Fastpitch Softball Tournament Fills Panama City Beach, Fla.-Area Hotels.

Byline: Dwayne Hartnett

Jul. 17--There is a scattering of hotel rooms available in this tourist-driven market.

But the number is shrinking fast.

And, if you're fortunate enough to find lodging, be prepared to pay a premium and count on a two- or three-night stay. Amenities be damned.

There are two reasons for the room shortage. Possibly three.

First, July is the height of tourist season along the Emerald Coast, and especially in the Panama City Beach area.

Second, it's tournament time.

Nearly 140 girls softball teams are participating in the 2003 United States Fastpitch Association Class B World Series at Frank …