Staying Optimistic By Dr. Juris Bunkis In a world inundated with disheartening news, maintaining optimism can feel like an uphill battle. Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there are strategies to nurture a positive outlook. Firstly, it is essential to strike a balance between staying informed and safeguarding your mental well-being. Limiting exposure to negative media and seeking out reputable sources for news can help mitigate feelings of despair. Instead, focus on cultivating meaningful connections with loved ones. Strengthening family bonds and cherishing moments of joy, such as c ..read more

Mother’s Day and Happy 98th Birthday! By Dr. Juris Bunkis Mother’s Day is here to remind all of us of the preciousness of our moms. I am truly blessed to be able to call my mother every single morning to catch up on the day’s events. Mother’s Day is a profound reminder of the boundless love, sacrifices, and strength embodied by our moms. It is a tribute to their unwavering support, nurturing guidance, and endless devotion. My mother is my hero, my inspiration, and my eternal source of love and gratitude. This is indeed a doubly special week for my mom because in addition to Mother’s Day ..read more

Latvia’s White Tablecloth Day By Dr. Juris Bunkis This weekend, Latvia celebrated the 33rd anniversary of regaining it’s independence from the Soviet Union. This event is celebrated on May 4th every year and I was fortunate in participating in this celebration in Los Angeles. Latvia’s Independence Day, celebrated on November 18th, marks the country’s declaration of independence in 1918 – and is not to be confused with the celebration commemorating regaining of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. White Tablecloth Day, commemorated on May 4th, specifically honors this latter event ..read more

Trip to the Embassy By Drs. Deborah Ekstrom and Juris Bunkis Attending the Annual Meeting of the Latvian Consuls of the Americas at the Latvian Embassy in Washington provided a valuable opportunity for networking and gaining insights into various aspects of Latvian affairs. Amidst the grandeur of Embassy Row, where stately buildings line the streets, the gathering offered a platform for discussions on pressing matters, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Russia’s aggressive stance taking center stage. Despite the geopolitical challenges, Latvia’s resilience shines through, underscore ..read more

Celebrating National Jelly Bean Day: A Sweet Reminder of Simple Joys By Dr. John Compoginis In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, it’s the little things that bring us the most joy. National Jelly Bean Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, serves as a delightful reminder of the simple pleasures that can brighten our days. This whimsical holiday invites us to indulge in the colorful, sugary goodness of jelly beans while reflecting on the importance of embracing moments of happiness, no matter how small. Jelly beans, with their vibrant hues and tantalizing flavors, have bee ..read more

Family By Drs. Deborah Ekstrom and Juris Bunkis Family time together holds a special place in our hearts for many reasons. It’s a time when generations come together, creating bonds and memories, that last a lifetime. Having our adult children, their spouses, and their children spend Spring Break with us this week is a true blessing. Despite the hustle and bustle of coordinating schedules and activities, the satisfaction derived from being surrounded by loved ones is immeasurable. From the moment they arrive, there’s an energy in the air—a sense of joy and excitement that permeates every ..read more

The Celestial Ballet: A Glimpse into Today's Solar Eclipse By Dr. John Compoginis As celestial dancers, the sun and the moon perform their intricate choreography today, captivating millions worldwide in a rare spectacle – a solar eclipse. This phenomenon, where the moon momentarily obscures the radiant face of the sun, evokes a sense of wonder and awe, reminding us of the vastness and beauty of our universe. Today’s eclipse unfolds against the backdrop of anticipation and excitement. Months of preparation by astronomers, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers culminate in this fleeting moment ..read more

How did Easter Become About the Easter Bunny? By Dr. Juris Bunkis While the true meaning of Easter remains rooted in the Christian celebration of the Resurrection of Christ, it’s true that for many people, Easter has evolved into a more secular holiday focused on gathering with family, participating in egg hunts, and enjoying other traditions like the Easter Bunny. As for the percentage of the US population which goes to church at Easter, it can vary depending on various factors including cultural and regional differences, as well as individual beliefs and practices. Surveys have shown th ..read more

The History of the Oscars By Dr. John Compoginis The Oscars, officially known as the Academy Awards, have a rich history that spans nearly a century, reflecting the evolution of the film industry and its impact on global culture. Here’s a concise one-page summary of the history of the Oscars: The Birth of the Oscars (1927):The Academy Awards were first held on May 16, 1929, at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The event was a private dinner attended by around 270 people from the film industry. The brainchild of MGM studio head Louis B. Mayer, the Oscars were created to honor outstanding achi ..read more

Why is your Specialty Called Plastic Surgery? By Dr. Juris Bunkis The name of our specialty was derived from the Greek word “plastikos”, which means capable of being molded or shaped. Plastic Surgery, by definition, is surgery to repair, restore, or improve lost, injured, aged, defective, or misshapen body parts. What the layperson usually perceives as plastic surgery is usually related to cosmetic surgery. This is an integral part of the Plastic Surgery specialty, and some plastic surgeons specialize in cosmetic surgery, but other may specialize in other branches of the specialty such as ..read more