Royal Family Criticized Over Holiday Card

By Chris Stouffer

Public figures make themselves targets of criticism whether they want to or not. By now we know there's not choice. So of course the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are no exception. Last week Cosmopolitan posted an article which included the picture on the right, and backlash from Meghan Markle's half-sister. The photo shows a silhouette of the Royals as they watch fireworks at their wedding. Honestly, I think it's a beautiful photo.

I get it. Sometimes we tend to try and read between the lines because we want an explanation. What if no explanation is needed? What if we try to hard at times to see something that isn't there? It's possible, right? I'm guilty of it. According to the article, Samantha Markle, Meghan's half-sister, found the photo offensive saying "it's incredibly rude to turn your back on a Christmas photo..."

Is there proper Christmas Card etiquette that the rest of the world isn't aware of? If there is, I certainly wasn't aware of it. An article lasts year on Eventbrite gives tips on some easy etiquette rules to remember when sending out holiday cards, but there isn't any rule which indicates you shouldn't have your back turned. There is however a rule on pictures of you alone with your cat, as to not remind everyone how sad the situation looks (insert laughing emoji here). Obviously that rule is intended to make the reader laugh, so don't read into it.

Some of you may agree and some of you may not, but that's neither here nor there. Some of you could care less about the photo, and that's fair. For those of us who aren't personal friends of the Royal Family, it just doesn't matter. I still think it's a beautiful photo. What are your thoughts? Do you follow any rules of etiquette when including a photo with your holiday card? If so, please share in the comments below. Have a happy holiday season, and be nice to someone.

Bachelorette Party Lacks Tact

by Chris Stouffer

A bachelorette party should leave the bride-to-be and her friends with memories of their last night together as single girls. When those memories are followed with an unexpected invoice however it may reflect poorly on the bride. At least it did for the guest of one such party where each girl was sent an itemized bill showing what she owed for each individual snack according to an article in the Independent.

According to the invoice posted online, it included expenses for pizza, cotton candy, popcorn, and even a honeydew melon, which when divided by seven guests, came to $.36 per person. In the accompanying digital video provided by Fox News, the woman who shared the invoice online said any person who takes the time to split the cost of a melon by seven is insane.

The overall cost for each guest was $23.81. Given it may not be a large amount, an invoice is an invoice nonetheless. Why not just charge each guest a cover upfront and collect immediately? Considering I've never planned a bachelor(ette) party, I may be a little biased, especially in this situation. I just don't know that I could throw such an event, and surprise guests with fees for services rendered after.

I spoke to a few women whom had either thrown bachelorette parties or had one thrown for them. One thing they all agreed on (other than not being identified by last name) -- billing your guests after the fact is a totes party faux pas.

Valerie served as maid of honor for one wedding party and a bridesmaid for another where she helped plan bachelorette parties for each. "I volunteered to do the planning because I think that's part of the deal when you're maid of honor," she said. "When sending out invites, I asked that guests plan to pay for their own drinks and dinner...I can definitely see how being presented with a bill after the fact would rub people the wrong way. I would definitely not tell someone after the fact that they owe money. It's better to set expectations beforehand."

Janie and her husband married in 2009. Her friends planned and paid for most of her bachelorette party, adding that guests paid for their own food and drinks at dinner. "I think it would be a really good laugh to get an itemized bill," she said regarding sending guests an invoice after the bachelorette party. "If you're planning your own party, I don't think it's ok."

Mary, a banking project manager, said she threw a bachelorette party for a friend and absorbed all the costs along with two others in the bridal party. "(An) itemized bill is tacky," she said, adding that the bride who sent her guests a bill did not set any expectations.

I understand that throwing a party can be costly, but be mindful about planning your event. Be sure and set expectations for your guests so they know exactly what they're getting into. Above all, be sure you have a fantastic time!


Photo provided by Noah Llamaz

Ridiculing customer won't be a laughing matter for one local bartender

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SA says goodbye to the man who leaves a legacy of positive news

By Chris Stouffer


The man who, with his wife Millie, founded and served as publisher of San Antonio's first bilingual newspaper, Tino Duran, died today.

Duran was described as having a discipline problem early on after being expelled from six area elementary schools, according to an article published in newspaperhalloffame.org. What administrators described as a discipline problem however was the fact that Duran spoke only Spanish. But hard work and dedication wasn't going to stop Duran from learning English and going on to serve in the U.S. Air Force as well as earn two degrees from St Mary's University.

Duran's newspaper career began when he was a student at Sidney Lanier High School in San Antonio where he served as editor. After serving his duty in the military, he attended San Antonio College and worked for The Ranger. In the 1980s he became general manager of El Sol de Tejas in Dallas, then president and CEO of El Informador Hispano in Fort Worth. But it wasn't until 1989 that Duran and his wife re-established La Prensa of San Antonio which was dedicated to reporting only positive news.

After serving as publisher of La Prensa for 27-years, and being diagnosed with Alzheimer's two years prior, Duran announced his retirement last year and named his daughter Nina as new publisher, according to an article in the Rivard Report. In the article, Nina described her new publisher role as bittersweet under the circumstances.

“I have a ton of questions in regard to what I’m doing and it’s hard because I wish I had my father to guide me through this and I don’t,” she said. “So it’s very heartbreaking in one sense because while he’s still my champion in every sense of the word, at the same time I feel if this were to happen five years ago I would have been able to utilize him and learn about everything he did and knew," she said in the article.

In order to continue the legacy her parents began, Nina announced a merger with the marketing firm Heartfire Media to help with re-branding, digital presence, video content, and other marketing services.

Duran was not only a prominent figure in the community, but also made it a point to give back. In 1995, Duran and his wife established La Prensa Foundation providing financial assistance for high school students wanting to go to college. In 2014, Duran was inducted into the Texas Newspaper Foundation Hall of Fame. This morning, Nina publicly announced the news of his passing via Facebook.

"I write this with a fragile heart. Our sweet, beautiful and loving daddy went to be with the Lord today. He passed peacefully in his sleep with my mama by his side."

Photo 1: Florentino "Tino" Duran, proberty of La Prensa
Photo 2: (L-R) Samantha Najera (Heartfire Media owner), Tino Duran, Nina Duran; property of Heartfire Media

Gal Gadot is a wonder in DC Comics' action film, Wonder Woman

By Chris Stouffer

Long before it's release date on June 2, critics were already dismissing Wonder Woman. Apparently they didn't foresee the film would be number one in it's opening weekend raking in over $100K in the U.S. alone. I didn't know what to expect walking into the theatre last night, but never did I think I would look at Wonder Woman as the kick-ass beauty played by Gal Gadot.

But this isn't the first part that allowed Gadot to show off her action moves. In fact, the former Miss Israel served two years in the Israel Defense Forces, and later caught the eye of Director Justin Lin who cast her in four installments of the Fast & Furious franchise, in which she insisted on doing all of her own stunts.

Wonder Woman was introduced to us in the 2016 disappointment known as Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice. The movie was so unforgettable, critics and moviegoers everywhere said Wonder Woman was the only thing that saved the film. Her cameo was so worth the wait.

This movie has what every movie should have and much more: excellent storyline, great action sequences, moments that make you laugh, and the ability to make you believe....but then again, if a movie can't do that, then there's no point, right? Patty Jenkins, who directed Monster in 2003, shows off her action movie directing muscles in this film. In fact, Jenkins may be a Wonder Woman of sorts, breaking box office records for female directors, according to NPR. The movie opens with Diana Prince (Wonder Woman's alter ego) receiving a package from Wayne Enterprises. It's the original newspaper clip of Wonder Woman photographed during the first World War posing alongside the men who helped her save a village from German captivity. From there we go into her story, which only makes sense to take place during the first World War just as the comics and original tv show had done before.

We learn about Diana's beginnings growing up among the Amazonians, how her existence came to be, and why the world has been waiting for her and the powers she possesses (if you didn't hear the original theme song in your head while reading that, there's something wrong). The paradise island in which Diana was raised was a hidden place created by the gods to help mankind. But when Major Steve Trevor stumbles upon this magical place, the warriors of the island learn of the destruction in the outside world, and Diana makes a decision to go out and save them. Along the way she learn more about herself than she was prepared for.

She's had an upgrade in the wardrobe department from the days Lynda Carter once wore the satin tights, and the old red, white, and blue. But fear not, as Gal Gadot proves she can kick ass and look like a goddess doing it just like Lynda Carter did in the 70s. Now go out and kick some butt, Wonder Woman....all the world is waiting for you.

Thirteen Reasons Why Jay Asher got it right.

By Chris Stouffer


The Netflix series Thirteen Reasons Why has created quite a buzz on the net. Variety called 13 Reasons the most tweeted show in 2017.

Since it's premiere on March 30, the show amassed more than 11 million tweets according to Twitter data obtained exclusively by Variety. The series is captivating, to say the least. Based on the best-selling novel by Jay Asher and produced by actress and recording artist, Selena Gomez, 13 is probably one of the better shows I've watched in a long time that isn't on a television or cable network.

Dylan Minnette (Prisoners, Don't Breathe) plays alongside newcomer Katherine Langford as, Clay, a teen who eerily receives a package with recordings of his high school crush/coworker, Hannah, just two weeks after she commits suicide. The recordings explain her 13 reasons for ending her own life, while taking Clay all over town allowing him to experience her pain and see what exactly happened from her own POV.

When I first heard about the Netflix original, I almost dismissed it immediately. I thought, "Ok, this has been done before: school misfit is bullied, therefore she plots revenge on all those who played a part in her demise. Hello?! Do the titles Carrie or The Craft ring a bell?!" Maybe I was somewhat right, but as I invested my time in watching, I thought I'd give you 13 reasons why I feel Asher really pulled this off fantastically in keeping the reader/viewer's attention.

REASON 1: Originality - While I may have already explained above that the premise is not all that original, what I found to be original, especially for kids today, was the methodology he used to tell the story. The media behind the madness. Its an antiquated source, but it was poetic and it made you see our protagonist as a young girl beyond her years. Although some may say what she did was cowardly, it forces you to put yourself in her shoes.

REASON 2: It's not another Carrie - So it's not actually a rip off of Brian DePalma's 1976 horror (which by the way introduced us to actors who went on to have huge Hollywood careers: Sissy Spacek, Amy Irving, John Travolta, Nancy Allen). Unlike it's sequel The Rage (1999) and it's failed 2013 reboot, the original DePalma film which was based on a Stephen King novel, Carrie had a great story line. Similarities you may see in 13 Reasons are the fact that it's based on a best-seller, the fantastic storyline and possibly some actors coming away from this to become huge stars. Some of these newbies give outstanding performances in this series.

REASON 3: High school drama - Let's face it, despite the fact some of us left our high school days far behind, the same drama seems to have lingered. Not necessarily in your personal life, but in some of the places you go. I'm sure you've seen it yourself. As a matter of fact, I saw it this past Saturday while out having a drink. Just like Clay's character witnesses Hannah's experience first-hand, you too will see how awful high school kids can actually be when unsupervised. It not only puts things into perspective when it comes to high school, but it may also make you see how people in your lives now are still trapped in the past with their attitudes and immature gossip.

REASON 4: Eye-opener for parents - Those of you who think your kids are a drop of golden sun on a beautiful morning meadow, or perhaps an angel floating on a cloud sitting on a whisper, you really need to take a closer look. Don't talk to your kids. Instead ask them questions. Don't turn it into an interrogation, but find out who their friends are. Get to know their friends. Meet their friends' parents. Find out where your kids like to go when they're out of school. Otherwise, stop telling others your child is a saint when in fact you're not sure if it's actually the spawn of Satan living under your roof. Anyone remember McCaulay Culkin in The Good Son? Asher will make you question who your children really are and what they might be doing when no one is looking.

REASON 5: Great cast - So I mentioned this a couple of reasons above. I stand by it. There are times I want to just slap Clay for not telling someone what he knows, but that's the beauty of it. Asher wants me to feel this way. He wants you invoke these emotions in you which is why it's too compelling to stop watching. Friends turn on each other, while clueless jocks make tug at your hearts with their stupidity (in a really cute way), nerds expressing their profound love for the one they think they can never have, and bad boys....well, they just get all the fun parts. It's all convincingly sinister enough to make you want to throw a book at your television.

REASON 6: The vulnerability - If you don't feel bad for Hannah, something it terribly wrong with you. Yes, she seems a bit much at times, and another classmate even tells her at one point, "Did you ever think maybe you bring this all on yourself?" Perhaps everyone around her is thinking the same thing, but it's because so many have a part in her demise. It's sad that nobody else can see what's happening. I can't say too much. You have to watch it yourself.

REASON 7: Josh Hamilton - If you don't see Clay's dad as a DILF in this movie (I hate to objectify him, but yum), then you probably didn't think he was sexy in Alive (1993), With Honors (1994), House of Yes (1997), or any of the other numerous movies I could eat him up in....ok, so that may not be your thing. Oh, and for those of you who don't know who Josh Hamilton is, watch a movie from time to time....geez!

REASON 8: Teenage suidice...DON'T DO IT! - If the thought of Big Fun just came to mind, then YOU. ARE. AWESOME. This however is not a reference to the fictitious song from the cult classic Heathers (another revenge movie, btw). I was told by someone I work with that there has been much talk about this show because of the theme it tackles. Some seem to think it glorifies suicide. Take for example WSYX ABC 6 in New Albany Ohio.

WSYX ran a story about New Albany Middle School administrators sending home flyers to parents warning them about the show. First of all, there was no story, unless you mentioned the only ones glorifying suicide were the administrators and the news station for making it out to be more than it was, which it WAS NOT a news story. Find something good to talk about then get back to doing the news! If you're a parent and aren't mature enough to discuss suicide with your children, there's a problem. The news story discussed that suicide has to do with mental health. Apparently they didn't do their research and watch the show. The show just so happens to deal with issues that could affect mental health, which might lead to suicide. According to one of their reporters, they reached out to Netflix for a comment. That's like me trying to get Donald Trump to reply to any single tweet of mine. Good luck with that. If this show glorifies suicide, I'd really, REALLY hate to hear what they'd have to say about Heathers. The truth is suicide is an awful thing. This show in no way glorifies suicide. It does however make you understand pain, loss, and grievance.

REASON 9: The dialogue - Remember when Scream was first released in theatres. It was the beginning of a new generation of movies, one that had a higher intellect when it came teen talk. It wasn't like slasher films from the past. Not only did you need a smarter killer, you needed smarter victims - hence the great dialogue that came with. Soon came the copycat films: Urban Legend, I Know What You Did Last Summer, Final Destination, etc. You get the point. Getting back to the actual point...The scene at Monet's in episode 11 with shade being thrown between Ryan and Courtney is EVERYTHING!

REASON 10: Most Tweeted - If the intro to this blog didn't catch your attention or stick, then I'll say it again. The most tweeted show of 2017 with over 11-million tweets since March 30! I mean, that's gotta say something, right?

REASON 11: THIRTEEN.

REASON 12: REASONS.

REASON 13: WHY.

So now that you know, and you've reached the end of this blog, I have nothing more to say. If you still don't believe 13 Reasons is a new cult classic, then you just wasted your time and mine. But I know you believe me....so GO WATCH IT!

Oscar blunder makes 2017 Academy Awards ending awkward

By Chris Stouffer


If you missed the 2017 Academy Awards on Sunday night, by now you must have heard about heard about the biggest mistake in awards show history since Steve Harvey's 2015 Miss Universe slip-up.

Actors Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty took the stage to announce the final Oscar winner of the evening for best picture. At first it seemed like playful banter between the two as Beatty pulled the card from the envelope, hesitated for a moment, then looked inside the envelope again as if confused. Dunaway even laughs at him assuming he's playing the audience as she tells him, "You're awful." Dunaway laughs and takes the card announcing La La Land the winner.

As the acceptance speeches began, cast and crew on stage began moving about in confusion. Something happened, but nobody said anything until producer Fred Berger in the middle of his speech announced, "We lost by the way." It was then that even the audience knew there was a problem.

Moments later producer Jordan Horowitz announces there's been a mistake and that Moonlight won best picture. Silence fell over the audience for a brief moment. When Beatty and host Jimmy Kimmel attempted to clear things up, in what almost turned into a rehash of the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards with Kanye West storming the stage like a mad man during Taylor Swift's win, producer Horowitz literally forced the card from Beatty's hand, holding it up for the audience and viewers at home of proof that Moonlight won.

The Washington Post called the incident the most shocking moment in Oscars history. In the video which has gone viral, Beatty attempts to explain why he seemed so confused. According to Beatty the card he was given read: "Emma Stone, La La Land." But in another twist of events, the Post reported that backstage Stone said she was holding her best actress card the entire time she was on stage with the rest of her cast and crew.

Although both crews took it seemingly well, it was apparent Horowitz wasn't going to let it sit lightly with him. Of course everyone wants an explanation, but don't shoot the messenger quite yet, Jordan. Award officials are investigating how the error occurred. Meanwhile, if you missed it, you can relive the moment again in this ABC 7 New York video clip. I still however contend that the biggest Oscars mistake last night was Dakota Johnson's head-to-toe look, while Emma Stone nailed it.

For a complete list of 2017 Oscar winners and nominees, check out the Los Angeles Times website or go to my page at facebook.com/thegossipguy!