The Missing Piece of Southshore?

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Featured Story

Southshore’s Missing Piece

There’s no denying Southshore is growing fast. New neighborhoods, new businesses, new faces. It feels like every time you turn around, something else has popped up. But through all of this change, one thing hasn’t really been asked: what do the people who actually live here want to see?

We’ve all heard the big promises over the years. Remember that mall that was always on its way. A Super Target rumor that comes to life every three years like a mini cicada. While those would’ve been cool, in retrospect, maybe not. But now that the metro machine is churning, what do you really want, or need out here?

If you could pick, what do you think Southshore could really use? A place like Sky Zone or an arcade, so teens have somewhere to go? A shopping and dining hub, so we don’t always have to trek to Brandon? (The Yard is trying) Maybe a space for concerts, farmers markets, and festivals that feels like the heart of the community?

Growth is happening whether we like it or not, but if we had the chance to shape what comes next, what would you put at the top of the list?

P.S. If you say another car wash or storage facility, we’re voting you off the island.

Health is a Highway

Health is much more of a journey than a destination. Losing weight, getting fit, or just improving your overall well-being isn’t something you can fix with the flip of a switch, it takes time, consistency, and a shift in lifestyle. You shed the old version of yourself and step into a healthier one, but the work never really stops.

Along the way, there will be setbacks, milestones worth celebrating, and obstacles that test your commitment. That’s all part of the process. And here’s the encouraging part: even small changes really do add up. Research shows that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day can lower your risk of heart disease, and eating more fruits and vegetables is linked to a longer life and reduced risk of chronic illnesses. Even something as simple as getting enough sleep, seven to eight hours a night, has been tied to better weight management and lower stress levels.

The good news? You don’t have to take this journey alone. Even right here in Southshore, there are plenty of resources to help you stay on track. From the walking trails at E.G. Simmons Park to the bike paths running through Ruskin and Apollo Beach, there are plenty of outdoor spaces that make being active a little easier. Sun City Center is full of fitness and wellness programs for active adults, and our local gyms and wellness centers offer options for every age group. And of course, some of the businesses that make health their mission are right here in your inbox. We happen to know one pretty well, since they sponsor this very newsletter.

No matter how you decide to tackle the challenge of living healthier, whether it’s small daily changes or bigger leaps, just remember that you’ve got a whole community around you cheering you on. Southshore has your back.

🥦 Healthy Southshore Tips

• Take a sunset walk at E.G. Simmons Park – 30 minutes of walking is all it takes to boost your heart health.

• Shop local produce – Check out the Cypress Creek Co-op or area farmers markets for fresh fruits and veggies packed with nutrients.

• Join a fitness group in Sun City Center – From pickleball to yoga, staying active is easier (and more fun) with friends.

• Swap the drive for a bike ride – Apollo Beach and Ruskin have bike-friendly stretches that turn errands into exercise.

Southshore Story Time

Unearthed in Ruskin

Part 3: Bringing The Beast to Life

Using 3D scans and comparisons with known fossils, paleontologists reconstructed what the mysterious bones might have belonged to. The outline suggested an apex predator from the Miocene epoch, possibly related to Livyatan melvillei, a whale with teeth as long as your forearm.

If true, it would mean Ruskin’s waters once held a battle zone where massive sharks and killer whales fought for dominance. Imagine swimming in the Little Manatee River back then, it wasn’t the gentle current we know today, but a hunting ground for giants.

As the evidence mounted, the legend grew. And with it came a chilling thought: how many other fossils are still hidden, waiting to tell their story?

Things to do

What’s Washing Up on The Shore This Week

Southshore Spotlight

Aaron’s House

Aaron’s House provides free support groups for caregivers of loved ones living with mental illness. Founded in memory of Aaron Robinson, the nonprofit also promotes mental health awareness in Tampa Bay.

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

AROUND TOWN

Local Sports

Football

Lennard vs Spoto, Friday 8/29 @7:30 PM - Home

East Bay vs Hillsborough, Friday 8/29 @ 7:30 PM - Home

Sumner vs Armwood, Friday 8/29 @7:30 PM - Away

Riverview vs Riverview Sarasota, Friday 8/29, @ 7:30 PM - Home

Spoto vs Lennard, Friday 8/29, @7:30 PM - Away

News or Events you’d like to share? Email us at: [email protected] 

Until next time,

Keep It Local.