Daily editionWednesday, August 5th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 5th of August.
Community
Pensacola Police held their National Night Out event at Booker T. Washington High School Tuesday night.
Officers brought cruisers, a SWAT truck (and K-9 demonstrations) while Escambia County Fire, EMS, utility teams, and over 40 community groups offered resources to build trust with residents.
WEAR-TVRead more
A $1.2 million sidewalk project to enhance pedestrian safety between Legion Field Park and Global Learning Academy will begin Aug. 10 in West Pensacola.
The project, managed by Chavers Construction, is expected to last 10 months (weather permitting) and may cause intermittent lane closures.
Local PulseRead more
Business
Pensacola-based Catalyst Healthcare Real Estate announced today a $400 million joint venture with Nuveen Real Estate to support $1.3 billion in health care projects from 2026 to 2028 (the deal keeps key high-level positions local).
Rick's BlogRead more
Education
UWF's Center for Cybersecurity and AI received a $1.74M NSF award today to launch its CyberAI SFS FORCE program, which will support 16 students with scholarships, internships, and hands-on training.
The initiative aims to build the next generation of cybersecurity and AI professionals on campus.
University of West FloridaRead more
The University of West Florida’s Here for Good capital campaign exceeded its $100 million goal and engaged 33,000 donors to support scholarships, research, and campus upgrades.
Major gifts for a new football stadium and music and business programs mark a milestone in enhancing student opportunities (reflecting community impact).
Local PulseRead more
Government
At Hurlburt Field, future air traffic controllers are using a new VR simulator that lets instructors adjust weather & traffic conditions in real time.
The equipment is one of two systems that will help prepare trainees for real-world flight challenges.
WEAR-TVRead more
Health
Trauma Release Invest has announced its 3rd Annual Suicide Awareness Walk for Saturday, Sept. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at Museum Plaza downtown (the free event will feature guest speakers, a 'Say Their Names' tribute honoring loved ones, and resource vendors to support mental health advocacy).
Local PulseRead more
Cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness linked to recalled iceberg lettuce, has infected over 6,700 people nationwide, including 254 cases here, and caused two deaths in Michigan among those with underlying conditions.
Health officials advise thorough produce washing and proper hygiene to help prevent further infections.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
Six college baseball powerhouses will play three scrimmages at Blue Wahoos Stadium on Saturdays in October, starting with Florida State vs Auburn on Oct. 10 at 1 p.m. CT.
Tickets will be on sale to the public beginning Tuesday, Aug. 11, with season ticket members receiving early access.
Rick's BlogRead more
Accidents
A metal recycling facility caught fire Monday night at EMR Southern Recycling—its sixth blaze in two years—and city and fire officials are now reviewing safety measures to prevent future accidents.
WEAR-TVRead more