Daily editionFriday, May 9th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 9th of May.
Community
Santa Rosa County Animal Services will join the nationwide Empty the Shelter event on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering adoptable animals a reduced fee of $10 thanks to the BISSELL Pet Foundation — the effort aims to lessen shelter overcrowding across the country.
WEAR-TVRead more
Education
The University of West Florida will launch a stand-alone Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and Digital Media this fall on the Pensacola campus at the Darrell Gooden Center, offering a 120-credit program that prepares students for careers in roles like graphic and web design.
The program builds on real-world client projects and uses high-tech Anatomage Tables—tools that help students develop strong design portfolios.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
University of West Florida named 3,615 undergraduates to the President’s and Dean’s Lists for Spring 2025—1,586 students earned a GPA of 3.90 or higher on the President’s List while 2,029 achieved a GPA between 3.50 and 3.89 on the Dean’s List.
University of West FloridaRead more
Government
Mayor Reeves on May 8 announced a bold childcare plan that will include a summit on May 28 at Pensacola City Hall led by Theresa Cserep—aimed at fixing issues in childcare, education and workforce development—and he will meet with federal officials at the White House on May 13 to discuss these efforts. Breeze Airways will begin new direct flights to Bentonville/Fayetteville on Sept. 4 and Memphis on Sept. 5, and Galvez Day celebrations will go ahead today despite bad weather.
Rick's BlogRead more
The Escambia Children’s Trust proposed an interlocal agreement to redirect $495K in tax funds to cover a shortfall in the Summer Youth Employment Program that serves over 1,100 local youth.
County leaders may soon merge local youth initiatives into a single, countywide plan—an effort aimed at boosting job training and support for young Pensacola residents.
Rick's BlogRead more
Sports
Cory Middleton has been named the new head baseball coach at Pensacola Catholic—he replaced longtime coach Richard LaBounty who retired after 36 years.
A Pensacola native and former player with the Detroit Tigers organization, Middleton has worked at the school for seven seasons and plans to build on its strong baseball tradition.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Accidents
A 96-year-old Pensacola man died and a 33-year-old Pensacola woman was injured when his failure to yield while attempting a left turn on U.S. 29 near Hood Drive at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday triggered a collision between his SUV and her Sedan—officials said she was taken to the hospital and he was pronounced dead.
FOX 10Read more
Pensacola Events
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.
Bike Commuting Workshop with Jon Spears
Saturday, May 24th, 2025 · 9:30-11 a.m. — Cafe Single Fin — Free entry — Learn how to convert your bicycle into a practical commuter bike while enjoying coffee and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
Memorial Day Celebration
Sunday, May 25th, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Perfect Plain Brewing Co. — 15% off for military — Celebrate Memorial Day with live music, tasty food, and festive contests.
The Oz Escape: A Wicked Glitch
Saturday, May 31st, 2025 · 10 AM - 4 PM — Outdoor Escape Experience — $30 per team — Embark on a magical journey through the streets of Pensacola, solving puzzles and hunting for clues in a whimsical quest inspired by Oz.
Free Outdoor Yoga Class
Sunday, June 1st, 2025 · 9:30-10:30 a.m. — Bayview Park — Free entry — Enjoy a refreshing hour of yoga in nature led by certified instructors.
On-Site Tour at Fairfield Manor
Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 · 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Fairfield Manor Senior Apartments — Free entry — Explore top-rated senior living options with nutritious meals and engaging activities.