Seminole Heights: An Intimate Look at the Early Years. The premier was on April 17th and it was a packed house in the historic Tampa Theater. The story told through old black and white photographs and intimate interviews with some of our neighborhood seniors who lived those early years was at times touching and funny.
The neighborhood, the volunteers and the sponsors did a superb job and should feel very proud of the results.
The movie is available on DVD at the following Old Seminole Heights locations:
Sherry's YesterDaze Vintage Clothing & Antiques
5207 N Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33603
Tampa Antiquarian Books
6116 N Central Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604
Call for store hours.
(813) 234-0100
Seminole Heights still has an incredible sense of community. If you are looking for that small town feel and sense of community let me introduce you to this historic neighborhood in the heart of Tampa. For information on Seminole Heights real estate please visit: www.atHomeintheHeights.com
This coming Tuesday evening (April 22nd) is the quarterly meeting of OSHNA. For those who don't know OSHNA is the largest voluntary neighborhood association in the city of Tampa with nearly 600 members. The guest speaker for this meeting will be from the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections to talk about preparations for the upcoming elections.
The meeting begins at 7pm at the Seminole Heights United Methodist Church, Basement, 6111 N Central Ave (on the corner of Hanna and Central)
If you haven't been involved, this is a great way to get to know your neighbors, an stay informed about issues and events in Old Seminole Heights...the Home tour...the movie...commercial redevelopment...
It is a great neighborhood to call "home"....discover and learn more at www.atHomeintheHeights.com
Rick Fifer
Your source for homes in the Heights!
Florida Executive Realty
The news is such gloom and doom that the signs of life in the market are easily missed. How about Tampa home sales are up 46% since January? How about the decline in our market inventory from over 25 months to slightly more than 17 months? How about the decline in mortgage rates? I had thought there was a change in spite of all the negative news. I found myself out consistantly showing homes again. The reaction of buyers has been interesting....while they hear all the news about the falling prices...they are not prepared for the frustration of jumping through the hurdles to buy a short sale or foreclosed home. While they see all the inventory...they are not prepared for the condition of many of the homes in their preferred price range. As the inventory shrinks the last things to come off the market are the UGLY DUCKLINGS and the over priced.
The show ready homes with strong curb appeal are getting traffic. There are indeed signs of life.
If you are waiting to the best time to buy...it is now while there are still great choices and great mortgage rates.
Visit me at www.athomeintheheights.com and check out some of the great values on the market.
Rick Fifer
Vintage and Historic Home Specialist
Florida Executive Realty
The information below is for the public art funds allocated for the Seminole Garden Center rennovation project. Hopefully by spreading the word the city will attract some really great concepts for the Garden Center. --Rick (www.athomeintheheights.com)
CITY OF TAMPA
Pam Iorio, Mayor
Art Programs Division Public Art Program
Request for Qualifications
Seminole Garden Center
Art Allocation: $10,000
Application deadline (postmarked or hand-delivered):
Friday, May 16, 2008 at 5 p.m.
The City of Tampa Public Art Program is seeking artwork for the grounds of the Seminole Garden Center. This artwork can be existing or it can be a commissioned work. The intent of this project is to recognize the richness of the Seminole Heights identity and culture and to fulfill Mayor Iorio's initiatives that include focusing on investing in neighborhoods and recognizing the City As Art.
Site Description and Background:
Seminole Garden Center is located at 5800 Central Avenue in the neighborhood of Old Seminole Heights in Tampa. Old Seminole Heights is Tampa's first suburb which was developed in 1911 three miles north of downtown and encompasses all of the property north of Hillsborough Avenue to the Hillsborough River; east of the river to 22nd Street and south of Hillsborough Avenue to Martin Luther King Boulevard between Florida Avenue and I-275. Old Seminole Heights is a tree-shaded community, with stately bungalows maintained and restored from their origin in the early 1900's. Some of the homes are included in the National Register and local Historic Districts to ensure their preservation for generations to come. The neighborhood attracts residents of all ages and diverse cultural backgrounds. For more information on the neighborhood, please visit: www.oldseminoleheights.com
The Seminole Garden Center is operated by the City of Tampa Parks & Recreation Department. Originally built in 1939, the Garden Club and the grounds of the Seminole Garden Center are being renovated by the city beginning April 2008. The renovations are projected to be complete by spring of 2009.
Project Description:
The Art Selection Committee is seeking artwork for the grounds of the Seminole Garden Center. This artwork can be existing or it can be a commissioned work. Commissioned or existing, the committee has expressed interest that the work be site-sensitive to the Old Seminole Heights neighborhood. The Committee is seeking to select an artist to work with the neighborhood through at least one community workshop. Because of its historic nature, the artwork cannot be a permanent fixture in or on the facility itself.
Eligibility:
Open to visual artists with experience executing their ideas from concept to completion and working in the public realm with public agencies. Regional artists encouraged to apply. The artist will be working closely with the City's Public Art Program and the Parks & Recreation Department to determine the best opportunity for the public art installation.
Budget:
The amount of the commission is $10,000. This is to include all expenses such as materials, travel, accommodations, insurance, equipment, etc.
Insurance Requirements:
General Liability Insurance for the Artist and the Artist's subcontractors (if any) shall be provided with a limit of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence with a general aggregate of $2,000,000.The policy shall provide that the City is an additional insured as to the activities of the Artist under this Contract, and also shall provide the severability of interest provision.
Submissions:
To be considered, a complete application, consisting of the following, must be submitted. Incomplete submissions cannot be considered.
Six (6) copies of written statement regarding how you envision approaching the project. Length should be no less than one paragraph, no more than one page.
Six copies of a current professional resume, emphasizing Public Art experience.
Visual examples of past work on CD-ROM.
CD-Rom: 20 images of completed art works or projects. Images can be displayed as a Microsoft power point presentation, or just as JPG files. Must be compatible with Windows XP. CD must be labeled with artist's name. Images must be 1920 pixels on the longest side and "high quality" JPG file format. Do not submit TIFFs, PDFs, Word or any other non-JPG formats.
Please save your image to be no more than 1.5 MB in file size. On average, your image will fall below the maximum requirement of 1.5MB.
ID Sheet: An identification sheet that includes:
The name of the project for which you are applying, the artist's name, address, email, website (if applicable) and phone number. Also, for each image include: the corresponding number, a thumbnail image (if digital submission), title of work, medium, dimensions, date of work, and budget of project or price of work. You may choose the option of adding a sentence or two of additional explanatory text about specific artworks.
SASE: A self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of slides. Resumes will be kept on file. Please note on your application if you are requesting that all of your materials (slides, etc.) be retained in the City of Tampa's Artists Registry. This registry serves as a frequent resource for potential Public Art projects within the City of Tampa (this includes local separate authorities).
NOTE: Artists already on file in the City of Tampa Artists Registry are requested to update their file according to the above stated criteria. It is the artist's responsibility to make sure their file is updated.
Artist Selection Process:
The Art Selection Committee, comprised of Public Art Committee representatives, and stakeholders relevant to the project (community representative, parks representative, visual arts representative, etc.) will conduct a blind review of the images submitted. The Committee will then review artist resumes, their statements regarding how they would approach this project, and what would be their preferred design. The Committee may opt to choose a finalist, or select multiple finalists to submit refined proposals. The artist/s will work with the Committee if any adjustments to the concept/proposal are needed.
Working Project Schedule:
Call to Artists deadline: Friday, May 16, 2008
(postmarked or hand-delivered)
Artist selected / design concepts finalized: Summer 2008
Fabrication: Fall 2008
Target Installation date: January 2009
Questions? Email: publicart@tampagov.net
Mail/Deliver Submissions to:
Public Art Program:
Seminole Garden Center project
City of Tampa, Art Programs Division
306 East Jackson Street, 7N
Tampa, Florida 33602
The City of Tampa's Public Art Program promotes the involvement of artists in projects throughout the city that enhance the physical environment and celebrate Tampa's unique character and identity.
Over the past 9 years dozen of Old Seminole Heights neighbors have opened their doors to thousands of visitors to this historic neighborhood in the heart of Tampa. This Sunday, April 6th continues the tradition. This year is a bit of a retrospective, the homes are all drawn from past tours. Some were sorely in need of renovation during their first appearance. This annual event introduces over a 1,000 vistors to the charm, history, and the character that is Seminole Heights. Seminole Heights is home to two National Register Historic Districts: Seminole Heights and Hampton Terrace.
As alway the tour begins at the Seminole Heights Garden Center located at 5800 N. Central Avenue. Tickets in advance can be ordered on-line at http://www.oldseminoleheights.com or a Sherry's Yesterdaze, 5301 N. Florida Avenue and Tampa Antiquarian Bookstore, 6116 N. Central Avenue for $10.00
Tickets the day of the tour are $12.00. The tour is open from 11:30 am until 5:30 pm.
Here is a great opportunity to discover the Heights.
For available homes please visit: www.atHomeintheHeights.com
Specializing in bungalows & vintage homes in Seminole Heights, Ybor Heights, Tampa Heights, Riverside Heights. Neighborhoods noted for their charm, tree shaded brick streets, riverfront parks & more
Originally from the suburban Philiadelphia area, I came to Tampa in 1983. My undergraduate degree is from West Chester University in Pennsylvania. I have two graduate degrees from the University of South Florida. Prior to going into real 
estate, I spent 20 years in social work doing eveything from case management, supervision, contract management, and as a program director. I currently live in the Seminole Heights neighborhood with my two dogs, Homer (from the Humane Society) and Cicero who I adopted at a neighborhood yard sale over 10 years ago.
My first home was in the Hampton Terrace section of Old Seminole Heights and Seminole Heights has remained my home 15 out of the past 17 years. I have completed renovations of my third bungalow home in Seminole Heights. But there is a character and charm in vintage homes that I can't resist. Some might say that makes me a glutten for punishment but I have come to love the challenge. Each time I say I'm staying put life has a way of introducing change. So will this be the last personal home renovation? Who can say. Even the two years I moved back to Philly, I had to renovate a home while I was living 
there. I think it is an addiction.
Along the way I gained a bit of knowledge and learned a lot of new skills. This has often proven helpful when working with customers since my speciality is historic and vintage homes.
During my years in the Seminole Heights area I have actively worked with many equally dedicated neighbors to bring positive changes to our central Tampa community through volunteering in a number of ways. As a former President of both the the Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association (OSHNA) and the South Seminole Heights Civic Association (SSHCA), I have seen tremendous changes made within all of the Heights neighborhoods over the years. I was an early supporter of the Seminole Heights Business Alliance when it formed.
While I am dedicated to providing excellent service to all of my customers. When you start talking about Seminole Heights is when you really see my passion and commitment to community. To search for homes in: Old Seminole Heights , South and Southeast Seminole Heights Or maybe you are like me and are drawn to Vintage homes, well I have a search that will match your budget, however modest or grand. Just visit: Vintage Homes
My first and foremost I strive to provide each of my customers with superior customer service. That applies to both my buyers and sellers. I don't disappear after listing your home but I keep you informed with feedback until your home sells! As a buyer, it is not about getting you into contract and moving on, I am very hands on involved in making sure everything runs smoothly. Whether you are a buyer or seller, the words of my past customers below speaks best to my commitment to my customers.
Tampa has many unique neighborhoods just like any city. My goal is to help you get the home you want in the neighborhood that meets your needs and budget. However, my speciality is bungalows and older homes in Seminole Heights, Ybor Heights, Tampa Heights, Riverside Heights and Ybor City. These neighborhoods are noted for their historic homes, brick streets, riverfront parks and historic districts. Bungalows from the Craftsman era are the most common of the historic homes and can be found each of the Heights neighborhoods. In that sense I am selling
not just a house but neighborhoods and communities to which I am deeply committed.
Historic Districts. Tampa has 6 designated historic districts: Hyde Park, Ybor City, Seminole Heights, Tampa Heights, West Tampa, and Hampton Terrace. I love the charm, character, and craftmanship that can be found in older homes. Some have been neglected and abused but they have stood the test of time. And personally, I don't think they still build them the way my great-grandfather and his generation did. But of course he didn't build in hurricane alley or in termite heaven.
First time buyers. Years ago when trying to buy my first home, the downpayment and closing cost were a hurdle that kept me from buying. I would talk to agents and even some lenders who wouldn't give me the time of day or point me in the right direction. I haven't forgotten those days and so I try to connect my first-time buyers with resources to purchase their first home. Using these programs require a greater investment of time on the part of buyers and mine as their real estate agent; generally take a bit longer to go from contract to closing (one reason many lenders and real estate agents don't get involved with them). However, for buyers who are really wanting to own instead of rent, I have the resources to help you navigate down payment assistance programs.
... we wanted to live in Seminole Heights, but we weren't sure which realtor to use. We chose Rick because of his expertise in this area, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. Rick is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, and he is an excellent listener as well! After just a few conversations with Rick about our preferences and needs, he found us a number of houses that met all of our criteria. We ended up in a great house that's in a perfect location for us. Rick helped us immensely throughout the entire process, and even though we closed over a year ago, we still go to him for advice about home improvement and recommendations for skilled laborers. He is always ready to offer his expertise, and we consider him an invaluable resource. Jennifer Bosson and Dave Davisson neighbors in Old Seminole Heights
"Thanks Rick for showing us all the properties,... we were really glad the first seller didn't respond on time, it gave us time to find the perfect home with your help. ...my wife was really glad you knew so much about all the different plants in the courtyard. And thanks for being so professional ... I would not of had the patience you did. " Randy and Penny Dean, new homeowners in Carrollwood Village
"...thank you for helping me through this home buying process. I really do love the house and couldn't have made the move without your compassionate help and guidance." Jamie Pilarczyk, first time homebuyer
"Rick was an absolute joy to work with. As a first time home buyer this was an exiting yet unnerving experience for me, so having a reliable and knowledgeable agent was key. It was clear to me that he has strong ties to the Seminole Heights community and genuinely cares for the neighborhood and its residents. Most importantly, I think Rick listened to all of the specifics I was looking for in a home, and found the perfect match for me. I couldn't be happier, or more satisfied. I feel completely confident recommending his services to anyone interested in buying or selling a home." Courtney Ellison, Hampton Terrace resident.
"We wanted to express to you are gratitude for helping us sell our property. We sincerely feel that we could not have done it without you. You went far above what would be considered standard realtor effort to make sure everthing was perfect. Your knowledge of the marketplace, your eye for detail and your integrity are certainly a winning combination. Over the last couple of years we have had many experiences across the country in real estate and by far dealing with you has been the best experience that we could ask for. We can highly recommend to anyone that when they hire you... they are hiring the best! Please have any of your potential clients call us if they need a referral." Tom & Andrea DeFrancisco, Lake Wylie, SC sellers, 912 W. Idlewild
"Although it has been a couple of months since the closing on my new home, I have not forgotten how you helped me fulfill that dream. Four realtors later, and me at the end of my wits, is when I met you. I will admit I was skeptical at first...however, you immediately gained my trust and the rest is history. Your patience and determination prevailed as you kept looking for the perfect home for me and then we found my "Gingerbread House!" With all said and done, your diligence, perseverance and patience was outstanding. I truely believe you were operating in my best interest and for that, I am most grateful." --Linda "Lou" Gomes, first time home owner
We had worked with two other realtors who could not find what we were looking for. Our participation in the city's first-time homebuyer program presented several challenges, but Rick met them all. My dad even told me "I never saw a real estate agent work so hard for his client." We were so pleased with his abilities that we have recommended him twice, once to a friend who he helped into her own first house, and later to my sister when she wanted to sell. They were both as happy as we were with the experience, and we would recommend Rick to anyone." --T.J. Weekes and Chris Schad, first time buyers
"I wanted to thank you for all of the wonderful service you provided me over the last year in my house hunt, and my recent purchase of a home. It took me over a year to purchase a home and I greatly appreciate you're patience, and consistently providing me with prompt and courteous service that whole time. I think most other Realtors would have become fed up with me after showing me house after house and I either wasn't interested in making an offer, or by the time I made up mind and decided I wanted to make an offer, the property was already under contract. In spite of all my hemming and hawing you stuck with me and remained positive and supportive and encouraged me to do what I felt was right, and didn't put any pressure on me to buy something I wasn't sure about. Thanks again for all of your patience, advise, and good service on the purchase of my wonderful home. I've already been recommending you to all of the people I know who are interested in either buying or selling a home." Cole Talty, CPA south Tampa.
"You made selling our house a calm and even fun experience. Your knowledge, support, and customer service led to a quick and profitable sale. While we are both happy with 'quick and profitable,' it is your guidance and honesty we'll remember forever!" - Marky Spies and Ed Van de Wall
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