A-1 Trophy

Abner Orick was very much a part of the community of Belmont.  Son of a coal miner, he was born in Harlan County, Kentucky.  The family moved to Dayton when his father got a job at Frigidaire some time after Abner completed the sixth grade.  He had always played sports during his school years and continued when he was employed at NCR.  Later when stationed in Germany, he helped run a sporting program and had to order trophies.  Finding none available locally, he ordered them from the USA and began receiving multiple catalogues.  His involvement with trophies continued when he returned home and was asked to help with the varsity B program at the High School.  This was the beginning of what is now A-1 Trophies, as we know it today.  He got a book from the library and ordered an engraving machine and also 500 of their best trophies.  Using his motor home, he would check with bowling alleys for orders and then deliver them as soon as they were ready.

Abner became involved in politics.  He would tell you he doesn't consider himself a politician--he is a problem-solver.  He ran for office to have a voices to get things done.  He served as a Dayton City Commissioner for 17 years. Abner turned the business over to his eldest son Mark with an understanding that he could still come into his "office."