[[{“value”:” By Ed Offley A weather channel dedicated to Florida Panhandle localities is set to begin operations this month, its co-founders tell Life Media. Meteorologists Chris Smith and Dan Nyman left Panama City Beach TV station WJHG on June 15 to create “Panhandle Weather,” a 24/7 weather channel that will be available online and on most streaming channels. The target date for the launch was set for October 1. The channel will focus on weather for the Florida Panhandle, with specific segments for individual cities and counties throughout the day. It will also have the capability of issuing weather emergency warnings for severe storms, tornadoes and hurricanes. “This is going to be the wave of the future for weather,” said Smith, who had worked at WJHG for sixteen years of his three-decade career before making the move into independent weather forecasting. “You don’t need a TV station to broadcast now.” The data collection process for “Panhandle Weather” is the same as that for traditional broadcast outlets. Smith and Nyman will have a constant feed of information from the National Weather Service on cloud cover, wind, rain, temperature and humidity. From that, they will create specific situational reports and forecasts by incorporating locally collected weather data into the program. Nyman, who worked at the station for three years after graduating from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, said the programming goals for Panhandle Weather are far different from national cable channels like The Weather Channel. “The online weather operations have been... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Helen Petre Blooms of fall bring butterflies, gathering sweet nectar provided by the colorful flowers. Nectar provides energy for migration and egg production. Flowers and butterflies are abundant on recently burned pine savannahs, where flowers have sun and room to bloom. Gulf Fritillary (Dione vanillae) The most common butterfly in the fall is the Gulf Fritillary, which lays its eggs on passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), so the caterpillars can eat the leaves. While Gulf Fritillaries use lantana and other flowers for nectar, lantana is an invasive nonnative and poisonous to animals. Since animals cannot eat the leaves, nothing inhibits its invasive spread. The adult Gulf Fritillary lives for only two weeks. Adults migrate north in spring and south in fall. Gulf fritillaries, like monarchs, have chemical defense mechanisms, which make them unpalatable to predators. Monarchs on Liatris. NC State Extension Blazing star (Liatris species) Gulf Fritillaries are especially attracted to Liatris, feeding on nectar before their southern migration. Liatris attracts other butterflies, such as swallowtails, hairstreaks, monarchs, and buckeyes, as well as native bees and moths. There are many species of Liatris native to Florida, and different species often grow together in dunes and pine savannahs. Common names include blazing star and gayfeather. All have lavender flowers and bloom from August to October. Liatris grows best in disturbed areas and scrub, areas prone to wildfire, and recently burned areas. If there is no disturbance, pines overgrow, preventing sunlight from reaching the ground, and preventing Liatris from growing. This demonstrates... Read More

  The Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest is setting sail from October 11-13, 2024! The annual event celebrates the legacy of the pirates who once roamed the Gulf of Mexico and pillaged the Emerald Coast, telling the tale of Dominique Youx and his krewe of loyal buccaneers through staged   Read More

  Fall in Panama City Beach offers a fantastic blend of activities to enjoy. You can soak up the beautiful outdoors by exploring the parks and trails, hop on a boat cruise for some coastal charm, and savor delicious meals while dining alfresco. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for local events   Read More

  For those looking for something a little more exciting than a lazy day at the beach, Panama City Beach has attractions to get your adrenaline pumping. Lovers of speed, spins, drops and dives will get their kicks from rides built for children of all ages to enjoy. With both the daredevil and the   Read More

  As the summer heat mellows into cooler evenings, Panama City Beach transforms into the perfect fall dining destination. Relax under softly glowing lights with just the right hint of Gulf breeze and the sound of gentle waves setting the mood. Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail dockside or   Read More

  Legacy Golf Club Legacy Golf Club in Panama City Beach is a hidden gem for golfers of all skill levels. The 18-hole course is beautifully designed, featuring lush fairways and well-kept greens that create a pleasant atmosphere. You’ll love the mix of challenging holes and easier ones, making it a   Read More

  Discover Panama City Beach’s hiking scene on your next visit! Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll along coastal boardwalks or a rugged trek through pine-scented forests, hiking in PCB promises the opportunity to connect with nature’s bounty. Don’t forget your furry family members at home! All   Read More

  November is always an incredible time to be out on the water. This year, the weather has been awesome, the water is clear and cool, and fish are on the move. The speckled trout are still scattered across the grass flats and have been pretty active lately. As cold fronts push through, these fish will   Read More