Daily editionFriday, January 9th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 9th of January.
Community
The Blue Angels announced their 2027 air show schedule, featuring two local events (the Pensacola Beach Air Show on July 17 and the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on Nov. 5-6) while the season begins in El Centro on March 13.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
HatchMark Studio is hosting its second annual College Night on Jan. 21 from 5 to 7 pm at 1201 Barrancas Avenue to connect local college students in design, marketing, and communications with area businesses and agencies, aiming to foster meaningful career connections.
Local PulseRead more
The University of West Florida Board of Trustees approved Manny Diaz as president on Thursday with a five-year contract — he has been interim president since July and his appointment now awaits final approval by the state Board of Governors on Jan. 29.
WUWFRead more
UWF trustees voted 11–1 to name interim President Manny Diaz Jr. as president-elect, sending his nomination to the Florida Board of Governors for confirmation on Jan. 29.
He will continue as leader with a contract that may approach $1 million a year (including bonuses) and boost UWF’s regional ties.
WUWFRead more
Government
Florida's new HALO law requires people recording first responders to keep a 25-ft distance when asked, and those who do not comply face misdemeanor penalties.
Citizens still enjoy their rights to record public events but must not interfere with officials doing their jobs.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr announced new U.S. Dietary Guidelines that call for more protein and healthy fats while steering people away from highly processed foods — local markets now offer deals on fresh produce to help customers follow the new advice.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Citizens are experiencing longer wait times at ERs and urgent care centers in Pensacola as flu cases surge; hospitals are managing increased patient volumes with enhanced triage procedures (the CDC reports widespread high flu activity nationwide).
WEAR-TVRead more
Lifestyle
Frida’s Cantina debuts in Pensacola offering a menu of birria and homemade comfort food (inspired by the owner’s Mexico City roots) that blends Mexican, Central American, and American favorites.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
American Magic announced a partnership with SailGP to make Pensacola the training base for the league's off-season.
Sailors and boats will use local waters for practice ahead of upcoming races.
Pensacola News JournalRead more