Specialist Brice A. DuBoice, 19th Engineer Battalion with the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Knox, Ky., returned safely back with his unit after a 15-month deployment to Camp Speicher, Iraq. Originally scheduled for a 12-month tour, Brice's unit was affected by the three-month extension announced in April 2007. While in Iraq, the battalion was responsible for repairing roads and buildings and other critical infrastructure. The soldiers in his unit also helped train Iraqi engineers in how to operate heavy equipment. Brice is the son of Dwight C. DuBoice (Lake Wales) and Julia G. DuBoice (Sebring) and maternal grandson to the late Retired Master Sgt. Donald E. Gallimore and Lorraine C. Gallimore of Avon Park. His paternal grandparents are Herman J. DuBoice and Beverly DuBoice of Avon Park. Brother Dennis S. Roberts Jr of Bradenton and sister Hannah F. Davis of Sebring. ...more

November 20, 2007

AVON PARK — His voice is unmistakable. The loud yawp has been heard at every home game at Joe Franza Stadium for over a decade, prying into the hearts of Avon Park's youth, demanding their very best. Red Devil defensive line coach Dwayne Council has walked the hallways of Avon Park High School with quiet assertiveness, an architect of men that have gone on to bigger and better things — on and off the football field. "Football is a passion of his, but I think he is much more interested in every kid at this school — no matter if they are an athlete or not," said Avon Park head coach Earnest Perkins. "The things he always asks when he talks with a kid is 'How is your family?' and 'How are your grades?' He knows what's most important." Dubbed Avon Park's "Minister of Defense," Council, who is an associate pastor at the Vision Christian Church, has proved that discipline and attitude are the key ingredients to success — and not just on the scoreboard, but in life. ...more

October 31, 2007

Dear Abby: I have enjoyed reading the occasional letters people write you about the acts of kindness they have experienced. I would like to share one that happened to me. ...more

October 28, 2007

A chance to huddle with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers means smiles, words of encouragement and new physical education equipment ...more

October 13, 2007

Things suddenly got awfully quiet in Bank of America Stadium late in the first quarter Sunday afternoon. Cadillac Williams had been sprinting up the right sideline on his way to an 18-yard gain when he was knocked hard to the ground by Carolina strong safety Chris Harris. ...more

October 1, 2007