Daily editionWednesday, April 30th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 30th of April.
Community
De Novo Salon will host its Annual Cut-A-Thon on Saturday, May 3 from 9:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m. at 3435 North 12th Ave to support Childhelp and Gulf Coast Kid’s House.
The event will offer blowout appointment bookings and a raffle for donations while the salon works to close a $9,450 gap in its $12,000 goal.
Local PulseRead more
Culture
On April 29, professional wildlife photographer Kirsten Hines led a group of local enthusiasts in Gulf Breeze and Shoreline Park to capture stunning bird images at sunrise—she taught them careful composition, the ethical use of bird calls, and techniques for working with soft morning light. The workshop offered hands-on tips on timing and framing to help photographers anticipate nature’s fleeting moments.
WUWFRead more
Education
Teachers in Northwest Florida say low pay has forced many from the classroom—Florida now ranks last in average teacher salaries.
Former educators and county officials in Santa Rosa and Escambia reported extra jobs and staffing shortages while urging lawmakers to boost school funding.
WEAR-TVRead more
Government
Escambia County will build a modern new facility for ECAT about a mile from its current location using a $30 million federal grant received after Hurricane Sally—this change will support a shift to microtransit with smaller, more efficient vehicles and plans for hybrid and electric buses. County leaders are gathering land for the new site and will let public riders try the microtransit service in fall while keeping fixed-route buses in operation.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Florida residents must have a REAL ID or an approved alternative by May 7 to board planes or enter federal facilities.
First-time applicants must visit a DMV or tax collector office in person—there is no option to apply online.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
During Child Abuse Prevention Month, former Escambia County School Superintendent Jim Paul shared his painful childhood abuse account that reflects over 8,000 suspected cases reported each year in our county—his story urges everyone to watch for signs of neglect to help keep children safe.
Rick's BlogRead more
Real Estate
In March, Pensacola's median home price increased by $25,810 since December—outpacing statewide growth as reported by Florida Realtors.
Rick's BlogRead more
Sports
Pensacola-area high school teams posted key results from April 28 through May 3 as Pace won its flag football Region 1-3A semifinal 20-0 over Ponte Vedra and will host Chiles in the finals tomorrow, while Milton advanced in softball with a 7-2 win and Freeport ended Pensacola Catholic’s baseball season 4-0. Other contests in football, baseball and boys tennis produced deciding moments—teams continue to vie for playoff spots this week.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Accidents
A house fire broke out Sunday night on the 9500 block of Hummingbird Blvd and Escambia County Fire Rescue responded at 9:59 p.m. to ensure everyone escaped while controlling the blaze by 10:16 p.m.—electrical issues caused heavy damage that rendered the home a total loss—with the American Red Cross now providing housing help.
WEAR-TVRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Hot Glass Cold Brew: Summer Fest
Friday, May 9th, 2025 · 5-9 p.m. — First City Art Center — $30 members/$40 non-members — Kickoff summer with crafts, food trucks, and live glass art demonstrations.
Spring Bling Festival
Saturday, May 10th, 2025 · 12-7 p.m. — Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park — Free entry — Enjoy an exciting day of 2000s music and vibrant vibes with local DJs and delicious cookout favorites.
Rise Up Lights Concert
Thursday, May 15th, 2025 · 6-10 p.m. — Handlebar — Check the local alt scene with an energetic performance by the diverse talent of Rise Up Lights.
Monster Jam
Saturday, May 17th, 2025 · 1-5 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — Fun for all ages — Experience thrilling trucks and amazing stunts at this action-packed event.
Brit Floyd Concert
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Tickets from $149 — Enjoy the iconic sounds of Brit Floyd in a lively Pensacola setting.
Pensacola Memorial Day Weekend Events 2025
Friday, May 23rd, 2025 · Various times — Veterans Memorial Park — Free entry — Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with beach activities, ceremonies, and festivities in a beautiful setting.