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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 DESERT EDITION | CA | 2024 |
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Restaurants The Copper Room Fresh and bright dishes with the highest quality ingredients available. The menu is meant to be enjoyed together with shareable plates. 57360 Aviation Dr, Yucca Valley, CA 92284 Phone: (760) 228-0607 | Web: thecopperroom1957.com
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey Small, upscale venue featuring sushi & Japanese seafood dishes, plus whiskey cocktails & hip decor. 1556 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 537-1022 | Web: sandfishps.com
1501 Uptown Gastropub Rustic-chic gastropub serving innovative comfort dishes, cocktails & offering weekend brunch. 1501 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 320-1501 | Web: 1501uptown.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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Miro’s Restaurant
Lulu California Bistro
Serving an eclectic menu of Continental fare in a refined setting with patio seating. 1555 S Palm Canyon Dr ste h-101, Palm Springs, CA
Vast, eclectic menu of all-day American eats presented in a modern setting with outdoor seating. 200 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA
Elmer’s Restaurant Restaurant serving hearty portions of breakfast fare plus other comfort food in a dinerstyle setting. 1030 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA
Spencer’s Restaurant Set in the San Jacinto Mountains, this elegant spot serves upscale fare with occasional piano music. 701 W Baristo Road, Palm Springs, CA
Billy Reed’s Palm Springs Old-school spot serves ample portions of American chow amid quirky decor including a koi pond. 1800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Comfy go-to for Californianinfluenced Italian eats, plus daily live music, a happy hour & a patio. 265 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA
Grand Central Palm Springs Funky-chic cafe serving Californian fare, with coffee, tea, cocktails & a bar-snacks menu. 160 La Plaza, P alm Springs, CA
Juniper Table Stylish cafe with outdoor tables offering contemporary Mediterranean plates, cocktails, wine & beer. 100 W Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA DESERT EDITION | CA | 2024 |
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EVENTS 2024 Jan 25 Southwest Art Festival 2024 Four days, two hundred plus artists, and countless reasons to attend the 2024 Southwest Arts Festival. This year’s festival will feature live music, with pottery, glass and fine art painting scheduled to be on display. Visit at eventbrite.com.
Jan 30 Rancho Mirage Writers Festival The Writers Series, sponsored by Jordan Schnitzer, presents a free series of talks by eminent authors throughout the year at the award-winning Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. Visit rmwritersfest.com.
Feb 1-4 Coco Peru: Have You Heard? Coco performs some of her favorite monologues and songs spanning her long career, as well as some new stuff too. Whether you’ve heard all or some of these stories, or if you’re a Coco virgin, come experience the trailblazing Queen who elevated drag whilst still wearing sensible heels.
Feb 8-11 ADA VOX in Palm Springs Ada’s new show (with piano player accompaniment) will showcase Ada’s amazing vocals in “A Salute to the Divas of Yesterday & Today” at The Sonoran Palm Springs. Visit gaydesertguide.com.
Mar 16 Red Dress Dress Red Party The biggest party in Palm Springs is a night of community, fun, and fantasy where we dance the night away. The theme of “Red” guides our imagination as everyone comes dressed to impress. Details at www.fagabond.com.
Mar 29-31 White Party Global White Party Palm Springs is the premier destination for the ultimate LGBTQ+
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EVENTS 2024 Music Festival. 3 days and nights of 7 amazing parties are included in our VIP Weekend Pass featuring our White Party Global DJs, world class recording artists, and amazing specialty acts that will keep all our guests entertained all weekend long! Visit whitepartyglobal.com.
Apr 10 Nice Work if You Can Get It Packed with actors, singers, and dancers, the play tells the story of a wealthy man named Jimmy Winter who is set to marry Eileen Evergreen, a self-obsessed modern dancer. Trouble arises when Billie and her gang hide cases of alcohol in Jimmy’s basement, and his soon-to-be wife’s prohibitionist family shows up. Visit www.palmspringslife.com.
May 9 Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast This inspiring event brings together all who support equality and justice in celebration of this influential civil rights activist. Gather to honor Harvey Milk and celebrate his legacy as a political and community leader who stood for justice and equality across the intersections of oppression, selfidentity, and self-determination. Tickets and details at pspride.org.
May 17 Tag Team: A Western Xposure Specialty Event Bear Naked’s TAG TEAM is a weekend to strip down and enjoy the start of summer! Pool parties, great music, and hot bears cruising the resort. Details at eventbrite.com.
Jun 18-24 ShortFest ShortFest remains a touchstone for LGBT+ cinema across the world, curating an LGBT+ short film lineup and awarding in their Best LGBT+ Short category. This year, another selection of 20-30 LGBT+ shorts will be screened at the Camelot Theatre (Palm Springs Cultural Center) along with the GAY!LA program. Visit psfilmfest.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 Jul 19 Escape The Festival The Hottest Bachata & Salsa Festival in Palm Springs. Featuring 3 ballrooms to dance in until 5am Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Includes a Bachata room, Salsa room & Kizomba Room. There will be 2 Pool parties (100 degree weather!), the hottest DJ’s & the best music. Also, 3 days of workshops with amazing artists, Silet Party from 5-7am on Sunday Morning, Dance Shows & more. Visit eventbrite.com for tickets.
Aug 7 The Dirty Show with Skyler Gentry Skyler Gentry — America’s favorite actor, singer, dancer, and psychic — will perform his new show at Dietlart Gallery in Palm Springs. The show is filled with comedy bits, psychic readings, and raunchy songs. The show is intended for mature audiences. Details at palmspringslife.com.
Sep 12-15 Blatino Oasis Blatino Oasis bills itself as California’s Ultimate Gay Men Of Color Getaway & Retreat. Parties include the Foreplay opening party, fashion shows, daily pool-party events with strip shows and live performances, and several theme nights. You won’t be disappointed. Learn more at gaytravel4u.com.
Sep 14 Diva Royale Drag Queen Show Move out of the way: the divas have arrived, and they’ve brought one of the best drag queen shows Palm Springs has ever seen. Visit dragqueenshow.com.
Oct 24 Palm Springs Leather Pride We have a hot group of Leathermen that are ready to give you a big warm Palm Springs welcome to PS Leather Pride™! This event has traditionally
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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! DESERT EDITION | CA | 2024 |
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THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT At the Center, our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all members of our vibrant LGBTQ community. Come join us at The Center, a space where you can belong and be unconditionally you. THECENTERCV.ORG | (760) 416-7790 DIVERSITYDHS DiversityDHS is a fully qualified 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable, social and community benefit organization dedicated to uplifting and betterment of the LGBTQ community of Desert Hot Springs. DIVERSITYDHS.COM THE L FUND Since 2012, The L-Fund has provided emergency financial assistance to cis and trans lesbians in crisis across the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas. Wanting to help beyond emergencies, our programs have expanded to include education assistance, health and wellness aid, and grants for lesbian artists. Founded by lesbians for lesbians and the only organization of its kind in the country, we work closely with the community at large to improve the lives of our sisters. L-FUND.ORG | (760) 304-8487 TRANSGENDER HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER With over 40 active volunteers, the Trans Center serves in a wide variety of volunteer positions in other community organizations. We do this to ensure that Transgender people are visible and have a voice within the wider LGBT community. TRANS.HEALTH | (760) 202-4308 PALM SPRINGS PRIDE Greater Palm Springs Pride is a nonprofit community enhancement organization founded to promote public education and awareness of individual rights and civil liberties of the LGBTQ community and to promote the history, diversity, and future prosperity of the Greater Palm Springs LGBTQ community. WWW.PSPRIDE.ORG | (760) 416-8711
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ALL-NATURAL SKINCARE Desert Harvest Inc................................................................................. 9 ANIMAL SHELTER & CLINIC Animal Samaritans............................................................................... 15 ART MUSEUM Riverside Art Museum - The Cheech......................................................7 DEFENSE LAWYERS Desert Defense Lawyers....................................................................... 13 LUXURY REAL ESTATE Susan Tedrow - Real Estate Inc..............................................................3 NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS Desert Harvest Inc................................................................................. 9 REAL ESTATE Billy Woomer......................................................................................... 13 RESIDENTIAL & MULTI FAMILY REAL ESTATE Susan Tedrow - Real Estate Inc..............................................................3 VINEYARD Soter Vineyards......................................................................................3 WINERY Planet Oregon Wines.............................................................................3
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EVENTS 2024 become like a homecoming for brothers from all around to reconnect. Stay and play- it’s also Toolshed’s Legendary Underwear Night! This event is not ticketed, cash bar. Visit pslod.org.
Nov 1 Arenas District Pride Weekend Kickoff The party starts with high-energy DJs and dancing in the streets. This is the place to be for house and dance music, food trucks, and outdoor beverage lounges! Learn more at pspride.org.
Nov 2 Arenas District Official Block Party This FREE block party is a signature event focused on the heart of the Palm Springs gayborhood … a celebration of Pride as well as the symbolic embrace of Arenas Road. LGBTQ+ bars and local businesses pack to the rafters and spill onto the streets for the biggest free LGBTQ+ street party in Palm Springs. The Official Party of Pride features DJs all night . Join Pride revelers and dancers at the open-air beverage lounge. The block party invites residents and visitors to discover all that the Arenas District has to offer. Details at pspride.org.
Nov TBD Palm Springs Pride Festival & Parade One of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the region. The streets explode with color, block parties, food booths, and even a parade. Cathedral City celebrates with its own fair share of pride festivities during the city’s annual LGBTQ+ Days, including a “bed race,” bartender battles, and drag shows. Visit www.pspride.org.
Dec 5-8 Palm Springs Festival of Lights The City’s signature holiday event features twinkling lights, magnificent marching bands, spectacular floats, huge Macy’s-style balloons, and Santa Claus of course! Visit psfestivaloflights.com.