2025 National Smoking Shields Summit

Smoking Shields was established in 2015 to address the lack of a fraternal organization of law enforcement professionals who shared their passion of enjoying premium cigars and a desire to help our nation’s heroes.

The main purpose of Smoking Shields is to provide financial assistance to law enforcement officers and military personnel, to help them and their families, in a time of need.

Smoking Shields FL was established in 2017 and is comprised of members from all aspects of law enforcement in Tampa Bay. Our chapter is one of 10 chapters in the United States.

• Saturday, March 22nd (4PM - 8PM) - Grand Cathedral Cigars Fundraising Event
• Sunday, March 23rd (10AM - 12PM) - JC Newman Cigar Factory (Breakfast and Bloody Mary's)
• Sunday, March 23rd (6PM - 9PM) - Arturo Fuente Headquarters (Closing Reception with Cocktail and Cigars)

*This will be a ticketed event. Tickets are required for entrance*
*All tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable*
*Please note this will be an 21+ only event*

Location: Grand Cathedral Cigars
Address: 2201 North Florida Avenue Tampa, Florida 33602
Time: 4:00PM - 8:00PM
Event:

• Whiskey Tasting from 6 National Suppliers (Brown Forman, William Grant, Michter's, Breakthru TBD, Diageo, Beam Suntory)
• Live Music
• Food & Appetizers
• Access to a SILENT AUCTION featuring exclusive cigars from the Toymaker's treasure chest, Carlito Fuente
• Raffles and prizes

Location: "El Reloj" JC Newman Cigar Factory
Address: 2701 North 16th Street Tampa, Florida 33605
Time: 10:00AM - 12:00PM
Event:

• Meet and Greet with Bobby and Drew Newman (2nd and 3rd Generation Cigar Makers)
• Breakfast at JC Newman Cigar Workers Park
• Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar
• Visit America's Oldest Cigar Factory

Location: Arturo Fuente Headquarters
Address: 1310 North 22nd Street Tampa, Florida 33605
Time: 6:00PM - 9:00PM
Event:

• Meet LEGENDARY and World Renown Cigar Maker, Carlito Fuente Jr
• Visit the Arturo Fuente Headquarters located in the heart of Ybor City
• Cocktail Hour and Cigars
• Live Music

Q: Is there a minimum age for attending the event?
Yes, you must be 21 or older to attend the cigar and whiskey event. Please be prepared to show ID at the door for age verification.

Q: Can I bring pets?:
No, only service animals are allowed

Q: Are there any recommended hotels near the event venue?:
Yes! For your convenience, we recommend Hotel Haya and Sterling Lofts!
Hotel Haya - offers a special discounted rate of $169 + tax for event attendees. To access our special rates, please use this link for your room reservations. Click here for Hotel Haya Special Rates!
Sterling Lofts - Conveniently located in Ybor City, Sterling Lofts are located in the same building as Sterling Cigar Lounge! Perfect for group bookings as they have 3-4 units for rent on each floor! Click here for Sterling Lofts Airbnb!

Q: Is there a dress code for the event?No, there is no formal dress code for any of the events. However, for all Smoking Shields and associate members, we encourage wearing your blue Smoking Shields t-shirt for the fundraiser on March 22nd at Grand Cathedral Cigars. It helps us create a unified look and supports the event!

Q: How can I buy tickets for the event?Tickets for the event can be purchased through our Eventbrite page at https://2025NSSS.eventbrite.com. A portion of all ticket proceeds will be donated to Smoking Shields, supporting a great cause while you enjoy the event!

Q: Can I buy tickets at the door?While tickets can be purchased at the door, we highly recommend securing your spot in advance, as limited tickets will be available on the day of the event. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s best to buy your tickets ahead of time via our Eventbrite page at https://2025NSSS.eventbrite.com.

Q: Is my ticket transferable or reunfdable?No, tickets are not transferable or refundable. Please be sure to confirm your attendance before purchasing.

Q: Will cigars and whiskey be provided at the event?
Yes! Here’s what you can expect:
3/22 Grand Cathedral Fundraiser Event: Every ticket holder will have access to a whiskey tasting featuring 6 different national suppliers. Cigars, as well as additional cocktails and drinks, will be available for purchase.
3/23 JC Newman: Complimentary breakfast and a Bloody Mary bar will be provided to all ticket holders. Cigars will be available for purchase at the gift shop!
3/23 Arturo Fuente: Complimentary cigars and cocktails will be provided at the closing reception.

Q: Can I bring my own cigars and whiskey?We do not allow outside cigars or beverages at Grand Cathedral Cigars. All cigars and drinks must be purchased on-site. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing our curated selections with you!

Q: Will food be served at the event?Yes, food will be available at some events! Here's the breakdown:

3/22 Grand Cathedral Fundraiser Event: Food is included! Enjoy some mouth-watering slow-smoked BBQ.
3/23 at JC Newman: A complimentary breakfast and Bloody Mary bar will be provided to all ticket holders.
3/23 at Arturo Fuente: Food is not provided, so be sure to grab an early dinner or late lunch before arriving. You’ll want to be fueled up for the cigars and cocktails!

Q: Can I purchase additional whiskey or cigars during the event?Yes, additional cigars and whiskey will be available for purchase at the event. You’ll also have the chance to chat with experts who can help you select the perfect cigar or bottle to take home. Plus, don't miss out on our Grand Cathedral Cigars “Barrel Room”, where you can purchase exclusive barrel picks for a truly unique experience!

Q: Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, the venue has ample parking space available for guests. Please take advantage of our overflow parking lot located on the corner of Amelia Avenue and Florida Avenue. We also encourage carpooling or using ride-sharing services to ensure everyone has a safe way to get home.

Q: Will there be live music or entertainment?
Yes! We’ve arranged for LIVE MUSIC to keep the atmosphere lively and fun throughout the event.

Q: Can I take photos or videos at the event?
YES! We encourage guests to capture the moments. Event photos and videos will also be shared on our Grand Cathedral Cigars social media after the event.

Event Venue

Grand Cathedral Cigars, 2201 North Florida Avenue, Tampa, United States