Daily editionThursday, January 1st, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of January.
Community
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 CountyRead more
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.
Escambia CountyRead more
Culture
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.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
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.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
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.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Lifestyle
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.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
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.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Accidents
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.
WEAR-TVRead more