Austin TX 2024

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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 AUSTIN | T X | 2024 |

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1 The Science of Laughter 4 Good Eats 6 Event Calendar 14 Street Food Delights 18 Community Resources 20 Service Directory

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Restaurants Jack Allen’s Kitchen Lively restaurant & bar for upscale Southwestern cuisine made with ingredients from local farms.

2500 Hoppe Trail, Round Rock, TX 78681 Phone: (512) 215-0372 | Web: jackallenskitchen.com

Good Luck Grill Comfortable outpost for catfish, fried chicken & other Southern classics, plus a kid-friendly patio.

14605 FM973, Manor, TX 78653 Phone: (512) 272-8777 | Web: goodluckgrill.com

Sangam Chettinad Indian Cuisine Inviting dining room in a modest building where a lengthy menu of regional Indian fare is served.

6001 W Parmer Ln #140, Austin, TX 78727 Phone: (512) 770-1104 | Web: sangamchettinad.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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Fonda San Miguel

Titaya’s Thai Cuisine

Sophisticated takes on traditional Mexican cuisine served in a colorful, hacienda-style space.

2330 W N Loop Blvd, Austin, TX

Traditional Thai & fusion dishes are served at this popular, modern bistro.

5501 N Lamar Blvd Suite C101, Austin, TX

Pizza Day Storefront delivering creative pies with organic toppings, including vegan & gluten-free options.

10225 Research Blvd #110, Great Hills station, Austin TX,

Bufalina Due

Tumble22

Top Notch Hamburgers

About Tumble22 Nashville-style hot chicken joint with southern sides, milkshakes, beer, wine & cocktails.

7211 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX

Austin mainstay since 1971 for burgers & onion rings in a vintage setting with curbside service.

7525 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX

Shu Shu’s Asian Cuisine

Santorini Cafe

Straightforward Chinese kitchen serving up rice dishes & noodles, plus lunch specials.

8303 Burnet Rd #1, Austin, TX

Gyros, baklava & other Greek snacks served in a cheery white cottage with a wine bar & patio.

11800 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX

Handcrafted Neapolitan pies with artisanal ingredients join beer & wine in a cool space.

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX

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EVENTS 2024 Jan 26 Trevor Noah: Off the Record Trevor Noah is one of the most successful comedians in the world and was the host of the Emmy® Award-winning “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central for seven years. Under Trevor, “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” broke free from the restraints of a 30-minute linear show, producing engaging social content, award-winning digital series, podcasts and more for its global audience. Learn more at austintexas.org.

Jan 27 New York Italian Learn a little more about this blended cuisine based on traditional Italian regional recipes combined with American ingredients and style. You will work in our kitchen with a small team to create these dishes found in ItalianAmerican restaurants throughout New York. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Jan 28 DRAG BRUNCH! Join us for our monthly Drag Brunch at Irene’s, featuring Louisanna Purchase and friends! The show will run from 1-3PM and is available by limited reservations or walk-in. A percent of ticket sales and proceeds will be donated to TENT, Trans Education Network of Texas, dedicated to furthering gender-diverse equality in Texas through education and networking in both public and private forums. Visit eventbrite.com.

Feb 3 Carnaval Brasileiro at Speakeasy Hailed as Austin’s wildest party, Carnaval Brasileiro is the city’s annual Brazilian style Mardi Gras celebration. The flamboyant sometimes risqué, costumes, the driving Brazilian samba, and the uninhibited, spirited atmosphere have earned Carnaval its reputation as one of the best and biggest such festivities outside Brazil. Two live Brazilian bands provide nonstop dance music…come in comfortable shoes, and be ready to dance for 5 hours straight! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

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EVENTS 2024 Feb 4 Make & Take: French Macarons You’ll make the batter and the buttercream fillings; pipe out these dainty French treats; and while they bake, fill some pre-baked shells with an assortment of seasonal fillings. By the end of class, you’ll have mastered the art of the macaron! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Feb 13 A Taste of New Orleans Invest a little time in learning to make these classics from New Orleans.

You’ll create a roux, the foundation of every gumbo, and then build the flavors by adding traditional ingredients; sauté and season greens; and produce yeasted Creole rice fritters for dessert. Visit eventbrite.com.

Feb 17 Fronterafest FronteraFest, Austin’s longest-running and most beloved performance festival returns for its 29th year. A unique collaboration between Hyde Park Theatre and ScriptWorks, FronteraFest attracts actors, artists, poets, dancers, and performers of all types throughout Texas and beyond. Learn more at austintexas.org.

Mar 16 The Official Lucky’s St Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl Grab your leprechaun, shamrock, pot of gold, and crazy St. Patrick’s Day costumes and get ready to shamrock ‘n roll! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Mar 24 Sharks Exhibition Sharks is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York. The Museum gratefully acknowledges Warner Bros. Discovery for its generous support of Sharks. A selection of footage in Sharks has been provided by Discovery’s Shark Week. Learn more at austintexas.org.

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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 Prescription: 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 Apr 6 The Bloody Mary Festival We’ve scoured Austin for the craftiest, most delicious Bloody Marys. Taste & enjoy them and then vote for your fave to help crown Best Bloody Mary in Austin! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Apr 20 Pop Punk’s Not Dead Fest Van Full of Nuns Presents: “Pop Punk’s Not Dead Fest!” THE interactive, nostalgic experience of 2024 that celebrates the golden eras of pop punk and emo music! With headliners Red Jumpsuit Apparatus & The Ataris teaming up with the founders of “Pop Punk Nite”, Van Full of Nuns, plus a KILLER support lineup, you know you’re in for a full day & night of 2000’s pop punk partying. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Apr 24-26 Crop Creative Experience Crop is a 3-day creative experience that celebrates art, graphic design,illustration, music, and all things creative. Crop is filled with keynote talks, workshops, vendors, parties, and of course, plenty of good vibes!

Over the years, we’ve built an amazing community where all are welcome and we can’t wait for you to join us this upcoming Spring! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Apr 28 Austin Witchfest Dedicated to the celebration, education and practice of witchcraft, in all it’s forms. Held in the indoor spaces of the Palmer Events Center, near the heart of Austin and next to the beautiful spaces of Butler Park, we hope that you will join us for a day full of workshops, rituals, shopping, divination, entertainment and more! A portion of net proceeds will be donated to charity. Please read fully to understand what to expect and we hope to see you there! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

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EVENTS 2024 May 4 5k Beer Run x Lazarus Brewing Join us for a fun-filled day of running, beer, and good vibes at Lazarus Brewing - 6th St. Lace up your running shoes - we’ve mapped out a 5k-ish course that starts and ends at this awesome taproom in east Austin. Run, walk or jog before celebrating with a locally-brewed craft beverage at the finish line. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to stay active, this event is fun for all. The 5k course will take you through scenic routes, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while getting your heart pumping. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

May 11 Ukulele Happy Hour Join us for a ukulele happy hour! No prior skill or experience needed to participate. We will provide drinks, snacks and ukuleles! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

May 11 Austin’s May-garita Pub Crawl Get your lime greens, tequila tee’s, and margarita costumes ready because the May-garita Pub Crawl is on it’s way to Downtown ATX. This Maygarita THEMED event is going to be more than just margaritas... it’s tequila too! The May-hem will include various margaritas, tequila shots, beer, and cocktail specials at multiple participating locations. Join us at the May-garita Pub Crawl because it’s going to be a-MAY-zing! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Jun 2 ATX Television Festival ATX Television Festival is a four-day event that celebrates the television medium: looking back at its history, where it is now, and where it is headed.

The festival consists of panels, screenings, and events where attendees and leaders in the TV industry talk, watch, and experience television together as one community. Learn more at austintexas.org. continued on page 15

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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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EVENTS 2024 Jun 16 Broadway in Austin: Frozen An unforgettable theatrical experience filled with sensational special effects, stunning sets and costumes, and powerhouse performances, Frozen is everything you want in a musical: It’s moving. It’s spectacular.

And above all, it’s pure Broadway joy. Learn more at austintexas.org.

Jun 22 The Official Pride Bar Crawl Grab your pride flag, most colorful outfit, best friends and get ready to show pride through the bars! You’ll be creating the ultimate memories, having the greatest of times. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Jul 12 65th Annual Zilker Summer Musical: Legally Blonde The Musical Celebrate the 65th annual Zilker Summer Musical as Zilker Theatre Productions presents “Legally Blonde, the Musical.” Pack your picnic blankets and snacks, bring your friends and family, and join Elle Woods on her journey from fashionista to legal powerhouse as ZTP brings this beloved story to life with dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and show-stopping music. Admission is completely free. It’s a summer tradition like no other! Learn more at austintexas.org.

Jul 19 Main Course Stand Up Comedy The Main Course features a secret lineup of comedians at the iconic Vulcan Gas Company. Our comedians have been featured on Netflix, HBO, Comedy Central, and Showtime. This is gonna be a fun one. Learn more at austintexas.org.

Aug 12 Austin Pride Check out the Austin Pride Festival for a day of fun that includes live entertainment, face-painting, photo booths, food and games, all in continued on page 19

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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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AUSTIN LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Health & Wellness Committee maps out strategies to convene healthcare providers to impact the health and wellness of LGBT Austin.

AUSTINLGBTCHAMBER.COM | 512.761.5428 EQUALITY TEXAS Equality Texas works to secure full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Texans through political action, education, community organizing, and collaboration.

EQUALITYTEXAS.ORG | 512.474.5475 PFLAGAUSTIN PFLAG Austin is a chapter of a national non-profit organization, and provides free, confidential support groups for Austin, Texas area LGBTQ persons (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning) along with their family and friends. PFLAG Austin is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a local chapter of the national PFLAG organization.

PFLAGAUSTIN.ORG | 512.302.3524 ALLGO Allgo nurtures and celebrates queer people of color by building, educating, and mobilizing communities toward a just and equitable society.

ALLGO.ORG | 512.472.2001 KINDCLINIC Kind Clinic strives to empower our communities to embrace their sexual health and wellness without fear, shame or judgment. Kind accepts all Texans, providing PrEP, PEP, STI Testing & Treatment, HIV Testing & Care and Gender Affirming Care through both virtual care and our clinics in Austin, Dallas and San Antonio.

Come see us. We’d like to see you!

KINDCLINIC.ORG | 1-833-WE-R-KIND

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EVENTS 2024 support of the city’s LGBTQ community. Visit the website for a complete schedule of activities and performances. Learn more at austinpride.org.

Aug 31 The Front Fest The Front Fest is an end-of-summer festival, featuring musical performances, films and creative experiences curated by Future Front.

Hosted annually in Austin, we put Texas women and LGBTQ+ artists at the front of our lineups. Learn more at austintexas.org.

Sep 28 Austin Coffee Festival Try the best coffee in town - all under the same roof: Top specially curated roasters and exhibitors share with you their unique beans and flavor profiles.

This is a fun environment for coffee lovers & friends. Think about your ideal coffee event experience: this is it. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Oct 5 Hellbangers Ball Get ready to rock out to the loudest tunes and unleash your thirst. This inperson event will bring together the best bands from the local metal scene for an unforgettable night of pure metal madness. There will be vendors selling their creations. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Oct 26 The Official Halloween Bar Crawl Grab Your Witch’s Hat, Jack-o’-Lantern, Cauldron of Candies, and Spooky Halloween Costumes And Get Ready To Trick-or-Treat and Boogie! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Nov 2 Austin Food & Wine Festival From Central Texas favorites to the country’s top-rated purveyors, awaken your palate with delectable bites from iconic chefs and restaurants! Create the perfect pair when you sip from a wide selection of spirits, wines, and continued on back inside cover

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ARCHITECTURE Office of Architecture.............................................................................7 DESIGN FIRM Office of Architecture.............................................................................7 HOSPICE Halcyon Home....................................................................................... 9 PALLIATIVE CARE Halcyon Home....................................................................................... 9 REALTORS Moreland Properties...............................................................................3 ROOFING Acura Roofing Inc...................................................................................3 SENIOR IN HOME CARE CareFor...................................................................................................7 WEDDING VENUE Elm Pass Woods............................................................ front inside cover

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EVENTS 2024 brews among views of the extraordinary Austin skyline. Learn more at austintexas.org.

Nov 3 Levitation Fest Get those costumes and tickets ready for the epic psychedelic music and art festival, levitation, this Halloween weekend! This is a four-day weekend of music that brings art to Austin’s diverse Red River Cultural District and east side venues and art spaces. Learn more at austintexas.com.

Nov 16 Texas Book Festival The Festival Weekend is free and open to the public, with 300+ authors of the year’s best books. The Festival will include a robust, diverse lineup of established, emerging, and debut literary talent for readers of all ages.

Check the Texas Book Festival website for updates and more information.

Learn more at austintexas.org.

Dec 9 ATX Short Film Showcase The ATX Short Film Showcase is Austin’s monthly film festival. Every month, we curate 8 local short films, followed by a Q&A session with the filmmakers. Whether you’re interested in learning about the filmmaking process, looking to network with fellow Texas filmmakers, or just want a fun night of entertainment, come check us out! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Dec 14 6th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl The 6th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl® is coming to town Saturday December 14th, 2024 from 12pm-8pm!! Put on your best holiday onesies, Santa suits, ugly sweaters, and elf costumes! It’s the most wonderful crawl of the year! Do you have a December birthday and want to celebrate with your friends? Send us a pic of your ID and email and we’ll send you a free ticket and discount code for 5 of your friends! Learn more at eventbrite.com.