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Fall Leaves in Florida? December 22, 2010
By Kortney Gentry
 

Smith and Associates Fall LeavesFall Leaves in Florida?

Yes, you heard right.  This holiday season has blessed the beautiful city of St. Petersburg with an abundance of leaves in red, yellow, brown and orange (how Smith like!).  The new fall colors are much more exciting than the usual year round green!

Many of us residing in Florida haven’t been life long natives so the leaves have really allowed some of our more northern residents to feel a little more at home without the bitter cold.

Bob RinerAccording to Bob Riner, one of Smith and Associates‘ most prized staff members, “The leaves this year really remind me of my home in Georgia.  The fall leaves are much fewer here in Florida but every time I see the Crape Myrtles in my back yard with the colorful leaves, I smile and think of my family.”

St. Pete Broker, Amy SeeksOn a very similar note, Amy Seeks, Managing Broker, showed her love for not only the leaves but for her home here in Florida as well when she told us, “Growing up in Indianapolis, I was so used to the change of seasons but did not enjoy the cold, gray winters so living in Florida has been a dream.  That  I can drive by these, and many other trees every morning on my way to the office reminds me that, in my world, I have the best of all things.”

While the new found foliage is exciting, everything lives in cycles.  When those beautiful leaves start to fall, that is when the fun starts! String the leaves on a piece of wire or fishing line to create the perfect fall garland or fill a clear glass vase with water, floating leaves and candles for a festive center piece during your next dinner party.Fall Leaves Smith and Associates

If you haven’t noticed the fall leaves yet, be on the lookout- they are popping up everywhere.  The featured pictures were taken at 4th Avenue North and 4th Street North just a few blocks from the Smith and Associates office in downtown St. Petersburg.  If you are in the area, stop in to say hello and check out Florida’s fabulous fall foliage!

We want to hear your thoughts! Have you noticed the fall leaves this year?  Where are the best spots to find them?  Have you used the leaves for any crafts or decorations?  Do you think they will return for years to come?

Enjoy the season and Happy Holidays from our Smith family to yours!

 
 
 
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Christmas in July! July 23, 2010
By Stephanie Streeter
 

Hillsborough County's Child Abuse CouncilFor those of you who need to satisfy a desire for some shopping, why not help out a good cause in the process?  Tonight the Child Abuse Council is hosting a “Christmas In July” event at their Baby Bungalow location on Azeele in South Tampa.  The evening will feature a silent auction and a fabulous gourmet spread provided by Datz Deli, Pappas Marketplace, GreenWise, and more!  All proceeds from the $20 ticket fee will benefit this great local charity.

Working towards their goal of strengthening families in Hillsborough County, The Child Abuse Council provides our community with programs focused on prevention, education, and treatment.  Organization supporters offered more than 5,000 volunteer hours in 2008, which allowed the council to assist over 60,000 children and adults.

“I’m really looking forward to the ‘Christmas In July’ event,” says Tampa realtor Suzanne Whightman.  “It’s so important for us to give back to the community, and the Child Abuse Council is such a worthy cause.”

Event Details:
Location: Child Abuse Council’s Baby Bungalow, 3106 West Azeele Street, Tampa, 33609
Date: Friday, July 23, 2010
Time: 6pm – 9pm
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door

For more information or tickets call 813-673-4646

 
 
 
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Smith & Associates Paint Splatter Event June 28, 2010
By David B Moyer
 

St. Petersburg Downtown Splatter Paint ShoesOn Wednesday evening (June 23, 2010), Smith & Associates Real Estate hosted a splatter painting event in its Downtown St. Petersburg real estate office.  The event was held to benefit the Morean Arts Center, the organization which is responsible for bringing the Chihuly Collection to St. Petersburg.

St. Petersburg Splatter Paint ShoesAbout 60 people took part in the event, which was inspired by Dale Chihuly.  For those who may not be aware, he’s not only revered for his glass work!  Chihuly is also known for splatter painting, where he lays a canvas on the ground and splatters paint on it.  The artist wears special orthopedic shoes which are always covered in splattered paint, and which he’s been known to wear to formal events.  So, to be sure he feels a warm Tampa Bay welcome when he comes to town, the residents of St. Petersburg have taken to splattering their shoes as well!

St. Petersburg Splatter Paint ShoesChihuly will be making public appearances in St. Petersburg on July 10th for his lecture and book signing, and July 11th when the Chihuly Collection exhibit opens at 400 Beach Drive, just steps from our office’s front door.

 
 
 
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31st Annual GTAR James Ranch Christmas Luncheon December 4, 2009
By David B Moyer
 

Santa visiting James RanchFor the 15th year in a row, Smith & Associates dressed up as Santa Claus in Plant City, Florida on December 3rd to make a special visit to the James Ranch. The lunch is sponsored by the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors. Christmas carols were sung, great food was shared, and gifts were handed out to all of our guests. What a special event for us to participate in and spread the holiday cheer.