Precious Metals

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

JPeckMandyThere is perhaps no more enduring and popular personal statement than jewelry. We have, after all, been crafting and wearing varying pieces of metals and gems as far back as the earliest known civilizations, and show no signs of stopping now.

Just what is the irresistible appeal of precious metals and gemstones, and what trends can we expect read more »

Holiday Party Tips & Hostess Gifts

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

HolidayGnomeNow that the turkey’s been tetrazzini-ed, souped, sandwiched and otherwise expended, you might think it’s time for a breather.

You’d be wrong. The starting pistol for the holiday party season officially fires when the gobbler carcass hits the can, says party pro Jane Heekin, co-owner of H&RS event planners. And the key to hitting the holiday mark as a host is “know thy guests.” read more »

Fair Trade Gifts for the Holidays

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

TenThousandVillagesWith the spirit of Christmas upon us, many Cincinnatians are spreading holiday cheer across the globe.

The giving of socially conscious gifts is gaining a great deal of popularity, according to Elizabeth Russ, manager at Ten Thousand Villages in O’Bryonville. Since the store’s opening in November 2002, Russ has seen many loyal customers, as well as new faces who continue to support fair trade and all it stands for. read more »

My Stomach was in Over Its Head

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

RamundosMainb3:14. At first, seeing that number struck fear into my heart. But I quickly realized that if it could be done in three minutes and 14 seconds, then surely I could do it in less than 10 minutes. After all, I wasn’t there to break the record, just complete the mission.

It had all started a month prior over dinner and drinks at Oakley Pub & Grill read more »

Ballet Theatre Midwest

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

BalletTheatreMidwestThe old Carnegie library on Eastern Avenue no longer houses books, but it is still a hub of community learning and culture. It’s the home of Ballet Theatre Midwest, a dance academy in the best of the European ballet traditions.

The academy was founded in 2004 by Nancy Fountain, the school’s director, and Daniel Simmons, the artistic director. read more »

Eastside Eats: Tino Vino & TTC Update

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Amy Broghamer – Be the first to comment

TinoVinoMedalsTo many, the process of making wine may seem intimidating or difficult. The varieties of grapes and types of yeast strains used, fermentation and aging process can produce hundreds of different wines. Those planning a large event or looking to give a holiday gift may find themselves standing in the wine aisle, going back and forth over what the perfect wine would be to serve or share with a friend. read more »

Nerd Alert: DSLR Cameras

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

NerdAlertCanonIf you’re shopping for a new digital camera this holiday season, you may see a particularly fancy one with a $1000 price tag and wonder “what’s so much better about this than the $199 pocket-sized camera right next to it?”  The answer lies in one of the most expensive acronyms in photography: DSLR.  Prepare for some serious camera geekery as we go deep into the technology behind professional digital cameras. read more »

Breeze Through the Holidays with a Winning Smile

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

CosDentSmileIf you were considering undergoing cosmetic dentistry to improve your smile, now’s the time to make your move. The holidays are coming up, and you want to shine. The treatments are numerous and range from the subtle to the obvious – from teeth whitening to a brand new smile that will make your friends and family do double-takes. Pricing for different procedures starts around $300 and stretches into the thousands of dollars. But, dental insurance rarely covers purely cosmetic procedures. read more »

End-of-Year Financial Tips

Posted in articles on December 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

FinanceChartUpAs another year of economic recession winds down, every dollar saved is important. In addition to plain common sense and coupon cutting, there are strategies and tips to keep in mind as the year ends and tax season approaches. Here are some proactive steps to helping 2010 be a year of financial improvement. read more »

Eastside Spirit

Posted in articles on November 1st, 2009 by Jason Jones – Be the first to comment

BenGalsMainAfter taking a moment to ponder the question of what her favorite part is about being a Ben-Gal, Lauren B. is visably relieved when I tell her that she can get away with just narrowing it down to her top three. With a smile on her face, the Kenwood-area native who now calls Mt. Lookout home goes on to say that her favorite part is a toss up for her because she has so many.

“First off, I’ve met some of the best friends I’ve ever had. The ladies on the team are absolutely phenomenal. Second, it’s the best exercise I’ve ever had – and since it’s fun and I love it, it doesn’t feel like exercise. And the third thing is just being on that field every home game.” read more »