Good morning, Panama City.

Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center offers summer programs that include sports, STEM activities, and a culinary teaching kitchen + arts and crafts for children and adults, giving local families a chance to learn skills and have fun at the center.

On July 7, locals enjoyed the summer vibe near M.B.

Miller County pier as beachgoers relaxed and young soccer players practiced under coach Johnathan Hammond, who leads a month-long program with Rip City Surf + boosting the day’s energy.

The Drip Coffee Co will host a series of community events this July at 2440 St Andrews Blvd, including a Mommy & Me Workout, Boutique Bash, Carseat Cleanup, Toy Swap, Nanny Meet Up, Dance Day, Secondhand Sunday, Music Morning, Craft Time and a Small Business Market.

The Patriot Tour brought a traveling American flag to a Parker VFW Post on Wednesday while raising $2.5 million to support over 850 veteran families + riders will meet today at a Harley-Davidson store in Panama City Beach for another public gathering.

Courtney Michaud from the Lynn Haven Animal Shelter introduces Taboo in this week’s Shelter Spotlight; the affectionate pet is looking for a loving home + the shelter has many more animals ready for adoption.

On Wednesday, July 8, Colorado State University lowered its hurricane season forecast to nine named storms, with four hurricanes + one major, as strong El Niño is expected to boost Atlantic wind shear and reduce storm activity, lowering the chance of a major hurricane striking the Florida Peninsula.

Florida residents are warned that invasive cane toads (known for their potent toxin) pose a poisoning threat to pets during the rainy season.

The FWC advises pet owners (if their pet bites one) to wash their pet’s mouth and contact a vet immediately.

State officials have issued heat advisories for 31 counties and expect temperatures in the 90s to low 100s with heat indices reaching 110 as Saharan dust moves in, so Panama City residents are urged to stay safe and cool while the hot weather persists until July 17.

A local program called 7+ Chapter Chat offers guidance for residents facing addiction or mental health challenges during this summer sobriety season (support is available) and encourages those in need to reach out for help.

Coleman Borthwick, a 6-foot-6 high school baseball standout committed to Auburn, is ranked No. 43 and eyed for an early MLB Draft pick.

His strong season is set to boost his profile as the draft kicks off Saturday, July 11 — during MLB All-Star Week.