Holiday Vibes and Health Tips

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Featured Story

Not Your Parents’ Job Market…or Grandparents

For all you parents with kids who will be graduating in 2026. I’m sure there’s some trepidation about the job market. From AI to a sagging economy and overpopulation, it’s not the workforce of yesteryear.

But before you start Googling “how to live off the grid,” here’s some actually good news happening right here in Hillsborough County.

Hundreds of high school seniors recently got a hands-on look at real careers through Hillsborough College’s Career Quest day. Instead of just being told to “figure it out,” students explored dozens of workforce programs like healthcare, construction, automotive tech, engineering, and skilled trades. You know, the jobs that still exist when the Wi-Fi goes out.

They tested equipment, tried simulations, and even learned that messing up is part of the process. A shocking concept for teens who’ve grown up with undo buttons. The big message was simple. You don’t need a four-year degree and mountains of debt to build a solid career. Short-term certificates and two-year programs can lead straight to good-paying jobs, with the option to keep going later.

So while the future might feel uncertain, it’s nice to know there are practical paths forward right here at home. And hey, if it keeps them employed and out of your basement, that’s a win for everyone.

Heart & Circulation This Winter

With Wellness Vitalized

Heart health is about more than just one number. It's about supporting healthy circulation, managing inflammation, and protecting your blood vessels. Add heart-loving foods like beets, berries, and dark leafy greens to your holiday table. They provide nutrients that directly support cardiovascular function.

Healthy Tip: After a big meal, invite your family for a stroll around the neighborhood. It’s a wonderful tradition that aids digestion and gets your blood flowing.

Ready to take a holistic and proactive approach to your heart health? Let’s talk! Book a session with Wellness Vitalized. Find professional-grade heart support supplements in our Fullscript dispensary.

Things to do

What’s Washing Up on The Shore This Week

The Great Christmas Cookie Debate

Every year around this time, an important question quietly tears families apart.

What is the official Christmas cookie?

Not your personal favorite. Not what Aunt Linda brings every year, even though nobody eats it. The official one.

Sugar cookies make a strong case. They’re festive, customizable, and basically tiny edible arts and crafts projects. They’re also the reason every kitchen in December looks like a glitter bomb went off. Sprinkles in places sprinkles should never be.

Gingerbread cookies say, “I am Christmas.” They smell like the holidays, look like the holidays, and somehow always taste slightly less exciting than you remember. Still, you can’t deny the authority of a cookie that comes with its own architecture.

Then there’s the wildcard. Chocolate chip. Not seasonal. Not flashy. But show up to any party with a tray of them and suddenly everyone’s very quiet and very happy. That kind of power deserves respect.

Thumbprints try hard. Shortbread is classy. Peanut butter blossoms bring the chocolate kiss and immediately win over the children.

After much consideration, heated debate, and zero official research, here’s the ruling.

The official Christmas cookie is whichever one is warm, homemade, and handed to you without conditions. Bonus points if it comes from someone who says, “Just take a few more, they’ll go bad.”

Case closed. Cookies gone. Holiday spirit restored.

Southshore Spotlight

The Jackson Copeland Foundation

The Jackson Copeland Foundation is a Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to fighting leukemia and supporting patients and families facing a diagnosis. The foundation was created in memory of Jackson Rees Copeland, a U.S. Navy Reserve member who battled acute myeloid leukemia with strength and resilience.

Nominate your local hero by emailing us at [email protected]

We Know a Guy…or Girl

Stellar Notary Services

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Southshore Services

“Keep it Local!”

Foodies Only

Mission BBQ

MISSION BBQ in Southshore is where you go when you want barbecue done right and a little community pride served on the side. From slow-smoked brisket to ribs that don’t need explaining, it’s the kind of place that feels just as good as it tastes.

If you’ve got a restaurant, food truck, or even a lemonade stand, it could be featured here. Email us at [email protected]

Local Sports

Our area high schools boast state champions and multiple division titleists. Come out and show your support for these teams and for our community.

Got news, events, or press releases that the Southshore needs to know about? Submit them here. (We’ll do our best to add press releases in our regular rotation.) If you’re looking to run an actual ad, go here instead.

Until next time,

Keep It Local.