THE FULL MONTI 9/23/11

Sometimes a columnist gets stuck with deciding which events are important and what do my readers want to read? But first, all of that not withstanding, I want to talk about the Mayweather/Ortiz spectacle. There were lots of stars. Was it a sucker punch? Ortiz has been very quiet since the fight while Mayweather has been acting very “Mayweather.” You can’t take it away from him, he’s a great fighter. When you put a young boxer who wants to make a name for himself and forget all the millions he has already made, we should talk about a re-match and make me the referee.There won’t be any sucker punches in my ring. Boxers can become stars, and I believe that Ortiz will become a star because he has Oscar de la Hoya on his side. BTW Those pictures of Oscar wearing leotards and high heels were really him. Hey, he looked pretty good. Enough said.

In other news, beautiful Anita Mann who’s the producer/director/choreographer of Fantasy at the Luxor has added four great new numbers. gave a preview party at Rice and Company, where the food was generous and delicious and the staff of the Luxor greeted this columnist like he was Cleopatra or Nero. One of those "queens." Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I have been talking about and you have been reading about my relationship with Bob Crewe, who is a famous recording producer, and Frankie Valli, for whom Bob produced all those winning hits for Frankie and the Four Seasons. Bob Crewe and Monti Rock go back 50 years. To the fame game from hairdresser to NY celebrity character to television to recordings, Bob Crewe is a part of the legacy of Monti Rock III and subsequently Disco Tex and his Sex-O-Letttes.

Also in the news this week - the fresh market place opened downtown and uptown we had the San Gennaro Italian Festival with Tony Sacca hosting this event in the Rio Hotel/Casino parking lot. I couldn’t make it because it was raining and I had just gotten my hair done and unless you are a member of the inner circle, you don’t want to see the frizz. It does something to the diva to be seen this way and it spoils the illusion.

The Hash House a Go Go, Anthony Cool’s new swinger’s club, and the soon to open Oscar's Steak House are making the newly refurbished Plaza Hotel the new flavor of the month. But no one can compete with the Golden Nugget for shark tanks, Gordie Brown, the country singers tribute,etc.

I watched the new Anderson Cooper talk show with a group of friends earlier this week when Anderson did a full show interviewing his iconic and wonderful mother, Gloria Vanderbilt Cooper. The history of Gloria Vanderbilt goes back to Marlon Brando, Frank Sinatra and one of the great loves of her life, Howard Hughes. However, the real love of her life was Anderson's father, Wyatt Emery Cooper. Gloria has overcome much tragedy in her life. Her childhood ("poor little rich girl") was not happy. Then came her husband's untimely death followed years later by the suicide of her son, Carter, at the age of 23, which she witnessed. She is quite a lady.

Next was lunch with producer Greg Thompson and his beautiful wife Sonny. Greg has produced many hits such as the long running Skin Tight.They are here working on a new project. Speaking of new projects, Chip Lightman, former manager of the late Danny Gans and most recently Donny and Marie is moving to Hawaii. Good luck on your new venture and "Goodbye Mr. Chip."

There is a new book out by Steven Tyler called “Noises in my Head.” He writes about this columnist in such an endearing manner that I wish I had been there. He talks about my homes, my monkeys and my power of seduction. How divine! It’s so good to be The Full Monti, my darlings. Am I self-absorbed? Full of myself? You bet your life I am! That’s how I maintain my edge. Steven was also part of the Clear Radio iHeart Radio app last weekend at The MGM Grand Arena. This was billed as "the biggest live music event" in radio history. The lineup included Lady Gaga, Sting, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keyes and Usher.

The wait is over. TV's Two And A Half Men is back. The season premiere was seen by approximately
29 million people. Good writing and good ensemble performances show that it is not the one-man show people thought it might be. Ashton Kutcher fits well into the lineup, but it's John Cryer, Holland Taylor, and Conchata Ferrell who really get the laughs.

The X Factor also made its debut this week. This is Simon once again at the helm with a loud, boisterous, brash, and sometimes vulgar live show. One of the highlights was a 42-year-old single mother giving a great interpretation of Aretha Franklin's Natural Woman. OK, enough. It's time to get back to some original new ideas for TV. Too much repetition and the variety offered by the Internet are helping to kill off viewership.

Station Casinos will be doing a "Project Pink" program to help raise funds for the Southern Nevada Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the world's leading breast cancer organization. Pink-themed desserts will be available for purchase at all Grand Cafe's from October 1-31 with 50 percent of the proceeds going to the charity. Red Rock Resort will have additional special menu items for Project Pink. All of our casinos should be doing more of this type of fund-raiser. How about offering points for contributions?

Oscar here, Oscar there, Oscar's almost everywhere. Former Las Vegas Mayer, mob attorney, restauranteur, and now, actor. Yes, our Oscar appears on CSI-Crime Scene Investigation in October as himself, acting in four scenes. Is there an Emmy in the future??????

How about Mike Tyson's outing of Sarah Palin's alleged tryst with Glen Rice! It started a wild feud between Greta Van Susteren and Tucker Carlson on Fox News. The commotion is all in conjunction with the release of Levi Johnston's tell-all book "Deer in the Headlights: My Life in Sarah Palin's Crosshairs". Well, both good and bad publicity does make for news fodder.

September 26, 27and 28 mark the premiere screening of a new award-worthy short film entitled A Perfect Day. Executive producer/star is Kelly Perine, whose parents Jim and Rose live here in Las Vegas. The screenings will take place at Hollywood's Downtown Independent Theater. If you're in the Los Angeles area, try and see this film. You can catch the trailer for A Perfect Day at www.APerfectDayMovie.com.

Breaking news,as they say on TV; The Steve Wyrick Show at the Hilton unfortunately has had to close down. After all that preparation, rehearsing, staging, etc, it was decided that the show would close.

In a surprise move, Nikki Beach and the Tropicana have reportedly severed all ties as of this past Friday. Too bad, as the club and restaurant had great ambiance, etc. More diatails to follow.

Please direct any blog related correspondence to montirock3@montirock.us

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MONTI-LICIOUS SEPT 18, 2011

In last week’s column I addressed shows that are moving and shows that need oxygen. I was watching TV this morning, Fox and Friends, and Barry Manilow revealed that he has a heart condition and his album 15 Minutes is doing well. We all know that he is closing his show at Paris, which makes way for Jersey Boys and this musical is a good fit for Paris. Some of the shows haven’t donewell there, including The Producers. The biggest disaster was “The Hunchback of Notre Dame – a musical which was one organ chord short of a worthwhile adventure. But when you think of theater, the masterpiece of all the shows currently in residence in Las Vegas is Phantom. It is, in my opinion, better than the New York production. But what do I know? I’m just an actor, looking for that great part that will add the finishing touch to an illustrious career.

Emmy Awards came and went. The show is definitely too long with too many categories. A good peformance is award-worthy whether it be comedy or drama. this category is one of many that should be combined into one. Production numbers were only so-so. Just my opinion, however Jane Lynch did show us how versatle she really is. How about Fox cutting out Alex Baldwin for joking about the Murdach hacking controversy. Tacky, tacky! No sense of humor-like the awards show.

In the news this week, we are waiting for the new X Factor (another product of Simon Cowell) with Paula Abdul. I also offered my services to be a judge (Here come de Judge, Here come de Judge), but my phone hasn’t rung. Jennifer Lopez, who is now being linked to handsome actor Bradley Cooper, is back with American Idol. And there’s a book out this week by Stephen Tyler called “Noises in my Head,” where he eludes to having met me at my brownstone in New York with my monkeys, elephants and snakes. It is good reading, my friends. It is the kind of stuff that makes for an interesting life and a good columnist.

I got an e-mail this week from the “Open Mike” Caruso, where they have all these acts for a reported $25 cover charge.The most recent "Cast Party" will once again be at the Alexis Park Resort. Shows begin at 10 p.m., which limits the number of locals who could see the show. Grammy-winning composer Billy Stritch and the other producer wanted me to be a guest, but I am one who believes that entertainers must be paid for working. Charity is one thing, but being able to pay the bills is another. Good looks and talent will only take you far, but a few dollars will take you further.

I went to see Barry Manilow Saturday night and he was outstanding. This is a show that resonates with the audience and he leaves you wanting more and more and more. They love him and there is a connection here that is mesmerizing. He is like the Pied Piper who can lead us all off the cliff. With that voice and those great songs, we’d follow him anywhere. Barry and I have a back story, so stay tuned.

Gordie Brown keeps showing us he’s a tremendous talent. He has a gift for parody and comedy that's engaging and pretty damn funny. He also has an eye and ear for impressions and makes all the members of the audience feel included. With his comedian’s soul and spot-on timing, he delivers from the moment he appears on stage. Incidentally, his contract at the Golden Nugget has just been extended.

Jabbawockeez, the world-famous and critically acclaimed dance crew, has extended its run at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino through spring 2012. It has been described as "one of the hottest acts in the nation" and has audiences on their feet nightly.

Orleans brings back Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Leon Russell September 22-23 and the Colosseum welcomes back Janet Jackson on November 26-27.

As mentioned last week, Anita Mann's Fantasy will be launching four new high-energy production numbers and a performance by headliner Lorena Peril at their special event this week. They will also host one of the Oktoberfest celebrations at the Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas on Friday, September 23rd at 7 p.m.

Caesars Palace is finally opening its new Octavius Tower in January 2012. Rooms went on sale September 15. This 668-room luxury tower offers 60 suites and six villas. This opening marks the completion of the $860 million Caesars Palace expansion.

Good news for those of us who need cough drops - Pine Brothers is back! These soft cough drops, once the best-selling cough drops in the country, are now back in stores thanks to the efforts of Victoria Knight-McDowell. Victoria is the lady who brought us Airborne, the natural cold remedy and now has purchased Pine Bros. A new series of commercials hits TV in October and November. In addition to the tried and true, there is new packaging and new flavors. The product is available at CVS stores and at Pine Bros.com. Special note to all retailers who sell cough drops: get this item on your shelves! Your customers deserve the best and Pine Brothers are the best. If your store doesn't carry them, ask the store manager to order them.

Please send blog related replies to montirock3@montirock.us

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MONTI - LICIOUS SEPT 10, 2011

We all remember where we were on 9/11 – we remember exactly where we were. It is hard to believe that it was 10 years ago. Has the world become any better? In the 10 years since September 11, Monti Rock III Enterprises has been focusing on the more positive things in life. Let’s all think of the good things that happen to us and let’s also remember that we live in a very free society. I want us to do more for our veterans – they deserve better from us. God Bless America!! Thankfully the weekend went witout incident. We appreciate the effort of our tireless police and security officers in keeping things safe for all of the people involved.

Labor Day weekend turned out to be one of the most illustrious, most delicious holidays because I went to see Sade and John Legend at the MGM Arena. The audience was as elegant as ever. People were behaving themselves in a manner that as an observant columnist bowled me over. First of all John Legend – the word legend suits him well - as a musician, as a singer, as a very polished and eloquent man, made me a fan that evening. His suit, his manner, his being exuded sex appeal without throwing sex in my face.

Sade - what can we say about this great lady at the age of 52? She was sensuous with a voice that was like melted sugar - caramel even - just a mellow concoction for the soul. Her show was filled with visual images that were evocative and highlighted her music in such a way that you couldn’t focus solely on the music but on the total effect. She changed four times and each outfit spoke to her graciousness and formed a perfect complement to the music of the evening. It was a stroke of genius to put these two artists together because they are the embodiment of musicality, professionalism and style.

Long pauses annoy me and there was about a 45 minute break between Legend and Sade. However, I got over it fast - the stage had to be prepared for Sade’s entrance and stage re-set because Sade appears without shoes and they needed to be sure that nothing was protruding, which could be hurtful. Once I got over that I could not believe the evening that unfolded. I could sit through this one again and again because the two hours flew by. What a night this was - one that Vegas won’t soon forget.

On the other side of the spectrum, the MDA Telethon ran for six hours and raised $61 million. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Jerry Lewis was missing. There was a question as to whether he was invited to make an appearance and a gracious exit. Some say he was to tape the closing song, but allegedly did not show up. No matter what really occurred, he deserved more respect. What this shows me is how quickly people forget you on that corporate ladder. On a positive note, a group of comedians are planning to get together to do a marathon in Jerry’s name and raise money for his foundation.

On Sunday, the Sun Coast provided the spectacle of the day. We began with dinner at their buffet, which was not only delicious but provided a quiet and peaceful setting. I was treated to one of the most endearing performances I have ever seen. Earl Turner appears with his son as backup singer and dancer. You could feel the love in the room as these two outstanding performers did their thing. You didn’t feel patronized because Earl was sharing the spotlight with his son. You felt proud because he was saying to the audience that a new star is on the horizon and he wanted to present him in an environment and context that was loving and supportive. I’ve seen Earl many times but this is the first time that I joined the audience in giving him a standing ovation because he shared with us in a way that I had never experienced before. He did a salute to America and we saw his spiritual side. We almost “had church up in there” Sunday nite. This was an unforgettable performance and one that wrangled a few tears.

We’re all getting ready for the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor, and the Michael Jackson/Cirque spectacular, which opens at Mandalay Bay in December. Can we believe that it has been two years since this great artist died? What are we gonna do about LaToya? Her ex-husband Jack Gordon was managing me and almost ran my career into the ground. It’s not nice to speak ill of the dead but as Moms Mabley would say, “If you can’t say something good about the dead, don’t say anything. He’s dead – Good!!!”

How about dealmaker Jack Wishna starting a website to be used as a showcase for musicians. It does look like a good way for newcomers to get exposure and it probably could work.

Fantasy, the Anita Mann hit at the Luxor , will have the launch of the 2012 Calendar by special invitational event at Rice and Company restaurant, followed by a special showing of some of Fantasy's production numbers. Great food followed by the exciting entertainment of the one and only Anita Mann and her Fantasy troupe.

Journalist Robin Leach celebrated his 70th birthday and 50 years in journalism. His family including his 3 sons, friends and associates were here to join him. Happy Birthday and congratulations on your 50 years of giving the public a taste of the good life!

The 32nd Annual San Gennaro Festival is being held from 9/13-9/18. This yet it will be located in the north east parking lot of the Rio Las Vegas favorite is hosting.. This is the perfect place to go for a taste of great food, entertainment, and Italian culture. For more information please call 702-286-4944.

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie says visiting Las Vegas in the summer is stupid. Our tourists are not stupid, it is his statement that is stupid. Last week Atlantic City had to "close down" due to summer storms. Enough said!

September 15 will mark the official grand opening "smash" of the " Downtown Feed Farmer's Market" at 115 7th St. This farmer's market features more than 20 growers with selections of the region's freshest fruits, vegetables and other appealing edibles. Seventeen percent of sales will support Studio 8 Ten, a non-profit organization to help adults with mental disabilities. The indoor event takes place every Thursday.

Chaz Bono's appearance on Dancing With the Stars is causing ridiculously negative publicity. He is there to show whether or not he can dance and that should have nothing to do with his personal life. I say "Chaz, go for it!"

The Palazzo/Venetian will no longer be home for Jersey Boys or Blue Man Group in 2012. Jersey Boys moves to the Paris and Blue Man to the Monte Carlo. What long-running shows could replace these, especially now that the Smith Center will be opening in March? A Broadway-style show with special effects - like Phantom - might be the way to go.

Are we ready for a Comedy Central's Roast of Charlie Sheen????? Ready or not, the Roast, hosted by Seth Meyers will be telecast on Sept 19. Rumor has it the Mike Tyson stole the show. Check listings for time and chanel.

Last, but not least, I was on the phone with Tony Orlando and his son who are working on a wonderful new project. Stay tuned.

Please refer any blog related correspondence to montirock3@montirock.us

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MONTI - LICIOUS SEPT 2, 2011

This week, I have decided to address the long-running show "Bite" now playing at The Stratosphere. It is the first and only vampire show in Las Vegas to have lasted seven fabulous years. This is way before True Blood, Twilight and all those shows about sexy blood-suckers. To say producer, director and writer Tim Molyneux was ahead of his time is putting it mildly. And he has other shows up his sleeve, but nothing can compare to the success of Bite. Not only is it still running, it is making money so let’s give a big HOORAY to Frankenstein, Dracula, et al. My hat’s off to Tim for being a visionary and seeing the value and audience appeal of this genre. He was a performer before he went behind the scenes, so he understands both sides of the entertainment industry and knows how to treat his casts, crews, and other employees. He is a rare breed who deserves all the success he has achieved.

Last week was also the official opening of the newly renovated Plaza Hotel downtown. They obtained much of the furniture from the now defunct Fountainbleau, and they have great expectations. Maybe downtown at this point has some kind of legs. We have the Golden Nugget and Gordie Brown holding forth along with the Shark Tank and the Mob night clubs and other “hoodlum-related” clubs. Where does that leave me and Virginia Hill – the two queens who built Las Vegas. I was the lollipop gangster and part of the gay mafia in my early days. How time flies when you don’t have a gun!!

This just in - The Smith Center of Performing Arts which opens March 2012 just announced that Cabaret Jazz, the new intimate club inside The Boman Pavillion, will be doing performances ala Barbara Cook, Brandon Marsalis, Clint Holmes, etc. The 258-seat venue will offer cabaret acts like the Carlyle, the Algonquin and other such New York clubs. For those of you who might not know, when I began my illustrious career I worked Basin St. East, Trudy Heller’s and all such rooms that accommodated the art of the cabaret performer. The day of Blossom Dearie, Carmen McCrea and Francis Faye, my favorite, was an era of great artists, intimate settings and involved the audience in a masterful art form.

Also just in - The Jersey Boys will be moving to The Paris in the spring of 2012. This long running hit
will keep on like the "Eveready Battery"at its new home after Barry Manilow closes his show.

Last week when I addressed the “open mike” issue I got a lot of flack for the opinion that entertainers must be paid for their work. Or at least feed them, give them a glass of water or something to show respect and gratitude for them sharing their art with the public. It is incumbent upon the people putting these things together to recognize their responsibility to the artists who choose to perform. And most of these artists are on fixed incomes. Enough said.

Also on the phone, the great Bob Anderson, who will be performing here (with full symphony orchestra) A Tribute to Frank Sinatra. in October. Frank Sinatra, Bob and I go back a long way. I was produced by the late Wes Farrell, who was married to Tina Sinatra. For 30 years, Wes produced all my songs for Chelsea Records. Bob and his lovely bride Karen were true friends, supported my celebrity and made my entrance to Las Vegas as memorable as Moses returning to Egypt with the 10 Commandments.

Vegas has another “son” who also personifies showmanship, professionalism and audience involvement. That is Earl Turner and he puts on an unbelievable show. We've seen him at the Hilton and the Suncoast, where he once again performed last weekend and have even followed him to the Laughlin. He’s another one that deserves a room here in Vegas because his residency would be an asset to the overall community. He represents the soul of Vegas and we need to do everything we can to harness his energy and entertainment acumen and keep him headlining here in the valley.

The Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children returns to Summerlin Sept 28-Oct 2. Many well]known golfers will participate in this competition which helps support these hospitals. The 22 locations in the US, Canada and Mexico provide advanced care for children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip/palate disorders. Kudos to Justin for his input and support for this worthy charity.

Coming to the Suncoast on September 20 -The Bronx Wanderers. With superlative vocals, superior musicianship and dynamic enthusiasm they recreate the magic of the '60s. This is the first time in Las Vegas for this all-Italian family, who have taken the Eastern Seaboard by storm.

The High Holy Days will soon be upon us (September 28-30 and October 8)and we would like wish our Jewish friends a happy and healthy New Year. Levy's Bagels and Deli will be preparing special holiday dishes. For more information call 702-463-9200 or visit www.levysbagelsanddeli.com.

Lastly, why is there such a brouhaha over naming a street after Sammy Davis Jr.? Streets change names all the time. If you are in business, you keep producing new cards with new information. If you are in the same place and what you are called changes, that’s irrelevant. You refer your clients to the newly-named establishment at the old location and there you are. Sammy deserves a major street named in his honor because he was a pioneering entertainer in this town and there would have been no "Rat Pack" without him.

The Rev. Monti hopes you had a great Labor Day and even better week.

To Monti montirock3@montirock.us

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A Meal With Monti
By Monti Rock III