Good morning, Panama City.

United Way of Northwest Florida's President Gina Littleton says the VITA program will offer free tax help to residents earning under $70,000 in Bay, Gulf, Calhoun, Jackson, Holmes + Washington counties as tax season approaches.

Local plumbers are handling 50 calls on Sunday for busted pipes as extreme cold froze exposed pipes (North Bay Haven Charter Academy cancelled school on Monday due to a water main break), and technicians say proper insulation is key to avoid costly repairs.

Alice's on Bayview and FINN's Island Style Grub received state Hometown Revitalization Program grants to aid recovery after recent disasters in Panama City.

The funds support these businesses as they rebuild.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge in Panama City Beach will host a hiring event on Feb.

15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Captain Anderson’s Event Center — a key step in building the crew for its new beachfront location on the site of the former Spinnaker Beach Club.

Costco has recalled its mini beignets due to undeclared tree nuts — a mix-up between caramel and chocolate hazelnut versions — that may trigger severe allergic reactions.

The products were sold in local Florida stores and other states between Jan. 16 and Jan. 30.

Rutherford High School’s robotics team, Catastrophic Ramifications, has qualified for the FIRST Robotics State Championship in Winter Haven from March 7 to 8.

The team built a robot called 'McGavin' that highlights their growth in teamwork and mentoring younger students in Bay County, according to coach Andrew Jeffrey.

The City of Panama City has issued a boil water notice for Capri Dr and 3900, 3904, 3918, 3922, 3928 Milano Rd after a contractor damaged a water line.

Crews are working to repair the line and restore service.

Local health experts commented on USDA's new food pyramid guidelines (Feb.

2) and said the update may help residents improve their eating habits. Their advice offers clear guidance for local families seeking healthier meal choices.

Inspections from Jan.

26 to Feb. 1 found high-priority violations at five Bay restaurants including Denny's and Panera Bread, prompting follow-up reviews (DBPR reported potential food safety risks).

High school basketball district tournaments began this week with girls playing on Feb.

2 and boys set on Feb. 3 — local teams like Rutherford and Bay High build on their defending titles as winners earn automatic bids to state playoffs at the University of North Florida in late February.

Bay County girls swim and dive honorees were recognized for their season of strong freestyle showings at district, regional and state meets.

Bella Blitch of Mosley earned top honor as girls swimmer of the year while teams from Mosley and North Bay Haven made the All-County first and second teams.

Bay County honored its top girls cross-country athletes today when the county released its all-county teams.

North Bay Haven runner Kyla Faint was named Runner of the Year and coach Osmond Ashman earned Coach of the Year, with several athletes making the first, second and honorable mention teams.

Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras

Feb 6-7 — Destination Panama City — Free entry — Enjoy the largest Mardi Gras celebration in Panama City featuring over 14 Krewes.

Fire Piano Show featuring Brandon Giles

5:30-9 p.m. — Neons Bar 72 — Dinner event — Light up your Valentine's Day with an unforgettable performance combining piano music and fiery entertainment.

Gaither Vocal Band Concert

5-7 p.m. — Hiland Park Baptist Church — Tickets starting at $90 — Experience unforgettable harmonies with the Gaither Vocal Band live in concert.

MSBL Sunshine Classic 2026

All day — Publix Sports Park — Free entry — Experience thrilling men's senior league baseball action with live streaming highlights.

Gumbo Cook-Off

10 a.m. — Mexico Beach Boat Ramp — Entry fee varies — Enjoy a flavorful competition with live entertainment and community spirit.