This past year, our Ready to Read program, in partnership with Omega CDC, hosted a series of Literacy Nights for families living in the Hope Zone area of Dayton. These evening events created special moments for many, but we also heard from families who needed more flexible options. So we asked, What would an ideal weekend event look like? Answer: An afternoon at a Dayton Dragons game.
We planned for everything: cheerful volunteers greeted each family with cinch bags containing a new book and picnic blanket. Everyone received $10 in Dragons Bucks to spend at the concession stands. There were even extra t-shirts to take home.And of course, no Dragons event is complete without a visit from mascots Gem and Heater—plus a surprise appearance by Power Panda, who joined in for fun and selfies.It was shaping up to be a perfect day for baseball. Until the skies opened up. In true Dayton fashion, a heavy thunderstorm rolled in quickly, and the game was officially called off. Families ran for cover—but not before making memories, reading books on the grass, grabbing snacks, and soaking up the festive spirit of community (and, later, the rain!). Despite leaving the park a little soggy, many families shared their joy about the day and asked when we’d be back. The good news? We’ve already set a rain date: Saturday, August 24th. Please withhold from performing any rain dances until the last out is called!Â
