Twenty-Fourth Annual “Trick or Treat” at Eastwood Field on Wednesday, October 26th presented by T-Mobile, media partners 21 WFMJ and WBCB and radio partner Mix 98.9

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Niles, Ohio – The Scrappers are excited to announce the twenty-fourth annual “Trick or Treat” at Eastwood Field. The event will take place Wednesday, October 26th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. “Trick or Treat” at Eastwood Field is a fun and safe way to celebrate Halloween for children age 12 and under. Ticket quantities are limited and are available on a first come first served basis. Children and adults will require a ticket. Tickets are just $1 each and are available starting Friday, September 23rd at the Scrappers Team Office located at Eastwood Field. In addition, anyone that donates canned goods at the “Trick or Treat” event for Feed Our Valley will receive a free general admission Scrappers ticket valid during the 2023 season.

Back for the 2022 Trick or Treat event is the “Fast Pass”. The “Fast Pass” is only available for the first 100 kids, includes admission for one child and two adult tickets and allows you to skip the line and get in at 5:45pm for only $10. Those that purchase the Fast Pass will receive a wristband upon purchase.

The Scrappers are looking for area businesses to participate in this year’s “Trick or Treat” event. Businesses will receive table space at Eastwood Field. This is a community event and a great way to promote your business to the public. Early reservations are encouraged as space is limited. Vendor space can be reserved here: https://forms.gle/5Qh4qt38AxLHygJYA . Please contact Heather Sahli for complete details at 330-505-0000 or emailing [email protected].

To stay up to date with the Scrappers in the offseason or for more information on 2023 ticket packages, visit www.mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters.

Day Air Credit Union to Host College Prep Night at Day Air Ballpark

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union will hold College Prep Night, a FREE educational event for prospective college students, at Day Air Ballpark on Wednesday, September 28 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

College Prep Night is a one-stop college resource event to guide prospective college students and their parents through the process of planning an educational path. High school students can talk to representatives from colleges and universities from all over the nation, and those who RSVP before the event will be entered to win one of two, $1,000 scholarships. Students must pre-register for the event online and attend to be considered.

More than 1,000 students and their guests attend, and more than 50 colleges and universities participate in this free event. Among the colleges scheduled to appear are Miami University (OH), University of Dayton, University of Kentucky, Art Academy of Cincinnati, University of Cincinnati, Sinclair Community College, Wilmington University, University of Toledo, Wright State University, Ohio Army National Guard, United States Navy, Modern College of Design, Xavier University, Edison State University, and many more schools from around the country. Representatives will be on hand to answer whatever questions that students might have about college life at each particular school.

“Day Air is committed to serving the financial well-being of our members and the community,” said Bill Burke, President, and CEO of Day Air Credit Union. “Decisions about higher education are as difficult as they are important, we’re proud to be able to provide College Prep Night as a vital resource to local families helping them make the most informed decision possible,” he said.

To learn more about College Prep Night and to RSVP, please visit www.daytondragons.com/collegeprep.

About Day Air Credit Union

Established in 1945, Day Air Credit Union is the largest financial institution headquartered in Montgomery County, and proudly serves businesses and residents of the nine counties making up the Miami Valley in Southwest Ohio. Day Air is a not-for-profit, full-service financial cooperative with over $635million in assets and more than 47,000 members. Credit Union members have access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs, and more than 5,900 shared branches nationwide. Membership is open to people living, working, worshiping, or attending school in the Miami Valley. Visit dayair.org for more information.

#

Dragons to Recognize “Community All Stars” Recipient During Game on September 1

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize EMERGE of the Urban League of Southwest Ohio as a “Community All-Stars” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Thursday, September 1 against the Cedar Rapids Kernels at Day Air Ballpark. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. They could be firefighters or police officers, doctors, or good Samaritans. It could be a first responder or a volunteer. The Dragons highlight these Community All-Stars at games all season long.

An enrichment program within the Urban League of Southwest Ohio, EMERGE steps up to improve educational outcomes and provide youth in downtown Dayton with resources that go beyond their education and into pathways that lead directly into their career dreams.

From the ages of 14 to 24 most students make pivotal decisions that impact the future of their careers, and often high school and college don’t fully prepare the future work force for what’s next. That’s where the EMERGE program steps in.

Targeting vital areas in a young person’s professional growth like social skills development, critical thinking on a business level, and financial understanding and independence, EMERGE is able to foster a new outlook for the youth in their care and improve educational outcomes.

EMERGE provides extracurricular opportunities for youth to broaden their life experiences, develop new interests, and create skills that help them as they start looking for their first jobs.

EMERGE also makes sure Dayton area students engaged in their program know how to take care of their personal well-being to better prepare them for the future.

With the extensive network of Dayton-area professionals working with the Urban League of Southwest Ohio, EMERGE can connect their participants with some of the brightest minds the city has to offer. Their mentorship offers new and exciting opportunities for EMERGE participants, like internships, job shadows, and direct work experience.

For all their efforts to inspire local youth and expand their opportunities, EMERGE is being honored as a Dragons Community All Star.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support EMERGE and the Urban League of Southwest Ohio check out their website at ulgso.org.

If you know other great individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for our community, tell us about them! You can nominate an All-Star by telling us about them at daytondragons.com/communityallstar

This event is the final of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Community All-Stars is presented Flying Ace Express Carwash. The program will return in 2023 and will once again focus on another organization that has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District and are scheduled to play 3 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 1:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2022 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Grant Woolley, 8-year-old cancer survivor, will celebrate his Anthem Home Run for Life at a Dragons Game

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio—Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 8-year-old Grant Woolley during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, August 31, when the Dayton Dragons take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Day Air Ballpark during a Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Grant’s Story

Grant Woolley was just two years old when he was experiencing nausea, constant urination, and severe thirst. While many would think this is just a baby phase, Grant’s parents, Ryan and Katie, knew that their gut was telling them otherwise. They had taken their child to a family doctor who ran several tests. His blood sugar came back at 400 milligrams while the normal person rests around 80-90. The sure signs of type 1 diabetes.

Ryan and Katie were instructed to take Grant to the hospital but didn’t understand how serious this case was just yet. As they arrived, doctors were waiting to take Grant into an intensive care unit (ICU) where he stayed for 36 hours. He was continually monitored in the hospital for a total of four days, and during that time, they treated Grant with insulin and continued to track his blood sugar.

When they transitioned back home, the Woolley’s had a lot to adjust to – counting carbs, weighing food, and administering shots. Grant left with an Omnipod and a Dexcom device to monitor his levels and deliver insulin as needed. Every 30 days, he moves the pods to another location on his body.

As he was turning six years old, he hit another bump in the road. He couldn’t move his neck, wrists, and was limping. He was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis which, as an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, is going to be a lifelong journey for Grant. Luckily infusions and medication can ease the swelling and stiffness.

While Grant will continue to battle type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, he and his support system have narrowed down his needs to a science. The counting carbs and finger pricks are all small sacrifice for this eight-year-old to be comfortable whether he is going to school or playing outside with his best friend, Bennett.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Grant’s life, including his mom, dad, sister, and his entire medical team.

To learn more about Anthem Home Run for Life, please visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.

Dragons to Recognize Community All Stars Recipient During Game on August 10

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize Crayons to Classrooms as a “Community All-Stars” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Wednesday, August 10 against the Lansing Lugnuts at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. They could be firefighters or police officers, doctors, or good Samaritans. It could be a first responder or a volunteer. The Dragons are going to highlight these Community All-Stars at games all summer long.

As we enter the “Back to School” season, the search for new school supplies is an exciting time for many students across the Miami Valley. But for some families, it becomes an added stress as they don’t have the resources to afford items like that.

In 2006, a group of concerned citizens decided to level the playing field for all students in the Miami Valley. They wanted to provide resources in the form of free school supplies to students and teachers in need. The organization we’re honoring today, Crayons to Classrooms, grew from this vision. They opened their doors in 2009 to local teachers to provide school supplies for at-risk students in their classrooms to help them engage, learn, and grow.

Crayons to Classrooms has thrived with the help of national partners, funding through grants, and the generous nature of the Dayton community.

Each year, Crayons to Classrooms resources impact 125 schools in the Miami Valley, 47,000 students, and 2,000 teachers with nearly $3 million in merchandise distributed to area schools. For every $1 received Crayons to Classroom can distribute $7 in school supplies so that teachers are relieved of the stress of paying from their pocket.

Their staff is small and mighty, but with the help of over 600 volunteers they’re able to bring their mission of a fair education for all students a reality.

For all their efforts to transform the education experience for local students Crayons to Classrooms is being honored as a Dragons Community All Star.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support Crayons to Classrooms check out their website at crayonstoclassrooms.org.

If you know other great individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for our community, tell us about them! You can nominate an All-Star by telling us about them at daytondragons.com/communityallstar

This event is the fourth of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Community All-Stars is presented Flying Ace Express Carwash. The last tribute of the season is scheduled for September 1 and will focus on another organization that has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District and are scheduled to play 11 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 1:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2021 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Baseball Clinics with Homer Bush & Players Aug 18 & 25

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Scrappers Announce two Baseball Clinics at Eastwood Field with MLB Player and World Series Champion, Scrappers Manager Homer Bush. All ages are welcome! Participants will be grouped by age.

HITTING CLINIC – AUGUST 18th from 9am to noon

  • Hitting Clinic run by Mahoning Valley Scrappers Coaching Staff, including Manager Homer Bush and players
  • Lunch with the players and coaches after the clinic

PITCHING CLINIC – AUGUST 25th from 9am to noon

  • Pitching Clinic run by Mahoning Valley Scrappers Coaching Staff, including Manager Homer Bush and players
  • Lunch with the players and coaches after the clinic

$35 for one clinic or $60 for both!

BUY HITTING CLINIC – AUG 18

BUY PITCHING CLINIC – AUG 25

BUY BOTH CLINICS

DOWNLOAD ORDER FORM HERE

Recycle Right with Montgomery County Environmental Services and the Dayton Dragons

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Recycling Bin Initiative (RBI) Program Celebrates at a Dragons Game on Tuesday, August 9

Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Dragons and Montgomery County Environmental Services have teamed up for Heater’s Recycling Bin Initiative (RBI) Program. This free, fun, and educational program is for kids and families to learn about household recycling and how recycling benefits the economy and the environment. The RBI Program only requires two weeks of tracking recycling to participate, but families are encouraged to keep up the good work afterwards.

This year, participants learned about how to “recycle right,” as well as what items can and cannot be recycled. Hundreds of thousands of cans, glass, cardboard, and plastic have been saved from the landfill thanks to the recycling efforts of participants over the past ten years.

All participants will receive up to four Dragons lawn tickets to the RBI Night on Tuesday, August 9 at the Dragons game. They can also redeem exclusive RBI gifts and will be eligible to win other great Dragons prizes and experiences.

Visit www.daytondragons.com/rbi to get more information.

About Montgomery County Environmental Services

Montgomery County Environmental Services provides water and water reclamation (sewer) services to 80,000 customers, and solid waste and recycling services to 525,000 citizens in Montgomery County, Ohio. The department offers educational outreach programs for local schools, communities, and businesses that want to learn more about conservation and sustainability in the Miami Valley region. For more information, visit www.mcohio.org/departments/environmental_services/, or follow us on Twitter or Facebook (@mcohioes).

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark_ in the heart of the Water Street District. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or on the web at daytondragons.com.

Beckett Richards, 8-year-old cancer survivor, will celebrate his Anthem Home Run for Life at a Dragons Game

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio—Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 8-year-old Beckett Richards during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, August 3, when the Dayton Dragons take on the Peoria Chiefs at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Day Air Ballpark during a Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Beckett’s Story

It was Wednesday, January 10, 2018, when Beckett Richards was rushed to the hospital after a phone call that changed his life. After recent blood tests, doctors were concerned with his white blood cell count – Beckett tested at 48,000 where the standard range is around 4,000 – 8,000. These numbers were indicators for leukemia. Not only that, but his red blood cell count was very low, he was anemic, and he needed a blood transfusion immediately.

Beckett’s parents, Kelly and Nathan, picked up their family and rushed to the hospital. This 3-year-old received a bone marrow biopsy and a spinal tap confirming his diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This cancer, while having an 80% success rate, was going to take Beckett through a long 4-year journey. During that time, he received around 12 types of chemotherapy, 92 port infusions, over 1,200 oral chemo doses, among many other medications and procedures.

Beckett’s journey was difficult, and just as the family was learning to cope with this change, COVID was sweeping the nation. Kelly and Nathan agreed that they couldn’t risk Beckett being exposed at school during this time. They had taken him and his brother out of classes and homeschooled them while he received treatment.

The steroids, chemotherapy, and infusions are difficult on a child’s body, and with Beckett having an extremely low immune system, can be even harder. During this difficult journey, Beckett was diagnosed with Veno-Occlusive Disease (VOD) from the high doses of medication. He was experiencing body discomfort, a bloated abdomen, and liver failure.

Beckett’s journey with cancer is coming to a happy ending as he is in ‘remission’ having had his final treatment in April of 2021. Beckett will be returning to school at Harold Schnell and has the heart of a fighter. During his journey, Beckett reminded himself to “be strong” which drove him to finally ring the Survivors Bell at the hospital.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Beckett’s life, including his mom, dad, older brother, and his entire medical team.

To learn more about Anthem Home Run for Life, please visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark_ in the heart of the Water Street District. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or on the web at daytondragons.com.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio Coming to Day Air Ballpark

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Dragons are excited to bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio to Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Home games from Friday, July 22 to Sunday, August 14 will be dedicated to supporting this program.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio is a program that is of no cost to the families. When a child is enrolled in the program, they receive a book in the mail each month until their fifth birthday. This program is made possible with financial support from the Ohio General Assembly and affiliates across the state as well as Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine. Montgomery County currently has an enrollment rate of over 46% of children of five years and younger.

From Friday, July 22, through Sunday, August 14, the Dragons will include books with first-game certificates for first time Dragons fans under the age of five while supplies last, as well as bookmarks that allow parents or guardians to directly sign their children up for the program. On Sunday, August 14, the Dragons will host Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio Day with a sign-up booth, first pitch, graduation ceremony and more to highlight the program.

For more information on this program, visit https://ohioimaginationlibrary.org/

Single-game tickets for these games and all Dragons 2022 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the Class-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark_ in the heart of the Water Street District. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected]_, or on the web at daytondragons.com._

Dragons to Recognize “Community All Stars” Recipient During Game Tonight on July 22

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize Chloe Adkins as a “Community All-Star” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game tonight on Friday, July 22 against Fort Wayne Tincaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

At nine, Chloe Adkins has spent most of her life giving back to her community. Kettering and Dayton have been blessed by her activist nature since she was four years old.

Starting at the Kettering Backpack Program, Chloe helped to build bags for students in need of meals outside of school hours. She even donates a portion of any money she earns through allowance or other jobs to charities like Kettering Backpack.

Chloe’s mental compass seems to lead her directly to the causes in her community that need the most attention, and she does whatever she can to shed a light on that charity or program by getting the word out to encourage action.

When her school program needed more items to fill birthday-cake care kits, Chloe offered to record a video for social media to remind parents to get their donations in. And, when she learned cancer patients like herself needed blood donations, she recorded a video to encourage people to donate to local blood drives like the one she led with the Community Blood Center.

Now, she’s competing in a world-wide educational contest called the Invention Convention to fill a need in her community. Chloe is creating a fashion-forward design that provides confidence to patients while they get better with shirts with medical port coverings.

When she’s not volunteering, Chloe enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and doing regular kid stuff.

For all her work inspiring the community and making Dayton a better place—Chloe Adkins is our Community All-Star.

If you know other great individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for our community, tell us about them! You can nominate an All-Star by telling us about them at daytondragons.com/communityallstar. The Dragons Community Al by the generous support of Flying Ace Express Carwash.

This is the third of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Community All-Stars is presented Flying Ace Express Carwash. Additional tributes are scheduled for August 10 and September 1 each focused on a different individual or organization who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District and are scheduled to play 21 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 1:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2022 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Salute to the Negro Leagues Night: Akron Black Tyrites vs Jax Red Caps

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

On Saturday, July 9, the Akron RubberDucks will take on the Altoona Curve in a very special Salute to the Negro Leagues night. The Akron RubberDucks will honor the Akron Black Tyrites while the Altoona Curve will honor the Jax Red Caps by wearing the salute to the Negro League uniforms of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp.

The Akron Black Tyrites were a member of the Negro National League in 1933. The club began that year in Columbus before moving to Akron for just 10 games. The team finished the season in Cleveland as the Giants.

The name was originally supposed to be “Tyr-ites” from the British word for tire, “tyre,” but the name soon became “Ty-rites” to match Akronites.

The team played their games at Akron’s League Park, which was a $135,000 ballpark constructed in 1928 on property at Crosier Street, Park Avenue, and Long Street.

Since the team only played a small number of games in Akron, only a few photos of the front of the uniform jersey appeared when the RubberDucks front office staff began research. To celebrate and honor the original Akron Black Tyrites, the RubberDucks created logos and uniforms in a style the team might have worn in 1933.

The Red Caps were originally formed by a group of local Black train porters, employees of the East Coast Railroad, that played together when they were off duty. The porters wore red hats as part of their uniform, and they were called the Red Caps during their workday. The team was officially put together by the Jacksonville Terminal Station and managed by player Alonzo “Fluke” Mitchell. The Red Caps, who called Durkee Field home, only played seven league games in their debut season in the Negro American League in 1937, finishing with a 4-6 record. They played more than 180 games between 1938 and 1944 and recorded a winning percentage of .401. The Red Caps moved to Cleveland in 1939 but return to Jacksonville in 1941. They finished the season at 12-20, coming in second to last in the league. The 1942 season was no better for the club, with a 7-22 record, and the team was dropped from the league in July. The Red Caps played as an unaffiliated team at Durkee Field in 1944.

Durkee Field, which is now known as JP Small Park, is one of only five Negro leagues ballparks still in existence. Edward Waters University, which is a local HBCU, used the field now for their games, as well as some local high schools. Outside of JP Small Park is a statue of Buck O’Neil, who is going to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown this summer. Buck attended Edward Waters College before his Negro leagues playing and managing career and MLB scouting and coaching career. He then went on to found the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City.

July 9 will mark the first time both of the Fast Forward Sports Group teams’ salute to the Negro Leagues uniforms will be worn on the same field. Tickets are still available by calling 855-97-QUACK or by visiting akronrubberducks.com.

To help the RubberDucks and Jumbo Shrimp celebrate and share the story of the Akron Black Tyrites and Jax Red Caps, you can get your own Akron Black Tyrites merchandise here and your Jax Red Caps merchandise here.

Dragons 5K at Day Air Ballpark, July 16

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio– The annual Dragons 5K presented by Orthopedic Associates is taking place Saturday, July 16, at 8AM at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The event began in 2011 and has become a local tradition as one of the largest races in the Miami Valley region, featuring over 2,000 people each year.

The Dragons 5K will continue offering a virtual option for those that prefer that method. Participants that sign up for the virtual option can complete the race on their own time then input their time online by July 16.

All race participants (including virtual) will receive four (4) tickets to a Dragons game, Dragons 5K shirt, Dragons hat, and finisher’s medal. The registration fee is $30 for ages 18 and up and $20 for ages 17 and under. The registration fee will increase to $35 after July 8, so be quick to register before this price increase. For the virtual race option, there is an additional charge of $10 for swag bag shipping or they can pick-up the week following the 5K at the Dragons Box Office.

Fans can still sign up online at https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Dayton/Dragons5KOH or by visiting the Dragons Box Office at Day Air Ballpark between the hours of 10AM and 5PM. You can also sign up on the day of the race starting at 7AM.

Early race bag and bib pickup for participants will take place on Friday, July 15 from 8AM to 6PM at Day Air Ballpark located in front of the Dragons Box Office. Anyone not able to make early race bag pickup can pick up their bag and race bib before the race beginning at 7AM on Saturday, July 16.

The race will begin at 8AM and participants may choose to run or walk the course. Baby strollers are also permitted. The course will move through downtown Dayton and end back at the ballpark. Following the race, fruit and water will be distributed to participants.

Once race results are finalized, winners will be posted on the Dragons 5K race page and will be contacted via email with information on how to claim their prizes. The top three male and female overall finishers will receive a specially engraved baseball bat and be honored during a special inning break at a Dragons game. Awards will also be given out to the top 3 overall males and females in each age group and top 3 finishing groups. Top groups will receive great group prizes and the grand prize is a luxury suite to a Dragons game in 2023!

For any Dragons 5K related questions, please visit the Dragons 5K race page or contact Jake Arthur, [email protected].

The 2022 Dragons 5K is being presented by Orthopedic Associates. As the regional leader in comprehensive orthopedic care, Orthopedic Associate’s passion is helping Dayton’s families get back to doing what they love. Orthopedic Associates is proud to be the trusted orthopedic provider serving your Dayton Dragons for more than a decade. Learn more at www.BonesFixed.com_._

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honorees During Game on July 4

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

DRAGONS TO RECOGNIZE “HOMETOWN HEROES” HONOREES DURING GAME ON JULY 4

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the 1487th Transportation Company of the U.S. Army as “Hometown Heroes” during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Monday, July 4 against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations, groups, and individuals.

Since its inception in 1873, the 1487th transportation company has participated in World War I, World War II, the Gulf War, and the Global War of Terror. Coming out of the Gulf War, the unit was designated as the “Iron Camels” due to their efforts in transporting vital supplies of food and water across Kuwait.

In 2020, the unit was called to transport critical supplies in Southwest Asia in support of Operations Spartan Shield (OSS) and Inherent Resolve (OIR.) From March to December of 2020, the Iron Camels successfully completed transportation missions including driving over 500,000 individual miles and supporting 115 military units. They conducted 90 missions to the Khabari Crossing in Kuwait, trans-loading multi-class supplies in support of OIR operations. These missions included the transport of Counter-Terrorism Equipment Fund Class VII for divestment operations and the retrograde of multi-class supplies.

In recognition of their efforts, they were awarded the Army Meritorious Unit Commendation for their exceptional conduct in performance of outstanding achievement and service. The award, which dates back to 1944, is only granted to units who exemplify these efforts for six continuous months or more, during military operations against an armed enemy.

The emblem is a scarlet ribbon with a gold, laurel leaf frame and is to be worn by service members on the right breast of their service coat.

The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

Scrappers & 910th Airlift Wing Partner for Operation Fly Together Campaign

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

NILES, OH –The Mahoning Valley Scrappers (est. 1999) and Youngstown Air Reserve Station (est. 1955), home to the 910th Airlift Wing, have been pillars in the Mahoning Valley in Northeast Ohio for decades. Together, we’ve participated in ceremonies, flag salutes, fly overs, and more. With significant growth by both parties, the opportunity to rally the region even more has never been better.

Together, we are thrilled to announce the Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team is teaming with the 910th Airlift Wing for a Community Engagement Partnership campaign called “Operation Fly Together” beginning with the 2022 baseball season with the Warren Area Chamber of Commerce Education, Civic & Cultural Foundation as the primary sponsor.

With unique and creative marketing elements, this campaign is designed to celebrate the venerable C-130 Hercules tactical cargo aircraft and bring increased awareness to the local presence of 910th Airlift Wing and YARS in Northeast Ohio. This campaign will also bring together currently serving Reserve Citizen Airmen, civilians, and thousands of veterans within 50 miles of the base.

Since the Mahoning Valley Scrappers are leaders in fun, and experts at creating unique moments at the stadium and in the community, their team has created new specialty marketing components include a new logo, patch, flag, educational markers, caps and jersey that are unique to the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign.

Elements of this new Partnership will fall under five categories — Support, Honor, Educate, Celebrate and Community. Here are some details of each category of this new Partnership:

Support – To celebrate the C-130 Hercules and the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign in Mahoning Valley, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” in conjunction with the Scrappers game on Saturday, August 6, 2022. To support this exciting partnership, a new patch and logo have been created. This patch and logo will be used on the sleeve of a specialty jersey created specifically for the partnership of the 910th Airlift Wing and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers celebrating ‘Operation Fly Together.’ A new team cap featuring a “Winger” logo, inspired by the YARS Mascot Winger, has been created and players will wear these caps at the game. Additionally,

the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have developed a new merchandise line for the Team Store that features the ‘Operation Fly Together’ patch logo and the “Winger” logo. Mechandise is available now for pre-order here: https://scrappers.milbstore.com/collections/operation-fly-together

Honor – To honor the men and women assigned to Youngstown ARS and living throughout the surrounding greater Mahoning Valley area. A new ‘Operation Fly Together’ flag will be featured at Eastwood Field in honor of the campaign on ‘Military Appreciation Nights’ and “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night.” The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are continuing their ‘Military Appreciation Nights’. This weekly promotion has occurred at Eastwood Field for at least 15 seasons and will continue to occur during the 2022 season. Every Wednesday, military members can receive 2 free tickets to the Scrappers game. Military branches are recognized and featured on these days. Additionally, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” on August 6, 2022. During the game, the Scrappers will wear the specialty jerseys and caps; there will be in game/online auction of the game-worn specialty jerseys and caps; the 910th will have table displays at the game; the 910th’s Winger mascot will be in attendance and the members of the 910th Airlift Wing will participate in pre-game and in-game activities such as singing the National Anthem, ceremonial first pitches, pre-game ceremonies on field prior to the game, promotional videos during the game, kids activities, the 7th inning stretch and more.

Educate – To bring awareness about the C-130 Hercules and its history. The following items are being developed to accomplish this goal: C-130 Hercules educational marker signs throughout the concourse; C-130/Winger coloring sheets in Kids Fun Zone and a Winger marker in the Fun Zone.

Celebrate – To bring awareness in a fun and positive way with the general public. The following events and items are being developed to accomplish this goal: Kids meet and greet with Winger and 910th Airlift Wing members as well as special ticket and merchandise packages available for fans.

Community – To rally the community and bring positive awareness about the positioning of Youngstown Air Reserve Station in the community. In addition to the joint press event kicking off this Partnership, the following events are being planned to accomplish this goal: Mahoning Valley Scrappers Players visit to YARS and a Baseball clinic for 910th Airlift Wing Families.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team and the 910th Airlift Wing are excited to team up for “Operation Fly Together.” We look forward to bringing this new Community Engagement Partnership campaign to the Mahoning Valley and continuing our efforts together for years to come.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information and to purchase tickets and merchandise, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

#

CareSource, Dragons Team Up to Honor Local Veteran

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

CareSource Veteran Salute Honors William Zimmerman on June 26

DAYTON, Ohio –CareSource and the Dayton Dragons will host United States Navy veteran William Zimmerman during the CareSource Veteran Salute Program on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at 1:05PM when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Sunday will be the third of five special CareSource Veteran Salute dates of the 2022 season.

The CareSource Veteran Salute Program provides veterans in the Dayton region with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate their service to their country. Each honoree has their story shared in front of the crowd at Day Air Ballpark, followed by a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran’s hard work and dedication both in military and civilian accomplishments.

William Zimmerman’s Story

William Zimmerman, born and raised in Tipp City, graduated from Tippecanoe High School in 1964. He wanted to serve his country and enlisted in the Navy in December of 1965. William served 21 years in the military; four years active duty and 17 years in the reserves.

William began his career with the Navy in Pensacola, Florida. He was then moved to Long Beach, California for his second tour of duty. William recorded aviation flight information and repairs on assigned aircraft. His Vietnam service was aboard the USS Enterprise which was the first nuclear-powered ship to engage in combat by utilizing her aircraft against the Viet Cong at the height of the Vietnam War. In July of 1969, William returned to the United States – very happy to see the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco as his ship drew nearer.

William continued to serve in the Naval Reserves until he retired in February of 1990. While in the reserves, he decided to attend college and graduated in 1981 from Edison State Community College with a degree in Business Management. He played basketball while in college and even started his own income tax business that continued for 40 years.

William was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star and many other service and campaign medals. He exemplifies a veteran who loves his community and continues to give back through his local church and volunteering for local causes. William has two children, three grandchildren, and resides in New Carlisle with his wife, Janel. He enjoys spending time with his family, bowling, watching the Reds, and attending Dragons games. He recently started reading more routinely and has read over 200 books in the last three years.

To nominate a veteran in your life for the Veteran Salute Program, please visit daytondragons.com/veteransalute today.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. The program is an extension of CareSource’s continued commitment to serving special populations and its new efforts to support veterans through innovative health and life services programs. For more information about the Veteran Salute program, visit www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute.

#