Advice For The Real Housewives Of Dallas From Fellow Dallas Celebrities

Dallas is a virtual HOTBED for TV casting. Any major reality or competition show worth its salt makes a stop in Big D when looking to cast interesting or talented characters with big personalities. We've seen our citizens dominate and humiliate in shows like The Bachelor, Dancing With The Stars, Top Chef, Biggest Loser, The Voice, American Idol, Fast & Loud, Texas Women, Big Rich Texas, Most Eligible: Dallas and many more. Last fall Bravo announced that the Real Housewives of Dallas would be the latest addition to their juggernaut franchise and ever since then Dallas has been buzzing with guesses about who would be in the cast. Even I have been fingered as a possibility, which is oh so flattering! While the cast remains in debate, what I know for sure, is that these ladies have NO IDEA what's about to hit them smack upside the head. I've been covering reality TV and celebrity news in this town for a looooooong time and have become friends with many of the stars that make these shows fun to watch. So, I reached out to a few of them to ask, "What do you wish someone had told you before you started your reality/competition TV journey?" Here's some sage advice for the new cast of #RHOD from those who have been there before:

Is Matt Nordgren dating Lindsay Lohan?

photo: People Magazine

According to Fox Sports, Lindsay Lohan and Matt Nordgren were seen together in New York this past week. The nature of the encounter varies, depending on what you read. Nordgren told Page Six of the New York Post, “We’ve hung out. But I have been a friend trying to support her for many years now," while adding that the two have been friends for seven years. But the same story quoted a source as saying that Nordgren is telling people the two are dating. 

Of Lohan, he told the Post: “She’s completely sober for months now. She’s in a great place, she’s thinking clear and working hard and meeting with all the right people.” But E! Online quoted a source as saying: "They have a history of hooking up."  Another source tells E!, however, they are just friends and are not dating. Although the source wouldn't be surprised if something more started up down the road.

Nordgren is apparently no stranger to celeb hook-ups, the former star of the reality show "Most Eligible Dallas" being previously linked to Vienna Girardi ("The Bachelorette") and Audrina Patridge ("The Hills"). Nordgren played one season for the Philadelphia Eagles after being a backup quarterback for the University of Texas and appeared on Bravo's Most Eligible Dallas.

Nordsay has a nice to ring to it, no?! Or maybe Nordlo?

Fresh Faces of Fashion 2013

(left) Sherry Tilley & Yvonne Crum (top right) Marc and Katy Mattox (bottom right) Bri Crum, Jennifer Miller & Courtney Kerr

The 7th annual Fresh Faces of Fashion program all began several months ago when Modern Luxury magazine collected nominations for this year's roster. To be selected as a FFF, one has to be not only stylish on the outside, but be able to serve up a dossier of charitable works and contributions to the community at large. Every year, 12 lucky women are selected to represent the program and serve as stylish ambassadors to raise awareness and much needed funds to benefit the North Texas Suicide and Crisis Center.

This 2-tiered evening, co-chaired by Yvonne Crum and Martha Wyly Miller, kicked off at Stanley Korshak on Friday, March 22 with a runway show featuring fashions from Sachin + Babi and other various Korshak designers. Stomping the runway were this year's crop of "Fresh Faces" which included Nicole Barrett, Peyton Blackwell, Paige Hardison, Bailey Harrison, Bentley Hill, Jessica Jones, Cristina Lynch, Maddy McKinley, Priya Bhola Rathod, Rachel Riley, Melody Rogers and Nicole Stewart.

The Reality of Men and Plastic Surgery

Courtney Kerr, Dr. A and Tori Gonzales
stars of Bravo's new "Courtney Loves Dallas"

Today's woman has no problem sharing her plastic surgery experiences with the world. Botox parties are commonplace and med-spa treatments and plastic surgery experiences are shown on many TV shows as a standard form of upkeep among the celebrity set.

But did you know that last year nearly 800,000 men elected to get work done?

I recently ran into cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Adelglass, owner of Skintastic, and we were chatting about our mutual love of reality TV. He told me that he believes there is a correlation between reality TV and the uptick in men’s plastic surgery. And he should know. “Dr. A” (as he’s known) is no stranger to reality TV. Fans have watched him sculpt the faces of the ladies of Big Rich Texas over the past 3 seasons and he is set to make an appearance on Bravo’s Courtney Loves Dallas (coming this May).

According to Dr. A, a recent study from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery finds male procedures on the rise, with liposuction, eyelids, and rhinoplasty topping the surge. Yale also did a study that concluded reality TV has a huge influence on plastic surgery, and people who watched more than one reality show (on a regular basis) were three times more likely to have a procedure.  Go figure.

Oh So Charitable: 2d Annual Leadership Foundation Gala

Cynthia Smoot & Matt Nordgren
photo: John "Doc" Strange, Selig Images

The Leadership Foundation held their second annual awards gala on December 7, 2012 at The Room on Main benefiting The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation and just keep livin' foundation.

In May 2010, the Rangers Foundation launched a partnership with the just keep livin foundation (founded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey) and implemented the after-school program in three high schools in North Texas: Sam Houston High School in Arlington; Pinkston High School in Dallas; and Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School in Fort Worth. The program takes place twice a week, two hours a week after school, and provides fitness, nutrition, and self-awareness activities. Students also participate in a variety of community service activities.

Founded in 2011 by CEO of Nordco Consulting, Matt Nordgren, The Leadership Foundation is committed to giving back to non-profits whose purpose is to empower youth through sports and education. I know Nordgren from his time on Bravo's Most Eligible Dallas. You might know his from his time as Quarterback for the University of Texas. The spotlight fades quickly once the cameras stop rolling and it's nice to see that Nordgren has shrewdly married his sports and entertainment worlds to create something bigger than himself.

KVIL Hosts Aurora Fundraiser and Dallas Delivers

(left) Ryan and Dawn Neufeld  (right) Jane McGarry and Steve Kemble
Holly Forsythe, LeeAnne Locken, Bill Griffin, Parris Rigby and Gina Noble

I got a call from Gene Gates last Tuesday. He is one half of the adorable The Gene & Julie Show on KVIL 103.7 Lite FM every weekday morning.  Gene & Julie had connected with Megan Saunders, one of the survivors from the Aurora movie massacre.  Megan shared her story on Gene & Julie's radio show via telephone from Colorado.  They were so moved by her struggle and her need to help her community that Gene's call to me went a little something like, "We want to do a fundraiser for those affected by the shootings in Aurora last week. Are you in?" And so began a three day whirlwind off phone calls, emails and postings on social media channels to pull together a benefit.

(left) Gene gates, Matt Nordgren and Julie Gates  (right) Melissa Poe

The first thought was to host a buffet style dinner and charge $50 a ticket. I wasn't so keen on that idea. It was fellow hostesses LeeAnne Locken and Parris Rigby who called Holly Forsythe, owner of Sambuca. Forsythe not only donated her venue in Uptown but offered up hors' de ouvres for guests at no charge.  This is really when things started picking up speed.  David Kiger of Worldwide Express and Bill Griffin of Bill Griffin Real Estate wrote checks to underwrite funds so that all of the proceeds could go to benefit the victims and survivors.  Carter Malouf donated a beautiful pearl necklace for us to raffle off. The whole project just came together seamlessly, with so many offering their resources to help.

Last Thursday, local media like Jane McGarry, Giselle Phelps from CW33, Teresa Frosini from CBS 11 and Danielle Vollmer from CW33's EyeOpener joined us at Sambuca to support and even broadcasted live on site. Bravo TV's Most Eligible stud Matt Nordgren was such a good sport and allowed us to auction off a date with him (raising $500!). And other Dallas starts like former NFL player Ryan Neufeld and his VH1 Football Wives spouse Dawn Neufeld, Steve Kemble and Melissa Poe from Big Rich Texas all showed up to support this cause and helped us promote the event through their social media channels.

Aurora, CO survivor Megan Saunders shows that Dallas helped raise over $12,000

Gene & Julie's goal was to raise $10,000. In the end, we raised over $12,000 that will go to aid the victims and survivors of this terrible tragedy. They say everything is bigger and better in Texas - clearly, that includes our hearts and our willingness to help our fellow man.

photos: Bob Manzano

Under the Big Top: Children's Cancer Fund Luncheon & Fashion Show 2012

The 24th Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show benefiting Children’s Cancer Fund was held at the Hilton Anatole on May 2, 2012.  "Cancer.  It is a word that can change your life in an instant," said Co-Chair Keyea Webster.  Many in the audience could relate to that statement.   Webster, along with fellow Co-Chair Lori Buschel, introduced the day's event and rallied the troops to "dig deep" for the cause.

The fashion show, produced by Rhonda Sargent Chambers, featured children undergoing treatment for cancer at Children’s Medical Center Dallas escorted down the runway by sponsors and celebrity guests such as Demarcus Ware, Mike Modano, the Dallas SWAT Team, Pat Smith, Scott Murray, Rudy Gatlin, Olympic medalist Mitch Gaylord and many more. The show was packed with energy and smiles, and these children really captured your heart.

Troy Aikman, Cynthia Smoot and Roger Staubach. Photo courtesy of Elite Appliance.

Honorary Co-Chairs, Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman, were gracious hosts, posing for photos and signing endless sports memorabilia. I was kicking myself that it hadn't occurred to me to bring something to get signed for my son. Oh well, there's always next year!  Dr. Steven Skapek spoke on behalf of the doctors, nurses and other providers who treat cancer at Children's Medical Center and said their dedication, along with the support of the Children's Cancer Fund, has helped cure more than two-thirds of children with cancer today. However, the work is far from complete, he said.  Clarice Tinsley and Steve Eagar from Fox 4 News did a fantastic job of emceeing the event.  The grand celebrity finale walk was Tony Romo and Jason Whitten who were met with cheers from the audience.

(top left) Mike Modano and Matt Nordgren  (top right) Clarice Tinsley, Steve Eager and children
(bottom left) Country music legend Rudy Gatlin with patient (bottom right) Shirin Askari with Megan Saustad

Founded 30 years ago by a group of local parents whose children were being treated for cancer at Children's Medical Center, Children's Cancer Fund has become one of the nation's leading fundraising groups in support of local research for the treatment and prevention of childhood cancers. Among the programs supported by the fund are the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Fellowship Program at Children's Medical Center and the Children's Cancer Fund Comprehensive Center for Research in Pediatric Oncology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, which is gaining a national reputation for its work in eradicating childhood cancers. In 2002, the fund initiated funding for a full-time Child Life Assistant at Children's Medical Center's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders to help better serve its outpatient clients.

Dress 4 Yellow 2012

Cynthia with Lance Armstrong

I followed a yellow brick road carpet into the beautiful historic Adolphus Hotel on Thursday, April 5, 2012 for the highly anticipated Dress 4 Yellow event held to raise funds for LIVESTRONG and Cook Children’s Cancer Center through a high-profile fashion show, luncheon and silent auction.

"Dress 4 Yellow is designed to inspire and empower those affected by cancer,” Lance Armstrong said. “Through dollars raised, we will increase awareness, provide critical navigation services, fund research and survivorship programs and work to end the stigma of cancer around the globe.”

The Adolphus Hotel provided a baroque and luxurious environment for this lavish event. Gene Jones, Tre Wilcox, Tiffany Derry, New York Times best-selling author Sandra Brown, Amy Vanderoef and her Congressman-hopeful hubby Grant Stinchfield, Pat Smith, Courtney Kerr, Matt Nordgren and Heidi Dillon started the day with a champagne reception in the historic French Room (my favorite spot ever and the best place in Dallas to go for a romantic evening)

(top left) Pat Smith and Tre Wilcox  (top right) Shelley O'Neal, Heidi Dillon and Gina Ginsburg 
(bottom) Judge Diane Haddock, Bobbie Marshall, Nancy Brown and Sandra Brown

We moved down to the Century Room where LIVESTRONG founder and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, along with Co-Chairs Jennifer Applbaum and Lee Nagel,  kicked off the runway show featuring designs by more than 20 of the world’s top designers. Each designer produced a custom-made yellow piece or select a yellow design from archived collections.

 Click here to see many more photos on Facebook

 Dallas fashion designers Shirin Askari, Nha Khanh, Lela Rose, Abi Ferrin and handbag designer Laura Ginsburg were represented. Other designers included Donna Karan, Isaac Mizrahi, Carmen Marc Valvo, Catherine Malandrino, Thakoon, Christian Siriano, Zang Toi, Cole Haan, Nike, Oakley, Ruffian, Sachin + Babi, Elie Tahari, David Meister, Rachel Roy, Chadwick Bell and more. Runway designs were beautifully styled with Kendra Scott Jewelry.

Dress 4 Yellow designs by Lela Rose, Nha Khanh, Abi Ferrin and Shirin Askari

The show was masterfully produced by Bret McKinney, who has been part of the Stanley Korshak team since 2000, and has been the driving force behind the store’s fantastic visual displays, as well as the producer of Texas Ballet Theater, DIFFA/Dallas and Fresh Faces of Fashion. 

Immediately following the runway spectacular, was a seated luncheon in the Grand Ballroom where four of the runway looks were feted in a live auction, including a pair of Justin Boots embossed with the yellow rose of Texas, and yellow dresses by Carmen Marc Valvo, Abi Ferrin and Tibi.  Cole Hahn provided fabulous wristlet clutches in a rainbow of colors for each guest.

The yellow theme left everyone feeling sunny and optimistic about the fight against cancer. The war might not be over, but this event was a battle won and that's something to celebrate! 

DIFFA 2012 Was Smoking Haute

On Saturday, March 31, 2012, more than a thousand socialites, drag queens, fashionistas and charitable do-gooders gathered at the Hilton Anatole for Smoking Haute: DIFFA Collection 2012 - a silent auction including smoking jackets, live auction, dinner, an amazing runway show, theater, after party, spectacle and excitement in a way that only DIFFA can deliver. All benefiting North Texas HIV/AIDS charities.

In 1966 Yves Saint Laurent introduced Le Smoking, a tailored fitted tuxedo jacket for women. A revolutionary idea that brought traditional male tailoring to the feminine form.  DIFFA took this as their inspiration for this year's theme and decided to reinvent this fashion classic in 2012, asking top name designers from around the county interpreting the Smoking Jacket with one-of-a kind couture designs for both men and women.  

(top left) Rene Rouleau and Shona Gilbert (top right) Buster and Cathy Williamson
(bottom left) Hillary and Eric Gilbert  (bottom right) Victoria Snee, Amy Vanderoef and Abi Ferrin

I came of age in the 1980's when HIV/AIDS first hit the mainstream as the "gay disease" that resulted in a painful and certain death.  In the next ten years, we discovered that you could also get the disease from sharing needles and that Mothers could pass it to their unborn children in the womb. The scientific community moved swiftly to discover drugs that would cure, prevent or at least treat the disease. 20+ years later, while no cure exists, we have been successful in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. But with these medical advances comes complacency for a new generation no longer faced with the fear my generation had about this disease.

Clint Bradley, DIFFA Chairman says, "HIV/ADIS is now a top-5 killer within mainstream communities worldwide, the US and especially Dallas. I am greatly alarmed with the bullet-proof misconceptions our youth possess towards the AIDS pandemic today.  DIFFA/Dallas has increased our focus on providing funding for preventative education."  With Federal funding diminishing, fundraising events like DIFFA are critical. 

(top left) LeeAnne Locken and Danielle Vollmar  (top right) Cynthia with Matt Nordgren
(bottom left) Heidi and Bill Dillon  (bottom right) Justin Bundick and Jose Reyes

Co-Chairs, Matt Wilkerson and Darin Kunz kicked off the event, welcoming attendees and introducing the 2012 Style Council.  Every team needs cheerleaders, and each year DIFFA selects a new group of Ambassadors, which include some of our town's most stylish trendsetters and movers-and-shakers.  But, these individuals aren't just pretty faces rah-rah'ing for the event - they are selected for their valued commitment to raising awareness of the fundraiser and money for North Texas AIDS service organizations who provide direct care to those living with HIV and AIDS.

This year's 2012 Style Council included:  Gillian Breidenbach, Anne Stodgehill, Raymund C. King, Bret McKinney, Hillary Gilbert, Jeri Johnson, Tara Harper, Abi Ferrin, Ken Foret, Chuck Steelman, Laura Ginsburg, Amy Vanderoef, Shay Geyer and Alberto Lombardi. 

photos courtesy of Quoc "QC" Cong of XO Photography

After a bland dinner of a breaded chicken breast, green beans and one baby carrot (seriously, for $300 a ticket they need to kick this up a notch next year) the fashion show began.  Produced by Jan Strimple, it was an over-the-top extravaganza of style and pop performance.  Of course, it's just not a DIFFA show without a drag queen show-stopper - and this year held a FABULOUS performance by some of my favorite girls lip-syncing to the Spice Girls. 

After they got the crowd all pumped up, it was time to boogie into the after-party. The DJ started spinning and everyone took to the dance floor. I immediately commanded my entourage, "Shoes off!" and we made a pile of stilettos in the middle of the dance floor, followed promptly by our clutches and other assorted accessories. We then proceeded to dance with wild abandon around the pile like gypsies around a campfire. It was hilarious fun and I can't wait for next year's event!

My dance posse:  LeeAnne Locken, Cynthia, Rene Rouleau and Dawn Neufeld.

Click here to see many more photos 

from this event on Facebook.

About DIFFA:  
The mission of the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) is to raise funds and grant those funds to organizations which fight HIV/AIDS by providing preventative education programs targeted to populations at risk of infection, treatment and direct care services for people living with/impacted by HIV/AIDS and that support public policy initiatives which add resources to private sector funds.

About my ensemble:
Special thanks to Watters for my beautiful gown, Kendra Scott for the beautiful jewelry and to Daniel Lewis at Green Peridot Salon for sculpting my tresses into a sophisticated up-do for the evening. I felt like a Princess! 

2012 Celebrity Waiter Luncheon Kick-Off Party Sets the Stage for a Raucous Good Time

The 2012 Celebrity Waiter Luncheon Kick-Off Party was held this past Wednesday night at Winston’s Supper Club in Uptown. Belvedere Vodka provided three signature cocktails while Winston's passed delicious flat breads and bites!

Kick-Off Party Co-Chairs Lindsay Jacaman and Jaime Singer (pictured left with this year's Luncheon Co-Chairs Maggie Kipp and Shay Geyer) did a fabulous job of launching this year's festivities in style! Celebrity Waiter Luncheon host Steve Kemble introduced all celebrity waiters while the crowd cheered on!

The 2012 Celebrity Waiter Luncheon benefiting Family Gateway will be held Friday, September 7, 2012 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas and will kick off Family Gateway’s 25^th anniversary in style.

Celebrity Waiter Luncheon Group Shot - Celebrities, Chairs and Family Gateway Executives

At this entertaining and lively luncheon, local business, media, political, entertainment and sports personalities will volunteer as celebrity waiters and serve guests for a great cause!  Each table sponsor hosts a table of 10 generous guests who come prepared to tip their waiters with wild abandon and bid for the extraordinary and unique auction items dangled in front of them.

Waiters seek tips in eccentric ways - pocketing your silverware, withholding your meal, singing, performing and dancing; the antics are endless as waiters go to great lengths to raise the most money during 90 action-packed minutes.  An exciting silent and live auction will take place, and all proceeds will benefit Family Gateway.

(left)  Courtney Kerr, Matt Nordgren & Shona Gilbert  (top right) Leslie Boysen and LeeAnne Locken
(bottom left)  Dorris Jacobs and Carmaleta Whiteley

Last year's event had Steve Kemble and LeeAnne Locken leading the crowd in a rambunctious version of the Village People's YMCA,  Pamela Martin-Duarte from Big Rich Texas and Candace Crawford Romo sang "Deep In The Heart of Texas" and Lynae Fearing and Tracy Rathbun did the splits...  There is just no telling what will occur at this year's event.  One's thing for sure. This luncheon is worth the price of admission. It's the best show in town!

It's Official! Most Eligible Dallas is returning for Season Two

I've been calling this one for months, and Bravo has finally proven me right.  On Friday, March 23rd, 2012 Bravo representatives came to the Zenith Media New York office to present the network’s 2012-2013 Upfront programming tagged “Powered by Bravo”.  Bravo presented new and returning shows in the Food, Fashion, Beauty, Design and Pop Culture genres.

In that presentation was this blurb:

POP CULTURE

• Returning series include: Most Eligible Dallas, The Real Housewives Franchise (New York City, Atlanta, Orange County, Miami, Beverly Hills and New Jersey), Watch What Happens Live, The Millionaire Matchmaker, Bethenny Ever After, Inside The Actors Studio, Shahs of Sunset, Don’t Be Tardy For The Wedding, The Kandi Factory and The Kathy Griffin Comedy specials

We now have official confirmation from Bravo that the show is returning... but the million dollar question now is, returning with who?  It's a sure fire bet that Matt and Courtney will be coming back. I would be SHOCKED if Glenn and Neill returned. And that leaves wildcard players Drew and Tara.

What I know for sure, is that we will see some new faces. I can't wait to find out who those new faces belong to!!! Who do you want to see return?

To read the entire press release from Bravo about new and returning shows, click here.

Fresh Faces of Fashion features Nha Khanh for 2012

This year's Fresh Faces of Fashion program all began several months ago when Modern Luxury magazine collected nominations for this year's roster. To be selected as a FFF, one has to be not only stylish on the outside, but be able to serve up a dossier of charitable works and contributions to the community at large. The 12 lucky women selected to represent the program serve as stylish ambassadors to raise awareness and much needed funds to benefit the North Texas Suicide and Crisis Center.

These lovely lasses have appeared in the March issue of Modern Luxury and last Friday, they walked in a runway show at the 6th annual Fresh Faces of Fashion Gala held at Stanley Korshak featuring the Fall 2012 Collection from one of Dallas leading fashion designers, Nha Khanh.  Back for another year, co-chairs, Yvonne Crum and Jill Rowlett flitted amongst the crowd, welcoming guests and using their wiles to charm raffle tickets sales from the pocketbooks of all who entered!

These ladies are goooood and party-goers didn't stand a chance.

Cynthia with Matt Nordgren, Lee Bailey and Carmaleta Whiteley
Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, Kari Schlegel Kloewer and 2012 FFF, Krystal Schlegel

Among the stylish in attendance were Carmaleta Whiteley, Lee Bailey, Mina Chang, LeeAnne Locken and Renee Rouleau. I caught up with Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas stars Matt Nordgren and Drew Ginsburg over a cocktail and ran into the whole Schelgel clan there to cheer on one of this year's FFF, Krystal Schlegel.

Immediately following the fashion show, attendees were feted at a dinner at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel.  Roy Jackson gave a moving talk about the loss of his son. He had the room both laughing and crying, which is hard to do - especially when you are not a practiced public speaker! He spoke of love and loss, sadness and anger, hope and finding joy again. I salute his courage in telling his story only one day after the 5th anniversary of his son's tragic death.

Fashions from the Fall 2012 Nha Khanh Collection

Fresh Faces of Fashion 2012

• Katy Messersmith, Founder and CEO of Katydid Collections
• Samantha Davies, NBC 5 Meteorologist
• Caroline Cooper, Student at UT Austin and Shop Across Texas student blogger
• Carla Miller, Civic Volunteer
• Kaylyn Montgomery, Client Liaison for Coquerel Family Estate Wines
• Bailey Coon, Sales and Marketing Associate for North American Spine
• Amy Wells Havins, Owner of Dallas Wardrobe
• Grace Victoria Davis, Fashion Blogger and Executive Director for SMU Fashion Week
• Allison Wiley Lent, Owner of TheSocialButterfly.com
• Lauren Parsons, Consultant with Parsons Agency
• Lynsey Wiley Provost, Fine Art Consultant
• Krystal Schlegel, SMU student and Fashion Blogger

Oh, but wait... it's not over yet!

There is a fierce competition to see who can sell the most raffle tickets for a chance to win a new Mercedes from Park Place Motorcars! The winning ticket will be drawn at an event in May at Park Place Motorcars.  To date, the Fresh Faces of Fashion events have raised over a million dollars for the Suicide and Crisis Center in the past six years.  Pretty darn impressive!

Click here to see many more photos from this event on Facebook

Click here for more information on the Fresh Faces of Fashion, and to purchase raffle tickets via SCCenter.org.

Dallas Reality TV Score Card. How We Doin'?

It's no secret that Dallas is a hot-bed for reality TV.  In the last 2 years we've been subject to Most Eligible Dallas, The A-List: Dallas, Texas Multi Mamas, Big Rich Texas, and Texas Women.  So, let's take a look at the scorecard to see how Dallas has fared:

• Big Rich Texas just debuted its second season
• Texas Women is currently filming its second season. Look for it in the Fall
• Texas Multi Mama's had decent ratings but the cast has had no "official" word on a second season
• The A-List: Dallas and Most Eligible Dallas has lots of street buzz but are also up in the air for a second season

Who wouldn't pay to look at THIS!?

Texas Multi Mamas was not the PR machine that the other two shows were, so, to me the big question marks are The A-List: Dallas and Most Eligible Dallas.  Here's what I know for sure:

Bravo asked 3 members of the original cast from MED to attend an Upfront in Chicago recently. Two of those members were then asked to attend the same event to be held in Dallas in April.

What's an upfront you ask? It's an event or soiree the network holds to wine and dine and schmooze potential advertisers for the upcoming season. They trot out their stars to razzle dazzle them so while they are drooling over say, Matt Nordgren, the Bravo rep can be picking their pockets clean. Oldest trick in the book..

The other thing I know for sure, is that Pink Sneakers Productions has interviewed every "eligible" person under the age of 40 (and a few that are over) to try and recast the show and make it more, um, let's say - dynamic. They were in town last week to film test pilots to show Bravo some new faces.  Doesn't mean Bravo's green-lighted anything, but it looks promising.

It's not looking so good for The A-List Dallas. I say this based on one lone bit of info. which I gleaned yesterday. Logo issued a press release touting new format changes to the channel saying,

"Logo is evolving its programming focus with new series and development deals that reflect gays and lesbians' increasing integration into mainstream culture today and their desire for shows that appeal to their multiple interests."

Eden Wood & Ashley Kelly

You can read the full press release here, but it's basically stating that gays are into more than just shows about gays. So Logo is expanding its programming to air more lifestyle shows and widen its reach.  They went on to release the names of some new shows they would be debuting - and mentioned some old ones. The A-List: Dallas (and New York) were not mentioned. Hmmm. This doesn't mean it's not coming back, but it means they aren't ready to say.

In a "isn't is a small world" moment, I couldn't help but notice that in Logo's press release they seem very excited about their new show featuring Eden Wood from Toddlers and Tiaras fame.  A-List starlet Ashley Kelly recently photographed Eden for a shoe campaign and that "fabulous New York City publicist" they refer to? That would be Andrew Sullivan who also represents Matt Nordgren and Courtney Kerr from MED.

Yep, it's a small, small world and it just gets smaller by the minute.  Do you have some insider knowledge to add to this dialog? Leave a comment on this post or shoot me an email (if you want to stay "off the record"). I'll keep you posted as news (or rumors) happens.

Most Eligible Dallas? Oh, It's Coming Back for a Season Two...

A little birdie told me today that select cast members from Most Eligible Dallas have been asked to attend an "Upfront" for Bravo.

"What the heck does that mean?" you are asking. Yeah, I had to ask myself.  An Upfront is when a network pitches shows to potential advertisers. They bring in cast from the shows to razzle dazzle and schmooze the buyers and get them to loosen up their pocketbooks. 

So, one has to assume that while no formal announcements have been made, that a Season Two is practically in the bag or they wouldn't be pitching the show to advertisers as part of their Fall line-up. Just sayin'.

Now, exactly WHO is coming back and what NEW faces will be added? Well, that remains to be seen.

Holiday Wrap Up: Matt Nordgren

The holidays have ended and New Year has arrived, so I asked some of Dallas' most famous faces to reflect back and tell me what they most enjoyed about this holiday season and if they have set a New Year's Resolution for themselves.

___________________________________

Matt Nordgren 

Star of Most Eligible Dallas

"My favorite part of the holiday season is spending time with the family. Nothing means more to me, and this is the only time of year that I completely clear the schedule for it.

But before doing so I always make sure to plan a trip to New York City with no business attached. To me, it just makes the holidays feel so real with everything that goes on there during December.

My New Years Resolution is to start the day earlier whether it be in the office or at the gym. Winning the day is so much more important the older we get than winning a night.

I haven't had a drink in almost 9 months, but my other New Year resolution is to keep all alcohol and tobacco out of my life. There's just not a positive reason for it."   

Says someone who doesn't have children. Just you wait...

Like the People Magazine cover I made of me and Matty? You can make your own cover (there are a variety of themes to choose from) at  http://styleentertainment.timeinc.net/people/makemeastar/

Become A Fan on Facebook and follow Matt on Twitter

Will There be a Season Two for Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas?

Rumors have been swirling for weeks about Most Eligible Dallas. Is Bravo TV going to renew the show or aren't they? Will all of the original cast be coming back or will we see some new faces?

What I do know for sure, is that upon wrapping Dallas, the crew hit the road and is currently filming in New York City.  They are then scheduled to go to Chicago and are currently casting for West Palm's.  That leaves the question, IF they are coming back to Dallas, then WHEN? And if too much time passes, does MED Dallas lose whatever audience they had?  As Heidi Klum is fond of saying, "One day you are in... and the next day you are OUT."  If more than a year goes by in-between seasons, does the Dallas cast remain relevant to a national audience?

For the record, I didn't even bother to reach out to Bravo or Pink Sneakers Productions about the possibility of a second season, because they wouldn't tell me anyway. 

One of the rumors I am hearing (from multiple sources) is that they are only bringing back THREE of the original cast and that in a Season Two we will see some new faces. IF this turns out to be true, my best guess is that they will keep Matt and Courtney ("Le duh!" as Court would say) and Glenn and Neill will be out.

That leaves Drew and Tara, which presents quite the conundrum, because they are so different and each has their own audience. Drew is the token gay on the show (bringing in much needed diversity to this cast) but Tara is a hot blonde who saves cute puppies. Hmmm. This is a total toss up and could go either way.

Dallas Cast with Bravo TV's Andy Cohen

A source tells me that Pink Sneakers has been reaching out to new "Eligibles" about possibly joining an upcoming season.  Although one of the "Eligibles" I spoke to said, "I have been contacted by the production company, but they haven't confirmed that it's MED they are looking to cast. They are being vague about what show they are casting for, saying it could be MED or it could be a new show."

MED star, Matt Nordgren, tells me, "Honestly, we have heard nothing. They are going through a testing phase and will know more mid-Jan. Until then everything you hear is rumors and nothing more. The follow up with new people is part of the wrap up from a 1st season show. It doesn't have anything to do with season 2 just yet."  

Okay, that makes no sense to me. What do "new people" have to do with a "wrap up" from Season One?

More steamy hot tub action, please!

Courtney Kerr scoffed, "You're asking me about a rumor?! C'mon?!?! You know this city is full of those!  Obviously, this cast is very dear to me, and because we all went through season one together, if and when there is a season 2, I would like to share this experience with those close friends again. But if there are any casting changes, I am unaware of it. This gossip is D.O.A. to me until we sign a contract for another season."   

Right... you and Neill are such "dear" friends. I'm sure Court will be all broken up if Neill doesn't return.

Drew Ginsburg

I spoke to Drew Ginsburg by telephone and he is towing the party line with Matt and Courtney, saying he has not been engaged in any serious conversations about a Season Two but is hopeful that it happens.

I, for one, am keeping my fingers crossed for another season. Aren't you dying to know what happened with Matt & Courtney after that steamy hot tub make-out session! And did Tara find true love after dumping her two-timing boyfriend? And what about all of those cute puppies?!  And what happened with Drew and Cody!? Is Drew's heart broken for good?!

Even though I already know... America needs to know!!

I'll keep you posted on any new developments as they roll in... If you have scoop, leave a comment below or email me if you'd prefer to remain anonymous. 

Courtney Kerr named Dress For Success Ambassador for 2012

Dress for Success held their second annual casino night charity event, “Lucky Lonestar,” last Friday night at Zouk Night Club in Dallas.  This jackpot of an event was presented by Katy Messersmith of Katydid Collections. Many of Dallas’ charitable socialites flocked to the scene for a Friday evening of “Vegas-Style” theme featuring casino games, silent auction and raffle, music and more.  Congrats to Courtney Kerr, from Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas,who was announced as Dress For Success new Ambassador for 2012.

(top left) Linh Quach with Katy Messersmith  (top right) Sarah Davis with Amir Omar (bottom) Shirin Askari, Courtney Kerr, Matt Nordgren and LeeAnne Locken

Dallas notables Matt Nordgren and Courtney Kerr of Most Eligible Dallas, Shirin Askari of Project Runway Season 6,  City of Richardson Council Member Amir Omar, Vernon Hadnot of D210 TV, FC Dallas’ Soccer Captain Daniel Hernández and model/actress LeeAnne Locken walked the red carpet eager to double down for fashion and charity.

All proceeds benefited Dress for Success Dallas programs, which help women transition towards self-sufficiency by addressing their social and economic needs in relation to work, home and community.

(top left) Royanne Kerr and Barbara Downing (top right) LeeAnne Locken and Shirin Askari playing craps  (bottom left) Courtney Kerr wins big in Blackjack as Shirin Askari looks on  (bottom right) Amber LaFrance, Nicole Hodges and Jarrod Fresquez try their luck at Blackjack

About Dress for Success The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

photos courtesy of Thomas Garza Photography

The Shak Turns Five!

Last week, stylistas flocked to The Shak to celebrate their 5th Birthday.  Fashion bloggers Krystal Schlegel and Abby Greggory hosted the soiree, which included a style show featuring the Resort Collection of Rachel Zoe.  The night also kicked off Modern Luxury magazine's annual Fresh Faces of Fashion nominations, benefiting the Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas.

(left) Krystal Schlegel and Abby Greggory  (top right) Janet Fresquez and Yvonne Crum  (bottom right) Marie Reyes and LeeAnne Locken.  Photos courtesy of Danny Campbell

As usual, there was plenty of bling and pizaz from the ladies, but there was also plenty of man candy at this party.  Most Eligible Dallas star Matt Nordgren and artist Kevin Fougerousse had all the gals cozying up for conversation. YUM! I also chatted up financial powerhouse Janet Fresquez, model/actress LeeAnne Locken, real estate maven Elizabeth Ho and international socialite Anna-Sophia Van Zweden.

 (top left) Anna-Sophia Van Zweden, Matt Nordgren and Lindsey Bentley  (top right) Stia Allen with Amy Havens  (bottom left) Mystery guy with Kevin Fougerousse  (bottom right) Two mystery lovelies with hostess Abby Gregory in the middle

Shoppers at this party got to save 20% by using their Partners Card. And you know Dallas likes nothing more than shopping for a cause! It's one of the things we do best and a birthday party is a great reason to whip out the AmEx.

So, what is this whole "Fresh Faces of Fashion" thing? They are lovely women who are nominated by the readers of Modern Luxury Dallas and selected by a committee. Twelve of the most stylish Dallas trend-setters will be chosen as FFF and featured in the magazine's March 2012 issue. 

Fresh Faces of Fashion prides itself on highlighting great style while raising awareness for a very worthy cause. In just a few years, the program has raised almost just over a million dollars for the Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas. If you know someone who should be a Fresh Faces of Fashion for 2012, fill out this nomination form! 

Matt Nordgren in talks with ABC's The Bachelor

Chris Harrison and his wife with Matt Nordgren and Michelle Marie/E news and Young Hollywood at an Emmy event in LA for Time Magazine and Entertainment Weekly.

If you believe what you read on the internet, then it looks like there is a pretty good chance that our own Matt Nordgren will appear in an upcoming season of The Bachelor.  Aw, Matty, don't you know that after 15 seasons of men looking for love on this lame show that they never find it?!  But they do get to make out with a lot of pretty girls in hot tubs, and we all know that's right up your alley.

My pals at Wetpaint hinted that this might be coming down the pike in late August, but it was pure speculation then.  Ben Flajnik, a 28 year old winemaker has already been named as the next Bachelor and will appear in the next season of The Bachelor airing in January 2012, which means that the earliest Nordgren could appear is January 2013.   A lot can happen between now and then. He could realize that Courtney is truly his soul mate, they could be married and preggers with baby Nordgren by then. Stranger things have happened.  I'm just sayin'.

I reached out to Matt for comment on this rumor and he responded with, "LOL. Speculation. There's nothing I can report right now, sweetie." RIGHT NOW being the operative words in this quote. So, he's not flat out denying it, which tells me there's something to the rumor. 

Here is how fans are reacting on Twitter:

 I will be following this closely...

Matt Nordgren and Taylor Armstrong: Just Friends? or Friends With Benefits?

Last night I about peed in my pants when I found out Matt Nordgren and Taylor Armstrong were at Cattle Barron's Ball together (and by "together" I mean at the same event). I immediately logged onto Twitter, because that's where all the good news happens first, to verify this story and reported what I knew at the time about this sighting.

It wasn't 20 minutes after I hit "Publish" that Matt Nordgren called me to explain their "date" and give me his side of the story.  I woke up feeling a little bad about stirring the pot of reality TV gossip. And then... I saw this:

Now, Ron Corning is a TV host for WFAA's local morning show, Daybreak. A show that I just happen to appear on frequently. So, I texted Ron just now for more scoop and clarification on this statement. I am awaiting his response. Sort of negates everything Matt told me last night.  We shall see who is the liar, liar, pants on fire...

UPDATE (10/16 at 10:25 AM) Ron replied back that he didn't personally see fluids being exchanged but he heard about it from "reliable sources". So, that's kind of a wash. Could go either way on the truth.

Here's another little tidbit courtesy of Facebook:

 

Hmmm.  Ever hear the saying, "Don't believe anything you read and only half of what you see".  It seems to apply here.  I guess we'll have to "watch what happens" to see how this one plays out.

UPDATE (10/16 at 1:00 PM) 

Matt's Publicist just called to clarify some inaccuracies in my earlier post.  He wanted to make sure I understood the following:

• Matt did not escort Taylor to Cattle Baron's. They arrived and left separately
• Taylor was asked by Cattle Baron's "months ago" to attend the Gala.  WHY they would have asked her to participate months ago, I have no idea. Seems very random and totally odd.  I will be checking that claim out with the Host Committee
• Matt did not cut his trip to LA short. Cattle Barron's is an event that Matt has attended for the past several years and he had planned on attending long before he knew Taylor was going
• Matt denies any kissing occurred

Um, I think that covers the conversation.

Again, "Don't believe anything you read and only half of what you see" might pertain to this situation. I am just telling you what I see on the public worldwide web.  Don't kill the messenger.

UPDATE (10/18 at 2:45 PM) A credible source inside Cattle Baron's has informed me that "Taylor Armstrong was NOT invited to present an auction item or attend for free. Unless you want to call getting an underwriting contract an invitation to participate as a celebrity?"   That's what I thought.