Showing posts with label Mama's Boys of The Bronx. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mama's Boys of The Bronx. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

CANCER IS REALITY FUNDRAISER

Mob Wives in limo going to the event!


Last Thursday night a fundraiser was held to raise money for cancer. We can all relate to this disease. It’s great that so many of us have made a difference by partaking in breast cancer walks raising money for new technology and research. This particular fundraiser will benefit  people who can not  afford to get a mammogram on their own. Free mobile units will be set up for free mammograms. The biggest way to beat breast cancer is awareness and early mammogram's are the key.

Chip, Paulie (La Grande Cigars), Frankie

The event, which took place on the Arthur Avenue Market in the Bronx, looked to be quite a success. Set up in the middle of the market is La Casa Grande cigars, one of the hosts for the event, and they had  skilled professional cigar rollers on site.  The event featured some speeches, raffles and live music by Gfella, an Italian hip-hop artist.  Arriving early, I met Nora from Chicago Mob Wives, who was looking very nostalgic  in her outfit, and she seemed pretty busy helping out.

Big Ang and Gigi

Sheila and Pete Giudice

Pia looked stunning!

Frank Russo was looking HOT!

Arthur Avenue is known as the neighborhood setting that the Mama's Boys from the Bronx are from. Three of the boys were there from the show. Giovanni, the cannoli king; Chip, who's gym Krunch Time Fitness hosted and was he looking VERY handsome; and Frankie, who is always sweet.  Gigi from Jerseylicious, Sheila and Pete Giudice, brother and sister-in law of Teresa from RHONJ, were also there for support. The very charming Frank Russo, from Big Ang, also came by.  Mob Wives Big Ang, Carla, Leah and Pia all arrived together making a grand entrance. Big Ang came adorned in a lovely white big fluffy fur coat. Pia looked stunning in a little red dress. Carla, whose body is nearly perfect, sported a black studded dress, and Leah DeSimone, who wore pink. As soon as Big Ang hit the pink carpet camera flashes went off from every direction. 

Mob Wives got up to speak

Nora Schweihs

Each of the girls were called up to speak about cancer and mentioned someone they know who has been affected by the disease. They all thanked everyone for their support and were happy to be a part of the event. Big Ang & Carla had some fun behind the cannoli counter and the girls mingled with the guests and were open for picture taking with fans.

Cannoli fun!

A few times I strolled across the street for some fine wine and I guess Nora did the same. Laughing it up with the guys at the bar, she seemed to be having fun and we all had a few laughs.

It's always great to see the Mob Wives taking time out of their busy schedules to help a good cause. Cheers to everyone who showed up and supported the cancer event.

Written By: Carmela Corleone

Please follow me on twitter @carmelacorleone 



Monday, May 14, 2012

Mama's Boys of The Bronx: Anthony's Two Loves...




Since releasing the announcement that Angelina Pivarnick, formerly of "Jersey Shore" and "Couples Therapy," and Anthony Zoccolillo, from "Mama's Boys of The Bronx," are dating I decided to set out on Saturday to go to meet her. I always feel I can write better when I know a little about a person, even if it’s just meeting them for a few minutes.


Angelina stopped by Affliction, in The Garden State Mall, in Paramus this Saturday. Earlier in the day she attended a fundraiser, "Walking for Daniel," at the Blackdog Grill in Staten Island. This event was held to raise money to benefit a young local boy with autism. Unfortunately Anthony, her new heartthrob, wasn't present, but I did notice on twitter that he was out buying his Mama Patti a new car for Mother's Day. What a great gift!



I asked Angelina about her relationship with Anthony and she said it was going well. She and Anthony are focusing on trying to get Mama's Boys back on the air with another network or perhaps doing something together. I found Angelina to be very candid and wouldn't be surprised if she's cast in another reality show soon.

Written by Carmela Corleone
Picture Credit: Carmela

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Mama's Boys of The Bronx: Autograph Day



This past Saturday I joined three of the Mama's boys down on Arthur Avenue, to support them on their autograph signing day. Giovanni, Chip and Frankie were in attendance. From my understanding, Pete was ill and Anthony was in California. The boys, just as three old friends who would meet to play stickball, they went over their rules, joined and got comfortable at the pastry shop. Whether these guys are signing autographs or shooting the breeze, it seems always happens here. 

Leah and Frankie ;)

Leah with Frankie & Giovanni

The boys were fortunate enough to have spent the last few days with a visit from Chicago mob wife,  Leah De Simone. Chiara blogged about her visit to Arthur Avenue and shared some photos of Leah with the guys. I spoke to Leah a few times, and was looking forward to meeting her, but unfortunately she was unable to make it back Saturday afternoon. We shared tweets back and forth and, I can tell you, she is a very funny and upbeat person. I enjoyed listening to the stories the boys had to tell of the hours they spent with her and a good time was had by all.  Leah's sweet and jokester personality made an impression on them and they seemed just thrilled with her as I was. It was so thoughtful to get a phone call from her apologizing that she was running late while shopping. I mean, besides our twitter connection, I’ve never met her, but you can tell that she truly cares about her fans. That’s the way the Mob Wives roll, well most of the real ones anyway. Leah will be back in June and I can assure you I will be ready to meet up with her.

Giovanni. Frankie and Chip

The Mama's boys have a good rapport with the locals, as well as the tourists, that came to shop at the market and noticed them. The support of fans seemed to make them very happy. TLC has abruptly cancelled the show and it was very disappointing to cast and fans. Everyone wished them well and most of us are crossing our fingers and hoping another network will pick up the show. These guys are trying very hard to keep the Mama's Boys in everyone’s mind. If a network doesn’t pick them up soon, I’m afraid their notoriety may fade. 


Hand rolling cigars

A few other highlights of the day was watching skilled laborers hand roll cigars at La Casa Grande, in the market. Paul Di Silvio, who runs the shop, also filmed a short  video clip called "Light em up Fridays," which is an informative video about cigars and the pick of the week. It can be found on youtube. The word is that Leah filmed with the boys. Another memorable moment was my meeting Aunt Gina. She was on her way to a party and came to pick up cookies and pastries. She’s a delight and I will definitely do a complete interview with her if, or should I say when, the show gets back on the air. Also there, for moral support, was Larry. He’s the guy Chip has been training and was found eating pastries on a bench on one of the episodes. Today, Larry stuck to eating fruit and says he’s still training with Chip.  And lastly, after a full day of watching the promise these boys have in themselves, I wish only that the future has nothing but good fortune for them. They certainly deserve it, the boys and their mama's.

Written by Carmela Corleone


Picture credit: Carmela Corleone

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Mob Wives Chicago: Leah DeSimone in NYC


Leah visiting a local cigar place on Arthur Avenue

Leah DeSimone, of Mob Wives Chicago, is really in New York this time...no practical joke! You'll never guess where her first stop was? It was on Arthur Avenue, in the Bronx, home of the Mama's Boys of The Bronx! She tweeted some pictures for us and she looks like she fits in with the boys and the locals, in this very Italian neighborhood. Leah seems to really be enjoying herself in the short time she has been here already. We are keeping an eye on Leah and her goings and comings and let you know what else she has been up to while she is here visiting. Stay tuned! And remember, Mob Wives Chicago premieres in June!

Here are Frankie and Leah!

A little close up of Frankie and Leah!

Here are Chip and Leah!

Here is Leah with Joe Black!

Picture Credit: Leah's Twitter Account

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Mama’s Boys of The Bronx: Recap Episodes 3 &4



Episode 3 - Bringin’ The Bronx to Miami

The show starts off with Frankie’s mom, Gina, who does an inventory of the refrigerator for what she’s left for Frankie to eat, while she goes to Florida. She’s got everything labeled and stacked. She warns him, “Now remember, this food is for you not your friends. And no wild parties and no girls.” “Okay, okay,” Frankie tells her. She says she needs to get away from him, at least for a little bit.

Patti is leaving a detailed list on how to work all the appliances while she’s away. She’s going with Gina and Camille to Florida. She explains how the the stove and the toaster work. Anthony comments that it’s like an instructional video. “What?  You think I can’t take care of myself?” No, apparently Patti doesn’t and I can see why. She does everything for him! And, Anthony loves it. He tries to make her feel guilty by saying “Don’t worry I’ll starve while you’re gone.” For some reason I don’t find that at all possible.


Camille, who is obsessed with the cats that she cares for, tells Chip he needs to take care of them and has to feed them. “You make sure you take care of my babies.” She explains feeding times and litter box duty. “Oh Madone!” Chip says, “What about my feeding times?”  “You eat when your hungry,” Camille says.

Now that the moms are going away, Frankie decides that he’s going to have a Miami themed party. The guys come over and they decorate the place with palm trees. The girls show up and everyone is drinking homemade wine and doing shots. The girls are dancing and when one of them takes her shoes off, Chip comments, "You’re one step closer to sex." Oh my, Chip, shhh! He offers $10.00 for the first girl naked! Thank goodness he didn’t offer $100.00, cause it may have happened. Unfortunately, the only one who even comes close to being naked is some guy, who strips down to his boxers. Now they’re gonna play spin the bottle for a lap dance. Poor Pete is targeted thanks to Giovanni. In the end Anthony wins the spin and there is no real lap dance. They carry on, making out with the girls. Yeah that’s right, I remember acting similar to that, oh but that was back in like 1976. The girls leave and the guys sit down and take a look at the place. All the food is gone and the place is a mess. So they come up with a great idea. Lets hop on a plane and head on down to Florida to be with the Mama's.


So they show up in Delray Beach and, to say the least, Camille, Patti and Gina don’t look too happy. Gina calls them babies. The guys asked if they are having fun and Gina says, "yeah, until yous showed up.“ Frankie lets her know he’ll find her anywhere, even if he has to put lojack in her suitcase. Poor Gina. Well, all they want to do is eat, so the mamas make them dinner and tell them to eat and get lost. Then they have another great idea. They’re gonna head down to south beach cause Chip has a "boy" at the Catalina who can hook them up. They head out and they are out at the Clevelander when they meet 2 pretty girls from Hungary. Frankie mistakes them for being hungry and Chip once again mentions sex....they lose a chance with those two, I wonder why? They meet another group of girls and they get a little personal and ask some questions. They let on they live with their moms, who do everything for them. One asks if they have a curfew. Another says, "yeah he probably told his mom, “I’m going out, be back later, leave the chicken cutlets out".  She nailed that for sure, any one of them could have said that line. The guys get a little turned off when the girls ask if they like broccoli parmigiana. What? What part of Italy is that from? I guess they aren’t fans of broccoli parmigiana and now they aren’t too fond of these girls. I like how they decide who’s good for them or not, over food choices.

So the next day they meet 2 beautiful Australian girls. Chip wants to fill them in on what Italian men like. They like to eat, have fun and lots of women. Then Chip (and I’m not going to repeat it)  combos 2 of the items together. Maybe Anthony is right, he always kills the game! They are having fun with the girls and they talk about what the night is going to bring them. Meanwhile, the moms decide to take a trip to south beach themselves. “Wow,” Camille says, “lots of men flesh here.” And, surprise! The guys can’t believe it. The girls lose interest in the guys, and the moms tell them they came down to teach them a lesson. The guys blame their moms over why they can’t meet any girls and then they sit around and have lunch. Just like at home. It ends with small talk around the table. And the guys, deep down inside, look happy their moms are there.

Episode 4 - Devour!

Gina explains how to make a cannoli!

We are back on Arthur avenue in this episode. Aunt Gina’s sitting in the kitchen with Giovanni and she’s giving him her grocery list once again. I need some things for you to pick up. Giovanni looks annoyed. You always need something. I gotta get to the gym, I have no time for the groceries. I’m not sure why this guy puts up a fight. We all know Aunt Gina will find him. Giovanni, shame on you! Be nicer to her! Then, Giovanni's friend Gio shows up. Instead of hitting the gym, Giovanni tells him he has this great idea. He wants to have a cannoli eating contest on the avenue. “What?,” Gio says, he’s obsessed with cannoli's. It think he’s right. I think he does have a fetish.” They walk the avenue, eating and talking about this brainstorm of an idea.

Camille and Chip shop on the avenue. Chip stops to eat raw clams on the street and Camille thinks it’s disgusting. They’re slimy and scurvy. Chip says they are better than half the girls he’s been out with. Girls and Clams....in the same sentence? Really Chip?

Looks like Patti had to drag Anthony out on her shopping excursion.  Anthony seems to be reluctant in helping her and says he’s got better things to do. They stop off at a bakery, where Anthony bites into a cookie, and feels the pain of a cavity. Don’t worry, Patti will take care of that later.

And by the way, Aunt Gina finds Giovanni. Same place I found him. At the pastry shop. He tells her about the cannoli eating contest and she doesn’t like the idea one bit. It’s juvenile and stupid. She lets him know that she should hit him over the head with a frying pan to knock some sense into him. If that works, then I say, go ahead Aunt Gina!

Building a cat condo!

Camille is really a cat lover. She tends to numerous cats and is very concerned for them in the winter. Chip goes to Frankie to ask him to build some insulated cat condos, so the cats wont freeze. “You know, for my mom Frankie.” But, deep down inside, Chip has a soft spot for these cats too. Camille is thrilled with the condos.

The "tutu"

Giovanni is now hitting the streets with this red and white tutu in his hand trying to find some cheerleaders for the cannoli eating contest. So, I’m thinking, he’s an inspiring designer and this is what he came up with? Giovanni, show us what you can do. Wear something at least! This  turned out to be unsuccessful and Giovanni did not find any cheerleaders. I guess he’ll have to settle for the neighborhood audience.

Patti takes, let me rephrase that, makes the dentist appt for Anthony; brings him to the dentist & oversees the dentist’s actions. Patti, I think Anthony may be able to handle this on his own! After he learns how to show up for an appointmentt he can learn how to work the toaster at home! Gee...she’s spoiling him!


Giovanni is getting ready for his cannoli eating contest. You know, the usual things that men do before they’re going to sit down and overstuff themselves with cannolis. There’s the tanning, the haircut and the manicure. Just in case, he says, he meets someone. Next time I’m single, I’ll have to remember that if I want to meet any single men, I need to go to a cannolli eating contest. The moms and boys show up. Frankie is hosting, being that Joe Pesci had a previous engagement. I can’t believe he missed this. So the contest goes on and Giovanni looks like a real pro. He certainly has had a lot of practice. In the end Frankie asks his mom who the winner is. Pete Cigars wins. And by the way, he cheated. He passed his cannolis down to Giovanni. So the first annual cheating cannoli contest comes to an end. Giovanni leaves with Aunt Gina and they  walk down the avenue. Aunt Gina consoles him and she’s gonna make him a nice pizza when they get home.

Well there are a lot of funny chuckling scenes in the shows. One thing for sure is that these guys are playing themselves. I do enjoy the humor. These guys have not a worry about them. I wish my life was so simple. Seems like Pete’s the only one with a real job. I missed both Larry and Grazia in these episodes and I look forward to them in the next ones. I hope you enjoyed this recap. Please leave your comments below.

Written by: Carmela Corleone

Picture Credit: TLC and Carmela

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Mama's Boys of the Bronx: Anthony Zoccolillo Has Been a Very Very Bad Boy

Anthony Zoccolillo a Mama's Boy & bad boy.
Someone has to be the bearer of bad news around here; it might as well be me.  Since Mama's Boys of The Bronx is Carmela's lane, I gave her opportunity to blog this bit of scam news.  She politely declined.  I thought about giving it to Chiara.  But she does so very much around here as is.  I thought about passing it along to Underboss.  He is already a little perturbed with the men still living with their mothers, aunt & dad.  The sight of the mother shining her son's shoes nearly gave him a stroke.  I thought the news of one of the Mama's Boys having a criminal past would send him to the hospital.  So here I am sharing the unfortunate realization that a mama's boy conned some people out of money.

An anonymous commenter wanted us & the Mama's Boys of The Bronx viewers to know what type of individual Anthony Zoccolillo was/is in reality.  Apparently he is not only a mama's boy, he's a very very bad boy.  Mr. Zoccolillo allegedly has a record in New York due to the importation of Ecstasy.  *dropping jaw & double chin*  He also pleaded guilty in San Diego County for conspiracy and grand theft in a relation to a rental scam operation.  The operation would collect rental deposits for homes up for sale & vacant.  The problem was the homes weren't his nor was he the property manager.  So individuals thinking they would be moving into coastal properties were moving, just not where they paid to move to.  Mr. Zoccolillo may have turned over an honest leaf.  I hope so for his mother's sake.  She seems like a really nice lady who loves her son.

If you are part of the cast or family members of the Mama's Boys of The Bronx, don't hate the messenger.  Carmela wanted no part of this post.  So don't begrudge her.  He did what he did.  It is what it is.  We'll be tuning into TLC on Monday nights to watch Mama's Boys of The Bronx.  Why did the scene in the flower shop tickle me to no end?  I thought it was just the sweetest thing.  And I'm an evil bitch.

Thank you anonymous whoever you are for bringing the truth to light. Readers can click here to read for themselves.


Update:  Anthony Zoccolillo tweeted our blogger Carmela thanking her for declining to write this post.  I have to share I thought it was a kind move on his part.  I wish all the mamas & boys the very best as long as they're doing the right thing!

Photo Credit: San Diego 10 News

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Mama’s Boys of The Bronx: Recap Episodes 1 & 2



I loved the opening scenes from the show, and I love the song they put along with it. It gave me a very nostalgic feeling. I hope everyone enjoys this recap.

Episode 1: Watch Your Mouth In Front of My Mother!

Finally we get to meet the boys. And yes, their mamas too, who at times I like even better! We meet Chip (37) and his mom. Chip who obviously spends a lot of time in the bathroom and can’t seem to find anything. Several times he calls out to his mom, Camille, for assistance. Camille seems like a tough cookie. But Chip is lost and needs help locating his personals. I’m thinking, how far did these things go from yesterday? Chip is a personal trainer, and prides himself on his visual look.

Anthony and Patti

Next is Anthony (36), who I think he is a big baby and his mom, Patti, does too. Anthony also spends a lot of time on his appearance. He gets his hair done twice a week! Anthony loves living life and chasing girls. Mom doesn’t like his choice of girls and, more than once, calls them sluts. Ooohh...that was blunt. But even though Patti puts up a good fight with Anthony, in the end she gives into Anthony’s needs. Or maybe I should say demands?

Frankie (38), boasts about living on the avenue, how it’s old school and how he’s the product of this regular Italian neighborhood upbringing. Frankie also seems lost in the bathroom. Everything has seemed to disappear from yesterday. But his mom, Gina, is there to help him and tell where he can locate his personals. Of all the 5 boys, Frankie seems overly fond of his mother and has no problem letting everyone know that she’s the best and he’s not going anywhere.

Giovanni (38), who lives with his Aunt Gina after losing his mom a year ago, seems to be pressured by her nagging. Giovanni is outspoken tells it like it is. Aunt Gina has a passion for food and she takes pride in cooking all day. She lets Giovanni know that she’s not happy about him wanting to run out and spend time with the guys instead of eating at home. “You don’t eat, so you got no ass.” So, of course, Giovanni sits down for dinner. I tell ya right now, who wouldn’t? Homemade ravioli? I love Aunt Gina and need some recipes!

And then there’s Peter. The only boy that’s in his 20's, 28 to be exact. He seems the most sensible. After all, he’s the only one with a girlfriend. He lives at home with his father, Gus, who clearly states that he can’t wait for him to get married and move out. Peter is thinking about taking his relationship to the next level with Grazie.

The flower shop

The guys get together for drinks to see what announcement Peter is going to make. They meet at Pine Bar and Grill. Anthony tells them he thinks Peter is ready to propose. At first the group boasts allot of hey-ho's. The guys think maybe he’s getting sucked in or maybe it’s just another one bites the dust. Finally they cheer and salute! Thank goodness. I’m thinking, because I’m happy for Pete! They dance, drink, flirt and 2 of the guys pick up girls. Frankie meets Sara, takes her for a walk and they end up over by a storefront. He pulls out set of keys, unlocks the gate and all. All the while I am thinking that there’s a velvet leopard colored bedspread over some old couch on the other side. Oh, I hope I’m wrong. And I was. It’s the flower shop where Frankie works part time.  He makes a bouquet for Sara and they leave. Now that was nice!

Anthony leaves with his date. We’re not sure where yet.

The next day Peter and Grazie talk about his night out. He seems a little worried, but I don’t think Grazie gets mad easily. She’s upset she can’t go out and meet him, but Peter tells her it’s only the guys. Grazie lets Pete know that “classy girls don’t hand out with trashy girls.” I think Grazie is young, pretty, and classy.

The unforgettable toast!

So Frankie decides he’s going to bring Sara home to meet his family. The guys don’t think its a good idea and tell him “hey, you haven’t even had sex yet!” I was happy about that. Gina doesn’t look too impressed with Sara in the beginning. She thinks she’s too artificial. They laugh at the table and Sara decides that she’s going to do an Italian toast. She toasts, “Cheers to us and F*** everyone else!”  Gina laughs and now is thinking maybe this is the girl for Frankie. But, you had to see Mama Gina’s face when Sara said it. It was priceless.

Giovanni, Chip and Peter go ring shopping in Connecticut, where they hear the Yankees frequent. Personally that sounds like trouble, I mean in the budget sense. But, you gotta love a jewelry store that serves espresso. Its a wonder these guys can sleep at night! The jeweler goes on to explain color and settings. Giovanni tells Peter the "F" rating in color stands for forgetaboutit. Typical joke from Giovanni. Chip starts busting the guy and wants to know if he got his suit at the Men’s Warehouse. Pete seems nervous, but decides on a ring. Lastly, Chip chimes in that maybe he should just buy a broach. Chip seems to be the prankster in this group. I have a soft spot for him!

They head back to Arthur Avenue and the episode ends with everyone voicing their opinion that maybe Pete’s not ready for marriage or maybe he needs more time.

I enjoyed the first episode. I think they guys bring light hearted comedy. I love the moms. I think the show stuck to the guys personalities and we will all decide who our favorites are. I know last night on twitter everyone seemed to fall in love with Chip.

Episode 2: I Change Girls Like I change My Underwears!


Frankie and Mom


This episode opens up with Frankie once again, letting his mom Gina know that he has no real interest in getting married or leaving. He has the best cook right here at home. He loves the family dinners and says, but don’t be late, otherwise the drama will start. Frankie seems very fond of his mom. Mom is fond of Frankie too, but would rather him meet a nice girl.

Anthony enjoys being spoiled by his mom. She takes care of everything. The next morning his mother, Patti, discusses the girl that Anthony snuck in and out. You know, the cleaning lady. Really Anthony? Your mom knows what’s going on. Patti suggests he takes the girls to a motel, but Anthony brushes it off. I gotta say, I agree with Patti!

Peter is planning a surprise birthday  party for Grazie. She thinks she going to the engagement party of a friend and is upset to share her day. She urges Peter that they should go out tonight to celebrate instead, but Peter makes up excuses and Grazie tells him that he owes her not 1 or 2 presents, but he’ll make it 3. I like Grazie. And I think Peter is lucky.

The guys go suit shopping on the avenue. They show up at Vito's, again sipping espresso. Some of you will think that this doesn’t really happen, but trust me, I’m no stranger to the Avenue.  I know some of the shop owners and sometimes I can’t get out of there fast enough. It doesn’t take long before I am sipping espresso with sambucca and eating the ends of bread. The guys break Vito’s chops and tell him the espresso is cold and the clothing is overpriced. Vito takes it in stride. Obviously he’s watched these wise asses grow up. So who walks in next, but Aunt Gina. She is in search of Giovanni and it doesn’t look like the first time. “Giovanni, you still here? What happened to the bread?” Giovanni looks agitated from the nagging. But I gotta tell ya, maybe Giovanni brought on the nagging. Giovanni, bring home the bread already! Peter second guesses himself with his decision to marry, but the guys assure him they’ll always be there for him. Good going guys! He needs your support!

Chip is at the gym waiting for his client. He’s been training Larry and says he’s his protégé. When Larry doesn’t show up, Chip calls him and then finally goes out looking for him. Where does he find him? On a bench eating pastries. Well, I hate to say it, but I rather be doing that also. Chip yells at him and takes him back to the gym to work out. Chip demands jumping jacks and push ups. Push-ups? Larry says, Im not doing them. But who could after eating those pastries? I’m am looking forward to seeing Larry’s progress here at the gym. I hope he sticks to it. While training Larry, Sara shows up to work out. Chip suggests that if she’s hot she can take off her shirt. Chip! What are you thinking? That wasn’t professional! I’m glad Sara kept it on!

Pete stresses over the party. He’s making follow up phone calls and goes for his suit fitting. Afterwards he and Giovanni go to get pedicures. The other boys are getting ready for the party. Anthony spends time on his hair once again and Chip goes tanning. Chip says he even looks going to bed, and I believe it! Both Frankie and Giovanni need help getting dressed. At least Pete is dressing himself! He is definitely the only one semi-ready for marriage.

Grazie big surprise party!

Pete and Grazie make it to the party in the pouring rain. Pete seems nervous. They get there and typically everyone yells surprise. Grazie looks surprised and happy. Pete picks his moment and proposes and Grazie says yes! I think I love these kids ! Everyone seems to be having a great time. Grazie says the night was crazy and didn’t want it to end. I thought she looked beautiful and her dress was gorgeous. The guys all seem to be happy for him.

This episode ends with Peter saying that after all the hard work he put into this party and proposal he’s looking for six months of hard labor from Grazie. Well....I say Peter, you better look somewhere else because you should be happy you found a nice girl!

I enjoyed this episode too. I look forward to maybe seeing Peter and Grazie marry, but I’m not sure with 6 episodes left that we’ll see that. I laughed several times and several times I wanted to kill these guys! I must say I think the comedy is funny and its a feel good show. Overall the guys don’t seem to be bothered with any real serious issues in lives. They may fret about cold espresso or a tie not being tied correctly, but all in all their lives seems sort of simple. After watching the show, I was thinking that it wouldn’t be so bad if I had someone cleaning, cooking and doing errands for me!

I hope you enjoyed my recaps. Please leave your comments below. Thank you for taking your time to read the blog. And thank you to Mob Mistress and Chiara, who about a year ago started this blog and made it what it is today. I am elated to be part of their team!

Written by Carmela Corleone

Picture credit: TLC & Carmela

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Mama’s Boys of The Bronx: New Show on TLC


We have a new blogger who has offered to cover a new show that will be airing on Monday, April 9th on TLC. Her name is Carmela Corleone and you can follow her on Twitter @carmelacorleone. Here is her first blog, which gives us an introduction of herself, a brief description of the show and a brief interview with one of the cast members. Please welcome her! ~ Mobwives.blogspot

By way of introduction, I'm happy to join this great trio of Blog Writers. My name is  Carmela Corleone. I am a New Yorker with much pizzazz. I think my warm and friendly way makes me very approachable. From the moment I meet people they feel comfortable and take a liking to me. Coming from a background in the food industry, I am always interested in good eats from NY. I frequent any place that boasts the best of the best.  I will be covering the show “Mamas Boys of The Bronx,” which will air on April 9th on TLC. The show will portray  5 Italian guys from Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, in their 20’s and 30’s, who are all still living at home….yes with Mama.  Their names are: Anthony, Giovanni, Frankie, Peter and Chip. Hopefully it will bring us some laughter.  I think we all can relate to or know someone who is a “mama’s boy.”  I am also Mob Wives enthusiast and have been hooked from the very first show.  Coming from a family with to strong ties I was easily interested.  My  resume sports a longtime job, but one of the most active roles in my life is that of a compassionate and caring sister.  I've been lucky enough to meet some of the mob wives and will write about my experiences and interaction with them in the future. I write from the heart that is hanging on my sleeve, but will very much try to tuck it in my pocket. Last I  checked there were a few stitches still attached. I  hope you enjoy my passionate writing. Thank you for welcoming me!

On Saturday, March 24th,  I was able to sit down with one of the stars of the show, Giovanni Paolo, and ask a few questions. We met in the market on Arthur Avenue, sipping espresso and eating mini-canola’s, to discuss the show. Although the show will only air for 4 weeks, with double episodes each evening, I’m hoping this new Italian reality show, featuring life on Arthur Avenue, proves to be witty and brings home all the laughable Italian mama/son charm. Arthur Avenue is one of those places that still has the heritage and feel of  Manhattan‘s "Little Italy.” Although most people think of Little Italy as being in Manhattan, the Bronx actually holds true to the old-time charm and culture of Italy. The stores are still owned by the original families and boasts of some of the best Italian goods New York has to offer. I’m no stranger to this place, my own family originated from here, and I come back home often. Here is my interview with Giovanni:

Giovanni Paolo chats with Carmela

Me: Giovanni, I want to thank you for taking the time to talk with me about your new show. 
G: You’re welcome, can I get you an espresso?

M: Yes please. Tell me, how did you end up being chosen for the show?
G: Somebody came around the avenue and posted some flyers. My friend picked one up and called the number. We all thought it was a joke. She said she was interested, called us back and started interviewing us. 

M: How long have you been living on Arthur Avenue? 
G: My whole life, my parents met here. 

M: Are you an only child? 
G: No, I am the oldest of 6. I have four sisters and one brother all living in the area. 

M: What will the show be about?
G: Five single guys, between the ages of 20-30, living in the Bronx with their Mama's or mama figure. It will show our everyday life here in Arthur Avenue, how we interact on the streets with the old timers, and also what the guys and I do when we go out to Jersey and Atlantic City. You’ll see some scenes from our nightlife. 

M: How do you know the other cast members?
G: I know all of them from the neighborhood.

M: Besides this acting debut, what else do you do, or were you doing before the show?
G: I am partners here at the pastry shop, I’ve worked in masonry and I’m into designing. I am actually working with a few now on some ideas. I am getting involved in putting together a cookbook also. 

M: Wow that sounds interesting, hopefully you’ll be able to get some recipe secrets from down here. How long will the show air?
G: It will air for four weeks with double episodes each night.

M: You’re currently living with your Aunt Gina? 
G: Yes, my mom passed away about a year or so ago. My Aunt Gina is like a mother to me and she looks at me like her son. 

M: What do you think the show will bring to the viewers?
G: Hopefully, season two (he chuckles). No, I think the show will be funny in a lot of ways. The interaction with me and the guys and how we live and get by here. 

M: Well, Giovanni; I look forward to watching and hope its entertaining. 
G: I think you'll love it! 

I stuck around for a while, shared some stories with Giovanni. He told me some funny and personal stories about himself. I hope everyone will be able to relate to the boys from the Bronx as much as I know I will. I hope we all enjoy the show and I’ll catch up with everyone after the first episode airs with a recap blog. 

Here is a sneak peek of Mama's Boys of The Bronx:



Written By: Carmela Corleone