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"Controversial 2026 Florida Laws: Vaccines Removed, Beach Ball Drop, and Exciting NYE Celebrations in Panama City!"
"Controversial 2026 Florida Laws: Vaccines Removed, Beach Ball Drop, and Exciting NYE Celebrations in Panama City!"
"Controversial 2026 Florida Laws: Vaccines Removed, Beach Ball Drop, and Exciting NYE Celebrations in Panama City!"
"Exciting Weekend Events in Panama City: Oyster & Champagne Brunch, New Year 5K, Blues Tribute Show, Comedy Night, Vision Board Breakfast, Live Music, and More!"
Frank Gotaas
Dec 30, 2025
Trivia Question❓What popular event takes place every year in Panama City, Florida, where participants dress as pirates and celebrate with a parade and live music? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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In 2026, Florida will see the implementation of new laws passed in the 2025 legislative session. Bay County and Panama City residents will be impacted by changes in healthcare and insurance. Providers must issue refunds within 30 days of patient overpayments. State employees will receive expanded health coverage, including fully covered diagnostic exams and fertility preservation services. Insurance regulations will require clearer claim explanations from pet insurance providers. Additionally, a new law called “Dexter’s Law” aims to increase animal welfare by creating a public database of individuals convicted of animal cruelty. Housing laws will require transparency from larger condominium associations. Ethics reforms will include a six-year lobbying ban for former judges and lawmakers. |
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The Florida Department of Health is proposing to remove four vaccines—Hepatitis B, Varicella, Hib, and Pneumococcal conjugate—from the list of required immunizations for students attending public and private schools, including adult education programs.
This move, championed by Dr. Joseph Ladapo, the state’s Surgeon General, reflects a push for more parental control over children's healthcare choices in Bay County and statewide.
Despite these changes, vaccines for measles, polio, diphtheria, mumps, tetanus, and pertussis will still be required.
Local reactions are mixed, with some praising increased parental rights and others—especially health professionals—warning about possible rises in preventable illnesses.
A public workshop will be held December 12 in Panama City Beach, inviting Bay County residents to join the conversation and help shape future school health policies. Read More... |
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Panama City Beach is gearing up for its iconic New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop, drawing crowds from near and far to celebrate in style.
Voted as the “Best New Year’s Eve Drop” by USA TODAY 10Best, this event blends high-energy live music, dazzling fireworks, and fun for all ages.
Festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. in Aaron Bessant Park and along Pier Park Drive, with performances from DJ DT, Cover to Cover, and The Life Atlantic.
Families can look forward to the Kids’ Beach Ball Drop at 8:00 p.m., where 15,000 colorful balls fill the air and fireworks light up the night.
As midnight nears, live acts like The Blinding Lights fuel anticipation, leading to the dramatic descent of a giant LED-lit beach ball from the towering Celebration Tower—capped with a spectacular fireworks show over the Gulf.
Welcome 2026 on the coast with music, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Read More... |
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Dive into adventure with a women-run dolphin and snorkel tour! Cruise beautiful waters, spot wild dolphins, and explore marine life below the surface with an expert crew that brings passion, positivity, and ocean smarts to every trip. The ladies of Good Jibez Only Boat Tours are ready to show you why we love what we do! Contact Info: Shell Phone: 850-912-9099 5325 North Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, Florida 32408 https://goodjibezonly.com/ |
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The Weather Presented by MyPanhandle. It will be chilly on NYE, please dress appropriate. |
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Panama City, Florida is getting ready for an exciting New Year's Eve celebration with a variety of events and activities. From a glamorous party at No Name Lounge & Bayside Bistro to a rock concert/EDM rave at The Dive, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can celebrate at Little Village + Finns Island Style Grub with live music and champagne vibes, while Sound Collective hosts a folk music New Year's Eve Bash. The Yard Bar offers a multi-day event featuring a "Sippin' & Shuckin' Oyster & Champagne Rodeo", complete with live music and a Pearl Drop at midnight. Other options include Vibez Nightclub's party with cash prizes, Lone Star Boil House & Sports Bar's masquerade party, and House of Henry's Glitz & Glam Party with live music. Atelier & Co's 2nd Annual New Year's Eve Party Soirée provides a high-end experience with live music, a DJ, and a champagne toast at midnight. Whether you want a family-friendly celebration or a lively party atmosphere, Panama City has something for everyone to ring in 2026. Read More... |
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Cruise Historic Downtown Panama City the fun way with TIKI TAXI 🚲🌴 🌺 is a fun pedal taxi service. Hop aboard the TIKI TAXI and enjoy a fun, laid-back ride through the heart of Historic Downtown Panama City! |
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Weekend Events (January 1 - January 4)
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Bath Basket Spa Kit Spa Gifts for Women, Luxury Bath and Body Basket Set 10pcs Self Care Kit Lavender Scent Birthday Gifts Skin Care Set, Christmas Gifts for Women, Beauty kits Bridal Shower |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The annual Pirates of the High Seas Festival. |