Always on the move, Oprah Winfrey has just sealed the deal on a new drama with cable network HBO and Harpo Films.

Related: Oprah Winfrey And Tyler Perry Hook Up

The Hollywood Reporter states:

“The untitled project centers on a wealthy academic who has become the first black president of a prestigious liberal arts college. He and his family are thrust into national headlines, forcing them to present an idyllic public façade, all while engaging in agonizing personal battles and struggling with dark obsessions.”

The hour-long drama will be backed by playwright Thomas Bradshaw (The Bereaved) and Kate Forte as executive producers.

In 2008, Harpo Films began a partnership with HBO to develop miniseries, movies, documentaries and scripted series for the network.

Courtesy of The Grio

CHICAGO - Webster’s Dictionary defines “urban legend” as an often lurid story or anecdote based on hearsay and widely circulated as true.

If you’ve heard the story of Ben “Benji” Wilson, you’re familiar with the legend of an innocent young man, referred to by many as the best basketball player Chicago ever produced, who lost his life in 1984. Wilson was walking down the street with his girlfriend, minding his own business, when he accidentally bumped into a “thug” who not only took exception, but brandished a firearm and shot him twice.

All because he didn’t say, “excuse me.”

That story (or some version of it) has been told many times over the past 28 years in Chicago. On Tuesday night, “Benji,” the documentary of Wilson’s short life and untimely death, aired on ESPN for the first time aiming to separate fact from fiction and finally tell the full story in chilling entirety of a young man’s life taken too soon.

Continue at The Grio…

Bobbi Kristina and her godbrother/boyfriend Nick Gordon attend the premier of “The Houstons: On Our Own” at the Tribeca Grand Hotel on Oct. 22. Photo: Jennifer Graylock/INFphoto.com

RELATED: First Look: ‘The Houstons: On Our Own’ Supertrailer

Bond Girl Naomie Harris and Mr. Bond Daniel Craig attend the royal premiere of Skyfall on Oct. 22 in London. Photo: INFphoto.com

It looks like Jaleel White stuck with June Ambrose‘s style advice, as he walks around NYC on Oct. 22. Photo: JT/INFphoto.com

Too Short heads into BOA Steakhouse in LA on Oct. 21.

Carol’s Daughter owner Lisa Price and Cedric the Entertainer attend the American Family Insurance’s Dreams Protected Tour in Atlanta on Oct. 21.

A makeup-free Jordin Sparks and Jason Derulo walk through the Grove in LA after seeing a movie onOct. 21.

Diddy shows no shame as he walks his LA neighborhood looking a bit scruffy the weekend of Oct. 20.

Alicia Keys makes an appearance on “106th & Park” in NYC on Oct. 19.

Seems Rihanna is trying to earn the moniker, “The Hardest Working Woman in Showbiz,” as she heads into an LA recording studio on Oct. 19. Photo: Larsen/Arshamian/INFphoto.com

Brandy enjoys the NYC night scene while in town to promote her new album Two Eleven on Oct. 18. Photo: Nancy Rivera/ACE/INFphoto.com

Tyra Banks and Rob Evans, her rumored beau and new “American’s Next Top Model” judge, attend the Flawsome Ball, which benefited TyTy’s TZONE charity, at Capitale in NYC on Oct. 18. Photo: Jennifer Graylock/INFphoto.com

First Lady Michelle Obama makes an appearance on “Live with Kelly & Michael” in NYC on Oct. 17.

Chaka Khan performs at Tradgarn in Gothenburg, Sweden on Oct. 17.

Camille Winbush goes for a low-key look while shopping in Beverly Hills on Oct. 17

No one’s action star Tyler Perry tries to fit in with Bow Wow, Paigion, Shorty Da Prince, and Miss Mykie, while promoting Alex Cross on ’106th & Park” in NYC on Oct. 17.

Laila Ali lends her support to the 33rd Annual Salute To Women in Sports gala at Cipriani Wall Street in NYC on Oct. 17.

Gabrielle Douglas poses with her “Sportswoman of the Year” award at the 33rd Annual Salute To Women in Sports gala at Cipriani Wall Street in NYC on Oct. 17.

RELATED: Gabby Douglas Wins Sportswoman Of The Year

Singer VV Brown attends the Argo screening at the Odeon Leicester Square in London, during the 56th BFI London Film Festival, on Oct. 17. Photo: INFPhoto.com

NeNe Leakes proves her modeling background by “selling” her Hermes Birkin bag while dashing about NYC on Oct. 17. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Nick Cannon proves that there comes a time in every man’s life when he should relinquish his baggy sweats, while leaving Matsuhisa restaurant in Beverly Hills on Oct. 16.

NBA player John Wall also shares Cannon’s dilemma while making moves through NYC’s SoHo neighborhood on Oct. 16.

Always the reluctant natural hair spokesperson, Solange rocks straight hair to the American Ballet Theatre 2012 Gala at the New York City Center and dinner at The Pierre Hotel in NYC on Oct. 16. Photo: Billy Farrell Agency

RELATED: Solange Knowles Quits Carol’s Daughter

Condola Rashad looks gorgeous in an ivory gown at the American Ballet Theatre 2012 Fall Gala on Oct. 16. Photo: Billy Farrell Agency

Alek Wek shows off her model figure at the American Ballet Theatre 2012 Fall Gala on Oct. 16. Photo: Billy Farrell Agency

Dr. Dre greets a fan as he heads into his New York hotel on Oct. 16. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Girls-girl LaLa Anthony has a night out with Taraji P. Henson at Miss Lilly’s in NYC on Oct. 16. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Tyler Perry attends the premiere of Alex Cross at the Arclight Theater in LA on Oct. 15. Photo: INFPhoto.com

50 Cent hits up a signing at Virgin Megastore at Champs Elysees in Paris on Oct. 15. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Jennifer Lopez and her side-piece Casper Smart take her daughter Emme Anthony shopping in Paris on Oct. 15. One question: Where’s Max? Photo: INFPhoto.com

Leona Lewis does her best “I Dream of Jeannie” impersonation while signing copies of her album Glassheart at HMV Oxford Street in London on Oct. 15. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Reggie Bush and his pregnant girlfriend Lilit Avagyan watch their footing while leaving Prime Italian restaurant in Miami Beach on Oct. 14. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Bobbi Kristina and her beau Nick Gordon jumped into action to help a sick man who collapsed in an Alpharetta, Georgia parking lot on Oct. 13. Photo: INFPhoto.com

RELATED: Coupled Up: Bobbi Kristina & Nick Gordon’s Weird Relationship Will Play Out On TV

Swizz Beatz flies commercial on Oct. 9 because he says he’ll go broke if he flew in a private jet everyday. Photo: TheRealSwizzz Instagram

Mitt Romney supporter Stacey Dash leaves CNN studios in NYC after appearing on “Piers Morgan” on Oct. 9. Photo: Alequin/Bosch/INFphoto.com

RELATED: Stacey Dash Defends Romney Endorsement On ‘Piers Morgan Tonight’ [VIDEO]

LeBron James gives Kanye West a shout-out for stopping by his sneaker and clothing store Unknown in Miami on Oct. 8. Photo: KingJames Instagram

Nicole Scherzinger heads into Nobu restaurant in London on Oct. 8. Photo: INFphoto.com

Kim Kardashian wants us all to know that sometimes she stays in her pajamas when the rest of the world is out really earning a living on Oct. 8. Photo: KimKardashian Instagram

Chris Brown tries to show his “sensitive side” by posing on the roof of a building on Oct. 7. Photo: FuckYoPictures Instagram

RELATED: Chris Brown Explains Loving Rihanna And Karrueche At The Same Time [VIDEO]

Bow Wow shows his colors for a Beats By Dre photoshoot on Oct. 6. Photo: BeatsByDre Instagram

Jennifer Lopez drops it low for the German TV show, “Wetten Dass..??,” on Oct. 6 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Photo: INFphoto.com

Keke Palmer leaves Sirius Radio in New York City on October 3. Credit: Dara Kushner/INFphoto.com

Rihanna, sporting a sexy pair of Christian Louboutin thigh high boots, slinks away from her NYC hotel, shortly after Chris Brown reportedly visited her there on October 2. Credit: Alequin/Bosch/INFphoto.com

Halle Berry and daughter Nahla are getting into the Halloween spirit in Hollywood, CA on October 2. Credit: Andra Viak/INFphoto.com

Instead of food shopping, John Legend (fried chicken master) and fiancee Chrissy Teigen (model/cooking school-student) do some clothes shopping  at Fred Segal in Hollywood on October 2. Credit: Merino/INFphoto.com.

Angie Martinez was in Brooklyn talking that talk with pals Beyonce, Queen Latifah, Taraji P. Henson. “The girl talk @theBarclay was real! @theRealTaraji @iamqueenlatifah & B!” Credit: @angiemartinez/ @kodaklens

M.I.A. goes incognito for the Stella McCartney spring 2013 show during Paris Fashion Week on Oct. 1. Photo: INFPhoto.com

Snoop Lion runs into a fan while satisfying his 3 a.m. munchies craving on Sept. 29. Photo: Instagram

Mehcad Brooks attends the 2012 Environmental Media Awards at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, Calif. on Sept. 29. Photo: Jennifer Graylock/INFphoto.com

RELATED: Coupled Up: Zoe Saldana Gets Some More Bradley Cooper Lovin’

Tracee Ellis Ross counts down the launch of TraceeEllisRoss.com on October 1. Photo: Instagram

Kanye West and his leather pants make another star-studded appearance together. This time at the Christian Dior spring 2013 show during Paris Fashion Week on Sept. 28. Photo: INFPhoto.com

On Sept. 27, a photo of an 18-year-old Michelle Obama surfaced after the Princeton Alumni Weekly published “Mrs. Obama goes to Washington.”

Smokey Robinson and Aretha Franklin attend the Broadway premiere of Motown: The Musical in NYC on Sept. 27. Photo: Walter McBride/INFphoto.com

Rosario Dawson and Tara Smith launch Tara Smith Vegan Haircare at Marks and Spencer in London on Sept. 27. Photo: Famous/ACE/INFphoto.com

Christina Milian goes Cali-glam for a shopping excursion at Barneys New York in Beverly Hills on Sept. 26. HMO/INFphoto.com

President Barack Obama joins Bill Clinton at the Clinton Global Initiative meeting in NYC on Sept. 25. Photo: Kristin Callahan/ACE/INFphoto.com

A sexy Paula Patton takes strong strides while out and about in Hollywood on Sept. 25. Photo: Brooks/INFphoto.com

Chris Paul is joined by his wife Jada, singer Miguel, and Nazanin Mandi at the celebration for his October GQ cover, which he shares with Denzel Washington and Javier Bardem, at The Sayer’s Club in L.A. on Sept. 24. Photo: Michael Kovak / Wire Image

RELATED: Like Fine Wine: Denzel Washington Covers GQ’s Style Playbook [PHOTOS]

Ballers Matt Barnes, Canon Butler, DeAndre Jordan, Blake Griffin, and Willie Green helped Chris Paul celebrate his October GQ cover at The Sayer’s Club in L.A. on Sept. 24. Photo: Michael Kovak / Wire Image

RELATED: The Sexiest NBA Ballers On The Court

Rosie Perez and Viola Davis attend the premiere of Won’t Back Down at the Ziegfeld Theater in NYC on Sept. 23. Photo: Kristin Callahan/ACE/INFphoto.com

Carmelo and LaLa Vasquez Anthony spend a night out in NYC with Swizz Beatz and an unidentified man on Sept. 23. Photo: Dario Alequin/INFphoto.com

Looking like a mature version of her What’s the 411? self, Mary J. Blige hits up the iHeart Radio Music Festival at MGM Grand Resort in Las Vegas on Sept. 21. Photo: INFphoto.com

Kim Kardashian wears a Mary Katrantzou body-conscious dress to a Quick Trim Event at Silk Road in Melbourne on Sept. 20. Photo: INFphoto.com

A.J. Calloway interviews Cedric the Entertainer for “Extra!” on Sept. 19 in NYC. Photo: Guillermo Bosch/INFphoto.com

John Leguizamo mean mugs more than kicks ass on the set of Kick Ass 2 in Toronto on Sept. 19. Photo: O’Neill/White/INFphoto.com

Nicki Minaj uses her “band leader” styling to tell her fellow “American Idol” judges that she’s leading the show as she heads into day two of taping the new season in NYC on Sept. 17. Photo: Dario Alequin/INFphoto.com

Practice makes perfect for Alicia Keys as she poses in the dance studio: “Rehearsal time!!! I’m a tigress for these up coming shows!!!! Grrrrrrr!!!!” Via: @aliciakeys

Rosario Dawson spreads peace as she heads into Sunshine Theatre on Houston St. in NYC for a fan Q&A for her movie 10 Years on Sept. 16. Photo: Dario Alequin/INFphoto.com

Lee Daniels confidently strides into the premiere of his film Paperboy during the Toronto International Film Festival on Sept. 14. Photo: Dara Kushner/INFphoto.com

Cornrows and a new cross tattoo as shared by Ms. Kelly Rowland on Sept. 13.” Via @kellyrowland

Andre Leon Talley leaves the Calvin Klein show during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week on Sept. 13. Something tells us that his caftan is one of a kind and wasn’t featured in the show. Photo: INF

Tyra Banks waves goodbye to her haters as she struts into a fashion show during New York Fashion Week on Sept. 12. Photo: INF

Kim Kardashian dons a shaggy jacket and Kanye West opts for denim-on-denim for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week on Sept. 12. Photo: INF

With a megawatt smile, Paula Patton arrives at Holt Renfrew to promote Disconnect, with Jason Bateman, during the Toronto International Film Festival. Photo: INF

A model can’t walk every show; sometimes she’s just got to sit front row. Check out Jessica White as she struts into the Alice + Olivia show during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC on Sept. 10. Photo: INF

Rihanna takes styling cues from Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall in Coming to America as she heads to Heathrow Airport in London on Sept. 10. Photo: INF

Songbird Estelle gets her very first tattoo (“DO – Divinely Orchestrated”) on Sept. 10 from @bigstevenyc (via @estelledarlings)

Note to Chris Brown and Rihanna: less is more.

Artiste extraordinaire Swizz Beatz ‘wines’ down in the studio on Sept. 11 ‏

“In my studio Zone with opus1 08 :) bang out time…..” (via  @THEREALSWIZZZ)

Hot mama Taraji P. Henson celebrates her birthday on Sept. 10 with a few tweeps and peeps.

“RT @sueannhan: Celebrating @therealtaraji @tarajiphenson ‘s bday & waiting 4 the Queen @maryjblige to take the stage. (via @TherealTaraji)”

Will, Willow, Jaden, and Jada Pinkett Smith arrive for the premiere of Free Angela & All Political Prisoners at the Toronto Film Festival on Sept. 9. Photo: INF

Even though she’s the youngest of the bunch, which also includes mom Kimora Lee, dad Russell Simmons, and sister Ming Lee Simmons, Aoki Lee Simmons knows the paps are always snapping, especially during Mercedez Benz Fashion Week in NYC, on Sept. 8. Photo: INF

Alicia Keys literally Stands Up 2 Cancer while arriving to an event for the organization on Sept. 7. Photo: INF

Mariah Carey hits the stage during the NFL Opening Kickoff at Rockefeller Plaza in NYC on Sept. 5. Photo: Amanda Schwab/Startraks

Just when you thought Rihanna had rocked every hairstyle imaginable, she shows off a new pixie cut while attending a dress rehearsal for the MTV Video Music Awards in L.A. on Sept. 5. Photo: Credit: X17online

RELATED: MTV VMA Flashback: Lil Kim’s Mermaid Pasty, Lenny Kravitz’s Space Suit & More [PHOTOS]

Kim Kardashian gives us side-boob, cleavage, butt profile, and exposed back all with one dress at the opening of a Brian Atwood store in NYC on Sept. 5. Photo: David X Prutting/BFAnyc/Sipa

Lauryn Hill leaves the funeral for Chris Lighty at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel on Madison in Manhattan on Sept. 5.

RELATED: Hip-Hop Heavyweights Pay Respects To Chris Lighty

Sofia Vergara sports a prosthetic pregnant belly for her role on “Modern Family” on Sept. 5 in L.A. Photo: Pacific Coast News

President Barack Obama and daughters Malia and Sasha watch, from the White House, First Lady Michelle Obama deliver her speech at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte on Sept. 4.

Terrence J announces his move to “E! News” on the set of the celebrity-driven news show with fellow anchor Giuliana Rancic on Sept. 4.

RELATED: Terrence J Announces His Big Move

Romany Malco celebrates the 100th episode of “Weeds” with co-star Mary-Louise Parker on Sept. 3.

Tamar Braxton proves she really does deserve that solo album by killing the “Star Spangled Banner” at the AT&T Nation’s Football Classic in Washington, D.C. over the Labor Day weekend.

Beyonce and Jay-Z shoot the breeze with director Ron Howard, who was shooting a documentary about the Budweiser Made in America music festival, in Philadelphia during the two-day celebration on Sept. 1. No word on why Beyonce is squatting for no apparent reason. Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage

Salma Hayek and her 4-year-old daughter Valentina jet to the Venice Film Festival on Aug. 31. Photo: Jacopo Raule/FilmMagic

Singer Rita Ora rocks a gold frock to London’s ITV Studios on Aug. 30.

Nicole Richie launches her first fragrance, appropriately named Nicole, at Macy’s in Glendale, Calif. on Aug. 29. Photo: Jeffrey Mayer/WireImage

Alicia Keys and son Egypt leave the ITV Southbank studios in London on Aug. 28. Photo: INFphoto.com

Jordin Sparks looks gorgeous in a white minidress while performing at the U.S. Open on Aug. 27.

On Aug. 28, Paris Jackson enjoys a birthday tribute for her late father Michael Jackson, who would have turned 54 on Aug. 29, in Gary, Ind. Photo: Michael Hickey/WireImage

RELATED: Happy 54th Birthday Michael Jackson! [PHOTOS]

Rihanna struts our of her London hotel. Photo: Splash News Online

Halle Berry heads to the movies with daughter Nahla on Aug. 25. Photo: FameFlynet

Kourtney Kardashian and her “little man” Mason Disick go for a walk on Aug. 23. Photo: AKM-GSI

Oprah hits up a Framingham, Mass. Bed Bath & Beyond, in order to take three girls shopping for dorm room accessories on Aug. 23. Photo: Splash News Online

Looking quite wind-blown, Rihanna is out and about in L.A. on Aug. 22. Photo: AKM-GSI

Tyra Banks gets in bed with new ANTM judges Kelly Cutrone and Rob Evans to celebrate the premiere of the model competition show in NYC on Aug. 22. Photo: Craig Barritt/Getty

Christina Milian hits up the studio with Lil Wayne and Mack Maine, members of her new Young Money family, in Miami on Aug. 22. Photo: Instagram

Eva Mendes stands guard with her dog Hugo in West Hollywood on Aug. 20. Photo: JB Lacroix/WireImage

Mariah Carey looks very low-key on the set of The Butler in New Orleans on Aug. 20. Photo: FameFlynet

First Lady Michelle Obama greets the attendees of the first-ever Kids State Dinner at the White House on Aug. 20. Photo: Olivier Douliery/ABACA

Wearing her best beachwear, Halle Berry goes shopping with fiance Olivier Martinez in L.A. on Aug. 19. Photo: INF

Nick Cannon lends his support to the Do Something Awards in Santa Monica, Calif. on Aug. 19. Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty

Jennifer Hudson films a scene from Smash in NYC on Aug. 17. Photo: X17online

Nicole Richie arrives at Virgin’s Sunset Strip Music Festival VIP party at SkyBar in West Hollywood on Aug. 17. Photo: Splash News Online

Jordin Sparks shares a moment with Bobbi Kristina and her boyfriend Nick Gordon after the Hollywood screening of Sparkle on Aug. 17. Photo: Eric Charbonneau/WireImage

Talk about an awkward moment! Jaguar tapped Jane Krakowski; Tracy Morgan, who has made homophobic jokes; and Johnny Weir, who came out publicly after achieving figure skating fame, for Jaguar’s Chill Event on Aug. 17 in NYC. Photo: Amanda Schwab/Startraks

Camila Alves, who is pregnant with her third child, takes hold of her tots, Levi, 4, and Vida, 2, after leaving a doctor’s appointment in Santa Monica, Calif. on Aug. 16. Photo: AKM-GSI

Gabby Douglas does the red carpet just as well as the uneven bars while attending a post-show event for “America’s Got Talent” on Aug. 15.

Camila Alves shows off her pregnancy curves at the Nylon Guys party in Santa Monica on Aug. 15.

Viola Davis looks beautiful in a white sheath dress while attending the Teachers Rock benefit in L.A. on Aug. 15.

Rihanna arrives at Tokyo Narita airport on Aug. 15 to perform in Japan over the weekend.

Jordin Sparks rocks a fiery peplum ensemble to the premiere of Sparkle in NYC on Aug. 14.

Kelly Rowland attends the David Jones 2012/13 season launch in Sydney on Aug. 14.

Halle Berry looks a little sauced after celebrating her birthday at Little Door club with fiance Olivier Martinez, Salma Hayek, and Francois-Henri Pinault on Aug. 14.

First Lady Michelle Obama and Gabby Douglas share some laughs with Jay Leno on his late-night talk show on  Aug. 13.

Soon-to-be parents Tamera Mowry-Housley and Adam Housley are positively glowing at their baby shower, where she also threw him an impromptu birthday celebration on Aug. 12.

Jennifer Hudson mismatches a pair of studded loafers with a pink mini dress while attending Apollo in the Hamptons event in East Hampton, N.Y. on Aug. 11.

Kerry Washington strikes a pose in a fun Dior frock while attending the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s Installation Luncheon in Beverly Hills on Aug. 9.

Khloe Kardashian-Odom dons a leather dress to celebrate InStyle magazine at a party in California on Aug. 9.

Ciara and photographer Yu Tsai share a photo on Instagram on Aug. 9.

Olympian Allyson Felix celebrates after winning the gold medal for the 200-meter race on Aug. 8. Photo: Getty Images

RELATED: Olympic Runner Allyson Felix Finally Wins Gold In The 200-Meter Race

Tyra wears a slinky dress to The Cinema Society special screening of 2 Days in New York at Landmark Sunshine Cinema in NYC on Aug. 8. Photo: Getty Images

Brandy performs at the MDA Show of Strength held at CBS Television City in L.A. on Aug 8. Photo: Getty Images

RELATED: Brandy’s Comeback Begins

Estelle poses with manager Kevin Liles at Rosa Regale’s “Wonderful Life” performance series, during which the singer gave an intimate performance, at The Darby in NYC on Aug. 7.

Kim Kardashian photographs her favorite subject while wearing a pair of Celine leather sweats, a Helmut Lang top, and $6,0000 Guiseppe Zanotti booties designed by Kanye West on Aug. 7.

Spike Lee gives us a wry smile as he poses with his wife Tonya Lewis Lee and their children at the premiere for his film Red Hook Summer on Aug. 6 in NYC.

Harry Belafonte poses with his Life Achievement Award at the 65th Locarno Film Festival in Locarno, Switzerland on Aug. 6. Photo: Getty Images

RELATED: Belafonte: Jay-Z, Beyonce ‘Turned Their Back on Social Responsibility’

Lance Gross hits up 2 Chainz‘s listening party at Tree Sound Studios in Norcross, GA on Aug. 6.

Drake and guest Nicki Minaj rock the stage at Toronto’s third annual OVO Fest at Molson Amphitheater on Aug. 5.

Someone actually hired Joseline Hernandez of “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta” to host a party at Atlanta’s Mansion Elan on Aug. 4. Of course her side-kick Stevie J. was there too.

Robert Townsend, Melanie Fiona, and Laz Alonso on August 3rd at the Studio Museum of Harlem where Alonso was announced as the new travel ambassador of BlackAtlas.com.

U.S. Olympic swimmer Lauren Perdue poses with fellow Olympian Lebron James in an Instagram. She started a firestorm after tweeting that Lebron had asked her to dinner, which really turned out to be an invitation to the dining hall.

Ray J poses with his new boss Rickey Smiley, who will star in a TV One sitcom loosely based on his life alongside Ray J, on Aug. 1 at the Beverly Hilton, the same hotel in which Ray J’s former lover Whitney Houston died.

Last night, UPTOWN’s cover star T.J. Holmes was on hand to help us celebrate the Oct/Nov issue at Catch Rooftop in the Meatpacking District. From the refreshing libations provided by Hennessy Privilege to the soundtrack by D-Nice, it was definitely a night to remember.

Keep clicking for more scenes from the night of revelry but first, check out a video featuring the guest of honor.

Courtesy of The Frisky

You’re probably sick to death of hearing about their husbands, but Ann Romney and First Lady Michelle Obama merit some attention, too. We’re not going to talk about their politics, but we are going to examine their wardrobes. In the past four years, Michelle’s risen to prominence as a fashion star, but Ann certainly is giving her a run for her money. After the jump, we size up the candidates’ wives sartorial chops.

Continue reading at The Frisky

Courtesy of The Root

A court on Wednesday is hearing the Boston Globe’s arguments that the testimony GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney provided about “financial matters” in the divorce case of Staples founder Tom Stemberg should be unsealed, the Associated Press reports. At the time of the divorce, Romney was the owner and chief executive of Bain Capital.

Stemberg’s ex-wife, Maureen Stemberg Sullivan, appeared at the hearing with lawyer Gloria Allred, who has previously suggested that “she’s sitting on information that could affect the presidential election.” They did not object to a Boston Globe motion to lift an impoundment order on Romney’s testimony in the case from the early 1990s.

Continue reading at The Root

For a kid, Halloween definitely has its perks: trick-or-treating, piles of candy, adults cooing over your costume. But, we at UPTOWN like to believe the real Halloween fun is had by adults (read: scandalous outfits and glowing cocktails).

That said, bar crawls and house parties aren’t for everyone, so we’ve rounded up the sexiest and most bougie sophisticated Halloween parties taking place around the country this weekend. With plenty of open bars and hot DJs to choose from in New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, and Los Angeles, you’re all but guaranteed to have more fun than the neighborhood kids, and you get to stay up a lot later too.

*UPDATE: Floyd Palmer, 52, was reportedly arrested at Lenox Mall in Atlanta, GA Wednesday afternoon in  connection with the deadly shooting at World Changers Church.

Police have identified the victim as 39-year-old Greg McDowell, a church volunteer.
________

*UPDATE (Oct. 24 at 1:10 p.m): Police say the man suspected in the fatal shooting at World Changers Church International in Georgia was a former church employee.

Authorities are searching for Floyd Palmer, 52, and consider him armed and dangerous.

The shooting occurred before a 10 a.m. service and has left one dead. Authorities say the victim was a church volunteer.
________

Police have confirmed a shooting at Pastor Creflo Dollar‘s World Changers Church International in College Park, GA.

While details are still emerging, Fulton County Fire officials have reported one death. The victim was reportedly an employee at the church, but their name has not been released.

The suspect is described as a black man in his 30s, wearing a suit and tie. Police say he entered the chapel Wednesday morning and began shooting before fleeing the scene.

All children were evacuated from the daycare area. Local reporters say there was a bible study planned for 10 a.m.; there is no word on if the gathering was evacuated.

World Changers Church is home to more than 30,000 members.

Courtesy of Hello Beautiful

Happy Birthday Monica from #TeamBeautiful! The Grammy Award winning singer, song writer, producer, mother and wife turns 32 today. I can remember blasting “Don’t Take It Personal” when I broke up with little Kenny from down the street. Still mad about that one. Even today, Monica’s songs have still managed to stay in rotation on my iPod. But beyond her music she totally slays in the style department. Let’s have a look at some of Monica’s best style moments.

Continue reading at Hello Beautiful

Courtesy of Vibe Vixen

Pepsi’s got a thing for the ladies.

For the past 15 years, some of entertainment’s biggest stars have joined forces with the beverage brand for memorable commercials, most of which have aired during the Superbowl. Seeing Beyoncé on the set of her fifth Pepsi ad made us a little nostalgic for Pepsi days past. Whether its the dance moves, soaring voices or unforgettable dialogue, all of these Vixens have left their mark on the soda giant.

RELATED: Pepsi Vs. Coke: Nicki Minaj & Other Celebs Who’ve Hawked Cola [VIDEOS]

Continue reading at Vibe Vixen

Continue at The Grio

BALTIMORE (AP) — A former megachurch maintenance man accused of killing a volunteer leading a prayer service was charged more than a decade ago with a shooting at a mosque in Maryland, according to police documents.

Related: Suspect Arrested In Deadly Shooting At World Changers Church

Floyd Palmer was acting as security at a Baltimore mosque in June 2001 when he shot another man working with him, wounding him in the back, according to a police report obtained by The Associated Press on Thursday. Palmer tried to fire the gun again, but it jammed. When other people ran over to him, he turned the gun on them, but it again wouldn’t fire, according to the documents.

The report did not say why Palmer shot the man in the back.

Palmer faced attempted murder, assault and handgun charges, and he was committed to a psychiatric hospital in 2004 after pleading not criminally responsible to lesser charges. Court records show he was released the next year.

Courtesy of The Grio…

Halloween may be synonymous with pumpkins, trick-or-treating, and cute kids in equally cute costumes. But that doesn’t mean adults can’t enjoy the spookiest day of the year too. Whether you’re going door-to-door (on foot of course) with the kids or hosting a costume party, SKYY Infusions  Blood Orange, Midori Melon Liqueur, and X-Rated Fusion Liqueur has terrifyingly tasty sips to liven up your frightful festivities, and get you and your fellow ghouls howling.

Keep clicking for the Halloween cocktail recipes.

[Photo: Shutterstock]

Dracula’s Kiss (Created by Raffaelo Van Couten of Bunker Club)

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Blood Orange
• 1 oz. Blood Orange Puree
• 1.5 oz. Blueberry Pomegranate Juice
• .5 oz. Lemon Juice
• .5 oz. Simple Syrup

Preparation

Combine all ingredients, shake hard, strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an orange.

The Creepy Crawler (Created by Rael Petit of Mulberry Project)

Ingredients

• 2 oz. SKYY Infusions Blood Orange
• 1 tspn of passion fruit syrup
• .5 oz. of orange juice
• .5 oz. of pineapple juice

Preparation

Shake all ingredients, pour into a low-ball glass, and fill with ice. Top with a hibiscus flower and a tea spoon of hibiscus flower syrup.

The Itsy Bitsy (Created by Travis London)

Ingredients

• 1 oz. X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
• .5 oz. SKYY Vodka
• 1.5 oz. Black Raspberry Liqueur
• 3 blackberries

Preparation

Muddle 2-3 blackberries in a shaker. Place remaining ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass rimmed with black rimming sugar. Garnish with blackberries on a cocktail pick.

Midori’s Spider Kiss

Ingredients

• 1 part Midori Melon Liqueur
• 1 part SKYY Vodka
• Juice from half lemon
• Chocolate syrup
• Grenadine
• Chocolate dipped orange slice for garnish

Preparation

Draw a chocolate web into a martini glass. Place in freezer and chill for a ghostly effect. Shake all ingredients and strain into glass. For a blood effect, drizzle grenadine down the side of the glass. Garnish with a chocolate dipped orange slice.

Courtesy of Black Enterprise

Kandi Burruss made it known on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” that although she was known to the world as a great singer, it was her dream to tackle being an entrepreneur. From sex toys to an online radio show, Kandi shares her personal life and power and prestige for profit. After the highly publicized murder of her fiancé Al Jewell, Burruss turned to social media creating a blog to vent her pain, “Kandi Presents: The Bitter & The Sweet.” Growing a faithful audience, she launched “Kandi Coated Nights” in 2011 garnering over 198,000 loyal listeners. The weekly internet talk-show helped to launch another business for Burruss called “Kandi After Dark,” a line of sex toys and pleasurates for adults.

Continue reading at Black Enterprise

Courtesy of the Associated Press

Emanuel Steward, the owner of the legendary Kronk Gym and one of boxing’s greatest trainers, has died. He was 68.

Victoria Kirton, Steward’s executive assistant, says Steward died Thursday in a Chicago hospital. She did not disclose the cause of death.

The International Boxing Hall of Famer made his name training Thomas Hearns at the Kronk Gym in Detroit. That paved the way for Steward to work with a long line of champion boxers such as champion Lennox Lewis, during a big part of his title run, and current heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko as recently as July.

Steward owned the legendary Kronk Gym, where his fighters were clad in red and gold trunks, and worked as an analyst for HBO.

Note to Stephen A. Smith: When the red light is on, watch your words.

On Thursday, the ESPN correspondent found himself in hot water after a segment on First Take where he seems to utter the word “nigga.” While discussing Kobe Bryant‘s foot injury, Smith mocked the thought of the NBA champion missing the Lakers’ season opener against the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday.

“Opening night. Kobe Bryant is going to miss it because, ‘my foot is sprained?” he joked. Many viewers heard his next statement as, “Are you crazy, nigga please.”

Later on ESPN, Smith sat in front of cameras to deny any claims of using the racial slur.

“There have been numerous reports out there that I uttered the word I should not have uttered [...] I did not do so.” he said. “I’m a New Yorker. I speak very very fastly, and sometimes my words are misconstrued and I get that.”

Smith went on to say if he ever did say “the word,” he would immediately apologize to viewers and the network.

You be the judge…

Courtesy of The Root

Reality television is exploitative by definition. It’s a fishbowl with sharks — entertainment at its most primitive. You root for the good guys, boo for the baddies and gasp when a table gets flipped or a drink gets thrown. Simple.

But in Lifetime’s new reality series “The Houstons: On Our Own,” the formula gets a bit complicated as the masks of comedy and tragedy melt into a hot mess.

Debuting on Wednesday night, fewer than nine months after Whitney Houston‘s death in February, the show chronicles the grief-stricken survivors of the Houston clan: sister-in-law Pat, brother Gary, mommy Cissy and, of course, daughter Bobbi Kristina (and her “brother-boyfriend,” Nick). Something of a macabre crew.

Appearing on “The View” earlier this week, Pat Houston, Whitney’s longtime manager, batted down criticism that the show could be summed up in just two words: “too soon.”

But even while being polite, Barbara Walters wouldn’t back down. “Would Bobbi Kristina not have been better off if you didn’t do a reality show? If you didn’t show her visiting her mother’s grave with cameras on her? If you just let her grow up to have a life without the kind of attention that maybe contributed in a way perhaps to her own mother’s death?”

Continue reading at The Root

How deep did you read into Toni Braxton‘s 1996 hit “You’re Makin’ Me High”? If you caught on to the R&B veteran’s double entendre, you deseve a gold star.

Related: Toni Braxton & Babyface Hook Back Up

In an upcoming episode of VH1′s Behind the Music, Braxton reveals an well-kept secret in the making of the Grammy Award winning song. The inspiration behind the bridge can be found in tightly wrapped joint.

Braxton explained:

“A week before [writing the song with Babyface and Bryce Wilson],  I was introduced to marijuana, and I got high for the first time. [..] In the bridge, I’m singing ‘I want to feel your heart and soul inside of me / Let’s make a deal you roll, I lick / And we can go flying into ecstasy’, I was talking about [smoking a joint].”

Interesting. Love, sex or marijuana, it’s still a classic ’90s groove.

Behind The Music: Toni Braxton will premiere Oct. 29 at 10/9c on VH1.

This week the web was all ablaze with news that Chris Brown was spotted with both Karrueche Tran and Rihanna, and that Kanye West might have proposed to Kim Kardashian, and we’ve got both of those stories for you. But also, Halle Berry and Marlon Wayans make appearances in “Coupled Up” this week. Plus, there’s a surprise revelation and guess who might be pregnant!

Where do I start with this one … Hmmm, well Chris Brown apparently wasn’t lying when he said he was in love with two women. Because dude has one hand in the cookie jar and the other in the candy dish.

Last weekend, Chris spent Saturday night at the launch of Qubeey (a site that will allow Chris Brown fans to obsess over Chris Brown), where he was spotted making out with Rihanna and leaving her hotel room later that night before she headed to the studio. And then the next day, the paps caught Chris leaving his home with Karrueche Tran in separate cars. The pair stopped to get gas and Chris paid for Kae’s through his bodyguard. And then both drove to a Burbank studio.

Karrueche seemed really stressed Sunday and is reportedly willing to put up a fight for Chris. But she might not have to battle for too long because rumor has it that Breezy could be in her life forever or at least for another 18 years and nine months, if you know what I’m saying.

This love triangle is so tragic I can’t help but be entertained and experience a bit of schadenfreude at Kae’s expense. I see her becoming what Tila Tequila was five years ago, and no that’s not because they’re both of Asian descent. It’s because Karrueche is so hungry for celebrity that she has willingly put up with Chris’ bullshit.

If you’re a fan of “Tia & Tamera,” then you probably already know that Tamera Mowry Housely and her then-fiance Adam Houseley didn’t live together before marriage. But did you know the couple was celibate before their nuptials?

Tamera recently explained to Ebony why they went all Meagan Good/Devon Franklin and abstained from sex before marriage:

“We wanted to make sure that this relationship was what God wanted for our lives. [In order to know] if we are meant to be together, we said, ‘It’s got to be God’s way and not our way.’ We didn’t want to half-step anything [or have clouded judgment]. So our right way was the way we felt God wanted us to do it, which was being celibate. We said to God, ‘This is who we are, I know you take us as we are, our faults, our fears, our joys, our hope as a couple and have your way.”

Well that’s all peachy-keen, but honestly what annoys me about people who preach abstinence and are against cohabiting before marriage is that they wear their opinion as if it’s a badge of honor. Really it isn’t. It’s just what works for them and isn’t the experience of the majority. Just as I wouldn’t want to read about a celebrity advocating multiple partners and reckless sexual practices, I don’t want to hear about another celebs celibacy.

So not only didn’t I know that Marlon Wayans and Chilli dated before she got with Usher, but I also didn’t know that Chilli actually thinks he’s the one who got away. Necole Bitchie caught up with Marlon to discuss this fact:

Speaking of relationships, we had some girl talk with Chilli, and she told us you’re the one that got away. She should’ve married you. How do you feel about that?
Yeah, but then she would’ve never have dated Usher who got better abs, more fame and is on a first name basis with Bieber. See I have to call him Bieber. He probably calls him Justin or Jay or some cool sh-t like that. Oh, f-ck my life.

First of all, I wouldn’t think that any woman could stomach Marlon’s physical humor and zaniness long enough to get close to him, but then again I don’t know him. Second, as crazy as Chilli appeared on her reality show, “What Chilli Wants,” I’d say Marlon dodged a hollow tip bullet with the demise of that relationship.

Halle Berry has been as unsuccessful in love as she has been successful on the big screen. And T Magazine asked her about her poor choice in men:

“God just wanted to mix up my life. Maybe he was thinking, ‘This girl can’t get everything! I’m going to give her a broken picker.”

Well, it’s nice that Halle realizes she’s quite a lucky woman, but something tells me there’s more than a “broken picker” to blame for her misfortune in affairs of the heart, like maybe her sense of self is way too inflated. I’m just saying.

And in case you missed it, we were really ahead of the story regarding whether Kim Kardashian and Kanye West are engaged. Read our speculation here.

[Photo: INFPhoto.com]

Courtesy of EURweb

You could say the righties now have another BS reason to not like President  Barack Obama.

In fact BS is the reason in this case.

It seems that President Obama used the BS word to describe his GOP opponent  Mitt Romney in a Rolling Stone interview, according to an excerpt released  Thursday by Politico’s Mike Allen.

Related: President Obama Laughs Off Trump Fail On ‘Tonight Show’ [VIDEO]

Apparently Obama and Douglas Brinkley, who wrote the article were speaking  with Rolling Stone executive editor Eric Bates, who said that his daughter told  him to tell the president, “You can do it.”

Obama reportedly grinned and said, “You know, kids have good instincts. They  look at the other guy and say, ‘Well, that’s a bullshitter, I can tell.’”

Continue at EURweb…

By Charles D. Ellison

Hacks, pollsters and pundits in the politics business call this “game theory” – fleshing out paths to victory by creating alternate universes and scenarios on a campaign war board.  But, in this election, it’s not a game because the stakes are just too high.

President Obama has had his hands full – you can’t get it all done in just three years (minus one when you count the Congressional gridlock).   But he’s faced with a wickedly divided electorate and shady Republicans that are spiteful enough to try something new –even if it means blowing it all up.

The polls are tightening.  And along with uncertainty comes the realization that anything could happen: despite optimistic early ballot returns for the incumbent, GOP nominee Mitt Romney could best the brother in the White House.

If that were to happen, what would your world look like the day after President Obama loses?  Just saying …

1.       The First Black Family Will Get an Eviction Notice

That happy face feeling, cultural adrenaline and self-esteem shot you get from seeing Black Camelot on the cover of Ebony, JET, Essence and elsewhere? You know what I’m talking about.  Well – forget about all that.  Replace that with a collective negritudinal depression to match that of any felt since slavery.

2.      Republicans Will Get Real Damn Cocky

In sports, you know how after you lose a game there are some folks who just love rubbing it in your face? That’s what most Republicans will do if Governor Mitt Romney wins: they will revel in a festive “In-Your-Face!” vilifying the loser as one of the worst Presidents and candidates of all time.  Your White conservative co-worker with the Breitbart memorial screensaver only inches away from your cubicle? Expect them to do victory laps around the water cooler.

3.      Everything Will Get Cut – Except Defense

Despite high unemployment being the actual national priority, the GOP has been extremely successful at pimping an obsession with that $16 trillion of national debt that just keeps on ticking.  Their remedy? Cut everything from Head Start to Pell Grants to … well … yes … Big Bird, too.  You’ll feel it from the unemployment benefits running out prematurely, the food stamps getting scarce and your kid not getting as much money for the semester as they did year before.  But, if you’re in the military, you’ll be plenty protected. (Credit: Shutterstock)
4.      President Romney Won’t Owe You (Black Folks) a Thing

For therapy, rent that 1998 cult classic Bulworth and check the scene where a fictitious Senator (played by Warren Beatty) going through a public mental meltdown goes unhinged on a crowded Black church.  “Well …  you haven’t really contributed any money to my campaign, have you?”  If Romney wins, Politics 101 goes into full effect: you didn’t vote for me and you damn sure didn’t give me any money – therefore, you don’t get a damn thing.  Knowing Romney, though, he’ll find a smoother way to put it.

5.      Brace Yourselves for Possible Social Unrest

We hope not – but, there could be a lot of angry folks the night of November 6th if word gets out that President Obama lost.  But, unemployed to underemployed to the most disenchanted cats on street corners will look for an excuse to wile out - “Say Obama just WHAT???”  A few turned away at the polling station due to lack of Voter ID might also join in.  Predictably, civil rights groups and Black elected officials will stage public boycotts of the White House shortly there-after, perhaps refusing to meet with a newly-elected President Romney and disallowing him the privilege of a photo-op.  But, we’re talking more about the night of the election and the folks who have lost so much that they really don’t have anything to lose. Think 1992 L.A. riots or Smiley burning down Sal’s Pizza joint in Do the Right Thing.

6.      Since Voter ID Worked, Other Rights Will Go South

Voter ID and other suppression tactics will absorb quite a bit of blame if Republicans happen to pull off an upset in November.  But, the fact that it worked will embolden Republicans to keep going with it.  Not to mention the fact that affirmative action and voting rights are on the Supreme Court chopping block at the moment.

7.      Think Stuff is Expensive Now …

Republicans will, of course, cut everything from budgets to taxes.  This will have a domino effect no one has sufficiently illustrated in plainspoken terms just yet, including President Obama.  Everything is interconnected; which means, yes, government money paid to programs and contractors does, in fact, serve as a primary stimulator to the economy.  Even Homer Simpson knows that.  Widespread budget cutting means widespread economic malignancy.  Which will mean more layoffs and ended government contracts. Which will mean less money circulating. Which will mean another economic meltdown. (Credit: Shutterstock)

8.      We Just Might Find Ourselves in Another War

Candidate Romney hasn’t really articulated a foreign policy vision for President Romney (beyond sitting next to President Obama in Debate #3 and pretty much agreeing with what he said).  But, we do know he’s relying on that same crowd of hawkish neo-conservatives who pushed for forays into Afghanistan and Iraq.  Romney has already rattled campaign trail sabers on Iran and Russia, shades of the Cold War.  No telling what’s next.

9.      Republicans Can’t Repeal All of “ObamaCare,” but …

They certainly can and will nix key provisions in it.  Definitely prepare for the decline and fall of the Affordable Care Act as we now know it.  Or, did we even know what it was in the first place?

10.   The Tea Party and Karl Rove Won’t Go Away

Even though they got next to no play during the Republican Convention (which was planned), your favorite neighborhood right wing-nuts will take credit for a winning ground game.  And your favorite Jedi Master of the Political Dark Arts, former Bush political director turned SuperPAC King Karl Rove, will be rewarded with an office in the White House for helping subsidize the most expensive political upset in American history.

CHARLES D. ELLISON is a political strategist and widely known expert on politics, campaigns, crisis communications and media based in Washington, D.C.  He is a Washington Correspondent for The Philadelphia Tribune and Host of “Showdown 2012” on SiriusXM satellite radio POTUS Channel 124 every Thursday 7-9pm ET.  He can be reached on Twitter @charlesdellison.