Seminole Heights Neighborhood Documentary

Very early after completing the first of two restorations of the cottage and bungalow, I was approached by Suzanne Prieur of Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association regarding the development of a historical film on Old Seminole Heights. I was instantly engaged and helped support the project.  Seminole Heights An Intimate Look at the Early Years was written and directed by Gene Howes of Cigar City Pictures.

A year later, Suzanne and I met to discuss where to screen the film.  My initial reaction was to modest but Suzanne, insisted, “Henry given you produced Ballet and Theater professionally, you must have a view of how we go about selling out a night at the Tampa Theatre (1950-seats).”  There’s only one way Suzanne, you need to connect to Hillsborough High School Alums, those citizens who own or rent in Seminole Heights, and those who want to own or rent in Seminole Heights.”  Well, months later, it was SRO (Standing Room Only).  The various Seminole Heights Neighborhood Associations are a very involved group. Pride was worn on every face for the 50 minutes screening April 17, 2008.  Those who lived in the neighborhood prior to 1945 were admitted at no charge. Wonderful touch. It was with quiet pride when I saw Suzanne coming out to the Street Ticket booth to greet the hundreds still trying to purchase tickets.

Among Seminole Heights notables seen:

Former Mayor Dick Greco (elected 4 times 1967 to 1974 and 1995 to 2003) and a graduate of historic Hillsborough High School. He grew up on Shadowlawn.

Former City Council Member and Former County Commissioner Jan Platt who served a total of 24 years on the County Commission. Who grew up on Giddens

Here’s a teaser from the film’s introduction: