Take a look at our June newsletter!
THE
7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM | JUNE 2025 ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc. HARMONY AT HOME MUSIC IS OUR FAMILY’S LOVE LANGUAGE BRUSH - UP
If you had told 10-year-old me that I’d miss playing the viola one day, I would’ve laughed out loud. Back then, I was the kid roped into the orchestra because my mom, who was also the orchestra teacher, needed more violists. It wasn’t exactly a passion project. But now, on World Day of Music (June 21), I realize somewhere along the line, something changed. I look back and think … maybe it’s time to dust it off and start playing again. That early start in music opened doors to so many other instruments and experiences. I played piano, started singing, and excelled in guitar (a rebellious move from my mom’s perspective). My relationship with music shifted from something obligatory to something deeply personal — something I loved. In college, music turned into a connection. It was the language my wife and I spoke while falling in love. We wrote songs together. We played shows. We even recorded a demo album using extra student loan money — an audacious (and wildly fun) decision that still makes us smile. She sang. I strummed and harmonized. And somehow, between dental school textbooks and late-night recording sessions, we found our rhythm — not just in music, but in life.
Now, years later, music still echoes through our home. Our kids are all involved in some way — they play piano, guitar, and violin, and they all love to sing. It’s a wild, wonderful symphony of talent, energy, and noise. Sometimes, it’s rehearsals for musical theater; other times, it’s an impromptu living room jam session. We even performed together as a family at a fall festival once. And for those who missed our holiday newsletter, we go caroling every Christmas because music is just a part of who we are. Even on tough days, when the mood feels heavy, I know exactly what to do — turn on some music. It’s like flipping a switch. The tension softens. Someone starts humming. Before long, we’re dancing, laughing, or simply sitting back and letting the melodies carry us. It’s remarkable how the right song can shift the whole atmosphere. Whether it’s classical guitar to help the kids focus on homework or just a good old-fashioned Backstreet Boys dance party in the kitchen (our kids still think they’re top 40). Music has this magic. It bridges gaps, soothes nerves, lifts spirits, and brings us back to each other when things feel off. It doesn’t matter what kind of day we’ve had; if I start playing a guitar riff or the kids start harmonizing, everything feels a little lighter. Lately, my wife and I have dusted off our old college songs. We’re re- recording them in a local studio, adding new layers, and modernizing the sound. Not for a record deal, but just for the joy of it. We want to show our kids that dreams are elastic and passions are worth revisiting, no matter where life takes you. One day, maybe we’ll make that family album. Right now, the idea makes the kids roll their eyes. But I have a feeling as they grow, they’ll see what we see: that music is the heartbeat behind our memories, the bridge in our relationships, and the harmony that ties our chaos together. And yes … maybe, just maybe, it’s finally time to pull that viola out of the closet.
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DON’T LET CAVITIES CRASH YOUR ROAD TRIP HIT THE ROAD WITHOUT SKIPPING YOUR SMILE ROUTINE Summer road trips and vacations are all about making memories, but don’t let those memories include cavities or toothaches! When you’re packing your bags for that next big adventure, don’t forget to pack a few smile-saving essentials. It may be tempting to travel light, but your dental care should still be riding shotgun. STICK TO THE BASICS, EVEN ON THE ROAD. We get it, vacation is a break from routine! But your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss deserve a place right next to your sunscreen and snacks. When you’re on vacation, you’re often eating more, indulging in sweet treats, or sipping on sugary drinks. That means your teeth are working overtime, and skipping steps in your oral hygiene routine can catch up fast. THINK SMALL BUT MIGHTY. Don’t skip important steps like rinsing with mouthwash just because the bottle’s too big. Grab a travel-sized version or pour your favorite rinse into a small travel-size bottle (just like you do for shampoo or face wash). Throw it in a zip-lock, and you’re good to go!
Few outdoor activities are more fun to do as a family than beating the heat in the water. A facility as simple as a community pool can offer fun for all ages, including wading, diving, and lap swimming. As summer gets underway, consider making plans to try more complex aquatic sports as a family. Here are four exciting options that will inspire the whole family to take the plunge. STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING This sport originated among Hawaiian surfers and began gaining momentum nationwide about a decade ago. Participants stand upright on a flat, buoyant board and propel themselves over lakes, rivers, and oceans with a single paddle. Paddleboards are bigger than surfboards and are stable enough to hold a picnic in a waterproof bag! SNORKELING Snorkeling is a great family activity for all ages if you’re vacationing near an ocean. Flippers, watertight goggles, and snorkels are easy to rent or buy. Exploring the wonders beneath the waves is as easy as floating on the surface and paddling your flippers. While any clear ocean waters can be fun to explore, consider trekking to Hawaii or Cozumel to see spectacular schools of fish and rock formations. CANOEING AND KAYAKING Few aquatic activities offer more opportunities for reflection and quiet conversation than paddling a canoe or kayak. These watercraft are usually available to rent near lakes and rivers, and, barring rough weather, navigating with them is relatively safe and easy. Pack a picnic, explore, and see what you can find along a river or lakeshore. WATERSKIING While this sport requires access to a speedboat and a skilled operator, arranging to try it can offer unforgettable thrills. Nothing can compare to the exhilaration as you first rise above the waves and stand on your skis; participants also get a full-body workout! Waterskiing poses a challenge for beginners when crossing the wake and keeping their legs beneath them, but the rewards are worth the effort! This summer, consider vacationing near a body of water to explore these aquatic activities or others, such as sailing or bodyboarding. You will create lasting memories and may ignite passions your kids will enjoy for years! Make a Splash! WATER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
BUILD YOUR ON-THE-GO DENTAL KIT. These six items are the foundation of a good dental travel kit:
• Toothbrush (with a travel holder)
• Toothpaste • Dental floss
• Travel-size mouthwash • Reusable water bottle
Keeping your kit handy means you’re always prepared, whether you’re brushing at a rest stop or after indulging in an extra s’more.
STAY HYDRATED FOR A HEALTHIER MOUTH. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially when it’s hot or you’re on the go. Water helps wash away food particles, keeps your mouth hydrated, and lessens the effects of sugary snacks or sodas. When traveling, it’s easy to reach for sodas or energy drinks, especially during long drives, but these beverages can harm your teeth. Opt for water whenever possible to keep your mouth refreshed and cavity-free. All it takes are a few simple steps and strategic packing to ensure your smile stays bright and healthy all summer long, no matter where your travels take you.
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THRIVE IN THE THRILLS A FAMILY GUIDE TO THEME PARK FUN
Going to a theme park is one of the most memorable ways to spend a family vacation. Theme parks are full of excitement, but they can also be overwhelming — especially with young kids in tow. The right game plan can turn a day of long lines and potential meltdowns into a fun, memorable adventure. PLAN SMART, PLAY HARD. Rather than simply packing up and heading to the park, take some time to research and plan your trip. Look into show schedules and ride restrictions, such as height limits, ahead of time so you can plan your day. Many parks also have mobile apps to track wait times and order food. Visit the most popular
reusable water bottles to keep the family hydrated without breaking the bank on expensive bottled water.
If visiting a park during summer, don’t forget the sun protection. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and breathable clothing are a must when walking all day in the heat. Taking a few minutes for a midday break in a shaded area or at an indoor show will help the family recharge for the rest of the visit. KEEP EXPECTATIONS FLEXIBLE AND FUN. Even with careful planning, things won’t always work out like you hope — expect ride closures, long lines, and cranky kids. Creating a list of backup attractions or activities can help you easily pivot if Plan A doesn’t work out. And don’t try to see everything in one visit. Trying to hit every ride can backfire and make the trip miserable. Often, the best memories happen in unexpected moments. A little structure mixed with flexibility can lead to a lot of fun and ensure your family’s theme park adventure is about making memories rather than managing stress.
attractions early before the crowds swell. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak seasons also helps avoid long lines to maximize your family’s fun.
REMEMBER SNACKS, DRINKS, AND SUN PROTECTION.
Theme park restaurants can be expensive and busy. If you plan to dine in the park, make reservations to avoid wasting precious time in long lines. If allowed, pack your own lunch to save time and money. It’s also wise to carry
YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
ANDERSON DENTAL CARE HOLIDAY HOURS Our office will be closed July 2 and 3, with normal business hours resuming on Monday, July 7. WHERE DID THE PHRASE ‘MAD AS A HATTER’ COME FROM? The phrase and the basis of the eccentric Mad Hatter in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” originated from the fact that mercury was once used to make the felt hats so popular in his time! Mercury poisoning had become an endemic for decades prior, leading to side effects such as mood swings and erratic behavior. HOW MANY WORDS DID SHAKESPEARE INVENT? The Bard didn’t just create the most iconic stories in history but also 1,700 common words we still use today! By transforming nouns into verbs, verbs into adjectives, and creatively adding suffixes and prefixes, he invented words like “besmirched,” “dwindle,” “fashionable,” and “radiance.” HOW WAS KERMIT THE FROG CREATED? The Muppets mastermind Jim Henson first made the iconic amphibian using just his mother’s old coat and two halves of a ping-pong ball!
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
INGREDIENTS •
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
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1/4 cup vegetable oil
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1 cup soy sauce
3 large garlic cloves, chopped 4 lbs boneless round steak, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
1/2 cup pineapple juice (optional)
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1/2 cup water
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Bamboo skewers soaked in water
DIRECTIONS 1. In a large bowl, whisk brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, water, vegetable oil, and garlic together. Drop beef slices into the mixture and stir to coat. 2. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for 24 hours. 3. Remove beef from marinade, shaking to remove excess liquid. 4. Thread beef slices on skewers in a zig-zag pattern. 5. Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. 6. Cook beef skewers for about 3 minutes per side until the meat is cooked through.
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ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
513-231-7755 WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
7525 STATE RD., STE. A CINCINNATI, OH 45255
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Love, Lyrics, and Life Lessons With the Brooks Family Band
2
New Family Aquatic Sports for Summer Fun
Road Trip? Pack These Smile-Saving Dental Essentials
3
Family-Friendly Tips for Theme Park Success
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
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Cincy Heats Up With Food, Fun, and Festivals
YOUR GUIDE TO A FLAVOR-PACKED SUMMER IN CINCINNATI Cincy’s Serving Up Summer Magic
Cincinnati is all about sunshine, flavors, and fresh-air fun this summer! From foodie fests to cultural celebrations, this month is bursting with feel-good events perfect for the whole family (and your tastebuds). So, grab your shades, appetite, and sense of adventure because it’s time to make the most of summer in the city! CINCY VEGFEST AND VEGAN CHILI COOK-OFF June 7, 2025, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. OurCollectiveHeart.org/cincy-vegfest Get ready for a plant-powered celebration like no other! Cincy VegFest is bringing together foodies, families, and Earth lovers for a vibrant day of all things deliciously vegan. Explore mouthwatering plant-based eats, groove to live music, and soak up talks from chefs, authors, and changemakers passionate about compassionate living. With cooking demos, eco-friendly
vendors, kids’ activities, and an endless array of plant-based eats second to none, this free, family-friendly festival is your one-stop shop for feel-good food and positive change. Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or just hungry, there’s something fresh waiting for you!
you’re there for the cannolis or the community, Italianfest serves up a full plate of fun for the whole family. Buon appetito!
NEWPORT ITALIANFEST June 12–15, 2025 ItalianfestNewport.com
SUMMER NIGHTS AT THE MAC June 28, 2025, from 5–10 p.m. MorrowArtsCenter.com/events
From June 12–15, head to Newport Festival Park for a lively, mouthwatering celebration of Italian heritage: Newport Italianfest! With free admission and unbeatable views of the Ohio River, enjoy four days of live music, rich culture, and irresistible Italian eats (Mobster Mozzarella Meatball Flatbread, anyone?). Visit the photo tent to explore the roots of Newport’s proud Italian-American families, and don’t miss the pasta cooking contest on Sunday! Whether
Soak up the season at The Morrow Arts Center’s ultimate summer night hangout! Stroll through charming shops that will stay open late, treat your tastebuds to eats from local favorites, sip on something cool, and catch a movie in the open air. This laid-back night promises good food, good finds, and feel-good fun for just about anyone. Grab a blanket, settle in, and let the big screen light up your night!
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