Daily editionThursday, May 22nd, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of May.
Culture
Fiesta Pensacola will launch its 10-day Fiesta Celebration with a ceremonial surrender of the city to Don Tristan de Luna and his queen at 7:15 p.m. May 28 at Seville Quarter—marking the festival's start—and will continue with a Grand Fiesta Parade on May 30, a Boat Parade on May 31, and an All Krewe Ball on June 5, honoring Pensacola's founding as the first European settlement in 1559.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Economy
Indeed released a list of 16 jobs that pay at least $51,950 a year without a college degree, offering Florida residents roles in fields such as aviation, construction, and service.
The report shows that just over 33% of people 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree—highlighting that many good jobs remain open with only a high school diploma— which may boost career options.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
The University of West Florida Board of Trustees will meet on May 27 to accept President Saunders’ resignation and appoint an interim president—her contract includes a $536K salary during a year-long leave and a future $242K professorship.
The board will also begin the search for a permanent president and review the Presidential Performance Evaluation & Metrics Ad Hoc Committee meeting at 10:00 a.m.
Rick's BlogRead more
Government
Escambia County commissioner Mike Kohler has called for an audit of the Children's Trust after a document showed that 88% of last year's $5.4 million was used for salaries and benefits—raising concerns about the proper use of taxpayer funds.
He said more details on employee counts and the number of children served are needed as the Trust maintains that the numbers do not reflect each provider's full budget.
WEAR-TVRead more
Real Estate
The Sandollar Condominium on Navarre Beach, a 40-year-old structure damaged in Hurricane Sally that has been vacant since 2022, is set for demolition after the County Commission approved the plan on April 24—owners are now seeking funds from nine unit owners to cover demolition costs so the valuable beachfront land can later be sold.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
Pace High School softball will play in the state Final Four for the fifth straight year on May 23 at 12 p.m. ET when they will meet Parrish Community in Longwood.
The defending 6A champions will face a fresh challenge at Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park—shifting their familiar routine for a new venue experience.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Kids Galaxy Glow-in-the-Dark Painting Class
Saturday, June 7th, 2025 · 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Flip Flops on Palafox Vendor Mall — $12 per child — Create a glowing masterpiece as creativity comes to life in the dark.
Object Oriented Analysis and Design Using UML Training
Monday, June 9th, 2025 · All day — Hope For Tomorrow Safety Services, LLC — $2090 — Dive into essential software development skills with expert-led UML training.
Clean Comedy Show Pensacola
Thursday, June 12th, 2025 · 7-9 p.m. — Culinary Productions Event Venue and Catering — Enjoy a night of clean laughs with headliner Joel Byars and fellow comedians Patrice Deveaux and Scott Shanahan.
Camelot Musical
Friday, June 13th, 2025 · 7:30 p.m. — Pensacola Little Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary kingdom of King Arthur in an intimate and fresh musical rendition.