Good morning, Panama City! In today’s edition: MLK Jr. Recreation Center opening, a polar plunge for a cause, a Justin Alexander trunk show, and more. Let’s get to it!

— Cait Baker

📰 In the news

A hub for creativity: Panama City will open the MLK Jr. Recreation Center on Friday, January 16. Free entry runs January 16 through February 28, and fees start March 1. Youth memberships are free — learn about amenities and access.

Heightened flu season risks: Flu cases have risen across Florida since Christmas, the CDC reported, as officials urge prevention and note an enhanced vaccine for older adults amid concerns about more severe illness — get all the details.

New leadership in public safety: Two Panama City firefighters were promoted during a ceremony at Fire Station 1, where Devin Molenda’s former firefighter father pinned his badge, and Eric Vossen celebrated his new role — see their new roles.

Compare rates for free: The national average for car insurance is around $175 per month. Paying more than that? Same, so I did some shopping around and ended up cutting my premium in half. If you haven’t checked in a while, you’re probably overpaying too — here’s the comparison tool I used.

Protect your nest egg: Savvy investors are turning to gold amidst today’s inflation, national debt, and market uncertainty for a reason. It holds its value when everything else feels shaky. Case in point: it’s up ~62% since this month last year. If you’re curious about adding it and other precious metals to your portfolio, American Hartford has a super helpful guide that covers everything you need to know. It’s free, and definitely worth a read — check it out here.

*We do our best to avoid paywalled articles. If any slip through, let me know which ones and I’ll permanently remove them from our source list!

Highlights this week:

• Sweat to Hula and ‘Ori Tahiti
• Celebrate Christmas at Sharks Sports Bar
• Connect over coffee with amazing women
• Create and connect at Highland Cows crop
• This pet insurance plan reimburses up to 90%
• A home warranty that actually pays is 50% off

🫶 We got your back

Street changes under consideration: Panama City officials addressed pedestrian safety concerns in a December 31 article and proposed adding two new crosswalks. The proposals aim to improve safety for people walking. Officials discussed steps to make crossings safer. Read the full story.

Curious kids, rejoice: Short, hands-on science breaks that wear them out? The Science & Discovery Center of Northwest Florida blends interactive exhibits with a mesmerizing reptile crew, perfect for a quick afternoon adventure that feels educational without trying too hard.

Craving a real burrito? In St. Andrews, FINNS Island Style Grub keeps it small, fresh, and simple, with no fryers or microwaves, so breakfast burritos and build-your-own bowls taste like actual food. Expect laid-back local vibes, reliably tasty fillings, and an easy go-to whenever the craving hits.

Thinning hair? Same: I’ve been shedding a lot, and recently noticed my ponytail feeling thinner. After way too much panic-Googling, I discovered Keranique’s hair regrowth system. Everything with them is surprisingly easy: no quizzes, no pills, no choosing between dozens of products. Just grab the kit and follow the instructions. The best part? It’s $75 off right now, you’ll get three free gifts, AND you’ll get your money back if you don’t love the results.

📆 Around town this weekend

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📅 First Friday @ Bay County Chamber of Commerce | Friday (1/9) at 7:30 AM – First Friday lands on the second Friday, because Bay County thrives on collaboration, caffeine, and calendar flexibility. Expect Rhea Goff of St. Joe, Col. Bergholdt from Tyndall, and networking that actually moves the needle, with thanks to Coca Cola, iHeart Media, and RC Events.

👗 Justin Alexander Trunk Show @ Baytowne Bridal | Friday (1/9) at 10:00 AM – This is the weekend to play dress up with purpose. Baytowne Bridal hosts a Justin Alexander trunk show, three days of fresh-off-the-runway gowns to try before they hit anywhere else, appointments scarce, bubbles flowing, opinions welcome. Say yes to the one, then toast.

🧘 Yoga in the Gallery @ Panama City Center for the Arts | Friday (1/9) at 5:30 PM – New year, new hips that don’t creak, maybe. Slow flow vinyasa in the Main Gallery at Panama City Center for the Arts, led by Amy McGuire of Balance Yoga & Lifestyle, all levels, $15, BYO mat, with proceeds helping the arts we actually enjoy.

🚗 St Andrews Cars and Coffee @ St Andrews Marina | Saturday (1/10) at 8:00 AM – Rolling into second Saturdays, St Andrews Cars and Coffee is where early birds swap stories over hot cups and open hoods. Bring your ride, mind your manners, and enjoy a low-drama lineup, good conversations, and that just-right mix of chrome, caffeine, and community.

🥶 10th Annual Salty Goat Polar Plunge @ The Salty Goat Saloon | Saturday (1/10) at 11:00 AM – If you’ve been waiting for a sign to run into the Gulf in January, this is it, the 10th annual Polar Plunge at Salty Goat supporting leukemia research in honor of Gary Gault. Dip or cheer, then thaw with a beverage, raffle prizes, and goodwill.

✂ Crafternoon @ Parker Public Library | Saturday (1/10) at 11:00 AM – Crafternoon is serving up cozy winter crafts for adults and teens 16+, so you can make something cute and call it self-care. Think button trees, quilling, and beginner Zentangle, and spots are limited, so claim yours early by calling 850-871-3092 to register.

🧵 Tangerine Textiles @ Bookish Boutique | Sunday (1/11) at 12:00 PM – Swing by Bookish for a cozy Tangerine Textiles pop-up, all handmade sleeves and reader-friendly accessories that make your books and e-readers feel fancy. Perfect for gifting, and even better for “one for them, one for me.” Shop small, chat books, leave smugly organized.

Wanna see more? Browse our full events calendar →

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📻 Panama City report

Weather forecast

Today – High: 70°F – Low: 62°F – Precip: 6%

Widespread fog before 10am. Partly sunny. High near 70, with temperatures falling to around 67 in the afternoon. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph. Later: Patchy fog between midnight and 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

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Tomorrow – High: 71°F – Low: 65°F – Precip: 8%

Partly sunny, with a high near 71. Southeast wind 10 to 15 mph. Later: A slight chance of rain showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. South southeast wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

This house is wild

Ground floor ease meets a peaceful courtyard setting in this updated 2-bedroom at Landmark. The open kitchen and living space feels bright and social, with new cabinetry, sleek countertops, a large island, new appliances, and a pantry. The bath is fully redone with a stylish tiled walk-in shower. Luxury vinyl plank floors run throughout, and the primary bedroom adds a redesigned, enlarged closet for smarter storage.

Within a waterfront community shaded by old-growth oaks in St. Andrews, the condo pairs calm courtyard views with coastal access. A versatile option for a primary residence, a second home, or an investment.

Take a peek inside →