Free Tech Help Monday At The Molino Library
January 11, 2026
Did you receive a new piece of technology for Christmas and need a little help?
Stop by the Molino Library on Monday, January 12 or 26 for guidance. All day on those dates, Molino Library staff will offer custom help.
The Molino Library is located in the Molino Community Center, 6450 Highway 95A. The library is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Northview High Alum Earns Doctorate In Intelligent Systems And Robotics
January 11, 2026
Lawrence Dale Perkins recently earned his Ph.D. in Intelligent Systems and Robotics from the University of West Florida in conjunction with the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition.
The 1999 graduate of Northview High School also attended Bratt Elementary and Ernest Ward Middle schools. He earned a dual bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 2005 as well as a master’s in Industrial and Systems Engineering in 2007 from UWF.
Perkins is currently an electronics engineer for the U.S. Air Force and a recipient of the Department of Defense SMART Scholarship. His doctoral dissertation was titled “A Predictive Model for Understanding and Enhancing Scalability of Human-Multi-Agent Team.”
Dale is the son of son of William and Betsy Perkins of Oak Grove.
NorthEscambia.com photo (above) and submitted photo for NorthEscambia.com (below), click to enlarge.
Ascend Cares Volunteers Start Work On New Roy Hyatt Sensory Trail
January 11, 2026
Volunteers from Ascend Cares participated in a work day on Friday at the Roy Hyatt Environmental Center.
They helped start construction of the new Roy Hyatt Sensory Trail. They worked on “Windows to the Wind,” a “Whirling Wind Station,” “Crunch Trail,” a huge xylophone, a human-sized bamboo wind chime, and a natural wood binocular station.
The Ascend volunteers will return to Roy Hyatt this week to complete the project.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Registration Opens Monday For Escambia Sheriff’s Office Citizens’ Firearm Class
January 11, 2026
UPDATE: Classes are full and registration is closed.
Registration opens Monday, January 12 for the next Escambia County Sheriff’s Office Citizens’ Firearm Class.
The class will start on February 28.
The registration link will be posted on the ECSO Facebook page on Monday. Class space is limited.
Escambia Man Charged For Fatal Stabbing Triggered By Dispute About Wine
January 11, 2026
An Escambia County man has been charged for a fatal stabbing late Thursday night.
Henry S. Shoemaker, 51, was arrested on Friday for second degree homicide and booked into the Escambia County Jail where he remains without bond.
The victim was stabbed in the 100 block of Moreno Court and transported to the hospital where he later died. Witnesses said the incident began with a disagreement that escalated into yelling and a fight that ended with the victim stabbed multiple times in the neck and abdomen.
“The fight was over wine,” Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons said. “Who took the wine? Who drank the wine? Something about wine.”
Shoemaker was found hiding under a bed in a neighboring apartment.
Road Construction Spots To Watch This Week
January 11, 2026
Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads and projects in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.
Escambia County:
- Interstate 10 (I-10) Resurfacing, from east of U.S. 29 to east of Davis Highway (State Road (S.R.) 291) – Drivers on I-10 may encounter intermittent lane closures between mile markers 11 and 14, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for milling and paving operations.
- Interstate 110 (I-110) Resurfacing from I-10 to U.S. 98 – Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on I-110, between I-10 and U.S. 98, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for construction activities.
- S.R. 289 (Ninth Avenue) Resurfacing from Creighton Road (S.R. 274) to Olive Road - Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Ninth Avenue, between Creighton Road and Olive Road, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for paving operations and placement of thermoplastic striping.
- Brent Lane/Bayou Boulevard (S.R. 296) Resurfacing, from Davis Highway (S.R. 291) to Baisden Road – Drivers may encounter the following traffic disruptions, Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16, between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., for drainage improvements, concrete flatwork and paving operations:
- Intermittent lane closures on Brent Lane/Bayou Boulevard, from Davis Highway to Baisden Road.
- On-street parking closures on Bayou Boulevard, between 12th Avenue and Baisden Road.
- S.R. 296 (Michigan Avenue) Resurfacing from Mobile Highway (U.S. 90) to North Palafox Street (U.S. 29) – The week of Sunday, Jan. 11, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Michigan Avenue, from Mobile Highway to North Palafox Street, between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., for paving operations and placement of thermoplastic striping.
- S.R. 292 (Gulf Beach Highway) Resurfacing from Gulf Beach Highway to Manchester Street – The week of Sunday, Jan. 11, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on S.R. 292 from east of Bauer Road (County Road (C.R.) 293) to Manchester Street, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for construction activities. Additionally, a new traffic configuration has been implemented on S.R. 292 between Mills Avenue and just east of Patton Drive, with travel lanes shifted to the outside of the roadway to provide space to construct a median traffic separator. Channelizing devices are in place to delineate the work zone. The speed limit has been reduced to 35 mph throughout the work zone.
- Business U.S. 98 (Garden Street) Construction from Pace Boulevard to the I- 110 ramp – The week of Sunday, Jan. 11, drivers may encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Garden Street, between Pace Boulevard and N. Donelson Street, is reduced to two travel lanes (one in each direction), as crews perform construction activities on the south side of the street. This temporary traffic configuration will be in place through early 2026.
- Temporary side street closures south of Garden Street, from B Street to J Street, for stormwater management upgrades. This week, drivers may encounter a closure with detour at H Street. Signage will be in place to direct drivers through the work zone.
- On-street parking is closed on the south side of Garden Street, between B Street and L Street. Additionally, periodic on-street parking closures will occur on Garden Street, between A Street and Alcaniz Street, for sidewalk and crosswalk improvements.
- I-10 at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Intermittent I-10 inside lane closures near the Nine Mile Road interchange, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Nine Mile Road will be reduced to one travel lane in each direction between the I-10 ramps, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Friday, Jan. 16, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Law enforcement will be on site, and directional signage will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone.
- I-10 at U.S. 29 Interchange (Exit 10) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- I-10 westbound traffic will be reduced to one travel lane and shifted south near mile marker 10, Monday, Jan. 12 through Thursday, Jan. 15, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for construction activities.
- Intermittent lane closures may occur on North Palafox Street between Whitehead Drive and Hope Drive for construction at the North Palafox Street overpass. Flaggers will be present to direct traffic through the work zone.
- I-10 is reduced to two travel lanes in each direction between U.S. 29 and I-110.
- I-10 travel lanes are shifted away from the median area of the roadway, near the U.S. 29 interchange.
- The U.S. 29 southbound access to the I-10 eastbound on-ramp has been reduced.
- The U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound is closed. U.S. 29 northbound drivers are being detoured to make a U-turn at Broad Street onto U.S. 29 southbound to access I-10 eastbound.
- U.S. 29 Routine Underground Utility Maintenance at Muscogee Road – Motorists may encounter intermittent turn lane closures Thursday, Jan. 15 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for underground utility maintenance.
- S.R. 291 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Drive) Routine Underground Utility Maintenance at East Avery Street – Motorists may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for underground utility maintenance.
Santa Rosa County:
- U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:
- Median and turn-lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Lake Drive.
- Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Bayshore Road and Tiger Lake Drive, Sunday, Jan. 11, through Friday, Jan. 16, from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for paving operations.
- U.S. 90 Resurfacing from Escambia River Bridge to east of Woodbine Road (C.R. 197A) – Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on U.S. 90, from the Escambia River Bridge to Woodbine Road, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, between 7 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., for milling and paving operations. Additionally, the speed limit has been reduced to 45 mph through the work zone.
- S.R. 87 Resurfacing from U.S. 98 to south of East Bay Boulevard (C.R. 399) –Drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for paving operations.
- S.R. 281 (Avalon Boulevard) Bridge Rehabilitation over East Bay - Motorists may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for construction operations.
- U.S. 90 Turn Lane Operations just west of Stewart Street – Motorists may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for construct of left turn lane.
All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
Susan Margaret Hardin
January 11, 2026
Susan Margaret Hardin, passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on December 17, 1947, she brought joy and warmth to all who knew her.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents, William Aubrey Lynch and Hazel Hope Rush. She is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, Robert Ray Hardin. Together, they built a loving family that includes their children: Susan Catherine “Cathy” Hardin, Becky Dawn (Rodney) Cory-Kuhns, John Stuart (Aimee) Hardin, Matthew David (Jesse) Hardin, and Jeffrey Paul (Monica) Hardin. She also leaves behind a brother, William Paul Lynch; fourteen grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; all of whom brought immense joy to her life.
Susan had a deep love for her family, especially the youngest members. She adored babies and puppies, and her cheerful nature was evident in her love for feel-good movies and music. She was known for her beautiful smile and infectious laughter, always bringing happiness to those around her. Susan enjoyed singing and in her earlier years, she was talented in playing the piano and cello.
Visitation will begin at 9:30 am on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1985 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL, 32534. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 am with interment immediately following in Eastern Gate Memorial Gardens.
Susan will be dearly missed by her family and friends, but her legacy of joy and love will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.
Escambia County EMS Nick Watley Paramedic Earns Top State Honor
January 10, 2026
Escambia County EMS Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley has been named the 2025 Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health, selected from paramedics throughout the state nominated for the annual FDOH Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards. Watley was recognized at an awards ceremony this week in Orlando.
“On behalf of my family and my team at Escambia County EMS, I’m honored and humbled to be recognized as the Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health,” Watley said. “While this is an individual recognition, this award was made possible due to the men and women I have the pleasure of serving with. I couldn’t be prouder of what this organization has accomplished and what we will continue to accomplish in 2026.”
The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional qualities in several areas including patient care, quality assurance, medical control, disaster preparedness, public education and training. The award also recognizes a paramedic who has acted above and beyond the call of duty in the EMS profession and in their community.
For more than 30 years, the Florida Department of Health Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards have recognized men and women who provide lifesaving services in times of crisis. The awards pay tribute to the brave medical professionals and agencies that ensure the public’s health and safety in times of an emergency.
In addition to his statewide recognition as the 2025 Paramedic of the Year, Watley was named the April 2025 Employee of the Month by the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners for his leadership and commitment to providing the best possible service and care for patients.
Watley began his public safety career in 2006 as a firefighter and EMT in Selma, Alabama before joining Escambia County EMS as a paramedic in May 2020. He was promoted to paramedic supervisor in January 2022, where he manages an entire shift of ambulances and guides dozens of paramedics and EMTs, providing the necessary coordination and support that allows them to be successful.
“Paramedic Supervisor Watley is well-deserving of this honor,” EMS Chief Chris Watts said. “Through his unwavering dedication, selfless sacrifice, and a deep commitment to our community, Nick Watley exemplifies excellence in service. His compassion in patient care and willingness to go beyond what is required leave a lasting impact on every life he touches. Paramedic Supervisor Watley personifies the values of EMS and the mission of Escambia County Public Safety.”
Pictured top: Escambia County EMS Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley. Pictured inset: Escambia County Medical Director Dr. Ben Abo, Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley, and EMS Chief Chris Watts. Pictured below: Escambia County EMS Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley is recognized as Paramedic of the Year at the FDOH Excellence in EMS Awards Ceremony Wednesday, Jan. 7 in Orlando, Florida. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Molino Man Facing Felony Drug, Weapon Charges After Traffic Stop
January 10, 2026
A Molino man is facing multiple felony charges after an Escambia County Sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop that led to the discovery of narcotics and a loaded firearm.
Ricardo John Molina, 35, was arrested following the incident near the intersection of Mobile Highway and Edison Drive. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
According to an arrest report, an ECSO deputy was patrolling the area of South Madison Drive when he observed a vehicle approaching from behind with its high-beam headlights on. A second deputy, acting on the traffic violation, conducted a stop and identified the driver and Molina, who was riding as a rear passenger.
During the stop, K-9 Hura performed an open-air sniff of the vehicle and alerted deputies to the presence of drugs. A subsequent search of the back seat revealed a black bag where Molina had been sitting.
Inside the bag, deputies reported finding a Taurus .40 caliber handgun with a round in the chamber and eight rounds in the magazine, a clear plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine, and two glass smoking pipes containing burnt residue.
Molina reportedly admitted to deputies that he uses methamphetamine. While the firearm was present during the commission of a felony, a criminal history check confirmed that Molina is not a convicted felon.
Molina remained in the Escambia County Jail without bond.
The driver of the vehicle was issued a verbal warning for the traffic violation and released.
Escambia Chief Deputy Supervisor Of Elections Sonya Daniel Retires
January 10, 2026
Escambia County Chief Deputy Supervisor of Elections Sonya Daniel has retired.
With more than 30 years in public service, Daniel began her career as public information officer for the Ft. Pierce Police Department in 1994, then assumed that same role for St. Lucie County in 2000, before moving to Escambia County in 2002 to establish the Public Information Office for the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners. She managed public information for numerous hurricanes, the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, and now for multiple
controversial elections.
Daniel joined the Escambia County Supervisor of Elections Office in 2011 as the outreach and training coordinator. She was promoted to program coordinator in 2013, then to administrative deputy in 2015 and served as chief deputy to the supervisor of elections from 2023 to her retirement on January 5, 2026.
Her duties include managing all aspects of the elections office. She was known “hands-on” leader, working right alongside her team. She holds both state and national professional election certifications.
In 1996, she received her APR accreditation. In 2010, she returned to school to complete her master’s in strategic communications and leadership at the University of West Florida. She has been recognized by the Pensacola Chapter of FPRA three times as communicator of the year (2004, 2010, and 2021). Over the years she has served on several community boards including the 4-H Foundation, Council on Aging of West Florida, and UWF Alumni Board.
In her free time, she loves to travel and pursues creative crafts.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
