Image Credit: Kimberly Reynolds

The envelopes have been opened. The congratulatory champagne uncorked and gowns have been celebrated and widely panned. Award season is officially a wrap. Yayyyyy!!! As happy as I am to see its entrance every year, I’m even more ecstatic to see its exit. Despite the Oscar revelry (more so than ever this year) I can’t help but compare it to a circus in town. Instead of lions, tigers and elephants emerging from their cages to entertain, we’ve got celebs climbing out their limos, some more carelessly than other’s (yes, I’m looking at you J Law), to stand under the Big Top  Big Tent to give us a 360° view of their stylists creations. 

Before you label me a cynic or Debbie-the-downer, I must admit I love award season. I live for award season. My mother and I nearly circle the dates on the calendar in anticipation. And this year was no different. We were both certainly apart of the Lupita Nyong’o ever-growing fan club. And I jumped off my couch when she joined the small ranks of Black women clutching lil Oscar (for those counting she makes 8). She is a shining example of class and grace to young girls around the world. I look forward to her next human condition contribution.

We won’t have to wait long for some celeb’s charitable deeds. Elton John’s 22nd Annual Fundraising Oscar viewing party raised $5.1 million dollars towards HIV/AIDS prevention. The cause attracted the likes of Kelly Rowland, Russell Simmons and Mel. B as attendees.

Kelly Rowland Arriving at Elton John AIDS foundation Oscar night.
Image Courtesy of: ejaf.org

Elton John alongside Russell Simmons at his AIDS Foundation on Oscar night.
Image Courtesy: ejaf.org

Mel B striking a pose at Elton John’s AIDS Foundation party Oscar night.
Image Courtesy: DailyMail

Meanwhile in Beverly Hills, Halle Berry made a rare appearance (where you been hiding, girl?) at the Fame and Philanthropy party that attempted to raise $1 million dollars each to two charities: Charlize Theron’s Africa Outreach project that educates African youth on AIDS/HIV and The Community Inspiring Today’s Youth, a LA-based non-profit that guides students on entrepreneurship.

Halle Berry looking super gorg at the Fame & Philanthropy party in Beverly Hills.
Image Courtesy: Daily Mail

Neyo cheesin at the Fame & Philanthropy party.
Image Credit: Zimbio

Neyo performed at the inaugural event and raised awareness for his Compound Foundation.

Fun times, had by all.