🌱 Local Celebrates 100th Birthday + Duplin Winery Opening Soon

Hi all! I'm back in your inbox this morning with everything you need to know about what's happening in Panama City.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: An afternoon thunderstorm. High: 90 Low: 75.
• Sunday: Times of clouds and sun. High: 92 Low: 77.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Panama City today:

1. With hurricane season upon Bay County, it is important to know how to take care of yourselves, your family, and your pets and prepare for what is to come rather than wait until it's too late. The Bay County Animal Shelter has provided a few tips on how to prepare for the worst-case scenario and get your pet out without delay including preparing a bag ahead of time to erase the last-minute rush they also highly recommend chipping your pet for a higher chance of reunion if separated. The shelter will also be hosting a hurricane readiness event today from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Zollie Young Dog Park where tips will be shared to prepare for potential hurricanes. (WJHG)
2. A local Bay County woman celebrated her 100th birthday in style with local first responders driving by with their lights and sirens on in celebration – some even stuck around for some birthday cake. This past Thursday, Jewel Taylor celebrated her 100th birthday and those around her made the day special, from a nice birthday breakfast to her grandson coming by to spend time with her throughout the day, Jewel had a great day. She has been a Bay County resident since 1962 and, even though she is getting older and isn't in the best shape, she continues to elude high energy and do the best she can to bring joy to those around her each and every day. (WMBB - mypanhandle.com)
3. After a long time prepping and preparing, Duplin Winery is one inspection away from opening its Panama City Beach location to the public. This will be the fourth location opened by the Fussell brothers and they believe the establishment will have something for everyone from live music to wonderful wine. Although a soft opening date has not yet been decided as the brothers are waiting for the final health inspection, the grand opening will be Saturday, Aug. 19 and they hope that everyone in the community comes out to hear about their journey to this point. (WMBB - mypanhandle.com)

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Today and tomorrow in Panama City:

Saturday, June 24

• Panhandle Throwback Fest 2023 At Mosey's Downtown (1:00 PM)
• Reggae On The Bay Music Festival At The Salty Hobo (3:00 PM)
• Comedy Saturdays At Lie’Brary On Beck (8:00 PM)

Sunday, June 25

• Drag Me To Brunch BCF Pride Fest At The KOSA Event Center (10:00 AM)
• Brooke Washer At Uncle Ernie's (6:00 PM)
• Live Music With Jack & Gin At Pineapple Willy's Restaurant (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Earlier this week, the Panama City Police Department took a moment out of their training to recognize a few officers for their recent accomplishments. Five officers were recognized, three received FTO pins, T. Faircloth received his 10-year certificate, and Ofc. Ciccarelli was acknowledged as May Officer of the Month. (Panama City Police Department via Facebook)
• The Bay County School District is promoting several family-friendly events coming up in the next few days at the link. All of these events are either free or low-costing and local, the perfect opportunity to shake up your regular family schedule and do something different! (Bay District Schools via Facebook)
• The T-Dock at the Panama City Marina is almost ready for the Salute to Freedom Festival coming on the Fourth of July, the flagpole has been repaired at the 9/11 Memorial, and Old Glory is once again soaring proudly. Currently, solar lights are being added around the dock and the installation of black fencing is underway. (City of Panama City - Government via Facebook)

Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll see you soon!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.