”So I Feel Like This Is The Perfect Time For A Film Like This. I Feel Like The Film Has Become More

Nellie Bertram

Nellie’s Best Moment: Season Nine, Episode Two: Roy’s Wedding

When she had Dwight and her a pledge that he’d live by Taliban law in the office because the only charity he’d choose for her Special Projects assignment (Operation: Give Back) was the Global Relief Foundation, a front for the Taliban.

Then, after signing the pledge, she steals his pen so he has to cut off her hand.

Nellie’s Worst Moment: Season Eight, Episode Fifteen: Tallahassee

When she has Ryan say, “So who’s leading this thing, anyway?, and “I can’t wait to meet him.” Only to respond. “Him, you say? Don’t think a woman can be a leader?”

She sets him up to seem sexist so she can correct him, also, she says her brain is her “huge whopping penis” Creepy.

Nellie’s Best Line: Season Eight, Episode Nineteen: Get the Girl

“I have one simple philosophy in business: if the seat is open, the job is open. It's how I came to briefly race a Formula One Car.”

Nellie’s Most Memorable Moment: Season Nine, Episode Nine: Dwight’s Christmas

When after spending hours in the breakroom with Toby, before and during the Christmas party, listening to him talk about the Scranton Strangler case she starts shushing him. When he takes this as her going to kiss him she instantly takes it as the lesser painful option and kisses him.

Films that I shouldn’t be so bitter about

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Finding Nemo was so long ago that I can’t remember why I was so against it for so long. I’m not anti-children’s movies as anyone who knows me can confirm, but I was very much against Finding Nemo, I just didn’t understand the hype. I hold off on seeing for at least two years and either finally saw it when I was sick one day or when a friend forced it on me. And oh my did I LOVE IT!! One of my friends who pushed it on me probably highly regretted doing so as then I became slightly obsessed with it, it’s hysterical. I could say that part of why I love this film is all the little lessons peppered throughout with Marlin and Nemo (parents—chill), the sharks in rehab (you can always change, friendship), Marlin and Dory (don’t judge someone too quickly) and even just Dory herself (don’t limit yourself and always look on the bright side). These add to what makes the movie enjoyable, but the movie is just funny. My favorite scene that I will laugh-cry just in the beginning of trying to tell it to someone is when they follow the mask down into the darker level of the sea and Dory thinks Marlin is her conscious because she’s (1) forgotten he exists and (2) can’t see him. Whoops.

Life of Pi, I really-really only have myself to blame. Partially due to not learning my lesson from Finding Nemo, even though it wasn’t the same situation. The story of Life of Pi didn’t really capture me in general, about how a boy maybe a tiger and how they survive a shipwreck, even thou it usually would be at the top of my list. Maybe it’s because the ‘twist’ at the end is what they didn’t want to talk about in advertisement and focused on the visual effects which I agree with the acclaim and enjoyed, isn’t usually enough to get me to watch a film. I still enjoy the story and will definitely watch it again (except for the murderous island part, while enjoyable is something to learn about in the daytime), I watched the film immediately after hearing the ending from a friend, where we are left to wonder if the Tiger, Richard Parker, was real or just Pi just trying to survive. Of course, my knowing it’s coming it lost all of why I wanted to watch it, but it was still great and thought-provoking. Just wish I got to experience it for myself, not thru someone else

 PS—And Finding Dory, ugh, beautiful

Librarius

The United Kingdom (UK) somewhat undeserving, and somewhat deserving, has a reputation and overall appearance of being sophisticated and intelligent, worldly and exquisite. Another one of the top countries overall in various global lists of the most educated and intelligent, the UK also presents itself these just by the beauty of its institutions and that are intertwined within their communities.

Separate into four countries, probably the most historic, paired and well-known institutes are the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge which have been promoted throughout media culture in classics such as A Tale of Two Cities, Pride and Prejudice and more contemporary stories as A Discovery of Witches and Wilde. Adding to the prominence placed on this type of institution, the Belfast Library in Northern Ireland is located on Royal Avenue, and has expanded the education selection to a well-equipped music section all by itself that contains the music along with books about music throughout history. The Newport Central Library is part art gallery, museum and library in Wales. Being a larger infrastructure this library is a successful tourism spot possibly because of the focus on local communities with a large emphasis on community activities for children, film screenings and local dialect and history. Unfortunately, sometimes the historic presence of libraries can get lost or drowned out by the prestige of the surrounding community. While the New York Public Library may not be anything grand, its architecture compared to the surrounding environment make it stand out. However, with its cobblestone roads, local castles and older feel many are likely to mistake the Library of Edinburgh as just another building, completely passing the opportunity to visit the reading room or art pieces placed throughout that connect locals to their history.

The UK puts library and education at the top of its priorities, so it’s place and presence as a world leader while smaller than in the past is still properly recognized and deserved.

National Book Month

National Book Month has been a lot, but going down memory lane has been so comforting--like hot cocoa, fuzzy socks, a warm blanket...and a good book.

As we get older, we change. We grow, our perspective changes and with more knowledge comes deeper understanding. The Giver by Lois Lowry is still a great book and was a book I still chose to pass onto my nephew when he reached the age of the protagonist, Jonas (12). The first of many young adult dystopian novels, The Giver is unique as it deals more with the politics and touches upon the issues and reasoning for strict and government regulation without all-out war or battle by Jonas or his friends. Around Jonas’ age, I read and loved this book but during a recent reread found the depth of the book I felt originally was lacking. Still touching upon how the adults had lost their way and the understanding of the choices they were making, I had grown and wanted more from the book. This hurts. I felt as thou I had lost a beauty with the book, because for me some of the story is gone. It still makes me sad, thou understanding why I felt this way after first reading it makes me feel better and I can know to look for more books and stories, both in fiction and in real life that inspire me; while still being able to read a good story from my childhood. 

In the spirit of Halloween and the change of tides with the Giver, today I’d also like to honour the books I love--whose names I’ve forgotten. I book I still swear is called the Pearl, telling the story of the French resistance during the Nazi rise thru the eyes of a rich girl of privilege, a particular story about Elizabeth Blount’s life and events in England and told thru the eyes of a maid/servant. Hopefully I’ll find you once more

The Giver is a good book--please read

A Little Princess

I first saw A Little Princess (1995 version) probably with my parents around the time of its release. With no film background, I will say, did a great job at ageing the film as I always am surprised to discover that it’s not as old I thought it was (something that has happened repeatedly). While somewhat a romantic, fairy-tale type story the core parts that stick with me are the beauty within the story, particularly when Sarah and Becky are imagining a great feast and the colors of India in the very beginning of the film.

The images created in this film are stunning and completely breathtaking on their own and an amazing job is done using the colors in the fil to show the contrast between what we want our world to be like and what we don’t, the stories are even more real. Yes, the fairy-tale elements of her father remembering her just before she’s about to be arrested (she’s a child but ok), and dramatics of him ending up next door to where she lives, and how regardless of everything she insists on being a kind princess are all good and honorable it is the story of the neighbor that hits the most. Both the bleakest, most realistic, connecting, accurate and somewhat breaking is the father next door who tries to be kind during a war and is grateful for closure when he loses his son and his surrogate son (and in a way granddaughter). I think this is why I saw it with my parents, and so frequently. While there are many stories that accurately portray war, this is one that focuses on being kind in the homefront and probably portrays what they experienced living separated, but closely connected to war and genocide. 

There was no good photo to symbolize the story of the neighbour, but part of the theme of kindness is quoted below

Another unrelated shout-out that connects to a Little Princess to me, shout out to Shirley Temple who will never be bested even by those who manage to get their pets Instagram famous

Cinderella--Grimm

There are a million different ways we can all go into the Disney manipulation, white-washing and ending the loss of the Grimm stories that managed to capture the ‘grandfather tales’ passed down thru generations, previously only spread by word-of-mouth. 

Rook di goo, rook di goo! There's blood in the shoe. The shoe is too tight, This bride is not right! 

But sometimes, the joy of truth is just that it’s funny

Brick Heck, The Middle

An odd guy, no doubt. But you know....he knew who he was...

...he didn’t play to anyone else...

...and he learned to appreciate what he had when he had it. 

Thank you Brick, for knowing what’s important and how to cherish it and where your home was

Pete Miller

Pete’s Best Moment: (Season Nine, Episode Eight: The Target)

“Hey, hey, hey. It’s just a mistake, just a mistake. That’s what this tower is all about—mistakes. Okay, if you’re afraid of screwing up, the tower is not for you. Show of hands, who has never had a complaint? That’s right, nobody. See that? Nobody. Let’s get back to work, huh? Come on, you in?”

And then he fist bumps Kevin

Pete’s Worst Moment: Season Nine, Episode Twenty-One: Livin’ The Dream

When Pete doesn’t try in making Jim feel welcome in the annex, especially compared to Clark who he doesn’t like that much.

Pete’s Best Line: Season Nine, Episode Two: Roy’s Wedding

“No, Clark’s not my friend. He is the douche that sits next to me at the office. My friends are Scott, Glenn, and Rob. But, you don’t know them.”

Pete’s Most Memorable Moment: Season Nine, Episode Two: Roy’s Wedding

When he makes sure Erin doesn’t end up going to Clark’s apartment alone, as Clark was trying to hook up with Erin, but ends up being the one to take her out to dinner.

Best Camera Looks

1. Season Two Episode Nineteen: Michael’s Birthday

Ryan’s look to the camera’s after being in the kitchen while Angela and Dwight fight over who should take care of Michael’s Ice Cream Birthday cake and whether or not Dwight will get any ‘cookie’ later.

2. Season Three, Episode Twelve: Traveling Salesman

Angela’s glare from behind the pillar as Andy explains how he got rid of Dwight.

3. Season Two, Episode Seven: The Client

Jan looking between Michael and Louis sucking ribs at Chili’s

4. Season Five, Episode Eighteen: Blood Drive

When Jim and Pam look into the camera while Bob Vance feeds Phyliss after they catch them having sex in the bathroom during their Valentine’s lunch date

5. Season Five, Episode Nine: The Surplus

Jim’s involuntary shake in the conference room/interview after Pam tells him “I’m not threatening you. I love you. But you should know you’re on very dangerous ground” and gives him the smallest of pecks.

6. Season Five, Episode Nineteen: Golden Ticket

Darryl’s look at the camera crew after Michael asks him “What is a pallet?”

7. Season Four, Episode Thirteen: Job Fair

When Pam flashes the camera the sheet of paper Michael had her go back to the office to get for the Job Fair after

Not letting her bring more than one paper

Insisting they only can use Dunder Mifflin Paper

Having her go back because someone wrote their name on the paper which he wanted to have left blank but didn’t tell anyone

8. Season Two, Episode Seventeen: Dwight’s Speech

Pam’s sarcastic look to the camera after Angela ‘non-chalantly’ wishes Dwight luck on his speech from across the office

9. Season Two, Episode Seven: The Client

Dwight’s look to the camera when he realizes Jan stayed the night

10. Season Nine, Episode Nineteen: Stairmageddon

Clark’s look to the camera after Stanley stabs himself with the bull tranquilizer

2020 Census Citizenship Question

Today the Supreme Court begins hearing arguments about reintroducing a question pertaining to individual citizenship on the 2020 Census—and it’s a smooth political move. It sounds okay, the administration is just trying to get better information about the residents of different areas, but its outcomes are more than that. Similar to this same administrations’ rhetoric about sending the recent immigrants legally applying for refugee and asylum status to ‘sanctuary cities’ this citizenship question could lead to an overall inaccurate population count that would lower those areas with higher immigrant population and with the census would lower their federal funding received and their political representation. Sound familiar? Both outcomes that would fall in favor with the administration that is pushing and put this change into action.

The obvious argument is, don’t answer (illegal) or lie (more illegal). While both of these options shouldn’t be preferred by the government and aren’t preferred by the immigrants themselves, it’s important to also understand the specific type of immigrant. Along with the rest of my family my Aunt has lived in the US for close to sixty years but retains her original citizenship and has not obtained US citizenship. Chances are, this Supreme Court case won’t impact her as her age, appearance, location and other demographic factors don’t match the politicized “immigrant image” but there are those who do fit into that image. There are those who are citizens and whose families have resided in the US for generations but are believed to be “illegals” the same as those who are here recently but legally and will become frightened about answering this question wrong. As immigrants continue to be in the headlines, here are 5 things about US immigrants and international relationships that people should consider.

Taxes

While certain requirements and programs block immigrants and other recent newcomers from services[i] current legal residents and undocumented immigrants both pay taxes even if they may never be entitled to benefits such as social security, Medicaid, or other tax credits. [ii],[iii] In fact, according to Forbes, an estimated 11.64 billion is paid by just undocumented immigrants every year in state and local taxes.[iv]

Hard Workers

NYC and other cities have been under some heat from the current administration for being ‘Sanctuary Cities’ and allowing undocumented immigrants to be there. This annoyance has led to ‘threats’ of dropping all refugee and asylum seekers into sanctuary cities, related to the upcoming Supreme Court case about the 2020 Census Citizenship question and is full of misinformation as it is believed all immigrants (as the current administration confuses just not liking immigrants with illegal actions by those trying to migrate) are just stealing jobs or not working. In addition to this being false with the earlier facts about taxation (and now possible without representation), immigrants are already a large, hard-working part of the US workforce with foreign-born workers making up 25% of the construction industry, 23.1% of the agricultural industry, 20.1% of arts and entertainment, 19.7% of the Professional, Scientific, Management, Administrative and waste-management and 19.4% of educational services, healthcare and social assistance.[v] 

For more understanding of the work ethic of all immigrants, please see this video by clicking the link or going to the end of this post:[vi]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7q3ofdJRKc

Leaders and Influencers

As a great reminder, Time Magazine’s 100 came out earlier last week. With many political leaders, tech entrepreneurs, advocates and other females and immigrants both to the US and around the world were highly recognized with some US examples with Sandra Oh (who recently became a US citizen),[vii] Luchita Hurtado and Leana Wen as a pioneer, an artist and a leader.[viii]

Fellow Human-beings

With the treatment of incoming immigrants who are either coming to improve their lives, the lives of their children, or just trying to survive; the treatment in the US has a few looking back at their home countries reevaluating why they came. Fleeing poverty, famine, gang violence and more, some would say “fine”, “go back”, leave this place”; but is that really where we want the bar to be. As reflecting upon immigrant heritage, strength, work ethic, we should also focus on our own. Many values based on religion and the moral compass highlight how you should always look at what you can give and how you can help, similar as many sayings express the ideas that those who suffer most are always the first to give.

NAFTA and food

A big part of countries’ heritage and culture is connected to food, while NY is known as the melting pot, great food and a lot comes from its great diversity, the importing of food impacts all of the US and not just with avocados. While Apples and Oranges are the top fruits overall, that’s mostly from juice. The top actual fruit is Bananas that mostly come from Equador.[ix] 5% of US apples consumed are imported,[x] mostly during non-peak growing season while the rest of apples are grown in 32 different states and exported to Mexico, Canada and other countries.[xi] However, potatoes are also a big staple in the US and while a big production for agriculture, the US is only able to produce 40% of the demand with the balance coming from Mexico and Canada.x Overall, over 25% of US coffee, spices, fish, fresh fruits and juices, sugar, wine and vegetable oils are imported from outside the US[xii] and this is only some of what is imported.

The 2020 Census citizenship isn’t a harmful question in itself. But with the current administration's attack on immigrants, especially on those just trying to become legal residents and citizens, one cannot blame them for being too scared to be truthful. Again, do we want to be the dictators they are fleeing from, do we want them to remove themselves from the country because they are better than how they are being treated--is that our goal? To be just cruel enough to get “our” way-- in that case good to know, I’ll try to get represented elsewhere. 

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[i] The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. The US Department of Health and Human Services Website: Administration for Children and Families. Published November 1st, 1996. Last Accessed: April 23rd, 2019.

[ii] Campbell, A. Trump says undocumented immigrants are an economic burden. They pay billions in taxes. Vox Website. https://www.vox.com/2018/4/13/17229018/undocumented-immigrants-pay-taxes. Published: October 25th, 2018. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[iii] Martin, M. Do immigrants pay Taxes? Metro New Website. https://www.metro.us/news/politics/do-immigrants-pay-taxes. Published: June 18th, 2018. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[iv] McCarthy, N. How Much Tax Do America's Undocumented Immigrants Actually Pay? [Infographic]. Forbes Website. https://www.forbes.com/sites/niallmccarthy/2016/10/06/how-much-tax-do-americas-undocumented-immigrants-actually-pay-infographic/#3a9dd3421de0. Published: October 6th, 2016. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[v] State Immigration Data Profiles: United States. Migration Policy Institute Website. https://www.migrationpolicy.org/data/state-profiles/state/workforce/US#. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[vi] Few Americans take immigrants' jobs in Alabama. AP Archive Youtube Account. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7q3ofdJRKc. Posted: July 31st, 2015. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[vii] Sandra Oh. Monologue. Saturday Night Live Season 44 Episode 16. Aired: March 30th, 2019

[viii] Time 100: The Most Influential People 2019. Time Magazine Website. Accessible at: http://time.com/collection/100-most-influential-people-2019/. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[ix] The Most Interesting Fruit in the World (Ep. 375). Freakonomics Radio Archive. http://freakonomics.com/archive/. Posted: April 17th, 2019. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.

[x] United States: Fresh Produce-Imports and Exports. Produce Marketing Association Website. https://www.pma.com/~/media/pma-files/research-and-development/usa.pdf?la=en. Last Accessed: April 23rd, 2019.

[xi] Commodity Apples. Agricultural Marketing Resource Center Website. https://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/fruits/apples/commodity-apples. Last Revised: December 2017. Last Accessed: April 22nd, 2019.