Daily editionWednesday, April 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 22nd of April.
Community
Lauren’s Kids Foundation invites Pensacola residents to join the Walk in My Shoes event today at Gulf Coast Kids House (8:00 a.m. registration and 9:00 a.m. walk) with a 3-mile route and an option to extend 7 miles to Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center Park, plus Uber for return.
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Pensacola International Airport will host the Wiregrass Honor Flight to honor WWII, Vietnam, and Korean War veterans.
The group departs at 11:05 a.m. on Thursday, Apr. 23 for Washington, D.C. and returns on Friday, Apr. 24 with a welcome home celebration featuring a flag line and water cannon salute.
Local PulseRead more
Children's Home Society of Florida will host the 21st Annual Soundside Splendor at Portofino Island Resort on May 3.
The event will feature curated culinary experiences, live music, and auctions — all to bolster programs for local children and families.
Local PulseRead more
Culture
Pensacola native Keyla Richardson advanced to American Idol's Top 7 after singing 'Circle of Life' on Disney Night on April 20* Her next performance featuring Taylor Swift songs is set for Monday, Apr. 27.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola native Keyla Richardson impressed judges on American Idol with a 'Circle of Life' rendition during Monday's Disney Night (her performance helped secure her spot in the Top 7) and contestants will perform Taylor Swift songs on Monday, Apr. 27 at 7 p.m. CT in the next episode.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola's Keyla Richardson advanced to the top 7 on American Idol after her strong performance of 'Circle of Life' during Monday night's Disney Night.
The upcoming episode will feature Taylor Swift Week when viewers will help choose the top five contestants.
WEAR-TVRead more
Education
The University of West Florida Board of Trustees voted at a special meeting on April 2 to move the athletics program to NCAA Division I, authorizing a three-year reclassification starting fall and full postseason eligibility in fall 2029+ The change is part of a broader plan that leverages enrollment growth and new campus facilities.
Rick's BlogRead more
UWF’s Day of Giving raised $278K from 1,078 donors — beating its goal by over $100K.
Donations from all 50 states will help fund scholarships, academic programs, student experiences, and the university’s move to higher-level sports.
Rick's BlogRead more
Government
Governor DeSantis postponed releasing a redistricting map and scheduled a special session next week to address redistricting, medical freedom, and AI; Pensacola Rep. Alex Andrade said skipping active census participation plus calling the session too soon has weakened Florida’s redistricting plan, with senators likely to resist his proposals.
Rick's BlogRead more
Sports
Pace flag football advanced to the district final after beating Gulf Breeze on April 22 and will play for the title in Niceville on April 23 at 6 p.m. Meanwhile, three tennis teams, Gulf Breeze boys and Pensacola Catholic boys and girls, reached regional finals.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Anime Town Pensacola 2026
Friday, May 8th, 2026 · May 8-10 — Pensacola Interstate Fair — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate all things anime with celebrity guests, panels, and an after-hours prom.
Sal Vulcano Live Show
Friday, May 15th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — $45-$53 — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Sal Vulcano at the beautiful Saenger Theatre.