Thursday, December 5th, 2024

December 05, 2024

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THE CIRCLE KNOWS - DO YOU?

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In Today’s Edition:

  • Chad Chronister doubles down on Hillsborough County

  • The Ruskin Drive-In still needs your help

  • Tis the Season…to shop Southshore

Thanks, But no Thanks

Nothing kills a good time like politics. Here at the Circle, we dodge it like the plague, but some stories deserve a quick chat.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister was tapped by the incoming administration to head up the DEA. After a brief moment of pomp and circumstance, he withdrew.

Chad could’ve joined fellow Florida native Pam Bondi, who was selected as the next U.S. Attorney General. Instead, he’ll stick to his mission in Hillsborough County, citing his ongoing commitments to the Sunshine State as the reason for bowing out.

All in For The Drive-In

As many of you know, the Ruskin Drive-In has been a staple of Southshore since the days when all you needed was a flashing light on Big Bend. Sadly, the recent storms weren’t very friendly, and while efforts to rebuild are in full swing, let’s just say it’s been a bit more "work in progress" than smooth sailing.

The Drive-In isn’t the only one that took a hit—so many people in the area were affected. But when I drive down US 41 and see it there, it’s like a reminder of how things used to be. It’s one of the last true landmarks of Apollo Beach, Ruskin… well, all of Southshore.

So, here’s the ask: If you’re able to help, now’s the time. There’s a GoFundMe page, and Ted is even selling theater memorabilia on their Facebook page. Southshore isn’t just a name—it’s a community. Let’s keep one of the OG spots alive, because who else is going to let us watch movies from the comfort of our cars (with a side of nostalgia)?

Look no Further Than Your Own Backyard

Nestled between the retail giants of Sarasota to the south and Tampa to the north, Southshore’s shopping scene often gets overlooked. But why fight traffic and crowded malls when you can snag something stylish right here at home?

This Christmas season, Southshore has a few hidden gems that’ll have you checking off your list without venturing to the "premium outlets" (a.k.a. the dark side). From trendy clothes to unique artwork, the shore’s got you covered. Take a look at our list below before you make that trek—and maybe rethink that trip to the big city!

What’s washing up on the shore this week:

The Rumor Mill:

Definitely a rumor, but the word is the Selmon Expressway will be extending over Highway 301 to Big Bend.

Meet Your Neighbor:

This section is launching in the new year, your ultimate guide to discovering the hidden gems you never knew you were missing

Foodies Only:

We’ve narrowed our list down, and before we crown the Wing King of Southshore, we want to hear from you! Look for our poll in Sunday’s issue and make sure to cast your vote. We’ll be naming both the winner and the people’s champion. The competition was tough, but the wings... nice and tender!

This week, we ventured over to Cuenelli’s, a Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken joint in Riverview. It has a laid-back vibe in a plaza where Wendy’s is really the star of the show. While they have a spot in Tampa, the Riverview location opened just last year, so it was high time we gave it a shot.

We went for the half chicken with cilantro rice, black beans, and plantains.

The food? Solid 7.6. The service? More like a 6.2. Missed orders, slow service, and a lack of timely refills made it feel more like a hobby than a passion project. First impressions can make or break a place, but we’re not ready to write them off just yet. We’ll give it another try and see if they can level up their service before we make any final calls.

Local Sports:

It’s mid-week and high schools are still at it. If you haven’t been to a sporting event this season, now would be a great time to check one out. Even if you don’t like sports, who can say no to a basket of fries and a lukewarm coke. All jokes aside, it’s for the kids. Why else do we do anything?

Soccer Match-ups this week

  • Friday 12/6 Lennard hosts Newsome 6pm

  • Friday 12/6 EastBay hosts Plant City 6pm

  • Friday 12/6 Sumner @ Bloomingdale 6pm

  • Friday 12/6 Riverview @ Durant 6pm

Basketball Match-ups

  • Thursday 12/5 Lennard @ Strawberry Crest 6:30pm

  • Thursday 12/5 Sumner hosts Tech

  • Friday 12/6 Lennard hosts Bloomingdale 6:30pm

  • Friday 12/6 EastBay hosts Brandon 6:30pm

  • Friday 12/6 Sumner @ Durant 6:30pm

  • Friday 12/6 Riverview @ Plant City 6:30pm

The Neighborhood Post:

Coming Soon!

The Neighborhood Post in The Southshore Circle is where local life comes together. Need a handyman? Selling something you don’t need? Looking to adopt a pet? This section connects you with everything happening in our community. It’s like the community board, but faster, easier, and all in one place.

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