In a meaningful show of community partnership, the Panama City Fire Department recognized the Panama City Beach Aquatic Center on Friday, May 16 with a special award for their support in training local first responders. 

During a visit to the fire department's facilities, Firefighter Ryan Smith presented a plaque to Aquatics Manager Jami Goins in appreciation for the center's continued support in allowing firefighters to use its lap pools for vital search and rescue and dive training exercises. 

Those in attendance from Panama City Fire included Assistant Fire Chief Kent Taylor and Firefighter Ryan Smith. And those from Panama City Beach Aquatic Center were Aquatics Mechanic Jake Franzien, Head Lifeguard Jay Banks, Aquatics Manager Jami Goins, and Aquatics Specialist Olivia Creeden. The visit also included a tour of the Fire Department's facilities, cake and refreshments further strengthening the bond between the aquatic and emergency service teams. 

The award underscores the importance of collaboration between local agencies in keeping the community safe and well-prepared