Issue #171: Harry Potter Land’s 1920s Paris, USF Drone Tech Camp, Fermented Foods Science, Plano’s 'Ms. Pommel Horse' Fame

08/01/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
01 Aug

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Local News

— 1920s Paris and the Ministry of Magic: New Harry Potter Land at Epic Universe

— USF Drone Camp Empowers Students with Tech Skills and Business Insights

Medical News

— Pioneering Fermented Foods: Health Benefits and the Future of Food Science

Of Interest

— Plano’s Tess McCracken Gains Viral Fame as 'Ms. Pommel Horse' Supporting Olympian Boyfriend


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1920s Paris and the Ministry of Magic: New Harry Potter Land at Epic Universe

Universal Orlando is expanding its attractions with a new Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at the upcoming Epic Universe theme park, set to open in 2025.

The highlight will be the ride Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, where guests experience the trial of Dolores Umbridge and navigate magical elevators. The new land, inspired by the "Fantastic Beasts" movies, will feature 1920s Paris and the British Ministry of Magic.

Attractions include Le Cirque Arcanus, a circus show, and Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique, a wand shop. Visitors will also enjoy themed dining and interactive experiences. Merchandise is already available at the Universal Epic Universe Preview Center and online. Universal’s Wizarding World attractions have been a major draw since 2010, and the park plans to offer various ticket options to manage demand for Epic Universe.

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USF Drone Camp Empowers Students with Tech Skills and Business Insights

At the inaugural USF Drone Camp, students are exploring more than just drone flight. The camp, led by USF Youth Experiences Assistant Director Caryn Preston, provides a comprehensive understanding of drone technology.

Participants navigate aerial obstacle courses and learn essential skills like drone repair and soldering, transforming them from consumers to creators and problem solvers. Scoutlier CEO Brandy Jackson highlights the hands-on approach to addressing real-world challenges.

Seventeen-year-old camper Aras Demirok appreciates the versatility of drones, emphasizing the creative opportunities in building, coding, and operating them.

Besides technical skills, the camp fosters entrepreneurial thinking as participants work in teams to devise business plans for innovative drone applications like wedding videography and package delivery.

Pioneering Fermented Foods: Health Benefits and the Future of Food Science

Maria Marco, a professor at UC Davis, delves into the health benefits, safety, and waste reduction potential of fermented foods.

 Fermented foods like bread, yogurt, chocolate, and kombucha are gaining popularity for their unique flavors and significant health advantages. Dietitians in the US have ranked these foods as the top superfood for six years due to their positive impact on gut health and overall well-being.

Fermented foods are safer due to their acidic environment, which deters harmful microbes. They help reduce food waste by upcycling spoiled foods into new, desirable products. These foods are easier to digest and contain new bioactive compounds that enhance their nutritional value.

Marco envisions future research focusing on guided fermentation for specific health benefits, making these nutritious foods more accessible.

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Plano’s Tess McCracken Gains Viral Fame as 'Ms. Pommel Horse' Supporting Olympian Boyfriend

Tess McCracken, a North Texas native, has gained attention online as the girlfriend of U.S. Gymnastics Bronze-medalist Stephen Nedoroscik, known as the "Pommel Horse Guy." McCracken has fully embraced the spotlight, sharing photos and memes about Nedoroscik’s Olympic success on social media.

McCracken has shared fun facts about Nedoroscik, such as his love for their orange cat, his favorite pre-competition meals, and his quirky habit of practicing pommel horse routines in the living room. Fans have dubbed him the "Clark Kent of Pommel Horse," highlighting his unassuming appearance and extraordinary skills.

McCracken herself has earned the affectionate nickname "Ms. Pommel Horse" from fans. She actively reposts memes and funny moments from Stephen’s journey, adding a personal touch to their public personas.

This couple’s engaging online presence has endeared them to fans, making them a beloved part of the gymnastics community.

One particularly striking and little-known fact about the pommel horse is its origins.

The pommel horse, a staple in men's gymnastics, has its roots in ancient military training. The ancient Romans used a wooden apparatus similar to the modern pommel horse to practice mounting and dismounting horses, preparing soldiers for battle scenarios.

This training apparatus evolved over time and was adopted into gymnastics in the 19th century. This historical connection adds a unique layer of depth to the modern sport of gymnastics, highlighting the pommel horse's evolution from a practical military tool to a sophisticated piece of gymnastic equipment.

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