Massachusetts Strip Club Ditches Controversial “Topless Cannabis” Plans

WHATELY, Mass. — In a surprising turn of events, the owners of Club Castaway in Whately have announced their plans to reopen the strip club next month. The establishment, Franklin County’s sole strip club, has been closed since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020. However, the owners, Nicholas Spagnola and Julius Sokol, have decided to shift their focus back to the club’s traditional business, leaving behind their ambitious proposal for a “topless cannabis” retail outlet.

Earlier this year, Spagnola and Sokol caught the attention of town officials and cannabis enthusiasts alike when they unveiled their unconventional plan to transform Club Castaway into a topless cannabis dispensary. The idea was met with both curiosity and skepticism, as it would have potentially made Club Castaway the country’s first establishment of its kind.

However, in an exclusive interview with The Republican and MassLive, Spagnola revealed that their controversial venture is “no longer a priority.” Instead, the owners are diligently working on repairing the floors and sound system of the club, aiming to open its doors to eager patrons in August.

The building housing the ”club.”

The decision to abandon the topless cannabis idea came as a surprise to many, as it was seen as a unique niche that could have set Club Castaway apart from the competition. “There are a lot of dispensaries open,” Spagnola remarked at a Select Board meeting earlier this year, “I do think you need a niche to be successful.” However, it seems the partners have had a change of heart and are now focusing on the club’s more traditional offerings.

While the news of the strip club’s reopening may come as a relief to its loyal patrons, some may be disappointed to see the “budtenders” in traditional attire instead of the promised topless staff. However, the club’s owners are determined to make the necessary repairs and upgrades to ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.

Club Castaway, with its long history dating back to the 1970s, holds a special place in the hearts of locals. The announcement of its imminent reopening has sparked a mix of excitement and nostalgia throughout Franklin County. As the only strip club in the area, its return will undoubtedly be met with eager anticipation.

While the shift in focus may have disappointed those who were intrigued by the topless cannabis concept, it appears that Spagnola and Sokol have recognized the importance of catering to their existing customer base. The reopening of Club Castaway in August will mark the revival of a cherished establishment, ready to provide entertainment and memories for years to come.