Good morning, Panama City.

Healing Tools for Warriors started Operation Warm Hearts in Walton County in 2023 to pack tackle boxes with blankets, toys, snacks, water, and diapers for first responders who comfort children in crisis.

The group delivered 100 boxes to fire, police, and EMS units across the Panhandle and will ask the community for more supplies—its founder said every county from Pensacola to Panama City will eventually be reached.

Bay District Schools said an employee was arrested while off duty and not with students—an investigation is ongoing with no further details available.

Panama City Beach authorities reported that a zoo was broken into Monday night—officials are asking for anyone with information to help identify the suspect.

A break-in occurred Monday night at ZooWorld when a suspect entered the farmyard to stalk and grab animals in the goat enclosure, and surveillance footage was submitted to the Bay County Sheriff's Office for investigation.

Bay District Schools will enforce a new dress code for kindergarten through 12th grade starting in August (all schools except Haney and Margret K Lewis will follow these rules) which require specific colors for pants, T-shirts and polo shirts while mandating closed-toed shoes.

Some parents are unhappy with the change (they say it limits self-expression) even as school officials say the new policy will help reduce social pressures.

U.S. Senator Ashley Moody visited Bay County Thursday to introduce a bill that would reimburse local agencies for expenses incurred during federal immigration enforcement—sheriff Tommy Ford said the measure will ease overtime challenges for his department.

Local health experts warn that extreme heat may cause cramps, nausea and dizziness, which can lead to heat stroke if not treated quickly (especially for children and the elderly).

They advise drinking water and staying indoors when the sun is strongest (between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.).

HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital added a robotic navigation system for minimally invasive spine surgeries last Thursday.

The system uses preoperative imaging plus real-time guidance to help surgeons reduce incisions and speed up recovery.

Panama City Beach Nationals 2025

June 22-28 — Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort — Registration required — Compete in an exciting national championship at a beautiful beach venue.

Let Em Buck Scholarship Rodeo

7 p.m. — Central Panhandle Fair in Bay County — $6400 in prize money — Watch thrilling rodeo action at the Let Em Buck Scholarship Rodeo.

Open House at 129 Malaga Place

2-4 p.m. — 129 Malaga Place — $990,000 — Discover this fully furnished beachfront duplex perfect for rentals or family fun.

Color Our World: Music

2-3 p.m. — Bay County Public Library — Free entry — Experience an interactive musical adventure with local performer Miss Calliope focused on how music shapes our world.

July 4th Salute to Freedom Festival

4-9:30 p.m. — Panama City Marina — Free entry — Celebrate the 4th of July with patriotic festivities and family-friendly activities.

Fleetwood Mac Tribute by Will Thompson Band

7-9:10 p.m. — Captain Anderson's Event Center — Tickets from $0.88 — Relive the magic of Fleetwood Mac with an unforgettable tribute performance.