Good morning, Panama City.

Five-year-old Naya Chakra from Panama City won several titles at a regional pageant and will compete in America's Best Pageant in Nashville this September—her father said her mom wanted her to build confidence and stage presence.

She also sings, dances, and plays the piano, talents she may showcase during the national event.

VFW Post 8205 in Parker will host a reception for Bay County Purple Heart Medal recipients on Purple Heart Day, August 7th at 2 pm—light refreshments will be served and guests should RSVP to Karen Custer at 850-247-1975.

The Bay County Chamber of Commerce urged federal agencies to reconsider the partial cancellation of the Coast Guard contract with Eastern Shipbuilding Group at the Panama City facility because moving work could delay projects, increase costs, and risk thousands of local jobs—further impacting national security. The chamber highlighted Eastern Shipbuilding's nearly 50 years of service and its role in supporting local workforce training and small business suppliers.

Bay District Schools has set up a free and reduced-price meal program for students at non-CEP schools for the 2025-2026 school year—parents must apply online or by paper form by September 22 to keep their children’s meal benefits active.

Verizon gave away $3 million in free backpacks Sunday in Bay County as part of its 13th annual school rocks backpacks giveaway to help students and families amid inflation and rising costs.

Local stores joined by distributing hundreds of backpacks and snacks to ease the back-to-school burden.

Bay District Schools had a busy summer with two educators suspended on July 22 for criminal cases and officials preparing for classes to start on Aug.

11 — the district also announced new start/stop times, grade updates, capital projects, and plans for speed-safety cameras near schools — prompting several ongoing changes.

Residents in Panama City are advised to prepare for hurricane season by checking supplies, replacing old batteries, and storing important documents in a waterproof case—this planning includes packing a bug-out bag and setting an evacuation plan with family.

After a storm, people should carefully call local contractors and contact their insurance agent before signing repair agreements—additional caution will help ensure a safe recovery.

Pet owners in Panama City are urged to watch for signs of heat exhaustion in pets such as excessive panting, drooling, and pale gums (which can also lead to burns on hot pavement).

Experts advise keeping pets in shade, providing plenty of water, trimming thick fur, and walking them early or late when the ground is cooler.

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.

Dale Jones Comedy Show

8:30 PM – 7:00 PM — Beaches Comedy Club — Tickets are non-refundable — Experience a night of high-energy comedy with Dale Jones featuring improvised and animated performances.

Teen Game Night

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Bay County Public Library — Registration required — Engage in exciting Switch gaming with peers in a fun, relaxed environment.