Daily editionSaturday, May 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 2nd of May.
Community
The Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 1 at Trinity Village where Bishop William Wack and local leaders blessed new tiny homes and guided community tours.
The event celebrated the launch of affordable housing in Pensacola.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Due to heavy weather, Five Flags Speedway will host the rescheduled 'Meet the Drivers' Night plus a Kids Bike Race Night on Friday, May 29 at the speedway, offering families on-track interactions and a bike giveaway for only $5.
Rick's BlogRead more
Business
Baskerville-Donovan, Inc. has rebranded to Donovan-Hill Group to reflect its long engineering legacy in Pensacola.
The firm, founded in 1927, will update its website and marketing materials this month while keeping its focus on strong client relationships + community development.
Rick's BlogRead more
Culture
City officials will host a parade and concert for Keyla Richardson if she makes Top 3 on Monday, with the parade starting at 4 p.m. near Palafox and Cedar and the concert at 6:30 p.m. on May 6 at the Hunter Amphitheater (tickets release Friday and Saturday at 10 a.m.).
Rick's BlogRead more
Education
In Pensacola, Sharon Horne of Workman Middle School got the 2026 School Lunch Hero Award and a $2,000 cash prize from the Florida Division of Food, Nutrition and Wellness on Friday—she was one of five chosen among 700 nominees.
WEAR-TVRead more
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that Christopher Roney (Ace Unlocks co-founder and current UWF Foundation grant committee chair) is the university's new 13th trustee; his appointment is pending Senate confirmation after Adam Kissel was not confirmed.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Environment
Escambia County Sea Turtle Conservation Program volunteers resumed early morning patrols on Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key on May 1 to monitor nests and tracks.
The nesting season runs through September + visitors are urged to remove belongings and avoid restricted areas to protect coastal wildlife.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Local residents are urged to prepare for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.
Experts predict up to 16 named storms and advise checking evacuation zones, signing up for alerts, and building hurricane supply kits now.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Termite swarms were reported Thursday night, prompting residents to turn off lights as experts linked the activity to warm, moist weather.
Homeowners are advised to secure entry points and schedule inspections to reduce potential damage during this spring swarming season.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Florida’s hurricane season begins June 1 and continues until Nov. 30 with peak activity on Sept. 10 and most storms expected from August to October (records show tropical systems have occasionally formed in April).
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Public access to Pensacola’s Naval Air Station resumed Friday, with visitors allowed through the West Gate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attractions include the Pensacola Lighthouse, Maritime Museum, Fort Barrancas and the National Naval Aviation Museum.
FOX 10Read more
Florida Social Security payments in May will reach recipients based on birthday groups — those with birthdays from the 1st to 10th will get payments on May 13, from the 11th to 20th on May 20, and from the 21st to 31st on May 27.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
Florida has seen a major increase in measles cases over the past eight months, significantly outpacing the previous 16 years.
Gov. Ron DeSantis will propose changes today to simplify school vaccine exemptions, prompting health experts to warn that easing vaccination rules may lead to more outbreaks.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
JUST Pensacola requested $540,000 for a two-year mental health pilot that funds a public awareness campaign and three care coordinator positions for the 211 (and 988) helplines; the group will continue pushing county and city officials after they skipped its May 1 assembly.
WUWFRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Warehouse of Speed Spring Open House Dyno Day
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 · 5-10 p.m. — Warehouse of Speed — Limited ticketing — Experience thrilling dyno pulls, enjoy food, and tour the shop showcasing impressive car builds.
TK Soul Live Concert
Sunday, May 24th, 2026 · 7-11:30 p.m. — 8Fifty Event Center — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of Southern Soul music with TK Soul this Memorial Weekend.