Daily editionThursday, April 17th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of April.
Education
The University of West Florida received a $2 million grant from the Tourist Development Council to build Darrell Gooden Stadium — pending approval from the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners.
The new facility will nearly double seating from 3,800 to 7,500 and host football games, concerts and community events.
University of West FloridaRead more
Environment
Pensacola residents can attend a free Earth Day screening at the Pensacola Little Theater on April 22 when the documentary How to Poison a Planet is shown to reveal how PFAS chemicals have affected local water supplies — environmental attorney Ned McWilliams of Levin Papantonio will lead a Q&A session after the film.
Rick's BlogRead more
Health
Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola was named one of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals for 2025 by Newsweek, marking the fifth year in a row the hospital earned this rating—recognizing its care for mothers, newborns and families.
The hospital also uses programs to help with transportation and insurance challenges and features the region’s only Level III NICU.
Local PulseRead more
Sports
Pensacola angler David Shepard caught a 107-inch bluefin tuna estimated to weigh between 600 and 700 pounds on Tuesday evening about 112 miles offshore after a three-and-a-half-hour battle with the fish.
The catch — nearly as large as Florida’s record 110-inch bluefin — was hauled aboard at 11 p.m. and weighed at Patti Marine Enterprises on Wednesday.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Accidents
On Wednesday, roads around Tarragona and Gregory streets were closed after a damaged underground gas line led Pensacola Energy to secure the leak—residents at Wesley Haven Villa on E Wright Street and nearby businesses were evacuated—and drivers were urged to use Palafox for north‐south and Cervantes for east‐west travel.
WEAR-TVRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
U.S. Open Local Qualifying
Monday, May 5th, 2025 · 18 holes — Pensacola Country Club — Entry fee required — Compete for a chance to qualify for the prestigious U.S. Open.