Real Housewives of New York: What The Hell Moments, Ep 601

Meet "Baby" Ben and Kristen

If you are looking forward to reading WTH Moments…STOP now…there were none.

If you missed the show, and want to save an hour of your life CONTINUE…

The title of the premiere episode of season six is, “If You Can Make It Here.” It should have been called, “If You Can Stay Awake.” The whole episode involved some carried- over hard feelings from last season and an introduction to Kristen, “the model wife.”

Everyone seems to be harboring some ill will towards Aviva. Carole tells Heather she has been distancing herself from Aviva and her craziness. Heather seems inclined to agree. Ramona tells Sonja she ran into Aviva and Reed at a charity event and didn’t bother talking to them. Sonja seems sympathetic. Why is everyone against Aviva right from the start? She had her moments, but at least she wasn’t naked and drunk all of season 5.

Heather’s Birthday Party is the big event. Sonja is dating “Baby” Ben and tells Ramona not to discuss age. Age is just a number says Sonja, and Sonja’s number is about 50. Eventually someone leaks the boy’s age. “Baby” Ben is 23.  I guess that could be a WTH moment. After all, what young man would want to date someone who could clearly be his mother? I’d freak out over it right now, except I think this is scripted so we will raised our eyebrows. “Baby” Ben was probably promoted to “date status” from the intern pool. Heather and Carole are still BFF’s. The new wife, Kristen, is a real model. She struts around the party and introduces herself to “Baby” Ben. Sonja is suddenly “jealous.” Kristen is a knockout according to “Baby” Ben. So “Baby” Ben IS attracted to young women…I thought he had an age fetish. Kristen’s husband, Josh, used to work with Heather. That must be how Andy found Kristen for the show.

Aviva and Reed are headed over to Heather’s, and Aviva is concerned about how Ramona will react when she sees her, since they didn’t part on good terms. Kristen, who is trying to size everyone up, says Ramona and Sonja remind her of  “crazy drunk aunts.” Kristen’s first impression is on the money. Wait till she sees them naked too. Kristen and Aviva meet briefly. Carole still wants to keep a friendly distance with Aviva. Aviva talks to Sonja about Harry, but Sonja has “Baby” Ben right there and isn‘t thrilled. Aviva tells Sonja she wants to patch things up with Ramona. Carole decides to go over to say hello to Aviva. Aviva, excited about her new book, wants Carole’s advice with the memoir she is writing.  Carole finds that off putting because Aviva barely said hello before asking her for help. Kristen seems to get along well with Carole. Aviva sees an opportunity to go over and talk to Ramona. Aviva asks for a hug, Ramona isn’t ready for it. Aviva tries to mend fences in her own way. Ramona says she found Aviva insincere so maybe she can accept her apology, but cannot accept her as a person. Ramona wants no part of her, but Aviva doesn’t get it. Ramona says she can’t trust her and wants her to show her “the real Aviva.” Aviva kind of gives up for the moment, and walks away without ruffling Ramona‘s feathers.

Later, Aviva calls Ramona. She wants to meet for cocktails, one on one, but Ramona has reservations. Ramona says she doesn’t know how to be a faker…she tells Aviva she wants to think about it. Aviva says okay and doesn‘t push her.

Ding Dong, Can someone answer the door?

Sonja has the girls over for tea. While she puts on her makeup none of her dozen interns is answering the door. First Ramona arrives and when there is no answer, she walks right in. Then Kristen arrives and politely waits for someone to let her in, which takes some time. Ramona notices holes in Sonja’s carpet…apparently the rug in Sonja’s house is older than her “boyfriend.” Kristen, still in the observation stage, can’t figure out their (Ramona & Sonja) friendship. I guess new wives don’t bother to watch previous seasons of the show before throwing themselves into the lion’s den? Ramona tells everyone about Aviva’s phone call. Kristen is not impressed with their behavior. Next, they start telling her Aviva’s life story. Kristen looks confused. She says if this is how they act towards friends, she doesn’t want to be their enemy. Smart cookie! Suddenly, Sonja thinks Ramona should meet with Aviva. Sonja says she has let go of the past. Kristen says she thinks Aviva is really trying to make amends. Ramona can forgive, but not forget. Everyone wants her to make up with Aviva. Reluctantly, Ramona goes along with it because if the “girls” think it’s a good idea then why not?

Ramona meets Aviva for drinks. Aviva tells her she looks amazing. She rambles a bit about Ramona’s hair looking “whiter” and very nice. The compliments are working. Ramona says Aviva is a “charmer.” Aviva suggests they have a shot of tequila. No argument from Ramona. They cheers and drink up. Aviva didn’t think the shot was a big deal. Aviva doesn’t like to drink, but if it will make Ramona happy, she will do it. Aviva knows the way to Ramona’s heart. Ramona wants to know why is Aviva just now interested in making up? Aviva explains that she feels she overreacted when she thought Reed was being attacked on the girls’ vacation. Ramona admits she is enjoying herself with Aviva. Ramona calls her a freakin’ witch and Aviva good humouredly toasts to Aviva the witch.

Sorry, that’s the best  could do with the lack of drama this week. If I hadn’t taken to time to write a few notes, not sure I would have remembered anything this morning. I think I would have enjoyed watching the trailer 12 times, instead of episode 1. Let’s see where this goes next week.

If you missed it or want to rewatch the premiere, here is the link: RHONY Premiere

Amazing Race Season 22 Premieres Tonight!

We have a guest blogger, Cousin Vinny, who has offered to write recap blogs on the Amazing Race for us because this season one of the teams has mafia ties. Here is a preview of what to watch for in season 22. Welcome Cousin Vinny!


Tonight is the start of another race.  There is a new twist this season, for those people who are fans of the race.  One team will be able to give another team an express pass by the fourth leg of the race.

What else is happening this season – well it seems that three teams may not decide to do the challenge on the first leg of the race. There are rumors that they "give up" and will be penalized. One of these teams may face elimination.

This season includes the team known as the Battaglia Brothers. These guys are former NHL hockey players. The brothers are Bates and Anthony Battaglia.  Their strategy is to be friendly with everybody. They are used to traveling around the world and sleeping on buses. They are competitive and also physically fit. This is the kind of training that may give the former NHLers a slight edge in the race.

The Battaglia brothers have another celebrity in their Family history.  By several accounts, Sam Battaglia, the grandfather of the Battaglia brothers, started out with nothing and became a millionaire. He was the uneducated son of immigrants from Italy who wanted to make a life in the United States, in the city of Chicago. In 1924 he was associated with Al Capone. Bates Battaglia never met his grandfather. Sam (whose nickname was Teets) was released from prison when Bates was two years old because he had a terminal case of cancer and was allowed to die at home.

Sam had more than 25 arrests, which included burglary, larceny, and robbery. There were also reports that Sam allegedly committed at least seven murders. Sam was also allegedly involved in narcotics and extortion.

The parents of the Battaglia brothers divorced and its possible the boys knew very little about their grandfather, other than what their father told them. The father of the Battaglia brothers is the youngest of Sam Battaglia’s children.

Watch The Amazing Race tonight on CBS, 8/7c to see if the brothers have what it takes to kill the competition.

Written By: Cousin Vinny

Mob Wives: Recap “The Sit Down” on Ep 205

Renee, Drita and Big Ang have lots to say!

I love the Mob Wives, on or off the show, they are very entertaining. Last night was the premiere episode of “The Sit Down.” I was already a bit overwhelmed trying to recap and hour’s worth of sit downs between all the ladies, except Big Ang, who was off tanning and gambling in Puerto Rico. My hand was cramped, but I didn’t want to let readers down, so I started taking notes. I had built up a lot of anticipation. Did the show live up to my expectations? No, sorry to say it did not. Maybe they should have taken more time to think it through. I was expecting a lot more commentary on the scenes than there actually was on the show. The clips were a nice touch, but we just saw what happened.

They started out on a good note, a little segment they call “WTF Moments?” and show a clip of Ramona talking about Drita. We heard Ramona just a few minutes earlier and there is no way we are going to forget that she called Drita a crumb snatching, flip-flopping floozie. But Drita responded to the clip by calling Ramona a “clown.” Drita says if marrying into the mob makes her a “nobody” then maybe Ramona’s mother is a nobody too? That comment made Renee nervous. Then Drita adds that Ramona married outside the lifestyle, so what does that make her? So we are off to a good start, but that is where the thrill ends for me. From here we go downhill all the way. I wanted more of WTF and instead got WTHC (Who The Hell Cares) Moments.

A question for a viewer asking if Drita and Karen might work things out if Ramona wasn’t in the picture. Drita responds that maybe things wouldn’t haven’t gotten out of hand if Ramona wasn’t there. To that I say, oh yeah? Because Ramona wasn’t on the rooftop and things got very out of hand there, right? The common denominator? Drita. Why Drita? Well I took a closer look at the rumble and from what I saw, Renee did hold Karen back and was actually on top of her when Drita jumped on top of the two of them to “beat up” Karen. Renee seemed to be the only one injured. She was bleeding and her leg was badly bruised. I hear Drita packs a mean “kick.” To answer this viewer I would say, if Drita and Karen appear to make up on the show, it won’t be real or for long.

Carrie, the host, brings up the “crumb” issue with Renee and we see the clip. I really didn’t mind watching this clip again, it made me relive some of my own PMS moments. However, I would have liked a more probing question here. Renee’s meltdown over crumbs wasn’t really over cake crumbs, was it? Maybe it was more about Junior texting with another woman? No one asked about the texting or if she confronted Junior about it.

Big Ang comes out on stage, even though she wasn’t in the episode. Everyone loves Big Ang. There is no disputing that point. Fans who missed her on the episode got a few laughs in The Sit Down. Big Ang was apparently on vacation in Puerto Rico, getting a tan and winning at gambling. But she makes an appearance and answers a couple of wise guy questions.

Then they play a ridiculous game where Renee and Drita have to answer 3 questions about Big Ang to see who knows her best. I think this was lame, and I wasn’t amused. Some of you may disagree with me, but I was looking for more in this show than I was getting.

They get into the topic of Renee being stuck in the middle of Team Karen and Team Drita, dodging bullets from both sides. They ask how she can be “loyal” if she is in the middle? Renee answers, “Because I am being loyal to myself and that makes me loyal to everyone.” You have to love the way Renee thinks on her feet! Brilliant!

Best question of the show: Will Renee confront Ramona over her comments regarding Junior? Renee says it’s possible, we will have to stay tuned in and watch. I say, no way they brought that issue up unless it’s to set up some more drama for season two. And if Renee confronts Ramona, I think it’s safe to say we are going to war.

The show ends with a swear word count. Who swore the most on the episode? Everyone thinks it’s Renee…but no, it’s not Renee, it’s Drita! She wins hands down in the battle of the swear words. And there “The Sit Down” ends.

I wish they had asked more probing questions about the episode like: What was Renee thinking inviting Drita to the spa party!?! Isn’t Renee going to get caught up in the drama by being in the middle? Will Drita ever tell Aleeya about the divorce? Did Renee confront Junior about the texting or the crumbs? Will Drita add a “mozzarella” to Lee’s packages? Is she throwing his stuff out or putting it all in storage? Inquiring minds “need to know.” 

That’s my impression of the first show, maybe future shows will have more “meat” and less “filler”?  We’ll see. Let me know your thoughts.

I Married A Mobster: Page Six Misfires

Is that Dina Lohan posing for a photo next to Love Majewski's mother or am I seeing things?!

As you many of you know Chiara was The Mob Wives Blogspot representative at Love Hurt's premiere party.  After a night of talking with Mob Wives and I Married A Mobster's cast Chiara was all mobbed out.

We read Page Six on occasion.  And I enjoy Cindy Adam's take on things somedays.  However, she got something way wrong in a recent article.  Or should I say someone's camp wanted a certain spin portrayed.  Either way I feel a responsibility to our readers to set the record straight.  Love Majewski did not marry Chris Paciello. 

Dina Lohan did not arrive late.  She was 45 minutes early to I Married A Mobster's Love Hurts premiere party.  Dina took plenty of pictures with photographers and anyone with a camera.  V.I.P.s important to Love Majewski showed up.  My sources shared it seemed as if Dina drunk more than 3 Champagne cocktails.  They admit they weren't counting.  And they don't think she was either.  They added a certain platinum haired mother was smoking cigarettes in the Lair's powder room.

Dinah Lohan was allegedly overheard saying the following to Karen Gravano, "I'm not afraid of you I know Victoria Gotti."

Moving along sources allege she spoke to Love Majewski's mother Lorraine Arias-Believeau stating, "I know how embarrassing it can be; I have daughters."

To which  Mrs. Arias-Believeau replied, "Who said I was embarrassed? You're someone's mother?"  In fairness, I've shared the same thought in regards to Ms. Lohan.  And I haven't even met her.

I was going to type that Karen Gravano is not her best friend.  I'm Karen's bestie!!!  She just doesn't know it.  I caught myself and I thought, 'I'll ask Karen my damn self!'
 
Ring, ring, ring...

"Hello."

"Hey Karen this is Mob Mistress."  She laughs.  They all laugh when I call. "You can call me _______ that's my first name.  I have a question for you.  Are you best friends with Dina Lohan?"

"No.  I just met her the night of Love's premiere party.  She was very cordial with me.  She mentioned her daughter watches Mob Wives.  They commend me for coming forward and standing my ground."

I laugh.  She laughs.  I continue, "Well that's what I was going to write.  But I thought I'd ask you just to make sure.  When one assumes that can make an ass out of themselves."  I think about mentioning that we are best friends that's how I know it was a lie.  However, she's in the mist of finishing up MOBDAUGHTER.  So I leave her be for now.  Maybe I'll call Jennifer Graziano's assistant I haven't bugged him in quite a long time.  I know he misses me.

We get it wrong too sometimes.  But how we try not to....  CLICK HERE to read Cindy's Page Six take on things.

Photo Credit: Adewest Media

I Married A Mobster: Love’s Red Carpet & Premiere

Tonight on I Married A Mobster is Love Majewski’s story “Love Hurts.” Guess who was invited and is going to her Red Carpet and Premiere Event tonight? Give up?   It’s me, Chiara Soprano of mobwives.blogspot.com!   I can’t believe it either, but it’s true.   Love has graciously extended an invitation to me and I was thrilled to accept.

I never imagined myself at any premiere or on any red carpet and yet I am going to be at this one! It’s amazing what this little hobby of a blog has turned into. When we started this blog I pictured myself behind a computer screen typing away opinions, stories, recaps, history. I didn’t for one second think I would be meeting any of the women at clubs or premieres. This is an exciting and wonderful experience for me and you can bet that I will share as much of it as possible with everyone. So watch for my blog tomorrow, when I will give you all the details I can remember.

Right now I have to go get a mani and a pedi!

Be sure to watch Love's episode tonight, Love Hurts" on Investigation Discovery at 10:30 PM! 

I Married A Mobster: Cheryl Caruso 'Wised Up' Interview

Cheryl Caruso, today

Interviewing can sometimes be quite interesting.  Sometimes the interviewer has a preconceived notion of who they are about to interview.  Sometimes they have no clue.  After I watched the premiere episode of 'I Married A Mobster', I think I had a good grasp of who I thought Cheryl Caruso was as a woman.  I was pleased when I was right on the money.

How are you doing today Cheryl?
I am good Mob Mistress.  It's crazy around here.  There is so much excitement and commotion going on.


Okay, well let's get started.  What was it about Phil that drew you in?
He was such a romantic.  He wrote me such beautiful love letters.  Phil wined and dined me.  I can hear the smile within her voice. Whenever, he would come to pick me up he'd be playing Michael Jackson's I'll Be There.

Cheryl Herrmann during elementary school

Oh my God that is too cute!  How didn't you know Cheryl?
I was young and naive.  I understand many people will continue to think, 'She had to know!'  The reality is I did not know.  I was spellbound.  I was mesmerized.  I came from a single parent household.  My mother worked hard.  We lived from paycheck to paycheck.  I wasn't raised in the lifestyle.  None of my friends were in the lifestyle.  How was I to know?  We dated for 3 months.  He proposed and I was caught up in planning a wedding for the next 9 months.  We get married.  Then I am pregnant for eight months and a newlywed.  Our marriage was wonderful.  I was happy.  We had a baby then two.  The bills were paid.  He got up every weekday morning and went to work in a suit.  I visited his printing company.  I thought he was a businessman.  He never gave me a reason to doubt him.

Are you telling me you absolutely did not know?
I did not know.  Phil told me nothing.  I grew up in Long Island, not Staten Island.  Phil said he would take care of everything.  He did until the bottom fell out.  I loved Phil with all my heart.  I trusted him.

Fair enough, you know I dated someone connected.  I did not know.
Really?! So you understand where I am coming from!

I do.  More than I care to share.
It was devastating wasn't it?

Yes, I felt like someone had kicked me in my throat.  Enough about that, where are you today as mother and business woman?
My girls are 18 and 20.  My baby is about to join her older sister at the university.  I am so very proud of both of my daughters.  When I look at them all the devastation and jobs were worth it.

Do you worry about them falling for a wise guy?
No, they are very smart.  They aren't naive as I was once upon a time.  We've talked.  I don't have any fears that they'll fall into the lifestyle.  I want them to reach for their dreams.  All I want for them is to live happy lives.  Maybe they'll marry doctors, lawyers, or businessmen.

Cheryl you do mean legit businessmen right?  We both laugh. 
Yes Mistress!  Whatever, their mates' occupations I want them legitimate & legal!

Ms. Caruso's Talero Tequila

Let's get back to the other part of my question earlier; what business ventures are you currently involved in?
Well I partnered with a spirit company.  Together we've developed Talero tequila it's 100% organic.  It's a luxury tequila.  Do you like tequila?

I wonder who told this woman about my table dancing days in an orange bikini in Cabo San Lucas?  Yes, I am a tequila strumpet.
Well I'll send you a bottle!  You'll love it.  I promise.  It has notes of white pepper and citrus.  It's very velvetly with a light taste of spice.  The finish is smooth.

My mouth waters.  I silently pray she sends me two bottles.  Thank you, thank you Cheryl!  I would enjoy that very much.  I know they are rushing you.  Let me ask you one last question.  Why do I Married A Mobster?
Dan Pearson one of the executive producers happens to be a good friend of mine.  We've known one another for years.  He knows my life.  He witnessed me from my naive days to my finding out the truth to who I am today.  He told me that I had an opportunity to tell my journey.  At first I was a bit hestitant, but I feel my sharing my story is finally closing that chapter in my life.  It's addressing all those who assume I did know.  My story is an example to women whatever situation you may find yourself in, we have the strength to get out of it.  They have the power to get out of a bad situation.  Phil was very good to me.  However, keeping me in the dark was ultimately devastating.  I've moved on.  My children are happy and healthy.  I am healthy and happy.  It wasn't an easy road for me to get to happy.  But I did.  I want people to know it's not an all glitz & glamour lifestyle.  It's very destructive.

Thank you so very much Cheryl for your time!  You know when your episode ended. I was like, "Is that it?"  I wanted to watch more of your story.
She laughs. Oh thank you!  I am glad you watched and enjoyed it.  It's quite a story.

Yes it is.  I am glad you made it to the other side.  Bye Cheryl.
Bye Mistress!

Whatever your opinion, at the end of the day Cheryl is adament she didn't know.  Phil "Philly" Caruso confirms he never told her a thing.  I don't know too many marriages which can last without communication on such an important issue.  I wish Cheryl Caruso all the success in the world with Talero Tequila and any other business endeavors.  Discover what Talero Tequila is all about by clicking here.


We hope you tune in with us each Wednesday to watch I Married A Mobster on Investigation Discovery @ 10:30 PM Eastern/Pacific.  For all those who haven't a clue what channel to tune on click here.  Look out for the Drita D'avanzo of Mob Wives interview with Chiara soon.  Oh and we have a new blogger on our volunteer staff Harley's Angel, she's feisty & jaded.  She'll fit right in.

Off topic:  My son just said, "Mother, I love you.  You are a shooting star to me."  I am sitting here with tears running down my face.  Lawd hammercy this kid is going to get every nickel & dime out of me.

All written content is exclusive property of The Mob Wives Blogspot and is protected by copyrights or other intellectual property rights. You are prohibited from using, copying, altering, modifying, or changing our work. Unauthorized use of this is strictly prohibited. Violators are punishable under federal law. In simple English, stop f*cking jacking our work.

I Married A Mobster: Premieres Wednesday Night!

Just a reminder that Wednesday, July 13^th at 10:30 PM, Investigation Discovery’s new show, I Married A mobster will air it’s premiere episode. The first episode is the story of Cheryl Caruso and her husband Phil “Philly” Caruso.  Cheryl says she never knew her husband was in the mob and found out when she walked into the court room the last day of trial and heard he was being sentenced to prison.

This new series it not reality television, but it does explore the lives of real women involved with men in the mob. The women chosen for this show come from an era when divulging mob secrets literally meant a death sentence. They are now telling their stories and breaking the mafia’s code of silence, with details about the illegal mob activities of their husbands and themselves.

Each episode will include interviews with the women, as well as dramatic re-enactments and photos. The stories of the individual families featured will be told from the perspective of the wives of mobsters. They will talk about what their lives were like before and after the FBI turned their worlds upside down. Lorraine Bracco will narrate the series which delve into various mob related crimes, including murder.

Some of the women had no idea that their husbands were in the mob. Others knew, but didn’t care, because they were enjoying the lavish lifestyle the money afforded them. And then there were those who not only knew, but also participated in the crimes themselves. They eventually all suffer as law enforcement eventually incarcerates their men and even some of the women themselves.

We will be watching each week and blogging about the women’s stories and, our opinions will be generously sprinkled in, for your reading pleasure. It sounds like an interesting concept.

Picture Credit: Investigation Discovery

All written content is exclusive property of The Mob Wives Blogspot and is protected by copyrights or other intellectual property rights. You are prohibited from using, copying, altering, modifying, or changing our work. Unauthorized use of this is strictly prohibited. Violators are punishable under federal law. In simple English, stop f*cking jacking our work.

I Married A Mobster: Episode 1 Sneak Peak- Cheryl Caruso

Cheryl Caruso sharing her story on the Mobfessional couch.

Discovery ID has saw fit to throw out a little bait.  We at The Mob Wives Blogspot are always willing to nibble on anything mob related.  As we've written before I Married A Mobster premieres next Wednesday, July 13.

The first mob wife up to bat is Cheryl Caruso.  She's a blond beauty today.  So I imagine she was a beauty yesteryear.  She appears until this very day well maintained.  We'll have to watch to find out if she's self-maintained or is Philly still chipping in for the lashes and manicures.  Within seconds, we learned Phil "Philly" Caruso is arrested on drug related charges & cloning of sell phones.  Cheryl shares she didn't know what was going on.  All she knows is her husband is wearing orange & she has two girls to take care of.  I don't mean to be mean.  But am I suppose to be a babbo?  When will a mob wife or side dish just step up to the plate and say, "I knew."  I get dating someone for several months and not knowing.  I do not understand marrying, living with, wearing furs, and making babies not knowing.  Before someone says, "You don't understand Mob Mistress."  Trust I very much understand.  Whether or not I fall for the, "I didn't know", I will be tuning in every Wednesday faithfully to watch various women reveal their stories of mob love & heartbreak.  Here's the video:



What was your take on Cheryl's claim to not knowing?  Did she know?  Or did she know without the details of her husband's printing business?  Excuse my language, I am a retired sailor.  Why have I seen the ugliest f*#$ing couch on Mob Wives and now I Married A Mobster insulted my eyes with a burgundy version?

Video credit: Discovery ID

All written content is exclusive property of The Mob Wives Blogspot and is protected by copyrights or other intellectual property rights. You are prohibited from using, copying, altering, modifying, or changing our work. Unauthorized use of this is strictly prohibited. Violators are punishable under federal law. In simple English, stop f*cking jacking our work.

I Married A Mobster: Wednesdays We Have A Show To Watch

Teresa Guiduice of 'The Real Housewives of New Jersey' photo'd with Love Majewski of 'I Married A Mobster'

As many as our readers know the catalyst for the Mob Wives Blogspot was VH1's hit series Mob Wives.  We will always blog about Mob Wives & it's cast.  Yet, we will blog about other shows, movies and books.  Chiara clued me into Discovery ID's upcoming show, "I Married A Mobster."  Honestly the show couldn't be premiering @ a more perfect time. 

Yesterday we received an anonymous courtesy comment correcting & complimenting one of our posts.  We thank you Anonymous!  We are glad you like our blog and what we do.  We are the blog built by Chiara's fingertips, Underboss' testerone, Isabella's interesting perspective & my 'I.D.G.A.F.' attitude.  It takes all kinds around here.  It is what it is.  You like it or you don't.  Bottom line, many come back to read us.

The anonymous commenter shared with us interesting tidbits in a comment:

Linda Schiro of 'IMAM' with longtime flame Mobster Gregory Scarpa Sr.

1. The show was done in secrecy.  It was conceived & reconceived several times.  The original name was "Mob Wives".  JustJenn Productions beat them to the punch.  Let us pray Drita D'avanzo of "Mob Wives" isn't reading this blog entry.  You know one word or the slightest move can send her into a violet rage.  Punch may be a trigger word for her.

2. They enjoy reading our blogs.  They consider us an accurate source as far as Mob Wives goes.  We try so very hard.

3. I Married A Mobster (IMAM) is not a reality series per se.  It is more like a mini movie which combines interviews (with the women, friends & family), arrest records, newspaper articles, court documents, books, movies and magazines.

Now you know we love some inside information.  So here it goes:

The episodes contain 4 re-enactments from each of the ladies' lives.  Lorraine Bracco of 'Goodfellas' & 'The Sopranos' fame narrates, interviews and an Executive Producer.  The women of I Married A Mobster are far from happy.  Most share that their lives are and were nothing like what one sees, in the movies & on television.  From my personal experience I agree.  I shared my story once on here during a chat box night, never again. 

We at The Mob Wives Blogspot are definitely more than ready to blog about "I Married A Mobster."  We are excited to get our fingers typing away about the new Discovery ID series.  The Mob Wives Reunion airs Sunday, July 10.  I Married A Mobster premieres Wednesday, July 13.  The blog Gods are smiling at us.  Considering it's airs on Wednesday nights it's not like we are cheating on Mob Wives.  Look for upcoming blogs on the men who loved, abused and even sometimes abandoned the women of I Married A Mobster.  I am thankful years ago I had the sense to walk away.

The Housewives of New Jersey:Joe G. vs Joe G.

Premiere Episode - Season 3

Now I hate to admit it but I am a sucker for "The Real Housewives of New Jersey." I was eagerly sitting watching the first episode.  As I watched, I was intrigued by the one of the newest housewives, Melissa Gorga, the loving sister-in-law of Teresa Giudice. Melissa looks like she may have just turned 18. It's a compliment to her but it would make her husband a bit of a pedophile (not really 18 years old is legal). The focus seemed to be on Mrs. Gorga. I could not help but think, 'This is a girl who is starved for attention and needs validation through being liked.' It is human nature to want to be liked and to be the best for some people. But it seems one of two of the newest Housewives of New Jersey is trying too hard. I mean way hard.  The other new addition to the show is Kathy Wakile.

The show starts @ The Manor.  I guess this is a fancy establishment or something.  Teresa Giudice with husband Joe and kids are all dressed up.  Boy that family can dress!  Walking in Teresa asks how his stomach is holding up.  We see a sign welcoming guests to the christening celebration for Guiseppe Gorga.  Seconds later we see Teresa approaching her brother & sister-in-law's table.  She congratulates them.  Her brother tells her to step away from the table and then tells her she's garbage. What the hell?

The screen goes dark, I read, One week earlier.  Thank you  Bravo!  I was lost in the sauce.  Now we are @ the Giudice's pizza place.  It's packed and called Giuseppe's Homestyle Pizzeria!  Can I get a slice?  Joe is slinging pizzas and talking to one of his employees.  Teresa is looking stylish as ever.  Bankruptcy hasn't hurt her at all in the looks department.  Next she's sits down for a book signing of her best seller cookbook "Skinny Italian".  Gia, Caroline Manzo and Jacqueline Laurita show up to support their friend, castmate and mother.  The Guidices appear to be doing all right.

Next we get to check on the progress with the Manzos.  If there were ever a Cleaver family of reality television, I think the Manzos would be it.  Caroline with husband and adult children in tow are looking @ an apartment.  I see a spin off show in the very, very near future.  If this isn't a prepping of the viewer for the "Boys to Manzos", I don't know what is.  I wish them success.  The boys are showing off their apartment to their doting mother, father Albert and sister Lauren.  We learn that Albie's law school dreams have been put out.  He looking forward to moving on and out.  Caroline's funny baby boy Christopher will be moving in with his older brother.  Remember the Manzos are thick as thieves.  So though we know Caroline is proud, we see her pain of letting 2 out of 3 of her babies go.  Say or write whatever you want about that woman, she is a good mother.  The Manzos appear to still be solid as a rock as a family.

I get to see the New Jersey Housewife I fancy the most next, Jacqueline Laurita.  Mrs. Laurita I have to remind myself this woman is married is on her way to visit her oldest child@ work .  Ashley is an intern for none other than Lizzie Grubman.  Jacqueline meets Lizzie.  She casually mentions in front of Jacqueline that Ashley needs to work on showing up to work.  Ashley whines about not having a car.  Ashley whines about commuting being expensive.  Ashley then mentions about wanting to move to New York.  Lizzie is just standing there like, "Okay."  Jacqueline asks her how she plans on affording the move.  As if Jacqueline can hear me I say, "You know she expects step daddy to foot the bill!"  Ashley says they can talk about it over lunch.  At lunch Jacqueline's husband is waiting for his wife and Ashley.  He instantly knows something has gone wrong.  My wife His wife, his wife, his wife fills him in.  He gives his stepdaughter some solid advice with Jacqueline chiming in.  The tears fall.  A mother feeling not heard excuses herself from the table.  I have an Ashley of my own.  So, I feel the Lauritas pain.

Next Teresa & Jacqueline are having a chat @ a local park.  Teresa shares how her brother has drifted from her, since he married Melissa.  People warned her.  Jacqueline thinks she should try to talk to her brother about it.  Besides the distance between her sibling, her own family's financial situation was a blow to her.  She shares that she didn't know about how bad it was, until Joe told her they needed to go to the lawyer's office.  Jacqueline tells her that she'll get through both the financial and brother situation.  Teresa sees the light at the end of the tunnel.

All right people, it's time for us to be introduced to the new blood.  First up is Melissa Gorga.  She is living the American dream.  She's spoiled.  Her and Joe have been married for 6 years.  She's in a sparkling blue dress when she asks him to lotion her legs.  He asks to lotion her butt cheeks.  He knows they are dry.  I laugh.  She brags how her husband showed her the plans for their 15,000 square foot home.  And Teresa never told her that her home was beautiful.  She states that Joe expects a home cooked meal every night.  The kids must be clean.  There are to be no dishes in the sink.  Joe says his wife is his hero.  Good for them, really no sarcasm here. Still @ the Gorgas we hear how happy they are to bring their last son into God's Kingdom.

Conveniently the door bell rings, and it's #2 of the new blood the Housewives of New Jersey clan.  It's Kathy Wakile, Teresa & Joe's first cousin.  Melissa shares that Kathy and her have a close relationship, more like sisters.  Kathy is her go to person.  As they eat lunch Kathy asks about Teresa.  The negativity starts. 

Next we get to see Kathy's home.  We see her in the kitchen with her husband Rich.  She shares a story about her father realizing he isn't Italian.  Not that it matters to me, he is Lebanese.  I would type some of my best friends are Lebanese.  Frankly I don't know what the ethnic background of my friends.  I don't ask. I don't care. Kathy rides her bike to the market.  Once inside she mentions that women are afraid of vegetables.  What the fuck?  We find out she has two kids Victoria and Joseph.  They are good looking kids.  Kathy is either a filler just an extra New Jersey wife or instigator.

We are back @ the Manzos.  Christopher is doing his Cajun voice which is gibberish.  Albie gets lectured on keeping Christopher in line. Good luck!

We are back @ the Gorgas.  Folks are getting ready for the christening. Trust me when I type more Gorgas means more dramatics for one of Bravo's hottest fist pumping shows. The whole storyline focuses on  Melissa and Joe Gorga's christening of their baby boy. I am not Catholic. I do have plenty of Catholic family members. So, I have been to a few christenings. This should be a happy time for celebration with family and friends.

I never thought you should get tipsy prior to going to church.  However, the classy parents of baby Joey drink champagne, beers and get table pounding happy. Maybe they thought the church roof would fall down on top of them.  Alcohol does have a numbing affect, no? Frankly I do not mind the "feel no pain" attitude. However, I might do the same if my whole life seemed to be devoted to keeping up with the Jones & one upping them.

We are back @ the Guidices who are getting ready for the christening.  Gia has a gymnast competition that she can't miss.  She'll missed part of the celebration.  I might add now, not the part she should have missed.  Joe Giudice is lagging in the garage.  The poor guy is sick.  Every reader sing and clap with me, "Diarrhea (clap, clap), diarrhea  (clap, clap) people think it's funny but it's really wet and runny. Diarrhea (clap, clap), diarrhea (clap, clap) no pain no gain just let it drain."

The premiere episode of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" season 3 seems to be all about the competition between the Gorgas and Guidices. There is some underlying resentment that was touched on in the episode. Teresa and her brother Joe were close once upon a time.  Jealousy appears to have divided the siblings. If you ask me the source of the division is Melissa Gorga. Remember earlier I stated that she looked 18. She acts like an 18 year old mean girl.  Melissa's goals may be to compete for attention and causing problems, specifically for Teresa. Teresa has never been a favorite of mine but I feel bad for her. She has a husband who tries to do right by her.  Joe Guidice may or may not be honest about how much money they did not have. Or maybe she doesn't listen.  Women why do you not listen?  Back to the money situation or the lack of it, I do understand the ridicule they received for filing bankruptcy.  We watch them for two seasons live in a mansion and shop up a New Jersey snow storm.  I even remember Teresa say that buying a preowned home was gross or something of that nature.  Honesty I don't know the details of their finances.  So, I'll write Mr. Guidice should've put his foot down; told his feisty wife to stop shopping; or told her, 'Honey the money tree has been pruned!' 

Joe Gorga, we learn is a hard working man. He is a big money developer which affords his family a certain lifestyle. He seems to have his wife on a short leash. She cooks, cleans and takes care of the kids. I guess that is a good thing. In the episode, we find out that the two Joes grew up together and were close. Joe Giudice looked after his father-in-law while he was sick. Joe Gorga was working. The entire episode we heard that Joe Giudice is lazy and Joe Gorga is a hard-working man according to Melissa.  Huh, since when is taking care of a sick in-law a lazy move?

As the episode goes along we are finally brought full circle. We're brought back to The Manor were it all went down.  I cannot call it a reception because everybody in attendance was looking like they were regulars at 13th Ave Pub in Lynnwood, Washington on a Friday night. I guess I am getting off topic again. I have tendency to ramble but I do have a point.

At the christening celebration, we see Joe Gorga getting blitzed with his friends. He asks Joe Giudice to have a drink. He declines.  Allow me to remind you that Mr. Giudice is suffering from bubble guts. This refusal is the trigger to the drama. Teresa and Joe are trying to be cordial which for them seems to be a challenge. I can appreciate they did not make the event about them. They even danced with their beautiful nephew. They respected the family. I can't write the same about the Gorgas.  Did they learn their etiquette from the high school lunch room?

Teresa goes up to Melissa and Joe to congratulate them. Drunk Joe and immature Melissa ask why is she doing it now. They basically disrespected their sister and sister-in-law. Joe Gorga calls Teresa garbage. Now I am a man.  If someone in my family called my wife garbage, I would be ready to kill them. Joe Gorga does decide to address the situation. Of course nothing happened really just a bunch of cussing and grabbing. I heard someone yell, "Gun!"  I also saw a group of numb nuts seem to try to keep the patriarch of the Gorga clan away from his son.  Who are these goons?  Is this Mob Wives?

I am of the opinion that Melissa Gorga is the root of all the bullshit this episode.  She seems jealous of Teresa. Melissa drove a wedge between the siblings and created this friction between the Joes. Now if you can remember earlier, I made the claim that Melissa looks about 18. I am sure she is older but she is really immature. She needs all the attention. The sad thing is that Teresa and her are one in the same. The season should be interesting. We should see how this drama unfolds. Until the end, I will be watching.  At the end of this episode my thoughts were:

It was primarily Joe G. versus Joe G.  episode 1 of season 3 of The Real Housewives of New Jersey.  I think Teresa, Jacqueline and Caroline won.  They handled themselves well this episode.  I had the nerve to think this series would be boring without the seemingly narcissistic, lying, crying, former stripper Danielle Staub.

Credit: Bravo

Mob Wives: A Tang Gate Update

As our five readers know, I abhor the Tang look. The Tang look is when a spray tan goes wrong. Wrong in my opinion is orange. My enjoyment of the premiere episode of Mob Wives hit a major bump in the road. To my horror I witnessed the beautiful Drita getting all oranged up for Carla Facciolo's 35th (coughs 44th) birthday celebration. Though I've been a professional in the beauty industry. Spray tanning is not my lane of expertise. I decided the fair thing to do was to reach out to a successful spray tan expert for a mini interview. The owner of Smart Xposure located in Los Angeles, California was gracious enough to give me a bit of her time and answer a few questions for the Mob Wives Blogspot.

I've seen your work. Your clients seem beautifully sunkissed. Can you explain without giving away any of your expert secrets how to create a beautiful spray tan?

The key to a great spray tan is in the solution. I use all organic products that use less alcohol and more aloe base, along with different dha color tones to match the skin. Most salons would use one color for everyone. I chose to match the skin and mix several tones. The second part is the technician who sprays the actual tan. It is all in technique. I do a shimmer and shading technique that does not just spray on a tan. I highlight the customer according to their shape.

What is up with the Oompa Lumpa orange spray tan phenomenon? How does one achieve the Tang look?

The alcohol in the solution and product quality. Some solutions are made in China and they are not quality solutions.

First Orange Chicken, now I need to also thank China for orange spray tans. Thanks China! One last question, you can see one of my pet peeves is orange spray tans. Are they in or am I onto something that folks just don't look right orange?

Orange spray tans are out!!! It's all about looking natural and soft natural pigment.
If you notice many celebrities now are choosing a more natural even toned look rather than overly tanned look.

I did notice but I taught is was the Hollywood, Southern California basking in wealth and sun look. So basically they've visited a professional of your caliber. Well, I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my burning orange questions. Thank you!

For those of you in Southern California or planning to visit check Smart Xposure's website (click the name). The staff @ Smart Xposure really know their spray tans. If you are auditioning for the remake of Willa Wonka and The Chocolate Factory a visit to Staten Island may be in your near future. I am stamping case closed on The Tang Gate Files for now.

Mob Wives: Recap Ep 101 Made in Staten Island

I watched the first episode of VH1’s new show, which was an introduction of the four Mob Wives. I found it very choppy and fragmented. They switch from one woman to another and from one scene to another and I didn’t think it had “flow” which made it hard to follow. I did the best I could trying to make sense of it all without having to watch it again.

Renee Graziano seems very proud of the mob lifestyle and boasts of the mob’s “code of ethics of honor, respect and loyalty.” And she sums it up with, “Loyalty is everything.” She goes on to explain that when Sammy Gravano ratted out John Gotti, her father, Anthony Graziano, told her she had to cut all ties and communication with Karen, his daughter. Renee is very firm on this point regarding Karen. “Her father is a rat and she is his daughter.” My problem with Renee is that she is a hypocrite. She picks and chooses which of her father’s beliefs and wishes she needs to follow. She says she cut off ties with Karen because Daddy said so, but she will not respect his wishes not to do this VH1 show with her sister. In fact, by agreeing to the show, she is disrespecting both of her father’s wishes because she knows full well that communication with Karen would be required. So, that leaves me to question, what is her idea of loyalty and respect? Renee’s father and ex-husband, Hector “Junior” Pagan are both in prison, so there is little they can do about the show.

Karen Gravano returns to Staten Island for two reasons: one, to be on the show and two, to write an autobiography of her life. She has left her daughter in Arizona with family, just in case her participation in the show is not “safe.” I’m not sure what makes her think that if the “mob” feels she is being disloyal, that Arizona is safe. Karen knows her return to S.I. is not going to go over big with everyone because of what her father did. Karen’s father, Sammy, is also in prison. Karen likes to “act” tough and talk tough, but the whole hour seemed scripted, like she was acting the whole time, and not very well I might add. The first order of business is for Karen to meet with Drita. They have some unfinished business from the past to take care of. I found them surprisingly cordial to one another considering that Karen lived with Drita’s husband for 7 years prior to Drita marrying him. Drita seems to play down her husband’s past with Karen, while Karen seems to harbor some burning resentment just under the surface. When Karen sees a painting at Drita’s house, that she bought with Lee for their apartment, and had hanging in their bedroom, she makes a nasty remark into the camera. That tells me that Karen has not quite gotten past this issue.

Carla Facciolo has been friends with Renee since she was 16. When her husband Joe was arrested for stock fraud, her reaction was, “Uh, there goes another one!” She more or less expected it because she has lived her whole life watching family go to prison and visiting them there. She almost brags that when she visited relatives in jail it was like a big reunion. She has twin boys, Joseph and Carmen, who still do not know that their father, Joe Ferragamo, is in prison.

Drita D’avanzo is Albanian. She is married to Lee D’avanzo, who is also in prison. Lee calls Drita 5 times a week to place orders for all of his favorite things. During the show, Drita gets a call where he orders, among other things, a variety of cold cuts, sausages, ring dings, and vanilla coke. Drita boxes it up for him. I have never heard of an inmate being able to order take out and have it delivered to prison. Drita also likes to work out at the gym. She talks tough and brags about all the fights she has been in. She is muscular and overall, from her language and voice, manner of speech and attitude, she is not very feminine.

Drita and Carla seem to like Karen and don’t hold what her father did against her. So when Carla is planning her “35^th” birthday party, she and Drita decide it would be a good idea to invite Karen and not mention it to Renee. When the big night arrives, they manage to make sure Renee, who is in “party mode,” has several shots of Patron (tequila). Renee is having quite a good time drinking and being the “center of attention,” as she refers to herself. When she is good and drunk, Karen makes her entrance to the party, which is well underway. Immediately, there is a confrontation between Renee and Karen. Renee is not happy and wants Karen to leave. Karen refuses. After all, she didn’t come all the way from Arizona to S.I. and sign a contract to be in the show, just to turn around and go back home. The party showdown ends with neither of the two women leaving.

Come to think of it, there is no way Renee didn’t know that Karen was going to be on the show, at the party and involved in all the drama. Wasn’t that the whole point? There has to be conflict to get ratings and keep viewers coming back. Renee’s sister, Jenn, is producing the show and everyone stands to make a lot of money only if the show is a hit and remains on the air. So is Renee really mad or glad to see Karen? Karen’s father has the most well known reputation for being the mob rat, and his crimes are a matter of record and documented in his tell all book, Underboss. Her presence is sure to draw viewers.

Oh, by the way, I could have sworn Carla said this was her 35^th birthday. I thought I remembered her being older than that, so I checked online. Sources say that Carla did in fact have a birthday in January, but she was allegedly born in 1967 which would make her 44 years old. That is much more credible to me. Since only photos can be airbrushed, maybe she is better off sticking to her true age rather than trying to shave 9 years off of it?

The show seems to be trying to illicit some sympathy and compassion for these women, who have been left high and dry while the men in their lives are serving time for their alleged crimes. They are trying to put the pieces of their lives back together as they struggle as single mothers. Sniff, sniff. Please pass the Kleenex! Yet, from what I saw, none of the women appear to work, but they all have lovely homes and plenty of money. Renee had a fistful of cash as she ordered drinks at the bar the night of the party. Seems to me like they are still reaping plenty of the benefits of being connected to the mob.

Frankly, considering all the mobsters these women are connected to are in prison, dead, or in hiding, I would have renamed the episode, “While The Cat’s Away.” These women all look like they are enjoying “play” acting in the spotlight and having a damn good time spending money.