Good morning, Panama City.

TDC is gearing up for the annual Beach Ball Drop tonight — 15,000 inflated beach balls will be released at 8 p.m. to kick off the local celebration.

Idell Smith turned 100 today during a family celebration arranged by her granddaughter, Alicisa Blagrove, attended by close relatives and friends who shared food+cake and honored her lifelong faith.

Bay County Sheriff’s Office wrapped up its Project 25 effort by supporting over 300 children with Christmas gifts this season.

Gift deliveries begin today as deputies and schools coordinate to ensure each child gets a gift (organizer Becky Johns marks her final year running the program).

Capital City Bank has named Clint Mizell president of Bay County to lead operations at its three local offices and strengthen community ties—he brings over 24 years of banking experience and proven local leadership.

Eastern Shipbuilding finished its first‑of‑its‑kind converted service vessel project on Dec.

9. The project marks a fresh step that boosts local maritime services — showing the shipbuilder’s drive for innovative conversion.

The 13th Annual Bethlehem Christmas Village will bring ancient Bethlehem to life on the waterfront as a festive holiday event for locals and visitors.

Details about activities and attractions will be confirmed at the venue.

Today, Major Dustin Cosson from the Walton County Sheriff's Office shared gift security tips on NewsChannel 7 Today to help both shoppers and local retailers protect holiday purchases + advising everyone to shop safely.

Coastal Parasail will start tilling a three-mile stretch in Mexico Beach in January (a required step after a recent renourishment), while the Tourist Development Council continues scouting eight sand sites to support future beach maintenance projects.

Panama City health care workers received the Stroke Superhero Awards on Dec.

8 to mark one year of the Ascension Sacred Heart Bay neurothrombectomy program.

Bay County health officials issued a red tide alert after water samples taken on Dec.

3 showed contamination in East, West and North Bay. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with affected waters and follow beach signage for updates.

A precautionary boil water notice is in effect in Bylsma Manor, College Station, and Cedar Park due to a malfunction during a routine water meter test on Pipeline Road – it will remain active until bacteriological surveys confirm safe water.

Publix Sports Park is undergoing a turf upgrade as TDC converts three grass fields to artificial turf, with the work scheduled to finish by January.

Officials said a future phase will repurpose another field into a parking lot — and initial work on an indoor event center has begun.

North Bay Haven’s basketball team clinched a home hoops win over Chipley Tuesday at the local gym & boosted team morale for upcoming games.

The Nutcracker by Panama City Ballet

7-9 p.m. — Arnold High School — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical journey through dance with the enchanting tale of Clara and her beloved Nutcracker.

39th Annual Boat Parade of Lights

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Destination Panama City — Free entry — Enjoy a magical holiday boat parade illuminating St. Andrews Bay with festive lights and decorations.

Christmas Community Feast

2-4 p.m. — Sun Outdoors Panama City Beach — Bring a dish to share — Enjoy a festive community gathering with a delicious feast and good company.

New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop

Evening — Pier Park — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year with a spectacular beach ball drop and festive atmosphere.