Ayalo-Tapia Deliver Spectacular Fight

Johnny Tapia and Paulie Ayala battle for title.

Boxing fans have had their share of complaints with boxing promoters, judges and matchmakers. That is, until recently, when former 4-time World Boxing Champion Johnny Tapia (48-1-2, 25 KO's) attempted to regain the WBA Bantamweight title from Paulie Ayala (30-1, 12 KO's). The fight, held at the MGM Grand Garden October 7th, was attended by many Tapia fans, packed with an attendance of 6,681.

Ayala on the defensive.

This was one fight where both fighters battled each other for all 12 rounds. Johnny Tapia looked to be in his best form, throwing many power punches to Ayala's kidneys and midsection. Ayala, on the other hand, scored a lot of points against Tapia, but not necessarily with power. Tapia cleverly made Ayala miss many punches. According to Judge Chuck Giampa rounds 1, 2, 6, 7 and 12 were in favor of Tapia. His final score was 115 for Ayala to 113 for Tapia. Judge Keith Macdonald had Tapia losing rounds 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12 scoring 116 to 112 in favor of Ayala. Judge Jerry Roth had Tapia losing rounds 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10 and 11 with a final score of 115 to 113 in favor of Ayala resulting in a unanimous decision.\

      Tapia has fought an uphill battle starting out from the barrio to having a father who was murdered before he was born, and later his mother. Nevertheless, he won two National Golden Glove titles by the time he was 21 gathering an amateur record of 101-21 with 65 KO's. In 1988 he turned pro and 21 straight wins later, won the USBA Junior Bantamweight title. At that time he got addicted to cocaine and lost his chance at a world title when he tested positive three times in 1990 and 1991. So it was three years that Tapia was away from the ring and nearly died from drug overdoses.

      With the help of Teresa Chavez, however, Johnny was able to kick the habit and return to boxing in 1994, capturing the NABF title after winning five straight wins. His 3rd round TKO over Oscar Aguilar paved the way for a shot at his first world title. Three months later in his hometown of Albuquerque, Tapia became the WBO Junior Bantamweight champion after an 11th round TKO over Henry Martinez. During the three years he defended his title, Tapia also added the IBF Junior Bantamweight title to his collection when he fought against hometown rival Danny Romero in 1997. Then both belts were given up in 1998 when he moved up in weight by fighting for and winning the WBA Bantamweight title against Nana Konuda. He held that title until 2000 when he went up against Paulie Ayala.

This was considered by many to be the fight of the year. For 12 solid rounds both fighters slogged it out with Tapia receiving a few bruises to his face. The decision went to Paulie Ayala taking the WBA Bantamweight title. That was a tough fight for Johnny because the day of the fight he found out the identity of the man who murdered his mother many years ago. That man has since died in a traffic accident in 1983. Regardless of his hardships, Johnny Tapia has turned out to be a real champion in life as well as the ring. Teresa Chavez, now his wife and manager, had a lot to do with that as well as their faith in God.

      Yes, promoters say Johnny and Teresa are difficult to work with. Both understand the politics and lifespan of a boxer. Johnny has perhaps two more years before he retires. In January of this year, after taking off for 6 months, Tapia scored a 12 round decision over the defending titleholder Jorge Eliecer Julio. He took home his fourth world title, the WBO Bantamweight title. Then, in May of this year, Johnny defended his title against Javier Torres. Tapia then gave up the title and moved up in weight after a bout with depression and an incident with a guy who had a gun. That's basically what happened. Now, even though his loss to Paulie Ayala is a big disappointment, Tapia plans to fight Ayala once again, proving to himself that he is the better fighter. According to the fans and TV talent boxing-analyst, Bobby Czyz, Tapia won the fight.

Promoter Bob Arum with Johnny Ayala after winning against Tapia

Eric Morel and Alberto Ontiveros duke it out.

Other fights in the card that night included Eric Morel (27-0, 16 KO's) winning a 12 round unanimous decision over Alberto Ontiveros (12-3-3, 10 KO's). Morel is the WBA Flyweight Champion. Danny Romero (39-3-1, 33 KO's) stopped Jorge Reyes (21-14-2, 17 KO's) in the second round of a 10 rounder. Arturo Morales (1-0, 0 KO's) TKOed Ruben Coronado (3-3, 0 KO's) in 132 of round 2 and Jose Celaya (4-0, 2 KO's) took out John Trigg (4-7-4, 2 KO's) in a decision.

Hawaiian Tropics Pageant

 

Pete Allman and Robin Leach

Robin Leach is certainly enjoying life in Las Vegas, especially pageants such as the Miss Hawaiian Tropic International Pageant. Leach has no problem with self-esteem. When asked if he was enjoying living in Las Vegas, he stated "It's obvious I'm enjoying myself or I would not be here. Las Vegas is grand and I have homes all over the world."

Jennifer Garies, a former contestant in Miss Hawaiian Tropics, who successfully escalated her modeling career into acting, said picking Miss Congeniality is hard to do when you don't know the contestants,"I was never able to get to know each one individually."

Garies was a contract player for three years on The Young and the Restless. She played Grace, an evil woman, Jennifer says that everybody loved to hate. "I've been working on the transition into movies which is a very difficult one." It looks as though hard work has paid off for the young actress. She is featured in Arnold Schwartzenegger's 6th Day and in Lucky Town with James Caar. As for her personal life, "I go out with someone because I enjoy their company, not because of what they can do for me or what I can do for them," states Garies.

The top four girls who won this year's nationals were Crystal Wagner, from Las Vegas, Kathy Pompony of Atlantic City, Lori Stuart from Oklahoma City, and Jennifer Carles.

Pete Allman with the Top 4 Contestants.

Some of the celebrities who attended this years event held at the Tropicana Hotel were Dennis Haskins from Saved by the Bell and Mario Lopez of Pacific Blue, Tom Halleck formerly of The Young and the Restless, Jay Berstein and Bill Mark, Rick Fox of the L.A. Lakers and Carl Malone.

Dennis Haskins picks his favorite.

Ron Rice, the founder of The Miss Hawaiian Tropic's Pageant, spoke of his paranormal experience on BuckTV.com with Buck Hunter and myself. According to Ron, his Grandmother on his Mother's side was most important to him throughout his youth and adult life. Ron had taken care of her when she broke her leg. In any event, she passed away at the age of 85. "One night, about 1½ months ago when I was in Florida, she came to me in my sleep," he said. "I could see her clearly, but there was no dialog," states Ron.

Also on the show, Ron's daughter, Princess Sterling, who is quite talented, spoke about her step dad, John Hughes, who was killed from sleeping pills after having a glass of champagne. One night, when Sterling was sleeping he visited her. "He came to me and gave me a kiss," she states. "Then, one night when my mom was walking down the hall of her home she saw Dad and he hugged her thanking her for taking care of all the details. Then he walked down the hall and vanished."

Pete and Jennifer Carles.

 Traci Taylor, of Chicago, had a similar experience while Shiloh McCormick, of College Park, Maryland experienced something different. Shiloh had removed mud from the wall of her closet only to find it back in her closet after removing it. Dawn Angus, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin had similar experiences. If you have had some unusual experiences and would like to share them, call BuckTV.com at (702) 597-0670 and leave your name and a phone where you can be reached. Someone will call you back to arrange your appearance on Just Beyond Imagination.

Bruce Willis displayed another side of his personality at The Foundation Room at the House of Blues recently. He had some fun grabbing some girl's butt. Oh, well, Bruce had quite a few drinks and got carried away. A friend said he was blowing off steam because of his divorce.

Dennis Rodman, bless his soul, he sometimes just can't control himself. The truth of the matter is that Rodman loves attention. That's why he dresses up in all sorts of outfits. "He's flamboyant," stated Monte Rock III, one of the local celebrities here in Las Vegas.

There are common threads, which link artists, entertainers, songwriters, and actors

Mia St. John, the beautiful brunette boxer with a record of 10 wins and no losses,girlboxer.jpg (10563 bytes) including six knockouts did not start with a career in boxing. At age 6, she started marshal arts, and her amateur career in Tae Kwon Do as a black belt was 27-1. At 31, Mia has achieved much of her success with the help of Bob Arum, President of Top Rank.

St. John, formerly married to Kristoff St. John of The Young and The Restless, spoke about her marriage. "When I first met Kristoff, I was able to better understand how to break into television. I was struggling as an actress. I was envious of him, but now that I think about it, I am a personality in the media's eyes. I am very fortunate to be in the field that I am in now. Kristoff and my two children, Julian and Paris, get along well. We have a wonderful communication. He's my best friend." Mia is currently negotiating for the centerfold and front page of Playboy Magazine. On May 8th, Mia will be fighting at The Las Vegas Hilton. Included on the fight card is 'El Tigre' Garza, who will fight Jorge Paez, and Erik Morales defending his World Boxing Council Super Bantam-Weight title against Wayne McCullough.

Tomi Rae, America's new singer sensation was discovered by James Brown. As Brown's opening act, Rae is currently touring in Europe. She recently appeared at the 18th Annual Music Industry Celebration at the Wyndham Belage Hotel in West Hollywood.fabrice.jpg (11519 bytes) This year's event, sponsored by Anheuser Busch Companies was well attended. April Sutton, best known for her Hollywood reports on Geraldo Rivera, hosted the show. Sutton introduced the honorees, including Fabrice Morvan. Morvan was part of Milli Vanilli, which is still known on four continents today. After five years of seclusion, Morvan has appeared in VH1's top rated documentary explaining his struggles with quick fame. Today he is the voice on KIISFM from 12:00 - 1:00 PM. His new CD, "Love Revolution" is planned for release this year.

There are common threads, which link artists, entertainers, songwriters, and actors. Recently, Bill Pinckney of the original Drifters was honored with the Pioneer Award at the Rhythm and Blues Foundation Awards. Other honorees included Johnny Adams (posthumously), Joe Simon, Charlie Thomas, Brenda Holloway, Barbara Lewis, Mikey Baker, Garnet Mimms, Johnny Moore (posthumously), Barbara Lynn, and Dee Dee Warwick. "Every time you and I meet up, it's nothing but a good time," stated Bill Pinckney. Pinckney reminisced about his friendship with James Brown and how he influenced music. "James Brown and I go way back. He was smiley.jpg (14010 bytes)a little kid when we got started. We played in Georgia in the early 50s with a young man by the name of Clint Brandy. When James Brown got through lumping off the piano and hitting the floor , it was a night to remember." Pinckney is the only surviving member of the original Drifters. He is going to keep singing he says, because there is a message to give and it is God's will.

Tito Puente, referred to as a legend in Latin Music is receiving more recognition around the world. Celebrating 50 years as a bandleader, having recorded 17 albums, and receiving 5 Grammies with 11 nominations, Tito says Las Vegas hasn't really opened its doors for him. "Las Vegas hasn't meant anything to us. it hasn't enhanced my career. None of the major hotels have booked us."

Mike Horn, President of Cable Radio Network (CRN), said talk radio on cablemikeHorn.jpg (10127 bytes) television is fast becoming the way of the future. CRN reaches 13 million households, with 3 1\2 million in Los Angeles. You may reach CRN on the Internet by logging on to www.cableradionetwork.com, or call 1-800-336-2225 toll free to ask your question. If you want to talk to Pete Allman, call between 11:00 PM and midnight, Monday - Friday.

There's something wonderful about the people who make Pasta Palace a wonderfulchefs.jpg (14490 bytes) place to dine.

Just to give you an idea of the tantalizing cuisine, tempt your tastebuds with these two dishes; Lobster Fra Diavolo with Lobster sauteed in tomatoes, garlic, red chilies and brandy, served on a bed of Linguini, and homemade Spinach and Cheese Raviolis. These succulent dishes are topped with Sage Bullu and made fresh daily at the restaurant. Congratulations go to the executive Chef Daniel Pfeiffer, and Pasta Palace Chef Daniel Dolce. A special thanks goes to the very charming Jakie La Monte, the Pasta Palace Manager.

Joe Williams was one of the great jazz vocalists of our time and will be missed. There's a sad song in all of us who knew the wonderful person that was Joe Williams. A true humanitarian who made many people happy. His soul will always carry a song wherever it goes.

"Throughout his career, Jack Gibson was responsible for recruiting groups for Motown Records..."

JACK GIBSON, known as Jack the Rapper, who is responsible for discovering such talents as Little Richard, James Brown, and a host of others, is fighting cancer. Gibson, who was the first black to go on air on WERD (the first black owned station in Atlanta), has been known for his style of talk. Jack would take new talent and play their records. Throughout his career, Jack Gibson was responsible for recruiting groups for Motown Records. He then escalated his recruiting by starting rap conventions that brought in rap artists and talent of all kinds. That’s where Jack the Rapper got his biggest notoriety. Nevertheless, we wish Jack Gibson the very best in his bout with cancer.

Left to Right: Jack Gibson, Vonnie Hilton Sweeney (standing) and Elsie Gibson.

EVEL KNIEVEL is hosting a national daredevil show on the UPN network entitled, "I Dare You, the Ultimate Challenge". Although things are looking respectfully better for Evel, the man who got one of the highest ratings on ABC Wide World of Sports when he jumped Caesars Palace, he has to endure a lot of pain. Evel has Hepatitis C, one of the most deadly diseases of today. He has to inject himself in the stomach with 9,000 units of interferon each week.

Las Vegas"It’s like having the worse case of flu, buckling your legs. You get headaches and nausea that sometimes is unbearable." According to Evel, every-one should get a checkup for Hepatitis C, as failing to do so could cost them their lives within five years, if not detected early. There is no cure for Hepatitis C as of this date; however, interferon puts this disease in remission.

STERLING MC PHERSON, perhaps the most charismatic manager in boxing, may very well be the next promoter of boxing events in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Sterling recently took a step forward in matrimony to Tracy Story. Michael Dokes, Francois Botha, Lenny Williams and many boxing trainers and referees attended his wedding held at Mountain Top. The reception at the Four Seasons Hotel was a remarkable evening, especially listening to Lenny Williams.

Las Vegas Cedric Cushner, HBO Main Events, and Murad Muhammad teamed up to put on an excellent fight promotion together at the Hard Rock. Welterweight Sugar Shane Mosley (33-0, 31 KOs), proved he is a champion early in the fight by knocking out the ex-IBF Lightweight Willy Wise (24-6-4, 7 KOs). The semi-main event was with Vernon Forest (30-0, 25 KOs), the NABF Welterweight champion and Vince Philips (40-4, 29 KOs), the former IBF Junior Welterweight champion. Philips lost to Forest in a decision.

Las Vegas "It doesn’t bother me how many promoters are involved in bringing a fight to Las Vegas, just as long as we can work together and promote boxing in a positive light," stated Cushner.

Las Vegas Other fighters who were present at the press conference last month were former WBC Featherweight champion Kevin Kelley, undefeated Heavyweight Charles Sheppard, Heavyweights Robert Davis and Talmadge Griffs, undefeated Featherweight Arauhie Archuleta, and Junior Middleweight contender Pat Coleman.

Las Vegas Congratulations NABA Super Featherweight Ernesto "Baby" Zepeda for knocking out Ernest Koffi (33-8, 32 KOs) in the fifth round. Club fights, which are held at The Orleans and promoted by Momentum Enterprises, have sold out audiences.

PAULIE AYALA (29-1, 12 KOs), voted fighter of the year by Ring Magazine, is proud of his win last year against Johnny Tapia. The WBA Bantemweight champion is looking forward to a tough fight with the European champion, Johnny Bredahl (45-1, 23 KOs) on March 4 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. On the same card, Butterbean will spice things up a bit and Nestor Garza (37-1, 29 KOs), the WBA Super Bantamweight champion, will defend his title against Danny Romero (36-3-1, 31 KOs).

OSCAR DE LA HOYA has gone ahead with his acting career, as well as singing. Reports have it that De La Hoya laid off for the month of December and is now in training in Big Bear, where he also has a home and private gym.

Las VegasDe La Hoya will fight Daryl Colby on February 26 in Madison Square Garden. In the meantime, should Oscar win this fight, and most everyone agrees he will, Felix Trinidad has been offered $20 million for a rematch with De La Hoya at Mandalay Bay.

CHUCK HOUSE, who appeared on the Las VegaN Report airing on Mondays at 1 AM on Warner Brothers 21 (12 on Cox Cable), is one of the top trainers in the boxing arena. House has worked with Kenny Adams and has young fighters in training at Nevada Partners, a Las Vegas gym managed by referee Richard Steel.

Las Vegas"There is no vacation for fighters," says House. "Fighters should train year-round. Dedication is the name of the game along with talent," concludes House.

VINCE PHILIPS, the former IBF Junior Welterweight champion, Freddie Norwood, the two-time WBA Featherweight champion and Chico Carrales, the IBF Junior Lightweight champion, along with NBA Lightweight champion Lonnie Smith, are some of the champions Kenny Adams has trained, assisted by Chuck House.

Vernon Forest and Vince Philips.

Shane Mosley and Peter Allman.

Ernesto Zepeda defends title against Ernest Koffi.

People Magazine voted Bob Anderson, "the best singing impressionist in America." Anderson, who travels throughout Europe, appears at the Starlight mini-showroom at The Desert Inn quite often. Anderson has appeared on many television shows and has received the greatest reviews from fellow entertainers such as Tony Bennett, Wayne Newton and Merv Griffin. He envisions Las Vegas returning to the star policy, especially with some of the lounge showrooms.

Las VegasRemember a song entitled Blue Jean Baby, which was the number one hit in the nation in 1957? Norman Kaye, who was known as Little Norman, wrote that song. Norman Kaye also wrote Drag Strip Baby, which was number three on the Billboard charts in 1958. A long-time resident of Las Vegas, Kaye and his sister, Mary Kaye of the Mary Kaye Trio, were inducted into the Legends Hall of Fame last year at the Tropicana. It looks as though Norman will return to singing when he participates in one of the largest rock ‘n roll concerts ever to be produced in Las Vegas.

Las VegasShelly Riggs, who has been promoting autograph signing with the likes of Sue Thompson, will brings the artists together for one big concert this year. You may remember some of Sue Thompson’s gold records such as Sad Movies, Norman, James Hold the Ladder Steady and Paper Tiger.

So, if you enjoy those oldies but goodies, keep your eyes and ears alert.

Life is Beautiful with The McGuire Sisters Enriching Lives

One can easily understand how the McGuire Sisters became so successful...

By Peter Allman

Life is beautiful for the McGuire Sisters as they continue to enrich people’s lives. Their new CD entitled ‘Anthology’ has 50 great classics, some of which were associated with motion pictures. ‘Something’s Gotta Give,’ a song from Fred Astaire’s musical ‘Daddy Long Legs,’ was number 5.

Both Astaire and songwriter Johnny Mercer were in the studio when the McGuire Sisters recorded this song. ‘Moonglow,’ the theme for the movie ‘Picnic,’ became number 13 on the charts, and ‘Delilah Jones’ became number 37. This song was based on the main title theme of the Frank Sinatra film, ‘The Man With the Golden Arm.’

Sitting with Phyllis McGuire in her home, one could easily reminisce about her career. In 1957, in particular, Phyllis, Christine and Dorothy discovered their most distinctive signature song ‘Sugartime.’ Producer Bob Thiele found this tune while in New Mexico working with Buddy Holly and the Cricketts. ‘Sugartime’ turned gold and had the word "sugar" sung 28 times in the 2-½ minute song. This novelty song remains popular even today.

One can easily understand how the McGuire Sisters became successful when you become familiar with their family teachings. They were brought up with strong family values in their hometown, Middleton, Ohio. Asa, their father, was a steelworker who enjoyed playing guitar. He would occasionally lead his daughters in sing-a-longs of the popular tunes of the day. Lillie McGuire, their mother, was an ordained minister who served as Pastor of the First Church of God in nearby Miamisburg. She had little use for secular music. The McGuire Sisters had a strong foundation in Evangelical singing.

With the new millennium approaching, many individuals are looking for positive changes. Phyllis McGuire answers by saying, "The turning of the century and the new millennium is going to be a bright light, in a new upbeat direction for all of us. I really believe that."

When walking around her home, there are pictures of memorable moments with such stars as Jack Benny, Steve Allen and George Burns, which bring only good times to think about. "It was not in our imagination that we would ever go to New York," Phyllis recalls. That’s where the McGuire Sisters began a long-time relationship with Arthur Godfrey.

"We didn’t even plan to be in show business," says Phyllis. "The fact that this happened so quickly, meeting all the stars, Jack Benny, Bob Hope, George Burns, Perry Como, and all these people that you were suddenly working with, that you didn’t even think at one point you would ever meet, is remarkable. This teaches me to never stop dreaming. Always have a dream. Always know that it can happen."

One of the recent highlights the McGuire Sisters will cherish is their performance at the Rylander Performing Arts Theater for Jimmy Carter’s 75th birthday. "It was just an unbelievable spiritual experience. I will never forget it," states Phyllis McGuire.

Las Vegas has been Phyllis’ home since 1964. Ms. McGuire is somewhat of an ambassador for Las Vegas. "We have a great community in Las Vegas. A fabulous Philharmonic and the Nevada Dance Ballet Theater group. We have wonderful theaters. There are more churches here, probably more per capita than any city in the United States. We’re 25 miles from Mt. Charleston, and in the other direction, we have Lake Mead. Our weather is beautiful year-round," she states.

So Las Vegas is not only a great community for everyone, but it has "a certain energy" as Phyllis puts it, that is unlike any city in the country. "I compare it many times with the energy that I felt with New York in the 60s. There’s a certain energy that is invigorating, and it never lets up."

In closing there are two interesting factors to consider. One is the balance we can achieve in our lives, and the other is Phyllis’ thought on mental attitude.

"I have reached a point in my life right now where I have an inner peace that I haven’t had in my whole life because I’ve been working a lot on going from within and thinking of light and what my thoughts are. Canceling negative thoughts. That brings me to these thoughts. We should be into abundance and not struggle. I think we manifest what we say. If we sit around and say, I’ve been struggling for so long and I just don’t know what’s going to happen next, that’s a negative. You’ll manifest that. So think abundance, joy, be up, think success, and happiness. That everything is good. That will change your position in life."

The McGuire Sisters are performing at the Orleans Hotel and Casino, January 6-9.

Celebrating 50 years in show business The McGuire Sisters will appear at The Orleans this month.

"It took dedication and perseverance to reach the plateau she has now reached..."

 Las Vegan Corinna Jones, 1992 Playboy Playmate of the Year, is almost finished with her new film, "The Road Home." Corinna co-wrote the script with Drew Johnson and both agree this is a coming of age love story.

"It’s about real people in Las Vegas outside of the glitz and glamour," states the gentle heartthrob of America. John Saxon, Mirisol Nichols, John Phil-bin and Cory Paige star in "The Road Home" with Corinna Jones.

The talented actress, who hosted a segment of Lounges of Las Vegas in the Las VegaN Report, said it took dedication and perseverance to reach the plateau she has now reached. "When you first start out in this business, you learn very quickly to separate fact from fiction. There were a lot of things besides the money I made. I learned a lot about myself, travel etiquette, public relations, and I learned to be outgoing."

Corinna Jones, however, didn’t know that as an ambassador for Playboy that she would some-times end up counseling businessmen. "I felt as if I was, in a sense, a counselor in some cases. More often, I was an ambassador of the Playboy Club. Overall, I want to thank Hugh Hefner for being the wonderful human being that he is. He is kind and very understanding."

Legends Hall of Fame

Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over one million records. His induction into the Legends Hall of Fame, and his introduction by Robert Goulet and Steve Rossi at the Tropicana was another mark of Las Vegas history. Although Enge, as his friends call him, had to cancel his concert at the Monte Carlo, you can expect a return engagement.

Humperdinck isn’t a loud, aggressive individual. He’s quiet, enjoys golf and the coastline in Mexico. He does, however, enjoy creating. "At night, before I go to sleep, I take my ideas and put them on tape. Then, when I awaken, I can write the song," states the legendary vocalist.

Frank Marino, who impersonates Joan Rivers in An Evening At La Cage at the Riviera, was also inducted into the Legends Hall of Fame, along with the late Juliet Prowse and Paul Endy.

Soapstarworld.com

Kristoff St. John, who does an excellent job with his character Neal on The Young and The Restless, is taking full advantage of the number one rated show on television. He’s in the planning stages of producing a talk show on soaps behind the scenes. In the meantime, the talented actor guest stars on vari-ous sitcoms. You can reach him on his web site at www.soapstarworld.com. Kristoff, who participated in the Hollywood Christmas Parade, said this is the time of the year when everyone should be in the spirit of giving. When asked what was one of his ultimate goals, he commented, "Producing. I love producing and directing. Calling the shots. It gives you a full feeling of accomplishment."

Unfinished Business

The Unfinished Business, as it was named last month, on November 13 between Evander Holy-field and Lennox Lewis, was just that, as Holyfield put it. Holyfield (36-4-1) took his loss to Lennox Lewis with ease. "Of course, I’m surprised," he said. "We’re all surprised by the decisions man makes, but I wasn’t judging. I was fighting, and that’s all I can do," said the former World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation champion.

"I definitely wanted to win," said Lewis, who already had the World Boxing Council belt and was a 2-1 betting favorite. "I didn’t want to disappoint all my fans and not bring all the belts home to England. This is my goal, this is my dream." Although this is the first time in 100 years that a British fighter has held the unified title of this century, British fans weren’t all in agreement with Lewis winning the decision.

"Lewis was a bit lazy compared to his last fight with Holyfield," said one boxing executive. What, then, really happened? Could Lennox Lewis have been scared at Holyfield’s quickness? There were no doubts as to Holyfield’s aggressiveness and his scoring on the inside of Lewis. Apar

All of us can work on making this world a better place to live...

Rapport Leadership International is a weekend leadership seminar retreat that corporations have executives attend, and is without question the most incredible seminar I have ever experienced. Located in Alamo and Lake Tahoe, Nevada, the retreat has graduated over 400,000 individuals. I highly recommend attending this seminar. Each of us has compassion, understanding, empowerment within ourselves, and the creativity to achieve our goals. We can do this as a team in the workplace, as well as in our home life. It’s all about giving that extra 110 percent, and taking the risk in order to grow as human beings. If we allow ourselves to just get by, we fail to grow spiritually, as well as in our business and as individuals. Rediscover yourself! Find out how you can make a difference!

Miss Hawaiian Tropic

Each year, Hawaiian Tropic International presents their Annual Miss Hawaiian Tropic United States Pageant Finals. Four contestants were selected as finalists to represent the United States at this year’s pageant, held at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino. Michell Damn representing San Diego, was the first contestant, while Amanda Henkel representing South Padre Island, Texas, was second. Suzanne Stokes represented Miami, Florida, and Angela Mason represented Houston, Texas, as the other finalists.

Over 100 ladies from across the United States competed in this year’s pageant, marking the 17th year that owner/founder Ron Rice hosted the event.

Celebrity judges in this year’s pageant were David Faustino (actor), Joey Fotone (member of N’ Sync), Ed Lauter (actor), and Gene Simmons (member of KISS). In addition, Robin Leach, track star Al Joyner, and actor Mario Lopez were on hand.

The "Vegas Connection"

Robert Carradine just finished filming "Vegas Connection" at Sunset Station Casino. Carradine stars as a young, "our man Flint" type character. Asked if Las Vegas would be the next Hollywood, he replied, "I think Las Vegas has the infrastructure to handle it. You certainly have hotel rooms. You don’t have the smog, and traffic isn’t a problem yet. Las Vegas is strategically 4-1/2 hours north of Los Angeles, and has relatively quick access to and from the airport (McCarran)."

Carradine and his wife have three children, a nine-year old daughter, six-year old son, and one adult child no longer at home. The two youngest children study martial arts, and as Robert puts it, "It allows them to focus, and gives them something to look forward to. It is an alignment of the body and mind." He further states, "Anything that you can do for your kids that gets them away from video games is good, be it bicycling, martial arts, or flying a kite."

As a musician, Carradine also wants to shed a little light in a chaotic world. Best known for "Revenge of the Nerds," "The Cowboys," "Long Riders," and "The Big Red One," Carradine is surrounded by a talented group of actors in "Vegas Connection." They include Ashley Brooks, Karen Armstrong, Ryan "Rhino" Michaels, Ed McMahon, Mame Van Doren, Barry Sigismondi, and Suzanne Laurentis.

Robert Carradine is selective about his films. As all of us can work on making this world a better place to live, Carradine simply puts it in these words. "I just try to be direct with people and tell them what I think. I try to curb my tongue if I feel one way. I carry myself honestly and forthrightly. So, go placidly with the noise and haste."

People In The News...

Las Vegan, Sam Schmidt, winner of the LasVegas.com 500, said it was a miracle in winning this year’s race. "There were a lot of close calls, but I managed to stay away from the wrecks. The track was real slick. My team did a heck of a job on the pit stops, and we worked our way back up."

Schmidt’s first win at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway wasn’t as easy as other tracks around the country. The change in the wind direction and the glare of the sun for cars coming out of turn four, made it extremely difficult for drivers. "The team kept tweaking on the car and kept making it better on every pit stop. That’s what helped us win this race."

Schmidt has received a lot of attention for his Elvis sideburns and dyed black hair. This marks the first of an Elvis-type sighting in a racecar. Of course, it’s all done in good taste for his dad who is a big Elvis fan.

Sam Schmidt - winner Vegas.com 500.

Pete Allman with Miss Hawaiian Tropic contestants and celebrity Judge Ed Lauter.

Jim Furyuk - winner PGA Tour Title.

Jim Furyk collected his fourth PGA Tour title on October 17 at the Las Vegas Invitational. Furyk is the first player to successfully defend his title since David Duval won the 1997 and 1998 Michelob Championship at Kingsmill. With the exception of Saturday, where winds got up to 40 mph, Furyk was proud of his achievements.

On a broadcast with Celebrity Scene News on Cable Radio Network, Furyk commented on the high winds at TPC. "Because of the style of this course, there aren’t many greens where you can hit a low running shot, bounce upon a green. There’s either water, a bunker or elevated green. There’s too many variables that don’t allow you to do that," stated Furyk who was exhausted at Saturday’s game. "What also makes this course so hard is that you have to fly the ball and get it up in the air, which just allows the wind to maneuver your ball just a little more. You have to hit it that much harder."

Furyk spoke highly of Jonathan Kaye who placed second with a final round of 64. Kaye, from Arizona, as is Furyk, said he didn’t miss many putts but that even though he was at his best, it sometimes just isn’t good enough when someone else is on fire. Furyk won by one stroke, shooting a six under 66 Sunday and finishing at 29, under 33 for the Sunday event.

Today’s advancement of golf for both Kaye and Furyk hasn’t changed that much. They started with big irons and tailor-made woods. "I grew up with cast iron equipment and metal woods. Over the years, new equipment helped us hit longer. Many pros sometimes use forged irons, so as not to hit the ball as long in order to better control where it lands."

Titanium, a new alloy, has allowed golf manufacturing companies to make bigger heads with a bigger pop when hitting the ball with a graphite shaft, according to both pros. This also allows the player to have more speed in his execution and to hit the ball longer. Thirty years ago, players such as Ben Hogan didn’t have the consistency of the equipment as players do today. The courses were also manicured differently.

In closing, both Jim Furyk and Jonathan Kaye would like golf fans to know that players like Ben Hogan can’t be overlooked. "Players today aren’t necessarily better than the last generations," states Furyk.

George J. Maloof Jr., President of The Fiesta and one of today’s youngest casino executives, is excited about their new $26 million expansion. The expansion will be completed by November 30, when festivities begin at the new Spin City Casino, Garduno’s Margarita Factory, Blue Oyster & Chile Bar, and Roxy’s Pipe Organ Pizzeria.

Spin City will feature 500 new slots and video poker machines, all engineered for high hit frequency.

Garduno’s Margarita Factory will feature the world’s largest tequila collection with 1,000 vintage bottles of tequila and a margarita menu of over 300 selections.

Perhaps the most exciting part of this expansion is Roxy’s Pipe Organ Pizzeria, featuring the Roxy pipe organ built over 70 years ago for New York’s famed Roxy Theater. World-renowned pipe organists from all over the country will grace its historic keyboard. The two-story pipe organ, purchased by Phil Maloof approximately 20 years ago, is completely refurbished and valued at over $500,000. It features 29 rows of pipes and is powered by a 60 horsepower turbine engine with sounds of every musical accompaniment available.

It’s truly some very special fun for the entire family. Roxy’s will be serving Pizzeria Regina, Boston Brick Oven Pizza - also a first for Las Vegas. LVN