Dallas Takes on New York Fashion Week

Fashion bloggers Lauren Scruggs, Shannon
Yoachum and Courtney Kerr

Like a Sirens song, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week has an irresistible lure for those who are fashionably minded. Some go to discover trends and get ahead of the curve. Others go to voyeur into the world of the jet-set crowd, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities or meet the designers of the moment.  Whatever the reason, New York Fashion Week is always well represented by Dallas and even a massive snow storm couldn't stop our Texans from taking the Big Apple by storm!

Fashion blogger and Bravo TV star Courtney Kerr took in shows from Herve Leger, Rebecca Minkoff, Carmen Marc Valvo and Nicole Miller to name a few. She also took advantage of being in NYC to visit the Bravo studios, attending a taping of Andy Cohen's "Watch What Happens Live" where she got to hang with Jenny McCarthy.

Fashionistas founder, Heidi Dillon, also headed East for the event spending time with reality villainess Pamela Martin-Duarte of Big Rich Texas. Dillon took in shows from Katya Leonovich and attended "The Reality of Fashion/The Reality of AIDS" benefiting Broadway Cares watching fellow Dallas reality actors Leslie Berkland and Nikki Walker of Big Rich Texas stomp the runway.

New Cast Members Join Big Rich Texas for Season 3

Style Media announced yesterday the renewal of its hit series, “Big Rich Texas,” for a third season. This Fall, they will also expand the franchise to include new series “Big Rich Georgia.” Well, I do declare!

“Big Rich Texas” will pick up where the drama left off with several new mother/daughter teams to stir the pot and attempt to take over as the new queens of Dallas society.

The filming on Season 3 of Big Rich Texas actually started filming a month or so ago.  All I have to say, is GET READY people because there are BIG changes in store for this upcoming season. Now, keep in mind that what I am about to tell you, I am not getting from any official press release. What I reveal below is all gossip and hearsay.  Which is usually a lot more accurate than the official press releases, come to think about it.

So, what bombshells do I have to drop on you?!

 BOMBSHELL #1 

Pamela Martin Duarte is not returning to the show. Pamela was the only original member left from the Dallas Divas and Daughters days from whence this show sprang.

Now, I have heard two different reasons for why she's not returning: a) because the other women on the show banded together and refused to film with her and b) because of the lawsuit she is in with Bonnie, she couldn't film for legal reasons. But, Bonnie's still filming, so that one doesn't hold as much weight with me as the first reason.

Backing up this rumor is this tweet I spotted on July 13 between Pam's daughter, Hannah, and a pal:

So, there you have it.

 BOMBSHELL #2

There will be two new ladies joining the show this season. Their names are Wendy and Cynthia (her Facebook page says Cindy) . The hilarious thing, is that I had two different people ask me if I was the "Cynthia" joining the cast. Ha!  That would be a no way, Jose.  No word on their marital status, although I hear one of them has a Sugar Daddy. Allegedly.

Cynthia/Cindy

Cynthia/Cindy hails from Frisco and has a 15 year old daughter.  She could also be Pamela's sister. Don't you think they look alike?  Wendy lives in Prosper and I heard she's a motivational speaker and real estate attorney. Her daughter Nikki is 23 years old. So, Grace and Maddie get a new friend and Whitney gets a new friend. Everyone's a winner!


BOMBSHELL  Bit of Info #3

In less shocking news, the show has a new Director this season and I am being told that he wants to change the direction of the show and make it more "real". In case you didn't realize, Style Network calls this show a "docu-drama" not a reality show. Meaning this is a soft-scripted show. They give the cast outlines of how they want a scene to go, but let them improvise their own dialog. It will be interesting to see how this new direction plays out.

I gleaned all of this despite the fact that the Network and show's producers have ordered the cast to not speak to me. Silly rabbit, don't you know that you can put a gag order on your stars, but not their friends and family!? And quite frankly, I think I should be shown a little appreciation for being a fan since day one.  If it weren't for people like me continuing to promote your show, it might not be coming back season after season.  Just sayin.

Set your DVR's because “Big Rich Texas” will return on Sunday, October 7 at 8pm ET/PT on Style!

Pamela Martin of Big Rich Texas Opens Up a Can of Texas Sized Whoop Ass

If you watch Big Rich Texas, you know there's no love lost between its stars Pamela Martin-Duarte and Bonnie Blossman. Now, they are taking the drama off screen and into a Dallas courtroom courtesy of a lawsuit filed 2 days ago by Martin-Duarte.

Take THAT bitches!

D Magazine's Tim Rogers reported today:

I don’t watch Big Rich Texas. I’m told it’s a thing. So I guess this lawsuit will get some attention. It was filed two days ago by Pamela Martin-Duarte, who is on the Style Network reality show. The defendants are Dena Miller (aka Mrs. Highland Park), Bonnie Myer (who is also on the show), and Merritt Patterson (who used to write recaps of the show for our FrontRow blog). Here’s how Courthouse News describes the suit:

Business disparagement, defamation and tortious interference actions where the plaintiff says defendant Miller is jealous that she was not cast by the reality show Big Rich Texas. She says the defendants have since engaged in a cyber-bullying campaign by falsely accusing the plaintiff of being a former stripper, drunk, sociopath, pathological liar, criminal, gold-digger and “drunken barfly” who “pays her bills by servicing old men and stealing credit cards.” She says the defendants have also contacted members of the media, Style Network and Fly on the Wall producers to damage her reputation.

Note the wording by Rogers that says Patterson "used to" recap the episodes. Until they got hit with this lawsuit that is.

Blossman    |    Miller    |     Patterson

Now, if you read this blog with any regularity, you know that I am friendly with the cast of BRT and might be wondering what my take on this lawsuit is. Let me just state for the record that while I am happy to bring you the facts in this lawsuit (as presented in court), and you can expect regular updates from me on breaking developments, you won't be getting any opinion on this case from me.

For one thing, I run in the same social circles as Pam and Dena and like them both. Dena, Merritt and I have children in the same school and live in the same neighborhood (Park Cities). I have always been as much Team Pam as I have been Team Bonnie, depending on the episode.  Merritt Patterson and I have known each other for years from our time working at D Magazine/People Papers.  This is their fight, not mine, and I plan on staying neutral. Like Switzerland.  I might be dumb sometimes, but I'm not crazy enough to want to get on the bad side of any of these ladies! 

Some are speculating that this is a publicity stunt. I can assure you, it's not.  Some are saying you shouldn't go on a TV show if you don't want people to talk about you. All I have to say, is wait until the case is presented in court and the facts come out. They say there are three sides to the truth: The Plaintiff's side, the Defendant's side and the truth that lies somewhere in the middle.

All I know, it that it will be verrrrry interesting to see what is reveled in court under oath.

UPDATE (4/4/12) 

The Dallas Morning News is reporting that Merritt Patterson has been dropped from the lawsuit.   "I spoke to my client and recommended that she non-suit her [Patterson]," said Duarte's attorney, well-known litigator Larry Friedman. "We're going to dismiss her right now." "I haven't had a chance to read it [the lawsuit], so I don't have a comment," Patterson said. "I was certainly surprised that someone on a reality show would sue someone who reviews a reality TV show."

Courtney Kerr Gets the Boot

The 2012 Celebrity Waiter Luncheon Kick-Off Party was held on March 28, 2012 at Winston’s Supper Club in Uptown.  This is my favorite shot from the evening: As this year's celebrity waiters were being introduced, Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas star, Courtney Kerr, pointed out the fact that she was wearing a medical boot. Apparently, she dropped a MacBook on her foot and severed a tendon. Ouch! Pamela Martin Duarte from Big Rich Texas sympathizes at the thought of not being able to wear cute shoes for 2-3 months.

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 25th anniversary in style. Last year's luncheon was such a riot, I can't wait for this year's luncheon circus show!

For more information, visit http://www.familygateway.org/events.htm

Big Rich Texas: Season Two Premier Party

Hotel Zaza was the place to be Sunday night as over 300 style-setters, celebrity stalkers and A-list wannabes jammed into a soiree hosted by Heidi Dillon and Jarrod Fresquez benefiting The Fashionistas to kick off the latest season of Big Rich Texas.  Almost all of the cast was there, making it a head-turning event for fans who turned out to catch a glimpse of their favorite cast members.  So, who was missing? Let's see, because Pamela Martin was there, you can pretty much guess that Bonnie and Whitney and Leslie and Kalyn stayed far, far away. Which was very unfortunate because there was plenty of room in the space for the tigers to just circle the room and avoid each other.

(left) Melissa and Maddie Poe  (top) Grace and Connie Dieb
(bottom) Hannah Gelbart Martin and Pamela Martin Duarte

When I first walked into the VIP area ('cuz that's I roll, baby) there were two tubs with probably 8-10 bottles iced down in each one. Pamela Martin came over and was fiddling with them and I said, "Dang, Pam! You guys are totally planning a drunkfest for tonight!" (see photo above and you can see how I mistook them for vodka bottles) She was very excited to tell me that she and Hannah have been signed as the new spokesman for Seven Water (a high-end bottled water competing with Voss) and that's what she was serving.

Click here to see more photos on Facebook

Sipping champagne from my perch in VIP, I spied VH1 Football Wives star Dawn Neufeld, CW33 morning show host Danielle Vollmer, The A List: Dallas star Taylor Garrett (with his new cutie patootie boyfriend, Jeff), floral designer extraordinaire Shane Walker, Bling is the new Black T-shirt Queen Caitlin McConnell, Gina Ginsburg (who was launching The Hair Bar in Southlake the next day!), and good Lord, you couldn't miss Steve Kemble who came decked out in his BRT finery complete with a sequined vest embellished like the flag of Texas, a cowboy hat and the BIGGEST belt buckle known to man. Hilarious!

Cast Members of Big Rich Texas:  LeeAnne Locken, Heidi Dillon's assistant Linnea Thulin (aka "The Rakk"), Heidi Dillon, Pamela Martin Duarte, Hannah Gilbert, Maddie Poe, Connie Dieb, Grace Dieb, DeAynni Hatley, Shaye Hatley and Melissa Poe. Photo courtesy of Jarrod Fresquez.

They attempted to air the episode, but it was so loud in there, you couldn't hear a thing that was being said on the telly. Good thing I had the foresight to tape the show so I could watch it in gleeful detail when I got home later that night! So, did you watch?! Goodness gracious, they certainly kicked off the season with a BANG! Literally!  In the first 5 minutes, Pam and Bonnie were practically brawling over plastic-surgery accusations.  10 minutes later Bonnie is having to be pulled off Leslie. Note to self: do NOT get on Bonnie's bad side. She's small but is not afraid to kick your ass.  I don't recap episodes, but if you want a blow-by-blow, click over to read my friend Merritt Patterson's hilarious article.

(top) Heidi Dillon and Taylor Garrett, new BRT star DeAynni Hatley (in the middle) flanked by pals
(bottom) LeeAnne Locken and Steve Kemble, Dawn Neufeld and Hamilton Sneed

There are some changes to the show this year that should make this season fun, fun, fun!  I'm not going to give you any spoilers - although trust me, I have plenty of them!! First off, is the addition of a new Mother/Daughter trio: DeAynni, Amber and Shaye Hatley from Colleyville. I published a Q&A interview with DeAynni yesterday if you want to learn more about her.  In Episode 3, America will be introduced to two new fantastic "secondary cast members" Heidi Dillon and LeeAnne Locken. 

Let me clarify what I mean by "secondary" because I am so sick of everyone who has every walked onto this show calling themselves a "cast member" on their websites and in Bios for charity events and listing it in their Twitter bio. It's ridiculous. If this is the criteria, then I am a full-fledged cast member myself having appeared in multiple episodes last season and - oh yes, you will see me this season as well.  Here's MY criteria: if the Style Network does not have you listed on the Big Rich Texas website as a cast member. You are NOT a cast member. Making an appearance in a scene does not make you a cast member. Appearing in a scene and saying a couple of words, does NOT make you a cast member. This just means you have made "appearances". THAT'S IT.

LeeAnne and Heidi are "secondary characters" this season, meaning they are being introduced to the cast as "friend's of Pam's" this season. You will see them in many episodes. With lines and playing a part in the storyline.  (Oh and what a part they play!!!!  I so wish I could tell you more but I don't want to ruin it.)  If people react well to them, well then, we may see them upgraded next year. Time will tell.  So, hang on tight people. Last night's episode one was a little taste of the drama that is to come.

Tune in to Big Rich Texas on the Style Network every Sunday at 8PM/CST.

D'Andra Simmons Bridal Shower was Tres BLING! and C'est Magnifique

Remember in Junior High when the most popular girl in school had a big sleep-over and every girl in the school was on pins and needles to see if she was going to get an invitation? That's kind of what Saturday night's lingerie bridal shower was like for one of the biggest names on the Dallas social scene, skin care Queen D'Andra Simmons.

Dee and D'Andra Simmons (and yes, that's a cake!)

Hostess Kelly Stafford sent the lucky ladies their lottery tickets (invitations) via a custom box filled with red feathers. "Meet you in the Red Shoe Suite" it read.  It was referring to the Red Shoe suite at Hotel ZaZa, where everyone gathered to sip champagne around a custom cake built as an exact replica of D'Andra's stunning 10-carat oval Tanzanite engagement ring.  After several rounds of cocktails, the group made its way down to the main ballroom for a seated dinner (and more cocktails) then back up to the Suite for cake and the obligatory present opening.

Click here to see more photos on Facebook

The film "Moulin Rouge" was the inspiration this soiree.  Red corsets, black lace, sky-high heels, peek-a-boo masks and lots and lots of champagne were everywhere you turned, making for lots of great people watching and picture taking!  Stafford had designed a custom step and repeat just for the occasion and the photographer could barely control the crowd of women angling to get in front of his lens.

Kelly Stafford, D'Andra Simmons and Deb SoRelle

Good Morning Texas co-host Amy Vanderoff, Anna-Sophia Van Zweden, interior designer Shay Geyer, Big Rich Texas star Pamela Martin Duarte, Maggie Cooke Kipp, Jill-Beth Hayes, Nancy Gopez, Andrea Weber, Anne Stodghill, Ellen Winspear and Phyllis Comu were among the lucky madmoiselles in attendance.

Cynthia Smoot with D'Andra Simmons, Anna-Sophia Van Zweden with Shay Geyer
Pamela Martin Duarte, Teffy Jacobs with J. B. Hayes

You know what happens when you get a room full of women together. The gab gets going! So, what juicy tidbits got divulged? Well... while there were several fabulous tidbits I gleaned, they were all "off the record" - for now. One thing I can share with you is that Pamela Martin was excited to tell me that she and daughter Hannah, are developing a fragrance. According to Pam "no one from Dallas has ever launched a fragrance line" and she is very excited to be the first.  No word yet on the name or when it will be release, as it is early in the game.

Anna-Sophia Van Zweden told me that this was the first bridal shower she had ever been to and I just laughed and said, "Well honey, don't think they are all like this one!"  This party, was a one-of-a-kind experience.

photos courtesy of Danny Campbell.

Big Rich Texas Sneak Peek: Season 2

Get ready, because Big Rich Texas is coming back for another season of cat fighting, name calling, back stabbing, lies and innuendo! Mark your calendars for February 19, 2012 for the premiere of Big Rich Texas on the Style Network.  Here's a little sneak peek at what we have to look forward to:

Fashionistas Holiday Soiree Sparkled with Stars

LeeAnne Locken, Danielle Vollmar & Pamela Martin

Cathy Vieth, Dr. Aneeta Goomar and Dr. Sandy Sule, Susie Straubmueller and Janet and Rick Fresquez hosted a holiday shopping event and Christmas party for the Fashionistas last Thursday at the showroom of local designer, Prashe.  

The party atmosphere was rockin' courtesy of DJ Gumbo and later in the evening, we got a special "surprise guest DJ" in Heidi Dillon!

There was lots of sipping and nibbling and milling about.  Natalie Solis from FOX News, Taylor Garrett from Logo's A List: Dallas, Danielle Vollmar from CW33 new national morning show, Eye Opener, Terri Provencal, Jorge's Tex-Mex owner Michelle Mireles, former Dallas Cowboy Ryan and his reality TV-star wife, Dawn Neufeld, were among the stars glittering in this high-voltage crowd.

Good thing I had visited Jared Reed at Salon Pompeo in Uptown to get my hair and makeup done because this was a star-studded event! It takes a village to keep up, people...

Heidi Dillon took control of the dance floor as the evening's guest DJ

The main reason I was there was to observe the filming that was taking place for Big Rich Texas.  Connie Dieb, Pamela Martin, Heidi Dillon and LeeAnne Locken were there filming a juicy scene about... oh, you know I'm not going to tell you what the story line was! That would ruin all the fun. You'll just have to wait and see.  And I may, or may not, make a background appearance. Depends on how they edit the scene.

Click here to see more photos on Facebook

(top) Cynthia Smoot with Connie Dieb, LeeAnne Locken with Natalie Solis

(bottom) Taylor Garrett, Pamela Martin, Heidi Dillon, Linnea Thulin, ??? and Hamilton Sneed

Big Rich Texas Gears Up for Season 2

Heidi, Connie, DiAynni, ??? and Melissa

Will Pam finally find out if Leslie has the millions she claims to have?  Will Kayln finally win a crown...and Leslie's love?  Are Connie's ex-husband and Leslie going to hook up?  Can Melissa become a success in the modeling world again? Will Pam and Bonnie ever kiss and make up or are they destined to be mortal enemies?

All of these cliff-hanging mysteries will be solved (or at least addressed) because the ladies of Big Rich Texas are coming back for another season!!!  Filming started several weeks ago on Season 2 of this "docu-drama" and the new episodes will air beginning mid-to-late February 2012 on the Style Network.

Word has it that a new cast member and her two daughters will be joining Pam, Connie, Bonnie, Leslie and Melissa.  Sure, throw a couple more cats in the fight!  I don't have all the details on the new additions to the cast, but here's what I do know:

• The new Mother/Daughter trio is from Grapevine
• Her name is DeAynni Hatley
• One of the daughters is in college at TCU. Which means we probably won't see much of her.
• They have "the most amazing home of anyone on the show" and producers are hoping to film there

The photos used in this post were taken at the recent FGI "Night of Stars" Gala. I was there, but didn't have an opportunity to go over and meet DeAnni.  She kind of looks like a grown up Snookie.  Don't you think? I mean look at that attitude?! Yeah!

Do you know more about our new cast member?! Leave a comment and fill me in! Or email me if you want to remain anonymous!

One thing is for certain. They are still filming at the Country Club as seen in this tweet from Kayln:

And in case you thought this season was going to be boring... it looks like day one of filming started out with a BANG! I would link this post, but Bonnie's already removed it (probably because the producers had a freak out). Thanks goodness for screen shots!  I wonder what Bonnie did to piss off Ignacio?  I can't wait to find out!

UPDATE (Dec. 8, 2 PM) Bonnie left a comment to say that she never removed the post and she provided me with a direct link. Click the image if you care to see the original post and subsequent comments.

I love these ladies... It's like a train wreck and you just can't look away!

Pam, LeeAnne and Heidi

I am super excited to announce that we have at least two "secondary" cast members joining the show this season. What does that mean, exactly? That they will make several appearances, but won't be listed as main cast members. I am guessing that if they add to the storyline and readers respond to them there's always the possibility that their roles could grow in Season 3... but let's not get ahead of ourselves. 

Making their introductions as Pam's new best friends, will be model/actress (and occasional Guest Contributor to this blog) LeeAnne Locken and Fashionistas founder and stylista extraordinaire, Heidi Dillon.

Both ladies are forces of nature with massive followings, so this is an incredibly smart move on the part of Pam and the show's Producers to bring these two ladies on board.  Bonnie better watch her p's and q's because Pam is not messing around. She's got some serious back up this season with these two by her side. Of course, Bon does have Whitney. And I'd put Whitney up against anyone in a girl fight.

I cannot wait to see what Season 2 has in store for us.  The countdown is on...



photos courtesy of QC Cong of XO Photography

Big Rich Texas Season One Finale

Season One of Big Rich Texas is officially over.  Like any good "reality" show, there has been laughter and tears, cat fights and bear hugs, friendships formed and relationships torn apart. The girls gave us a lot to talk about over the last 8 episodes and it all culminated in a finale watching party hosted by Bonnie and Whitney on Sunday, October 2 at the Drama Room. 

A gay bar was an interesting place to hold a party for a show called Big Rich Texas, a show that revolved around life at a Country Club. But, that's Bon and Whitney for you. They sneer at protocol and thumb their nose at social expectations. It's part of their charm, so I can't say I was surprised.

This choice of venue prompted Dena Miller (who was originally cast on the show but bailed prior to filming) to post on Facebook, "I would love to plan your events in the future. I imagine red carpet class events for a show called Big Rich Texas with a cast of elite country clubbing socialites with much media in attendance. It was a fun party, but not what is to be expected. Would help if Style would actually host the events for you all like Bravo does Tara's show (Most Eligible Dallas). Something to be negotiated, perhaps?" Meow.

In attendance were fellow Mother/Daughter cast duos: Melissa and Maddie Poe and Connie and Grace Dieb.  When I asked Melissa if Pamela Martin-Duarte was coming, she said, "Ummm, no. In fact, Bonnie has told the club that she is NOT to be allowed in. She is banned from this event."  Really?!  There has been a lot of drama and accusation between Pam and Bonnie on the show. Honestly, I though they were playing it up for drama and ratings.  Apparently not.

During the commercial breaks, there was entertainment from drag queen, Dallas Sheraton.  Bon started the party by sashaying up to the dance floor with a handful of dollar bills for Dallas.  Not to be outdone, Grace and Whitney took their turns in a dance-off style performance as Dallas lip synced to Lady Gaga's "Born This Way".  Gotta love a good Drag Queen...

Click here to see lots more photos on Facebook

While all of the ladies have given Style their verbal wishes to return for Season Two, no one has actually signed a contract. Like I reported recently, they were definitely not compensated well for their time this season and now that they have proven themselves in the ratings, the ladies will be looking for some love... Pony up, Style Network! Let's keep our fingers crossed that it all works out.

The network has already cast one new Mother/Daughter duo to keep it fresh for next season  My sources tell me that they are from Grapevine, but I do not know exactly WHO it is.  As soon as I can figure it out... you will be the next to know!

Filming for Season Two begins in just a few weeks, so stay tuned!!

Celebrity Waiter Luncheon 2011

Daniel Winson Lewis with Cynthia

I had heard that the annual Celebrity Waiter Luncheon benefiting Family Gateway was one of the craziest charity events in town, but I had no idea what I was in for when I accepted an invitation to sit at the head table with Co-Chairs, Shey Geyer and Maggie Cooke Kipp.

Each table sponsor hosted a table of 10 generous guests who came prepared to tip their waiters with wild abandon and bid for the extraordinary and unique auction items dangled in front of them.

Waiters sought tips in eccentric ways - pocketing your silverware, withholding your meal, singing, performing and dancing; the antics were endless as waiters went to great lengths to raise the most money during 90 action-packed minutes.   

Pamela Martin-Duarte from Big Rich Texas and Candace Crawford Romo sang "Deep In The Heart of Texas", Kim Fisher "planked", Lynae Fearing and Tracy Rathbun did the splits... and that was just the beginning!

Click here to see wild and wacky photos from this event

Steve Murray had the daunting job of trying to wrangle this herd of cats as emcee of the luncheon.  This year's roster of stars included: Notah Begay, Steve Blow, Kris Clinton, Ron Corning, Rich Emberlin, Lynae Fearing, Kim Fischer, Lisa Garza, Melani Ismail, Rocket Ismail, Steve Kemble, Daniel Lewis, LeeAnne Locken, Pamela Martin-Durate, Gina Miller, Dan Pritchett, Tracy Rathbun, Marco Rivera, Candice Crawford Romo, Penny Sadler, Rhonda Sargent Chambers, D’Andra Simmons, Victoria Snee, Grant Stinchfield, Hunter Sullivan and Ty Treadway.

 Fun from my table: (top) Cynthia Smoot, Shay Geyer, (bottom) Shannon Brower, Cathy Vieth, our Celebrity Waiter, Steve Kemble and Maggie Cooke Kipp

According to the Dallas Observer‘s Brantley Hargrove, who was covering Mike Modano‘s retirement press conference being held in the next room, “Though women at a ‘celebrity waiters luncheon’ screamed in a conference room next door, and the bass line of YMCA throbbed through the walls, Modano was wistful.” Well, maybe Mike should have come next door and we could've cheered him up... because we were having lots of fun and raising lots of money for Family Place!

Exhibit A:




About Family Gateway:
Family Gateway breaks the generational cycle of homelessness by providing individualized care to homeless families with children; restoring the dignity, stability and self-sufficiency of the family unit.

Photos courtesy of James Edward 

Special thanks to Stephanie Anne for letting me wear some fabulous jewelry from her new Fall Collection. You can find Stephanie Anne jewelry at Neiman Marcus or her flagship boutique in Highland Park Village. 

Big Rich Texas: Blinging for Charity

Fans of Big Rich Texas had the opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with many of the cast members this past Sunday at a signing at Uptown Consignment - an upscale resale store owned by cast member, Connie Dieb.  For $35, you could purchase a blinged out Big Rich Texas Tee (as seen on Pam below) and have it autographed by the cast.  All proceeds from the sale of these shirts and a portion of sales from the store, went to benefit the Austin Street Centre.  I couldn't resist the opportunity to chat up the ladies about what's been happening on the show this season and get their thoughts on a Season 2...

Pamela Martin-Duarte, Connie Dieb, Grace Dieb, Maddie Poe and Melissa Poe

I was talking to Melissa Poe about Fashion's Night Out when a woman came up and said, "I just love your character on the show!". To which Melissa smiled and said "Thank you" and talked with her for a bit about the season. After the woman walked away, I asked Melissa and Pamela Martin (who had walked up on the conversation), "Is to weird to have someone say they like your "character"? I mean, you're playing yourself on the show - even though you are kind of acting and it's not really 100% you. Right?"

Melissa and Pam both agreed that it is a bit strange to be putting yourself out there when you are given scenarios to work with and a direction to aim for with each scene. They are being themselves, but sometimes they say things they wouldn't normally say or do things they wouldn't normally do because the Producers want the scene to go a certain way or for them to play up a certain dynamic.  Make sense? It can be confusing. Even to them!

Click here to see photos from this event on Facebook

Pam's probably the one who is most different from her TV persona. I have a great affinity for strong willed, ball-busting women to don't take any smack off people - but are very genteel about their approach. Think Steele Magnolias. That's Pam. She told me she's been watching old episodes of "Dallas" and using J.R. Ewing as the inspiration for her character.  She has a great sense of humor about the whole thing and said, "If you don't come into this (TV world) knowing who you are, you can get lost or confused pretty quick."

She was very excited to tell me that she is about to send off her second novel to her Publisher for release in the Spring. If you follow the show, you already know that she published her debut novel earlier this year. A political conspiracy thriller called "Hard Whispers".  This new book will be the second in the trilogy. 

Since Pamela and Hannah were cast right before they started filming, they weren't a part of the promotional photo shoot for the show. Hence their absence from this photo. I like that Pamela signed the bull. Sort of fitting...

Casting has already begun for Season Two of Big Rich Texas, so of course, I had to ask who had plans to return.  Connie, Melissa and Pam all raised their hands and said they were more than willing to return IF they could come to terms on their contract. And you know what that means.

SHOW ME THE MONEY!!!  

You know how Ashton Kutcher just got signed to replace Charlie Sheen in Two and a Half Men for $700,000 an episode? You hear these things and you think that everyone on a TV gets paid oodles of moola. Well, you would be mistaken. It's not polite to talk about money, so I'm not going to say exactly how much they are getting paid, but you know that $700,000 figure I just told you about? Well, take off 2 decimal points and divide by half. Now, divide by half again and you know what ballpark they are playing in. With no gas, car or clothing allowance.

So, you can understand how, after a season of proven ratings, the ladies are looking for some love from the Style Network.  I hope that they all find the love they are looking for.  Because the Country Club just won't be the same with out them!   You can catch Big Rich Texas on the Style Network every Sunday at 9 PM.

About Austin Street Centre

The Centre's primary purpose for existence is to offer emergency shelter and related services to the homeless person in a compassionate Christian community, so that the person in need might be better able to make responsible choices and changes in their lives. The Centre has a particular ministry of caring for those who suffer from various physical and mental disabilities, unable to care for themselves, with few or no available alternatives. This includes 24-hour shelter care for those persons recovering from serious illness or injury.

Big Rich Texas, Episode Four: Murder Mystery Debacle

This episode of Big Rich Texas starts out with Bonnie all a-flutter over plans for a Murder Mystery Dinner at the Country Club. Apparently, this is one of her many businesses.

Bonnie is a complete conundrum to me. According to the bio on her website, she's a published fiction author, C.E.O. of an international murder mystery company, a recording artist, and a developmental physiologist. What?!

She's like Sybil, but instead of multiple personalities, she has multiple careers.  And random careers that have nothing to do with one another. I am tired just reading about all of her many ventures! She has so much energy!

Pam (dubbed the "Wicked Bitch of Dallas" this episode by Bonnie & Whitney) catches wind of this Murder Mystery Dinner and says, "Hell to the no!"  due to the fact that there have been several country club murders in the recent news.  If you recall, Susan Loper, a Pilates instructor at Glenneagles Country Club was abducted and murdered from the club this past April, when filming for this show was taking place.   I couldn't find any news of another murder to back up Pam's claim that there were "several" murders.  But there was this one.

Bonnie is so distraught that Pam has gotten her party booted from the Club that she takes off for her "second home" - her plastic surgeon's office - for some Botox.  And thank goodness she went, because good 'ole Dr. Botox offered up his "spacious" home for Bonnie to relocate her party.

According to Bonnie, it was the least he could do since she probably pays the mortgage there anyway.  Word.  And now, she as hatched a diabolical plan to not only invite Pam to her party... but she will make her the murder victim. Heh heh heh.  Of course, once at the event, Pam will have no part in any of Bonnie's little shenanigans and fightin' word ensue!

Melissa Poe

There was a little side bit about Maddie having a date with Bonnie's son, Zack, but I'm not interested enough in what 15 year olds do to even write about it. Except to say that I am 100% with Melissa about how she is parenting Maddie. You go, girl!

What was up with Leslie's date with Anthony Dorsett Jr. (Tony Dorsett's son) who on their first date is telling her that she needs to check out a strip club because they have the best buffets?! Ew. Gross!

The only other little side story was about Melissa, who was considering getting back into modeling and broke down in tears when an agent told her unless she lost some weight, she would only be able to do plus-sized modeling. I found this laughable because Melissa is gorgeous and there is no way she needs to lose weight. No way.

This week's "I Spy" shout out goes to the always dapper, Dan Pritchett, who I spied at Bonnie's Murder Mystery party. Holla!

Other notable location shout outs tonight go to:

• Komali (where Leslie & Melissa had lunch)
• Tootsies (where Grace & Maddie were shopping)
• Skintatsic (where Bonnie gets her Botox)
• Uptown Consignment (Connie's store where Melissa went to talk about grace's party)
• Kent Rathbun's Blue Plate (where Melissa meets with an agent who tells her she could be a plus sized model)

What did you think of tonight's episode? Are you Team Bonnie or Team Pam?

Dallas Reality Stars Invade Hollywood

Last night Hollywood got a heaping helping of Dallas style when cast members from Most Eligible Dallas and Big Rich Texas hit the red carpet at the Beverly Hills Hilton hotel for the Television Critics Awards in Hollywood.  Here are a few of our favorite pics from the night:

Big Rich Texas star, Pamela Martin Duarte with Kathy Griffin and Kathy's Mom, Judy

Camille Grammer from Real Housewives of Hollywood with Most Eligible Dallas' Tara Harper
(photo credit: Lamont Media Consultant Group) 

Kris Kardashian with Pamela Martin Duarte

Mr. BRAVO TV himself, Andy Cohen with Most Eligible Dallas' Drew Ginsburg

Tara Harper in a stunning Karen Millen gown
(photo credit: Lamont Media Consultant Group)

They were probably most interested in Outstanding Achievement in Reality Programming award. This year's winners were:

1. “Amazing Race” (CBS)
2. “Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations” (Travel Channel)
3. “Survivor” (CBS)
4. “The Voice” (NBC)
5. “Top Chef: All Stars” (Bravo)

Could Most Eligible Dallas or Big Rich Texas make the cut next year? Time will tell!

Big Rich Texas Stomped the Runway in Episode 3

Tonight's Big Rich Texas, episode 3 was SO fun to watch....

Not because of the cat fight between Connie and Leslie:  Connie was being a little sensitive.  I mean, Leslie is a pageant expert, so her helping Bonnie pick out her outfit and showing the girls how to stomp the runway is just second nature to her! Connie, she was just trying to be helpful... Bless her little heart.

And it wasn't the cat fight between Pam and Leslie: Listen, change is good! Sometimes you gotta shake things up... literally! Like, with a Zumba class. Try it, Pam!  I bet Ignacio would like to see you shakin' your money maker around the mansion. I'm just sayin'.

 Kalyn and Whitney scrap down over Tyler's affections

And it wasn't even the cat fight between Whitney and Kalyn over Tyler (although that was really good): Kalyn, sweetie, you will soon learn that teenage boys don't want nice girls. They want sluts who will have sex with them.  And even if they like you, it's not because you are a nice girl. It's because they see a girl who might have sex with them. It's ALL they think about.  On the positive side, you will soon learn that sex is your greatest weapon asset and when you learn how to harness your powers, the world is your oyster! Take a lesson from Whitney.

No, although all of those fights were pretty entertaining, this was my favorite episode so far because so many of my friends made cameo appearances! Including me!! Let's break it down and give some of the unsung style stars in this town a shout out:

At the rehearsal for Connie's show, we saw Eric Oliver, Jr. and Juan Lerma (with some random dude).  Eric and Juan operate Amrel Revilo Productions and were the producers of Connie's fashion show. They are new to the fashion scene but have impressed Dallas fashionistas with their style savvy and passion for fashion.

Remember when Pam called in to cancel on Connie's show because "Spain is too lovely to come back to muggy Dallas"?  Connie was flipping through a rack of clothes... and, hey! Recognize those pants? They are the Burberry trousers I now own and wore last week for my WFAA Daybreak appearance to talk about this show (among others).  I had to give them a nod.

See that blurry face on the left? That's ME! Whoo hoo! In a cameo with pageant Queen, Leslie Birkland, I got a few seconds on the telly at the Uptown Consignment fashion show. 

Who was that man in the turquoise shirt caressing Melissa's tresses at the fashion show? That's none other than Christian Iles, the self-proclaimed "Beauty Architect" and "Dr. Hair" of Dallas.

My gal pal and DFW Style Daily creator, Lisa Petty, never misses a fashion show. No fashion moment happens in this town without her and Connie's show was no exception.  I love Lisa's point-of-view and thoughtful approach to fashion. Check out her new website to get in the know on all the latest style news.

Spotted in the audience of the fashion show was Dora Chu. Chu calls herself a "recessionista" and is a personal shopper who has a flare for finding designer duds at consignment and resale shops. She has a knack for making her clients look like a million bucks without spending a hundred bucks! She writes a blog called Cheap and Chic by Dora.

Also on the fringes of the show, was stylist extraordinaire, Jim Duran. Unlike Dora, Jim's style is champagne wishes and caviar dreams. He's all about luxury and keeps his clients in designer couture. You can catch Jim's style musings at DFW Style Daily where he is a regular Contributor.

My second appearance of the night came as Leslie slithered down the runway. The camera caught me at the end of the catwalk (where I usually am) taking photographs. 

And my last shout out goes to Camille Umland (pictured right),  She's Connie's sister and partner in Uptown Consignment. Connie may be getting all of the glory from being on this show, but Camille is just as much a part of the store's success and deserves big kuddos for keeping the stocked, styled and running smoothly while sis busy being a TV star.  So, shout out to Camille!

Did I miss anybody? Who did you see in this episode?