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MONTI LICIOUS AUG 29 ,2010

The Miss Universe Pageant which was held in Las Vegas, has come and gone but appears to have been quite the success. And the winner is..... Miss Mexico who is quite the beauty. Miracle man Brett Michaels hosted this year's event and as always Donald Trump continues to be the man behind the scene bringing the beauty pageants to Las Vegas. There was a bit of a brouhaha with Criss Angel who was reported to be one of the judges. Didn't happen though but he still managed to stir things up for the Pageant. Maybe that's the only way he can get any publicity in town. Did I say that?

Paris Hilton, will you ever get yourself together??? You have everything in your favor, but obviously it's not enough--it's time to grow up! Your current boyfriend has also got to get his act together. Steve Wynn, his employer, has no tolerance for this type of behavior, and has reportedly fired him.

I'm a fan of Dirk Arthur who has just come under the umbrella of Chip Lightman. Chip is well-known for his Las Vegas productions and will be producing Dirk's latest show at O'Shea's Casino Theater. Audiences will experience the uncaged animals as close as 10' to 40' as part of the show. Dirk is full of magic and will introduce new tricks and illusions. I saw Dirk at the Silverton in his own room which was a pretty good show. From there Dirk went to the afternoon show at The Tropicana. With Lance Burton closing at The Monte Carlo in September maybe Dirk Arthur can move into that time slot. There's a place for Dirk in the Las Vegas landscape of magic. Speaking of magic, David Copperfield is still captivating audiences at the Hollywood Theater at The MGM Grand. He'll be there through Sept. 15.

It was just announced that Holly Madison's friend, Angel Porinno, will take on the lead of PeepShow at Planet Hollywood for a week. In addition to Holly's performances in PeepShow she keeps busy with Holly's World on television's E-Network which seems to have propelled Holly into a brand new light, almost like the Ambassador of Good Will. I thought that was my title!

Eye candy for the ladies will now include a treat for the gentlemen at Chippendales at The Rio All Suites. Estella Warren, the Canadian beauty known for her scantily clad photo shoots and delicious magazine covers will be introducing the Chippendales. More good news on this show is that by showing your Nevada identification you can enjoy the sights for $25.00.

On behalf of Locks of Love, Penn Gillette from The Rio's headliners Penn & Teller, has just undergone a transition he hasn't experienced in more than twenty-five years. His signature pony tail was cut off and donated to Locks of Love for children who have lost their hair due to chemo, etc. Good move Mr. G.

In observance of Restaurant Week Wynn Las Vegas will be offering world-class cuisine at special prices from August 30 to September 5. Proceeds from the event will benefit the non-profit organization Three Square which continues to spearhead ending hunger in Southern Nevada. Contact the Wynn for specific restaurants and times. It's a great opportunity to be part of an important endeavor and a delight for the taste buds.

Yours truly enjoyed an incredible visit with my long time friend Barbara Stanton. I personally want to extend my thanks to Richard Sturm, President and COO of MGM Mirage Entertainment and Sports, and his staff for rolling out the red carpet for Mrs. Stanton. Her suite at Aria was fantastic, the spa, the room service, the dinner.... an incredible first class delight for this lovely lady of society from New York. Did she recognize Las Vegas? Not sure since her last visit here was thirty-five years ago.

Mrs. Stanton and I go back fifty years when she was married to Nick Condos, one of the dancing Condos brothers ,who was once married to Martha Raye. I was a young hair dresser called Mr. Monti, the rebel with a comb, and I told Mrs. Stanton I wanted to be in show biz so she introduced me to Trudy Heller. The rest becomes things that dreams are made of. Thank you Mrs. Stanton.

It's been quite an up and down year for Michael Douglas. He is getting raves for his performance in Solitary Man and is starring in the upcoming film Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps. Unfortunately his son, Cameron, is serving a 5 yer prison term. Michaeal has recently found out he has throat cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. Let's all wish for a complete recovery for this fine gentleman and award winning actor.

The chatter surrounding Menopause the Musical can be put to rest. They won't be leaving The Luxor where they've just completed their 2000 performance. There hasn't been much talk lately about Crazy Horse at The MGM which really is a unique French import with beautiful, beautiful specialty acts and beauties. Crazy Horse still has the elegant power of sex appeal. Ooh la la! For both Menopause and Crazy Horse, if it's not broken, don't try to fix it.

I've been looking at some of the lounges and smaller rooms in town and have to make note, once again, that Zowie Bowie will be returning to The Red Rock. If you remember they were at the Monte Carlo and the Palm before heading to Red Rock to do what they do best. The duo brings its unique blend of today's hottest dance, hip-hop and Top 40 music to Rocks Lounge every Friday, beginning Sept. 3, 2010

It's kind of a musical chair thing waiting to see who will arrive at the refurbished showroom at The Tropicana. The same thing is true at the Hilton. Both Barry Manilow and his successful long run and Cheap Trick who had a short run at The Hilton made their exit and went to Paris Las Vegas. The HIlton hasn't yet found their long term headliner. Most of the stars that have appeared at the Hilton for a one or two night event, such as the recent Al Green appearance, have been big hits. The exception to that might have been the evening with Dionne Warwick and Connie Francis, What do I know, I'm just an entertainer, and celebrity columnist.

While everyone is waiting for Celine Dion to return we can find delight in Donny & Marie at The Flamingo which continues to be sharp and very entertaining. Come to think of it, it's show business at it's best. Of course we still have to hand it to Phantom at The Venetian, which is in a class by itself.

The Golden Nugget is going country! Ron O'Neal, Entertainment Director at the Nugget, says Country Super Stars Tribute will share a room with Gordie Brown. Downtown Las Vegas and Country Super Stars should go hand in hand.

Monti Rock III's show that was supposed to open at the Rio on 9/10 has been moved back for another two or three weeks. We'll keep you informed.

The 2010 Emmy Awards has come and gone. Jimmy Fallon proved to be a satisfactory and energetic host, but the the 3 hour show was too long and without any surprises. If the ratings of the show haven't improved, it is doubtful that the major networks will renew. One rumor is that the show could move over to cable, where the audience would be much smaller, and the show would have much less impact.

Biscayne, the new steak and seafood restaurant with a Caribbean flair at The Tropicana had its pre-opening media event last week. We are definetely looking forward to dine there in the near future. The "starters" served at the party were fantastic, from the Kobe Beef Sliders to the Eggplant Tacos and the Duck and Chorizo Hash

MONTI -LICIOUS AUG 22, 2010

The big news last week was Lady Gaga was a complete sellout at the MGM Grand Arena. Lady Gaga and her entourage dazzled and bedazzled the audience. In this day and age a sellout performance in a venue that large is quite unbelievable. Bottom line is her musical talents shine through the gimmicks, and bizarre costumes.

Last week, surrounded by my own entourage, I had the pleasure of seeing Al Green perform at the Hilton. It was a star-studded audience that jumped to their feet during and after every song to offer their applause. This man is amazing. He "leads" his band with the snap of a finger while performing. These one- and two-night events hosted by the Hilton always seem to fill the showroom and keep the audience asking for more. For true R&B fans The Hilton continues its Soul School Series with Maze in October and Charlie Wilson in November.

Wayne Newton came up for air last week. Mr. Las Vegas is involved in the new USO Lounge at McCarran Airport Terminal One. It's surprising that no one had thought of this earlier. After all, it's a truly wonderful treat to add to Las Vegas for our military and veterans. Again, thanks to Wayne who has done so much for the USO the last few years. He remains our Las Vegas star and one of the last living legends. (Well, except for me of course. Oh, no! That was a Legend In His Own Mind!)

For a month or so I've been reporting that something was not quite right at M Resort. Just after it opened, I made several trips to the property, enjoyed their outstanding buffet, and as a columnist wrote reviews that were all positive. To my surprise, M Resort didn't reach out to acknowledge any of my comments or to say thank you. Now, it's up for sale, so maybe I'll buy it!

Rumors are still flying about the possibility of Madonna signing a multi-million dollar residency deal with of one the strips major resorts. Jack Wishna has been working with her for quite a long time, but so far no official announcments have been released. Let's just say -"where there's fire,---- etc., etc".

The Manilow Music Project to benefit Clark County School District students is a great concept. As of August 15, for each new or gently-used musical instrument donated, Manilow and Paris Las Vegas will offer a ticket to Manilow's show at Paris Las Vegas for any date of your choice. Barry was quoted as saying: "It's my honor to offer the gift of music." It's nice to see the legendery singer/songwriter give to the community.

We should raise our glasses to the MGM Grand in recognition of their recent awards from the Wine Spectator Restaurant Wine List Awards. MGM had 11 restaurents contending and received the top award. This is considered by the culinary world to be a most prestigious honor. Personally, I loved the headline - MGM Grand Puts a Cork in the Competition. We offer our congrats!

In West Hollywood, the Abbey Food & Bar is a major hot spot. Now, they have joined with the new Vdara at City Center to create Abbey Beach. They're even bringing in Abbey bartenders to dazzle the guests with their mixology talents. Starting August 22, Vdara hotel guests can enjoy Abbey Beach at no charge and locals can join in the fun for a mere $10. If you're into this scene, it sounds like a great summer break.

Jenny McCarthy, who recently split from Jim Carey, and new boyfriend Jason Toohy have been seen all over town. They look like bookends - quite lovely ones I might add. Also, the infamous Jessie James was in town and could be seen holding hands with his latest. Now really!

Last week my longtime friend Barbara Stanton came to Las Vegas and stayed at Aria in a multi-room suite. This fabulous socialite from New York City gave yours truly the name Monti Rock III many years ago. She's here to put her own touches on my docu-drama, a film which I'm producing .

Menopause is one of the few shows that have staying power in this town. They have done over 2000 performances and are still going strong. Paige OHara and her costars keep this show as fresh and entertaining and the audience loves it -women and men alike.

At long last Rick Belcastro's Badda Bing Gentlemens Club has received its official liquor license. The club had been operating under a temporary license, but now it is official. Congratulations are in order and we wish the Badda Bing crew the best of luck - they deserve it!

Paradise Gift Shop, Strip Gift Shop and Knight Gallery presented a fashion show as part of Hilton's "Stay Cool Wilth Us @ the Hilton" Wednesday night event. Free chair massages and cocktails were available during the course of the evening. Highlights of the show were Claire Jane custom handmade purses and photographer Robert Knight acting as host /mc. Wednesday night events such as this may become a steady thing in the future.

MONTI -LICIOUS AUG 15, 2010

Ladies and Gentlemen, it's "Vegas! The Show" at the David Saxe Theater in the Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood. I love the show.... but more than that, I embrace it! David Saxe, the creator and producer, brings talent to the stage both in song and dance that is currently unmatched on the Las Vegas stage. Director and choreographer Tiger Martina guides all these skilled performers to give us the best in entertainment.

"Vegas! The Show" is a musical history of sorts, chronicling the stars who helped create the entertainment capital that rose from the desert. As an entertainer myself, I'm amazed at the amount of talent in this show. It features six outstanding vocalists in addition to beautiful dancers, specialty acts and a band led by Jerry Lopez that never misses a beat. It's fast-paced and delightful.

Before the show, the young energetic producer appeared on stage decked out in a tuxedo but adding that he was a bit uncomfortable in such attire. He spoke in an emotional manner about the efforts of bringing this extravaganza to life. He introduced the audience to his family, which included his wife, his sisters and his mother, Bonnie Saxe. Bonnie is known as the queen of the four-wall productions.

In my opinion, it would take someone like David to create this show. He was born in Las Vegas where his mother was one of the stars of the Folies Bergere and his father was a bandleader. This show is an expensive undertaking and quite ambitious when you consider the number of performers and the quality of talent. Who better to bring this show to life than a true Las Vegas native like David Saxe?

Even opening night for the press and invited guests was a home run. Robin Leach, Mike Weatherford, and a bevy of photographers and entertainers were part of the scene before and after the performance. In addition to the open bar and hors d'oeuvres, there was a fantastic offering of candy like I've never seen before. What a great promotional idea that was. A table filled with candies of all flavors on several tiers together with a decorated bag for guests to fill. The entire evening was a treat.

Let's make "Vegas! The Show" a blazing success. Buy those tickets! Fill those seats! You won't be disappointed.

We also gor to see the great Al Green in a rare one-nighter at The Hilton. If ever you have the chance to see this performer, be sure to do so. His command of the stage, his band, and his music is something to see and hear . Rev Al Green, keep on preaching!!!!!

Lately, we've been hearing a lot about the Mob Museum downtown and the Mob Experience at The Tropicana. Steve Schirripa has joined the Mob Experience. He is doing a series of commercials for the upcoming event. Most people know Steve from his character Bobby Baccalieri on The Sopranos, but I first met him when he was with the Riviera. He was very kind to me - but alas, I wasn't ready for prime time.

Las Vegas showman Art Vargas brings Vintage Vegas Live to the Rampart Casino August 20-22. The show features backup singers and a band that helps Art create familiar sounds for the over-30 crowd to enjoy. Call the Rampart at (702) 507-5900.

The Riviera was on my schedule for openings last week and it was Greg London's show "The ICONS of London". Greg is an impressionist at the center of a variety show featuring a live band, backup singers and dancers. Greg is an entertainer reminiscent of the late Danny Gans, and I predict Greg London is someone to watch.

Jeff Beacher has resurfaced and is opening a new show at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood with David Arquette as a partner. Beacher's Mad House at the Hard Rock closed some time ago, so it's nice to hear he's still doing his thing. It has been reported that the red carpet opening of this new venture in September will be something to see.

Mark your calendars! On September 10, Monti Rock III will be opening at the Rio All Suites Crown Theater in a fabulous new venture presented by Tom Biscardi. As host of the show I'll be doing what I do best!

After a valiant battle with lung cancer, my friend, award winning actress Patricia Neal, has died. Courageous Patricia overcame incredible personal tragedies including the death of her 7-year-old son, a nervous breakdown at the end of her affair with Gary Cooper and three massive strokes. I met the extraordinary actress in London in 1974 when we spent an evening dining at Morton's with her daughter, Tessa Dahl, actor Peter Sellers and others. Tessa took me to their country estate where she delighted in showing off her mother's treasures. Dear friend Patricia, rest in peace.

What's happening at Greenspun Media? Howard Lefkowitz has now joined the ranks of former Greenspun execs and employees. The company seems to be getting smaller and smaller, probably a result of the print media situation in general.

It was a late-night dinner with my publicist Trish Williamson, Joan Brant and Tom Biscardi at Border Grill at Mandalay Bay and it was delightful. The service was splendid and menu features such as green corn tamales, chicken ,strip steak, and chile rellenos were all part of our evening and enjoyed right along with the desserts.

The takeover of Planet Hollywood by Harrahs Entertainment should no effect the red carpet movie premieres. Last week was the Las Vegas premiere of The Expendables, starring Sylvester Stallone, Jason Stratham, Dolph Lundgren and Eric Roberts - with cameos by Bruce Willis and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. There will probably be two other major premieres in Las Vegas this year, one at Halloween and one for the holiday season.

Las Vegas favorite, Clint Holmes, was honored in New York by the Friars Club. Freddie Roman, one of the most underrated comedians in the business, was emcee. For those of you who have seen Freddie perform, you know how funny he can be. Holmes' wife, Kelly Clinton, was one of the performers that evening.

Bite, the sexy vampire show at Stratosphere, celebrated its 6th-year anniversary on Friday, August 13. Their opening just happened to be on Friday the 13th back in 2004. Another mainstay in Las Vegas is Menopause, which recently celebrated its 2000th performance. Who says there is no longevity in our business!

MONTI -LICIOUS AUG 9, 2010

This week, let's cover (Freudian slip) the T&A shows such as the Chippendales at the Rio All Suites, the Peep Show at Planet Hollywood and Crazy Horse at the MGM - just to name a few. Let's be real. It's really all about sex. - with a little comedy and variety thrown in.

The Chippendales at The Rio is a well-oiled production that continues to draw audiences, both young and old adults. It's been around for a while, but their fans keep returning for another peek. Right now, the Chippendales offer a special ticket price of $25 for Nevada residents. Plus, let's not forget these performers do a lot of charity work in Las Vegas. Good job, fellas!

When Peep Show opened with Mel B and Kelly Monaco, it created a lot of excitement. But it really wasn't until Holly Madison took over the lead role that it became a Strip favorite. Holly has what might be called a home brand with her own television show and her many appearances around Las Vegas for charity events. As I recall, she arrived in Vegas on the arm of Criss Angel but she really came from the Hugh Hefner stable. Meanwhile, Crazy Horse Cabaret at MGM Grand is probably the sexiest show on the Strip with it's very elegant European flavor.

There are other adult variety shows, such as the X Burlesque at The Flamingo that entices the late-night crowd. Thunder From Down Under at The Excalibur is another great show. It's producer, Adam Steck, also produces Frank Marino's show Divas at Imperial Palace and Louie Anderson, who just opened his own theater at Palace Station.

This brand of show (T&A) has always been a big part of Las Vegas and from all forecasts will continue to draw audiences. One of the very best, Don Arden's Jubilee at Bally's, has been headlining on the Strip for 29 years, while we had to say good-bye to the Folies Bergere, which was probably the longest-running production of its kind. Don't let Jubilee get away.

Last week, there were so many mixed messages about Fantasy at TheLuxor that my head was spinning. For months there was talk swirling around town that the star of Fantasy was unhappy. She has just handed the reins over to Lorena Peril, who has a voice and a look similar to Christina Aguilera. She's fabulous! I'm sure there's going to be a lot of great reviews surrounding this new lead for Fantasy. I love you, Anita Mann, for bringing this new star to the show and the ways you are constantly keeping the show fresh and exciting.

We did get the oportunity to get to the official opening of David Saxe's "Vegas, The Show". This is problably the most upbeat show on The Strip. Fabulous costumes, dancers, choreography, and especially the singers combine to give us the kind of show that is really what Las Vegas is all about. Hats off to Mr Saxe for bringing us this much need type of entertainment to Las Vegas.

Another entertaining show, at The RIviera, is The ICONS of London starring Greg London. A favorite on the corporate circuit, Greg is now performing in theatrical venues. He brings us his repetoire of musical impressions in the grand tradition of the late Danny Gans. Heis supported by a cast of talented performers and musicians. This is another of the few shows that relies on talent rather than on special effects.

Paris Las Vegas has just announced 27 additional performances have been scheduled for their headliner, singer-songwriter Barry Manilow. The new dates start in September, but tickets went on sale August 7. The visual effects included in Manilow's latest show at Paris have been well-received by audiences.

If you're one of the lucky people with a totally flexible schedule, here's something to consider, especially if you like live entertainment, live music and shows. Vegas4Locals has just announced what may be the bargain of the century. Check online at www.FillASeat.com and you'll find that for $27.49 you can join and become part of the fill-a-seat scene. Not all shows are sellouts for every performance. The producers and theaters don't like to see empty seats, so they allow FillASeat to give away (FREE) tickets to certain performances. Remember, be flexible and enjoy!

With the slower economy hitting everyone from coast to coast, many of our favorite casinos are pulling out the stops when it comes to creating new marketing strategies, which seem to be working for them. The M Resort has become a local favorite and recently added Live Jazz Night at Hostile Grape. For August, Hostile Grape is featuring Martin Mancuso and Tommy Thompson. This fabulous wine bar is designed with contemporary flair and offers a grand selection of wines to enjoy with all that jazz.

What's happening to American Idol? It seems J-Lo doesn't want another woman on the panel. All I can say is, "There you go my Puerto Rican sister, you're right!" After all, I wouldn't want another queen on my panel either. There are also rumors that Randy Jackson, who has a year left on his contract, may not be back. Producer Nigel Lythgoe has reportedly stated that he wants all new faces.

Another crisis for downtown. The Lady Luck has once again been put on hold. The Mob Museum is still in the works, but there's no date for the opening. Meanwhile, another mob scene - Mob Experience at The Tropicana had another preview last week, showing off a gift shop and featuring the grandson of Meyer Lansky joined by siblings to share stories about the old days. This venue will officially open in December, but bits and pieces are there to give us a taste of what's to come. I missed our queen, Phyllis McGuire. She's just too gracious to talk about those times even though it does fascinate this columnist.

While writing about comedians last week I failed to mention my good friend Kevin Burke. Kevin is featured in John Bentham's production of Defending the Caveman at Excalibur and also does a comedy stand-up at Fitzgeralds. Kevin, I'm sorry... but here it is. So many comics I can't cover them all but had to include Kevin in the rundown. John produces Marriage Can Be Murder also at Fitzgeralds. For everyone else, just be funny and shut up!

Polly Peluso was a newspaper and magazine columnist who passed away July 16. Polly was one of the great ladies who wrote every week, including her online features such as Hollywood/Vegas Connection and Vegas Community. A few weeks before Polly passed away, she was kind enough to call me and in her frail voice spoke about the Vanity Fair article she had read that featured yours truly. What Polly did for Monti Rock 11 years ago could never have been matched. Her kindness, her guidance and her love of life made her one of the great personalities, columnists and characters in Vegas history. We will miss her.

Glazier's Food Marketplace has been selected by The Review Journal as "Best Grocery Store in Las Vegas." And that it is.They have a huge selection of items, many of which are found only at this store. It is now the home base for "The Finest Dishes in Vegas", a Las Vegas cooking show featuring celebrities, chefs, and showgirls. Last week, yours truly was the guest celebrity. I think I tasted everything, and it was all delicious. Tune in to Fox 5 Las Vegas every Thursday at noon for new recipes, cooking tips and lots of fun. Glazier's is located at Warm Springs and Durango and is open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight.

MONTI -LICIOUS AUG 2, , 2010

The comedians, the funny people, all those entertainers who tried to sustain a room in Las Vegas met with a challenge they didn't seecoming. Las Vegas offers comedy in all flavors from the well-known stars like Roseanne Barr and David Brenner to hypnotist funny man Anthony Cools and impressionists like Frank Caliendo and Gordie Brown. Comedians seem to have an advantage over other performers, especially in this economy. A comedian doesn't need a lot of props or a band. Just hand them a microphone and they're ready to roll. Of course, there are exceptions. For example, Don Rickles, who continues to perform to sell-out audiences, has a small band on stage and usually jokes about having to pay them union wages. Don Rickles, Redd Foxx, Shecky Greene, Totie Fields, Belle Barth - names all synonymous with Las Vegas now and Las Vegas then. Joan Rivers, another comedienne who still does sold-out shows, has a trio who actually do nothing, but she does get laughs at their expense.

The Louie Anderson Theater at Palace Station is the latest home for comedians. Louie was at the Excalibur for four years but was excited to present to the media this new location and appeared to be very sure about this change.The show will open on Sept. 7 and tickets are $49.95 plus tax. Locals and hotel guests receive a $15 discount. Speaking about his love, his family and his diet, it seems that at 50+ Louie has a different slant on life. He will become a resident headliner but will also be presenting special guests, which he'll draw from his connections in the Los Angeles/Hollywood scene.

The Tropicana featured Paul Rodriguez, who didn't stay long, and Bobby Slayton, who opted for a tour. Brad Garrett, from television's hit show Everybody Loves Raymond, has opened Brad Garrett's Comedy Room at The Trop. He will perform 12 weeks yearly and feature other comedians when he is not there. Roseanne Barr and David Brenner were among others that came and went. At the same time, Vinnie Favorito at the Flamingo offers up his edgy but current act seven nights a week and is always sold out. Yes, I'm a Vinnie fan. Of course, George Wallace, the current Mr. Vegas, is also at the Flamingo. He keeps his act current and continues to play to sold-out audiences. Another Las Vegas regular in the comedy genre is Rita Rudner, who has been dazzling audiences for several years at Harahs after leaving a very successful run at New York New York. And don't forget there is still Carrot Top and his box of props still generating laughs at The Luxor.

Mac King, the resident daytime comic at Harrah's, has done a family-oriented show for the last 10 years and is still going strong. On the adult side are Andrew Dice Clay at the Hilton and The Amazing Jonathon at Harmon Theater, Planet Hollywood. Larry G Jones does his comedy/impressions in a new show at Planet Hollywood. His is a clean show and he is also a favorite on the corporate circuit.

This could all be part of a current cycle. Was there an overload of magicians followed by an overload of Cirque? We just want to laugh. We also would like to see more performers on the Strip, not just production shows.

On the television front, there is talk about the original producer of American Idol, Nigel Lythgoe, returning to the show. Supposedly, Justin Timberlake will take over the judging post left by Simon Cowell. And just confirmed today, Ellen DeGeneres is out and Jennifer Lopez is in! Latest reprorts have rumors that Kara DioGuardi is also out and Steven Tyler will be replacing her. My mantra continues, "bring Paula back," although I feel American Idol has had it's day. But J-Lo can certainly change things for the better. Only time will tell.

Fantasy at The Luxor continues to make changes. Headliner Angela Bridges is bowing out, and they're bringing in Lorena Peril as singer-host. Lorena was a lead in the Sin City Bad Girls. Anita Mann is revamping the show...again. Anita knows how to keep them coming back for more by always keeping it fresh. Rumors have it that Angela is being wooed by Peep Show.

Don Arden's Jubilee at Bally's is celebrating their 29th year with a special offer for Nevada residents. For $29 residents can experience the splendor that helped create this entertainment capital. It's a feast for the eyes with beautiful people and beautiful costumes.

On last week's column I got a lot of feedback about the funeral for Rich Little's wife. Sorry folks, that was how I saw it. Based on his "appearance" at the funeral, I am considering Steve Rossi to do the eulogy when I go. He's become the George Jessel of this era!

Can't help but feel we all get shortchanged with the loss of someone who made such a difference in this world. Many people didn't realize all the good work that Kenny Guinn had undertaken before, during, and after his position as governor of the state of Nevada.

The Rampart Buffet has come up with a winner. Every Thursday buffet now features "New York Deli Night." There is a selection of deli items such as hot pastrami, corned beef, knishes, potato latkes (pancakes), chopped liver.and even Dr. Brown's soda in bottles. These are just a few of the deli favorites available. The line waiting to be served stuffed cabbage was unbelievable. Egg cream sodas(with chocolate syrup, milk, and carbonated water), blintzes (crepes), black/white cookies,and rugelach are among the dessert items. By the amount of people there this past Thursday, you can be sure that some form of deli section will soon turn up at other buffets in town. This one is a gem

As a gossip columnist, committed foodie and theater critic, I spend the better part of my work week covering all the fabulous shows, clubs, restaurant openings and special events on The Strip—’tis good to be Monti Rock.

Come Saturday and Sunday, what I enjoy most is kicking back in my own neighborhood...Yes, Vegas does have neighborhoods.

One of my favorite haunts has been a Las Vegas fixture for over a quarter century, Siena Italian. Owners Antonio Accornero and Giancarlo Bomparola have created a truly authentic Italian Trattoria experience and recently relocated it to a new, urban-chic site, which includes not only a restaurant, bar and lounge with indoor and al fresco seating, but soon, an Italian Marketplace complete with a bakery, deli and coffee bar.

Trained in Milan, Italy, Chef Giancarlo works the kitchen while Antonio, with his infinite Italian charm, works the front of the house. For starters, you must have the Tortino di Riso—rice cakes, Parmesan cheese and mushrooms in truffle oil—to die for!

Going on to salad, my favorite is Mele E Noci—baby greens, roasted walnuts, apple and Gorgonzola tossed with champagne vinaigrette—heavenly!

The main event, new to the menu this month, Misto Pesce Griglia—fresh scampi, calamari, tuna, jumbo scallops and salmon simmered in lemon juice and olive oil and served with fresh seasonal vegetables—died and gone to heaven for!

And for the encore (I'm sure you’ve had this before, but not this good), Tiramisu—Chef Giancarlo’s family recipe—certain to assure Giancarlo sainthood!

Siena also features live entertainment in the bar and lounge Wed. and Sat. with Sinatra-style crooner Larry Liso. Siena Authentic Italian

Trattoria | Daily, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; half-price Happy Hour specials in the bar and lounge, daily, 3:30-7:30 p.m. | 9500 W. Sahara Ave. | 702-360-3358