This film was set in 1988 and chronicles the then groundbreaking events that brought hip-hop to pop culture. It is also a peek behind the scenes at the culture of sex, drugs and thug life.
It tells the story of the mercurial rise of the hip hop industry and gangsta rap. Front and center is the story of the young Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Easy-E, DJ Yella and MC Ren. (Dr. Dre and Ice Cube co-produced the film along with Tomica Wright, Matt Alvarez and F. Gary Grey who was also the Director.)
The film does not hold back as it reveals the good, the bad and the ugly. It is intense and still relevant to today’s music scene and the influence it brings with it. Run time is 2 hours, 36 minutes that simply flew by.
The film has been nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. It had also been nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture (but did not win). Also the Critics Choice Award for Best Acting Ensemble and numerous other industry awards of recognition.
Rating:
The Finest Hours
This film is based on the book of the real events of a 1952 US Coast Guard rescue mission in Chatham, Mass. A team of three, lead be Chris Pine as team leader Bernie Webber, are ordered to conduct a rescue of the remaining crew of 30 on an oil tanker cracked in half by a massive winter storm.
The tanker’s Captain is killed during the accident and there is a fair amount of chaos until the Ship’s Engineer, played by Casey Affleck, comes up with a plan to keep the ship afloat until they can be rescued. Lots of angst and tension until they are obviously rescued.
Concurrently the rescue team somehow managed to overcome seemingly impossible conditions, the loss of their compass and still manage to find the tanker.
Meanwhile, back on shore, Holliday Grainger plays the local outsider, Miriam, and the love interest to Webber. She causes a stir within the close knit community. Ultimately the community pulls together to help the overloaded rescue boat find its way home.
Rating:
45 Years
Most critics are raving about this movie. Charlotte Rampling is nominated in the Academy Awards Best Actress category for her performance as the wife in this story. Tom Courtenay plays her husband. Together they are the textbook couple in their Senior years in domestic bliss when suddenly the wife discovers her husband was once engaged prior to their 45 year marriage and upcoming anniversary event.
This news slowly builds to a boil within the Rampling character. I must admit Rampling delivers a powerful performance with the minimum use of words and replaced with just her eyes, a look and the twitch of her mouth.
The actor’s chemistry is excellent and was a strong contribution to making the storyline work. But the film seemed to drag on too long and the turmoil, while understandable, seemed too much ado about nothing.
We’ve seen and heard this before. Aliens to take over Earth so they can have our planet. The first four waves of the invasion pretty much destroy everything but those resilient humans just won’t die easily.
Liev Schreiber is the Commander of the military trying to round up the remaining humans and protect them from the aliens. Humans discover a way to identify the aliens who in the fifth wave are waging a ground war to finish off humanity. Or so we think. What they are actually doing is recruiting the young to fight the aliens supposedly by killing the humans who have been “occupied” by the aliens now controlling the human hosts brains.
Oh, human girl falls for alien human. ( I cannot explain it, just trust me.) So so special effects, a weak science fiction thriller. Much to our surprise the somewhat younger audience applauded at the end. At almost two hours, we were just relieved it was over.
Rating:
Aferim!
This story is set in Romania, 1835. It is filmed in black and white. It is the story of a constable and his son in search of a runaway Gypsy slave after having an affair with the nobleman’s wife.
They journey through many different villages each with different nationalities and beliefs. They finally capture the slave, hobble him and embark on the journey back home. There are glimpses of what it might have been like then. Village life was remote, crude, uncivilized, dangerous, yet in some way adventurous. The power structure of the feudal lords and Orthodox Church was absolute and unforgiving.
The pace was quite fast. Subtitles flew past by on the screen and required significant concentration. There was an old Western quality to the production. Ultimately, we were disappointed. It was an interesting experiment that just didn’t work. Bulgarian/Romanian/Czech Production. Romanian with English subtitles.
This post is forwarded for your information and consideration.
Those of us who are fortunate enough to travel know the world is a big and diverse place with many folks far less fortunate than ourselves. Please take a moment to take a look at the information below.
Better yet, check out the youtube posting below. It will give you a heartwarming look at Casa Sana.
Madena, CEO and Founder of Casa Sana, is a life long friend of ours. John and I look forward to promoting and supporting Casa Sana efforts to make the world a better place.
J & J
**************************************************************************** Hi Guys and Happy New Year! 2016 is shaping up nicely here at Casa Sana and we are only a little over half way through the first month!
As you know, we are a Non-Profit that Empowers Teens in Peru. As you also know running a Non-Profit is a tough gig. Always coming from a place of lack, asking for funds.
NO BUENO!
I have decided to change this aspect for Casa Sana and myself. I think you will agree with me: It is much easier to make money than to ask for money!
So we have created a Voluntourism Venture to enable Casa Sana to be self sustaining. We call it The Thrive Peru Experience. It is a 3 day Total Immersion into the Peruvian Culture, through Community Service in remote villages, shanty towns and urban areas of Piura, Peru – the home of Casa Sana.
You will become part of the Casa Sana family and return home with a renewed energy for life and a new appreciation for all that you have. The Thrive Peru Experience is full of Contribution, Culture and Connection.
Contribution – this experience supports Casa Sana and the local communities
Culture – you will be invited into the homes of the Casa Sana kids and the Casa Sana Headquarters. You will be immersed into the Peruvian Culture up close and very personal.
Connection – the connections you make on this trip will last a lifetime. You will be helping people who can NEVER repay you monetarily but will ALWAYS repay you with appreciation and deep gratitude. You will be eating homemade Peruvian Cuisine made by the Casa Sana Elders, meals are an event and full of love. laughter and connection.
I guarantee, this will be an Experience of a life time!
While in Piura, services provided include:
1) Accommodations
2) Meals
3) Transportation
4) Laughter, love and an experience of a LIFETIME!
Other attractions to see on your trip to Peru – either before or after your Thrive Peru Experience
So to help us get out of the energy of LACK, please forward this to anyone who you think would be interested in this Experience. They can contact me directly and we will set up a time to speak one on one for further details.
London is a really big city. It Boasts an enormous range of sights, museums, entertainment and a global choice of foods. It has an excellent transportation system. It is one of our favorite Cities in the world. Our favorite time to visit is early fall, anytime after Schools starts. The crowds are usually smaller and the weather generally still pleasant. Enjoy!
Food, site seeing, shopping and entertainment are highlights. Not having to navigate the language barrier makes for a easy transition. That said, the first time visitor will quickly recognize they are not in the US and should proceed carefully until they get comfortable with some of the basics. Like looking both ways at intersections and cross walks for traffic flow. Or standing on the left on escalators so people in a hurry can use the right side.
Thames
Entertainment is plentiful and can be free to very expensive. Live theater, concerts, the opera and special concerts can be quite expensive and often sold out. If you have ‘must see’ expectations, advance research and purchase on the internet is recommended. But there is so much available, smaller venues or neighborhood events can be rewarding and much more affordable.
One of our best resources is the Half Price Ticket booth at Leicester Square (on the square, there are several ticket outlets around and off Leicester Square but only one stand alone building on the square.) Arrive before the 9 AM opening for the best options. Ask about matinees as well.
London has some of the most diverse choices for food and dining. It ranges from simple fish and chips to Superstar chefs and practically every cuisine on the planet. It is a perfect time to try something new or unavailable at home.
Do try the local pubs as they vary wildly in offerings, entertainment, history, and decor. Food options in pubs range from the old fashioned basics to world class gastronomy.
Central London
The Tube (subway) is extensive and typically the fastest way to get around. But also try the surface buses. Most have been upgraded recently and are quite comfortable and cost the same as the tube. Pick a destination or neighborhood and enjoy sightseeing you would otherwise miss using the underground. Consider a day pass good on most forms of public transportation but be aware day passes are not valid during morning rush hour before 9 AM. If you are planning to visit London more often, consider their Oyster Card. A rechargeable transit smart card good on all public transportation. The value never expires. That is what we use.
The ‘must do’ list.
Westminster Abby is a Gothic church dating back to 1090 with spires 225 feet tall. The walls and floors are a who’s who of British history including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Edward the Confessor and more. The abbey has been modified over the centuries by no less than 6 of the most prominent architects including Christopher Wren. Long lines are common. Hours are 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Admission 20 Pounds, discounts for Seniors, children and families.
St. Paul’s
St. Paul’s Cathedral is the Anglican cathedral, seat of the bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. It sits on the highest point of the City of London, Ludgate Hill. It opened in 1708, it is the second largest cathedral in the world, standing 365 feet tall and was designed by Christopher Wren and Lorenzo Gafa in the Renaissance and English Baroque style. Hours are 8:30 AM to 4:30 AM. Admission is 18 Pounds, discounts for Seniors, children and families.
London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames. It opened in 2000, stands 443 feet high. Each capsule takes 30 minutes for a full rotation. Excellent 360 degree views are best at the top. Admission from 20 Pounds and up. Hours: 10 :00 AM (except Christmas and January 11-22), closing times vary by season and run at least until 8:30 PM.
Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress known as the Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage site sitting on a 12 acre site dating back to 1078 on the River Thames. It served as the backdrop for much of British history and has had several rolls over the centuries. It currently houses the Crown Jewels of England. Hours vary by day of the week and season. Generally 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM most of the year, closing an hour later in summer. Admission: 24.50 pounds per adult, discounts for Seniors, children and families.
Houses of Parliament There are a variety of ways to visit the Houses of Parliament. Tours, watch debates and committees, visit the Parliamentary Archives, School visits, and special events. There are audio tours, guided tours, afternoon tea tours, tours of the Commons and Lords Chambers and the historic Westminster Hall. Book in advance, www.parliament.uk.
Buckingham Palace (Summer only) has served as the official London residence of Britain’s sovereigns since 1837. The state rooms are open to the public each year for most of August, September, December and January. It is a wonderful tour that usually includes viewing the royal picture gallery collection of art and, weather permitting, a limited stroll in the rear gardens. There is an excellent gift shop and café. July and August Hours: 9:15 AM to 7:45 PM. September Hours: 9:15 AM to 6:45 PM. “Royal Day Out” Admission is Adult 37.00 pounds, or State Rooms only 21.50 pounds, discounts for Seniors, children and families.
British Museum
British Museum (free, except special exhibits) houses one of the largest collections of art and artifacts (8 million works) in the world. It is dedicated to human history, art and culture. Established in 1753 it is considered one of the best museums in the world. It houses one of the largest collection of Egyptian mummies and statues outside of Egypt. The Rosetta stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Magna Carta are all housed there. It would take weeks or months to fully explore this museum. Map your visit in advance. Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Windsor Castle, (Day trip) is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. It has been the family home of British kings and queens for over 1000 years. It is the official residence of Her Majesty The Queen. The castle is accessible by train from either London Waterloo or London Paddington stations. Hours are 9:45 AM to 5:15 PM March to October, 9:45 AM to 4:15 PM November to February. There are numerous closures throughout the year. Check for details. www.royalcollection.org.uk. Admission is 20 Pounds, discounts for Seniors, children and families.
The Victoria and Albert Museum, (free, except special exhibits) has one of the best and largest decorative arts collection in the world. The museum has undergone restoration in recent years resulting in upgraded presentation of its collections.
Self Portrait, Tate Modern
The Tate Modern (free, except special exhibits) The Tate Modern is one of the greatest free modern art museums in the world. It was created from an abandoned power plant and repurposed as a museum. About half the exhibits are free, the rest require a separate ticket.
Tate Britain
The Tate Britain (free) is a magnificent collection of over 500 years of British artwork and sculptures in over 20 galleries. Most notable is the sizable Henry Moore collection of sculptures and the over 300 pieces by the famed British painter JMW Turner. Bonus: There are numerous special event exhibitions included without extra cost, two gift shops, both excellent, a cafe serving beverages, breakfast and lunch. There is also an award winning restaurant for lunch in a room boasting Rex Whistler murals and award winning wine list.
Queen Elizabeth IIPrince Harry and Prince William
The National Portrait Gallery (free) was founded in 1856. It houses paintings of historical importance and famous British people. The galleries are well organized and the paintings nicely displayed. There are gift shops and a café. Plan 1 to 2 hours. Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.
The Courtauld Gallery (Admission fee: 8 Pounds) adjacent to the Somerset House Museum complex is a true gem. An outstanding collection of art from the early Renaissance to 20th century masterpieces seen no where else are not to be missed. There is a cute cafe in the basement and an excellent gift shop across from the entrance.
For a deeper look, there are tons of specialized museums, theaters, attractions and just about anything you can imagine available. Discovery while traveling is one of the reasons to travel and explore. Enjoy.
Notes:
Avoid major attractions on holiday weekends or major holidays. The crowds can be huge making the exhibits difficult to enjoy. If your schedule is tight, plan to visit those attractions as early in the day as possible.
Choose the lesser popular attractions or farther afield destinations to travel to instead. Large or extended families are less likely to choose those options because logistics can be more challenging.
Try alternative sights or destinations in lieu of the most popular and save the most popular for a midweek day if possible. It could make all the difference in the world.
Apparently based on true events, this movie tells the story of 6 contracted security members, not part of the State Department or US Military, who stepped forward to defend the American diplomatic compound against repeated attacks by Islamic militants on the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Fact finding reveals “creative liberties” were taken in the making of the film. There was even some “hair splitting” on some topic; i.e., the movie claimed air support was denied. A House Armed Services report stated air support was “unavailable”.
In any case, the movie watching experience was very good. Good story telling, good tension, characters you could care about, and definitely some good guys you would want on your side in a real pinch. There is quite a bit of blood and some disturbing images.
Rating:
Son of Saul
With all the movies made about the Holocaust, this Oscar nominated film shows a perspective not seen before. (At least not that I am aware.) It takes place in 1944 in the Auschwitz Concentration Camp where Hungarian Jewish prisoners were forced to incinerate the bodies and remove the ashes of their Jewish brethren.
It is a dark and painfully difficult film to watch. It is almost incomprehensible to imagine life under those conditions. Yet one man discovers a young boys body and tries relentlessly to arrange a proper Jewish burial, requiring the prayers of a Rabbi, which is virtually impossible under the conditions.
Side bar: Many Hungarians on social media are calling the film and events untrue and a hoax..
Rating:
Anomalisa
This animated feature length film has enjoyed near record breaking critical accolades from film critics across the country. Considered by some as the best animation ever. Screenwriter Charlie Kaufman uses stop-motion animated puppets to create a life like film.
Personally, I disliked it very much. There is nothing in the trailer that hints what the film is really about. It is about a miserable man who apparently cannot maintain any type of decent personal relationship. He makes his living on a conference circuit lecturing organizations about good customer service practices.
He drinks like a fish and preys on admiring groupies for sexual satisfaction. All this is graphically on parade, stalking, nudity, sex and all. Call me a prude on this one: guilty as charged.
This film was apparently inspired by the 1991 classic of the same name starring then newbie Keanu Reeves and a youthful Patrick Swayze as leader of criminal devil surfers and Reeves as undercover officer infiltrating the surfer gang. At the time, groundbreaking filmmaking.
This years version is not so much. The plot is basically the same as the original movie. It has been updated with interesting sea, alpine mountain scenes and snowboarding worthy of an audience. The cinematography of the skiing and sky diving is worth the price of the ticket alone. So catch this on pay per view, or on a long haul plane ride.
Rating:
Concussion
This film confronts the medical diagnosis for concussions football players have endured over the course of their football playing lifetime. The topic is not new to the sport, the NFL or the medical industry.
This film does, however, zero in on the science behind the disorder athletes often suffer from known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy which often shortens lives. There is a fair amount of tension as the football industry tries to oppress the public awareness on the topic and its discoverer, Dr. Bennet Omalhu brilliantly played by Will Smith.
Other notable performances are David Morse as the tormented former football player Mike Webster, Alec Baldwin as NFL team Dr. Julian Bailes, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Dr. Omalhu’s love interest.
Overall, well done, well acted, powerful topic with a real life connection to the reality of the football industry.
Rating:
Shaun the Sheep
New from the creators of Wallace and Gromit, comes a full length claymation production of adventure and mayhem with virtually no dialog unless you consider the indecipherable gibberish dialog.
Over at Mossy Bottom Farms, the Farmer goes about his daily routine along with his dog Bitzer when the flock cause mischief and escape to the Big City for ‘fancy food’.
The Framer develops amnesia and forgets who he is, and somehow converts his shearing skills into a celebrity hair stylist. In the mean time, the dog catcher is hot on the trail of the sheep.
The flock hit town with the precision of a military force. The sheep dress in a series of camouflage and undercover dress to find the Farmer and find there way back to the Farm. The result is a series of escapades that will make you laugh.
Nominated for a 2016 Oscar in feature length Animation category.
Set in the 1820s in the wild frontier of the Pacific Northwest, this is a gritty story of survival, betrayal, and vengeance. There are many times this film is difficult to watch and may even make you squirm in your seat or take an extra tight grip on your arm rest.
The acting is exceptional, especially Leonardo DiCaprio along with Tom Hardy as a really good bad guy. DiCaprio won the well deserved Best Actor title in yesterday’s Golden Globe Awards.
The cinematography (by Emmanuel Lubezki) is incredible. Nine months of filming in extreme winter conditions create the backdrop for both breathtaking and bleak scenery.
The enigmatic Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu delivers a film that is a powerful, unique production that will certainly garner audience approval and industry accolades. It will be a classic.
Rating: 4 Globes
Mustang
This is the story of five sisters in a rural Turkish village and their coming of age experiences. They are orphaned, raised by their Grandmother and overseen by their Uncle who demands strict adherence to conservative cultural behavior.
Incrementally, their home becomes a repressive island and one by one the sisters are targeted for arranged marriages. There is still joy and laughter amongst themselves despite their situation. There is tragedy and ultimately hope.
This may garner an Oscar nomination. It is sweet, innocent, thought provoking, funny, frustrating, and bewildering. This is a French production, with Turkish language and English subtitles. In any case, it is absolutely worth seeking out either in the theaters or Pay-per-view.
Rating: 4 Globes
The Hateful Eight
This is Quentin Tarentino’s eighth major motion picture. I’m unclear if there is a connection to the title but there can be no doubt this is a Tarentino film. This one is a Western, with outrageous characters, lots of twists and turns, lots of irreverent dialog, and oh, of course it wouldn’t be a Tarentino film without a healthy dose of blood, lots and lots of blood.
It has an impressive cast of characters. Most notably, Kurt Russell doing his best John Wayne as bounty hunter; Samuel L. Jackson as Samuel L. Jackson as bounty hunter and Jennifer Jason Leigh as the ultra bad outlaw.
More notable bad guy portrayals are expertly delivered by Tim Roth, Bruce Dern, and Walton Goggins. At three hours, you might come away exhausted. But isn’t that what ‘pulp fiction’ stories are all about. Oh, 70mm cinematography is off the charts good.
Only a bit further afield from Central London and next to the village of Hamstead and it’s much adored open Heath is Kenwood House, a magnificent mansion set in expansive parklands. It is a visit you will enjoy any time of year.
The original structure dates to 1616, but was extensively expanded by the then owner William Murry, the Lord Cheif Justice and Earl of Mansfield in 1754 with the aid of architect Robert Adam.
After his death, the estate passed through several hands before finally being bought by Edward Cecil Guinness who used the House to showcase his extensive collection of art. Ultimately he bequest the House and grounds to the English Heritage with the condition the House and art collect remain intact and access to the public free of charge.
And so it is today. A 15 minute underground ride to a world from the past. The house is still in exceptional condition from its 18th Century overhaul.
The most impressive asset in the House is the extensive collection of fine art, including Rembrandt, Van Dyke, Hals, Reynolds, Gainsborough, JMW Turner and more.
Every room has highly skilled docents to help visitors absorb what they are experiencing. This extra resource really maks the visit a memorable experience. Vistors will leave with sense of having visited a day in the life of the House as it may have been.
Especially noteworthy, this is the home to Dido Elizabeth Belle, the illegitimate daughter of Sir John Lindsey, nephew to Lord Mansfield. This was the true basis for the feature film production Belle in recent years.
It has been a few years since our last visit to London so we were anxious to see if some of our favorites were still there and thriving.
Wagamama
Several locations in London. A trailblazer a decade ago and still excellent, now a Global sensation. Big bowls of Udon and Soba noodle soup with a variety of ingredient options. Affordable and one of our favorites for lunch but also open continuously. $
Konaki Greek Restaurant
5 Coptic Street, London. WCIA INH
A block away from the British Museum we try to visit this at least once a visit just to check in. We are happy to report it is still there and still authentic, and still a good value. Charming dining room, nice menu and the 3 course menu is a great bargain at 13.95 pounds not including beverage. We have only been for dinner. Check website for hours. Www.konaki.co.uk. $$
Al Hamra
31/33 Shepherd Market, Mayfair, London W1Y7HR
We make it a point to get to Al Hamra on every visit though in recent years their ‘Holiday Closure’ seems to get longer each year. Authentic Lebanese cuisine is among the best we have enjoyed anywhere in the World. We typically will order our favorite small dishes and add a grilled meat dish to round out the menu. Everything we have ever ordered is excellent. Service is excellent. Clientele tend to dress above average. It is not inexpensive but worth the splurg. Open daily 11 AM continuously. Reservations are recommended. $$$
Bombay Palace
50 Cannaught Street, London W2 2AA
Among the best Indian food anywhere with 10 locations around the world, three in the US (New York, Beverly Hills, and Washington DC). The quality classic dishes are prepared with the best ingredients and the spice to your taste. We think the lunch represents the best value. Service is consistent with the quality. Reservations suggested. Www.bombay-palace.co.uk $$$
Norfolk Arms
Corner of Leigh and Sandwich, Saint Pancras, London WC1H 9EP
This neighborhood pub reinvented itself with all the trappings of a typical pub but with a whole lot more. Upgraded artisan brews and other libations include an impressive wine list and several daily offerings from an authentic sangria to Grappas and beyond.
The menu changes daily offering Spanish style tapas prepared to perfection. On this visit we sampled bruschetta with Spanish blue cheese, toasted walnuts and wild honey. It was awesome! Their version of saganaki featured a Greek cheese blended into a spread served with toasted pita bread wedges. We also sampled amazing fried pork bellies and killer chicken wings. Www.norfolkarms.co.uk $$
We saw this again last week in Milwaukee with the little ones, 8 and 10. We loved it as much and more the second time around. And so did the kids! It seems they have inherited a passion for the cinema. Yippee! Years of fun to look forward to. The Force looks like they will be with us for a while. What fun!
Rating (repeated): 4 Globes
Joy
Jennifer Lawerence and Bradley Cooper just have great chemistry together. Add Robert DeNero and the true to life QVC success story and you have the frame work for a very good story. That said, the telling of the story is fundamental to the film actually connecting with the audience. This one works.
There is a fair amount of drama and trauma throughout this film that can cause some angst. Divorce, in fighting, greed, betrayal, deceit, cheating and perhaps too few moments of joy.
Nominated for two Golden Gobes, it could muster interest from the Academy. I liked it, a lot, but couldn’t love it.
As a side bar, Melissa Rivers delivered a hauntingly impressive depiction of her Mother. Kudos Melissa!
Rating: 2 Globes.
The Lady in the Van
A virtual who’s who of British actors qued up for a cameo or two along with the star performances from Maggie Smith and Alex Jennings. Ms. Smith plays the perpetually down and out homeless character clinging to a ramshackled van between herself and the street.
Alex Jennings plays his character as a kind hearted, yet an unnerving dual personality type that somehow works for this comedic yet befuddling story. There are moments of laughter and moments of painful reality.
Maggie Smith is one of my favorite actors. I liked the movie a lot but felt continuously uncomfortable about the real world connection of the subject matter. Perhaps that was the point after all.
This film is based on the book of the real events of a 1952 US Coast Guard rescue mission in Chatham, Mass. A team of three, lead be Chris Pine as team leader Bernie Webber, are ordered to conduct a rescue of the remaining crew of 30 on an oil tanker cracked in half by a massive winter storm.
Most critics are raving about this movie. Charlotte Rampling is nominated in the Academy Awards Best Actress category for her performance as the wife in this story. Tom Courtenay plays her husband. Together they are the textbook couple in their Senior years in domestic bliss when suddenly the wife discovers her husband was once engaged prior to their 45 year marriage and upcoming anniversary event.
