2019 Dragons MVP Annual Report

BY THE NUMBERS

540,000 ESTIMATED SEASON ATTENDANCE

1,385 10

TOP

CONSECUTIVE SELLOUT

CROWDS SINCE 2000

OUT OF 160

MILB TEAMS

in attendance over all 20 seasons

11.5 MILLION TOTAL ATTENDANCE OVER ALL 20 SEASONS

AVERAGE NUMBER OF FANS PER GAME IN 2019

7,800

IMPLEMENTATION IMPLEMENTATION The Dragons MVP Program used the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Professional Baseball as an educational tool for fourth and fifth grade teachers, helping them motivate and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The Dragons MVP Program is made possible by Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, and WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW. The 2019 season was the 14th year of the MVP Program. This program reaches over 1,100 classrooms and nearly 31,000 students throughout the Miami Valley (Clark, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, and Warren counties).

The Dragons MVP Program enabled teachers in nearly 200 schools to recognize five students in their classroom who deserved to be an MVP. The beauty of the program was that each teacher was the sole judge and jury in how these awards were used.

Participating teachers received a kit of materials. This kit included a poster to hang in the classroom, success story report forms (there was also an online option) for selection of the MVPs, MVP bookmarks, and stickers for every student. Also included was a “Best Practices” sheet, providing teachers with ideas on how to utilize the MVP Program in their classroom.

Teachers received five award packets for their MVPs. Award packets included a customizable certificate, a voucher for a specially designed Dragons MVP hat, a voucher for four tickets to a sold-out Dragons game and tickets to MVP Field Day (an exclusive, private event at Fifth Third Field).

ANNUAL REPORT 2

IMPLEMENTATION 2019 START-UP GUIDE

DAYTON DRAGONS

MVP PROGRAM

BECOME A DRAGONS

ASK YOUR TEACHER HOW YOU CAN BECOME A DRAGONS MVP!

A TOOL FOR TEACHERS The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

mvp guidebook

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

mvp poster

BECOME A DRAGONS

MVP

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

mvp sticker

mvp bookmark ANNUAL REPORT 3

IMPLEMENTATION

This certificate hereby declares that:

has been designated a Dayton Dragons MVP.

Robert Murphy President, Dayton Dragons

Teacher

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

mvp certificate NEED IDEAS ON HOW TO USE THIS PROGRAM?

-

Please fill out one of these forms, with as much detail as possible, for each of your MVPs (total of five).

The more detail, the better. And the sooner we receive your stories, the better chance your students will have of being featured in the Dayton Daily News, Springfield News-Sun, Dragons PlayBall! game program, on the radio, and in a public service announcement on Dayton’s CW. From the success stories we receive, we randomly select several Dragons MVP classrooms during April and May to get special visits

by Dragons players and a Dragons mascot. Your classroom may be next!

You can submit your success stories ONLINE at www.daytondragons.com/mvpstory OR make enough copies (one for each of your five MVPs) and submit to us by mail or fax at the below:

Teacher’s Name:

First

First

ideas have been tried and tested by fourth and fifth grade teachers who have used the program for years. Please keep in mind, these are only ideas – you are the sole judge and jury and can use the program the best way you see fit in your classroom.

Dragons MVP Program Fifth Third Field PO BOX 2107 Dayton, OH 45401-2107 Fax: (937) 228-2284

Student’s Name:

Check out the ideas below for ways to get started with the Dragons MVP Program. These

OPTION 1: BASEBALL THEME Last

Last

School Name: School Phone: (

Teacher’s Email:

Evaluate students based on six categories:

)

• Hustle = Prepared and turns in work on time

Grade:

Please circle the main categories that apply to the reason this MVP is being selected: Grades (improved/great) | Leadership | Citizenship | Creativity | Contest Winner | Community Involvement Extra-Curricular Involvement | Attendance | Behavior Improvement | Beating the Odds| Other

• Teacher’s choice = Model student/participate in class • Sportsmanship = Positive/helpful attitude • Most Improved = Made noticeable progress • Captain = Leadership • MVP = Possess all of the above categories

OPTION 2: POINT SYSTEM Teacher assigns points based on pre-determind criteria for a certain amount of time. The highest number of points would be considered for an MVP: • Attendance • Improvement • Preparedness • Responsibility • Good behavior • Other

Explain why the student was picked as a Dragons MVP (Please provide examples).

OPTION 3: Not ALWAY THE “A” STUDENT Evaluate students on criteria outside of grades: • Quiet qualities = Student might typically go unnoticed but follows daily rules and routine to highest expection • Most improved

What was the child’s reaction when you told them?

• Good/improved behavior • Postitive/helpful attitude

OPTION 4: OUT OF CLASS ACHIEVEMENT Evaluate students on criteria outside of the classroom: • Community service/volunteer work • Involvement in extra-curriculars • Overcoming difficult situations (health/family, etc.)

• Contest winner in community challenge • Advocate for personal cause

• Excellent communicator

What was the family’s reaction when they were informed?

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

Dragons MVP Program l Fifth Third Field l PO Box 2107 l Dayton, OH 45401-2107 l PH: (937) 228-2287

mvp success story form ANNUAL REPORT 4

PUMP

UP THE MVP IN YOUR CLASS...

• Recognize an MVP at the end of each week in front of entire class

• Recognize MVPs over the school PA system so the entire school can celebrate with them

• Wear Dragons gear when announcing program and awarding students to make it more fun

• Host an assembly for the entire grade

• Take photos of winners in your class and use on bulletin board, school newsletter, etc.

• Build suspense by reading MVP’s success story and not revealing the winner’s name until the end

best practices sheet

IMPLEMENTATION YOU’VE EARNED

TO TWO AWESOME EVENTS! CLAIM THEM NOW!

EVENT 1

MVP DRAGONS GAME

EVENT 2

MVP FIELD DAY TM

Congratulations on being a 2019 Dayton Dragons MVP!

Because of your efforts, you receive four (4) free lawn tickets to a Dragons baseball game honoring MVPs and two (2) free tickets to the private MVP Field Day event—open only to Dragons MVP winners. To claim your tickets, please do ONE of the following: Option

A

STEP

Complete the form online at www.daytondragons.com/mvptickets

1

Select the Dragons game you would like to attend (check one).

Monday, April 15, 2019 7:00 PM (gates open at 6:00 PM)

Wednesday, May 8, 2019 7:00 PM (gates open at 6:00 PM)

STEP

2 YES

STEP

Student’s Name:

that you will be able to participate in

Teacher Name:

with your selected game choice.

(Pre-game parade info will be mailed with your tickets.)

Saturday, June 1, 2019 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM @ Fifth Third Field

Complete and return this voucher with the

B envelope included in your MVP packet.

3 Fill out your contact information below.

There will also be a pre-game parade

Will you be attending the MVP Field Day event?

NO

Option

OR

Grade:

School: Parent/Guardian Name: Address: City: Phone:

State:

Zip:

E-mail:

To ensure you receive tickets for the game night of your choice, we recommend you mail your voucher back to us as soon as possible. Please allow two weeks for delivery of your tickets to both events. TICKETS WILL BE MAILED STARTING IN MARCH. If you need to purchase additional game tickets or require special assistance, please contact us at 937.228.2287. However, due to high demand, we are unable to offer additional tickets to the Field Day event. Please note that each MVP receives two tickets to Field Day: one to be used for the child and one for a parent/guardian.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

mvp ticket voucher

You've earned it!

This voucher is good for one (1) Dragons MVP hat.

To claim your hat, simply bring this voucher to your game night or MVP Field Day and stop by the Customer Service Booth.

Missed the game or Field Day? Don’t worry, this voucher can also be redeemed during any Dragons home game after your Dragons MVP game date or MVP Field Day. Simply bring this voucher to the Customer Service Booth located near the main gates. You can also redeem this voucher at the Dragons offices at Fifth Third Field, Monday through Friday 9am-5pm.

(937) 228-2287 mvp@daytondragons.com

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, The Dayton Dragons Foundation, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

mvp hat voucher ANNUAL REPORT 5

SUCCESS STORIES A big part of the MVP Program was sharing with the community what these great students were doing. Ten MVPs were profiled in ads that focused on why they were chosen as an MVP in their classroom. Through information submitted by teachers, “Success Stories� were created and were featured in the PlayBall! game program and the Dayton Daily News.

Each selected MVP was interviewed by the Dragons staff, had photographs taken of them at their school, and received copies of their story from the game program.

ANNUAL REPORT 6

SUCCESS STORIES Taylor Compston

Ava Thomas

5TH GRADE KENTON ELEMENTARY

4TH GRADE

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Taylor Compston was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

Q: Taylor, can you tell us why your teacher, Mrs. Churchward, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected as an MVP because of how involved I am in organizaitons outside of the classroom. I participate in the Youth Arts Ambassadors program, the Girls on the Run Movement, and perform for the Ohio Performing Arts Institute and Springfield Civic’s Theatre. I love performing and have been in over 30 shows.

Q: What do you like most about being a Dragons MVP? A: I love baseball games, and I love

“Always be kind to others. you never know what they’re going through!”

the Dragons! I am so proud that I get to take my family to a Dragons game because of my hard work.

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be an American Sign Language (ASL) Teacher. I started to learn ASL about a year ago and would love to teach others how to as well.

Q: What is the nicest thing you’ve done for someone else?

A: I always make sure to tell others to “have a nice day” or “I appreciate you” because you never know what someone else is going through. It could really make their day!

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

DAYTON CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Ava Thomas was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

Q: Ava, can you tell us why your teacher, Ms. Lewis, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected by my classmates because I’m nice to everyone, even when it’s hard. One time, some kids were talking bad about my friend behind her back. Even though it was scary, I stood up for my friend and told the kids it wasn’t nice to talk about people behind their backs.

Q: What do you want to do when you grow up?

A: I want to be a missionary or start an orphanage.

Q: What’s your favorite subject in school?

A: I really like math because I am pretty good at it!

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be a lawyer so I can help people in need.

Q: What would you do if you won one million dollars?

A: I would save some for my family and myself and then donate the rest of the money to people that need help.

Q: What’s your favorite food?

A: I love any Mexican food dishes that my mom makes. Everything she makes is delicious!

Q: If you could have any super power, what would it be and what would you do with your powers?

A: I would choose super speed so I can help people even faster.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

Q: What’s your favorite food?

A: I love to eat sushi!

Q: What is the nicest thing you’ve done for someone else?

A: A classmate tried to sit down at an empty seat at a lunch table, but the group told her the seat was being saved for someone. I got up and gave her my seat. It made her happy and made me feel really good.

5TH GRADE SHAWNEE ELEMENTARY

MANN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Q: Stephanie, can you tell us why your teacher, Mr. Bertke, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected because I help my classmates out when they need it.

I even helped a Spanish speaking student translate Spanish to English so she could understand.

Q: What would you do if you won one million dollars?

A: I would want to open a church in an area that doesn’t have churches.

After I open up the church, I’d want to raise money for the poor. I’d also keep a little bit of the money to put in savings.

Jocelynn Futrell

5TH GRADE

“I helped another student translate spanish to english!”

people because it makes me feel good.”

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

STEPHANIE DAVILA-LOPEZ

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Stephanie Davila-Lopez was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

“I love being nice to

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Jocelynn Futrell was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

Q: Jocelynn, can you tell us why your teacher, Ms. Filson, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected for my leadership in the classroom and my involvement at school. I am a part of the school’s News Crew where I discuss the weather during announcments. I also keep all of the students safe on the Safety Patrol.

Q: What do you like most about being a Dragons MVP? A: I love being recognized in front of my class. It makes me feel acomplished, and I hope it encourages others to be great as well.

“I hope the MVP Program encourages others to be great as well!”

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be an English teacher just like my mom!

Q: What is your favorite hobby?

A: Baking. I love baking fun desserts and decorating cakes.

Q: Have you ever played a joke on someone?

A: I have played jokes on my friends and family but I love telling jokes!

What do you call a lazy baby kangaroo? A Pouch Potato!

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

ANNUAL REPORT 7

SUCCESS STORIES ella combs 5TH GRADE L.T. BALL INTERMEDIATE

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Ella Combs was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

Q: Ella, can you tell us why your teacher, Mr. Lieber, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected because I had the highest score in my class in the i-Ready Math test. I love math and science, and even come into school early once a week to learn “extra” math.

Q: What do you like most about being a Dragons MVP? A: I love being able to bring my family out to a Dragons game!

“I want to be an astrophysicist when i grow up!”

Q: What would you do if you won a million dollars?

A: I would use some of the money to take my family to the beach and to Disney World, and I would give the rest to Pink Ribbon Girls.

Q: What do you like to do for fun?

A: I love to read books about math and science. I also like to run and play basketball!

Q: What’s the nicest thing you’ve ever done for someone?

A: One of the teachers at my school is having a baby this summer, and I made her a quilt for the baby. She was speechless when I gave it to her!

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be an astrophysicist!

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

Jacob Russ 4TH

GRADE PARKWOOD ELEMENTARY

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Jacob Russ was selected and other fun facts about him, too!

Q: Jacob, can you tell us why your teacher, Ms. Jackson, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected for being a great citizen and being involved in the community. My time as a Boy Scout has taught me the importance of picking up trash, helping the homeless, and caring for our community.

Q: What do you like most about being a Dragons MVP? A: Spending time with my family at the Dragons game! It is always a lot of fun, and we get to share the experience together.

Q: What is your favorite hobby?

A: I love building Pinewood Derby cars. It’s a challenge to make a really fast car, but feels great when you succeed.

“ If we all work on small things to help the community, we could make a big impact.”

Q: What is the nicest think you’ve ever done for someone else?

A: While most kids will take their allowance money and spend it on toys, I save my allowances so I can donate to fundraisers like Feed the Creek, Shoes 4 the Shoeless, and more!

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: When I grow up, I want to be a baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers. If that doesn’t work out, i want to be a semi truck mechanic like my dad.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

ANNUAL REPORT 8

TRENTON ROBINSON 4TH GRADE

NEWTON ELEMENTARY

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher.

Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Trenton Robinson was selected and other fun facts about him, too!

Q: Trenton, can you tell us why your teacher, Mr. Espich, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected because I am a hard-working student, get good grades, and try to help everybody.

Q: What’s your favorite part about being a Dragons MVP? A: Going to the Dragons game and watching baseball. My family was very thankful I brought them along with me.

Q: What’s your favorite subject in school?

A: I really like math!

“I HELPED RAISE MONEY FOR A NATIONAL FOUNDATION.” Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be a baseball player for the Cincinnati Reds.

Q: What would you do if you won one million dollars?

A: I would use some of the money to go to my favorite sporting events.

I would also give some to the homeless.

Q: What is the nicest thing you’ve ever done for someone else?

A: I started a bake sale at school to raise money for a national foundation, in memory of a kid who passed away while playing baseball.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

Samantha McClain 5 TH GRADE

ANTHONY WAYNE ELEMENTARY

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher.

Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Samantha McClain was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

Q: Samantha, can you tell us why your teacher, Ms. Clark, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected because I am always helping others out and always have a smile on my face.

Q: What’s your favorite part about being a Dragons MVP? A: I’m excited to go to a Dragons game; I love baseball!

Q: What’s your favorite subject in school?

A: I really love social studies!

“I’m a hard worker, even when it’s not easy.”

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be a veterinarian because I like helping others and I love cats and dogs.

Q: What do you like to do for fun?

A: I really like to bake cookies and brownies. I always bring them to school and share them with my classmates and teachers.

Q: What is the nicest thing you’ve ever done for someone else?

A: I like drawing, and one time I made a picture of a cabin on a mountain and gave it to one of my teachers.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

SUCCESS STORIES

Talia Pasi

Drew conger 5TH GRADE

5TH GRADE

GRIGSBY INTERMEDIATE

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher.

Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Drew Conger was selected and other fun facts about him, too!

Q: Drew, can you tell us why your teacher, Ms. Johnson, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected because I am a responsible student and get all my work done in class.

Q: What’s your favorite part about being a Dragons MVP? A: Going to the Dragons game!

Baseball is really exciting.

Q: What’s your favorite subject in school?

A: I am good at math but I like Language Arts better.

“I HELP CARRY GROCERIES FOR the elderly.”

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: I want to be a professional basketball or baseball player. If that doesn’t work out, I want to be an anesthesiologist.

Q: What would you do if you won one million dollars?

A: I would give some to my family because they helped raise me. The rest, I would use to buy a house and car.

Q: What is the nicest thing you’ve ever done for someone else?

A: I help carry groceries out to the car for older people I see at the grocery store.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

SMITH ELEMENTARY

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for 4th and 5th grade teachers, helping them incent and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The use and distribution of the awards is entirely up to each teacher. Teachers use the program to reward behavior improvements, community involvement, good grades, spelling bee winners, and more. Below, you’ll learn why Talia Pasi was selected and other fun facts about her, too!

“ i am Kind, Respectful, and hard working.”

Q: Talia, can you tell us why your teacher, Ms. Knostman, selected you as an MVP? A: I was selected for my kindness and leadership in the classroom. I am a student council representative and participate in Destination Imagination. I also always show respect to my teachers, other students, my parents, and my twin sister.

Q: What do you like most about being a Dragons MVP? A: The Dragons game will be a lot of fun, but I am really looking forward to MVP Field Day!

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: When I grow up, I want to be a obstetrician. I think it would be incredible to help women in their most important moments.

Q: If you could have any super power, what would it be, and what would you do with your powers?

A: I would want the power of healing so I can help those who are sick. Then I can help even more people than I do now.

Q: What is your favorite subject in school?

A: English and Language Arts. I love reading books, and I even write my own short stories.

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of Ohio’s 529 Plan, Sinclair College, Panera Bread, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

ANNUAL REPORT 9

Player & mASCOT vISITS Dragons players and our mascot, Heater, love getting out and about in our community and seeing fans.

They were able to do so, thanks to you.

Six MVP schools were selected to receive a visit from Heater and two Dragons players for their fourth or fifth graders. Each student received a Dragons pencil and a chance to win other Dragons items.

Heater and the players made surprise entrances to high energy music. Students and teachers participated in a skit that is used during Dragons games!

Students were able to ask the players questions, ask them for autographs, and get photographs taken with them. Teachers received a follow-up CD with all the photographs taken during their classroom visit.

ANNUAL REPORT 10

PLAYER & MASCOT VISITS

ANNUAL REPORT 11

PLAYER & MASCOT VISITS

ANNUAL REPORT 12

NIGHTS AT THE BALLPARK

Each MVP received four complimentary tickets to one of our “Dragons MVP Nights.� Plus, we upgraded MVPs and their families to stadium seat tickets when we had available ticket inventory!

In 2019, there were a total of eight Dragons MVP Nights across all five counties.

As the students and their families enjoyed the game, we welcomed them with a graphic on our video board and a PA announcement. During the game, MVPs could also pick up their specially designed Dragons MVP hat.

ANNUAL REPORT 13

Nights at the Ballpark In 2019, we implemented the following on each of the eight Dragons MVP Nights at Fifth Third Field: • Customized LED boards • A-frame signage • Joey Votto welcome video • Pre-Game Parades for MVP winners and their families

CUSTOMIZED LED BOARDS

JOEY VOTTO VIDEO

A-FRAME SIGNAGE

PRE-GAME PARADES ANNUAL REPORT 14

first pitches

NATHAN REED J.E. PRASS ELEMENTARY

LYLA BANGERT HAROLD SCHNELL ELEMENTARY

There is no bigger honor as a fan at a baseball game than throwing out a ceremonial first pitch. At a Dragons game, we make that honor even more special as we welcome that person with an announcement and live video of them on our seven-story tall video board.

The honoree then gets to throw the pitch to a Dragons player. All the while, our mascot, Heater, stands behind the plate and calls every first pitch a perfect “strike.”

We selected eight lucky MVPs to throw out first pitches on the Dragons MVP Nights at Fifth Third Field.

ANNUAL REPORT 15

first pitches

CHARLIE BOONE

BROOKLYN WHITTAKER

BROOKE BOEHMER

ELIJAH CAVE

CARTER DAVIS

LOGAN COLARIC

DIXIE ELEMENTARY

OAKVIEW ELEMENTARY

PIQUA CENTRAL INTERMEDIATE ANNUAL REPORT 16

KENTON ELEMENTARY

KENWOOD ELEMENTARY

BAUER ELEMENTARY

GAME BALL DELIVERies

TOM LAWRENCE DENNIS ELEMENTARY

ALYSSA GORHAM DAYTON CHRISTIAN MIDDLE

We selected eight lucky MVPs to walk to the mound and deliver the official game ball for that night’s game. The MVPs were able to walk to the mound with a Dragons player and their name was featured on our giant HD video board to make this moment extra special.

ANNUAL REPORT 17

GAME BALL DELIVERies

KAITLYN BYRON PIQUA CENTRAL INTERMEDIATE

BROOKLYN WHITTAKER

PARKER JEWELL VALLEY ELEMENTARY

CHERISH LANDER

KENTON ELEMENTARY

WESTBROOKE VILLAGE ELEMENTARY

CODY RATERMAN

MAKENZIE GREENE

NORTHMOOR ELEMENTARY

ANNUAL REPORT 18

C.F. HOLLIDAY ELEMENTARY

UMPIRE plate MEETINGs

CLAIRE LEMASTER DENNIS ELEMENTARY

DAVID ALEXANDER MONTICELLO ELEMENTARY

We selected eight lucky MVPs to deliver the official lineup cards during the pre-game umpire Meeting at home plate featuring the two umpires, opponent’s manager, and Dragons manager, Luis Bolivar. The MVPs were able to walk to the meeting at home plate with Dragons manager, Luis Bolivar, and their name was featured on our giant HD video board to make this moment extra special.

ANNUAL REPORT 19

UMPIRE MEETINGS

CHRIS BENSON

COLLIN DAY

WESLEY HART

CHARLIE LEMON

KARSON ZIELSTORF

CARSON REYNOLDS

BROOKVILLE INTERMEDIATE

ROLLING HILLS ELEMENTARY

ARROWOOD ELEMENTARY

ANNUAL REPORT 20

DIXIE ELEMENTARY

REID PRIMARY MIDDLE

DENNIS ELEMENTARY

ENTERTAINMENT skits

BRANDON ROCHE SMITH ELEMENTARY

CLAIRE STULL NEWTON ELEMENTARY

We selected eight MVPs to participate in an entertainment skit during one of the inning breaks on the Dragons MVP nights. As the “Jr. PA Announcer” the MVPs had the opportunity to announce the first Dragons player up to bat that inning in front of a sold-out crowd each night. The MVP’s name was also featured on our giant HD video board to make this moment extra special.

ANNUAL REPORT 21

entertainment skits

BRODY SANDERS

KONNER RYLES

JACOB HALL

RACHEL CONLEY

ZACKARIAH BOEKE & NATHAN MANNING

SARAH KNIFLEY

MOUND ELEMENTARY

FAIRBORN INTERMEDIATE

PIQUA CENTRAL INTERMEDIATE

ANNUAL REPORT 22

BRANTWOOD ELEMENTARY

RUSKIN ELEMENTARY

CHANCE ELEMENTARY

mvp field day Take the best parts of a carnival, add in food and games, and throw in the entire 2019 Dayton Dragons team. Mix in free souvenirs and tons of autographs. Put it all together and you’ve got MVP Field Day at Fifth Third Field!

MVPs and their guest got a chance to meet the 2019 Dragons team, play fun carnival games, grab a ballpark snack, and take home autographs and enough memories to last a lifetime.

Sponsors also participated on this day by providing staff to work a carnival game station. Ohio’s 529 Plan, Panera Bread, and WDTN-TV & Dayton’s CW created video messages that played on the giant video board and Panera Bread even offered one of their signature items, chocolate chip cookies, as a snack for guests.

This provided sponsors with an opportunity to interact with the MVPs and their families.

ANNUAL REPORT 23

mvp field day

ANNUAL REPORT 24

MVP FIELD DAY

ANNUAL REPORT 25

mvp field day

ANNUAL REPORT 26

mvp field day

ANNUAL REPORT 27

FEEDBACK Educators, parents and students provided feedback about the Dragons MVP Program in Clark, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, and Warren counties.

ANNUAL REPORT 28

FEEDBACK

ANNUAL REPORT 29

FEEDBACK Thank you so much! My son really enjoyed the Dragons game and hasn’t stopped talking about it! He has showed everyone his baseball he got and is super proud of it.

Andrea Hart - MVP Parent My child had an AMAZING time last night at the baseball game. Not only was it an award from school, but it was his first official baseball game. My child was over the moon happy. From walking on the field in the parade, meeting players and them taking time for a picture, to being selected by the Green Team to sing on top of the dugout. I can’t express how much it warms my heart. I am just so happy.

You have no idea what this means to a single mom.

Bridget Smith - MVP Parent Thank you for everything you do with the Dragons MVP Program. I can’t begin to tell you how excited my students were to attend the baseball game in April. You are doing fantastic work!

Ryan Espich - MVP Teacher Thank you for a great time at the game. We had a blast!

Roy Gorham - MVP Parent I wanted to send a huge THANK YOU for the tickets to last night’s game. We had four awesome seats and my family had an AMAZING time! Just wanted you to know we appreciate all that you do for the MVP Program!

Stephanie Thorton - MVP Parent To everyone involved with the MVP Field Day on June 1 - THANK YOU! Such a wonderful experience! All the staff was welcoming. The players were very gracious from signing autographs to playing games with the kids. WOW! Craig & Karen McPherson - MVP Parents Once again I want to say THANK YOU for MVP Field Day - such a great event for the kids. My child had the time of his life. The players and staff taking time out of their weekend really means a lot to us.

Amy Smith - MVP Parent Thank you for the great experience last night! My son had a blast at the game!

Kathy Davis - MVP Parent MVP Field Day was super! My MVP had a great time. Memories were made. Thank you for an amazing program and all that you do for our communities.

Jamie Swan - MVP Parent Oh my goodness, The school visit to Concord Elementary was amazing and I am so glad you sent the list of sponsors as we are going to write letters. What a great program. Thanks so much for all the excitement and generosity!

Jody Weber - MVP Teacher Thank you so much! Our family had THE BEST time at the Dragons game. They are still talking about how exciting it was to be there for all of the festivities.

Christina Cave - MVP Parent ANNUAL REPORT 30

MEDIA COVERAGE The Dragons MVP Program provided many opportunities to recognize and reward students. Local media was there to catch the action.

Together with WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW, the Dragons produced tens of thousands of dollars worth of public service announcements that featured selected MVP winners and a 2019 MVP Program year recap.

Dragons players were involved in the production of these spots. They introduced the highlighted MVPs and explained the program. These public service announcements ran on WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW.

MVP Winner PSA

MVP PSA Filming (Pitcher JAMES MARINAN)

MVP program psa ANNUAL REPORT 31

DRAGONS KIDS DAY Imagine playing whiffle ball with Joey Votto, getting pitching tips from Johnny Cueto, or tossing a water balloon with Jay Bruce. All of these things have happened at Dragons Kids Day at Fifth Third Field.

As a corporate partner, you had family passes for this one-of-a-kind field day and carnival with the entire Dragons team. Your guests could interact and play with the Dragons at this free event, while getting tons of autographs, grabbing a bite to eat, and leaving with memories to last a lifetime.

ANNUAL REPORT 32

DRAGONS KIDS DAY

ANNUAL REPORT 33

dragons 20 season th

HOME RUNS

1,781

1,240

101 former

20,307

to make it to the big show

DRAGON WINS

dragons

STRIKEOUTS

360 TV GAMES BROADCASTED

OVER 2,800 RADIO BROADCASTS

1,500 OTHER EVENTS

4 MAJOR CONCERTS 3 MLB EXHIBITION GAMES 45 ENGAGEMENT

PROPOSALS OVER 280 HS BASEBALL GAMES OVER 30 COLLEGE BASEBALL GAMES

ANNUAL REPORT 34

OVER 920,000 FEET OF HOT DOGS sold OVER 20 SEASONS

OVER 500,000 gallons of soda sold OVER 20 SEASONS

ALMOST 110,000 gallons of DIPPIN’ DOTS sold over 20 SEASONs

DRAGONS 20th season The 2019 season was the 20th year of Dragons Baseball at Fifth Third Field. The season celebrated the Dragons vibrant history all season long and brought many new elements to the ballpark. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem, the Green Team, and team characters Roofman, Wink, and ATMO were all back for the 2019 season as the Dragons continued their focus on great professional baseball, affordable family fun, unsurpassed customer service, and community involvement.

The Dragons kicked-off the historic season with the “20th Season Celebration Game” on March 30 at 2:00 p.m. at Fifth Third Field. The game matched the 2019 Dragons (“Team 20”) against a team of Dragons alumni who were still playing in the Cincinnati Reds minor league system. Former Dragons coaches Ken Griffey Sr. and Tom Browning along with former Dragons players including Austin Kearns, Chris Dickerson, and Todd Coffey made special appearances, as well.

This game was planned as a tribute to the incredible memories at Fifth Third Field and to loyal Dragons fans and sponsors. Unfortunately, inclement weather delayed the game and eventually caused it’s cancellation.

However, fans and VIPs who attended enjoyed the entertainment provided to those at the ballpark.

The Dragons rich history includes an amazing collection of moments including exciting record-breaking achievements, great players, and heartfelt stories within our community. It has been a tremendous success story that we are proud to continue moving forward.

JERSEY PATCHES

SOCIAL MEDIA GRAPHICS

COMMEMORATIVE POSTER

PLAZA BANNERS ANNUAL REPORT 35

DRAGONS 20th season

DRAGONS ALUMNI JERSEYS ANNUAL REPORT 36

TEAM 20 JERSEYS

DRAGONS 20th season

CHRIS DICKERSON

AUSTIN KEARNS

TOM BROWNING AND KEN GRIFFEY SR.

TODD COFFEY

DRAGONS 20th season As part of our 20th season celebration, we gave Dragons fans the opportunity to select their all-time favorite Dayton Dragons team. Voting took place from the start of the season through June 2. Fans voted as many times as they wanted online for their favorite former Dragons players.

We revealed the winners for each position on June 22 during an in-game video break and across our social media platforms.

WE’RE GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOTE ON YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE DAYTON DRAGONS!

CF LF

rF SS

2B p

2019 ALL-TIME TEAM FAN VOTE WINNERS

3B

1B

C M

DH

LEFT FIELD - ADAM DUNN THIRD BASEMAN - EDWIN ENCARNACION SHORT STOP - BILLY HAMILTON CENTERFIELD - JOSE SIRI PITCHER - JOHNNY CUETO CATCHER - TUCKER BARNHART SECOND BASEMAN - SHED LONG RIGHT FIELD - JAY BRUCE FIRST BASEMAN - JOEY VOTTO DESIGNATED HITTER - donald lutz MANAGER - luis bolivar ANNUAL REPORT 38

CAST YOUR VOTE! Voting is open through June 2nd.

/vote Cast your ballot today by visiting DaytonDragons.com/Vote or by downloading the Dragons app!

center into his own quarterback.

“Aaron can do things you didn’t know were possible,” said Rams defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, no stranger to improbable feats himself.

Donald is the NFL’s current

DRAGONS 20th season

sacked the 41-year-old superstar while he sat comfortably behind his stellar offensive line and picked apart their defenses for 691 yards passing, completing 71.1 percent of his throws.

Donald, who set an NFL record

ate chances for their pass rush.

They gave a six-year, $135 million contract extension to Donald in late August, making their best player happy after two offseaSuper Bowl continued on C6

DAYTON DRAGONS

Dragons’ 20-year anniversary bash to include preseason alumni game

Obi Toppin was a big reason Day in the paint Tuesday. DAVID JABLON

By Marc Pendleton Staff Writer DAYTON — As manager of the Dayton Dragons, Luis Bolivar is committed to giving the Cincinnati Reds’ minor-league baseball affiliate his best effort. He’s just not sure about playing in a “Celebration Game” of Dragons’ alumni.

“I don’t know,” Bolivar said during Wednesday’s press conference to announce the exhibition game between the Dragons and alums. “I can be out in the field, but it’s different when you step to the plate.”

This season’s “Team 20” will play an alumni team comprised of former Dragons who are still active with the Reds. The preseason exhibition will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 30, at Fifth Third Field.

That’s the first of a season-long salute to the 20th anniversary of Dayton’s minor-league baseball team.

Former Dragons expected to play are outfielder Taylor Trammell, catcher Tyler Stephenson, third baseman Jonathan India, catcher Chris Okey and outfielder TJ Friedl.

All those former Dragons were first- or second-round draft picks by the Reds except Friedl. Signed as a free agent, he was named C2 the Reds’ minor league hitter of

SPORTS

Flyers ma season’s w by clippin Dragons President Robert Murphy addresses the seasonlong celebration of the 20-year history of the team Wednesday at a Fifth Third Field press conference. MARC PENDLETON / STAFF

Toppin’s offense, Cohill’s defense among reasons for 14th win.

By David Jablonski Staff Writer

Manager Luis Bolivar, a former Dragons player, might play in “Celebration Game.”

DAYTON DRAGONS

What:“Celebration Game” Who:“Team 20”vs. Dragons alums When: 2 p.m. Saturday, March 30 Where: Fifth Third Field

the year last season. More Dragons alumni will be named later.

Bolivar began an eight-year association with the Dragons as a player, then hitting coach. He is in his third season as manager. Former popular Dragons who have since retired as players also will make special appearances at Dragons home games.

The Dragons have hosted the popular Futures Game of Reds’ top minor-league prospects and even the Midwest League All-Star Game. The “Celebration Game” will be a first.

“It’s part of our organizational culture that we want to always get better,” Dragons President Robert Murphy said. “We always are

COMPLETE. IN-DEPTH. DEPENDABLE. | DAYTON DAILY NEWS | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2019

NASCAR

Dragons continued on C2

DAYTON — Guard Charlie Brown Jr. did everything well in the first 10 minutes for Saint Joseph’s on Tuesday at UD Arena except res cue basketballs stuck on the top of the backboard.

After a jump shot by Obi Top pin came to a rest there, an offi cial handed Brown a mop with a long handle, but he couldn’t reach the ball. At that point — in a scene straight out of pickup basketbal or the backyard — Hawks forward Taylor Funk threw another bas ketball at the stuck ball to knock it loose.

The Dayton Flyers were stuck themselves at that moment, trail ing 23-15 thanks mostly to a hot start by the Atlantic 10 Confer

DAYTON DRAGONS

Hunter Greene among players added for celebration game Tickets go on sale today for Dragons vs. Alumni contest.

Staff Report

Team owner Rick Hendrick congratulates Jimmie Johnson after Johnson won the Monster Energy Advance Auto Parts Clash at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday. JARED C. TILTON/GETTY IMAGES

Hendrick sends statement with opening sweep Based on Daytona success, season looks promising.

ByJenna Fryer AP Auto Racing Writer DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. — Rick Hendrick was telling the truth when he insisted this year was going to be much improved from last season, the worst in team history.

He moved personnel and split up seven-time NASCAR Cup champions Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus. He had a Navy SEAL deliver an inspirational speech to all of Hendrick Motorsports, met with all four of his teams and held luncheons and team-building events.

When he sent his teams to

Former Dragon Hunter Greene is coming back to Dayton.

Greene, a member of the Dragons last season and the Reds’ first-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, will be back in town next month to play in the Dragons’ 20th season celebration game.

Greene and other Dragons alumni still in the Reds’ minor league system will face off against the 2019 Dragons (Team 20) at 2 p.m., March 30, at Fifth Third Field. Tickets for the game go on sale at 10 a.m. today at the Dragons box office, by calling 937-228-2287 or 937-228-2323 or online at daytondragons.com. Tickets also can be purchased at any area Kroger store with a Ticketmaster outlet.

Greene and fellow pitching prospect Tony Santillan were two of 21 players announced Tuesday who are scheduled to appear for the Dragons Alumni Team.

Five other former Dragons

and second. Byron recently turned 21 and begins his second season with Knaus, who split with Johnson after 17 years.

Knaus made a statement in 2002 when he and Johnson debuted at Daytona and won the pole in their first race together. He opened this chapter of his career the same way: winning the pole with Byron in their first race together at the Daytona 500.

It was the fifth consecutive year a Hendrick car has won the pole for the Daytona 500 and it was the 700th pole for Chevrolet, the only NBA partner Hendrick has had in racing. As Hendrick last season worked through a massive personnel consolidation, Chevrolet struggled Thunder star records with its NASCAR introduc10th straight tripletion of the Camaro and won

Hunter Greene and other Dragons alumni in the Reds’ minor league system will face the 2019 Dragons (Team 20) at 2 p.m., March 30, at Fifth Third Field. MARC PENDLETON / STAFF

(Taylor Trammell, Jonathan India, Tyler Stephenson, Chris Okey and T.J. Friedl) were previously announced.

Trammell (No. 2), Greene (No. 3), India (No. 4), Santillan (No. 5) and Stephenson (No. 6) rank among the Reds’ top six prospects, according to MLB Pipeline.

Other players added Tuesday to the alumni team are catcher Hendrik Clementina; outfielders Narciso Crook, Stuart Fairchild, Michael Beltre, and Aristides Aquino; infielders Gavin LaValley, Bruce Yari, Brantley Bell, John Sansone, and Luis Gonzalez; and pitchers

Scott Moss, Aaron Fossas, Ryan Hendrix, Wyatt Strahan, Wennington Romero, Packy Naughton, John Ghyzel, Ryan Nutof and Cory Thompson.

Additional players could be added prior to the game on March 30.

ANNUAL REPORT 39

Westbrook sets another triple-double record double in OKC’s win.

scored 47 points and the the single-season record for it for granted.”

We s t b ro o k c l i n c h e d Oklahoma City Thunder beat triple-doubles with 42 in the record on an assist to the Portland Trail Blazers 2016-17.

DRAGONS ENTERTAINMENT The experience at Fifth Third Field is like none other in the Dayton region. Even before the gates open, the plaza is buzzing with activities and the air is charged with a sense of excitement as thousands of fans eagerly wait to pour through the turnstiles.

Upon entering the stadium, fans are immediately greeted by an inviting and wonderful barrage of sights, sounds, and smells. From our playful mascots and engaging videos to delicious concessions and exciting music, every fan is pulled into one of the best family entertainment experiences in the country.

Dragons games are well known for the family fun that occurs between the innings. Our mascots, Heater and Gem, along with the entertainment staff provide a terrific, entertaining experience for all fans.

More than ever before, the summer of 2019 proved that you never know what you’re going to see when you come to a Dragons game. Among the surprises fans ran across this season were princesses, vintage baseball, and Spiderman, just to name a few‌

Dragons games are well known for the family fun that occurs between the innings!

ANNUAL REPORT 40

DRAGONS ENTERTAINMENT

BARNYARD BATTLE

FIREWORKS NIGHTS

GO BANANAS

HEATER’S KNOCKOUT

VINTAGE BASEBALL CLASSIC

BABY SHARK ANNUAL REPORT 41

DRAGONS ENTERTAINMENT

ATMO

MYTHICAL MARATHON

GEM

THE SNOW SISTERS

SPIDERMAN ANNUAL REPORT 42

DISNEY PRINCESSES

VISITING ENTERTAINMENT There’s definitely no shortage of talent among the Dragons entertainment staff. But every now and then, it’s fun to bring in a national act or two. Throughout the 2019 season, we welcomed the most popular entertainment acts in the country to Fifth Third Field.

The hilarious ZOOperstars! inflatable animal characters stopped by. We also had visits from BirdZerk, the Team ZOOM Dog Act, XPogo, Jesse White Tumblers, and more this season.

The result was a championship team of entertainers.

ZOOPERSTARS

MUTTS GONE NUTS

RUSSIAN BAR TRIO

TEAM ZOOM

XPOGO

JESSE WHITE TUMBLERS

ANNUAL REPORT 43

DRAGONS IN THE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY ALL-STARS

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honored individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond the call of their civic duty to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. These amazing stories were shared in our PlayBall! game program and at games in front of a sold-out Dragons crowd.

HOMETOWN HEROES PROGRAM

The Dayton Dragons are proud to shine the spotlight on our local military through our Hometown Heroes program. This season-long tribute honors veteran causes and organizations, welcomes back deployed, and hosts families of those deployed at every game. In addition, there is an “American Celebration” night at the end of the season where the entire game is themed with military appreciation events.

VETERAN SALUTE

The Miami Valley has many amazing veterans that have served our county and protected our freedoms. New for 2019, the Veteran Salute Program highlighted five of these veterans’ stories during the course of the season. These honorees were recognized at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night.

HOME RUN FOR LIFE

The Home Run for Life Program honored five children who have recently overcome, or might still be battling, a life-threatening medical condition. These kids were able to take a symbolic home run lap around the bases during a sold-out Dragons game, while friends and family, as well as the medial team who helped them get healthy cheered them on. Dragons players also provided high fives as the honoree rounded the bases.

MVP PROGRAM

Nearly 1,200 classrooms (approx. 31,000 students) in Clark, Greene, Montgomery, Warren and Miami Counties, the Dragons MVP Program gave 4th and 5th grade teachers once-in-a-lifetime awards to be able to reward and incent students in their classroom. The teachers were the sole judge and jury for how to distribute the awards from top achievers, to students turning a corner, to students who do something amazing in their community.

ANNUAL REPORT 44

DRAGONS IN THE COMMUNITY spotlight on dayton

Another program we have each season, is Spotlight on Dayton. It provides us the opportunity to give our local acts to perform in front of the home crowd, as we turn the spotlight to the talented people that live in the Miami Valley.

celebrate dayton

Dayton is the home of incredible people who achieve incredible things each and every day. Our Celebrate Dayton program helps us recognize achievements of local groups on the field to highlight their hard work.

DAYTON CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY

FIVE POINTS CLOGGERS

DWYER SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE

BEAVERCREEK HS GIRLS SOCCER

DAYTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS RECOGNITION: VALEDICTORIANS AND SALUTATORIANS

SPECIAL OLYMPICS TORCH RUN

ANNUAL REPORT 45

DRAGONS IN THE COMMUNITY Throughout the summer, the Dragons not only made an impact on the field, but also in the community.

Our staff, mascots, and players went out into the community in a variety of ways this season. Each time, the goal was the same: to be an active member and support the communities who have shown us so much support over the years.

Whether it was visiting or speaking at an event in the community, serving as active members of business groups, hosting groups for a fun day at the park, autograph signings in the team store, or visiting with fans prior to the game, Dragons players and staff make it a point to be incredibly active in our community.

ANNUAL REPORT 46

DRAGONS IN THE COMMUNITY There is no shortage when it comes to the number of great organizations, causes and groups in the Miami Valley. As part of the fabric of this Dayton community, the Dragons have made it a priority to give back to the community.

Here are some of the great organizations that we’re involved with.

• ALS Association Central & Southern Ohio • Anna’s Angels • American Fundraising Professionals • Battle of the Business Special Olympics • Carewalk • Charity League of Shelby County • Children’s Organ Transplant Association • Cincinnati Reds Community Fund • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation- SWO • Dare 2 Defy • Dayton Dance Initiative • Dayton Ladies League • Developmental Disabilities of Clark County • Elks Club • Fisher/Nightingale Houses • For the Love of Children • Goodwill Miracle Clubhouse • Greater Dayton Premier Management • Greek Orthodox Church • Hook-A-Heart Foundation • HOPE • Humane Society of Greater Dayton • Junior Achievement • K12 Gallery and Tejas • Kiwanis • Knights of Columbus • Luv4K9s Dog Rescue • McGovern Ceili Dancers • Miami Valley Women’s Center • Oasis House • Ohio Sports Academy • Optimists • Owen’s Place Baseball • Police Wives of Ohio • Reynolds and Reynolds Employee Association • Scottish Rite Masons • Shoes 4 the Shoeless • Susan G Komen Foundation of Southwest Ohio • The Gathering • The New Path • Upward • WACO Air Museum • Warren County CVB Sports • Warriors with Wings • Williams Syndrome Association ANNUAL REPORT 47

recognition Baseball America’s 2018 Minor League Baseball Executive of the Year: In November of 2018, Robert Murphy, President of the Dayton Dragons, was selected as the 2018 Minor League Baseball Executive of the Year by Baseball America, the industry trade publication. The award is presented annually to one individual from among all executives in 16 leagues and 190 teams across Minor League Baseball. Murphy became the 17th person to earn the honor since Baseball America began the award in 2002. Previous winners have included five league presidents and ten team executives.

HALL OF FAME

ANNUAL REPORT 48

recognition Dayton Business Journal’s “Customer Service Business of the Year”: Also in November 2018, the Dayton Dragons were selected as the Miami Valley’s “Customer Service Business of the Year” by the Dayton Business Journal. Since inception, the Dragons have maintained a culture of unsurpassed customer service. The Dragons dedication to training and employing friendly and efficient support staff including ushers, ticket-takers, and more accompanied by the organization’s commitment to high-quality family entertainment, has led to high renewal rates for season ticket holders and corporate partners. The Dragons also maintain the upkeep of Fifth Third Field and have invested heavily in annual improvements to the ballpark.

Dayton Business Journal’s “Forty Under 40” Hall of Fame: In April, Robert Murphy, President of the Dayton Dragons since the organization’s inception, was selected for induction into the Dayton Business Journal “Forty Under 40” Hall of Fame. Induction in the Hall of Fame is the highest honor in the “Forty Under 40” program. Of the more than 800 “Forty Under 40” winners, only 23 have previously been inducted into the “Forty Under 40” Hall of Fame.

Torch Award presented by the Better Business Bureau: The Dayton Dragons were honored again in April with the Torch Award from the BBB. The BBB’s torch has been the symbol of guidance and enlightenment as consumers and businesses strive to interact in a trustworthy and ethical marketplace. The local Torch Award is dedicated to the legacy of great Miami Valley business pioneers, such as John Patterson, Wilbur and Orville Wright, Charles Kettering, Colonel Edward Deeds and most recently, Clay Mathile. It was through their ingenuity, leadership, generosity and mentorship to others that the Miami Valley has stood the test of time and recreated itself again and again.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU TORCH AWARD

CUSTOMER SERVICE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

ANNUAL REPORT 49

TOP PROSPECTS Over the Dragons 20 seasons in Dayton, many of the Reds top prospects have played for the Dragons on their climb to MICHAEL LYON MARIEL MIGUEL JAMES JUAN BREN the Major Leagues. Starting SIANI RICHARDSON BAUTISTA HERNANDEZ MARINAN MARTINEZ SPILLANE OF #6 RHP #24 OF #17 INF #13 RHP #7 INF #8 INF #25 with the inaugural Dragons team of 2000, which featured Adam Dunn and Austin Kearns, and continuing with blue-chippers like Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, Todd Frazier, Jesse Winker, Nick Senzel, and Hunter Greene, every Dragons team has included some future big league players. The 2019 Dragons roster is on course to continue this tradition.

Cincinnati Reds 2019 first round draft pick Nick Lodolo played for the Dragons this season, drawing wide regional interest. Lodolo, an All-American at TCU, was outstanding in both starts with the Dragons. Over the full-season, the Dragons roster included two top-level prospects from the Reds 2018 draft in center fielder Michael Siani and starting pitcher Lyon Richardson. Siani and Richardson were two of the youngest players in the league in 2019 at the age of 19. Both players made a successful transition from high school baseball to the professional ranks. Siani was the Dragons lead-off hitter in 2019 and led the club in runs scored and stolen bases while playing sensational defense in the outfield that caught the eye of baseball scouts at Fifth Third Field. Richardson, the highest-selected pitcher in the Reds 2018 draft as a second rounder, began the year as the fifth starter in the Dragons pitching rotation and showed continuous improvement to establish himself as a legitimate prospect in the Reds system.

The Dragons 2019 roster included five other players who were listed by the major prospect-rating services as top-30 prospects in the Reds system entering the season (from among more than 200 Reds minor league players). They included outfielder Mariel Bautista, starting pitcher James Marinan, third baseman Juan Martinez, first baseman Bren Spillane, and shortstop Miguel Hernandez. Meanwhile, outfielder Brian Rey enjoyed a strong year with the Dragons that will likely put him on the list going forward.

ANNUAL REPORT 50

MORE THAN BASEBALL ALZHEIMER’S WALK

BOY/GIRL SCOUT OVERNIGHTERS

BREAST CANCER WALK

COLLEGE PREP NIGHT

DRAGONS 5K

EPILEPSY WALK

FIELD TRIP PROGRAM

GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K

GREAT AMERICAN BEER TASTING

GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP

GREATER DAYTON HEART WALK

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BUILD

ANNUAL REPORT 51

MORE THAN BASEBALL HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

JOB FAIR

LBL GAME

LBL BASEBALL CAMP

LBL TAKEOVER

LBL PARADES

MOVIE NIGHT

NATIONAL ANTHEM TRYOUTS

SCHOOL ASSEMBLY PROGRAM

SUITE TASTING

THE BUDDY WALK

YOGA IN THE OUTFIELD

ANNUAL REPORT 52

DONATIONS GIFT BAG DONATIONS One of the core values of the Dayton Dragons is making an impact in the community. Each year the Dragons provide Dragons Gift Bags full of memorabilia as donations to local groups and charities for different events.

DONATED WELL OVER

40k

$

CONCESSION STANDS Various organizations throughout the Miami Valley benefited from this program by working a concession stand, and receiving a portion of the proceeds.

OVER THE LAST 20 YEARS, THIS PROGRAM HAS GIVEN BACK MORE THAN

6 MILLION

$

ANNUAL REPORT 53

dayton dragons foundation Recognizing that true ownership to any sports team lies with the citizens in the community, the Dragons are proud to have initiated many programs that directly promote, highlight, and give back to those in our community.

From the very start, the Dragons made it a point to be more involved in our community than any other sports team across the country. We knew that to succeed and to help this region grow, we would have to play an active role in the lives of our fans, and not just when they attended games.

The Dayton Dragons Foundation is central to our organization’s effort to be involved in the community. The Foundation provides necessary funding and resources to support the countless donations, charitable giving requests, in-kind donations, unique game experiences, and community-wide programs which the Dragons support every year.

Every year, we strive to do more and make a larger impact through our position as Dayton’s hometown team. For example, in 2019 we were able to provide monetary gifts and more to each of the organizations that were recognized as part of the Community All-Star Program.

ANNUAL REPORT 54

TORNADO RELIEF EFFORTS In response to the widespread damage caused by the weather emergency on the night of May 27, the Dayton Dragons accepted non-perishable food items and cash donations at Fifth Third Field for all six home games immediately following this event (May 28 through June 2).

All non-perishable food items collected at Fifth Third Field were donated to the Foodbank, Inc. Additionally, the Dragons conducted a “Pass the Bucket� at each game for fans wishing to donate money.

All proceeds were donated to the American Red Cross, Dayton Chapter.

Dragons fans rallied in support and donated over 144,069 pounds of non-perishable food items that resulted in 120,057 meals for those in need. In addition, Dragons fans donated $28,449 in cash donations for the American Red Cross.

ANNUAL REPORT 55

DAYTON STRONG Due to the tragic events in the Dayton Oregon District the morning of Sunday, August 4, the Dragons game was postponed. The following day the Dragons played a doubleheader and hosted a special “Dayton Strong” night at the ballpark to honor the nine victims, their families, and everyone else affected by this tragedy.

During both games on August 5 and during the game on August 6, the Dragons conducted a “pass the bucket” to allow fans to make cash donations to the Dayton Oregon District Tragedy Fund. Additionally, 100 percent of the proceeds from the Dragons 50/50 raffle was donated to the fund. In total, Dragons fans raised nearly $12,500 in two days.

The Dragons honored the victims in a pre-game ceremony prior to the second game of the doubleheader on August 5. Nine Dragons players each took a single white rose and laid it at home plate during the ceremony to honor the nine victims as each of their names were read. Joining the players on the field was Dayton Mayor, Nan Whaley, as well as representatives from the Dayton Police and Fire departments.

Dragons fans were provided Dayton Strong placards they held up during this on-field moment to show their support.

Dragons player wore Dayton Strong patches on their jerseys for both games on August 5. They also had a Dayton Strong sticker on their batting helmets. Dragons staffers wore a Dayton Strong bracelet and there was a Dayton Strong field stencil used, as well.

In addition, the Dayton Community Blood Bank was on the plaza at Fifth Third Field on Tuesday, August 6 to make appointments for those wishing to donate blood.

The Dragons are proud to call Dayton home as it is an incredible place to work, live, and play. It’s filled with vibrant and caring people. We stand strong with our city during this healing process.

ANNUAL REPORT 56

dayton strong

ANNUAL REPORT 57

JERSEY AUCTION

For the 2019 season, the Dragons team wore specially designed jerseys to be autographed and auctioned off following the game. These jersey auctions supported the Dayton Dragons Foundation which, in turn, supports some amazing Miami Valley causes.

June 21 was a special game where a local veteran was honored as part of the Veteran Salute Program. As part of this night, Dragons players wore a special camo jersey.

Players autographed their jersey, and for the following week proceeds were raised through an online auction to support local veteran charities.

August 10 was “American Celebration Night� where Dragons players wore special red, white and blue, patriotic jerseys.

These jerseys were auctioned off online during the following week to raise funds for local military organizations that assist our service members.

In total, these jersey auctions were able to raise nearly $12,000.

ANNUAL REPORT 58

50/50 PROGRAM The Dragons 50/50 program is now in its fourth year and has raised more than $400,000 for various charities at Dragons games. Fans can purchase tickets from sellers or a kiosk at the main gates during every Dragons home game throughout the season. Winners of the 50/50 program received half of the total pot and the other half was donated to The Dayton Dragons Foundation which supported various charitable organizations and community programming in the Miami Valley.

ANNUAL REPORT 59

FIFTH THIRD FIELD IMPROVEMENTS Over the course of 20 years, the Dragons ownership has put a tremendous amount of capital investment back into Fifth Third Field to ensure the fan experience at a Dragons game is the best in the country. Here’s a quick look at the upgrades made to Fifth Third Field before the 2019 season.

NEW DOUBLE SIZED LUXURY SUITE The Dragons combined suites 1 and 2 at Fifth Third Field into a reconstructed suite that is twice the size of a normal suite at the ballpark. The new suite accommodated larger numbers of fans for games and events.

THE DRAGONS ZONE Fifth Third Field featured the new “Dragons Zone” behind centerfield in 2019. This large, kid-friendly area featured an assortment of face painting, special activities, and carnival games including Skee Roll, Bull Ringer, Lily Pad Launcher, Pop-a-Shot, Duck Pond, and more. All games were $1.00 each with the opportunity to win a variety of prizes – big and small. Throughout the season, fans could find fun and unique activities during weekend games including sand art and wax hands.

cafe renovation and bar ledge updates The Dragons teamed up with AZEK Building Products to bring a new look to the popular Fifth Third Café for the 2019 season. An AZEK paver system was installed as a new flooring surface in the café. These pavers are made of 95% post-consumer recycled materials with the added strength of a composite and a natural appearance that resists scratches and stains. They are lightweight, colorful, and durable. The Dragons and AZEK also partnered to install new bar ledges on the first and third base side of the ballpark, as well as behind Party Deck C. ANNUAL REPORT 60

FIFTH THIRD FIELD IMPROVEMENTS RENOVATED SUITE #1

DRAGONS ZONE

CAFE RENOVATION

CUSTOMER SERVICE BOOTH

SAMUEL ADAMS PUB

TRAINING ROOM UPDATE

EMPLOYEE BREAKROOM

DUGOUT BENCHES

customer service booth The customer service booth was updated to feature new cabinets, countertops, and additional storage.

samUEL adams pub The Samuel Adams Pub featured four Samuel Adams brews in addition to multiple other beers and ciders.

Halfway through the season, the Dragons gave fans the opportunity to select which beer they wanted to see in the Pub through a multi-week social media contest. After multiple rounds and close calls, fans chose Alaskan Amber Ale to be featured in the Samuel Adams Pub.

DRAGONS TRAINING ROOM The training room at Fifth Third Field featured new flooring, cabinetry, entry door, and an overall renovated look overall.

employee breakroom Dragons employees enjoyed a revamped space for the 2019 season which included new tables, chairs, wall décor, a TV and more.

dugout benches The Dayton Dragons team, as well as the visiting team, were provided with updated benches in their dugouts. Special coach’s benches were also installed for use.

ANNUAL REPORT 61

DEVELOPMENT & ECONOMIC IMPACT The area surrounding Fifth Third Field has come a long way since the stadium ground breaking.

Of course, it all started with the $23 million stadium project, but so much has changed since our first Opening Day in April 2000. The eastern portion of Downtown Dayton, anchored by Fifth Third Field, is now home to a host of residential, shopping, dining, recreational, nightlife, and office options. There have been over $1.5 billion of projects since baseball began.

DELCO LOFTS

DAYTON METRO LIBRARY

PAM MORRIS CENTER

The Dragons have a tremendous economic impact in the Dayton Region annually. In addition to bringing well over a half million fans downtown for games during the summer, the Dragons employ 50 full time staffers and more than 700 seasonal employees. We also rely on many local vendors to help us provide an amazing Dragons game experience. The Dragons worked with the Wright State University Applied Policy Research Institute to determine the economic impact; they documented a $27.5M annual effect/impact to the region.

ANNUAL REPORT 62

ATTENDANCE Thanks to the awesome fans of the Dayton region, the Dragons continued to post record-breaking attendance throughout the 2019 season. Featuring a sold-out house every night, the Dragons saw more than 500,000 fans come through the gates at Fifth Third Field.

With so many fans coming out to enjoy a game, the Dragons were the most attended team in the Midwest League, as well as being in the top 10 of all teams in Minor League Baseball (out of 160 teams).

Beyond MiLB, the Dragons attendance was comparable to many other sports teams across the Midwest: • Cleveland Cavaliers (2018-19) | 793,337 | NBA • Indiana Pacers (2018-19) | 689,310 | NBA • Dayton Dragons (2019) | 540,000 est. | Minor League Baseball • Cleveland Browns (2018) | 526,122 | NFL • Indianapolis Colts (2018) | 473,598 | NFL • Cincinnati Bengals (2018) | 406,028 | NFL • Columbus Crew SC (2018) | 251,448 | MLS • University of Dayton Basketball (2018-19) | 207,950 | NCAA Along with being top in attendance, the Dragons all-time consecutive sell-out streak grew to an amazing 1,385 games.

ANNUAL REPORT 63

BELLFONTAINE

SIDNEY

MARYSVILLE

PIQUA

WESTERVIL

DUBLIN URBANA

GREENVILLE

TROY

HILIARD

GAHA UPPER ARLINGTON

SPRINGFIELD COLUMBUS VANDALIA ENGLEWOOD

GROVE CITY

CALYTON

RICHMOND

HUBER HEIGHTS

TROTWOOD

FAIRBORN

RIVERSIDE

BEAVERCREEK KETTERING

LE

XENIA

MIAMISBURG

CENTERVILLE

CIRCLEVILLE

FRANKLIN SPRINGBORO MIDDLETOWN

OCFORD

LEBANON WILMINGTON HAMILTON MASON

FAIRFIELD

CHILLICOTHE

WEST CHESTER

LOVELAND

NORTH COLLEGE HILL

CINCINNATI NEWPORT

COVINGTON

FORT THOMAS FLORENCE ERLANGER

INDEPENDENCE

A REGIONAL DRAW

PORTSMOUTH

Dayton Dragons ticket buyers don’t just come from Dayton; they don’t just come from Montgomery County either.

In fact, Dragons fans come from all over Southwest Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.

ANNUAL REPORT 64

LLE

ANNA

DRAGONS IN THE MEDIA The Dragons are fortunate to have a host of media outlets in the Dayton region that cover the team on a regular basis as well as keeping the public up-to-date on events at Fifth Third Field.

ANNUAL REPORT 65

volunteers

Riverside City Council is seeking of nine electors of the municipality to review the existing city charter and make recommendations for revisions. The Charter was last reviewed in 2014.

The Charter Review Commission will work with the city’s legal counsel and the clerk of council to prepare and present a report to the city council by the last meeting in May. There are typically 6-7 meetings that will occur between February and May and will be led by legal counsel. All Riverside residents registered to vote who would like to volunteer to assist with this process can go online and complete a board and commission application at www. riversideoh.gov/government/ boards-and-commissions.

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BROOKVILLE

Board, commission openings available

The City of Brookville is accepting letters of interest for the following Board seats: Park Board, Civil Service Commission and Board of Zoning and Appeals. All posi uĂ?³ŠuĂŠ0bÂ&#x2014;³ÏÏuÂŽĂĄĂŹuÂ&#x161;ÂŽĂŠ tions require that all members

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by Jan. 25.

(24+C((( 5 30,1) @ D;A : @ 5:,/@44 For more information, call Meghan Wheeler at 937-833!uŠ³Ă?Â&#x161;AÂŁĂŠ AÂŁÂŁ 4CC'@ /0@ A8 @ ,1 ,11 A, 2135.

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MONTGOMERY COUNTY

MetroParks wants OUTstanding teachers

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E a c h y e a r, F i v e R i v ers MetroParks OUTstandAward recognizes classroom educators who connect students with inspiring outdoor experiences that shape positive attitudes "áÏÏuĂ?ĂŠ uÂŽĂŹuĂ? toward nature. Find out more B>(J@ 3/31 /@ / 11@ ,)*F H @ ,: 3:1 about nomination process FFF81DAA : 1Athe :8 30 @2B=+=='+(=!2 5 30,1) @ H/ :@ ::H9;@ 9;@ : + at www.metroparks.org/outF //@ / H@ 3D: @ 5:,/@2 standing-teacher-award-nomi-AÂŁAbuĂŠ2Â&#x2014;uAĂŹĂ?u nation/.

Winning teachers will B(@ 8@ :3 @ A8 @ 3/D0 D; FFF8 5 8 30 @>4(+'>2+J2B2 receive their awards at the 5 30,1) @ , .@ ;31 @ 5:,/@=<@ /A, @ Miami Valley Leave No Child 30 1 @ 5:,/@4=<@ : .@ 3D)*@ ,E # @ H@( Inside Summit held on March 30 at the Brukner Nature Cen-" ĂŠ-AĂ˝Â&#x161;ÂŁÂ&#x161;³ŽÊAĂŹĂŠ/Â&#x161;Ă˝uĂ?XuÂŽlĂŠ !áåÂ&#x161;bĂŠ uÂŽĂŹuĂ? ter,5595HorseshoeBend,Troy. >C2'@ //3))@ E 8 @ ,1 ,11 A,

Denis Barry Jr. has a goal to visit all 88 Ohio counties.

By Jim Hannah Wright State University

When he got his driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license at age 16, Denis Barry Jr. made it his goal to visit all of Ohioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 88 counties. So far heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managed 58.

But his passion for counties, maps, highways and a general love of exploring is pointing the Wright State University senior to a career in geography.

And in October, Barry won first place for his research poster during the annual meeting of the East Lakes Division of the American Association of Geographers at Ohio Northern University. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That was a huge validation of my work,â&#x20AC;? said Barry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I went there, I did not expect to place, let alone win. Knowing that the work I spent in the last year-and-a-half working on has paid off is really rewarding.â&#x20AC;?

Barryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poster stemmed from his research into poverty in Appalachian Ohio on a county level. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My goal was to look at poverty in a way that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been done before,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when my two passions â&#x20AC;&#x201D; counties and highways â&#x20AC;&#x201D; came into play and using those metrics to somehow measure poverty.â&#x20AC;?

Barry concluded that the physical size of a county, its access to highways and poverty in surrounding counties can have a direct effect on a countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poverty level.

Barryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poster presentation also had a side benefit. He was recruited to masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree geography programs at The Ohio State University, Central Michigan University, Western Michigan University and several other schools.

Barry grew up in Mason and became interested in environmental science at Mason High School, where one of his classes tested the quality of tap water versus bottled water and also designed a rain garden.

After graduating in 2013, he attended Cincinnati State Technical and Community College majoring in environmental engineering. He then transferred to Wright State, where he was

Wright State University geography major Denis Barry Jr. won ďŹ rst place for his research poster during the annual meeting of the East Lakes Division of the American Association of Geographers. ERIN PENCE/ CONTRIBUTED

a little rattled by the large size of freshman biology â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a class of more than 200 students.

At about the same time, he switched majors to geography after learning that part of that field can involve making maps, one of his passions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I spend a lot of my free time looking at maps,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And I have a working map of Ohio in my head.â&#x20AC;?

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what led to his â&#x20AC;&#x153;healthy obsessionâ&#x20AC;? with Ohioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state highway system and visiting every Ohio county. He tries to hit several counties on each road trip.

One of his longest journeys was taking U.S. 127 in southwest Ohio north into Michigan, a trip he documented with photos.

The stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most interesting county to Barry so far is southwest Ohioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Highland County, which has two different watersheds and a spiderweb of highways that converge on Hillsboro, the county seat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To me thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just fascinating,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When U.S. routes go through a community, that means it is historically important.

But I want to figure out why.â&#x20AC;?

After graduation, Barry would like to do something in the urban planning field or find a job in geographic information systems or in academia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Geography is such a broad field,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have all of your different sub-categories of geography. You can look at physical geography, human geography, environmental geography.â&#x20AC;?

When heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not studying, Barry holds down three jobs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; an internship working in geographic information systems at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a job as a shift manager at a pizzeria and a third as a snowplow driver at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

He is also a member of the Wright State Pep Band, where he primarily plays the tuba. But he is musically gifted. He has taught himself to play virtually every musical instrument â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from the piano to the guitar to the clarinet and saxophone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The reason I know how to play so many instruments is

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Dog licenses available

!$9 0ĂŠ$- " " ĂŠ2$ <Dog licenses are now on sale until Jan. 31. Owners whose dogs have been spayed or neutered will pay a $20 license fee. Owners whose dogs have not been altered will pay $24 per license. You can purchase licenses online, by mail or in person at the Montgomery ?AbÂ&#x2014;AĂ?Ä&#x20AC;ĂŠ uĂ˝Â&#x161;ĂŠÂ&#x161;ÂŽĂŠĂ&#x2014;0Â&#x2014;AÄ&#x201E;AŠÂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x2DC;ĂŠ County Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office, 451 West Third St., Dayton or the F@,1@A* A :;@A*,;@F . 1 @ : Montgomery County Animal Ă&#x2014;0Â&#x2014;AÄ&#x201E;AŠÂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x2DC;h@ @A 1@ 1@A: 1;$3:0@*,0; /$@,1A3@ @$D//+):3F1@;D5 :* :38@ ,A*@ * :H@ E, @ :.@ A:31) @ ;* :@ 1) / @ .@ H/ 1@ : I : @ -,031@ 3D1;3D8@ ResourceCenter,6790Webster 6C 4C7@ +4B8 St., Dayton. For more informaĂ&#x2014;2Â&#x2014;uĂŠ-áXÂŁÂ&#x161;bĂ&#x2DC;h@ @; E : @ 3/ @;1 5@ :,E ;@ *30 / ;;@5 A:31;@A3@3 D5H@ @5D /, @/, : :H@ tion, go online at www.mco,1@ ,1 ,11 A,8@ $@13A @/3 //H @A* @03E, @ hio.org/dogs or call the audiF ;@&/0 @,1@ ,1 ,11 A,@ 1 @F ;@F:,AA 1@ 1 @ ,: A @ H@ 0,/,3@ ;A E I @A* @;31@3$@ torâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office at 937-225-4341.

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MIAMI VALLEY BY SEASON

Mother Nature tosses a complete-game whiteout in Dayton Let us share your local pictures.

Share your photos of life in the Miami Valley by season. Dayton Daily News reader Terrell C. Flucas of Englewood took the accompanying photo. We invite Dayton Daily News readers to submit favorite photos capturing everyday life and special moments related to the season, to be considered for publication in Neighbors; timely nature scenes, family fun, hikes in the park and more. Photos should be from within the past few months.

Please send a high-resolution image to the following address: Neighbors@coxinc.com. Important: Use the email subject line â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seasons photoâ&#x20AC;? (without the quote marks). Submissions should include the date the photo was taken, the location the photo was taken and a brief description of the photo. The photographer should include his/ her first and last name and specific town of residence for a photo credit.

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Terrell C. Flucas of Englewood took this photo outside of Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton on Jan. 12 during the ďŹ rst heavy snowfall of the year. He labeled it â&#x20AC;&#x153;Snowballs at Fifth Third Field.â&#x20AC;?

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Memorable Dragon once crushed one over scoreboard

By Marc Katz Contributing Writer

If you followed the Dayton Dragons in their early years, you remember Samone Peters, who hit balls where almost no one else has at Fifth Third Field.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to hear a lot this summer about Adam Dunn and Austin Kearns, Joey Votto and Johnny Cueto, Jay Bruce and Zack Cozart as the Dragons celebrate their 20th season.

All played substantial roles for the Dragons and later for big league teams, mainly the Reds.

But there was a cast of other players, too, some who came within a phone call of reaching the major leagues.

Others barely lasted through a season of low Class A with the Dragons.

Sometimes those other guys became the best stories.

Like Peters, who never made it out of Class A ball, but is a member of the Dragonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; all-time team to date as

This article's writer, James Hannah, works for the Wright State University Office of Communications.

"AĂŹÂ&#x161;³ŽÞÂ&#x161;luĂŠ Ă?uÂŽA ing Teacher

$ è $ 40 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2019 | DAYTON DAILY NEWS |

because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all pattern recognition,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Barry said his experience at Wright State shows him that the university focuses on the individual student. (His mother, Detrice Barry, is an associate professor in the Wright State College of Nursing and Health.) â&#x20AC;&#x153;What is most special about Wright State is that it gives everybody an opportunity to fit in somewhere,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was afraid I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to fit in here.

All of my passions are things that are not readily available.

But I think there is something for everybody here.â&#x20AC;?

Barry said the geography program encourages creativity and exploration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that is how it set me up for success,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The poster came about only because I was curious. The university encouraged me to pursue that curiosity, figure out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behind it.â&#x20AC;?

Samone Peters never advanced past â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aâ&#x20AC;? ball but sure looked promising in 2001 when he clubbed 28 home runs, which remains a Dayton Dragons record. CONTRIBUTED

selected by media members.

The year was 2001, the second season of the Dragons.

The aluminum overhead door that closed the left-cen-

BASEBALL

ANNUAL Spring REPORT training66

games begin in Florida, Arizona

terfield concession stand became pock-marked that summer from batting practice balls launched by Wily Mo Pena, Randy Ruiz, Ste-

phen Smitherman, Mike Calitre and Peters. Third baseman Edwin Encarnacion played in nine games for the Dragons and hit one, not exactly foreshadowing his prodigious future major league collection.

Those guys not only hit home runs, they pounded them. Smitherman once hit a ball on a line over left field, over the Dragonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Lair, over the stadium walkway, over the tall screen that kept most balls from hitting the street, over Monument Avenue, over the sidewalks and through a second-story window in the Requarth Lumber building, although some on that hazy night said the ball bounced first in the street.

Pena was usually good for a bomb over the black batterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye screen in center every couple of home stands or so.

Peters outdid them all.

During one batting practice, when then-Reds general manager Jim Bowden was in Dayton to see a Ken

Griffey Jr. rehab workout and some farmhands, Dragons manager Donnie Scott pointed to Peters and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This guyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got Mark McGwire power.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh, come on,â&#x20AC;? Bowden said, standing behind the batting cage.

Two pitches later, Peters launched one over the entire scoreboard, including the Dragons head, the one on the right.

He had Bowdenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention.

Peters hit 28 home runs that season, still the team record, but the 6-foot-7, 235pound first baseman didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hit much else. His final batting average was .206, and he struck out 158 times â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which, by the way, didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even lead the team. Pena struck out 177 times on his way to 26 home runs and 113 RBIs. Peters knocked in 78, including four on a grand slam in the bottom of the ninth to beat Beloit on June 10.

I went looking for Peters after that game, but couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find him. Someone said he was still in the dugout, talking with some fans.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly where I found him, and I asked for a minute of his time. He wanted to know why, and I casually and probably caustically mentioned I thought he might have been the guy who won the game with a grand slam.

He was. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Other than a closer striking out the side, this is the best,â&#x20AC;? Peters told me at the time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why I play. I want to be the one to win the game. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a better situation than that?â&#x20AC;?

It was certainly a great situation for the Dragons even though he never made it past â&#x20AC;&#x153;highâ&#x20AC;? A ball. He finished his pro career in 2006 with four straight Independent League seasons.

Yet if you saw him in 2001 with the Dragons, you saw something special, especially on a night he hit a home run.

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THANK YOU Bringing the tradition of Minor League Baseball to our legions of fans would not be possible without your dedicated support and partnership.

Thank you.

ANNUAL REPORT 67