Good morning, Panama City.

The Bay County Council on Aging will host its annual fundraiser at 1116 Frankford Ave in Panama City on November 1st—this event will run from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and include a pancake breakfast, lunch, arts, crafts, vendors, and raffles like the popular Gift Card Tree.

The Panama City Police Department warns that trick-or-treaters, drivers, and candy helpers should be extra careful on Halloween as parents are advised to keep kids in well-lit areas, use sidewalks, and check treats before eating.

Residents are also asked to set clocks back at 2 a.m. on Sunday and check smoke alarms and outdoor lights—since darker evenings can increase risks.

Humble House Ministries in Panama City has helped reunite 30 children with their mothers over the past four years by partnering with Bay County Jail and the Florida Department of Children and Families—its faith-based recovery program now accepts new resident applications and will host a fundraising banquet on December 2.

The annual Project 25 Car Show is set for November 2nd at Kartona Electric Speedway in Panama City Beach from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.—Becky Johns and Troy Brown said 50 trophies will be awarded and pulled pork BBQ plates and raffles will be available.

Bay County Council on Aging will host its Fall Festival for seniors and community members — details about the event's schedule and location remain to be announced.

AAA has shared Halloween safety tips for pedestrians and drivers in Panama City and warned that social gatherings on Friday may create dangerous road conditions — the group advised using reflective costumes, crossing at marked crosswalks, and planning a sober ride for the evening.

A local organization provides free eye exams and glasses to Bay County students to help them see clearly in class—services are available now for those in need.

The Aspen Institute named Gulf Coast State College as one of the top 200 eligible U.S. community colleges for the 2027 Aspen Prize, a recognition that will be underscored by upcoming details on the award criteria and schedule.

The college looks forward to the honor as a sign of its continued excellence.

Officials said tests found red tide and high bacteria in St. Andrews Bay and Mexico Beach, and residents are urged not to swim or eat shellfish because of risks to skin, eyes, and breathing—fish kills have been reported as a result.

Health experts stress that exposure to these conditions could lead to illness, urging extra caution in affected areas.

Bay County’s Florida Department of Health issued a water quality advisory on Wednesday after tests on Monday showed that Enterococcus levels were too high at six locations including Laguna Beach, Panama City Beach City Pier, Rick Seltzer Park, Carl Gray Park, Beach Drive, and Earl Gilbert Park. Officials advised residents to avoid water-related activities — a safety measure — until conditions improve.

John Lee Nissan donated $10,000 to Fore Her today (a nonprofit that helps local breast cancer patients with treatment costs and everyday bills) during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the funds will support essential financial aid and patient support groups across the Panhandle.

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.

18th Annual Bay County Sheriff’s Rodeo

7-10 p.m. — Central Panhandle Fair — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling rodeo action perfect for the whole family.

3rd Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk

8-10 a.m. — Gulf Coast State College — Registration fee applies — Participate in a festive run/walk to kickstart your Thanksgiving celebrations.

Beach Home For The Holidays

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Aaron Bessant Park — Free entry — Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with festivities as Santa Claus comes to town.