Category: Community

Panama City Beach Community News

  • GCSC Foundation Secures $80K for Students Facing Barriers to College

    GCSC Foundation Secures $80K for Students Facing Barriers to College

    Gcsc Foundation

    The Gulf Coast State College Foundation is honored to announce it has received an $80,000 grant from the Edward K. Roberts Community College Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. This year’s award will provide vital support to students served by Gulf Coast State College’s TRiO program—an initiative that empowers low-income, first-generation, and disabled students to succeed in higher education.

    Since 2011, the GCSC Foundation has been awarded a total of $670,000 from this fund. These gifts have supported nearly 600 students through direct scholarships and vital programming across campus, including TRiO, Veterans Affairs,  and the Career Center.

    “We are honored to be entrusted with these funds to support the educational journeys of students whose paths to college haven’t always been easy,” said Ashlin Glatthar, Executive Director of the GCSC Foundation. “This grant will have a profound impact, especially for part-time students, student parents, and those pursuing workforce credentials in high-demand fields. We’re especially grateful for the flexibility to address not just academic needs but also essential  living expenses, which are often the greatest barriers to persistence and completion.”

    Gulf Coast State College’s TRiO program provides comprehensive support to eligible students across Bay, Gulf, and  Franklin counties. Through tutoring, academic advising, personal counseling, and career development workshops, TRiO helps participants overcome systemic barriers to post-secondary education. The program’s mission is to motivate and empower students to successfully complete a college credential or degree. Learn more by visiting TRiO’s website here.

    The Gulf Coast State College Foundation, established more than 55 years ago, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to higher education. With support from individuals, businesses, and grantmakers, the Foundation has awarded more than $26 million in scholarships and program support.

    To learn more about the mission of Gulf Coast State College, GCSC Foundation and to contribute to scholarships that  change lives, visit:

    GCSC: https://www.gulfcoast.edu/index.html

    GCSC Foundation https://gcscfoundation.org/ 

    Contributions: gcscfoundation.org/ways-to-give/give-now 

    TRiO: https://www.gulfcoast.edu/academics/academic-support-tutoring/trio/index.html

    Community Foundation of Sarasota County:

    https://www.cfsarasota.org/story-of-impact/Edward-K-Roberts-Vision-for-An-Expanded-Education 

  • GCSC Foundation Partners with STEM Origins to Launch “Rising Star” Scholarship  Program for Aspiring STEM Students

    GCSC Foundation Partners with STEM Origins to Launch “Rising Star” Scholarship  Program for Aspiring STEM Students

    Gcsc Education

    The Gulf Coast State College Foundation is proud to announce a new partnership with the STEM  Origins Foundation to support the launch of the Rising Star scholarship program—a forward-thinking initiative aimed at inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators in Bay County.

    Originally designed to support three students, early fundraising success has allowed the STEM Origins Foundation to expand the inaugural year of the Rising Star program to benefit 10 students from 10 different elementary schools across the district. Each selected 5th-grade student will receive a $500 scholarship, awarded upon graduation from high school and disbursed when they enroll at Gulf Coast State College.

    “This partnership isn’t just about dollars—it’s about building dreams and lighting a long-term path for students who show curiosity and aptitude in STEM,” said Ashlin Glatthar, Executive Director of GCSC Foundation. “By giving students  something to aim for early on, we’re changing what’s possible in their futures.”

    The program is uniquely designed to plant the seed of higher education early, leveraging the proven power of long-term incentives to nurture STEM interests during the formative years. Students are selected based on merit—including demonstrated curiosity, aptitude, and enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—as well as their collaboration and work ethic, all commensurate with age-appropriate expectations.

    With $5,000 raised to date, the Rising Star program has already met its goal to support 10 students in its first year.  However, the vision doesn’t stop there. The STEM Origins Foundation and the GCSC Foundation aim to double the reach to 20 students annually, representing one from each elementary school in the Bay District.

    To do so, they are seeking additional community and private sector partners who recognize both the joy of helping  young minds flourish and the urgent national need for a skilled STEM workforce

    “This is an investment in our children and in our country’s future STEM talent pipeline,” said Mark Bradshaw, President of the STEM Origins Foundation. “If we want to lead in innovation, we have to start here by making STEM education  tangible and exciting from an early age.”

  • Shop Talk: New Stores – New Reasons to Visit Pier Park

    Shop Talk: New Stores – New Reasons to Visit Pier Park

    By Lee Ann Leonard

    Pier Park is excited to welcome several new stores and one major attraction giving locals and tourists more reasons to shop, dine and play in Pier Park.

    Sephora 

    The highly-anticipated beauty store is now open next to Target and offers a diverse selection of makeup, skincare, fragrances, hair care and body care products from popular and emerging brands. Shoppers love that they can try out products before purchasing them or get personalized recommendations from one of Sephora’s beauty experts.
    “I’ve had the pleasure of working at our Destin location since 2021, and from the very beginning, I’ve been lucky to have loyal clients making the trip all the way from Panama City Beach,” commented Store Manager Ashleigh Budden. “It means the world to me to finally bring a store closer to them — one that reflects the same care, service and community they’ve helped build.”

    Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

    The epic attraction was generating buzz even before the legendary Dolly Parton made her June 5th appearance. Located in Pier Park West, the attraction includes a 60,000-square-foot indoor theater, a 15-foot-deep lagoon, two full-sized pirate ships serving as stages for the swashbuckling action and more! Attendees will enjoy thrilling stunts, dazzling effects, sword fights, a four-course feast, sea lions, macaws, mermaids and, of course, pirates!

    Salty Shoes by Hy’s Toggery 

    Located next to Hy’s Toggery, Salty Shoes features footwear for coastal living. With brands like HEYDUDE, REEF and Gola, you’re bound to find the perfect pair for padding down a pier, exploring the shore, going for a run or just kicking back in the sand.

    Awoken Kicks

    Fashionistas looking to make a statement will find everything from vintage T-shirts to limited-edition kicks in this unique store. Awoken Kicks’ collection blends streetwear, modern trends and classic finds enabling shoppers to craft a one-of-a-kind look. Find the new hot spot in the Town Center next to Old Navy.

    JD Sports

    Known for its vast and varied selection of apparel, footwear and accessories, JD Sports is slated to open in early 2026 next to Sephora. Visitors will find the best brands like Nike, Jordan, adidas, Champion and more.

    Hollister Co. 

    Opening next to JD Sports in spring 2026, the popular store offers casual, beach and youthful styles perfect for beach life.

    Other new and noteworthy stores include ERRA Books, Hello Gorgeous and Paradise Nutrition. For a complete list of stores and the latest center news, visit Simon.com/Mall/Pier-Park.

  • Costuming, Sets and Production Are Taking Shape At New Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Panama City Beach, Florida

    Costuming, Sets and Production Are Taking Shape At New Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Panama City Beach, Florida

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    If it’s a pirate’s life for you, you have to look and dress the part. No one knows that better than Dolly Parton and her professional team getting the cast and crew ready for the debut of Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Panama City Beach, Florida, which “officially” will open on Friday, June 6.

    “Creating has always been a joy for me, and I love getting dressed up in fancy outfits, so getting to help dream up the costumes for my new Pirates Voyage has been so exciting,” said Dolly Parton. “Every one of these outfits helps bring the story to life, from the bold colors of the pirate crews to the glitter and shimmer on our beautiful mermaids. Even our servers are dressed for the adventure! I think folks are going to feel the magic and excitement the moment they walk through the doors.”

    Every costume has been custom-designed and fabricated in-house for each individual performer, including embellishments fitting to the specific character. In excess of 800 yards of specialized fabric was used to make the show’s costumes, and more than 2400 hours over the course of several months were spent designing, creating and bringing the Pirates Voyage unique look to life. The swords, all custom-designed and custom-made, are unique to each character and took eight weeks to complete just for the Pirates Voyage show.

    Pirate Costumes

    In addition to costuming, ships fit for holding plenty of pirates’ loot in Pirates Voyage Buccaneer Bay have arrived in Panama City Beach. After eight weeks of construction by the creative team and being transported aboard 10 semi-trucks, everything is looking ship-shape at the new dinner show location. The enormous 28-foot ships were designed off-site, then taken apart for shipping before being reassembled inside the Pirates Voyage facility.

    Teams are also setting up the extensive rigging for the multitude of stunts performed throughout the show that will have audience members believing in mystical mermaids and amazed by pirate feats. Another 10 trucks have delivered scenery pieces for the theater’s interior that will play an integral part in the adventurous ambiance of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.

    Pirate Ships

    Following an extensive nationwide talent search for the perfect pirate crew, the cast has been in rehearsals and intense training for the acrobatic and diving skills required of pirates and mermaids alike in the show. “After the set is finalized, we’ll welcome our cast of colorful pirates to begin their practices aboard ship in our lagoon. They have already completed extensive training at our Myrtle Beach facility, and they are excited to begin practicing the show in Panama City Beach and create all the exciting stunts in this arena where guests will begin to see their performances later this month (in May,)” Corporate Director of Entertainment David Major said.

    Pirates Voyage construction is a $60 million project. Reservations are now being taken for all 2025 shows beginning in June; ticket information is available at piratesvoyage.com.

  • Shop Talk: Celebrate Father’s Day His Way at Pier Park

    Shop Talk: Celebrate Father’s Day His Way at Pier Park

    By Lee Ann Leonard

    Pier Park invites locals and visitors to celebrate Father’s Day his way at the open-air center. From sharing delicious dishes to enjoying some friendly competition, Pier Park offers plentiful ways to connect with pop. Dad-approved dining, gift and entertainment ideas include:

    • Longhorn Steakhouse – Say you love him with a manly meal. The sizzle of a steak is a language he understands.
    • Royal Escape Rooms – Prove that you’re better together by solving the puzzles and beating the clock. Choose from different themed rooms and difficulty levels.
    • Ron Jon Surf Shop – Shop for the active, water sports-loving father at the world’s most famous surf shop! Browse surfboards, swimwear and other beach-friendly gear.
    • Pro Image Sports – For the sports enthusiast, a licensed MLB, NFL, NCAA or NBA cap is sure to please. Undecided on the team? Grab him a trending Dad Gang hat. They’re designed by dads!
    • Sunglass Hut – Protect pop’s peepers with stylish shades from the experts.
    • Ford’s Garage – Ditch the man cave and head to the garage. Dad will love the vintage and Ford-themed décor almost as much as the gourmet burgers.
    • AFTCO by Hy’s Toggery – The father who fishes will appreciate stylish performance apparel for anglers.
    • Dave & Buster’s – Show your old man who’s boss by schooling him at basketball, air hockey or one of the hundreds of other arcade games in the amusement center’s midway.
    • Awoken Kicks – For edgy fathers, select a vintage T-shirt, and pair it with limited-edition kicks. The combo is guaranteed to be a conversation starter.
    • Fit2Run – For the fit father, gift him professionally-fit footwear from this runner’s superstore. Choose from brands like Nike, Brooks and Asics.

    Discover additional ways to impress dad at Simon.com/Mall/Pier-Park.

  • Know Your Neighbor – Ethan Register

    Know Your Neighbor – Ethan Register

    By Paul Bonnette

    A rising tide lifts all boats. For hotelier and Panama City Beach City Councilman Ethan Register, this motto sums up his goals and dreams for Bay County. Register understands the importance of tourism, hospitality and community. From his early days walking to downtown Harrison Ave and fishing off the marina, Register has a strong sense of the importance of community in our area. Register, who is General Manager of Hotel Indigo as well as Harrison’s Kitchen and Bar, has a strong affection for the field of hospitality and loves seeing our area grow and thrive.

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    After moving here from Georgia, Register attended Bay High School before moving on to Gulf Coast State College, and according to Register, saw the potential of the area.

    “In 2003, I started my high school journey at Bay High School, where I had a truly memorable experience. After I graduated, I continued my education at Gulf Coast State College and FSU PC. What stood out to me about both institutions was the high-quality education they offered right here in our backyard. I lived in The Cove, so I have deep roots in the community and take pride in being a part of its growth and its future.”

    After graduating from high school, Register found a way to overcome the financial challenge of paying for college by working on the beach. This would be the start of his Hospitality career.

    “My path to a career in hospitality began unexpectedly while I was putting myself through college, working summers on the beach setting up chairs for a company called Aquatic Adventures. Before I graduated from FSU PC, my wife took a job at Holiday Inn Resort as Activities Director, and I was exploring a potential career in finance. After meeting my wife’s colleagues at Holiday Inn Resort, I ended up taking a Manager-in-Training position and eventually worked my way up to Front Desk Manager and then Assistant General Manager a year or so later. When we built Holiday Inn Express, I was honored to be named General Manager, giving me the incredible opportunity to build a team and a culture from the ground up. That experience ignited my passion for hospitality and solidified my career in this industry.”

    His Hospitality path would soon propel him into the world of local politics, as in 2024, he was elected Panama City Beach City Councilman. For Register, this was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

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    “Starting as a Manager-in-Training, I worked my way up to become the Chief Operating Officer for Hilton Inc. I fell in love with hospitality because of the mindset that if you work hard and do the right things, you can build a remarkable career. While serving as COO, a public service opportunity came my way. Phil Chester, a respected leader and someone I admired, was termed out of his City Council position and he suggested looking into the position. I threw my name in the hat and the next thing I know I was elected City Councilman Ward 2 for the City of Panama City Beach, all the while raising two beautiful little girls.”

    Soon after, Register would transition back to Downtown Panama City to run the newly opened Hotel Indigo and Harrison’s Kitchen and Bar, a decision that he says was all about returning to his roots.

    “As my career progressed, a new opportunity emerged with The St. Joe Company to serve as General Manager at Hotel Indigo and Harrison’s. While I had plenty of experience in hotel management, I had never run a standalone restaurant before, but I like a challenge and recognized the potential of Harrison’s and Hotel Indigo to not only serve visitors but also our community. Now, here I am working in the Panama City Marina area where I grew up walking to and fishing off the dock. That means a lot to me.”

    As a City Councilman for Panama City Beach, Register also has a strong desire to improve the quality of life for Panama City Beach residents.

    “I understand the importance of having a beautiful, thriving city. My work in public service has been all about making our community a wonderful place to live for my family and for others who are raising their families. Residents have genuine ‘skin in the game’ when it comes to the safety, security and well-being of their loved ones whom they’ve chosen to raise in a thriving environment like Panama City Beach. Having worked in hospitality and tourism, I understand the economic value that visitors bring to our city. It’s vital that we continue to develop exciting attractions like Topgolf and Dolly Parton’s Pirate Voyage while preserving the charm and livability that make this place so special. My goal has always been, and will continue to be, to strike the right balance of supporting smart growth while ensuring we take great care of our residents.”

    For PCB City Councilman, Hotelier and avid fisherman, Ethan Register, the future of Bay County looks very bright, and he remains hopeful that the rising tide of our area will continue to lift all the boats of our community, helping the area to continue to thrive, while still keeping its original charm.

    “I’m really excited about the future of our community… Our city is growing, and Bay County is on the verge of becoming that ‘hidden gem’ that isn’t so hidden. I believe that’s a good thing for our area, and I’m really excited to welcome more families with the southern hospitality we are known for. I’ve traveled all over and I can say without hesitation, there are no better people than the people of Bay County.”

  • From Kindergarten to Commencement: Celebrating Our Beach Schools

    From Kindergarten to Commencement: Celebrating Our Beach Schools

    A Message from Superintendent Mark McQueen

    As the school year ends and summer begins, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the accomplishments of our Panama City Beach schools. Last month, we highlighted the Class of 2025 from J.R. Arnold High School, and this month, we turn our spotlight to the amazing elementary and middle school teams laying the foundation for tomorrow’s leaders.

    1. Gary Walsingham Academy continues to prioritize academic growth and student empowerment. Programs like the student-led ITV show “Wake Up Wahoos,” Safety Patrol, and monthly pep rallies encouraged students to take active roles in school culture. Principal Amy Harvey believes that these experiences helped students grow in confidence and leadership, contributing to a collaborative environment.

    Breakfast Point Academy expanded on its “A” rating with success in athletics and the arts. In the inaugural season of middle school cross-country, the Breakfast Point Running Lady Rays made history as the first team to win the county championship. The Stingray Band earned recognition locally and statewide, showcasing the school’s commitment to excellence in the arts. Additionally, the school hosted a Patriot Day ceremony, teaching students about September 11th through presentations from local firefighters and law enforcement.

    Hutchison Beach Leader In Me Event

    Hutchison Beach Elementary sustained its “A” rating with a continued emphasis on leadership and growth. Under the visionary leadership of Principal Glenda Nouskhajian, the school was named a “Legacy School” by the Leader in Me program, an honor shared by only 21 schools worldwide. This prestigious recognition highlights Hutchison Beach’s commitment to developing well-rounded students equipped withthe life skills needed to lead and succeed. Throughout the year, students engaged in leadership roles across campus, participating in initiatives like student-led assemblies, community service projects, and mentorship programs.

    Patronis Elementary continued its tradition of excellence, earning another “A” rating in 2023-2024 and building on that success throughout this past year. In January 2025, Eduardo Anastacio, a bilingual paraprofessional at Patronis, was recognized as one of Florida’s Top 5 Support Employees of the Year. His dedication to supporting students, particularly English learners, reflects the school’s commitment to providing resources for every student’s success.

    Surfside Middle School, led by Principal Matt Pitts, celebrated a vibrant 2024–2025 year with its inaugural Multicultural Welcome Home for the Holidays event. This festive evening brought the Surfside community together to experience music, dance, and cuisine from various cultures, fostering unity and appreciation for the school’s wonderfully diverse population.

    West Bay Elementary School and Principal Deniece Moss built on its commitment to character development and community engagement during the 2024–2025 school year. The “House System” continued to promote core values like Courage, Harmony, Empathy, and Kindness. In April, the school celebrated Public School Volunteer Week by recognizing over 60 dedicated volunteers, many of whom serve as mentors through the Elevate Bay program.

    Patronis Students

    The accomplishments of our beach schools reflect the strength and spirit of our community. These achievements are not just milestones; they are stepping stones toward future success. Our dedicated teachers, supportive families, and resilient students work hand in hand to create environments where learning thrives and character is built. Whether it’s through academic excellence, athletic victories, artistic expression, or community service, our beach schools continue to excel in educational achievement in Bay County.

    As we celebrate another successful year and continue working to put the “A” back in Bay, we thank our students, families, teachers, and staff for their dedication.  We look forward to the continued growth of our beach schools and wish everyone a safe and restful summer.

  • West Bay Elementary: A Small School with a Big Heart

    West Bay Elementary: A Small School with a Big Heart

    By Deniece Moss, Principal

    This year marks a special milestone for West Bay Elementary—our 10th year since reopening, and what a decade it’s been! From humble beginnings to a thriving hub of academic excellence and community spirit, West Bay has stayed true to its motto: “A Small School with a Big Heart.” Over the past ten years, we’ve celebrated tremendous growth while holding tightly to our close-knit, family-first atmosphere.

    One of the most exciting highlights this school year was the addition of a brand-new 8-classroom building, expanding our capacity and enriching the learning environment for our growing student body. This expansion not only reflects the trust families place in West Bay, but also our shared commitment to providing scholars with the space and resources they deserve.

    West Bay is proud of its strong partnership with the local community, and nowhere was that more evident than at this year’s Field Day. The event was packed with fun, laughter, and a sea of smiling faces—many of them belonging to our cherished volunteers from the Latitudes community. These incredible retirees helped run games, cheer on scholars, and bring energy to every corner of campus. Many of them also serve regularly at our book fairs and special events, proving that the heart of West Bay beats stronger thanks to its volunteers.

    This spring also brought one of our favorite traditions—Kindergarten Signing Day! Our incoming kindergarten scholars were welcomed like celebrities as they signed their “commitments” to West Bay. With cheers, photos, and tiny t-shirts, this day celebrated the beginning of a bright educational journey and reminded us all of the joy that comes with new beginnings.

    Another meaningful moment this year came when our fifth-grade girls visited Haney Technical Center, where they were pampered by Haney students studying cosmetology. From nails and facials to positive conversations about future careers, this special field trip was a wonderful example of how our community lifts up learners of all ages. They were also given the opportunity to visit the aviation program.   It was a memory our fifth graders won’t soon forget!

    In April, West Bay proudly celebrated Purple Up Day, honoring the strength and resilience of our military children. Scholars and staff wore purple in solidarity, recognizing the unique sacrifices these families make and the important role they play in our school community. It was a powerful reminder of the love, support, and gratitude we share for those who serve.

    We are always looking to grow our West Bay family, and there are plenty of ways to get involved! Whether you’re interested in mentoring through Elevate Bay, volunteering for school events, or stepping into a classroom as a substitute teacher, your time and talents are welcomed and appreciated. Substitutes play a vital role in maintaining consistency in learning, and we’d love to see more community members consider this rewarding opportunity.

    A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped celebrate our amazing teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9). From sweet notes and surprises to sponsored breakfasts, lunches and kind gestures, the outpouring of support reminded our team just how valued they are. Your appreciation fuels our mission and strengthens our school culture.

    West Bay Elementary is more than just a place where scholars come to learn—it’s a place where they are known, supported, and encouraged to shine. Here’s to a decade of growth, and to the next ten years of possibility.

    To learn how you can get involved—as a volunteer, mentor, or substitute—visit westbay.bay.k12.fl.us or the Bay District Schools careers page.

    Together, we’re building something special… West Bay Elementary… Every kid by name and need!

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  • Bayway Launches ‘Music on the Move’ Events to Highlight  Public Transit and Local Talent

    Bayway Launches ‘Music on the Move’ Events to Highlight  Public Transit and Local Talent

    BaywaySummer events will bring live performances to venues throughout the community.

    Bayway Transit is proud to introduce Music on the Move, a new community initiative designed to showcase local musical talent while encouraging residents and visitors to explore Bay County using public transit.

    Throughout the summer, Bayway will host live performances at popular local destinations such as restaurants, parks, and other community hubs. Each event aims to create a memorable experience while reinforcing the role of public transit in connecting people to everything the region has to offer.

    To kick off the series, local musician J. Cruz performed live on-board the Bayway Route 5  bus on May 16. Riders were invited to enjoy the performance  as part of their regular trip – no additional fare or ticket required. More Music on the Move  events and locations will be announced in the coming weeks.

    “Public transit plays a vital role in building community,” said Lamar Hobbs, Bayway Transit  Programs Administrator. “With Music on the Move, we’re bringing energy and creativity  directly to our riders while also supporting local talent. We’re excited to enhance our current riders’ experience and encourage more people to learn where Bayway can take them.”

    Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to school, or exploring the community, Bayway makes it easy to get where you need to go. For more information, please visit  www.baywaytransit.org.

    About Bayway Transit: 

    Bayway Transit is the public transportation provider for Bay County, offering a range of services including fixed-route, demand response, and micro-transit options. Bayway is committed to enhancing mobility and providing reliable, accessible, and sustainable transportation solutions to residents, visitors, and students throughout the area.

  • Defrosted and Ready for Summertime Fun!

    Defrosted and Ready for Summertime Fun!

    By Cindy Mulla

    You did it! You survived Panama City Beach’s first historic record-breaking January deep snowfall, along with the lingering cold 2025 springtime temperatures. It is now official; summertime is heating up while highlighting its outdoor splendor and variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. Yes, officially summer and vacation time are underway!

    June not only ushers in the beginning of summer, but also another national week of importance, National Mosquito Control Awareness Week. Really? A week dedicated to mosquitoes! It’s true – and that week is June 15-21. Those tiny, annoying, blood-thirsty little vampires! Why mosquitoes?Fact: The mosquito is the World’s deadliest living creature on Earth!

    Globally, millions of people each year die from the tiny bite of the female mosquito.
    A single bite has the potential to transmit a virus or parasite that can truly impact your life. It doesn’t matter if you are traveling internationally or close to home; it is still a good habit to remember to wear an approved insect repellent to protect yourself. Before travelling outside or inside the continental United States, take time to visit the Centers for Disease Control’s website for important mosquito-borne disease travel information. Outside the United States, you may need to take precautions to protect yourself against these mosquito-borne diseases: Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika and Malaria. If traveling nationally, closer to home, or whenever you spend time outdoors, remember to take the proper precautions and wear repellent to protect yourself against these mosquito-borne illnesses: Eastern Equine Encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis and West Nile Virus. Just a reminder, please double-check your luggage to make sure you pack insect repellent. You do not want to accidentally bring back an unwanted souvenir. Mosquito disease is real and does exist. When purchasing an insect repellent, always check the label to confirm that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) endorses it. For the best protection, always read the label first and follow the label’s instructions.

    Also, don’t forget to protect your pets against dog and cat heartworm. Unfortunately, mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting this parasite, which can adversely affect your fur babies! Remember to annually take your pet(s) to visit your veterinarian to maintain their health and to follow their professional recommendations for dog and cat heartworm. Equestrians, remember to keep your horses’ vaccines up to date, too!

    When is National Mosquito Control Awareness Week? Why is it important? What is it about? 

    This is the ninth annual celebration of the American Mosquito Control Association’s Mosquito Control Awareness Week. The annual event always takes place in June. This year’s observance takes place during the week of June 15-21. The importance of this week is for mosquito control organizations across the nation to focus on educating the public about these main mosquito related topics:  the dangers of mosquito borne-disease; personal protection against the female mosquito; how to eliminate/reduce mosquito breeding sites on the home front and business properties; and the significance of professional mosquito control operations and how they scientifically, environmentally and successfully control mosquito populations while protecting the public’s health. Please, take time to visit the American Mosquito Control Website (AMCA) to see how other mosquito control organizations celebrate this important week, promoting sound public health practices against mosquito-borne disease across our nation.

    Beach Mosquito Control District (BMCD) encourages all Panama City Beach residents and visitors to contact us with all mosquito concerns or problems. We take pride in the service we provide in our local area. BMCD professionally addresses and resolves each individual service request. Working together, we can improve the future of our public health.

    Beach Mosquito Control District’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. We encourage you to contact us  (850) 233-5030 or visit our website to place your service request at www.pcbeachmosquito.org. Remember, there is no additional cost to you because your tax dollars cover the service we provide.

    Beach Mosquito Control District would like to wish everyone a safe and fun summertime in Panama City Beach.

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