Dayton Community, Day Air Credit Union, and the Dayton Dragons Help Raise Over $34,000 in Holiday 50/50 Raffle

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DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation and Day Air Credit Union announced today that $17,327.50 will be presented to the Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. after completion of a special holiday online 50/50 raffle. The 50/50 raffle began on December 1 and continued until December 14. A total of $34,655 was generated and was split equally between the Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. and the lucky winner.

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

“We’re thrilled with the Miami Valley’s response to our annual holiday raffle and thrilled to be able to present over $17,000 to another great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House this holiday season,” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We are thankful for our partnership with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen.”

“Day Air is committed to strengthening our community, and our partners at the Dayton Dragons share this same passion.” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “We’re proud that our efforts this holiday season led to a significant donation for the Dayton VA Fisher house and ensured vulnerable veterans and their families receive much-needed support.”

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

Throughout the 2022 season, the Dragons conducted 50/50 raffles, raising thousands of dollars for local charities and the Dragons Foundation. The Pink Ribbon Girls, CultureWorks, and others received money from the raffle, along with the Dragons Foundation, which provides necessary funding and resources to support the countless donations, charitable giving requests, in-kind donations, unique game experiences, and community wide Dragons programs.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play 66 home games at beautiful Day Air Ballpark, in the heart of the Water Street District. Deposits for 2023 season tickets are being accepted now. For information about season tickets, including the new Business Club and Family Club, contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or go to daytondragons.com. Information is also available regarding hospitality areas and sponsorship opportunities._

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Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle” Grows Over $10,000

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With less than a week left, Miami Valley residents can win big and give back to Fisher House Foundation.

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation special online 50/50 raffle, presented by Day Air Credit Union, with proceeds benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus), has grown to over $10,000.

With less than a week left until the end (Wednesday, December 14), one lucky fan will win 50% of the jackpot. The other half of the net proceeds will benefit the Fisher House.

Raffle tickets are now available online at www.DaytonDragons5050.com in the following amounts:

  1. $10.00 receives Two (2) Raffle Tickets; or
  2. $25.00 receives Ten (10) Raffle Tickets; or
  3. $50.00 receives Forty (40) Raffle Tickets

Each ticket purchased will be considered one (1) entry into the raffle. Fans must be 18 years or older and be in the state of Ohio at the time of purchase to enter. The winning ticket number will be announced on December 15, 2022. Buy tickets now and find the official rules at www.DaytonDragons5050.com

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We’re excited to host a fully online sales effort to benefit a great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House. We are also very pleased to partner with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen. We feel it’s a wonderful way to help those in need during the holiday season.”

“Day Air is proud to support local organizations who share our commitment to the community,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season, we’re once again excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to the Fisher House at the Dayton VA.”

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

This online 50/50 raffle website uses geo-tracking; you must be located in the state of Ohio when you participate. As such, you must allow location settings on your computer/device for it to recognize your location and to participate. There may be some instances where a work/company computer will block the site. If this occurs, please note you should be able to use your cell phone or personal device or home computer to participate.

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

Win Big in the Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle”

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Win Big in the Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle”

Presented by Day Air Credit Union Benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus)

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation has launched a special online 50/50 raffle, presented by Day Air Credit Union, with proceeds benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus).

Starting Thursday, December 1 through Wednesday, December 14, one lucky fan will win 50% of the jackpot. The other half of the net proceeds will benefit the Fisher House. The starting jackpot will begin at $5,000.

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We’re excited to host a fully online sales effort to benefit a great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House. We are also very pleased to partner with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen. We feel it’s a wonderful way to help those in need during the holiday season.”

“Day Air is proud to support local organizations who share our commitment to the community,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season, we’re once again excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to the Fisher House at the Dayton VA.”

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

Raffle tickets are now available online at www.DaytonDragons5050.com in the following amounts:

  1. $10.00 receives Two (2) Raffle Tickets; or
  2. $25.00 receives Ten (10) Raffle Tickets; or
  3. $50.00 receives Forty (40) Raffle Tickets

Each ticket purchased will be considered one (1) entry into the raffle. Fans must be 18 years or older and be in the state of Ohio at the time of purchase to enter. The winning ticket number will be announced on December 15, 2022. Buy tickets now and find the official rules at www.DaytonDragons5050.com

This online 50/50 raffle website uses geo-tracking; you must be located in the state of Ohio when you participate. As such, you must allow location settings on your computer/device for it to recognize your location and to participate. There may be some instances where a work/company computer will block the site. If this occurs, please note you should be able to use your cell phone or personal device or home computer to participate.

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

Dragons Veteran Salute Program, presented by CareSource, Continues in 2023

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DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and CareSource, a nonprofit multistate health plan, are continuing their commitment for the Dayton Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource. The program is an extension of CareSource’s commitment to improve the lives of complex populations including veterans and their families through innovative programs and partnerships to support their health and well-being.

The Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource, is open to any military veteran in the Miami Valley. Veterans will be selected from entries submitted between now and May of 2023. Selected veterans will be recognized at a Dayton Dragons home game during an inning break at Day Air Ballpark, April through September 2023. Each veteran receives VIP treatment during their night including in-game recognition, a luxury suite, food and beverage, a special gift, and more.

“Partnering with the Dayton Dragons to recognize local veterans is a perfect way to elevate their stories and thank them for their service,” said Richard Topping, President of CareSource Military & Veterans. “CareSource is proud to serve veterans, military and their families, and we work hard to support their unique health and wellness needs.”

Since 2019, CareSource and the Dayton Dragons have honored over 20 local veterans and their families with a special experience at the ballpark.

“The Dragons are thrilled to continue partnering with CareSource in this effort to honor local veterans,” said Robert Murphy, President of the Dayton Dragons. “We look forward to continue recognizing these individuals who have served our country and sharing their stories with our fans at Day Air Ballpark.”

Nominations for the Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource, are open to the public. Any living military veteran from the Miami Valley is eligible to be nominated. To nominate a veteran, go to www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute

About CareSource

CareSource is nationally recognized for leading the industry in providing member-centric health care coverage. The company’s managed care business model was founded in 1989 and today CareSource is one of the nation’s largest Medicaid managed care plans. Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, the company has built a legacy of providing quality health care coverage for Medicaid consumers. In addition to Medicaid coverage, CareSource has a diverse offering of insurance plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace. The company also offers Medicare Advantage plans that help consumers close the gap of coverage as they age. CareSource serves more than 2 million members across six states supported by a growing workforce of 4,500.

For more, visit www.caresource.com, follow @caresource on Twitter, or like CareSource on Facebook.

More Information on the Dayton Dragons

The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play 66 home games at beautiful Day Air Ballpark, in the heart of the Water Street District. Deposits for 2023 season tickets are being accepted now. For information about season tickets, including the new Business Club and Family Club, contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or go to daytondragons.com. Information is also available regarding hospitality areas and sponsorship opportunities.

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Dragons to Conduct Auditions for Green Team, Mascot Performers, & On-Field Hosts

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DAYTON, OHIO—The Dayton Dragons are conducting auditions for several professional entertainment positions with the team.

The Dragons are holding auditions for the “Green Team,” on-field entertainment hosts, and mascot performers for the 2023 season. The Dragons are seeking fun, energetic, and enthusiastic performers for these positions.

What is the Green Team?

Green Team members facilitate all in-game entertainment skits and entertain fans during home games and special events at Day Air Ballpark. Other duties include: selecting contestants, welcoming fans as they enter the stadium, preparing contestants for skits, assisting mascots and hosts, dancing on the dugouts, shooting t-shirts to the crowd, and creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Host with the Most

The Dragons on-field hosts serve as the emcees of the entire entertainment show that takes place during inning breaks throughout Dragons home games. The hosts introduce contestants, skits, and contests; provide personality and enthusiasm; and deliver witty commentary.

Mascot Performers

The Dragons’ two primary mascots, Heater and Gem, are the central characters and most visible entertainers at the ballpark. They dance, are part of nearly every skit, and constantly interact with fans as they visit various areas of the ballpark. Mascots also make appearances within the community outside of Dragons games.

Candidates must be at least 16 years old by January 1, 2023. They must be able to work nights and weekends; have strong communication skills; an outgoing personality; and be reliable, responsible, and confident performing in front of large crowds.

Individuals can audition for any or all of these three positions. Interested individuals can visit daytondragons.com/greenteam for more information. Applicants should submit a résumé with references and an introduction video to [email protected] by December 16, 2022 to begin the audition process.

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. Deposits on 2023 season tickets are being accepted now. For information about season tickets including the new Business Club and Family Club, contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or go to daytondragons.com. Information is also available regarding group tickets, lawn tickets, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker.

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Leadership Akron Awards Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks ‘The Read Family Difference Maker’ Award

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Akron, OH (October 6, 2022) – Leadership Akron presented the 2022 Read Family Difference Maker Award to Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks at a ceremony on September 28, 2022. Each year, the award recognizes an individual or group of individuals whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding the scope or impact of Leadership Akron’s mission and work.

In January 2015, Ken Babby launched a monthly speaker series for Leadership Akron Alumni members and Torchbearers called Leadership on Main. This speaker series highlights change-making leaders from different sectors each month, and it has become an essential monthly event for many Leadership Akron alumni members.

“Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks have been instrumental in advancing Leadership Akron’s work since Ken Babby took over ownership of the team ten years ago,” states Justin Hilton, President & CEO of Leadership Akron. “The Akron RubberDucks host hundreds of Leadership Akron participants each year, helping inspire, strengthen, and empower leaders to create a greater Akron.”

The Read Family Difference Maker Award, created in July 2017, honors the Read family, Roger, Judy, and Scott, in recognition of their involvement in advancing the mission and work of Leadership Akron, promoting community leadership, and strengthening the Akron community’s well-being. Each year, the award recognizes an individual or group of individuals whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding the scope or impact of Leadership Akron’s mission and work.

To show gratitude, two sculptures were created by Zeber Martell, one for the Akron RubberDucks to display in its offices at Canal Park and a second for Ken Babby. And, as Scott Read noted when presenting the award, “…this event has been a work of love by the entire Akron RubberDucks staff that is greatly appreciated by the alumni of Leadership Akron.”

Leadership Akron would like to also thank the organizations that have been involved in the preparation and maintenance of the site for the Read Family Difference Maker Award, including the City of Akron, Summit Metro Parks, Cascade Locks Park Association, Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, and Environmental Design Group, as well as Michael Marras, who created the original sculpture at the site, titled “Together We Grow.”

For more information on Leadership Akron, please visit LeadershipAkron.org.

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About Leadership Akron: Since its founding in 1984, with the purpose to connect leaders to advance community, Leadership Akron has served over 1300 graduates who remain involved in the community. The Leadership Akron Alumni Association serves as an ongoing hub for leaders to connect and collaborate. Its graduates share a common commitment to serving the community and working together to strengthen the Akron area. Visit leadershipakron.org to learn more about Leadership Akron program offerings.

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. The RubberDucks season at Canal Park begins on Thursday, April 6 against the Erie SeaWolves. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 330-253-5151 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit akronrubberducks.com/. For more information about the team, please call 330-253-5151, visit the website at akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, or on Twitter @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram @akronrubberducks.

2022 Autographed, Game-Worn Jerseys for more than 30 Dragons Players and Coaches Available in On-Line Auction

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Dayton, Ohio—Autographed, game-worn jerseys for more than 30 Dayton Dragons players and coaches from the 2022 season are available in an on-line auction starting today and continuing until 10:00 a.m. on October 7.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Dragons Foundation, which provides the financial support for the many Dragons community programs. Go to this link to learn more about the Dragons Foundation: https://www.milb.com/dayton/community/foundation

The list of players featured in the jersey auction is below. Most of the jerseys in this auction are the Dragons “Gem City” style that was worn on multiple occasions beginning in June. However, several additional jersey styles are also included, such as the Dragons green “Sunday” jerseys, their white “home” jerseys, and their orange “Friday” jerseys. Most jerseys are autographed, but fans should check the description for each individual item in the auction before posting a bid.

Jerseys worn by highly-regarded 2022 Dragons prospects Chase Petty (Gem City and Home jerseys), Austin Hendrick (Gem City and Friday), Rece Hinds (Gem City and Sunday), Noelvi Marte (Gem City and Sunday), and Jay Allen II (Gem City and Home) are featured in the auction.

In addition to those five players, the auction also includes jerseys worn by Julian Aguiar, Frainger Aranguren, Donovan Benoit, Sam Benschoter, Dennis Boatman, Manuel Cachutt, Tyler Callihan, Ashton Creal, Thomas Farr, Myles Gayman, Jake Gilbert, Jake Gozzo, Steve Hajjar, Owen Holt, Ruben Ibarra, Hayden Jones, Steven Leyton, James Marinan, Quincy McAfee, Miguel Medrano, Mat Nelson, Javi Rivera, Christian Roa, Braxton Roxby, Jayvien Sandridge, Justice Thompson, Vin Timpanelli, Jose Torres, Michael Trautwein, and Michel Triana. Jerseys worn by Dragons manager Bryan LaHair and coaches Juan Samuel, Brian Garman, and Daryle Ward are also part of the auction.

For learn more or to bid, go to www.daytondragons.com/auction.

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.

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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

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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

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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.

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

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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

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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

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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.