Sunshine City Magazine

Cannabis and psychedelics take center stage at St. Pete’s ‘Cannadelic Summer’ next month | Columns | Tampa

Published

1 year ago

June 25, 2023

shawtysaprano

click to enlarge

United States Fish and Wildlife Service [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Seventeen people have submitted applications for the new director of cannabis position.

For generations, early medical marijuana and psychedelic advocates have been fighting a seemingly Sisyphean battle to convince the public, and perhaps more importantly, our government, that plant-based medicines like cannabis and psilocybin have tangible benefits to individuals and, more broadly, society as a whole. Within the past decade, the tireless efforts of those early activists have borne fruit. As public opinion shifts, scientific research progresses, and legal barriers crumble, these once-taboo realms are recognized for their medicinal potential and positive impact on our nation.

The growth of cannabis and psychedelics takes center stage in St. Pete next month during Cannadelic Summer on Saturday, July 15 at The Factory (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay is a marketing partner for the event).

Cannabis: From counterculture to mainstream

The cannabis industry has seen exceptional growth, from NORMLs founding in 1970 to today’s ever-expanding legalization. The cannabis industry has transformed from an underground counterculture movement to a legitimate economic force. The days of sketch bags heavy with stems and seeds are long in the rearview mirror, and a new American industry focused on innovation and entrepreneurship is well underway.

Since Colorado led the way in recreational legalization in 2014, 23 other states have followed suit. Recreational and medical cannabis revenue for 2023 is expected to be over $33 billion. As gaudy as those numbers might appear, the overall economic impact is even higher, and the overall effect of the cannabis industry on the U.S. economy is even higher, estimated at over $100 billion.

The legal landscape: A patchwork of possibilities

While cannabis has gained significant ground in terms of legalization, the legal landscape remains complex and varied. Some states have embraced full legalization, allowing recreational and medical use. In contrast, others have adopted a more conservative approach by testing the waters through legalization for medical use only or decriminalization. Meanwhile, on the federal level, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I drug, drastically hindering research and creating a disparity between state and federal laws. If only Congress had listened to President Carter in the ‘70s.

However, despite the challenges of conflicting state and federal laws, the industry continues to thrive, generating billions of dollars in revenue, creating jobs, and contributing to local economies. It’s a testament to the resilience and determination of cannabis advocates and entrepreneurs driving this movement forward.

The psychedelic renaissance: shifting paradigms in mental health

In recent years, psychedelics have been making a comeback, not for their stereotypical use as a tool for recreational escapism but as powerful allies in treating mental health issues. Scientific studies exploring the vast therapeutic benefits of substances like psilocybin, LSD, ketamine, and MDMA have shown promising results in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.

As with cannabis, the legal status of psychedelics varies significantly worldwide. While some countries have embraced the therapeutic nature of these substances and are allowing research and clinical trials (In February 2023, Australia became the first country to make a formal statement that psychedelics have therapeutic benefits), others maintain strict regulations or outright bans. However, there is a growing global recognition that a new approach to psychedelics is needed, one that prioritizes scientific research, harm reduction, and responsible use for the betterment of people and their ability to combat mental illness.

The psychedelic industry is preparing to ride this new focus on therapeutic benefits to solid economic growth. As evidence for psychedelics’ positive impact on mental health conditions grows, market analysis shows that the industry is expected to hit $12 billion annually by 2029, increasing from $4.87 billion in 2022.

This isn’t about losing your mind at Bonnaroo: the medicine of psychedelics

It’s important to emphasize that using psychedelics in a therapeutic context is not about tripping for the sake of tripping. It’s about harnessing the potential of these substances to heal, transform, and open doors to new perspectives. Many individuals who have undergone positive psychedelic experiences have been struck by the profound impact these substances can have on one’s sense of self, empathy, and interconnectedness with the world.

Anyone who has had a positive experience with psychedelics has undoubtedly thought, “If only world leaders tried mushrooms, there would be less violence.” before returning to the record player and starting The Piper at the Gates of Dawn again.

The potential for increased understanding, empathy, and peace would be tremendous. While this may seem far-fetched, the current resurgence of psychedelics offers a glimmer of hope that we are on the cusp of a paradigm shift—one where these substances are recognized for their therapeutic benefits rather than being dismissed as mere escapist “drugs.”

Cannadelic: embrace the revolution

In rapidly growing industries like cannabis and psychedelics, conventions are the epicenter of innovation, education, and community-building. This summer, from July 15th, 2023, The Factory and Fairgrounds in St. Petersburg will host the much-anticipated Cannadelic Summer: A Celebration of Cannabis and Psychedelics convention.

The convention is the brainchild of the Florida Cannabis Coalition and is produced by the husband and wife team Pete and Colleen Sessa. The Florida Cannabis Coalition started in Tampa in 2014 with an event at the Cuban Club. Since then, they have not slowed down in the mission “to help to educate and connect marijuana patients, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs on the community level.”

They were integral in getting medical marijuana passed in Florida, helping to establish the industry in Florida, and have hosted large-scale cannabis conventions and hundreds of local networking events at breweries and similar venues throughout the state.

In February 2022, they launched the first Canndelic event at the Miami Airport Convention Center. The event was the first-ever Cannabis & PSYCHEDELIC convention. The event was wildly successful. Over 8,000 people from all over the world attended. Emboldened by the success of this first event, they quickly hosted a second event in July 2022. Cannadelic Edu was held at Florida International University and brought in some of the leading cannabis and psychedelic researchers in the world.

Their most recent event in February 2023 drew more than 13,000 attendees from 40 states and 28 countries and featured keynote speakers like Paul Stamets, Rick Doblin, Jason Silva, and Nancy Whiteman. They closed the convention out with an afterparty performance by Afroman.

Cannadelic Summer lands in St. Petersburg

For the first time, Pete and Colleen Sessa bring their Cannadelic Convention to St. Petersburg, and the event promises to build on what is rapidly becoming an industry-leading gathering of some of the most respected thinkers, entrepreneurs, and trendsetters in the cannabis and psychedelic industries.

The event is on July 15 from 10 a.m.-midnight and is packed with plenty to see, do, and learn. Cannadelic continues its tradition of providing world-class speakers. Immerse yourself in thought-provoking talks and panel discussions led by industry pioneers, scientific experts, and visionary advocates. Gain insights into the latest research, emerging trends, and the future of cannabis and psychedelics. Scheduled speakers include visionary artist Chris Dyer, Founder & CEO of Magical Brands Garyn Angel, Ian Beckles, Dr. Gina Love, and Richard DeLisi.

The event will also feature activations and workshops, including guided meditations, sound healing, and more. There is also a full schedule of panel discussions on a wide range of topics, including:

Cannabis, hemp, and psychedelic legalities in Florida
Cannabis & psychedelics as treatments for addiction
Mindfulness & psychedelic integration
Psychedelic Art
Cannabis, psychedelics & sports
Sex, cannabis & psychedelics

In addition to all the educational opportunities, attendees will be able to explore a vibrant marketplace featuring 60-plus vendors from all corners of the industry. This is your chance to shop for the latest in cannabis and psychedelic products and technologies.

What would a cannabis and psychedelic convention be without some truly mind-bending artwork? It wouldn’t be a Canndelic event, that’s for sure. The Fairgrounds St. Pete will feature a fully immersive art experience allowing visitors to enter a world of visual enchantment. Prepare to be captivated by the synergy of art and consciousness inspired by the psychedelic experience.

Riding the waves of change

The cannabis and psychedelic industries are riding the waves of change driven by innovation, scientific research, and shifting societal attitudes. Cannadelic Summer 2023 encapsulates the spirit of these evolving landscapes, providing a platform for education, connection, and celebration. Asked about Cannadelic Summer, Event Producer Pete Sessa said, “The event aims to cast away stereotypes and spread education about how when used mindfully, cannabis and psychedelics are powerful tools for healing ourselves and society.”

Canndelic Summer is sure to be an experience that embraces the medicinal reality, artistic expression, and collective vision of a world where cannabis and psychedelics are valued for their transformative power.

Secure your spot at Cannadelic Summer and join the community of cannabis and psychedelic enthusiasts, professionals, and advocates. Tickets are available at tampabaycannafest.com and come in various packages to suit your interests and budget.

Sunshine City Magazine

Tampa Shuffle’s six-year anniversary weekend kicks off with Women In Music showcase | Tampa

Published

9 months ago

March 13, 2024

shawtysaprano

click to enlarge

Photo by Camren Meier

Ari Chi, who plays Shuffle in Tampa, Florida on March 15, 2024.

Kicking off Shuffle’s weekend-long, six-year anniversary party, Seek the Light Media—a woman-owned media company run by Creative Loafing Tampa Bay contributor Yvonne Gougelet—is hosting its first-ever Women In Music Showcase this weekend.

A press release notes that along with March being National Women’s Month, the acoustic-based event—which includes a set from uke-weilding songwriter Ari Chi—was partially inspired by the need to raise awareness around a constant lack of diversity on gig lineups.

There’s no cover to get into the Women In Music Showcase happening on Friday, March 15, but donations to keep Tampa’s beloved woman-owned shuffleboard hotspot up and running will be greatly appreciated.

To close out its anniversary weekend, Shuffle—located at 2612 N Tampa St.—welcomes Lauris Vidal, his one-man band, a special “Tom Waits giving a hug to Paul Simon” vocal style, along with Tribal Style—the reggae roots outfit that came up in the Southern California scene before becoming a staple in the Bay area.

There’s no cover for any of the Shuffle six-year anniversary concerts happening Friday-Saturday, March 15-16 at Tampa Shuffle.
Subscribe to Creative Loafing newsletters.

Sunshine City Magazine

Congresswoman secures $5.5 million for St. Pete projects • St Pete Catalyst

Published

9 months ago

March 13, 2024

shawtysaprano

Six local projects that encompass everything from uplifting South St. Petersburg communities to clean energy initiatives will benefit from U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor’s federal appropriations success.

The congresswoman recently secured $14 million in area Community Priority Grants, with $5.5 million directly benefitting St. Petersburg organizations. Castor was particularly proud of receiving $1.5 million – her full ask – for the Enoch Davis Center.

The facility at 111 18^th Ave. S. is named after a prominent local civil rights activist. Mayor Ken Welch called the center “vital but dated” when he announced plans in May 2023 to transform it into a state-of-the-art community hub.

“I love that one because I’m at the Enoch Davis Center a lot,” Castor told the Catalyst. “Those modern, up-to-date community centers are more important than ever.”

The federal grant will fund assessment, pre-construction and energy-efficiency costs. Welch previously noted the facility’s expansive upgrades will support neighborhood health and safety and provide “technology and tools to excel in our competitive 21^st-century economy.”

Castor explained that the Inflation Reduction Act also allows local governments and organizations to receive rebates for sustainability efforts, like solar panels. “When you help the city save money, you help our neighbors save money, too,” she said.

“So, you’re going to see those kinds of investments … really ramp up,” Castor added. “And boy, do we need it – because our electric bills are out of sight.”

She also secured over $1.1 million for the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. The agency will use the money to convert its bus fleet to electric motors.

The federal funding will also help PSTA electrify its St. Petersburg Pier tram system. Castor called it a “great demonstration” of clean energy benefits due to the vehicles’ “high profile.”

“I was out there on The Pier about a week and a half ago, and they run all the time,” she said. “They’re gas-powered. And if you’re sitting behind the engine, it’s not great.”

From left, PSTA CEO Brad Miller and Congresswoman Kathy Castor discuss the SunRunner service with local resident and frequent rider Christopher Winters. Photo by Ashley Morales.

The University of South Florida St. Petersburg emerged as a big winner in the grant cycle. The Coastal Resilience Data Visualization Center at the College of Marine Science and the Disrupt Human Trafficking Data Project will each receive $963,000.

Coastal Resilience Center officials will use the funding for scientific planning, threat simulations and public outreach activities. Castor noted the city and state are particularly vulnerable to more frequent and intense storms and sea-level rise.

In addition, the nation experienced the hottest February in recorded history. Castor said people need up-to-date information on where to build and live safely.

“Hopefully, this informs policymakers to help them steer development away from the most dangerous areas,” she said. “It comes back to how people are feeling in their pocketbooks, with insurance costs. We really have to give people better tools and a better understanding of what a changing climate will mean for them.”

USFSP’s Trafficking in Person’s (TIP) Risk to Resilience Research Lab will use the Community Grant funding to develop a statewide data repository called TIPSTR. The program will assist law-enforcement investigations, mitigate gaps in victim services, develop prevention programs and help discern the problem’s magnitude.

An $850,000 grant will support the Deuces Rising development, formerly the Sankofa project. It will provide 24 homeownership opportunities along the 22^nd Street South (the Deuces) corridor for those earning below 80% of the area median income.

The public subsidy for each unit in the long-discussed development is just under $500,000. Castor said she “thought it was worthwhile to try to help lower the cost of the affordable housing portion.”

“This may turn out to be a one-two punch,” Castor added. “It (funding) is not at the level I sought. If it will qualify next year, I may come back and try to do another tranche for that.”

The Pinellas County Urban League will receive $81,130 for new computers and updated technological infrastructure. The goal is to increase reliable digital access to bolster economic opportunities in underserved communities.

Castor called the Urban League one of her “most valuable partners” in St. Pete. She said organizational leadership relayed their struggle to keep pace with continuously evolving technology.

Castor said securing the funding was easy as it aligned with congressional economic development initiatives. She also noted that the Urban League plays a prominent role in lowering local electricity costs by helping low-income residents weatherize their homes.

“The summers are so hot and go on for a longer period of time, and that impacts you if you work outside and want to enjoy our beautiful Sunshine City,” Castor said. “I don’t hear the climate skeptics that I used to … because the economics of it are right in front of them.”

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor was named the American Council on Renewable Energy’s Renewable Energy Champion in March 2023. Photo provided.

Sunshine City Magazine

Over 20 St. Patrick’s Day parties happening in Tampa Bay in 2024 | Tampa

Published

9 months ago

March 12, 2024

shawtysaprano

click to enlarge

Over 20 St. Patrick’s Day parties happening in Tampa Bay in 2024

St. Patrick’s Day is around the corner once again, and it’s always the best excuse to get a little buck-wild in between the forced romance of Valentine’s Day and the moral obligation of Easter and Mother’s Day. Dozens of bars, restaurants and other venues throughout Tampa Bay are throwing a wide range of parties, street festivals, brunches and even kid-friendly festivities to celebrate the beloved drinking holiday—and here are the best 20-ish celebrations we could find.

Did we miss your St. Patrick’s Day party? Submit your event to Creative Loafing Tampa Bay’s calendar, then email [email protected] to be added to this event roundup.

The ‘Biggest’ St. Paddy’s Day Party Palm Harbor’s go-to deli hosts a full week of food specials and live entertainment to commemorate its favorite holiday—from drinking tunes from The Irish Ramblers to bagpipe performances and traditional Irish step dance. Indulge in classic Lucky Dill dishes like its reuben egg rolls, hot pastrami sandwiches and corned beef and cabbage, plus whiskey tastings and giveaways on select days. Tuesday-Sunday, March 12-17. No cover. Various times. Lucky Dill Deli, 33180 US Highway 19 N, Palm Harbor. @LuckyDillDeli on Facebook

21st Annual MacPatrick Fest South Tampa hotspot MacDinton’s Irish Pub has been hosting its multi-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration for the past 21 years, and that just may be the median age of partygoers at 2024’s installment this weekend. Each day features its own drink specials, themes and giveaways, but Sunday’s “Green Kegs” breakfast, open bar and live entertainment is certainly the fest’s finale. Thursday-Sunday, March 14-17. 11 a.m.-3 a.m. $15 & up. MacDinton’s Irish Pub, 405 S Howard Ave., Tampa. macdintons.com

St. Paddy’s Punk & Roll Cage Brewing hosts its own mini-fest featuring over 15 local musicians that will take turns sharing its outdoor stage this weekend, plus booze-friendly eats courtesy of Kraken Joe’s Pizza. Friday-Sunday, March 15-17. Various times. No cover (RSVP encouraged.) Cage Brewing, 2001 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg. cagebrewing.com

St. Patrick’s Weekend & Irish Coffee Stout Release Move over green beer, there’s a new holiday brew in town. Crooked Thumb Brewery releases its exclusive Irish Coffee Stout, plus live music and food trucks all weekend-long. Friday-Sunday, March 15-17. Various times. No cover. Crooked Thumb Brewery, 555 10th Ave S, Safety Harbor. crookedthumbbrew.com.

Sips & Shenanigans Brunch Get some grub before Tampa’s River O’Green festival at Melting Pot Social’s special holiday brunch, complete with bottomless green mimosas, corned beef and cabbage and other classic brunch fare. Saturday, March 16. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $40. Melting Pot Social, 105 West Tyler St., Tampa. meltingpotsocial.com

Corey Avenue Street Party 2024’s rendition of this annual block party coincides with one of its longtime sponsors, Swigwam Beach Bar, but this all-day St. Patrick’s Day gig will definitely continue throughout Corey Avenue’s 300 Block. Soggy Bottom Boys, Beach Rats and Full Throttle provide entertainment. Saturday, March 16. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. No cover. 300 Block of Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach. @SwigwamBeachBar on Facebook.

St. Patrick’s Day Party & Mini-golf Tournament Largo’s resident farm and petting zoo hosts way more than kid’s birthday parties, as evidenced by its debut St. Patrick’s Day celebration this weekend. Flex your putting skills at its mini-golf tournament or relax with a beer and plate of corned beef and cabbage. Saturday, March 16. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. No cover (farm tours cost $10 per person). DK Farms & Gardens, 1750 Lake Ave SE, Largo. dkfarmsandgardens.com

Get Lucky Block Party Whiskey shots out of an ice luge and an open bar from 5 p.m.-7p.m. are the main draws of Bar HWRD’s holiday banger, which can either be a launching pad or end cap for a night of partying in South Tampa. Saturday, March 16. 5 p.m.-3 a.m. $10-$20. Bar HWRD, 302 South Howard Ave., Tampa. barhwrdtampa.com

River O’Green The City of Tampa’s family-friendly river-dyeing party returns to Curtis Hixon Park this weekend with kid activities, live entertainment, food trucks and green beer (for the parents.) Saturday, March 16. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. No cover. Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N Ashley Dr., Tampa. tampasdowntown.com

St. Patrick’s Day Bash by the Beach This beach-adjacent hotel hosts a night filled with whiskey tastings, perfectly poured pints of Guinness, live music and Irish-themed cocktails. 7Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17. Noon-8 p.m. No cover, Eventbrite RSVP recommended. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, 100 Coronado Dr.,Clearwater. wyndhamgrandclearwater.com

2nd Annual Paddyfest Perhaps one of the most—if not the most—kid-friendly St. Patrick’s Day celebrations returns to the heart of St. Pete this weekend, with tons of activities and entertainment in tow. Paddyfest St. Pete hosts a multitude of festivities including dozens of local vendors, food trucks slinging both Irish and American fare, whiskey tastings, a dedicated kids zone, live music and dancing, a wide variety of brews on tap and athletic performances from FSA Highland, a Florida-based organization that specializes in traditional Scottish sports like shot put, caber toss and sheaf toss.
Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17. Noon-9 p.m. No cover. Williams Park, 330 2nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg. paddyfeststpete.com

Mary Margaret’s St. Patrick’s Weekend This Central Avenue-adjacent bar offers Irish vibes year-round, but they’re usually kicked up a notch during its weekend-long party, which includes live music, bagpipers, specials like corned beef and cabbage and tons of Guinness to wash it all down. Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17. 9 a.m.-3 a.m. No cover. 29 3rd St. N, St. Petersburg. marymargarets.com

St. Patrick’s Weekend Both days of Slizzy Mcgees’ annual party features live music from Flo-Raw and Stealing Crowns, local food trucks, specials on traditional Irish fare and of course, tons of booze. Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17. 11 a.m.-3 a.m. No cover. Slizzy Mcgee’s, 1159 62nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg. @Slizzymcgees on Facebook

St Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl This bar crawl throughout The ‘Burg kicks off at Welcome to the Farm and continues at various neighboring bars in downtown St. Pete. Ticket holders get drinks at each stop, access to food specials and specialty, holiday-themed cocktails. Sunday, March 17. $9.99 & up. Welcome To The Farm, 242 1st Ave. N St Petersburg. pubcrawls.com

St. Patrick’s Day Open Mic Night A nice, sober or low-key option for St. Patrick’s Day if barhopping and late nights isn’t your jam. RSVPs are recommended for this free-to-attend open mic night with craft beer, wine and kava available for purchase.
Sunday, March 17. 3 p.m.-8 p.m. No cover. The Village Courtyard, Beach Boulevard South Gulfport. @villagecourtyard on Facebook

Flanagan’s St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival Billed as one of the “largest St. Patrick’s Day festivals in Florida,” Flanagan’s annual party features a full lineup of music and entertainment from noon-8 p.m. and lots of flowing green beer. Sunday, March 17. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. No cover. Flanagan’s Irish Pub, 465 Main St., Dunedin. @flanagansirishpub on Facebook

8th Annual Block Party If you aren’t ready to stop drinking after Paddyfest at Williams Park, then head to The Galley’s annual festivity complete with live music, plenty of Guinness, whiskey and Irish food specials. Sunday, March 17. 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m. No cover. The Galley, 27 4th Street N , St. Petersburg. @TheGalleyDTSP on Facebook

Sober St. Patrick’s Day No hangover, no problem. This Clearwater kava house hosts a laid-back holiday party filled with N/A drink specials and screenings of St. Patrick’s Day-themed movies. Sunday, March 18. 8 p.m.-midnight. No cover. Kava House Brand, 11141 US Highway 19 N #408 Clearwater. kavahousebrand.com

St. Patrick’s Day at Caddy’s on the Beach Caddy’s locations on Indian Rocks Beach (20025 Gulf Blvd.), Madeira Beach (14080 Gulf Blvd.), Treasure Island (9000 W Gulf Blvd.) and Johns Pass (190 Boardwalk PI.) all host their own holiday parties with cheap drinks, raffles, giveaways, live entertainment and free green tea shots for anyone rocking the color of the evening. Sunday, March 17. 11 a.m.-1 a.m. No cover. Various locations. caddys.com

O’Briens Irish Pub’s annual St. Patrick’s Event Step dancers, bagpipers and local acts like Noodles Magoo, The Headbang, Wyndbreakers and Nicaea provide the entertainment this weekend at Carollwood’s O’Briens Irish Pub, which just celebrated its 33rd anniversary. Sunday, March 17. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. $20. O’Briens Irish Pub, 15435 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa. obrienspubstampa.com

O’Maddy’s Annual Waterfront Party Waterfront gulfport pub O’Maddy’s hosts one of the most popular St. Patrick’s Day parties each March, and 2024’s rendition offers plenty of flowing green beer, Irish fare and music from Pete & Dean Trio, Horses Wild and The Horny Toads. Sunday, March 17. 10 a.m.-midnight. No cover. O’Maddy’s Bar & Grille, 5405 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. @omaddys on Facebook

Subscribe to Creative Loafing newsletters.