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When their names were called at the James Beard Awards, Chef Henry Lu called it an out-of-body experience. For Houston, it was a long time coming.

OutSmart magazine has been named a recipient of a 2026 Excellence in Journalism Award from NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, earning national recognition for its November 2025 feature package, “The Rainbows They Tried to…

For Silky Nutmeg Ganache, Pride looks different this year. Not because the stakes are any lower. Not because the political climate has suddenly become less hostile for LGBTQ people, drag artists, or trans communities. And…

KHOU’s Carlos Hernandez is shaping LGBTQ visibility in Houston through storytelling and leadership, using his platform and role with NLGJA to amplify community voices and foster connection.

Houston hydroponic farmer C.C. Brooks is using innovative growing methods to address food access, support marginalized communities, and build systems rooted in equity, education, and sustainability.

Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce co-founder Tammi Wallace reflects on the organization’s first decade and its growing role in advancing LGBTQ economic power.

For Alejandra Salinas and Elizabeth Hadaway, love didn’t begin with a grand gesture. It started with five-minute car rides through downtown Houston. “So we met at work. We were both lawyer associates at Susman Godfrey,”…

For JuJu Faragher, wellness is a lived, imperfect practice. Through yoga, storytelling, and community work, he centers rest, affirmation, and collective care for LGBTQ people.

Here's a look at the stories that most engaged—and enraged—OutSmart readers in 2025.

Theatre Under The Stars brings Irving Berlin’s White Christmas to the Hobby Center with classic tunes, onstage snow, and a diverse cast. Ensemble performer Sarah Sachi shares her excitement.