Portland OR 2024

PORTLAND | OR | 2024

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 PORTL AND | OR | 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 Cheryl’s on 12th Gourmet cafe & market offering creative New American cuisine & housemade sweets in an upbeat space.

1135 SW Washington St, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 595.2252 | Web: cherylson12th.com

Higgins Longtime classy spot for local & sustainable NW fare, with a lively bar, many beers & Oregon wines.

1239 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 222-9070 | Web: higginsportland.com

Jake’s Grill American fare including steak & seafood, plus whiskey, in old-school eatery with popular happy hour.

611 SW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 220-1850 | Web: jakesgrill.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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Davenport

Luce

A regularly changing eclectic American menu served against a warm, industrial-hip backdrop.

2215 E Burnside St, Portland, OR

Petite, low-key Italian restaurant and grocery serving housemade pastas & seasonal entrees.

2140 E Burnside St, Portland, OR

Portland City Grill

The Fireside

New American dishes with an Asian touch, plus a happy hour, with a 30th-floor skyline view.

111 SW 5th Ave 30th Floor, Portland, OR

Striking gastropub with dual fireplaces serving New American fare, wine & cocktails.

801 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR

Screen Door Eastside Southpark Seafood Contemporary spot for sustainable seafood & wine in an upbeat, stylish setting.

901 SW Salmon St, Portland, OR

Cubo Cuban joint serves up homestyle fare plus cocktails in casual, vibrant surrounds with a patio.

3106 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR

Refined Southern specialties like buttermilk-fried chicken in roomy digs offering weekend brunch.

2337 E Burnside St, Portland, OR

Miss Delta Restaurant and Bar Hush puppies, fried catfish & other Southern specialties star at this compact place with Cajun chow.

3950 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR

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EVENTS 2024 JAN 12 Portland’s Folk Festival This folk festival is all about bringing the Portland music community together to recognize and praise each other; to build community and to shower each other with appreciation. Hosted at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom from January 12-14 so come spend your weekend with us and enjoy the good vibes. Learn more at portlandsfolkfestival.com.

FEB 2 Portland Winter Light Festival Our 2024 theme is ‘What Glows Under Pressure’. Inspired by the magic of light and fueled by artistic expression, PDXWLF transforms Portland into a vibrant canvas of dynamic performances and luminous creativity. Join us

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EVENTS 2024 as we bring the spirit of light to life, creating a captivating experience that celebrates the intersection of art and illumination. We’ll feature a dazzling array of 120+ radiant artworks, projections, performances, and more.

Learn more at pdxwlf.com

FEB 16 Biamp Portland Jazz Festival Dedicated to preserving America’s indigenous art form by presenting internationally recognized jazz masters alongside local musicians, this annual festival usually includes education and outreach programs extending into Portland’s schools and neighborhoods and a generous offering of free performances, film and jazz conversations. Learn more at pdxjazz.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 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 MAR 17 35th Annual Portland St. Paddy’s Day Parade Join us for the 35th Annual Portland St. Paddy’s Day Parade, where the streets come alive with Irish spirit! Celebrate the luck of the Irish with a vibrant procession, live music, and festive floats. Save the date for a day filled with joy, laughter, and a touch of green magic on March 17th! Learn more at portlandstpaddysparade.com.

APR 19 The One Motorcycle Show This event draws thousands of fans into Portland to revel in bikes, biker culture, and abundant fun. The showcase at The One Moto features hundreds of motorcycles from across the globe, offering an inclusive display that honors unconventional, unique, and custom-built bikes. Learn more at the1moto.com.

MAY 24 Rose Festival CityFair At Rose Festival CityFair, you’ll find your favorite fair features - carnival rides, fair foods, interactive exhibits, and constant entertainment - all nestled between the urban energy of the city and the natural beauty of the Willamette River. Tickets will go on sale in the Spring. Learn more at rosefestival.org.

JUN 21 Festival of Balloons The Festival is a place for families and friends to gather, play and relax.

Join us in the pre-dawn hours as approximately 20 hot air balloons launch into the morning sky (weather and pilot permitting). Spend the afternoon shopping at the craft and vendor booths, eating great food from local food vendors, and enjoying thrilling Funtastic carnival rides and games.

Learn more at tigardballoon.org.

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JUL 4 37th Annual Waterfront Blues Festival The festival is an unparalleled showcase for Portland’s local music community and features local legends like Curtis Salgado, Liv Warfield and Norman Sylvester. Over the course of four days and four stages, the festival features a dynamic lineup of 100+ blues, soul, funk and R&B artists, as well as some of Portland’s favorite food trucks, wineries, breweries and more. Learn more at waterfrontbluesfest.com.

JUL 20 Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade Join us for the annual Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade, one of the largest donation-based LGBTQIA2S+ Pride events on the west coast, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to Portland each year.

LGBTQIA2S+ people travel from all over the Pacific Northwest and beyond to express their individuality and celebrate community in a safe, open environment. Learn more at portlandpride.org.

AUG 1 2024 Annual Dahlia Festival Celebrate the season of Dahlias. A Rainbow of Color. Stroll through almost 40 acres and a beautiful display garden of stunning dahlias featuring over 370 varieties. Fill your belly with yummy treats from Food Carts, relax and enjoy the Live Music. Learn more at dahlias.com.

SEP 6 Rose City Comic Con Don’t miss out on Portland’s premier pop culture convention event this September! Rose City Comic Con is a fun, family-friendly 3-Day celebration of comics, gaming, sci-fi, cosplay, anime, fantasy, and every fandom in between! Our goal is to provide you with a rewarding, fun, and family-friendly event experience. Learn more at rosecitycomiccon.com. 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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BASIC RIGHTS OREGON Basic Rights Oregon will ensure that all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer Oregonians experience equality by building a broad and inclusive politically powerful movement, shifting public opinion, and achieving policy victories.

BASICRIGHTS.ORG | (503) 222-6151 Q CENTER To provide safe spaces, community building and empowerment for the positive transformation of LGBTQ2SIA+ communities and allies in the Pacific Northwest.

PDXQCENTER.ORG | (503) 234-7837 PRISM HEALTH Prism Health offers a safe, affirming, and non-judgmental space where all members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community can obtain the compassionate and culturally effective health care they need and deserve.

PRISMHEALTH.ORG | (503) 445-7699 BRAVE SPACE LLC Brave Space creates community and facilitates access to expert and knowledgeable providers for transgender and non-binary children, youth, adults, and their families.

BRAVESPACELLC.COM | (503) 486-8936 EQUALITY FEDERATION Equality Federation is an advocacy accelerator rooted in social justice, building power in our network of state-based lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) advocacy organizations. We work collaboratively on critical issues—from advancing workplace fairness and family recognition to defeating anti-transgender bills and HIV criminalization laws—that affect how LGBTQ+ people experience the world from cradle to grave.

EQUALITYFEDERATION.ORG | (929) 373-3370

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EVENTS 2024 SEP 12 Mount Angel Oktoberfest In the heart of Oregon’s hop-growing region, Mount Angel’s Oktoberfest brings 350,000 people to the Bavarian village every September. The Northwest’s oldest and best-loved folk festival celebrates the fruits of the harvest with a nice focus on hops! German-style biers, Northwest craft brew favorites, lots of wine, and a bit of cider are served in four biergartens, each showcasing different favorites. Learn more at oktoberfest.org.

NOV TBD 35th Holiday Food and Gift Festival The Annual Holiday Food and Gift Festival is one of the largest holiday celebrations in the Northwest, drawing thousands of attendees annually who happily complete their holiday shopping early. With hundreds of exhibitors, the Festival will provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts that cannot be found anywhere else. Featuring art, crafts, jewelry, clothing, woodcraft, photography, toys, Christmas décor, and much more, make this a gift buyer’s delight. The festival hosts numerous gourmet food exhibitors who sample their craft for the attendees to enjoy. Multiple wineries and distilleries are available to sample, and you can purchase their products. Learn more at hfgf.com.

DEC 1 Christmas Festival of Lights Presenting the sights, sounds and sensations of the season, The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights is the largest Christmas choral festival in the world. The festival features nearly 160 indoor holiday concerts performed by many of the region’s finest school, church and civic choirs. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

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ART MUSEUM Tacoma Art Museum............................................................................. 6 AUDIOLOGIST Pacific Audiology Clinic......................................................................... 9 DISTILLERY Pilot House Distilling............................................................................. 15 FINANCIAL ADVISOR Eric Wishan-Carson Wealth Management......................................... 15 HEALTH INSURANCE Healthwise Insurance Planning LLC...................................................... 8 HEARING AIDS Pacific Audiology Clinic......................................................................... 9 HOSPICE Gracious Care Hospice......................................................................... 9 NON-PROFIT Alliance Francaise de Portland............................................................. 15 Volunteers of America Oregon............................................................. 9 SPIRITS Pilot House Distilling............................................................................. 15 VETERINARY Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Tualatin................................................3 WINERY Oak Knoll Winery...................................................................................7

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