Atlanta 2023-24

ATLANTA | GA | 2023-24

1 The Science of Laughter 4 Good Eats 6 Event Calendar 8 Money With A Twist 15 Street Food Delights 18 Community Resources 20 Service Directory

The The Science Science of of Laughter: Laughter: Why Why We We Love Love to to Chuckle Chuckle Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much?

In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a continued on page 10

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool.

Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In You’ve probably experienced AT L A N TA | G A | 2 02 3 -24 |

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Restaurants Poor Calvin’s Modern, intimate eatery featuring an Asian fusion menu, plus both classic & creative cocktails.

510 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 Phone: (404) 254-4051 | Web: poorcalvins.com

South City Kitchen Buckhead Inventive takes on Southern classics, including a popular brunch, served in upscale surroundings.

3350 Peachtree Rd NE Suite 175, Atlanta, GA 30326 Phone: (404) 815-6677 | Web: southcitykitchen.com

Nikolai’s Roof Upscale French-Russian dinner spot with city views is set on the 30th floor of the Hilton Hotel.

255 Courtland St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: (404) 221-6362 | Web: nikolaisroofatl.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

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Bones Restaurant

Agave Restaurant

Steakhouse institution serving prime beef & seafood in clubby rooms with an old-school vibe.

3130 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305

Native American decor & a fireplace set the stage for creative Southwestern small plates & entrees.

242 Boulevard SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Ecco Midtown Sleek spot for an ever-changing menu of seasonally inspired Continental fare & a bustling bar scene.

40 7th Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

Blue Ridge Grill

Thrive

Octopus Bar

American food, sushi & creative cocktails in a lounge-like dining room & bar with modern decor.

101 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303

Hip, late-night hangout offering cocktails & a changing menu of Asian & European eats.

560 Gresham Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316

The Vortex

Pasta Da Pulcinella

Local fixture known for its burgers, beer & whiskey selection & offbeat, rock ‘n’ roll vibe.

438 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

Pastas & other Italian favorites in a romantic setting: a cozy vintage bungalow with fireplace.

1123 Peachtree Walk NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

An elegant mountain lodge setting for elevated Southernleaning cuisine & curated wines.1261 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327

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EVENTS 2023 Nov 11 Atlanta Fall Wine Festival Includes 50+ Wines, beer, Live Music with Davis and the Love, DJ Qtip, and more. Tickets include entry, entertainment, souvenir acrylic wine glass, and all alcohol samples. Visit www.atlantawinefestivals.com.

Dec 3 Atlanta Hot Sauce Festival!

This event is perfect for hot sauce lovers of all levels, with something for everyone to enjoy. Sample sauces from over a dozen vendors, representing a wide range of heat levels and flavor profiles. You can also learn about the art of hot sauce making from the makers behind your favorite sauces.

In addition to sampling sauces, you can also enjoy live music, compete in eating competitions, and vote for your favorite hot sauce in the awards ceremony. There will be face painting, crafts, merchandise, and games, as well as delicious food available at the Argosy. Details and tickets at

Dec 23 Wing Fest Atlanta Christmas Party & Toy Drive This is a Toy Drive event. Bringing a toy is optional & all donated items will go to kids in the community. Tickets include: Entry, Wings, Open Bar. All you can eat wings until we run out. Wings are guaranteed to be available until 7pm (event ends at 8pm). Local vendors will be on site and there will

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Money with a Twist: Fun Financial Tips

THE “HOW TO” OF FINANCE FUN Finance may not always be the most exciting topic, but it doesn’t have to be boring either. Today, we’re going to turn the tables on traditional finance articles and make managing your money a bit more enjoyable. Get ready for some financial tips that are informative and fun!

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GAMIFY YOUR SAVINGS: TURN SAVINGS INTO A GAME Saving money can feel like a chore, but what if you turned it into a game? Challenge yourself to save a certain amount each week or month, and then reward yourself when you hit your goal. It could be a treat, a special outing, or even a guilt-free splurge. Gamification can make saving more exciting and motivating.

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SPICE UP YOUR BUDGET: MAKE IT VISUAL Budgeting doesn’t have to be dull spreadsheets and numbers. Create a visual budget using colorful charts or graphics. Visualizing your financial goals and progress can make budgeting more engaging and help you stay on track.

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DIY FINANCIAL ART: GET CREATIVE WITH MONEY Express your financial goals through art or crafts. Create a vision board with images and quotes that represent your financial dreams. Crafting can be a therapeutic and creative way to visualize your financial future. continued on page 14

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the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

This contagious nature of laughter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being: Stress Reduction: Laughter reduces the production of stress hormones like

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cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Perscription: Make Time for Chuckles Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles: Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with people who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health benefits.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.

Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

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EVENTS 2024 be a full open bar. Due to high demand we have moved this event to a club venue. Reserved premium VIP sections are available as a add-on item.

All other sections and tables will be first come first served. Free parking available. Visit eventbrite.com.

Jan 21 Resolution Con Festival Resolution Con festival brings together enthusiasts, fans, and participants who share common interests in various fields, such as pop culture, science fiction, fantasy, gaming, comics, anime, and more. Resolution Con festivals also celebrates the art of our venders and food from around the word. Attendees wear costumes and accessories to resemble characters from various sources, such as comics, anime, video games, movies, TV shows, and more. Details and tickets at eventbrite.com. eventbrite.com.

Feb 25 Atlanta Oyster Fest Enjoy a great selection of Oysters, beer, wine, mimosas, brunch punch, seltzer, live music and live DJ. Tickets include entry and entertainment, souvenir cup, and all alcohol samples. Visit atlantaoysterfest.com.

Mar 22-24 Georgia Food + Wine Festival The Georgia Food + Wine Festival will celebrate the best of Georgia and the South, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts, to farmers, artisans, live musicians and more. This is an all-inclusive, food and drink

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tasting event. Saturday’s main event, “Savor” offers hundreds of unlimited beer, wine and spirits tastings, a Georgia Celebrity Chef Stage, VIP Lounge, artisans, and live music. “Sunday/Funday” is the budget friendly and family-friendly day, with Kids Zone, VIP Lounge Oyster Roast, live music and more. Savor the Flavors! Visit georgiafoodandwinefestival.com.

Apr 12-14 Atlanta Dogwood Festival An Atlanta staple for over 80 years, there is something for everyone at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. Virtually every kind of art imaginable is represented at the festival, with a nationally renowned, juried Fine Artist Market that includes sculpture, paintings, pottery, jewelry, photography and much more. Learn more at dogwood.org.

May 25-27 Atlanta Jazz Festival Atlanta Jazz Festival is regarded as one of the largest FREE jazz festivals in the country. An annual celebration of the music, culture and art of jazz, with an outdoor festival featuring jazz artists from all over the world. Visit atljazzfest.com for details.

Jun 14-16 Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival This high-spirited celebration of freedom, unity, and equality offers six stages and is known for filling Centennial Olympic Park and the streets of Atlanta with the soulful sounds of live music, the pleasant aromas of sage, myrrh and frankincense, the amazing hand-made merchandise from local and international vendors, mouthwatering cuisines, and an array of immersive cultural activities for all attendees. Visit juneteenthatl.com.

Jul 27 Atlanta Ice Ream Festival Join us at the Atlanta Ice Cream Festival for a fun-filled day of America’s favorite dessert and healthy activities. Discover a variety of food and non-food vendors, live music, fitness routines, and wellness engagement continued on page 19

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4. THE FINANCIAL PLAYLIST: MAKE MONEY GROOVY Create a financial playlist of songs that motivate you to save, invest, and achieve your financial goals. Play it while you work on your budget or go for a run. The power of music can make financial tasks feel more enjoyable.

5. MONEY CHALLENGES: TURN SAVING INTO A COMPETITION Challenge your friends or family to a money-saving competition. Set a goal and see who can save the most in a month. The competitive spirit can turn a mundane task into an exciting race to financial success.

6. FINANCIAL FICTION: READ MONEY-THEMED NOVELS Pick up a novel that incorporates financial themes into its plot.

Whether it’s a financial thriller like “The Big Short” or a classic like “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” reading can educate you about money while providing entertainment.

7. FINANCIAL PODCASTS: LEARN WHILE YOU LAUGH Listen to financial podcasts that combine money advice with humor. There are podcasts out there that make financial education both informative and entertaining.

Finance doesn’t have to be a dry and dreary subject. With a little creativity and a sense of adventure, you can turn money management into an enjoyable part of your life. So, whether you’re gamifying your savings, or creating financial art, remember that making finance fun is not only possible but also a great way to stay motivated on your path to financial success. Cheers to a brighter financial future!

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Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions: 1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise, continued on page 16 AT L A N TA | G A | 2 02 3 -24 |

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience.

Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

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SOMEONE CARES Someone Cares is a leading agency in the fight against sexually transmitted diseases in the African American, Latino and Transgender communities. Their mission is to eliminate all barriers to health services for all individuals who experience health disparities related to sexual health in primary care, HIV testing, STD and HEP C screening and treatment, and intensive mental health and substance abuse counseling and treatment. S1CATL.ORG | (678) 921-2706 HEALTH INITIATIVE The Health Initiative is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of Georgia’s LGBTQ community through education, support, access to care and advocacy. They work directly with LGBTQ Georgians and LGBTQ-friendly providers.

THEHEALTHINITIATIVE.ORG FRONT RUNNERS ATLANTA Front Runners Atlanta is a running, walking, and social club for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Membership is open to all people regardless of race, pace, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or athletic ability.

FRONTRUNNERSATLANTA.ORG RAINBROS We seek to be inclusive, proactive and diligent in our commitment to serve the best interests of Midtown residents fairly and transparently. We want all Midtown residents to feel welcome and heard in meetings that exhibit respectful discourse and fair decision making strategies. MIDTOWNATLANTA.ORG PFLAG ATLANTA PFLAG Atlanta promotes the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, their families, and friends through support, education, and advocacy. PFLAGATLANTA.ORG | (678) 561-7354

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EVENTS activities. Satisfy your sweet tooth and learn more about maintaining a well-balanced lifestyle, all in one place! Visit atlantaicecreamfestival.com.

Aug 17 Piedmont Park Arts Festival The Piedmont Park Summer Arts Festival is a 2-day outdoor event with an emphasis on the visual arts and family fun. This event will feature up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalwork, glass blowers, jewelers, and crafters! The Festival will also offer artist demonstrations, live acoustic music, a children’s play area, plus festival foods and beverages with healthy alternatives. Details at piedmontparkartsfestival.com.

Sep 13-15 Atlanta Food & Wine Festival The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is a four-day culinary extravaganza spotlighting the incomparable food, wine, beer, and craft spirits of the South and beyond. Learn more at www.atlfoodandwinefestival.com.

Oct TBD Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade Atlanta Gay Pride takes place at leafy (and centrally located) Piedmont Park in early to mid-October. The event is part of a month long series of events including the National Coming Out Day and the Atlanta AIDS Walk. Atlanta’s Pride celebration centers around a colorful series of parades, a two day party in the park spectacular and a weekend long schedule of epic circuit events, tea dances and pool parties with an average of over 300,000 visitors over the weekend. The Atlanta Pride Committee produces three marches and the Festival Parade during the Festival Weekend, held on Saturday, departing from the Marta Civic Center Station, and ends at Piedmont Park. These include Trans March, Bi & Pan March, and Dyke March. You can learn more about the festivities and parades at www.gaytravel4u.com/event/atlanta-pride and Atlanta official website www.atlantapride.org.

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CONSULTING & FINANCING FIRM Good Friend Mortgage Inc.....................................................................3 HORMONE REPLACEMENT Regenerative & Sports Medicine............................... back outside cover LAW FIRM Kubanyi Law Firm, LLC..................................................................... 6, 12 NON PROFIT Salvation Army.............................................................back inside cover OPTIMIZATION THERAPY AND WEIGHT Regenerative & Sports Medicine............................... back outside cover PUPPETRY Center for Puppetry Arts........................................................................7

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