Daily editionTuesday, April 15th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 15th of April.
Community
After several weeks of close voting, thousands of Pensacola residents chose Smash'N'Dash Burgers and BBQ food truck as the winner of the PNJ Burger Bracket with 69.35% of votes—beating its final rival and winning local hearts with hand-made smash burgers and Southern favorites.
The food truck now serves at 1919 Creighton Road Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
Gov. Ron DeSantis may have to replace up to three out-of-state appointees on the UWF Board of Trustees with local leaders, as one resignation and committee rejections leave openings—local figures like Judy Bense, David Bear, and Quint Studer are among those recommended to restore a local connection to the board.
Rick's BlogRead more
University of West Florida is hosting its seventh Day of Giving on April 17 to raise funds for its Here for Good campaign—targeting $175,000 and 1,200 individual donations during a 24-hour online fundraiser.
The event will include a happy hour for alumni and friends at O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for those 21 and older.
University of West FloridaRead more
Government
Pensacola city officials removed the low-barrier homeless shelter option from the Eastside Community Redevelopment Area plan after residents voiced concerns about gentrification—residents in this majority Black district felt the change could lead to unwanted transformation.
The Eastside redevelopment board voted Monday to make the adjustment while keeping the option in other areas for future conversations.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Real Estate
Pensacola donated three properties to a community land trust that will build two new homes and rehabilitate a third to be finished this summer for buyers making 120% or less of the median income — the homes will be resold with a price cap to keep them affordable.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
Steven Clay has been named the new head coach of Gulf Breeze girls indoor volleyball after serving as a longtime assistant, replacing Jasmine King who resigned to take a college coaching opportunity.
He has spent many years in various coaching roles and expects a seamless transition — keeping the team's winning tradition in focus.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Accidents
Multiple fire crews responded to a house fire on Milestone Boulevard early Monday morning that affected several homes & are working to contain the blaze while investigating its cause with no injuries reported.
WEAR-TVRead more
Pensacola Events
Dog Man - The Musical
Wednesday, April 16th, 2025 · 6:30-8:00 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience the humorous adventures of Dog Man in this captivating musical adaptation for families.
Five Sisters Blues Cafe — The Cat Daddy Blues Band
Friday, April 18th, 2025 · 5-9 p.m. — Five Sisters Blues Cafe — Enjoy Southern-style dishes while grooving to live blues music.
Easter Sunrise Service
Sunday, April 20th, 2025 · 11 AM — Westernmark Park — Free entry — Celebrate Easter with a morning service featuring Pastor Dave Crenshaw and complimentary coffee and donuts.
Midnight Release Slumber Party for Great Big Beautiful Life
Monday, April 21st, 2025 · 10:30 PM - 12:00 AM — Bodacious Bookstore and Cafe — Ticket required — Celebrate the launch of Emily Henry’s new book in cozy PJs with snacks, drinks, and surprises.
Cumberland School of Law Pensacola Alumni Reception
Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025 · 5-7 p.m. — Clark Partington Attorneys at Law — Free entry — Connect with fellow alumni in a welcoming environment.
Victory Emerald Nationals 2025
Friday, April 25th, 2025 · April 25-27 — 201 E Gregory St, Pensacola, FL — In-person participation — Cheerleading competition featuring all-star teams.
Do The '80s Pub Crawl
Saturday, April 26th, 2025 · 4:30-9 p.m. — The Kennedy — 25% OFF tickets available — Relive the raddest decade with retro contests and social media challenges at Pensacola's '80s-themed pub crawl.
2025 Pensacola Tattoo Expo
Friday, May 2nd, 2025 · 11 AM - 11 PM — Pensacola Interstate Fair — Entrance pass required — Immerse yourself in the artistry with live tattooing from award-winning artists and exciting raffle giveaways.
Mimosa Derby Day Party
Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 · 3-8 p.m. — Emerald Republic Brewing — Pricing varies — Experience the festive elegance of the Kentucky Derby with mimosas, VIP options, and live music.
Mad Scientist Jenn: A Food Science Interactive Show! Star Wars Edition
Sunday, May 4th, 2025 · 2:00 – 3:30 PM — A Sweet Party — All ages welcome — Experience a glow-in-the-dark food science adventure with a Star Wars theme and exciting experiments.