Good morning, Pensacola.

Residents in Avondale who received postcards can drop off eligible items like old furniture, appliances, bicycles and hazardous waste free on Jan.

7 if placed at the curb by 7 a.m. in the designated area; items outside the area will not be collected.

Escambia County Fire Rescue added two red bulbs to its wreath display in its month-long *Keep the Wreath Green* campaign after responding to two cooking fires on Monday, Dec.

29 at Beal Street and East Olive Road. Now 11 bulbs mark the display as a warning to heat homes safely.

Officials reported 22 crashes, including three motorcycle fatalities, at the Gregory Street and 14th Avenue intersection near the Chappie James Bridge in 2025, and are working with FDOT (which recently began a review) to study safety solutions.

On Tuesday, a gust of wind caused cash to spill from a Brink's truck behind Wells Fargo on Fairfield Drive, sparking bystanders & volunteers to gather the scattered money.

The Quayside Art Gallery, established in 1973 by local artists seeking better ways to display and sell art, continues to thrive in its historic downtown building and serves as a creative hub for the community.

YMCA Reads! is assisting struggling kindergarten to fourth-grade ECPS students by pairing over 500 kids with volunteers at seven elementary schools after school (until 4 p.m.) Monday through Thursday, which has boosted reading scores and improved behavior.

Florida SNAP recipients will not be able to use benefits for soda, energy drinks, candy, or prepared desserts starting April 20.

The USDA says the change is meant to promote healthier food choices for those relying on federal assistance.

During 2025, over 55 restaurants opened in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, expanding Pensacola's dining scene with options ranging from local bakeries to national chains like Five Guys.

Some local favorites relocated to new venues (such as Siam Thai and J’s Bakery) to offer refreshed settings for established eateries.

Florida State announced that former Pensacola Catholic star Ja'Bril Rawls stayed with the Seminoles after planning to enter the transfer portal on Jan.

2, following a breakout season with 40 tackles and an interception.

Mac & Cheese Festival

12-6 p.m. — Gary's Brewery & Biergarten — Entry fee applies — Indulge in a cheesy extravaganza featuring food trucks, vendors, and fun for the whole family.

Jake Klark Comedy Show

7-11:59 p.m. — Seville Quarter — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-energy comedy of Jake Klark and friends in a phone-free environment.

Sincere Engineer with The Handsome Scoundrels

7-9 p.m. — The Handlebar — Live music concert — Enjoy a night of indie rock with Sincere Engineer and The Handsome Scoundrels.

Grown-Up Book Fair at Odd Colony

11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Odd Colony Brewing Company — Free entry — Relive childhood nostalgia with books, local authors, and delicious treats while sipping a refreshing beverage.

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show

12-3 a.m. — 8 S 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL — Ticket required — Experience an interactive comedy murder mystery dinner show where the culprit could be sitting right next to you.

Great Pages Circus

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Pensacola Interstate Fair — Cash only — Experience an action-packed circus with aerial acts, juggling, and motorcycle mayhem.