The Name Game Hits Florida

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The Name Game

Welcome to The Southshore Circle—where it’s always beach season, and yet, somehow, people still wear socks in the sand.

In Today’s Edition:

• A Bridge Too Far

• Welcome Back

• A Bit of Self-Reflection

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Gulf of America Trail?

It seems Florida isn’t immune to the fine tradition of renaming things just for the sake of it. Sarasota lawmaker Joe Gruters has filed a bill that, if passed, would officially change the name of Tamiami Trail (aka US 41) to the Gulf of America Trail.

Now, I think we can all agree that road names aren’t exactly sacred. But… Gulf of America Trail? It sounds less like a historic highway and more like a patriotic-themed walking tour at an amusement park.

We’ve all heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as a bad idea,” but maybe—just maybe—this one is. It’s not that people are deeply attached to the name Tamiami Trail (which, for the record, is a mashup of “Tampa” and “Miami”). But at a time when Florida has, oh I don’t know, actual infrastructure issues to deal with, is this really where lawmakers should be spending their energy?

And let’s be honest—if we’re renaming it, we might as well go with something that truly reflects the driving experience. “The Gulf of Traffic” has a nice ring to it. Or maybe “Brake Light Boulevard.”

What do you think? Does renaming a highway actually matter to you? Got a better name suggestion? Shoot us a message and let us know—just don’t expect any road signs to change overnight.

A Phoenix Saga in Southshore

Just a few short months ago, the Southshore storms tore through like a cranky toddler on Adderall—fast, furious, and leaving chaos in their wake. Since then, nothing has been quite the same. Homes were destroyed, businesses shuttered, and lives changed forever.

But now, a little bit of normal is finally returning.

🎬 The Ruskin Drive-In is reopening on March 7th! 🎬
Kicking things off with Mufasa: The Lion King and Captain America, this beloved local gem is ready to light up the screen once again.

It’s been a long road, but Southshore pulled together—and this reopening is proof of that resilience. We’re excited to see it back and hope to see you in line next week.

We’re Counting on You

We want to make sure we’re bringing you the best—and for that, we need your help!

Got 60 seconds to spare? Take a moment to complete the quick survey below. Your feedback helps us tailor The Southshore Circle to the people who matter most—you.

The survey will be open for the next few weeks, so let’s keep growing together!

👉 [Take the Survey]

What’s washing up on the shore this week:

• Smakk At The Edge
  Live Music. Date & Time: Sunday, March 2, 2025, 2:00 PM Location: 6226 Ohio Ave, Gibsonton

• BeYOUtiful Fashion Show
  6th annual BeYOUtiful Fashion Show - a vibrant celebration of Down Syndrome Awareness! Date & Time: Sunday, March 2, 2025, 2:30 PM Location: 6437 Watson Rd, Riverview

• Salsa Level 1&3
  Salsa Beginners 1 and 3. $72 for a 4-Week Course. Date & Time: Monday, March 3, 2025, 7:30 PM Location: 6520 US 301 HWY, suite 102, Riverview

• Free Tacos - Olmeca Taqueria (We advise you don’t miss this!)
  Come join Rene for FREE TACOS at Olmeca Taqueria for Taco Tuesday! Date & Time: Tuesday, March 4, 2025, 5:00 PM Location: 1201 College Ave E, Ruskin

• Finn’s Run Club - 5k Run/Walk
  Come out and join us Wednesday at Finn's for a Walk, Bike or Run. Date & Time: Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 6:30 PM Location: 1112 Apollo Beach Blvd, Apollo Beach

The Rumor Mill:

• Mcdonalds to join Chick-Fil-A off US- 301, Wimauma

• The Brandon Buzz is set to go live in a few weeks (yeah, this rumor we started)

Meet your neighbor:

• Incoming

Foodies Only: The Country Cuban

This past week, we took a trip to Country Cuban in Wimauma—a spot I drove past months ago and promised myself I’d try. And let me tell you, I’m glad I did.

The place has that small-town charm where everybody knows everybody. Their menu features classic Cubans alongside their own twist—the Country Cuban, packed with bacon, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing. (Yes, it’s as good as it sounds.) On my way out, I spotted some devil crabs I’ll have to try next time. They also serve salads, sandwiches, and even breakfast, so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a new place to check out, give Country Cuban a shot. The drive isn’t bad, and heading into Wimauma feels like stepping back into the Southshore of old.

Local Sports:

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The Neighborhood Post:

• Coming Soon

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