Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Delaney Smith
Callaway holds 32nd annual Veterans Day celebration
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -The City of Callaway hosted its 32nd annual Veterans Day event on Wednesday with live music, activities for children, and military displays. City leaders said that with a high military presence in the community, it’s important to honor those who served. “I think it’s important that we honor our military members and let them know that they are appreciated,” Callaway Mayor Pamn Henderson said. The mayor said military bases are important to nearby towns.
PCB Convention and Visitors Bureau reports record tax revenue
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau brought in more than $39 million in tax revenue this year, a record, according to the bureau’s president and CEO. Griff Griffitts said the total is about $2 million above the previous record, set in 2022. “I think people are slowly but surely recognizing northwest Florida’s paradise,” Griffitts said. Griffitts also said affordability is a driving factor in the increase.
Tourist Development Council approves $140K trawler purchase for artificial reef program
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The Bay County Tourist Development Council on Tuesday approved the purchase of a trawler more than 80 feet long to expand its artificial reef program. Tourism leaders say artificial reefs are where most reef fishing happens off Panama City Beach. The trawler costs about $140,000. The purchase is paid for with the Coastal Resources budget.
Franklin County sheriff says office can adjust to Amendment 3 changes
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla (WJHG/WECP) - Franklin County Sheriff A.J. Smith said his department is in good shape when it comes to the potential impact of Amendment 3, which would increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes. The amendment could mean less revenue for local governments across Florida. In some rural counties, that is raising concerns about funding public services.
Franklin County deputies repair wheelchair ramp built 15 years ago
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Franklin County Sheriff's Office deputies have been building ramps for residents who need them for more than 10 years. The ramps make it easier for residents to get in and out of their homes. The projects are made possible through a charity fund that helps cover the costs. The sheriff's office said the labor does not cost residents anything. Deputies on Monday were repairing a wheelchair ramp the office installed about 15 years ago because the wood started to rot.
Franklin County deputies repair wheelchair ramp built 15 years ago
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Franklin County Sheriff’s Office deputies have been building ramps for residents who need them for more than 10 years. The ramps make it easier for residents to get in and out of their homes. The projects are made possible through a charity fund that helps cover the costs. The sheriff’s office said the labor does not cost residents anything. Deputies on Monday were repairing a wheelchair ramp the office installed about 15 years ago because the wood started to rot.
Franklin County deputies repair wheelchair ramp built 15 years ago
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Franklin County Sheriff’s Office deputies have been building ramps for residents who need them for more than 10 years. The ramps make it easier for residents to get in and out of their homes. The projects are made possible through a charity fund that helps cover the costs. The sheriff’s office said the labor does not cost residents anything. Deputies on Monday were repairing a wheelchair ramp the office installed about 15 years ago because the wood started to rot.
Franklin County sheriff says office can adjust to Amendment 3 changes
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla (WJHG/WECP) - Franklin County Sheriff A.J. Smith said his department is in good shape when it comes to the potential impact of Amendment 3, which would increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes. The amendment could mean less revenue for local governments across Florida. In some rural counties, that is raising concerns about funding public services.
Record 186 cars enter Project 25 car show in Bay County
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -The American Muscle Car Club’s annual Project 25 car show set a record this year, with 186 cars entered, according to club President Troy Brown. The show benefits the Bay County Sheriff’s Office Project 25 program, which provides Christmas gifts to local children in need. Cars ranged from classic rides to custom builds. Brown said participants traveled from other states for the event.
Florida homestead exemption expansion could affect home affordability
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Florida voters on Tuesday approved Amendment 3, which expands the homestead exemption on non-school property taxes to $150,000 next fall and to $250,000 by 2028. Home prices, insurance, and property taxes all factor into what buyers can afford. The expanded exemption could change the math for some buyers. A real estate agent said he does not necessarily expect the amendment to cause a surge in home sales.
Amendment 3 could change how Gulf County Sheriff’s Office is funded
GULF COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Florida voters approved Amendment 3, which increases the homestead exemption on non-school property taxes. The change could require the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office to find new ways to pay for its services. Gulf County Sheriff Mike Harrison said county voters supported the amendment. “Gulf County spoke decisively, with 70% in favor of it, so you know the voters are our bosses, and we follow through on that, and we’ll do what we always do.
Panama City Beach projects over 69,000 sports visitors through February
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Panama City Beach is projecting more than 69,000 athletes and visitors through February after a strong summer of sports tourism that brought athletes, families, and visitors to the area. The city is looking to keep that momentum going through the fall and winter months. Tourism officials say they project a $45 million economic impact. Officials said this is shaping up to be one of the biggest fall and winter seasons yet.
Panama City Beach projects over 69,000 sports visitors through February
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Panama City Beach is projecting more than 69,000 athletes and visitors through February after a strong summer of sports tourism that brought athletes, families, and visitors to the area. The city is looking to keep that momentum going through the fall and winter months. Tourism officials say they project a $45 million economic impact. Officials said this is shaping up to be one of the biggest fall and winter seasons yet.
Heavy rain brings flooding to Panama City, up to 8 inches of rainfall in Bay County
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Water collected across roadways in Panama City on Sunday, making it difficult for drivers to tell how deep some flooded areas were. A flash flood warning was issued for central Panama City through 11:45 a.m. Sunday. The National Weather Service reports Bay County received between 5 and 8 inches of rain, with heavy flooding reported along Highway 231. Levin Anderson, a Panama City resident, said he has not seen flooding like this before.
Bay County Fire Rescue hosts open house during Fire Prevention Month
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Bay County Fire Rescue opened its doors to the community Thursday night for a family-friendly open house during Fire Prevention Month. Justin Busch, assistant chief of professional standards, said they want to show the public that they're ready for an emergency.
Bay County Fire Rescue hosts open house during Fire Prevention Month
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Bay County Fire Rescue opened its doors to the community Thursday night for a family-friendly open house during Fire Prevention Month. Justin Busch, assistant chief of professional standards, said they want to show the public that they’re ready for an emergency.
Gulf County to test St. Joseph Bay water as red tide presence grows
GULF COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Dead fish are showing up again in St. Joseph Bay, and Gulf County officials are looking for answers. Residents say they are concerned about the bay and how red tide will affect the local economy. The Board of County Commissioners approved a proposal Tuesday from the St. Andrew and St. Joseph Bays Estuary Program to test the water. Crews will collect samples from six sites Thursday to look for possible sources of the problem.
Walton County leaders weigh plan to restore beaches after Hurricane Isaias
WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Walton County leaders are looking at local, state and federal partnerships to help restore beaches where Hurricane Isaias left parts of the shoreline eroded. Walton County Administrator Brian Kellenberger said beaches help power the local economy. “Our beaches are our number one economic engine in Walton County. They provide, I want to say, 33,000 jobs, contributes billions to our economy,” Kellenberger said.
Walton County leaders weigh plan to restore beaches after Hurricane Isaias
WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Walton County leaders are looking at local, state and federal partnerships to help restore beaches where Hurricane Isaias left parts of the shoreline eroded. Walton County Administrator Brian Kellenberger said beaches help power the local economy. Our beaches are our number one economic engine in Walton County. They provide, I want to say, 33,000 jobs, contributes billions to our economy, Kellenberger said.
Trunk or treat raises money for Breakfast Point Academy autism program
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -A trunk or treat event is raising money for Breakfast Point Academy's autism program. T's on Thomas sponsored the event, which was held Sunday. “T's on Thomas has sponsored a trunk or treat for all the children, autism children and all children in Bay County, and they are fundraising for us for things like field trips and extra things we do at the school for our autism kids,” said Shari Wilder, speech language pathologist at Breakfast Point Academy.
Trunk or treat raises money for Breakfast Point Academy autism program
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -A trunk or treat event is raising money for Breakfast Point Academy’s autism program. T’s on Thomas sponsored the event, which was held Sunday. “T’s on Thomas has sponsored a trunk or treat for all the children, autism children and all children in Bay County, and they are fundraising for us for things like field trips and extra things we do at the school for our autism kids,” said Shari Wilder, speech language pathologist at Breakfast Point Academy.
Lynn Haven open house shows residents how city services work
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -The city of Lynn Haven held an open house Thursday as part of Florida Cities Week, a statewide effort to bring local government closer to the people it serves. Residents were able to meet the people behind city services, from answering emergency calls to maintaining streets and drainage systems. Each city department set up a table for the event.
Lynn Haven open house shows residents how city services work
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -The city of Lynn Haven held an open house Thursday as part of Florida Cities Week, a statewide effort to bring local government closer to the people it serves. Residents were able to meet the people behind city services, from answering emergency calls to maintaining streets and drainage systems. Each city department set up a table for the event.
Tyndall hosts allied pilots for Checkered Flag exercise
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Fighter jets are filling the sky over Tyndall Air Force Base as U.S. military branches and allied nations put their teamwork to the test. Tyndall is hosting its biannual Joint Readiness Checkered Flag exercise, designed to practice combat skills and rapid response with coalition partners. Filip Konieczny, a CF-18 pilot and exercise officer for the 409 Tactical Fighters Squadron, said the training helps allied forces prepare to work together.
Tyndall hosts allied pilots for Checkered Flag exercise
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Fighter jets are filling the sky over Tyndall Air Force Base as U.S. military branches and allied nations put their teamwork to the test. Tyndall is hosting its biannual Joint Readiness Checkered Flag exercise, designed to practice combat skills and rapid response with coalition partners. Filip Konieczny, a CF-18 pilot and exercise officer for the 409 Tactical Fighters Squadron, said the training helps allied forces prepare to work together.
Bay County approves fire engine for new Fountain-area station
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Bay County commissioners approved the purchase of a roughly $940,000 fire engine on Tuesday for a new fire station along Highway 20 to serve the Fountain area. For years, Fountain residents have relied on Bay County Fire Rescue crews responding from Youngstown or other Bay County stations. The new station is expected to open in March. Bay County Chief of Emergency Services Austin Pugh said the truck will come fully equipped.
Bay County teacher kept showing up for students during stage three breast cancer fight
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -A local first grade teacher continued working through treatment for stage three breast cancer, saying she did not want the diagnosis to change her life or affect her family and career. Rochelle Bowman, a first-grade teacher at Merriam Cherry Street Elementary, said she found two lumps while changing her clothes.
Bay County approves fire engine for new Fountain-area station
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Bay County commissioners approved the purchase of a roughly $940,000 fire engine on Tuesday for a new fire station along Highway 20 to serve the Fountain area. For years, Fountain residents have relied on Bay County Fire Rescue crews responding from Youngstown or other Bay County stations. The new station is expected to open in March. Bay County Chief of Emergency Services Austin Pugh said the truck will come fully equipped.
Sleep Center donates mattresses to Panama City Beach fire station
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The Sleep Center donated mattresses to Panama City Beach Fire Station 30 on Wednesday. Firefighters work 48-hour shifts and sleep in bunk rooms when they are not responding to emergencies. They said having a comfortable place to rest can make a difference. “It means a lot to everyone here, especially having something comfortable to sleep on while we're here, away from home.
Sleep Center donates mattresses to Panama City Beach fire station
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The Sleep Center donated mattresses to Panama City Beach Fire Station 30 on Wednesday. Firefighters work 48-hour shifts and sleep in bunk rooms when they are not responding to emergencies. They said having a comfortable place to rest can make a difference. “It means a lot to everyone here, especially having something comfortable to sleep on while we’re here, away from home.
Panama City to develop citywide stormwater master plan
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Panama City Commissioners approved an $800,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to develop a citywide stormwater master plan. The funding will allow the city to work with an outside engineering firm to assess drainage issues, identify infrastructure upgrades, and recommend policies to help reduce flooding during future storms.
Downtown Panama City boat ramp closed after Hurricane Isaias damage
PANAMA CITY, Fla. — The Downtown Panama City boat ramp is closed due to damage from Hurricane Isaias, city leaders said. The stairs leading to the dock system and the dock system itself were damaged. Officials said maintenance crews are working to make repairs and get it open as quickly as possible. “There's no timeline right now, again kind of focused on clearing up some of the debris, some of the damage even from the dock itself,” said Jonathan Hayes, Panama City, city manager.
Panama City to develop citywide stormwater master plan
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Panama City Commissioners approved an $800,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to develop a citywide stormwater master plan. The funding will allow the city to work with an outside engineering firm to assess drainage issues, identify infrastructure upgrades, and recommend policies to help reduce flooding during future storms.
Downtown Panama City boat ramp closed after Hurricane Isaias damage
PANAMA CITY, Fla. — The Downtown Panama City boat ramp is closed due to damage from Hurricane Isaias, city leaders said. The stairs leading to the dock system and the dock system itself were damaged. Officials said maintenance crews are working to make repairs and get it open as quickly as possible. “There’s no timeline right now, again kind of focused on clearing up some of the debris, some of the damage even from the dock itself,” said Jonathan Hayes, Panama City, city manager.
Tourism officials say renourishment projects helped the beach withstand the storm
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Dunes at Panama City Beach helped protect the shoreline from extensive damage during Hurricane Isaias, according to tourism officials. Griff Griffitts, CEO of the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, said some beach access points were damaged, but the area remains open. “We have a few access points that are busted up but otherwise were open for business,” Griffitts said.
Tourism officials say renourishment projects helped the beach withstand the storm
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Dunes at Panama City Beach helped protect the shoreline from extensive damage during Hurricane Isaias, according to tourism officials. Griff Griffitts, CEO of the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, said some beach access points were damaged, but the area remains open. “We have a few access points that are busted up but otherwise were open for business,” Griffitts said.
Panama City Beach declares state of emergency ahead of Isaias
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Panama City Beach has declared a local state of emergency and is preparing for Isaias and any impacts it may bring. Mayor Stuart Tettemer said the local state of emergency has been in effect since 3 p.m. Wednesday. “Our emergency plan will go into effect, and we can take the steps necessary to protect health safety and welfare of residents,” Tettemer said.
Panama City Beach declares state of emergency ahead of Isaias
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Panama City Beach has declared a local state of emergency and is preparing for Isaias and any impacts it may bring. Mayor Stuart Tettemer said the local state of emergency has been in effect since 3 p.m. Wednesday. “Our emergency plan will go into effect, and we can take the steps necessary to protect health safety and welfare of residents,” Tettemer said.
Panama City Beach declares state of emergency ahead of Isaias
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -Panama City Beach has declared a local state of emergency and is preparing for Isaias and any impacts it may bring. Mayor Stuart Tettemer said the local state of emergency has been in effect since 3 p.m. Wednesday. “Our emergency plan will go into effect, and we can take the steps necessary to protect health safety and welfare of residents,” Tettemer said.
Eight years after Hurricane Michael, two Panama City churches reflect on faith and recovery
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Eight years after Hurricane Michael, two Panama City churches are still carrying the memories of what they lost and the people who helped them move forward. The storm damaged their buildings, but it also brought congregations together in unexpected ways. For generations, the walls of First United Methodist in Panama City have been a place where people come together in good times and in some of the hardest.
Eight years after Hurricane Michael, two Panama City churches reflect on faith and recovery
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Eight years after Hurricane Michael, two Panama City churches are still carrying the memories of what they lost and the people who helped them move forward. The storm damaged their buildings, but it also brought congregations together in unexpected ways. For generations, the walls of First United Methodist in Panama City have been a place where people come together in good times and in some of the hardest.
Animal Advocates protest after Bay County animal control employee arrest
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - A group of animal advocates protested outside the Bay County Government Center following the arrest of a former Bay County animal control employee on animal cruelty charges. The protest follows the arrest of former Bay County animal control employee Cameron Howard, who is facing two counts of animal cruelty and one count of aggravated animal cruelty. Howard was arrested last Wednesday and is now out on bond.
Panama City Salvation Army marks 90 years of service
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - A local nonprofit marked 90 years of serving the Panama City community with a church service Sunday. For 90 years, the Salvation Army has helped Bay County neighbors in crisis. Mary Clay, a Sunday school teacher, has been part of the church for 63 years. As a young girl, Clay watched the Salvation Army step in when her father got sick. “It’s my heart and soul, I love the lord, and I love the salvation army,” Clay said.
PCB Tourism has grown nearly 7% from 2025
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Tourism in Panama City Beach grew nearly 7% from 2025, with July seeing the biggest jump, up more than 13%. “The sand is beautiful, the water is so clear, you can't beat it, it's the best,” said Alexa Valdez, a Panama City Beach tourist. Tourism officials say while the rest of Florida saw visits dip 1% this year, Panama City Beach grew. They say the destination itself, plus marketing and social media, led to the increase.
PCB Tourism has grown nearly 7% from 2025
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Tourism in Panama City Beach grew nearly 7% from 2025, with July seeing the biggest jump, up more than 13%. “The sand is beautiful, the water is so clear, you can’t beat it, it’s the best,” said Alexa Valdez, a Panama City Beach tourist. Tourism officials say while the rest of Florida saw visits dip 1% this year, Panama City Beach grew. They say the destination itself, plus marketing and social media, led to the increase.
Costs at the pump rise again for Florida drivers
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Florida drivers are paying more to fill up, adding to pressure on families already dealing with higher everyday expenses. AAA says Florida’s average gas price for regular is now around $4.34 a gallon, up 6 cents from last week, around 40 cents from last month and more than $1.40 from last year. “It’s definitely an inconvenience, especially with the cost of living and trying to commute to and from work.
Costs at the pump rise again for Florida drivers
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Florida drivers are paying more to fill up, adding to pressure on families already dealing with higher everyday expenses. AAA says Florida’s average gas price for regular is now around $4.34 a gallon, up 6 cents from last week, around 40 cents from last month and more than $1.40 from last year. “It’s definitely an inconvenience, especially with the cost of living and trying to commute to and from work.
Barrio Fiesta celebrates Filipino culture in Bay County
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - A celebration of Filipino culture brought the community together Sunday afternoon to honor traditions, family and community. The event, called a Barrio Fiesta, is a traditional Filipino celebration bringing the sights, sounds and spirit of the Philippines to Panama City. Grace Burns, president of the Filipino American Association of Bay County, said the event allows the community to gather.
Proposed NOAA budget cuts are sparking concerns from environmental activists
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - A proposal in Washington over National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration funding is sparking debate among environmental activists and federal lawmakers. The federal budget proposal could mean cuts to the agency. Some conservation groups are warning of possible impacts, while some lawmakers say the cuts are targeting wasteful spending. J.P. Brooker, Ocean Conservancy director of Florida conservation, said the proposed cuts would affect fisheries management.
PCB sea turtle hatchling numbers down this season
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -A dozen sea turtle nests have hatched so far this year in Panama City Beach, with three more nests still waiting to hatch. This year's hatchling numbers are down sharply from last year's record-breaking season. Angela Barros, director of Panama City Beach Turtle Watch, said Tropical Storm Bertha came through in July and wiped out 26 of the organization's 41 nests, causing the loss of eggs and nest markings.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Delaney
Contact Delaney, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack