We used to have this featured from time to time and have had numerous requests to have it back.  So, here we go!

This week’s fishing report, brought to us by Sunjammers, reports that Panama City Beach fishing is great inshore.  West Bay is very productive with redfish being sight-fished on the flats and very good sized trout being caught. Pier fishing is extremely slow but should pick up rapidly with the rising water temperatures.

As usual, visit the Sunjammers Facebook page for daily fishing forecast and up to the minute reports.

About Ironman Triathlons

There are over 30 sanctioned events throughout the world, as well as Ironman 70.3′s or Half-Ironman events.  Ironmans are one of the long-distance series organized by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC).  The first Ironman was held in February 1978, fifteen men began the race and twelve completed it.  With no marketing, in 1979 when the race was held again, fifty participants gathered to compete.  (Only fifteen competed due to harsh weather conditions.)  It is often said that “there is no such thing as an easy Ironman” and also that “just finishing is a victory.”

About the Ford Ironman Florida

The Ford Ironman Florida includes a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run.  The 2.4-mile swim will consist of  two laps in a rectangular shape out into the Gulf Coast after a mass-start.  The bike lap will start at the Boardwalk Beach Resort on Front Beach Road and heading toward Highway 79, to Highway 20 and 77, and ending back at the Boardwalk Beach Resort.  Finally, the run, which is one of the flattest on the Ironman circuit, will start at the Boardwalk Beach Resort and wind its way to St. Andrews Park.  After St. Andrews Park, runners will make their way back to the Boardwalk Beach Resort to repeat the course again.  There will be water, nutritional bars, nutritional gels, and fruit available to athletes throughout the bike and run sections of the event.

There are 65 spots available for athletes who qualify from this event in the Ironman World Championship on October 13, 2012 in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.  Last year’s first place time was 8 hours 15 minutes and 59 seconds.  There will be a total professional prize purse of $25,000 this year.

Event Day Schedule

6:50 a.m.- Pro Start

7 a.m.- Age Group Start

Good Luck to those entered in the triathlon!

To showcase the world-class fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach is luring avid anglers with weekend-long fishing tournaments this fall. Running from Sept. 23 to Nov. 13, the City Pier vs. County Pier Challenge guarantees a prize purse totaling more than $10,000.

The M.B. Miller Pier (County Pier) and the Russell-Fields Pier (City Pier) are twin piers, both of which are prized as prime fishing spots for anglers of all ages.  Extending more than 1,500 feet into the calm waters, the piers are two of the longest on the Gulf Coast. All visitors have the opportunity to cast a line for a local catch, with rod rentals and tackle available on site.

Tournament info

Each weekend during the contest, on Friday through Sunday, fishermen and women of all levels are invited to compete in the challenge.  There are four categories

• Spanish Mackerel
• Flounder
• King Mackerel
• Pompano

Every weekend, participants can win a top prize of $150 for each species, with a total of $1200 in prizes awarded. A $250 prize will be awarded for the heaviest catch of the entire challenge. Kids are welcome to participate in the Children’s Division tournaments, open to anglers 12 and under. Winners of the Children’s Division will receive rod and reel prizes.

Weigh-ins will take place at each pier and the winner will be announced on Sunday at 5:00 p.m. Best of all, there is no entry fee required for the tournaments.

Looking for Panama City Beach events?  Bookmark our Events section!

As usual, our sleepy little town is proving to be anything but that.  This weekend offers a variety of events filled with Strawberries, a little Doo-Wop, and some fast action Roller Derby.

Weekend events for February 11-13 (Friday-Sunday)

MARTIN THEATRE SHOW

Friday, Feb 11: Pianafiddle

Is it bluegrass? Is it jazz? Is it classical, old time, ragtime, or blues? If Pianafiddle is performing, the answer is YES! Beginning only with a familiar tune, violinist/fiddler Adam DeGraff and pianist Randy Morris improvise as they go, blending the traditional, the unwritten, and the spontaneous in compelling performances that range literally from Bach to Bluegrass, they’re guaranteed to get toes tapping and hands clapping.

GULF WORLD

Saturday, Feb 12 The Diamonds 7:30 PM

It’s been over Fifty-three years since The Diamonds released an instant, million selling hit called Little Darlin’. The song continues to sell worldwide and to date has sold over 21 million copies. With 16 hit records and an induction into the Doo-Wop Hall Of Fame , The Diamonds have shown no signs of slowing down and continue to bring the 1950’s rock-n-roll sound to the masses. The band has had some line-up changes since 1953, but the sound is still 100% original.

MARINA CIVIC CENTER

Saturday, Feb 12 Mel Tillis  7:00 PM

Mel Tillis has recorded more than 60 albums. He has had thirty-six Top Ten singles, with nine of them going to Number One – “Good Woman Blues,” “Coca Cola Cowboy,” and “Southern Rain” to mention a few. He has appeared on such television shows as 20/20, The Tonight Show, The 700 Club, Prime Time Country, 60 Minutes, Crook & Chase, David Letterman, and he has served as host for Music City News Awards and Music City Tonight.

PANAMA CITY ROLLER DERBY

Saturday, Feb 12 Skate Factory 6:30PM

Panama City Roller Girls kick off the season against the Pearl River Swamp Dolls. Tickets are $8 online and $10 at the door. Come have a beer for charity and support your local derby league! (Kids 8 and under get in free!)

PCB STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Saturday & Sunday, February 12th -13th Aaron Bessant Park, 10AM-10PM

The Festival will include  Sweet Farm Fresh Strawberries, Great Music, Hay Rides, Free Games for kids, Green Amusement Rides, Tons of vendors, Great Food, Miss Strawberry Pageant, Country Music Singing Contest, Car Show and Much Much More!

Superbowl Sunday is almost here, and football fans nationwide are stocking up on face-paint, home-made signs and honing their Heckle-Skills (aka:  The  Art of Fine Heckling.)

It’s a real skill, I swear. I think it’s an elective course at FSU. Either way, there’s literally, thousands of ways to get your pre-game on, but where to spend the big day is an entirely different beast.

So, we took it upon ourselves to give you an idea of which locations are hosting Superbowl parties.

Sunday Sunday SUNDAY

CALYPSO BEACH CAFE 15812 Front Beach Rd.

I can’t find any mention of a Superbowl event here, but I’m going on blind faith, that there might be something going on. After all, Calypso is supposed to be one of the largest sports bars in town.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS (Pier Park)

This is a no-brainer.  Wild Wings always offers a lively sports atmosphere, traditionally great wings and awesome beverage selection. Simple and Direct.

I like it.

DOUBLE D’S COOLER 1508 Calhoun Ave., 215-8112.

Catch all the games here with NFL Sunday Ticket! Happy Hour: All day Sun, $2 domestic longnecks,16 oz. draft, & $1.75 Well Drinks

HAMMERHEAD FRED’S 8752 Thomas Drive 233-3907.

A quaint little bar & grill located on the west end of Thomas Drive. Inside & deck seating available. Sunday: Super Bowl Party. Get here early to get the best seats. Lots of giveaways. Draft & Drink Specials.

NEWBY’S TOO 4103 Thomas Drive (on the curve), 234-6203

Sunday: Super Bowl Party.  Sports Bar, Pool, Foosball, and Darts.

PATCHES PUB 4723 Thomas Drive, 233-8879.

Sunday: Superbowl Party with buckets & wings specials. Well that pretty much summed up Superbowl, didn’t it? Game, Beer & Wings. Done.

SHARKY’S RESTAURANT & BEACH CLUB 15201 Front Beach Road, 235-2420

One of the last places on Panama City Beach where you can dine right on the beach, watch the sunset at the Tiki Bar and enjoy a cocktail. (Side note: The Tiki Bar is currently under construction)

Sunday: Super Bowl Party

HOOTERS 12709 Front Beach Road.

Yes, Hooters made the list. How could it not? It’s a sports bar, with world-famous (ahem) wings.  It’s man-cave heaven for those looking to shake off the doldrums of the work week, and escape the humdrum of home-life.  42″ TV giveaway. Join us all day for the SuperBowl promotions we are giving away a 42″ Sharp HD TV during the game. You must be present to win.

OASEAS RESORTS 4th floor Banquet Room (Cheese-Block Party)

Hosting the biggest football party of the year at Shores of Panama! Free wings (my favorite kind of wing!) full bar, free chips & salsa, prizes and more! Superbowl broadcast on an 8 ft screen.

COYOTE UGLY SALOON 10512 Front Beach Road.

On Sunday, Coyote’s is bringing the tailgating home for you. Starts with a Cook out around 4pm, game will be on TV’s hooked up to PA System (for that “at the game” sound) Its also the Assistant Managers last day, so there will be an after party.

MMA is more then two people getting into a cage (or ring, whatever) and wailing on each other.

There’s a story that each fight tells, ranging from the type of training the fighter has endured, to the gym they’ve trained at, and when all of it comes together, the fight becomes similar to a live chess game of sorts.  Each move is calculated, executed and countered with rapid mental consideration and lighting reflexes.

It’s a moment in time, that showcases the fighter’s strength, strategy, dedication, and knowledge of the sport they’ve chosen.

I spent two years training MMA at fight gym in Atlanta, and can honestly tell you that it’s the best mental, spiritual and physical outlet, I’ve ever experienced.  I hope this event is a huge success, and Fight Night continues in PCB.

The Fight Night coming up Saturday, January 29th is being held to benefit Logan G. Smith Foundation & Ultimate MMA Youth Program. This program mentors local youth through the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, offering them positive outlets, a safe environment and opportunities to better themselves physically, mentally and spiritually.

The Fight card will be local Youths from the Program, and the main fight between undefeated Mixed Martial Artists, Lionel James of Panama City vs. Rance Jones Jr. of Pensacola

The Official Weigh Ins for the event will be held on Friday, January 28th at Uncle Ernie’s Restaurant as will the After Party preceding the night’s action

Full Press Release Below

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Fight Night at the Marriott to Benefit the Logan G. Smith Foundation & Ultimate MMA Youth Program.

Panama City Beach, FL Jan 12, 2011 – The Logan G. Smith Foundation and the Ultimate MMA Youth Program will be hosting a night of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and Boxing on Saturday, January 29th at the Bay Point Marriott of Panama City Beach, Florida.

The event will showcase local Youth from the Program as well as established Mixed Martial Artists from across the South East.  The Main Event will be between undefeated Mixed Martial Artists, Lionel James of Panama City vs. Rance Jones Jr. of Pensacola.  The Official Weigh Ins for the event will be held on Friday, January 28th at Uncle Ernie’s Restaurant as will the After Party preceding the night’s action.

The promoters for the event are the founder of the Ultimate MMA Youth program, Tim Cillbrith and Tito Jones, a professional mixed martial artist who has fought on Team Alpha Male for such prestigious organizations as StrikeForce.  Fight Night at the Marriott will include many bouts in boththe sports of Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts.

Tickets are available at various locations throughout Bay County or at the door withall proceeds going to the Logan G. Smith Foundation’s Ultimate MMA Youth Program.  This program mentors local youth through the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, offering them positive outlets, a safe environment and opportunities to better themselves physically, mentally and spiritually.  The Ultimate MMA gym is located in the Industrial Park across from Raccoon River Campground on Middle Beach Rd in Panama City Beach.

Photo Credit: Daisy Rosas/ Strikeforce

Jan 11th’s TDC meeting offered an eclectic mix of information.

Starting with the Vice-President of the Canadian Snowbirds, Nancy Hopcraft,  who caught my attention with the mention of the ‘Birds working on a potential “Retiree Visa” allowing those who qualify an opportunity to spend more time in Panama City Beach (or anywhere in the Nation).  It’s a wonderful idea, and one that’s sure to bring about an economic boost but we’re looking at least 2 years, before hearing any final words.

Great News from the Bay Point Invitational! Last year, Bay Point Invitational, had been called on to help prove to the nation that our waters were open, and our seafood, edible. So they did. Opening up the event to include Swordfish, they had an industry celebrity chef cook up the fish right there during weigh-in.  You can’t beat that kind of freshness, creativity or ingenious marketing.

Bay Point stole the spotlight  by announcing their Classic Event in September, had 44 Boats involved and a quarter of a million in the purse, which enabled them to present a  $25,000 check to Beach Point Services.

Finally, we come to Spring Break.

The TDC marketing strategy for Spring Break, has been mostly focused on Social Media.

There’s a few other avenues being utilized as well and without further ado, we present The Plan.

An Online Lodging Survey is in the works to gather feedback in a timely fashion, with questions on whether the business is booking above or below last year. The reason behind this is to enable a quick response or changes to the program as needed.

Targeting Associated Press (USA Today, NY Times, National Morning Shows & CNN) to spread the word by content.

In regards to utilization of Social Media, the plan is to narrow social site efforts to maximize impact. How, you ask?

Good question:

Targeting 50 designated schools on the school’s Facebook page

Advertise on school’s Facebook page (creating a dialogue on page with actual posts, as well as advertisements)

Setting up a specific Spring Break Twitter account (only to be used for Spring Break topics, information, etc)

Creating a Re-Tweet gift card program at each targeted school. For example, if you attend school in one of the target markets, and you re-tweet a post from our Spring Break twitter, you will be granted a gift card. Note: not PCB specific gift-card.

Hosting Tweet-Ups.

What’s a Tweet-Up? To be blunt, it’s a real-life get-together, where people tweet about the event, while AT the event.

Tweet-ups are a huge marketing strategy, currently being used in Hollywood, and to great success.  Popular TV shows, new Movie releases, Political events- can all be found in the real-time world of Twitter.

Those in attendance today, raised some concerns over these efforts coming a little too late, mentioning that Maximum Campaign Mode is currently in full swing from Collegiate Marketing and that the TDC’s/CVB PR strategy of polls, surveys and social media, should have been launched in early December, before kids left for Christmas Break.

Personally, I find some validity in those statements and I’m interested in hearing you’re thoughts?

Should the TDC start the Public Relation campaign trail, before January?

Photo credit: tonyocruz.com

The Bay Point Invitational Billfish Tournament is hosted each July at Bay Point Marina in Panama City, FL.  Since it’s inception in 1984, the Invitational has donated over $1 million back to the local community, with a focus on children’s charities.

Now in its 27th year, Bay Point remains the Gulf Coast’s only “invitation only” tournament, and brings together the top anglers on the sport fishing circuit.  Long referred to as Bay County’s “Party of the Year”, the Invitational has also established itself as the premier sporting event on the Gulf of Mexico and is home to the first and second largest blue marlin ever weighed in the state of Florida.

Here is the full press release.

Bay Point Invitational Announces Major Changes, Improves Tournament

The Bay Point Invitational, the Gulf Coast’s premier sport fishing event, recently announced several major changes to the 2011 tournament, including a staggered entry fee, removal of the 72 boat cap and the ability for boats to leave from locations outside of Panama City.

Panama City, FL (December 20, 2010) The Bay Point Invitational Billfish Tournament has long been recognized as a leader among Gulf Coast sport fishing events. Now in its 27th year, the Invitational is slated for July 6-10, 2011 and will feature several exciting new changes. For the first time in tournament history boats will be allowed to leave from ports outside of Panama City. Tournament officials have also removed the 72 boat limit, and are offering reduced entry fees for anglers that sign up early. Organizers expect these changes to boost the size of the fishing fleet and increase the tournament purse, enhancing an already exciting weigh in.

Perhaps the most anticipated development to the Invitational is the addition of several official Tournament Departure Points. Located in Destin, FL, Orange Beach, AL, and Tampa, FL, these alternate departure points give anglers the opportunity to save on fuel costs by keeping their boat closer to home.

“By leaving from their home ports, they save money two ways,” said Scott Burt, tournament co-director. “First, they don’t have to make that initial run to Panama City. Second, they’re closer to the fishing grounds. Both of these reduce fuel consumption, putting money back in the boat owner’s pocket.”

Boats leaving from alternate departure points will still be required to weigh their catch at Bay Point Marina in Panama City.  Tournament scales will open on Friday July 8, and Saturday July 9.
Another cost cutting measure allows participants to save money by signing up for the tournament in advance. Entry into the tournament is normally $5,500, but boats entering before July 1 will save $500 and those entering before April 1 will save $1,000.

“We’re committed to keeping our entry fees a low as possible,” said Steve Arndt, marina director at Bay Point Marina. “By keeping entry fees low we hope to attract as many boats as possible and drive the total purse higher and higher.”

Arndt also explained the recent decision to do away with the 72 boat cap on the tournament. “In the past we were limited to the space available at Bay Point Marina,” he said, “and we simply didn’t have the space for more than 72 boats. By giving participants the option to leave from other ports, we relieve the pressure on dock space here at Bay Point.  There’s literally no limit on the number of boats that can fish this year.”
Attracted by exciting weigh ins on Friday and Saturday night, the tournament typically draws huge crowds to see trophy class fish, live music, fresh food and a wide selection of local and national vendors. For more information about the Bay Point Invitational, please visit www.baypointbillfish.com.

This weekend, Panama City Beach is offering a break from the frantic shopping, menu planning and egg nog.  Saturday, December 18th,  in Pier Park (Arron Bessant Park) outdoor enthusiast will be gathering for a 5K or 1K Fun Run in hopes of raising money for the Lady Marlins and the Cops-N- Kids fund.  In the spirit of holiday giving, start dusting off those jogging shoes, slap on a Santa hat and get that body moving  for a good cause.  If you find yourself lacking motivation, think of this – it’s for the kids! If that still isn’t enough motivation for you, just think how delicious a hot toddy will taste after burning off all those calories. If charity doesn’t get your feet moving, maybe making merry with the beverages will!

Event Details:
Freedom Sports and The Panama City Beach Police Department are teaming to bring you a fun and memorable 5k run for the holidays. Dress up for a holiday spirited run. Proceeds will benefit Arnold High School Lady Marlins Basketball and Panama City Beach Police Department Cops-n-kids fund. Bring a unwrapped toy for your free running bells. Lets make some jingling noise in Pier Park.

Date:  Saturday, December 18, 2010 @ 8:00 AM

Additional Date Information:  Dec 18th 8am 5k Start, 9am 1k Fun Run Start

Address: Aaron Bessant Park, Pier Park

Fees: 5K $15 THRU 10 DEC, $20 11th-18th, FUN RUN $5

Registration Closing Date: Saturday, December 18, 2010 @ 8:00 AM

SANTA IS HERE!

Tell Santa what you are wanting for the Holidays. He will be located at the park for the event.

Continental Breakfast:
Breakfast Items provided at the park.

Professional Timing: Timing provided

Awards at Reggae J’s
Tentative

5k Route: Inside Pier Park and Aaron Bessant Park two loops to be more spectator friendly and we want it to Jingle.

Additional Information:
Holiday outfits are encouraged, but dress up according to weather. We don’t want you to be too cold or too hot.

This weekend is going to be one of the best weekends in Panama City Beach. Clint Black will be playing a free concert at Taste of the Bay. Wine and food lovers will be coming to Pier Park to partake in Taste of the Bay. Triathletes from all over will be participating in the Ironman Triathlon this weekend. And for the local philanthropist there is a comedy show supporting Making Strides Against Breast Cancer at Kaleidoscope Theatre.

Clint Black in Concert

Country music superstar Clint Black will be at Pier Park, Friday night  at 8:30 p.m. -and you’re not going to believe it- for FREE! Clint Black and the band will be under the stars right after Taste of The Beach’s “Taste of the Bay”.

Taste of the Bay

Taste of the Bay happens Thursday, November 4th through Sunday, November 8th at Pier Park. Folks always come back for the exceptional wines and savory cuisine from local restaurants. Events will be going on all weekend. Come out and enjoy the great sights and sounds of Pier Park.

6th Annual Fall Festival

Saturday morning at Aaron Bessant Park (Pier Park) bring the whole family out at 10:00 a. m. – 2:00 p. m. for  inflatables, carnival booths, a Pier Park Train Ride, Hay Ride, face painting and Barnyard Olympics. Free Music and Food!

Fishing, Fishing, Fishing!

PCB Piers Fishing at the City and County Piers is a fantastic and fun opportunity to do some fishing and winning- there’s even a kid’s tournament! No entry fee- Go to either pier, the HEAVIEST fish wins and get your cash prize this weekend! It’s all about fishing and fun!

Grand Lagoon Red Snapper Challenge

Ramp it up a notch and  float on up to the Bay Point Marina, Treasure Island or Pirate’s Cove Marina to enter the Grand Lagoon Red Snapper Challenge for $20.00 and bring in your best catch. Final Weigh-In is November 21st, come back for the fun, but you do not have to be present on the 21st to win. Have a great weekend of fishing on the most beautiful waters anywhere, bring in your catch and who knows you just might win!

Ironman Triathlon

If you are an Ironman… or you just want to check out these world class athletes the Ironman Triathlon is on Saturday, November 6th starting at 6:50 a.m.  The swim is 2.4 miles in the gulf behind Boardwalk Beach Resort on Thomas Drive. They’ll bike  112 miles on the fearsome back roads of the Panhandle, then run 26.2 miles. Vendors will be on Thomas Drive, as well as family and friends cheering on as the brave triathletes. Here is a list of the road closures due to the race.

Comedy For The CURE/MSABC Night Of Laughter

Saturday night the curtain goes up at 7:30 at the Kaleidoscope Theatre. A one of a kind show delivers laughs for you and benefits the search for a cure for cancer. Two, one act mysteries will keep you guessing and laughing. $20 admission with all proceeds donated to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. More at kt-online.org. (850) 265-3757 207 E. 24th St Lynn Haven, FL

And for next weekend…

Emerald Coast Cruizin‘

Emerald Coast Cruizin’ – The South’s Best Blast from The Past family fun event. Cars, hot rods, trucks, food and vendors all team up for a great weekend at  Frank Brown Park 16200, Panama City Beach Parkway – right across the street from Pier Park. And wait, there’s more! Rock out with the bopping sound of  T Graham Brown and TG Sheppard  with 100% of the ticket sales going to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bay County.Doors open at 6:00pm for the concert,  show begins at 8:00pm.  $20  advance and $25 the night of at the door. Tickets available at Sharky’s,and HammerHead Fred’s.