Daily
Panama City
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025
Good morning, Panama City. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 31st of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Two Panama City firefighters were promoted at Fire Station 1 (their team hub) on Dec. 30, as family and coworkers gathered to honor their achievements. Their promotion highlights the department’s commitment to public service. WJHG
- ➤ Catholic Charities of Northwest Florida received a donation from Catherine Schouten’s estate on Tuesday, Dec. 30; the funds will help Bay County families access vital services. WJHG
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Celebration Tower will host the NYE Beach Ball Drop tonight as the clock nears midnight + locals gather to welcome the new year. This festive event is set to highlight the community's vibrant spirit. WJHG
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Local financial advisors advise residents to write down money goals for 2026 to ease financial anxiety — a clear plan can help manage spending and savings. WJHG
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Two Panama City firefighters were promoted on Tuesday at Fire Station 1. Devin Molenda was sworn in as an engineer following a family tradition, and Eric Vossen was sworn in as a captain in fire prevention and public education. WJHG
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ CDC data indicate 4.6 million flu cases nationwide in 2025, with cases increasing in Florida after Christmas. Dr. Amber Thacker of HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital said vaccinations remain the best defense as flu activity typically peaks in February. WJHG
- ➤ Flu season started as cases in Florida have been rising since Dec. 30 (the date of initial alerts), and health officials in Panama City urge residents to get vaccinated and seek care promptly. WJHG
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Tonight, the Sippin' and Shuckin' Oyster and Champagne Rodeo NYE Party offers an immersive celebration with live music, food and drinks for New Year's Eve — an event designed to bring the local community together. Locals are encouraged to join the festive gathering. WJHG
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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.
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Great Pages Circus
1-2:30 p.m. — Central Panhandle Fair in Bay County — Cash only — Experience thrilling acts and family fun at this exciting circus event.
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PCB Mardi Gras and Music Festival
11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Pier Park — Free entry — Celebrate Mardi Gras with music, prizes, and festive activities for all ages.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Panama City
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