The Last Few Days

Farewell AA Captain Woody. This was the last flight for the Captain who safely flew us from Mexico City to Miami. After 33 1/2 years, he retired.



Meet Fabiola Menchelli, the next Annie Leibovitz. Architectural Digest of Mexico just did a big feature on her. We were all thrilled to meet her.


The HANDLStick allowed me to take this selfie. I’ll get you yours when China starts shipping again. The stick can be used directly on any smartphone or case. Styles can be frequently switched out.

I Want To Hear From Trump Supporters!

Do you support the retaliation against Lt. Colonel Vindman, a decorated soldier who legally obeyed a subpoena for his testimony and told, under oath, his version under of the events of the phone call between Trump and President Zelensky of Ukraine?


WATCH: Alexander Vindman’s full opening statement | Trump impeachment hearings


After rewatching the nine minute opening statement by Lt. Colonel Alexander Vindman, I am struck by the courage and patriotism of this man who was fired for his Congressional testimony during the House impeachment proceedings. I want to hear from Trump supporters how you feel about Trump’s obvious, vindictive retaliation against Vindman’s testimony in front of Congress, the firing this highly decorated soldier.  


When I say highly decorated soldier, I mean exactly that. Vindman’s awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal with bronze oak leaf clu er (2nd award), Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Valorous Unit Award, Navy Unit Commendation, National Intelligence Meritorious Unit Citation, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation. He is a reciipient of the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Basic Parachutist Badge, the Presidential Service Badge and Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge.


I highlight these statements from the video of Lt. Colonel Vindman’s opening statements :

“Next month will mark 40 years since my family arrived in the United States as refugees. When my father was 47 years old he left behind his entire life and the only home he had ever known to start over in the United States so that his three sons could have better, safer lives. His courageous decision inspired a deep sense of gratitude in my brothers and myself and instilled in us a sense of duty and service. All three of us have served or are currently serving in the military. Our collective military service is a special part of our family’s story in America.


”I also recognize that my simple act of appearing here today, just like the courage of my colleagues who have also truthfully testified before this Committee, would not be tolerated in many places around the world. In Russia, my act of expressing my concerns to the chain of command in an official and private channel would have severe personal and professional repercussions and offering public testimony involving the President would surely cost me my life. I am grateful for my father’s brave act of hope 40 years ago and for the privilege of being an American citizen and public servant, where I can live free of fear for mine and my family’s safety.


”Dad, my sitting here today, in the US Capitol talking to our elected officials is proof that you made the right decision forty years ago to leave the Soviet Union and come here to United State of America in search of a better life for our family. Do not worry, I will be fine for telling the truth. Thank you again for your consideration, and I would be happy to answer your questions:”


Silence is not acceptable – how do you feel, Trump supporters?  Do you support the firing, or does it outrage you as much as it does me?  Do you feel safer today not having Lt. Colonel Vindman watching your back against Russia? Silence is not acceptable, speak up.  I want to hear your opinion.

Traveling With Fountainhead Residency In Mexico City

https://youtu.be/yboiikyu_vU

https://youtu.be/yboiikyu_vU

Leslie Moody Castro and Tanya Diaz of #ArtravesArte are the organizers of our entire trip to Mexico City. Second time with them. Thanks to The Fountainhead Residency we will be back next year with an expanded program. Thank you team.


https://youtu.be/BNpjoFZP8WE

The Yeni Mao fan club. Watch the video. We had a ball visiting his Mexico City studio yesterday. Can’t believe Teresa Enriquez (r) and I bought similar sculptures. Traveling with Kathryn Quinlivan Mikesell (l), Founder of The Fountainhead Residency. Teresa and I are proud board members. Teresa Enriquez.


The new Eliot. If you want to be a part of the art world, you must dress the part. Traveling with The Fountainhead Residency. Mexico City


And the Oscar Goes To . . .

TV Personality Steve Greenberg and PR Expert Lois Whitman-Hess of “Lying on the Beach, ” both love gadgets and technology.


They also LOVE the movies. This week’s LOB is all about the upcoming Oscars.  Hear Lois and Steve’s Oscar picks and hear what really annoys them about this year’s crop of nominees.


 

Listen here – http://www.lyingonthebeach.com/2020/02/05/and-the-oscar-goes-to/

 


This week “Lying on the Beach” is powered by the HANDLstick.

Party As If There’s No Tomorrow

If these two were still alive, I’m sure we would have been partying like teenagers today. Our Miami Beach neighbor Kent Karosen (left) was from Kansas City, and along with his husband, Brian B Hauserman, were huge Kansas City Chiefs fans.


They didn’t need too much of an excuse to ”celebrate” big time. They were a big part of the Miami Beach social life. We met them through our BFF’s Gail and Dawn. We will root for KC with all of our hearts. It’s been over a year since we lost Kent, and four months for Brian.


We can’t believe Super Bowl is here and they are not. We miss them both so much.


Super Bowl Security

Police Helicopters and Coast Guard protecting waterways near Lady Gaga concert during Super Bowl. This party boat went the wrong way and was chased by spotlights. Watch the action


Hearing Loss Can Cut Your Life Short

This episode of “Lying on the Beach” can actually help you hear better. Steve Greenberg and Lois Whitman-Hess spoke to Chris Ellis, CEO of AudioCardio, a mobile app that claims to protect and restore hearing.

 


The app allows you to quickly evaluate your hearing and generate a personalized, inaudible sound therapy to protect and strengthen your hearing. Think of it like physical therapy for your ears.

 


And because the sound therapy is inaudible, you use the app while you enjoy other activities like going for a walk, listening to music, or even while you are working out.

 


Steve and Lois will be testing the app over the next few months. Most folks don’t realize that hearing loss can be very detrimental as they get older. There is a definite correlation between the loss of hearing and balance, dementia, etc. Listen to this podcast to understand how you can test your hearing for life and avoid elderly mishaps that can lead to serious injuries or even death. Happy days ahead. 


 

Listen here – http://www.lyingonthebeach.com/2020/01/31/hearing-loss-can-cut-your-life-short/

 

Did You Know?

Stephen Colbert Discusses His Family Tragedy While Mourning The Loss of Kobe Bryant


We could almost touch this Super Bowl blimp from our Miami Beach apartment. The Super Bowl helicopters, blimps, prop airplanes with flags are flying soclose to us. Photo by Eliot Hess


Warren Buffett Sells BH Media Group to Lee Enterprises – Adweek


14 Ways to Quiet Your Mind Explained


Sudden Health Problems After 50


Airlines Offering Free Stopovers – Peter Greenberg Travel Detective

Airlines Offering Free Stopovers


Joe’s Stone Crab, #1 restaurant in the United States

And steps away from where we live.

Top 100 Independents 2019



https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/top-100-independents-2019


Peggy Siegel Sends Her Regrets 

The Truth About Immigrants

Full disclosure. I hired a very knowledgeable political writer to help me research and debate false claims by the Trump administration. I just couldn’t stand by and do nothing. Today’s issue:

Here’s the truth about Immigrants.

This is what Trump’s really successful at – playing to people’s worst phobias and worst impressions of immigrants.


There is a bogus claim that immigrants are a drain on the US economy, and are takers. Maybe, you should actually check the facts first before believing Trump’s nonsense.


Myth #1: Immigrants take more from the U.S. government than they contribute

Fact: Immigrants contribute more in tax revenue than they take in government benefits


Myth #2: Immigrants take American jobs

Fact: Immigrants workers often take jobs that boost other parts of the economy


Myth #3: The U.S. economy does not need immigrants

Fact: Immigrants are key to offsetting a falling birth rate. If not for immigrants, the U.S. workforce would be shrinking.


Myth #4: It would be better for the economy if immigrants’ children were not citizens

Fact: Children with citizenship are more productive workers.


Googling for the facts can be a bit inconvenient if you want to flesh out Trump’s lies. Don’t worry though, I did it for you.


The facts here:  https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/making-sense/4-myths-about-how-immigrants-affect-the-u-s-economy


Dangerous Behavior ?

I received an email yesterday from a Trump supporter who said “Trump is not all bad.” He was making reference to Trump’s immigrant wealth test cleared to start by the Supreme Court. I couldn’t believe what I was reading. I heard similar words from a Miami neighbor when I first moved into my luxury condo 18 years ago. “Hitler wasn’t all bad,” she said. I never spoke to her again and I literally get sick every time I see her in the lobby.


I don’t want to stay silent any longer. Why am I the only one who is upset by President Trump’s tweet? I was surprised that I haven’t seen more of an uproar about the Trump Tweet attacking Adam Schiff, a prime political opponent of Trump who is doing his job of defending the US Constitution and the Rule of Law.


Did Schiff get publicly threatened by the President of the United States? Do you feel this is exactly the type of behavior we have witnessed from Communist leaders where political opponents and reporters have been assassinated?


I would like to ask Trump supporters if they feel this is dangerous behavior? We are witnessing unprecedented types of conduct at the highest offices of government.   


Trump Threatens Adam Schiff In Explosive Online Attack https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/maven-user-photos/theintellectualist/news/M2GejhrUxUaVOm2QmqwOPA/sLbHTFva-Em-yL4gCsPrLA

Bloomberg’s Commitment To Israel

To all Jews who voted for Trump because of his so-called support for Israel, please watch this video. Mike Bloomberg’s support for Israel is much more dedicated, trustworthy, reliable, valuable, heartfelt, understanding and corruption free.


https://youtu.be/hZZ9sT5mrPM


We had the great pleasure of attending the Mike Bloomberg 2020 rally today at the Aventura Turnbury Jewish Center. While the speech was directed at the Jewish Community, this is a much watch for all. This is what the President of the United States should look like.

Don’t tell me he doesn’t have a chance to win. Miracles do happen, and you are our miracle. Vote Mike. It’s up to you to spread the word, and build a decent life for your children, and grandchildren. We must make this work.




Bloomberg’s surprising speech on anti-Semitism, Israel and Iran – The Washington Post

“As president, I will always have Israel’s back. I will never impose conditions on our military aid, including missile defense no matter who is prime minister. …I will never walk away from our commitment to guarantee Israel’s  security.”

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/01/26/bloombergs-surprising-speech/