Kofi Annan: “Stop giving millions in aid to richer countries like China and India”…
Former United Nations chief Kofi Annan has backed calls for Britain and the EU to stop giving millions of pounds in aid to wealthy countries.
He said booming nations such as China, Brazil and India should wean themselves off development funding so it could be targeted at ‘weaker’ parts of the world instead.
His comments come after International Development Secretary Justine Greening called for the European Union to stop giving aid to relatively rich nations.
She travelled to Luxembourg last week to say it is wrong that the EU’s aid fund, to which the UK contributes more than £1billion a year, sends money to relatively rich countries such as Barbados, Iceland, China and Brazil.
Britain refuses to fund such countries out of its own aid budget. However, the UK is still sending around £280million a year to India – even though the country can afford its own space programme and its president, Pranab Mukherjee, said in February: ‘We do not require the aid. It is a peanut in our total development expenditure.’
Conservative backbenchers want to see the Coalition drop its pledge to increase spending on foreign aid year-on-year, while cutting funding in every other department apart from the NHS.
In 2014, taxpayers will be forking out £12.6billion a year on foreign aid – more than the £12.1billion it will be spending on the police.
Mr Annan, a Ghanaian who was the UN secretary general from 1997 to 2006, said not all the countries who received aid from British taxpayers needed it. Visit DailyMail to continue reading…
New York Times endorses President Obama‘s reelection…
President Barack Obama picked up the endorsement of The New York Times on Saturday, a decision the paper’s editorial board said was due to administration policies that have placed the economy on the path to recovery, the passage of landmark health care reform, the advocating of women’s rights and a foreign policy agenda that has kept unstable regions from combustion — all accomplished, the board argues, in the face of an “ideological assault” from the Republican Party.
The endorsement is hardly unexpected but is significant nonetheless coming from one of the most influential papers in the United States. The Times’ liberal-leaning editorial page backed Obama in 2008 and has, throughout the 2012 cycle, painted a stark contrast between the president’s vision and the policy proposals of his opponent, GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney.
That choice is emphatically laid out in Saturday’s editorial, “Barack Obama for Re-Election,” in which the Times states that Romney “has gotten this far with a guile that allows him to say whatever he thinks an audience wants to hear.”
“He has tied himself to the ultraconservative forces that control the Republican Party and embraced their policies, including reckless budget cuts and 30-year-old, discredited trickle-down ideas,” the editorial board writes of Romney.
“Voters may still be confused about Mr. Romney’s true identity, but they know the Republican Party, and a Romney administration would reflect its agenda.” The editorial adds that the appointment of Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.) to Romney’s ticket “says volumes” about what a Romney presidency would entail. Visit Huffington Post to continue reading…
President Obama covers Rolling Stone Magazine‘s November 2012 issue…
The next issue of Rolling Stone is set to hit stands on November 8, two days after the presidential election. By then, surely a winner will be declared, and the man smiling, looking confident on the cover will either feel wildly triumphant or not about the main goals of his second term, which besides driving down unemployment, will likely be the conversion to clean energy.
While Obama doesn’t wear an Inconvenient Truth T-shirt, he nevertheless understands that environmentalism makes for good business in the 21st century. The high seas and savage winds of fossil-fuel abuse are upon us. Obama has made clear that addressing climate change is the issue of most long-term consequence facing not only America but human civilization itself.
“I will not walk away from the promise of clean energy,” he declared in his State of the Union address this year. “I will not cede the wind or solar or battery industry to China or Germany because we refuse to make the same commitment here. We have subsidized oil companies for a century.”
Rolling Stone arrived at the Oval Office for our 45-minute interview with President Obama on the morning of October 11th. After our conversation ended, the president would board Air Force One for Florida, where he was slated to hold a rally at the University of Miami before watching Vice President Joe Biden debate Rep. Paul Ryan.
But now, before the tape recorders were turned on, the president and the Rolling Stone interviewer chatted for a minute about “The Bronco Buster,” the Frederic Remington sculpture next to his desk that once belonged to Theodore Roosevelt. Then, as the small talk began to eat up too much time, Obama took charge. “All right,” he said briskly. “Let’s fire up.”
Barack Obama can no longer preach the bright 2008 certitudes of “Hope and Change.” He has a record to defend this time around. And, considering the lousy hand he was dealt by George W. Bush and an obstructionist Congress, his record of achievement, from universal health care to equal pay for women, is astonishingly solid. His excessive caution is a survival trait; at a time when the ripple and fury provoked by one off-key quip can derail a campaign for days, self-editing is the price a virtuoso must pay to go the distance in the age of YouTube.
Viewed through the lens of history, Obama represents a new type of 21st-century politician: the Progressive Firewall. Obama, simply put, is the curator-in-chief of the New Deal, the Fair Deal, the New Frontier and the Great Society. When he talks about continued subsidies for Big Bird or contraceptives for Sandra Fluke, he is the inheritor of the Progressive movement’s agenda, the last line of defense that prevents America’s hard-won social contract from being defunded into oblivion. Visit Rolling Stone to continue reading the interview…
Spotted: President Obama going to church with daughters…
We’re obviously pretty obsessed with tracking first lady Michelle Obama’s wardrobe, so we love to see that her keen fashion sense is rubbing off on her daughters Sasha and Malia.
While walking to St. John’s Church hand-in-hand with their dad, the Obama girls showed off their ever-maturing styles — they are practically teenagers after all. Malia, 14, opted for a knit skirt, blazer and two-toned loafers, while Sasha, 11, took a cue from her mother’s mixing-and-matching skills. They grow up so fast, don’t they?
President Obama and the girls were joined by their godmother Kaye Wilson, so no matching ensembles for the Obama clan this time. Although we haven’t seen much of Sasha and Malia this campaign, they looked absolutely adorable at the Democratic National Convention in their tailored dresses. So we’re keeping our fingers crossed for more appearances in the near future, because, as far as we can tell, the apples aren’t falling far from the fashionable tree.
Check out the aww-inducing photos of Sasha and Malia heading to church and tell us what you think. Via Huffington Post. 
Colin Powell’s former chief of staff says GOP is full of racists’…
Col. Lawrence Wilkerson, Colin Powell’s former chief of staff and a registered Republican, told MSNBC’s The Ed Show in an interview “My party is full of racists.”
After Republican former Secretary of State Colin Powell announced that he was once again endorsing President Barack Obama for president, John Sununu, co-Chairman of Republican Mitt Romney’s campaign, told CNN that Powell only made that decision because Obama was black:
“… frankly, when you take a look at Colin Powell, you have to wonder whether that’s an endorsement based on issues, or whether he’s got a slightly different reason for endorsing president Obama … I think when you have somebody of your own race that you’re proud of being President of the United States, I applaud Colin for standing with him.”
Sununu has since retracted his comment, issuing the statement, “Colin Powell is a friend and I respect the endorsement decision he made and I do not doubt that it was based on anything but his support of the president’s policies. Piers Morgan’s question was whether Colin Powell should leave the party, and I don’t think he should.”
Col. Wilkerson called the initial comment an “unfortunate slip of tongue,” but he is not surprised. He told Schultz he had respect for Sununu but he doesn’t “have any respect for the integrity of the position that he seemed to codify. Look at me, Ed, I’m white. I’m not black. Colin Powell picked me because of the content of my character and my competence.”
“My party, unfortunately, is the bastion of those people — not all of them, but most of them — who are still basing their positions on race,” Wilkerson said. “Let me just be candid: My party is full of racists.”
Wilkerson went further to explain that he thought members of his party were pushing so hard to remove President Obama from office, not because of what they considered to be failures on the part of his administration, but because they did not want a black person in the White House. Visit TheGrio to continue reading…
Kobe Bryant: “Why I Vote”…
Kobe Bryant is pictured with wife Vanessa and daughters Gianna and Natalia
In a recent article on iVillage.com, NBA star Kobe Bryant wrote a blog post titled, “Why I Vote,” discussing why he started voting after him and his wife Vanessa gave birth to their daughters and why it’s important for all people to vote and make their voices heard on November 6th, 2012.
WE MATTER.
“That’s a powerful feeling, one that I’ve taken for granted in the past. In the past I believed that not exercising my right to vote would not make a difference in who became the next president so why should I take the time to learn the issues? I’d rather be shooting hoops! The change occurred when Vanessa and I had our babies. Neither of us grew up in politically charged households so the issues weren’t things we were necessarily excited to read about and discuss to say the least. It was ESPN for me and “Carrie Fever” (Sex and the City) for her. (Yes, I watched the show and loved it… It was quite “informative.”)”
“As parents, the importance of the world we live in became a priority. Nothing is more important than the future of our little munchkins. They are now nine and six and are learning about the civil rights movement and the fight for women’s rights so they naturally have questions. Why were African Americans forced to sit in the back of the bus? Why couldn’t women vote?”
“The most important answer we can give them outside of the ones found in our history pages is that our world has CHANGED for the better because individuals fought for their rights while inspiring others to do the same.”
We tell them: “YOU too can change the world if you so dream and that YOUR opinion matters, YOU MATTER. Yes, voting is about doing your part as a responsible citizen but what really moves us to vote and learn about the issues is the example we set for our children and honoring the history of DEMOCRACY that our beautiful country stands for.”
Thank you for your time. Don’t forget to vote. Make sure you get out and vote on November 6th, 2012. If you can vote early, please do so.
The X Factor’s Nicole Scherzinger steals the show on Halloween night with a VERY daring sheer catsuit…
Her stunning figure once impressed audiences while she performed sexy dance routines as a member of the Pussycat Dolls and it seems The X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger isn’t shying away from putting her toned body on display just yet.
The singer donned a revealing outfit on the show on Saturday which left little to the imagination. And it appears Nicole’s clothing was a bit too much to handle for Gary Barlow who looked in the opposite direction when she took to her feet to show off her costume.
The star went for the shock factor in a lacy catsuit and crimped hair with a black headpiece, but told Dermot: ‘I just wanted to wear something really simple tonight!’
Nicole wore a figure-hugging, black lace catsuit and her skin was clearly visible through the thin material. The item featured a touch of glamour as sparkling silver sequins were sprinkled across the suit. The singer painted her lips with bright red lipstick and her eyes were decorated with deep black mascara and eyeliner.
Meanwhile, her fellow female judge Tulisa Contostavlos opted for all-out glamour in a full-length black gown, finishing off her ensemble by giving it a Halloween touch with a pair of vampire fangs.
Nicole is no stranger to dressing up – the US star dressed in a red and black PVC outfit and showed off her cleavage at contestand Rylan Clark’s 24th birthday on Wednesday.
And she surprised Rylan by telling him she wasn’t able to attend but showed up and sung Happy Birthday to the aspiring pop star.
And Nicole wasn’t the only celebrity to send Rylan their best wishes for his birthday – his number one fan Robbie Williams, who tweeted his support for the entertainer during last week’s show, offered his advice during a masterclass ahead of the live performance this weekend. Visit DailyMail to continue reading…
Pussycat: Nicole Scherzinger left little to the imagination by donning a revealing catsuit during The X Factor on Saturday
Dressed to impress: The X Factor judges dress in dark attire ahead of Halloween next week
Ghastly: Gary pulls a frightful pose before he takes his seat ahead of the contestants’ performances on Saturday night
On fire: Louis looks smart as he takes to the stage at The X Factor studios
Sparks fly: The judges look impressive as they walk out onto the stage in their Halloween outfits during The X Factor on Saturday
Halle Berry‘s Halloween Costume: Actress reveals what she’s wearing and gets spooked on ‘Ellen’…
By now, we all know that Ellen DeGeneres finds complete joy in scaring the life out of her guests on her show. But she took it to another level when she spooked Halle Berry, who just revealed that an infestation of black widow spiders has taken over her home.
The “Cloud Atlas” actress, 46, explained to DeGeneres that her gardener found the “colony” of eight-legged creatures living under one of her lawn chairs and confessed that she immediately evacuated.
“I just left,” Berry laughed. “Before I passed out I said ‘I’m going to leave and you’re going to have to handle that.’ Because I can’t stand spiders. I don’t even like daddy long-legs.”
Well telling DeGeneres this was a bad idea, because after the commercial break, the beloved talk show host had a man in a spider costume sneak up on Berry and scare her nearly to death. Visit Huffington Post to continue reading…
Spotted: Alexandra Burke out and about…
It’s one of the hot spots for the TOWIE cast and is often featured on the reality TV show. So Alexandra Burke, who is of African, Dougla, Jamaican, and Irish descent, obviously wanted to see what all the fuss was about as she headed to The Only Way Is Essex favorite, Sugar Hut.
The pop star even dressed up to the max for the occasion ready to mingle with the dolled up crowd inside. But while she tried to fit in with a staple figure hugging dress and plenty of make-up, the singer managed to look far more demure than some of the cast who are often seen on the show.
Alexandra opted for a festive outfit, matching an emerald green bodycon dress with a bright red clutch bag. And clearly in the accessorizing mood she coordinated the clutch with scarlet lips.
Looking every inch the pop star the former X Factor contestant completed the look with pointy heels and a trendy cropped black leather jacket. And her hair was also preened to perfection in glorious curls hanging below her shoulders.
Burke made quite the entrance as she arrived at the club in Brentwood, which is owned by TOWIE star Mick Norcross. He would have been pleased with his star guest endorsing the venue, and posed happily outside surrounded by some scantily clad girls dressed in black and orange Halloween get-ups.
And it seems Alexandra managed to party the evening away despite feeling tired from a strenuous and busy day.
She wrote on her Twitter page earlier in the evening: ‘Such a busy day 2day wow… So tired. Hope u guys have had a great day.. Xx.’ Via DailyMail.
Trying to fit in? Alexandra Burke headed to TOWIE hot spot Sugar Hut in Brentwood for the evening on Friday in a form fitting dress
Feeling festive? The former X Factor star wore Christmas-type colours with her emerald green frock and red lipstick
Grand arrival: The singer was able to negotiate her way out of her chauffeur driven car with dignity
Host: TOWIE’s Mick Norcross owns the popular venue and posed outside with some scantily clad females wearing Halloween costume
Kimora Lee-Simmons is on the campaign trails for Obama!
Biracial fashion mogul and former model Kimora Lee Simmons has been busy on the campaign trails for President Obama’s reelection. The mother of three has been appealing to both the young and old to exercise their right to vote and to reelect President Obama.
She has been active in both Cleveland, Ohio (a swing State) and Nevada (both swing States) to speak at conferences and the like. Lee has been advocating to the youth about the importance of voting in the future and her support for President Obama.
When asked why she’s campaigning for Obama and what she believes he stands for, she responded:
“I believe in him because of his stand on pay equality, reproductive rights and his healthcare reform. I believe in him because he cares!”
Those have all been issues strongly campaigned on by the Obama Campaign. In 2009, President Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to help women fight back against pay discrimination. He understands that when women are paid less than men for the same work, it hurts the entire family.
On ending health insurance discrimination:
President Obama is putting an end to the health insurance company practice of charging women more than men for the same coverage.
On women’s health and birth control:
Thanks to Obamacare, many insurance plans are beginning to fully cover birth control without co-pays or deductibles as part of women’s preventive care—potentially saving women hundreds of dollars every year.
On protecting women’s rights:
President Obama believes a woman’s health care choices are personal decisions, best made with her doctor—without interference from politicians.
On expanding access to health care:
President Obama fought back against Republican attempts to defund Planned Parenthood, one of the largest providers of women’s health services, including breast and cervical cancer screenings, and birth control. Under Obamacare, health insurance companies now cover recommended preventive care like mammograms and cancer screenings, and are beginning to cover birth control without co-pays or deductibles.
Lee’s multiracial background which consists of Asian (Japanese) and African-American has been an advantage in her campaign for Obama as she appeals to both the young and old, Asians, African-Americans and other minority groups. She is not the only celebrity using her stardom for Obama’s reelection, she is joined by Beyonce and husband Jay-Z, U2’s Bono, Salma Hayek, Katy Perry and others.
The former model and President of JustFab.com, a personalized shopping website, will be returning to television for her ‘House of Fab’ series which airs in February 2013.
Take a look at photographs of Kimora Lee Simmons on the campaign trail in Cleveland, Ohio and Nevada below:
At the HRC Rally promoting equality
With Magic Johnson in Nevada
With young African-American girls in Cleveland, Ohio
Keke Wyatt talks domestic violence, motherhood and more…
Multiracial R&B Divas star Keke Wyatt who is of Caucasian, African-American, Native American and Afro Caribbean descent, would rather forget that unfortunate incident where she stabbed her ex-husband, “but the world just won’t let me,” she says. “It was a sad situation and I wanted to protect my kids,” she adds. Wyatt filed for divorce in 2009 after what she describes as years of domestic abuse — adding that the stabbing incident was an act of self-defense.
Now remarried to ordained minister Michael Ford (who goes everywhere with her, much to the dismay of her Divas co-stars), Wyatt says she’s created a brand new abuse-free environment for herself and her four children.
In honor of Domestic Awareness Month, the 30-year-old singer signed on as a spokesperson for the Saving Our Daughters organization’s “YELL Confidence” initiative aimed at providing support to young women and single mothers who have experienced domestic violence and date abuse. She spoke to ESSENCE.com about her abusive past, making sure her daughters don’t repeat her history, and her message to women in abusive relationships.
ESSENCE.com: Why did you get involved in the “YELL! Confidence” initiative?
Keke Wyatt: For a couple of reasons; first, everyone knows I have been in an abusive relationship, and my girls were in the middle of that mess. After that experience I’m very aware of not wanting to re-create an environment like that for my girls. They won’t go down that road.
ESSENCE.com: Your experience with abuse made headlines. Do you think you’ll ever live down the stabbing incident?
Wyatt: People are going to say what they’re going to say. All I know is the average person isn’t going to stab someone just for the heck of it — my life was in danger. People won’t understand until they walk in my shoes. I felt so bad for what I did, but I couldn’t let it consume me. It was my faith in God, and my family that helped me through this. Those are the people that really know what happened, and they don’t judge me. Visit Essence.com to continue reading the interview…
Click, click! It’s the Wallace‘…
Daya Vaidya, ‘The Unforgettable’ actress of East Indian and Italian American descent, tweeted a photograph of her husband Don Wallace, 2 year old daughter Leela and identical twin boys Jai Blue and Dev Eshaan who were born in July of 2012 with the following caption:
“Typical morning in the Wallace house…”
Spotted: Singer Seal and his soccer-loving kids…
Kiss From a Rose singer Seal was photographed with his four kids – Leni, 8, Henry, 7, Johan, nearly 6, and Lou, 3 – in Brentwood, Calif. on Saturday (October 27). The group cheered on Henry at his soccer game on the sunny afternoon. Joined by the nanny, the father-of-four treated his brood to a popsicle before leaving hand-in-hand.
This marks the first time we’ve seen Seal with the kids in months. We last spotted the musician with his children in July. On the other hand, we’ve seen the kids and their mother, model Heidi Klum, out and about on a regular basis with her new bodyguard beau Martin Kirsten.
Heidi recently said that she began dating Martin after her split from Seal. The pair’s relationship angered Seal, who accused his ex of “fornicating with the help.”
“I would have preferred Heidi to have shown a little bit more class and at least waited until we separated first before deciding to fornicate with the help,” Seal said.
The singer has since backed away from the comment, and Heidi has denied suggestions she cheated on Seal during their seven-marriage. The former couple announced their split in January and Heidi filed for divorce in April. Via Celebuzz.
Boris Kodjoe to star in new movie ‘Addicted’…
Hollywood heartthrob Boris Kodjoe will be heading to the silver screen as the leading man in Lionsgate’s Addicted according to the Hollywood Reporter. The film is based on the best-selling novel by erotic fiction author Zane and tells the story of Zoe Reynard, a middle class African-American female who seeks therapy for sexual addiction.
Zoe is married to her high school sweetheart, Jason, and as the parents of three children, their life seems like a fairy tale. That is, until Zoe’s secret quest for sex leads her down a dangerous path that could destroy her marriage and eventually her life.
The role of Zoe is yet to be cast and it’s unclear exactly what role Kodjoe will take on.
Spotted: X-Factor’s Tulisa Contostavlos on THIRD date with Jody Latham…
Just three weeks ago, they were filming steamy scenes for her Sight Of You music video. And now it seems that Tulisa‘s relationship with her video co-star, actor Jody Latham, has gone from professional to personal as the pair are alraedy reported to have enjoyed three dates.
The couple were photographed leaving X Factor contestant Rylan Clark’s birthday party at Mahiki nightclub in the early hours of Thursday morning, with Jody keeping a tender hold of Tulisa’s hand while they headed home.
A source told the Sunday People newspaper: ‘Tulisa has not had much luck with boyfriends of late, but she has really fallen for Jody. ‘She didn’t really know him before he was booked for her music video but because they had to get intimate in a number of scenes, they realised they quite liked each other. ‘Things have moved quite fast and Tulisa is already calling Jody her boyfriend.’
Jody and Tulisa first met when they shot scenes for the intimate video on October 9th in an apartment block in Kensington. Following the encounter, which saw the pair enjoy several passionate clinches and a bedroom scene together, the pair exchanged phone numbers and promised to meet up.
They also exchanged public messages on Twitter, with Tulisa writing: ‘Who likes me new vid starring @JodyOffical? What a top lad, male sure you give him a follow!’
Jody then replied: ‘@officialtulisa really pleased with how it turned out…! Was great working with you? All the best with the single & album’.
After that, Tulisa is said to have flown up to Glasgow, where Jody was shooting, before flying back two days later. And on Wednesday, Jody was spotted visiting Tulisa as she enjoyed a quick break from X Factor filming at her London apartment. Visit DailyMail to continue reading…
New romance: Tulisa is reported to be dating Shameless star Jody Latham after the pair were pictured at Rylan Clark’s birthday party in what is their third date
Spooky: Tulisa was dressed as some kind of sexy, bloody maid for the party
The group shared this picture at the party
Steamy: The pair first met when Jody co-starred in Tulisa’s steamy video for Sight of You
Up close and personal: Tulisa shows off her sultry side in the clip which was directed by Luke Hyams
Doing it her way: Tulisa’s debut solo album The Female Boss is out November 26, 2012. Reunited: The couple embrace each other when she discovers he has been waiting for her to come home
Singer Cassie and Diddy attend Ciroc costume party…
Cassie and Diddy were in the Halloween spirit as they attended a Ciroc costume party together last weekend at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles. The couple dressed up as Cleopatra and Prince and were accompanied by Diddy’s son Justin, who was dressed as Prince Jr. (if Prince in fact had a son), and Quincy Brown who was dressed as ‘Where’s Waldo’.
Earlier in the week, Diddy was involved in a serious car accident, while driving as a passenger in an SUV. Another vehicle abruptly turned left in front of his vehicle and was t-boned. Diddy reportedly experienced a little pain from the car wreck but did not go to the hospital. He later tweeted:
“Woah…that was a close one! The only reason I’m still here is through Gods Grace!!! Not trying to be dramatic just being Real! God Bless All! Thank you for all you prayers support and calls! Thank you for caring about a brother . I means a lot. Love yall!!! Let’s Go!!!” Via Necole Bitchie.
Diddy and CassieL to R: Justin, Diddy and Quincy
Kim Kardashian transforms into ethereal mermaid for Halloween party with Kanye West…
Kim Kardashian managed to find a Halloween costume to perfectly accentuate her famous hourglass figure as she celebrated the holiday with her beau Kanye West. The reality star decided to go dressed as a mermaid, squeezing her curves into a green fishtail skirt and a shell bra.
Kim also sported a blonde wig to complete her elaborate look for the evening as she hit a Midori party in New York on Saturday. She was clearly delighted with her costume and eagerly shared photos with her fans via her Twitter and Instagram pages, including one of her with her ‘captain’ Kanye, who wore a naval outfit. Via DailyMail.
Making waves: Kim’s beau Kanye West was a perfect match as he went as a captain
Any excuse: Kim certainly went all out for her costume while Kanye played it safe
Hand in hand: Kim may have steered clear of a spooky outfit but Kanye didn’t seem to mind
Sipping on Midori: Kim let her blonde hair down for the night to enjoy some party time with friends
Smile for me baby: Kanye sweetly snapped photos of Kim as she posed on the red carpet
‘Love my girls!’ Kim tweeted this shot of her with her posse as the night wore on
Blonde ambition: Kim also wore a blonde wig for the occasion and shared snaps of her evening on her Twitter and Instagram pages
Ready to party: Kim posed with Lala Anthony as she hit a Midori bash in New York
Rapper Drake shares encouraging words with graduates…
Biracial rapper Drake, who recently graduated high school, shared a few words of encouragement with the graduating class of Jarvis Collegiate Institute in Toronto. He talked about “following through” on things you start.
“What this is about today for all of you is the art of following through. That’s one of the most important life lessons that my uncle every taught me. I’m so proud of you because there are different ways to follow through, and tonight you followed through with a straight shot and for that, you should give yourself a round of applause.”
He added that the “journey” is also a big part of the process.
“Sometimes it’s about going there, not getting there. Sometimes it’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination. And sometimes when you get there, you’ll look back and you’ll realize that you wish you could go there again because all the experiences are the reason that you are who you are today. I want you all to give a round of applause for yourselves for getting there.”
He summed up the speech with a dedication to his mother saying: “This piece of paper I’d like to dedicate to my mother because she’s a retired teacher and always wanted me to graduate. I think I’ll sleep a little better tonight knowing that I found a way to follow through.” Via TheYBF.
Happy 40th birthday Tracee Ellis Ross!
The biracial actress and daughter of legendary Motown singer Diana Ross turned 40 on October 29, 2012. Here’s wishing you many more years. Xo.
X-Factor UK: Tulisa Contostavlos responds to fellow judge ‘fag breath’ comment in style…
Tulisa Contostavlos found herself at the centre of a personal attack after Gary Barlow accused her of having ‘fag ash breath’ on Saturday night’s X Factor. But she made sure she got the last laugh by poking fun at herself with a nicotine patch as she took to the stage for Sunday’s results show.
The 24-year-old judge proved she didn’t take her usually mild-mannered co-panellist’s comments too seriously as she flashed the unsightly accessory as she made her entrance on to the stage.
Grinning cheekily at the camera, Tulisa pulled her standard ‘Female Boss’ pose, and made sure to flaunt her new addition to the viewers at home. Aside from her less-than-attractive nicotine patch, the Young singer looked stunning in a Halloween-inspired prom-style dress with lace detail at the neckline.
Meanwhile, her co-judge Nicole Scherzinger made sure to flash the flesh in a daring asymmetric-hemmed strapless dress. Ignoring the age-old rule of showing off just her cleavage or legs, the singer flaunted her perfect pins in the sexy number.
And host Dermot O’Leary made sure to poke fun at Gary and Tulisa’s previous argument, saying: ‘You’re all looking and, more importantly, smelling absolutely beautiful.’
Gary and Tulisa came to blows on Saturday night after Tulisa criticised Gary for the song he had chosen for his act Christopher Maloney, saying to him: ‘Gary, how many of these eighties classics are you going to let him keep destroying?’
Gary, who had clearly been contemplating his response while Tulisa spoke, then said: ”I don’t know what’s offended me more – what you said or the fag ash breath!’
And Tulisa was as shocked as everybody else by Gary’s out-of-character comment, sitting there open-mouthed as she took in what he had said. Visit DailyMail to continue reading…
No more ‘fag ash breath’: Tulisa obviously took Gary’s somewhat personal comments on the chin
Happy families: The judges appeared to have kissed and made up by the time they appeared on Sunday night’s results show
Open-mouthed: Tulisa looked stunned as Gary accused her of having ‘fag ash breath’
Brave face: Nicole told Jade she would definitely get a recording contract… but whether her dreams come true remains to be seen
Over the moon: Rylan Clark was visibly shocked to have escaped the bottom two for another week
Behind-the-scenes: Sofia Richie for Teen Vogue…
Fourteen-year-old Sofia Richie may come from a family line of superstars (her father is legendary artist Lionel Richie and her sister is actress/socialite Nicole Richie) but she is out to prove that she has talent all her own. She is featured in the November issue of Teen Vogue wearing her big sister’s latest designs from her Winter Kate collection.
Check out some behind-the-scenes shots of Sofia BCK below:
Sophia with dad Lionel Richie sitting beside her
Sophia with dad Lionel Richie
Nicole Scherzinger sports frizzy hair as she enjoys a night out at restaurant…
She is often sporting a sleek and stylish look, but Nicole Scherzinger appeared to have something of a bad hair day on Sunday night.
The 34-year-old X Factor star looked stunning as she dined out at London’s Nobu Berkeley St restaurant, wearing a lacy white dress, and over the knee boots.
However, she was a little let down as her usually sleek hairstyle was replaced with a frizzy, untidy look – just a day after she wowed X Factor viewers with her crimped hairstyle and catsuit on the Halloween special. She was pictured with the uncharcteristically frizzy hair as she left the restaurant, but the feisty former Pussycat Dolls star didn’t seem to care.
Nicole was celebrating after retaining all three of her acts for the next round after they were all safely voted through to next week. She is now the only judge on the show to have kept all her acts so far.
Nicole had previously tweeted to her followers before the X Factor live results show: ‘Show some love tonight @TheXFactor and vote for my boy’s!!! #teamNicole.’ Visit DailyMail to continue reading…
Rare misstep: She is often sporting a sleek and stylish look, but Nicole Scherzinger had a bad hair day on Sunday night
Thigh high: Nicole looked stunning in her white lacy dress, thigh high boots and trendy sheepskin jacket from AllSaints
Salma Hayek wear earrings worth $1 million dollar to LACMA 2012 Art and Film gala!
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but add some sapphires and a platinum setting, and they become very expensive pals.
We’re talking about the million-dollar Harry Winston danglers Salma Hayek chose to wear Saturday night for the LACMA 2012 Art and Film gala in Los Angeles. The earrings — stunning sapphires set with micropave diamonds — looked fairly simple (though gorgeous) but came with that hefty price tag.
The actress didn’t stop there with the accessories, either: she added a platinum and diamond Harry Winston bracelet (price unknown) to her navy gown, as well.
We’re guessing Hayek didn’t pay for the earrings (she likely did the Hollywood thing and borrowed them), but regardless, we’re feeling a little jewelry-box envy right now. Via People.
Spotted: Alicia Keys at Living Honors event…
Alicia Keys was a vision in black alonside her husband Swizz Beatz for a Haute Living event honoring her husband last week Friday. She looked stylish in her Victoria Beckham Silk dress and Valentino pumps while her husband looked dapper in his tuxedo. Via FashionBomb.
Pictured: Alicia Keys and husband Swizz Beatz
KolorBlind Celebrity Sightings…
The 6th Annual ‘Hamilton Behind The Camera’ awards show presented by Hamilton Watches and Los Angeles Confidential Magazine at House of Blues Sunset Strip on October 28, 2012 in West Hollywood, California.
Biracial actress Lisa Bonet
Garcelle Beauvais mother to biracial twin sons
Lawrence Zarian and Garcelle Beauvais
The 29th annual Fashion Group International Night of Stars at Cipriani Wall Street on October 25, 2012 in New York City.
Kelly Ripa and husband Mark Consuelos
Halloween event
Former ANTM judge Nigel Barker Indian and British Caucasian ancestry
“A Place At The Table” Annual Dinner Benefiting Homeless at Capitale Bowery on October 26, 2012 in New York City.
Former ANTM judge Nigel Barker and wife Cristen Barker both of multiracial ancestry
‘dance4life’ USA Cocktail Party supported by Sensation at Milk Studios on October 27, 2012 in New York City.
Model Doutzen Kroes is interracially married to DJ Sunnery James
Nigeria Fashion Week 2012: Lanre DaSilva Ajayi
Fashion fabulosity rocked the city of Lagos from Wednesday 24th October – Saturday 27th October 2012 as this year’s edition of the MTN Lagos Fashion & Design Week took place in grand style.
Some of Africa’s top as well as upcoming design labels were present to showcase their new collections. Iconic Nigerian label, Lanre DaSilva-Ajayi was one of the fashion brands present. For its new collection, the label’s creative head had us all in awe from start to finish with its chic, flowy and print-tastic collection.
Renowned for its Victorian and Edwardian era influenced pieces, the designer presented us “Butterflies“, a collection flourishing with outfits made with multicolored print, silk and lace. Check out all the runway shots! Visit BellaNaija to view the full collection…
Nigeria Fashion Week 2012: Sunny Rose
For its presentation at the 2012 MTN Lagos Fashion & Design Week which took place from Wednesday 24th October 2012 – Saturday 27th October 2012 in Lagos, Nigerian design label, Sunny Rose showed us the different sides of blue.
The label’s creative head showcased models strutting the runway in print frocks, knee length dresses with sweetheart necklines and evening wears all in color blue. Check out the runway photos! Visit BellaNaija to view the full collection…
Spotted: Halle Berry‘s daughter Nahla riding a horse…
Nahla Aubry – the stunning 4-year-old daughter of Halle Berry and ex-boyfriend Gabriel Aubry – was snapped riding a horse at a local Farmer’s Market in Studio City, California on Sunday (October 28).
Halle recently opened up about fighting for a custody arrangement that would allow her to move to France with Nahla and her fiance Olivier Martinez, claiming that the stalking and invasive nature of the paparazzi is affecting her daughter’s well-being.
“I can’t grow my daughter in L.A. You take a little child who is just trying to learn about the world and have all these people with cameras chasing after her, calling things out to her about her mother. It’s starting to make her feel special and different. I want her to feel special and different, but not for the reason of being my child.”
Asked what she would do if she could manage to evade the press for just one day she states, “I’d go to the market with my daughter. Go to Santa Monica Pier and take her on a ride. Nothing special. Just live some normal life for once.”Via CelebBabyScoop.
Spotted: Matt Damon and his pretty lil’ princess trick-or-treating…
Academy Award-winner Matt Damon was photographed with with his daughter Gia in New York City on Sunday (October 28). The pretty 4-year-old got into the Halloween spirit and dressed in a princess costume while out with her famous father in the West Village.
The Bourne Supremacy star and his wife of six years, Luciana Barroso, are also parents to daughters Alexia, 13, Isabella, 6, and Stella, 2. The actor, 42, has gushed about his wife of nearly 7 years.
“I can’t imagine being without her,” Matt told The Guardian. “Being a parent, as any parent knows, is a lot of work whether you are together or not.”
“Our 13 year old is terrific,” Matt said of his stepdaughter Alexia. “And she’s a big help, but with the other kids it’s just non stop.”
He added: “We like to do a lot of the family stuff together, particularly when we get them to school in the mornings. It starts at 6.30am. Once you get them off to school there’s always a sigh of relief. Then we have one hour where we can go and get a cup of coffee together.” Via CelebBabyScoop.
Connie Britton slams Mitt Romney’s use of ‘Friday Night Lights’ catchphrase…
Mitt Romney has re-appropriated Friday Night Lights football team’s famous mantra, “Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose,” in his election-time campaign ads, debates and speeches — and the the series’ leading lady isn’t to thrilled about it.
Connie Britton — who starred as Tami Taylor in the heart-warming high-school drama — is slamming the Republican presidential nominee’s use of the beloved battle cry in a USA Today op-ed she penned with the show’s executive producer, Sarah Aubrey.
“The show wasn’t just about football,” the pair maintained of the Friday Night Lights, which chronicled a high-school football team in the hard-working, middle-class town of Dillon, Texas. “And ‘Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose’ wasn’t just about winning games.”
“Rather, it was a rallying cry of hope and optimism in a community where everyone had a fair shot — no matter their background, no matter their parents, no matter their gender,” they continued. “And no matter their politics. So it has been surprising that the phrase has been usurped and co-opted by Mitt Romney and his campaign for their gain.”Visit Celebuzz to continue reading…
Nicole Scherzinger stunns at Pride of Britain Awards…
Nicole Scherzinger posed for the paps at the Pride of Britain awards a few days ago in a black lace high slit dress by Bibi Bachtadze, accessorized by Giuseppe Zanotti wave sandals. Via FashionBomb.
‘Skyfall’ Italy Premiere…
Naomie Harris stood out at the London premiere of Skyfall, wearing a sheer black Marios Schwab gown with a daring blue sequinned body underneath.
And after getting so much attention for the outfit, she donned a similar style dress on Friday as she went to a special screening of the film in Rome.
The 36-year-old graced the red carpet for the Italian premiere of the latest James Bond movie installment, wearing a lace teal number. The British star showed off her slender figure in the figure-hugging floor-length gown which covered her arms but left plenty of skin on show.
Like her attire for the English version of the event, she wore a bodysuit underneath to maintain her modesty. Leaving her long wavy locks down, she pinned one side of her tresses behind her ear.
Harris appeared to fashion the same pee toe heels as last time when she almost floated on to the red carpet in the see through frock. Naomie Harris previously revealed she enjoyed filming the scenes with Daniel Craig when he had to take off his clothes.
The Bond girl said: ‘I do get to have a lovely moment with him, where I try to seduce him. He’s a very hot guy, definitely. He worked out for two hours every day after filming.’
‘He’s a Bond in real life – very physical, capable and energetic.’ Daniel also said he is now extremely comfortable in his role as 007 now he is on his third film as the iconic character.
He explained: ‘I think it’s about time, really, isn’t it that I should start feeling comfortable? I enjoyed this a great deal and like I said about the script, when you’ve got something as strong as that, and when you know the story is that good, you feel good about it. I always wanted to start bringing in the older elements of the films.’ Via DailyMail
It clearly works: Naomie Harris donned similar fashion designs to the London (R) and Rome premieres of Skyfall
Racy and lacy: Naomi graced the red carpet in a teal dress this time
Sexy side: She admitted to enjoying seducing Daniel Craig on-screen
Important guests: She was joined by producer Barbara Broccoli, director Sam Mendes and actor Daniel Craig
Getting into it: Craig said he’s more comfortable playing the James Bond character now
Third time’s a charm: Skyfall will be Craig’s third film starring in the iconic role
Opening up: Daniel and co-star Dame Judi Dench chatted about the film on Graham Norton on Friday night
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KolorBlind Mag 
This is all we’re able to report on due to hurricane sandy and power loss.
Welcome back! Can’t believe the storm caused so much damage and disruption. I needed my weekly news fix. Thanks.
Glad you’re back. I thought I was going to miss my weekly news.
Great mix of everything I need. Skyfall is proving to be the movie of the year.
Welcome back. Hope the hurricane didn’t damage too much?
The week was boring without your posts. On another note, I can’t wait for Obama to win so we can be done with the election.
Election, election and more election. I hope everyone registered, voted or is preparing to vote come Tuesday. Let’s do this!
I love this weekly news section. It gives me a view of news from the election to fashion. Great work!
Can Halle Berry get any more youthful? I’m enjoying reading this compilation of news.