January 2026


BREAKING: Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson announces resignation

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson announced his resignation Friday evening ahead of the recall election. On Friday evening, Nelson confirmed his resignation via an email to Interim City Manager Chris Lightfoot. “Mr. Lightfoot this email is to tender my resignation effective today at 7 pm.” Nelson said in the statement. […] Read More

Bay County alerts public to zoning scams and fake documents

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Bay County officials are investigating allegations of fraud tied to planning and zoning applications, which involve false documents and impersonating county representatives, raising concerns about permits, payments, and property development. Bay County officials say they’re seeing a growing number of suspicious planning and zoning applications. “You know, there’s all sorts […] Read More

Credit unions partner to build affordable home in Bay County

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Dozens gathered in anticipation Friday morning at the Habitat for Humanity Village in Bay County. Seven credit unions have joined forces to sponsor a new home for a deserving, local family. Back in October, seven credit unions broke ground together, after sponsoring the construction of a brand new home for […] Read More

New Lanark EMS station opens in Franklin County

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Franklin County officials have cut the ribbon on their new Lanark EMS station. The 2,600 square foot building provides a central location for ambulances to reach the east side of Franklin County. Cutting back on the drive time has already saved lives. “I just had two strokes and a heart […] Read More

Missing person found dead in Franklin County

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has located the body of missing 26-year-old Daniel Wenger. Wenger was reported missing in Bay County this past weekend. On Monday, a Franklin County Sheriff’s deputy ran a tag on a car at Leonard’s Landing, which came back in Winger’s name. The car was empty, […] Read More

From Scout to Leader: One Project, One Park, One Powerful Impact

From Scout to Leader: One Project, One Park, One Powerful Impact Staff Reports January 9, 2026 4:11 pm Fort Walton Beach In Brief: Who: Andrew Dali, Scouting America Troop 529 What: Earned Eagle Scout rank by building permanent chess tables When: Project completed in late 2025; announced Jan. 8, 2026 Where: Ferry Park, City of Fort Walton Beach Why: To create a lasting, inclusive recreational space for the community FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — A Fort Walton Beach teenager has earned Scouting’s highest honor while leaving a lasting mark on a beloved city park. Andrew Dali, 17, of Scouting America Troop 529, has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout after leading the construction of two permanent concrete chess tables and benches at Ferry Park, creating a new gathering space for chess players and park visitors alike. The project, completed as part of the rigorous Eagle Scout requirements, provides a unique recreational opportunity focused on strategy, learning, and community interaction. Designed to withstand the elements, the tables are intended to serve residents and visitors for generations. Andrew’s project brought fellow Scouts together to plan, design, and execute the build, demonstrating leadership, organization, and perseverance — hallmarks of the Eagle Scout rank. “Andrew has grown into an incredible young leader over the years, and we are very proud of his accomplishment,” said Troop 529 Scoutmaster Chris Cutler. The new chess area complements Ferry Park’s existing amenities by offering a reflective, mentally engaging activity that welcomes both experienced players and newcomers to the... Read More

Mayor Jesse Nelson’s lawsuit against recall election dismissed

PANAMA CITY, Fla (WMBB) – The Lynn Haven Mayoral recall election will go forward. Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson has dismissed his lawsuit attempting to stop the recall election from going forward. Mayor Nelson had previously sued business owner James Finch, the chairman of the Lynn Haven Recall Committee, and the Supervisor of Elections office […] Read More

Thirty Years Strong, One Night of Impact: Café Thirty-A Breaks Fundraising Record

Thirty Years Strong, One Night of Impact: Café Thirty-A Breaks Fundraising Record Staff Reports January 9, 2026 3:35 pm 30a, Charities and Nonprofits, South Walton, Walton County In Brief: Who: Café Thirty-A, Caring and Sharing of South Walton, 250+ guests, local sponsors, and donors What: Annual Christmas Charity Ball, raising a record $90,905 When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 Where: Café Thirty-A, Seagrove Beach, along Scenic Highway 30A Why: To support local families with food, financial assistance, and crisis relief services SEAGROVE BEACH, Fla. — Café Thirty-A’s Annual Christmas Charity Ball raised a record-breaking $90,905 for Caring and Sharing of South Walton, marking the most successful fundraising total in the event’s history and coinciding with the restaurant’s 30th anniversary. The sold-out celebration, held Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, welcomed more than 250 guests into the festively transformed Seagrove Beach restaurant, where community members gathered to celebrate both the holiday season and three decades of Café Thirty-A’s presence along Scenic Highway 30A. Presented by honorary sponsors Coastal Luxury Real Estate, Earl Bacon Agency, Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A., and the Ellis Family, the evening blended fine dining, entertainment, and philanthropy. Guests were greeted with complimentary valet parking provided by All Access Coach and Leasing and champagne courtesy of Clear Title and Escrow, before enjoying heavy hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet dinner buffet, and desserts supplied by Haney Holloway, LLC. Sponsors and VIP attendees received exclusive access to a pre-party event hosted by The Watson Group, while the main event featured an expansive silent auction offering... Read More

January Fishing Report

  A very Happy New Years to all and may this year be blessed with an abundance of big fish. January, although typically cool, is a great month to fish the shallow flats and backwaters surrounding Panama City Beach. The weather can change quick this time of the year and can go from warm and cloudy to   Read More