Farewell to Gene Wilder

It seems as though this year will continue to take away my role models. Gene Wilder has always been my favourite actor, with his wit and ability to get humor out of some extremely dark subjects. Most people know Willy Wonka is one of my favourite movies, if not my favourite, but there are so many other classics that wouldn't have been the same without his presence. Even with his passing we at least will always have the magical moments he gave us all that we can revisit whenever our heart desires. I know I'll be going through quite a few in the next few days, but for now this song truly sums up his career and his impact he's had on not just me, but so many other children of all ages.

Trump's Tax Refusal

For someone who wants to be the head of our government, it sure seems like he's found every way possible not to support it. And to those who truly think lowering taxes on the wealthy is good for economic gain, please explain that concept to me because all I see is the wealthy using the services average citizens are paying for and exploiting corporate welfare systems. But please, tell me one more time how the poor are the ones who abuse the system. We need to hold those in power accountable, and that goes beyond just those elected to power.

Find Your Inspiration

For anyone who considers themselves a creative individual (if that's true or not is besides the point) this is an amazing look at a world class individual. Work should always inspire you to work harder and move forward. It also helps if you find a place that inspires you as much as New York inspires him. 

Creative fields are not for the faint of heart; they're for those with a burning passion who want to see the world in a better light, in a different light. For those who are inspired by the world around them. These are not new thoughts, but its refreshing to hear someone who has worked their passion for so many years still sound so excited about what's coming next.

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Lessons From Bernie

Its important to keep the ideas Bernie Sanders campaigned on in mind and understand that its not just the president that matters, but all of Congress and your local leaders as well. Keep the movement going, even if Bernie is not at the top of the ticket. Fill Congress and local offices with people who believe in the same things you do and we can see positive change.

The Importance of Housing and Community

A different aspect of our times most people seem to overlook. It's important to embrace aspects of development but know when to push back. My one point of difference with this article below comes down to arguing that more housing in Harlem is needed, but I agree it should be rent controlled and affordable to the average resident. Protect historical sites, but know that not every building needs to be saved. Will Harlem always remain an African American majority neighborhood? Probably not. But it shouldn't change because of rising prices and the removal of cultural icons. It should change through embracing diversity and integration of cultures in an organic way.