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- Issue #481: Surprise Asteroid Flyby | Walmart Expands to SR 56 | Vet Techs Tackle Shelter Overflow | Bucs Face Next Test
Issue #481: Surprise Asteroid Flyby | Walmart Expands to SR 56 | Vet Techs Tackle Shelter Overflow | Bucs Face Next Test
10/20/2025
Ted Grellner
20 Oct
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse
Our Event Calendar
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Local News
— Newly Spotted Asteroid Flew Past Earth Just Days After Discovery
— Retail Boom Continues: Walmart Coming to SR 56
Of Interest
— Hillsborough College Vet Students Help Ease Shelter Overload Through Hands-On Partnership
Sports
— Bucs at 5-1: Hot Start, Tough Questions
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Newly Spotted Asteroid Flew Past Earth Just Days After Discovery
A small asteroid named 2025 TP5 buzzed Earth on October 15, passing closer than the moon — just 60,328 miles from our planet. Remarkably, astronomers discovered the object only two days earlier, on Oct. 13, using the ATLAS early-warning system in Hawaii.
Measuring about 54 feet wide, roughly the size of the Chelyabinsk meteor that exploded over Russia in 2013, the asteroid posed no threat to Earth. After passing us, it continued on to make a relatively close approach to the moon the following day.
Despite 2025 TP5 having passed Earth once before — in 1979 — its recent detection highlights how even familiar space rocks can remain hidden until just before they fly by.
NASA, though currently affected by a government shutdown, continues operating vital programs like asteroid tracking, which now regularly spot small near-Earth objects every month.
No risk was posed, but the encounter underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance in planetary defense.
Retail Boom Continues: Walmart Coming to SR 56
A new Walmart store is officially planned for the intersection of State Road 56 and Morris Bridge Road, bringing major retail convenience to Wesley Chapel’s fast-growing east side. The project, recently confirmed through public development records, is seen as a much-needed addition for residents in nearby communities like Two Rivers.
The store will anchor a larger commercial development featuring additional retail, dining, and service options, addressing a long-standing lack of accessible amenities in the area. With thousands of new homes being built nearby, families will benefit from shorter trips for groceries, pharmacy needs, and everyday essentials.
Although no construction timeline or design details have been released, the store is expected to include Walmart’s full offerings, including a grocery section, pharmacy, and general merchandise departments.
This project marks another milestone in Wesley Chapel’s rapid evolution from quiet suburb to bustling regional hub.
Further updates will be shared as development progresses.
Hillsborough College Vet Students Help Ease Shelter Overload Through Hands-On Partnership
Editor’s Note: We recently visited the H.C. Pet Resource Center and were very impressed with how well it is run, no doubt benefiting from the student help they’re receiving.
Hillsborough College has renewed its partnership with Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center, sending Veterinary Technician Program students to the shelter weekly to assist with exams and treatments. The program, which paused during the pandemic, has resumed and is now helping reduce strain on shelter staff while providing students real-world experience.
Each week, students treat 8–10 animals, performing vital tasks like rabies vaccinations, heartworm tests, and physical exams. This hands-on work frees shelter staff to care for even more animals—essential support, especially during peak months when the facility houses over 500 animals.
Veterinary Practice Manager Ginette Campos says the partnership saves time and resources, while instructor Anthony Spatola, a former shelter vet tech, guides students in applying classroom knowledge in a high-pressure, real-life setting.
For students like Italianna Anderson, it’s more than just training—it’s a dream come true to work directly with animals and make a difference.
Bucs at 5-1: Hot Start, Tough Questions
The Bucs’ 5-1 record matches their best start in franchise history, but this season stands out for its chaos and resilience. Four comeback wins and a slew of injuries have tested the team’s depth, with Baker Mayfield emerging as a fan favorite and unlikely MVP candidate.
Graham Barton’s move to left tackle, and the breakout of rookie WR Emeka Egbuka, have answered big preseason questions. Lavonte David’s leadership remains vital, while Haason Reddick has underwhelmed. The secondary has improved, thanks in part to Tykee Smith’s switch to safety and Jamel Dean’s strong play, though the unit still gives up big yardage.
Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard has impressed, keeping the offense functional despite major injuries to key starters.
But what does it all mean? Tampa Bay’s start may echo the hopeful beginnings of 1979, 1997, and 2002—but as history shows, how it ends will matter most.
What’s New In Tampa Bay
Oct 2025
Source: tampamagazines.com
Top Things to do in Tampa Bay |
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🎭 Tonight in Wesley Chapel & New Tampa (& TB): Entertainment Spotlight
Date (Day) | Time | Act | Venue |
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Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
The Arts
- The Exhibiting Society of Artists (new)
- USF College of the Arts
- USF Steinway Piano Concert Series
Theater
- NTPAC - New Tampa Performing Arts Center
- New Tampa Players
- USF School of Theatre & Dance
- Wesley Chapel Theater Group
- Carrollwood Players Theatre
Misc
- Carrollwood Center Events
- Craft Festivals (new)
- Fall (Farmer’s) Market Guide for Tampa Bay (new)
- The Krate, WC
- The Shops at Wiregrass, WC
- visitflorida.com
For Kids
- Fun4TampaKids
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