Good morning, Panama City.

Schooners annual lobster fest kicked off yesterday — inviting local lobster lovers to enjoy the start of the community event.

Over the past 24 hours, Mill Bayou’s HOA proposed transferring its streetlights to the city as its contract with Florida Power and Light ended, but city officials remain reluctant due to a $1,200 annual cost—while Bay County Chamber of Commerce named Al McCambry as president and CEO, United States Air Force Master Sergeant Shane Johnson surprised his family at Breakfast Point Academy, former ABC News President Kimberly Godwin inspired young leaders, and Bay District Schools reached a tentative agreement for record starting teacher pay.

Al McCambry is now president and CEO of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and he aims to support local businesses—by removing obstacles to growth and linking young professionals with opportunities at Tyndall Air Force Base—while working with over 1,200 chamber members.

Local artists Jeannie Whitworth and Olga Guy will display their work at the Bay County Public Library's Open Palette Art Reception (October 25 through November), bringing fresh local art to the community.

Today, Schooners started its annual four-day lobster festival in Panama City Beach at 11 a.m., serving lobster bisque, lobster pot pie, grilled lobster tail and kids’ meals—live music will play each night at 6 p.m. and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday as the event runs until October 19.

The 39th Annual Boat Parade of Lights will sail on December 13 in St. Andrews Bay — boats will start from the St. Andrews Yacht Club at 5:30 p.m. and finish near the Hathaway Bridge at 7:30 p.m. Spectators can view the festive maritime display and vote online for the best decorated vessel — while also enjoying seasonal treats and activities at the Holiday Village at Panama City Marina.

On Oct. 14, Surfside Middle School seventh-graders explored marine ecosystems at St. Andrews State Park in Panama City + they gained firsthand insights into coastal life from park guides.

Faith Festival

3-7 p.m. — Aaron Bessant Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant community gathering featuring concerts, food trucks, and a prayer tent focused on faith and fellowship.

Haunted 5K & Half Marathon

8:00 AM — Conservation Park — Registration required — Lace up your running shoes for a spooky race through the park.

IRONMAN Florida 2025

7 PM – 6 AM — Hotels Panama City Beach City Pier - 53 — Registration fees apply — Experience a flat and fast triathlon course amidst the stunning Emerald Coast atmosphere.

Saturday Storytime: Thankful Hearts

11 AM – 12 PM — Parker Public Library — Free entry — Delight in storytelling and a craft focused on gratitude for ages 3 to 6.

Panama City Songwriters Festival

6:30 PM - 10:00 PM — Destination Panama City — Check website for entry details — Experience the 7th Annual Songwriter Festival showcasing diverse musical talents from local to national artists.

Public Eye Soar Festival

6 PM – 10 PM — Gulf Coast State College — Free entry — Experience a dazzling display of international art through light and projection from artists around the world.

National Home School Football Championships

All day — Publix Sports Park — Check website for entry details — Catch the excitement of home school football in action with live streaming of the games!

Parker Public Library Book Club

11 AM - 12 PM — Parker Public Library — Free — Engage in a lively discussion about this month's featured title, 'The Christmas Bookshop' by Jenny Colgan.

Job Fair Interview Preparation and Resume Workshop

10-11 a.m. — City of Panama City Florida — From $23.18 — Get ready to ace your job interviews and perfect your resume at this hands-on workshop.