Good morning, Panama City.

Scott Fester’s Christmas lights show featuring over 500,000 lights draws families for a holiday tradition.

The free display runs from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays through Jan. 3 and has special showings on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at (1415 Airport Rd).

Coldwell Banker Realty presented a $589,000 check to the Humane Society of Bay County yesterday from the estate of Catherine Schouten and donors Donald and Catherine Schouten.

The donation helps support local animal care services.

Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation is sponsoring the 2026 Bay Gala to support the hospital’s work to save lives and comfort families.

The fundraiser will help keep the hospital a beacon of hope, with more event details to come.

Beef prices rose 13.9 percent from August 2024 to August 2025, impacting local families amid rising inflation.

Coldwell Banker Realty donated $589,000 to the Humane Society of Bay County, and Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation sponsors the 2026 Bay Gala to support community health + charitable programs.

City of PC will host tree giveaway events in 2026 (details on locations and dates are pending) as part of its effort to boost local green spaces for residents.

The recreational harvest of gray triggerfish will close in Gulf state waters on Jan.

1 and reopen on Mar. 1, 2026 — FWC advises anglers to review current triggerfish regulations.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires utility companies to send a compliance letter by the end of the year.

The directive aims to ensure water safety in the area.

A local food safety expert offered tips to ensure safe food handling during the busy holiday season.

The expert stressed washing hands regularly and proper food storage to help families prevent foodborne illness.

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.

Rosenwald Documentary Red Carpet Event

6-9 p.m. — Florida State University Panama City — Free entry — Experience the premiere of the Rosenwald documentary with a night of film and star-studded excitement.