Daily
Panama City
Wednesday, April 8th, 2026
Good morning, Panama City. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 8th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Panama City Police Department is hosting its free Annual Bicycle Rodeo today, inviting children to learn bicycle safety and build riding skills at a local park + enjoy a fun day out. WJHG
- ➤ Zollie Young Park will receive a $300,000 makeover that adds an asphalt walking trail, ADA parking, improved dog park access, and a kayak ramp on Mill Bayou — 850 Construction Services LLC will start work within 30 days. WJHG
- ➤ Bay County commissioners honored first responders after a March 31 drowning at Deer Point Lake that left one person dead & two hospitalized, including a sheriff's sergeant. WJHG
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A wildfire on Highway 388 in Bay County erupted on Apr. 7, 2026 and FFS responded to manage the blaze. WJHG
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Florida Xfinity and DISH customers have lost access to local news, sports, and network shows as Gray Media & E.W. Scripps remain at an impasse with cable providers. Providers suggest using free over-the-air and streaming options while talks continue to restore service. Panama City News Herald
- ➤ Aldi, the discount grocer, will open six Florida stores this April, including the Micco location tomorrow at 9 a.m. and one in Panama City on April 16 — the openings will feature giveaways with gift bags and Golden Tickets for the first 200 shoppers. Panama City News Herald
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge will host a two-day grand opening on May 1 and May 2 at its new Panama City Beach location with Randy Houser + Riley Green headlining the event, bringing Nashville sounds to local music fans. WJHG
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Florida's regular gas price reached $4.15 a gallon on Monday from $3.90 last week as traders factored in supply uncertainty amid rising demand — analysts expect an additional increase of 20 to 30 cents per gallon in the coming weeks. Panama City News Herald
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Surfside Middle School is hosting Frontier Day where sixth graders experience history through live horses, music and hands-on activities (a tradition since the 90s). This event brings curriculum lessons like the Gold Rush and westward expansion to life. WJHG
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Forecasters and emergency officials discussed dynamic hurricane watch and warning lead times on April 7 (at a conference in Orlando), noting that improved forecast accuracy may allow longer alerts for severe storms to better help residents prepare. Panama City News Herald
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Visit Panama City Beach officially named Rep. Philip 'Griff' Griffitts as president and CEO today. He brings over 40 years of hospitality experience and will focus on financial transparency in tourism while continuing his role in the Florida House of Representatives. Panama City News Herald
- ➤ Bay County officials have enacted a burn ban today due to current weather conditions that restrict open burning, fireworks sale or use, and any outdoor spark activity; the measure applies to unincorporated areas (violators may face fines or jail terms) while gas grills remain allowed. WJHG
- ➤ Emmaleigh Clegg reported that law enforcement officials are managing spring break by increasing patrols and updating safety guidelines as the busy season continues, with more detailed measures expected soon. WJHG
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Lizzen Live in Concert
8 p.m. — Vibez — Tickets available — Experience a night of R-N-B with Lizzen and DJ Big Boi.
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Earth Day Celebration
9 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Oaks by the Bay Park — Free entry — Celebrate Earth Day with family activities including music, crafts, and a special tree giveaway.
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Tree Giveaway
8-11 a.m. — Oaks by the Bay Park — Free trees for residents — Grab two free trees to help restore the urban canopy after Hurricane Michael.
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Dave Koz Summer Horns Concert
12:00 – 8:30 PM — Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater — Ticket prices not specified — Experience a day of smooth jazz with renowned musician Dave Koz and friends at this exciting festival.
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Blessing of the Fleet & Fish Fry
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Panama City Marina — Proceeds benefit local services for brain injury survivors — Celebrate with fish, festivities, and the unique tradition of Sock Burning.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Start with repetition, not perfection.
~ James Clear
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