An Open Letter to Toni Marie Ricci…

Clearly someone’s been in this good lady’s ear….

Dear Toni Marie:

I am writing this because I cannot begin to explain it all on Twitter and I feel it needs to be said. I have always liked you and blogged about you and your events freely and often. We enjoyed a very cordial and friendly relationship and I loved meeting you. I feel that I personally have done my best to promote and support all your past, current and future projects, especially your upcoming book. Mob Mistress has also interviewed you and, I can tell from the questions, that she took great care and compassion not to hurt you, even apologizing for a past blog that was written concerning your ex-husband, which may have hurt you.

Yesterday, you came to me in DM on Twitter, and sent me a link to your blog radio interview. I said I would check it out. You said you thought it was strange that I hadn’t retweeted your interview link. I explained to you that we were in the process of doing our first blog radio show right before yours was airing, and I was distracted preparing for that because I had just learned of it. Then you told me, in that case, I should forget about listening to yours. I don’t know what one radio show has to do with the other, but I sensed you were either offended or felt slighted because we, neither Mob Mistress or myself, retweeted your link that night. In any case you found that odd because you had a relationship with both of us and “helped” MM out. Then you went on to say you were not upset with me. I thought that was the end of it.  But then you seemed to have taken issue with Mob Mistress, saying that you noticed something different (never saying what that was), she has no integrity, a bad attitude and that you give Carla credit for saying what she did about her. You asked me to relay a message to MM, which I did. When MM asked you directly what your problem with her was or if she did anything to you, you never replied. I asked MM myself, if anything had gone on between the two of you, because I was baffled by the whole exchange, which seemingly came out of the blue. I can attest that MM has never uttered one single, bad word about you to me, ever. So I feel that there is something else going on that we are not privy to, but the words you used against MM were uncalled for and unprovoked. I still do not know what brought this about.

Let me explain that we do not blog for a living, it is a hobby. We cannot monitor Twitter 24/7, but we do and have always retweeted all of your significant tweets. Okay, one fell through the cracks, but it was nothing to get offended about, it happens. I did a simple search of our blog and since May of 2012, we have posted at least 13 blogs about you or mentioning you and, in addition, I know I personally retweet several items a day from your account. I am sure if you had asked us to retweet the link to your radio interview, and we saw the request, it would have been done.

Now, although I feel very badly about what happened between the two of you, I have been placed in a very difficult position because of yesterday’s exchange. I had planned to blog about the additional paintings Michael Bell was working on, your book release, book signings and any other events associated with you. But how can I? People use the words loyalty and respect, but I take them to heart. Mob Mistress was a good friend of mine before we ever began this blog. She has stood up for me and defended me more times than I can count. I owe her my loyalty and she has always had my respect. How can I remain loyal to her and not disrespect her and still blog about you? It would be like me saying, I noticed something different about your husband, he has a bad attitude and needs to get integrity, and adding now I believe what Carla said about him…and then I still expect you to invite me to your home for dinner with him at the table. I hope you see what I mean by my analogy. While my allegiance is always going to be to Mob Mistress, I am trying to be honest and direct with you out of consideration for your feelings, which is a courtesy I normally would not extend if you were anyone else.  In the same vein, I also have not included the actual tweets and DM’s from yesterday’s conversation. I do hope you understand and I sincerely wish you all the best.

Chiara

Mob Wives Saving Lives Photos!

Toni Marie Ricci and Karen Gravano

Did you miss last night's event? If you did you missed a huge opportunity to meet a few of your favorite Mob Wives! Many of the Mob Wives were hosting this event and raising money for victims of Sandy. We were lucky to get some pictures of those who were present for a cause that close to all their hearts. I am sharing what I have with our readers and maybe we will get some insight into season three (lol chirp) from who was and wasn't there. I learned from Twitter that Renee Graziano was not well and unable to attend. Michael Bell donated a piece of his artwork for the fund raiser and some of the Mob Wives autographed it. Joe Ferragmo was there with his lovely girlfriend. Toni Marie refers to Joe as a real "gentleman" and his girlfriend "a doll." I love Joe's white, fresh, crisp shirt!

It looks to me like everyone had a great time for a good cause. Maybe they filmed some of the event for season three of the show and we can get a better idea of what went on? I wouldn't be surprised.

Toni Marie & Renny

Renny & Ramona

Ramona signing Art by Michael Bell

while NEW Mob Wife, Love Majewski looks on!

Love Majewski adds her signature!

Toni Marie & Love Majewski

Toni Marie & Love with Michael Bell's

donated artwork

Love with @Dondig

Jennifer Graziano signing art by Michael Bell

Toni Marie & Karen

Karen & Love

Joe Ferragamo & Toni Marie

Joe & "Girlfriend"

Picture Credit: Various cast members Twitter Accounts

Michael Bell Paints Scars of a Real Mob Wife

Celebrity Artist, Michael Bell

Toni Marie Ricci is writing a soon to be published book, Scars of a Real Mob Wife, in which she discusses her life and her marriage to Michael DiLeonardo aka “Mickey Scars.” Toni Marie has given viewers of “I Married A Mobster,” a brief glimpse into her marriage to the Gambino capo, who turned informant. I learned that she is collaborating with artist, Michael Bell, who is creating seven detailed paintings depicting her story which will not only be included in the book, but shown in a public exhibit at a yet to be named gallery. Two of the paintings have been completed and Mr. Bell has graciously agreed to be interviewed for our blog about this fascinating series of works, which will most definitely enrich an already very compelling story.

Hi Michael, it’s Chiara from mobwives.blogspot, and I want to thank you for agreeing to do this interview. How are you?

I'm well Chiara and it's my pleasure.

I'd like to begin with some background information about you. Can you tell me a little about yourself as an artist, and your career?

I won my first art show at the age of 5.  My Grandmother is the one who put the first paintbrush in my hand.  She’s a self-taught artist from Lyndhurst, NJ who taught herself how to paint with oils despite having no formal education.  That’s always amazed me to this day.  My parents were also extremely supportive of my art, entering me in shows ever since I can remember.  I think my mother’s also a “closet artist” because she can draw pretty well too.

As for my Art Career, I believe the most important job for an Artist is “to draw a line from your life to your art that is straight and clear.”  For me, painting early on became a positive way for me to give form and meaning to some very difficult life experiences…as a way to do something “constructive” as opposed to “destructive” with what life threw my way.  

As a kid, I grew up on Mob Culture, with movies like the Godfather, the Pope of Greenwich Village, Goodfellas.  I also had an “Uncle” on my mother’s side, her first cousin I believe, that served 20 years in Trenton State Prison for a contract killing, only to be found shot to death in his apartment when he was paroled, so I’m also familiar with “the life.”  I would later do some portraits of the late John Gotti for his family, which brought attention to my work (some positive, some negative), but attention nevertheless…which led to more commissioned portraits for a lot of interesting people.  Here’s a few: Georgia Durante, who was once one of the most photographed models in the country turned wheel woman for the Mob back in the 70’s turned Hollywood Stuntwoman; Porn Stars (that’s a conversation for another day); then came “the Sopranos”, doing portraits for stars like Joseph R. Gannascoli (Vito) to John Fiore (Gigi), Joe Pantoliano (Ralphie), Tony Sirico (Paulie Walnuts), Sofia Milos (also of CSI:Miami), Clem Caserta of  “A Bronx Tale”, Dominic Capone (Al Capone’s Great Nephew) and now Toni Marie Ricci…my client list goes on and on much like that…

There are a lot of stories within stories within my career too since, as an artist, my process is very much like the “method acting” process made famous by actors such as Mickey Rourke and Robert DeNiro.  I get to know my subjects on a deep personal level, and more often than not we become friends.  We end up doing gigs together, get together on holidays, do things for charities...like one time, when I was in Chicago -- picture being taken out to dinner with a Judge, two Actors, the Chief of Police and three Mob guys…welcome to my world!  Then 9/11 hit.  It changed the art world forever, as nobody – especially not artists – were prepared to deal with such a tragedy and give it form or meaningful expression.  I remember being in Baltimore when it happened…driving to my Studio that morning and it was a ghost town.  Not a car on the road.  I knew something incomprehensible had to have happened, I just didn’t know the magnitude -- and then I got a call from Joey G (Joseph R. Gannscoli from the Sopranos).  We were scheduled to do an appearance at the 3rd Ave Festival in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn together at his restaurant “Soup as Art” that month and do autograph signings.  He was going to sign pictures and I was going to sign prints of my art that I created of him and our Sopranos pals.  He was devastated.  Told me he lost half his neighborhood.  Robert Cordice and the FDNY’s Squad 1 came up in the conversation, as did Father Mychal – 9/11’s first official casualty, which was coincidentally my wife’s childhood Priest.  Robert’s mother also worked with my wife’s best friend at Merrill Lynch down in the Financial District.  I ended up pulling an all-nighter and painted Robert’s portrait and sent it up to Joe along with some other Sopranos prints I did for their fundraiser in Staten Island for Squad 1, and a second one at Rascal’s Comedy Club in West Orange, NJ where Kevin James from “King of Queens” and Sopranos Steve Schirripa auctioned off a pastel piece I did of him and Joe to help raise thousands for some of the families of fallen heroes.

I guess, because of who my clientele are, people then started referring to me as “Celebrity Artist Michael Bell”, Mob Artist Michael Bell even…an on and on that went, but it also helped me develop a niche in an Art Market so saturated with sameness.  You could say that both my work and who I’ve painted for has helped separate me from the pack of other artists of my generation.

How long have you known Toni Marie?  

For only about 4 or 5 months.  I Re-Tweeted a link to a great interview Mickey Rourke did on James Lipton’s “Inside the Actor’s Studio” that a friend sent me and I tagged Mickey in the tweet.  Toni Marie happened to see my Re-Tweet, knew Mickey personally and reached out to me, asking how I knew him.  So, I shared an old charcoal piece I did for Mickey years ago with her: "Black and White Gallery"along with a link to a new thematic series I’m working on called “Carnevale Italiano” http://mbellart.com/prequel.htm which is a prequel painting series to my “Ticket to Ride” painting series that I ended up writing a screenplay about.  I told her how I’ve been actively seeking Producers for the project.  This brought up the conversation surrounding her book and life story.  Long story short, we hit it off, found we had a lot of synchronistic coincidences surrounding both our lives and she connected to my style of work.  Before we knew it, we also realized we had A LOT of friends in common!  

I told her I thought there was incredible depth to her story and how courageous she was to go against her ex-husband and testify along with her son FOR John Gotti Jr. at his last trial.  She’s a standup gal and went against the grain.  I like that.  My whole career has been like that.  Most artists go the traditional gallery route, schlocking their wares from small gallery to small gallery in hopes that a “biggie” will take notice and sign them on to their stable of artists and give them a show.  All this in hopes of getting their name out there so they can start generating more sales and commission work through the gallery’s contact lists.  As for me, I took a more “build it and they’ll come” approach, so to speak.  I’ve been very lucky, and the harder I’ve worked the luckier I’ve become.  It’s catapulted my career to a Celebrity status and like Frankie said, I did it MY WAY, not resigning my fate to some gallery owner that may or may not have my best interests at heart when promoting my name and my work.

Michael in his studio

How did the idea for this collaboration of art and book come about?

It was a very interesting concept from the start, and I’m not sure if it has ever been done before but it’s definitely original from our vantage point.  Initially, my thoughts were for the paintings to say what words fail to accurately describe about her life story.  Pictures, for me, have a magical power and can tap into emotions that sometimes words are unable to.  I call it putting “layers of meaning” into my work through the accumulation of experiences, both behind the easel and behind the scenes as I get to know my subjects on a deeply personal level.  It’s like, have you ever met someone for the first time and their face changes as you get to know them?  It’s their true personality coming to the surface.  And while I spend a lot of time on the surface of each painting, it’s the “inside” of my subjects that I’m really after.  That’s why photographs wouldn’t do her story justice.  Her story is so complex and has so many layers to it, which is exactly why painting them out makes more sense.  It does her story more justice.  A painting is also a beautiful way to acknowledge and immortalize someone that deserves to be remembered.   I told her I thought these paintings could serve as a way of “healing” her wounds/scars if you will, that run so deep.

I’ve also collaborated on projects with numerous other artists, so I’m comfortable with collaborations. I’ve actually done some pure collaboration art shows for years with a well-known Washington D.C. based artist, Michael Sprouse and in 2012 I began I’ve collaborating with artist friend Eric Fischl to create meaningful projects for Eric’s AMERICA: NOW AND HERE nationwide movement for artists, playwrights and musicians.  This past month I also created a huge collaboration painting of Amanda Todd, the Vancouver teen who sadly committed suicide last month after years of bullying.  I created this work of art with kids in a high school from a National Art Honor Society that I sponsor as a gift for Todd’s mother Carol.  We also documented it as a youtube video at http://youtube.com/mbellart   

I guess this, and Toni Marie’s project are all about the activist in me.

How did you arrive at the number of paintings that would be done? Is it based on the chapters of her book, are the paintings chronological, or based on your artistic interpretation of her story?

It is an interesting collision of art, literature, pop culture and the Mob.  It’s not based on Chapters in her book, but actually from a conversation I had with Toni Marie about her ex-husband’s obsession with “A Clockwork Orange.”  A Clockwork Orange (the book) is broken down into Three Acts: Part I (Chapters 1 – 7, On the Streets), Part II (Chapters 1 – 7, In Prison & Under Experimental Testing) and Part III (1 – 7, Back out in Society)…very symbolic of Christ’s 1) dying; 2) is buried; and 3) on the 3rd day is resurrected where the main character 1) falls from grace; 2) is imprisoned and 3) re-emerges and returns to society as a reformed version of his former self leading a new life – which strangely enough seems A LOT like life imitating art.  Their relationship died, was buried, was dug back up again in court after he entered the witness protection program and he re-emerges as “someone else” - someplace else.  So, this is how I came up with the idea of their being 7 works.  I also felt it important to do these works on paper, even though most of my series work in the past has been done on canvas, only because a lot of her life was delved through in court transcripts, read about in the newspapers, and now taking form in a book.  So, I felt paper was the appropriate vehicle for the paintings to take shape on.  There’s also that “7 Deadly Sins” connotation that could be inferred behind each work as well -- if you examine each work really closely and dive even deeper.

Have you actually read her book or are the paintings based on your conversations with her about her life?

No, just read a glimpse, a synopsis if you will, and she allowed me into her private world by sharing diary entries from that time period.  The paintings are really more about my own creative interpretations of our private conversations and time we’ve spent together discussing the project.  

The process for me started with my imagining some “visuals” for 7 paintings that would all tie together like a loose narrative about her life, not about her ex, and not about glorifying the Mob at all, which is a common misconception with my work, but more or less a glimpse for the public behind the curtains of what she’s been through ‘physically and emotionally’… seen through the eyes of someone “walking a mile, painting by painting, in her shoes” so to speak…like a method actor, as I mentioned earlier.  For me the process is just as important as the final product.  It’s what I get to learn about my subjects as I get to know them and uncover new ways to reveal their secrets visually in appealing ways that will engage the viewer.

There seems to be so much detail in each of the two paintings we have seen so far and the more I study them the more I discover. Will the book include any of your personal thoughts and ideas that went into creating each painting?

Each painting is meant to deliver a powerful message on its own, but when placed in a particular viewing order within the entire collection, the series tells a much larger tale – one of triumph and overcoming life’s hand that’s been dealt.  They also take things to the Nth degree – each work amped up with car bomb explosions, dead bodies and haunting ghost-like images hidden in smoke and shadows, underhanded deals being made in every dark corner, trials peppered with media frenzies, and authentic immortalizations of the repercussions of our actions against the backdrop of New York City.  

I’m not sure whether her book will include any of my personal thoughts or not.  We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it, but if it’s appropriate for the book and if it fits with the overall message she’s looking to share with the world through the book, then I’m game.

We’ve also been discussing the possibility of doing a Coffee Table Art Book featuring each painting, a detail view, and a reveal of the “behind the scenes” thoughts and process behind each painting, what everything means in each of the works, and pages from my sketchbook visual journal and from Toni Marie’s diary to place the viewer in our shoes…take them along for the ride so to speak, painting by painting as the works evolve and eventually the series is completed.

Really? I think that's a great idea. I would be very interested in a book that delves into all of that. I am very curious about all the details in the two paintings I've seen and what inspired them. Every time I look at one of them I see something I missed before.

Painting #1

Can you tell us something about what you tried to capture in the first and second paintings?

The first painting I think of as “the book cover” so to speak…it’s “the movie poster”…the image that poses all questions to the viewer that each of the following six works will have to try and break down to answer.  In Painting 1 Toni Marie is at her second wedding, getting married to her current husband.  The only resources I had for this work was her wedding photo and newspapers chronicling events leading to her ex-husband’s decision to flip.  So, I added in the newspaper clippings and placed them in frames behind her, with a flock of blackbirds flying out from her former residence, symbolic of reincarnation.  Her husband is looking down the road ahead while she’s actually looking back on everything that led up to this very moment.  There’s also lots of subtle details you have to look closely for that put the pieces together.  It’s a very complex first work, because the details surrounding her life to that point were equally as complex, like the rosary and crucifix in her hand, a dead body laying near the gutter of an old-time Brooklyn, the Verrazano Bridge racing through the background, through their lives that also connects Brooklyn to Staten Island – her past life to her current…there’s lots built into work 1, let’s just leave it at that.  I could go on and on.

Painting #2

In Painting 2 I wanted to take the viewer back to her childhood.  When life was pure, there she is at her Communion, and then just above her, symbolic of Venus rising from the ashes is her getting married to her first husband, while dancing a Father and Daughter dance at her first wedding.  All this juxtaposed against a car bomb exploding, which was actually the car bomb that killed her Uncle, Frank DeCicco back in 1986 – a bomb meant for John Gotti, Sr.  All this religion against all this destruction, the car bomb I thought was also symbolic of her relationship with her first husband, based on her accounts of it to me.  Explosive, destructive, damaging to everyone in it’s path.  I initially painted her son riding a bike in the work, but painted it out later and instead put a pool of blood leaking from the streets down below to make the young version of Toni Marie in her communion dress standing in it as an added symbolic gesture.  I also hid screaming faces and demons in the smoke, because…well, why not? 

Toni Marie with Michael Bell

Has Toni Marie had any input at all into what subjects will or won’t be included in the paintings? For example, I noticed, maybe incorrectly, that while there are references to Michael DiLeonardo, his likeness doesn’t seem to appear in either painting.

Toni Marie’s a one of a kind!  She’s a remarkable woman, extremely open to my own interpretations and ideas and doesn’t sideline me or my talent by telling me what should or shouldn’t be in the works.  From one professional to another I LOVE THAT!  She’s trusting me to do my job, get to know her well enough to know what to put and what not to put before it’s ever even an issue but I do greatly value her feedback from painting to painting.  I’ll send her a pic in progress so she can see if our thoughts are on the same page, and thus far I’m on the money and will continue to be.  

And no, you’re correct, there are references to her ex, but no likenesses will ever show up.  He’s not in her life anymore.  She’ll never see him again - literally, so why put him in the paintings and reveal anything different than what her reality is.  Plus I don’t know him, never knew him, so I wouldn’t feel comfortable painting him.  

How long has it taken to complete one painting and how many of the paintings have you completed so far?

About two weeks per work total hours-wise.  I’m projecting it will take about 4 months overall to complete the entire series.  But who knows, I tend to spend a lot of hours on something once I start it, so it could be sooner.  I’ve completed two thus far and am working on Painting 3 in studio now, which I hope to have finished before Christmas.    

Michael with Mob Wives

Has it been decided if the art exhibit will take place before or after the book is released or in conjunction with that event? 

All this is still to be determined.  We are actively seeking the right Solo Exhibition for the entire series, which could run in conjunction with her book release, or with the coffee table art book we talked about, but all this depends on finding the right gallery, the right publisher, and so forth.

Right now I’m just focusing on the work.  Like I said earlier, I usually just build it and they come, so I’m not worried about that.  The works will make any gallery A LOT of money, and get that gallery tons of exposure, so who wouldn’t want to exhibit them.  After all, I just finished the first Painting Unveiling on camera for Season 3 of MobWives.  The press is gonna be all over that once it airs.  I will say this, I’ll probably book a Solo Exhibition with a gallery or contemporary art museum that reaches out to me from an authentic standpoint of truly believing in “the work” BEFORE it’s aired on television across the country.  This way I’ll know they’re for real too, and not just jumping on the bandwagon because my work is on TV.

What do you plan to do with all the paintings after the exhibit?

Not a thing, because they’ll all be sold – unless it’s acquired by a museum or a private collector and becomes a traveling show.  I do plan on doing a number of appearances with Toni Marie and I’m sure we’ll be doing some print signings and book signings together.  Then, I’ll be on to my next exciting series…

That's all I have for today Michael. I appreciate your taking the time to talk to me. Hope to talk to you again one day.

Good bye Chiara, it was a pleasure talking with you.

I have to say this was a very interesting and enjoyable interview. I am glad Michael provided some explanation as to the details in the two paintings because every time I look at them I seem to see more, but I also feel like I am missing a lot. I hope you will take the time to visit Michael's website and look at his other paintings. As for me, I am dying to see what he is going to do with the other five paintings for Toni Marie's book and the painting he will unveil for season three of Mob Wives!

Picture credit: Michael Bell

Follow him on Twitter @mbellart and Toni Marie @ToniMarieRicci

Mob Wives Help Staten Island Victims of Sandy

Karen and Ramona at Oasis Crisis Center

Karen tweets that she and Ramona Rizzo were at the "Oasis Christian Crisis Center in Midland Beach, SI today...It is completely heart breaking to see so many people lose everything...if anybody has any extra coats, blankets, food, cleaning supplies please drop off at your local donation center there are people truly in need!!!!!" 

Renee starting fund raiser

Renee Graziano has started a fund raiser called Operation Mob Wives Savings Lives, to raise money and collect items for Staten Island victims whose lives were devastated by hurricane Sandy. You can  find out where to make donations on Twitter by following her @ReneeGraziano or to make a donation you can go to Hurricane Sandy Relief for Staten Island where Renee posts: "This campaign is to raise money and awareness for the victims of Superstorm Sandy. This storm has left my hometown devastated and scurrying for relief in my forgotten borough. Literally lives have been washed away along with their homes and memories. Children have been lost. Parents have been taken. Pets are missing. Please help my beloved Staten Island." Renee has a big heart and is always thinking of others and ways to help. Please join her cause and help the people of Staten Island weather this storm.

Renee's Fund Raiser is over $5,000 in 24 hours!

Toni Marie's sandwiches

And, I caught a couple of tweets from Toni Marie Ricci of I Married A Mobster, who said she was leaving with 150 sandwiches. I caught up with her after she got back from Staten Island South Beach, where she was doing her good deed for her community. 

Big Ang Collects Items at Drunken Monkey

With the Help of Lil Jenn, Janine and Blonde Linda

Big Ang making food for South Beach today!

And last, but not least, Big Ang is accepting donations of much needed items at the Drunken Monkey which will be distributed to those in need. She has also been preparing food in her kitchen to bring to South Beach! Please follow Big Ang @BiggangVH1 for updates and details and ways you can help.

Picture credit: Cast members Twitter Accounts

Toni Marie Ricci's New Book: "Scars of a Real Mob Wife"

I recently read that Toni Marie Ricci is writing a book about her unique and compelling story as a mob wife of a crime family capo. When we first started this blog, I came across her name in various articles and interviews online. I wrote a couple of blogs about her and her ex-husband, Michael DiLeonardo aka “Mikey Scars.” I never thought that a year and a half later I would be meeting, chatting and interviewing this very warm and friendly lady about the story of her life. I called Toni Marie to see what she would be able to tell us about her new book, “Scars of a Real Mob Wife.”

Hi, Toni Marie, this is Chiara from mobwives.blogspot, how are you today?

I’m good Chiara, how are you?

I’m good, always looking for a good blog and I read that you are in the process of writing a book about your life. Can you give us a brief summary of the contents?

The book is a memoir of my life with my ex-husband, Michael "Mikey Scars" DiLeonardo, and a little about how I grew up in a certain environment. 

When you say “certain environment” do you mean you grew up in the “lifestyle?”

I grew up in Brooklyn, my family all lived in a 12 family apartment house. My grandmother has 9 brothers and sisters. We always had family coming over and eating together. I was always around well dressed men who drove Cadillacs. I had a tremendous and loving family. I never knew anyone was in the lifestyle, no one ever talked about it. I mean, you may have had an inkling, but you never knew specifics. In 1986, when I was 21 and pregnant with my son, my cousin was killed, blown up in a car. He was the underboss for John Gotti Sr. Then my brother was incarcerated too. It was around that time that I really realized what was going on. 

How did you meet Michael DiLeonardo?

I guess it was through the lifestyle that we met. He was 10 years older than I was, and at 19 I was very impressed by him. He took me to the best places. But he also had a large grocery store in Harlem. I was glad to see he had his own business and I was happy he wasn’t in the lifestyle. I never wanted any part of the lifestyle. Soon after we married he started hanging out with certain people more and more. He began cheating on me. I wasn’t one of those women who just sat at home and accepted it. I questioned him all the time. He would come home at three in the morning and it was a constant battle. He would say cruel things to me. When it came to vacations and gifts, he was very generous. I told him he couldn’t buy me with gifts and if he ever cheated on me, it was over. But, he was a narcissist who came from a broken family. I tried to give him that family life. No matter what I did I couldn’t fix how he was raised. But, I fought for my marriage. 

How do you feel about the lifestyle?

The lifestyle is not to be glorified. It’s a tough life. As far as my marriage, we were broke for many of our 17 years of marriage. We lived in an apartment for 14 years of those years. I only had a house the last three years and I had to end up selling that. I didn’t even have a washing machine. I had to take car service to my mother’s and do the laundry there. Meanwhile he had been taking women, 12 that I know of, on trips and out to dinner and even provided places for a couple of them to live. 

Michael was a captain of the Gambino crime family and he ended up destroying many lives, including ours. I feel bad for the victims and their families. He put more men in prison than any other informant, including SammyGravano.  He even ratted on my brother. I don’t believe in ratting. I remember my father telling my brother, when he was a kid, if anyone does anything in school you don’t rat them out. That’s how we were raised. I believe if you do the crime you do the time. But now, even my brother is in witness protection program and we never get to see him.

Your marriage to Mickey Scars ended years ago and you have moved on. Why have you picked this time in your life to write the book? 

My ex-husband just finished testifying for the government a year ago, and every time he took the witness stand he kept bringing out my story. I finally feel that mentally I am ready to tell my story. When I did I Married A Mobster I felt a burden was lifted off my shoulders. I always felt like I was paying a debt I didn’t owe. For me, it was like God said, this is the time for you. 

Do you think this book will provide you with some kind of closure or sense of satisfaction?

I have been in therapy for a long time trying to deal with my past. Even so, I Married A Mobster was very hard to do, I broke down quite a few times. I had an emotional breakdown after filming, but my sister was with me the whole time. Somehow, after it was all over, I felt a relief from telling my story. That’s when I decided to go through with the book. So I think that telling my story and knowing that I’m not alone, does give me some sense of closure.

We have gotten a glimpse of your story on Investigation Discovery’s “I Married A Mobster.” Is there one thing you would have like for them to include that they left out?

Yes, that’s a good question. The only thing I would have liked them to include would have been to get out the facts about Carla Facciolo, who pretends she is a victim. And also, my best friend of 30 years, who also had an affair with my ex-husband. These women thought I was sitting home taking care of my son. I never went anywhere, while he was busy taking these women on trips and vacations. But you know what, I believe what goes around comes around. I believe in karma. It may take time, but it will come back to bite you. And, for Carla, it will come out 20 years later. She was out on boats with my ex-husband and now everyone will know the truth.

What was the most hurtful thing you suffered during your marriage?

The most hurtful thing was in December of 2000. It was Christmastime and I had a gut feeling Michael was cheating, but I asked God to give me proof, a sign, so I would know the truth. I received a Christmas card from an anonymous person, telling me that Michael had a six month old baby with another woman. I had been trying to get pregnant for 12 years. I was devastated. It felt like my heart was ripped out and thrown on the street. When I learned this news I threw him out. He ended up turning informant and going into the witness protection program with this other woman and their son. He left my son and I out there. My son was receiving death threats.

It’s been said that you turned down a role on Mob Wives, is that true? And if so, why?

I turned it down because in my life, at that moment, I didn’t think it would be the right thing for me. I wanted my story to come out in a different light. I planned on writing a book and sharing my experience with other women who have suffered similar experiences of mental and even physical abuse. I was never abused physically, but I want to be an advocate for all these women. I spent years battling anxiety and depression and I want to show them that if I can pick myself up and go on, they can too. If I can help even one woman with my story, I will have done my job.

Have you watched season one and two of Mob Wives? If so, what did you think of it?

It was wild! 

Carla reacts to accusation at Reunion!

During the Reunion Show of season two, Karen revealed that Carla Facciolo slept with one of her “uncles” in the lifestyle. She was referring to your ex-husband, “Mikey Scars.” What I, and our readers, would love to know is whether or not Carla is going to be in your book?

Yes. The reason that she will be in my book is that my ex-husband brought her name out in court, and it’s been in your blog, so I feel I can talk about it. She was with him for several years. 

When Carla responded to the accusation, it was an admission of guilt with an excuse,  she said was only 19, and 19 year olds do stupid things. How do you respond to that? 

She was 19, that’s true, but she was with him into her twenties. She had no regard for the fact that he had a wife and child. Carla should have owned up to what she did and apologized for her mistakes, but she is so self absorbed, she would never think of doing that. Michael even got her the job in the brokerage firm where she met Joe.

Apart from your incredible story, I hear that your book is going to be unique in other  ways. Can you tell us more about that? 

Artist, Michael Bell at work in his studio,

Yes. I have partnered with a wonderfully talented artist, Michael Bell. He is working with me on my book. He is going to create seven portraits which will incorporate the elements of my story. People will be able to visually see the pain, the suffering, the good and bad times. The paintings will be on exhibit at an art gallery for one month. I will give you the details at that time. I feel very fortunate to be able to work with him, not only because of his talent, but because he recently won the Good Shepherd Domestic Violence Award. We share a mutual concern for victims of domestic abuse. 

I love the idea of telling your story in portraits. I would love to interview Michael Bell, at some point in the future and possibly give our viewers a sneak peek at one of the portraits for your book.  

Oh definitely we can arrange that, he really does amazing work and you can see his work at his website.

I will definitely check out his website (link below).  Now what’s this I hear about recipes?

I decided that instead of putting out two separate books, I am going to share some of my recipes in this book. Cooking was always good therapy for me and helped me to cope with what was going during the difficult times of my marriage. I have several easy and quick recipes I think would help a lot of woman who come home from work and have to make dinner for their families. 

You certainly know how I feel about your meals! The pictures of your dinners always look so delicious, and I can’t wait to try some of those recipes! I know fans will be thrilled to hear this news.

Well, it’s been great talking with you, Toni Marie. I wish you great success with your book and I hope to interview you again about it and future projects you are working on. Good bye and keep in touch!

I will Chiara. I enjoyed talking to you.

Picture credit: Toni Marie, Michael Bell, VH1

Visit Michael Bell’s site for a glimpse of his artwork @ http://www.mbellart.com

P.S. I watched Toni Marie's episode, "Scarred for Life," last night on Investigation Discovery. If you haven't seen it, you really should. There is so much to her story that was revealed and so much more that I expect will come out in her book. We will keep you updated on Twitter. 

Mob Wives: Toni Marie Ricci vs. Carla Facciolo

Mob Wives: Toni Marie Ricci vs. Carla Facciolo

Or what I like to call, “Filming Season 3 and Guaranteeing Season 4”

While all of you are patiently or impatiently waiting for season three of Mob Wives to premiere on January 13th, 2013, I am already wondering about season four. I like to stay one step ahead of everything. My mind wanders, even though I have very few clues about season three. I have no doubt that season three will not disappoint us at all. Still I wonder, is there a sure fire way to garner even bigger ratings for season three and guarantee a season four, all at the same time? I toy with some of the possibilities and then it comes to me! There is a storyline full of drama that would blow up the screen and viewers would eat up. All they have to do is introduce Toni Marie Fappiano/Ricci to the show.

In case you haven’t already heard of Toni Marie, she was on Investigation Discovery’s show, “I Married A Mobster,” season two, in an episode called “Scarred for Life.” She was married to Michael “Mikey Scars” DiLeonardo, a capo in the Gambino crime family. He cheated on Toni Marie with other women, one of whom was Carla Facciolo. From all I have read, there has not been any “closure” between these two women and that would make for a great reality storyline. I also heard that Toni Marie had been approached about being on the show, but declined. Maybe she changed her mind by now? Who knows? Ramona declined season one, but decided to be in season two. It’s possible that Toni Marie has had time to reconsider or the timing would be better for her now. I hope the powers that be make her an offer she can’t refuse! This storyline would be hot!

No one asked me, but if I was a producer on the show, I would introduce Toni Marie in the later episodes of season three. Maybe have her run into Karen at a local place in Staten Island. You may recall that during the Reunion Show for season two, Karen accusingly blurted out that Carla she slept with her “uncle…in the lifestyle.” The “uncle” Karen was referring to was Mikey Scars. So there is a lot of history there too. Karen and Toni Marie could “catch up” on things in an episode or two, and segue into talking about Carla and the past. Eventually, Toni Marie and Carla meet up and tensions build.  The two women have it out with each other, maybe in season four. The drama would be real. Viewers would be glued to their seats! I imagine there is A LOT Toni Marie would love to say to Carla, don’t you?

Jennifer Graziano, executive producer of Mob Wives, you know this is a great idea. I know you had to have thought about all the possibilities for this storyline already. Do I really have to write a skit and show you how this would make for great reality television? No, I don’t think so, but I may do it one of these days anyway, just for the fun of it. Meanwhile, I am throwing this idea out there and hope it opens doors to conversations that eventually lead to my getting my way!

Come on readers and fans of the show, what do you think? Add your opinion in the comments below and maybe we can persuade Jenn to work her magic on Toni Marie!

Picture Credit: Investigation Discovery, VH1 and Our Bookie

I Married A Mobster: Meeting Toni Marie at Launch Party

Toni Marie, even more beautiful in person!

Last night I was invited to the Premiere Party of season two of I Married A Mobster, by Director, Kevin Kaufman! The season premiered with the episode, “Scarred For Life,” the story of Toni Marie Fappiano and her ex-husband, Michael “Mikey Scars” Di Leonardo. The event was held at I Tre Merli restaurant in Soho, Manhattan. I am usually a homebody, but I am very happy I was able to attend and meet Toni Marie, who was very sweet and gracious. 

When my husband and I got to the restaurant, the front of the building was all open and we just strolled in. The tables were full of people enjoying their dinners and the food looked and smelled delicious. I only had to take a few steps before I saw Toni Marie chatting with some friends. I waited until she had a moment, to approach her and introduce myself. Someone told her I wanted to say hello. She looked at me wondering who I was, so I gave her a hint. I said, I am the person who loves your recipes! She thought a minute and said, “It has to be someone from Twitter,” and then immediately after she said, “Chiara?” I said yes. We both laughed. We chat every day about her wonderful recipes and the pictures she posts of her prepared meals, that look like they were made at a four star restaurant. The woman is a fantastic cook, I verified this later in the evening, with a reliable source. I let Toni Marie get back to her dinner and family while my husband and I strolled on to the back of the restaurant.

Soon I was approached one of by Toni Marie’s PR people, Laura Carlucci. We had a very nice chat about Toni Marie and some of the future projects she is working on. We chatted about the blog and how I got started writing it. Then she asked for my business card. I’m sorry to say that I busted out laughing. I told her I don’t have business cards, I do this for a hobby. She gave me her card and I will email her later. I want to make sure I am kept up-to-date on all of Toni Marie’s future plans! 

A gentleman comes over to me and asks if I would mind taking a picture with Toni Marie? I say of course not. He literally escorts over to where she is standing. Toni Marie introduces me to her husband, and then I take a picture with her and then the two of them. When we are done, the gentleman who came to get me, insists on escorting me back to my husband. That’s how things are done. 

A few minutes later, who shows up? None other than my favorite I Married A Mobster star, Love Majewski. I almost thought she wasn’t coming because she has been sick for a week. But no, there she was, a real trooper and as effervescent as ever! We hug and chat a couple of minutes and it was really so good seeing her again. As she leaves to say hello to Kevin Kaufman, the woman next to me, who I had been chatting with about the blog and the Sopranos, is impressed. “Who was that she asked?” I tell her that’s Love Majewski from season one of IMAM. “Oh, she says, they all know you!” I said, “Yes, they all know me, but not all of them love me.” And I laugh.

Toni Marie with Kevin Kaufman

My phone rings. Guess who wants to talk to me during all the noise at the party? Right! Mob Mistress. She is always checking in on me to make sure I am having a good time and to give me orders. “Did you get pictures of Toni Marie?” “Did you introduce yourself to Kevin Kaufman?” “Did you say hello to Nancy DeLucia?” I tell her I got pictures, but that wasn’t enough to make her happy. “What are you waiting for, be assertive!” she says, in a voice I know too well that says, I will never hear the end of it if I don’t.  So I get off the phone and make sure I fulfill all her expectations. I walk over to Kevin Kaufman and introduce myself. We have a brief chat and he says he appreciates all the time we devote to the show. I tell him we love mob wives! He laughed and said he knows. I ask him where I can find Nancy DeLucia, because I want to say hello. Well she happens to be three feet away from where we are standing. Kevin introduces me and Nancy and her husband, Mickey DeLucia aka Carfella, who already know who I am. They follow us on Twitter and read the blog. They thanked me for promoting the show. Then Carfella volunteers he just sold Big Ang a new car…it’s a small world isn’t it? Well it is in Staten Island.

Toni Marie with Nancy DeLucia

Toni Marie with Mikey DeLucia aka Carfella

When Toni Marie’s episode ends, my husband and I are ready to leave. It’s past our bedtime. So I say good bye to Love, who doesn’t let me leave without getting a picture of the two of us, and a hug. I make my way to the front of the restaurant to say good bye to Toni Marie. We chat a little more about her recipes and she gives me a hug. A beautiful lady is there and wants to take another picture of me with Toni Marie. She looks familiar too. I ask her, who are you? She says, “I’m Lisa, Toni Marie’s sister.” “Oh that’s great,“ I say, “more for me to blog!”  I ask her, “Does Toni Marie’s food taste as good as it looks?” Without hesitation she answers yes. I knew it! Toni Marie adds she gave me her chicken cutlet recipe to try. I answered, “Don’t worry, I won’t give it to anyone!” I ended by telling them what a nice family they have, and it’s true. I felt welcomed and right at home. 

Toni Marie with her sister, Lisa

And now, it’s time for me to really leave. I really had a good time and am glad I went. I had a trying day and was having second thoughts about going, but it did me a lot of good to get out and I met such wonderful people. 

I Married A Mobster is on Wednesday nights on Investigation Discovery. Check your local listings for show times. Next week the show will feature Nancy DeLucia’s episode, “It’s Me Or The Mob,” at 10:30 PM ET. There will also be a new episode of IMAM at 10 PM, so make sure to catch them both. You can check the schedule and show summaries on this link: I Married A Mobster Season Two and then set your DVR’s!

And, here is Toni Marie's interview with Mob Mistress: Toni Marie Interview

P.S. If I get more pictures I will insert them later! 

Picture Credit: Toni Marie's Twitter Account

I Married A Mobster: Season Two Cast Revealed!

Toni Marie "Fappiano" Ricci

ex-wife of Michael "Mikey Scars" DiLeonardo

The New York Post reveals some of the women who will be appearing on the second season of I Married A Mobster on the Investigation Discovery channel. Topping the list is Toni Marie Ricci, who was once married to Michael "Mikey Scars" DiLeonardo. This is the man that Karen referred to as her "uncle" in the lifestyle; the man she may have accused Carla Facciolo of sleeping with for years, during the Reunion Show. This part of the story may or may not be aired on the show, but you can find a couple of blogs on our website about it. Mob Mistress also did a recent interview with Toni Marie and you can find Carla's scars here.

The IMAM series revolves around individual episodes of Mob Wives and their stories. Season one included the stories of Love Majewski in "Love Hurts" and Diondrea Nicosia "Ebony and Ivory" and we have recaps of their episodes on the blog.  Season two has scheduled show episodes on Christine Mazza, Linda Milito, Georgia Durante and others. Linda Milito has been one of the most outspoken in recent months, complaining that VH1 and Mob Wives allegedly stole portions her life story for the show (ridiculous @@).) She also believes that Sammy Gravano was involved in her husband's murder and disappearance and holds this assumption against Karen. However, Sammy testified and wrote in his book, "Underboss," he was not the shooter in the Milito case. She has also written her own book, "Mafia Wife."

For the complete article in the New York Post check out this link: New Cast IMAM Season Two

Picture credit: Toni Marie's Twitter

S/O @drizz24 one of our followers and readers!

I Married A Mobster: Toni Marie Ricci Interview

Toni Marie Ricci happily married today.

One of the perks of blogging is getting to talk to sometimes just very real, humble and honest individuals.  Toni Marie was definitely one of those individuals.  I have to share she has been the most guarded out of all my interviews.  I know her history.  So I fully understand.  I'm just very thankful she took time out of her day to speak to me on a subject aired last night during VH1's Mob Wives Reunion.

Congratulations on being cast in season 2 of I Married a Mobster!  Why did you decide to go public & share an aspect of you life within the lifestyle?

Thank you!  First I was invited to do Mob Wives.  I thought about it.  I decided it wasn't my cup of tea.  I wanted to tell my story without the fighting & interruptions.  I started reading my name on some sites, it was hurtful for strangers to be writing about my dirty laundry. 

We know you are a wife and mother?  Do you feel comfortable telling us about your son & current husband?

My son is an unbelievable man.  He's my hero.  He kept me going through the dark times.  He helped me move on.  My husband is my savior.  Besides my son he's the best thing that ever happened to me.  That's all I'm comfortable with discussing.

Fair enough, you are the former wife of Michael DiLeonardo a.k.a. Mickey Scars, correct?

 Yes.

How long were you married?

 17 years.

Were you faithful?

 Yes.

Michael "Mickey Scar" DiLeonardo

Was he faithful?

 No, I can't get into too many details due to my upcoming episode on I Married A Mobster.

Without giving away too much in regards, to your episode what do you think the viewers we learn from your experience?

When an individual is groomed within the context of a certain lifestyle, it's all they know.  They don't know any other way to live.  You can't fault them.  I also hope those who suffer abuse whether physical or mental learn they can get through anything.  I didn't believe I could do it alone.  I discovered I could.  I did stand up on my own.  Let me be clear there are those who've had it harder than me.  I can't imagine what it would be like to lose a child.

We’ve learned that you know some of the cast from Mob Wives?  Can you tell us which ones you know & your relationship with each of them.

I've met Ramona once not too long ago.  I've known of Renee for over 20 years.  You know how it works in the boroughs; everyone knows everyone.  I met with her a couple of times. I just like a person to be real, not too gossipy.  If we are friends, then we are friends.  Karen is younger than me.  Some of my family were friendly with her father.  We went to her family's 4th of July & Christmas parties.  That's how I know Karen.

You went to the Gravanos' parties?! You have to tell me what they were like, I've heard about them.

She laughs.  Yeah they did it up.  I don't know what to tell you.  I do it up a little too, just not so loud.  4th of July tends to be one of our biggest parties.

Would you ever consider being part of a series on a continual basis?

I did consider Mob Wives as I mentioned earlier.  I have to be honest.  I thought about the opportunity to get a hold of Carla.  However, that's not me.  I don't want to conduct myself in that manner.  The arguing & fighting isn't me.  It isn't how I want to portray myself.   I've watched Mob Wives.  I don't get why someone would sign up for a reality show and not be real.  Carla's acting touched a nerve.  She's not being real.  I come from Brooklyn.  I don't take people's feelings lightly.  Everyone makes mistakes.  However, when I watched the scene with Drita confiding in her about Lee's cheating, I saw no empathy from Carla.  She's just not a nice person.  She doesn't own her actions or the pain she caused.  She was Mickey's goumada and knew about me.  I admit last night on Twitter I got a little vicious.  

Toni Marie doesn't hold back on Twitter after years of silence.

So you watched the Mob Wives Reunion part 1?

Yes, there was a reunion moment when Carla claimed Ramona was lying.  I caught Ramona say, "...we had a deal..."  Well Carla didn't take the cue to let it go.  She kept going.  She basically gave herself up.

How did you feel with Karen dropped the bomb of her effing an uncle (within the lifestyle)?

Honestly I felt happy.  Carla Facciolo doesn't want anyone to talk about her family and her business.   She freely talks about the other Mob Wives' family & their business.  Why is she hiding?  I was glad the truth came out.  It was long overdue.  I thought, 'You got yourself caught up into it.'

Thank you Toni Marie for your time & honesty.  I was thinking about something.  Did my post on Carla allegedly having an affair with your ex-husband hurt you?

Yes, it irked me.  I lived it.  It was a really painful time.  When you see my episode you'll understand.

Well I'm sorry.  It's never my intent to hurt anyone.

You don't need to apologize.

No, I do.  I want you to know that I am sincerely sorry.  It's never my intention to cause anyone pain. 

It's okay.  Thank you for taking the time to speak with me.

Thank you Toni Marie.  We're looking forward to your episode on I Married A Mobster on Discovery ID to air.  We're excited about watching it. Take care, good bye.

You have a great day, bye.

We'll definitely be tuning into Discovery ID's season 2 of I Married A Mobster.  We believe it airs this summer.  It's getting hot in Mob Wives land.

Photo Credit: Toni Marie Ricci & Associated Press