In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

This Week’s Events

WEATHER

Local News

🏺Thrift Store Treasure: Local Woman's $3.99 Vase Sells for Over $100K

🕴️ Bizarre Incident at MacDill Air Force Base: Man with AR-15 Claims He's 'Captain America'

Crime

🦜Bizarre Encounter in Florida: Parrot-Bearing Man on Mushrooms Arrested

Sports

⚽ Brian Schaefer of USF Secures First-Round Pick in MLS SuperDraft by Cincinnati FC

⚾Tyler Glasnow Signs Dream Deal with Dodgers, Inspired by Ohtani's Encouragement

Medical News

😬Hospital Study Shows Toothbrushing Cuts Down ICU Stays and Pneumonia Risk

This Week’s Events in the NewTampa | Wesley Chapel FL Local Area

December 20

December 21 — Santa & Skates, AdventHealth Center Ice, 5pm: SOLD OUT

December 21 — ^{Standup Comedy: Ricky Reyes, SideSplitters, WC}, 8pm

December 22 — Gasparilla Bowl: UCF vs Georgia Tech, Raymond James Stadium, 630pm

December 23 — Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Amalie Arena, 230pm, 730pm

December 23 — Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Curtis Hixon Park, 6pm

December 24

December 25

Thrift Store Treasure: Local Woman's $3.99 Vase Sells for Over $100K

Jessica Vincent, a 43-year-old horse trainer from Virginia, made an extraordinary find at a local thrift store, where she purchased a vase for just $3.99. Unbeknownst to her, this vase was a rare artifact from the 1940s, designed by renowned Italian architect Carlo Scarpa for the Venini glass company.

Part of the exquisite Pennellate series, known for its intricate brushstrokes and vibrant colors, the vase's origin is Murano, an island famous for its glassmaking since the 13th century.

After posting photos on Facebook and consulting with glass art enthusiasts, Vincent learned of its significant value. The vase was sold at the Wright Auction House for $107,100, a fortune compared to its modest purchase price. Vincent plans to use the proceeds for renovations on her recently bought farmhouse.

This remarkable discovery highlights the hidden treasures that can be found in unlikely places.

Click HERE to see how “unremarkable” the vase actually was!

Bizarre Incident at MacDill Air Force Base: Man with AR-15 Claims He's

'Captain America'

In a bizarre incident at Tampa's MacDill Air Force Base, Baruch Roche II, a 33-year-old local, was arrested after claiming to be "Captain America" while trying to gain entry.

The incident occurred on November 3, when Roche, refusing to provide proper identification, insisted he had a top-secret meeting with a U.S. Special Operations Command general. His argumentative behavior and threats to return daily led to his detention by base officials. A subsequent search of Roche's vehicle uncovered an AR-15 rifle and 125 rounds of ammunition.

Charged with attempted possession of a firearm in a federal facility, Roche now faces the possibility of up to one year in federal prison. The case, involving the U.S. Air Force Security Forces, Tampa Police, and FBI, is set for prosecution by an assistant U.S. attorney.

Bizarre Encounter in Florida: Parrot-Bearing Man on Mushrooms Arrested

Timothy Brandon Bowers, 38, from Alabama, was arrested in Florida after an altercation with WCSO deputies. Found in a car with a parrot and appearing under the influence of mushrooms, Bowers resisted arrest and was found with several illegal items and weapons.

The parrot was unharmed and taken by animal control. Bowers faces charges including possession of a controlled substance, battery on officers, and resisting arrest. The incident emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activities.

Brian Schaefer of USF Secures First-Round Pick in MLS SuperDraft by Cincinnati FC

Brian Schaefer, a junior center back from the University of South Florida, has made a significant leap in his soccer career by being selected in the first round of the 2024 MLS SuperDraft by Cincinnati FC. As the 27th overall pick, Schaefer's selection continues USF's tradition of producing professional soccer talent, becoming the 27th player from the university to join MLS ranks.

During the season, Schaefer demonstrated his skills by playing in 15 games, starting 13 of them, and scoring a memorable goal against SMU.

His academic and athletic prowess earned him several accolades, including a 2022 Academic All-District selection and an AAC Second-Team All-Conference nod. USF Men's Soccer has a storied history, contributing significantly to the professional game with 30 MLS draft picks, numerous conference championships, and NCAA Tournament appearances, solidifying its reputation as a cradle of soccer talent.

Tyler Glasnow Signs Dream Deal with Dodgers, Inspired by Ohtani's Encouragement

Tyler Glasnow, formerly of the Tampa Bay Rays, has joined the Los Angeles Dodgers in a $136.5 million deal over five years. Influenced by Shohei Ohtani's encouragement, Glasnow is eager to collaborate with him.

Despite his past injuries, Glasnow is optimistic about contributing significantly to the Dodgers. A lifelong fan of the team, he's excited to fulfill his childhood dream of playing for the Dodgers, with his sights set on winning a World Series.

Local High School Sports Scores

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Hospital Study Shows Toothbrushing Cuts Down ICU Stays and

Pneumonia Risk

A comprehensive study in JAMA Internal Medicine has highlighted the significant benefits of daily toothbrushing in reducing the incidence of hospital-acquired pneumonia and lowering ICU mortality rates.

Analyzing data from 15 trials with over 2,800 patients, the research found that regular toothbrushing decreased the occurrence of pneumonia by over a third. This practice also led to shorter durations on mechanical ventilation and reduced ICU stays.

The study underscores the importance of incorporating daily toothbrushing into routine hospital care, particularly for patients on mechanical ventilation, to improve overall patient health outcomes.

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