12 FEBRUARY 2025 By Cliff Summerhill After the success of the 67th season, Arcadia Little League’s Vice President Chris Ramondetta had a thought. What if there was a fall season? Would there be any interested families? How would the games go? Ramondetta presented the idea to league President Mike Ord, and as it turns out, there were almost 100 interested kids… and ALL’s inaugural fall ball was a grand slam. The league had eight teams that played 15 regular games and four intense playoff matchups. “The fall season has set the groundwork for future iterations, with plans to expand into both competitive and novice divisions next year,” Ramondetta said. “This will accommodate players seeking a more intense experience and those looking for fun, seasonal play.” It also became a journey of growth for the kids, with Phillies Coach Ryan Reynolds emphasizing that the best part was watching the team improve their baseball skills and truly come together as a unit. Reynolds shared a heartwarming moment when player Harrison Fuller hit a grand slam during the first playoff game – the kids in the dugout started chanting, “Bases loaded, Harrison’s G.O.A.T.’ed,” and the coach said they could feel the pride emanating off the field. The camaraderie built among the players, coaches and families made the experience even more memorable, as did an exhilarating conclusion, with the Phillies securing victory, 13-6, over the A’s in the championship. “We played our best defensive game,” Reynolds said. “Winning a baseball championship at any level is no small thing, so I was thrilled for them.” He acknowledged the support of his staff, including Coaches Andy Fillon and Thomas Olmsted, who helped keep the team focused throughout the high-pressure playoff games. “Coaching playoffs was more nerve- wracking than when I was playing as a kid,” Reynolds said. “The players were awesome, the parents were helpful, and at the end of the day, it was all worth it. Very rewarding.” The championship win carried special meaning as Reynolds’ son, Smith, got to share the victory with his team and his dad. “It was such a fun game to watch. Both teams played great, but watching the boys celebrate their win was incredible. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a happier group of eight-year-olds,” Smith’s mom, Kellie, said. “I hope they will always remember this season.” Nine-year-old Ben Omer said the best part of playing in the league is being with his friends, but winning the championship was a major highlight – even though he was a little nervous. “Last season, we lost in the semifinals, so I was nervous about playing in the championship game,” Ben said. “When we got the last out, we all started screaming and running around. It was really cool!” With the fall season behind them, players and families are already looking forward to spring, with practices starting mid-February. According to Coach Reynolds, most of the championship team is expected – and excited – to return. This year’s opening night celebration happens on March 21 at 5:30 p.m. arcadialittleleague.com Arcadia Little League’s inaugural fall season was a home run RENOVATION FUNDRAISER Arcadia Little League is hosting an ongoing fundraiser to renovate the playing fields at Camelback Christian Church, Ingleside and Echo Canyon School. Learn more at shop.teamupevent.com/org/all The 2024 Fall League Champs: Burke, Finn, Henry, Henri, Burke, Davis, Ben, Porter, Smith, Noah, Harrison, Everett and Adam with Coaches Ryan, Andy and Thomas. PHOTO COURTESY OF RYAN REYNOLDS PAST ARCADIA PTO VP PAST HOPI PTA PRESIDENT ARCADIA RESIDENT FOR OVER 30 YEARS 602.399.8540 debbiefrazelle.com dfrazelle@cox.net Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Debbie Frazelle | CLHMS | ABR Experience luxury resort living at the exclusive 24/7 guard-gated community of Biltmore Greens! 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13 FEBRUARY 2025 By Kylie de Best These days, it’s not uncommon to shop online for whatever your heart desires – groceries, décor, diapers, pet food, etc. You name it, it’s available online and with immediate satisfaction. Arcadia plant shop Jade & Clover aims to change that process – especially when it comes to plants, décor and more – and remind visitors that “brick-and-mortars aren’t dead.” The shop was created by siblings Frank and Giselle Ruggeberg, a duo that was looking to create a business that brought the community together in a safe, welcoming environment. “What better way to do that than with a make-and-take plant bar that also served as a space for small businesses to showcase their wares,” they thought. In that spirit, Jade & Clover opened its first storefront in Dallas nine years ago, then expanded to Nashville and, three years ago, to Arcadia. “Giselle and I make a great team. She is more of the creative person, whereas I am more of a numbers person,” Frank said. Located next to Postino Winecafé on 40th and Campbell, the shop’s main draw is the plant bar, where guests can curate their very own garden in three simple steps. Start by picking from a variety of containers (pots, glassware, mugs, bowls – there’s a plethora). Then, choose which succulents, cacti, or houseplants will go into said container. Finally, staff will assist in putting everything together, including sand, soil, gravel, and decorations to really make the garden shine. “This is the perfect place to get together with friends,” customer Elizabeth Swagert said. “I love how everything is laid out and so colorful.” Terrarium-makers can choose from red kale, lavender, mini tomato, curly parsley, cilantro, oregano, peppermint, chili pepper, and rosemary, along with succulents. The plants are sourced from California and Arizona, with the owners’ goal being to support local as much as they can. Within the space are businesses such as Indigo Blue Pet, which specializes in dog and cat supplies, and Humble Jewels, which sells hand-made jewelry. Other areas of the store include a grab and go gift section with children’s books and toys, clothing, house decor, coffee mugs, journals, stickers, seeds, succulents, cacti and plant-care items. Honing in on creating that community experience, Jade & Clover also hosts monthly events like Plants and Pilates, bouquet classes, sound baths, and more. Upcoming on February 2 is a Sip and Script event and on February 13 is a Galentine’s herb garden class from 6-8 p.m. Also new at the Arcadia location is El Café de Lily, a coffee cart that operates in front of the shop Tuesday-Friday at 7 a.m. and Saturday at 8 a.m. Looking toward springtime, Jade & Clover is excited to promote its new traveling terrarium bar, which brings the iconic plant bar experience directly to guests. jadeandclover.com Support local and plant good vibes with Jade & Clover Elizabeth Swagert, Alexandra Orth and Alexandra Blanchard made their own terrariums. PHOTOS: KYLIE DE BEST