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  • Issue #637: Future Air Taxis Tested In Florida, Pasco Expands New Tampa Fire Coverage, Spain-Gibraltar Border Opens, Lutz Student Tops GPA Record

Issue #637: Future Air Taxis Tested In Florida, Pasco Expands New Tampa Fire Coverage, Spain-Gibraltar Border Opens, Lutz Student Tops GPA Record

7/16/2026

Author

Ted Grellner
16 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.) - Out of Order

Local News 

— Orlando-to-Tampa in 30 Minutes? Florida Tests Future of Electric Air Taxis

— New Tampa Neighborhoods to Receive Fire Protection From Pasco County

Of Interest

— Thousands Celebrate as Gibraltar and Spain Open Free Cross-Border Travel

OMG!

— Lutz Student Earns Record GPA With 44 Advanced College-Level Courses

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Orlando-to-Tampa in 30 Minutes? Florida Tests Future of Electric Air Taxis

Central Florida is moving closer to a future where electric air taxis could transport passengers between Orlando and Tampa in as little as 30 minutes, thanks to new infrastructure unveiled at Kissimmee Gateway Airport.

Local aviation leaders recently showcased a newly installed Beta Charge Cube, a high-speed charging station designed to support the next generation of electric aircraft currently undergoing flight testing. Officials say the technology is a critical step toward making Advanced Air Mobility a reality across the region.

Airport leaders reported that test aircraft recently completed two 80-mile flight circuits before being fully recharged in about 50 minutes, demonstrating the potential viability of electric regional transportation.

Supporters believe the project could deliver benefits beyond faster travel. State and local officials say investing in emerging aviation technology could attract businesses, create jobs, and strengthen Central Florida’s economy, much like railroads, highways, and airports transformed previous generations.

While commercial service remains in development, the groundwork for Florida’s airborne commuting future is already taking shape.

New Tampa Neighborhoods to Receive Fire Protection From Pasco County

Residents in several New Tampa communities will soon receive fire and emergency services from Pasco County Fire Rescue after Hillsborough County commissioners approved a new interlocal agreement designed to improve coverage and reduce costs.

The agreement affects Pebble Creek, Cross Creek, East Meadows, and Live Oak, as well as Wharton High School, areas located near the Hillsborough-Pasco county line.

County leaders say the arrangement is the most cost-effective solution because Pasco County fire stations are often closer to these neighborhoods than Hillsborough facilities, allowing emergency crews to reach residents more quickly when seconds matter.

The partnership is part of an ongoing effort between neighboring counties to improve public safety through regional cooperation rather than duplicating services.

Supporters of the plan say residents should experience faster emergency response times and continued access to high-quality fire and rescue services, while local governments benefit from a more efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

The change is expected to take effect following final implementation and operational coordination between both counties.

Read More: wtsp.com — watch accompanying video

Thousands Celebrate as Gibraltar and Spain Open Free Cross-Border Travel

Gibraltar entered a new era this week as the border fence separating the British territory from Spain was officially removed, allowing people to move freely between the two communities for the first time since Brexit reshaped Europe’s borders.

The historic change follows a landmark treaty between the United Kingdom and the European Union, ending years of negotiations over Gibraltar’s future relationship with Europe. Crowds crossed freely between Gibraltar and the Spanish city of La Línea de la Concepción shortly after midnight, celebrating the long-awaited milestone.

The agreement is especially significant because about 15,000 Spanish workers—nearly half of Gibraltar’s workforce—cross the frontier daily for employment. Officials say the new arrangement will also make family visits, shopping, recreation and tourism far easier.

While the treaty removes physical border barriers and integrates Gibraltar into Europe’s free-travel framework, it does not resolve Spain’s centuries-old claim to sovereignty over the territory.

Lutz Student Earns Record GPA With 44 Advanced College-Level Courses

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is preparing to retire one of its most iconic attractions. Kumba, the park’s oldest operating roller coaster, will close on August 2 after thrilling guests for 33 years.

Since opening in 1993, Kumba has become a favorite among coaster enthusiasts, known for its towering drops, powerful loops, and signature roar. The closure is part of Busch Gardens’ broader $100 million investment aimed at enhancing and transforming the park experience.

Fans still have time for one final ride, with annual pass members receiving exclusive ride time on August 1 before the coaster officially closes.

But Busch Gardens says this is not the end of Kumba’s story. The park has announced plans for “Kumba’s Revenge,” a next-generation attraction designed to honor the original while delivering an entirely new thrill experience.

For Tampa Bay coaster fans, it’s the end of a legendary chapter—and the beginning of a new one.

Top Events in Tampa Bay this week of:

Things to Do in Tampa Bay this W/E

TB Weekend Entertainment Guide

July 13

July 10-12

May

Source: tampabay.com

Source: tampabay28.com

Source:

Tampa Bay’s Best Things to do this week of July 14
Source:
cltampa.com

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


Things to do Around
Tampa & WC
7/16- 7/22
Source:
tampabaybeacons.com

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