Category Archives: Lifestyle
Blame the Comic, get your laugh on
By Sheila Ray-Reed, Lifestyle EditorThe Houston Sun
Blame the Comic
“Blame the Comic” born Marion Stafford, is a hometown sensation making strides across the country with his humor. Raised in Houston, Blame said he always knew he had the gift to make people laugh. After completing a bachelors’ degree in Communications Media Production, at the University of Houston, Blame felt there was something more out there for him. While at a car dealership one day he ran into a comedian who recognized his talent for laugher. The fellow comic asked Blame to come out one evening and join him on stage.
Seizing the moment of amateur night, Blame grabbed the microphone, went on stage, and has not stopped since. Using stories of his childhood, current events and his quiet wit for Improv, Blame has turned what he thought were basic experiences into autobiographical satirical humor that depict life for today’s generation. “Richard Pryor was one of the greats and is legendary. I have much respect for his craft but I am drawn to the likes of Martin Lawrence, Jaime Foxx and David Spade,” he said.
Amid his talent for quick satirical ad-libbing, Blame is an impressive comedic writer of skit comedy and stand-up routine. His YouTube videos showcase some of his remarkable variations of comedy. Whatever technique is into play, it all goes back to his audience.
“When I perform, I am thoroughly in-tune with my audience. I want to give them the best. I remember seeing a lady in the audience who had recently come to a set I had just performed. My first thought was will she be receptive if I used some of my same material? Then, I thought she is back for more and undoubtedly enjoyed the first set. I guess it’s like hearing a good sermon twice,” he said.
Sharing the stage with various other talents such as Bill Bellamy and Nephew Tommy of the Steve Harvey Morning Show, Blame is quickly taking over co-hosting duties while on tour with Nephew Tommy. His ability to appeal to the audience as well as his camaraderie with other comics has allowed him to excel.
Now being hailed as one of the leaders for the new generation of up and coming comics, Blame exemplifies dedication to making people laugh. With his stand-up and television appearances and visions of authoring and producing, Blame is turning his talent into an empire that will unfold laughter into entrepreneurism.
In a personal project, Blame has a non-profit foundation called Humor for Hope. It is aimed at helping young people build self esteem through humor and laugher in sketch comedy portraying the social impact and influence of believing in one’s self and dreams despite circumstances.
Blame is currently on tour. Check his website www.blamethecomic for venues and dates.
He does have a standing engagement in Houston the third Saturday of each month at the De Joint Comedy Club.
NNPA-Texas Southern sign Internship MOU
By:D J Mickey- The Houston Sun
WASHINGTON, DC — The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) committee made momentous history for the future of the media industry when it signed an internship Memorandum of Understanding with Texas Southern University’s President, Dr. John Rudley, the President of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Council of Presidents during the NNPA Board meeting in Washington, DC on September 19. The MOU outlined collaboration strategies to advance journalism and business initiatives through the use and training of interns who are pursuing careers in the media, communications and business. Students will work with editors and publishers in print, digital, film and social media along with marketing, design and event planning. The university’s School of Communication and the Jesse H. Jones School of Business will supply the interns and monitor their progress.
Participating in the signing was Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D. TX 18th). Lee praised NNPA for its vision for the nation’s college students and thanked NNPA Chairman Clovis Campbell, Jr., publisher Arizona Informant; her constituent and Co-chairperson, Dorris Ellis Robinson, publisher The Houston Sun, Co-chair Bobby R. Henry, publisher of the Westside Gazette, Ft. Lauderdale, FL and Chairman of NNPA/HBCU Initiative, and Jacqueline Hampton, publisher of Mississippi Link and NNPA/HBCU committee member for designing the initiative whereby students will benefit.
Speaking with pride, Rudley said, “I am proud that Texas Southern University is the first to sign such an important MOU with NNPA as it will help our students learn and provide international access to further opportunities by engaging in this effort.” He continued by saying that the collaboration will expand and reach into the other SWAC Member Schools (10)
| Alabama A&M University | “Bulldogs” | Huntsville, AL |
| Alabama State University | “Hornets” | Montgomery, AL |
| Alcorn State University | “Braves | Alcorn State, MS |
| Univ. of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | “Golden Lions” | Pine Bluff, AR |
| Grambling State University | “Tigers” | Grambling, LA |
| Jackson State University | “Tigers” | Jackson, MS |
| Mississippi Valley State University | “Delta Devils” | Itta Bena, MS |
| Prairie View A&M University | “Panthers” | Prairie View, TX |
| Southern University & A&M College | “Jaguars” | Baton Rouge, LA |
| Texas Southern University | “Tigers” | Houston, TX” |
NNPA Chairman Campbell, Jr. said, “The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that the NNPA has agreed to with Texas Southern University and the SWAC Conference is monumental. This agreement displays NNPA’s commitment to young African American students and our pledge to reach out to the next generation of leaders. It is only the beginning of The Black Press and Historically Black Colleges and Universities joining forces to ensure that the legacy of both organizations. As our future leaders find their niche and make history, the NNPA will be there to record it.”
Former President of Bennett College Dr. Julianne Malveaux said, “This is a good thing that NNPA is doing. I only wish that you could have gotten started earlier. The students will benefit from this opportunity.” Ellis Robinson said, “This is an opening to do more with young readers of all media platforms that emanates from an idea of my late husband, Lona1 Robinson who had a vision of expanding what we did at the Houston Sun to NNPA by working the HBCU conferences through sports and subsequently the editorial side of the business. I am delighted that Chairman Campbell gave the nod so that the HBCU committee of Henry, Hampton and Shannon Williams, Indianapolis Recorder could make it happen. A special note of appreciation is extended to our TSU partners of VP Wendy Adair who lead the effort for TSU with the support of Eva Scott and her staff” Ellis Robinson concluded, “I know that this will make a positive difference.”
“It is my hopes and aspirations that this initiative between the NNPA and HBCUs will be the umbilical cord that keeps the Black Press alive, vibrant and successful in telling our own story and pleading our own cause!” said, Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Dean James Ward, Texas Southern University School of Communication is ready to get started and so is NNPA Editor George Curry. Conversations have begun to execute the implementation process as the agreement activates in the spring semester of 2014.
Dr. Rudley and Chairman Campbell signed the MOU in front of the NNPA membership and a standing room only crowd at the W Hotel during the NNPA Annual Leadership Reception in conjunction with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference.
Excerpts from the MOU
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby agreed by and between the HBCU Texas Southern University and NNPA as follows:
To ensure the success of the project the roles and responsibilities each organization are set below:
Resources HBCU and TSU will contribute to the project either through time, in-kind
contribution by supplying interns from the Department of Communication and the TSU Jesse H. Jones School of Business who will learn the media business and train as writers, photographers, distribution management, designers, event development sales and marketing training. Interns will be engaged in in the editorial, public relations, visual arts, print, digital and social media platforms along with special event development and implementation.
Representatives of the NNPA planning and development team who will be responsible for
planning, developing, and implementing project activities as they will work with TSU to provide the following services: establishment of a News Wire services for students who can post media for print, digital and social media platforms together and work with project staff. NNPA staff will pledge to cover and publish the University’s events for posting through individual publications or via pooling for posting and editing by the NNPA editor.
The parties will expressly demonstrate a commitment on the part of all partners to work together to achieve stated project goals and to sustain the project.
NNPA will provide supervision, access for students, media credentials as needed, training and guidance in the editorial, public relations, visual arts, and print, digital and social media platforms.
Watch: What the Affordable Care Act Means For You [3 Minute Video]
Need affordable health insurance?
Need affordable health insurance?
There are new health care options available!
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, starting today Texans will have new health insurance options through a Health Insurance Marketplace. 
Open enrollment begins today, and Texans can shop and sign up for plans through March 2014. In addition, individuals and families between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL) may be eligible to receive assistance with their premiums.
Open enrollment begins today, and Texans can shop and sign up for plans through March 2014. In addition, individuals and families between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL) may be eligible to receive assistance with their premiums.Information about these new health insurance plans and how to apply for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program can be found at www.healthcare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596.
Some important things to keep in mind:
- For individuals who are not eligible for assistance in the marketplace, premiums will still be affordable.
- According to estimates from US Department of Health and Human Services, premiums before tax credits are expected to be more than 16 percent lower than estimated.
- In Texas, an average of 54 qualified health plans are anticipated to be selling coverage in the marketplace – increasing competition and lowering costs for consumers.
- With tax credits, premiums will be even more affordable. For example, a 27 year old in Texas making $25,000/year could pay $133 per month for the lowest cost silver plan and $83 per month for the lowest cost bronze plan after tax credits. For a family of four making $50,000/year in Texas, premiums could be as low as $239 per month for a silver plan and $57 per month for a bronze plan after tax credits.
Still work to do
While this is exciting news, we still have more work to do to ensure that all Texans have access to quality, affordable health care.
As you may know, Texas has the highest uninsured rate in the nation with more than one in four lacking coverage – around 6 million people. In Houston, nearly one in three people are without health insurance. Lack of adequate health insurance coverage makes it hard for Texas families to get the health care they need, and if and when they do it often leaves them with large medical bills.
In fact, study after study has shown that one of the best ways to protect and improve the health of individuals and families is by expanding access to quality health insurance. Children do better in school and miss fewer days when they have health insurance. Parents and guardians can also provide a more consistent environment for their children to grow up in when the whole family is healthy.
Expanding access to health insurance is such an important issue that I worked tirelessly this past session to amend Medicaid expansion language onto every possible bill. Unfortunately, the Legislature failed to take action or provide an alternative plan to cover our most vulnerable populations, leaving hundreds of thousands of Texans with incomes below 100 percent of the FPL without health insurance options.
Percent uninsured by county
It’s time to expand Medicaid!
Expanding Medicaid would have provided an estimated 1.5 million uninsured Texans with health coverage. This not only makes good sense for the health of our communities and the state – it also makes good business sense. For an investment of $15 billion, Texas could draw down as much as $100 billion in federal funds over 10 years. In addition, this expansion is estimated to generate more than 300,000 Texas jobs annually over 10 years. According to a well-respected economist, Texas would see a return of $1.29 for every $1 spent on Medicaid expansion, which means it pays for itself.
The expansion of Medicaid costs less in four years than what Texas hospitals spend on the uninsured population in one year. Currently, hospitals absorb more than $5 billion per year in uncompensated care, a loss that is passed on to you in the form of higher health care costs and direct taxes in areas that have hospital districts.
The needs of these individuals will not disappear if Texas fails to expand Medicaid, but the state will continue to lose out on a nine-to-one match and pass the cost down to local hospitals and ultimately to taxpayers. If you are one of the more than one million hard-working Texans who was left out of coverage options, please visit TexasLeftMeOut.org to sign the petition and tell your story.
I will continue to advocate for Medicaid expansion, and I hope I can count on your assistance to inform your family and friends about these new health insurance options and the importance of expanding coverage in our state.
Sincerely,
Rodney Ellis
The Community Just Us Coalition hosts Voter Registration Drive & Candidate Dialogue
Houston, TX – The Community Just Us Coalition hosts Voter Registration Drive & Candidate Dialogue, Friday, October 4, 2013, starting promptly at 7:00 PM at Shape Community Center (3903 Almeda Road).
With the passing of new Voter ID Laws, text book revisions and state lawsuits Community Just Us steps up to the plate to raise awareness for the upcoming November 2013 elections in Harris County by registering and educating voters. We have invited various candidates campaigning to partake in a dialogue with the community to share their platforms and offer transparency to the voters of the Greater Houston Area. In a candid bipartisan setting, many candidates will have an opportunity to address the community directly as they register to vote for the upcoming elections in November.
The Voter Registration Drive & Candidate Dialogue is free and open to the public. You can register online at www.cjuvote2013.eventbrite.com.
Community Just Us organizes for active and progressive change in our communities fostering quantitative and long-term results. We meet every Friday at Shape Community Center at 7 PM. Be involved today by putting in the work! Visit our web site at www.communityjustus.com.
Organization Contact
Patrick Davis
Community Just Us
Communications/Outreach Department
Tel: +1(832) 344-5275
Email: communications@communityjustus.com
Update in Mayoral race: Response to 5 point plan
Crime Continues To Run Rampant Under Parker’s Watch
SUBMITTED BY: BEN HALL MAYORAL CAMPAIGN STAFF
(Houston, TX) – Crime in Houston is completely out of control. Last night, a man lost his life when two robbers opened fire in a Houston Subway restaurant. The day before, another man was shot at a local donut shop in northwest Houston. These crimes are far too common and Ms. Parker has failed to even acknowledge the problems, let alone offer a solution.
“We live in a city where the Sheriff is not immune from having his home burglarized and regular Houstonians cannot enjoy a meal or a night’s entertainment without being victimized. Ms. Parker seems content with letting this continue without leadership,” said mayoral candidate Ben Hall. “The real tragedy is that for every heinous act of violence that hits the front pages or the nightly news there are others that never even get acknowledged. Entire neighborhoods have been taken over by violence and whole communities live in constant fear. How much more of our city will be handed over to criminals before Ms. Parker speaks out?”
Just this July, Houston experienced the highest number of violent and non-violent crimes in the last year with non-violent crimes like burglary, theft and auto theft exceeding 10,000 incidents. But these crimes are more than just numbers. Each incident is another victimized Houstonian, and each victim is one too many.
“As the leader of this city, Houstonians have looked to Ms. Parker to set an agenda that first and foremost protects them. All other priorities are irrelevant if a mayor cannot deliver on that fundamental promise,” continued Hall. “Her ignorance towards this problem is concerning and her inability to offer solutions is a sign of failed leadership.”
Ben Hall released a plan to reverse Houston’s crime epidemic and implement meaningful solutions that will take back neighborhoods from the criminal element and protect Houstonians. The full plan can be found here.
Ms. Parker has offered no solutions to this disturbing trend. Her campaign is silent on these life and death issues. Ben Hall will not be!
The Houston Sun Press Run
Help celebrate 30 years of publishing the Houston Sun. Help fund 30 scholarships for 30 Journalism and Business students. Register to participate in The Houston Sun’s Press Run.
Registration: 713-524-0786 www.houstonsun.com
What: Press Run
Who:Race Participants; individuals, groups, organizations, churches, businesses
When: September 28, 2013
Where:Houston Sun to Emancipation Park
How Much:Entry Fees are:
Adults:$30
Children:10-17 $15
Children 9 & Under FREE
Senior Citizens:$20
Time: Event:
6:00 am- 7:00 am Registration
7:00 am Opening Ceremonies
7:15 am Wheel Chair, Family
Walk 7:30 am 5K, 10K
9:15 am Press Run Awards
Mayor Parker reduces health insurance premiums for city workers
Mayor Annise Parker has approved a reduction in health insurance premiums for city workers, reversing last spring’s increased rates from 14.9 percent to 8.7 percent. The premium reduction is in addition to lower copays and reduced prescription drug costs.
The Mayor hopes that the combined cost reductions will provide some financial relief for employees while also ensuring they stay engaged in wellness activities.
“We budgeted very conservatively and have been transparent in reporting where we are at every step along the way,” said Mayor Parker. “I make no apologies for that. It is the same fiscally-responsible approach we apply to all matters related to city finances.”
Parker’s competition for the mayoral race, Ben Hall, believes it is no coincidence that there is a reform to the health insurance premium.
“It’s an election year and a lot of good policies are suddenly appearing because of the challenge of an election and that’s the good thing about our democracy that once an incumbent is made to justify policy positions during an election cycle that there is some reformation that takes place,” said Hall. “So I applaud this exercise of an election because it has causing the ship to right itself on some of the bad policies on healthcare coverage issues before.”
The city began to focus on employee wellness after an increase in claims which also was the alleged reason for the increase in premium contributions and copayments last spring. The city also moved an extra $14 million into the health benefits account to ensure minimum balances would be available to meet all claims, according to the Mayor’s office.
“In April, HOPE members spoke before City Council rallying around the issue of affordable healthcare,” said Melvin Hughes, President of the Houston Organization of Public Employees. “After detailed analysis we were able to provide the city with recommendations that found several opportunities for cost savings. This decision makes healthcare affordable for the workers that help make this city run. I am proud of our members for making this possible and thankful to Mayor Parker for being willing to listen.”
September 1, 2013 the lower cost will go into effect and remain until April 30, 2014.
Ben Hall commented at about it his press conference that he is confident there was a catalyst for the reduction but whatever it was the reduction is the right thing to do for city employees.
Many are pleased to see the reform to the health insurance premiums as healthcare is necessary but becoming such a tedious and hard to come by commodity in the country. The city is in the third year of a self-insured employee health benefits plan, where it pays only when employees submit claims rather than having to pay set monthly costs.