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💎 SALAR: DINE AROUND THE WORLD IN DOWNTOWN DAYTON

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’s Mayor Hits the Road

  • Hidden Gems: Salar Restaurant & Lounge, Old Scratch Pizza, Lily’s Dayton

  • Local Events: 6/10 – 6/17

  • Computer Love: Wright State Powers Up Future Innovators

  • Money: Ohio Pumps $52M into Transit

  • Sports: Kayla Harrison Grabs UFC Gold, Logan Wilson Celebrity Softball Game, Galaxies FC Summer 7V7 League

— Tom

Did you know?

Dayton’s Mayor Hits the Road: Citywide “Conversation Tours” Bring Leaders and Neighbors Together đŸ—Łïž

Source: cityofdayton.gov

Dayton’s mayor, Jeffrey Mims, is touring the city this summer, hosting five informal gatherings called Mayor’s Conversation Tours. Each stop gives residents a chance to meet the mayor face to face, ask questions, and share ideas from youth to seniors, newcomers to long time Daytonians.

Instead of staying in City Hall, Mayor Mims is heading into neighborhoods from Patterson Park to Downtown to learn what matters most. These tours highlight local investments and give everyday people a platform to be heard.

2025 schedule (all events run 6–8 p.m.):

  • June 10 – Residence Park (Victory Project, 4519 Oakridge Dr.)

  • June 17 – Huffman (St. Paul United Methodist Church, 101 Huffman Ave.)

  • June 24 – Hillview (E.J. Brown School, 31 Willowwood Dr.)

  • July 8 – Downtown (Dayton Metro Library, 215 E. Third St.)

All events are free and open to the public. Just show up between 6 and 8 p.m. You can attend any neighborhood you like no RSVP needed. Bring your questions, stories, or ideas. Mayor Mims and his team want to hear what’s on your mind.

Hidden Gems

SALAR: DINE AROUND THE WORLD IN DOWNTOWN DAYTON 🍗 

Source: salarrestaurant.com

Salar Restaurant & Lounge, located at 400 E. 5th St. in Dayton’s vibrant Oregon District, offers a world-fusion culinary adventure blending Peruvian, French, Mediterranean—and even Nikkei—flavors under the expert touch of Chef Margot Blondet. With dining priced under $30 and an inviting smart-casual vibe, guests enjoy two patios, two full bars, and unique spaces like a pisco bar, bubble lounge, and chef’s table peeking into the kitchen.

Weekend brunch starts at 11 AM, dinner and cocktail service begin at 4 PM daily, plus occasional live entertainment and catering options. Their chef’s table includes a $25 booking fee that supports Kuychi Runa, a nonprofit preserving Andean culture. For locals craving elevated, globally inspired dining with a neighborhood soul, Salar brings fresh flavor to Dayton’s dining scene.

Check them out on Facebook

OLD SCRATCH PIZZA: DAYTON’S ARTISAN PIES 🍕 

Source: oldscratchpizza.com

Old Scratch Pizza transformed a 1960s auto parts store into a bustling Neapolitan pizza and beer hall when it opened in 2016 at 812 S. Patterson Blvd. in midtown Dayton. Co-founders Eric and Stephanie Soller built the 200-seat dining room around brick ovens that crank out wood-fired pies in minutes, pairing them with a rotating lineup of regional craft beers. 

The menu features classic red and white pizzas, vegan options, shareable salads and Italian sandwiches crafted with house-made pickles and chips. Guests can sip Old Scratch Originals like the Old Scratch Fashioned or seasonal honey-berry lemonade alongside ever-changing wine and beer taps. 

Beyond Dayton’s original location, the concept has grown to Centerville, Beavercreek and Troy, spreading artisan pies across the region. Whether you’re craving a floppy, authentic crust or a killer cocktail, Old Scratch delivers big-city flavors with hometown warmth.

Check them out on Facebook

LILY’S DAYTON SERVES TIKI-STYLE FLAIR đŸ„©

Source: lilysdayton.com

Since opening its doors in Dayton’s Oregon District, Lily’s Dayton at 329 E. 5th St. has welcomed neighbors with a lush, tropical atmosphere and tiki-inspired craft cocktails. Under the Mendenhall family’s guidance, Executive Chef Don Warfe blends Southern favorites—like fried chicken and shrimp & grits—with global twists, from bao-bun sliders to curry-spiced potato croquettes.

Three outdoor patios and botanicals-filled interiors invite guests to escape daily life, while a full bar pours creative sips such as the “Bangkok Mule” alongside curated wines and local beers. Open Wednesday–Sunday, Lily’s also supports community connection through inclusive service and a menu designed for sharing. Whether you’re gathering friends for Happy Hour or brunching under the patio lights, Lily’s Dayton offers a playful, welcoming taste of the tropics in the heart of our city. 

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

CENTRAL STATE MOBILE MARKET

  • What: An open-air food distribution in partnership with Dayton Foodbank and United Way, offering free groceries—no income proof needed—every second Tuesday.

  • When: June 10, 1 PM – 2 PM

  • Where: Norman E. Ward Sr. Center Parking Lot, Central State University, 1400 Brush Row Rd, Wilberforce

  • How Much: Free

TRIVIA TUESDAY AT CURIO

  • What: Lunchtime trivia fun on the Square—bring your team or play solo!

  • When: June 10, 12 PM – 1 PM

  • Where: Courthouse Square, Third & Main Sts, Dayton, OH 45402

  • How Much: Free

FREE SUMMER YOGA

  • What: Guided yoga session under the historic rotunda, welcoming all levels.

  • When: June 11, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

  • Where: Dayton Arcade, 35 W 4th St, Dayton, OH 45402

  • How Much: Free

BECOMING BANKABLE

  • What: Learn exactly what banks look for when funding businesses—from credit benchmarks to common funding pitfalls—in this practical, no-fluff webinar.

  • When: June 12, 6 PM – 7:30 PM

  • Where: Online (Hosted by Ohio SBDC at Miami Valley)

  • How Much: Free

ST. CHRISTOPHER SUMMER FESTIVAL

  • What: Family-friendly festival with carnival rides, games (including bingo and gambling booths), live music, food vendors, and community activities over multiple days.

  • When: June 13 – June 15

  • Where: St. Christopher Catholic Church Grounds, 435 E National Road, Vandalia

  • How Much: Free entry; individual ride/game tickets or wristbands may apply (check festival details)

2025 GMB JUNE CHAMPIONSHIPS (YOUTH BASEBALL)

  • What: Multi-day youth baseball tournament for ages 14U through 18U at various divisions, featuring at least 3 games per team and community sports engagement.

  • When: June 13 – June 15 (opening games on June 13)

  • Where: Action Sports Center, 1001 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Dayton

  • How Much: Daily gate fee applies for spectators

PEACH TRUCK LOCAL PICKUP AT MALL

  • What: Grab a box of tree-ripened Georgia peaches straight from the orchard—fresh, juicy, and perfect for summer snacking.

  • When: June 14, 4 PM – 5:30 PM

  • Where: Dayton Mall, 2700 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd, Dayton

  • How Much: $38 (12 lb box) – $55 (25 lb box)

FOR DAYTON BY DAYTON MUSIC FEST

  • What: A free, all-ages outdoor music festival spotlighting Dayton’s own talent across hip‑hop, rock, folk, funk—and more, with local food trucks and lawn‐side vibes.

  • When: June 14, 5 PM – 9 PM

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

  • How Much: Free

ART BALL: BLACK-TIE AT DAI

  • What: Dayton’s premier black‐tie gala returns with cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, seated dinner, live music, dancing, specialty martini & bourbon bars, and exclusive museum access under Jane Reece–inspired dĂ©cor.

  • When: June 14, 7 PM (VIP Reception 6 PM)

  • Where: Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton

  • How Much:

DAYTON FIVE SEASONS PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

  • What: Test your skills in Ohio Social Sports’ two-day, competitive 7v7 pickleball tournament with round-robin play and award-winning indoor courts.

  • When: June 14–15

  • Where: Five Seasons Sports Club, 4242 Clyo Road, Dayton

  • How Much: $50 registration fee per player; registration closes June 11

OCEANS OF FUN AT DAYTON SEAFOOD FEST

  • What: Dive into a seafood lover’s paradise at this vibrant food truck rally featuring shrimp, lobster, crab, and more under one roof.

  • When: June 15, 11 AM – 6 PM

  • Where: The Brightside Music & Events Center, 905 E. 3rd St, Dayton

  • How Much: Free entry

FATHER’S DAY CONCERT: DAYTON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

  • What: A special Father’s Day evening featuring concert band followed by Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra performance at Carillon Historical Park, celebrating music and community.

  • When: June 15, 6 PM – 8 PM (Concert Band at 6 PM; Philharmonic at 7 PM)

  • Where: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Boulevard, Dayton

  • How Much: Free admission; bring lawn chairs or blankets for outdoor seating

BEAVERCREEK'S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

  • What: Sunday evenings come alive with free live music and local food trucks under the stars—bring a lawn chair and enjoy seven weeks of family-friendly performances.

  • When: June 15 (Sundays, 7 PM – 8 PM)

  • Where: Dominick Lofino Park Amphitheatre, 640 Grange Hall Road, Beavercreek

  • How Much: Free

NEXT CHAPTER BOOK CLUB

  • What: Weekly book club for adults with disabilities—attend in-person or virtually.

  • When: June 16, 6 PM – 7 PM

  • Where: Wright Memorial Public Library, 1776 Far Hills Ave, Oakwood

  • How Much: Free

JUNETEENTH SPOKEN WORD EVENING

  • What: A night of rhythm, truth, and liberation featuring poets MoPoetry Phillips, Norman Riggs, and ASlate inspiring community reflection.

  • When: June 16, 6:30 PM – 8 PM

  • Where: Wilmington-Stroop Branch Library, 3980 Wilmington Pike, Kettering

  • How Much: Free

MAYOR’S CONVERSATION TOUR: HUFFMAN

  • What: Neighborhood dialogue with the mayor—share feedback & ideas.

  • When: June 17, 6 PM – 8 PM

  • Where: St. Paul United Methodist Church, 101 Huffman Ave, Dayton

  • How Much: Free

Computer Love

Wright State Powers Up Future Innovators with Hands-On AI Summer Camp đŸ€–

Wright State University is launching its first-ever AI Summer Camp on June 26–27 for high schoolers and incoming college students. Held at Rike Hall and the Student Success Center, the two-day camp will introduce up to 60 students to the world of artificial intelligence through hands-on projects like writing with generative AI, building basic models, and exploring ethical issues.

Sponsored by the AES Ohio Foundation, the camp is part of Wright State’s bigger push to expand AI education and prepare students for high-demand fields like healthcare, finance, and defense. Registration is open until June 13.

Click here for more info

Money

Ohio Pumps $52M into Transit, Dayton Lands a Major Share 🚍

Ohio is giving a big boost to public transit awarding $52 million in state grants to help local agencies upgrade buses, improve tech, and keep things running smoothly. Six agencies in the Dayton area will share over $4 million, with the Greater Dayton RTA receiving the largest piece at $2.2 million.

Others like Springfield SCAT, Butler County RTA, and Greene County Transit also received key funding. The goal? More reliable service, fewer breakdowns, and better rides for workers, students, and seniors.

  • Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority gets $2.2 million, almost the same as last year

  • Springfield City Area Transit (SCAT) receives $434,000 (a small drop)

  • Butler County RTA gets $522,000 a rise from last year

  • Middletown Transit Services keeps $421,000

  • Greene County Transit Board improves to $401,000

  • Warren County Commissioners receive $284,000

Real Estate 🏠

Sports

FLYER-ALUM HARRISON GRABS UFC GOLD đŸ’Ș 

Middletown’s own Kayla Harrison claimed the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship on June 7, submitting Julianna Peña in the final seconds of Round 2 at UFC 316 in Newark. The 2012 and 2016 Olympic judo gold medalist improved her MMA record to 19–1, showcasing a flawless kimura finish that underscored her elite grappling.

Harrison became the first former UD Flyer in 48 years to reach a UFC title bout, cementing her journey from campus standout to MMA champion. Along the way, she earned First Team All-American honors, Atlantic 10 Player of the Year, and AP National College Player of the Year at University of Dayton. President Trump even greeted her with a congratulatory front-row kiss after the win. Next on her horizon is a superfight against Amanda Nunes, ensuring Harrison’s reign will be a highlight of MMA’s summer slate.

DAYTON CELEBS SWING FOR YOUTH SPORTS

On June 11, 2025, Day Air Ballpark hosts the third annual Logan Wilson Celebrity Softball Game, where Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson leads teammates and stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for a home run derby at 6 PM and a game at 7 PM.

Gates open at 5 PM with a pre-event plaza party at 4 PM, featuring meet-and-greets and premium “Ultimate Fan” experiences like honorary coaching and team photos. Proceeds benefit the Brooks Joshua Anderson Foundation, supporting local youth leagues and SIDS research. Tickets start at $10.20 and luxury suites are available, making this fun, family-friendly event a highlight of Dayton’s community calendar.

GALAXIES FC SUMMER 7V7 LEAGUE

  • What: High school boys’ and girls’ teams compete in a fast-paced, seven-aside soccer league to sharpen skills and teamwork all summer.

  • When: June 10 – July 22

  • Where: Multiple Dayton area venues (check schedule for details)

  • How Much: Open registration; team fees apply

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Thanks for reading The Gem! Until next Tuesday
💎 

—Tom, Publisher

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