http://www.criticsrant.com/archive/2007/11/03/THE-OFFICE----Branch-Wars.aspx It was definitely a surprise to see Jim’s old flame Karen (played by the ravishing Rashida Jones) make an appearance in Thursday’s episode. After the two hit a rough patch at the end of season three, she essentially disappeared for the current season with not much of an explanation as to what happened.  As it turns out, she is now the regional manager of the Dunder Mifflin branch in Utica – which is to say, she holds Michael’s job at another office. And at the start of the episode, she’s offering Stanley a salesperson position for more money at her branch. He accepts and immediately informs Michael of his decision. While it’s difficult to imagine the show releasing Stanley, his largely peripheral role means that there is at least the potential for being expendable.  But any fan of the show would be wary of upsetting the balance, so I was naturally concerned that Stanley was on the chopping block.  After all, the change over in the cast from last season was a bit absurd. Michael takes the news even harder than the viewer.  His concept of the Scranton branch as a family is seriously challenged by Stanley’s proposed departure.  He’s willing to do anything to keep Stanley on – except give him a raise, but you understand that his claim there’s no room in the budget are sincere. Stanley makes it abundantly clear that money is the deciding factor and Michael’s attempts to dissuade him are fruitless. So Michael turns his efforts to making the Utica branch pay for “poaching” his workers. en-US Critics Rant info@criticsrant.com Subtext Version 1.9.4.0 http://www.criticsrant.com/images/default_gravatar_bullhorn.png http://www.criticsrant.com/archive/2007/11/03/THE-OFFICE----Branch-Wars.aspx 77 60 http://www.criticsrant.com/archive/2007/11/03/THE-OFFICE----Branch-Wars.aspx#2063 THIS SHOW WAS A WASTE OF TIME. WAVELYN http://www.criticsrant.com/archive/2007/11/03/THE-OFFICE----Branch-Wars.aspx#2063 Mon, 05 Nov 2007 15:53:58 GMT