 435-7000.
Pensacola High School principal Saraya Miller notifies parents that the Friday, Sept. 2 football game against Tate has been moved to 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3. The PHS game at Pine Forest scheduled for Sept. 9 has also been moved to Saturday.
The Pensacola City Council held workshop to discuss how to make the most of the dwindling Local Option Sales Tax funds. Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier shares what she learned.
The Saenger Theatre and Nederlander National Markets are thrilled to announce the Broadway in Pensacola 2022-2023 season. A select a seat event will be held at the Saenger Theatre on Thursday, Sept. 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. All available seats will be tagged. You can sit in the seat and test drive your subscription and see the view of the stage from your seat. Kathy Summerlin has the details.
Council on Aging of West Florida is bringing high-flying, intergenerational fun to Pensacola’s Casino Beach Friday, Sept. 2 and Saturday, Sept. 3 with its inaugural Kites on the Coast event. Presented in partnership with Pensacola Sports and Visit Pensacola, this free community event will feature eye-catching kite demonstrations by Chicago Kite along with food trucks, kids’ activities, and more. Emily Echevarria shares the details.
The 2022 Bayou Hills Run is Labor Day, Sept. 5. The 5K and 10K are also the official City of Pensacola championships. Pensacola Sports CEO Ray Palmer has the details.
Senior VP Matthew McEvoy discusses Togetherall, a safe, online peer-to-peer community where students can share their feelings anonymously and get the support they need . Pensacola State College and the University of West Florida are among the 300 institutions that use this service.
Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson discusses the Mayor's Bowl, Bayou Hills Race and the election of D.C. Reeves.
Fears of a radiation emergency are rising in Ukraine as fighting continues near the country's largest nuclear power plant in Zaporizhia. All this as residents living nearby are desperately trying to evacuate. Tom Rivers shares the latest.
Community Health Northwest Florida has relocated its clinic and pharmacy from Jordan Street to North Palafox. CEO Chandra Smiley has the details.
ABC News' Jason Nathanson previews films on "Welcome to Wrexham," "Mike" and "Me Time."
Capt. Tim “Lucky” Kinsella, USN, (Ret.) discusses D.C. Reeves' mayoral transition team.
The Biden administration and the U.S. Department of Education on Wednesday announced a three-part plan to help working and middle-class federal student loan borrowers transition back to regular payment as pandemic-related support expires. This plan includes loan forgiveness of up to $20,000. Many borrowers and families may be asking themselves questions like: “What do I have to do to claim this relief?” "Will I have to pay taxes on forgiven student debt?" and "Won't this make inflation worse?" Caleb Silver has answers to these questions and more.
Clark Partington Attorneys at Law has been named one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For. Scott Remington discusses how the firm did it.
Rick Outzen discusses Pensacola Mayor-Elect D.C. Reeves naming Tim Kinsella to lead his transition team.
Rebekah Jones talks about her fight to stay on the ballot and what is ahead in fight to unseat Matt Gaetz.
The Internal Revenue Service is conducting a comprehensive review of their security systems amid threats and rhetoric about IRS agents. "This includes conducting risk assessments based on data-driven decisions given the current environment and monitoring perimeter security, designations of restricted areas, exterior lighting, security around entrances to our facilities and other various protections," IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig wrote to employees and obtained by ABC News. Luke Barr has the details.
The Escambia County Commission is still trying to get Clerk Pam Childers to fund their 401a retirement plans. Attorney Troy Rafferty discusses what happened at last week's hearing. Depositions will start soon.
Dr. Anthony Fauci announced that he’ll step down from his roles of director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and chief medical adviser to President Joe Biden this December. Karen Travers has the details.
Travis Peterson of Impact Campaigns shares his thoughts off the 2022 Florida primaries.
Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses the steps being take to revamp the Contractor Competency Board.
The Northwest Florida Legislative Delegation intervened, and Escambia County has 90-days to work out how to take care of Baker Act patients. State Rep. Michelle Salzman discusses what's next.
For Game of Thrones fans – the big weekend is finally here! The prequel to one of television’s most successful shows debuts Sunday night on HBO – House of the Dragon. But will it satisfy GoT lovers, especially after that much hated series finale? Jason Nathanson has seen the first episode. Out today, a new series that Jason loved – he’ll tell you all about Apple TV+’s Bad Sisters. Marvel’s latest series She-Hulk: Attorney At Law also premiered this week - and he enjoyed it, too.
State Rep. Alex Andrade warns HCA West Florida Hospital halting its Baker Act care could have dire impacts on Panhandle counties.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh previews what he wants the BCC to consider regarding the Contractor's Competency Board at this morning's meeting.
DIB Executive Director Walker Wilson explains how the fund for the the Downtown Improvement Board works.
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons covers the Female Blazer Academy, Baker Act dilemma and other programs.
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons talks about the challenges of dealing with Baker Act patients with West Florida Hospital dropping its care for them.
Despite signs that inflation is beginning to loosen its grip, families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $864 on school supplies, $168 more than in 2019, according to the National Retail Federation. Jim Ryan has the details.
Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier reviews the discussion on the Committee of the Whole and her thoughts on the CRA and DIB.
Escambia County Commissioner Steve Barry discusses his town hall in Walnut Hill and shares the latest on expanding high-speed internet in the county.
The search warrant for Mar-a-Lago was released on Friday. ABC News' Aaron Katersky has the details.
County Administrator Wes Moreno shares his background, approach to the job and what's ahead for the county.
Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson repeats his message that the city needs help from the county and others to help the unhoused in our community.
The UWF football team reported to camp this week with lots of questions to be answered. Who will be the new QB to succeed Austin Reed, who transferred to Western Kentucky? Will the offense be as productive? What about the size of the defensive line? And where will everybody sit at the first home game in three weeks?
Will Kennedy has the answers.
Rebekah Jones has won an expedited hearing on her appeal to try to stay qualified for the Democratic primary for Congress. She shares her thoughts.
At the Committee of the Whole on Thursday, the Escambia County Commission voted 4-1 to make an offer to Interim County Administrator Wes Moreno to become the county administrator. Commissioner Jeff Bergosh explains his vote for Moreno.
Brad Garrett, ABC NEWS crime & Terrorism analyst, separates the facts and speculations regarding the FBI search of former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate.
To celebrate Pensacola’s 462nd birthday, members of the community are invited to explore the newly unveiled America’s First Settlement Trail (A1S Trail). On Sunday, Aug. 14, join the A1S Foundation, Visit Pensacola and the UWF Historic Trust at Plaza Ferdinand VII for the America’s 1st Settlement Trail Ribbon Cutting and Family Fun Day. Visit Pensacola CEO Darien Schaefer has the details.
Escambia County judicial candidate Paul Hamlin responds to his opponent's interview on Wednesday.
In 2020, the Pensacola City Council approved a lease with Streamline Boats of Northwest Florida to build a sport fishing boat factory and create at least 45 jobs at the Port of Pensacola.
This week, the PNJ reported its sister company, Streamline Boat, was facing eviction in Hialeah and asserted that the Pensacola factory was in doubt after an owner change.
Port Director Clark Merritt isn't concerned and the work on the factory's warehouse is moving along.
Reggie Dogan reflects on his friendship with the late Rodney Jackson. He also discusses the community outreach at Community Health Northwest Florida.
Commissioner Lumon May talks about how much the late Rodney Jackson meant to the Black community. He also discusses his concerns about the Children's Trust.
Studer Community Institute founder Quint Studer talks about the late Rodney Jackson's legacy and his work to help minority-owned businesses in the Pensacola area.
On Monday, Public Defender Bruce Miller sent out a letter objecting to claims that Scott Ritchie, candidate for Escambia County Judge, had been making regarding his work at his agency. This morning on WCOA, Ritchie responded to the letter and called out his opponent Paul Hamlin. And Hamlin responded with a counterpunch.
UWF President Martha Saunders is excited about the fall semester, especially with the football playing all its home games on campus.
Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore talks about the amazing year his department has had since the first broadcast of 'Real News with Rick Outzen.'
ABC News' Aaron Katersky discusses the FBI search of Donald Trump's Florida residence for classified documents taken from the White House.
Community Health Northwest Florida Chandra Smiley talks about National Health Center Week.
'Real News with Rick Outzen' celebrated its first anniversary today. DIB executive director Walker Wilson confirms Mayor Grover Robinson is setting up a meeting between his board and homeless advocate Mike Kimbrel. We also talk with our former operations manager, Glenn Johnson, who helped us get on the air in August 2021.
Attorney Scott Ritchie discusses his background and why he is running for Escambia County judge.
Attorney Paul Hamlin discusses his background and why he is running for Escambia County Judge.
Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson has offered to bring the DIB board and homeless advocate Mike Kimbrel to the negotiation table.
This week is National Health Center Week. Community Health Northwest Florida is focusing today on its care for the homeless in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Homeless Health Navigator Walter Arrington has the details.
The WSRE PBS Wine & Food Classic returns this fall with a walkabout tasting from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15, at the SCI Building in downtown Pensacola. Mary Riker has the details.
Every Friday we celebrate Pensacola. Today we honor the Rally Foundation that supports research into childhood cancer. Cindi Bonner joins us.
Jason Nathanson covers Bullet Train, the stylish new Brad Pitt action flick and Ron Howard's Thirteen Lives, about the dramatic rescue of the boys soccer team stuck in a cave in Thailand in 2018. Jason can also breaks down the surprising news that HBO Max is shelving Batgirl, a move that might have a lot of ramifications in the streaming and theatrical world.
ABC News' Aaron Katersky discusses Alex Jones taking the stand in his case involving the families of the children killed in Sandy Hook.
The Fish House has made another list for being among Florida's Best Seafood Restaurants. Maria Goldberg has the details.
Floods, wildfires and other weather disasters are driving up insurance premiums across the country. Jim Ryan offers insights.
County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses the budget workshops, the board's three-year agreement with Sheriff Chip Simmons and the Escambia Children's Trust.
The original drama series 'Sacred Hart' will be filming in Pensacola soon. Creator Elrico Tunstall shares the details.
Last August, Stalhman Hospitality announced its plan to convert the former Mount Olive Baptist Church site, which had been vacant since Hurricane Ivan, into a 15-room hotel, restaurant, speakeasy-style bar and neighborhood gathering spot. Nathan Weinberg of Stalhman Hospitality shares the details of the project that is expected to open before the end of the year.
Commissioner Lumon May previews the Back-to-School event he's doing at Brownsville Community Center with Community Health Northwest Florida. He also discusses the new library planned for the Brownsville area.
The United Nations on Monday launched its 10th Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. UN Chief Antonio Guterres warned the world that “humanity is just one misunderstanding, one miscalculation away from nuclear annihilation,” citing the war in Ukraine, nuclear threats in Asia and the Middle East and many other factors. Ines De La Cuetara has the details.
Downtown Pensacola at the corner of Reus and Zarragozza streets has a poo problem. Human waste is in the stormwater and contaminating yards and roadways in the Tanyard neighborhood, eventually flowing into the waters off of Bruce Beach. Resident and environmental activist Dr. Gloria Horning has been begging for help for seven years.
Environmental projects implemented by Florida’s cities and counties require funding to get done. Learn the basics of how municipal budgets work in Florida, and how you can work to get environmental projects funded in your community, whether it’s tree plantings and habitat restoration, stormwater facilities, renewable energy or bicycle and pedestrian improvements. Christian Wagley has the details.
Jennifer Elzweig is the new Program Manager for Valerie’s House Pensacola. They are actively recruiting volunteers and new families.
Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson discusses Bruce Beach's poo problem, Summer Youth Intern program, and homeless remedies.
President Biden has tested positive for COVID again and isn't experiencing any symptoms. ABC News' White Correspondent Karen Travers discusses this and Speaker Nancy Pelosi's travels in Southeast Asia.
The Back-to-School event at C.A. Weis was a huge success with over 600 kids attending. Community Health Northwest Florida CEO Chandra Smiley has the details.
The FBI and Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office are searching for a Shalimar man who threatened to kill Democratic Congressional candidate Rebekah Jones and her family in a voice message left on her cell phone last week. Jones sent the message to an Inweekly reporter over the weekend.
The FBI and Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office are searching for a Shalimar man who threatened to kill Democratic Congressional candidate Rebekah Jones and her family in a voice message left on her cell phone last week. Jones sent the message to an Inweekly reporter over the weekend.
Ten years of pulled pork and brisket and ribs. Ten years of camaraderie and friendships and stories. And 10 years of fulfilling a mission: giving back to local charities. In fact, more than half a million dollars raised by Pensacola EggFest has gone to support local charities such as Rally Pensacola, Manna Food Pantries and Studer Community Institute. Doug Jolly has the details.
Rodney Whatley discusses the PSC Summer High School Onstage Workshop's 'All Shook Up' and his book "Acting Year One."
State Rep. Michelle Salzman discusses the importance of the Town of Century being designated a rural community.
In a surprise move Wednesday, Sen. Joe Manchin announced that not only had he reached a deal with Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on a major health care-focused spending package -- he had also signed onto climate and energy provisions. Karen Travers has the details.
The city of Mobile has its youth employment program, the Y.E.S. (Youth Empowered for Success) Initiative. Katelynn Machado has the details.
Commissioner Lumon May recaps the graduation ceremony the 2022 Escambia County Summer Youth Program.
The cast of Pensacola Little Theatre's performance of "Cinderella" discusses the musical.
Bands on the Bayou returns Saturday, July 30. The artist is Abby Kasch. Donna Dickey has the details.
The Miami Herald reports on how Florida Power & Light secretly funded a news site that pushed out its agenda, attacked opponents and called other media outlets 'fake news.' Capital Bureau Chief Mary Ellen Klas talks about it with Rick Outzen.
In her first on-air interview since the lawsuit to disqualify her candidacy for Congress, Rebekah Jones pulls no punches and goes off against her primary opponent, alt-right, Matt Gaetz and others.
Community Health Northwest Florida's Barbara Hayes talks about the C.A. Weis Health Ambassadors.
Last week, the Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center released its Justice for Girls Blueprint that details the policy and practice reforms needed to create a healing community system of care for girls in Florida. Alarming numbers of girls in Florida are experiencing sexual victimization, interpersonal violence, unaddressed mental health issues, homelessness, and involvement in the juvenile justice system. CEO Dr. Vicky Basra shares the report's findings and recommended strategies.
Democratic candidate for congress Peggy Schiller discusses her lawsuit to disqualify opponent Rebekah Jones.
Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson talks about the groundbreaking for revitalization project at Bruce Beach.
ABC News' Jim Ryan talks about apps that are available to help people when they're pulled over by cops.
Last week, NorthEscambia.com reported the Escambia County School Board voted 3-2 to increase property taxes. School Board member Kevin Adams, who voted against the motion, provides the background the vote.
It started as way to remember a friend that's how Jon Shell describes the impetus behind his seven-year effort to build the Blake Doyle Skatepark.
On Saturday, July 16, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was officially launched as a service for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Those in need of the service can call or text "9-8-8" to be connected with a trained mental health professional. Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender has the details.
Ashley McGlothren, the Pensacola Little Theatre's marketing director, discusses the upcoming performance of 'Cinderella.'
Chief Curator Anna Wall discusses the University of West Florida Pensacola Museum of Art again achieving accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to the nation’s museums.
Matt Wolfe talks about San Diego Comic-Con, Jordan Peele's "Nope" and Netflix's "The Gray Man."
President Biden on Wednesday announced a few executive actions to address climate change, with a focus on helping Americans facing extreme heat -- but the steps fall short of the more sweeping measures climate activists are calling for. Karen Travers has the details.
Dr. Karen Evans discusses the new UWF School of Education and its potential impact on public education.
Allison Patton discusses her background, why she is running and what she hopes to accomplish if elected.
Mo Padden discusses her background, why she is running and what she hopes to accomplish if elected.
Ann Hill discusses her background, why she is running and what she hopes to accomplish if elected.
Commissioner Lumon May talks about his intimate personal friend, Rep. Jayer Williamson.
State Rep. Jayer Williamson talks about his political career and shares his insights in how to be successful in the Florida Legislature.
Serena Williams began — and ended — her comeback at Wimbledon after 364 days out of singles competition looking very much like someone who hadn’t competed in just that long. And while the 40-year-old Williams came within two points of victory, she could not finish the job against an opponent making her Wimbledon debut and bowed out with a 7-5, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7) loss to 115th-ranked Harmony Tan of France. Tom Rivers has the details.
The LeaP program is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) to select up to two class projects to be executed by class project teams. Interested nonprofit, Chamber members are asked to submit an application to the Chamber by the deadline. Then, each applicant will be notified at a later date if they’ve been selected to present their proposed projects to this year’s LeaP Class in greater detail. The class members will then choose the project(s) to implement.
To view or download the RFP and application form, visit the Chamber website at www.PensacolaChamber.com. Please also review the Class Project Purpose and Guidelines document prior to applying to see how LeaP may serve your organization.
Proposals are due in PDF format via email by 5:00 PM on Thursday, June 30th. If you have any questions please contact, Jessica Simpson at leap@pensacolachamber.com.
ECSO Commander Andrew Hobbs recently completed a 10-week course with the FBI National Academy. He shares the details.
From 'Pensacola Speaks' archives, Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, previews President Donald Trump's campaign rally in December 2017.
In June 2017 during a practice session for the annual Congressional Baseball Game for Charity in Alexandria, Va, James Hodgkinson shot several people , including Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.). Dan McFaul shared the details with 'Pensacola Speaks' listeners.
From the 'Pensacola Speaks' archives, this is my interview with former Obama Press Secretary and Communications Director Jennifer Palmieri from May 4, 2017.
strong>Retired Lt. Col. Andrew Del Gaudio challenges veterans to step up and get involved in their communities. Pensacola Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier shares why she supports a feasibility study on the city taking over the electric utility. Gulf Breeze City Manager Samantha Abell has discusses its internal investigation of a contractor's cross-connected water and sewer lines on Soundside Drive. Seville Quarter's Buck Mitchell talks about what makes the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival so special.
By October 2021, the radio hitting its stride. I weigh in on PNJ's view that the Board of County Commissioners shouldn't hire legal representation. TDC chair David Bear discusses why County Clerk Pam Childers is so upset about the Tourist Development Council wanting to audit of how she and the county administration spend bed tax dollars. I talk about Lewis Bear Jr. on National Grouch Day. Kevin Brown shares his background and why he is running for Escambia County Commission District 2.
September 2021 was about county leadership: Commissioner Doug Underhill being censured, the recording of the BCC meeting, my response to PNJ attacks and Bergosh on yet another Childers memo.
These are four of the most played podcasts from August 2022: David Morgan on his statue, Rep. State Jayer Williamson, Atty Sam Geisler on Skanska ruling and D. C Reeves announcing his candidacy.
Fiesta Pensacola has announced the establishment of a new Multicultural Heritage Committee (MHC) to promote diversity and inclusivity within the organization, city and community. Executive Director Bridgette Middleton has the details.
Visit Pensacola has announced its event grant recipients for the 2023 fiscal year taking place Oct. 1, 2022 – Sept. 30, 2023. CEO Darien Schaefer has the details.
Ready for a little more conversation about Elvis? The highly anticipated biopic debuts today - did Jason have a burning love for it, or did he return to sender? Is it a hound dog, or did it leave him all shook up?
Christian Wagley discusses why he moved the June Slow Ride to July and impact of Climate Change on our region.
Tourist Development Council chair David Bear discusses why the group reduced Clerk Pam Childers' administrative fee by $212,500.
The Junior League of Pensacola (JULEP) is excited to recruit the 4th annual Spark Board, selecting high school junior and senior female leaders in our community to serve a one-year term (September 2022 – May 2023). Laura Griffin has the details and reminds of Rick of an honor he received from the organization.
As Congress touts a gun safety bill it hopes will reduce gun violence, questions linger over just how effective the bill will be. Brad Garrett gives his take and breaks down what Congress has proposed, including measures like a 10-day waiting period to review juvenile and mental health records for those younger than 21, funding state red flag laws, and restricting boyfriend/intimate partners with a history of domestic violence from buying guns. He also breaks down the new information about the lack of law enforcement action during the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, with the Director of Texas Public Safety called "an abject failure".
City of Pensacola PIO Kaycee Lagarde discusses the 2022 Pensacola Citizens Academy which recently completed its nine-week interactive course.
President Biden worked the room at a COVID-19 vaccine clinic set up at a church in Washington DC on Tuesday, the first day that kids under the age of 5 could get vaccine shots. ABC News' Karen Travers has the details.
2015 Pensacola Staremaster Champion Emily Echevarria has the details on the annual Pete Moore Automotive Team Senior Chill Out, a one-day donation drive for new air conditioners, fans, and funds from the community to help seniors beat the heat.
Chamber CEO Todd Thomson discusses its Workforce Development Summit that will be from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28, at the CareerSource EscaRosa in Eastgate Plaza on North Ninth Avenue.
Lindsey Cannon of the Children's Home Society talks the partnership with Community Health Northwest Florida, UWF and the Escambia County School District that has helped turn around C.A. Weis Elementary.
Attorney Troy Rafferty discusses what happened at the Friday, June 17 hearing of the lawsuits versus Clerk Pam Childers over the county's 401(a) retirement plan.
Mayor Grover Robinson talks about scooter corrals, Roger Scott Pool, Carpenter Creek and other city issues.
Community Health Northwest Florida CEO Chandra Smiley discusses the value of setting up health clinics in local schools, vaccines for child under five and much more.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses how the county will fund fire safety, more jobs coming to the county and how Wes Moreno netted the county $1 million.
The Pensacola City Charter Review Commission has turned its final report to the Pensacola City Council. Former Mayor Mike Wiggins talks some of the big changes.
The University of West Florida’s College of Business is hosting the U.S. Air Force Junior ROTC Flight Academy. Eight high school and two college cadets from across the U.S. are attending the eight-week flight training program. Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn six college credits and complete their private pilot certifications. Dr. Bill Huth discusses the program.
Next week, the Summer Festival Chorus has its second session. Dr. Peter Steenblik has the details.
On Saturday, June 18, The Watson Family Foundation will host a free family-friendly event at Museum Plaza, located at 120 Church Street, from 12 pm-6 pm. This event will include live performances throughout the day, speakers, games, various vendors, a kid’s play zone, a live DJ, and food trucks. This is a family reunion-themed event where everyone is welcome to celebrate black culture, business, and progress. Kimberly and Aaron Watson share the details.
From 6-7:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 12, Dr. Dana Suskind, world-class pediatric surgeon, social scientist, and best-selling author, shares a new look at the neuroscience of early childhood development—and how it can guide us toward a future in which every child has the opportunity to fulfill their potential! Reggie Dogan previews the event and discusses the Studer Community Institute's early child development initiatives.
Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering Dean Jaromy Kuhl discusses the Dr. Faeza Rashid Kazmier STEM Scholarship Endowment.
The Bud Light Fishing Rodeo begins June 24. Pensacola Sports CEO Ray Palmer has the details.
The dinosaurs are back, and ready to take a bite out of the box office! Jurassic World Dominion will knock Top Gun: Maverick out of the top spot when it opens this weekend. Jason has thoughts. Also new this week, the latest Disney+/Marvel series Ms. Marvel is groundbreaking and has a charming star, but is that enough to live up to the critically acclaimed series that have come before it? And on Netflix, Adam Sandler has a new basketball drama, and there’s a new Amy Schumer and friends comedy special in which you might see Jason in the audience.
With Sena Maddison pursuing a pro golf career in Saudi Arabia, Eric Stevenson sat in as my co-host.
The city of Milton is being named to several Top 10 lists - Cheapest Place to Live, Best Place to Live in Panhandle and Best Old Town in Florida. City Manager Randy Jorgensen talks about the revitalization of his town.
On Friday, June 10, Innisfree is hosting a “topping out” party for its newest Pensacola Beach hotel, Fairfield by Marriott, at 16 Via de Luna. Rich Chism shares the details on this $75-million project that is expected to open next spring.
Lakeview Center, FamiliesFirst Network and Global Connections to Employment will host a job fair from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, June 15, at the Lakeview Activity Center, 1110 W. Lakeview Ave. April Millender has the details.
This week, Tampa Bay Times reporter Ian Hodgson reported on the State Auditor General's investigation into the first months of the COVID pandemic had found missing case and death data and incomplete contact tracing as the virus spread across Florida. Hodgson was my guest this morning.
Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender discusses beach traffic and this week's Committee of the Whole.
Juliana Child gives the details on the summer performing arts camps put on by Pensacola Children's
After meeting with President Joe Biden, actor Matthew McConaughey, a native of Uvalde, Texas, made a passionate plea for gun reform at Tuesday's White House press briefing.
“How can we make the loss of these lives matter?" he said. "While we honor and acknowledge the victims, we need to recognize that this time, seems that something is different."
His wife, Camila Alves, brought bright green high-top Converse sneakers from one of the victims in the massacre at Robb Elementary school, Maite Rodriguez. McConaughey noted that the shoes were the "only clear evidence that could identify her."
ABC News White House Correspondent Karen Travers was in the room where it happened.
Travel Awaits named The District to its top 11 steakhouses. It's the only restaurant in Florida to make the list. Buck Mitchell shares the details.
Asst. State Attorney Frederick Longmire previews the upcoming Susie A. Longmire-Stromas 2022 Mental Health Symposium on Saturday, June 25 at UWF Conference Center.
ACE president Mary Henriques explains the next round of ACE (Arts, Culture, Entertainment) grants.
Pensacola Little Theatre is in the midst of a transformation and want you as a downtown neighbor to understand that The Center will be a place to utilize as a community space. They are hosting an open house today at 5:30 p.m. to discuss their plans. Executive Director Sid Williams-Heath shares the details.
Co-composer Eric Dozier discusses the play that will be in Pensacola on June 17 and 18 and the role of music in building community.
Licensed Professional Counselor Rachel Ann Dine shares her insights from the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial.
ABC News' entertainment guru Jason Nathanson discusses the huge first weekend that Top Gun Maverick and Stranger Things.
Join Bike Pensacola for the most popular bike ride in town--the Slow Ride! Each month we explore the quiet, scenic streets of Pensacola's many historic neighborhoods for a fun and leisurely ride among friends. Christian Wagley has the details.
President of Sailing Operations for NYYC American Magic Terry Hutchinson discusses training in Pensacola Bay for the 2024 America's Cup.
Innisfree Hotels is sponsoring Startups on the Blocks, an entrepreneurial support program and pitch competition that empowers founders of color in Northwest Florida. Lloyd Reshard provides the details.
Time continues to tick as the Pensacola Charter Review Commission finds itself in a time crunch to finish its report. The report with its recommended charter changes is due to the Pensacola City Council by the end of June. Former Pensacola Mayor Mike Wiggins discusses the decisions made last night.
Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore discusses to prepare your family, home and business for hurricane season.
In partnership with Zarzaur Law, P.A., the YMCA of Northwest Florida is excited to announce the launch of the Zarzaur Law “Zingrays” Swim Team for its inaugural summer 2022 debut. Andrea Rosenbaum has the details.
Dr. Simone Wildes, infectious diseases physician at South Shore Health in Weymouth, Mass, talks about the current monkey pox outbreak; probable cases of severe hepatitis among children in Alabama; and . the rise of children testing positive for COVID-19 last week.
Dr. Simone Wildes, infectious diseases physician at South Shore Health in Weymouth, Mass, talks about the current monkey pox outbreak; probable cases of severe hepatitis among children in Alabama; and . the rise of children testing positive for COVID-19 last week.
HBA Tradesmen Education Council chair Mary Jordan talks her organizations job fair for Escambia high school students.
Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender discusses the beach traffic over Memorial Day Weekend.
The Pensacola Children’s Chorus will perform for a sold-out audience at Carnegie Hall in New York City on June 13. Artistic and Executive Director Alex Gartner has the details.
America’s 1st Settlement Trail, nicknamed the A1S Trail, is a three-mile pedestrian trail outlining the nation’s history through a series of stops throughout downtown Pensacola. A1S Foundation founder Michael Carro shares the details.
After several pedestrian accidents and deaths, Escambia County and the city of Pensacola listened to the citizens in their communities’ concerns, realizing that historic West Jackson Street needs to be safer.
Reimagine Jackson Street is the city and county’s master plan to revitalize the street that connects diverse and residential citizens from Fairfield Drive to A Street. The plan focuses on making the street more pleasing to the eyes and safer for those traveling on the road. After the public vocalized their concerns at a public workshop at Brownsville Community Center on May 24, it became clear that safety needed to be prioritized over appearances.
Attendees touched on motor vehicle and pedestrian crashes, drainage problems, and lack of lighting. Pensacola City Councilman Delarian Wiggins appeared on WCOA this morning.
Florida newspapers have reported the DOH Inspector General found the allegations from the creator of the DOH COVID-19 Dashboard that her bosses pressured her to falsify and hid pandemic data were either unsubstantiated or unfounded. One allegation did occur, but the IG determined no policy was violated and exonerated the DOH officials.
The one voice missing in the reporting is that of the complainant, Rebekah Jones - that was until today. Jones told me she wasn’t surprised by the IG findings, saying the report was leaked to the media before it was sent to her. She asserted that the investigators never spoke with her about the allegations in her complaint. Read more.
Registration for IHMC’s 2022 Summer Robotics Camp is open for the Pensacola campus. Rising eighth-, ninth-, and 10th-graders can register to spend a week learning about computer programming and robots. Shannon Nickinson has the details.
The Palafox Market will celebrate 15 years in Saturday, May 14 with a block party. DIB Executive Director Walker Wilson has the details.
ABC News' Entertainment guru Jason Nathanson reviews another great weekend for TV viewing: “Hacks,” on “The Lincoln Lawyer,” “The Kids in the Hall” and “The Time Traveler’s Wife.”
The Escambia County Commission will discuss how to fund fire service in the county at its Committee of the Whole this morning. Commissioner Jeff Bergosh previews the meeting.
Chief Justice Roberts has ordered the Marshal of the Supreme Court (a retired Army Colonel) to conduct the investigation into last week's leak from the Court.
This would be a difficult assignment for seasoned FBI agents who specialize in these types of investigations, but it is particularly daunting for the Supreme Court Marshals whose primary function is to provide security for the Justices and the Supreme Court building. ABC News's crime & terrorism analyst Brad Garrett discusses the challenges of the investigation.
Former Pensacola Mayor Mike Wiggins reviews last week's Charter Review Commission meeting.
MESS Hall founder Megan Pratt discusses the events planned to celebrate her organization's 10th anniversary.
Pensacola International Airport's Matt Coughlin talks about the new parking spaces added, Spirit Airlines, adding more gates and ST Engineering's continued growth.
Pensacola City Councilman Jared Moore talks about the proposed Scenic Hwy trail, skatepark and more on the council's agenda.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics released April’s Consumer Price Index report which gives a snapshot of current inflation numbers. The CPI was 8.3%, down slightly from March. Caleb Silver of Investopedia shared his thoughts minutes before the report was released.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses the latest on moving inmates out of the old county jail.
ABC News White House correspondent Karen Travers discusses President Biden's ab-lib moment regarding Russian President Vladmir Putin.
Aluma Designs owner David Keigley discusses his new location and why he chose to build it in downtown Pensacola.
Attorney Peter Mougey and wife Katrina are sponsoring the “Dinner on the Grounds” fundraiser event to benefit the Heart of Pensacola program. The event is slated for April 14, from 6-11 p.m. at 5eleven Palafox.
Heart of Pensacola currently provides weekly boxes and backpacks of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy snacks to more than 500 families in our community. School-aged children receive a weekly backpack filled with nutritious food to get them through the weekend.
ABC News' Jason Nathanson talks about being backstage when Will Smith slapped Chris Rock.
The First Judicial Circuit will host a Driver’s License Clinic on Friday, March 25. Judge Jennifer J. Frydrychowicz has the details.
Stephanie Lawrence Yelton talks about playing in the NCAA women's basketball tournament. She walks through the play that won the 1994 title with only 0.7 seconds left on the clock. Yelton is on pace to be the University of West Florida's winningest women's basketball coach.
Mako Athletics has move to downtown Pensacola and will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, March 19. Owner Brandon Massie has the details.
Travis Peterson discusses a public meeting and workshop to be held on Tuesday, March 22 to gather public input and ideas to develop a Master Plan for the future improvement of West Jackson Street, between A Street and Fairfield Drive.
If you're feeling mad, frustrated or nervous, the kindergarteners of West Side Elementary have a pep talk for you. Call their hotline - 707-873-7862.
The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce invites one and all to “Go Irish on the Island” on Thursday, March 17 for St. Patrick's Day. This year marks the Chamber’s 35th year of “crawling” and will feature 16 participating beach bars, restaurants and hotels serving up Irish drink specials, music and mischief all day long. Pensacola Beach Chamber CEO Meg Peltier has the details.
Assistant City Administrator Amy Miller gives updates on the Port of Pensacola and Pensacola International Airport.
ABC News correspondent Ines De La Cuetara is with refugees in Rzezsnow, Poland. She shares what she has learned over the weekend.
Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh explained some of the dynamics behind the Committee of the Whole on the county jail.
Elizabeth Melendez Fisher Good, author of “Groomed” and CEO of The Foundation United, talks about how child trafficking often starts in the home.
Alysia Martinez of the Pensacola Humane Society shares the story behind the recent adoption of Rylan.
Trial attorney Mike Papantonio exposes NextEra while lawmakers defend Florida Power & Light's rate hikes.
Congressional candidate Rebekah Jones has created a dashboard to follow what Florida Power & Light is doing with its rates. She's also helping locals pay their power bills.
UWF accounting professor, Dr. Barbara White, talks about how her tax students help locals prepare their returns.
Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson hints that Baptist Health Care has a plan for its Moreno Street campus that will include affordable housing.
Plans have been unveiled for a new Escambia County Fire Rescue training facility in Gonzalez. Commissioner Steven Barry shares the details.
A new television program on WSRE PBS will spotlight a variety of cultural interests and the diversity of local communities. The first episode of “Connecting the Community” airs at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, with its focus on local veterans and the legacy of Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James, Jr. Viewers can also watch the program on demand at video.wsre.org or via the PBS Video App. Host and producer Dr. Rameca Leary previews the show.