MONTI-LICIOUS NOV 27,2009

The American Music Awards televised on ABC caused quite the controversy last week. Must admit I was glued to the set even though I felt the performance by Adam Lambert was just too much "in your face" by the former American Idol. If you want the publicity, learn who your audience is. Adam went beyond good taste and the voice wasn't really there either. Let's be real, American Idol gave him the biggest platform in the world. Adam was scheduled to appear on Good Morning America but ABC gave him the axe. Tough lesson but I'm not sure he really cares as CBS' Early Show quickly "grabbed him (excuse the pun) for an appearance on Wednesday morning. Of course different songs were chosen and the performance closely screened..

In 1962 when yours truly made my television debut as a gay performer I learned to play to my mother. Times have changed but we still don't want to offend.

Even though some found the show to be offensive we still have to acknowledge Whitney Houston, who looked fabulous in her white gown, and Jennifer Lopez who slipped ,fell, and quickly got up as if it never happened. You've still got "IT", J-LO. The opening segment with Janet Jackson set up the evening for Michael Jackson to receive four separate awards. Just a note about Michael.... his famed sequined glove from Billie Jean sold at auction for over $300,000 last week.

Let's all of us wish a speedy recovery to Little Richard who has just undergone hip surgery. Though in pain, Richard one of the first big rock and roll stars, has maintained a rigorous performing schedule.

Were we all surprised that Donny Osmond won Dancing With The Stars? Didn't I make that prediction at the start of this year's show? Marie now has something new to add to the constant jibes she and Donny give to each other. Even though "Dancing" is beginning to bore me I must admit I fell in love with Kelly Osbourne. who no only won our hearts , but also created her own fan base.

Dancing With The Stars has become a launching pad for many of its performers. Juliette Hough is now a star, Kym Johnson is about to open on Broadway and "Bad Boy" Maksim Chermerkowsky has become a top choreographer. The show also has become a business in itself ' touring many cities around the country during the off-season. It has also helped put the dance studios back in business.

There's something new to add to the Las Vegas experience. The Palazzo has just announced the opening of Laguna Champagne Bar. It sounds magnificent and will feature the very best in champagnes including champagne by the glass served in a luxury environment and surrounded by the soft sounds of a harpist. Delightful and romantic, don't you think? Leave it to the Palazzo and the Venetian to come up with something so classy.

Xtreme Magic by Dirk Arthur at the Tropicana will be adding the holiday theme to their shows starting November 26th. The holiday shows will also include some nice surprises like special guest star appearances.

After eight years and 2000 shows Jay White's tribute performances of Neil Diamond will come to an end at the Riviera. Jay will be touring and pursuing other options including a possible show about the life of Neil Diamond.. His Las Vegas fans will miss him.

Badda Bing owner Rick Belcastro and his guests were at Jay's show last week having a great time. Rick is also known for his charitable contributions to the Las Vegas community over the years, especially for the xmas toy drive for foster children and for turkeys for the food drive for the homeless.

Another Las Vegas show, Le Reve at the Wynn, will also celebrate their 2000 performance in November. This is an amazing show and puts a completely different twist on theater in the round. The production was created by the famed Franco Dragone and reflects his style in its choreography and aerial acrobatics.

It was 1989 when The Las Vegas Strip welcomed The Mirage and celebrated the first true mega resort destination, The Steve Wynn creation became the crown of The Strip and it wasn't long before resident entertainers Sigfried and Roy became the number one act in Las Vegas. The Mirage's 20th anniversary was celebrated last week and to continue the celebration The Mirage is offering special rates for their newly remodeled rooms.

Other Wynn news is that his divorce form Elaine has become final. They reportedly have reached an amicable settlement in one of the most expensive divorces on record.

One of Las Vegas' feature destinations over the years has been the Golden Nugget . With the opening of the new Rush Towers Mayor Oscar Goodman was there to cut the ribbon while the usual suspects from the media walked about in a daze. The Rush Tower is a beautiful addition to the downtown scene and features the unique Chart House Aquarian Restaurant.

Just got the news that Queen Emily ( America's Got Talent), who has been a part of Menopause the Musical at the Luxor for the last year, has left the show. She may be headed to the Hilton and the rumor is she might join songstress Lani. Just rumor so far. Menopause the Musical seemed like a perfect fit for Queen and she added something to an already hit at the Luxor. Guess it was time for a change, however Paige O 'Hara still heads the cast of this hit show.

It's called GIJAMS and it's a concept that's been created by well known songwriters Denny Randell and Buddy Schippers who currently reside in Las Vegas. With more than 200 million hit recordings these gents know music and have designed a new website, www.GIJAMS.com, to offer the chance for all military personnel to showcase their talents. It's free to all active and retired military and sounds like a great way for our honored troops to offer up their talents. For more details be sure to call (888) 445-2671 or go direct to the website.

Just received my invitation to the Grand Opening of City Center. >From the drawing board to the sidewalk structure this has been the talk of Las Vegas. Adding an Elvis Presley Cirque show has become the latest feature of City Center. Inside information recently said the show isn't quite up to par so changes are being made. With it's towering hotels, the Aria casino, too many restaurants to name and shopping, shopping, shopping..... City Center will no doubt become another Strip feature not to be missed.

After last week's column I was in trouble.... again. Made the mistake of mentioning some of the earlier Cirque shows and expressing my opinions which were not all glowing. My job is sharing information as a columnist. The same is true when it comes to other shows, not just Cirque.

The Regis and Kelly Live TV show has just completed several days here in Las Vegas. Too bad they didn't make more use of the local talent available here (yours truly would been a good choice) instead of "importing" stars from other areas.

Had a great Thanksgiving, stopping off at several different friends homes. I hope yours was as good. Now it's time to prepare for the rest of holiday season, which, as usual, will be a busy one.

Rev Monte wishes you all a great week

Monti Selects

To all readers of my blogs - your star, your legend, your Montella opened at the Trump Taj Mahal- Atlantic City in the 2009 Disco Ball on November 14 with Gloria Gaynor and other stars from the fabulous era that continues to light up the stage for all to enjoy. Yes, we will ALL survive! Despite the inclement weather and flooding in the area, The Disco Ball was a virtual sell-out. Young and old alike were literally dancing in the aisles.

The big announcement in Las Vegas, of course, is that the Cirque de Soleil Viva Elvis! will soon arrive at the City Center. I met Elvis in person twice, and he was wonderful to other entertainers. When I opened at the Red Velvet Nightclub in West Hollywood, no one ever understood my act, but Elvis came two different times to catch the show. As I've written before in this column, at the time of his death in 1977, I was recording at the Record Plant. It was my third album with the late Gary Keldram, and Bette Midler was in the next studio cutting one of her albums. She came out crying, "Elvis is gone! Elvis is gone!" Glancing at Bette, I said, "I've got to go back to my recording."

My mother once told me that if you have nothing nice to say about someone then don't say anything at all. But in this case, and after keeping quiet for the last four years, I will let you know that Bette Midler and I have crossed paths several times over the last 40 years. Ron Delsenor, the producer and promoter who at one time was also my producer, became Bette's producer for her shows and concerts on Broadway. Long before Bette appeared on the Tonight Show, I was the one that Johnny called. I was the main attraction. So when Bette arrived in Las Vegas, I sent her flowers and gifts to welcome her and to reconnect with her after so many years. There was never a thank you, never a phone call, never an acknowledgement from Bette. Sometimes, not always but sometimes, that's how it is in
showbiz.

I try to be considerate and I always take to heart those people who are icons in the world of entertainment. Now that Bette is leaving, I can say goodbye, so long, have a good trip. The Divine Miss M is departing Las Vegas while the Divine Mr. Monti is staying in Las Vegas.

The same can be said of Hilton's headliner Barry Manilow. I knew Barry from New York City and the cafe society where we were acquaintances in the business of show business. Barry had Clive Davis and I had Bob Crewe and the late Wes Farrell. When Barry became part of the Vegas scene, I tried to connect. I sent baskets, flowers and gifts. Then when we met on the red carpet, Barry managed to look right through Monti Rock. Had I been disappeared? Another time I attended his "press conference that wasn't" when he wouldn't come out to meet the media and didn't have the time to greet Monti Rock. So I say goodbye, Barry, enjoy your success at the Paris.

The Las Vegas Hilton has always been most gracious to Monti Rock. Most recently they extended their welcome when I was invited backstage to spend some time with the stars of Cheap Trick - friends of mine back in the '70s. By the way, rumor has it that Cheap Trick may become the main attraction for the Hilton.

Cher returns to Caesar's Colosseum November 19 and has announced the shows coming in the spring of 2010 will be full of changes and additions, not to mention those fabulous Bob Mackie costumes.

Bill Cosby comes back to Treasure Island Hotel & Casino for two shows on November 27. One night only with The Cos is a terrific treat for Thanksgiving as he proves to us he's one of the comic geniuses of our time.

Carlos Santana has partnered with The Vegas Food Bank and World Hunger Year (WHY). This past week he initiated a program which offers discounts to audience members at Ago or Rare 120 restaurants at The Hard Rock in exchange for five nonperishable food items or a $5 donation for WHY. This runs through November 22.

Wayne Newton hosted 100 veterans from around the country at his new show as thanks for their dedication to our country. This was followed by a luncheon the following day at Newton's Casa de Shenandoah ranch. It shows you that showbiz stars do not forget our military. Wayne is constantly doing USO shows in the Bob Hope tradition.

Rumors have it that one of Broadways most gifted stars of yesteryear , (with the initials MH) is about to marry her long-time companion. again, only a rumor.

Before leaving for Atlantic City, I made a phone call to my friend Tony Orlando and without missing a beat this generous entertainer helped me with a new deal with Sony. Tony is also working on the Bronx Walk of Fame for Freddy Prinz, Geraldo Rivera, Tony Orlando and yours truly. Yes, we're all from the Bronx and we can say: "Jenny from the block, move over, 'cause we're all here together!"

Once again, I feel it's necessary to address Andre Agassi's book "Open". The Encore had a book signing/press conference where Andre talked about the hairpiece, Brooke Shields, etc. Sometimes it's just too much information.

I have an autobiography coming out, but I'm trying to take out some of the gory details of my own trials and tribulations. From my infamous trials and errors in Hollywood, including some bad films, believe me I have a lot to say. But I've decided to make my book the story of survival.

Turn on television and there's another story about sex tapes. The ex-hubby of Jennifer Lopez is trying to sell a tape even though she paid him off during the divorce after only a nine-month marriage. Next, former beauty queen and self-proclaimed First Amendment champion Carrie Prejean's masterbation tape made when she was 20 surfaced. I can't wait until my sex tapes come out! If you find them, put them out there on YouTube.

We had to say goodbye to Aaron Carter, who left his famiily baggage at the door when he agreed to appear on Dancing With the Stars. I like this kid. He shows us a lesson in celebrity survival. Donny Osmond was saved again. Dancing With the Stars has lost it's flavor, with the exception of Tom Bergeron, the show's emcee. We need Donny to faint. Please, faint!

Shame on you, Sharon Osborne, for putting down Susan Boyle from Britain's Got Talent. Tacky, tacky. You're not funny, Sharon. People in glasshouses should not throw stones.

I loved the Country Music Awards where 19-year-old Taylor Swift won four out of four awards and is the youngest of all time to win Entertainer of the Year. Carrie Underwood continues to wow fans with her voice, looks and those fabulous gowns. Country isn't so country anymore.

Been trying to watch the new George Lopez show on cable. I thought the Michael Jackson tribute was well done, and Lopez, who has a tendency to constantly shout, has had some outstanding stars his first week. Television is full of talk shows with Wendy Williams, Conan O'Brien, Letterman, Ellen DeGeneres, Mo'Nique and, of course, Jay Leno, whose ratings continue to go down, down, down. This multitude of talking heads aren't like true variety shows. Rumor has it that Rosie O'Donnell may have another talk show coming out, so yours truly, Monti Rock III, should have a talk show, too. After all, I talk and talk and talk. I can't change my stories, but I've got a million of 'em.

An item that's certainly created a lot of talk surrounds the price of tickets for the upcoming Bon Jovi event at the MGM Grand Arena. My question is how can the young fans of Bon Jovi afford such prices? Reportedly the front row seats will go for more than $2,100. Even more surprising, the tickets will be sold in multiples of two. No single seats will be sold.

It's good to know that some real stars like Garth Brooks keep the ticket prices within reach of regular folk. Thank you Garth and thank you Mr. Wynn.

The Venetian graciously hosted the arrival of wounded veterans and their guests for a recent fabulous Las Vegas getaway. This is an outstanding effort spearheaded by Sheldon Addelson and the Las Vegas Sands Corporation together with American Airlines, Thanks-USA and Blue Man Group. The Wounded Warrior Project has fast become a favorite for all Americans.

It was no surprise when it was announced that both the Venetian and the Palazzo recently received the AAA Five Diamond Award for 2010. This was the first time the Palazzo had received this noted tribute and the third time for the Venetian. The prize is based on overall guest experience among other considerations. Congratulations to the Las Vegas Sands Corporation and the employees of the Venetian and the Palazzo, who make this award possible by creating a fabulous Las Vegas experience for our returning heroes.

Soon to open City Center has received the FSC award for best commercial project of 2009. This award recognizes entities that are committed to saving our environment by using only certain types of timber so as not to deplete our shrinking forests. City Center is a major supporter of using green-friendly products of all types.

We had the pleasure of going to the grand opening of Grind Burger Lounge and Bar this week. There has been a rash of gourmet burger restaurants opening in Las Vegas ,and this is one of the best.

As always, the Rev. Monti wishes you all a great week!

Monti-licious : November 6, 2009

What a way to start the week or any other time. The unbelievable slaughter of American soldiers by an American medical officer at Ft. Hood, Texas, was allegedly committed by U.S. Army Major Malik Nidal Hasan - a psychiatrist no less! Could this be the result of the trauma of war or an act of terrorism? There's no way to know what was in the assailant's mind. Most importantly, our hearts go out to the families of the 12 soldiers and one civilian who died. They have suffered this unthinkable loss. And our hopes for a full recovery to those who sustained injuries.

The Yankees won! World Series Champions! Maybe the reported billions of dollars spent on players and a state-of-the-art stadium has paid off for everyone. Being a New Yorker myself all I can say is...... hooray!

The television cameras spotlighted celebrities in the crowds like Kate Hudson, Kurt Russell, Spike Lee, former mayor Giuliani and others. Let's hope the NYC fans hold everything in check while celebrating the victory.

The Fitzgerald Showroom downtown celebrated an anniversary of Fitz of Laughter starring Kevin Burke. Kevin plays a double duty role since he also stars in Defending the Caveman at the Excalibur. The guy is funny and hardworking.

Dick Feeney's production of The Rat Pack downtown at the Plaza has become a mainstay, even though the show faced a lawsuit from Buddy Hackett's son, Sandy. Reportedly, Dick Feeney paid off Sandy boy with $40,000. Now we hear that Mr. Hackett is opening his OWN Rat Pack show, where he'll be playing the part of Joey Bishop! This version is supposed to open at the Sahara. Does Las Vegas, or anywhere else for that matter, have room for two Rat Packs? The original show with the Rat Pack theme was in the Congo Room at the Sahara and starred David Cassidy with Bobby Caldwell as Sinatra. It was a wonderful production.

After being closed for an interior remodel, Capo's Restaurant on Tropicana celebrated with a Grand Re-Opening. Same great Italian fare with a "mob" theme. The evening's celebration included some great jazz music and diners in Halloween costumes. I ran into Sam Giancano's daughter, Antoinette, whose book The Mafia Princess has been printed in a dozen languages. Nico Santucci, owner of Capo's, was a no-show. He called in sick. Missed a good time, too.

Here's how the movie goes...Giancana's daughter and Bugsy Siegel's daughter will reportedly be opening a mob exhibition presumably here in Las Vegas. More to come on this. In the meantime, the Mob Museum is still in the works for downtown Las Vegas. After all, the Mafia played an integral part in building this metropolis called Las Vegas. Names like Momo Giancana, Jilly Rizzo, Tony Spilotro, Meyer Lansky, Lefty Rosenthal and Bugsy Siegel, of course, all played a part in the creation of the mecca in the desert.

Check out the specials being offered at The Joint at the Hard Rock for the month of November. Feature star Carlos Santana is involved with Three Square Food Bank, and for everyone who donates $5 or brings five non-perishable food items to the show, they receive a $5 coupon for restaurants at Hard Rock. Not a bad idea and the whole thing is being supported by Santana and Hard Rock in connection with World Hunger Year.

So much has been written lately by other columnists regarding Andre Agassi and the confessions in his autobiography, Open. I knew him when he was dating Barbra Streisand. Do we all want to know the grim details he penned in his book? Andre and wife Steffi Graff have done so much for Las Vegas and for kids all over the world. Why does everyone act so surprised over these recent revelations? Don't many professionals take drugs at sometime? Did I hear my name mentioned on that list?

"The Showgirl Must Go On" takes on new meaning with the announcement that Bette Midler will call it quits after two fabulous years at Caesars Colosseum on January 31, 2010. It's been a great run for Bette, and I loved shopping for all those great gifts promoting her show at Caesars. Of course, along with the announcement was the statement that Bette will always have a home at Caesars. However, it is rumored that there is no love lost between The Divine Miss M and reporter Alicia Jacobs. Girls, girls - be nice!

Cirque Du Soleil just keeps growing and growing and growing. Every corner and every major hotel/casino seems to feature a Cirque show. City Center will be the newest to feature a Cirque show named Viva Elvis. Yes, it's a tribute to the life and music of The King. After hearing all the comments from the Cirque show Love which is at the Mirage and features the music from the Beatles, Viva Elvis will be another hit!

The Season of Cirque Du Soleil is offering a special break to Nevada residents. Purchase one ticket at regular price and Nevada residents will have the chance to purchase the second ticket for $25. This is a first and it offers a great opportunity to catch several of the Cirque shows currently in Las Vegas.

Dan Marino, former Miami Dolphins quarterback, was most gracious as he chatted with guests and posed for pictures at the opening of Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza at Town Square this week. Anthony's is known across the country with more than 20 restaurants offering up great food and great atmosphere with plenty of charm. I enjoyed the evening and look forward to my next visit. Town Square itself is quite extraordinary. Great brand stores and fashion everywhere. It's the perfect location for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza. This ultra thin crust is the best outside of New York,

Surprise, surprise, surprise! I was treated to a morning at the South Point Cinemark theaters, where a select group enjoyed Michael Jackson's movie "This Is It "in Extreme Digital or XD. This is the latest in movie technology and offered outstanding sound together with picture quality on a huge screen that is unsurpassed. Enough said about that. On to the movie. Not only was I overwhelmed by this documentary, but it brought the loss of this extraordinary man to a new level of reality. And the brilliance of director Kenny Ortega remains profound. I urge everyone to see this film . As I continue to think of Michael's family and his legacy, I am reminded again of the great loss resulting from his death.

For weeks, rumors have been rampant about a breakup between Marie Osmond and her management...blah, blah. Well, it is no longer a rumor. She and her managaer of 35 years have parted company. He, by the way, is the father of Shawn (Mrs. Larry) King. It was also reported that both Donny and Marie are slightly miffed at Larry for the way he handled Marie's interview. Vengance is a dish...you know what I mean.

We had the pleasure of going to the Latin Grammy Awards as guests of MGM/Grand President of Entertainment Richard Sturm. Great show and an even greater host. Mr.Sturm is, as usual, a genuine class act. The highlight of the evening was the special tribute to Juan Gabriel. His fans went wild for this major performer who is also constantly doing benefit performances for the underpriviliged. The entertainment was capped with a duet by Alicia Kayes and Alejandro Sanz. Salsa greats Luis Enrique, Oscar de Leon and Gilberto Santa Rosa. Side bar - the ladies were beautifully and tastefully dressed. The guys, well, were the guys.

Rick Belcastro, owner of Badda Bing Gentleman's Club, made a surprise appearance in Tropicana's Last Supper, The Sopranos take off. Rick, adding a shot of authenticity to the production, joined the show playing the mob boss with the gruff exterior and Tony Soprano-like attitude. Rick has always had another career, moonlighting as a stage actor. Also in the audience was Nifty Vickerson, Rick's henchman and A. J. Johnson, his personal photographer.

The multi-talented Wayne Brady has reportedly postponed the reopening of his show at The Venetion until Jan, 2010. It seems his vocal cord problem has not yet fully healed. C'mon back Wayne, we miss seeing you on The Strip.

Josette's Restaurant will be closing its doors on November 21. Josette will be opening the Las Vegas Rocks Cafe on Fremont St. by early December. Las Vegas' own Tony Sacca is also involved in the venture.

As always, the Rev. Monti wishes you all a wonderful week.