Good morning, Panama City.

Lids4Kids hosted a special ceremony at Fire Station 1 on July 25 when a young hero with spina bifida received his own Panama City firefighter helmet.

On Sunday afternoon, a man drowned in the Gulf while trying to save his daughter near Beach Access 42, and his daughter survived despite witnesses performing CPR until rescuers arrived—PCB officials confirmed this is the third drowning so far in 2025 and warned residents to swim near a lifeguard.

A new list of 17 wacky Florida restaurants spotlights offbeat dining spots with fun themes and unusual decor, including Panama City's El Weirdo (co-owned by the mayor) that serves good tacos and unique sides like magical Wizard Fries.

The guide covers quirky eateries across the state from Jacksonville's alien themed taco joints to Captiva's year round Christmas dining room, giving locals fresh ideas for a memorable meal.

Bay District Schools shared back-to-school guidance for the upcoming 2025-2026 year—covering cell phone rules, dress codes, and registration as summer ends and students prepare for school.

Bay County inspectors completed health inspections from July 21-27 and temporarily closed St. Andrews Slice House for four violations including roach activity and an expired license—seven restaurants received high-priority warnings for issues like unsanitary conditions and improper temperature controls that require follow-up checks by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

The Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation is hosting the Reels and Spears Gulf Classic fishing tournament from September 12-13, expanding its contest from only lionfish to include snapper and grouper to raise funds for building 25 artificial reefs (each costing around $10,000) that will hold the ashes of veterans, first responders, and canines. Registration ends August 1 (the final day to sign up) for this two-day competition with prizes in each fish category.

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.