02-05-2025
Get to know News 13 Anchor Shelby Pay
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) — There's a new face behind the anchor desk at News 13, and she's bringing Northeast experience, infectious enthusiasm, and a genuine love for storytelling to the Panhandle.
Shelby joined WMBB in February 2025, coming from our sister station WUTR in Utica, New York, where she began her career as a reporter and eventually worked her way up to anchor. Originally from Connecticut, Shelby says the opportunity to grow as a journalist and enjoy the Florida sunshine made the move to Panama City an easy decision.
'I saw this job opportunity and I couldn't pass it up,' she said. 'I couldn't be happier to be here.'
Shelby's path into journalism began with a love for the television industry, but it was through her academic journey that she discovered the impact journalism can have.
'I love being able to tell people's stories and reveal the hard truths,' she explained. 'It's very important, especially in today's climate.'
That passion for storytelling is what fuels Shelby on a daily basis. She enjoys meeting people, learning something new every day, and bringing local stories to life for viewers. Her career has already included some fun and unusual experiences, from working as an in-game host for the Utica Comets hockey team to starting her on-air journey as a 'lottery girl' in Rhode Island during college, where she drew nightly numbers live on television.
In just a few weeks, Shelby has already started exploring Panama City and its beautiful beaches, often accompanied by her 8-year-old Goldendoodle, Lucy, who's adjusting well to the Florida heat, though Shelby says more haircuts are definitely in Lucy's future.
What's surprised her most about the move? 'How friendly everyone is,' Shelby said. 'Being from the Northeast, things move at a fast pace. Here, it's nice to slow down, have a conversation, even if it's just about the weather.'
Shelby hopes locals know she's approachable and always eager to connect. 'If you ever see me out, feel free to come up and say hi. Or if you have a story idea, I'm always willing to lend an open ear.'
When it came to joining WMBB, Shelby was impressed by the team's commitment to in-depth reporting and storm coverage, an essential part of serving the Gulf Coast community. 'I was inspired when I toured the newsroom and saw how hard everyone works. It's a team that tells important stories and pulls their weight, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that.'
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