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Sights from a walk…

On our way…

There’s several enormous plumerias on our route. I can never get them past the “dead looking stick” stage.

Somebody loves somebody.

Everything’s peachy so far.

Leaf print.

Weird, beautiful unsettled sky. This is usually a spring or fall thing.

A rare right-angle palm.

Looks complicated.

I’ve always liked this tile that someone stuck on their fence.

A particularly beautiful hibiscus.

Life…uh…finds a way.

Alfie always tries to rile up the neighborhood dogs.

2023 Movie Diary, Part 14

40. TOP GUN: MAVERICK

The flying sequences are great, but it’s the surprising human quality that makes this one work. The actors are good, the writing pays enough attention to character and relationships to hook you, and it’s got a surprising amount of heart. A very pleasant surprise.
Verdict: Much better than the original Top Gun.

41. THE BLACK STALLION

The first half is exquisite — it’s some of the most beautiful, minimalist storytelling you’ll ever see. The second half is more pedestrian, but still looks beautiful and has a great performance by Mickey Rooney.  Kelly Reno, who plays the boy, is excellent throughout, and his partner in most of his scenes — a stunning Arabian stallion named Cass Ole’ — is straight out of a fairy tale. 
Verdict: Uneven, but heads and shoulders above what they’re making for kids today.

42. DOG DAY AFTERNOON

What a great movie this is. What more is there to say about this except how the hell did Art Carney beat out Al Pacino for the Oscar in 1975?  I’ve seen “Harry and Tonto” and Carney was good, but…come on now. 
Verdict: Just flat-out tremendous.

Another month, another racetrack…

How could I have missed the Wiener Nationals! It’s the greatest show on earth!

Past the stands for the first time.

And #2 takes them wire-to-wire!

I love this corny mural at the entrance to the indoor paddock.

Longest home stretch in the United States.

Another goofy mural by someone who may have glimpsed a horse at one time and is painting from memory.

This guy looks…concerned.

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None of these are mine. I tossed them in the trash like a responsible horse player.