KY Creative Living (December)

CreativeLiving Features 5

Ready. Set. Shop!

Tips on how to tackle the crowd this holiday season.

Editor’s note I have a confession to make, I’m a shopaholic!

That’s right I can’t get enough of shopping! Now, I don’t always have to buy – sometimes I just look – but this is by far my favorite recreational activity. In fact, I already have all my Christmas shopping finished!

That’s right.

Don’t worry, however, if you’re still fighting the crowds. There’s nothing wrong with last minute gift buying, especially during the busy holiday season. That’s why this month Creative Living is featuring local businesses that just may have that perfect gift you’ve been waiting for. Check them out in the Last Minute Gift Guide section. Also, be sure to read through the article about how to tackle last-minute shopping. There are some helpful tips in there for you procrastinators! Merry Christmas!

Specialty Publications Editor

Contact Creative Living is a monthly advertising-sponsored magazine published by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press/The Community Recorder.

Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Hayden c/o The Community Press/394 Wards Corner/Loveland, OH 45140 or e-mail mhayden@communitypress.com.

Page 5

Topics & Fitness 3 Health Mind • Body • Spirit Minute Gift Guide 5 Last Specialty shops

For advertising call 578-5501.

Home 12 At Decorating • Repair

H E A L T H

&

F T I N E S S

Patients speak out about Gentle Dental Care

P

atients just like you speaking out about Gentle Dental Care.

People search the Internet everyday for a place they can feel comfortable going to the dentist. One patient explained that she had looked for a couple years before finding Dr. Tara Dallmann and her team.

Whether you are a person that is afraid of the dentist or you are someone that just wants excellent cosmetic dentistry Gentle Dental Care is for you.

While Gentle Dental Care continues to offer their patients the latest advances in techniques and material, patient comfort and confidence remains to be the top priority in the office.

Speaking from the heart, here’s what a few of Dr. Dallmann’s patients had to say about their experiences at Gentle Dental Care.

“Brenda, Kim and of course Dr. Dallmann made me feel very comfortable. I so wanted to turn my car around and not show up for my appointment, but I just knew that I had to. I am really glad that I did because of all of you. I am not a very good dental patient but you told me that I am not the only person to feel this way.

Thank you so much for caring and yes I will be back for my appointments. I would not change a thing you all do in your practice.” - A.R. Alexandria

back to see you all again if the need should arise.

“Thank you again for treating me so well.” D.S. Dry Ridge “Thank You to everyone, you made me feel so welcome and for all of the laughter. What a great team of professional women. Looking forward to my next visit.” - J.G. Independence

The Gentle Dental Care team.

with me, and I must be a very trying patient. Thank you for your skills, attention and patience.” C.D. Fort Mitchell “From childhood I

have had what may seem an unreasonable fear of dentists and I approached you with quite a bit of concern. The way you all made me feel so comfortable certainly got me off

to a good start. When the whole process was over I was relieved and very satisfied with your services.

“While I hope not to be needing additional work, I won’t hesitate to come

“My husband pointed something out to me the other day and I felt I needed to share it with you. I’ve started photography school. One of my first classes is Public Speaking and I’ve done very well in the class.

Tonight is our final exam, but so far I’ve got a 97.21 percent. Several of my classmates have even commented how natural I Gentle see page 6

“Dr. Dallmann and her staff treat me wonderfully.

They are all very patient

Kentucky

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

3

H E A L T H

&

F I T N E S S

Deadline nears for flexible spending accounts

T

he end of the year is a time for reflection and resolution – and for many with money left

in their flexible spending visit to the eye doctor. accounts, a mad dash to A Flexible Spending spend it on eyeglasses, Account (FSA), is an extra contact lenses, or a employer-sponsored benefit that allows you to pay for eligible medical expenses on a pre-tax basis. An FSA saves you money, reducing your income taxes.

Contributions made to your flex spending account are deducted from your check before any of your taxes are calculated and are never reported to the IRS. Therefore, you decrease your taxable income and increase your disposable

income which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year.

But what happens if you’re getting to the end of the year and money is still sitting in your FSA? Studies have shown that employees on average lose about $100 annually in forfeited balances within their employee health care flex spending accounts because money remaining in your flexible spending account on Dec 31 goes back to your employer.

That’s why the doctors

at the Visionary Eye Care Center are taking the time to remind you about the importance of taking advantage of all the funds you’ve set aside in your flexible spending account.

For more information call Visionary Eye Care Center at 578-0393.

Visionary Eye Care Center is a new private office located at 2220 Grandview Drive in Fort Mitchell. The kind staff is patient-focused and will work diligently with you to correct vision problems.

They also accept a variety of insurance.

Have you always dreamed about a beautiful smile?

I

nvisalign is a great way to treat many kinds of malocclusion or bad bites. Custom made clear plastic retainers slowly move teeth into position.

The retainers can be

removed to eat, drink brush and floss.

Unlike traditional metal braces there is less irritation and soreness to the inside of the lips cheeks and tongue. Many

adult patients who have long ago given up on the idea of a straight beautiful smile now have an option.

Call 525-7586 today to schedule a free consultation.

Call 578-5501 to advertise!

4

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

Kentucky

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

Ready.

Set.

Shop!

By Melissa Hayden • Editor

T

he day after Thanksgiving may be the biggest shopping day of the year, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. According to the International Council of Shopping Centers the Friday after Thanksgiving only ranks as fifth in the biggest sales, behind the two weekends before Christmas. The day on which sales peak depends upon which day of the week Christmas falls on, but the highest sales day is usally either the last Saturday before Christmas or December 23.

So there you have it, procrastinators rule!

As the holidays seem to get busier and busier last minute holiday shopping gets more and more popular. Here is a guide to help you stay on your feet, alert, and ready to grab, grab, grab!

Make a list, check it twice As difficult as it may be, try to think ahead. Make a list of the people you still need to buy for and what items they may like, as well as where to find those items.

Set a budget, stick with it Just because your last minute doesn’t mean you have to spend every last penny. In fact, some of the best deals are available just days before Christmas. Set a reasonable budget for yourself.

Kentucky

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

Plan of attack Make a map. What store are you going to stop at first? How long do you need to be there? How long will you really be there?

These are critical questions when considering your plan of attack. Set your priorities and consider distance, as well as the popularity of the items you’re looking for and the bargains offered.

What to wear Shoppers must always wear comfortable shoes and should dress in layers.

Sleepy time Try your best to rest. Get a good night’s sleep the night before you go out and remember it’s OK to take a break and grab a bite to eat. You should even carry a candy bar and bottle of water with you.

Your shopping expereince can set the mood for your whole season, so try to have some fun and make it an adventure.

Afterall, you are a last minute kind of person, this is what you thrive on.

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

5

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

Gentle from page 3 look standing up to give my speeches.

“I was telling my husband all this and he said: ‘Do you think you would have been able to speak in public before you had your teeth fixed?’ The answer, absolutely not.

“His words just reminded me of how very

much my life has changed because of all of you. Your work is so very important.

Not just to me, because I’m not the only one whose life has been profoundly influenced by your work. I know I’m one of many, many people that you have helped.

And, I just wanted to say

thank you. I would not have the courage to be going back to school to pursue my dream if it weren’t for all of you.

“I just wanted to tell you that. Have a great day!!! See you soon.” M.C. “I can’t tell you how pleased I am with the services you provided.

I’ve put off going to the dentist for years because I feared the sounds of the drill and some of the instruments used. I could-

n’t believe how comfortable I was during my visits. A little sedation (nitrous), some headphones w/music and a heated neck roll made my experience wonderful. I actually looked forward to going to the dentist! I appreciate how you and your staff didn’t make me feel guilty for not visiting the dentist in so many years. That was a big part of my procrastination, the embarrassment of how long it had been. The phone calls to check on

me were also a nice personal touch.

“I am also in the healthcare field and hope that our patients feel as pleased as I was with your service. I’ve told many people about my experience in your office and would recommend it to anyone.” - M.J. Independence Schedule an appointment and experience the difference. Call 859-3631616. Brenda, Wendy, Kim and Dr. Dallmann look forward to meeting you!

The best gift of the season

A

re you looking for a unique holiday gift? Give your own personalized wine.

Vintner’s Cellar Custom Winery in Florence offers the entertaining experience of creating a custom wine with custom labels.

Enjoy the taste of fine wine with good friends.

Host a wine tasting party and have some fun! Get started by scheduling a wine tasting party. Invite a group of your friends to

come out to the store to sample some of the delicious wine varieties.

Wine tasting parties are a fun way to learn and discover a variety of wines. And by sharing the experience with your friends, perhaps you would like to order a batch of wine with the flavor adjusted to your tastes. Build a custom wine with your private label for a holiday gift.

Parties can generally consist of up to 30 guests.

Your party can either be catered, or if you wish you can bring your own hors d’oeuvres. Vintner’s Cellar will provide the tables, the space and, of course, the wine.

Come enjoy the chance of tasting a wide variety of Vintner’s Cellar wines and having some great fun!

Visit Vintner’s Cellar Winery on Mall Road or call 371-WINE (9463).

Holiday excitement at Bizarre Bazaar

W

hatever happened to shopping that made you smile? This holiday season Bizarre Bazaar is sure to have you grinning with more choices than anywhere else in the city.

Glittering and twinkling from ceiling to floor, the store is bound to have you singing. The whimsical and the wonderful Bizarre Bazaar holiday features a variety of Mark Roberts, Lori Mitchell,

6

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Department 56, Krinkles, Seasons of Cannon Falls, Bethany Lowe, Byers’ Choice, Jim Shore and many other folk artists in their holiday collections.

Decorated with 16 magical Christmas trees, from the traditional to vintage to woodsy to absolutely zany, this store recreates the definition of “trimmings.”

Bizarre Bazaar has amazing hand-selected jewelry including Chamilia Bead Jewelry, an

incredible selection of furniture and home decor, and unusual, thoughtful gifts for all ages and styles. Whether you’re adorning your home or yourself, be it classic or crazy, Bizarre Bazaar is a bonafied shopping experience. Visit them at 7767 Five Mile Road or call 231-6861. Open Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday Shop Til Midnight, Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

Kentucky

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

Lasting Impressions... Santa-in-the-City

L

asting Impressions and Santa-in-the-City would like to thank all of you who have visited the stores at 241 Grandview

and have made this such a successful opening season!!!! The response has been fantastic and they are looking forward to greeting

Holiday Hours: Lasting Impressions --Tuesday-Saturday - 10-5 Santa in the City - Monday-Saturday - 10-5 Open till 8 p.m. Thursdays -- Dec. 10 & 17 Open 1-5 Sundays -- Dec. 13 & 20 Closed Christmas Eve Directions: Traveling south or north on Interstate 471: Take Exit 5 (Newport/Bellevue) Turn right onto Route 8 (Fairfield Avenue) Continue to Taylor Avenue and turn right Travel six blocks to Grandview Avenue Turn right on Grandview Enter the warehouse through the Lasting Impressions door on the right Prepare to be amazed...

Kentucky

and re-greeting many more of you between now and Christmas. If you haven’t visited, you’ve missed one of Bellevue’s hidden treasures.

Since November, even more life-size Santas with lighted trees are on display in this Christmas wonderland. The face on each Santa must be seen to appreciate the detail of the features... and don’t forget to check out Santa’s spectacles. This type of Christmas decoration is one which will become a family heirloom for generations to come. Each Santa is individually hand crafted with attention to detail in every piece of apparel and accessory such as

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

n k y. c o m

Santa’s toy bag or the little golden lab or red fox he may be carrying under his arm. What a conversation piece this would be for your home!

You will also find lifesize bears and bear cub footstools, super soft penguins, and huggable bear cubs and dogs of all sizes.

You will be amazed to find gorgeous fur throws... guaranteed to keep you toasty on cold winter evenings.

Lasting Impressions has answers for those last minute gifts such as the Candleberry candles, which have been extremely popular. If you have been in the building at 241 Grandview, you have

enjoyed the wonderful scents which have been burning in both Lasting Impressions and Santa-inthe-City... Bourbon Roasted Pecans... Hot Maple Toddy... Santa’s Cookies... Vanilla Dipped Cinnacrisp... and many more delicious flavors.

If you’re looking for some very unique types of holiday décor or beautiful floral pieces for any room of your home, search no more! Custom-made floral arrangements abound on both floors, and they will be glad to make one for you if you prefer to choose the components and a special decorative ribbon.

C R E A T I V E

Lasting see page 12

L I V I N G

7

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

Great music, great memories at Phil’s record store

W

hen you walk in, you’re surrounded by musical greats like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, and The Doors. Their album covers and posters cover the walls. Their music fills the air. But, Phil Breen’s record store, one of the few serving Northern Kentucky, offers more than great music, but great memories.

“I’m proud of what this place is all about,” Phil says. “It’s an old time record store, full of memories. I believe there needs to be places like this.”

Phil’s Music and Memories offers personable service and one-of-akind items.

8

C R E A T I V E

“The beauty of it is you never know what you’re going to find,” Phil says.

Not only is there a great collection of music on albums, 45s, and CDs but there’s also DVDs and Phil is looking to provide art pieces made from album covers and vinyl.

He currently has coasters made of records, but welcomes creative ideas and is willing to supply the material.

Phil’s Memories and Music, located at 3800 Alexandria Pike, in Cold Spring, has been providing entertainment and Phil Breen, owner of Phil’s Music and Memories. nostalgia to the communi“I like what I’m music.” ty for 20 years. Phil himFor more information self has been in the indus- doing,” he says. “I’m around something I love – on Phil’s Music and try for 30 years.

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Memories visit www.philsrecords.com or call 441-2514.

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

Kentucky

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

No one can beat the Benson price

L

ooking for a unique gift that will take that special someone’s breath away? Look no further than Benson Jewelers, in Florence.

The tradition of great pricing and excellent, personable service started back in the 1930s when Benjamin Benson opened the original store on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood to serve the booming entertainment industry. His customers included well-known celebrities such as Clark Gable, Rita Hayworth, Lorraine Day, Ava Gardner, and Howard Hughes. Today, his granddaughter Debra Benson

Thacker carries on the family tradition here in Northern Kentucky.

Benson Jewelers is determined to offer the highest quality jewelry for the lowest cost. Ninety percent of the items in the store are custom designed

by Debbie herself.

“I've created and designed diamond and gemstone pieces to make every woman's fantasy in jewelry come true,” says Debbie. “Women all love jewelry! Diamonds and rare gemstones are very valuable, and when we have them or they are given as a gift we cherish them for life.”

If you can’t find what

you’re looking for, Debbie can create it for you, having it ready in 10 days.

There’s even a special men’s section this year.

Bensons also provides watch and jewelry repair and appraisal services that include rapid turn around, in most cases 24 hours, for the customer and a friendly, relaxed shopping environment that includes helpful southern hospitality.

For more information call 525-6524 or visit www.bensonjewelers.com.

They accept all major credit cards and offer up to 36 months same as cash layaway.

Fine wine, good times

S

toneBrook Winery is a small farm family winery located in Camp Springs, Ky., just 20 minutes south of Cincinnati.

StoneBrook offers magnificent vineyard views, a renovated 120-year-old farm house converted into a cozy wine tasting room, old country charm.

StoneBrook vints a

variety of wines including the Estate bottled Vidal Blanc, Estate, Cabernet Franc and Domain wines as well as a wide variety of other fabulous, awardwinning grape and fruit wines. The tasting room is open on Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. For $5 you are able to taste five palette pleasing grape or fruit

wines. Tours through the award -winning vineyards and carriage rides are also available by appointment, weather permitting.

StoneBrook also offers unique, monthly dining experiences that have become a local favorite Visit www.stonebrookwinery.com . StoneBrook Winery is offering holiday gift certificates this season.

Latest winter doll fashions

D

azzle up your favorite 18-inch doll with a sparkling ruby, burgundy, emerald green, or gold Christmas gown, and a sumptuous velvet, furtrimmed cape.

Or keep her warm and cozy with a lovely furlined jacket.

All this and more can be found at Preview

Kentucky

Productions in Newtown.

Owner Joyce Rosselot and her assistants Susan Lehr and Sarah Watters have been busy as elves designing, sewing, and stocking the doll clothing boutique with the latest in holiday and winter fashions.

They have everything for special occasions and everyday winter wear,

some outfits even come with matching boots.

With such reasonable prices, this season is the perfect time to add several of the latest ready-towear fashions to your favorite someone’s doll collection.

The best selection is always in the store, located at 6720 Main St. in Newtown. Call 271-2524.

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

9

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

Stop searching, Merle Norman has that perfect gift!

W

hen you’re looking for the latest, trendiest, cutting-edge fashions, Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio and Boutique in Crestview Hills Town Center is the place. Super-easy, creative fashion statements can be had on an affordable budget!

The Miche Bag, now available in classic and large sizes, is one of the hottest bags in the nation, and it’s no wonder! One bag with interchangeable covers allows you to give your purse a daily facelift without having to change the contents. Ingenious!

Over 50 fashionable designs to match the changing you.

The perfect black and orange bag, duly dubbed “the Bengal Bag”, is in high demand. It’s highly fashionable on its own, but a must-have among Bengal fans.

Tired of wearing the same old boots? Socks

Appeal were made specifically for the fashionsavvy female who wants to satiate her shoe-shopping thrills without burning her budget. Socks Appeal are socks topped with high-quality faux fur trim in a variety of styles like sassy pom-pom, ribbon, elastic or buckle, and easily turn an old boot into a fashionable foot statement. Simply slip them on under your boots and voila, you’ve added a sexy, stylish twist that enhances any outfit and gives you great Socks Appeal. A pair of designer boots will set you back big time, but with Socks Appeal, you can spice up an old pair of boots for only $39. Now that’s fiscal responsibility of the highest fashion.

Switchflops set the shoe industry on fire with their changeable series of straps in a variety of styles and colors that all fit the same shoe. Now they’ve introduced a gen-

uine leather ballet flat with 12 interchangeable decorative snaps. It’s stylish and versatile, and with the popularity of ballet flats this season, you’ll definitely want this one!

Purses, jewelry, scarves, hats, watches, stylish accessories and more! Many are one-of-akind and found only and exclusively at the Merle Norman Boutique.

Chances are that smartly dressed woman you see today that stands apart from the rest shops at Crestview Hills. Go ahead. Ask her.

For 80 years, Merle Norman has been helping women discover just how beautiful they can be.

Merle Norman gift certificates are always a welcome gift, plus pick up a selection of affordable stocking stuffers. Best of all, you’ll be earning Bonus Bucks for yourself while you shop. Each Norman see page 11

Defining comfort food

F Call 578-5501 to advertise!

10

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

or the last 76 years Colonial Cottage, an Erlanger landmark, has been living up to the definition of comfort food – showing the community what real food is supposed to taste like.

Their top entrees, fried chicken and catfish, blackened or fried, are a true comfort for every soul.

Their gravies are made from the drippings of roast, made in-house.

n k y. c o m

They offer five different vegetables everyday.

Colonial Cottage has been featured nationally on the Travel Channel for their regional goetta dishes and locally for their cream pies. Their chili has also won local acclaim.

Banquet facilities are available, as well as catering.

Colonial Cottage is a place for families to gather and a place to do business. Several business

groups meet at the Cottage weekly, including Business Networking International, and Rotary to enjoy good food and pursue their interests.

For more information call 341-4498 or visit the Colonial Cottage Face Book page for personal interest stories and featured menu items. You may also visit them at 3140 Dixie Highway in Erlanger.

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

Kentucky

L A S T

M I N U T E

G I F T

G U I D E

Why Santa doesn’t bring puppies

By Khris Fields he addition of a pet to a new household is an exciting and tremendous endeavor that should be undertaken with much thought and planning. Often times, people make this decision too hastily or get caught up in the excitement.

When this happens, both the pet and humans involved can suffer long term consequences. This scene is repeated over and over during the holidays.

Below is a list of factors to consider before you purchase or adopt a pet during the holidays: • Failure to properly research the desired dog/pet/breed: How many of us have fallen in love with a cute little puppy or kitten? All puppies are cute and one thing is certain, they all grow into adult dogs.

T

Each specific breed or blend of bloodlines is suitable for a specific lifestyle or family. Consider the original purpose and use of the breed/mixture of the pet in question. By waiting until after the holiday rush, families can research and choose the best possible match for their home.

• Too much excitement: Holidays are frantic, scattered, and busy for most of us. A new pet deserves dedication of time and effort to ensure that his transition to a new home will be smooth.

During the upcoming weeks, there are likely to be more visitors, more food, more decorations, and generally more commotion than is usual for your home. Similar to bringing a new baby home from the hospital,

new pets adjust best when you can offer a consistent schedule and peaceful calm atmosphere for them.

pet can be exciting but the newness, particularly for children can wear off quite quickly. After the gift has been received, the work is just beginning.

Pet owners may unintentionally overlook the emotional and physical needs of their new pet because they are busy attending to family, new toys, or other holiday items.

things are returning to normal.

Does the pet owner on your gift list need a spiffy new item for their current pet? A gift certificate to a • Cost: grooming shop or perhaps Who among us couldobedience classes to n’t use a little more improve their beloved money during and espefamily member may be cially after Christmas? just the ticket.

Here’s a news flash- pets Bringing a new family are expensive! With a new member into your pack is pet comes the cost of a never a decision to be veterinarian, food, flea For the pet lovers taken lightly – you are prevention, training class- among us, here are some commiting to the care, es, boarding, grooming, ideas to tide you over love, and keeping of toys, and necessary hard- during the holiday season. him/her for life. Enjoy the ware (such as crate, litter Rather than bringing a holidays with all your box, bones, catnip, etc.). new pet home during the family members – two Many people rush into pet next few weeks, donate and four legged ones ownership at the holidays your time, supplies, or alike. without realizing the money to a local shelter. If For more information additional costs that are someone you know regarding pet training, associated with it. desires a pet for grooming, or boarding, Christmas, provide them call the dedicated profes• The Toy of the Day with a gift certificate. This sionals at Canine Syndrome: allows them to thoughtCompanion Training and During the holidays fully choose the perfect Boarding Center at 356when we are receiving so pet for their family and 6457. many new items, a new bring it home later when

Norman from page 10 time you purchase Merle Norman cosmetic, skincare and boutique items through Dec. 31, you’ll

Kentucky

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

n k y. c o m

earn $5 in bonus bucks for every $50 you spend!

Call 344-0500 for more information.

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

11

A T

H O M E

Is winter time also Roof Time?

W

ith all of the severe storm damage the tristate has endured over the past year, many homeowners are still in need of roof attention to get them safely through this winter's nasty weather. But people often question whether or not they can have a new roof installed in cold weather.

Could you?

temperatures less than 26 degrees, but many extra precautions are needed.

For instance, EDPM (flat rubber) roofers need to make sure their adhesive isn't freezing.

Composition shingle roofers have to be careful that they aren't damaging the shingles when nailing

New shingles need to undergo thermal sealing, which can take several days of temperatures on the forty degree or higher range.

According to one of Cincinnati's most experienced installation foreman, Terry Littleton of Roof Time, the number

Winter in Ohio and Kentucky tests your home and roof in ways unlike any other time of year.

You can roof in cold, dry weather, but the quality of the finished product may be adversely affected by wet snowy shingles.

Most manufacturers of all roofing types have specific requirements about what temperatures their materials can be installed in. For the most part, the temperature is 26 degrees or warmer. It may be possible to install roofs in

them.

Shingle makers do not change their warranties based strictly on installation temperature. This means that your new 30 year dimensional shingle has the exact warranty as a roof installed at any other time of the year.

one tip is that no roofing guns should be used when temperatures are less than 30 degrees.

Littleton says, "At Roof Time, we hand nail all our winter installations, at no additional charge to our homeowners!"

All steep slope roofers

have to be careful that they don't damage the underlayment which can become brittle in cold weather. Only 30 pound felt (or better) should be considered as underlayment, and all underlayments should be installed using cap nails and not staples.

On a roof tear-off, insist that only as much roofing as can be newly shingled in the same day be attempted. Too many homeowners have had their interior ceilings ruined by surprise winter storms that tarps and felt alone, could not withstand.

Winter in Ohio and Kentucky tests your home and roof in ways unlike any other time of year.

The most common problem in cold weather is the presence of ice dams. An ice dam is formed over the eaves of a house from built up snow melting

and running down the roof only to refreeze at the very edge of the roof line.

Roofing contractors use a product called "ice & water barrier" together with proper drip-edge flashing techniques to prevent ice dams from damaging your home and causing leaks. This technique, when done properly, provides added protection for at least 3 feet up from all edges of the roof.

Many older roofs do not have "ice & water barrier" installed. If your roof is leaking because of ice dams this could be a great time to have the roof redone properly and insure that ice dams will not be bothering you and your home again. Roof Time has many winter roofing tips for the DIY homeowner at www.time2roof.com / winter Roof Tips.

Lasting from page 7 Decorated and undecorated garlands, wreaths, and swags which look as if they were just cut and brought in from the forest are available . . . sometimes you just want a beautiful, natural look without the splash of color. Make no mistake!! Glitz and color also abound at every turn... red, lime, chocolate brown... anything you need to add a cheery, festive flare for your holiday entertaining.

These stores offer so much more than you would expect, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy the opening season of both stores!

12

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Thursday Dec. 10, 2009

Kentucky