Issue #360: Tampa's Termite Trouble | La France Turns 50 | John Mulaney Hits Straz | Spring Sports Heat Up

4/23/2025

Author

Ted Grellner
23 Apr

Keep your finger on the Pulse!

GOOD MORNING

Dr Ted
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar

Local News

— Tampa Ranks No. 3 for Termite Infestations Nationwide, Orkin Reports

— Ybor’s Timeless Treasure: La France Vintage Shop Celebrates 50 Years

Entertainment

— John Mulaney Brings ‘Mister Whatever’ Tour to Tampa’s Straz Center in December

Sports

— Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel, and Cypress Creek Deliver in Spring Sports Surge

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Tampa Ranks No. 3 for Termite Infestations Nationwide, Orkin Reports

Tampa continues to battle termite troubles, ranking third on Orkin’s 2025 list of the most termite-infested cities in the U.S. Based on data from residential treatments performed throughout 2024, the list reveals Tampa as one of the top three hotbeds for termite activity—a position it has held for three years running.

Miami took the top spot, followed by Los Angeles. Florida cities Orlando and West Palm Beach also made the top ten, highlighting the role warm, humid climates play in attracting termites.

Termites cost U.S. homeowners an estimated $5 billion annually in damages, often going unnoticed until it's too late. Orkin experts advise early detection and preventive treatments, especially during peak swarm seasons.

Warning signs include winged insect swarms, mud tubes, cracked or bubbling paint, and hollow-sounding wood. With over 40 active termite species in the U.S., vigilance is key.

Ybor’s Timeless Treasure: La France Vintage Shop Celebrates 50 Years

For five decades, La France has been a cornerstone of Ybor City's creative spirit. Founded in 1974 by Jill Wax, the eclectic vintage shop at 1612 E. Seventh Ave. is known for its one-of-a-kind pieces—from pirate coats and feather boas to zoot suits and Victorian lace.

Now co-run by Jill and her son Ben Wax, La France remains a go-to for Tampa’s festivalgoers, fashion lovers, and eccentric collectors. Half the inventory is true vintage, with some items dating back over a century. Prices range from a few dollars to $800+ for rare, high-quality finds.

Wax, inspired by old Hollywood glamor and 1940s dance films, has curated a space that feels more like a costume-filled dream than a storefront. The building is owned by the family, ensuring La France remains a lasting part of Ybor’s changing landscape.

Open daily from noon to 6:45 p.m.

John Mulaney Brings ‘Mister Whatever’ Tour to Tampa’s Straz Center in December

John Mulaney is set to return to Tampa this winter with his new comedy tour, “Mister Whatever.” The Emmy-winning comedian, known for his sharp wit and Netflix specials like Kid Gorgeous and New in Town, will perform at The Straz Center on December 6. This marks his first show in Tampa since 2023.

Mulaney’s Florida dates also include Orlando and Hollywood, giving fans across the state a chance to catch his latest material. The tour follows a high-profile appearance on the Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special and his current gig hosting Netflix’s live talk show, Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney.

Presale tickets will be available April 23 at 10 a.m., with general sales opening April 25 at the same time. Fans should act fast—his shows tend to sell out quickly.

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Dr Ted

Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel, and Cypress Creek Deliver in Spring Sports Surge

Wiregrass Ranch boys tennis remains dominant, sweeping the district and extending their Pasco win streak to 177 matches. They hosted Lakeland in regional semifinals on April 22.

In girls tennis, Cypress Creek edged out Wesley Chapel and Wiregrass Ranch in a razor-close Class 3A, District 7 showdown. Standout freshman Saachi Deshpande will compete in state singles after winning No. 1 in shutout fashion.

In softball, Aubrey Zechmann is on fire—batting .586 over her last 7 games and surpassing 100 runs, hits, and stolen bases in her Wiregrass Ranch career.

Wesley Chapel track stars shone at the Sunshine Athletic Conference East meet, with sprinters like Zaakirah Bryant, Brady Pineo, and Adrianna Rodriguez dominating the sprints. Cypress Creek’s Victoria Fleming swept the hurdles.

Dayla Christopher signed to play basketball at Pensacola State after a 1,307-point career, and Wiregrass Ranch’s flag football team wrapped their inaugural season 6-6 behind freshman QB Kaitlyn Brawner.

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