Houston TX 2024-25

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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

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 HOUSTON | T X | 2024-25 |

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Restaurants State of Grace Polished American spot serving creative Texas dishes, oysters, grilled specialties & cocktails.

3258 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098 Phone: (832) 942-5080 | Web: stateofgracetx.com

Brennan’s of Houston New Orleans character & cuisine shine at this decadent eatery serving turtle soup, oysters & more.

3300 Smith St, Houston, TX 77006 Phone: (713) 522-9711 | Web: brennanshouston.com

Riel Stylish, bustling bistro serving globally inspired shared plates, cocktails, beer & sparkling wine.

1927 Fairview St, Houston, TX 77019 Phone: (832) 831-9109 | Web: resy.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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Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse

Xochi

Dishes inspired by Oaxaca headline this chic Downtown Upscale steakhouse serving destination that also serves meat & seafood with classic salads & side dishes in old-school cocktails & wine.

1777 Walker St, environs.

Houston, TX 77010 1510 Texas Avenue, Houston, TX 77002

Backstreet Cafe

Traveler’s Table Modern spins on global dishes like Pad Thai & Jamaican Jerk Pork served in a cool, eclectic space.

520 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006

Bludorn Hip spot dishing up brunch & creative New American eats, plus craft cocktails & a robust wine list.

807 Taft Street, Houston, TX 77019

BCN Taste & Tradition Set in a 1920s home, this contemporary Spanish finedining spot presents classic Catalan flavors.

4210 Roseland St, Houston, TX 77006

Cozy converted house features a homestyle New American menu, gourmet cocktails & a backyard patio.

1103 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77019

Squable Stylish mainstay with an airy interior turning out refined European specialties in casual surrounds.

632 W 19th Street, Houston, TX 77008

State Fare Kitchen & Bar Homestyle Southern cuisine including burgers & gumbo served in a relaxed space with funky flair.

947 Gessner Rd Suite B-190, Houston, TX 77024

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EVENTS 2024 Feb 5 The Drunk Shakespeare Society The stage is set in a hidden venue. Five professional actors meet as members of The Drunk Shakespeare Society. One of them has 5 shots of whiskey and then attempts to perform a major role in a Shakespearean play. Hilarity and mayhem ensue while the four sober actors try and keep the script on track. Every show is different depending on who is drinking... and what they’re drinking! Learn more at visithoustontexas.com.

Feb 10 Animeverse Fest This year Animeverse will be held at the NRG Center in Hall A! We will feature Panels, Contests, Guests and more! Visit visithoustontexas.com.

Feb 13 Galveston Mardi Gras Mardi Gras! Galveston is the largest Mardi Gras celebration in Texas, attracting more than 300,000 attendees annually. The twoweek celebration is best known for its lavish parades held on the streets of the city’s historic downtown and beachfront. Learn more at mardigrasgalveston.com.

Feb 23 Houston Rodeo Bar-B-Que Contest More than 250 teams compete in the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest. The carnival is open for wild rides and fun games. The Rockin’ BarB-Que Saloon also features live and DJ music, and has an outside patio for visitors to enjoy. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Mar TBD Walk to End HIV: AIDS Walk Houston Join thousands of walkers on a 5k trek through Downtown and along Buffalo Bayou as they raise money for AIDS services in Houston. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

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Mar 31 Bunnies on the Bayou 45 Bunnies on the Bayou is one of Houston’s best-attended LGBTQ events. Join the organization on Easter Sunday at Bunnies on the Bayou, the largest outdoor cocktail party in Texas. Learn more at lgbtq. visithoustontexas.com.

Apr TBD Human Rights Campaign Houston Dinner The HRC Houston Gala gives the community the opportunity to support the nation’s leading LGBT civil rights organization. Celebrities, awards and a fantastic dinner are part of this annual event. Learn more at lgbtq. visithoustontexas.com.

Apr 13 The Orange Show’s Houston Art Car Festival & Parade The oldest and largest parade of its type in the world takes over Houston each year for four full days of excitement and creativity. More than 250,000 spectators line downtown streets to view this parade, which showcases Houston’s most outlandish folk art creations on wheels.

Visionary Art. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Apr 26 The Sound of Music A family-friendly classic; A tale of resistance, courage, and joy: The Sound of Music, whose story begins in the hills of Austria on the eve of the Nazis’ annexation, resonates as much today as during the musical’s 1959 premiere. Acclaimed director Francesca Zambello incorporates songs from both the theatrical version and its famous cinematic adaptation into her new production, a vibrant staging of the beloved story of the von Trapp children, their stern father, and the novice-turned-governess Maria who changes their lives. Learn more at visithoustontexas.com.

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EVENTS 2024 May TBD Black Queer AF Music Festival Get ready to “party with a purpose” at The Normal Anomaly’s annual Black Queer AF Music Festival. The event features an amazing line-up of artists, attractions, various vendors, and community organizations present. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

May 24 Comicpalooza Comicpalooza is the largest annual, multi-genre, comic book, science fiction, anime, gaming, and pop-culture convention in the Southern United States and is held in Houston, Texas. With more than 2,000 hours of programming, you’re sure to discover something for everyone in the family. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

May 31 Dial “M” for Murder Money, fear, jealousy, revenge… protecting someone you love. All motives for murder, all here in this sharp new adaptation of a classic thriller. This version weaves a whole new tangled web when Tony plots to have his wife Margot killed after he discovers her affair. Visit visithoustontexas.com.

Jun TBD Rainbow on the Green Grab a blanket and get a spot in front of the stage. Discovery Green hosts its Rainbow on the Green night with live music and performances from some of Houston’s finest drag queens in honor of Pride Month. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Jun 14 Four Season Four Seasons features a diverse collection of ballet from choreographers George Balanchine, Stanton Welch, Disha Zhang and Dwight Rhoden.

After a critically-acclaimed debut in 2019, Disha Zhang’s Elapse returns

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to the stage for an encore not to be missed. Exploring the idea of aging and the passage of time, her first piece choreographed for an American company is set to a captivating original score by Zeng Xiogang.

George Balanchine’s Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux is described by New York City Ballet as “an eight-minute display of ballet bravura and technique.”

Welch’s The Four Seasons dramatizes the stages of a woman’s life from the vigor of youth in spring to the introspection of old age in winter. Learn more at visithoustontexas.com.

Jun 22 Houston Pride Parade Pride Month just got a whole lot bigger in Houston. A new organization, New Faces of Pride, invites the LGBTQ+ community to join them in Downtown Houston for their inaugural Pride festival and parade this year!

Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Jun 29 Pride Houston 365 The largest Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender event in the Southwest takes place each year during the Houston Pride Parade where more than 1,000 participants entertain hundreds of thousands of spectators with an empowering blend of light, color and sound with beautiful floats, costumes and performances. Learn more at lgbtq. visithoustontexas.com.

Jul 4 Shell Freedom Over Texas Houston’s official July 4th celebration takes place in Eleanor Tinsley Park at Buffalo Bayou and features live entertainment, food booths and a worldfamous fireworks display. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Jul 28 Bridgeland Farmers Market Health is wealth! What we eat today is how we live tomorrow! Welcome to continued on page 12

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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 Bridgeland Farmers Market, where we believe in the power of fresh, locally sourced produce to nourish our bodies and promote a vibrant community.

Discover a wide variety of organic fruits, vegetables, local honey, meats, and more from local farmers and artisans. Support your well-being with delicious, chemical-free products that are good for you and the environment. Learn more at visithoustontexas.com.

Aug 30 Galveston Gay Beach Weekend Grab your friends and head down to Galveston for the annual Gay Beach Weekend. A fun-filled weekend downtown and at the beach with music, volleyball, horseshoes, drinking, sunning and swimming. And with a whole host of events, Galveston will start to feel like your second home. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Sep 1 The Drag Queen Party Bus Houston Round up your gang and step aboard the ultimate drag bus experience in Houston. Get ready for a unique 90-minute escapade through Houston, guided and entertained by our fabulous drag queen host. Expect a ride filled with laughter, games, contests, and mesmerizing performances by our dazzling queens. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Oct 3 The Original Greek Festival Celebrate Greek culture at the annual Houston Greek Festival on the grounds of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Authentic Greek food, wine, dancing and artifacts are fun for the entire family. Opa! Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Oct 12 Texas Renaissance Festival Come be enchanted at the Texas Renaissance Festival that recreates an English village of the 16th century on the weekends. Magicians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours and comedians perform on six stages. Jousting

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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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UH LGBTQ RESOURCE The mission of the LGBTQ Resource Center is to cultivate safe spaces on campus and within our Center’s programs, empowering LGBTQ students to develop their authentic identity, and become proud, successful, engaged members of the UH community. 832-842-6191 | UH.EDU/LGBTQ LGBT SWITCHBOARD HOUSTON With support from the United Way of Greater Houston, Texas Office of the Attorney General and community partners, the Montrose Center and the Switchboard remain vital links for LGBT individuals throughout Southeast Texas who have become targets of domestic violence and sexual assault. Anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, may contact the Switchboard if they have become a hate crime target.

713-529-3211 | MONTROSECENTER.ORG PRIDE HOUSTON INC Historically, Pride Houston is a volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit that has organized the official Houston LGBT Pride Celebration® every year in Montrose or downtown Houston. As of 2022, no longer will we only celebrate in June.

713-529-6979 | PRIDEHOUSTON365.ORG GREATER HOUSTON LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Join the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce and engage with a network of LGBTQ+ and Allied business owners, professionals and Corporate Partners to support business development and business and professional growth. The Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce is at the intersection of business and community. Join Today! 832-510-3002 | HOUSTONLGBTCHAMBER.COM TONY’S PLACE Tony’s Place is a drop-in center focusing on LGBTQ+ youth and their allies up to 25 years of age who are unstably housed, couch surfing or experiencing homelessness.

713-678-0733 | TONYSPLACE.ORG

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EVENTS 2024 takes place throughout the day and the Queen requests your presence!

Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Nov 17 City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic Transforming Downtown Houston into the perfect winter wonderland with 11 unique themed villages. Open to the public and mostly free to enter, these sites offer an ice skating rink, lights to gaze at, and activities to brighten the season for the whole family. Learn more at lgbtq. visithoustontexas.com.

Nov 18 Zine Fest Houston An annual free event dedicated to promoting zines, mini-comics, and other forms of small press, alternative, underground, DIY media and art.

It is also a grassroots attempt to build the local zine, DIY, and alternative media scenes and form networks with media creators in other areas. The goal of the event is for attendees to discover new zines and be inspired to create their own DIY art and media projects. Learn more at lgbtq. visithoustontexas.com.

Nov 23 City of Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade Houston’s Thanksgiving Day parade, one of the biggest in the country, remains a six-decade-old holiday tradition showcasing the Houston community and entertaining more than 200,000 parade-goers lining the streets Thanksgiving morning. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Dec 2 Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular Mayor Sylvester Turner and Reliant will kick off the holiday season at the Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular. The public is invited to Hermann Square at City Hall. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

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BARBERSHOP

Valor Barbershop..........................................................................13 CUSTOM SHELVES

ShelfGenie of Greater Houston................................................3, 15 NON PROFIT

The Salvation Army.......................................................................2 PARTY SUPPLIES & MORE

Arne Distributors Inc.................................................................3, 15

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EVENTS 2024-25 Dec 8 A Night with the Normal Anomaly The Normal Anomaly Initiative, Inc. presents a Night with The Normal Anomaly. As Houston’s premiere Black, queer organization that is dedicated to seeing the forward mobility of people, the organization proudly presents an opportunity to honor the unsung heroes of our local and national community through music, celebration and uplifting the voices and work that is being done across the Southern United States. Learn more at lgbtq. visithoustontexas.com.

Dec 16 Grace Place “Haus of Gingerbread” Annual Fundraiser Join Grace Place on Saturday, December 16 at 5 PM for the 8th Annual Haus of Gingerbread event—a festive evening of fierce competition benefiting youth and young adults experiencing homelessness. Grab your friends or family and compete as a team in a live gingerbread house decorating contest, or just watch the fun as a spectator. Learn more at lgbtq.visithoustontexas.com.

Jan 2 2025 Happy Hour Thursdays at the MFAH Happy Hour Thursday is the place to be! Meet your friends at the MFAH for the best night of the week. Explore the campus, visit the galleries, and get a drink at the bar. Learn more at visithoustontexas.com.

Jan 4 2025 Coffee and Cars at Post Come and enjoy an amazing car show at POST! The first Saturday of every month from 9 am to 11 am the Coffee and Cars event is held in the East Parking Lot of the POST with 100 luxury and exotic vehicles. In addition to a select cars section, there is also an open section for anyone to come show their awesome car. Learn more at visithoustontexas.com.