Happy Tuesday Daytonians!

Thanks for spending another week with The Gem, where good times aren’t hard to find. Let’s take a look at what we’ll be covering in this edition…

• Did You Know: Dayton Airport Secured $79 Million

• Hidden Gems: Manna Uptown, Vegan It IZ, Oregon Express

• Local Events: 7/22 – 7/29

• Computer Love: Tech Innovators Unite: A Night of Networking and Future Trends

• Money: Spintech’s $7M Bet on Miamisburg

• Sports: Local DL Earns Buckeyes Scholarship, Flyer Helps Lead France To U20 Bronze, Dragons-Cubs

— Tom

Did you know?

Dayton Airport Secured $79 Million to Boost Aerospace Jobs and Expansion ✈️

Dayton International Airport is set for a major transformation thanks to a historic $79 million funding approval by the Ohio Controlling Board. The investment will expand the airport's infrastructure, including the development of a new apron and the upgrade of existing ones, paving the way for more hangars and attracting new aerospace and defense businesses to the area. This project spans 150 acres across Dayton and surrounding areas and aims to solidify Dayton's position as a leader in the aerospace industry.

State officials, including Representatives Phil Plummer and Tom Young, emphasized that this expansion will support high-tech companies like Sierra Nevada Corporation, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. The project is a crucial step toward turning Dayton into a hub for innovation and growth in the aerospace sector.

Hidden Gems

CENTERVILLE’S UPTOWN GEM – A TASTE OF EUROPE & PERU 🍤

Located at 61 W Franklin St. in Centerville’s historic Uptown neighborhood, Manna Uptown opened in May 2023 inside a restored Victorian building that now houses a sleek cocktail bar and dining room adorned with carvings and chandeliers sourced from the owner’s travels. Led by Executive Chef Margot Blondet, Manna’s menu fuses European and South American flavors with dishes such as Aji Panca Cauliflower Steak, Peruvian Pesto Spaghetti, Wild Caught Halibut, and Ponzu Salmon.

Guests can savor a tasting menu during special five-course events or enjoy all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch buffets featuring omelette and waffle stations or themed Chef’s Table events that spotlight global cuisines. Happy hour runs daily from 2–6 PM with craft cocktails and wine specials. In June 2025, Centerville awarded Manna Uptown the Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Rehabilitation for its thoughtful preservation of Uptown’s historic architecture. Reserve online or walk in to explore this Uptown gem.

Check them out on Facebook

KIOSK-STYLE VEGAN DELIGHTS ON SECOND STREET 🍔

Vegan It IZ Eats operates from a vibrant kiosk inside Dayton’s Second Street Market at 600 E. 2nd St., open Friday through Sunday 11 AM–3 PM (9 AM Sat.). Owner Rhea M. Adkins, a vegan holistic nutritionist, crafts rotating menus praised for their healthy, flavorful comfort food. Signature Jackfruit Tacos and Black Bean Mushroom Burgers arrive with house chips, while weekend-only Brunch Tacos add a playful twist.

Diners also savor Walnut Mushroom Tacos and fresh Cobb Salads made from locally sourced produce. Guests rave that even non-vegans adore the menu’s creativity and taste. Fresh juices and shakes, whipped up on-site, balance each meal with vibrant flavor. Through grab-and-go service, private dining options, and other services like cooking classes, Vegan It IZ Eats energizes Dayton’s community with plant-based nutrition.

Check them out on Facebook

PIZZA & PUB VIBES IN OREGON DISTRICT 🍕

At 336 E. 5th, Oregon Express has anchored the corner of E. Fifth and Brown Streets in Dayton’s historic Oregon District since 1976. This independently owned pizza tavern serves wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and pub classics alongside vegetarian and gluten-free options. The menu’s appetizers include Bavarian Pretzel Sticks, Boneless Wings, and Queso & Chips. Specialty pizzas range from the hearty O.E. Special to the veggie-packed Garden Special.

Happy hour Monday–Friday from 4–7 PM offers half-off apps and $4 cocktail specials like Jameson and Sun Cruisers. Weekly trivia nights, live music events, and themed dinners bring neighbors together in this renovated brick tavern. Guests grab a River Run IPA or a Rosy Conductor cocktail at the bar before settling into reclaimed-wood communal tables. Open daily, Oregon Express is Dayton’s go-to for casual dining and late-night eats.

Check them out on Facebook

THE BULLETIN 📌

Want to spread the good word about your business, a project you’re working on, a hire, or just want to say hi to 2000+ Daytonians?

Local Events

BUTLER COUNTY FAIR

• What: Experience a time-honored tradition at the Butler County Fair, celebrating its 174th year. Enjoy carnival rides, live entertainment, livestock shows, and classic fair food. It's a perfect outing for families looking to enjoy a day of fun and community spirit.

• When: July 22 – 26

• Where: Butler County Fairgrounds, 1715 Fairgrove Ave, Hamilton

• How Much: Admission varies; check the official website for details. 

FROM THE INSIDE OUT: A HEALING EXHIBIT FOR ALL

• What: Explore "From the Inside Out: A Healing Exhibit for All," focusing on the BIPOC community. The exhibit aims to foster healing and understanding through art.

• When: July 22, 6 PM

• Where: Dayton Metro Library, Main Library, 215 E. Third St., Dayton

• How Much: Free 

FAMILY PROGRAM: WATERCOLOR SALT ART

• What: Create vibrant salt‑resist watercolor paintings in this hands‑on family workshop celebrating the library’s “Color Our World” summer theme.

• When: July 23, 3 PM – 4 PM

• Where: Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E Third St, Dayton

• How Much: Free; all ages

CECE WINANS: MORE THAN THIS TOUR

• What: Grammy-winning gospel icon CeCe Winans brings her “More Than This” Tour to Fraze Pavilion for an evening of soulful celebration.

• When: July 23, 8 PM

• Where: Fraze Pavilion, 695 Lincoln Park Boulevard, Kettering

• How Much: $50 – 55

BROOKVILLE COMMUNITY PICNIC

• What: Family-friendly 74th Annual Brookville Community Picnic brings rides, games, live music, crafts, and local eats at Golden Gate Park—plus tractor displays and fireworks.

• When: July 24, 5 – 8 PM; July 25, Noon – 8 PM; July 26, 8 AM – 10 PM

• Where: Golden Gate Park, 545 Upper Lewisburg Salem Road, Brookville

• How Much: Free

CULTURE & COMMUNITY GATHERINGS

• What: Join a monthly art-focused discussion honoring Native American heritage, exploring shared experiences, and shaping the community we envision.

• When: July 24, 5:30 PM – 7 PM

• Where: Main Library, 215 E. Third St., Dayton

• How Much: Free

MOBILE BANKING MADE EASY

• What: Learn to navigate mobile banking securely, compare its pros and cons versus branch services, and get your questions answered by experts.

• When: July 25, 10 AM – 11:30 AM

• Where: Wilmington-Stroop Branch Community Room, 3980 Wilmington Pike, Kettering

• How Much: Free

DAYTON CELTIC FESTIVAL

• What: Dive into three days of free Celtic music, dance, workshops, and a bustling marketplace at Downtown Dayton’s Riverscape MetroPark.

• When: July 25, 5:30 PM – 11 PM; July 26, 11:30 AM – 11 PM; July 27, 10 AM – 6 PM

• Where: Riverscape MetroPark, 111 E. Monument Avenue, Dayton

• How Much: Free

GOSPEL FEST WITH JAMES HALL & MORE

• What: Celebrate Dayton’s first Gospel Fest in the Amplified Series featuring soulful sets by Johnetta Moore, Ashling Cole, and James Hall Worship & Praise.

• When: July 26, 5:30 PM – 9 PM

• Where: Levitt Pavilion, 134 South Main St., Dayton

• How Much: Free

TREY SONGZ LIVE UNDER THE STARS

• What: R&B superstar Trey Songz returns with an energetic show packed with chart-topping hits and magnetic stage flair.

• When: July 26, 8 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)

• Where: Fraze Pavilion, 695 Lincoln Park Boulevard, Kettering

• How Much: $45 – $65 (plus $15 seat-back rental; tickets increase $5 day of show)

GREENE COUNTY FAIR

• What: Celebrate community spirit with carnival rides, livestock exhibits, live music, 4-H showcases, and themed discount days at Xenia’s historic fairgrounds.

• When: July 27 – August 2

• Where: Greene County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, 120 Fairground Road, Xenia

• How Much: $10 daily gate admission (5 and under free)

STOP 741 ROCKS WRIGHT STATION

• What: Dive into high-energy rock and blues as Stop 741 brings gritty riffs and soulful grooves to Springboro’s open-air venue.

• When: July 27, 7 PM

• Where: Wright Station, St. Rts. 741 & 73, Springboro

• How Much: Free

TEEN ARCHITECTURE CAMP

• What: Join Hatch Architects to design and build a permanent library feature—sketch, model, nail, drill, paint, and celebrate your creation.

• When: July 28, 1 PM – 3:45 PM

• Where: Northwest Branch, 2410 Philadelphia Dr, Dayton

• How Much: Free

FLATWATER FLOAT KAYAK ADVENTURE

• What: Learn basic kayak strokes and explore the calm waters at your own pace—gear provided, perfect for ages 14+.

• When: July 28, 5:30 PM – 7 PM

• Where: Possum Creek MetroPark, 4790 Frytown Road, Dayton

• How Much: $12

MASTER THE FLY CAST

• What: Learn three essential fly-fishing casts on land and water under expert guidance; rods, lines, and gear provided.

• When: July 29, 6 PM – 8 PM

• Where: Possum Creek MetroPark, 4790 Frytown Road, Dayton

• How Much: $10

SOARING SOUNDS DRUM CORPS SPECTACLE

• What: Experience DCI’s world-class drum corps performing precision shows at Centerville High School Stadium, plus food trucks and live pageantry.

• When: July 29, 6 PM – 10 PM

• Where: Centerville High School Stadium, 500 East Franklin Street, Centerville

• How Much: $43 – $48

Computer Love

Tech Innovators Unite: A Night of Networking and Future Trends at Technology First 🤖

Today July 22, professionals will gather at Eudora Brewing in Dayton, Ohio, for the Technology First Summer Networking event. From 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, tech enthusiasts and industry experts will connect over discussions on AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

This event provides valuable opportunities to network, share insights, and build relationships within the tech community. Attendees will leave with new collaborations in mind and a deeper understanding of emerging technologies.

Money

Spintech’s $7M Bet on Miamisburg: Creating Jobs and Strengthening U.S. Defense 💰

Spintech Holdings is making a big leap with a $7 million investment in a new aerospace manufacturing facility in Miamisburg, Ohio. The 53,000 square foot facility will focus on producing parts for missile programs, strengthening the company’s presence in the aerospace sector. This move follows their 2021 relocation from Xenia, and it’s expected to create 50 jobs initially, with plans to expand to 150 employees in the next two years.

The City of Miamisburg is supporting the expansion with a three-year, 40% job creation tax credit valued at $185,000, reflecting the importance of this investment. CEO Tom Margraf emphasized that the incentives will help Spintech grow significantly, contributing to U.S. defense efforts. With a strong local partnership and commitment to innovation, Spintech is set to play a key role in supporting the nation’s warfighters while boosting the local economy.

Real Estate 🏠

Home Services 👨‍🔧

Sports

LOCAL DL EARNS BUCKEYES SCHOLARSHIP 🏈

Defensive end Jameer Whyce received an early scholarship offer from Ohio State, making him the only 2028 prospect in Ohio to earn a Buckeyes nod so far. His freshman campaign at Trotwood-Madison featured 26 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and five tackles for loss, showcasing his disruptive edge play.

Meanwhile, his brother JaMarcus Whyce leads Trotwood-Madison’s 2025 senior class as a top-rated recruit alongside peers like Villa Angela-St. Joseph RB Bo Jackson and Hamilton CB Noah King, underscoring the Miami Valley’s deep football talent

FLYER HELPS LEAD FRANCE TO U20 BRONZE

Amaël L’Etang starred in France’s bronze-medal win at the FIBA U20 EuroBasket championships in Greece (July 12–20). The 7-foot-1 Dayton Flyers forward averaged 7.3 points and 6.0 rebounds over six games, shooting 45% from both two- and three-point range, then poured in 14 points, six boards, and four assists in just 21 minutes as France beat Serbia 73–62 for third place.

Committed to Dayton in June 2024, L’Etang earned Atlantic 10 All-Rookie honors after averaging 7.2 points and 4.4 rebounds last season. France’s podium finish underscores Dayton’s growing influence on the global basketball stage.

DRAGONS-CUBS: SIX NIGHTS, ONE MATINEE

• What: South Bend visits Day Air Ballpark for a six-game showdown under summer lights, capped by a Sunday 1:05 PM matinee.

• When: July 22–26, 7:05 PM; July 27, 1:05 PM.

• Where: Day Air Ballpark, 220 N Patterson Blvd, Dayton

• How Much: Tickets start around $12