Western North Carolina 2024

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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

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Restaurants Never Blue Quirky downtown spot for global plates from flatbreads to tacos with sidewalk seats & a casual vibe.

119 S Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Phone: (828) 693-4646 | Web: theneverblue.com

Tupelo Honey An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.

12 College St, Asheville, NC 28801 Phone: (828) 255-4863 | Web: tupelohoneycafe.com

Shine Trendy restaurant featuring homestyle cooking, cocktails & craft beers, plus a roof terrace.

202 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Phone: (828) 692-0062 | Web: shinehvl.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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Mezzaluna Sleek, contemporary spot serving wood-fired pizzas & Italian fare, plus beer, wine & spirits.

226 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC

Bouchon Locally sourced French comfort food served in a cozy space with a bar, open kitchen & alley patio.

62 N Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC

Limones Restaurant

2 Guys Pizza Planet Friendly Food & Brews From-scratch pizzas, wings, ribs & more bar bites in a family-friendly joint with a video game area.

1307 7th Ave E, Hendersonville, NC

Jerusalem Garden Café Nothing-fancy cafe serving a Moroccan & Mediterranean menu in a space with stained glass windows.

78 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC

Modern Californian & Mexican cooking plus creative cocktails served in a quaint, homey setting.

15 Eagle St, Asheville, NC

The Lobster Trap

Pack’s Tavern

Plant

Modern tavern in a vintage building with over 35 rotating taps, live music & eclectic eats.

20 S Spruce St, Asheville, NC

Cozy, casual spot for seafood, locally brewed craft beer & nightly live music.

35 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC

Creative all-vegan cuisine, craft beers & biodynamic wines served in a spare, modern setting.

165 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC

Daddy D’s Suber Soulfood

Thai Spice Curries, stir-fries & noodle soups served in a tranquil space with dark woods & traditional accents.

220 S King St, Hendersonville, NC

Vibrant nook for hearty portions of Southern-inspired chow dished up in warm, homey quarters.

411 7th Ave E, Hendersonville, NC

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EVENTS 2024 Jan 10 French Broad Valley Mountain Music Jam Join Oklawaha Brewing Company for a weekly mountain music JAM with players in a round, where the session is focused on regional fiddle tunes and songs, You are welcome to come and listen or to learn and join in.

Weekly event takes place at Oklawaha Brewing Company. Details at visithendersonvillenc.org.

FEB 11 Smart Bets: Mardi Gras parade Taking to the Asheville streets each February, regardless of the usually chilly temperatures, participants and spectators of the Mardi Gras parade unite over a shared fondness for goofy entertainment. The theme for this year’s parade is “Ashevillage People,” certain to inspire its own distinct and creative costumes, props and floats. Learn more at thelaurelofasheville.com.

FEB 16 29th Annual Bluegrass First Class Festivals like Bluegrass First Class offer an up-close-and-personal bluegrass experience, with hotel room doors flung open to fellow festival-goers and impromptu jam sessions spilling out of hallways, stairwells and even some of the elevators. Learn more at bluegrassfirstclass.com.

MAR 9 Flannel Fest 2024 It’s time to channel the flannel once again, except this time at the taproom!

Join us on March 9th for an all day celebration as we bring the spirit of Flannel Fest to Mills River! Enjoy local vendors, live music, specialty food items, and more! Grab some plaid and prepare for a party like no other, lumberjack style!

Learn more at allevents.in.

MAR 31 Pickle Fest Come enjoy Pickle Themed Food & Beverage at the First Annual Intimate

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EVENTS 2024 Pickle Fest at The Grey Eagle on Sunday, March 31! Must be 21 and older to join! We have a sweet dill for admission so get your tickets early. Learn more at thegreyeagle.com.

APR 26 Spring Herb Festival The Spring Herb Festival at WNC Ag Center is the largest herb festival in the Southeast with 50+ businesses with plants, books, soaps, herbal crafts, medicinal herbs, lotions, dried flowers, baked goods, herbal gifts and much more. Free admission. Learn more at ashevilleherbfestival.org.

MAY 25 Beer City 20k Relay & 5k Enjoy a race after party and a beer on us for all participants (21+) at the Green Man Brewery, one of Asheville’s original breweries. You can run the 5k solo or run up to 20k with a team. Learn more at raceroster.com.

JUN 8 Hendersonville Pride Join the millions of people around the world who come together at thousands of Pride events each year to bring greater visibility, tolerance and equality to the LGBTQ+ community. Learn more at proudout.com.

JUL 25 Love Shine Play Festival The festival offers classes that take place in beautiful venues throughout downtown Asheville as well as an outdoor market in Pack Square Park. You will be able to choose from a variety of offerings including yoga classes, meditation, talks, hikes, and more. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

AUG 1 Mountain Dance and Folk Festival 2024 Come celebrate the 97th Anniversary of the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival! Doors open each night at 6:00pm with performances starting promptly at 7:00pm. Come share the beauty and dignity of the Southern

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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

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

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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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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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 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 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 envision an inclusive world where LGBTQ+ people are thriving, equal, and valued members of society.

LGBTCENTEROFRALEIGH.COM | (919) 832-4484 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 GUILFORD GREEN FOUNDATION 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

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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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CHURCH St. Eugene Catholic Church...................................................................7 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Republic Services................................................................................... 9 HOTEL Asheville Hotel Group............................................................................ 9 NON PROFIT Salvation Army..................................................................................... 15 REAL ESTATE Jason Brodsky-Asheville Holistic Realty..................................................7

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EVENTS 2024 Appalachian music, dance and storytelling traditions that have been handed down through generations in Western North Carolina. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

AUG 10 2024 Sourwood Festival Wander through several streets adorned with 200 vendors, indulge in festival delicacies, and enjoy a diverse range of live music. As the festival unfolds on side streets, our Main Street stays open, inviting you to explore the galleries, restaurants, and stores that contribute to our unique charm.

Breweries, Live Music, Art Galleries and so much more! Learn more at exploreblackmountain.com.

AUG 30 77th Annual North Carolina Apple Festival The annual NC Apple Festival includes a street fair, arts & crafts, live music and entertainment, children’s activities and rides, parade, food & much more, there are other special events that take place throughout the weekend across town. Learn more at NCAppleFestival.org.

OCT 17 Leaf Festival 2024 Plan your trip to the LEAF Festival, a celebration of music, arts, crafts, and culture. Experience the transformative power of music and art at the beautiful Lake Eden setting. Learn more at theleaf.org.

DEC 1 Christmas at Biltmore The biggest event of the holiday season. See America’s largest home decked out in festive finery. Candlelight Evenings are especially magical.

Throughout the estate, find 100+ decorated trees with 25,000+ ornaments, 1.5 miles of fresh garlands, 500 wreaths and sprays, 2,000 poinsettias and other favorite holiday plants, and 100 kissing balls! Learn more at romanticasheville.com.