South Central PA 2023-24

SOUTH CENTRAL | PA | 2023-24

1 The Science of Laughter 4 Good Eats 6 Event Calendar 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 8

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 SOUTH C ENTR AL | PA | 2023-24 |

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Restaurants Glass Lounge Restaurant Steaks, seafood & sandwiches offered in a long-running tavern with an unpretentious vibe.

4745 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17110 Phone: (717) 255-9919 | Web: www.theglasslounge.net

1700 Degrees Steakhouse Elegant eatery featuring creative meat & seafood dishes along with an extensive wine list.

One N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA 17101 Phone: (717) 237-6400 | Web: 1700restaurant.com

note. bistro & winebar Cozy, modern spot with seasonal, European-inspired food & a full bar in a converted Victorian house.

1530 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102 Phone: (717) 412-7415 | Web: www.notewinebar.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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Sammy’s Authentic Italian Traditional Italian pastas & mains served in a polished dining room with a BYOB policy.

502 N 3rd St #1112, Harrisburg, PA

Progress Grill American restaurant for surf ‘n’ turf & cocktails served in an unassuming dining room & bar.

3526 Walnut St, Harrisburg, PA

El Sol Mexican Restaurant

1700 Degrees Steakhouse Elegant eatery featuring creative meat & seafood dishes along with an extensive wine list.

One N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA

Stock’s on 2nd Contemporary American bar/ grill with private-event rooms & a menu built on fare such as sandwiches.

211 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA

The Sturges Speakeasy

This spacious, colorful Mexican eatery offers classic dishes & a full bar with lots of tequilas.

18 S 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA

Tavern with a rooftop deck, offering contemporary American pub food with craft beer & cocktails.

400 Forster St, Harrisburg, PA

Cafe Fresco Center City

Rubicon

Stylish bistro & bar specializing in creative combinations of Asian & American flavors.

215 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA

Locally sourced French cuisine & cocktails served in a soaring interior with contemporary accents.

270 North St, Harrisburg, PA

Los Tres Cubanos Restaurant

Glass Lounge Restaurant

Lively place with an old-world atmosphere & traditional Cuban plates, plus special events.

540 Race St, Harrisburg, PA

Steaks, seafood & sandwiches offered in a long-running tavern with an unpretentious vibe.

4745 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA SOUTH C ENTR AL | PA | 2023-24 |

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EVENTS 2023-24 NOV 18 Cargill Holiday Parade The City of Harrisburg will present the Cargill Holiday Parade in Downtown Harrisburg on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 10am. This year’s theme is “Rockin’ Around the Burg.” The parade will feature giant parade balloons, marching band and dance team performances, decorated floats, characters, Santa Claus and more. The parade takes place on Front and 2nd Streets from Market to North. After the parade, head to Strawberry Square to meet Santa, enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies. Learn more at harrisburgpa.gov.

DEC 15 Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve Prepare for a musical journey like no other this winter as Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is set to spread rock vibes throughout its spectacular annual holiday tour. This year’s tour promises a new and larger presentation of the beloved holiday tradition, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” which has captured the hearts of multiple generations. Learn more at hersheyentertainment.com

DEC 20 Christmas Magic Each year, York County Parks celebrates the holiday season with Christmas Magic -- A Festival of Lights. Located at Rocky Ridge Park, this is a half-mile ADA walking trail that meanders along a wooded hilltop through nearly 600,000 twinkling LED lights and animated scenes! Wander along a candy cane lined walkway and through trees adorned with lights in every color and try to spot all the characters hiding among nature. It’s a truly magical experience for young and old! Learn more at yorkpa.org.

JAN 13 The 2024 Farm Show The 2024 Farm Show will feature fan favorites like the 1,000-pound butter sculpture, the famous Farm Show Food Court, youth showmanship, and

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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 sheep shearing competitions (among hundreds of other competitive agricultural events), cooking demonstrations at the PA Preferred® Culinary Connection, and more than one million square feet of handson agriculture education opportunities and chances to engage with the people who power Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry. Learn more at visitcumberlandvalley.com.

FEB 2 Carlisle’s Ice Art Fest The Ice Art Fest, a dazzling display in Downtown Carlisle, begins on Friday, February 2, at 4 p.m. Attendees can marvel at the UPMC Ice Throne on The Square, relax at the Ice Bar, witness live ice carving demonstrations, hunt for treasures in the Diamond Dig with Marjorie’s Gems, and enjoy scenic carriage rides offered by Benchfield Farms. This festival guarantees a wintry wonderland experience for all. Learn more at visitcumberlandvalley.com.

MAR 2 Lebanon Valley Spring Spectacular Join us for the 8th Annual Lebanon Valley Spring Spectacular on Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lebanon Expo Center! This year’s event will host nearly 200 crafters and vendors. Our event is FREE admission and parking is free at the Expo Center. Learn more at lebexpocraftshows.com.

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EVENTS 2024 APR 17 Spring Carlisle 2024 Spring Carlisle plays host to collector and classic automotive enthusiasts from around the world who traverse the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds to buy, sell and celebrate all things automotive. This is a fun-filled event for guests of all ages. The fairgrounds offer great fair-style food such as pizza, hot dogs, funnel cakes, ice cream, BBQ, crab cakes, and much more! Learn more at carlisleevents.com.

MAY 25 Artsfest The 56th annual Artsfest will feature 150+ juried artisans and craftsmen from across the country on May 25th. Hand-crafted works will be available for sale in sixteen different categories, including ceramics, digital, drawing, fiber (decorative and wearable), furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, miscellaneous, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture and wood. The festival also features live entertainment, Jazzfest, a community ceramic mosaic project, Kidsfest, HBGFest powered by the HBG Flea, 25 food trucks and more. Learn more at harrisburgpa.gov.

JUN 28 Carlisle Summerfair Carlisle Summerfair offers lots of free family-friendly events in the Carlisle, PA region at the start of summer. With the generous support of many of our great business sponsors, we are able to put on over 35 events each year over about a week-long period of time that include things like baby races, a kid’s carnival, mini-golf tournament, concerts, the Harrisburg Symphony concerts, open swimming pool nights, fishing derby, musical, and many other events. There truly is something for everyone. Learn more at carlislesummerfair.org

JUL TBD Pride Festival of Central PA 2024 Join us at the Pride Festival of Central PA for a spectacular celebration of

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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

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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.

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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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PFLAG HARRISBURG/CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA PFLAG National is a community of more than 250,000 members and supporters working to create a caring, just, and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. 626 Williams Grove Road, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17055 pflagcenpa@yahoo.com | WWW.PFLAGCENTRALPA.BLOGSPOT.COM METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF THE SPIRIT Reaching South Central Pennsylvania with God’s Radical Love! Whoever you are and wherever you come from on your life’s journey, there is a place for you at MCC. We are an intentionally diverse spiritual community reaching across barriers of gender, race, sexuality, disabilities, and religious backgrounds. MCCOFTHESPIRIT.ORG LGBT CENTER OF CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA Fostering inclusive communities and holistic well-being for LGBTQ+ people through social, educational, and cultural engagement.

CENTRALPALGBTCENTER.ORG | Phone: 717-920-9534 EQUALITY FORUM Equality Forum produces these innovative events in collaboration with learning institutions, professional associations, research centers, for profit companies and nonprofit organizations. EQUALITYFORUM.COM | Phone: 215-732-3378 LGBT ELDER INITIATIVE The LGBT Elder Initiative (LGBTEI) is committed to assuring that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender older adults have rights and opportunities to live vibrant, creative and mutually supportive lives.

LGBTELDERINITIATIVE.ORG | Phone: 215-720-9415 ALDER HEALTH SERVICES Alder Health is committed to providing a unique, holistic view of health through several integrated health services. We offer a relaxed, supportive, non-judgmental environment. ALDERHEALTH.ORG | Phone: 717-356-9570

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ACCOUNTING Accounting Services of York LLC.....................................................................19 ADOPTION & FOSTER CARE Diakon Adoption & Foster Care......................................................................19 BANK Fulton Bank......................................................................................................12 BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TEAMCare Behavioral Health......................................................................... 7 EARLY EDUCATION Thrive to Five Education...........................................................front cover, 10-11 HOME REMODELING Hunter Remodeling Group LLC......................................................................13 HOSPITALITY Quality Inn Harrisburg......................................................................................3 INSURANCE Brenda L Wagner Ins Agency Inc....................................................................13 PERFORMING ARTS Appell Center for the Performing Arts............................................................. 7 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Hometown Property Sales Group LLC............................................................19

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EVENTS 2024 love and diversity! Our event offers an incredible array of entertainment, featuring live bands, captivating drag shows, a Family Zone for all ages, fantastic vendors, and delectable food options. Don’t miss out on the ultimate Pride experience! Learn more at centralpapride.org.

AUG 31 Kipona Festival Join the City of Harrisburg for the 108th annual Kipona Festival. The 3-day event will feature a Multicultural Celebration, Native American Pow-Wow, fireworks, live music, Family Fun Zone, Art in the Park, tightrope walkers above the Susquehanna River, food trucks, beer/wine garden, and more.

Learn more at harrisburgpa.gov.

Sep TBD Great Allentown Fair The Great Allentown Fair (held on the Allentown Fairgrounds) offers a fun and educational experience around Labor Day Weekend every year.

Dedicated to supporting the achievements of farmers, gardeners, and homemakers, the Pennsylvania State Fair invites guests to learn about agriculture while spending an exciting time riding rides, playing games, and musical performances. It serves up tantalizing international cuisine, live concerts, thrill shows, and the latest in gizmos and gadgets. Learn more at www.allentownfair.com.

OCT 5 National Apple Harvest Festival 2024 Located in scenic Adams County, in South Central Pennsylvania, The National Apple Harvest Festival celebrates the fall season with beautiful handmade crafts, delicious food, and jam-packed entertainment. The festival is held outdoors annually at the South Mountain Fairgrounds in Biglerville. There’s a little something for everyone from over 300 arts and crafts vendors, antiques, live entertainment to food vendors, axe-throwing and more! Learn more at appleharvest.com.