Take a look at our August newsletter!
THE
7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM | AUGUST 2025 OUR BIG RETURN TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS BRUSH - UP ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc. GLOBAL SLEEP UNDER THE STARS NIGHT AND WHY IT’S WORTH THE MOSQUITO BITES
There’s a date on the calendar that caught my eye recently: Aug. 8, Global Sleep Under the Stars Night. The name alone conjures up all the wonder you’d hope for in a summer memory: the open sky, the hush of night broken only by the crackle of firewood, and whispering secrets under canvas tents. As a dad and dentist who spends more time with fluoride than flashlights, I laughed when I considered this. Sleep under the stars? With six kids? Sounds like a stretch, right? Lately, however, our family has been inching back toward that old summer pastime, and I think the magic just might be worth the mayhem. You see, camping wasn’t always such a production. It was an adventure when it was just my wife and me, two newlyweds with a couple of sleeping bags and zero logistics to juggle. I remember a night spent sitting in the sand, leaning back on an upside down canoe next to a fire with only stars above and a guitar in hand, falling asleep right there with no cover and no worries. Even after we’d added a couple of kids, they were little and didn’t require much to pack. And we could all fit in a four- man tent! We took them along as we led youth group camping trips with nothing but flashlights and freeze-dried meals. Simpler times.
nerve-wracking backyard sleepover made us hit pause. Then more kids came and we needed a larger tent, more coolers, extra sleeping bags. The whole idea started to lose its charm. When your crew includes six young kids, the idea of repelling mosquitos and taking kids to the bathroom at 3 a.m. isn’t too appealing. Fast-forward to now, and our oldest daughter is in a youth group herself. My wife started leading campouts again, and our younger kids’ curiosity was sparked just like that. They want in. They want tents, s’mores, hikes, the works. So, slowly but surely, we’re returning to our roots. We’ve set up a dedicated camping gear corner in the basement, filled with tents, citronella candles, lanterns, and now we’re on the hunt for sleeping bags — a lot of them. Let’s just say we’ve moved from mosquito-fearing skeptics back into stargazers-in-training. Planning a family camping trip feels like packing for an expedition, even if it’s just for a weekend. Everything takes work, gear checks, meal plans, and reservations (because gone are the days of just picking a spot in the mountains). But there’s something nostalgic and grounding about returning to nature, even if it’s just your backyard. And honestly, I get it. I understand why the kids want it. They want the dirt and the stars and the sticky fingers from too many roasted marshmallows. They want what my wife and I had before life got busy. There’s a kind of connection that happens when you’re unplugged, gathered close around a campfire, telling stories and swatting bugs. Sure, we’ll have to plan ahead, but that’s a small price to pay for what we get in return. We’re leaning into the chaos this summer and carving out the time. Not because we suddenly love the idea of sleeping on the ground with a trail mix of twigs and ants, but because we want to stoke something even better: family memories. And yes, maybe a little stargazing, too.
We continued camping, but in simpler fashion - right in our backyard - while my wife was pregnant with baby number four. But one slightly
513-231-7755 • 1
NATURE VS. NATURE HOW TO USE PLANTS AND SCENTS TO REPEL INSECTS There’s nothing quite like summer. Backyard barbecues, evening hikes, and late-night stargazing. All of it is magical — until bugs crash the party. Mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks don’t need an invite, and before you know it, you’re scratching your ankles and swatting at the air. But you don’t have to douse yourself in strong sprays and chemicals to keep them away. Here are five natural ways to repel bugs this summer — no chemicals required. CHOOSE LOOSE CLOTHING Believe it or not, your outfit can make a big difference. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes and helps prevent them from biting through fabric. Covering up exposed skin is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself. It’s specifically helpful to wear long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn, when bugs are most active. USE NATURAL AROMAS Many bugs have super-sensitive noses, and certain scents repel them. Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass are natural bug repellents. You can make your own spray by mixing a few drops of any of these scents with water and a carrier oil (like witch hazel or coconut oil), then spritzing it on your skin or clothes. Just make sure you’re cautious with essential oils around pets and kids. SMOKE THEM OUT Burning herbs like sage or rosemary in your campfire or fire pit not only smells amazing but also helps keep mosquitoes and gnats at bay. Bugs hate the smoke from these plants, and it’s an easy, low-effort way to keep them off your picnic table. WATCH YOUR SCENTS Surprisingly, it’s not just about what repels bugs — it’s also about avoiding what attracts them. Fragranced lotions, perfumes, and even certain soaps can lure bugs to you. In summer, it’s smart to go unscented when heading outdoors.
THE TRUTH ABOUT CHLORINE
DON’T LET POOL TIME TURN INTO TOOTH TROUBLE Splashing into a cool blue pool is one of summer’s greatest joys, but did you know the chlorinated water can take a toll on your smile? Whether you’re a lap swimmer, a cannonball champ, or a parent with kids practically living at the pool, chlorine exposure could be quietly wearing down your enamel. Let’s dive into how to enjoy your swim without compromising your dental health. WHAT CHLORINE CAN DO TO YOUR TEETH Chlorine is essential for keeping pools bacteria-free, but when levels aren’t properly managed or when exposure is prolonged, it can do more harm than good. Over time, the chemicals in chlorinated water can cause a condition called swimmer’s calculus , leaving discolored deposits on your teeth. Your enamel can also start to erode, especially if the pool’s pH is too low (acidic), causing increased sensitivity, translucent tooth edges, and even toothaches.
Are the pool lining or metal parts wearing away? That’s a red flag — if those surfaces are eroding, your teeth might be, too.
SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR A HEALTHIER SMILE AT THE POOL • Keep your mouth closed: The less chlorinated water your teeth touch, the better. • Rinse, don’t brush: After swimming, rinse your mouth with fresh water and wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth to avoid damaging softened enamel. • Test tool pH: Use strips from a local store or ask the pool operator. Water should be between 7.2 and 7.8 pH. • Watch for dry mouth: Chlorine can reduce saliva, increasing your risk of cavities. Stay hydrated and check in with your dentist if you notice symptoms. SEE YOUR DENTIST BEFORE THE DAMAGE ADDS UP. If you or your kids are swimming regularly this summer, it’s a great time to check in with your dentist. Regular cleanings can help remove tough plaque buildup and catch early signs of enamel erosion.
KEEP YOUR SPACE CLEAN If you have standing water on your property, it’s a mosquito’s favorite breeding ground. Make sure you dump water from flower pots, birdbaths, or kiddie pools regularly. And if you’re entertaining outside, clean up food scraps and trash — flies and ants will sniff those out fast.
Protect your summer smiles and schedule your dental visit with us today!
2 • WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
go-to dishes. Encourage everyone to include personal stories, tips, or funny kitchen mishaps. That’s the good stuff that makes your cookbook meaningful.
Create a Family Cookbook Full of Love and Flavor A TASTE OF HOME
CHOOSE AN ORGANIZATIONAL STYLE. You could go the traditional route with categories like appetizers, mains, and desserts, or get creative with sections like “Grandma’s Greatest Hits,” “Cousin Potluck Favorites,” or “Holiday Classics.” Just pick a format that feels natural and easy to follow. TEST AND TWEAK AS YOU GO. Some family recipes live in the land of vague directions — “a dash of this” or “cook until it smells right,” etc. If needed, test the recipes and jot down more precise measurements or instructions. Trust me, your future self will thank you. ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH. Photos can take a cookbook from good to unforgettable. Include pictures of the dishes, handwritten recipe cards, or candid family cooking moments. Even simple design details — like using someone’s handwriting or a family saying — can make it feel special. PICK A FORMAT. You don’t need to be a professional designer to pull this off. Tools like Canva, Shutterfly, or even Microsoft Word can help you create a layout. Decide whether you want to print physical copies, go digital, or do both. DON’T FORGET TO EMBRACE IMPERFECTION. Remember, it doesn’t need to be perfect! A little mess here and there adds charm. What matters is preserving the joy, tradition, and flavor of your family’s kitchen.
YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS WILL ANDERSON DENTAL CARE BE CLOSED ON LABOR DAY? Yes, our office will be closed on Monday, Sept. 1, resuming our usual hours on Tuesday, Sept. 2. WHEN WAS PIZZA INVENTED? While flatbread can be dated back to ancient times across Egypt and Greece, the pizza we know and love originated from Naples, Italy, during the 1800s. Then, when Queen Margherita visited Naples in 1889, she fell in love with a simple tomato, mozzarella, and basil pizza that would go on to be known as “Pizza Margherita.” HOW BIG IS THE HEAD OF THE STATUE OF LIBERTY? Just the head of Lady Liberty is a whopping 17 feet and 3 inches tall, and that’s just chin to cranium (crown not included). Meanwhile, the entire statue from the ground to the tip of the torch’s flame is 305 feet and 6 inches! WHERE DID PING-PONG ORIGINATE? Ping-Pong first started as “whiff-whaff,” a post-dinner parlour game for the upper class in Victorian England. In the late 1800s, the British would kill time with makeshift tables, using books as the net and lightweight celluloid balls. It wasn’t until 1901 that the game was manufactured and later renamed “Ping-Pong.” In most families, holidays, special occasions, and Sunday dinners usually revolve around laughter and food — lots of food. Whether it’s Grandma’s famous biscuits or that secret chili recipe your uncle swears he’ll take to the grave, these dishes are part of what makes your family your family. So, why not gather all those delicious memories into one place by creating a family cookbook? KNOW YOUR WHY. Before you dive in, decide what your cookbook is for. Is it a holiday gift? A legacy project? A fun way to organize weeknight favorites? Knowing your purpose will guide the tone, design, and care you put into it. GATHER THE GOODS. Now comes the fun (and sometimes chaotic) part — tracking down recipes from relatives. Send a group text, email, or social media post asking for their
Spinach, Feta, and Egg Stuffed Peppers
INGREDIENTS • 2 large bell peppers, any color • 1/2 tsp salt • 4 large eggs • 2 tbsp reduced-fat milk • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp extra- virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion • 2 cups chopped spinach • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. Halve peppers lengthwise; remove and discard seeds. 3. Place peppers cut-side up in an 8-inch-square microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high 2 1/2–3 minutes until tender; pat dry and sprinkle with salt. 4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and black pepper. 5. To a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil, then add onion and cook, stirring, for about 2 minutes until softened and beginning to brown. 6. Add spinach and cook, stirring 1–2 minutes more until spinach is wilted. 7. Divide spinach mixture evenly among pepper halves. Sprinkle with feta, and top with egg mixture. 8. Bake 30–35 minutes until filling is set.
Inspired by EatingWell.com
513-231-7755 • 3
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 2
The Chaos and Charm of Camping With 6 Kids
The Natural Way to Fight Off Summer Bugs (No Harsh Sprays Needed!)
Chlorine Keeps Pools Clean, But Teeth … Not So Much
3
Cook Up a Legacy
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Spinach, Feta, and Egg Stuffed Peppers
4
Countdown to Summer’s Finale: 3 Amazing August Events
GROOVE, GRAZE, AND GAZE
August Events That Make Staying Local Irresistible
GREAT INLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 2025 Aug. 14–17, 2025 ThingsToDoCincinnati.com/great-inland-seafood-festival
As summer’s grand finale approaches, Cincinnati is throwing an unforgettable sendoff, and you’re invited. August brings the magic with music, flavor, and fireworks that light up more than just the skyline. From smooth jazz under the stars to feasting on fresh seafood by the river, and ending with a bang at one of the Midwest’s most spectacular fireworks displays, there’s no better time to soak up the summer spirit. These events are your ultimate excuse to play outside before the season ends!
Seafood lovers, rejoice! From Aug. 14–17, Newport Festival Park becomes a crustacean celebration at the Great Inland Seafood Festival 2025! Dive into whole Maine lobsters, gator bites, crab cakes, shrimp platters, and more from vendors like Big Bamboo’s Caribbean Grill, Shrimp Lips Seafood, and The Naughty Lobstah. Savor bold flavors from around the globe (think jambalaya, seafood etouffee fries, and lobster quesadillas). With free admission and mouthwatering menus, this riverside food fest is the summer send-off you’ve been craving!
JAZZ AT THE PARK Every Monday, June 9 – Oct. 27, 2025 WashingtonPark.org
WESTERN & SOUTHERN WEBN FIREWORKS AND RIVERFEST Aug. 31, 2025, 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. (Fireworks at 9 p.m.) VisitCincy.com/events
Swing into summer at Jazz at the Park, where Washington Park transforms into Cincinnati’s coolest open-air jazz club every Monday night! Catch sizzling sets by local legends and rising stars on the Sherwin-Williams Porch. Whether you’re into smooth sax or steel drum flair, there’s something for every ear in this electric lineup. Grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let the rhythms roll as jazz fills the summer air. With acts like the Ron Jones Trio, Camille Saba Smith, and the Bacchanal Steel Band, your Mondays just found their groove!
Cincinnati’s biggest Labor Day weekend bash is back! On Aug. 31, head to Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove for the Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks and Riverfest, a full day of music, food, and sky-high excitement! Kick off the fun at noon with tasty bites from local vendors, live tunes, and family-friendly activities. As the sun sets, join half a million fans along the riverbanks for the grand finale: Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks at 9 p.m. It’s the ultimate Labor Day weekend celebration and the most dazzling goodbye to summer!
4 • WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator