Issue #385: Termite Hybrid in South Florida | Tampa Airport's Time Travel | 4-Minute Chocolate Fix | Wharton's Historic Season

5/28/2025

Author

Ted Grellner
28 May

Keep your finger on the Pulse!

GOOD MORNING

I have a special treat for you all today. I won’t spoil the surprise, but you’ll know it when you see it. (I couldn’t resist)

Dr Ted
USAF Retired


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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar - FIXED

Local News

— New Termite Hybrid Confirmed in South Florida, Tampa May Be Next

— Fly Through Time: Tampa Airport Hosts Aviation History Event

Food

— 4-Minute Chocolate Fix: The Mug Cake That Melts Stress

Sports

— Wharton's Historic Baseball Season Sets a New Standard

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New Termite Hybrid Confirmed in South Florida, Tampa May Be Next

Scientists at the University of Florida have confirmed a new invasive threat: hybrid termites. A study from UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences found that Formosan and Asian subterranean termites—two of the world’s most destructive species—are interbreeding in South Florida.

This isn’t a “super termite,” said entomologist Dr. Thomas Chouvenc, but hybrid colonies have now been confirmed every year since 2022. The concern? These hybrids may inherit the strengths of both parent species, potentially increasing their resilience and reach.

Boats and homes are both vulnerable, especially in humid environments where wood and moisture are plentiful. South Tampa, including areas near MacDill AFB, is already showing signs of Asian subterranean activity, suggesting hybrids could spread west soon.

Chouvenc warns homeowners and boat owners to stay vigilant, noting, “Termites are part of our Florida reality—and this could be just the beginning.

Fly Through Time: Tampa Airport Hosts Aviation History Event

Step into the rich aviation history of Tampa Bay at Archives of America’s Favorite Airport, hosted Thursday, July 17 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Tampa International Airport’s Main Terminal (Level 3).

The exhibit traces regional air travel from its historic roots—beginning with Tony Jannus’ 1914 flight, the world’s first scheduled airline service—to the airport’s pioneering achievements, including the world’s first automated people mover.

Guests will explore rare archival film, artist concept drawings of the current terminal, and compelling artifacts from Peter O. Knight Airport, Drew Field, and early terminals. Vintage airline memorabilia and stunning photographs round out this immersive look at Tampa’s aviation evolution.

Free and open to the public, this is a rare chance to see how Tampa International became a global favorite—and celebrate the bold innovations that shaped the skies.

4-Minute Chocolate Fix: The Mug Cake That
Melts Stress

Craving a sweet fix without the fuss? This single-serving chocolate mug cake delivers rich flavor and melty peanut butter in under five minutes! With just a few pantry staples—flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt—stirred together with milk and oil, you’ll be ready to microwave.

Drop in a dollop of peanut butter, then zap it for about a minute. The result: a warm, gooey treat with only 344 calories, perfect for a late-night indulgence or quick dessert.

This budget-friendly dessert (about 34¢ total) is customizable—add more sugar or toss in chocolate chips for extra decadence. Just watch your microwave’s power to avoid overcooking!

From mixing to munching in minutes, it’s your new go-to chocolate fix.

Read More: budgetbytes.com — open for recipe and pictures (yum)

Wharton's Historic Baseball Season Sets
a New Standard

Wharton High's baseball team capped its most successful season ever with a trip to the Class 6A state semifinals, falling 3-0 to Gainesville Buchholz after a shaky first inning. Despite the loss, the Wildcats finished 27-8, outpacing the last two years combined and making their first-ever final four appearance.

First-year head coach Anthony Markle credited the team's transformation to a culture of commitment—“Show up”—backed by strong senior leadership. Justis Meadows, Antonio Fawcett, and Luke Sauer were key contributors, while rising juniors like Chase Anello made playoff waves.

Wharton rallied through regional battles, especially against Plant and Sickles, thanks to resilient pitching and explosive offense. Markle, a championship-winning assistant turned head coach, called this run his “biggest win yet.”

Adding inspiration: Brody Turer’s courageous cancer battle and comeback plans for 2025.

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