Good morning, Panama City.

Impact100 held Coffee & Conversation for women seeking nonprofit impact at Coastal Coffee & Cafe on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Members helped with registrations & renewals to support future transformational grants.

The Labor Department reported that Florida's unemployment claims fell last week as initial filings dropped from 5,884 to 5,384 (for the week ending Feb.

21). Nationwide, new claims increased by 4,000 to reach 212,000.

City officials have lifted the boil-water notice—repairs are complete and a bacteriological survey confirmed safe water—for areas from Richard Jackson Boulevard to Phillips Inlet.

Residents can now drink tap water without precautions.

City council unanimously approved nighttime closures for sections of Panama City Beach from March 12 through April 30 to manage spring break crowds and support necessary maintenance.

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport conducted a full-scale aviation crash simulation on Thursday, Feb.

26 — meeting the FAA's triennial emergency preparedness mandate.

Bay County Transit honored four employees at its second annual Better Bayway Award ceremony on Feb.

25 in Panama City — recognizing outstanding teamwork and dedication that supports nearly 500,000 passenger trips each year.

The PCB Convention & Visitors Bureau announced bed tax collections, reaffirming its long-term tourism strategy for Panama City.

The move aims to enhance local tourism efforts.

Chocolate lovers sample desserts from 20 vendors at the 25th Death By Chocolate event on Tuesday, March 3 at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Hosted by the Emerald Coast Business Women Association, it features a silent auction and raffles funding Bay County student scholarships.

Panama City Beach permits alcoholic beverages year-round except in March—enforced since 2016—and other Florida beaches allow drinking only in designated areas ahead of spring break, so visitors should check local guidelines before packing a cooler.

Gumbo Cook-Off

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

10th Annual Shaddai Shriner’s Rodeo

5 PM – 10 PM — Central Panhandle Fair in Bay County — $20 — Experience thrilling rodeo action and community spirit at this annual event.

KoSA Bougie Bingo 2026

5:30-11:30 p.m. — The KOSA Event Center — $15.00 – $800.00 — Experience a night of luxury and laughter with the Krewe of St. Andrews' bingo fundraiser.

Boston Richey Live Performance

4:30-7 p.m. — Central Panhandle Fair in Bay County — Tickets required — Enjoy an energetic performance by Real Boston Richie in a lively fair setting.

Heroes Child 5K & Fun Run

8:00 AM — University Academy — $30 early registration — Run for a cause and dress as your favorite superhero while supporting local childcare scholarships.

Owls of Colorado and Florida Presentation

3-5 p.m. — FSU Holley Academic Center — Free entry — Discover the fascinating world of owls with expert Scott Rashid, featuring his stunning watercolor art and engaging presentation.