Pensacola Man Sentenced on Federal Drug Chargegs

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- A Pensacola man convicted of selling drugs while armed has been sentenced to five years in federal prison. Fifty-one-year-old Carlton Shoemaker pleaded guilty to distributing crack cocaine and methamphetamine with a firearm. Federal agents working with an informant made two undercover drug buys from Shoemaker inside a hotel room. Officers say he had a loaded handgun during at least one of those transactions. When they searched his home, agents say they found more cocaine, marijuana packaged for sale, and two additional firearms. Shoemaker is a repeat offender with prior convictions for burglary and grand theft. After his five-year prison sentence, he'll be on supervised release for three more years.

State AG Putting Pressure on City over Christmas Drag Show

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- Florida's Attorney General is again turning up the pressure on the City of Pensacola over a drag show scheduled at the Saenger Theatre just before Christmas. Attorney General James Uthmeier posted on social media saying the state can enforce a 2023 law that bars children from attending adult live performances - adding the message, quote, "we're watching Pensacola." That follows a court ruling this week that allows the law to be enforced. Uthmeier had previously urged the city to cancel "A Drag Queen's Christmas," calling it a mockery of faith. The event has fueled months of heated debate, with faith leaders and LGBTQ advocates packing city council meetings. City leaders ultimately chose not to intervene. Organizers say the show is restricted to adults 18 and older.

Pensacola Making Progress on Direction '25

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- The City of Pensacola says they are making major progress on their parks revitalization project. Eleven months into Direction '25, the city has completed work on ten parks and facilities as part of the 21.7 million dollar initiative. Projects include playground renovations, accessibility improvements, athletic field upgrades, and new amenities. Parks receiving work include Henry Wyer Park, Roger Scott Athletic Complex, Miralla Park, and Allen Park. The city says they have prioritized hiring local small contractors to keep project dollars in the Pensacola community. Direction '25 continues into 2026.