Pensacola's Outback Reportedly Safe Amid Restaraunt Closures

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Good news for steak lovers—Pensacola's Outback Steakhouse isn't going anywhere. While the chain's parent company, Bloomin' Brands, has closed nearly two dozen locations nationwide in recent months, the Airport Boulevard restaurant appears safe. A kitchen manager there tells the PNJ that they've heard nothing about any closure plans. The company is actually doubling down on Outback, planning a 75-million-dollar turnaround focused on what the CEO calls "steak excellence." All remaining locations will get renovations by 2028, with brighter interiors, new menus, and better service. The company says it's getting back to its roots as a serious steakhouse.

Escambia Fire Crews Respond to Perdido Street Fire

Escambia County, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Escambia County fire crews responded to a house fire on Tuesday evening. Firefighters responded to a home on Perdido Street near Old Corry Field Road around quarter-till 6 yesterday. The good news — everyone inside made it out safely. Officials haven't yet determined the extent of the damage. We'll keep you updated as we learn more about what caused the fire.

Nonprofit Delivering Food Bags to Local Schools

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Food pantries across the Florida Panhandle are struggling as the government shutdown drags on. Even if the House passes a bill today, families could wait weeks for paychecks or benefits to resume. That's where "Food Raising Friends" is stepping in. The nonprofit is delivering nearly a thousand Thanksgiving bags to 26 schools across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties Wednesday—enough to feed at least 4,000 people for up to six days. They've seen requests jump dramatically this year, from 700 bags to over 1,100. With SNAP benefits frozen for November and food costs rising, the need is growing. The group is now asking for donations—especially canned chicken and vegetables—to start packing Christmas bags.