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Tonight filming with Tamra at a beauty night I'm Newport. No drama which was awesome!.. |
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Vicki And Tamra Filming RHOOC
Picture from Vicki's Facebook.
Bryn Is True Love For Bethenny
From CupCake Mag Sprinkles.
Bethenny Frankel -- Life as a Mom
Last time we spoke with Bethenny she was only a few months pregnant, had a new book out and just finished filming season 3 of RHONY. Since then, she has gotten married, written a third book, released Body by Bethenny, had a baby and a new show. We all feel in love with Bethenny Frankel and her so sweet family all over again on Bethenny Getting Married. She is a true inspiration - not just as a biz woman but as a super-momma. Bethenny does it at all as a wife, business maven, writer and now you can add super-mom to the top of her list.
We really enjoyed Bethenny Getting Married? -- can we expect to see a second reality show focusing on your life as a mom or a return to The Real Housewives? We have are hopes set!
I have to believe that there will be a second season. Tv shows are about supply and demand. BGM is a huge success, so if the viewers want it, they will get it.
From watching your new show, we can see that you are serious a pro a multi-tasking. How has your life changed since your welcomed Bryn?
Even though my schedule is crazed, I as a person have softened and slowed down. Bryn makes everything around me so quiet and simple. This is true love.
What challenges have you faced managing it all?
I am painfully punctual and being on time is really challenging. This makes me crazy. I also have difficulty managing the equal distribution of love amongst Jason,Bryn and Cookie(dabooboo).
We know with kids you feel like your carrying everything. (I have 3 girls and feel like I carry everything plus the kitchen sink) What are your essentials when leaving the house with Bryn?
Omg the shlep factor is huge! Bottles, wipes, diapers, A&D ointment, a hat and a blanket are some of the basics.
You have a super-chic style and always so put together. Who is your favorite designer? What is your go-to outfit?
I'm always in pajamas, but if I'm at a tv appearance or segment I wear Alice and Olivia, Michael Kors, Zac Posen. Truthfully, labels don't matter. Whatever fits well and is a bright color.
I am sure you have plans to make Bryn's baby food -- do you have any recipes in mind? Are you excited for the step?
I'm excited to puree bright fruits and vegetables: peaches, butternut squash, peas. This will be the next best thing to breast feeding which is so rewarding. Only the best for Bryn.
As if you don't have enough going on....what is up next for you?
I'm really knee deep in my book "A Place of Yes" which will give women the rules to getting everything they want. It is what got me here.
While we wait for another season of The Real Housewives of New York or Bethenny Getting Married you can stay-up-to date with Bethenny on Twitter and Facebook.
Bethenny Frankel -- Life as a Mom
Last time we spoke with Bethenny she was only a few months pregnant, had a new book out and just finished filming season 3 of RHONY. Since then, she has gotten married, written a third book, released Body by Bethenny, had a baby and a new show. We all feel in love with Bethenny Frankel and her so sweet family all over again on Bethenny Getting Married. She is a true inspiration - not just as a biz woman but as a super-momma. Bethenny does it at all as a wife, business maven, writer and now you can add super-mom to the top of her list.
We really enjoyed Bethenny Getting Married? -- can we expect to see a second reality show focusing on your life as a mom or a return to The Real Housewives? We have are hopes set!
I have to believe that there will be a second season. Tv shows are about supply and demand. BGM is a huge success, so if the viewers want it, they will get it.
From watching your new show, we can see that you are serious a pro a multi-tasking. How has your life changed since your welcomed Bryn?
Even though my schedule is crazed, I as a person have softened and slowed down. Bryn makes everything around me so quiet and simple. This is true love.
What challenges have you faced managing it all?
I am painfully punctual and being on time is really challenging. This makes me crazy. I also have difficulty managing the equal distribution of love amongst Jason,Bryn and Cookie(dabooboo).
We know with kids you feel like your carrying everything. (I have 3 girls and feel like I carry everything plus the kitchen sink) What are your essentials when leaving the house with Bryn?
Omg the shlep factor is huge! Bottles, wipes, diapers, A&D ointment, a hat and a blanket are some of the basics.
You have a super-chic style and always so put together. Who is your favorite designer? What is your go-to outfit?
I'm always in pajamas, but if I'm at a tv appearance or segment I wear Alice and Olivia, Michael Kors, Zac Posen. Truthfully, labels don't matter. Whatever fits well and is a bright color.
I am sure you have plans to make Bryn's baby food -- do you have any recipes in mind? Are you excited for the step?
I'm excited to puree bright fruits and vegetables: peaches, butternut squash, peas. This will be the next best thing to breast feeding which is so rewarding. Only the best for Bryn.
As if you don't have enough going on....what is up next for you?
I'm really knee deep in my book "A Place of Yes" which will give women the rules to getting everything they want. It is what got me here.
While we wait for another season of The Real Housewives of New York or Bethenny Getting Married you can stay-up-to date with Bethenny on Twitter and Facebook.
Kelly Talks To FANCAST
Post from FANCAST.
by Sean Evans
With the ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ having wrapped another violence-riddled, hair-extension-pulling, crazy cat-fighting season last night, talk of Bravo’s wildly popular franchise has now shifted to the future of the New York cast. Fancast sat down with Kelly Killoren Bensimon over a late lunch at Delicatessen in Soho to chat about her potential participation in the upcoming season, her views on the series as a whole, and why she’s not the insane, drama-filled character the public often pegs her as being.
[Ed. Note: When we spoke last Friday, contracts hadn’t yet been issued to any of the New York ladies. Bensimon told us “if Bravo wants me back, I’d do it. Definitely.” Tuesday morning, Bensimon exclusively confirmed to Fancast she’d received an offer Monday to rejoin. “Yes, they’re sending a contract. I can’t confirm I’m fully on-board, though, until we’ve finalized signing the contracts,” she said.]
What are your thoughts on the concept of the ‘Real Housewives’ franchise?
As a whole, it is hilarious. It’s an amazing view of all these different women in all these different parts and cities around America. It’s a fun snippet of a look into these people’s lives. I like it. It’s great, great, TV.
Do you watch all the shows?
No. I’ve seen a little of New Jersey. I saw one scene of Atlanta. I obviously watch the scenes I’m in for New York. But I don’t need to watch the whole thing. I mean, I was there!
What do you think of what you see?
Sometimes I like it, sometimes I don’t. I loved when I saw a scene where I’m making pancakes with my kids. It was so cute.
What about the Virgin Island’s episode? Some people thought you had a meltdown, some were convinced you were acting…
It’s not an act at all. When we were in the Virgin Islands, things happened that I didn’t like. So I responded, honestly and authentically. If I don’t like something and I’m being pushed, I think it’s important to respond. I could’ve easily walked away, left the scene. I could’ve even left the island. Just gotten on an airplane and left. But it’s my job to be honest and authentic and if you don’t like that, that’s not my problem. That’s yours.
Do you care how other people perceive you?
No. Why should I?
So if someone calls you crazy, do you just dismiss it?
Yes. It doesn’t faze me in the least. After [the Virgin Islands episode], people were like, ‘Wow. That was really hard to watch.’ And I said, ‘Why? That’s television. What’s so hard about watching that? Because I was crying and saying leave me alone and stop berating me and attacking me?’ In normal situations, you would excuse yourself from the drama. But in normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have even been there in the first place. I would never choose to put myself in that kind of environment. I would never go on vacation with people that I wasn’t friends with or didn’t trust.
You’re not close with any of the girls in real life?
I like Jill Zarin. I like Jen Gilbert and I like LuAnn de Lesseps. Everyone else, I don’t know well enough to say if I like her or not.
What did your close friends say when they saw that episode?
They said ‘good for you.’ And they’re glad I stuck up for myself and let the other girls know it’s inappropriate behavior. My friends were laughing all over the place. They know its white noise. It’s non-coherent subject matter. It doesn’t make sense at all. Everyone’s like, ‘Kelly, you’re the only sane person on the show.’ My friends think I’m doing a great job.
Have you seen any of Bethenny’s spin-off show, ‘Bethenny Getting Married’?
I haven’t. I don’t watch that much TV, especially during the summer. I’m mostly out, enjoying the warm weather.
Doing anything fun?
I spent a lot of time working on a new jewelry line that’s coming out this fall called Kelly by Kelly Kelloren Bensimon. My summer line was at Intermix exclusively this season and now with the new line, we’re in the process of selling it. It’s got low price points, but it’s super trendy.
There’s always a lot of fighting on the ‘Real Housewives,’ regardless of the city. Which cast would win in an Anchorman-style back alley brawl?
I’m not a good person to ask! I don’t have a good ‘mean barometer.’ I will say this: I’ve met them all, and they were all super nice and friendly to me.
Even [New Jersey cast member] Danielle Staub?
Yes. She was actually quite friendly.
What do you think of Danielle?
If Danielle gets her own spinoff, I think that’d be amazing for her. She makes for great TV. She’s out of the box and has no inhibitions. It’s not my place to say whether someone has issues or not. I will say she has a lot of fun with what she’s doing. I don’t know what her real life is like, but I honestly don’t think that she’s well matched against the rest of that cast for that show. Still, she definitely is fun to watch. I love seeing her. She has no limitations and that’s great.
Would you ever want your own spin-off?
I would do my own show but it wouldn’t be the Kelly Killoren Bensimon Trainwreck Show. [Laughs] It would be more about people that I know and love. What’s more interesting isn’t necessarily me. It’s all the cool people that I know, and I want them to be highlighted through me.
Like your kids? They were in a few episodes last season. If you do come back, would they be a part of season four?
I would love to have them because I want people to see more of my real life. One thing everyone’s watching a lot is my interaction with people I don’t know very well. I’d rather everyone see how I am with people I love. So yes, they were in two episodes last year, and for the next time, I’d see that going to up to maybe four episodes? They’re spirited kids, they have a great attitude and they’re fun. I’m proud of them. I love hanging out with them.
Do they like the process?
They are exactly the same on camera or off. They’re just like ‘that’s my mom and there’s a camera there.’ They don’t think of it any other way.
You’ve mentioned before that said your daughter wants you to have a boyfriend…
Yes. She wants me to start dating.
Any prospects?
I can’t tell you that!
Are you looking forward to the next season of RHONY? Would you like to see a Kelly spin-off? What do you think of her friends’ assessment of her?
by Sean Evans
With the ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ having wrapped another violence-riddled, hair-extension-pulling, crazy cat-fighting season last night, talk of Bravo’s wildly popular franchise has now shifted to the future of the New York cast. Fancast sat down with Kelly Killoren Bensimon over a late lunch at Delicatessen in Soho to chat about her potential participation in the upcoming season, her views on the series as a whole, and why she’s not the insane, drama-filled character the public often pegs her as being.
[Ed. Note: When we spoke last Friday, contracts hadn’t yet been issued to any of the New York ladies. Bensimon told us “if Bravo wants me back, I’d do it. Definitely.” Tuesday morning, Bensimon exclusively confirmed to Fancast she’d received an offer Monday to rejoin. “Yes, they’re sending a contract. I can’t confirm I’m fully on-board, though, until we’ve finalized signing the contracts,” she said.]
What are your thoughts on the concept of the ‘Real Housewives’ franchise?
As a whole, it is hilarious. It’s an amazing view of all these different women in all these different parts and cities around America. It’s a fun snippet of a look into these people’s lives. I like it. It’s great, great, TV.
Do you watch all the shows?
No. I’ve seen a little of New Jersey. I saw one scene of Atlanta. I obviously watch the scenes I’m in for New York. But I don’t need to watch the whole thing. I mean, I was there!
What do you think of what you see?
Sometimes I like it, sometimes I don’t. I loved when I saw a scene where I’m making pancakes with my kids. It was so cute.
What about the Virgin Island’s episode? Some people thought you had a meltdown, some were convinced you were acting…
It’s not an act at all. When we were in the Virgin Islands, things happened that I didn’t like. So I responded, honestly and authentically. If I don’t like something and I’m being pushed, I think it’s important to respond. I could’ve easily walked away, left the scene. I could’ve even left the island. Just gotten on an airplane and left. But it’s my job to be honest and authentic and if you don’t like that, that’s not my problem. That’s yours.
Do you care how other people perceive you?
No. Why should I?
So if someone calls you crazy, do you just dismiss it?
Yes. It doesn’t faze me in the least. After [the Virgin Islands episode], people were like, ‘Wow. That was really hard to watch.’ And I said, ‘Why? That’s television. What’s so hard about watching that? Because I was crying and saying leave me alone and stop berating me and attacking me?’ In normal situations, you would excuse yourself from the drama. But in normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have even been there in the first place. I would never choose to put myself in that kind of environment. I would never go on vacation with people that I wasn’t friends with or didn’t trust.
You’re not close with any of the girls in real life?
I like Jill Zarin. I like Jen Gilbert and I like LuAnn de Lesseps. Everyone else, I don’t know well enough to say if I like her or not.
What did your close friends say when they saw that episode?
They said ‘good for you.’ And they’re glad I stuck up for myself and let the other girls know it’s inappropriate behavior. My friends were laughing all over the place. They know its white noise. It’s non-coherent subject matter. It doesn’t make sense at all. Everyone’s like, ‘Kelly, you’re the only sane person on the show.’ My friends think I’m doing a great job.
Have you seen any of Bethenny’s spin-off show, ‘Bethenny Getting Married’?
I haven’t. I don’t watch that much TV, especially during the summer. I’m mostly out, enjoying the warm weather.
Doing anything fun?
I spent a lot of time working on a new jewelry line that’s coming out this fall called Kelly by Kelly Kelloren Bensimon. My summer line was at Intermix exclusively this season and now with the new line, we’re in the process of selling it. It’s got low price points, but it’s super trendy.
There’s always a lot of fighting on the ‘Real Housewives,’ regardless of the city. Which cast would win in an Anchorman-style back alley brawl?
I’m not a good person to ask! I don’t have a good ‘mean barometer.’ I will say this: I’ve met them all, and they were all super nice and friendly to me.
Even [New Jersey cast member] Danielle Staub?
Yes. She was actually quite friendly.
What do you think of Danielle?
If Danielle gets her own spinoff, I think that’d be amazing for her. She makes for great TV. She’s out of the box and has no inhibitions. It’s not my place to say whether someone has issues or not. I will say she has a lot of fun with what she’s doing. I don’t know what her real life is like, but I honestly don’t think that she’s well matched against the rest of that cast for that show. Still, she definitely is fun to watch. I love seeing her. She has no limitations and that’s great.
Would you ever want your own spin-off?
I would do my own show but it wouldn’t be the Kelly Killoren Bensimon Trainwreck Show. [Laughs] It would be more about people that I know and love. What’s more interesting isn’t necessarily me. It’s all the cool people that I know, and I want them to be highlighted through me.
Like your kids? They were in a few episodes last season. If you do come back, would they be a part of season four?
I would love to have them because I want people to see more of my real life. One thing everyone’s watching a lot is my interaction with people I don’t know very well. I’d rather everyone see how I am with people I love. So yes, they were in two episodes last year, and for the next time, I’d see that going to up to maybe four episodes? They’re spirited kids, they have a great attitude and they’re fun. I’m proud of them. I love hanging out with them.
Do they like the process?
They are exactly the same on camera or off. They’re just like ‘that’s my mom and there’s a camera there.’ They don’t think of it any other way.
You’ve mentioned before that said your daughter wants you to have a boyfriend…
Yes. She wants me to start dating.
Any prospects?
I can’t tell you that!
Are you looking forward to the next season of RHONY? Would you like to see a Kelly spin-off? What do you think of her friends’ assessment of her?
Caroline Said Things To Danielle Out Of Frustration
Post from US Magazine.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Caroline Manzo says she regrets calling Danielle Staub a "clown" and "garbage" during their fiery showdown on Monday's finale.
"I’m not proud of the names I called her; my remarks were cruel and childish," she writes on her Bravo TV blog. "But, that's my truth. Makes absolutely no sense but, it is what it is. I said what I said out of frustration and anger. I was speaking to someone who was looking me dead in the eye and lying to me. Not only that, there was absolutely no accountability on her part at all."
And though she regrets losing her "cool," Manzo, 49, says she's glad the incident is behind her. (Incidentally, she says she had "no idea" Staub had armed bodyguards outside the restaurant during the meeting.)
"I’m not going back to that place," she says. "If any of the others choose to go there, then that’s their decision and I don’t want to hear a word about it. I’m done."
Staub doesn't feel any resolution, either.
"There is no resolve with a clown who calls anyone garbage," she writes. "Remember to stand your ground ~ even if the ground seems to move ~ stay still ~ it'll move around you."
The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Caroline Manzo says she regrets calling Danielle Staub a "clown" and "garbage" during their fiery showdown on Monday's finale.
"I’m not proud of the names I called her; my remarks were cruel and childish," she writes on her Bravo TV blog. "But, that's my truth. Makes absolutely no sense but, it is what it is. I said what I said out of frustration and anger. I was speaking to someone who was looking me dead in the eye and lying to me. Not only that, there was absolutely no accountability on her part at all.""I’m not going back to that place," she says. "If any of the others choose to go there, then that’s their decision and I don’t want to hear a word about it. I’m done."
Staub doesn't feel any resolution, either.
"There is no resolve with a clown who calls anyone garbage," she writes. "Remember to stand your ground ~ even if the ground seems to move ~ stay still ~ it'll move around you."
Kim G.Loves Tom M.
Post from Socialite Life.
Well, this next part is a bit...awkward. Celebrity magnet Tom Murro has made his way into Kim G.'s heart, according to her tweets. Jersey sister is just lurrving her some T.M. And money. And trash talking about old foes. Give it up, you ham!
My guess is eventually "not a pot to piss in nor a window to throw it out". Oh to live the high life, AZ, the spa, private jet, & Tom, OMG 15 minutes ago via TweetToGo
private jet back to NJ. Refueling & dropping Tom off in Martha's Vineyard 4 interviews with Pres. Obama tomo. see Boston Globe 08/19 online. about 7 hours ago via TweetToGo
Love my $80,000 Chiinchilla jacket that arrived from Florence, Italy. I know mine was not borrowed from my sister-in-law Kim D @ Posche!! about 9 hours ago via TweetToGo
Google "Planet of the Apes" (the movie), the character "Bright Eyes", and guess who looks like her and has her forehead??? about 9 hours ago via TweetToGo
$1000.00 boat on wheels? My haircut and highlights cost more!! How pathetic. And in a backyard no less and no pool??? about 11 hours ago via web
I know my railings are staying in my house and no one is taking them away...MINE are paid 4.. Scamming ieventually catches up to u!!! about 11 hours ago via TweetToGo
$8000 window treatments. My kitchen alone cost more that that. Must be Bed, Bath, & Beyond Specials. about 13 hours ago via TweetToGo
Oh, Tom helicopter ride so so romantic!! What a wonderful time! I am loving your new Rolex & u of course. Next stop, Martha' Vineyard. 11:11 PM Aug 21st via TweetToGo
Oh Tom surprised me here In AZ. Going to Grand Canyon on a private helicopter & not using anyone's money. Oh to be rich & not scam & phony!! 1:18 PM Aug 21st via TweetToGo
Massage & spa was incredible but not as incredible as the "Celebrity Magnet". I talked about going to Grand Canyon. Tom, please surprise me! 11:08 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
Danielle spotted shopping in Target, Bed, & Beyond. in Edgewater which is near my condo per my sourses. guess she has officially moved!! 8:15 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
I am so loving my massage here... But Tom Murro you so do it better. What hands you have!! and thats not all!!!1 5:05 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
Canyon Ranch bound in Tucson AZ. The fiinest spa in the U.S. So happy to splurge & pamper myself. Not using other's money; it's all mine!!! 2:32 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
John fabulous apartment at U Of Ariz with beautiful furniture we bought today. on my way to Canyon Ranch tomo. Tom Murro wish u were here.
Posted By Kelly Lynch
With the second season of Bravo's Real Housewives Of New Jersey wrapping up (and the finale happening not just next week, but the week after as well), moochinator Kim G. is totes mcgotes jonesin' for a spot on the third season (if there will even be a third season. And ya'll know that Danielle was dismissed, verdad?).
Well, this next part is a bit...awkward. Celebrity magnet Tom Murro has made his way into Kim G.'s heart, according to her tweets. Jersey sister is just lurrving her some T.M. And money. And trash talking about old foes. Give it up, you ham!
My guess is eventually "not a pot to piss in nor a window to throw it out". Oh to live the high life, AZ, the spa, private jet, & Tom, OMG 15 minutes ago via TweetToGo
private jet back to NJ. Refueling & dropping Tom off in Martha's Vineyard 4 interviews with Pres. Obama tomo. see Boston Globe 08/19 online. about 7 hours ago via TweetToGo
Love my $80,000 Chiinchilla jacket that arrived from Florence, Italy. I know mine was not borrowed from my sister-in-law Kim D @ Posche!! about 9 hours ago via TweetToGo
Google "Planet of the Apes" (the movie), the character "Bright Eyes", and guess who looks like her and has her forehead??? about 9 hours ago via TweetToGo
$1000.00 boat on wheels? My haircut and highlights cost more!! How pathetic. And in a backyard no less and no pool??? about 11 hours ago via web
I know my railings are staying in my house and no one is taking them away...MINE are paid 4.. Scamming ieventually catches up to u!!! about 11 hours ago via TweetToGo
$8000 window treatments. My kitchen alone cost more that that. Must be Bed, Bath, & Beyond Specials. about 13 hours ago via TweetToGo
Oh, Tom helicopter ride so so romantic!! What a wonderful time! I am loving your new Rolex & u of course. Next stop, Martha' Vineyard. 11:11 PM Aug 21st via TweetToGo
Oh Tom surprised me here In AZ. Going to Grand Canyon on a private helicopter & not using anyone's money. Oh to be rich & not scam & phony!! 1:18 PM Aug 21st via TweetToGo
Massage & spa was incredible but not as incredible as the "Celebrity Magnet". I talked about going to Grand Canyon. Tom, please surprise me! 11:08 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
Danielle spotted shopping in Target, Bed, & Beyond. in Edgewater which is near my condo per my sourses. guess she has officially moved!! 8:15 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
I am so loving my massage here... But Tom Murro you so do it better. What hands you have!! and thats not all!!!1 5:05 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
Canyon Ranch bound in Tucson AZ. The fiinest spa in the U.S. So happy to splurge & pamper myself. Not using other's money; it's all mine!!! 2:32 PM Aug 20th via TweetToGo
John fabulous apartment at U Of Ariz with beautiful furniture we bought today. on my way to Canyon Ranch tomo. Tom Murro wish u were here.
RHONY Picture from Ramona
Pic./tweet from Ramona.
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| hanging painting ladies of RHONYC season 2 can you believe it will be season 4 coming up next?? |
Jill Filming
Pics. of Jill while she was filming today.
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| The crew has arrived! |
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| @allyzarin and the crew:) |
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| Jill filming....hope I don't get in trouble for posting these pics...shhhhh! |
Jacqueline Says That Danielle Was On A Mission To Destroy People
Article from People.
BY: Charlotte Triggs
Jacqueline Laurita realizes she may have come off as “bitter” and overly interested in the drama relating to costar — and former friend — Danielle Staub during the second season of The Real Housewives of New Jersey, which ended Monday night. But she’s clear about one thing: there was a reason for the animosity.
“Things were getting out of control,” Laurita tells PEOPLE. “There was other stuff going on that we didn’t talk about because it would draw too much attention to it. If we addressed the lies she was spreading, it [would] keep it going.”
In drama that played out on the show, Staub had engaged Laurita’s daughter, Ashley Holmes, 19, in an online war of words, before a physical altercation occurred last fall, during which Holmes pulled her hair. Staub pressed assault charges and Holmes was found guilty and had to pay a $189 fine.
But Laurita says there was even more drama going on behind the scenes. “If there was nothing going on we wouldn’t be so angry with her. Out of nowhere? Obviously something was being said and done to warrant that anger,” she says. “It was stuff she was saying about everybody. She had a mission to destroy people, but me getting angry is just fueling the fire.”
And though she says she “didn’t always like” how she came off during filming, Laurita says she’s ready to sign on for season 3. “I would do another season. It’s a chance for you to see yourself as others see you. It’s a growing, learning experience,” she says. “I’m hoping Ashley will see some of how she acts. I see it in myself. When I saw myself being bitter it bothered me.”
And she says, she’s can handle the criticism that comes with being on a show like Real Housewives.
“At the end of the day, the bad press or blogs or things, it doesn’t bother me,” says Laurita. “For me it’s a job. It’s entertainment. It’s a show that’s doing very well and we’re doing well. And I have thick skin. You have to be okay with putting yourself out there and letting people judge you.”
BY: Charlotte Triggs
Jacqueline Laurita realizes she may have come off as “bitter” and overly interested in the drama relating to costar — and former friend — Danielle Staub during the second season of The Real Housewives of New Jersey, which ended Monday night. But she’s clear about one thing: there was a reason for the animosity.
“Things were getting out of control,” Laurita tells PEOPLE. “There was other stuff going on that we didn’t talk about because it would draw too much attention to it. If we addressed the lies she was spreading, it [would] keep it going.”In drama that played out on the show, Staub had engaged Laurita’s daughter, Ashley Holmes, 19, in an online war of words, before a physical altercation occurred last fall, during which Holmes pulled her hair. Staub pressed assault charges and Holmes was found guilty and had to pay a $189 fine.
But Laurita says there was even more drama going on behind the scenes. “If there was nothing going on we wouldn’t be so angry with her. Out of nowhere? Obviously something was being said and done to warrant that anger,” she says. “It was stuff she was saying about everybody. She had a mission to destroy people, but me getting angry is just fueling the fire.”
And though she says she “didn’t always like” how she came off during filming, Laurita says she’s ready to sign on for season 3. “I would do another season. It’s a chance for you to see yourself as others see you. It’s a growing, learning experience,” she says. “I’m hoping Ashley will see some of how she acts. I see it in myself. When I saw myself being bitter it bothered me.”
And she says, she’s can handle the criticism that comes with being on a show like Real Housewives.
“At the end of the day, the bad press or blogs or things, it doesn’t bother me,” says Laurita. “For me it’s a job. It’s entertainment. It’s a show that’s doing very well and we’re doing well. And I have thick skin. You have to be okay with putting yourself out there and letting people judge you.”
Alex-RHONY Reviews RHONJ Finale
Alex's RHONJ Review from Bravo.
No More Drama
NYC's Alex McCord recaps Caroline and Danielle's confrontation, and looks forward to Andy and Teresa's reunion throwdown.
It’s the season finale of NJ, and the clock is ticking, the music is ominous and the entire episode leads up to the BIG CONFRONTATION. I have to admit, I am distracted writing this blog because I’m thinking about the preview for the reunion special where Teresa lays hands on Andy and he is seen leaping after Jacqueline. Oh my.
Back to this week – I think everyone has had enough with a capital E of the drama, trauma, whatever you want to call it, between Danielle and everyone else. The Manzo clan felt (rightly, I think) that there was no point in either Teresa or Jacqueline speaking to Danielle. If anyone was going to call a meeting, it had to be Caroline. If they play by the rules, after this discussion there should be no more drama between these families. Why then, could Jacqueline not meet Ashley’s eyes when they spoke? I still think Ashley has no idea that her mother and step-dad and boyfriend and extended family are all trying to help her. What do they have to do, skywrite it?
I was a little surprised that Danielle chose to read the text from Caroline out loud to her daughters, but suppose I really shouldn’t have been. This has been going on SO long, she may as well consult them too. And Danny. Does anyone else want to know what’s going on between the two of them? I do. My guess is that they are friends and nothing’s happened but he’s secretly in love with her. Or the cameras. Or both – what do you think? I don’t believe for a moment that Caroline put Teresa and Jacqueline up to confronting or chasing Danielle through the country club. She isn’t Carmelo, or even Carmela. Is Danielle being real or being a drama queen? The histrionics in her interviews amaze me.
The only thing I want to know about the scene with Caroline talking to Lauren and Albie is whether her tea kettle and canisters are from Mackenzie Childs – is that their famous harlequin pattern? Love Caroline, love the kids but this scene felt like filler. Ditto the energist scene with Danielle – glad she felt clean going into the meeting but didn’t need to see it.
Wow – for the first time the Jacqueline Laurita who gave birth to Ashley Holmes showed up. Wow – like mother, like daughter – they both have that sardonic “I don’t care” face that drives the person on the receiving end of it absolutely crazy. Holy moly, I get it now. These women are going to knock heads for the rest of their lives and I don’t think anyone can stop it. What they CAN do is respect each other, and it’s clear they love each other dearly. Good on Lauren for defusing the situation and getting Ashley back into the room so they could all wait for Caroline to return.
What do I think about the charges levied against Ashley? Caroline and Danielle both made good points. Danielle did have to learn the hard way from her mistakes, and one can see why she thinks Ashley should do the same. Caroline also pointed out that because Danielle went through her legal trouble and had no one to feel compassion for her, that this is her chance to feel compassion for someone in her shoes. All good points. Unfortunately it didn’t work, because the meeting devolved into name-calling. Ms. Staub couldn’t give Caroline an example of when she attacked Danielle, so she gave her one on the spot by calling her a clown and garbage. Not Caroline’s finest moment. But Caroline held her ground by stating simply that she stood behind every member of her family. As far as we can see from the season, Caroline wasn’t the one trying to make friends with Danielle’s friends (Kim G?) In that case at least, Kim approached her. The only thing I’ll say for Danielle is that she didn’t get hysterical with Caroline one-on-one – she saves that for her interviews.
What did we learn? No charges were dropped. No bridges were crossed, except perhaps one between Ashley and Jacqueline, which is a good thing. In the mean time we have the reunion to look forward to.
Have a great week, and if you’d like to know what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
No More Drama
NYC's Alex McCord recaps Caroline and Danielle's confrontation, and looks forward to Andy and Teresa's reunion throwdown.
It’s the season finale of NJ, and the clock is ticking, the music is ominous and the entire episode leads up to the BIG CONFRONTATION. I have to admit, I am distracted writing this blog because I’m thinking about the preview for the reunion special where Teresa lays hands on Andy and he is seen leaping after Jacqueline. Oh my. Back to this week – I think everyone has had enough with a capital E of the drama, trauma, whatever you want to call it, between Danielle and everyone else. The Manzo clan felt (rightly, I think) that there was no point in either Teresa or Jacqueline speaking to Danielle. If anyone was going to call a meeting, it had to be Caroline. If they play by the rules, after this discussion there should be no more drama between these families. Why then, could Jacqueline not meet Ashley’s eyes when they spoke? I still think Ashley has no idea that her mother and step-dad and boyfriend and extended family are all trying to help her. What do they have to do, skywrite it?
I was a little surprised that Danielle chose to read the text from Caroline out loud to her daughters, but suppose I really shouldn’t have been. This has been going on SO long, she may as well consult them too. And Danny. Does anyone else want to know what’s going on between the two of them? I do. My guess is that they are friends and nothing’s happened but he’s secretly in love with her. Or the cameras. Or both – what do you think? I don’t believe for a moment that Caroline put Teresa and Jacqueline up to confronting or chasing Danielle through the country club. She isn’t Carmelo, or even Carmela. Is Danielle being real or being a drama queen? The histrionics in her interviews amaze me.
The only thing I want to know about the scene with Caroline talking to Lauren and Albie is whether her tea kettle and canisters are from Mackenzie Childs – is that their famous harlequin pattern? Love Caroline, love the kids but this scene felt like filler. Ditto the energist scene with Danielle – glad she felt clean going into the meeting but didn’t need to see it.
Wow – for the first time the Jacqueline Laurita who gave birth to Ashley Holmes showed up. Wow – like mother, like daughter – they both have that sardonic “I don’t care” face that drives the person on the receiving end of it absolutely crazy. Holy moly, I get it now. These women are going to knock heads for the rest of their lives and I don’t think anyone can stop it. What they CAN do is respect each other, and it’s clear they love each other dearly. Good on Lauren for defusing the situation and getting Ashley back into the room so they could all wait for Caroline to return.
What do I think about the charges levied against Ashley? Caroline and Danielle both made good points. Danielle did have to learn the hard way from her mistakes, and one can see why she thinks Ashley should do the same. Caroline also pointed out that because Danielle went through her legal trouble and had no one to feel compassion for her, that this is her chance to feel compassion for someone in her shoes. All good points. Unfortunately it didn’t work, because the meeting devolved into name-calling. Ms. Staub couldn’t give Caroline an example of when she attacked Danielle, so she gave her one on the spot by calling her a clown and garbage. Not Caroline’s finest moment. But Caroline held her ground by stating simply that she stood behind every member of her family. As far as we can see from the season, Caroline wasn’t the one trying to make friends with Danielle’s friends (Kim G?) In that case at least, Kim approached her. The only thing I’ll say for Danielle is that she didn’t get hysterical with Caroline one-on-one – she saves that for her interviews.
What did we learn? No charges were dropped. No bridges were crossed, except perhaps one between Ashley and Jacqueline, which is a good thing. In the mean time we have the reunion to look forward to.
Have a great week, and if you’d like to know what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
RHONJ Finale Review
Article from NJ.com.
By:Vicki Hyman/The Star-Ledger
The Meeting of the Five Families: Okay, so it was technically only three, but overdo the Godfather/Sopranos iconography much? I know that most of the references are courtesy of Danielle -- and c'mon, who didn't love her mangled "Caroline, you're not Carmelo" comment -- but Caroline certainly relishes the Don Corleone role, no matter how much she protests any family connections to the Mafia. Caroline tells the other housewives and their families that she's tired of watching them "battle this lunatic," citing the rumors that Danielle has allegedly spread about Teresa's dream home being foreclosed upon, how she let her friend call Chris Manzo a gay slur, and "the Dina situation" (details, please!). Caroline says she's going to talk to Danielle and attempt to reason with her to drop the charges against Ashley Holmes, Jacqueline's daughter, stemming from the contretemps at the North Jersey Country Club last year. In exchange, Caroline wants to be able to promise Danielle that all her family and friends will stay out of her way. "The only loose cannon we have here in Ashley," Caroline says in voiceover.
"Real Brats of New Jersey": Jacqueline and husband Chris have yet another sit-down with Ashley about keeping her distance from Danielle. To her credit, Ashley does not say "whatever" once. She does, however, roll her eyes, sigh dramatically, and all but stick out her tongue at her parents. "I don't think Ashley understood that it's time to move on," Jacqueline says. Ya think?
Bracing for battle: Danny Provenzano drops by Danielle's house for the express purpose of fleshing out the Godfather imagery. Is Caroline secretly behind Teresa and Jacqueline's shenanigans, Danielle wonders. "It would have to be their boss, no? I mean, Caroline?... She's the strongest. She's their boss," Danny says. "The puppeteer is Caroline. She's the ruling party, there's no question about that. They do what she dictates. I believe that." Um, based on what, exactly? Has he even met Caroline once? Danny promises to provide Danielle with security during the confrontation with Caroline. Possibly in the form of a gun hidden behind a toilet in the bathroom?
"Real Brats," part two: Everyone but Caroline and Danielle are gathered at the Brownstone to await the outcome of the meeting. Everyone is rehashing Danielle's past, saying that she should know what it's like it to be a young kid who had done a dumb thing, but Ashley just does not want to hear it again and tells her mother that. "You have a mouth on you. You need to control that Ashley," Jacqueline tells her. They bicker a little more, and then Ashley is up and outta there. She retreats to the bathroom. Chris Laurita and Ashley's boyfriend Derek smartly retreat to the bar, where Chris essentially tells him to shut Ashley up. Derek pretty much agrees to do so. After a pep talk from Lauren Manzo, Ashley pulls herself together and apologizes to her mother (not without some coaching from Derek).
Battle Royale: As far as fights go, this one was pretty toothless. Danielle is escorted into the restaurant by her boyguard. A coiffed and bejeweled Caroline is waiting. The two agree that they are both tired of this nonsense, and that they're setting lousy examples for their children. The meeting of the minds comes to a screeching halt when Caroline asks Danielle to consider dropping the charges against Ashley, although Caroline does say that what Ashley did was "dead wrong." Caroline says that Ashley never threatened to kill Danielle, as Danielle told police. "Tell the truth, then I'll respect you," Caroline says. "Amazingly, I don't need you to validate my life," Danielle tells her, and wonders why Caroline and her family and friends keep attacking her. But when Caroline asks her to name one thing she has done to attack her, Danielle is stumped and changes the subject: "What have I ever done to you?" "Jacqueline is me," Caroline says. "Dina is me. Lexi is me. Ashley is me. When I stand, I don't stand alone. I stand with my family." There's more blah blah blah, and then Caroline delivers her coup de grace ... well, let's go to the videotape (okay, the stenotype):
Caroline: You know what you are? You're a clown.
Danielle (disbelievingly, then barely keeping a straight face): I'm a clown. Really?
Caroline: Your whole life is a joke.
Danielle: You're saying this, sitting there with red hair? I'm the clown?
Caroline: Yes, you are.
Danielle: Really?
Caroline: Yeah. No matter how hard you try, no matter what you do, no matter who you talk to, okay, you will not hurt me. Do you know why? I have integrity, okay, and I sit here and I tell you the truth, okay? And when I called you garbage, I meant you were garbage."
It's no table flip, folks.
The show closes out with epilogues for our cast members. You know most of them already -- Danielle, memoir, pop song, sex tape; Ashley, $189 fine for assault; and Teresa, bestselling author and bankruptcy poster child, who still maintains that her house is not in foreclosure. Which is kind of like a woman in a wig denying she has hair extensions. Or something.
By:Vicki Hyman/The Star-Ledger
The "Real Housewives of New Jersey" finale opened with a meeting awash in portent and dread. The heads of all the famiiles were there -- Caroline Manzo, Teresa Giudice, Jacqueline Laurita, Emilio Barzini and Phillip Tattaglia. Hey, is that Johnny Fontane on the sound system? ... whoops, wrong work of fiction. And sadly, that's all this season was -- an elaborately staged costume drama with too many leading ladies and not nearly enough plot.
You can argue that this is Bravo's modus operandi, but at least in the first season of "Real Housewives of New Jersey," there was a sense of ... well, wonder is probably too strong word, but possibility? Who are these women, what do they know about each other, and how are they going to interact? It devolved rapidly into Danielle Staub vs. the world, of course, but at least it went somewhere. This season has been one long rehash, punctuated with bracing interludes of sheer insanity (sometimes sickening, sometimes, well, entertaining yet sickening), but still, primarily Danielle vs. the world. The other gals said countless times how sick they were of talking about Danielle, yet every time they gathered together, who did they talk about? It's not like Teresa didn't have other things on her mind.
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| Photo:Bravo |
One silver lining: It does seem like the ladies (and Bravo) are actually putting this long-suffering plotline to rest. Add on rumors that Danielle Staub either was fired or may refuse to return for a third season, and the fact that wacky neighbor Kim Granatell -- Mrs. Roper in a minidress -- is showing up for the two-part reunion show, and there's hope for some fresh mental illness next season.
The Meeting of the Five Families: Okay, so it was technically only three, but overdo the Godfather/Sopranos iconography much? I know that most of the references are courtesy of Danielle -- and c'mon, who didn't love her mangled "Caroline, you're not Carmelo" comment -- but Caroline certainly relishes the Don Corleone role, no matter how much she protests any family connections to the Mafia. Caroline tells the other housewives and their families that she's tired of watching them "battle this lunatic," citing the rumors that Danielle has allegedly spread about Teresa's dream home being foreclosed upon, how she let her friend call Chris Manzo a gay slur, and "the Dina situation" (details, please!). Caroline says she's going to talk to Danielle and attempt to reason with her to drop the charges against Ashley Holmes, Jacqueline's daughter, stemming from the contretemps at the North Jersey Country Club last year. In exchange, Caroline wants to be able to promise Danielle that all her family and friends will stay out of her way. "The only loose cannon we have here in Ashley," Caroline says in voiceover.
"Real Brats of New Jersey": Jacqueline and husband Chris have yet another sit-down with Ashley about keeping her distance from Danielle. To her credit, Ashley does not say "whatever" once. She does, however, roll her eyes, sigh dramatically, and all but stick out her tongue at her parents. "I don't think Ashley understood that it's time to move on," Jacqueline says. Ya think?
Bracing for battle: Danny Provenzano drops by Danielle's house for the express purpose of fleshing out the Godfather imagery. Is Caroline secretly behind Teresa and Jacqueline's shenanigans, Danielle wonders. "It would have to be their boss, no? I mean, Caroline?... She's the strongest. She's their boss," Danny says. "The puppeteer is Caroline. She's the ruling party, there's no question about that. They do what she dictates. I believe that." Um, based on what, exactly? Has he even met Caroline once? Danny promises to provide Danielle with security during the confrontation with Caroline. Possibly in the form of a gun hidden behind a toilet in the bathroom?
"Real Brats," part two: Everyone but Caroline and Danielle are gathered at the Brownstone to await the outcome of the meeting. Everyone is rehashing Danielle's past, saying that she should know what it's like it to be a young kid who had done a dumb thing, but Ashley just does not want to hear it again and tells her mother that. "You have a mouth on you. You need to control that Ashley," Jacqueline tells her. They bicker a little more, and then Ashley is up and outta there. She retreats to the bathroom. Chris Laurita and Ashley's boyfriend Derek smartly retreat to the bar, where Chris essentially tells him to shut Ashley up. Derek pretty much agrees to do so. After a pep talk from Lauren Manzo, Ashley pulls herself together and apologizes to her mother (not without some coaching from Derek).
Battle Royale: As far as fights go, this one was pretty toothless. Danielle is escorted into the restaurant by her boyguard. A coiffed and bejeweled Caroline is waiting. The two agree that they are both tired of this nonsense, and that they're setting lousy examples for their children. The meeting of the minds comes to a screeching halt when Caroline asks Danielle to consider dropping the charges against Ashley, although Caroline does say that what Ashley did was "dead wrong." Caroline says that Ashley never threatened to kill Danielle, as Danielle told police. "Tell the truth, then I'll respect you," Caroline says. "Amazingly, I don't need you to validate my life," Danielle tells her, and wonders why Caroline and her family and friends keep attacking her. But when Caroline asks her to name one thing she has done to attack her, Danielle is stumped and changes the subject: "What have I ever done to you?" "Jacqueline is me," Caroline says. "Dina is me. Lexi is me. Ashley is me. When I stand, I don't stand alone. I stand with my family." There's more blah blah blah, and then Caroline delivers her coup de grace ... well, let's go to the videotape (okay, the stenotype):
Caroline: You know what you are? You're a clown.
Danielle (disbelievingly, then barely keeping a straight face): I'm a clown. Really?
Caroline: Your whole life is a joke.
Danielle: You're saying this, sitting there with red hair? I'm the clown?
Caroline: Yes, you are.
Danielle: Really?
Caroline: Yeah. No matter how hard you try, no matter what you do, no matter who you talk to, okay, you will not hurt me. Do you know why? I have integrity, okay, and I sit here and I tell you the truth, okay? And when I called you garbage, I meant you were garbage."
It's no table flip, folks.
The show closes out with epilogues for our cast members. You know most of them already -- Danielle, memoir, pop song, sex tape; Ashley, $189 fine for assault; and Teresa, bestselling author and bankruptcy poster child, who still maintains that her house is not in foreclosure. Which is kind of like a woman in a wig denying she has hair extensions. Or something.
Will The RHONY Tank Without Bethenny?
From NY Magazine.
By: Chris Rovzar
This could potentially wreck the show. It's not that Bethenny is always (or even most of the time) the most likable character in a given episode. (For a scientific analysis of who does "win" each episode, check out our recaps.) It's that she is the one whose responses are often closest to that of the audience's. She's the first person to call out a crazy person for acting crazy, or to make fun of herself when she does something ridiculous. She laughs when we laugh (remember when she said Kelly was "a gift from Jesus to make me laugh"?), and she gets offended when we get offended ("The problem is you don't assume responsibility for anything you do," she once told Jill). If it weren't for her wisecracks, the Manhattan of the Real Housewives would permanently detach from the real world and become its own Scary Island.
All is not necessarily lost: New castmember Sonia Morgan — for all her sex talk and incessantly strange lesbian innuendo — is pretty funny and sane, too. And last season, potential new housewife Jennifer Gilbert could be frequently seen practicing her eye rolls and wisecracks from her position in the wings. But neither of them have the timing or the wit of Bethenny — nor have they ever been so charmingly the scrappy underdog.
We hope that in the second season of her own Bravo show, Bethenny will develop a cast of characters around her so that it's not just her, put-upon Jason, Cookie the dog, and whatever assistants happen to be flitting around. Not only because we really want to believe Bethenny can make friends without employing them, co-starring with them, marrying them, or dredging them up from her deep past; it's also because we very well may have to find a new ensemble show to watch when Real Housewives becomes simply too traumatizing.
By: Chris Rovzar
As anybody who read Intel Chris and Jessica's recaps of The Real Housewives of New York City this season knows, the show has begun to really traumatize viewers. The incessant cruelty of Jill Zarin, the skittish neuroses of Alex McCord, the steady stream of judgment from LuAnn de Lesseps, the inconsistent attacks from Ramona Singer, and the downright frightening insanity of Kelly Killoren Bensimon have combined to create this otherworldly, unpleasant version of our beloved city. In particular, watching Jill bully everyone was so evocative of middle school it actually made us, the viewers, want to eat our lunch off of a tray in the bathroom to avoid getting harassed in the cafeteria.
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| Photo:Bravo |
And today, the Daily News announces what has been reported before and what will probably continue to be reported until the end of taping for the next season: Bethenny Frankel has been officially cut.
All is not necessarily lost: New castmember Sonia Morgan — for all her sex talk and incessantly strange lesbian innuendo — is pretty funny and sane, too. And last season, potential new housewife Jennifer Gilbert could be frequently seen practicing her eye rolls and wisecracks from her position in the wings. But neither of them have the timing or the wit of Bethenny — nor have they ever been so charmingly the scrappy underdog.
We hope that in the second season of her own Bravo show, Bethenny will develop a cast of characters around her so that it's not just her, put-upon Jason, Cookie the dog, and whatever assistants happen to be flitting around. Not only because we really want to believe Bethenny can make friends without employing them, co-starring with them, marrying them, or dredging them up from her deep past; it's also because we very well may have to find a new ensemble show to watch when Real Housewives becomes simply too traumatizing.
Six RHONY Asked Back For Season Four
Post from the NY Daily News.
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| Photo:WireImage |
By:Carson Griffith
Fans of the "Real Housewives of New York" will have something to celebrate Tuesday night. A show insider confirmed to us yesterday that six of the seven main characters were asked back for season four of the reality show after months of keeping them on the edges of their Pilates-toned seats. Bravo is even bringing back Alex McCord, whom the cable network was close to cutting last spring, and sexy Sonja Morgan, who was a new addition to the cast on season three.
Not rejoining Jill Zarin, Kelly Bensimon, and LuAnn de Lesseps (if all the ladies accept their offers, that is) will be Bethenny Frankel, who is taping a second season of her spinoff, "Bethenny Getting Married?" for the same network. No word yet if Jennifer Gilbert, an occasional housewife, will be taking the screen again, but apparently we hear Bravo has been showing interest in a "wealthy Hamptons housewife."
Jill's Shopping Spree In Florida
Article from Miami Herald
By:MADELEINE MARR
``Mayor Bloomberg won't be thrilled with me; I'm helping the Florida economy,'' said Zarin from the Theory store at Town Center in Boca. ``I'm here getting my basics -- my black, my white, my gray. I'll drop a few grand, but I'll be done.''
Zarin, 46, likely won't have too many wardrobe issues in the near future -- Season 4 of the hit Bravo show is in limbo, while frenemy Bethenny Frankel got her own spinoff, Bethenny Getting Married?
The two don't speak, but it sounds like they may eventually.
``Sadly, I haven't seen her baby yet but hopefully when the media goes way we'll be able to talk.''
In the meantime, plan on seeing more of Zarin.
``Nothing makes me happier than going to the mall in Boca,'' she said. ``I have my little rituals like getting my frozen yogurt then having lunch at Neiman Marcus.''
Being unemployed will also give the mother of four (one daughter and three stepkids) some down time. But don't look for her tuning into the D.C. franchise.
``I find it a little boring, a little pretentious and forced,'' she said, adding, ``but the jury's still out.''
What's the appeal of all these Real Housewives?
``I think people are just nosybodies. I don't mean that in a bad way,'' she said. ``Also it's the `better you than me' mentality. You got that DWI and I didn't.''
By:MADELEINE MARR
Jill Zarin isn't shy about telling it like it is. So it's fitting the fiery cast member from the Real Housewives of New York City wrote a book packed with advice.
The Long Island, N.Y., native was in Coral Gables and Boca Raton over the weekend doing signings of Secrets of a Jewish Mother. Cowritten with her sister and mother, the self-helper doles out tips on dating, parenting and marriage (Classic: ``Who said your husband has to know everything?'')
Zarin is loving the Sunshine State, hanging out with BFF Carole Rome, wife of governor/senatorial candidate Charlie Crist, and shopping to her heart's content.
``Mayor Bloomberg won't be thrilled with me; I'm helping the Florida economy,'' said Zarin from the Theory store at Town Center in Boca. ``I'm here getting my basics -- my black, my white, my gray. I'll drop a few grand, but I'll be done.''
Zarin, 46, likely won't have too many wardrobe issues in the near future -- Season 4 of the hit Bravo show is in limbo, while frenemy Bethenny Frankel got her own spinoff, Bethenny Getting Married?The two don't speak, but it sounds like they may eventually.
``Sadly, I haven't seen her baby yet but hopefully when the media goes way we'll be able to talk.''
In the meantime, plan on seeing more of Zarin.
``Nothing makes me happier than going to the mall in Boca,'' she said. ``I have my little rituals like getting my frozen yogurt then having lunch at Neiman Marcus.''
Being unemployed will also give the mother of four (one daughter and three stepkids) some down time. But don't look for her tuning into the D.C. franchise.
``I find it a little boring, a little pretentious and forced,'' she said, adding, ``but the jury's still out.''
What's the appeal of all these Real Housewives?
``I think people are just nosybodies. I don't mean that in a bad way,'' she said. ``Also it's the `better you than me' mentality. You got that DWI and I didn't.''
Caroline And Danielle Let It All Out
Post from Babble.
Posted by MaraLee
Last night’s final episode of The Real Housewives of New Jersey was a doozy. Caroline Manzo called Danielle Staub for a mafia style sit down where she unleashed on her. The video is below for those who missed it.
“My intention for the meeting with Danielle was to put an end to all the nonsense (nonsense being the operative word). I was so sick of hearing her name, so sick of dealing with the fallout of the rumors and encounters regarding her, and so ashamed and embarrassed by how we behaved and what we allowed ourselves to become in our quest to “win.” Like I said to Danielle, there are no winners in a losing game. Somewhere in the back of my mind I knew how it would end. I knew there would be no reasoning or understanding, but I had nothing to lose.”
During the talk Caroline calls Danielle a “clown,” a very polite term when compared to many others she could have chosen. But even if she wasn’t as mean as she could have been, she does feel bad. “I’m not proud of the names I called her; my remarks were cruel and childish. But, that’s my truth. Makes absolutely no sense but, it is what it is. I said what I said out of frustration and anger. I was speaking to someone who was looking me dead in the eye and lying to me. Not only that, there was absolutely no accountability on her part at all.”
Caroline has found out many things she didn’t know before the course of the season. She was unaware of remarks Danielle made about her and her children or that Danielle had bodyguards outside the restaurant during their meeting.
After the showdown, Caroline said she was done…but she’s not there yet. While Danielle will not be returning for the next season, Caroline still had to come face to face with her during the reunion special.
Posted by MaraLee
Last night’s final episode of The Real Housewives of New Jersey was a doozy. Caroline Manzo called Danielle Staub for a mafia style sit down where she unleashed on her. The video is below for those who missed it.
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| Photo:Bravo |
Caroline has weighed in on the confrontation saying, “It was clear to me that the situation with Danielle was like a merry-go-round that never was going to stop. I felt that I was the only one that could go and speak to her because I was the only one that wasn’t emotionally involved. I was never her friend, and true, I never wanted to be.”
Caroline says she based the decision to not get close to Danielle on instinct and feels she clearly made the right choice.“My intention for the meeting with Danielle was to put an end to all the nonsense (nonsense being the operative word). I was so sick of hearing her name, so sick of dealing with the fallout of the rumors and encounters regarding her, and so ashamed and embarrassed by how we behaved and what we allowed ourselves to become in our quest to “win.” Like I said to Danielle, there are no winners in a losing game. Somewhere in the back of my mind I knew how it would end. I knew there would be no reasoning or understanding, but I had nothing to lose.”
During the talk Caroline calls Danielle a “clown,” a very polite term when compared to many others she could have chosen. But even if she wasn’t as mean as she could have been, she does feel bad. “I’m not proud of the names I called her; my remarks were cruel and childish. But, that’s my truth. Makes absolutely no sense but, it is what it is. I said what I said out of frustration and anger. I was speaking to someone who was looking me dead in the eye and lying to me. Not only that, there was absolutely no accountability on her part at all.”
Caroline has found out many things she didn’t know before the course of the season. She was unaware of remarks Danielle made about her and her children or that Danielle had bodyguards outside the restaurant during their meeting.
After the showdown, Caroline said she was done…but she’s not there yet. While Danielle will not be returning for the next season, Caroline still had to come face to face with her during the reunion special.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Kelsey Out Of Control
Post from ShowBizSpy.
KELSEY Grammer has been branded “out of control’ and selfish by his closest pals.
The Frasier star rocked his inner circle when it emerged he had been cheating on his wife of 13-years, former Playboy model Camille Donatacci, with 29-year-old airline stewardess Kayte Walsh, who’s now pregnant with his child.
“Kelsey is out of control,” a source told American tabloid the National Enquirer.
“It’s like he’s only thinking of himself and his own selfish needs — and everyone else including his wife and kids can go to hell. Camille is beyond distraught.
“Kelsey, who was admired by all of his friends for seemingly beating a years-long addiction to alcohol and drugs, is secretly boozing again.”
Recent reports claimed Kelsey’s divorce from Camille could cost him a cool $71m.
“The split has been anything but amicable. Camille was devastated when she found out about the betrayal – even more so when she discovered her husband’s mistress was pregnant,” a source told Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper.
“Kelsey is in love with Kayte and simply wants to move on. But he’s bracing himself for a huge payout.”
However, Camille — who owns half of the star’s Grammnet Productions television company — is said to be seeking the payout for revenge, rather than monetary reasons.
“It’s not all about cash for Camille though as she’s extremely solvent in her own right,” said the source.
“But she remains a woman scorned. Camille feels humiliated and wants Kelsey to apologise for his mistakes.”
Camille married Kelsey in 1997, four years after Frasier — in which the actor played radio psychiatrist Frasier Crane — first aired.
KELSEY Grammer has been branded “out of control’ and selfish by his closest pals.
The Frasier star rocked his inner circle when it emerged he had been cheating on his wife of 13-years, former Playboy model Camille Donatacci, with 29-year-old airline stewardess Kayte Walsh, who’s now pregnant with his child.
“Kelsey is out of control,” a source told American tabloid the National Enquirer.“It’s like he’s only thinking of himself and his own selfish needs — and everyone else including his wife and kids can go to hell. Camille is beyond distraught.
“Kelsey, who was admired by all of his friends for seemingly beating a years-long addiction to alcohol and drugs, is secretly boozing again.”
Recent reports claimed Kelsey’s divorce from Camille could cost him a cool $71m.
“The split has been anything but amicable. Camille was devastated when she found out about the betrayal – even more so when she discovered her husband’s mistress was pregnant,” a source told Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper.
“Kelsey is in love with Kayte and simply wants to move on. But he’s bracing himself for a huge payout.”
However, Camille — who owns half of the star’s Grammnet Productions television company — is said to be seeking the payout for revenge, rather than monetary reasons.
“It’s not all about cash for Camille though as she’s extremely solvent in her own right,” said the source.
“But she remains a woman scorned. Camille feels humiliated and wants Kelsey to apologise for his mistakes.”
Camille married Kelsey in 1997, four years after Frasier — in which the actor played radio psychiatrist Frasier Crane — first aired.
Caroline Talks to Italia Living
Article from Italia Living.
An Interview with Caroline Manzo, by Loraine Pavich
Let me tell you something about my family,” — those infamous words say it all. Caroline is the epitome of a strong New Jersey woman; she is a devoted wife and mother of three beautiful “babies” – Albie, 24; Lauren, 22; and Christopher, 21 and she always makes sure to put her family first. Married for more than 25 years, her husband Albert runs The Brownstone, a very successful catering facility in Paterson, NJ. The business has been with the family for over 30 years and is one of the premiere event spaces in the state. Although Caroline spends the majority of her time running the household, she is also the owner of two successful businesses, Opus Properties, a real estate firm and 4 My Mom, a children’s accessories line. In addition, Caroline has just launched a new concept, Caroline’s Kitchen, a collection of licensed products that will focus on several of her great loves: cooking, creating a warm, wonderful home and taking care of her beloved family – including her precious puppies. Always looking to help others, Caroline is affiliated with both The Carolyn Gable Expect A Miracle Foundation, which helps single mothers and CROC, (Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer), a Foundation dedicated to helping cancer survivors overcome the daily challenges dealing with this disease. Often described as a feisty spitfire, Caroline manages to have it all – family, friends and a successful career. In her opinion, that is what makes her a Real Housewife of New Jersey.What values from your Italian upbringing have you instilled in your children?
Tradition and loyalty
What is the best meal your mother taught you to cook?
My mother taught me how to cook so many things. One that sticks out and it is one my kids favorites that you have all seen on the show is sausage, potatoes and peppers in the oven. It’s the simplest dish to make and absolutely delicious.
Do your children ever ask you to prepare them different meals for each of them at the same time?
They try (laughs). At dinner time it would probably be no. But if its breakfast or lunch they put in their orders like I am a short order cook. Generally its what I am making I make. If Lauren is dieting I will do a variation of what I am making for her.
Do you prefer ravioli or manicotti?
Manicotti
Where in Italy do you love to visit?
I love the Tuscany region.
What is a typical Sunday at the Manzo house?
Insanity. It is whoever and whatever shows up. Its food and everybody just hanging around. Usually every time you see me were all in the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of our house. I wanted to the kitchen to be the heart of our home and we had it specially designed to be that way.
Your favorite Italian romantic restaurant you and your husband love to go to?
We don’t generally do the flowers and candlelight thing. Its not so romantic but I just love Babbo. Anywhere I am with him is romantic so it doesn’t matter.
Do you watch any of the other Housewives shows?
Yes I do. I watch them all.
Do you have a lot of friends?
I don’t have a lot true friends but I have a ton of acquaintances. I have very few “friends” people that I know that through thick and thin will be there for me.
What is your favorite holiday to cook for and what do you prepare?
Christmas Eve. We do the traditional fish. As you well know in the traditional Italian home on Christmas Eve the meal is primarily fish. I don’t eat seafood so I will cheat a little bit and make something else for me and my son who is allergic. The meals go on forever.
What are your views on a career woman vs. a real housewife?
Being a housewife is a job that never goes away. It is 24/7. I think being a housewife and being mother is the most challenging job in the world. It is a job at that at one time can make you want to pull your hair out, and at other times gives you much gratification. I don’t think that there is another job on the planet that can give you that. However, I do have tremendous amount of respect for those the women that go out into the work force and work hard and become successful.
What do you do for yourself to escape from everyone?
I read. I love to read. Right now I am reading a booked called the Bucolic Plague. Its about two men who are life partners that have decided to leave their perspective craziness in NYC and go on a farm and raise goats and make cheese. It tells the story of their journey. I find it very funny, up lifting and entertaining.
You look better than ever, what are some tips for healthy Italian eating?
I think olive oil is my best friend. I use a lot of olive oil. If you do it smart I think Italian cooking is very healthy for you. Generally in the Italian culture you use fresh vegetables and herbs. I remember when I was young we had a farm in Upstate NY. We had this tremendous vegetable garden and we would go out there in the morning and pick zucchini and eggplant. My parents and grandparents would make a salad with all the vegetables from the garden with just olive oil.
Are you exercising and practicing portion control?
It is very much portion control but I am not that regiment. I do not have the will power to walk away from something that I love. I love cheese, I love bread, I love mortadella, I love sausage. I just can’t walk away from it. I eat small quantities. I also stopped drinking soda and high fructose juices. I drink a ton of water. I literally walk around with a water bottle in my hand. It clears the system out, hydrates your body and its good for the skin. I also go on the treadmill a few times a week.
Any summer plans with the family?
No, it has been a crazy year. The way our life its hard to plan. The only thing we planned was our anniversary to Italy. With the kids being older and my husbands work schedule our life is a bit chaotic. We grab it when and if we can.
Are you enjoying all of what is happening in your life now?
I am enjoying all of this. There are days when I want to go under the covers which is typical in life but this is a truly a great time.
Loraine Pavich has had a diverse career in publishing with several successful magazines, and is currently Bookings Director for OK! Magazine.
An Interview with Caroline Manzo, by Loraine Pavich
Let me tell you something about my family,” — those infamous words say it all. Caroline is the epitome of a strong New Jersey woman; she is a devoted wife and mother of three beautiful “babies” – Albie, 24; Lauren, 22; and Christopher, 21 and she always makes sure to put her family first. Married for more than 25 years, her husband Albert runs The Brownstone, a very successful catering facility in Paterson, NJ. The business has been with the family for over 30 years and is one of the premiere event spaces in the state. Although Caroline spends the majority of her time running the household, she is also the owner of two successful businesses, Opus Properties, a real estate firm and 4 My Mom, a children’s accessories line. In addition, Caroline has just launched a new concept, Caroline’s Kitchen, a collection of licensed products that will focus on several of her great loves: cooking, creating a warm, wonderful home and taking care of her beloved family – including her precious puppies. Always looking to help others, Caroline is affiliated with both The Carolyn Gable Expect A Miracle Foundation, which helps single mothers and CROC, (Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer), a Foundation dedicated to helping cancer survivors overcome the daily challenges dealing with this disease. Often described as a feisty spitfire, Caroline manages to have it all – family, friends and a successful career. In her opinion, that is what makes her a Real Housewife of New Jersey.Tradition and loyalty
What is the best meal your mother taught you to cook?
My mother taught me how to cook so many things. One that sticks out and it is one my kids favorites that you have all seen on the show is sausage, potatoes and peppers in the oven. It’s the simplest dish to make and absolutely delicious.
Do your children ever ask you to prepare them different meals for each of them at the same time?
They try (laughs). At dinner time it would probably be no. But if its breakfast or lunch they put in their orders like I am a short order cook. Generally its what I am making I make. If Lauren is dieting I will do a variation of what I am making for her.
Do you prefer ravioli or manicotti?
Manicotti
Where in Italy do you love to visit?
I love the Tuscany region.
What is a typical Sunday at the Manzo house?
Insanity. It is whoever and whatever shows up. Its food and everybody just hanging around. Usually every time you see me were all in the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of our house. I wanted to the kitchen to be the heart of our home and we had it specially designed to be that way.
Your favorite Italian romantic restaurant you and your husband love to go to?
We don’t generally do the flowers and candlelight thing. Its not so romantic but I just love Babbo. Anywhere I am with him is romantic so it doesn’t matter.
Do you watch any of the other Housewives shows?
Yes I do. I watch them all.
Do you have a lot of friends?
I don’t have a lot true friends but I have a ton of acquaintances. I have very few “friends” people that I know that through thick and thin will be there for me.
What is your favorite holiday to cook for and what do you prepare?
Christmas Eve. We do the traditional fish. As you well know in the traditional Italian home on Christmas Eve the meal is primarily fish. I don’t eat seafood so I will cheat a little bit and make something else for me and my son who is allergic. The meals go on forever.
What are your views on a career woman vs. a real housewife?
Being a housewife is a job that never goes away. It is 24/7. I think being a housewife and being mother is the most challenging job in the world. It is a job at that at one time can make you want to pull your hair out, and at other times gives you much gratification. I don’t think that there is another job on the planet that can give you that. However, I do have tremendous amount of respect for those the women that go out into the work force and work hard and become successful.
What do you do for yourself to escape from everyone?
I read. I love to read. Right now I am reading a booked called the Bucolic Plague. Its about two men who are life partners that have decided to leave their perspective craziness in NYC and go on a farm and raise goats and make cheese. It tells the story of their journey. I find it very funny, up lifting and entertaining.
You look better than ever, what are some tips for healthy Italian eating?
I think olive oil is my best friend. I use a lot of olive oil. If you do it smart I think Italian cooking is very healthy for you. Generally in the Italian culture you use fresh vegetables and herbs. I remember when I was young we had a farm in Upstate NY. We had this tremendous vegetable garden and we would go out there in the morning and pick zucchini and eggplant. My parents and grandparents would make a salad with all the vegetables from the garden with just olive oil.
Are you exercising and practicing portion control?
It is very much portion control but I am not that regiment. I do not have the will power to walk away from something that I love. I love cheese, I love bread, I love mortadella, I love sausage. I just can’t walk away from it. I eat small quantities. I also stopped drinking soda and high fructose juices. I drink a ton of water. I literally walk around with a water bottle in my hand. It clears the system out, hydrates your body and its good for the skin. I also go on the treadmill a few times a week.
Any summer plans with the family?
No, it has been a crazy year. The way our life its hard to plan. The only thing we planned was our anniversary to Italy. With the kids being older and my husbands work schedule our life is a bit chaotic. We grab it when and if we can.
Are you enjoying all of what is happening in your life now?
I am enjoying all of this. There are days when I want to go under the covers which is typical in life but this is a truly a great time.
Loraine Pavich has had a diverse career in publishing with several successful magazines, and is currently Bookings Director for OK! Magazine.
Drama Galore At RHONJ Reunion
Post from Babble.
Posted by MaraLee
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| Photo: Bravo |
Wow. You can always expect a whole heaping load of Garden State drama when viewing an episode of The Real Housewives of New Jersey, but from the looks of the preview, what goes down at the reunion has escalated to a new level of crazy.
There’s accusations of drug use and sleeping with married men, death threats, an appearance by Kim G. and fighting, fighting, fighting. Teresa stands over Danielle and screams “Bitch, I’m going to pin you down,” throws a pillow at her and gets rough with Andy Cohen when he tries to restrain her. It’s apparently too much for even Danielle to handle and she walks off the set.
It’s hard to watch and hard to look away.
Teresa's Kid Clothes Connection
Post from Babble.
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| Photo: Bravo |
Posted by SunnyChanel
Do you watch The Real Housewives of New Jersey? Don’t be afraid to admit it, we all have our guilty pleasures. But merely watching vesus living are too totally different things. You really have to live in some kind of crazy reality or extravagant existence if you dress your kids in matching outfits like these Teresa Giudice of The Real Housewives of NJ put her daughters in, outfits complete with bloomers and petticoats.
And these pink and leopard ensembles weren’t just to go to a ‘Little Bo Peep goes Safari Tea Party’ in Franklin Lakes…She had these outfits custom made and brought all four outfits with them on their family trip to Italy, now that’s committing to a look. If you feel like you’d like to interject a bit of Teresa’s Jersey style into your little princess’ wardrobe you, yes you can pick them up directly from the designer Cilla Sebasitan right here. But be warned, this ‘Marie Antoinette’ layered dress and pant set ain’t cheap. It goes for $240 and you can order it here.
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| Photo: Cilla Sebastian |
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| Photo: Cilla Sebastian |
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| Photo: Cilla Sebastian |
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Photo: Cilla Sebastian |
@LyndaRHODC Fake Twitter Busted
Post from The Washington Examiner.
By: Katy Adams and Nikki Schwab
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| Photo: Bravo |
By: Katy Adams and Nikki Schwab
Well, it was fun while it lasted. A Twitter account claiming to represent “Real Housewives of D.C.” cast member Lynda Erkiletian provided some of the snarkiest commentary throughout Thursday’s episode of D.C.-based reality TV series.
“Somebody needs to be leaving Paris and its not Stacie,” LyndaRHODC Tweeted, making a jab at the show’s most notorious couple. (You can guess who).
But by Sunday, the Twitter account had disappeared, with Erkiletian revealing on her Bravo.com blog that it was a fake. “I have enjoyed reading most of your comments and I would be Tweeting like crazy right now, except that someone has hijacked my name,” she wrote.
In the meantime, she’ll simply stick to blogging.
Stacie's Blog
Stacie's latest blog.
WHEN OPPOSITES ATTRACT
by stacie turner
Before Real Housewives of DC (unlike the other ladies and Paul), Jason and I had never met the Salahis or had any interaction with them personally or professionally. We knew nothing about them: their finances, their history, how they roll, none of that. I suppose we could have “researched” them, but who does that? We don’t.
You can probably tell by now, we love wine. So at Mary’s birthday dinner, when I discovered that the Salahis owned a winery (Oasis), and Tareq proclaimed himself as an “Ambassador” for the Virginia Wine Association, I invited them to visit Sugarleaf Vineyards, owned by our good friends Lauren and Jerry Bias. Every fall, they host friends and family for a harvest party on their 130 acre vineyard outside Charlottesville, Virginia. We take the kids down for tractor rides, great food, and for the adults – wine sippin’ all day (no driving). To be clear, all this happened WAY BEFORE the White House dinner incident – (so no, Jason and I are not that crazy). Make no mistake: Sugarleaf Vineyards (unlike the now defunct Oasis) is LEGIT. Their wine was selected and served by the White House at this year’s Governor’s Ball!
While strolling among the vines, I mentioned that we were going to Paris in a few days and flippantly said, “you should go” (Big Ballers). Jason’s brother Adam, aka Beat Assailant (B.A.), has lived in France over 10 years where he is a hip-hop sensation (who knew the French loved rap music? It’s the biggest market after the U.S.). He was dropping his 3rd album, celebrating a hit single called “Spy” and headlining a sold-out concert at the historic Elysee Montmartre! Truth be told, I seriously didn’t think that anyone would book a trip to Paris with 72 hrs notice for a concert (except maybe to see Prince or Bono). Jason and I actually work every day (and have children to consider), so we have to plan these things in advance. Apparently, a quick jaunt to France was no biggie to the Salahis!
We did not talk to the Salahis after the vineyard visit–so imagine my surprise when we received a 7:00 am call at our hotel in Paris from Michaele —“Hi Love…we’re here”. WHAT? WOW. So I can vouch for the fact that the Salahis are spontaneous and will “jet set” for fun. And–they didn’t crash Paris. While I certainly don’t agree with their decisions (and behavior) of late, I can say that they have been nothing but nice towards Jason and me from the outset. We drank Dom Perignon on the balcony of their lavish suite (overlooking Place Vendome) and danced like fools at the concert to 5 encores!
Personally, I SO admire people like Jerry, Lauren and Adam who follow their passions, conquer their fears and go for it! Jerry Bias wanted to create great wine so he bought land and a grape vine and started his vineyard from scratch. Do you know how hard that is to do?!?! Adam/Beat Assailant — moved to Paris to pursue his music career—not knowing a soul in the business or a lick of French. Ten years later, he is a recognized name there, is fluent in French, and has produced three popular albums! What was also cool (that you didn’t see on TV)–was our family dinner in Paris at Jason’s cousin Charmaine’s flat. We had a big contingent of family and friends join us to celebrate. It was so nice to gather with my other family—even a million miles away from home.
Perhaps the atmosphere of family on that trip compelled me to share with Michaele, a journey I’ve been on for the past 9 years. It wasn’t until my parents were deceased and I had a medical need to know my birth history while pregnant, that I became curious about finding my birth parents. This led me to discover that I am bi-racial with a Nigerian father! Imagine my surprise to find out that I am AFRICAN American with a nuclear family connection to Africa — but it also opened a door and a deep desire to know my roots and heritage, not just for me but also for my children.
In sharing this story, for the first time, I saw a “different side” to Michaele. A calmer, more engaged, more down to earth side. The only catalyst I can point out to explain the difference is that she was alone (no Tareq –for the first time, ever!). So I saw a glimpse of “that girl”, originally known as “Missy”. The girl that Lynda and Mary remember (and liked) from “back in the day”. I don’t really know who the infamous Salahis are now without their media costume. We will find out together as the show progresses. Earth to Missy?…….
WHEN OPPOSITES ATTRACT
by stacie turner
Before Real Housewives of DC (unlike the other ladies and Paul), Jason and I had never met the Salahis or had any interaction with them personally or professionally. We knew nothing about them: their finances, their history, how they roll, none of that. I suppose we could have “researched” them, but who does that? We don’t.
You can probably tell by now, we love wine. So at Mary’s birthday dinner, when I discovered that the Salahis owned a winery (Oasis), and Tareq proclaimed himself as an “Ambassador” for the Virginia Wine Association, I invited them to visit Sugarleaf Vineyards, owned by our good friends Lauren and Jerry Bias. Every fall, they host friends and family for a harvest party on their 130 acre vineyard outside Charlottesville, Virginia. We take the kids down for tractor rides, great food, and for the adults – wine sippin’ all day (no driving). To be clear, all this happened WAY BEFORE the White House dinner incident – (so no, Jason and I are not that crazy). Make no mistake: Sugarleaf Vineyards (unlike the now defunct Oasis) is LEGIT. Their wine was selected and served by the White House at this year’s Governor’s Ball!In retrospect, I wonder if the Salahis were expecting a red carpet affair at Sugarleaf, because they rolled up in a big white stretch limo, dressed to the “nines”. We, on the other hand, were chilling in jeans—after all, we’re in a vineyard in the mountains, tossing balls around with the kids and making sure they stay out of the lake. Besides looking like they were at a movie premiere, Tareq and Michaele were gracious to our friends. They brought a bottle of Oasis wine to share and really seemed to enjoy both the visit and the Sugarleaf wines.
While strolling among the vines, I mentioned that we were going to Paris in a few days and flippantly said, “you should go” (Big Ballers). Jason’s brother Adam, aka Beat Assailant (B.A.), has lived in France over 10 years where he is a hip-hop sensation (who knew the French loved rap music? It’s the biggest market after the U.S.). He was dropping his 3rd album, celebrating a hit single called “Spy” and headlining a sold-out concert at the historic Elysee Montmartre! Truth be told, I seriously didn’t think that anyone would book a trip to Paris with 72 hrs notice for a concert (except maybe to see Prince or Bono). Jason and I actually work every day (and have children to consider), so we have to plan these things in advance. Apparently, a quick jaunt to France was no biggie to the Salahis!
We did not talk to the Salahis after the vineyard visit–so imagine my surprise when we received a 7:00 am call at our hotel in Paris from Michaele —“Hi Love…we’re here”. WHAT? WOW. So I can vouch for the fact that the Salahis are spontaneous and will “jet set” for fun. And–they didn’t crash Paris. While I certainly don’t agree with their decisions (and behavior) of late, I can say that they have been nothing but nice towards Jason and me from the outset. We drank Dom Perignon on the balcony of their lavish suite (overlooking Place Vendome) and danced like fools at the concert to 5 encores!
Personally, I SO admire people like Jerry, Lauren and Adam who follow their passions, conquer their fears and go for it! Jerry Bias wanted to create great wine so he bought land and a grape vine and started his vineyard from scratch. Do you know how hard that is to do?!?! Adam/Beat Assailant — moved to Paris to pursue his music career—not knowing a soul in the business or a lick of French. Ten years later, he is a recognized name there, is fluent in French, and has produced three popular albums! What was also cool (that you didn’t see on TV)–was our family dinner in Paris at Jason’s cousin Charmaine’s flat. We had a big contingent of family and friends join us to celebrate. It was so nice to gather with my other family—even a million miles away from home.
Perhaps the atmosphere of family on that trip compelled me to share with Michaele, a journey I’ve been on for the past 9 years. It wasn’t until my parents were deceased and I had a medical need to know my birth history while pregnant, that I became curious about finding my birth parents. This led me to discover that I am bi-racial with a Nigerian father! Imagine my surprise to find out that I am AFRICAN American with a nuclear family connection to Africa — but it also opened a door and a deep desire to know my roots and heritage, not just for me but also for my children.
In sharing this story, for the first time, I saw a “different side” to Michaele. A calmer, more engaged, more down to earth side. The only catalyst I can point out to explain the difference is that she was alone (no Tareq –for the first time, ever!). So I saw a glimpse of “that girl”, originally known as “Missy”. The girl that Lynda and Mary remember (and liked) from “back in the day”. I don’t really know who the infamous Salahis are now without their media costume. We will find out together as the show progresses. Earth to Missy?…….
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