Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
THE
7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | ATOWNDENTAL.COM | FEBRUARY 2026 BRUSH - UP ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc. FROM REBELLION TO FAMILY TRADITION How a Martin Guitar Helped Me Find Love, Family, and My Career
I grew up in a house where music wasn’t just encouraged, it was expected. My mom spent nearly four decades as an orchestra teacher, which meant every kid under her roof played something with strings. For me, that meant viola in the school orchestra, plus piano lessons because, well, everyone took piano lessons. And while I’m grateful now for that foundation, at 12, I was … less than enthusiastic .
story practically wrote itself. Eventually, we performed together, and suddenly, I wasn’t a solo act anymore.
My guitar even helped get me into dental school, literally . My application essay was all about my first Martin guitar, the one I saved up for dollar by dollar. I wrote about passion, hard work, and what it means to show up for something you love. That essay opened the door to the career I have today. Funny how the things you do “just for fun” sometimes shape your whole life.
Some kids rebel by dyeing their hair or blasting rock music in their bedrooms. Me? I picked up a guitar. Not just any guitar, a non-orchestra- approved, not-even-on-my-mother’s-radar six-string. It was my tiny act of musical defiance. If I had to play a stringed instrument, at least I could add one she didn’t get to dictate. (Sorry, mom!) My grandpa, who was really more of a father figure, became my partner in crime. He drove me to lessons, sat in the waiting room, and treated the whole thing like an adventure. My first teacher insisted on classical guitar, so I started with etudes and fingerstyle precision. But what I
Today, the guitar is threaded through our family in ways I never expected. Jessica is a singer/songwriter, so I get to support her by playing guitar and singing harmonies on demos. We write songs together too. Our kids have also caught the bug; three of them are learning to play the guitar. One even has my old acoustic. Another proudly rocks an electric. The third is experimenting with chords little by little.
And in the most poetic twist, my daughter, who loves violin and takes lessons from - you guessed it - my mom, recently told me she didn’t think playing violin was “useful.” So
really wanted was to play the songs I heard on the radio. This was pre-YouTube, so I’d grab music books from the local
shop, teach myself to read tabs, and spend hours figuring out harmonies. My viola and piano background gave me a solid ear (so maybe mom was right after all), and before long, playing guitar became the one thing I did simply because I loved it. I never planned to perform. That didn’t come until college, when I dared myself to audition for campus shows like Guitars Unplugged and Nashville Nights. I remember standing backstage, wondering why on earth I’d voluntarily agreed to sing in front of hundreds of people. But every time, I stepped up, played my set, and survived. Somewhere in that blur of open mics and guitar cases, I met my wife Jessica. I invited her to a show; she showed up, and the rest of the
now, after all these years, I’m gearing up to pick up the viola again, not out of obligation this time, but to show her that every instrument has value … even the one I once took up reluctantly. So, on Feb. 11, for National Get Out Your Guitar and Play Day, I’m celebrating the instrument that started as a quiet rebellion and turned into a lifelong companion, one that connected me to my grandpa, helped me win over my wife, snuck its way into my dental school application, and now echoes through our home as my kids discover their own musical voice.
513-231-7755 • 1
COOK THE WORLD
This Valentine’s Day, we’re shining the spotlight on the real heart of the season: your actual heart . Believe it or not, one of the sweetest gifts you can give doesn’t come wrapped in ribbon. It’s a toothbrush. Cupid’s Secret? Strong Gums and a Stronger Heart THIS VALENTINE’S DAY, SHOW YOUR HEART SOME LOVE BY BRUSHING YOUR TEETH! THE SURPRISING LOVE STORY BETWEEN YOUR GUMS AND YOUR HEART It may sound dramatic to say gum disease can break your heart, but research keeps proving the connection is real. Studies presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions found that people who brush less than twice a day for under two minutes have a threefold higher risk of heart attack, heart failure, or stroke. That’s a statistic no amount of candy hearts can sugarcoat. The reason? Inflammation. When gums become irritated or infected, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel directly to the heart. Experts note that this ongoing inflammation is a powerful predictor of cardiovascular disease. Other studies show that untreated gum disease can worsen blood pressure, interfere with hypertension medications, and even pose a danger for people with heart valve issues. HOW GUM HEALTH BECOMES HEART HEALTH Plaque may start as a sticky nuisance on your teeth, but it doesn’t stay harmless for long. The bacteria within it create toxins that irritate gum tissue. Left unchecked, that irritation can develop into gum disease, allowing bacteria to enter your bloodstream through tiny gateways. Once there, they can contribute to blocked arteries and increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease. In fact, people with advanced gum disease face double the risk of developing serious heart problems compared to those with healthy gums. Twice the risk. Just from ignoring a toothbrush and floss. A HEARTFELT ROUTINE FOR A HEALTHIER YOU Fortunately, your daily habits can make a world of difference. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes, flossing once daily, staying hydrated, and eating foods low in sugar all help protect both your gums and your heart. And don’t underestimate the power of your regular dental checkups! Professional cleanings remove stubborn plaque, catch issues early, and support long-term health.
A Global Dinner Adventure Awaits
Are you tired of the same spaghetti night or pizza delivery? It’s time to shake things up and turn dinner into a family adventure. Instead of hopping on a plane, grab your aprons and “travel” the world through food. Each week, choose a country, find its most famous dish, and cook it together, no passports required!
STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION.
Begin your journey by selecting a country that excites everyone. Maybe your kids are obsessed with anime
(hello, Japan!) or you’ve been craving something spicy from Mexico. Every culture has a dish that tells a story, like Italy’s cheesy lasagna, India’s vibrant butter chicken, and Greece’s fresh tzatziki and gyros. Choose one that feels doable and prepare to embark on
a new flavor adventure.
STEP 2: COOK UP SOME FUN. Now it’s time to bring the world to your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, play music from the country you’re exploring, and assign roles. One person can chop, someone can stir, and someone else can handle the playlist (very important). Kids love getting hands-on, and it’s an excellent way to help them learn about teamwork, creativity, and patience. Talk about where the dish comes from, what people might traditionally serve with it, or how it’s eaten in that culture. Before you know it, your kitchen will smell like another part of the world. STEP 3: EAT, SHARE, AND CELEBRATE. When the food hits the table, make it special. Light a candle, add a little decoration, and let loose. Take that first bite together and talk about the flavors. What’s new, what’s surprising, and what’s delicious? Create a “family food passport” where you write down the country, the dish, and everyone’s rating or favorite moment. It’s a great way to remember your culinary travels. STEP 4: KEEP THE JOURNEY GOING. Once you start, it’s hard to stop! Turn this into a weekly or monthly family ritual. Each dish brings a new story, a new skill, or a fresh memory. You’ll end up with full bellies and a collection of shared experiences that span the globe.
This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love in its truest form: by taking care of yourself. A healthy smile is a gift to your whole body, heart included.
2 • ATOWNDENTAL.COM
FROM FROST TO FIRELIGHT
CREATE THE ULTIMATE WINTER CAMPING EXPERIENCE
KEEP YOUR FEET DRY. Wet socks are the quick route to misery in cold weather. Snow melts, boots get damp, and you sweat while hiking. So, aim to stay dry from the get‑go with waterproof boots, gaiters, and maybe even snowshoes if you’re in deep powder. GROUND PROTECTION MATTERS. You’ve hauled all this gear out into the cold, so don’t let the frozen ground steal your warmth. A solid sleeping pad acts as insulation between you and the ground. Choose one with a decent R‑value (thermal resistance) or layer two simpler pads to block the chill. Then add a sleeping bag appropriate for the low you’re expecting. If your bag is rated for milder temperatures, a liner can extend its comfort zone by several degrees.
CHOOSE YOUR SPOT WISELY. A beautiful winter campsite still requires a smart choice. Avoid the bottom of slopes (cold air settles there) and the top of ridges (wind bites). Instead, look for flat terrain, shelter from the wind, and a nice snow‑bed you can compress by walking on it before you pitch your tent. Your tent door should face away from the prevailing wind. MAKE THE EVENINGS COZY. Once the sun dips and temperatures slide, it’s all about comfort! A warm drink by the campfire, flipping through a good book, chatting quietly while the stars shimmer overhead: These are the moments that make winter camping memorable!
There’s something magical about stepping outside into a hush of freshly fallen snow, pitching your tent beneath stars that feel crystal‑clear, and inhaling air so cold it feels pure. Winter camping allows you to experience nature in slow motion. The frozen landscape creates a peaceful stillness you won’t find on summer outings. LAYER SMART TO STAY COZY. Whether you’re trudging into a snowy clearing or setting up camp under a frosty sky, your number one ally is layering. Start with a snug “base” layer that traps warmth against your body. Next, add something insulating, like a fleece or down. Your final layer should protect you from wind and snow. Skip cotton because it soaks up moisture, and getting wet accelerates frostbite.
HOT HONEY-INFUSED FETA CHICKEN
YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS HOW MUCH OF THE EARTH’S WATER IS FROZEN? While 97% of the planet’s water is found in the oceans, the remaining 3% is distributed globally in various forms and locations. Of that 3%, 69% of the water is frozen in glaciers and ice caps. And of that percentage, 90% of the Earth’s frozen water is in Antarctica! WHAT CHARACTER HAS BEEN PORTRAYED THE MOST ON SCREEN? Guinness World Records announced that Sherlock Holmes, the fictional detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, has been depicted on screen a whopping 254 times, which is the most for any literary human character!
INGREDIENTS • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 tbsp hot honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 3 tbsp crumbled feta cheese • 2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped (or thyme) • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS 1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. 2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. 3. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. 4. In a small bowl, mix hot honey and minced garlic to create a glaze. 5. Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Pour the hot honey mixture over top. 6. Sprinkle chicken with crumbled feta, then rosemary or thyme. 7. Bake at 400 F for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F. 8. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization. 9. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon juice and extra herbs before serving.
WHY DO THEY CALL IT A PENNY? While the British pound isn’t divided like
our American dollar, they do call the smallest part “a penny.” However, when there’s more than one penny, the Brits call them “pence” while we just say “pennies.”
Inspired by LadySavor.com
513-231-7755 • 3
ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
513-231-7755 ATOWNDENTAL.COM
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
7525 STATE RD., STE. A CINCINNATI, OH 45255
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
The Guitar That Changed Everything: From Rebellion to Legacy
2
Explore Cultures Through Family Meals
Have a Kiss-Ready Smile and Heart-Healthy Body This Valentine’s Day
3
Mastering the Art of Cold-Weather Camping
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Hot Honey-Infused Feta Chicken
4
Fun and Flavor Await in Cincinnati This February!
CINCINNATI OFFERS UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS THIS MONTH Markets, Music, and Magic Await!
February is shaping up to be a lively month in Cincinnati! From bustling markets filled with fresh, locally crafted foods and artisan goods to spellbinding performances on stage that bring timeless stories to life, the city offers something for every taste. Whether you’re exploring, watching, or cheering from the front row, Cincinnati is the place to be this February! NORTHSIDE FARMERS MARKET Recurring weekly on Wednesday, November– March, from 4–6 p.m. NorthsideFM.org Discover the lively spirit of Cincinnati at the Northside Farmers Market, a neighborhood favorite that’s grown from a few truck vendors into a vibrant year-round gathering. With more than 20 local growers and makers (each crafting their goods within 70 miles), you’ll find
everything from fresh produce and warm bread to small-batch sweets, soaps, spices, meats, and more. Every booth offers a chance to meet the people behind the products and experience the community’s creativity firsthand. Come enjoy a local shopping adventure that celebrates the heart and flavor of Northside!
breathtaking costumes, and spellbinding moments that capture the heart.
DANCING WITH THE STARS: LIVE! Saturday, Feb. 28, and Thursday, May 7 BradyMusicCenter.com
Get ready, Cincinnati! Dancing with the Stars: Live! is back for an all-new tour, bringing the glamour, athleticism, and jaw-dropping routines of Season 34 straight from Hollywood to The Andrew J. Brady Music Center on Feb. 28 and May 7, 2026. Join fan-favorite professional dancers like Alan Bersten, Britt Stewart, Emma Slater, Val Chmerkovskiy, and more as they perform show-stopping numbers crafted just for the stage. With VIP packages offering front-row seats, meet-and-greets, and exclusive memorabilia, this unforgettable night of dazzling ballroom artistry is the ultimate experience for fans of America’s favorite dance show!
CINCINNATI BALLET’S ‘SWAN LAKE’ Feb. 13–21 CincinnatiArts.org/events
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of “Swan Lake” at Music Hall’s Springer Auditorium. This timeless tale of love and tragedy comes alive through stunning choreography inspired by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, with fresh interpretations by Kirk Peterson. The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra brings the story to life with live music. A feast for the senses, this production promises unforgettable performances,
4 • ATOWNDENTAL.COM
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator