by Mia Barnes
6 Surprising Ways the Sun Can Affect Your Skin — and What to Do About It
Do you slather on sunscreen each day? You should, for more reasons than reducing your cancer risk. The sun can affect your skin in surprising ways. Fortunately, protecting yourself is as simple as covering up and choosing the right SPF. Why should you bother? Here are six reasons you should treat safeguarding your skin from the sun seriously.
1. Photoaging and Premature Aging
It’s no secret that too much time in the sun can result in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and an uneven complexion. The term “photoaging” refers to the cumulative effects of radiation from the sun or artificial ultraviolet (UV) sources. It results in collagen breakdown, which causes deep wrinkles, sagging skin, “hollow” cheeks and other signs of aging older individuals experience.
2. Hyperpigmentation and Other Skin Conditions
Hyperpigmentation refers to the appearance of blotchy or mottled skin with alternating patches of light and dark. This condition can have various causes, and sun damage is one of the most common — hyperpigmentation spots are also sometimes called “sun spots.”
Aside from hyperpigmentation, sun exposure and excessive sun damage can lead to vitiligo and mole growth.
3. Eye Damage
You should wear sunglasses as well as sunscreen when in the sun. The skin around your eyes is more prone to damage, and UV light exposure can also damage your vision. For example, women account for 63% of age-related macular degeneration cases, and failing to protect your eyes is one of the biggest and most preventable risk factors.
4. Sunburn
Sunburn doesn’t feel good and spurs premature aging, photoaging and hyperpigmentation while upping your chances of disease. Having five or more severe sunburns throughout your life doubles your skin cancer risk.
Keep yourself safe by slathering on sunscreen and pay attention to the type and when you apply it. Sunscreen can take up to 15 minutes to absorb into the skin, so make sure you apply it a bit before you head out for the day.
5. Skin Dehydration
Dehydrated skin looks flaky and ashy, making you look older and more tired. Furthermore, you sweat more in the sun, accelerating moisture loss.
Keeping yourself hydrated is key. While the general rule is to divide your weight in half and consume that many ounces of water per day, you may need more if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
6. Heat Rash
Those little angry red bumps on your chin might not be pimples. Heat rash occurs when your eccrine glands, which let sweat escape from your skin’s surface, become blocked. The result is tiny, red, inflamed bumps that can itch like crazy.
Treatment includes cooling yourself down in a shower or pool and applying topical anti-itch creams. As heat rash often occurs where fabric meets your skin, opt for breathable cotton over synthetics that prevent airflow.
Is the Sun Ever Good for Your Skin?
In some cases, the sun can be good for your skin. For example, mild exposure prompts your body to produce natural vitamin D, which boosts your mood and improves immune function.
Furthermore, some people with autoimmune diseases do better with mild sun exposure. The trick is finding the right amount of exposure to improve symptoms without prompting a severe flare-up.
How the Sun Affects Your Skin
The sun affects your skin in multiple ways. Understanding the risks prompts you to take simple proactive steps, such as applying sunscreen and wearing other forms of sun gear. Protect yourself before you venture out and enjoy a healthier, more glowing complexion for life.
Cover Photo by Mikhail Nilov
Inside photo by Lukas Rychvalsky
by Dennis Richardson
Cowritten by Anthony C. Stafford
How would you complete the following statement? “California has Catalina Island, while Florida has…”
If you thought “The Keys,” you’re not necessarily wrong, but The Keys are more well known than where we’re going. Rather, our area of focus is one that even Florida natives can go years without ever knowing. This area, called Bradenton — and its Anna Maria Island — is truly speaking to Californians as the most desired destination for vacation, and for many other great reasons.
Photo Credit: Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (BACVB) market research shows proof that residents of California – and Los Angeles and San Francisco specifically – are highly interested in planning vacations to the Bradenton Area. Recently, BACVB was in town to highlight the destination, delivering incredible eats featuring the day’s Gulf Coast catch, discussing what makes the area so special, and how they stack up to California’s food scene. The flavorful educational experience took place at Cabra, the rooftop restaurant at The Hoxton in DTLA. The event had themed splashes of color reminiscent of the Sunshine State’s famous waters and beloved fruit, essentially bringing a tiny piece of some of the very best of Florida right here to California.
The extravagant dinner was created by Top Chef winner and Food Network star Stephanie Izard, featuring a unique sample of Cortez, Florida’s premium bottarga, gulf shrimp and more, whipped into “Flo-ribbean” dishes that are hard to come by outside of the state. And with all of its uniqueness, we learned many amazing ways that the peninsula state and this highlight region is much like our own, complete with the arts, activities and experiences, a deep history, and nature that captivates hearts.
History, Location, and A Natural Beauty
While our own Catalina Island may not be known for beaches, it does share quite a few similarities to this East Coast magnet.
Located just south of Tampa along Florida’s Gulf Coast lies Anna Maria Island, a picturesque destination now more accessible thanks to the Gulf Islands Ferry. The island boasts 16 miles of pristine, white sand and sparkling turquoise waters, where visitors can enjoy serene beaches with calm waters, often accompanied by delightful offerings from Gulf Shore Charcuterie. When the sand never gets too-hot to walk on, you know it’s a special place.
Beyond its natural beauty, Anna Maria Island offers numerous family-friendly attractions, from The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, to AMI Dolphin Tours. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is home to rescued manatees, providing an educational and engaging experience, while AMI Dolphin Tours offer memorable encounters with marine life. In addition, the recently renovated, ADA-accessible Bradenton Riverwalk invites leisurely strolls along the water, perfect for any time of day.
For those seeking cultural enrichment, the Village of the Arts hosts monthly artwalk events, showcasing local creativity and fostering community engagement. Nature enthusiasts will find the 487-acre Robinson Preserve a haven, featuring mangroves, native birds, and diverse wildlife, all freely accessible year-round, setting the stage for incredible sighting opportunities as wildlife migrates to the region.
All of this natural beauty needs balance, protection, and care, so it’s only fitting that there is a program in place to do each of those things. Embracing the “Love it Like a Local” initiative, the Bradenton Area is committed to preserving its unique charm for future generations. This also means understanding the deep history behind the region as well, such as the Historic Cortez Fishing Village — one of the oldest fishing distributors. The “Love it Like a Local” initiative is also the first in Florida to partner with the national non-profit Leave No Trace, highlighting its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This commitment ensures that the area’s natural beauty and local heritage remain intact for all to enjoy.
A Summer Adventure Awaits
Beyond Anna Maria Island is the whole chain of Gulf Coast Islands that all bring their own unique flair, yet some of the same natural beauty, charm, and history that can be found in the Bradenton Area. Whether a Californian traveling East, or a visitor from elsewhere, the art, history, and natural beauty of the Bradenton area and Anna Maria Island boasts excitement, curiosity, and escapism that may be hard to leave behind, as shown by BACVB’s research.
The Bradenton Area is conveniently located at just a 30-minute drive from the Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) airport. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations, including vacation rentals, boutique hotels, like Mello on the Beach, and Zota Beach Resort, or the newly opened Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa. Or, make even more of your time in the Sunshine State with a day-trip to nearby Orlando’s theme parks, Tampa, or Cape Coral. Either way, Bradenton has a promising future as the area slowly grows and becomes more popular with new residents and visitors alike.
Now you know, if it ever comes up: “California has Catalina Island, while Florida has Bradenton & Anna Maria Island.”
by Dennis Richardson
Cowritten by Anthony C. Stafford
The Hyatt Regency Irvine may be known by many for what it was previously, and that old image is also a great way to remember hotels of yesteryear. But a three-year closure has birthed what can only be described as a new hotel standard that improves upon nearly every aspect of what guests expect from their stay. From the lobby’s first impression to market experiences, Hyatt Regency Irvine brings renewed excitement to the travel experience for adults and kids alike, whether coming from nearby or afar.
Photo Credit: Logan Pratt / Hyatt Regency Irvine
Hyatt Regency Irvine General Area Manager Sid Ramani spoke with us, answered questions, and provided deep insight into what goes into a transformation of this magnitude. While it may seem a $55 million grand reveal may only truly be appreciated by those who witnessed the original look, the faces, reactions, and expressions of newcomers — ourselves includes — said otherwise. Upon entering, Hyatt Regency Irvine delivers a refreshing take on America’s hospitality sector. Pulling inspiration from regional neighbors and international highlights, the lobby wows with its vast spaciousness, high ceilings, intricate details, massive screens, and purposeful design. Surprise, awe, and excitement set in, as we likened what we saw to a luxury hotel in Tokyo. A plethora of seating options decorate the first floor to suit any lounger’s mood, whether reading, eating, waiting, watching, or chatting, there’s something for everyone. A warm, inviting lobby is surrounded by contemporary common areas, and an expansive 56,000 square feet of fresh event space to ensure a beautiful blend of urban sophistication, comfort, and functionality.
A Market For All
The Marketplace is possibly one of the only things we disagreed with during our time at the property – solely because it’s something much more than just a market! Instead, it is rather a place to get lost in for a while with its expansive, open-faced presentation. Offering a neatly stocked wall of beverages, spirits, snacks, hot, cold, healthy, and exciting food options, Hyatt Regency Irvine even pushes the envelope further and rightfully so, with numerous international snacks. For example, South Korean banana milk, and Japanese Ramune sodas make an appearance, among many more specialty items worth experiencing. Upon first glance, it strikes disbelief that a hotel could have such a wide variety of options, but it is a welcome feature that international travelers could always use more of to feel “at home” and domestic travelers for an opportunity to have a culinary escape.
From grueling business travel to exhausting vacations, sometimes guests need an “easy” option – and that easy option would be a place like the market to stash up on snacks, drinks, pastries, pizza, and more – while taking advantage of the fact that many items are also made right there in the kitchen! If you’re feeling adventurous, even the healthy dishes have great twists to them, like the veggie salads located next to the pastry window.
Of course, breakfast is also provided at The Market, with freshly made hot plates on the menu, but there’s even more. One of the highlights about The Market is that they also have featured menu items each day for breakfast and dinner, so keep an eye out for those to add some excitement to your own journey. Even more impressive is the commitment to supporting local businesses and artists, as seen through strategic and useful product placement throughout the hotel.
Designed With Purpose and Intention
The property boasts a total of 516 guest rooms and suites, each completely transformed with modern, thoughtfully designed interiors. These rooms not only feature distinct artwork, innovative light fixtures, and curated layouts tailored to accommodate various travel groups and lifestyles, but they are also designed with intention at the forefront. No corner goes forgotten, as thoughtful choices give purpose to even the most odd or small spaces.
Specialty suites include expansive hospitality suites with private kitchenettes, extended-stay suites with full kitchens, family-friendly layouts with bunk beds and adjoining rooms, and more, ensuring a comfortable and versatile stay for all guests. During our visit, we witnessed sports teams, families, and business people, check in, and after seeing each suite with details from Mr. Ramani, we couldn’t agree more that there is something for everyone. It is worth noting that the bunk bed suites are good enough to stir envy — even in us adults!
Zooming into the details, guests may notice fixtures that have a promising future – from technological installments that improve accessibility during their stay, to subtle and plentiful placements of outlets for the battery guzzlers in todays technology-plugged age. From the outside, the Hyatt Regency Irvine stands tall and distinctly, while its reimagined interior backs up its dominant posture.
Extras, Amenities, and More
For the guests who want to feel even more at home while reaping great benefits, the Hyatt Regency Irvine recently launched their new Regency Club, which grants access to exclusive amenities and private indoor/outdoor lounges. This includes fire pits, comfortable lounge seating, a sophisticated bar, and daily full-service dining.
Photo Credit: Logan Pratt / Hyatt Regency Irvine
The 24-hour gym is equipped with Peloton® Bikes, Life Fitness cardio equipment, free weights, and various weight machines. Guests can also benefit from exclusive access to private on-demand trainers through a collaboration with Future, tailored specifically for Hyatt Regency Irvine’s fitness center and equipment. Finally, located just two miles from John Wayne Airport and a short drive from major attractions like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, South Coast Plaza, and Southern California’s renowned beaches, Hyatt Regency Irvine serves as the ideal home base for exploring the area’s many offerings. It’s a great destination for those breaking away from the Disney Resort bubble and looking to achieve more exploration of the surrounding areas.
Innovation on the Horizon
Amazingly, there is even more to come as the property nears completion. A unique and elevated pool experience with dual waterslides, and an outdoor lounge space inclusive of a pool bar, cabanas, and massive LED TV screen to view sports games, movies, and more are on the way, and due to open in June. Just in time for summer, there are some great plans in store that will undoubtedly be a bow on the gift of travel for many guests.
And then there’s Warehouse 72 – a place where art and creativity are celebrated. This fine dining establishment will feature a modern bistro and bar to bring people together in a family-style atmosphere. Located on the first floor, it will ultimately enhance the openness of the property, while also breathing additional life that is sure to complement every guests first impression.
The Hyatt Regency Irvine is a marvel to appreciate in the hospitality landscape. Its reimagining is a welcome one in a world where we find ourselves plugged in more than ever, yearning to disconnect, and replug ourselves in new and different ways. In what could possibly set an example for other hotels, the property sets out to reach a new standard for guest experiences and expectations — doing so outstandingly. In a city with a massive and diverse population, plus attracting millions internationally on a yearly basis, Hyatt Regency Irvine successfully stands as a home away from home for everyone.
by Contributor
For most of the last three years, American consumers have been grappling with greater financial pressure from increased prices throughout the economy.
Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), has fallen since its June 2022 peak of 9.1%, but current levels of inflation still sit above the Fed’s preferred target rate of 2%. Additionally, CPI data released in April exceeded forecasts, showing year-over-year price increases of 3.5% and month-to-month increases of 0.4%. These figures present a challenge to the Federal Reserve’s earlier indications of potential interest rate cuts in 2024.
While several economic indicators, such as wage growth and unemployment rates, exhibit resilience, public sentiment towards the economy is significantly impacted by inflation rates. As prices escalate in key expenditure categories, Americans across the nation feel a tighter squeeze on their finances. One of the spending categories where consumers have faced the greatest pressure from price increases is groceries.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, food prices have surged at their fastest rate since the 1970s, rising by an astonishing 13.5% from August 2021 to August 2022 alone. While the pace of increase has moderated since then, grocery prices remain at historically high levels, adding considerable strain to household budgets. This upward trend in food costs is particularly concerning for families on tight budgets, as food expenses represent a non-negotiable necessity. Unlike discretionary spending, which can be trimmed in times of financial strain, expenditures on groceries are essential and cannot easily be reduced.
From March 2020 to March 2024, the CPI for food at home—a category that includes foods and nonalcoholic beverages meant for off premises consumption—has risen by 24.7%, outpacing the 20.3% increase observed across other CPI categories. This equates to a roughly 25% overall increase in the cost of grocery store items compared to just four years ago.
While grocery prices are up nearly 25% overall since the beginning of the pandemic, certain items have seen more significant upticks. Since March 2020, the cost of eggs has increased by 50%, while beef roasts, flour, and sugar have each risen by over one-third. Other items with large price increases over the same time period include carbonated beverages (up 32.1%) and canned fruits and vegetables (up +31.6%).
More recently, beef products have witnessed considerable price hikes, claiming the top three spots in year-over-year increases. Since last March, the cost of beef roasts has risen by 11.2%, steaks by 7.2%, and ground beef by 6.2%. Notably, sugar, carbonated beverages, and canned produce, which saw significant price increases since 2020, are also among the items with the largest year-over-year price hikes.
to read the full report: https://www.traceone.com/resources/plm-compliance-blog/grocery-store-items-that-have-increased-most-in-price
by Randy Dunbar
Sam Rubin, a notable figure in the world of entertainment journalism, particularly recognized for his long-standing role as an entertainment reporter for KTLA Morning News in Los Angeles has died. His career, which spanned several decades, made him a familiar face to anyone keen on Hollywood news and celebrity interviews.
His expertise was in in his deep understanding of the entertainment industry and his ability to engage with celebrities in a manner that elicited both informative and personal responses. His interviews would often go beyond the surface, exploring the nuances of an actor’s experience on set or the creative process behind a musician’s latest album.
What set Sam Rubin apart was his genuine enthusiasm for the arts, which was evident in his lively and insightful discussions. Known for his professionalism and his respectful approach to journalism, traits that have earned him the trust and respect of many in Hollywood. Rubin’s work not only informed his audience about the latest in entertainment but also enriched their understanding of the artistry involved in creating film, television, and music.
A fixture at local news channel KTLA 5, he was the kind of personality that you took for granted—he was always there—jovial, fun and indeed completely in the moment with his guests, he sudden death of a heart attack at 64 came as shock to the community.
by Anthony Stafford
Los Angeles has its sights, sounds, and tastes with so many top locations and scenes to choose from peppered across the region. However, there is one fairly recent addition located near one of the most famous icons of this sprawling city, and it happens to be a thriving venue for Mediterranean classics, favorites, and unique twists.
MON AMI just celebrated their 1st-year anniversary, complete with a special event on Cinco de Mayo to toast their first year of memories. Nestled along the picturesque Ocean Avenue strip in Santa Monica, MON AMI presents a captivating fusion of Mediterranean flavors and ambiance. Stepping through its doors, guests are greeted with the French phrase “mon ami,” setting the tone for an enchanting journey reminiscent of the cobblestone streets and sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean region.
Under the guidance of Nas Negahban from Pacific Coast Group (PCG), a seasoned traveler with a passion for authentic culinary experiences, MON AMI strives to mirror the richness of Mediterranean cultures in every aspect. Born and raised in Santa Monica, Nas is committed to elevating his hometown’s hospitality scene to reflect the sophistication of beachside cities he has encountered abroad. This is present in every aspect of MON AMI’s ambiance, from its lush indoor-outdoor seating surrounded by greenery, to its late-night live entertainment and picture-perfect cocktails. MON AMI is meticulously curated to enchant and immerse guests.
Speaking on his inspiration and MON AMI’s concept, Nas explains, “I’ve always had a passion for building new concepts and brands across various industries. We currently have a few restaurants in Spain and other countries but Santa Monica is home. If you go to any other city in the world or even just the United States, the epicenter of hospitality is by the water – PCH Group’s goal is to do the same with Santa Monica here in Los Angeles.”
In addition to its ambiance and mesmerizing live entertainment, the culinary escape offers impeccable cocktails and dishes from its kitchen helmed by Chef Daniel Ulrich. The kitchen sources fresh, local ingredients from farmers’ markets to infuse traditional Mediterranean recipes with a touch of California flair. Chef Daniel, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, credits Wally’s Beverly Hills for his experience, and his dedication to understanding the cultural and geographical significance of each ingredient ensures an authentic culinary experience.
Guests are encouraged to begin their meal with a customizable mezze platter, a modern take on charcuterie featuring options like Prosciutto Wrapped Tomatoes and Whipped Feta with house-made flatbread. For mains, dishes like the 7 Spice Jidori Chicken and saffron-infused Lobster pasta offer generous portions meant for sharing, while being irresistible enough to enjoy solo. Complementing the culinary offerings, MON AMI’s experienced bartending team crafts cocktails that are nothing short of extraordinary. Each drink is a carefully balanced masterpiece, showcasing innovative combinations and premium ingredients. From the refreshing El Rey to the intriguing Caprese-inspired concoction, MON AMI’s cocktail menu promises an unforgettable experience for discerning palates.
You’re Invited: First Class Dinner Series
With Mother’s Day around the corner, MON AMI makes a great destination, and if you’re one to beat the crowds – or wait until they’ve left – MON AMI is always looking at ways to up the ante and immerse its guests with unforgettable and unique culinary immersions. On Sunday, May 12, MON AMI will hold a Mother’s Day pop-up brunch, making it a hot destination to deliver only the best for mom.
Then, on Friday, May 17, guests can enjoy the beginning of MON AMI’s new First Class Dinner series with a “visit” to Barcelona. The evening will star a four-course Spanish meal with two curated cocktails, live Catalan music, and Flamenco dancers, while guests can frequent Jamon and Sangria stations. And to make the experience all the more memorable, guests will leave with a “passport” to commemorate their “trip.”
Credit: MON AMI
Providing some background on the idea behind the First Class Series and future occasions, Nas hints, “We are doing some pretty cool activations and partnerships for the Summer that we are very excited about. We are also launching our First Class Series – which is an immersive, experiential dining experience that I’ve only really seen in Europe. We think this will bring a lot of eyes and allure to Mon Ami this summer.” This surely makes it an exciting time to stop in, whether you’re a local, or just visiting from out of town!
With its evocative ambiance, delectable cuisine, and exceptional hospitality, MON AMI invites guests to embark on a sensory voyage through the Mediterranean without ever leaving the magnetic shores of Santa Monica. Learn more about MON AMI here, and book reservations at Resy. Follow MON AMI on Instagram, here.
by June Miller Richards
The Highly Anticipated, Quintessential LA Event Kicks Off on May 31
Barnsdall Art Park Foundation is excited to announce the return of its popular fundraiser, Barnsdall Fridays Wine Tasting, which after a hiatus since 2019, is back in full swing for 2024. The event, which has always attracted sell-out crowds, takes place on the West Lawn of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, Los Angeles’ only UNESCO World Heritage site, every Friday between Memorial Day and Labor Day (May 31 to August 30) from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm. The opening event is already selling out quickly, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets for maximum comfort!
Marking its 15th season, the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation’s signature fundraising event supports the Park, its arts programing and landscaping, which includes the recent restoration of the historic Olive Grove, which dates back to the 1890s. With green spaces being more important than ever, Barnsdall Park welcomes all Angelenos to the Park. For wine tastings, the gated area on the West Lawn will be designated to those 21 years and older to sip wine, picnic, enjoy panoramic views, and watch the sunset for another not-to-be-missed season at this iconic cultural destination, which features Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, a world-class art gallery, art center, and theater on its campus.
Ongoing partner Silverlake Wine will curate their fine selection of boutique artisanal wines and rotating food trucks will be on offer from popular LA haunts, including Triple Beam Pizza and Ardi’s Eats & Sweets. Popular DJs will feature over the course of the series, including DJ edma2z and Dougee Dimensional, a founding member and vocalist of electronic lounge group, The Gentle People. Through July 20, guests can also visit the COLA exhibition on view at DCA’s Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery (LAMAG), which is the culminating presentation of the recipients of the City of Los Angeles Independent Master Artist Project grant program for visual arts and design.
As part of the series, a limited number of tours of the interior of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House will be available for a premium ticket price throughout the evening.
Guests who book the tours will get to view Ravi GuneWardena: Ikebana for Hollyhock House. The installation, which runs through fall, features striking new ikebana by GuneWardena, which reanimate the interiors of the Frank Lloyd Wright-described “garden house” through the Japanese art of flower arranging, further showcasing the influence of Japanese art and design on the site — built simultaneously with Wright’s Imperial Hotel in Tokyo.
The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA), in collaboration with the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation (BAPF) and the Los Angeles Parks Foundation (LAPF) recently installed showcase native plantings at Hollyhock House, which wine tasting guests will see onsite. The new native gardens designed by landscape-design studio TERREMOTO celebrate the beauty and sustainability of native plants, featuring nearly 500 native plants.
Wine-tasting tickets cost $45 and $70 with a guided tour of Hollyhock House. Designated Driver tickets available for $15 with entry only and wine tasting not included. Purchase tickets to be a part of this unforgettable comeback celebration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/barnsdall-art-park-foundation-presents-friday-night-wine-tasting-21-tickets-59078739099
The Park is located at 4800 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027. Parking is very limited; rideshare and public transportation are highly encouraged. Please tag us at #BarnsdallFridays.
