Daily editionThursday, July 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of July.
Community
Allen Turner and his Turner Family Charitable Foundation are donating $15,000 to Pensacola’s Finest Foundation to help the K9 Unit secure a new dog plus allow K9 Jones, who has served since 2019, to retire.
Local PulseRead more
The City of Pensacola celebrates the dedication of the New Palafox — a key part of the America 250 commemorations — at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4 at Plaza Ferdinand VII mid-block crossing; free on-street parking is available and other downtown events run concurrently.
FOX 10Read more
Education
Escambia County Public Schools earned an A from the Florida Department of Education on Wednesday as 19 schools scored A’s and none received a D or F—marking the first time in recent history the district achieved its highest grade.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Montclair Elementary earned an A grade from the Florida Department of Education for the 2025 to 2026 school year after receiving an F three years ago.
On July 1, 2026, students sharpened math skills during a Boys and Girls Club summer camp at the school.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
University of West Florida unveiled a refreshed brand identity — featuring a new primary logo, updated colors, and refined messaging — to reflect record enrollment and its transition into NCAA Division I athletics.
The update, driven by stakeholder insights, modernizes campus branding and unites academic and athletic identities.
University of West FloridaRead more
At Pensacola State College’s board meeting on June 16, board chair Zack Smith named himself (and seven others) to the Presidential Search Committee that will choose the next president, with details still pending.
Rick's BlogRead more
Florida education law changes took effect July 1.
They require grades 3-5 to learn cursive, let marching band and performing arts count for PE, allow at-risk students to carry FDA-approved epinephrine devices, ease expired license rules for teachers, and reduce union power.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Environment
FP&L paused aerial herbicide spraying in Santa Rosa County after a state investigation found its contractor broke 13 laws; officials said they will review safety practices to prevent more environmental problems.
WEAR-TVRead more
Residents and visitors can enjoy free day-use at Florida state parks from Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5, with three parks excluded.
The Department of Environmental Protection said overnight fees, special events, and rentals will still charge a fee at the 175 parks.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Sparklers are legal year-round in Florida, but loud fireworks will be allowed only on New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, and Saturday, July 4, except in counties with burn bans like Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Manatee or Sarasota.
Buyers must be at least 18 to purchase them.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Health
Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital has launched a new emergency medicine residency program in partnership with the Florida State University College of Medicine to train doctors for the region.
The first class of 15 residents will train in the emergency room while rotating through trauma, intensive care, and pediatrics.
FOX 10Read more
Sports
UWF athletic director Dave Scott announced the new NCAA age-based eligibility rules that replace waivers and redshirt practices, simplifying rosters.
The change comes as UWF prepares for its first Division I season—men’s soccer will open on August 20 while football and women’s volleyball are scheduled for August 27.
WEAR-TVRead more
The Blue Angels will practice four times and hold an autograph session in July at NAS Pensacola, giving local fans a chance to see the renowned team in action.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
The Molly Ringwalds Concert
Friday, July 3rd, 2026 · 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. — Seville Quarter — $30 — Experience the ultimate 80's music revival with The Molly Ringwalds in an unforgettable concert.
Armor for Sleep Concert
Monday, July 6th, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — The Handlebar — Tickets required — Experience an evening of live music from Armor for Sleep as they showcase their talent and artistry.
Celtic Throne II: Psalter of Ireland
Tuesday, July 7th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Discount tickets available — Experience a captivating journey through Irish culture with music and dance performances.
Skweezy Jibbs Makes a Movie
Wednesday, July 8th, 2026 · 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. — The Handlebar — Tickets from $104 — Experience a must-see live performance by Skweezy Jibbs in Pensacola.
Creed Fisher & Frank Foster Live Concert
Thursday, July 9th, 2026 · 7 p.m. — Wild Greg's Saloon — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of country music with Creed Fisher and Frank Foster.
Montgomery Biscuits at Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Saturday, July 11th, 2026 · 5-7:05 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a day at the ballpark creating memories with loved ones while watching Minor League baseball.
Second Sunday Salsa at Emerald Republic Brewing
Sunday, July 12th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — Emerald Republic Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
PYP Member Meetup & Game Night
Thursday, July 16th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center — Free for members — Engage in connection, collaboration, and casual competition through games and conversation.
FattMack Concert
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 · 9 p.m. — Vinyl Music Hall — Tickets starting at $136 — FattMack promises an unforgettable live music experience in Pensacola, FL.
In Gloom Live Performance
Sunday, July 19th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — The Handlebar — Tickets from $68 — Experience an unforgettable live show with In Gloom in Pensacola.