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All For Transportation
Sunday, March 9th, 2025
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All For Transportation
Top of the morning from The Southshore Circle. Why don’t oysters donate to charity? Because they’re shellfish!
In Today’s Edition:
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Show Us the Money (Preferably in Southshore)
What could you do with $256 million? Personally, I’d start by finally fixing that pothole on 41 that swallows cars whole—but hey, that's just me. Hillsborough County Commissioners, however, have slightly different plans. But do they include Southshore?
Recently, they've approved the first batch of projects ($17 million worth) from the leftover funds of the All for Transportation tax, totaling a hefty $256 million. Right now, these include improvements in Plant City, sprucing up the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and giving ZooTampa some much-needed TLC.
Before you yell, “Hey, what about Southshore?”—I hear you. Although none of these projects have "Southshore" flashing in neon lights (yet), with that kind of money floating around, some of it's bound to trickle down faster than traffic on Big Bend at rush hour (fingers crossed).
Here's how it might help us out eventually:
Less Traffic Tantrums: Nearby road upgrades mean fewer headaches and less time sitting behind someone going 20 mph in a 45 zone.
Economic Goodies: Improved countywide transportation infrastructure usually brings more business to the area—and if that means quicker trips to your favorite Southshore spots, we’re all winners.
Long-Term Love: With a firm requirement that projects be completed by 2030, at least we know there’s an actual plan. Because, let’s face it, "winging it" hasn't exactly done wonders around here.
So hang in there, Southshore. Better roads, fewer potholes, and smoother commutes could be just around the corner—though hopefully, it's not a corner riddled with orange cones.
Spring Don’t Break The Bank
Spring break is here, the kids are out of school, and they're ready to hit the road—all expenses paid (by you, naturally). But with eggs costing roughly the price of a small island, it's probably not the best time to splurge. Florida has always been a spring break hotspot with our beaches and theme parks, but now that Universal practically requires a second mortgage for a one-day pass and beach trips feel like parking lot tours, you might want some budget-friendly alternatives. We’ve got your back. Here are four fantastic spring break destinations that won't empty your wallet—two magical words: State Parks.
Everglades National Park: Just about three hours from anywhere, and only $35 per carload. Pack some sandwiches, comfortable shoes, and industrial-strength bug spray, and you’re set. There's plenty more to do if your wallet insists, but the scenery alone is worth the trip.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: If the $10-per-car entry fee isn't tempting enough, the crystal-clear waters, nature trails, and legendary mermaid shows surely are.
Devil’s Den Springs: Don't let the spooky name fool you. This hidden gem offers breathtaking underwater views, diving, and snorkeling—it's an Instagram dream.
Little Manatee River State Park: Right here in good ol’ Southshore! Miles of trails, lush scenery, and just $5 per car. Plus, you'll have enough left over for street tacos afterward. Just sayin'.
County Commissioners Tell DOGE Audit to Sit
The newly created Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—is gearing up to sniff out government waste using AI and high-tech audits. Hillsborough Commissioner Joshua Wostal eagerly volunteered the county to be an early audit candidate and even offered himself as the DOGE whisperer, acting as a single point of contact.
But fellow commissioners weren't buying it. Chairman Ken Hagan suggested leaving this task to the experts (aka staff) rather than politicians, saying he’d prefer not to give extra instructions to the county administrator.
Wostal made his case, pointing out the county previously found forgotten bank accounts—yes, actual misplaced money—in recent tech transitions. But his proposal was rejected in a tight 4-to-3 vote, with a bipartisan "No, thanks."
Gov. DeSantis chimed in later, promising local audits are still coming soon, and even hinted he's asking lawmakers for extra leash length to chase down waste at county and city levels. Stay tuned, folks—the DOGE isn't going away just yet.
What’s washing up on the shore this week:
9th Annual Saint Puppies Day
Dog parade and costume contest! Date & Time: Sunday, March 9, 2025, 11:00 AM Location: 6186 N US Highway 41, Apollo BeachThe Doug South Band At The Edge
Live Music. Date & Time: Sunday, March 9, 2025, 1:30 PM Location: 6226 Ohio Ave, GibsontonWeekly Wine Society
Educational Wine Tasting, Date & Time: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 7:00 PM Location: 238 Harbor Village Ln, Apollo BeachLighted Wine Bottle or Painted Wine Glasses!
Paint & Sip – Lighted Wine Bottle or Painted Wine Glasses! Date & Time: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 7:00 PM Location: 7414 Commerce Street, RiverviewA night devoted to Karaoke. Come and show off your singing or non-singing talents. Date & Time: Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 6:00 PM Location: 6656 US Highway 301 S, Riverview
Come out and join us Wednesday at Finn's for a Walk, Bike or Run. Date & Time: Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 6:30 PM Location: 1112 Apollo Beach Blvd, Apollo Beach
The Rumor Mill:
American Honey Creamery coming to Apollo Beach - Goal Spring 2025
The Local Brew Company is officially under construction in Ruskin
Meet your neighbor: Now The Southshore Spotlight
Forget cookie-cutter franchises and corporate giants—this month’s spotlight shines on T&J Painting, a true local gem built on decades of dedication and craftsmanship. This family-owned business didn't just show up overnight; they earned their stripes (and paint splatters) over 25 years, starting from the ground up—literally holding ladders and running errands—to become Southshore's trusted painting pros.
At T&J Painting, you’re more than an invoice number. Whether it’s sprucing up interiors, freshening exteriors, or expertly refinishing cabinets, you’ll always get personalized attention, reliable advice, and meticulous workmanship. Need another set of eyes on your project? They’ve got you covered!
If you're looking to revive your home without the typical stress, call T&J Painting and experience the local difference.
📞 Call: 813-723-9124
✅ Supporting local never looked so good.
T&J Painting—brightening Southshore, one home at a time!
Foodies Only:
Pita Kebob
Feeling like jet-setting to Mykonos, but your wallet is thinking more like Ruskin? Good news—Pita Kebob is the Greek getaway you didn’t know you needed, right here in your backyard.
Tucked away in the Big Lots plaza on College Ave., this Mediterranean gem serves up an authentic menu that includes fresh Greek salads, perfectly seasoned meats, and seafood that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the Aegean. With daily lunch specials and prices that won’t break the bank, it’s a win-win.
And the fresh-cut fries? They’re Greek crack.
Local Sports:
Girl’s Flag Football
Lennard vs. Plant 3/10 @7:30pm
East Bay vs. Durant 3/11 @7:30pm
Riverview vs. Strawberry Crest 3/13 @7:30pm
Sumner vs.Tampa Catholic 3/12 @7:35pm
Sumner vs Wharton 3/13 @ 7:30pm
Baseball
Lennard vs. Brandon 3/10 @7pm
East Bay vs. Riverview 3/11 @ 7pm
Sumner vs. Newsome 3/11 @ 7pm
Sumner vs Strawberry Crest 3/15 @1pm
Softball
Lennard vs Brandon 2/10 @7pm
East Bay vs. Armwood 3/11@7pm
Riverview vs. Plant City 3/11 @7pm
Sumner vs. Newsome 3/11 @7pm
Sumner vs. Riverview 3/13 @7pm
The Neighborhood Post:
New Section coming soon. Looking for a painter? A handyman? Someone to walk your dog? We’re building a database just for that and you’ll find it here under a new title “We know a guy…or gal”
News or Events you’d like to share? Email us at: [email protected]
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