Escambia County needs a new judge.

The First Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission is now accepting applications for a vacancy on the Escambia County bench brought about by the retirement of Judge Thomas E. Johnson.

Applicants must have been members of The Florida Bar for the preceding five years, registered voters, and reside in Escambia County at the time he or she assumes office.

Applications may be obtained from the Joe Zarzaur, JNC Chair, 11 East Romana Street, Pensacola, 32502, joe@zarzaurlaw. com, (850) 444-9299 or downloaded from the governor's website by clicking the "Judicial"...