Breaking bread with Reality Star, "Ramona Rizzo" of VH1's “Mob Wives”, in New York City's Little Italy in downtown Manhattan was enjoyable and interesting. The area once called home by a highly populated Italian community, “Director Martin Scorsese”, “Actor Robert De Niro” and the location for the film "Mean Streets", yet it’s still called home by many Italians today and was the perfect setting to meet the Italian Princess.

As we strolled through the streets of Little Italy making our way to the trendy Bowery Diner, I was thinking, "These are the same streets her Grandfather, Benjamin ‘Lefty Guns’ Ruggiero walked before her.” In the movie, “Donnie Brasco”, her Grandfather was played by “Al Pacino” and it made movie history. The Italian community as well as so many others watched the “Godfather” and “Sopranos” as they romanticized their love and obsession for the Mafia. Now in the year 2012, the ladies have come forth to let their voices be heard in the hit series, “Mob Wives”   

Ramona is the mother of four: Giovanni, Anissa, Melina, and Gianna. While chatting with her as we walked, she talked so lovingly of her family, and as any good Italian will tell you, "Being Italian is about Family, Honor, Loyalty and Respect", and I will say this, she lives all four and has many other great qualities that others may only wish to possess and call their own.

Being Italian and from Little Italy, let me say that after meeting Ramona, I felt she could have grown up in Little Italy among the girls in the neighborhood. Most Italian girls are raised to care, speak what's on their mind, and let people know where they stand. She believes like most Italians, "You mess with me, you’re gonna get hit", and she stands up for her rights and the rights of others. She is supportive of many causes including the  LGBTQ Community. 

Ask yourself, do you really know Ramona Rizzo? Is she as they make her out to be on the show - hard and mean; or is she just human? Having met with her several times, I will say she holds herself like a lady, is soft spoken, and speaks kindly others, even of some who would be shocked if they heard her kind words. Like anyone else in their right mind, she would say, "You push me, I'm going to push you back", and we in the LGBTQ Community can attest to that because we’ve all been pushed around and we're all standing up for our rights as is she.

She's Fun, Feisty and Fabulous... Dear Gays I give you, Miss Ramona Rizzo....

FC: Since signing onto “Mob Wives” in Season Two, how has the life of Ramona Rizzo changed?

RR: I'm still me. With or without the cameras I will say that it's exciting and fun. You know when someone comes up and asks for my autograph, it makes me smile and I have to say thank you.

FC: Your life’s had many twists and turns. Which one are you most proud of, and which would you change if you could?

RR: I’m most proud that my children and I are together. If I could change the fact that people think I am brazen when in fact I am sensitive.

FC: How much of your on camera personality is true to life?

RR: They only show the one side of me rather than the well-rounded person who is funny, loving, caring and protective of the people I love.

FC: Where does your inspiration in your life come from?

RR: People who have a backbone like my Grandmother, Grandfather and even Scarlet O'Hara. “Hey anyone who can take a drape and make a dress and turn it out in diva style gets points”

FC: When they introduced you onto the show, did you hit the ground running?

RR: I gave them what they wanted, but kept true to myself whenever allowed.

FC: What is expected of you as a cast member?

RR: They depicted me as the bitch. I mean we all have “50 Shades of Grey” when we need to be or when crossed.

FC: Now that the show has signed on for Season Three, what should we expect from Ramona?

RR: If all is shown, you will see the many sides of Ramona - the good and def not just bad. I've filmed so much, but only a select few scenes have been chosen.

FC: Is it easy being you?

RR: No.

FC: What is Ramona Rizzo up to in her everyday life?

RR: Mother first, reality personality and always a mother.

FC: Regarding business, what do you have going on?

RR: I'm in talks on writing a book about my life story, and I have a jewelry line I'm designing. I'm the spokesperson for “Bronze Glow” a spray tan line my sister Roxinne Rizzo created which can be purchased on my website www.ramonarizzo.com. I also have a few other projects that are in the process and they will be posted on my web site when its time.

FC: Has the show opened new doors for you?

RR: Yes.

FC: If someone was going to sign on to a reality show, what advice would you give them?

RR: Know what you signed up for and what the rules and regulations are for the game.

FC: The Gays, as you know, love you and they have said, “She has style and she’s put together well.” “I am so happy she’s not rolling all over the floor like the others.” “She’s a Diva and a Lady…she knows how to carry herself and knows what to wear.” All that being said, what can you add to that?

RR: I was raised with understanding and self-respect, yet I'm not the person you want to fuck with, but I am the person you will call if you’re being fucked with.

FC: What things in life do you stand by?

RR: Morals, loyalty, respect, and never giving up on what you want to accomplish.

FC: We know from the show title, “Mob Wives”, what the show is about and your life’s history, but we never really see Ramona Rizzo for who she is as a person and that’s what people want to know. Who is Ramona Rizzo?

RR: Business woman, loyal person and first and foremost, a mother.

FC: Why was it important for you to do Mob Wives?

RR: Financial reasons and to set a few people straight on the show - bring them back to reality.

FC: What is your ultimate goal in life?

RR: To be able to support my children, be happy, and live in peace.

FC: What is the wildest thing that’s happened to you since you became a Reality Star?

RR: I was on Sunset Blvd and one of the double decker buses pulled up as I was crossing the street. They were pointing and saying, "Oh my god, that's the girl from Mob Wives". I laughed out loud and felt like livestock. But it was amusing and I did it enjoy it.

FC: How has the Italian community embraced the show?

RR: It’s been divided. It’s not just the Italians, it’s people in general. I say, "Hey if you don't like the show, change the channel."

FC: When people meet you in person, what seems to shock them the most?

RR: How nice I am, and that I'm not that tall.

FC: In sitting with you, I have to say your laughter is brilliant. I have to ask - why did they go with a strong edge on each of the cast members?

RR: You know, they want to show the hardness as to what the mob is about.

FC: What is your life quote?

RR: To really know me is to laugh with me - but to really love me is to cry for me.

FC: Mob Wives returns?

RR: We began filming Season 3 of Mob Wives and it is scheduled to premiere in January 2013.

FC: Where can our readers find you and/or follow you?

RR: My web site: www.ramonarizzo.com twitter: ramonarizzovh1
instagram: ramonarizzo and Facebook: ramonarizzomobwives

Best Always,

Frankie C
Email me at: thecolumnbyfrankiec@gmail.com
Follow me on twitter: @FrankieC_
The Blog: www.thecolumnbyfrankiec.blogspot.com

Frankie C goes head to head with fellow New Yorker and recording artist, Ari Gold.

They cover ground from the start of his music career to the present moment… 

FC:  How did you get started in the music industry?
AG:  I recorded my first record when I was 6 for CBS called “Pot Belly Bear”. I made my national television debut on the Joe Franklin Show when I was 7 years old singing “Yankee Doodle Dandy” and “Give My Regards to Broadway”.

FC:  Who's inspired you to go forth as an artist?
AG:  I was born an artist. I started writing songs when I was 14. I was writing soap operas before that.

FC:  What's been your greatest artist moment?
AG:  I don’t think I’ve had it yet, but I’ve certainly been very proud of my albums, videos and live shows. I’m really proud of my one-man show, “Bashert” that I did this past summer as part of the New York Musical Theater Festival.

FC:  Do you write your own songs/music?
AG:  Melody, lyrics, sometimes chord progressions. I love collaborating with other musicians and write the top line to a track, or write with a guitarist or keyboardist.

FC:  When writing a new song, where do you get the story?
AG:  If I stayed home for the rest of my life, I’d still have an endless supply of stories, emotions, heartbreak, love and passion... all of it!

FC:  You're always reinventing yourself. What drives you?
AG:  The creative process. I live for it.

FC:  You have several videos out. Of which are you the most proud?
AG:  I have a special place for my first video, “Wave Of You”, that Guy Guido directed.  It was filmed on Fire Island which has such a rich gay history, and it’s a tribute to Herb Ritts. I think my last video, “My Favorite Religion”, really brings to the forefront the themes of religion and sexuality that I’ve been exploring; and it was beautifully shot and edited by David Graham and Alessandro Calza.

FC:  Do you remember your first performance? Tell us about it.
AG:  My first New York gig as a grown up with my original music was at Meow Mix which was an east village lesbian club. My Mom ended up dancing with some cute girl.  Hilarious!

FC:  What was the wildest question anyone’s asked you?
AG:  Can I stick my toe in your ass? I don’t know!

FC:  When did you find your interest in DJing?
AG:  I started DJing at The Cock like 10 years ago. DJing is a very natural thing to do for a musician and songwriter. I love music, so how can I not be a DJ who plays music I love for other people?

FC:  As an Out Artist, what effect has being Out had on your career?
AG:  It’s been quite a journey. Every year, I feel more and more grateful to have been a voice within pop music in this moment in history of achieving our equality. Easy, it has not been, but it’s been incredibly gratifying. I made a lot of sacrifices, but I wouldn’t trade them for the world.

FC:  Tell us about the new single you have coming out?
AG: “Play My F**kn Record”! It’s from my last studio album, but is also the lead single for my upcoming remix album. The remixes are hot and the “Country Club Martini Crew” mix is the version we’re going to radio with.

FC:  Is there an Album in the works?
AG:  My remix album has songs from all four of my studio albums, and a couple of brand new tracks I’m recording right now that are awesome. Jared Jones has been a godsend in working with me to get some amazing mixes. He produced one of the new songs I wrote. It should be out by spring.

FC:  Who do you look forward to working with on the film side of the industry?
AG:  I’m really looking forward to working with Lisa Ades who is an award winning documentarian. We’re putting together a very cool doc about my work, my family, and my life.

FC:  Has the LGBTQ Community been supportive of you?
AG:  I would not have a career if not for the LGBTQ community, so yes, they have.  I’ve been an OUT100, received a Decade of Achievement Award from the LGBT Expo, the Odyssey Award for Best Nightlife Performer, and just received LARA’s (The LGBT Academy Of Music) “Visionary Award” at the Outmusic Awards, and that’s only the awards! I love my gays and when I say “my gays” it’s not in the heterosexual celebrity way of trying to appeal to their gay core. They really are my gays because I am gay.

FC:  Who would you be interested in working with and why?
AG:  I’d love to work with Harvey Fierstein. Just met Sia recently and would love to write with her. Ron Fair for vocal production. Oh yeah, and Madonna.

FC:  Where do you find the strength to endure the daily grind of the Music Industry?
AG:  Have I found the strength? Then tell me where I put it! LOL... I’ve been in show business for 30 years now. There are ups, there are downs, but thankfully anytime I’ve felt like I couldn’t go on, my fans have kept me going and always reminded me why my work is important and that they need me. Much gratitude. My parents and my brothers, Elon and Steven, give me tons of support that I am so blessed to have. I happen to think maybe my greatest talent is finding and keeping good friendships. It takes work. Communication. Honesty. I do need to meditate more.

FC:  As an Artist, do you think the nightlife scene has changed, and how so?
AG:  Drastically. You used to be able to go out to the gay clubs and hear dance and house music that you never heard before and the crowd actually loved that. Now people still request Rihanna after the DJ just played one of her songs. But if I start complaining about it, I’ll just sound like an old curmudgeon! Gay clubs started trends. Now they follow them. But gay people in the arts are still at the forefront of culture; don’t get it twisted.

FC:  Tell us about the filming of "Play My F**kn Record”?
AG:  After years of talking about working together, I’m finally working with Francis Legge. We’re doing a 3D Video and we already shot the scene of me running naked in the streets of NYC holding a sign that says, “Play My F**kn Record.” It was very liberating. I’m just glad I didn’t get arrested! Michael Musto, Sherry Vine, designer Jamie Drake, Michael Lucas, Laverne Cox, recording artist Meg, Eddy Barrena, Peppermint, and some “Drag Race” royalty make cameos. You can see the 3D teaser on indiegogo.com.

FC:  How did you go from Ari Gold to Sir Ari Gold?
AG:  I was knighted by a drag queen at the Night of a Thousand Gowns by the Imperial Court of New York which is one of the oldest human rights organizations working today. Considering the importance of drag in the gay rights movement, kneeling in front of a drag queen is quite an honor!

FC:  What would you like our readers to know about Ari Gold?
AG:  Ari Gold is an agent...of love.

Web Site:  www.arigold.com
ITunes: SIR ARI GOLD:  https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/sir-ari-gold/id453152740?ign-mpt=uo%3D4
ARI GOLD: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/ari-gold/id4227877?uo=4
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/SirAriGold
YouTube:  www.youtube.com/sirarigold
Indiegogo:  www.indiegogo.com/SirAriGold3D 

Best always,

Frankie C.

Email me at: thecolumnbyfrankiec@gmail.com

Follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/FrankieC

The Blog: www.thecolumnbyfrankiec.blogspot.com

photo:  wilsonmodels.com, grooming: Josh Galarza,location home of:  Dr. Rob Levy, Dex tanning spray. 

President Obama's 2013 Inauguration speech marked the first time ever an inaugural address mentioned the rights of gay Americans as President Obama declared that America’s “journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well.”

Our President has shown the rest of the world that The United States of America is changing. This is a quote I wrote and live by each and every day: You can’t grow if you do not allow yourself to change." Further, I quote Harvey Fierstein: "And that is how it's done, America. Obama just vanquished our foes, not with guns, but with intelligence, compassion and truth. I am so proud of America today. CONGRATULATIONS, PRESIDENT OBAMA."

photo by Hey Mr Jason

Our President has shown the rest of the world that The United States of America is changing. This is a quote I wrote and live by each and every day: You can’t grow if you do not allow yourself to change." Further, I quote Harvey Fierstein: "And that is how it's done, America. Obama just vanquished our foes, not with guns, but with intelligence, compassion and truth. I am so proud of America today. CONGRATULATIONS, PRESIDENT OBAMA."

While on the subject of marriage, last week I attended the wedding of Mr. Matthew and Mr. Jeffrey Wachman of New York City. They are the first Gay NYC Nightlife couple to marry in 2013. The ceremony was beautiful, the food delicious, and the music spun by DJ Beyond was amazing with accompaniment of MC Special Tony. The Wachmans are a handsome couple, and their wedding was an unforgettable experience.

Some of the invited guests were: Sasha Seven, JJ Mack, Jason Russo, Claudio Pinto, Lisa Bonelli, Antonio Rentas, Louie G, Michael Popovsky, Jerry Nichols, Carlos Kegel, Jose Coiscou, Jayson Littman, Andrew freedom, DJ Jroc and John Cotton.

Time for a little Mojo on Thursday nights at Webster Hall brought to you by Chris Ryan and Nathan Kelly. The Hanky Panky Club was on the move as DJs Matty Glitterati and JJ Lanz served the boys lovely beats and turned it out.  Hosts Richie Rich, Jk Prima and Thorgy Thor all came with their A game as everyone drank, danced, socialized, and had a great time...Now that's Showbiz...Kid!

Ryan and Kelly and dancers Jordan Fragiacomo (love the Batman, Missy) Shane Mercado, Zachary Gentry, Dalton Franklin, Jayson Morgan and Rowell Adrian danced, jumped, and moved about the room working each beat the DJ laid on them. I'm sure many in the room wanted to lay their own beats on one these boys.

The night was filled with so many fantastic appearances starting with Thorgy Thor's brilliant look and performance...Bravo. The Men/Boys were beautiful and, oh, do they know how to party. It was a gaggle of assorted gays that made it a gorgeous night. Kudos, boys.

Seen out: Tom Dziarmaga, Gavin Chase Meinschein, Michael Prince, Lorenzo Thione, nightlife photographer Andrew Werner, Kevin Novinski, Robert Cassidy, Joshua Mayhew, Pedro Vega, Julio Sandoval, D.j. Dychro, Gerald Prosser, Ryan LoRusso, Scott Shaw, Steven Ryan, Joe Mode, Frank Abarca, David Jang, Jovan S Hov, Jeff Proctor, Erik Hendricks, Jay Kuo, Damien Peters, Brandon Trainer, Nate Smith, Corey Alton, Freeman Shameless McGreedy, Tommy Hottpants, Danny Carroll, Adam Jake Steinberg, Marshall Zhang, Jason Fisher, David Scheffer, Jake Rogers, Owen Adams, Ryan Patrick, Kimani Gordon, Tzvi Steve, Andrew Gordon, Jesse Small, Adam Shapiro, Kevin Ryan, Akash Abraham, Jake Smith, Sabrina Bacote, Brandon Hewitt and Rowell Adrian.

We headed to the East Village to hit up Phoenix for the Play-B0y party, another Chris Ryan and Nathan Kelly New York Night Out. The night was hosted by Ms. Holly Dae and Mr. William Francis. They both worked the room to the sounds of DJ Kimani-G who spun out of control making all the boys happy, and oh so Gay…YAY.

They played SIN-ister Twister with a twist...boys in their undies laying over and reaching under, just to reach for the dot. Hmm… reach for the dot - more like touch the cookie spot. The room filled up as Zachary Gentry and Jayson Morgan did their thing on the box. It definitely was a night of sorts and they had a little something for everyone. 

Seen out: Gilbert Galindo, Brandon Trainer, Mike Harnett, Kellan Peavy and Blake Palmer.

It was time to pop in at Splash Bar for “Dougie Meyer's presents Saturdays at Splash."  At the door was Aaron who, by the way, gives great hugs that will make you smile and look forward to one on the way out. He and Frank manned the door greeting and welcoming everyone who entered. Great to see you guys. Thank you.

We entered Splash Bar to the sounds of DJ Eric Abobo as he carried on beat after beat. Front Bartender Larry held court around the bar whipping up some hot cocktails in his undies making the Men and Boys smile. At the back bar was David and Peter working their shakers and banging out the drinks. In the lower lounge was DJ John Marto and Mr. Sexy Bartender himself, Pedro, (who by the way was looking tasty and sweet like a yum-yum piece of candy along with his pierced nipples...Oy Vey) who served it up real nice and good. The bevy dancers resembled a band of Hot Masculine Gazelles that reeked of Juicy Man Sex.    

Seen out: Jean Pierre Arias, Francesc Fernandez, Matthew Winnegge, Mark Roland, Justin Mills and Siralston Yao Yang.   

Happy Birthday:

Louie G, Anthony Garanes and Manny Monroig

Check Out:

Karaoke on Tuesdays at Barracuda with Marti Gould Cummings

You'll Laugh, You'll Cry and You’ll Sing...

The Wanted on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/user/Thewantedmusic?feature=watch

  

Frankie C.

Email me at: thecolumnbyfrankiec@gmail.com

Follow me on twitter: @FrankieC_

The Blog: www.thecolumnbyfrankiec.blogspot.com

Frankie C goes One on One with Carmen Electra

Going one on one with Carmen Electra was an enjoyable moment. She is sexy, sweet and the Gay community loves her… and she definitely loves them back. Her new single, “I Like It Loud”, is filled with words that we can all relate to, along with a bass beat that will allow the Gays to move with a fierce attitude and the Straights to do some fist-pumping action. The song is hot…just like the artist!

FC:  Who influenced your musical interests, and how old were you?
CE:  I was surrounded by music from an early age since my father was a musician and music was very influential in our household.

FC:  What motivates you musically?
CE:  Growing up as a dancer, music was always my inspiration to move and express myself.

FC:  What was it like to have your first album produced by Prince, and to open up for him on the “Diamonds and Pearls” tour? 
CE:  I am so grateful to have had such an amazing learning experience that served as the foundation for my work ethic.

FC:  That was 20 years ago.  How have you grown since as an artist? 
CE:  So much of life is discovering who you are based on the variety of experiences you have. Interestingly enough, life has a tendency to come full circle. So what I've tried to do is learn as much as I can and grow as a person.

FC:  Do you like the change in the music industry?
CE:  Well, with technology, the business has had to move faster than it used to. I don’t know if that’s good or bad really?

FC:  What was it like recording, “I Like It Loud” with Bill Hamel?
CE:  It happened in a very natural and organic way. I wasn't necessarily looking to do music at this point, but after hearing the track that Bill produced, it just felt right and I had to go for it.

FC:  How did you link up with Citrusonic Recordings?
CE:  We linked up through a mutual friend; I fell in love with Orlando Puerta's vision, and it was a natural fit. I feel like he really gets me.

FC:  Are you happy to be returning to your roots?
CE:  Absolutely, nothing should ever stop you from following your heart and doing what you love to do.

FC:  The song is a catchy upbeat dance track. Did you write it? 
CE:  No, it was written by Bill Hamel and Britt Daley.

FC:  How many remixes are there of “I Like It Loud”?
CE:  Over the holiday, Orlando and I sat down and listened to the remixes.  So far, we've found 6 that we love by Hector Fonseca, Sir Paul, +36, Illskillz, Jeremus, and there are others.

FC:  How’s the response been since the dropping of “I Like It Loud” on November 13th, 2012?
CE:  It's been very positive. The energy has been very good out there, and I'm having fun.

FC:  On December 7th, 2012 you were on the Wendy Williams show. Tell us what you enjoyed most about the show?
CE:  It was our first time performing my single, “I Like It Loud”, and Wendy Williams was so cool to let us premiere it on her show.

FC:  How was it working with Simon Cowell on Britain’s Got Talent?
CE:  I feel very grateful for the opportunity.  We had a blast.

FC:  Do you think American Idol, X Factor and The Voice have changed the way a vocalist looks at a career in the music industry?
CE:  I think it has opened the door to more opportunities for extraordinary talent that may have never been discovered otherwise.

FC:  When will the album be out?
CE:  This year, but we are releasing more singles first.

FC:  What do you want our readers to know about Carmen Electra?
CE:  As much as I love the glamorous side of Hollywood, I'll always stay grounded and never forget where I came from.

FC:  How can our readers keep connected with Carmen Electra?
CE:  On Facebook, tweet me @carmenelectra, my website carmenelectra.com, and on Instagram, of course.

FC:  Where can "I Like It Loud" be purchased? 
CE:  ITunes, Amazon, Beatport, everywhere!!

Love, Hugs and Kisses, and remember, “I Like It Loud”!

Best Always,
Frankie C.

thecolumnbyfrankiec@gmail.com

*follow me on twitter: @FrankieC_ 

Life...

Remember... "you have to live life without living in fear" When trying something new keep your focus on... "You have nothing to lose...You can only lose by not trying" Your inner strength comes from... "Standing strong and not giving in"

You can only go forth and excel in life by believing in yourself...

2013 the Start of a New Year...Are You Ready?

As we enter a new year, look back onto the past year and ask yourself Have I reached for at least half of my goals I've set for myself? Yesterday should be a reminder as to where you've come from,what you didn't do and what you need to do as your new day starts off. We often lose track of the New Year's resolutions we've set and find that another year has passed and still no change. That being said is due to the fact that we are all creatures of habit. The one thing many humans find hard to do is make change. I say "Allow Yourself To Change And Your Life Will Grow" It's the start of a New Year...Are You Ready?