By Jennie Callison
Enquirer contributor

Greek restaurant to open downtown

DOWNTOWN - George Psihountakis is chasing his dream of cuisine.

The veteran Greek chef and entrepreneur recently returned to Cincinnati, where for four years he maintained a cart on Fountain Square that sold Greek edibles. Now he's opening up Mythos in the Aronoff Center that will serve what he describes as quick-service authentic Greek food. The bistro's decor will feature stories and characters from Greek mythology.

"We'll serve lunch to begin with," he said. "We'll have a few tables for people to eat there but will offer takeout and free delivery within the downtown area."

Mythos is scheduled to open in mid-January in the space at 650 Walnut St. that was formerly occupied by Sushi Ray.

Information: 260-1591.

Store takes family approach to pets

ANDERSON TOWNSHIP - A new pet store opened at 6666 Clough Pike in November. The Anderson Township Family Pet Center is owned by Daryl Meyerrenke.

As part of its effort to become an active member of the community, the Family Pet Center is sponsoring a series of workshops for pet owners. The first, titled, "We Got A New Dog For Christmas!" was held Dec. 28 and focused on the responsibilities of pet ownership.

"We go back to the days when pet stores were family-owned and part of the neighborhood," Meyerrenke said. "Our goal is to offer quality products with quality service. Future class topics include pet first aid, safety around animals, the value of the human-animal bond and the importance of pet nutrition."

The sessions are free and open to the public. Call the store for dates of future workshops.

Anderson Township Family Pet Center is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Information: 231-PETS (7387).

Auto parts store offers mileage tips

WEST PRICE HILL - A new auto parts store here is offering tips on making each tank of gas last longer.

Advance Auto Parts, at 5304 Glenway Ave., says its tips can help customers increase their mileage by as much as 10 percent. The information is contained on a free checklist available at the new location.

"Our commitment at Advance Auto Parts is to help drivers minimize breakdowns and save money by keeping their vehicles properly maintained," said the company's regional vice president, Larry Russell.

The store, Advance Auto Parts' fourth in Cincinnati, opened Dec. 11 and employs 10. George Zeek is the manager. In addition to parts in stock at the 7,000-square-foot store, the company's PDQ (parts delivered quickly) network expedites special orders.

Advance Auto Parts Inc. is based in Roanoke, Va. Through 2,500 stores in 38 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the company serves both the do-it-yourself and professional installer.

Information: 922-2043 or www.advanceautoparts.com.

Motion therapy available at studio

NORTHSIDE - A studio that specializes in movement therapy is now open at 4124 Hamilton Ave.

Cynthia M. Allen heads Feldenkrais Within, a studio that will teach the method pioneered by Russian-born physicist, judo expert, mechanical engineer and educator Moshe Feldenkrais (rhymes with rice). According to Allen, the method uses gentle movement and directed attention to improve movement and enhance human functioning. It also enables individuals to increase ease and range of motion while improving flexibility.

"Anyone, young or old, physically challenged or physically fit, can benefit from Feldenkrais," Allen said.

To acquaint interested individuals with the Feldenkrais method, the Feldenkrais Within studio will conduct introductory sessions 9:30-11:30 a.m. Jan. 12 and 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 15. Allen said the technique is taught in group and individual sessions. The individual classes are held at the Future Life Now offices in the College Hill Professional Building, 1639 W. North Bend Road.

Information: 541-5720 or Web site.

E-mail jcallison@zoomtown.com or fax 564-6991 with openings, expansions and other news about neighborhood businesses.