Just got off the phone with Jerry at Meziere. According to him, running a thermostat with their pump will not hurt the pump however he did recommend drilling (2) 1/8" holes in the flange of the t-stat (as suggested). He chuckled when I told him about my situation and said "that's a good problem to have".... lol. He also said they can install provisions for bypass on their pumps and that service is available upon request.
I've decided to start with a 160 t-stat with 2 holes drilled and see how it works out.
Thanks all for the responses.
Bill