Good morning, Panama City.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a death warrant on Friday for Kayle Barrington Bates, who was convicted in the 1982 Bay County murder of Janet White, and his execution is scheduled for August 19.

The Bay County History Museum will soon host a Smithsonian Food Exhibit that explores the evolution of food—organizers expect the event to attract local visitors.

The Bay County History Museum will host the Smithsonian food exhibit 'Bayside Bounty: The Culinary History of Bay County' in January 2026 — it asks locals to send in their food items and volunteer.

The Historical Society of Bay County works with Florida Humanities — its partner in training local museums — to meet Smithsonian standards.

St. Andrews Bay STEM Academy High School opened in August 2024 in Panama City with 60 students and offers a hands-on curriculum focused on Land, Sea, and Air that partners with local colleges — including Gulf Coast State College, Embry-Riddle, and FSU — to prepare students for college and skilled careers. The school provides practical courses in programming, construction, and advanced certifications while requiring 20 parent volunteer hours a year to help its programs succeed.

Lynn Haven fired City Manager Vickie Gainer Friday after Jamie Warrick moved to end her role in a special commission meeting.

The decision came after a deposition alleging bid rigging was released on social media — prompting calls for clear accountability.

Bay County issued a 60-day rabies alert after two foxes in North Bayou George and one unvaccinated dog in the Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard area tested positive for the virus.

Rabies treatment involves a dose of immunoglobulin and four vaccine shots that can cost between $4,868.35 and $5,930.83—health officials urge residents to vaccinate pets and avoid stray animal contact.

Back to School Bash: Backpack and School Supply Giveaway

4-5:30 p.m. — Keller Williams Success Realty — Free entry — Enjoy a grill out and pick up a backpack filled with school supplies for the first 100 students.

US 5K & Half Marathon

8:00 a.m. — Conservation Park — Registration needed — Lace up for a fun-filled active day in Panama City Beach's scenic park.

Field Adventures by the Bay

9-11 a.m. — Destination Panama City — Registration required — Explore marine ecosystems and discover local wildlife along St. Andrews Bay.

On-Site Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Senior Helpers — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living with exceptional food and care.

Ninja 5K & 10K Race

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Callaway Recreational Complex — Registration fees apply — Participate in a fun and challenging running event for all skill levels.

BCPL Virtual Book Club: The Grey Wolf

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Bay County Public Library — Registration required — Explore 'The Grey Wolf' by Louise Penny in a friendly Zoom discussion.

Class G License Requalification Training

7-11 a.m. — Gulf Coast State College North Bay Campus — Cost details not provided — Stay compliant with your Class G license through essential re-qualifying training.