Sumner Girls' Soccer Wins 7A District

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We’ve Got A Winner

Howdy partner, it’s The Southshore Circle, and we’re dishing out the latest local news hotter than a skillet at a country fair—without the grease splatter!

In Today’s Edition:

• Sports Special Edition: Sumner Girls’ Take District Title

• Shrimp, it’s no small thing

• It’s like Tampa Bay had a baby

• Gibsonton is no longer wasting the future

Tampa’s Shrimp Scam: The Great Crustacean Conspiracy

If you’ve ever enjoyed a plate of “fresh, local Gulf shrimp” in Tampa Bay, there’s a good chance you were actually munching on an imposter from halfway across the globe. A recent study found that 96% of restaurants tested were serving up foreign, farm-raised shrimp while claiming it was fresh from the Gulf. That’s right—Tampa’s seafood scene is basically the Tinder of dining: what you see on the menu isn’t always what you get.

What’s Really on Your Plate?

Instead of wild-caught Gulf shrimp, many restaurants are dishing out imports from India, Vietnam, and Ecuador. Only two restaurants—Salt Shack on the Bay and Stillwaters Tavern—passed the authenticity test. The rest? Let’s just say their shrimp had more frequent flyer miles than most Floridians.

Why This Matters

Not only are diners getting duped, but local shrimpers are taking a hit while imported shrimp flood the market. Meanwhile, we’re paying premium prices for what’s basically the seafood version of a knockoff handbag.

How to Avoid Being Shrimp-Fished

• Ask questions. If your waiter stumbles when you ask, you might be getting the “mystery shrimp special.”

• Support the honest ones. Salt Shack and Stillwaters Tavern? They’re the real MVPs.

• Trust, but verify. If your “Gulf shrimp” has a passport stamp, it’s not from the Gulf.

Tampa Bay deserves better than a bait-and-switch. Let’s keep our shrimp—and our seafood restaurants—honest. 🍤

Southshore is booming and it’s not with Babies

If it feels like every time you blink, a new building pops up in Southshore, you’re not imagining things. Hillsborough County’s fastest-growing region is in full bloom, with new restaurants, businesses, and developments turning quiet suburbs into bustling hubs of activity.

Not long ago, Southshore was the land of wide-open spaces, citrus groves, and the occasional gas station. Now? It’s a different story. The influx of new residents has brought a wave of businesses eager to feed, entertain, and serve the growing population.

What’s Coming?

• Restaurants Galore – National chains, trendy eateries, and locally owned gems are setting up shop. Ford’s Garage, They Greyson, and Rock N Roll Sushi to name a few.

• Retail & Entertainment – With major retailers and shopping centers expanding, Southshore is shaping up to be a shopping destination rather than just a pit stop.

• Infrastructure Upgrades – More roads, better traffic flow (we hope), and new public spaces are all in the works to support the boom.

What Does This Mean for Locals?

More choices, more convenience, and yes… more traffic. But growth also means job opportunities, a stronger local economy, and a thriving community.

So, whether you’re excited for the new coffee shop down the street or just bracing for the next round of construction, one thing is clear—Southshore is on the rise, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. 🚀

Gibsonton’s Big Flush: Moving from Septic to Sewer

Gibsonton is getting a major infrastructure upgrade as it transitions from septic systems to a centralized sewer system. The $61 million project, set to begin in early 2025 near Gibsonton Elementary, is expected to wrap up by mid-2027.

Why the Change?

Septic tanks can leak, contaminating local water sources and creating health hazards. A sewer system helps prevent pollution in the Alafia River and Bullfrog Creek, protects drinking water, and reduces the risk of flooding from failing septic tanks.

Resident Concerns

Not everyone is on board. Homeowners worry about mandatory hookups, expensive connection fees, and property disruptions. Some feel the project is moving too fast, while others question whether the benefits outweigh the costs. Hillsborough County has promised financial assistance programs, but concerns remain.

The Benefits: Cleaner Water, Higher Property Values & More Businesses

Beyond the environmental and health perks, the switch to sewer could boost property values and attract new businesses. Many companies—especially restaurants and retail chains—hesitate to invest in areas reliant on septic systems due to high maintenance costs and space requirements. A modern sewer system makes Gibsonton more appealing for development, meaning more dining, shopping, and job opportunities could be on the way.

Like it or not, Gibsonton is getting a plumbing overhaul—and with it, the potential for a booming business scene.

What’s washing up on the shore this week:

• Military Organizations Connect
  A gathering for military organizations to network and collaborate on community initiatives. Date & Time: Thursday, January 30, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Location: Gibsonton Community Center

• RISE Networking Group
  Relationship building group hosted by the CHCC. Date & Time: Thursday, January 30, 2025, 7:00 AM Location: 9650 Old Big Bend Rd. Riverview

• The Fish House Grand Re Opening
  The Fish House is back ladies and gentlemen. Date & Time: Thursday, January 30, 2025, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Location: 1902 W Shell Point Rd. Ruskin

• Movie in the Park
  Pack your lawn chairs and pop corn. It’s time for a movie under the stars. Date & Time: Friday, January 31, 2025, 6:00 PM Location: Apollo Beach Recreation Center

The Rumor Mill:

• Closed Today

Meet your neighbor:

• Next issue will be a good one.

Foodies Only:

• We’re full.

Local Sports:

Soccer

Let’s kick things off with a big congratulations to the Sumner girls' soccer team! They triumphed over Newsome in a thrilling 2-1 match, securing their place as the 2025 District Champions. Freshman sensation, Mallory Smithberger scored both goals, leading the Stingrays forward. They now advance to regional play, aiming for that coveted State Title. We’ll share the schedules and locations once available.

On the boys' side, Riverview takes on Palm Harbor University tonight for the district championship, while Sumner faces off against top-ranked Newsome.

Good luck to all the Southshore teams still in the fight! If you’ve got time, come out and support them.

• Wednesday 1/29 Riverview vs. Palm Harbor University 7pm District Championship

• Wednesday 1/29 Sumner vs. Newsome 7pm District Championship

Basketball

We're wrapping up the last week of regular-season play, but the excitement's just beginning! The first round of district schedules is here, and it’s an exciting time for sports fans. Hopefully, some of our teams can join the Sumner girls' soccer team in bringing more district titles to Southshore. Keep an eye out for those matchups—more wins are on the horizon!

• Thursday 1/30 Lennard vs. Steinbrenner (@Gaither HS) 6:30pm

• Thursday 1/30 East Bay vs. Gaither 8pm

• Thursday 1/30 Sumner @ Sickles 8pm

• Thursday 1/30 Riverview vs. Freedom 6:30pm

• Monday 2/3 Lennard vs. Palm Harbor University District Round 1

• Monday 2/3 Eastbay vs. Hillsborough District Round 1

• Monday 2/3 Riverview @ Alonso District Round 1

The Neighborhood Post:

• Coming Soon