- The Southshore Circle
- Posts
- Survive The Storm
Survive The Storm
Storm Proofing, Snakes, and Scenes from Southshore
Brought to you today by:
Featured Story
When Did Noah Build the Ark?

Maybe you’ve heard the saying—or at least guessed the answer: before the storm. And after last year’s chaos here in Southshore, I think we can all agree... it’s time to start building.
I’m a Florida native. Born, raised, and not going anywhere. And like most lifers, I’ve grown a little numb to the phrase “hurricane prep.” (Translation: do I have propane for the grill?) But last year, as I watched the water from the canal behind my house climb over the seawall like it had my address, I had one clear thought: Noah might’ve been onto something.
NOAA (no pun intended) hasn’t released its official forecast yet, but early predictions suggest 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 of them major (Category 3 or higher). So starting today and all throughout hurricane season, we’re launching a new series filled with prep tips, local insight, and trusted businesses that can help you get ready.
And today’s tip for keeping your things dry when the waters rise comes from Square One Garage Solutions
a locally owned company by Southshore residents Stacy and Mike Self, and a trusted partner of The Southshore Circle.

Things to do
What’s Washing Up on The Shore This Week
Tommy PatrickDate: Sunday, May 18, 2025 Time: 3 PM Live Music | The Southern Creek DuoDate: Sunday, May 18, 2025 Time: 4 PM Live Music | Secret CinemaDate: Monday, May 19, 2025 Time: 7 PM Xscape Theatres invites you to join us for a Secret Cinema screening of a brand new movie before its official release date. |
Midge Mayhem Little-Mania Wrestling EventDate: Monday, May 19, 2025 Time: 8 PM If you like a live, action -packed event with an entertaining punch, kick and body slam go no further! | TwerkingDate: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Time: 12 PM Get your Booty Moving Every Week during your lunch break. | Bell Creek Nature Preserve native garden workdayDate: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Time: 8 AM Join UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteers and Hillsborough County Parks to help maintain the native plant garden. |
Alligator Wrestling…Hold My Beer

So you’ve been living in Florida for a while now. You’ve braved I-75, survived lovebug season, and maybe even locked eyes with a gator from a suspiciously short distance. But if wrestling an alligator still feels like a leap too far on your Florida Man bingo card—don’t worry, we’ve got the next best thing.
Enter: The Florida Python Challenge.
That’s right—every year, brave (and slightly unhinged) folks from across the Sunshine State sign up for the ultimate game of hide-and-squeeze: tracking and removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades. It’s like The Hunger Games… but with more humidity and fewer rules about footwear.
These slithery invaders aren’t just creepy—they’re also bad for the ecosystem, munching their way through native species like an all-you-can-eat Everglades buffet. So Florida hosts this annual contest where you, yes YOU, can try your hand at removing them. There are cash prizes, bragging rights, and possibly a really good story for your next barbecue.
How It Works:
You take a quick online training course (because apparently “don’t grab the bitey end” isn’t enough).
You register for the event (July 12–21 this year).
You head into the wilds of South Florida and go full Crocodile Dundee—minus the accent, unless that helps your confidence.
Still unsure? Let’s put it this way: if you can navigate a Publix parking lot on a Sunday, you’re qualified.
So Why Do It?
Help save native wildlife.
Compete for up to $10,000 in prize money.
Add “Python Hunter” to your dating profile.
And let’s be honest—this is the most Florida thing you’ll do all year.
Think of it as nature’s way of saying: “Sure, you could binge Netflix… or you could go hug a 12-foot snake.”
Your move, Southshore.
Ready to sign up? Head to flpythonchallenge.org and prove once and for all that you’re not just Florida friendly—you’re Florida fearless.
AROUND TOWN
Southshore Spotlight ![]() Veronica Morejon, an Apollo Beach native, is the founder of Breach the Surface, a nonprofit bringing inclusive marine science education to local schools. Through programs like the Shellphone podcast and "Ocean Class," she’s making waves in ocean literacy and youth engagement. | Foodies Only ![]() The Vineyards Trattoria & Pizzeria is a cozy Apollo Beach favorite serving up authentic Italian dishes, handmade pastas, and wood-fired pizzas in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. | We Know a Guy…or Girl ![]() Need a painter? A plumber? Someone brave enough to tackle that lightbulb orbiting 30 feet above your living room? We’ve got you. |
Local Sports
No off days this summer. The heat is on, and so is the hustle.
Show Us Your Southshore
We know Southshore is full of great views, great people, and the occasional photo-worthy moment (yes, even the rogue peacock sightings).
Send us your best shots from around the community—whether it’s a stunning sunset, a favorite local hangout, or just something that screams “Southshore life.”
We’ll feature our favorites in upcoming editions of the Circle!
Email your pics to [email protected] and show off your slice of Southshore.
Sun sets ![]() | Wildlife ![]() | Moon River ![]() |
News or Events you’d like to share? Email us at: [email protected]
The Southshore Circle—Skip the scroll, get the scoop.
Until next time,

Keep it Local.
Reply