By Tracy Clayton

If you’re anything like me, there has been a void in your life ever since the first season of “Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta” wrapped.  There seems to be a certain kind of drama that only the Peach State can serve up.  Lucky for us, there’s a fresh batch on its way out of the kitchen as we speak, with “The Real Housewives of Atlanta“ season 5 premiere coming up this Sunday, November 4.

The usuals will be there with the exception of Sheree Whitfield, and limited peeps from Kim Zolciak. We know that there are two new housewives slated to pick up the slack, but just who are they? Where do they come from? What can we expect from them? Are they actual housewives?

If you want the hottest tea, you gotta go straight to the kettle.  Here’s the buzz about the new ladies, according to StraightfromtheA.com:

Porsha Williams-Stewart pretty much seems to be Atlanta royalty.  She is the granddaughter of the late famed civil rights activist Hosea Williams.  She’s a newlywed (an actual housewife! Yay!), having married former NFL quarterback Kordell Stewart last year. She’s also a singer, and runs the Kordell & Porsha Stewart Foundation for Cancer Research with her husband. Beyond that, we don’t know too much more about her.

What we can expect from her:  As the old adage goes, well-behaved women rarely make history–or good reality TV. From what we can see right now, Porsha seems to be a good girl, big into church, charity, and carrying on her grandfather’s legacy. We don’t see much of her in the super trailer, and what we do see is mild, compared to what the other girls are getting into. She calls somebody ashy. That’s about it. I hate to say it, but so far, she reminds me of that one lady from the very first season–the pretty, quiet one who just went about doing good and wasn’t brought back for a second season. I can’t remember her name, and you probably can’t either.

But Miss Kenya on the other hand? She seems to be a different story. Detroit native Kenya Moore is pretty well known in the black entertainment world, first shooting into the spotlight in 1993 when she won the Miss USA crown.  Since then, she’s done some acting in films like Trois, Waiting to Exhale, and I Know Who Killed Me along with a host of TV appearances. She’s also done the video model thing, popping up in videos and urban magazines everywhere. Unlike Porsha, there’s plenty of dirt swirling around about Kenya (rumors, though they may be), and they’re not at all hard to find. Her penchant for drama was made pretty plain when she released a “sextape” to promote her book in 2010. She’s been romantically linked to celebs like Terrell Owens and Mike Tyson, and depending on which anonymous sources you believe, she’s not above using what she has to get what she wants.

What we can expect from her:  DRAMA. The super trailer shows Kenya pretty much gunning for Phaedra Park’s man all up in Phaedra’s face, and it looks like he might be interested. Apparently she’s single, ready for a baby, and being driven to messy depths to get it. And speaking of getting in people’s faces, we see her all up in NeNe Leakes’ too, and rumor is she punched her in it. The trailer ends with Kenya on a bed humming into a pillow while someone asks her if she’s had her medicine that day.  Have mercy!

Don’t mind Chris Brown, he’s just trying to reach his “controversy” quota for the year.

Related: Coupled Up: Is Chris Brown Trying To Play Rihanna & Karrueche Tran?

On Wednesday, the 23-year-old singer and his buddies made their way to Rihanna‘s Halloween bash in West Hollywood in an interesting set of costumes that have caused quite a stir. The party of five took on their version of Arab terrorists, with turbans, beards and automatic weapons to boot.

“Ain’t nobody F–king wit my clique!!! #ohb,” he captioned the photo, unaware of the potential backlash. While some decorated members of #TeamBreezy laughed it off as “just Halloween,” others found his choice of clothing to be poorly thought out and insensitive.

Related: Five Spots Where Chris Brown & Rihanna Have Reunited

Joyce Hawkins, Brown’s mother, quickly took to Twitter to defend her son and remind everyone that October 31 is just a silly holiday.

“HALLOWEEN IS FOR FUN NOTHING MORE THAN JUST FUN,” she wrote. “GET A LIFE PLEASE.” (yes, in all caps.)

So you be the judge: harmless fun or another foolish decision?

In the December issue of Vanity Fair, readers were asked who they would cast as Jesus if they were directing a film version of the New Testament. Considering its predominately White readership, the answer might surprise you.

Related: Exclusive: Denzel Washington Flies High [VIDEO]

Out of six actors (and a choice of “none of them”), Denzel Washington came out top as the man to play the holy role. With 21 percent of the vote, the 57-year-old actor beat out Daniel Day-Lewis, Al Pacino, Ryan Gosling, Woody Allen and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Fifteen percent of the respondents voted “none of them.”

The magazine also asked its readers questions such as “Do you have a public-library card?” (55 percent answered “Have card and know where it is”) and “Which holiday movie is the most overplayed?” (23 percent answered “A Christmas Story”).

Seeing as Washington is grew up in the church (his father was a Pentecostal preacher) and he admits to reading the Bible every day, the Academy Award winner would already have a leg up on the competition.

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

For now, fans can catch Washington in the new action-drama Flight, opening Nov. 2 in theaters nationwide.

Courtesy of Loop 21

Feb. 18, 2009: President Barack Obama takes aim backstage with a photographer’s camera prior to remarks about providing mortgage payment relief for responsible homeowners at Dobson High School in Mesa, Ariz., just shy of a month after his historic inauguration. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

Continue at Loop 21…

Nicki Minaj shows the world what she looks like pared down while arriving at her London hotel after a concert on Oct. 31.

Pres. Barack Obama and Gov. Chris Christie meet with New Jersey residents affected by Hurricane Sandy on Oct. 31.

Emeli Sande attends the Harper’s Bazaar Women of the Year Awards at the Claridge Hotel in London on Oct. 31.

Floyd Mayweather attends the season opener for the LA Lakers Vs. the Dallas Mavericks at the Staples Center in LA on Oct. 30.

LeToya Luckett attends an early vote rally for the Obama/Biden campaign at North Carolina Central University on Oct. 29.

RELATED: Forward: A Who’s Who Of Celebrities On The Obama Campaign Trail [PHOTOS]

Kelly Rowland enjoys a snack while on her way to have lunch at Jack N Jill’s restaurant in LA with a friend on Oct. 29. Photo: Splash/WENN

Kimora Lee Hounsou and her brood of three, Ming Lee Simmons, Aoki Lee Simmons, and Kenzo Lee Hounsou, hit up a pumpkin patch in LA on Oct. 29. Photo: Splash/WENN

Stacey Dash tweets a photo of her and vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan at a press conference on Oct. 29. Photo: Twitter

Nicki Minaj gets lost on the step and repeat, and unveils her new MAC Viva Glam Lipglass at Selfridges in London on Oct. 29.

Diddy and his twin girls, Jesse James and D’Lila Star, enjoyed some wholesome Halloween fun at a pumpkin patch in LA on Oct. 28. He posted the pic on Instagram, saying, “I’m having more fun the the kids :) #halloween” Photo: Instagram

Dressed as a sexy Queen of Hearts, Christina Milian heads into Greystone Manor Very Special Hennessy Halloween fete on Oct. 28.

Chris Brown, looking rather surprised, hits up the Greystone Manor Halloween party too with ex-girlfriend Karrueche Tran, who dressed appropriately as a geisha, on Oct. 28.

Meanwhile, Rihanna heads to the studio with Chris Brown‘s mom (in the blue blouse), Joyce Hawkins, on Oct. 26.

Hottie Shemar Moore salutes me, er, the paps as he heads into the doctor’s office in Beverly Hills on Oct. 25. Photo: INFphoto.com

Maxwell competes for dapper man of the night with Usher, who was honored at the second annual Pencils of Promise Gala at Guastavino’s in NYC, on Oct. 25.

Estelle was also on hand for the Pencils of Promise fete in NYC on Oct. 25.

Oprah wears slippers to the ABC Studios in NYC, where she was a guest host on “Good Morning America,” on Oct. 25. Photo: Roger Wong/INFphoto.com

Alicia Keys launches The Journals of Mama Mae & LeeLee interactive storytelling app at the Apple store in SoHo of NYC on Oct. 25. Photo: Nancy Rivera/ACE/INFphoto.com

Jennifer Hudson looks fabulous while attending the opening of the Versace SoHo store cocktail reception in NYC on Oct. 24 Photo: Dara Kushner/INFphoto.com

Kelly Rowland performs during Mercedes-Benz China Fashion Week at 751 D.Park Tank zone in Beijing on Oct. 24.

Common took a couple members of his team to the Staples Center in LA to catch the LA Lakers playing the LA Clippers on Oct. 24. Looks one of them is ready to party and the other brought work along.

Halle Berry received some support from her No. 2 fan, Olivier Martinez, at the Cloud Atlas premiere at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in LA on Oct. 24.

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.

Check out the latest happenings around the music world…

• After a pair of health scares that involved “seizure-like symptoms,” doctors have ordered Lil Wayne to rest and stay grounded for the next week. The YMCMB rapper has been asked to not take any flights or overextend himself with work. TMZ reports Wayne is resting comfortably at his mother’s house and has been to the doctor twice since his hospitalization. In the coming days, he will make his way back to Miami on a bus. Wayne reportedly said the seizures were a result of working too hard after serving time behind bars and is calling the situation a “life-changing event” and an “eye-opener.”
• Attention artists: Rihanna has November on lock. To gear up for the Nov. 16 release of her seventh studio album Unapologetic, the 24-year-old pop princess is putting on a monster promotional tour. Appropriately titled the ”777 Tour,” Rihanna will be hosting more than 150 journalists representing 82 countries as they travel on a chartered Boeing 777 twinjet to seven shows in seven days in seven countries starting Nov. 14. Whew! In addition, music’s golden child will be releasing a $250 “Diamonds Executive Platinum Box” for dedicated fans that will include the new album, a personal note, exclusive photos and other types of goodies. (Of course, there will be a standard, less expensive version for regular folk.) And just for kicks, Rihanna hit the Saturday Night Life stage on Nov. 10.
• Ahead of her sister’s comeback, Solange Knowles will drop her EP True on Nov. 27 through iTunes, which features the loveable single “Losing You.” The eclectic singer recently released the cover art for the project and revealed its track list to fans. True is the follow-up album to 2008′s Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams. Get a sneak peek of the cover after the jump!
• Last but not least, Nicki Minaj‘s Barbz will have their DVRs set to E! this Sunday as the network premieres the femcee’s three-part reality series Nicki Minaj: My Truth. From music to her high publicized spat with Mariah Carey, cameras followed the “Starships” rapper as she tells her side of the story. “My diehard fans have seen that side, but I think the world hasn’t really gotten a chance,” she told Ryan Seacrest. “You’re gonna see the no makeup, the crazy, sweaty face in the studio, the regular stuff. You’re gonna see rehearsals for the tour. People always see the glamorous side when I’m all made up and done up.” My Truth begins Nov. 4 at 10:30/9:30c on E!.

Solange Knowles, True

The seven-track EP includes: 
1) Losing You
2) Some Things Never Seem to Fucking Change
3) Locked In Closets
4) Lovers in the Parking Lot
5) Don’t Let Me Down
6) Look Good With Trouble
7) Bad Girls (Verdine Version)

Courtesy of BlackVoices

WASHINGTON, Nov 1 (Reuters) – After three days of focusing on superstorm Sandy, President Barack Obama will return to the campaign trail on Thursday with a more “affirmative” message to win over undecided voters in the final days of the race for the White House.

With polls showing a tight contest between the Democratic  incumbent and Republican challenger Mitt Romney before Tuesday’s election, Obama will use trips to political battleground states to make a closing appeal for a second term.

That argument will touch on points he has made for months about the choice between competing Republican and Democratic  visions, Obama advisers said, but it will put more weight on Obama’s ideas for the future and could resurrect some of the  hopeful themes that helped him win election in 2008.

“You’re going to see him lift up … the vision of what we’re fighting for,” senior campaign strategist David Axelrod said in an interview last week before the storm, adding the construction of Obama’s “stump” speech would alter slightly in the final days.

“We’ll still address what the choice is. You have to address the choice. But I think it’ll tilt toward the affirmative, toward the future.”

Continue at BlackVoices…

Here’s something you don’t hear every day: In an effort to boost involvement, several Chicago schools are bribing parents with gift cards to complete simple tasks such as picking up their child’s report cards and attending parent-teacher conferences.

You know, the things parents should be doing for free.

Related: A Strategic Plan? Florida Board Of Education Approves Race-Based Achievement Goals

According to the Huffington Post, the pilot program being launched at 70 schools will offer $25 Walgreens “Balance Rewards” cards as an incentive to get parents involved in their child’s academic lives. All of the schools selected to participate have reported difficulty in engaging parents.

The program, thought up by Mayor Rahm Emanuel, piggybacks off Walgreens’ new loyalty card and aims to close the communication gap between the schools and parents.

Related: When They Leave

“This is about our educators and CPS leadership working to be innovative and creative in order to increase parent involvement in their child’s education, period,” said a statement from the mayor’s office.

While the program has been met with criticism, the new rewards system will likely boost parent involvement in some small way. City schools plan to track and analyze the data to determine the program’s effectiveness.

Courtesy of the Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg on Thursday backed President Barack Obama over Republican Mitt Romney, saying the incumbent Democrat will bring leadership that is critically needed to fight climate change after the East Coast devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy.

The endorsement from the politically independent and popular third-term mayor was a major boost for Obama, who is spending the campaign’s final days trying to win over independent voters whose voices will be critical in determining who wins Tuesday’s election.

Both candidates had eagerly sought the nod from Bloomberg, who didn’t endorse a presidential candidate in 2008.

As New York continued to pick up the pieces after the superstorm devastated parts of the city this week, Bloomberg said Sandy had made the stakes of the election even clearer. He said the climate is changing and that Obama has taken major steps in the right direction.

“We need leadership from the White House, and over the past four years, President Barack Obama has taken major steps to reduce our carbon consumption,” Bloomberg wrote in an online opinion piece, citing higher fuel-efficiency standards for vehicles and stricter controls on mercury emissions.

A billionaire businessman and former Republican, Bloomberg praised Romney as a good man who would bring valuable business experience to the White House. But he said Romney had reversed course on a number of important issues, including immigration, health care and abortion.

“If the 1994 or 2003 version of Mitt Romney were running for president, I may well have voted for him because, like so many other independents, I have found the past four years to be, in a word, disappointing,” Bloomberg wrote.

Obama issued a statement welcoming the endorsement and pledging to continue to stand with New York in its time of need.

“While we may not agree on every issue, Mayor Bloomberg and I agree on the most important issues of our time – that the key to a strong economy is investing in the skills and education of our people, that immigration reform is essential to an open and dynamic democracy, and that climate change is a threat to our children’s future, and we owe it to them to do something about it,” Obama said.

Bloomberg endorsed Republican President George W. Bush’s re-election in 2004.

In today’s link round-up: Jamie Foxx in talks to play the villain in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, BBW: L.A. star Brooke Bailey talks firing rumors and much more!

EURweb
Obama’s Bud, Jay-Z, to Join The Campaign Trail For Ohio Performance
The pair will meet up in Columbus, OH for the final stretch.

Madame Noire
It’s  Happening! The Best Man 2 Will Hit Theaters Next Fall
Happy Friday!

VIBE.com
Jamie Foxx In Talks For “Spider-Man”
This could get interesting…

Sister2Sister
‘BBW: L.A.’ Cast Reacts To Firing Rumors
The reality star is “confident” that she’ll be returning next season.

Necole Bitchie
Solange Tells Donald Trump To ‘Have A Seat’, Donald Goes In On Star Jones For Defending Obama
Why won’t this jerk fire himself?

Vibe Vixen
Fly Or Fail? Lisa Bonet Debuts Shaved Side Hairdo
Are you feeling the change-up?

The Frisky
10 Dream Jobs That You Had No Idea Existed
Faux reality show competitor, anyone?

This week, the celebrities making headlines for their outrageous musings include a powerhouse diva griping about her bankruptcy woes, a controversial comedian’s harsh comments about black women, and a video vixen faces rejections on the set! Plus, which ESPN reporter allegedly called Kobe Bryant the n-word, and Soulja Boy said what?! AND I QUOTE …

“She says to me, ‘I heard you have Gucci flatware. I’m Oprah Winfrey and I don’t have Gucci flatware.’ You ain’t got Gucci flatware because you didn’t want to buy it, not because you couldn’t afford it! What do you mean?”

Toni Braxton lashing out at Oprah Winfrey whom she blames for making her feel small regarding her first bankruptcy filing, via VH1’s “Behind The Music.”

Source

“Opening night. Kobe Bryant is going to miss it because, ‘my foot is sprained’? Are you crazy, n***a please!”

Stephen Smith allegedly using the n-word while discussing five-time NBA Champion Kobe Bryant, his injured ankle, and whether he will start in the season opener game,  on ESPN “First Take.”

Source

“This storm came out of nowhere! New York never had no hurricanes. This got Republicans written all over it. This got Romney written all over it.”

Tracy Morgan blaming the recent natural disaster Hurricane Sandy on presidential hopeful Mitt Romney and the entire Republican Party, while visiting “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

Source

“I remember in early 2009 I tried 2 get into Neyo’s Miss Independent video they said I was 2bald I was so sad but lookin back now it’s funny”

Amber Rose, who is pregnant with her first child with fiance Wiz Khalifa, remembers being rejected by hit-maker Ne-Yo, via Twitter.

“Well, in her ability to kind of tolerate my – it’s her ability to tolerate me, A) and B) I’ve never met an angrier group of people. Like black women are angry just in general. Angry all the time.”

D.L. Hughley, who is on a promo tour for his new book I Want You to Shut the Fawk Up: How the Audacity of Dopes is Ruining America, dishing out some harsh opinions on the state of black women, in an interview with Michel Martin of NPR.

Continue reading on UPTOWN

“They’re f**ked. It’s terrible. We have so little regard for the homeless in New York already. I mean, I love Mayor Bloomberg, but he did a sh**ty job with the homeless. And now look at this mess. Really, I don’t know what to say.”

Russell Simmons lashing out at New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg about his treatment of the homeless and how they will suffer even more thanks to Hurricane Sandy, via TMZ.

Source

“I’ll be on 106 next week dropping off my new video. we gonna see what’s go wit it. bang bang.” 

Soulja Boy, whose new album Young & Flexin drops on November 6th, starting a social media beef with fellow rapper and new host of BET’s “106 & Park” Bow Wow, via Twitter.

“Six babies crying, can you picture that?”

No Mia and Rozonno McGhee, we can’t.

In Oprah Winfrey‘s latest series for OWN, Six Little McGhees will follow the Ohio family as they navigate through marriage, a family business and the challenge of raising six roaming toddlers.

Josiah, Madison, Olivia, Issac, Rozonno Jr. and Elijah gained national attention in 2011 when they were featured on an episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show. After several unsuccessful attempts at starting a family, Mia and “Ro” were given six little miracles. Fast forward one year and the sextuplets are ready for their close-ups.

Six Little McGhees will premiere Saturday, Dec. 15 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on OWN.

Courtesy of VIBE.com

The 2012-2013 Minnesota Timberwolves might be the whitest team in the NBA since the heyday of Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics. The Post Game asks why the T-Wolves, lead by stars like Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio, have only five African-American players on their opening day roster. Most NBA teams have 11 or more black players, but the T-Wolves seem to be bucking the trend.

New T-Wolves player Brandon Roy, who will be the only African-American player to start for the team on opening night, says it doesn’t matter.

Continue at VIBE.com…

Kerry Washington was fierce as she spoke on behalf of President Barack Obama at this year’s Democratic National Convention in Charlotte. Not too long after, the obviously informed actress opened up a can of whup ass on a Republican pundit on “Real Time with Bill Maher.”

Ironically, she plays a high powered political fixer in a fictitious White House each week, and this December will be on the big screen as a slave in Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained with Jamie Foxx and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Washington notes one’s story is not more important than the other. “I don’t think it’s about your occupation, it’s about your humanity,” says Washington. “I don’t think anyone’s journey is any more important than someone else’s.”

Related: Kerry Washington On BGR and Olivia Pope [VIDEO]

Each and every Thursday, the ABC drama Scandal keeps us mesmerized, titillated, and appropriately scandalized. At the center of this whirling dervish of a drama is the fast-talking, sharp dressing character, Olivia Pope, whom Kerry Washington plays with perfect aplomb.

Washington talks exclusively to UPTOWN about how she and Olivia are the same and yet different, and also how sometimes let’s face it, Olivia’s personal life is a haute mess.

But first Washington chats about how her recent honor at this year’s Black Girls Rock (BET, Sunday, 7pm EST) is thrilling, awesome and so very necessary. This year she is joined by honorees Alicia Keys, Dionne Warwick, Janelle Monae and more for a truly inspiring and even tear jerking show. Miss Kerry works! And yes, black girls rock.

Earlier this week came the reports that four Basketball Wives: L.A. cast members had been cut from the show for not allowing “all of their reality to be filmed.” But VH1 is setting the record straight.

The network responded to the rumors on their official blog Friday, stating:

“We can officially tell you all that despite the widespread reports, none of them are true. There have been absolutely no casting decisions made regarding the next season of the show. Some of the ladies have responded to the allegations, with Brooke Bailey tweeting “Not all rumors you hear are true….Don’t go off of what you hear, but what you see instead,” and Laura Govan also responding “P.S. ya girl ain’t never been fired from ANYTHING in life. eff what ya heard!” We agree with Laura and Brooke…don’t believe everything you hear.”

Interesting, seeing as how Gloria Govan spoke with TMZ earlier this week to confirm a rift between her and producers when it came to her secret wedding. But we’ll take the network’s word for it: Gloria and Laura Govan, Malaysia Pargo, Brooke Bailey, Draya Michele and Jackie Christie are here to stay.

Courtesy of EURweb

In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, Newark, NJ Mayor Cory Booker has allowed at least one person affected from the storm to bunk in his home and enjoy his power  outlets and “working DVD player.”

Newark Mayor Cory Booker has earned the nickname “supermayor” for rushing  into a burning building to save a woman from a fire last April and regularly  using Twitter to personally solve the problems of his constituents.

Thursday morning, a Twitter user with the handle @my_serenelove who  identifies herself as a “Newark native” on the site sent a message to Mayor  Booker complaining about her situation in the aftermath of the storm.

Continue at EURweb…

As the East Coast digs out of the destruction of Superstorm Sandy, the NBA, NFL and their respective players’ unions have pledged to donate $1 million to the American Red Cross and several other organizations to help relief efforts.

Related: Gov. Christie Says Pres. Obama Deserves ‘Great Credit’ For Storm Response

Both league commissioners said in press releases earlier this week that its networks will run pregame and in-game messages to promote donations and encourage fans to support various charities.

“This contribution on behalf of all 32 clubs and players throughout the league will help the American Red Cross assist people in need in the affected areas,” said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. “We salute the dedication of those who have been working so hard on the rescue, relief and recovery effort.”

Related: Cory Booker Lets Sandy Victims Crash At His House

NBA commissioner David Stern also touched on the natural disaster and the league’s effort to help rebuild the areas affected.

“Many homes and lives were devastated by Hurricane Sandy and our thoughts, abiding concerns and hopes are with all those affected,” he said. “The NBA, the NBPA, our teams, and players are partnering with the Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations to support the relief efforts to help families and communities recover.”

As sports leagues and big-name corporations across the entertainment world pledge their donations, NBC is also holding a benefit concert on Friday for victims of Sandy. Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Mary J. Blige, Christina Aguilera and others are expected to be in attendance.

According to NBC4NY’s Andrew Siff, the ING New York City Marathon scheduled for November 4 has been cancelled.

Until now, Mayor Bloomberg was deadset on moving forward with the event – despite the devastation from Sandy, particularly in Staten Island, where the race was meant to begin.

There is no official word at this time on whether the event is to be rescheduled for another date.

The mayor’s office (@NYCMayorsOffice) confirmed the cancellation via Twitter, stating:

“We have decided to cancel the NYC marathon. The New York Road Runners will have additional information in days ahead for participants.”

[Photo credit: Shutterstock]

For days, long lines trailed for miles outside of gas stations in the New York City Tri-State area, in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. In an attempt to quickly turn the fuel shortage around, federal authorities instructed the Defense Department to send 24 million gallons of fuel to the region late Friday.

The authorization came after restrictions on deliveries by foreign-flagged ships were lifted. Fuel crews are now working to contain oil in the Bayway Refinery in Linden, N.J.

The Port of New York reopened to tankers on Thursday, and the Northeast fuel pipeline was restored to full capacity on Friday. The major lingering problem remains the lack of power at hundreds of gas stations needed to power the pumps.

According to the New York Times, “because electricity will not be restored in parts of central New Jersey for seven to 10 days, gasoline shortages may remain severe in some areas. As of Friday, according to AAA, only 40 to 50 percent of the gas stations in New York City and New Jersey were operating, and even fewer were operating on Long Island. Most of the stations were out of service because of power failures.”

The Obama administration accelerated its response to the fuel shortage on Friday. From predetermined staging areas, the fuel will be distributed throughout the area in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to restock stations. Combined, the gasoline and diesel deliveries are enough for 1.6 million vehicles with 15-gallon tanks.

[UPDATE: New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced in a press conference, 28 million gallons of fuel will be delivered over the next 2 days. Mobile fueling stations were set up in NYC/Long Island. Eight million gallons have been delivered so far, and there is a 10 gallon limit for customers. The government will also provide generators for many fueling stations without power.]