West/Northwest Creative Living (December)

CreativeLiving Features 6 8 11

Ready. Set. Shop!

Tips on how to tackle the crowd this holiday season.

Your credit matters Keeping track of your credit and keeping it good.

How to minimize winter’s impact on arthritis pain Tips to stay pain free throughout the holiday and winter 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’s 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.

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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.

Topics Business 3 Local Services • Shopping

4 Health & Fitness Mind • Body • Spirit

5 Last Minute Gift Guide Specialty shops

Hearing 9 Better Hearing aids

10 Senior Living

Apartments • Care

For advertising call 923-3111.

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Make sure you’re ready for the big snow

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re you ready for the snow? Winter is just around the corner and any day now, you are going to wake up with a winter wonderland right outside your door.

Now is the time to get your snow blower out for a test start-up and to check that it is operating correctly. Or, bring it in for a much needed tuneup from White Oak Mower Shop’s master service technicians.

Stop in and see the selection of Toro Snow Blowers, like the Toro Power Clear 180, a 58pound muscle machine that throws snow up to 25 feet. The Toro Power Clear 180 make great Christams gifts and are on sale now starting at $359.

Swervice after the purchase of a snow blower is also very important.

When it snows, you’ll want your snow blower in tip-top shape.

Located at 3590 Blue Rock Road, White Oak Mower Shop has the parts and services to get you going. For information call 385-43907.

Be ready for the snow, visit White Oak Mowe Shop today.

CreativeLiving Celebrate your business!

Invite your neighbors to the party.

Call 923-3111 to advertise!

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Great Christmas gift ideas

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o you wish you could hear your children or grandchildren better on the phone, watch TV or movies at a volume that doesn’t bother others in the room, or follow a conversation with friends better than you do now? The holiday season, filled with reconnecting with friends and family, is a perfect time to make your hearing health a priority, too.

Join Sharon Christopherson, owner/audiologist at Christopherson & Clark Hearing Center, and her associate, Amy Smith, for holiday refreshments and a personalized demonstration of the latest hearing aids, assistive listening

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devices (ALDs), and connective devices that can help improve your enjoyment of the holidays and your communication the whole year through.

Sharon has more than 30 years of experience providing courteous service, top-notch care, and products at competitive prices. She has earned her patients’ confidence by understanding their individual needs and recommending the best technology at prices they can afford. Sharon would be happy to assess your hearing and show you how hearing aids and associated connective devices could make a difference in your life.

Many ALDs are in

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stock and others can be ordered in time for Christmas. ALDs offer people with hearing loss simple solutions for talking on the phone, watching TV, and hearing alarm clocks, doorbells, or smoke detectors. ALDs alert you to sounds you don’t hear well and amplify sounds you’d like to hear better, even with hearing aids.

If you or someone you know would appreciate the gift of better hearing, please stop by the office to browse our display of ALDs or call 598-9444 to schedule your hearing test or a free hearing aid trial, or for your free copy of the Consumer’s Guide to Hearing Aids.

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White Oak Nutrition under new ownership

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hite Oak Nutrition has a new owner and a new focus.

Owner Jaci Fanetti likes the idea of serving up healthy personalized protein smoothies in a family friendly atmosphere.

“I am the mother of four children so I know what it means to offer guidance in a gentle way,” she says.

“Still, I take people’s health very seriously.”

Jaci is looking forward to seeing some old faces that haven't been in for a while and to re-establishing a dialogue with those people. They open at 7:30 a.m. and will be offering $1 off shakes for old customers who want to stop by and meet her. She is all ears to listen and help.

Dec. 9, 2009

Her new hot shakes are great on a cold day!

As a new owner Jaci is hoping to find a few people who love the shakes and want to become Wellness Coaches.

“Weight loss challenges are a great way to have fun, lose weight and win a few dollars as well,” she says. “I look forward to teaching others how to run challenges. That way we can help more people both lose weight and make some money too!”

The next challenge starts on Wednesday, Dec. 9, at 6:30 p.m. People are welcome to join throughout the challenge.

To Contact Jaci at White Oak Nutrition call 741-8600 or stop by at 5830 Cheviot Road in the White Oak Center.

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Call 923-3111 to advertise!

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Ready.

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Shop!

By Melissa Hayden • Editor

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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!

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.

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 minitue 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.

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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.

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Grab a Mystic Tan Find the perfect gift at Lutz Flowers A for the holidays

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Total Tan is now offering the sunless spray tanning booth Mystic Tan at its Glenway and Delhi locations. Mystic Tan gives you the look of confidence, whether you’re shopping at the mall or having a night out on the town. You’ll turn heads as you pass by with the perfect tan that looks like you’ve spent hours perfecting. Even if you can’t tan through traditional means, Mystic Tan gives you a beautiful golden tan that looks completely natural. Hydrating nutrients enrich your skin, giving you a beautiful glow you thought you’d never achieve on your own.

Mystic Tan is quick, sim-

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ple and dark! Get in and take advantage of their Mystic Mondays, all single sessions in the Mystic are half price!

Do not forget to grab your favorite tanner a gift certificate for the upcoming holidays. A Total Tan is offering a discount on their monthly unlimited package this December.

Also, take advantage of their low priced lotions including ‘Bodacious by Booty’ and give your special someone a great tanning gift bag to get them started in the upcoming tanning season. A Total Tan prides themselves on giving you great tanning and products at affordable prices. A Total Tan like you never have before!

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n open house will be held Saturday, Dec. 12 with refreshments and in-store specials. With your $50 purchase you get a free gift valued at $10 while quantities last.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – make it even more wonderful with lovely decorations and gifts from Lutz Flowers. Beautiful poinsettias, a variety of Christmas centerpieces,

silk and fresh arrangements – there’s no better way to celebrate the holiday!

In addition, Lutz Flowers carries an array of gifts and charms that can add the perfect touch to any planter or floral arrangement. They also have a fine collection of memorial garden stones.

Lutz Flowers has been providing Cincinnati the finest in flowers and gifts at affordable prices since

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1918. They were recently voted the best community florist on the West side by Community Press readers.

They offer fresh floral arrangements, fruit and gourmet baskets and personal care gift baskets.

Visit Lutz Flowers at 5110 Crookshank Road, for more information, call 921-0561 or visit www.lutzflowershaus.com.

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Preview Productions presents latest doll fashions

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

trimmed cape.

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

All this and more can be found at Preview 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 sever-

al 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.

Great gift ideas, deals

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ooking for great gift ideas and a one-stop shop for the holidays? Enjoy the inviting atmosphere at Zahneis Salon every Saturday in December from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., as they extend to you amazing gift ideas and incredible savings during their holiday open houses.

Located on Muddy Creek, next to Ameristop, Zahneis is a comfortable and relaxing full-service salon that offers all the amenities including full body waxing, massage therapy, pampering body treatments and of course, nail expertise. The wide range of services also extends into skincare with a multitude of facials and chemical peels that can treat any skin condition and improve skin’s overall condition to achieve a youthful radiance.

Gift certificates with Tara and Ashley will save you 30 percent as $70 gift cards are sold for only $50! Also, all Pevonia skincare gift baskets include complimentary gift certificates and skincare treatments up to $80 in free services! Complete your loved ones’ holidays by giving the gift of pampering and relaxation. You can even create your own gift basket to complement your gift receiver’s specific skin type or pampering style, and they’ll receive a complimentary gift card as well.

Call Tara Zahneis at 451-2333, Ext. 14, to address any questions or to place you gift basket order ahead of time.

Your credit matters: Staying on top of your credit

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our credit matters when it comes to applying for a job or a loan, purchasing insurance or seeking an apartment to live in. If you don’t know your credit score, or haven’t main-

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tained a good credit rating, you might be in for a few surprises.

“There are so many different reasons for people to pay attention to their credit

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Hear ALL the sounds of this holiday season

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re you ready to hear ALL the sounds of the season?

Children laughing.

Excited whispers. Telephone calls from loved ones far away. All of the things that make the holidays memorable can be a major source of frustration if you have trouble hearing. Don’t let hearing loss come between you and a loved one.

The Place for Better Hearing wants to help you hear all the

sounds of the season. We will determine which type of hearing loss you have and recommend the best hearing solution for your hearing level and your lifestyle.

At your visit, you can expect a comprehensive hearing examination. We then proceed with a discussion of your lifestyle, including the types of sound environments you most frequently encounter.

They will then discuss hearing

aid options. At The Place for Better Hearing, they work with the most advanced hearing aids available today: S Series by Starkey. Every S Series hearing aid offers the best solution for your hearing and your lifestyle, as well as, the ultimate in performance, comfort and personalization.

Finally, they can help you narrow down your choice of hearing aids based on the investment you

are comfortable making. They understand the difficult economic climate some of out patients face. They are proud to offer CareCredit so you can enjoy convenient monthly payments with no interest charges.

Make this holiday season unforgettable. Call The Place for Better Hearing at 922-0123 to schedule an appointment or visit them at www.hearingbetter.net.

Credit from page 8 report,” says Jennifer Ehresman, a Bank of America customer experience executive. “Pay bills on time and use credit wisely, and over time you’ll lay the foundation for a car loan or mortgage approval. Knowing some basic information about

your credit will help you stay on top of it and use it to your advantage.”

Here are some tips to help manage credit and improve your credit rating.

1. Always pay your bills on time.

2. Don’t overspend.

3. Develop a budget.

4. Read the small print on interest rates.

5. Review your credit report.

“Stay in control of your

credit to achieve your financial goals,” Ehresman says. “Your credit matters, and managing it proactively can help you improve your rating and enjoy the bene-

fits that credit can offer.”

To learn more on how to responsibly manage your credit, visit www.BankofAmerica.com /Learn.

Don’t be left out Call 923-3111 to learn how you can be a part of the February 2009 edition of the Private

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School Directory, published bi-annually by The Community Press/Recorder.

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Angel’s Touch Nursing Care

CreativeLiving T Tell your neighbors your story Call 923-3111

he holidays are upon us and with the hectic bustle of our days, we can get bogged down with all of the responsibilities we face. Do you provide care for an elderly parent or relative, but don’t know where to turn for help?

Angel’s Touch Nursing Care has the solution for you and your family!

Owner Bonnie Perrino and her qualified staff can provide expert care and assistance to your loved ones in their own homes.

Whether it is as simple as addressing Christmas cards, hanging a wreath, helping with housekeeping, cooking, laundry, etc.

Angel’s Touch Nursing Care can ease the burden for you.

The staff at Angel’s

Touch can perform a multitude of tasks that include meal preparation, medication reminders, grocery shopping, personal care, etc. They can also provide comforting companionship and overnight respite for family members. They provide care for any time frame needed, from one hour to 24 hours a day.

“Being able to stay in the comfort, security and familiarity of their own home is very important to people as they age,” Bonnie Perrino says.

“With our services they are able to do that. We care for patients with needs that vary from minimum assistance to full nursing care.”

Perrino, who has owned Angel’s Touch

since 1995 says, “It can be difficult to find caregivers suited to the family needs and expectations, so we go the extra mile in providing the personal touch.” Angel’s Touch works closely with everyone involved to coordinate schedules that fit daily routines and requirements of clients and family members.”

They know how much your loved ones mean to you so you can rest assured that they will treat them with the living care and respect that they deserve. It is very rewarding to know they can help people who really need them. For information call 661-4111. Angel’s Touch Nursing Care is located at 3619 Harrison Ave. in Cheviot.

CreativeLiving Don’t miss out on being in the special January Bridal issue.

Call 923-3111 to advertise!

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How to minimize winter's impact on your arthritis pain ou’re not just imagining it – you really can feel winter’s chill in your bones, especially if you’re among the 45 million Americans who have arthritis.

Coping with this often debilitating disease can be even more challenging when the weather turns cold, making joints feel even more stiff and painful.

the increased severity of winter-onset arthritis, the study concluded.

But winter’s chill shouldn’t drive you indoors until the spring thaw.

Just the opposite, says the Web site AthritisToday.org. Walking outside in the winter has many health benefits for arthritis sufferers, including burning calories and helping you feel positive and motivated, the site says.

Plus, inactivity is often associated with an increase in pain.

So how can you stay active and manage your arthritis this winter?

Here are a few tips:

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Stay warm and dry

In fact, rheumatoid arthritis that first appears in the winter or spring may be more severe than arthritis that emerges in summer and fall, according to a French study of arthritis patients. In addition to cold temperatures associated with winter, viruses – which are more prevalent during winter – may play a part in

Dampness and cold exacerbate arthritis pain. Dress warmly and avoid dampness. If you live in an area with particularly damp weather, equip your home with a dehumidifier to take excess moisture out of the air.

When walking outside, wear warm, waterproof footgear and gloves. Layer your clothes for warmth and breathability, and choose fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin.

Stay active “Use it or lose it” definitely applies to arthritis sufferers. Exercise can help keep joints moving, strengthen Arthritis see page 12

Clovernook offers quality nursing care, rehabilitation

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lovernook provides quality nursing care and rehabilitation, as well as one of the most progressive, effective wound care centers in the Tristate. Clovernook is nestled into six park-like acres in the residential neighborhood of North College Hill and its caring professional staff is dedicated to serving the needs of the residents and their families.

The Progressive Wound

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Centre was opened in 2004, due to Clovernook’s successes in healing vascular, venous, diabetic, surgical, pressure and complex wounds. The Progressive Wound Centre team uses state of the art products and innovative treatments.

With quality care, careful monitoring, and a unified team approach, the professionals at The Progressive Wound Centre advance healing in dramatic ways.

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Centre is like no other in the region!

All rehabilitation therapies: Physical, Occupational, Speech, Respiratory, and Recreational are available to their residents.

Clovernook is Medicaid and Medicare certified and provides private pay, as well as some private insurances. They provide long-term and short-term care, and skilled and intermediate care.

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Does winter have to be achy?

By Carol Silver Elliott CEO/President, Cedar Village

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e’ve all heard someone say that the weather is changing and that they can “feel it in my bones.”

Well, truth is, folks with arthritis in many cases can, indeed, feel it in their bones and there is evidence to support that weather sensitivity can go hand in hand with arthritis.

What is arthritis? It’s a catch-all term that refers to more than 100 different types of diseases that involve joints, surrounding tissue or other connecting tissue, resulting in pain, swelling and stiffness. Arthritis affects more than 45 million Americans and that number continues to increase.

While cold weather can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, experts say that there are things you can do to feel better this winter season. The most important one is not to let winter keep you cooped up inside until the trees begin to bud! Keeping active and keeping your joints moving will help to

lessen pain.

Walking is a vital form of exercise, especially for those with arthritis. If it is too cold to walk outdoors, try an indoor course like a gym or mall. If the ground is dry, walking outdoors is worth doing – the fresh air can feel great.

Just make sure you bundle up and stay dry.

Dampness can make your joints feel more uncomfortable. Bundling up means layers so choose fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin, not trap it against you.

Another great form of exercise, any time of year, is swimming. Warm water pools are available in many areas and they can be a real boon for those with arthritis. Whether you take a water exercise class, swim or just do some water walking, the buoyancy of the water can make this more comfortable and the resistance of the water can give you a great exercise in less time.

One more winter hazard to avoid, especially if you have arthritis, is weight gain. Between the holidays and lower levels of activity in the cold,

many people find that the scale shows a higher number when the winter ends than when it began.

If your activity level is curtailed, your calorie consumption should be curtailed as well. Why is weight gain such an issue? Additional weight puts additional pressure on your joints-and that can make your discomfort greater. Of course, if your exercise level increases, you can manage your regular intake without modification. Another benefit of exercise!

Arthritis is a chronic condition that benefits from ongoing medical management. Make sure that you are seeing your doctor regularly, that you share with him/her any concerns you have and discuss any options that might make winter more comfortable for you.

Would a nutritional consultation help? How about a session with a personal trainer or physical therapist?

You can make a difference in your arthritis pain this winter. Stay warm, stay active and stay healthy!

Arthritis from page 11 muscles connected to joints, preserve bone health, and improve your overall health and fitness, according to www.Arthritis.org, the Web site of the not-for-profit Arthritis Foundation.

If you are less active during winter, arthritis can cause even the smallest movement to be painful. Maintain your prescribed exercise regimen, under your doctor’s guidance, as much as possible during winter months. The movement will help fight off the stiffness that cold weather brings to your joints.

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Keep to your diet Our diets tend to become “heavier” in colder weather as our bodies instinctively crave warmth-generating and fatbuilding fare to help us stay warmer.

But it’s important to maintain a healthy diet throughout the winter. Controlling excess weight, which puts undue strain on already sore joints, is a key element of managing your arthritis. Also, talk to your doctor or a qualified nutritionist about what nutritional supplements might be helpful in minimizing your pain.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Dec. 9, 2009

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