Daily editionFriday, April 10th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 10th of April.
Community
Epps Christian Center will host its 19th annual Homeless Awareness Day on April 11 at 10 a.m. The event offers free haircuts, hot meals, 30,000 lbs of food, clothing, health screenings, and live entertainment for those in need, and the center has long served as a trusted support hub.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Local expert Seth Kaplan will speak on building neighborhood ties at CivicCon on April 14 at 2 E. Wright St. in downtown Pensacola, with free community workshops on April 15 at Maritime Place — events that offer practical steps to connect and strengthen local bonds.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
The 2026 Rising Stars program has named 64 young professionals chosen from over 120 nominations.
The accolade celebrates emerging leaders in law, healthcare, education (and more) and continues a 20-year legacy to boost local talent.
Rick's BlogRead more
Business
Chick-fil-A will open its new Mobile Highway restaurant (4735 Mobile Highway) on April 16.
Customers wearing cow-themed accessories can redeem a free entrée or kid’s meal on opening day, and the location is set to create about 130 jobs and donate $25,000 to Feeding the Gulf Coast.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
A contract dispute between Scripps and Comcast has left TV viewers unable to watch key local channels & Fox in Pensacola since April 9, with disruptions also seen in West Palm Beach, Sarasota, Gainesville, and Tallahassee.
The blackout affects viewers amid ongoing negotiations over local NHL game broadcasts.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Perfect Plain Brewing launched The Yard, a crisp amber lager brewed in collaboration with Pensacola Naval Air Station that offers hazelnut and toasted-bread flavors (4.5% ABV) and a smooth finish.
The beer is available on draught and in 6-pack cans at the downtown taproom.
Local PulseRead more
Education
UWF will welcome its inaugural Fredric G. Levin Scholars cohort this fall in an invitation-only program that offers leadership development, priority registration, up to $5,000 yearly support, and hands-on experiences (including projects and community service) to help scholars excel during their four years.
University of West FloridaRead more
Environment
During alligator mating season, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises residents to call the free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR if a gator is spotted in a yard or pool — removal is only allowed through state programs and unauthorized hunting is illegal.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Colorado State University forecasts a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season with 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 2 major hurricanes — a moderate-to-strong El Niño may ease hurricane risks even as the Panhandle and Big Bend remain most vulnerable.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Florida’s minimum wage for non-tipped workers will rise to $15 an hour on Sept. 30, 2026 following annual $1 increases approved by voters in 2020, while tipped wages will rise to $11.98.
Future increases after 2026 will tie to inflation.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
Experts warn that invasive Asian needle ants are spreading in the US including Florida—residents need to be cautious around mulch, potted plants and logs to reduce painful stings that may trigger allergic reactions.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. and Athletic Director Dave Scott announced on April 2 that the university will move to Division I athletics this fall by joining the Atlantic Sun and United Athletic Conferences to boost profile and revenue (with plans for a new stadium).
WUWFRead more
Pensacola Events
Junie B. Jones The Musical
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 2:30-4:30 p.m. — Pensacola Little Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a heartwarming and comedic adventure with the beloved character Junie B. Jones in a sensory-friendly performance.
Pensacola Pickles & Wings Family Festival
Monday, April 13th, 2026 · 10 AM – 8 PM — Seville Square — Free admission — Experience the fun with the legendary Pickle Priest and a day filled with pickle-themed festivities.
Oyster Restoration Initiative Constructability Meeting
Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 · 10 AM – 12 PM — Bayview Community Center — Free entry — Engage in a workshop to shape the future of oyster reef restoration in Pensacola.
Live Well, Age Well Conference
Thursday, April 16th, 2026 · 5:30-8:30 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Pensacola Downtown — Event pricing not specified — Discover the latest in wellness, longevity, and aesthetic medicine with expert speakers and live demonstrations.
Strong Girls, Strong Minds: Mental Health Summit 2026
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Pensacola State College - Warrington Campus — Free entry — Explore mental wellness with therapy dogs, expert talks, and fun activities.
Brunch with The Mylo Crew
Sunday, April 19th, 2026 · 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Perfect Plain Brewing Co. — Free entry — Enjoy brunch while meeting adoptable pups and supporting a local rescue organization.
Pensacola Unplugged Songwriter Showcase
Saturday, April 25th, 2026 · 6:30-9:30 p.m. — Studer Community Institute — Free entry — Experience a night of raw talent and intimate performances from talented local artists.
Pensacola Tattoo Expo 2026
Friday, May 1st, 2026 · 11 a.m. — Pensacola Interstate Fair — Entrance fee required — Experience live tattooing from over 100 talented artists and participate in exciting raffle giveaways.
BRNCHLLA on the Beach
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 · 3-8 p.m. — Gulfside Pavilion — $25 General Admission — Celebrate spring with music, delicious food, and beach games at this vibrant margarita brunch party.
Free Yoga at Bayview Park
Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 · 9:30-10:30 a.m. — Bayview Park — Free entry — Enjoy a refreshing outdoor yoga session with certified instructors in a beautiful park setting.