"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." - Helen Keller

Panama City is moving forward with a major downtown marina redevelopment, and Mayor Allan Branch is urging locals to get involved in shaping the project’s future.

The city invites feedback from contractors, engineers, tradespeople, and marine experts to identify and resolve any issues in the draft marina plans before final designs are prepared.

Community-wide input is essential to ensure the plans are clear, detailed, and tailored to the needs of both residents and taxpayers.

City Manager Jonathan Hayes is collecting suggestions from those with relevant expertise, requesting a brief summary of qualifications along with targeted feedback.

From January 21–23, public charrettes led by Dover Kohl will gather broader community perspectives on building sizes, architecture, parking, green space, and long-term sustainability.

A new study highlighting best practices from other Florida marinas will also help guide local decision-making.

Residents are encouraged to participate and help redefine Panama City’s waterfront.

Matt Devitt, a beloved presence in Southwest Florida weather reporting, has unexpectedly ended his ten-year role as Chief Meteorologist at WINK News.

Devitt revealed his departure on January 10, noting he couldn’t offer an on-air farewell.

Known for his steady guidance—especially during the chaos of Hurricane Ian in 2022—Devitt’s calm delivery and accurate forecasts became a touchstone for Lee County residents.

His blend of professionalism and humor, including playful weather memes, broadened his fan base far beyond the region.

In the wake of his announcement, online support has poured in, highlighting his immense impact and the trust he earned.

Devitt thanked the community for their encouragement and plans to continue sharing weather updates via his rebranded social media and email.

The future for both Devitt and his dedicated followers remains bright and hopeful.

Aaron Scott Lee, Vice President of Administration for Visit Panama City Beach, has been arrested on grand theft and credit card fraud charges.

The Bay County Sheriff's Office alleges Lee made over 1,000 unauthorized transactions with a company American Express card, totaling nearly $1 million since April 2024.

This spending reportedly funded luxury hotels, international flights, high-end purchases, and personal expenses.

After initially blaming the misuse on a technical error, Lee later admitted to knowingly using the card for personal bills.

Sheriff Tommy Ford called Lee a "con man" who betrayed public trust, and county commissioners voiced outrage, pledging tighter oversight of public funds.

The case has shocked the Panama City Beach community and sparked calls for increased transparency and accountability to prevent future abuse.

Excitement is set to sweep through Historic St. Andrews as the Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras 2026 arrives February 6–7, inviting Panama City locals and visitors to a dazzling celebration.

More than 50,000 people are expected to gather, drawn by two full days of family fun, parades, and live music.

Friday begins with kid-friendly activities, adorable pet parades, and the enchanting Mask Parade along Beck Avenue.

Live bands create a lively atmosphere as the community comes together.

Saturday’s main event features over 40 spectacular floats and 14 colorful Krewes along the parade route, showering crowds with beads and doubloons.

Unique vendors, local eats, and music from acts like True Soul and Filmore Drive Band ensure the Mardi Gras spirit shines all day.

Admission is free, with VIP options available for those seeking premium perks.

Don’t miss new local hotspots nearby—Historic St. Andrews continues to charm with fresh food and shopping experiences.

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The Weather Presented by MyPanhandle

The Gulf Coast Jam 2026 is set to bring star-studded energy to Frank Brown Park in Panama City Beach from May 28 to May 31, 2026.

This major four-day country music festival will spotlight industry legends like Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Riley Green, and Post Malone, alongside exciting rising acts sure to thrill music lovers.

Organizers anticipate a packed crowd, hoping to match or surpass last year’s attendance of nearly 100,000 fans.

The spacious Frank Brown Park, just off Panama City Beach Parkway, provides the perfect venue with ample facilities for visitors.

Beyond the concerts, guests can enjoy local attractions like the newly opened Topgolf complex, the lively McGuire’s Irish Pub, and the immersive Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.

Visitors are encouraged to book accommodations and secure their tickets early for an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend of music and entertainment on the coast.

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Experience the vibrant energy of Mardi Gras as Panama City Beach welcomes its annual Mardi Gras and Music Festival, happening January 30-31, 2026.

Hosted by the Krewe of Dominique Youx, the celebration brings lively parades, exciting live performances, and family-friendly fun under the sunny Gulf Coast skies.

Festivities launch Friday at Pier Park, where you can tour parade floats, meet royalty, and enjoy a warm community welcome.

The Kids Fun Zone and Festival Village open at the Grand Theater Plaza, making sure younger guests have plenty of entertainment.

Evenings sparkle with music from Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band and a children’s parade, while Saturday brings non-stop tunes in Aaron Bessant Park, including sets from Redferrin and Tobacco Road Band.

The grand Mardi Gras Parade and dazzling fireworks cap a weekend of unforgettable coastal celebration.

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Why did the crab never share its food in Panama City, Florida?

Because it was shellfish!