Rita Verreos: TV Spokesperson/Host/Pageant Coach

Runway Modeling/Stage Presence Beauty Pageant Coach for the Miss California USA 2012 Pageant!

2012-01-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, when "The" Donald took over the MIss Universe and the Miss USA Pageants, he meant Business. Mr. Donald Trump wanted to modernize the pageants. Thankfully, my close friend and the Co-Executive Director of the Miss California USA Pageant(http://www.misscaliforniausa.com/), Keith Lewis (on the right at the Miss California 2011 pageant) was on the same page as Mr. Donald Trump. In the past few years, we've gone from "Old School" Beauty Pageant look and feel. to "Hello Bombshell!" alla Victoria's Secret Runway show: Cue Me to teach them "The" Walk they need to Stand out, because among 400 contestants you need everything you can possibly think of to, well, Stand out! ALL these girls are beautiful, ALL these girls have nice figures, but not ALL these girls have "the" Stage Presence, "The" Walk that that I learned during the training I received when I was a Miss Venezuela contestant. We were blessed this year with absolutely GORGEOUS weather in Palm Springs. This was outside the McCallum Theatre days beore the Pageants. Here I am with some of the girls that took my Stage Presence, Runway Modeling Classes this weekend. Last year, it was very cold and windy..our poor girls were in outside tents blowing away as they tried to get dressed, do their hair and makeup blattling the wind! Not so this year, thanks to a change in venue. The McCallum Theatre was home to 400 contestants battling for the coveted crown of Miss California and Miss Teen California USA. They rehearsed their choreography and I showed them how to be a Stand Out on the Runway, Miss Venezuela style!Nerves at an ALL time high backstage! and two Winners are chosen! Below, with Alexa Jones, our new Miss Teen California USA, who I'm so happy is one of the girls I Coached! the Best Swimsuit Winner, below: was also one of the girls that took the "Private" Group Lessons that I gave! With one of the MOST Beautiful inside and out, our 2011 Miss California, Katie Blair. and with our very first Miss California 2011 who went on to become Miss USA 2011, another exquisite beauty, inside and out, Alyssa Campanela (below at when Alyssa won last year.) Verreos of NIKOLAKI designs.)As with everything in life, there comes a time for change. In this case, an exchanging of Crowns..and the winner is....Miss Hoag Hospital, Natalie Pack (also a fellow Reality Show contestant! : America's Next Top Model 12) I want to close out giving a very SPECIAL thank you to Christine Atrache and Dany Atrache of Dany Atrache Haute Couture http://www.danyatrache.com/ for choosing me as a model for one of their exquisite gowns! Fellow Fashion Designer, my brother Nick http://www.nickverrreos.blogspot.com/ paid me the HIGHEST of compliments when he said I reminded him of our mother during her days as Diplomatic wife. Our father was a Diplomat with the US State Department in the 60's.

Thus ends my 8th consecutive year as the Stage Presence/Runway Modeling Coach for the Miss California USA Pageant. I'm so BEYOND grateful to my dear friend and Co-Executive Director of the Miss California Pageant, Mr. Keith Lewis, for continuing of have me on his Expert team. Thanks to God, once again, putting me at the right place at the right time when I was a Judge, alongside Keith at the Miss Texas USA pageant in 2003. That sparked a friendship, which, btw, is also what put me in the path of Ms. Erika Shay, Casting Agent for The Amazing Race and SURVIVOR. Your destiny will find you in the MOST unlikely places! Speaking of unlikely places, this weekend, at the "Meet & Greet" we had for the contestants and their families at the Renaissance Esmeralda who "housed" us for this weekend: I ran into a friend and work colleague from my days as Intern for the Feature Film Production company, Interscope Communications. He was the 1st recording artist we signed when we added Interscope Records http://www.interscope.com/ to the company. ORIGINAL Sexy Latino was my friend, Gerardo, the ONLY "Rico Suave!" I bumped into him at the "Meet and Greet" He was there because his daughter was Miss Chino Hills Teen!In 1991, Interscope Records was just a room. It's grown to what we all now recognize as one of the Top 3 Record labels representing artists such as Eminem and Enrique Iglesias.

I'm wearing a gown designed by my brother, Nick, of NIKOLAKI designs:www.nickverrreos.blogspot.com

Michael & I were dinner neighbors at our Director's Meeting the night before the Pageant...I was surprised to see him eat only ONE Entree..I was expecting to see him down about 3-4 Entrees! LOL

Last year's Miss California Pageant was also star studded, btw. The multiple Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Michael Phelps attended to support his then girlfriend, our Miss California USA 2010, Nicole Johnson.

SPECIAL thanks, also, to Mr. Todd Levine: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Todd-Levine-Presents/241864059182996 for arranging for me to wear the Dany Atrache gown!

* Ahh, relief for my aching feet after teaching these amazing girls "The" Walk..LOL

Key Note Speaker at the Academy of Careers and Technology

2011-12-31T10:23:00.000-08:00

Add caption

Last year, it was my pleasure and honor to be invited as a Guest Speaker at the Academy of Careers and Technology: http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/2011/02/guest-speaker.html I was so surprised and grateful that this year, Mr. Earl Bullock asked me to be the Key Note Speaker during their Award and Honors end of year Ceremony. I was able to share with these very intelligent and attentive students the importance of continuing wiht a Higher level of education and how having attended UCBerkeley and UCLA and graduating with a Magna Cum Laude degree continues to open doors for me, including my spot on CBS's Reality Show, SURVIVOR FIJI. After a 1/2 hour speech, which, unfortunately, when I transefered the video from my Iphone to my computer, the video somehow got erased:(( Too bad because I had spilled some "behind the scenes" SURIVOR FIJI secrets on there! Above are some images at the "Meet & Greet" they set up for me after the Awards Ceremony. I was very impressed & grateful with how attentive and the respectful attention these students gave me. No doubt these students are a group of true Survivors!

My Debut on Fox TV National Cable's Newest Latin Network, UTILISIMA!

2011-12-21T16:36:00.000-08:00

I dont't even know where to begin to describe how this AMAZING opportunity came about for me. Rewind 20 yrs.: I was an Intern for Interscope Communications where I met and worked for David Madden, one of the Top Feature Film Producers of the company at the time. Fast forward 20 yrs: I reconnect with David to find, not to my surprise, the current President of Fox TV in Los Angeles. He asked the wrong question: "So, Rita, what are you up to?" and next thing you know, he saw me go from being stranded on an island to seeing my work as TV Host/Spokesperson/Beauty Pageant Coach: (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/2009/08/my-new-demo-reel-aug-09.html). Next thing you know, I was at Fox TV offices in Santa Monica having a meeting with the President of Fox Tv International. The stars were aligned for me! A month later, I was on an airplane to Fox Tv International Studios in Argentina to film 8 shows as the "Beauty/Fashion Tips" Co-Host for the new Latin cable network, UTILISIMA (http://www.utilisima.com/us) It's a STYLE network in Spanish that Fox Tv International launched this year on US cable tv to select markets including New York, San Diego, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago. Above is my 1st appearance on "Hola Martin," hours after disembarking my 10 hour flight to Argentina. They told me I wasn't going to be filming that day! See, folks, that's why you should always be "prepared"...thank God I wasn't donning my SURVIVOR Fiji look! LOL

A very different way to read the newspaper!

my pocahontas pigtails look

my scarf look

How to deal with "Bad Hair Day"...among my circle, I've become known for pigtails and scarves..which everyone thinks is me being fashionable...actually, it's me dealing w/bad hair day! LOL

and for fun and easy way to do your hair: and one more fun way to do your nails, a different kind of French Manicure look: and saying goodbye to 2011 w/some last Fashion Tips! Stay tuned for my upcoming new show on Fox Tv's Newest Latin network, UTILISIMA! UTILISIMA can be seen on most mayor cable carriers, but if your city doesn't feature it, be sure to request it on Time Warner Cable or Dish! www.utilisima.com

Finding the Perfect Engagement Ring/Wedding Band!

2011-12-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

An incurable romantic, I couldn't say no to doing this video! Click here:
http://www.platinum-wedding-band-sale.com/

Thank you, Jeffrey Truitt photography for procuring me for this project and for the wonderful Head Shots and Modeling shots we got that day.

Helping the "Make-A-Wish-Foundation"

2011-12-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, thanks to my work as "Stage Presence/Runway Modeling" Coach for the Miss California USA Pageant, I was able to help "Make A Wish" come true for a beautiful young girl suffering from a chronic skin disease. I taught her how to work the Runway and work it she did! Unfortunately, I don't have a video of that. Ididn't realize that so many years later, I would be summoned, once again to help the "Make A Wish" Foundation (see kids, those of you in the Entertainment industry, here's some advice: document ALL your work because you NEVER know!) Although I don't have that video, here's a link to a similar type job I did and the Runway walk I teach: http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/2011/02/tvshowcanada2010_22.html

With a beautiful TRUE Survivor & Make A Wish recipient:)

This time, however, I was so happy to get asked to help the "Make A Wish" Foundation as the Emcee for their Donor Recognition Awards Reception. A Huge thank you to Ms. Amy Hone, Director of Development for South Texas(above) It was a pleasure and a Blessing to do this event.

Emceeing The Tejano Octoberfest, Nov. 2011

2011-11-07T10:50:00.000-08:00

I was so happy to have been invited by Marie Valentin of Monte Cristo Santa Rosa to Emcee this wonderful event which was done to raise funds and food for the Monte Criso Center to donate on Thanksgiving. THANK YOU so much to ALL who came out to show their support. A special thanks to those who came up to me requesting an autographed copy of the "Strike a Pose for Breast Cancer" Celebrity Calendar (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Strike+a+Pose)that I brought with me that day. Thank you so much for your donations for Breast Cancer Research.
Before I got started Emceeing, I did a couple of Radio Promos on KXTN Radio w/Baby J:

I had a fun time introducing my fellow "World Car" Spokesperson, Raulito Navaira who performed that day, alongside his son, on the guitar to his left and his daughter, who has the voice of an angel..reminiscent of Selena's voice!, to his right. as well as the other acts that were performing that day: and the "Kids Costume Contest!"

Feature Article in ELITE magazine, 2011

2011-10-25T14:06:00.001-07:00

Thank you so much to Felix Salinas for this wonderful article. Click 5 times on the arrow, then Click "EXPAND" to read.

Open publication - Free publishing - More elite

Emcee for the " La Prensa Foundation" Scholarship Gala @ The Omni Hotel,2011

2011-10-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

Last year, the Duran family Honored me with an "Outstanding Achievement in Entertainment" Award: http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=La+Prensa. As if that weren't Honor enough, this year, they asked me to the be Emcee, alongside the Keynote Speaker, the Beloved & Talented Albert Flores. They also asked me to be the voice narrating the Videos that highlighted the Honorees that night. An INCREDIBLE Video Production done by Quarter Moon Productions.http://www.facebook.com/pages/Quarter-Moon-Productions/195033853843854?sk=wall

It was a very special night for all close to 4,000 Guests who attending. Made more special for me because I was accompanied by my parents, Jim & Raquel, my best gf, Liezel Patton and my two amazing children, Alain and Casia. Alain was my videographer (takes him a few seconds to get himself situated:) Above: w/the Dashing and Beloved, Albert Flores, Meterologist on WOAI, abc, San Antonio. The whole La Prensa team worked ARDUOUSLY to put this succesful event together. Special thank to Thomas Ramirez, Patricia Saenz and Ana Cristina-for the beatuiful follow-up, front page article she wrote in La Prensa. Please, Click here to read full article:http://www.laprensasa.com/1644_front-page-news/1344999_la-prensa-foundation-reconocio-a-destacados-lideres-de-san-antonio.html

With the Beloved Tino Duran, Founder and President of the La Prensa Newspaper and Foundation & Albert Flores, WOAI Meterologist (& SUPER Talented Producer/Post Producer. We've become close friends in this past month working on my new TV Host Demo Reel at his company, that I HIGHLY recommend, DMI Productions)

So Happy & Grateful for the opporutnity they gave me to Host a 4,000 crowd of Elite Guests at the Omni Hotel. (I'm wearing a NIKOLAKI design from my brother, Nick Verreos' collection.)

Women of WOW"Let's Get Loud," Rally TO STOP bullying

2011-10-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

When I was in Middle School..I was bullied (click on video below to hear full story). That's why I jumped at the opportunity to Emcee this event. THANK YOU soooo much to Women of WOW, Ms. Ellie Rios(above, right) for asking me to do this!! I had such a GREAT time. They had a FANTASTIC lineup of guests from Chief Mc Manus Comedian Big Daddy to motivational speaker, Fabian to the basketball players from the Texas Fuel team and State Representative, Joaquin Castro. As if that wasn't enough, I also get so pleasantly surprised by a fellow Greek!! Aristoteli, aka, DJ Chad Austin! A few years ago, my son was bullied. Here's the story:

After a long morning of Emceeing and greeting friends and fans, I was ready for a meal. Well, what do you know, I'm affordable after all! LOL

(above right) As I was getting ready to leave, the ever supportive Mr. JesseCamarillo surpriseme with the "Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Calendar that I'm so honored to be featured as Ms. July! I'm so grateful to the sweet fans whom I was able to give this reminder of continuing the fight for Breast Cancer.

Here are the Women of WOW marching around Hemisfair Plaza to spread the "Anti Bully" message Loud and clear!

Also present to share their stories of being bullied, my friend, Mrs. Petite Texas 2011 and the current Miss San Antonio America, Michelle Spencer. You're probably surprised to find out that most Beauty Queens were bullied or picked on in some way..I know I was, as I shared in the above video.

Reality Rescue Festival in VA!

2011-09-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

Me & my GORGEOUS roommate, Jen Nicole (Amazing Race)

My daughter's a HUGE Animal Lover. I credit her 4 getting me started in helping No Kill Animal Shelters:(http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Animal+Friends ) So, last year, when I was asked by one of the Best SURVIVOR fans, Ms. April Muehler, to be a part of the Reality Rescue Festival (http://www.realityrescuefestival.com/) I was THRILLED! April gathered 80 Reality Show participants for the event which was, I have to say, one of the EASIEST I've been invited to participate in. I've been a part of "Survivor" Charity events having us do everything from playing a new sport called "Ice Hockey" (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=My+introduction+to+the+charitable+side+of+being+a+survivor) to dodgeball to kickball (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Andre+Gurode) to softball to Fashion Runway Marathons (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Temecula+Reality+Rally). This one has us doing something much easier, Wine Tasting! To no one's suprise, it was a HUGE success! LOL Here are some images from that weekend, almost a year ago! In fact, I'm getting ready to go once again this year:) That's what reminded me that I still hadn't posted these images. Ever since my participication on SURVIVOR, I've been on an AMAZING non-stop journey, keeping me happily busy. Thank you, God, for blessing me continuously with such fun ways to help others.

Cristina Corria(SURVIVOR COOK ISLANDS), Ken Starfford (SURVIVOR THAILAND)

Sandy, the famous AND infamous Richard Hatch &Me arriving @ our hotel in VA.

A special hug for one of the most special and true blue SURVIVOR fans & dear friend to all of us, Darrell Wolcott.

On our way to the Autograph Signing at the winery w/Jen Nicole and Hayden Moss (Winner, Big Brother 12)

Sugar(SURVIVOR Gabon & SURVIVOR Heroes vs. Villains), Mindy Hall (Rock of Love Bus & "I Love of Money"), Me and Jen Nicole

At the Autograph signing

Forever championing the Breast Cancer Cause. Promoting sales of the "Stike a Pose" Celebrity Calendar that I was so fortunate to be a part of..that's my page:) all in memory of my friends, Diedra Auci Bradshaw and our my fellow SURVIVOR Castway, Jenn Lyon.

Part of the Reality Rescue Group...cleaned up and ready to have some fun !

With Dre, from my season of SURVIVOR FIJI. We weren't on the same tribe so I barely met him when we were on the island. This was our 1st time seeing each other since being on the show 3 years back!

"put your hand up in the air, put your hand up in the air!" Dancin' with one of the best dancers, my fellow SURVIVOR FIJI Ravu Tribe member, Anthony Robinson.

Last but not least, with the organizer of this AMAZING event, Ms.April Mueller. We love you April!

Special Salute for a 3 Star General @ Market Square

2011-09-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

Miss Bexar County 2011 (a girl I Coached for Miss Texas USA), 3 Star General Ricardo Sanchez and TTW Magazine Editor at Large, Cathy Cardenas

Cathy Cardenas, ESPN Austin DJ-Stephen Foster

Monica Dolph, Robert Romo (WALMART director & Pres. of SA Sports Assoc.),Dr. Cardenas, "Longhorn" Gene

This was a wonderful event commemorating 2 very special men of Latino decent, Dr. Cardenas and 3 Star General Ricardo Sanchez. It was a privilege to be invited to Present these outstanding Gentlemen with Awards from the San Antonio Sports Organization, recognizing their stellar achievements that day. Thank you to my dear friend and Co-Host of Longhorn Live Radio,"Longhorn Gene," for making me a part of presentation.

"Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Halloween Meet & Greet @ Tomatillo's Restaurant

2011-08-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

I've been working year round....and will continue to work to raise awareness and funds for this cause until we find a cure that will save us from losing our mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts, cousins, wives, best friends! This was another event that one of my fellow "Strike a Pose" Calendar Celebrity Pin Up models set up at "Tomatillos," on Halloween Eve...I musta been coming from another event otherwise I woulda shown up in costume as did Ms. Eva Campbell-Morales (below) who's workin' that body in that Catwoman suit...Halle Berry watch out!! Meeaaoooowwww!If you want to donate to the Breast Cancer cause you can do so by going to any of the following links: (www.komensanantonio.org,www.alamobreastcancer.org,www.crtc.net,www.cancer.org,www.bebrightpink.org,www.texaswings.org,www.BreastCancerSisterhood.com) The inspiration behind this calendar was a very loved local woman, affectionately known as Elf Louise. Her dear friends, the photographers of this Calendar got together along with Chris Duel, ESPN Radio Host, to Produce this wonderful Calendar to help raise awareness and funds for Elf Louise's Breast Cancer Treatment. A "Help Elf Louise Locker Beat Cancer Fund" has been opened at the Bank of San Antonio to help Elf Louise with the exhorbitant medical costs so you may also deposit your donation there.
I did this calendar in Homage to my best childhood friend, Diedra Auci (you'll see on the homepage of my blogspot a "Star" that I made for her @ Stand Up 2 Cancer). She lost her 9 yr. long battle to breast cancer months after another friend and fellow "Survivor" Castaway, Jenn Lyon, lost her battle to breast cancer. That's why I will continue to work tirelessly for this cause...so that we don't lose any more of our mothers, friends, sisters, cousins, aunts, grandmothers, teachers to this disease. THANK YOU!

Dillards North Star helping me raise funds & awareness for Breast Cancer

2011-08-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

Last summer, thanks to the SA Express News Fashion Editor, I was the TRENDS swimwear covergirl.The editorial featured me modeling the latest swimsuit line at DILLARD's. During an autograph signing that DILLARDS organized to help promote TRENDS magazine and the swimwear, I met one of the MOST amazing, giving women I know, The Director of the Makeup and Fragrance Department, Mrs. Delia Suciu. She was so sweet to come up to my table, that they had set up for me to meet & greet fans, asking for my autograph. I noticed she had a distinctive accent that I recognized VERY well...reminded me of the way my GreekAuntie Marina Verreos speaks English. Those that know me very well, know that I'm a linguist of sorts.( I have a Magna Cum Laude degree from UCLA in French & Italian literature, cosequently, I speak 4 languages) Anytime I hear an accent, I just can't help but ask..in the hopes that they speak one of the languages I speak so that I can practice! Delia responded that she was Romanian. I told her I thought she was Greek. Her husband, it turns out, is Greek and is the Priest at the Greek church that I attend, Saint Sophia! I love how God brings like people together!! Thanks to this divine coincidence, Delia and I struck up a friendship. Thanks to this blessing of a friendship, Delia has ALWAYS opened the DILLARD's doors for me
.

Delia's back-she HATES being in photos!:( so I hope she won't be upset that I put her here !

When I asked her if she would mind if I helped sell the "Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Celebrity Calendars along with some of my fellow Pin Up Celebrity models, not only did she say Ne! (That's YES in Greek), but she and her team went WAY beyond the call of duty, setting up mannequins w/very sexy PINK lingerie and PINK boxing gloves!

Add caption

With my dear friends, Lettie & Sonia Longoria-any relation to Eva? why yes! a cousin and a childhood friend, who, coincidentally has her same last name!

About to put on my PINK boxing gloves to continue my fight vs. Breast Cancer!

I told you that Mrs. Delia & North Star went BEYOND their call of duty in helping me with this cause so...a couple of months later, around Christmas time...they set up another "Meet and Greet.," complete with Christmas tree, decorated with "Strike a Pose" Calendars! (see above photo...the tree behind me:) ...that's Delia, btw, I told you she doesn't like to get her picture taken! lol. As if that wasn't enough, Delia also invited the AMAZING McArthur HS choir! (click on above video)

"no, we really don't get ANY water or food or toilet paper or toothbrushes on SURVIVOR..LOL"

With the McArthur HS Choir Boys

"Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer, on "The Raulito Show" !

2011-07-25T11:35:00.000-07:00

Untitled from Rita Verreos on Vimeo.

To help me raise awareness of the "Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Celebrity Calendar, my dear friend and Co-Spokesperson of the "World Car" infommercials was kind enough to have some of my fellow Pin-Up Calendar models and myself on his show

Untitled from Rita Verreos on Vimeo.

STRIKE A POSE for Breast Cancer Celebrity Calendar, 2011Fashion Show @ Aldino's

2011-07-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

Because this cause is so near and dear to my heart, I wanted to give more than just my time to be featured as a Model in the "Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Calendar so, I decided to Produce my 1st event. Thankfully, it was a wonderful event, but boy! Producing is darn hard!!! It gave me a WHOLE new respect and, definitely, understanding, for Producers (much like the newfound respect and admiration I have for video editors now that I've had to edit my own tv material). Thanks to the MANY giving people in this city: Nicole & Ed, owners of A.ldino's, who let me make Aldino's the venue for this event. Thanks to Corey Johnson (Academy, Marketing Director), thanks to Karen Martinez who brought her Fox Camera crew to do a news story about the event. Last, but not least, thanks to ALL the "Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Celebrity Models that participated in this fashion show. (my amateur Videographer was covering the microphone on my Iphone...sorry, nevertheless a video is worth a thousand words, right?)

STRIKE A POSE for Breast Cancer Celebrity Calendar, 2011

2011-07-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

CharityMcCurdy(WOAI News Radio Host), Elf Louise, Karen Grace (Kens 5 Weekend News Anchor) and Me!

Karen Grace, Charity McCurdy, Me, Delaine Mathieu (WOAI news anhor), CJ Cruz(BMP Radio personality), Jennifer Broome (beloved former meteorologist anchor, WOAI),Karen Martinez(evening news anchor, Fox29 & currently battling breast cancer) & AraCeli(actress/tv personality).

Vanessa Johnston(Owner, Sundance Photo Arts-co-producer of the Strike a Pose Calendar)

Most, by now, know of a very painful loss I had last year..the passing of my best childhood girlfriend, Diedra Auci Bradshaw and my fellow SURVIVOR castaway and friend, Jenn Lyon, to breast cancer. Being the "Guardian Angels" that they are, they felt my pain and, being my friends, they wanted to see me as they loved seeing me most, smiling. Within a month of their passing, I received an invite to be featured as one of the models in the very 1st "Strike a Pose" for Breast Cancer Celebrity Calendar. An idea that came from Jim and Vanessa Johnston as they struggled to help a dear friend of theirs and a beloved woman of San Antonio, affectionately known as "Elf Louise." Louise Locker has been battling breast cancer. Like many women in her position, she has no health insurance (I'm one of those women, btw:(. Jim & Vanessa came up with this calendar to help her raise funds for her treatment. Louise, being the giver she is, accepted only if the donations were to also go to Susan G. Komen foundation. Above is my page. I chose the month of July because it's my bday month, Yay! The "look" of the Calendar was the 40's Hollywood Glam. When my mom heard I was doing this, she busted out with the film "Gilda," starring Rita Hayworth...so, my main image, I'm giving "Gilda," thanks to an exquisite gown designed by the MOST talented designer...yes, you guessed it..my brother, Nick Verreos (NIKOLAKI). In my swimsuit "look," I blatantly copied the cover of Vanity Fair that featured Elizabeth Taylor during the Richard Burton years (again, mom Raquel to the rescue...those who know my mom aren't surprised to read this..she found this "vintage" swimsuit at Walmart!!!). My last "look," I begged for because I wanted to do an homage to my Father, a WW2 Vet and to ALL our soldiers so off I went to an Army Military Supply Store (those who are very close to me know that I'm all about saving money!) I found the "Andrew Sisters" outfit for $3:) Yay!

This cause, as you have just read, is very near and dear to my heart. A force stronger than myself, probably my friend Diedra cuz she's a tough cookie like me, was making me go BEYOND just voluteering to be a model in it. So, off I went on a mission to do EVERYTHING in my power to use this calendar to raise funds and awareness for Breast Cancers so that others wouldn't have to go through what Diedra, Jenn myself and everyone who knew these 2 angels had to go through. One of the 1st events that we did to help sell the calendars was set up by my fellow models also went beyond the call of duty, Comedienne Eva Cambell Morales organized a "Meet and Greet" at the LOL Club: Here we are on the Stage at the LOL Club talking about the Calendar:

The "Rita Crown" Ring!

2011-06-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Rita Crown Ring NEW!!

Product Description

Our beautiful Rita crown ring is created with the finest Austrian crystals and plated in rose gold with a darling dangling crown attached.

This crown ring was inspired by my friend, Rita Verreos, a former Miss Venezuela and Fiji Survivor television personality. I like to wear this rose gold dangling crown ring on my pinkie finger, but it will be spectacular and attention-getter on any finger you chose. The gold crown charm has a large crystal that floats inside. Made with the finest Austrian crystal stones and beautifully plated in a rose gold finish. This is a must-have for all you "royals" and great gift for the princess or queen in your life. This limited edition crown ring is available in sizes 6,7,8. Feel royal every day - wear a crown!

Click here if you want to see this and ALL the AMAZING Holly Hardwick jewelry designs!

Modeling one of the Holly Hardwick designed crowns

with Krystin Admire, a Miss California contestant that Ms. Hardwick hired me to Coach last year

I'm beyhond THRILLED and was very pleasantly shocked/surprised, to say the least!, to get this very special "honor" from the most amazing Beauty Pageant Jewelry designer in the market, Ms. Holly Hardwick. Ms. Hardwick also provides a very exclusive weekend "bootcamp" training/Coaching for Beauty Pageants. I was fortunate to have gotten recommended as her Stage Presence/Runway Modeling Coach by Keylee Sanders, a Director of the Miss California USA Pageant. I've been the Stage Presence/Runway Modeling Coach for the Miss California USA pageant for the past 6 years.(we just WON our 1st Miss USA title, btw! (click here to see Miss CAlifornia: our 1st Miss USA!!)

Co-Host of Longhorn Live Radio Show, 2011

2011-05-31T12:13:00.000-07:00

After several years as "Guest" Co-Host, I'm glad my Guardian Angel, Mr. Eugene Williams, insisted and got me to join his tribe (alongside Attorneys, Robert Rios and Rosie Alvarado) at "Longhorn Live," a show, primarily focusing on, yes, you guessed it, The LongHorns & Sports, in general. Thankfully, "Longhorn Gene" as Eugene is affectionately known by his friends and colleagues, and I share a love of God. As such, we have been working together for the past 4 years, as servants of our Lord. Eugene has asked me to help bring awareness to Blood Drives, Emcee events for "Boys Town," etc. etc. Here we are Co-Hosting the Silent Auction:) Why am I doing ALL the talkin'? As we got on stage, Eugene confessed that he forgot to bring his reading glasses! LOL.

As the show evolved, Eugene and I come as a package with God so, too, He became a part of our show and we're so blessed to have joined forces with "Women With A Cause," to form a second hour segment called "Girl Talk." That's where I come in:) Weekly, on Thursdays, from 7-8pm on 93.7fm, we highlight heroes in our community and help to promote community events. I do have my Sports moments, however, as I recently go to interview already football great, Steele High School State Champ and soon to be Longhorn! Malcolm Brown (on the left w/Coach Johnston and Malcolm). Thank you to my boyfriend, Christopher Soto, for making this interview possible, thanks to his friendship with State Championship Coach Michael Jinks-they went to Judson High School). Click here: http://www.box.net/shared/e35t502fh9lmn2jbv0pm to listen to the broadcast of the show with this interview.

On the right you are some Radio Spots I've done for "Longhorn Live" Radio.

(group photo courtesy of Scott Smith, Alamo City Photography:www.alamocityphotography.com)

A picture is worth a thousand words! So blessed to be doing what love:) Thank you, Eugene, Robert and Rosie, for the opportunity. ( photo, courtesy of Diana Benavidez)

Interviewing my brother, Nick Verreos,the MOST Talented Designer and Fashion Critic in the world

At an event just recently, the HOst of Longhorn Live "Longhorn Gene" was kind to relay the
compliments that I received from many about my Malcolm Brown interview. Thank you all so much! I also was very fortunate to interview State Champion Coach Michael Jinks on last week's show. I will upload that broadcast soon. We also received AMAZING news, that we've been nominated to receive an award as outstanding Radio show for our community segments, which we do during the part of the show we call "Girl Talk," I co-host those alongside Rosie Alvarado & Kimberly Font Jones.

Commending SURVIVOR on the Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas Healthy Media Images Panel

2011-05-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

April Ancira, Vice President, Ancira I-10 Auto Complex
Lisa Dollinger, Chief Communications Officer, Clear Channel Communications
Veronica Esparza, President & CEO, Absolutely Delicious Catering
Fernando A. Guerra, M.D., M.P..H., Public Health Consultant
Marie Ferdinand-Harris, WNBA All-star, Phoenix Mercury
Mileka Lincoln, Anchor/Reporter, KABB-TV
Susan Mengden, Ph.D., Director, Eating Disorder Center
at San Antonio
The Honorable Laura Parker, Judge, 386th District Court
Ursula Pari, Anchor, KSAT 12
Elsa Ramon, Co-anchor, WOAI
Rita Verreos, Survivor: Fiji contestant, TV spokesperson
Claudia Zapata, Registered Dietitian and Columnist,
San Antonio Express-News
with Special Guest Nelson W. Wolff, Bexar County Judge

I was so honored to have gotten invited, by my friend, Brad Mayhar and also by a mutual friend of my children's peditarician, Dr. Melanie Mitchell, to be one of the Panelists on this Discussion. A topic that I have lived 1st hand, since participating in the Miss Venezuela pageant in 1988. The Miss Venezuela pageant is INFAMOUS for the arduous training and expectations they place on us contestants. I lived it..if you'll pardon the pun, I "Survived" it. It was so tough being so young, 18 years old., and being forced to diet..even though I didn't need to (I was a professional ballerina for 10 years so I was in shape) but that's just how the Miss Venezuela pageant operates. That ended up screwing up my metabolism and started messing with my body image:( For years I then went on to continue to put those unrealistic pressures on myself , starving myself of essential fats by following non-fat diets, exaggerated exercise routines, all the while truly believing I was doing what was right because that's what the Media showed and highlighted. I now, thank God, that I put my body through that non sense when I was so young. We're so much more resilient when we're young. It took my getting pregnant to bring me back to the original healthy body image that my parents had instilled in me. So, a whole 10years of that mess!! April Ancira shared a similar story on her panel that morning, bravely sharing that she fell prey to anorexia and bulimia..I wasn't far behind. This is why now I'm ADAMANTLY against "thinness" being highlighted as something good. This is why I now Coach the girls for the Miss California USA pageant, among others, to share my story and help them have HEALTHY body images. This is why I was THRILLED to speak on this panel. I commend the Girl Scouts for putting something like this together and felt so honored to be included among such distinguished women that morning. I was asked to specifically talk about what tv can do to help give Healthy Images for Girls. Here's what I had to say:

Getting inducted into the "Girl Scouts" (never 2 late!)Receiving my medal from the CEO of the Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, Mrs. Ana Maria Chavez (currently featured in a wonderful cover article in San Antonio Magazine)

with my fellow Panel-to my right, Claudia Zapata-Elliot

With Brad Mayhar, one of the organizers of this event and Mileka Lincoln, weekend news anchor on Fox

An impromptu video that the Chair asked me to do at the completion of the event.

Grid Iron Heroes goes Hollywood...or is it Hollywood goes San Antonio?

2011-05-05T14:47:00.000-07:00

Friday Night Lights joined forces with the Spinal Chord Injury foundation, "Grid Iron Heroes," I've been so fortunate to receive an invite to attend the Hit TV show, Friday Night Lights Season Premieres. Thanks, in large part to the blessing of having Chris Canales, the reason behind his father, Hero, Eddie Canales' (above) founding this amazing organization to help football athletes who received spinal chord injuries doing what they love to do most, play football. Chris, I'm so blessed to have had as a supporter of my participation on SURVIVOR..a title better suited for him! I'm so grateful to him and his family for always making me a part of this exciting event. This year, doubly exciting for me because my son was my date! (below, arriving in style thanks to A-Awesome Limos for sending me this special ride..if you look behind me you'll get a rare peek at my son)

with Brad Leland

with Kyle Chandler

With Connie Britton

with Jesse Plemmons (my son recognized him as the Bully from the
"Like Mike" movie:(

About to be whisked away by A-Awesome Limosines!.

The second part was a sad exciting. Being the last season of "Friday Night Lights" brought out pretty much the WHOLE cast as well some local familiar faces like my friend, Y100 morning show co-host, Jesse James (below) who told me he was HUGE fan of this show and, was fortunate to become friends with Brad..in fact, some spotted them playing a round of golf the morning after this event at the JW Marriott Resort! To the right, on the Red Carpet with Tanya Sammis, President of Sammis & Ochoa PR, the firm that put together this event.

With my friend, Jesse James, Y100 morning show DJ.

Runway Fashion Expert at the Temecula Reality Rally for Breast Cancer, 2011!

2011-04-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU to my fellow CBS SURVIVOR Castaway, Gillian Larsen, for inviting me to be a part of this and help give my grain of sand to "Michelle's Place," a very special Breast Cancer Resource Center. A few of us arrived the night before the event and gathered for dinner at the Pechanga Casino and Resort. Here I am w/fellow Reality Show gals:

Below,an Autograph signing where I got to sit next to my SURVIVOR FIJI "Ravu" Tribe-member and Fan Favorite, Yau-Man to my left and, to my right, Godwin Cho, of the "Cho Brothers" Amazing Race Teams!

Click on the purple link , forward to minute 2:56 to see a little bit of my participation. I'm sorry they cut out the part of me showin' them how to work the runway walk! Reality Nation At The Reality Rally! Here I am showing the Organizer of this event,Gillian Larsen & another fellow SURVIVOR Castway, the stunning Laura Morrett , how to strike a pose.

To the left, a quick intro to the "Fashion Challenge" that I was in charge of ,as the "Runway/Fashion Expert" guiding Rally tea(below)ms to put together outfits picked out for them, to be approved by me...and then, the challenge...workin' the Runway....and making sure I don't vote them off..LOL. If they got Ms. Rita's seal of approval, then they had immunity in the Rally...LOL

Erwin & Godwin Cho(Amazing Race, 10),Todd Herzog (Winner, Survivor China) & a fellow friend of the organizer, Gillian Larsen and mine, Lance Zeno)

I , Above, "Say What Sports" wanted me to "Get My Smack On" ....and then some! Below, Giving a "Bark" out to "Bark Buckcle UP! an organization that encourages you to buckle up your doggie when you take him in your car for a ride:) I found a way to incorporate my doggie into this video even from miles away!That evening, we were transported to a gorgeous Temecula Winery, Wilson Creek, complete with Hot Air Balloon Ride! Here I am with my "twin" Julie Berry..She has NO idea the pressure I felt being compared to her!! An accomplished SURVIVOR Castaway herself, she was also Jeff Probst's girlfriend of several years. Below a shot of about 1/3 of the group that participated in the "Temecula Reality Rally." If you're a Reality Show fan, you may recognize a few of the people in the photo. For example, sporting his signature bow-tie look, Mr. Bob Crowley, Winner of SURVIVOR Gabon. It took me awhile to place the man lying in front of everyone..besides being an "Amazing Race" participant w/his brother, Mark Munoz is the Jockey who rode the horse in the movie SECRETARIAT:)

Jodi Winceski (The Amazing Race,14) & I, ready to board the Hot Air Balloon!

Arriving at the Red Carpet for the Final Evening's Wrap Party at Temeku Hills Country Club. I'm wearing one of my brother's, NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos & David Paul, Vintage designs:)

TV Spokesperson, World Car Hyndai 2011

2011-04-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

Several of my World Car Hyundai commercials, running on UNIVISION & Telefutura, San Antonio, TX. Tune in on weekends to see the 1/2 hour infomercials w/my Co Host, Raulito Navaira and the English version, on WOAI.

Emcee, Saint Phillip of Jesus Red & White Scholarship Gala, March, 2011

2011-03-22T08:55:00.000-07:00

I received a wonderful request from Mrs.Valerie Vasquez whom I met at the Hispanic Heritage Association Gala last year. (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Hispanic+Heritage) I'm so thankful that she remembered me and contacted me, to do this event for St. Phillip of Jesus Elementary Catholic school. This was a wonderful Black Tie Dinner w/Silent Auction to celebrate exemplary students and present their parents with their children's awards. It was so touching to see the pride in the parents as their children were rewarded for their perfect attendance and or exemplary grades. Thank you, Valerie, for making me a part of this!

tvshowcanada2010

2011-02-22T10:49:00.005-08:00

I posted this video using Pixorial!

EmceeCityofHope.wmv

2011-02-22T10:49:00.003-08:00

I posted this video using Pixorial!

tvshowcanada2010

2011-02-22T10:49:00.001-08:00

I posted this video using Pixorial!

OnRunway and EmceeIntroAgnes and CoFashion show June2010.AVI

2011-02-22T10:42:00.001-08:00

I posted this video using Pixorial!

Guest Speaker, Academy of Careers and Technology

2011-02-18T11:22:00.000-08:00

A couple of months ago, a dear friend, Mr. Brad Mayhar, received a request from Principal Earl Bullock, to have me as a Motivational Speaker for the Academy of Careers & Technology on Bandera Road. I accepted immediately! The power of communicating never ceases to amaze me, which is I why I'm after a permanent position as a TV Host. A 2 part goal, one part, satisfies my very real responsibility of proving for my 2 children and the other, my spiritual desire to help God help others. This one, satisfied the latter, if only one person, in this case, child at a time. At the end of my "talk" 3 kids came up to me to tell me that hearing what I had to say, made an impact in them & inspired them to stay on the right track, focused on giving themselves the one thing that no one will ever be able to take away from them, the gift of enriching their minds. It was a special treat for me to run into one of my dearest Venezuelan friends, a teacher there, Ms. Alexandra Montemayor.

Emcee ASCAP Musical Showcase

2011-02-14T20:27:00.000-08:00

I was so thrilled and honored that the VP of ASCAP, Mrs. Alexandra Lioutikoff-Schaeffer asked me to Emcee this wonderful musical showcase a couple of months ago. Here I am doing Bi-Lingual duty in a Bi-Lingual City:) ASCAP is the #1 Music Publishing company in the United States representing artists of all markets, from Gwen Stefani to Emilio Navaira...whose little brother happens to be my counter part in the World Car Hyundai/Kia tv commercials/infomercials. Also present to perform were Latin Grammy nominees & winners, Stefani Montiel, Miguel Salgado "El Surdo de Oro," & Los Principes de la Musica Nortena.

Above with the "Latin" George Straitt, Emilio Navaira, whom we're so thankful has recovered after his near fatal tour bus accident a few years ago. Emilio is currently on tour throughout the US!

The "Monkey in the Middle" of, left to right: ASCAP Rep, Michael Salgado (ASCAP artist), Alexandra Lioutikoff (VP, ASCAP, Velia Gonzalez (Organizer of this event and San Antonio ASCAP Representative)

Co-Host, Valentine's Day event at DILLARDS

2011-02-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

Giving some special Valentine's Day gift ideas alongside Michael Quintanilla (SA Express News fashion editor) & Ursula Pari (KSAT News Anchor). Hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day. Remember to show your special loved one how much you love and appreciate them in some way, EVERY day, not just on Valentine's Day! A special thanks to the General Manager of the Makeup and Perfume Department, the exquisite Delia Suciu, for inviting me to be a part of this event..and a shout out to my boyfriend's little boy, Elijah...who was my videographer:)

Guest Speaker at Starley Murray's Image Consulting Seminar

2011-01-28T08:12:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, I was a Guest Speaker at the Celebrity Makeup Artist, Starley Murray's Image Consulting seminar at the Valencia Hotel. I'm so grateful to her for continously including me in her journey of helping others. I'm honored to consider her a colleague and a friend. Click here to see why Starley's name is so befitting: http://www.starleymurraylive.com/ to find out when and where she'll be having another seminar. You don't want to miss her tips. She's living testimony of why you should want to hear what she has to say!

2011 WORLD CAR HYUNDAI spots on UNIVISION

2011-01-10T06:39:00.000-08:00

I'm THRILLED to continue on board as World Car Hyundai's TV Spokesperson. So, if you EVER need a new or used car, well, just listen to the spots!:) If you don't know how to speak Spanish, make these your 1 min. daily practice! LOL

World Car Hyundai Radio Spot

2010-12-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to continue to be the World Car Hyundai tv and radio spokesperson:) To the right, one of my recent Radio Spots in Spanish (click on Download to listen to the spot).

Another informative event at STADIA Medical Spa

2010-12-14T06:57:00.000-08:00

Since coming back to civilization after my experience on SURVIVOR FIJI, I've been so fortunate to be pampered by the BEST Spa in San Antonio, owned by Dr. Jaime Garza, the facial injury Dr. of our Champions, the Spurs. I am now hairless thanks to their excellent laser hair removal services, mine done by the wonderful technician, Ms. April Campbell. I also enjoy a manicure and pedicure or 2...whenever my hectic schedule permits, which, unfortunately, isn't very often. Dr. Garza recently held this informative event at Stadia Spa. To the right, a Radio Spot that I did recently to invite everyone to the event. (click on Download to listen!) Go to STADIA to pamper yourself during the Holiday's. Their gift cards make GREAT gifts. I took my brother Nick, to Stadia Med Spa, last Christmas and he said it was the BEST gift he'd gotten in years. Search, Stadia, for images of my brother's visit:)

NIKOLAKI, main designer showcase at Orange County Style week, 2010

2010-11-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

My famous fashion designer brother, Nick, presented his collection at Orange County Fashion week this past month. We're very united as a family & super supportive of each other's careers so our Mom, my daughter and I showed up, along with our first cousin who came from the Bay Area to show Nick his love and support. Here's some footage from Nick's show:
Here's the moment when Nick 1st sees his niece..it was a surprise that she would be there so, forgive my shakin' my Iphone Camera when he came over to hug us!! Below, with my daughter, Casia, my cousin's wife, Regina, my cousin, Chris, Nick, my mother Raquel) Here my cousin and I are brave enough to be in the same photo with 2 former Miss Universes! Justine Pasek(Miss Universe 2002) from my mother's native Panama and Brooke Lee from USA. Brooke, whom I know well because she's become one of my brother's BEST friends is always so sweet and generous w/me and reminded me, "hey Rita! you're a Miss Venezuela!" . Here I am with the stars of the event, my brother, Nick and his partner, David Paul at the Red Carpet of the "Active Ride" store at the Spectrum Shopping Mall where OC Fashion week was being held. My brother Nick and I at the after party.On the OC Style week stage w/Nick & his partner, David and Brooke Lee, Miss USA & Miss Universe 1997 Very mysteriously the photos I took w/fellow Reality TV family, Tenley and Kiptyn from "The Bachelor/Bachelorette & the Bachelor Pad," disappeared. I remember we took several on the different days because Kiptyn was very debonnaire complimenting my outfits and very sweet to tell me I didn't represent my age. Thank you, Kiptyn! So, I'm sad that I don't know where our photos went, so, here's on of them w/my handsome brother & Star of OC Style week, Nick.

Winning the 1st Annual "Dancing With the Lonestars!"

2010-10-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

I don't even remember how this one landed on my lap, so like EVERYTHING that lands on my lap, I'm gonna say it's, once again, God, playing my Agent:) I received an emailfrom one of the Directors of the San Antonio Dream Center, Ms. Lucy Rule, asking me to be a "Celebrity" dancer for this event to help raise funds for their "Adopt a Shelter" program. I'm always on board for things that are to help others. Also, I was a professional ballerina so I was thrilled to use my dancer's background once again, after 20 yrs. of NOT having used it! So off I went to the Arthur Murray's Dance Studio where I was assigned a professional ballroom dance instructor (Yes, just like in "Dancing with the Stars!") and I started my daily 2 hr. practices for a week, learning to Waltz! From my experience on SURVIVOR, you'd gather that I'm a bit competetive so I took this VERY seriously. The daily practices paid off, however, as I waltzed away with the 1st Annual "Dancing with the Lonestars" trophy! My kids were there to watch me, my son feeling a bit embarassed as he usually feels by most everything I do..he's at that age:). My father, however, being a former professional ballroom dance instructor himself, was very proud of his little girl! Btw..I got a almost perfect score (three 10's and one 9!!). I was competing against the current winner of the Connexion's Hottest Latina contest, whom you may recognize below as one of my fellow models in the TRENDS June 2010 Swimwear photo shoot where I was featured on the cover:) Small world! Here I am during one of my practices leading up to the contest, at Arthur Murray's Dance Studio with my Instructor and Dance Partner for the event, Rene. (Please forgive the "battery low" sign in the middle of the video. The person doing me the favor of video taping it wasn't familiar w/the IPhone so they left that sign on there because they were afraid that tapping on it would stop the recording).

Emcee, Fashion Show to Benefit The Restoration Temple

2010-10-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last summer, I was asked to be a Co-Presenter at the "Gospel Music Awards," along with Valencia of 94.1fm in San Antonio. I was blessed that the producer of that event, Mr.Richard Stevenson, remembered me & recommended me to Pastor Toya Taylor, to Emcee this wonderful event, featuring fashions from the exclusive boutique "Ethel's Essentials." I had a great time, especially because my parent's were in the audience, as they often are,to show me their support. My father, in fact,is the videographer of the below video:)Thank you daddy! (yes, I'm still his little girl!)

Emcee, San Antonio Roses & Warriors Cheerleaders Auditions!

2010-10-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

After running into the SA Roses at several local events, we've become familiar with each other. The girls are WONDERFUL and I share a common goal with their Director, Mrs. Cynthia Trinidad, in Coaching & hopefully inspiring young girls to continue to better themeselves so they can achieve their dreams/goals, whatever they may be! I do so as the Stage Presence/Runway Modeling Coach for Miss California USA, Cynthia as the Director of the SA Roses & Warriors Cheerleaders. I also share being a (really)former beauty queen, I, Miss Venezuela finalist, 1988 and Cynthia was a not so former:) Mrs. San Antonio 2009. Seems we also share coming from 2 reknowned schools of training, I, from the world reknowned MIss Venezuela Organization that prepares us for the MIss Universe titles and Cynthia being a former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, comes from the Dallas Cowboys School of training. (www.saroses.com). I was VERY happy when she asked me to Emcee this year's auditions at Bally's 24 hr. Fitness Facility at The Quarry. When I arrived, over 50 girls who had been there since early that Sunday morning practicing, were ready for their chance! There was an impressive line-up of Judges including Spurs Broadcast announcer, Pablo Cruz and a former Spurs cheerleader. To the beat of of Taio Cruz' "Dynamite," these girls gave it their ALL. I was impressed with the variety of girls/women that came out. Kudos to ALL of them for the effort they put out. I have to say that after watching the choreography over and over aS they auditioned, even my son (who came w/me that day and is the videographer of the below video:) and I learned the choreography. In part of my closing, I gave them a speech about how winning isn't the important part. In my experience, simply getting out there has put me, with God's help always, at the right place at the right time. I introduced them to a dear friend that happened to be visiting me that weekend. She happens to be and a GREAT producer from AMS Productions in Austin, Ms. Kelly Kaelin. Who knows, Kelly might end up calling' one of the SA Roses, or all of them, for a future production!

Helping a fellow CBS Survivor Castaway...in Iowa!

2010-10-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

I was so lucky to get invited by Mrs. Susie Smith (Finalist, SURVIVOR GABON)to her charitable event in Iowa. She gathered about 15 of us to help her raise funds for her son's High School, Charles City High School. This was one of the nicest "Survivor Charity" gatherings I've been to because, being a smaller group, we were really able to bond, NICELY...the way we might have done on our respective "Survivors" if we had had the kind of food, hydration and events we had on this visit...and, oh yeah, if we hadn't been going after a million dollars! LOL. I take my hat off to Susie for how PERFECTLY organized our schedules were. We were booked, back to back, happily visiting ALL the sponsors w/o whom our being there wouldn't have been possible. Here are some images from that visit last July..days before my bday! While in Charles City, we stayed at the Red Cedar lodge, in, well, Red Cedar cabins that were so cozy and comfy! We celebrated my bday the night we arrived with a LIVE Lobster dinner that Bob Crowley (winner, Survivor Gabon) brought. It was DELICIOUS! Bright and early the next morning we set off on our "Bus" to the Charles City Chamber of Commerce: the caricature you see is "Charlie" ...think of him as a sort of Charles City Mascot:) 2nd photo below left.. Second stop..KCHA Radio Station to invite everyone to promote the main event at the Auditorium where fans were coming and greet us:) Here we are at the station...since I was off "Tv Hosting" duty..lol, I decided to let someone else have the mike so here's Eric taking a callers question! Below..here we are at Larry Pump's Accounting firm...where Kathy Sleckman (Fans vs. Favorites) had us laughing way too hard with so many jokes...or were they just Kathy's questions about the bicycle race across Iowa, Ragbrai? We did get to admire his beautiful cuckoo clock! Our last stop of the day was at the town fair were we ate some delicious food provided by Hy-Vee markets. I saw a stage and a microphone so it was only a matter of minutes before I grabbed the microphone..LOL. Here I am making an announcement about the main event taking place the following night. we made it to the main event where we were greeted by a salon FULL of fans. I have to say we were ALL very impressed with the LARGE turnout. It was so nice to see the support that people in a small town give each other, especially great to see how LOVED our very own Susie is..not surprising! Here we are during a "Question & Answer" session...we really good the 3rd degree from fans re/our experience on SURVIVOR. We were asked, for example, "was there somethig that happened to you while on SURVIVOR that got edited out that you wish had gotten show?" Where do I begin!! One thing, unfortunately, I'll have to take to the grave, but it cost me a opportunity at a upcoming "Survivor All-Stars." I LOVE Yau-Man for his answer :"I got to cuddle w/Rita! but they never showed it:(" I payed Yau to say that...LOL We ALL had such a BLAST on this trip. I got JF Drake Middle School Principal Debra Beebe(finalist, SURVIVOR TOCANTINS) and the HILARIOUS KB Sleckman ( SURVIVOR FANS VS. FAVORITES)as my log cabin roomies We would laugh the night away in our bunk beds..listening to how in love Debra is & remembering the image of Yau-the Situation-Man:)in his wife beaters. After a tiring, but very fulfilling couple of days, we ended our trip with a wonderful bonfire at Cedar Lodge where we enjoyed listeing to Susie's handsome son, Trent, and his friend play the guitar & drums...just like on MTV's "Unplugged." Here I am relaxing with "my girl" Peggy Crowley, Bob Crowley's beautiful wife:)Our signature pose as we have one last look at the beautiful Red Cedar Lodge grounds...an UNFORGETTABLE weekend...& I left out the BEST part..Bob scaring us to DEATH one night he snuck up on us as we were gathered in the kitchen. Next thing we know we see a shadow coming up from behind the door to the kitchen...you had to be there!(I don't remember the last time I screamed so loud)Watch out for those grandfatherly types...ha, ha!

Emcee, Abused Children's Shelter event,2010

2010-10-06T08:13:00.000-07:00

Cynthia Rangel has been so kind to ask me to Emcee so many of the IADT Fashion shows. This one was no exception. It was "Back to School" fashion shows featuring designs from former IADT students, Geisha Inc. (Angelica Sandoval) & Mikaeli Designs (Mandy Gallegos). The GAP also provided outfits. Ms.Karla Castillon was kind to catch this opening presentation of mine as Emcee of the event.

Interviewing Coach Doc Rivers!

2010-10-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

During the Jr. Basketball tournaments at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas, I was doing some segments for a TV show that I host that airs on Fox and Kvue, ABC, in Austin, called "After the Party." I was fortunate to get an impromptu interview with Coach Doc Rivers. Much as I tried, I got nothing when I asked him if he was going to continuing to Coach for the Boston Celtics or retire in order to have more time to follow his son's basketball career. I will post a link to the full interview when it airs on "After the Party."

The 1st pitch at the Missions Baseball Game!

2010-10-04T13:42:00.000-07:00

I was soo excited when I was asked to throw the 1st pitch at a San Antonio Missions Baseball Game...UNTIL...I started practicing with my son and his friends and realized I was TERRIBLE!! so bad that my son, last minute bailed and didn't come to see me in action. It was his loss cuz I ended up throwin' it right down the middle..all the way to the batter! Here I am in full winding pitch action! At the end of the game, the "Missions" mascot, the "Ballapeno" comes running towards me, full speed screaming "Rita! I love you Rita!" I thought I was either really hungry cuz I thought a HUGE Hot Dog with Jalapenos was telling me he loved me!, but as he got closer I saw he was carrying an 8 X 10 photo of me on SURVIVOR! Turns out the person inside the "Ballapeno" costume is a HUGE Survivor fan! I'm so lucky to have the most amazing fans. This one, in particular because, about a year later, he asked me to do an autograph signing to help raise funds for the Boys and Girls Club (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Autograph+Signing+for+the+Boys+and+Girls+Club%2C+09) and I did another one not too long ago, thanks to him also, at Northwoods Cinema to helps raise funds for "Stars of Hope" Charities. Wesley has since moved to Los Angeles so it was my pleasure to thank him for asking me to help him with so many charities by inviting him to meet most of my SURVIVOR family when we were all gathered in LA for the 10th Anniversary CBS SURVIVOR Red Carpet Reunion. The look on Wesley's face when meeting so many "Survivors" all at once was priceless! I wanna give a special shout out to Earl (winner of my season, whom I wrongfully thought hated me and then SURPRISED me with one of the most beatiful words I've ever heard spoken of me as he picked up my torch on the very lst episode of our Season) and to Cristina Coria, for making yourselves available to sign autographs in Los Angeles to help Wesley continue his charitable work.

Emcee, Fashion show at Aldino's

2010-10-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

To the right with the owners of Aldino's:
When the always elegant Nicole Baumier-Moghini asked me to Emcee a Fashion show sponsored by Ferrari at her and equally classy husband, Ed's Aldino's Restaurant..it was my son who said "Yes!" He's a HUGE F1 Fan so all he heard was FERRARI! I said yes because the fashion show was to raise funds for the SA Food Bank. I'm so thankfuly to God for giving me this way to give back and help out doing something I absolutely love...talking into a microphone and even better if it involves a camera..LOL. Here's a small intro right before the event which featured a couple of collections from fantastic local designers, Geisha Inc, by Angelica Sandoval and Mikaeli Alton by Mandy Gallegos.

Emcee of 1st Annual Longhorn Live/Academy Women's Football Clinic, 2010

2010-09-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

I was doing double duty as Producer and Emcee of this Fashion show. As if following Rachel Zanardi, Co-Host of Longhorn Live wasn't gonna be hard enough! Thanks to ALL the models who were a part of the fashion show, Ms. Barbara Clack & her adorable grand daughter, Teresa, Rachel Zanardi, Esq. Rosie Alvarado, my friend, Monica Stepanenko, my niece, Miranda Gomez, Tashanda & Tamiko. Also, special thanks to the General Manager of Academy, Mr. Cory Johnson, and last but not least, whom I refer to as one of my Guardian Angels, the Host of "Longhorn Live" Sportstalk on KLUP, 930am, "Longhorn Gene," for asking me to be a part of this event! and here's a bit of the show!

Being a waiter at the Kids Exchange Dinner

2010-09-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

This was my 3rd year being a "Celebrity" Waiter at the Kids Exchange Celebrity Waiter Dinner. I'm always so happy and honored to do it. I get to help an important cause because, unfortunately, so many kids get caught in the middle of their parent's divorces. Kids Exchange provides a safe haven/meeting point where children can be dropped off by one parent and then picked up by the other parent thereby avoiding any negative encounter between the parents. We have a blast serving all the attendees whose tips to us we then donate to the "Kids Exchange" foundation. It's always a special treat for me to get to see such beautiful women, inside and out, like Claudia Zapata and Erin Berry (both are wives to a couple beloved SPURS Champions, Sean Elliott and Brent Berry). In fact, the event is organized by Erin and her husband. Recently, thanks to Erin, we became fellow models in the 1st Annual Strike a Pose for Breast Cancer Calendar (www.strikeaposesa.com). Here I am with SPURS Champion, Sean Elliott.

Judging the LOL Comedy Club Contest

2010-09-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends is local comedian, Cleto Rodriguez. He hosts a Comedy show at the LOL Comedy Club every Thursday. I LOVE comedy. Laughing is ESSENTIAL in my life so I was soo excited when I got asked to be one of the Judges for a Comedy Competion..as you can see from the photos, I was LMBO at the LOL Club..I made that 1st one up..Laughing My Butt Off...not bad, right? If my son read this he'd say, "actually, mom, that's really bad...and not bad as in good mom!" Pardon the redundance, but...LOL.

at UNIVISION recording Voice Overs

2010-09-27T10:59:00.001-07:00

Here I am at the UNIVISION studios in San Antonio recording a series of Voice Overs for "Vision Source" (you can see/hear the final product putting "Vision Source" in the search bar here) and the US Census tv commercials.

Emcee for SouthTexas Blood & Tissue Center..

2010-09-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

My dear friend and Host of Longhorn Live, better known as "Longhorn Gene," asked me to Emcee an event commemorating the Aggie/Longhorn Bonfire Tragedy that happened 10 yrs. ago. A friendly Aggie/Longhorn Blood drive competition took place at this event that Longhorn Gene asked me to Emcee. It was fun to see current DA, Susan Reed's competitive spirit and I thank her for the very sweet words she said when introducing me. I wish I had the video, but something happened with my camcorder that froze the dvd:((. Here I am with the Honorable (& competitive!) Susan Reed.

Co Hosting the SAAHJ Silent Auction, 2010

2010-09-21T07:16:00.001-07:00

A month after doing the TRENDS swimsuit cover,(see below) I get a call from one of my favorite people, the SA Express News Fashion editor, Mr. Michael Quintanilla asking me if I'd Co-Host the Silent Auction for the San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists honoring Rosie Castro (our current Mayor's mother) and Marta Tijerina, a Pioneer for Women in the Broadcasting industry, as well as the recipients of the SAAHJ Scholarships. I had a BLAST doing this unique as I called it "Not so Silent Auction" because Michael and I were talking people through it...leave to us Latins because Lord knows we're talkers...hence why I'm a TV Host/Spokesperson! lol.

Meeting Little Joe, Jhordana (Project Runway), Jesse Borrego & Longhorn Gene

2010-09-12T11:17:00.000-07:00

At a presentation regarding Arizona's Proposition 1070, I met a legend of the music industry, Mr. Little Joe. It was an honor! From there, I went to LA to Coach my Miss California candidates where I met one of my brother's fellow Project Runway Alums's and finalist, Jhordana. Here I am (below)at the 1st Annual Hispanic Heritage Organization Gala with Jesse Borrego (best known for his role in the original FAME and starring roles on ER) and with the Host of "Longhorn Live"Radio show, Longhorn Gene at the 1st Annual Red McCombs Golf Tournament with proceeds for the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

RealityTV Club's 1st Annual Reunion on Catalina Island!

2010-08-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

Above, left to right: The BIGGEST Liar EVER on Survivor, Jonny Fairplay, Richard Hatch (1st winner of SURVIVOR Borneo) in the baseball cap, Aras Baskauskas (winner, SURVIVOR EXILE ISLAND)Jesse Csincsak (winner,Season 4:The Bachelorette) Evel Dick (yes, you read right..Winner Big Brother 8) Sandra Diaz-Twine (2 time winner SURVIVOR) Todd Herzog (Winner, SURVIVOR China).
Although it looks like we enjoy being miserable on SURVIVOR, once getting "voted off" (lol) we haven't stopped having fun. This past April, Catalina Island hosted the 1st Annual Reunion for participants of the shows SURVIVOR, BACHELOR, BACHELORETTE, AVERAGE JOE, BIG BROTHER and PIRATE MASTER. For us on SURVIVOR, it was a part 2 of the 10 year Reunion we had in January (that one was a bit more formal, a big Red Carpet event at CBS studios). This one, incredibly well put together by Christa Hastie Waydo (SURVIVOR Pearl Islands) more in the familiar island setting. At 1st, I was hesitant to "sign up" because they said we'd be in tents w/no electricity...not gonna willingly "sign up" for that (those who know my story know that I didn't sign up for SURVIVOR, but was recruited/spotted by an agent of the show). Anyhow, when I heard we could have all the food and hydration we wanted..I was in..lol! Was ensued was an unforgettable weekend, especially because I didn't know we'd be joined my participants from the above mentioned shows. New "alliances" were made and, happily, no one was "voted off!..."
The night before taking the ferry to Catalina Island, we stayed at "The Queen Mary" Hotel in San Diego. It's, literally, a cruise ship, alla "The Titanic." In fact, it's rumoured that ghosts inhabit the bungalow hallways. I shared a bungalow with the funny and sassy fellow Latina/ONLY 2 time WINNER of SURVIVOR, Sandra Diaz Twine. Here we are checking our phone's for our kids messages! the night before on "The Queen Mary." (Below)The next morning, we had to make a run to the nearest Walmart, cuz that's how Ms. Sandra remain's a millionaire..atta girl! to get a sweatshirt because the weather turned out to be about 20 degrees below what we thought it was going to be! Brrrr!! We ran into Richard Hatch (the infamous 1st winner of SURVIVOR and his partner, fellow South-American Emi)
The weekend was FULL of super fun activities. Below right:The Hiking Group photo. The last day, we had a Scavenger Hunt. Here I am with my team, "strategizing"..while the team to our right tries to cheat by listening in..Wow, what a surprise! It's Jonny Fairplay listening in!! This Scavenger Hunt was one of the FUNNEST times I've ever had. It was VERY hard and sooo tiring, but our "tribe" had a blast. Here I am with Arthur Wells (Bachelorette, Season 4)Suzie Williams(Bachelor, Season 5),Kendra Guffey(The Pirate Master), Dennis Luciani(The Beauty & The Geek)...not sure why Dennis was on that show cuz he's truly one of the coolest dudes ever!(below left)Contestants and now, my new friends from the Bachelor/Bachelorette Reality Show: left to right, Jesse Csinsak (winner of Bachelorette, Season4), but that didn't work out so he fell in love with another "Bachelor" contestant who's the one standing to his right, Anne Csinsak (yes, you read right..she's Mrs. Csinsank, they recenlty wed in Vegas! David Vargas, Jeannette Cherie Pawula, Arthur Wells Webb (the Bachelorette, Season 4),Elizabeth aka, Kitty Katt (The Bachelor Pad),Brian Westendorf (The Bachelorette, Season 4),Suzie Wells (the Bachelor, Season 5). The last night, at the campfire with Brian Westerndorf (The Bachelorette, Season 4)..I spared you the performance goin' on in front of us as Spencer (SURVIVOR Micronesia) was re-enacting one of the Lady Gaga videos..lol.
They are ALL so fun, down to earth and beautiful people inside out! So happy and blessed to have made these new friends..can't wait for next year!

On the Cover of TRENDS Fashion Magazine

2010-08-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

The summer after appearing on SURVIVOR FIJI, I was very fortunate to have gotten a call from, Michael Quintanilla, the Fashion Editor for the SA Express News (former Fashion Editor of the LA times), with a proposal to feature me in a Cover Fashion Editorial for a magazine called SPICE. (http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=News+Paper+Headline). I'm so blessed that, 3 years after my experience on SURVIVOR, I received, once again, a phone call from Michael wanting to feature me on the cover, once again with en editorial Swimwear photoshoot inside the magazine. I was so thrilled and grateful and VERY surprised that he chose to feature me on the cover. As if that weren't enough, a week after the magazine came out,he received a request from Dillard's to have me do an autograph signing due to the success in swimwear sales that,apparently, my images in TRENDS, had generated. Thus, I arrived at Dillard's on a weekend Saturday, this past June, to find the assistants filling a bunch of gift bags. I was worried they were filling too many!! God is so good to me, that my fear of no one coming out to see little ole me, were without foundation. The autograph signing brought out a wonderful outpouring of people who have been admiring my work from afar. I'm so grateful to everyone for the time they took to come out and meet me. I pray God continues to give me opportunities to keep doing things with my career that serve the double purpose of providing for my children and giving back to this city that I love so much.
Above, a short video at the autograph signing. Here I am w/Michael Quintanilla and, the photographer, Kevin Geil Michael captures the last rays of sunlight! ...and below, the cover shot!
The Fashion Expert does his thing...placing the scarf just right:) To the right, striking one last pose..in the JW Marriott Resort Spa Pool..
Rita on the rocks..literally..lol!

My name comes up in Hollywood, thank you Jeanne!

2010-08-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe this. My name mentioned in the same page as Eva Longoria's AND Drew Carey remembered me a YEAR after my appearance on the The Price Is Right??? I'm soo embarrassed, but my dad, like any dad would do for his little girl, reassured me telling me that what was important was to be remembered. You be the judge..LOL.

From Jeanne Jakle's SA Express News Column on Wednesday, Augt. 25th, 2010

While in Holly-wood recently, a couple of other TV writers and I grabbed Eva Longoria Parker after a Desperate Housewives press session to ask about the trade rumors swirling around husband Tony.
If the Spur gets traded, one critic asked, where would Eva want to live? New York?

"I can't imagine our life outside of San Antonio right now," she purred.

She also shared ways the two are eco-friendly. "I have a hybrid," she said, adding that she and Tony "don't have bottled water in the house; we have filtered water."

Yes, press conferences are OK, but the smaller scrums with the stars usually net juicier quotes, particularly when you're looking for something related to home. I found some such goodies while sifting through my recordings from Hollywood parties the other night.

Two happened at a CBS bash. Spying Drew Carey from The Price Is Right, I asked him about what looked like a painful encounter with San Antonio's Rita Verreos (of Survivor fame). It happened when she was a contestant on The Price is Right last summer. After winning a round, the pretty Verreos became so excited she jumped on Carey, accidentally bumping a sensitive area.

"She kneed me right in the nuts!" he replied, laughing. "It wasn't that great - I had to take a moment."

Oops. But don't worry, Rita, Carey didn't seem all that upset by the incident. "It wasn't the worst I've ever gotten," he said, smiling. "I've been hit by baseballs harder in high school."

See full article here: www.mysanantonio.com/entertainment/columnists/jeanne_jakle/Jeanne_Jakle_Hometown_nuggets_at_Hollywood_press_junket_101427394.html

Team Survivor Stands Up | Stand Up To Cancer

2010-08-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

FINALLY, "Survivors" Unite forces and go public with something we've been doing behind the scenes since the inception of the TV show, SURVIVOR. Since my participation on SURVIVOR, I, alongside everyone who has participated on SURVIVOR have flown to cities throughout the United States and in our communities, to give, in our own, usually fun and crazy way, to so many charities. I've been particularly fortunate to have been asked to use a bit of what I do for a living as TV Host/Spokesperson/Model, to Emcee many events. Please, take a look at this new way that I'm trying to help, once again, alongside my unique and so very special SURVIVOR family!
Team Survivor Stands Up | Stand Up To Cancer

Raising Funds for "Stars of Hope" foundation, July 2010

2010-07-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Wesley Ratcliffe for recommending me to Rebecca Villareal, GM at Northwoods Cinema and to Rebecca for asking me to an autograph signing to help her raise funds for the "Stars of Hope" foundation. Thank you so much to those who donated! Every time you go to a Regal Cinema, don't forget to buy your "Star!" so others can keep having hope:)

Model/Emcee Double Duty during Aaron Ross' football camp weekend, June 2010

2010-07-02T12:47:00.001-07:00

Very last minute, my agency here in San Antonio, Rome Talent, booked me to model and Emcee in a fashion show being held at the ATT Center courtyard as part of a series of events for the Aaron Ross Football Camp being held here in San Antonio in June, 2010. A couple of nights before, however, there was a fun basketball game at the Alamo Convocation Stadium featuring current & former NFL players. Since my son's a huge sports fan, I took them to the game. Thanks to Mr. Larry Williams (BLT entertainment) for the tickets to come watch the game with my kids and a couple of their friends. Here I am w/some of the basketball players in the background and with former NFL 49er,Green Bay Packer and New Orlean's Saint(among other teams)TJ Slaughter. Thanks to my son who breathes, eats, drinks and plays ALL sports, he recognized Sanya Richards, "The Fastest Woman in the World" of the 400m run. World Champion and 2X Olympic Gold Medalist. (below left)A couple of nights later at the ATT Center courtyard, I was pullin' double duty as Model/Emcee for the 4340 Agnes & Co. Fashion show:) Special thanks to Latoya Chenelle, the talented designer of 4340 Agnes & Co. for asking me to Emcee her show and for the special dress she designed especially for me to model that night! Also, a special shout out to my friend, Keely Klein for videotaping this for me! You can check out more footage of the fashion show at the 4340 Agnes & Company page on Facebook(http://www.facebook.com/pages/San-Antonio-TX/4340-Agnes-Company/363681712568

Emceeing the Barbie Fashion show at Cabo Tropical Grille Lounge, 2010

2010-07-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Ms. Coco Warren, a talented Fashion Show Producer student of IADT, San Antonio, asked me to Emcee this event. Ms. Coco's productions are alwasy so professionally done. Sign me up ANYTIME she's producing anything. I've had the pleasusre of Emeceeing another event for her. A fashion show during the Water Symposium (Search:Emcee) on here and you can see that event:). This one was simply lighthearted and fun! Several IADT students and graduates presented their "Barbie" inspired designs at Cabo Tropical Grille. I couldn't help but think of my brother's Project Runway winning "Barbie Doll" design challenge:) (www.nickverrreos.blogspot.com/barbie). Here I am caught on the Red carpet on the way in to Emcee the show, by the beautiful Valerie Garza of 201tv:

"Success Starts Here," Meeting Edward James Olmos

2010-07-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

Last month, I got a VERY last minute phone call from my favorite producer at UNIVISION, San Antonio, Roland Davila, asking me to do him a HUGE favor. It was 8am and he needed me in studio, camera ready, ASAP, because they had one of their biggest clients in the lobby ready to film promotional vignettes/segments for an upcoming event with Edward James Olmos. They suddently realized they didn't have a Host to conduct the vignettes. I'm all about helpign out my friends and Roland Davila, is my friend so off I went. I had a BLAST doing these segments which ran on UNIVISION for a couple of weeks leading to the event (I will post one as soon as I get a moment to upload it!). Often, I get people who sit there looking at me with that "you look familiar, but I can't figure out from where" look. When they build up the courage they always say...wait for it.... "you look familiar to me, bit I can't figure out from where?" LOL I don't know why, but I always feel awkward when people say that to me. I answer "well, you may have seen me from some work I do on tv. "What do you do?" When I get to SURVIVOR and World Car..before I can finish, I hear "that's where I know you!" One of the ladies that I was interviewing on the segment, Maria Cordoneda, turned out, was a really big Survivor fan! Thanks to that, she extended an invitation to me to attend the event with Edward James Olmos. See why I always say that Survivor, for me, is the gift that keeps on giving? When I arrived, I couldn't believe it, the Farmer's Insurance peple where so amazing to me, they treated me as if I were Mr. Olmos. I'm very grateful they were happy with my work. Here I am with Mr. Olmos who I also got to interview that night for a new tv show that I'm co-hosting, The After Party. The segment will be airing in a couple of weekends on Saturday at noon on Fox 11. Here's a part of Edward's presentation. Thank you God for making it easy for me to get ready soo quickly that morning so that I could run down to UNIVISION to do those segments! Look at the VIP seat I got! Thank you so much to the Farmer's Insurance people, in particular Maria Cordoneda for making me feel like a VIP. I even won an American Express gift card in the raffle! When the truth is they had no choice but to accept me as the Host of their vignettes because it was so last minute!!

Raulito Navaira's new tv show:)

2010-06-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

.
My fellow World Car Spokesperson, the adorable Raulito Navaira asked me to be his 1st guest for the pilot of his new tv show on Fox! I'm so excited for him. Raulito has a HUGE following because he's one of the Top Tejano music performers, alongside his equally famous brother, Emilio, whom most may remember suffered a tragic near fatal accident while driving his tour bus several years ago. Raulito and I have become the voices for World Car Kia and Hyundai commercials, respectively, on UNIVISION and also do their tv commercials. We had a BLAST a few months ago doing an infomercial together for World Car. If someone can get a hold of it somewhere, please, let me know cuz I've still yet to see it!LOL. I'm pictured, to the right, at Club Tabu in downtown San Antonio with Bobby Lopez the Host of "The Tejano Music Awards" (www.tejanoclassicradioshow.com & www.tejanomusicawards.com) and the announcer of Raul's new tv show. Here I am laughing at one of Raulito's jokes before filming segment with me.

My new World Car commercial on UNIVISION! June,2010

2010-06-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

Those of you who don't speak Spanish can practice your Spanish..LOL

Emcee, CFF Mixer at the Plaza Club, 2010

2010-06-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to get asked to Emcee, for the 2nd year in a row, the Cystic Fibrosis Mixer. Thank you to the Director of the Lone Star Chapter of CFF, Hugh Farr, who's been doing an INCREDIBLE job of raising funds for this organization in his first year. Thank you so much for continuing to include me in the efforts to help, in my small way, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Andre Gurode's Celebrity Weekend in Dallas, April.2010

2010-06-19T08:27:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago, I was asked to participate in a "Celebrity" basketball game as part of a football camp that Priest Holmes (former Kansas City Chiefs), put together. Here I am with the beautiful and super sweet, Karina Smirnoff (Dancing with the Stars)
Slade Smiley (Desperate Housewives of OC) and Adrian Armante (Disney's Suite Life of Zach and Cody).
Through Mr. Rob and Liza Ortega I was introduced to Timothy Klund, Marketing Advisor to many NFL players. Fortunately, TK (as he's affectionately known) remembered me and it's through him that I was invited to go to Dallas to be part of a Dallas Cowboy's "Celebrity" weekend to raise funds for an abused children's foundations: The Promise House. The first evening, we attended a Casino Night.
Left: In the very fancy and HUGE limo they had for us, feeling exquisite, like a always feel when I wear a vintage NIKOLAKI (Nick Verreos..yes, my brother!) gown. Here's my friend, Tim(TK)and Chicago Bear Great, Lemuel Stinson
" Here I am ready to kick some kickball butt..LOL, with Actor, Prodcuer, Director and Writer, Hawthorne James. Some of you may recognize him as the Bus driver w/Sandra Bullock in Speed or may know him as "Big Red" from the "5 Heartbeats"
Dallas Cowboy Pro Bowl TE, Jason Witten.
Mr. Pre-game charmer, Martellus, all about wantin' to know if I was single. During the game,I found he was all about wantin' to "vote me off" hitting me with the kickball. Dallas Cowboy TE, Martellus Bennett, you would be GREAT on SURVIVOR..LOL.
Above, with the Founder of "The Promise House," and organizer of this event, Andre Gurode and?
When I arrived at the kickball game, I found out I was the ONLY female playing. Here I am, LUCKY me..surrounded by players from the current Dallas Cowboys team including Sam Hurd, who, btw, was a fellow "Celebrity Waiter" with me 3 years ago for the foundation that Brent and Erin Barry's help out the Kids Exchange. Sam is a class act.
One of my best childhood friends, Sara Elwood, lives in Dallas. I'm so happy she came out to be with me. Here we are with former NBA star, Mr.Ira Terrell (Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers and a very classy gentleman). The last morning, Andre held a brunch where I got to meet other football greats like the only player in NFL history to hold 5 Superbowl rings!, Mr. Charles Haley (SF 49ers..YAY!! I grew up in the Bay Area and still remember THE catch..Go Montana and Dwight Clark..that's what I'm talkin' about! Mr. Haley also played with the Dallas Cowboys)Here I am with another Dallas Cowboy great, Everson Walls.Last, but not least, I wan't to give a special thanks to 2 very classy and beautiful ladies, Ms. Sophia Parker (pictured here with me) and Ms. Chris Amos, who did an OUTSTANDING/IMPRESSIVE job with the Public Relations/Marketing of this event helping to make the Casino Night and Kickball Game turnout a big success!

Emcee, PROVACOUTURE Fashion Show for CFF

2010-06-17T08:58:00.001-07:00

Mr. Hugh Farr, Director of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Lone Star Chapter recommended me to the Producers of a fashion show who's funds were going to go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. It was an elegant show featuring designs from current students and alum of IADT San Antonio. Produced by Designer, Ms. Angelica Sandoval (Geisha Inc.) and Mandi Gallegos ( of Mikailee Alton) . A special treat for me was to have my parents and kids in the audience! I'm wearing a vintage (20 yrs. old!) NIKOLAKI design.

Meeting Keith Brooking, Dallas Cowboys Linebacker

2010-06-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

My son is a huge football fan so, a couple of months ago, Ms. Liza Ortega told me they were at an event at the San Antonio event center. I took my son and we got a chance to meet some of the players. Here's my son with Keith Brooking.

Meeting Sam Donaldson:) Jan. 2010

2010-06-16T09:13:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons I LOVE to travel is that I'm a people person and travelling, you often meet very interesting people. Returning from one of my HSN shows in Tampa, I ran into the News Anchor, Mr. Sam Donaldson. It was such an honor to meet him, quite the elegant, eloquent gentleman.

Giving Thanks to wounded soldiers! Nov. 2009

2010-06-16T09:04:00.001-07:00

Nothing's coincidental! On my way to Memphis, back in November, as I'm walking through the security check point at SA airport, I hear cheering, clapping, befittingly so, for a HUGE group of wounded soldiers. I was fortunate to have been at the gate next to theirs. Immediately, I went over to thank them for their service to our nation. American Airlines and the Spurs, were also thanking them, flying them VIP on a Special American Airlines plane, pictured below, to Dallas giving them courtside seats to a game against the Dallas Mavericks. I'm so happy to have gotten this chance to meet such TRUE Heroes and Survivors!:)

Showing support for "Pressing On" Foundation..

2010-06-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

One of my "guardian angels," Eugene Williams (Host of the Sports Talk Radio show, Longhorn Live) asked me attend this event. I'm friend's with Eddie and Chris Canales who are the Founders of the "Grid Iron Heroes" Foundation which helps, specifically, football players who have gotten spinal chord injuries as a result of their playing football. While attending Red McComb's 1st Annual Golf Tournament (also invited by Mr. Williams..see why I refer to him as my Guardian Angel?) to show my support of Mr. Mc Combs and his effort to help raise funds for Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer foundation (www.mccombstoyota.com)I met Ms. Keely Klein (Director of Management and Marketing) and Shelly Kirk (Executive Director) of "Pressing On" a foundation that also helps those with Spinal Chord injuries (www.pressingontexas.com). They were at the Red Mc Combs Golf Tournament to promote this event on Longhorn Live, which was broadcasting live that afternoon at Olympic Hills Golf Course). It was a nice event and I was surprised to get a special introduction on stage from the Emcee of the event that night at "Floore's Country Store," Mr. Jesse James of 100.3 fm. When I heard my name called out, I thought I was getting voted off again...I'm no traumatized or anything..LOL. Here's Country Music singer, Lee Brice, the headliner that night at "Floore's Contry Store." Here I am with Jesse James, Madeline Lozano and Eugene.

Emcee, Rubber Duckies for Breast Cancer :)

2010-06-15T07:45:00.000-07:00

Ms. Delisi Duarte, who has a heart of gold, asked me to help her, help a dear friend, Thomas Trudzinski, who's aunt was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Delisi put together this wonderful event to help raise funds for her treatment. I, recently lost my best childhood girlfriend, Diedra and another friend and fellow SURVIVOR Castaway, Jenn Lyon, to breast cancer so I will do ANYTHING to help this cause. Here I am with some of Thomas' friends family members.

SURVIVOR, Villains vs. Heroes Season Finale, NY April 2010

2010-06-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Fellow Latina, Sandra Diaz Twine wins SURVIVOR Villains vs. Heroes. Que viva Puerto Rico! I was so happy and fortunate to be able to attend this season's SURVIVOR Villains vs. Heroes finale. As it always is when I get together with my Survivor family, it's a fun time. Every night, we would meet up at some "in" bar or other in NY. Here we are the first night we arrived at "The Cellar" across the street from the very famous NY Fashion week, Bryant Park.

Here I am with "Coach"(Benjamin Wade)who was branded as a Villain, but showed his Heroic side this second time around.

To my left, undisputably, the BIGGEST Villain in SURVIVOR History, Russell Hantz, to my right, his brother, Willie.

Here I am with someone who, for a while, was making a career out of appearing on Mark Burnett Reality shows, “Boston Rob”.. of Rob and Amber who fell in love on SURVIVOR All Stars, then, got married, then, did the AMAZING RACE, then, did AMAZING RACE All Stars!

At "Pop Burger" (which is where the Finale for my Season of Survivor (Fiji) that I was on was held. Here I am w/the Survivor Samoa boys: Russell Hantz and John Fincher & Stephen Fishback.

Thanks to one of our fans, affectionately know to us as "Zig," we received an invite that, to me was a once in lifetime chance to go and watch the NY Yankees play in Yankee stadium. At the entrance of the new Yankee stadium while I wait for my Survivor peeps to arrive:). Here they are! From left to right, infamous for his lie about his "dead" grandmother, Jonny Fairplay, Stacy (Fiji), Russell (Villains vs. Heroes), Nicole (Pearl Islands), myself & Boo (Fiji).One of the highlights of the game...dancing the YMCA dance for Yankee Stadium to see..LOL.

This visit to Manhattan, wouldn't have been possible without the generosity of someone I have the privilege of calling friend, Sharif, who allowed me to stay in his beautiful Manhattan apartment. Sharif is also one of my bosses as he is the ultra talented designer of the exquisite handbags (Sharif designs, Mariposa )that I had the privilege of being a Spokesperson for on HSN. Here I am with him at the loft which is the showroom of SHARIF DESIGNS. Coincidentally, a fellow Survivor colleague, Brian Corridan, lives in an apartment building across the street!

Till the next SURVIVOR event..I bid you farewell in my Vintage Moschino leather shorts (I got them 20 yrs. ago at Macy's Union Square and more them when I sang back up vocals on Peter Gabriel's 1st South American tour!)

Freedom Debt.com, TV segments 2010

2010-06-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

Another Reality Show for me?

2010-06-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy, thankfully, since returning from the "cattle call" auditions for the TV Land show: She's Got The Look, that I hadn't had time to blog about this till now. So, last November, I got an email from the entertainment news reporter for the San Antonio Express News, Jeanne Jakle, suggested that I go to this audition for she felt it had my name written ALL over it. I was so thankful to her for thinking of me and tend to take things like these, things I don't look for myself, as signs, so I looked in to it. Mind you, the ONLY part of this that I did't want because I already got that on SURVIVOR was the "Reality Show" experience. Those who know my story, know that SURVIVOR also was an opportunity that I didn't go after, but that I truly feel, God sent to me at a time where my will was so weak as I was recently divorced found myself having to provide for my children with no financial help from their father. It was a test that I needed to go through so that I could come back and go after my goal, one that I had already started as a Tv Spokesperson for HEB PLus! on "Great Day SA," the cbs morning show in San Antonio. How I was on Survivor shows that it was never my intentino to be on a "Realyt Show" as I went about my experience very much under the radar. I purposely didn't want to become identified as the "whatever" one on Survivor because I knew that would hurt the credibility I was trying to establish as a TV Host. So, my "strategy" was always a long term one not one of 15 minutes of fame. Thankfully, it seems to have worked for me as immediately after my participation on Survivor, I began hosting a show on Telemundo as well as filling in for the Traffic Anchor on the cbs morning news in San Antonio. More importantly, it has given me a venue to give back to others as I'm so very blessed to donate my services as Emcee for charitable events such as: The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Ovations for the Cure of Ovarian Cancer and the City of Hope. I never get tired of saying, indeed, what a God send it has been for me as it's been the gift that keeps on giving to me and I use it as much as I can to give back to others. Alrighty then, after looking carefully into "Shes' Got the Look," I found it could develop the modeling part of my career, which I've been doing, on and off, for the past 25 yrs. So, off I went to my 1st "cattle call" type audition in Memphis, Tennessee. It was my 1st visit there so lot's of 1st's for me on this trip. After an ALL day, standing in line type wait and very brief 3 minute interview type audition, I received an email telling me that I had made it to the Finals round! Yipee! During my final interview, I saw the faces of the Producer's go from big smiles when they began their interview with a very excited greeting. First question:"Rita, have you ever been on this type of audition before and if so, how far did you make it?" "Kinda, I said, I'd never been on a "cattle call" type audition, but I went through something similar and was picked for the show." "Oh, what show?" they asked. "SURVIVOR FIJI," I replied. I could almost hear the "wah, wah, wah :( debbie downer type sound" as I saw the instant sad expressions on their faces. "Wow, Rita, that's huge!" they said, but it's a conflict of interest w/the newtworks involved:((" Thankfully, I'm a firm believer in that God has a plan for me and indeed He does. As I mentioned in the beginning of this paragraph, I've stayed busy since my return from Memphis with so many wonderful opportunities for my career including being Spokeperson for HSN and doing the World Car Hyundai commericals. In b/t my HSN shows, I'm working on productions for UNIVISION, Freedomdebt.com, The Texas Dept. of Agriculture and the Dept. of Health.
My trip to Memphis, nevertheless, was very worthwhile. I had an AMAZING time, unexpectedly running into one of my dearest friends, Mrs. Suzy Bootz (Mrs. International 2007) and meeting news ones like Michelle Colon-Johson (to my right)
I couldn't leave Memphis w/o a tour which started w/a visit to the famous recording studio where Elvis lay(omgoodness, get your minds out of the gutter!) his 1st track:) "Sun Studios"
as well as saw his gorgeous private jet the "Hound Dog." and the commercial plane he bought his little girl and appropriate named the "Lisa Marie,"
the hotel where he was found dead
(the orignial car he was driving is parked in the very same place he left it) This is where Elvis lived with his mother BEFORE he became the "King" of Rock and Roll and then he bought.. this little ole home..."Graceland,"
Mrs. Priscilla Presley has done an amazing and very intelligent job of decorating the house and turning into another million dollar business for her family...because we all know Elvis Presley didn't leave them enough as it was..LOL. Also went to the Hospital founded by Danny Thomas "St. Jude's," which was a promise Danny made St. Jude if he helped his dream come true of becoming a famous actor/comedian.St. Jude's a very powerful intercessor w/God. He helped my father through a very difficult time in his life:)
Mr. & Mrs. Danny Thomas' final resting place, on the grounds of St. Jude's Hospital
Here's one of the exquisite homes built w/the old school money that was made from the lucrative cotton harvests. They are in an area known as "Cotton Row."
When I was told that I was had made the "Finals" Round for"She's Got the Look," I had to make some copies of some of my modeling photos. Someone told me the "Peabody" Hotel, nearby, had a Fed Ex office in the lobby so I ran over there. I got my copies and also a delightful treat: watch a world famous Red Carpet walk done by ducks!! Yes, you read correctly, duckies! They live like celebrities on the Penthouse of the Peabody Hotel. A couple of times a day, they do their Red Carpet walk to the fountain of the hotel where they, then bathe before going back up to their Penthouse!!
Here I am standing in front of the SPECTACULAR Christmas tree in the lobby of the Peabody Hotel
and now, for the highlight of my visit to Memphis, trying to grab Elvis' butt! LOL

One of my HSN shows...

2010-05-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

Here I am w/the Number One!! TV Host on HSN. It was truly such an honor to be such a Neebie, only my 3rd time on HSN and be paired up with Colleen Lopez. Very exciting for me.

Friday Night Lights Red Carpet Season 4 Premiere

2010-04-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, April 16th, the new JW Marriott Resort was the venue for Season 5 Premiere of the popular NBC show, Friday Night Lights. A silent auction was held with proceeds to go to The Grid Iron Heroes Foundation (www.gridironheroes.org). The founder, Eddie Canales, a walking heart of a man, created this organization to help other families who, like his, live with a Survivor of a spinal injury caused by football. Chris, his handsome son, is this Survivor. Along with the support of his beautiful and sweet wife, Pita (below with Chris and I)
Eddie and his son travel all over the United States reaching out to other families who are going through what they went through when Chris was 1st injured. Now, thanks to ALL those who donate time and money to "Grid Iron Heroes," they're able to offer these families much needed supplies such as special vans and wheelchairs that they might not otherwise be able to afford. Please don't hesitate to reach out to them with your donations (www.gridironheroes.org).
Here I am with Eddie Canales
Above,With the handsome Drew Waters whom,I wanna give props for attending with his parents, his beautiful and sweet wife and their adorable daughters! What a blessed family you have, Drew. As handsome as he is, he's down to earth. Reminded me of his failed attempt at trying out for SURVIVOR. His wife and father also reminded me the story, making fun of how Drew couldn't handle standing in the Dallas heat in the audition line...hence his father's suggestion that perhaps he wasn't cut out for Survivor after all..LOL. I love Drew for the admiration he gives me for making it on & through Survivor Fiji. Thanks Drew!
Here I am with THE man, Mr. Red Mc Combs, the main sponsor of this event and one of the game of football's biggest fans!
Last, but not least, I want to give thanks to the BIGGEST fan of Longhorn football, my dear friend, Longhorn Gene, Host of Longhorn Live Radio show (930 am on the radio dial), for his generosity extending an invite so that I could attend this event. God Bless you, Eugene. Also, a special thanks to the beautiful and classy, Jennifer Broome..the #1 Meteorologist in San Antonio:) for the kind recognition at the event. Congrats to Tanya Sammis and Mario Ochoa for the PR work, I believe, launching their new PR Company "Sammis Ochoa PR." I'm sure that this will be a first in many events for you.

Mexican women in Mexico Fashion Show & Festival at Club Sonterra, April 2010

2010-04-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

My dear friend, Cristina Shamaa asked me to please come by the Club Sonterra one afteroon and help a group of girls to learn how to work the runway! Cristina is like a sister to me so I'm so happy I was able to spend some time with the girls. I was very impressed, by the way, with the group they had put together. 40 girls! Nuestra Belleza Mexico watch out! The girls were very sweet and equally excited. I had very little time to work with them since the show was only a couple of days later! I was VERY impressed with how these girls "brought it!" to the runway at Club Sonterra, San Antonio, the day of the show! I was rewarded for my work with the girls with a special escort on the runway. Take a look! Special thanks to Cristina Shamaa and to the organizer of this wonderful fashion show, Lorena Ascencio.

Network for Young Artists Festival, April 2010, video

2010-04-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was invited to the Network for Young Artist's Festival in San Antonio. Here I am "Opening" the event. Thank you, David Reyes (www.brownbagententertainment.com) for including me in this event which I'm certain will grow each year. This was the 1st year. You can find out more about this organization at www.

AnimalFriendsRedCarpetwithPumpkin2010

2010-04-27T11:08:00.001-07:00

I'm so blessed to have been asked, for a second time to be a part of this (copy and paste this link: http://ritaverreos.blogspot.com/search?q=Helping+Animal+Friends, to see the first Red Carpet Doggie Fashion show). Both times, my daughter who's a HUGE Animal lover was there w/me. In fact, she's the vidoegrapher of this video :). We took Pumpkin home w/us that afternoon and fostered him for a week. I wish we coulda kept him, but I've already got my hands full w/my 2 kids and my ohter "child" Blackie..see below:)
My "Dangerous" Golden Retriever:( (I'm being facetious, but serious...last October, my dog was unfairly declared "Dangerous" by ACS. After much anguish, I have put this "case" in God's hands as we await the settlement. Here's another video of my "Dangerous" doggie...you be the judge.

Helping the Animal Friends Shelter w/some Red Carpet Doggie Couture

2010-04-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

My daughter (above with Pumpkin) is a HUGE animal lover. I call her my Animal Activist. I've always loved doggies, myself so when Starley Murray, makeup artist to many celebrities (www.starleymurray.com) asked me once again to walk some doggies down a cute red carpet at one of my favorite local restaurants(Aldino's), she didn't have to twist my arm! A special treat was that my daughter came with me and she got to walk the CUTEST doggie, "Pumpkin," with me. I hope someone adopts Pumpkin and any of the other doggies available at "Animal Friends Shelter" on 230 Borgfeld Road. They are in DESPERATE need of dog food so please, go by, call 830)980-3647 or make a donation on line: www.animalfriendsforever.com

6 degrees of separation w/ Danica Patrick! January 2010

2010-04-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

My son asked to me PLEASE get him Danica's autograph so...thanks to my friend, Rachel Zanardi(on the right)
putting us on the list to get into this Time Warner event, I was able to get her autograph. Danica couldn't have been more accomodating, agreeing to a photo with me and I got a HUGE compliment from here when she said she thought I was awesome for having done something like Survivor. From one tough cookie to another! And, my aunt, Adrienne Verreos recently told me some trivia that I didn't know. Danica's father, my Uncle Nick and my father, James Verreos went to Western military school together in Alton, Illinois.

Rita on Canadian TV! January 2010

2010-04-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

"My appearance on "Reality Obsessed," one of the Top TV shows in Canada! This segment was a "makeover" segment for the Host. I'm so excited to have been asked to do this. It recently aired in Canada. I'm also particularly proud that I did the editing on this video all by myself. Let's just say I will never complain about how I was "edited" on Survivor. Boy, editing is so time-consuming and, simply, so hard to do, but I gotta do what I gotta do so I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did doing that segment. I think Murtz' walk changed drastically, but, more importantly, as he mentioned in the end, if I helped him with his self esteem..then I did my job:)

Emcee, San Antonio Water Symposium 2010!

2010-03-01T10:21:00.000-08:00

Here I am, (wearing a vintage NIKOLAKI, Nick Verreos, design) with the high school student designers.

Ms. Coco, an IADT graduate and Fashion Show Producer asked me to Emcee a fashion show that was part of a line-up of a Symposium about the state of water worldwide. I was so happy to be a part of this event. The designers were High School students which I find AMAZING as I remember my brother, who is an established and well-known fashion designer today, couldn't bring to life one of his sketches when he was in high school. So, I'm very impressed with these kids and commend Ms. Coco for giving them this venue to get the practice and exposure they need..and for giving me the oppportunity to Emcee this interesting event.

Guest Motivational Speaker, IADT 2010 (video)

2010-02-28T14:35:00.001-08:00

left: Starley Murray (celebrity makeup artist and Emcee of this event)

I was recently very flattered and pleased to have been asked to form part of the Panelists at the International Academy of Design and Techonology. We were there to share our "stories" respectively and answer questions from students looking for careers in our fields. I take it as a tremendous honor and responsibility to help steer this young talent in the right direction and, hopefully, inspire them to go for it! One of my favorite quotes is from Seal "In a world full of people, only some want to fly..isn't that crazy!" I say be one of those who wants to fly..I know I do!
A very sweet introduction by the Emcee and me explaining how I feel one is rewarded when one makes the right, usually more difficult, choice.
"Everything Happens for a Reason!"
Sacrifices lead to more rewards: HSN!
Great Advice from the VP of the 2nd largest Talent Agency, ICM.
A son's approval..and a brother's dream,LOL.

TV Spokesperson, HSN, (Mariposa by Sharif)

2010-02-25T06:23:00.000-08:00

Last September I started my DREAM job as a TV Spokesperson on a National Cable Network, HSN. If you "Search" HSN you will find articles re/how this AMAZING opportunity came about for me. Everytime I'm in Tampa at HSN studios, I feel like I'm in heaven. The WHOLE team at HSN is so very professional and uplifting. I'm beyond grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to continuing to grow with this type of "tv hosting."

Watch more YouTube videos on AOL Video

La Prensa newspaper article...2010

2010-02-24T13:58:00.001-08:00

An amazing young woman, Diana Arevalo, recently honored me writing this incredible article in San Antonio's largest bi-lingual newspaper, La Prensa. I'm so grateful to her and Tino Duran, the owner of La Prensa, for highlighting my work. One of the BIGGEST honors that I've received in my career, as a matter of fact, was the Women's Achievement in Entertainment Award that La Prensa gave me in 2007 due to my participation on CBS' Survivor Fiji.
Thank you, Diana, for your talented writing and, more importantly, your friendship.

Emcee for 25th Annual Cystic Fibrosis Tower Climb

2010-02-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, I had the pleasure and TREMENDOUS honor of Emceeing the 25th Annual Tower of the Americas Climb for Cystic Fibrosis. Under the impeccable directorship of Mr. Hugh Farr and his team (including the very efficient, Ms. Shanna Puente), this year's fundraiser was HUGE success.

Gathering a total close to 1,000 climbers including the Olympic Gold Medalist Swimmer, Josh Davis, Co-host of Longhorn Live Radio, Rachel Zanardi and Fox News Anchor, Monica Taylor. Everyone rose and shone on Saturday morning to help raise funds for this disease.

Thanks to these kinds of efforts, the Survival rate is rising every year. I was so touched and honored to meet one such TRUE Survivor (I always say that God gave me the title of "Survivor" to go and help and bring awareness to the true ones) such as Stephanie Steppers. Her mother shared with me that they received the CF diagonis when Stephanie was just 2 weeks old at which time the Dr.'s told her to take her baby home and enjoy her as much as she could since, at that time, the prognosis of survival was 12 years. Stephanie is now 26 yrs. old!!Here I am with her and the Director of the Lone Star Chapter of Cystic Fibrosis, Hugh Farr to whom I can't thank enough for always making me a part and allowing me to give, in my own way, to Cystic Fibrosis. I have a connection to Cystic Fibrosis through a fellow Greek friend, the classy Randall Boudouris whose daughter has Cystic Fibrosis. I feel blessed to have his friendship for it's thanks to knowing him that I now have the wonderful opportunity to be involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Hugh and I with the firefighter's that, along with Police Department Cadettes also participated! Nice eye candy for ladies that morning:)EVERYONE earned a reward, for some, it was the priceless reward of having helped raise the record breaking total of $60,000!! For others, it was that plus placing 1st, 2nd or 3rd with record breaking personal records. Particularly heartwarming was seeing ALL ages represented at this event.
Here's one of the younger participants receiving his 1st place award within his age range.Last, but not least, a very special participant with NO direct ties to Cystic Fibrosis, just there because he wants to help. Hugh decided that after having Mr. Reyes participate the 24 of the 25 years that this event has existed, it was time to give him a special token of appreciation. Since these climbs are usually VERY early morning...and it's brrrr out there..CFF made a special sweatshirt for Sam Reyes (photos courtesy of Dionicio Perez: www.dionicioperez.phanfare.com)

Voice for Latin Connection 2010

2010-02-16T08:38:00.000-08:00

Listen!
Wayne Zamora, a wonderful man who's been very supportive of my work asked me to do this spot for Latin Connection magazine, a publication that highlights Latin's achievements in ALL areas. I was honored to have made the cover article a several months ago(above). Thank you so much, Wayne, for your friendship and support all you are doing to keep Latin's connected:)

TV Host, Texas Department of Agriculture Nutrional Video 2010

2010-02-16T08:06:00.001-08:00

Centsable Shopping from Rita Verreos on Vimeo.

This was a fun video that I got to do thanks to the brilliant Director, Ms. Raina James..w/whom, btw, I have an upcoming feature role in an indie dark comedy, also Directed by her!

Voice for VISION SOURCE TV ads on UNIVISION

2010-02-12T07:33:00.000-08:00

I'm happy and so grateful to have been asked by my favorite producer at UNIVISION San Antonio, Roland Davila, to be the voice for several of their clients. I recently recorded the voice overs for their US Census Bureau television spots. I'll post those very soon! In the meantime, here's one I did recently.

One more Angel in the sky...remembering my fellow "Survivor," Jenn Lyon

2010-01-22T10:01:00.001-08:00

Some are saying that an angel has fallen. On the contrary, I truly believe that one has risen. From the second I met her, like so many, my first reaction was: “Wow..this girl is STUNNING!,” Then Jenn opens her mouth and out comes the sweetest voice…the voice of an angel. Jenn is a blessing for anyone who got to know her or even see her image. Her spirit is so powerful, that it transcends and reaches you. The evening of her passing, I was coming home from picking up my little girl from her cathechism class. My daugher and I prayed every night for my 3 friends, Jenn Lyon, Ethan Zohn and Diedra Bradshaw (who, btw, has been fighting the exact same form of cancer that Jenn had). I was so hearthbroken about Jenn’s passing and I couldn’t find the right words to tell my little girl, who had grown to care about Jenn through our prayers. That was on my mind, when my little girl looked up at the sky and saw a cloud formation; “Mommie..look! That cloud is the shape of an angel!” I burst into tears because I knew that was Jenn!! That’s how powerful her spirit is:) and I told my little girl. She smiled and said “yes, mommie, that’s your friend letting you know that she’s ok:)” I took a photo of the angel cloud and will see if I can post it to share with all of you. I’m so happy to have been able to participate in several charity events with Jenn. She left me in AWE as I watched her win the SURVIVOR Houston challenge. What a tough cookie in this delicate Avatar:). She and I always spoke in Spanish. She knew I was from Venezuela and shared with me that she had spent a year in Spain. I know she did this as her way of connecting with me. She had a way of doing that with everyone that she came across. Jenn has achieved what we all aspire to, eternal life for she definitely left her mark on this earth. Tu viviras para siempre, amiga. Te amo, Jenn, eres un angel!

Posted by Rita Verreos | January 22, 2010, 10:14 am

Autograph signing at UTSA

2010-01-19T07:03:00.001-08:00

Here I am with one of my BIGGEST SMALLEST fans :)
Patsy Torres, Diana Arevalo (of Ticketmaster)&, Patsy's Goddaughter.

Ms. Diana Arevalo has been very kind in thinking of me for so many kinds of events. A few months back, she invited me to be presenter at the Gospel Music Awards held at the Carver Center. I'm so sad that no one thought to video tape that event because it turned out to be one of the BEST events I've had the priviledge to be a part of in San Antonio. This time, Diana asked me to come and sign autographs a booth that Ticketmaster had set up to help promote SA Rodeo Ticket sales. I was so lucky to be sharing the booth with Ms. Patsy Torres who also sang at UTSA that morning. Many had to opportunity to sign up and win free tickets. Let's Rodeo San Antonio!

Stadia Spa pampers my brother Nick!

2010-01-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my needing some serious pampering after my participation on SURVIVOR FIJI, Dr. Jaime Garza kindly asked me to be a Spokesmodel for Stadia Spa. For Christmas, thanks to the generosity of Dr. Garza, I was able to give to my brother, the amazing women's wear designer, Nick Verreos, a morning of pampering at Stadia Spa. First of all, we were greated by the elegant and beutiful Hostess, Cecie Forte-Jernelious. She is always so gracious and classy. Truth be told, part of the reason I contiue to go is to drink her cucumber water that she makes! Just with drikin' that I feel I've gotten a Spa experience as it's truly refreshing and cleansing.
Nick was pampered to a facial that left him..well, to be honest, I can't write the exact adjectives he used to describe his facial experience...let's just say he was ready to leave his partner, David for the facialist, Maritza Martinez..LOL. The experience only continued as he was treated to a manicure and pedicure done by the amazing hands of Patty Hinojosa.
They are too kind to me as they also surprised me with a pedicure!

Emcee for "Ovations for the Cure" Boston, 07

2010-01-13T08:33:00.000-08:00

One of the most amazing things I've ever done is Emcee this Stuart Weitzman fashion show in Boston, thanks to the invitation of one of the sweetest women I've ever met, Debbie Soprano. God continues to put "angels" in my path who then put me in front of other angels. Such was the case here. It was a chance meeting with the AMAZING Leeza Gibbons that led to my being introduced to Ms. Chery Kennick (the City of Hope-Los Angeles) by a mutual friend, Mr. Miguel Gutierrez. See how that works?lol. Anyhow, I was asked to Emcee a fashion show featuring the stylish and elegant designs of Stuart Weitzman. As if that wasn't enough, I got to Co-Emcee the fashion show with Mrs. Weitzman who is so elegant and has a great sense of humour. One of the highlights of the fashion show for me was when a pair of shoes covered in metal studs came out and she leaned over doing something that is practically impossible to do to me, make me nervous! when she asked me, "so Rita...do you like studs?" I was so not expecting that to come from her! I absolutely loved her and hope that I get the chance to Emcee another Fundraising fashion show/event for this wonderful organization (Ovations for the Cure) started by a true angel, Mrs. Patricia Franchi-Flaherty whom we lost to Ovarian cancer shortly after this event.

Co Hosting Longhorn Live! Sports Talk Radio Show January 7,2010

2010-01-13T07:46:00.000-08:00

It would be fitting that my first post of 2010 is about my dear friend's show, Longhorn Live! Longhorn Gene took the road to Pasadena to be where the action was, he asked me to do what was practically IMPOSSIBLE, take his place! I did my best, not without the help of my best back up, my son who is a Sports commentator if there ever was one. He's amazing! I was so happy to have him by my side, helping me sound good:)
Take a listen:

Animal Friends Jo Jo Couture Fashion Show!

2009-12-21T08:45:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, my dear friend, the beautiful and talented Makeup Artist/Image Consultant, Starley Murray invited me model alongside the real model for the day, a doggie up for adoption! I was so THRILLED to be a part of this event. My daughter is a HUGE Animal Lover/Activist at the ripe age of 9. I've always been a lover of doggies, but I have learned so much from my little girls general love of ALL animals. She is truly amazing. I'm soo happy to have had my kids at this event. The photos, in fact, were all taken my by son! At the end of the event, my little girl, her cousin and a friend had gotten the information from the Shelter who provided the doggies for this event, Animal Friends (210)415-7035. The following Sunday, she and her friends contacted the shelter and went to volunteer all day! As if that wasn't enough to make me feel the proudest mommie in the world, my daughter, proceeded, on her own to make a Poster with images which she got from the animal Shelter website ( www.animalfriendsforever.org) of some of the dogs at this shelter and she collected a total of $300.00!! of donations for the shelter! Truly Amazing and I feel so blessed to have been able to help her with this natural desire to help animals that she was born with. Participating in this event was a perfect example of how helping just a little bit, can have a ripple effect! Since last year, I've been wanting so badly to become a "face" for the Own Up SA campaign, especially after a very unfair situation that I just went throught with one animal shelter in this city, Animal Care Services. I'm working to, hopefully, give a voice to the doggies at ACS who I suspect aren't being treated with the kindness they are supposed to be. Mine was a victim of the unfairness and neglicence at ACS. Thankfully, there are other shelters in San Antonio that are dedicated to "No Kill" policies, Animal Friends is one such shelter. I hope that Own UP allows me to help them with their cause to turn all San Antonio Animal Shelters into No Kill Shelters.
Here's the very fashionable "Farley"..

Here I am bonding with Farley's need to hydrate..took my back to my Survivor Fiji days of dehydration! I was paired up w/the perfect doggie..lol.

One last one of Farley modeling down the Red Carpet..sorry, my son cut my head off:( No worries, cuz Farley's the star here:)