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To Monti's Archived Blogs

MONTI-LICIOUS JAN 29, 2011

Have you all missed me? Two weeks of refueling. What refueling is to Monti Rock III means staying focused on what's important and what is blah, blah, blah. Keeping true to form I'm happy to report that I'm back and ready to rumble.

First, this week was the opening of Bobby Slayton, the Pit Bull of Comedy, at Hooters on Tropicana. I am a fan. He never disappoints. This particular night Bobby was in top form. The media event was full of, how can I put it? Bottom feeders? You know who you are. My old friend David Brenner, Tony Saca and Sammy Shore (Pauly's father) who now is into rescueing dogs were there. When you think of Bobby Slayton you think of a comic who's well-oiled and knows what's funny. You have to have a sharp mind to make your audience part of the act and Bobby excels. I recommend Bobby Slayton's show highly.
Next Rita Rudner is at another hotel. Rita is at the showroom at the Venetian. We have to marvel at this comedian. She keeps on moving and moving. I first saw her at the MGM followed by a five year run at New York, New York in her own theater, then she was off to Harrah's and now the Venetian Showroom. Between writing books, building a house in Hollywood, raising a daughter.... when it comes to a lady comedian in this town, my hat's off to Rita.

A most special event this week was the celebration of Phantom's 2000 performance at the Venetian. It was a fabulous lunch at AquaKnox that allowed invited media the chance to mingle with several of those incredible performers from Phantom.The show has enjoyed an incredible success over the last five years and the producers decided to do a special media lunchon. Great fun and a treat.

In this column my condolences go out to Frank Lieberman's wife, Karen and his son Adam. Frank passed away last week. Frank and Monti go back a long, long time. When I was a recording artist by the name of Disco Tex with the Sex-O-Lettes, Frank was hired to act as my publicist to make sure I had the right press coverage. Boy, did he go to work. I was in all the major magazines, billboard, you name it. In a way Frank Lieberman was my mentor. When my partner and I arrived in Las Vegas it only took one call to Frank and he made sure I got to talk to the right people. He was then the publicist of Sigfried and Roy but took the time to make sure I was connected. Attending their VIP party I was embraced by the Las Vegas media, thanks to Frank. For a couple of years he edited my columns, gave me advice, which I didn't always take so well, but he was a major part of the Las Vegas public relations fabric. There was a celebration of life. A great friend. May he rest in peace.

I've been keeping a close watch on American Idol. It still hasn't won me over this year. Jennifer Lopez is too nice and Stephen Tyler, who wrote a book, "Walk My Way", where he said I had my way with him. Now really, Stephen. Randy Jackson, the Dawg, seems to have more credability. Oh that Ryan Seacrest, oh that Ryan Seacrest, he's reportedly engaged to Julian Hough. I am still hooked in finding America's greatest talent but am reminded there's only one Carrie Underwood.

The announcement of the Academy Awards this week. How come I haven't received my trophy? These are my picks and my predictions. For Best Actor, Colin Firth. It could go to James Franco, by the way, why is he hosting the Awards show. For Best Supporting Actor, Christian Bale or Jeffrey Rush. Best Actress, Natalie Portman for the Swan but this could also be the year for Michelle Williams. Best Supporting Actress Melissa Leo in The Fighter or another great actress Helena Bonham Carter. Best Director Tom Hoop[er or David O. Russell, Best Film The King's Speech or The Social Network. By the way, the Best Film category now includes ten films, so it looks to be a long telecast.

As a columnist it's hard to surprise, it's hard to be wrong and it's hard to be impartial and overwhelmed at the same time. First off, I was invited to a small dinner at the More Buffet at The Luxor, white table cloths, my best teas, sushi, dessert and the most fun converation with Steve Katz. I was there to check out all the buzz about the new Criss Angel show, "Believe". I made a stipulation that he should not know I was in the house, so Monti decided to go incognito, but I think my outfit must have been a dead give away. Dressing down for me is not a career move. Security escorted me to my special seat where no one would recognize me.... oh yeah! Sitting down I was approached by someone that said Criss knew I was in the house and was looking forward to meeting me backstage after the show.

Forget everything you've heard about Criss Angel and Cirque. This show is pure Criss. Illusions are grand, they're big and he connects with his audience because he knows his audience and he knows his brand. When you go to see Criss Angel, you're seeing someone who takes magic to a new platform, a new millenium, this century. He uses screens, visuals, films of himself as a young boy and becomes endearing to his audience and let's us know what brought him to Las Vegas. What I liked about his show is I respect the fact that he must have worked hard since he opened at the Luxor to put his own ideas to work. We've known Criss from Mindfeak on A&E television, but in his Vegas show he reveals himself. The kid from Long Island, the kid from the East. On stage he shouted out that he had "googled' me. How nice that he recognized Monti Rock III. I named Criss Angel's show the Mick Jagger of Magic. A true rock star of magic. Don't walk, run to see this show and be sure to tell them Monti Rock sent you. Criss is a true artist who will become a Las Vegas legend. Thank you Criss, I'm a Believe-r".

If you've all been wondering what I've been up to in my career paths.... my recording deal and less spectacular show has all been put on hold due to artistic differences. Meaning that the Diva, Mr. Rock, still wants to do a show but I am Monti Rock III, an icon, a legend in his own mind. Still looking for the right agent, new management team, new record deal, a reality show. It could all come true because I'm sold on my total package.

To all my fans and supporters, my distractors, this week I love everybody, but that could change. I am a true Gemini. Monti Rock III is alive and well and loves being a columnist..... blah, blah, blah.... yatta, yatta, yatta.

Remember, there are still a few openings for a Monti Rock Million$ Wedding on Valentine's Day.

See you next week.

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MONTI-LICIOUS JAN 12, 2011

The Blog is eclectic, exciting, and even downright news worthy. (but that's not unusual, ha, ha, ha).

Did everyone hear the latest news about Eva Longoria's restaurant, Beso, in City Center? Reportedly the debt is now in the millions. Does that mean bankruptcy for the highly touted restaurant? Six months ago I reported there was in-house fighting with her partner and it looked as if they would be heading to court. The comments I received all said my sources were not reliable. Eva happens to be in the middle of a messy divorce from NBA star Tony Parker, and there's talk about the demise of Desperate Housewives. Maybe Housewives has run it's course on television. One word of advice for Eva, save your dollars darling. I should know, too. Stay tuned.

On to the Palms dynasty. Rapid rumors have it that Caesars might pick up the controlling interest. Can things be that bad for the Maloof family, or maybe they just want to concentrate on their professional sports ventures.

Last week the Palms hosted their own porn convention while the Sands Convention held their annual porn extravaganza. I had to drop by the Sands and found the convention to be rather pathetic. In past years it was more on the grand side and had all the major porn producers represented with great displays and stars. This year it wasn't business as usual.

The Consumer Electronic Show (CES) convention wasn't as big this year but they managed to have Lady Gaga appearing. The room rates were astronomical. I understand there wasn't a room to be had even though the room rates went through the roof. Shame on the hotels. Greed shows it's pretty little face.

Like everyone else in Las Vegas and beyond I've been following the grim news concerning the beautiful girl from Anita Mann's Fantasy at the Luxor who was murdered by her one-time boyfriend. A tragedy for sure.

Greg London is moving to the Hilton, beginning Jan 31 As an impressionist, he's one of the best. His show is well paced and entertaining throughout.

One of the most unusual impersonators, Christopher Peterson , brings his show, Icons , to the Onyx Theater on East Sahara. His characterizations of, among others, Marilyn Monroe, Carol Channing, Joan Rivers, Judy Garland, and Lady Ga Ga
have been thrilling his audiences. The entire show is live, with no lip-synching, and his changes are done on stage with the help of his "magic closet". He will be performing Thurs-Sat in Jan and Feb. For more onformation call The Onyx Theater at 702-732-7225.

A reminder to my Latin friends; Jon Secada will be performing at The Tropicana Jan20-Jan22. Let;s hope this will not be a one- time engagement. Jon is a major talent who will blend perfectly with the Miami themed Tropicana.

SINATRA Dance With Me has become a smash and has been extended through April 2 at The Wynn. This great show features Frank Sinatra's voice backed up by a live 16 peice orchestra playing many of "the chairman's) original charts.They include arrangements by Nelson Riddle, Billy May, Don Costa and others. Directed and choreographed by the fantastic Twyla Tharpe, the show brings a whole new concept to the music of Frank Sinatra. A must-see!

On February 20, 2011 at 3:00 PM at the Southpoint Hotel & Casino there is a Tribute/Memorial planned to honor Breck Wall. Breck was a long time producer and entertainer in Las Vegas and known throughout our community. For more details go to www.breckwalltribute.com.

What major property is for sale and what major property is in big trouble? Stay tuned.

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MONTI -LICIOUS January 9, 2011

It's a brand new year and like most Americans we welcome it with great optimism and hope for all. The New Year's resolutions have to include losing weight, meeting new people and getting rid of the psychic vampires.

Maybe I missed something, but it seemed to me that headliners didn't show up in Las Vegas except at the new Cosmopolitan. The star studded event included Beyonce, Jay-Z, Coldplay and Gwyneth Paltrow, who reportedly was being followed or was following Roy Horn all evening. Something is wrong somewhere!

The Cosmopolitan is magnificent and offers a new style to the Las Vegas Strip. Everyone is talking about it and seems to like it with the exception of those few buyers of Cosmopolitan condominiums who have chosen to opt out of their purchase. This hotel/casino doesn't show any signs of recession.

Tim Allen, TV, Film and Comedy star is returning to stand up in a big way. He has signed with the Venetian for a limited 10 weekend Las Vegas residency beginning Saturday, Feb 5. Tim has had major sucesses that include 8 years on TV's Home Improvement, and Disney films such as "The Toy Story" franchise and 3 Santa Clause films.
For more information contact the Venetian at 702-414-9000 or online at vetetian.com.

For my New Year's Eve celebration I decided to give a quiet dinner party just for me and my staff. It was an early evening so I could rush home to watch television and see Time Square along with the sights and sounds of the Las Vegas celebrations

Jon Secada is bringing his vocal stylings to the Tropicana January 20 through 22 and is just another example of the new Tropicana. Jon is known for his voice, but he's also known as an outstanding musician having written songs for Gloria Estefan, Jennifer Lopez and Ricky Martin, to name a few. Jon was one of the few singers personally selected by Frank Sinatra to share one of Frank's last recording duets, and he's won three Grammys. With the Tropicana's South Beach theme, this may be the perfect match. The Tropicana has been a Las Vegas feature and fixture for years. It appears their $180 million renovation is beginning to pay off. Great entertainment featuring Jon Secada, classy rooms and suites and 2011 will have even more to offer with the creation of Nikki Beach, which is sure to be a major destination for visitors.

This is the 10th Anniversary for Penn & Teller at the Rio All Suites. Glen Alai recently called to say Penn & Teller have been traveling in Europe and in two weeks will have a new announcement about their latest venture. Fans can hardly wait to see what wonders these two will perform.

Magic is still in the air in Las Vegas. Mac King has two afternoon shows at Harrah's. There's a 1 PM show and a second show at 3 PM. Take the kids. Mac's a good guy, too. He does a lot of charity work. Another super magic act to catch is The Amazing Jonathan, who holds court at the Harmon Theater in Planet Hollywood. I've written about Jonathan for several years and I'm always amazed!

There's a definite connection between Michael Jackson and Las Vegas now that Cirque Du Soleil is creating a production that will debut at Mandalay Bay. Mandalay Bay is one of the few locations in Las Vegas that doesn't feature a Cirque show.

The Australian Bee Gees is a tribute show scheduled to open at the Excalibur on February 1. This group has traveled around the world and received standing ovations everywhere. The Bee Gees sound is unique and unmatched by any current performers, and thanks to Adam Steck the show's producer, Las Vegas gets to join what has reportedly been called the big sing-along.

Tribute shows are popular in Las Vegas. Frank Marino's performance as Joan Rivers in Divas Las Vegas at the Imperial Palace and Larry Edwards, who does Tina Turner, have become favorites. At the Tropicana, Yesterday is a Beatles showcase as is the Cirque show Love at the Mirage. Of course, there are several Elvis impersonators and the Viva Elvis show at Aria. Now, we'll have the Bee Gees at the Tropicana. Where's the Monti Rock Tribute Show? Who's crazy enough to do that one? Hurry up!

In last week's column, I wrote a small paragraph about "What Ever Happened To?" After that you could find at least two stories in every paper about Clint Holmes, The Scintas and Steve Wyrick. Each article defended their brand by saying they've been busy with cruise ships, concerts, etc. I do wish them all well.

I took some pot shots over my comments about Menopause the Musical at the Luxor. My friend Paige O'Hara takes over her role next week. Sometimes I don't get it all right, but I try.

Kudos go out to Lori Nelson and her staff at the Grand Cafe at Palace Station. At Lori's invitation, my staff and I enjoyed an absolutely scrumptious selection of epicurean delights. Honestly, this is fine dining but in a casual atmosphere. Grand Cafe offers full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus 24/7. Red Rock Station already has a Grand Cafe and over the next few months they will be opening a Grand Cafe at the Sunset, Boulder, Santa Fe, and Texas Stations. While you're at Palace Station don't forget to check out comic Louie Anderson. Reports are that his show is doing boffo business.

Valentine's Day is coming soon and love is in the air! The Rev Monti is busy booking his "Million Dollar Weddings."

The Rev Monti, as always, wishes you all a great week!

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MONTI-LICIOUS 1/1/11

HERE WE ARE IN 2011! It's been quite an interesting year - so many projects have come and gone during 2010.

First, the closing of my chapel, should it have been named the Chapel of Lust???? Oh, well, those wedding bells blues...

Two reality shows came knocking at my door - but no one was home!!!! Now, if only Publishing Clearing House would come knocking - that would be something else!

Then, we had the radio phenomenon, not only one show - BUT THREE RADIO SHOWS!!!! It all added up to no money and all my time! Then - there was my one man show downtown - which went down but had good reviews from the media in town - especially Rick Lax - and LV Weekly Magazine.

Then - my show - Disco Ball - played in Atlantic City - and was sold out - but it still went south!!

Talking about south - my Miami South Beach revival and return of their prodigal son was a huge smash!!!!

Platinum Rock - my producers - Luis Martinez, gave it his all and produced two sensational dance records.

The Miami contingent of my group - consisted of Julie and Sharon Seigel for being extraordinary for their supreme graciousness and generosity.

To my old and dear friend, Ida Puente Carlini, who became the warden and protected me from all the hanger ons and lookie loosers.

To Ronnie and Ken Buzzi, again,you never let me down during 45 years of friendship.

Especially, to Mr, and Mrs. Bill (and Mariette) Bakula - for those luncheons - I am so glad you are both back in my life again for you bring joy and happiness that I cannot express in words.

This year's agenda is to finally finish my autobiography, my docudrama and to produce my own HBO special - The Life and Times of Monti Rock III - the true Hollyweird Story! I will tell the world the truth about it all...

I am back working on my stage review - FIESTA - I will be writing with more edge, honesty and integrity.

I have no ax to grind except I want the truth and nothing but the truth...

When we think of Las Vagueness - did you ever stop and listen to people who live in LV???? Where is the true culture, who has the style - I DO!!!! I am this town's trendsetter - I truly am my own brand.

Again - HAPPY 2011 NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!

I will enjoy the fruits of my labor - so - should Auld Acquaintances be forgotten - NO!!!!!!

Let it ride baby!!

Love, Monti Rock III