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 Welcomes the World

• Hidden Gems: The Dayton Barbecue Company, Val’s Bakery, Wasabi Japanese Cuisine

• Local Events: 5/20 – 5/27

• Computer Love: AI Joins the Exam Room

• Money: Pilates with Power

• Sports: Martin Stays Home with Buckeyes, Wright State Baseball

— Tom

Did you know?

Dayton Welcomes the World: A City of Peace and Progress ☮️

This week, Dayton, Ohio is welcoming leaders from around the world for the 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly, taking place from May 22 to 26. These leaders are meeting to talk about how to keep people safe, build peace, and work together. Dayton is a meaningful location because it’s where the Dayton Peace Accords were signed in 1995, which helped stop a war in Bosnia. Now, 30 years later, the city is still known as a place that supports peace.

One of the big events is the Dayton Dialogue at the University of Dayton, where experts will talk about safety and peace in the Balkans. Another special event is the Concert for Peace, where the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra will perform with the Dayton Philharmonic to show how music can bring people together.

As the assembly wraps up, Dayton’s role as a host city reinforces its position as a beacon of peace and partnership. The discussions and celebrations happening here are helping to shape a safer and more connected world.

For more updates and information, visit natopa-dayton2025.org

Hidden Gems

SMOKE & HISTORY MEET AT THE DAYTON BARBECUE COMPANY 🍖

Dayton native Eric Evans turned his 2021 pop-ups into a full-time dream, opening The Dayton Barbecue Company in the former Smokin’ Bar-B-Que spot downtown. He has since teamed up with Carillon Brewing Co., to power its historic food program inside a restored 1800s brewery at 1000 Carillon Blvd.

After a soft opening in February and a grand relaunch on March 17, 2025, The Dayton Barbecue Company smokes brisket, pulled pork and ribs low and slow, pairing each plate with tangy house-made sauces that honor authentic Southern flavor.

Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM, the collaboration blends Dayton’s past with hearty eats and craft brews in a warm, rustic space. Beyond weekend meals, Evans caters special events and offers branded merch, welcoming the city to gather over smoke-kissed plates and community pride all season.

Check them out on Facebook

VAL’S BAKERY BRINGS EUROPEAN FLAIR 🥐

Val’s Bakery began as a home kitchen in 2020 and quickly became Dayton’s favorite spot for flaky treats, born from owner Paige’s wish to honor her Nana Val’s joyful recipes. Located downtown at 25 S Saint Clair St, this European-style bakery specializes in croissants and danishes that rest through a 72-hour lamination process for perfect layers.

A companion Coffee Bar by Val’s Bakery at 5707 Bigger Road, Kettering, keeps mornings smooth with espresso drinks and rotating pastry selections. Handmade from scratch with locally sourced butter and premium flours, each pastry channels Val’s “taste of magic,” turning every visit into a warm family moment. Open Wednesdays–Fridays at 7 AM and weekends through the afternoon, Val’s invites you to come and enjoy genuine European treats and friendly smiles.

Check them out on Facebook

WASABI JAPANESE CUISINE OPENS IN SPRINGBORO 🍱

After more than 20 years in kitchens across Mississippi, Kentucky, Louisiana and Indiana, Leona Li opened Wasabi Japanese Cuisine in Springboro on May 16, 2025. Located at 784 N. Main St., Springboro, OH, the restaurant took over a former China Cottage spot in the Marketplace of Settlers Walk shopping center.

Wasabi’s menu features handcrafted sushi rolls, sashimi, hibachi entrées and comforting ramen, all made with imported fish and premium ingredients for true Japanese flavor. The sleek dining room blends modern design with warm wood accents, reflecting Li’s vision of inviting neighbors into an authentic yet cozy space.

Wasabi opens daily at 11 AM—Monday through Thursday—and extends hours through Sunday, offering dine-in, carry-out and catering services. With its grand opening, Wasabi Japanese Cuisine brings a vibrant new flavor to the Dayton area, where neighbors can celebrate over beautifully crafted dishes just around the corner.

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 1000+ Daytonians?

Local Events

BARGAIN HORROR DOUBLE FEATURE

• What: Catch back-to-back scares with “Clown in a Cornfield,” a slasher set in a creepy corn maze, followed by Ryan Coogler’s vampire saga “Sinners.”

• When: May 20, 5 PM (“Clown in a Cornfield”); 7:15 PM (“Sinners”)

• Where: Englewood Cinema, 320 National Road #21, Englewood, OH 45322

• How Much: $4 Bargain Tuesday ticket

CREATURES IN SOIL AND WATER

• What: Little explorers aged 2–6 dive into the Children’s Discovery Garden at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark to uncover fascinating soil and water creatures through hands-on, weather-dependent activities.

• When: May 21, 1 PM – 2 PM

• Where: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414

• How Much: $3.00 per child; financial assistance available

OUT ON FIFTH: WEEKEND PROMENADE

• What: Weekends in the Oregon District come alive as Fifth Street transforms into an open-air stroll with live music, pop-up vendors, food trucks, and community art.

• When: Fridays 5 PM – 10 PM; Saturdays & Sundays noon – 10 PM

• Where: Fifth Street (between Patterson Boulevard & Wayne Avenue), Oregon District, Dayton, OH 45402

• How Much: Free

SNACKS & SIPS COCKTAIL PARTY

• What: Dayton Street Snacks teams up with Gather by Ghostlight for a two-hour tasting of 25+ snack creations—bring friends and sip on curated cocktails or wines from the bar

• When: May 23, 5 PM & 7:30 PM (two seatings; limited to 50 guests each)

• Where: Gather by Ghostlight, The Dayton Arcade, 37 W. Fourth St, Dayton, OH 45402

• How Much: $45 ticket (plus tax and inclusive 20% gratuity; drinks purchased separately)

DONNELL RAWLINGS LIVE AT FUNNY BONE

• What: Catch Ashy Larry himself in an uproarious stand-up special filled with sharp wit and unforgettable characters—21+ only, bring your ID.

• When: May 23, 7:30 PM

• Where: Funny Bone Comedy Club – Dayton, 88 Plum St, Beavercreek, OH 45440

• How Much: $40 per ticket

PUFF & PAINT PARTY

• What: Creative 420-friendly evening with guided painting, all art supplies provided, plus tasty snacks—bring your own herb or adult beverage for a relaxed night of art and vibes.

• When: May 23, 7 PM – 9 PM

• Where: Wellspring Healing Studio, 4325 Woodcliffe Ave, Dayton, OH 45414

• How Much: $35 (includes canvas, art supplies, and snacks)

2ND STREET MARKET OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET

• What: Weekend farmers market with 30+ vendors offering produce, artisan goods, and specialty foods.

• When: Saturdays 9 AM – 3 PM & Sundays 11 AM – 3 PM

• Where: 600 E 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402

• How Much: Free admission

BTM ANNUAL BRITISH CAR MEET

• What: Showcase of classic British cars, bikes & memorabilia; people’s-choice judging.

• When: May 24, 10 AM – 4 PM

• Where: British Transportation Museum, 321 Hopeland Street, Dayton, OH 45417

• How Much: Free

CHEESE FEST

• What: Celebration of all things cheese with tastings, live music, and fireworks.

• When: May 24, 3 PM – 10 PM

• Where: 10400 Innovation Dr, Miamisburg, OH 45342

• How Much: $10 admission

DAYTON HERITAGE DAY AT CARILLON PARK

• What: Patriotic living-history demonstrations, live bands, miniature train rides.

• When: May 25, 12 PM – 5 PM

• Where: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45409

• How Much: $14 Adult / $12 Senior / $10 Child / Free for members

CENTERVILLE MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

• What: Monument dedication & remembrance program honoring fallen service members.

• When: May 26, 9 AM – 10 AM

• Where: Stubbs Park Veterans Memorial, 255 W. Spring Valley Road, Centerville, OH 45458

• How Much: Free

‘THINK FREEDOM’ AT THE DAYTON ARCADE

• What: Film screening and discussion celebrating community resilience.

• When: May 27, 5 PM – 8 PM

• Where: Dayton Arcade, 32 S Ludlow St, Dayton, OH 45402

• How Much: Free

Computer Love

AI Joins the Exam Room: Dayton Children’s Leads with Cutting-Edge Care 🤖 

Dayton Children’s Hospital is taking a big step into the future by adding smart AI technology to its exam rooms. This new system, created with a company called Abridge, listens to conversations between doctors and patients and turns them into medical notes automatically.

These notes are added straight into the hospital’s computer system, so doctors don’t have to spend as much time typing. Instead, they can focus more on taking care of kids and talking with families. J.D. Whitlock, the hospital’s Chief Information Officer, says this kind of “ambient AI” is becoming the new normal in healthcare.

Dayton Children’s is one of the first pediatric hospitals in the country to use this kind of technology, helping lead the way to faster, more personal care.

Money

Pilates with Power: Fast-Growing Fitness Brand Picks Centerville for First Ohio Studio 🧘‍♀️

Bodybar Pilates, one of the fastest-growing fitness chains in the U.S., is bringing its signature workouts to Centerville this fall. The new studio will open in September at the Shoppes at Cornerstone IV, right next to local favorites like Chicken Salad Chick and Mi Cozumel.

The studio will offer Reformer Pilates classes focused on strength, flexibility, and toning. Local owner Steffeny Hanley chose the spot for its central location and nearby park. Bodybar hopes to bring a fresh fitness option to the community. Doors open this fall.

Real Estate 🏠

Sports

MARTIN STAYS HOME WITH BUCKEYES 🏀

Springboro standout Brynleigh “Bryn” Martin reopened her recruitment on May 12 and committed to Ohio State on May 19, joining a Buckeye program that has won at least 25 games each of the last four seasons and reached the 2023 Elite Eight. The 6-foot-1 guard earned Ohio Division I Player of the Year honors after averaging 23 points, 5.1 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game as a senior.

Martin was also a three-time GWOC Player of the Year, two-time Southwest District Player of the Year and a McDonald’s All-America nominee. She finished third in voting for 2025 Ohio Ms. Basketball, underscoring her impact on Dayton’s elite high school scene. As a top-70 national recruit and Ohio’s No. 2 prospect, Martin brings hometown grit and elite scoring prowess to Columbus next season 

WRIGHT STATE BASEBALL THURSDAY CLINCHER

The Wright State Raiders host the Horizon League Tournament opener—versus the lowest remaining seed—offering an early taste of postseason baseball.

When: May 22, 11:00 AM (ESPN+)
Where: Nischwitz Stadium, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy., Dayton
How Much: Free general admission; televised on ESPN+