By Clarissa Hamlin

The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater’s upcoming North American tour and season premiere on Nov. 28 in New York summons a creative, hypnotic energy into the air.

Suddenly, dancers inspire us through cultural expression and ever-evolving performances. Center stage is artistic director Robert Battle adding onto the more than four decades-worth of Ailey’s acclaimed repertoire with new “choreographic voices.” He raises his own in Strange Humors, an intense duet powered by composer John Mackey’s African drumming and Middle Eastern folk music.

Next, sought after and young choreographer Kyle Abraham joins in with the world premiere of Another Night (set to Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers‘ rendition of Dizzy Gillespie’s “A Night in Tunisia”). Abraham presents the many purposeful facets of American dance.

Renowned European choreographer JiřÍ Kylián’s ballet, Petite Mort, adds a “breathtaking sensuality” in its debut, says public relations director Christopher Zunner in a press release. And Tony-award winning choreographer Garth Fagan’s From Before commingles African dance rhythms and Caribbean influences and a “jazzy percussive” score in its Ailey premiere.

Returning are Ronald K. Brown’s spiritually-charged Grace, and Ailey Classics, a lively anthology of Mr. Ailey’s 30-year seminal professional journey, featuring crowd pleasers like Cry, Love Songs, and For ‘Bird’ With Love. And last season’s hits — Ohad Naharin’s Minus 16, Paul Taylor’s Arden Court, Rennie Harris’ Home, and Battle’s The Hunt — are in full effect.

Commemorations are in the works for executive director Sharon Gersten Luckman and Ailey legend Renee Robinson, who will lead all Revelations performances until bidding farewell on December 9.

And for those spectators inspired to dance? Ailey offers a free class with a ticket purchase from any of its company or school performances nationwide.

Note: Alvin Ailey’s New York season runs through Dec. 30. And the company will embark on a North American tour in 2013. Go to AlvinAiley.org for more information.

[Photo 1: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's Antonio Douthit and Yannick Lebrun. Photo by Andrew Eccles]

[Photo 2: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's Rachael McLaren. Photo by Andrew Eccles ]

In 1973, the beloved Dick Clark created the American Music Awards to give fans the power to vote for their favorite artists– a departure from the Grammys’ traditional voting system. And although the “eternal teenager” is no longer here to oversee the success of the event, the show must go on.

AMA producers announced Wednesday that Stevie Wonder will perform a special tribute to the late radio/television personality at this Sunday’s live ceremony. Clark died on April 18 at age 82.

“Without a Dick Clark, our entire current musical repertoire might be classical in nature. Not that there’s anything wrong with classical music, but Clark helped Beethoven roll over and tell Tchaikovsky the news,” AMA producer Larry Klein said in a statement. “Sunday’s tribute to Dick Clark performed by the iconic Stevie Wonder is going to be talked about for years to come.”

Ryan Seacrest, who will introduce Wonder, added, “I am honored to be a part of the AMAs tribute to Dick Clark. He was a mentor, friend and a wonderful advocate for popular music, helping make it one of the cornerstones of American culture. We miss him dearly.”

Wonder joins a laundry list of performers set to hit the stage that include Nicki Minaj, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and more.

The 40th annual American Music Awards will air live this Sunday (Nov. 18) at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.

Just two days after welcoming their first child, actress Tamera Mowry-Housley and husband Adam Housley have released several intimate photos of their baby boy Aden John Tanner Housley.

Weighing in at 9 lbs./5 oz., Aden was delivered at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Monday– two weeks after his Oct. 30 due date. In Touch obtained the exclusive first pictures of Hollywood’s newest babe.

“We are so happy,” Adam told the magazine. “[Aden] is healthy, happy, strong, beautiful and our families are so excited to have another grandchild, cousin and nephew.”

Tamera, who we trust is getting plenty of rest, shared her excitement over the couple’s new addition and thanked her fans for their support earlier this week.

“Adam and I feel very blessed to finally be holding our son, he is a beautiful miracle, and our hearts are overflowing with love,” she told Style. “Thank you to everyone for your love and support. It means so much to our family.”

Check out more shots of the adorable little guy after the jump!

By Shonitria Anthony

While scouring the web for men hotter than People‘s 2012 Sexiest Man Alive Channing Tatum, we realized being sexy ain’t easy. A hottie can make women and men swarm and swoon without even saying a word. Here are the men (in no particular order) we think are sexier than Channing and could easily steal his title–that’s if they haven’t had it already. Enjoy!

RELATED: Hello! Rihanna’s Top 5 Sexiest Magazine Shots [PHOTOS]

Jesse Williams

Idris Elba

Shemar Moore

Taylor Kinney

John Slattery

Daniel Craig

Alexander Skarsgard

Luke James

Bradley Cooper

Victor Cruz

And one to grow on … Barack Obama

Who gets your vote for Sexiest Man Alive? Let us know in the comment section below!

By Colby Carrington

Elmo will not be tickled about this.

The man who lied about having an intimate relationship with puppeteer Kevin Clash while he was underage has been identified as 24-year-old Harrisburg, PA resident Sheldon Anthony Stephens.

Harrisburg University lists Stephens on its site as a recent intern who described a completed stint with a government service agency as helping him realize “how much I like dealing with finances.” (Ed. note: The page has been modified since this story was published but the original version can be found here.)

However, The Smoking Gun uncovered that the model/actor wannabe has a history of arrests dating back to 2009, including writing a bad check, a traffic offense and a criminal complaint involving a knifepoint robbery of a former employer.

In a submission for a modeling contest, Stephens’ pitch for becoming the publication’s next cover model hints at both low-self esteem and ambition for greatness: “It will help restore my confidence and to give me a better outlook on the future of my career.  OBVIOUS (magazine) represents everything that I’m trying to accomplish.”

A friend of Stephens told the Smoking Gun that he “attracts these high-powered men, but that the model wannabe was a “God-fearing guy” and “not just a pretty boy.”

When a gentleman is presented with the opportunity to smartly accessorize his look, he should readily take advantage of any and all accoutrements that are at his disposal. Over the lifespan of this weekly column, we have explored a broad range of accessories that have included everything from wool pocket squares to vibrant striped socks. Today, we are going to discuss a gentleman’s accessory that is often used this time of the year, but not widely considered an accent piece — the scarf. In terms of function, a gentleman only requires his scarf to perform but one task, and that task is to keep him warm. Fashion, on the other hand, arrives at a distant second. Nevertheless, if a gentleman is going to wrap one around his neck for all to see, it might as well look great. Right? This winter, rethink the purpose of your scarf; here is how.

A dapper gentleman should never hesitate to incorporate a bright flourish into his outfit. Surely, at this stage of the sartorial game, you should possess a serious camel hair overcoat in your winter repertoire. If not, invest in one immediately. And if you already do, a playful orange scarf is the perfect companion that strikes an excellent balance.

Hugo Boss Wool-Cotton Check/Stripe Scarf, $55

There are specific reasons cashmere wool is so roundly adored. It’s sublimely soft, extremely lightweight, and it performs as a great insulator of warmth when the weather outside becomes frigidly frightful. Avoid the bulk, but stay toasty my friend.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Plaid Cashmere Scarf, $450

If a gentleman so decides that his scarf should be a statement scarf (you know, the type of scarf that makes an exclamation?), then go hard with a bold color and exploding pattern. And as mentioned before, a gentleman simply cannot fail when employing the duties of cashmere to fight back the cold.

Burberry Giant Check Cashmere Scarf, $395

Sure, even simple scarves can test the limits of a gentleman’s wallet, but such measures can easily be avoided. There are plenty of options available that won’t break the $50 barrier; plus the level of quality won’t be sacrificed. Take this offering from Nordstrom for example — temptingly inexpensive and up for the task of keeping you snug.

Nordstrom Wool Scarf, $49.50

When your presentation is relatively sedate (go ahead, you can blame it on the weather), an audacious, showy scarf is the right type of fashion medicine needed to lighten the mood. Polka dots are hot this fall, so take advantage of its current popularity and add a lively jolt to your ensemble.

Richard James Polka Dot Cashmere Silk Scarf, $325

And if you are fearful that polka dots won’t be around beyond this upcoming winter, a gentleman can always summon the artful talents of paisley. Although blended with hints of wool and silk, this cashmere still retains its soft and warm attributes, as it adds a refined touch to your look.

Paul Stuart Wool Cashmere Silk Paisley Scarf, $387

Courtesy of EURweb

The voting may be over, but GOP candidate Mitt Romney is still throwing his last few swings.

On Wednesday, President Barack Obama dished out a little praise to his former  rival, only to get a slew of accusations from Romney.

“The president’s campaign focused on giving targeted groups a big gift, so he made a big effort on small things,” the (former) governor told his supporters during a conference call. “Those small things, by the way, add up to trillions of dollars.”

Continue at EURweb…

Grab the popcorn, this is going to be good.

As part of its Characters Unite public-service initiative, USA Network is debuting a quarterly Saturday movie series to promote diversity among its viewers beginning with The Color Purple. The critically acclaimed film, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, will be presented with limited ads and introduced by its star Whoopi Goldberg.

NBCUniversal Cable entertainment chairman Bonnie Hammer told The Hollywood Reporter that the project is deeply personal and dates back nearly two decades to when she created the socially conscious Erase the Hate campaign on USA.

“I’m a big believer that we’re not born knowing how to hate; we’re taught to hate,” she explained. “We may be more sophisticated in how we hide it, but there are still so many phobias in this world, whether it’s Islamophobia, xenophobia or homophobia.”

She continued, “I’ve been trying to do things that expose and help teach and draw attention to all of the ‘isms’ and how we do or don’t deal with them in our world.”

Although she has yet to license additional films, Hammer is looking to add Gentleman’s Agreement, Imitation of Life, Milk and Brokeback Mountain to the roster. It is also her hope to arrange panels, classroom applications and discussions with talent, producers or directors to accompany the films.

The Color Purple will air this Saturday (Nov. 17) at 8/7c on USA.

By Shonitria Anthony

Chewylou might sound more like a brand of saltwater taffy than a line of T-shirts, but trust us these Tees will feed your soul. Chewylou Designs founder Alyssa Dinowitz has a very simple mission: Encourage people to live positive lives while remaining spiritually strong.

She began the T-shirt line after her mother Marriann Gofonia was diagnosed with breast cancer, having realized that remaining positive was as important a treatment as chemotherapy and radiation. The comfy, lightweight shirts feature inspiring words such as: BELIEVE, JOY, GRATITUDE, KARMA, PEACE, and LIVE. The LIVE T-shirt was inspired by Dinowitz’s late mother and means “Love, Inspire, Value, and Embrace life.”

A percentage of the proceeds from shirt sales goes to charities Chewylou supports, which include The Lupus Foundation of America, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Best Friends Animal Rescue, and Chemo Champions, an organization founded by Dinowitz that pairs volunteer companions with patients in the chemo lounge. And, each T-shirt is printed by special needs adults at Michael’s Garden.

Chewylou is proof that shopping can be a selfless pursuit sometimes. So in the spirit of Thanksgiving Day, why not try giving a little and getting some positive, inspiring vibes in return?! Visit Chewylou Designs to find your special message T-shirt.

Maybe we spoke too soon on the possibility of Tyra Banks becoming a mommy. The 38-year-old supermodel is setting the record straight on where she stands with the “baby making” matter.

Related: Allyson Felix, Tyra Banks & More Get Glamorous At Glamour Women Of The Year [PHOTOS]

While promoting her new “Smize Yourself” app, Banks told ESSENCE.com that the media’s obsession with her decision to have children has hit an all-time high– and has left her baffled.

“The baby fever thing I find interesting because I say it publicly every three years. I say it all the time and every time I say it, it gets crazy. I’m like, ‘Wow, people really care about that,’” she explained. “I see it on a poll on CNN and I am like, ‘Wow, what is going on?’ All I said is I am ready to have babies.”

The whole notion of Banks having children resurfaced during an interview with Steve Harvey back in October when it seemed like she had made up her mind. Whatever the outcome, it’s likely to be kept under wraps.

Related: The Brown Beauties Of The Covergirl Club

“I try to keep my private life kind of private,” she said. “I didn’t realize people care that much, but I guess they do. I feel like so many people are having babies and I didn’t feel like me saying it this time would get such a big buzz.”

For now, the Harvard Business graduate is focused on launching her mobile app, creating storylines for her new sitcom and– among other things– minding her own damn business.

The post Tyra Banks Needs Everyone To Chill On The ‘Baby Fever’ Talk appeared first on UPTOWN Magazine.

Halle Berry‘s daughter Nahla Aubry seems well adjusted to the paparazzi as she heads into school in LA on Nov. 15. Photo: INFphoto.com

Oh look, Kim Kardashian is going somewhere … this time to visit The Fours Seasons Hotel and a cosmetic surgeon office with Jonathan Cheban in Miami on Nov. 14. Photo: INFphoto.com

Niecy Nash shows her support for marriage equality by attending the launch of “Tie the Knot,” a charity to raise funds for the cause by selling limited-edition TheTieBar.com bow ties, at The London West Hollywood in West Hollywood on Nov. 14.

Camila Alves McConaughey and Sandra Bullock take their tots for a ride on a choo-choo train in New Orleans on Nov. 14. Photo: Chris Watts/INFphoto.com

Hollywood powerhouses Cicely Tyson and Viola Davis are honored by the National Domestic Workers Alliance at an event held at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C. on Nov. 14.

Michelle Rodriguez departs The Squat Boutique Opening Party in London on Nov. 14. Photo: INFphoto.com

Minutes before embarking on her 777 tour with journalists and fans, Rihanna poses in the cockpit of her private jet on Nov. 14.

Comedian Tommy Davidson attends the premiere of Anna Karenina at the Archlight in Hollywood on Nov. 14. Photo: Carlos Diaz/INFphoto.com

Laura Govan looks more than pleased that Floyd Mayweather, Jr. acknowledged her at the LA Clippers Vs. Miami Heat game on Nov. 14 at the Staples Center in LA.

Fashion heavyweight Andre Leon Talley heads into “The Today Show” studio in NYC for an appearance on Nov. 14. Photo: Roger Wong/INFphoto.com

The forever adorable and talented Amandla Stenberg arrives at the premiere of Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2 at The Nokia Theaters at LA Live in LA on Nov. 12. Photo: Katy Winn/INFphoto.com

Always the dapper gent, RuPaul stocks his wardrobe with the best on Beverly Hill’s Rodeo Drive on Nov. 12.

Gayle King goes monochromatic for a dining excursion at Michael’s New York Restaurant in NYC on Nov. 12.

Connor Cruise seems to have as much personality as his father, as he gives the ubiquitous peace sign while leaving Katsuya restaurant in Hollywood on Nov. 12.

Just because he’s a “Celebrity Apprentice: All-Stars” contestant doesn’t mean Lil Jon will ever let the camera capture him without shades, while out and about in NYC on Nov. 12.

Chris Tucker continues to get his mug out there by attending the TriBeCa Teaches Benefit: “Silver Linings Playbook” at the Ziegfeld Theatre in NYC on Nov. 12.

Kandi Burruss hits up “VH1 Morning Buzz” to dish on “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” season five, in NYC on Nov. 12. Photo: Roger Wong/INFphoto.com

T.I. makes his debut as a broadcast sports commentator at the November 9 Hawks vs. Heat game in Atlanta. Photo: NBA

Kevin Hart ‏catches some zzz’s: “This schedule is KICKING my ASS…..G*d Damn ATL NIGHTS #SleeplessNights” via @KevinHart4real

Gabrielle Union is going into law enforcement? “On the set making The Funny w @itsgabrielleu @redgrantlaughs #staygrindin“ via @BILLBELLAMY

Burgundy sheepskin-clad Rihanna arrives back at the Gansevoort on Nov. 8. Credit: Dario Alequin/INFphoto

Baby it’s cold outside: Meagan Good gets cozy in a purple pseudo-snuggie on the set of ‘Infamous’ in NYC on Nov. 8. Credit: Zelig Shaul/ACE/INFphoto

Rachel Roy in a fluffy vest attends the ‘Rust and Bone’ New York Screening, at the Landmark Sunshine Cinema in New York City on Nov. 8. Credit: Jennifer Graylock/INFphoto

There’s more ‘Ice Loves Coco‎’ coming your way this season and the couple started promotion of the new season at ‘The Today Show’ on Nov. 8. Credit: Roger Wong/INFphoto

Backstage at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show at the Manhattan’s 69th Regiment Armory on Nov. 7, Rihanna ponders a career switch: “#LEGITmodelShit I’m a #VS girl now lol” Via @rihanna

Rita Ora leaves Wise Buddha radio station in London on Nov. 5.

Never one to be without his arm candy, Eddie Murphy grabs a coffee with Paige Butcher in Studio City, Calif. on Nov. 5.

Nicole Richie goes flapper-chic for the first annual Baby2Baby Gala at The BookBindery in Culver City, Calif. on Nov. 3.

Jennifer Hudson looks stunning in a white lace Dolce & Gabbana number just before performing at the Atlantis Live Concert series for Sir Sidney Poitier in the Bahamas on Nov. 3.

Russell Simmons and his latest arm candy Hana Nitsche attend the “Inspired: A Night with Russell Simmons,” hosted by Mercy for Animals, at Ink 48 Hotel in NYC on Nov. 3.

Mary J. Blige performs at the taping for NBC’s Coming Together Relief Benefit for Hurricane Sandy in NYC on Nov. 2.

Kevin Hart and his girlfriend Eniko Parrish attend BET’s wrap party for “Hollywood Husbands” at the Supper Club in Hollywood on Nov. 2.

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.

Courtesy of The Frisky

Oh, happy day! Although Andy Cohen denies it, according to an anonymous source at InTouch Weekly, Danielle Staub, my favorite “Real Housewives” cast member of all time, is coming back to the show.

“Bravo has offered Danielle a contract. Danielle is contemplating whether this will be full-time or part-time … She will be filming several episodes … The producers squeezed all the juice they could from the Giudices-versus-Gorgas story line and had to think of a fresh outlet for drama. Having her back on will ruffle a lot of feathers!”

I don’t really care if it’s true or not. I’ve already gone off on a total storyline dreamscape. After the jump, my ideas for the return of the Staub, since we all know the show is more or less scripted anyway.

Continue reading at The Frisky

In today’s link round-up: Rihanna and Chris Brown hook back up on “Nobody’s Business,” Judy Smith fixes a real-life “scandal” and much more!

VIBE.com
WNBA Star Arrested After Shooting Up GF’s Car
After running since Tuesday, Chamique Holdsclaw is now in police custody.

Huffington Post
Hostess to close, cites nationwide worker strike
Bye bye Twinkies.

Necole Bitchie
New Music: Rihanna Ft. Chris Brown – Nobody’s Business
The couple reunite on Rihanna’s upcoming album Unapologetic.

EURweb
Real Life ‘Scandal’ Firm Repping Jill Kelley From Petraeus Cheating Mess
Judy Smith, the fixer.

Hello Beautiful
Sex Sells (Out): Does Kelly Rowland’s Steamy Video Distort Her Image?
You be the judge…

The Frisky
Gobble, Gobble: 10 Super Yummy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Green beans and brown sugar bacon? Yes, please.

The post LOTD: WNBA Star Arrested After Shooting Up Girlfriend’s Car + Hostess Goes Out Of Business appeared first on UPTOWN Magazine.

This week, the celebrities making headlines for their outrageous musings include a member of one of the biggest selling girl groups throwing shade at an “American Idol” judge, a puppeteer caught up in a sex scandal, and another troubled entertainer with tax problems! Plus, guess which “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta” star went ham on a Twitter hater And Stevie J. said what?! AND I QUOTE …

“I must admit, I’m a junkie! Addicted to eating money & video taping strippers while they high!”

Stevie J responding to girlfriend Joseline Hernandez’s rant accusing him of being gay and an abusive drug user, via Twitter.

“Just because you’re on TV gyrating and boning and sucking penises, it’s not talent, honey. Maybe in the porn industry, but over here, we entertain.”

T-Boz, who along with TLC group member Chilli was honored at the recent MOBO Awards, giving her two cents on the newest “American Idol” judge Nicki Minaj,  via This Is Max.

Continue reading on UPTOWN

“So it’s very sad. I mean, I’m glad there was not a right-wing takeover, but we end up with a Republican, a Rockefeller Republican in blackface, with Barack Obama, so that our struggle with regard to poverty intensifies … ”

Dr. Cornel West lashing out once again at Pres. Obama in regards to his lackluster foreign policies and extravagant spending, via Atlanta Daily World.

Source

“I had a relationship with [the accuser]. It was between two consenting adults and I am deeply saddened that he is trying to make it into something it was not.” 

Kevin Clash, the voice behind Sesame Street’s Elmo, admitting to having a consensual same-sex relationship with an adult man, in an interview with TMZ.

Continue reading on UPTOWN

“Listen up. It’s a motha f–kin’ ratchet queen in here talking s–t to me on Twitter [...] I don’t care how much money I make [or] how much money I get, I still don’t do no disrespect. I’ll snatch off my heels and take off my lacefront and whoop yo’ azz.”

K. Michelle, resident troublemaker of “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” going in on a Twitter follower during a recent concert, via YouTube.

Source

“First and foremost, I don’t have no tax issues. And if I have a $100,000 tax issue then I’m in serious trouble.”

Swizz Beatz addressing his alleged $2.6 million state and federal tax problems, on BET.com.

Source

“But if you have a vagina, brown skin, and a brain, I don’t see how you could have endorsed Romney.”

Star Jones questioning the motive behind Stacey Dash’s endorsement of Presidential candidate Mitt Romney, on “The Wendy Williams Show.”

Source

As anticipation builds for Quentin Tarantino‘s latest flick Django Unchained, word is spreading on who the famed director originally had in mind to play the film’s title character. And as we learned earlier this year, it wasn’t Jamie Foxx.

Related: Kerry Washington Talks Power, Politics and Django Unchained [VIDEO]

In June, Will Smith discussed his missed opportunity to play Django due to conflicting schedules. Hollywood’s golden boy said that although Unchained was “one of the most amazing screenplays” he had ever seen, its timing with Men in Black 3 was less than perfect.

So that left one actor out, who were the other five?

In a recent interview with Playboy, Tarantino revealed his initial choices for the lead role and his plans to pit them against each other before finding Foxx. He explained:

“‘I met six different actors and had extensive meetings with all of them, and I went in-depth on all of their work,’ Tarantino tells Playboy (in the issue that will be on stands Nov. 20). ‘Idris Elba, Chris Tucker, Terrence Howard, M.K. Williams [from HBO's Boardwalk Empire], Tyrese. They all appreciated the material, and I was going to put them through the paces, make them go off against one another and kind of put up an obstacle course. And then I met Jamie and realized I didn’t need to do that.’ So what was it about Foxx that led Tarantino to cast him? ‘He was the cowboy… Forget the fact that he has his own horse — and that is actually his horse in the movie. He’s from Texas; he understands. …He understood what it’s like to be thought of as an ‘other.’”

Excellent choice, Mr. Tarantino! And as for Foxx, he’s just as excited to see how far this film will go.

“I don’t know what I would do if I wasn’t in this movie, but this movie is, I think, one of the ones that may change the trajectory of where I was going. So, just thanks to [Quentin],” he said at this year’s San Diego Comic Con.

Django Unchained hits theaters nationwide on Dec. 25.

The post Quentin Tarantino Reveals 6 Actors Tapped To Play Jamie Foxx’s Role In ‘Django Unchained’ appeared first on UPTOWN Magazine.

Since news broke of her eyebrow-raising relationship with Swizz Beatz in 2009, Alicia Keys has been fighting off the media and “homewrecker” label at every turn. But the Girl On Fire is, once again, setting the record straight on how and when the couple made things official.

Related: Star Clique

In an upcoming issue of JET magazine, the 31-year-old songstress discusses her new music and the inevitable questions surrounding her union with the producer/rapper. Before Keys, Swizz Beatz was the husband of R&B singer Mashonda, but announced their divorce after just four years.

Enter Alicia.

“…[They] were apart for some time before we ever got together…that doesn’t matter to those who take pleasure in trying to knock others down…there’s no need to fight what’s not true,” she tells JET.

The couple wed in July 2010 and welcomed their son Egypt in October of that year.

“I’d never met a person where I could be fully myself…Swizz and I live in each other’s shadow. So we occupy the same space and there is nothing but equality,” she said. “There’s something really powerful about that.”

In addition to releasing her fifth studio album later this month (Nov. 27), Keys will lend her star power to the Hurricane Sandy “12.12.12″ benefit concert to provide money and materials to tri-state organizations helping those affected by the disaster.

She will be joined by Kanye West, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, The Who, Billy Joel, Paul McCartney, Roger Waters and Jon Bon Jovi.

The new issue of JET will hit newsstands Nov. 19.

Source

The post Alicia Keys Sets The Record Straight On Marriage To Swizz Beatz appeared first on UPTOWN Magazine.

Courtesy of Madame Noire

Sherman Hemsley will finally be laid to rest soon in a military burial three-and-a-half months after the actor passed away July 24. Sadly, Hemsley’s burial was delayed due to bickering over his $50,000 estate, and based on the ruling the judge laid down it was all for nothing. During a hearing, Sherman’s original wish for Flora Enchinton to be the beneficiary of his estate was upheld in court.

The cause of the delayed burial was Richard Thorton, a man who claimed to be  Hemsley’s half-brother and who challenged the validity of the actor’s will, which was written six weeks before he died. According to Fox News:

At a deposition in September, Thornton was ordered by the judge to take a DNA test to prove his relationship to Hemsley. According to his attorney, the tests did prove their brotherhood – but at that point the judge refused to take the evidence into consideration as Thornton missed the deadline to submit the results to the court.

Continue at Madame Noire…

Courtesy of Elev8

Without congressional action, up to $600 billion of expiring tax cuts, new taxes, and automatic spending cuts are set to take effect at the end of 2012 or beginning of 2013.

If they hit all at once, the impact could amount to as much as 4%-5% of GDP, according to our research, the equivalent of falling off a “fiscal cliff.” Some experts anticipate the economy would experience a significant slowdown and there would be major consequences for financial markets.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and a number of observers have used the term “fiscal cliff” to describe several big fiscal events set to occur in the U.S. at the end of this year and in early 2013.

Continue reading at Elev8

[Photo: Shutterstock]

Is your wallet looking a little thin because you’ve lost your job? It’s no secret the economy sucks right now. And although the unemployment rate is slowly declining, with an emphasis on slowly, many who have been on the receiving end of lay-offs are still waiting for their opportunity to get in on the upward swing of the employment curve and back into the job market. But in the meantime, coping with being out of work can be difficult, to say the least. Navigating through job postings and dead-end interviews can definitely create feelings of anxiety and despair. And figuring out how the months’ bills are going to get paid with a dwindling savings account and very small unemployment benefits is enough to drive anyone off the cliff. Now add in the fact that the holiday season is upon us, and you have a prescription for psyche meds and therapy sessions—of which you really can’t afford.

Rather than sit home, sulking and being depressed, it might be time to take matters into your own hands and out of the government’s by coming up with creative ways to generate a little extra income. Some cash on the side could always help. This is America, the land of opportunity where you’re one smart idea away from being a millionaire. Granted, you might not have a brilliant multimillion dollar thought waiting in the wings, but you’re bound to have talents and hobbies that can easily translate into quick dollar signs. Don’t let your resume limit you. Get creative and use your special talents to rake in a little extra cash. And in case you need a starting point, here are a few easy ideas to get you started with trying to subsidize your lack of income.

Sell Your Unwanted Clothing

Now is not the time for hoarding behavior. Like most people, your closet is probably filled with items you no longer wear or need. So why not de-clutter and sell them? With thrift shopping on the rise, your closet rejects just may be the next person’s treasure. Opt for your own stand-alone site and make a business out of it. With tons of user-friendly e-commerce sites, even the most Internet-challenged person could be on their way to their own online shop. If not, there’s always eBay, and the old fashioned way — garage sales. You’re bound to bring in a few dollars for those designer shoes you haven’t worn in years.

Offer Babysitting Services

Although you might be home twiddling your thumbs catching up on all the daytime talk shows, you might have a few friends with kids who aren’t as lucky, NOT! A great way to help them out and earn money is to offer your time and babysit your neighbors’ children. While you may not want the liability of a full-on daycare, watching one or two kids at a time may not be too much to handle. Keep your hourly rates lower than daycare fees and you’ll be on your way to gaining a bit more cash on hand. 

Start A Catering Service

If you know your way around the kitchen, this should be perfect for you. Instead of sitting home cooking and baking and eating everything in sight, segue your love for food into a lucrative side hustle.

Become  A Freelance Writer

Do you love expressing yourself? Perhaps you have a way with words and a knack for writing. If this is you, freelance writing may just be the financial breakthrough your bank account needs. Many publications, both print and online, are always looking for new and fresh story ideas. And yes, many of them are willing to pay for the compelling content you have to offer. So if you have a great writing voice, channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw and get to pitching a few ideas in between your job-hunting.

Become a Tutor

In high school or college, were you always the go-to person for algebra help? Well turn your love for your favorite subject into a tutoring business. There are plenty of students from elementary all the way up through college who are struggling in areas of study you might have mastered. Why not help a student ace their next exam for a small fee?

Become A Make-Up Artist

When you had a steady income, did you find yourself always buying the latest beauty products and tools to try on yourself and friends, with you becoming the resident make-up artist for the group? Well maybe using your make-up tricks to create an uptick in your bank account balance is the route for you. While this may take a little time, create a portfolio showcasing images of your make-up work. Then hit up Craigslist, and other want ads for people seeking  an inexpensive make-up artist.