Issue #628: PFAS System Comes To Tampa, Best Local Fireworks, Tampa’s July 4 Plans, Keep Pets Safe, Bruce B. Downs Dumplings

7/1/2026

Author

Ted Grellner
01 Jul

In partnership with

GOOD MORNING

Dr Ted
USAF Retired

 
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar 

Please post events of interest to our NT|WC Live Events Calendar; its easy to do.

Local News 

— Tampa Water Facility to Become First U.S. Site Using Advanced PFAS Reduction System

— Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks Near New Tampa and Wesley Chapel

— [video] City of Tampa shares July 4 traffic, safety plans

Of Interest

— More Pets Go Missing on July 4 Than Any Other Day. Here's How to Prevent It

Food

— Chinese Soup Dumpling Chain Expanding to New Tampa With New Bruce B. Downs Location

The Wild World of the Van Gogh Truthers

In 1990, after years of practicing medicine and reviewing Van Gogh’s case history via his hundreds of letters, Arenberg published a paper in JAMA diagnosing Van Gogh as suffering not from epilepsy, as the artist’s physician claimed a century earlier, but from Ménière’s disease, an inner-ear affliction that can cause vertigo, of which Van Gogh complained, and tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears. Ménière’s, to Arenberg, could better explain Van Gogh’s decision to slice off his ear. After retiring, in 2017, Arenberg recommitted himself to studying Van Gogh and became convinced that art historians had made an even more alarming mistake: Van Gogh had not committed suicide. He’d been murdered.

Read the article for free on Air Mail, a lively digital read for the world citizen, with stories both foreign and domestic that you won’t find anywhere else, written by some of the world’s finest journalists.

Tampa Water Facility to Become First U.S. Site Using Advanced PFAS Reduction System

Tampa is preparing to become the first city in the United States to deploy a full-scale water treatment technology designed to reduce PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” from drinking water.

The Tampa Water Department announced plans to install Suspended Ion Exchange (SIX) technology at the David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility, where testing showed the system removed 50% of naturally occurring organic matter and 30% of PFAS compounds from river water.

PFAS are man-made chemicals linked to potential health concerns and are commonly found in products such as non-stick cookware and water-resistant clothing.

The project, expected to cost approximately $200 million, is scheduled to break ground in 2027 and be completed by 2032. Officials estimate the technology will save the city $2 million annually in operating costs and more than $80 million in future facility upgrades.

The installation will be the largest SIX facility in the world and only the third of its kind globally.

Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks Near New Tampa and Wesley Chapel

Fireworks by the Arch in StL (where I grew up)

America's 250th birthday celebration will light up the skies across the Tampa area this Fourth of July, with several major fireworks displays happening close to home.

In Tampa, Liberty by the Bay at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park features live music, food trucks and fireworks beginning around 9:30 p.m. Armature Works will also host its annual waterfront celebration with views of the Riverwalk boat parade and fireworks.

Families in Temple Terrace can enjoy a full day of festivities, including a morning parade, evening entertainment and a fireworks finale at 9:15 p.m.

In Pasco County, several celebrations are planned. KRATE at the Grove in Wesley Chapel will feature family activities and fireworks at 8:30 p.m. Other nearby options include Sunwest Park in Hudson, John S. Burks Memorial Park in Dade City, and Pasco Fun Fest in New Port Richey.

For a complete list of fireworks shows across the Tampa Bay region, see the full article.

More Pets Go Missing on July 4 Than Any Other Day. Here's How to Prevent It

As communities across Tampa Bay prepare for Fourth of July and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, pet experts are reminding owners that fireworks can be frightening and even dangerous for dogs.

According to the American Kennel Club, more pets go missing on July 4 than any other day of the year as startled animals escape yards and homes during fireworks displays.

Experts recommend creating a quiet indoor retreat stocked with favorite blankets, toys and treats. Playing calming music or white noise can also help reduce stress. For dogs with severe anxiety, veterinarians may recommend medications or other calming options that should be tested before the holiday.

Owners should also provide plenty of exercise earlier in the day and complete walks before fireworks begin.

Perhaps most importantly, ensure pets have current ID tags and updated microchip information. Experts say a little preparation now can help prevent a frightening holiday separation later.

Chinese Soup Dumpling Chain Expanding to New Tampa With New Bruce B. Downs Location

New Tampa’s dining scene is about to gain a flavorful new addition. Ugly Dumpling, a fast-casual Chinese restaurant specializing in traditional dumplings, is preparing to open at 19601 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.

Known for its signature soup dumplings, the growing chain offers a menu featuring dumplings sold by the half dozen, along with favorites such as wontons, crab rangoon and pork buns. Guests can also choose from a variety of entrees, including noodle dishes, rice bowls, orange chicken, and garlic string beans.

What began as a single restaurant focused on high-quality, handcrafted dumplings has expanded to more than 21 locations across the Northeast. The New Tampa restaurant marks another step in the brand’s expansion into the Southeast.

Company officials say they are excited to join the region’s rapidly growing food scene and bring authentic soup dumplings to local diners. An opening date has not yet been announced.

Tampa Bay Area Best Live Music Events this week

Things to Do in Tampa Bay this W/E

TB Weekend Entertainment Guide

June 25- July 9

June 19-21

May

Source: cltampa.com

Source: 

Source:

Top Events
in Tampa Bay this week of June
Source:
tampabay.com

 
Things to do Around Pasco this coming week:
6/ - 6/
Source:
tampabaybeacons.com


Things to do Around
Tampa & WC
7/2- 7/8
Source:
tampabaybeacons.com

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