Monti Rock III Blog Page

Monti in Las Vegas
	MONTI-LICIOUS AUG 29, 2009 The Paula Abdul drama continues and fans have been enjoying it. As I stated earlier, she WILL return to American Idol. Don't count her out. For my readers , we need to Twitter and email American Idol, judges Simon, Randy and Kara and host Ryan Seacrest. American Idol has been TV's number one show for seven years and has brought some major talent to the stage. Paula added her own personality which became a recognized part of the show. Rumor has it that Paula is in Las Vegas to sign a deal for her own variety show. It was about two years ago when I reported the Silverton Casino & Hotel had a contract with her. but at the time she was allegedly acting kind of "kooky" and wasn't good to the press. Guess the deal was never completed. On September 17, Paula will be on the cable TV show VH1 Divas. Several of American Idol stars and near stars are scheduled to appear including Kelly Clarkson and Jordan Sparks. Who was it who said American Idol was on it's last leg? Oh yeah, that was me! Chip Lightman, formerly a partner with Danny Ganz, now has his own company and is producing the Donny & Marie show at the Flamingo. I hear he's producing a new reality show and is in the process of finding a great new act to include in this latest venture. Of course, yours truly is in the process of his own reality show. Sorry, it's top secret so I can't share, but I can announce my cabaret concert will take place on September 17 at Frediani's in Henderson. This is special for me because it benefits my favorite charities. Other Las Vegas divas have kindly signed on and will help make the evening a one- of- a- kind event. For more information call 702-433-1494.The event is being sponsored by Lance Posner and The Int'l Rock Star Academy, Two of the Jersey Boys will be moonlighting here in the next few weeks. Rick (Frankie Valli) will be doing a one-man song and dance show at the South Point in September. He is a member of the all-around-entertainer school, as he sings, dances and does some comedy, too. Erich Bergen (Bob Gaudio) will also star in a solo show. Good to know we still have some truly versatile performers around. The good news for The Luxor is my friend Anita Mann, producer of Fantasy, is constantly keeping her production fresh and highly entertaining. Through all the ups and downs other shows face, Fantasy always seems to rise to the top, holding fast as a major attraction. The 10th anniversary of Fantasy will be in November., and we will be giving updates on this event. The ladies who star in the show are continuously doing charity work throughout the valley with appearances and community service events. Anita also works with Jerry Lewis on the MDA Telethon. The Luxor offers a wide range of entertainment with Fantasy, Carrot Top, Criss Angel, and Menopause The Musical. The Colosseum at Caesars Palace has just announced that actor Jamie Foxx will appear for one night only on October 9, and he's billed as an R&B Superstar. Most fans think of Jamie in his Oscar-winning portrayal of Ray Charles or his many comedy routines from television rather than as an R&B singer. He's an entertainer for sure and is only one of three other performers to ever receive an Academy Award followed by a number one record. I'd say being in the company of Bing Crosby, Barbra Streisand and Frank Sinatra says a lot for him. The year 2010 sounds like it's in the distance, but not so when it comes to tickets on sale for the iconic star's 2010 engagements. She'll appear at the Colosseum for several dates before December, but tickets for December 30 through January 31, 2010, are now on sale, including some seats for al little as $50.00. In addition to gaming, entertainment and all the glitz and glamour Las Vegas has to offer, we have to acknowledge one of our greatest accomplishments has to be the successful efforts made on behalf of charities supported by our community. Andre Agassi's dedicated work with local kids and his prep school has become a model throughout the country. And EVERYONE knows about the Tiger Woods Foundation. But last week, a not well-known charitable endeavor took place in town. Station Casinos set aside their focus on re-aligning the company and sponsored Stars Among the Angels, which was a televised variety show supporting The Children's Service Guild of Southern Nevada. The Guild is directly responsible for the support of Clark County Family Service, Child Haven and Foster Care Services. Among the entertainers at their August 23 show were Earl Turner, Larry G Jones, Kelly Clinton and Lani Misalucha. Thanks to Station Casinos for reminding everyone of all the good these organizations do for our community. Brent Barrett, one of the original Phantoms in the Las Vegas production is a busy man. He is currently appearing in "Chicago" on Broadway, and will follow that up with a mini tour of special appearances before returning to "Chicago" on Broadway in October. Joan Rivers---What can I say? We saw her at the Venetian on Thursday . She will also be there next Thurs-Sat. This woman is unbelieveable. as she rules the stage for more than one hour., taking no prisoners. She, as usual, had the audience laughing hysterically from start to finish. Where does that energy come from? There are so many much younger performers who would not be able to keep up with her. Joan and Don Rickles are definitely the King and Queen of comedy, as no one comes near them. Hopefully they will be performing forever. I couldn't end the column without acknowledging the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy at the age of 77. For those of us who lived through the '60s, this truly is an end of a dynasty. Rarely has anyone had to face the responsibilities that events placed on this unique man's shoulders. The staggering number of family tragedies alone would be hard for anyone to endure, yet he prevailed. As always the Rev Monti wishes you a great week.	Monti Selects Archives 2009 March 2009 April 2009 May 2009 June 2009 July 2009 2008 June 03 to July 28 Aug 06 to Sept 12 Sept 23 to Oct 23 Nov 01 to Dec 23 Dec16 to Mar 2, 2009
	MONTI-LICIOUS AUG 23, 2009 Big news of the week was surrounding Don Marrandino, who is a favorite Las Vegas gaming executive of mine. Once again Don has been promoted by Harrah's and will be leaving Vegas for Atlantic City where he will be President of Harrah's Eastern Division. Don is the man that brought Donny and Marie Osmond, George Wallace, Vinnie Favorito and Anthony Cools to our scene. He's done a great job in the entertainment genre for Harrah's and Las Vegas will miss him. Don, please don't go. I was about to pitch you my latest show. Monti needs you. My friend Frank Marino will open his new show ,"Divas, Las Vegas, at The Imperial Palace over labor day week end. Frank has been a long time Vegas entertainer and since closing La Cage at the Riviera we've missed seeing his on stage persona. "Divas LAs Vegas" will be in addition to Matsuri, the Japanese dance production, and Human Nature, the Motown review make up the current entertainment menu at The Imperial Palace. . Another Vegas executive, Felix Rappaport, who heads up The Luxor will be doing double duty by adding the Excalibur to his already busy portfolio. The Luxor is currently the home of Criss Angel's Believe, crazy man Carrot Top and Menopause the Musical while the Excalibur hosts Thunder >From Down Under, Louie Anderson , and Defending the Caveman. Felix my friend, your entertainment plate is pretty full, but you can call me anytime you need my help. Criss Angel is lucky he has Mr. Rappaport at the Luxor and that his television show Mind Freak is back. It gives Criss a larger fan base. Rumbles are still traveling through the entertainment circles about Barry Manilow possibly moving to Caesars Colosseum or The Paris. Still everyone denies, denies, denies. I've even heard some columnists reporting Manilow might be moving to the Monte Carlo, which just signed their current headliner, Lance Burton, to a new six year contract and it was just announced that funny man Frank Carlindo has signed a ten year deal with the Monte Carlo. Frank may be better known for his frequent television spots but a ten year plan here in Las Vegas will more than put his name on the map, don't you think? Dancing With The Stars has just announced this season's line-up. Are we excited? As reality shows go this is one of my favorites. Of course we all suspected Donny Osmond would join the show. I understand he's been practicing his fainting routine. We won't comment any further until we see the new cast perform. LaToya Jackson backed out of Dancing after Michael's death. It's a lot of work organizing the possibilities for all that money from her brother. News out of Los Angeles is that Michael Jackson will be buried at Forest Lawn in September instead of on his birthday. His doctor resurfaced saying he's become the scapegoat for the whole affair. Jermaine is out and about talking about his tell-all book about the family and especially about Michael, which really was very nasty. Where were all these people that were close to him. Why couldn't they see he was on drugs? Michael has become a real cash cow now that he's gone. It was only about fifteen years ago when my partner and others were responsible for the intervention for yours truly that changed my life. I've been drug and alcohol free since then and consider myself to be one of the lucky ones. Too bad Michael Jackson didn't have that same support and care. As a tribute to Michael Jackson and a benefit to school age kids everywhere including Nevada, the Palms will hold Las Vegas Celebrates The Music of Michael Jackson on Saturday August 29 at 3:00 PM. Cast members from several featured shows around town such as Jersey Boys, The Lion King and Phantom will be performing. What's so great about this benefit is that 100% of the proceeds will go to Keep Music Alive. Thank you to the Palms and to all the performers. Whether you're a fan of MJ's or not, this is a chance to show your support for the arts in the lives of future generations. Following the concert, there will be a rare screeing of Moonwalker, the 1988 Micheal Jackson film, Proceeds will go to Clark County Public Education Foundation. I was glued to my television set to watch America's Got Talent. Oops...... maybe America doesn't have talent. And to my lovely Paula Abdul, this is for you. Take the $8 million you've been offered. You can share it with yours truly, which I would gladly accept. From what I hear about television's number one show, American Idol, the guest judges such as the Jonas Brothers, Spice Posh (Victoria Beckham) and Ellen Degeneres haven't made such a big hit and aren't doing too well. Why doesn't anyone think of yours truly as a judge. I'll never know. Charo's appearance at the Riviera continues with brisk business but I am exhausted just thinking of her schedule. Besides her nightly show at the Riviera, she manages to fly to Los Angeles everyday to film her own reality show.. It's true. She is a bundle of energy.as well as talent. It's happening again. In September a crew from New York will be in Las Vegas to conduct an interview of yours truly for another Saturday Night Fever event.. Sadly, model Jasmine Fiore, a Las Vegas favorite, was murdered las week. Her mutilated body was discovered in California, Her busbandd of 6 months, Ryan Jenkins is the prime suspect, but is not yet in custody. Incidentally, Ryan has a history of violent behavior, They had a major blowup in June, but unfortunately, Jasmine didn't leave. As they say, if they hit you once---they'll do it again. Burn The Floor, the sensational dance review has just concluded a record breaking limited run on Broadway. In 2006, this show failed here in Las Vegas. Maybe it's time to bring it back and featuare celebrity dancers doing guest shots (ala Macks and Karina of Dancing With The Stars fame). To all my readers, your news, gossip and e-mails are welcomed.and remember, The Rev Monti wishes you all a great week. Contact me
	*MONTI-LICIOUS AUG 16, 2009* The week was filled with Paula Abdul, the Jackson's, anniversaries and even a movie premiere which is exactly where we'll start. Planet Hollywood was the scene for the premiere of Jeremy Piven's latest movie, The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard. He is currently starring in HBO's award-winning show entourage and had a role in a David Mamet play on Broadway before coming down with mercury poisoning.His breakthrough came with his role as sharp-witted cousin Spence on the Ellen DeGeneres TV sitcom several years ago. This was supposed to be a "red carpet" affair at Planet Hollywood leading to the movie screening. But I never got a glimpse of the red carpet. Apparently, the organizers for the affair thought it was more important to have it lined with no-name screamers than to have any media present for that part of the evening. Not sure if these were actual fans or just hired groupies. I did hear a few names over the loudspeaker - Will Ferrell, Kid Rock, Holly Madison, plus several Hollywood regulars of these red-carpet events. Because the chaos was too much for me and my crew, we took a dinner break and enjoyed a fabulous feast at Yolos Mexican Grill, which is also at Planet Hollywood. Following dinner, it was back to our attempt at reviewing this movie. With press credentials in hand (I had long since packed away my camera since we couldn't even see the anticipated stars that were supposed to make their way down the carpet) we began seeking our way to the location of the screening, but it was not to be. Guess I'll see this movie from afar. That would be far, far, afar! After such an evening, the question that must be asked is when will the powers that be learn this is not Hollywood? This is Las Vegas! We're not immune to the movie scene. After all, more movies have been filmed here than we can count. We have CineVegas and other film festivals, and from time to time, movie premieres. But this is a town about gaming, shopping, fabulous restaurants, beautiful hotel rooms and entertainment unlike any other place in the world. Enough said. Planet Hollywood is allegedly finding it difficult in funding its financial commitments. This property could possibly default by the end of the year unless management can adjust its loan agreements or secure additional capital. Station Casinos, already in bankruptcy, has posted an approximate net loss of $65 million. attributing much of it to the poor performance of Aliante Station, its newest casino. The slow economy is still taking its toll on our banks, as both Community Bank and Colonial Bancgroup have been seized by regulators. Hopefully the turnaround is near. The Jackson saga continues, what with Michael's toxicology report being withheld, etc. Rumors are flying that LaToya will join the cast of ABC's Dancing With The Stars this season. That should be interesting. Janet may join her brothers in a concert to benefit Michael's favorite charities and Jermaine is working closely with Shawn (Mrs Larry) King on future benefit concerts. Last, but far from least, is news that Jack Wishna is supposedly working with the family to possibly bring Neverland to Las Vegas. That would really be something! Last week, I asked my readers of Gaming Today to e-mail and Twitter American Idol for the return of Paula Abdul. My readers didn't let me down, but even your efforts may go un-rewarded. Word is out that His Majesty, Simon Cowell, will receive about $45 million for the new season and Paula turned down an offer of $5 million. She was asking for $10 million. Paula, wake up! To Simon Cowell and the producers of American Idol I say, "Look stage left. That's me standing in the wings and I work for much less than Paula. There have been recent rumors that American Idol may be winding down after 10 years of being on top. Hopefully, I'll get my shot at the judges table before that happens. America's Got Talent, another television show that's enjoyed some success, is nearing the finals for this season. The judges on the show, Sharon Osbourne, David Hasselhoff and Piers Morgan add a bit of interest but the spotlight this season has been on Nick Cannon as the host. Nick replaced Jerry Springer on the show. I don't think it's my imagination that after Nick and Mariah Carey were married, he immediately changed his rapper image with a fabulous wardrobe. I don't see marriage in my future, but I could use a new wardrobe. Tim Molyneaux, producer and director of BITE at the Stratosphere, is celebrating the 5th year of this sensational topless revue on the Strip. Five successful years is no small accomplishment. Tim attributes much of this achievement to the public's fascination with vampires--look at the popularity of the old Dracula films, etc.and the current popularity of HBO's True Blood. This creative, classical rock and erotic showpiece has been and still is a proven hit with both locals and tourists. Andrew Dice Clay will be bringing his brand of humor (watch out) to The Riviera from Aug.20th-Sept.6th. He intends to bring "Sin back to Sin City" so to speak . Show time will be at 10:30 pm.--- why am I not surprised? It was quite the celebration in front of the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign on the Strip on August 12. Everything was "rock" to acknowledge the fifth anniversary of Vegas Rocks published by Sally Steele. This magazine is full of inside stuff about our fabulous city, covers all that's happening and even includes some underground tidbits. After five years of publication, we can say Vegas Rocks has become a mainstay in the world of print for this city of dreams.
	*MONTI-LICIOUS AUG 9, 2009* The entertainment brouhaha this week was all about Paula Abdul, who has quit television's number one show, American Idol. As for me, I'm calling for a boycott of the show and I'm asking my fans to twitter and e-mail Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and of course Ryan Seacrest. Let's do the math.... Ryan signed a new contract for $45 million for a three year stretch, Simon reportedly earns some $30 million from the show, No figures for Randy but Paula supposedly was paid $2 million a year. It was even reported by some that fourth judge Kara DioGuardi.... earned more than Paula. This could become a grass roots phenom since Monti Rock , (that's me), is calling for an American Idol boycott. Let's get Paula back! Bill Clinton has just been too quiet the last couple of years, (except for working for Hillary's campaign), so it was exciting to see him back in action. Like everyone else I was glued to my television watching the safe return from North Korea of the two journalists who had been held hostage for more than four months. President Clinton is like no one else. He knows when to talk and he knows what to say. In this case he did not utter a single word that was captured by the television news cameras upon the arrival in Burbank. Al Gore made a brief statement to welcome the journalists home, since he's a principal of Current TV which had employed the ladies. It almost felt like old times with Clinton and Gore.at the helm. In Las Vegas news..... I don't want to get in trouble with any of the properties but there are lots of rumors surrounding the entertainment scene right now. Santana, Santana, Santana! Could it be the six month engagement at the Hard Rock will be cut short due to reportedly slow ticket sales? And what about the Russian skating show at the Riviera, Ice? Even Beyonce's appearance at the Wynn might have been on the slow side for ticket sales. Seems her tickets were being handed out to high rollers, her entourage, and other comp earners. A call to public relations at the Wynn didn't get a straight answer on this. All is not lost though. Rod Stewart performed to a sold out audience at the MGM Arena and of course the Garth Brooks name keeps getting tossed around. Rumors have it that he is being offered a 16 week contract at the Wynn / Encore. Are we interested in this Oklahoma cowboy? We sure are. His concerts were always SRO and he would still fill the showrooms. Other names being tossed about would have to include Mariah Carey who is already a huge star and Whitney Houston who would be an instant hit. Everyone says she's ready for her comeback. Word has it that Marie Osmond, who is one half of the Donny & Marie hit show at The Flamingo, has suddenly cancelled her anticipated television talk show due to lack of proper financing in this slow economy. However, Wayne Brady, who stars at the Venetian in Making It Up, will headline a new TV game show similar to the old "Let's Make A Deal" Television's Monte Hall will be a consultant on the new game show. The Las Vegas Hilton will feature "Sgt. Pepper Live" featuring Cheap Trick in September. This is a Beatles masterpiece and is hard to reproduce. Cheap Trick will be doing their live interpretation of this classic rock album, along with a full symphony orchestra and special musical guests. . Since yours truly was part of the original movie, I'm all for it and yes, I might be partial to this masterpiece. Performances are Set13-15, 17-19 and 21-23. All performances will be at 8:00pm . Contact tlhe Las Vegas Hilton or Ticketmaster for more information. Even though downtown continues to struggle it was good news to see the proposed "Mob Museum" is underway. Not sure if it will be enough to ease the loss created by million dollar condos that are currently selling for around $200,000 and seeing all of the well-known but older casinos standing vacant. Ronn Lucas,one of my favorite ventriloquists, is appearing at the Southpoint but there's some interest in him returning to an afternoon show on the Strip. Andrew Dice Clay bringing "Sin Back to Sin City" with his brand of hu to The Riviera from Aug 20 - Sept 6. Showtime for this engagement is 10:30 pm for obvious reasons. Justin Timberlake's Shriners Hospitals for Children benefit will be held in October at The Tournament Players Club in Summerlin. All proceeds go to The Shriners Hospitals for Children.. The Foundation for Positively Kids will be celebrating its 10th anniversary on Sept 9. For more information call Andrea Woods at 702-262-0037 ext 325 At the M the wonderful Lance Burton had a fabulous surprise party for his fiancé. Lots of balloons and cake. It was really a fun evening. Kudos to City Center for "going green". They will become an industry leader in "green environment" by using the latest developments for air conditioning, water conservation, recycling , etc. Let's hope that all other new construction and building will follow their formulas. Just received word that Wendy Williams, who recently gave up her radio show for a new television venture, has been inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame. It seems strange that so many stars are nominated for an Emmy after their shows have been canceled. Aid for Aids of Nevada (AFAN) will be holding its 23rd benefit event on Aug 22 at The Hard Rock. This wonderful organization provides support for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, All in all, a most worthy cause. The Rev Monti wishes you all a great week.
	*MONTI-LICIOUS AUG 1, 2009* Sad note: Marleen Marino, founder and publisher of VEGAS COMMUNITY ONLINE, has passed away. Services to be held later this week. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to her family and friends. Sometimes there are surreal moments. Moments, for example, when your favorite celebrity columnist collides with other entertainers and has great fun. The recent occasion was the Don Marrandino Birthday Roast that I reported on last week. Don, President of Harrah's, The Flamingo and other Harrah's properties, is a great sport and is one of the new breed of executives here in Las Vegas. He may be the perfect fit in the current economy, and has an uncanny talent for bringing the right entertainer to the right venue. The evening was hosted by one of my favorite comedians, Vinny Favorito, who did a great job keeping it funny, relatively clean and interesting. My job for the evening was to pop out of the cake and sing "Happy Birthday." It was one of those evenings that was filled with joy and laughter and will be remembered for a long time. The stars were out for the Roast and included George Wallace, Anthony Cools, Nathan Burton, Donny & Marie, Alicia Jacobs and..... Jimmy Walker from TV's Good Times fame. I guess Jimmy's a friend of Vinny and must be looking for a room here in Vegas - but then we're ALL looking for a room. It was a pleasure sitting next to Donny Osmond for the evening. What a gentleman! It was good news to hear Donny & Marie have extended their contract until 2012, and they've just completed a new CD. The following night, I went to see Donny & Marie's newest show at the Flamingo. It really is entertainment at its best. Let's face it, Donny & Marie have a great show business history. Their performances are an absolute must see for anyone in Las Vegas, locals or tourists. They are the quintessential iconic entertainers you would expect to see. I simply can't say enough about this show. We took in Anthony Cools show at Paris Las Vegas on Thursday evening, where he proudly announced that his wildly popular extravaganza is extending its run for four more years. This highly entertaining - not for children - performance uses Cool's uninhibited comedy to hypnotize the audience, and volunteers become the stars of the program. The shows are never the same since audience participation makes for new material every single night. How about Joan Rivers' dishes and jabs at Jay Leno. After the Johnny Carson incident, Joan never again appeared on The Tonight Show. Both Joan and Jay will be appearing in Las Vegas over the Labor Day weekend, Joan at The Venetian at 7:00pm and Jay at The Mirage at 10:00 pm. Get the gloves ready! I received a call this week from my friend Frank Marino telling me he'll opening his new show at the Imperial Palace over Labor Day weekend, performing twice daily. Frank is fresh from six weeks of appearing in Tony and Tina's Wedding at Planet Hollywood. He said he realized it was time to get back on stage and will produce and star in The Ultimate Drag Show. Frank must have been very young when we first met, but when I arrived in Las Vegas more than 10 years ago, he reached out his hand to me. You never forget those moments of friendship. Hurry up, Frank, and get back to the stag. We miss you! Currently, the Imperial Palace is the home of Human Nature, the Motown sound from Australia, which is doing a respectable business, and the great Japanese dance show, Matsuri. Many of my readers may remember that months ago I was reporting on the trend towards the ultra nightclubs in Las Vegas. Nightclubs that catered to wealthy young stars, sports figures and wealthy wannabe celebrities. Foolish club antics by these customers included champagne baths and thousands of dollars being tossed about like confetti. Guess there was even more than that going on for some of the clubs. Prive at Planet Hollywood just lost its license, and this may be only the first of many. Poetry, at The Forum Shops, is in trouble now that Wolfgang Puck's Chinois is closing, which will limit access to the club. Even the topless pool club at the Rio has been closed over alleged drug and prostitution activity. Maybe it really is Sin City! I have to admit the late night club scene isn't for me even though on occasion I have attended opening parties for some of them. I can report that the Pure Management Group, which is currently under investigation, is highly regarded in our town. The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino opened its new lavish 450 room tower on July 31. Beautifully decorated rooms, suites and poolside suites are a great new addition to the hotel/casino scene. Sluggish economy or not, Hard Rock, City Center and hopefully The Fontainebleau will be creating much needed employment opportunities to our local scene. These are the things that keep Las Vegas growing. This summer is a great time to catch up on shows like Phantom, Cirque and, of course, Bette Midler. Discounts are available and Bette is offering a special VIP package through November 15 that includes meeting the superstar performer after the show and taking pictures with her. Las Vegas made the major news this week when Michael Jackson's doctor had his home plastered all over TV news because of a federal warrant. Not sure what they were looking for, but let's be real - there were many doctors involved in Michael's untimely death, or at least leading up to it. It would seem that rumors and press will continue to swirl around the Jacksons for some time. Latest news is that Katharine will remain in charge of Michael's children. Like everyone else who might be interested, I was watching Tito on Entertainment Tonight and was reminded that Michael wasn't even talking to his brothers. They were not close. MJ lived in a world of isolation it seems. One of many rumors currently making the rounds is that Diana Ross is being very aloof about the whole situation. Maybe the loss of Michael is just more than she can handle. One of my favorite stars, Petula Clark, is opening at the Cannery. Remember Sunset Boulevard? Well, Petula does the BEST Norma Desmond ever! Other favorite superstars coming here in September and October are Mariah Carey, performing four shows at The Pearl, and Bill Cosby doing one night at Treasure Island. We need more comics like Bill Cosby, who is clean, funny, and appeals to all ages. Try and catch comic and singing impressionist Larry G. Jones at the Royal Resort Hotel on the Strip Larry, billed as "the man of 1002 voices", is a favorite on the corporate circuit and is now making a name for himself in Las Vegas. Whitney Houston's latest album, I Look To You, will be available August 31, making it eligible for Grammy consideration. The free downloads are stirring some real interest. I understand Alicia Keyes is writing songs for Whitney, and I suspect several other topnotch songwriters will compose with Whitney's voice in mind. She's always been amazing. Another friend of mine, David Cassidy, is heading up a new show on ABC Family television "Ruby & the Rockits." It's the first time David and his three brothers have ever worked together, even though they are all talented and creative. They come by it naturally since Shirley Jones, Evelyn Ward, and their father, Jack Cassidy, were all actors. Look for David, Patrick, Shaun and Ryan to bring something new to television for all ages. Has anyone seen the new syndicated Wendy Williams TV show, "Ask Wendy"? This lady has been on the radio for many years, but she just recently gave it up to pursue television. She reminds me of RuPaul in drag, but then again, RuPaul is drag! Remember, The Rev. Monti wishes you all a great week!