Triad NC 2023-24

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1 The Science of Laughter 4 Good Eats 6 Event Calendar 12 Money With A Twist 14 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 TRIAD | NC | 2023-24 |

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Restaurants The Marisol Upscale locale with unwritten menu of seasonal, internationally inspired dishes, plus a piano bar.

5834 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407 Phone: (336) 852-3303 | Web: www.themarisol.com

Green Valley Grill European fare, wines & afternoon tea in a sprawling setting with a courtyard & separate lounge.

622 Green Valley Rd, Greensboro, NC 27408 Phone: (336) 854-2015 | Web: www.greenvalleygrill.com

Hops Burger Bar Casual burger joint offering patties with locally grown ingredients, plus a bar & craft brews.

2419 Spring Garden St, Greensboro, NC 27403 Phone: (336) 235-2178 | Web: hopsburgerbar.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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Pho Hien Vuong

Steak Street

Laid-back Vietnamese operation specializing in pho noodle soups, with options for vegetarians.

4109 Spring Garden Street, Greensboro, NC 27407

Airy steakhouse with a diverse wine list, mardi gras-inspired decor & a bar with a retractable roof.

3915 Sedgebrook Street, High Point, NC 27265

Thai Chiang Mai Colorful kitchen serving traditional Thai fare such as duck basil & curry dishes.

500 Americhase Drive, Greensboro, NC

Melt Kitchen and Bar

Sweet Old Bill’s Unfussy restaurant doling out innovative burgers made with BBQ meat, plus salads, fries & beer.

1232 N Main Street, High Point, NC

Panini, salads & other American cafe fare, plus wine & cocktails, in a sunny space with big windows.

1941 New Garden Rd #116, Greensboro, NC

Poke Bowl

Mellow Mushroom Winston-Salem

University Kitchen

Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.

314 W 4th Street, Winston-Salem, NC

Straightforward restaurant specializing in poke bowls, plus sushi & generous wraps.

116 N Elm Street, Greensboro, NC

Low-key standby offering homestyle Southern entrees, sandwiches & pizzas, plus cocktails & beer.

2004 N Main Street, High Point, NC 27262

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EVENTS 2023-24 NOV 24 Festival of Lights at Tanglewood Park Tanglewood Park’s rolling countryside transforms each holiday season into a shimmering Winter Wonderland with more than a million twinkling lights aglow. Attendees take in the spectacular sights while listening to festive tunes on the interactive musical displays, with original compositions from the UNC School of the Arts students. Enjoy more than 80 displays along the winding countryside route. Learn more at visitwinstonsalem.com.

DEC 1 Christmas at Old Salem Discover early Moravian traditions as you stroll the charming streets of Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where the fragrances of pine-bough decorations greet you. Costumed interpreters invite you to explore centuries-old holiday customs inside the historically restored village, home to more than 100 original buildings and structures. Visitors can tour the historic buildings, interact with period interpreters, visit with St. Nick, and experience Moravian traditions first-hand. Every weekend from December 1-16, immerse yourself in the living history of the original Moravian settlement of Salem with an evening tour or a guided lantern tour. Learn more at visitwinstonsalem.com.

JAN 27 Greensboro Wine & Chocolate Festival 2024 Greensboro Wine & Chocolate Festival is an annual event that brings together the finest wines and chocolates from around the world. Held at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex in Greensboro, NC, the festival offers a unique opportunity to sample and purchase the best of both worlds. With a variety of exhibitors, the event is sure to provide a memorable experience for all attendees. Learn more at wineandchocolatefestivals.com.

MAR 14 Corteo: Cirque du Soleil Corteo, the most enchanting arena production from Cirque du Soleil is back

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EVENTS 2024 in North America and heading to Greensboro, set to charm audiences for the very first time. Be sure to get your tickets early for this amazing spectacle of performances. Learn more at visitgreensboronc.com.

MAR 29 Triad Anime Con 2024 Triad Anime Convention is an annual anime, video game, and Japanese pop culture convention held in the Piedmont Triad region of NC. Triad Anime Con 2024 is not just another event; it’s a gathering of like-minded individuals coming together to share their love for the colorful and dynamic world of Japanese animation. Learn more at triadanimecon.com.

APR 13 RiverRun International Film Festival Celebrating 26 years in 2024, RiverRun is one of the fastest-growing regional film festivals in the U.S., and a premier film festival in the Southeast. This Academy Award-qualifying film festival showcases a variety of narrative, documentary, student, animated, and short films from all genres. Learn more at riverrunfilm.com.

MAY 11 Elm Street Run Festival Welcome to the 3rd annual Elm Street RunFest! Headlined by a 10 mile grand tour of Greensboro’s central boulevard and surrounding neighborhoods, Course is USATF certified, and will start and finish in downtown Greensboro. Learn more at runsignup.com.

MAY 24 Gears & Guitars Gears & Guitars will return to Innovation Quarter, May 24-26, 2024.

Marking its eleventh annual event, the weekend combines world-class racing, community rides, and a roster of live music into the biggest party on two wheels. Learn more at visitwinstonsalem.com.

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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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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 19

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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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NORTH STAR LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER North Star seeks to empower and enrich the lives of LGBTQ people in the Triad area.

We offer various social, support, and educational opportunities for adults & youth.

NORTHSTARLGBTCC.COM | (336) 893-9053 GUILFORD GREEN FOUNDATION EQUALITY. DIVERSITY. INCLUSION. Guilford Green Foundation & LGBTQ Center unites and strengthens the greater Greensboro community by supporting the needs of our LGBTQ neighbors and promoting understanding by all residents. guilFORDGREENFOUNDATION.ORG | 336-790-8419 LGBT CENTER OF RALEIGH The LGBT Center of Raleigh prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, sex, race, color, religion, creed, age, marital status, national origin, mental or physical disability, political belief or affiliation, veteran status, HIV status, or any other class of individuals protected from discrimination under state or federal law. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community. LGBTCENTEROFRALEIGH.COM | (919) 832-4484 CAROLINAS LGBT+ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Our mission is to foster equity, inclusion and economic prosperity for the LGBTQ community through strategic policy, professional enrichment, ally partnerships and economic development. CLGBTCC.ORG | 704-837-4050 LGBTQ CENTER OF DURHAM The LGBTQ Center of Durham commits to centering the experiences of those who are the most marginalized among us. With the Host Home Program, LGBTQ+ Youth Center, a re-centered Pride, and other gender inclusive support programs, we are aligned with the promise of serving QTPOC. Our services are open to the entire community and seek to make room for all people.

LGBTQCENTEROFDURHAM.ORG | (919) 827-1436

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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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INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING Arbor Acres.............................................................................................3 NON-PROFIT Dan River Basin Association................................................................ 15 Meals on Wheels Southwest OH & Northern KY................................. 9 PAVING CONTRACTOR Thompson Arthur.................................................................................. 9 SPECIAL EVENT VENUES The Barn at Reynolda Village................................................................7 VINEYARDS & WINERY Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery LLC..................................................... 15

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EVENTS 2024 JUN 21 Pride Festival & Parade All are welcome, as Winston-Salem proudly celebrates the local LGBTQIA+ community with a downtown parade and festival with live music, entertainment, street vendors, and hands-on activities. The festival serves as the kickoff to a weeklong celebration of love, unity, and equal rights. Learn more at pridews.org.

JUL 29 International Black Theatre Festival This historic event illuminates the powerful theatrical spirit and extraordinary talent of performers, designers, directors, producers, and technicians from across the country and abroad. During six life-impacting days, you will experience electrifying performances, riveting films, cutting edge spoken word poetry, engaging youth programming, informative workshops, insightful academic discussions, and a vendor’s market steeped in the African Diaspora. Learn more at ncblackrep.org.

SEP 22 Greensboro Pride Festival Help Pride takeover downtown Greensboro at our 17th annual Greensboro Pride Festival! Mark your calendars for a day filled with fun, food, and all the Pride you can imagine! The Greensboro Pride Festival is FREE and open to the public. Learn more at greensboropride.org.

OCT 4 Carolina Classic Fair Celebrating 141 years, the Carolina Classic Fair (formerly the Dixie Classic Fair) is the second largest agricultural fair in North Carolina, averages 325,000 visitors each year. The 10-day annual fair features a worldclass carnival with numerous rides and games, nationally known musical entertainment, delicious food and beverage, and exhibits of livestock, poultry, fine arts, and crafts. Learn more at visitwinstonsalem.com.