During this year the Hollywood Theatre showcased Four Tops, Tom Jones, Kenny Loggins, Righteous Brothers, Smokey Robinson, Rita Rudner/Dennis Miller, and Randy Travis. The Grand Garden showcased Phil Collins, Discover Card Stars on Ice, Whitney Houston, Chavez v. Randall fight, Pro Bull Rider Championship, and the Rolling Stones.

In 1995, 1996, and 1997, Mobil Travel Guide named the MGM Grand as a four-star resort.

In March of 1995, Bally's/MGM Grand announced that the opening of their one mile $25 million monorail would be completed in June. In March they were putting the monorails on their tracks.

In mid June of 1995, the monorail was opened to the public. The coming out party for the monorail on behalf of Bally's consisted of showgirls and guys from Jubilee helping the groups to the monorail. Characters from the Wizard of Oz greeted the groups on the MGM side.

Click Here for more information on the monorail.

In August of 1995, it was reported that the monorail saw 20,000 people a day, give or take a few thousand since its opening in June.

In the end of 1995, Jay Leno brought The Tonight show to the resort. The show went live by satellite feed to the Flamingo where Wayne Kotter, performing at the Improv at Harrah's was acting as a Tonight Show correspondent. Stationed behind a blackjack table, it was Kotter's duty to pick an onlooker from the crowd to play the game, which entailed both Kotter and the player each cutting a deck of cards. If the card the player cut was higher than the one Kotter cut, the player received a Tonight Show t-shirt. If it was lower, the guy loses his shirt to The Tonight Show. During their stay at the MGM Leno interviewed Mel Gibsoon, James Bond girl Famke Jensse, Penn & Teller, Robin Williams, and Circus Circus' Gregory Popvich and show girls from Tropicana's Folies Bergere performed on the show as well.

"They're building a new casino in Las Vegas called New York New York. It's very realistic - there's no parking. You have to park at another casino - New Jersey New Jersey, and take a cab over.

Every hotel in Las Vegas has its own theme, but there's one theme that has been overlooked. It's an old-time theme. - At Johnny Stunade's Mob World, you'll have a great time . . . or else. And why shouldn't you? Where else would you be met by Stunade's associates with a limo from which you arrive at the hotel in the trunk with a hood over your head, or find horse-head pillows in each bed, or find parking attendants paid to start your car . . . as it blows up. See, that's why you tip afterwards. " - Jay Leno, The Tonight Show at MGM Grand

In 1995, MGM Garden showcased 1995 Tour of World Figure Skating Champions, Andre Agassi v. Michael Chang, Agassi's Grand Slam for Children, Mary J. Blige, Boyz II Men, Campbell Soup's 1995 Tour of World Figure Skating Champions, Elton John, Montell Jorden, Reba McEntire/Rhett Akins/Tracy Byrd, Jimmy Page/Robert Plant, Pro Bull Riders World Championship, Diana Ross, TLC, The Unledded Tour, and WBO Heavyweight Championship Fight.

The Hollywood Theatre showcased Sheena Easton, The Four Tops, Amy Grant/Gary Chapmn, Tom Jones, Gladys Knight, The Righteous Brothers, Rita Rudner/Dennis Miller, and Randy Travis.

The Grand Theatre showcased EFX! starring Michael Crawford.

Santa Fe Lounge showcased Bobby Dickerson. The Center Stage Lounge showcased Catch a Rising Star.

In 1996, Eager fans mobbed impersonator Chris Woods who stars in Riviera's An Evening At La Cage. Woods decided to create some mischief after Diana Ross' concert when he decided to test the crowd by appearing in costume as Ross. The experiment proved too successful when autograph hounds forced him to seek refuse in a nearby restaurant.

In 1996, MGM became an actress when she appeared in The Great White Hype.

In early to mid 1996, there was some grumbling surrounding EFX star Michael Crawford. Apparently Crawford who starred in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of the Opera did not cross enough demographic lines to make him a big draw at EFX and they were looking to end his $6 million contract earlier which was up in 1997.

In mid-1996, MGM announced a $45 million face-lift to the three year old resort. The first item on the list was the yellow lion.

"I thought of it as a sort of paper mache lion that had probably been upt up quickly as a substitute for the real thing which must have been damaged in some terrible accident" - Terry Lani, MGM Chairman

The current Emerald City attraction inside the lion entrance was to be "blown up" to make way for images and entertainment options with more widespread appeal.

In October of 1996, it was reported that Michael Crawford left EFX because of a hip injury and doctors' ordered him to avoid the strenous physical activity his presence in the show required.

In November of 1996, David Cassidy took Michael Crawford's place in EFX. The part was again offered to Rick Springfield but Springfield stated the timing wasn't right.

The new script for the show was written in collaboration with Cassidy's half-brother, Shaun Cassidy, and David Chisholm.

Andre Agassi held his Grand Slam for Children at MGM's Grand Garden raising $2.2 million. Celebrities in attendance or performed included Steve and Elaine Wynn, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Shriver, Agassi's wife Brooke Shields, Robert Earl, Bruce Willis, Demi Moore, David Foster, Elton John, Seal, Vanessa Williams, The Boys Choir of Harlem, Babyface, Faith Hill, and Tim McGraw.

During this year, Grand Theatre showcased EFX! starring Michael Crawford then David Cassidy, Tom Jones, and Gladys Knight. Emerald City showcased The Wizard's Secret Magic Show. Center Stage Lounge showcased Catch a Rising Star. The Grand Garden Arena showcased Bud Light Cup PBR Finals, Jimmy Buffett, Ellen Degeneres, Neil Diamond, Gloria Estefan, Holiday Pops, KISS, Rod Stewart, Sting, Styx/Kansas, Western Athletic Conference Valleyball Tournament, and World Championship Wrestling's Halloween Havoc, as well as the Mike Tyson v. Evander Holyfield, Seldon v. Tyson, and Tyson v. Bruno fights.

Hollywood Theatre showcased Four Tops, Tom Jones, Wayne Newton Oak Ridge Boys, Don Rickles, and Righteous Brothers. Center Stage Lounge showcased Catch a Rising Star starring Norma Zager.

In the spring of 1997, a 56 year old Iowa man won $443,325 on a Nickels Deluxe machine at the resort. He had been playing the five-coin nickel machine for two or three hours when he lined up the right symbols.

In the latter part of 1997, Cassidy took time off from EFX! to work on his Old Dog New Trick CD. Brother Patrick Cassidy filled in for his older brother.

"When David first asked me to do this, I said, Wait a minute, I've seen that show. I've also seen what goes on backstage in that show. It sounded exciting and the show looked like a lot of fun." - Patrick Cassidy

Actress Elke Sommer had a successful one-woman show, her 39th, at MGM's Art of Entertainment Gallery, and the event was a sell-out. The most expensive was $6,000, and the least, which was $1,800. Incidently, in 1965, Sommer had signed a three-picture contract with MGM Studios which started her acting career in the U.S.

Also during this year Phyllis Diller had her one-woman showing at the resort. Her paintings were ranged from $150 to $1,400. Diller's daughter Stephanie was at the gallery as well, helping Diller out and giving out information on her mother's work. This was the 10th showing of her artwork which was described as spontaneous, whimsical, eclectic and defined only as "Phyllis".

In May of 1997, Van Johnson brought his artwork to the gallery at the resort. I've been unable to find out any information on this showing.

During this year the Grand Garden Arena showcased Bronco Farewell Tour, Carrot Top, Sharon Cuneta, Rodney Dangerfield, Discover Stars On Ice, Lord of the Dance starring Michael Flatley, Mike Tyson v. Evander Holyfield rematch fight with tickets priced at $200 to $1,500, Phil Collins, Bette Midler, NFL Pre-season Hockey, Righteous Brothers, and Tina Turner (people were amazed that tickets were going as high as $65 each for this show).

"I'm a cross between Danny Partridge and Chelsea Clinton. I'm a free spirit! I'm getting to have lunch with the governor today, which is kind of strange, isn't it? When the governor calls and says do you want to have lunch, you think it's going to be your last." - Carrot Top

Hollywood Theatre showcased Rodney Dangerfield, Four Tops, Jay Leno, Wayne Newton, Tom Jones, and Righteous Brothers.

Righteous Brothers celebrated their 35th anniversary in show business during this year. Soap star Deidre Hall showed up to see them more than once during their tenure.

Center Stage Lounge showcased Catch A Rising Star. Flying Monkey Bar showcased Bobby Dickerson, Christy Bryant, and Chuy's Company. Sante Fe Lounge showcased entertainment nightly.

On February 15, 1998, the MGM opened its Studio 54 with a private performance by Elton John, drawing dozens of celebrities including disco diva Gloria Gaynor who christened the dance floor with her anthem, "I Will Survive." This event raised more than $1 million for the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Autograph seekers had a field day with Susan Anton, Tony Curtis, Jenny McCarthy, Luke Perry, Elisabeth Shue, and Robert Wagner appearing at the Studio to sign autographs.

The 22,000 square foot nightclub features state-of-the-art sound, video and lighting, as well as DJs playing dance music including hits from the disco era. The three story studio includes three dance floors and four bars, an exclusive private area for invited guests and several semi-private lounges. Each dance floor features its own lighting and sound system and decor that recalls the "behind the scenes" look of sound studios.

The resort also contains the Entertainment Dome with high energy bands that perform daily.

In April of 1998, the MGM opened its $100 million, 380,000 square foot state-of-the-art Conference Center showcasing its tri-level facility with indoor and outdoor meeting space. This area includes two giant ballrooms and nearly 50,000 square feet of pre-function space with views of the Grand Pool & Spa complex. The Center features up to 60 meeting rooms for 20 to 6,000 people, as well as two separate loading docks for easy and accessible move-in.

The total meeting space, including the existing ballroom in the hotel and in the Conference Center is 275,000 net square feet. They include a 51,388 square foot Grand Ballroom located on the first floor, a 49,234 square foot column free Premier Ballroom located on the third floor, six 5,159 square foot Vista Rooms, a full service business center, flexible meeting room and breakout space providing up to 42 individual room, two specially designed and dedicated board rooms, a utility connection for tradeshow exhibits and a structural design which allows automobile exhibition on both ballroom levels, and a full service kitchen and food preparation facility to serve up to 8,000 people.

In early 1998, MGM was awarded the four-star rating from the 1998 Mobil Travel Guide.

Also in April of 1998, 40 year old 21 year veteran of the gaming industry, William J. Hornbuckle joined the MGM Grand as the Executive Vice President of Operations. Prior to joining MGM, Hornbuckle was hired in October of 1996 by Caesars World, Inc., as President and Chief Operating Officer of Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino in Vegas. He transferred to Caesars Palace in April, 1997 as President and Chief Operating Officer, taking the helm of the resort's $625 million expansion/renovation and assuming responsibility for all operations of the resort. In 1996, he held the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Treasure Island, responsible for all resort operations and reporting to the President of the property. Hornbuckle held various executive positions with Mirage Resort properties, and was President and Chief Executive Officer of the Golden Nugget, Laughlin in 1992. Hornbuckle is active in supporting community and national charities and industry affiliations including the Board of Directors of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitor's Authority and United Way of Southern Nevada. He is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

In June of 1998, the MGM Grand hosted Thanks Frank Tribute for Frank Sinatra. The show was produced by Quincy Jones, who arranged and conducted the orchestras for some of Sinatra's most popular albums including It Might as Well Be Swing, featuring the single Fly Me To The Moon, and Sinatra at the Sands. Set against a decor of orange splashes (Frank's favorite color), the event honored a man who made an indelible impact on Las Vegas. The gala was directed by renowned choreographer Debbie Allen. Present at the tribute were Robert DeNiro, Stephanie Powers, Robert Stack, Gregory Peck, Carol Alt, Leslie Nielsen, Robert Goulet, Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, Wayne Newton, Vic Damone, Dina Merrill, Angie Dickinson, Smokey Robinson, Hal Linden, Joe Mantegna, Jack Lemmon, Natalie Cole, and Joey Heatherton.

There were huge pictures of Sinatra all around the room and each decorated table had a floral centerpiece with a large "Sinatra" in script inserted into them. Gregory Peck introduced Barbara Sinatra, who began the evening with a moving speech, saying that Sinatra was "up there" while raising her glass in a toast.

The event featured performances by Wayne Newton, James Ingram & Patti Austin, Danny Gans, Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, Vic Damone, Diane Schurr, and Paul Anka, as well as others. There wasn't a dry eye in the house when Anka debuted the duet with Frank on My Way.

In 1998, Grand Theatre showcased EFX! starring David Cassidy. Hollywood Theatre showcased Carrot Top, Rodney Dangerfield, Engelbert Humperdinck, Tom Jones, Gladys Knight, The Four Tops, Barry Manilow, and Wayne Newton. The Grand Garden showcased Eric Clapton, Michael Crawford, Enrique Iglesias, Stevie Nicks & Boz Scaggs, and the Rolling Stones.

When Manilow appeared, he cracked the audience with "Here I am, on the same stage that Barbra Streisand sweated upon. I guess they only book singers with big noses here!"

During this year David Cassidy was named Best All-Around Entertainer of the Year in the Las Vegas Review-Journal's Annual Readers' Poll while EFX took the honors of Best Production Show.

"My father said one thing that I never will forget and that is, that talent will survive. They may laugh at you, they may reject you, but, ultimately, if you have enough talent and you stick around long enough, your number will come up again. Fortunately for me it has." - David Cassidy

In the audience of Tom Jones' shows included Jerry Lewis, James Brown, Neil Diamond, and Phil Everly.

In the audience of one of Engelbert Humperkinck's show were Wayne Newton's wife Kathleen, and her sister Tricia and mother. Newton was home recuperating from knee replacement surgery.

In 1999, MGM gave me the following information:

The MGM Grand sits on approximately 114 acres.

MGM wanted rooms that would satisfy everyone's tastes and budget. To that end they created eight different types of rooms:

• Deluxe Rooms - Grand Tower - At 446 square feet, these rooms are larger than the average Vegas room. Each room is accessorized with a custom black-and-white marble bathroom, luxurious cotton towels, spacious closets, a remote control TV, and an alarm clock.
• Players Suites - At 675 square feet, these suites contain an over-sized bedroom connected to an extended living area. Its features include a conversational area with a plush couch, chair and coffee table. They have either two queen size beds or one king, and include a separate tub and shower with a double sink vanity.
• Spa Suites - At 694 square feet, these suites include a whirlpool and separate shower in the double sink vanity bathroom. The bedroom is oversized with a king bed and extended sitting area separated by a dresser and a wet bar. It also has mirrored closets and a dining table which sits four.
• Vista Suites - At 775 square feet, these suites include an oversized bedroom and a separate living room connected by two entrances to a centralized bathroom with a separate bath and shower. The suite has a king size bed, separate couch and sitting area, a wet bar, two TVs and a dining area which seats four.
• Lobby Suites - At 950 square feet, these one bedroom suites offer an "L" shaped floor plan with adjacent bedroom and living room. There is a mirrored bar and snack area with a refrigerator, oversized chairs in the bathroom, separate make-up and sink vanity, and an individual oversized whirlpool tub and shower facility. It also has a dining area which seats four, a TV armoire in the living room, and another TV in the bedroom.
• Glamour Suites - At 1,270 square feet, these suites include a wet bar, separate dining facility which seats four, a living room area with a full sofa and two plush chairs, bar stools, a dining server table, and a TV armoire. There is also a one-half bathroom attached to the living area for guests. A separate large bedroom featuring a carved sleigh bed and a tucked-away make-up vanity made from emerald marble lead into a giant bath and walk-in closet. Each suite comes with a whirlpool tub and a separate shower facility with double sinks accented in crystal handles.
• Patio Suites -The Strip side tower is geometrically staggered to offer 14 elaborate, 1,300 square foot, two story vaulted ceiling Patio Suites. Each suite has a 786 square foot outdoor patio area with a private bar tucked away on a platform. A large separate living and dining area for four include a big screen TV and an office with two desks. The suite also has a junior bathroom downstairs for guests. The master bedroom on the second level features an extensive bathroom that includes a private make-up vanity and his and her sinks, a separate oversized tub and shower, and a built in linen closet.
• Vista Parlor Suites - This suite is more than 1,500 square feet of living space with oversized furniture, marble bar and entryway. Each of the two master bedrooms has an enclosed mirrored whirlpool tub surrounded by white marble.
• Grand Class 29th Floor - These 52 suites are primarily reserved for VIP guests and celebrities. Ranging from 1,401 to 6,040 square feet, each suite is customized with one to three bedrooms, a full-scale living room and dining room. Some of the suites include a sauna, workout gym, kitchen, elevator access to the second floor, an open spiral staircase and ceiling to floor glass windows. Bathrooms have customized tile work throughout, surrounding the oversize spa-tubs, saunas, extensive vanities and lounge areas. The 6,040 square foot suites has a 180 degree view of Las Vegas through the wrap around two story glass. These super suites include a wet bar, elegant dining room, living room, full size kitchen with a private butler and private chef. The three bedroom suites feature an outdoor spa, piano, Italian green marble, smooth white marble, or colorful mosaic tile in the four master bedrooms. There are 19 telephones throughout each suite (eight upstairs, ten downstairs, and on in the personal suite elevator).

The resort also contains the Youth Activity Center for children three to twelve which is supervised by professionally trained youth counselors. Open daily, the center features an arts and crafts room, Super Nintendo, lounge area, table tennis, mini-pool tables, hockey and basketball group activities, movies, and board games as well as a complete pre-school room. Daily meals and supervised theme park packages are also available.

The MGM contains restaurants including Dragon Court; Emeril Lagasse's New Orleans Fish House; Gatsby's; The Hollywood Brown Derby; MGM Grand Buffet; Neyla, A Mediterranean Grill; Ricardo's Mexican Restaurant; Stage Deli; Studio Cafe; The Rainforest Cafe; Wolfgang Puck Cafe; Mark Miller's Coyota Cafe, Grill Room, Grand Wok and Sushi Bar, Farmer's Market, and Cabana Grill.

The MGM includes the 650 seat Hollywood Theatre which has seen the likes of Kenny Loggins, Randy Travis, Sheena Easton, Gladys Knight, Tom Jones, Penn and Teller, Merle Haggard, The Righteous Brothers, the Four Tops, Rita Rudner, and Dennis Miller.

The 450 seat Center Stage Lounge shows the award winning comedy "Catch A Rising Star" headlining top comedians nightly. Some of the showcases have been Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Jerry Seinfeld, David Brenner, Richard Belzer and Gabe Kaplan.

The MGM was also the first resort on the Strip to have an outdoor seasonal amusement park called Grand Adventures.

The park featured:

• Skyscreamer - The world's largest Skycoaster which lifts one to three flyers to heights of approximately 220 feet off the ground. Flyers pull their own ripcord to set into motion a free-fall at speeds of up to 70mph. The Arcade is 11,400 square feet featuring various games of skill in addition to video arcade and hi-tech virtual reality games.
• Lightning Bolt - An outdoor roller coaster featuring twists and turns. The Bolt traverses its way over Grand Canyon Rapids while climbing to heights of up to 70 feet.
• Les Bumper Boats - Children's bumper boats that the driver can control.
• Over the Edge - A log-flume ride that coasts on water through a nostalgic old saw mill, with drops measuring 42 feet.
• Grand Canyon Rapids - A free floating raft that whirls through gushing white water rapids. Special effects line the route, including an old western gun fight and blasting tunnel explosion.
• Parisian Taxis - Bumper cars that jam the streets of a mock Paris Avenue setting.
• Pedalin' Paddleboats - The whole family can see a unique view of the SkyScreamer from self-controlled paddleboats.
• Show Place Junction - This outdoor stage is host to high energy shows including Raise the Roof and Adrenaline '99.
• Star Steppin' Stage - This stage features soulful sounds of House, R&B;, Hip-Hop, Swing and Motown. Raquel Maartel & The Untamed Groove, Swing Party, and Soulstations played throughout the day.

Another feature of Grand Adventures were the theatres including the Pirates Cove which was an outdoor 950 seat theatre featuring The All New Dueling Pirates Stunt Spectacular with break-away masts, exploding towers and hungry sharks; Magic Screen Theatre was a 750 seat indoor theatre featuring Rated: X-treme, a show with BMX extreme riders, the most aggressive in-line skaters and the hippest skate board riders found anywhere. A National Extreme Champion was present after every show for picture opportunities and autograph signings; and, Gold Rush Theatre which was a 650 seat indoor theatre featuring a Rock House, a show with six incredibly talented performers who take rhythm to a new dimension.

Shops include MGM Grand & Co., and Lion Habitat Retail Shop for souvenirs, Emerald City Gift Shop, Marshall Rousso Peruzzi which features fine jewelry and Bernini, offering a diverse selection of men's apparel. Other shops include Sunglass Shop, The Rainforest Cafe retail outlet, El Portal Luggage, Houdini Magic, Kenneth Jay Lane, Las Vegas Harley Davidson, Welcome to Las Vegas, Photo Magic and Roaring Spirits.

The casino, which won the "World's Leading Casino" in the 1994 World Travel Awards, contains approximately 3,700 gaming machines ranging from nickel to $500 slots; approximately 165 gaming tables including Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Mini-Baccarat, Caribbean Stud, Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, Let It Ride, Casino War, Big Six and Spanish 21; Poker room; Keno, and a 227 square foot a race and sports book with twelve 50" TVs, which features two separate rooms complimented by private tables with its own 13" TV, desk lamp, and laptop computer hookups.

In 1999, the MGM Grand completed its latest set of renovations totalling $575 million, including the replacement of the golden Leo entranceway with a 50-ton gold statue of Leo.

In February of 1999, the 5,000 square foot Forever Grand Wedding Chapel consisting of two elegantly decorated chapels was opened.

On May 15, 1999, The Mansion opened. The Mansion has a Tuscan-Mediterranean influence and themed after a 200 year old Italian villa, featuring 29 private villas ranging from 2,400 square feet to 12,000 square feet.

The Grand Pool is a 6.6 acre oasis featuring five separate pools, three large whirlpools, lush tropical landscaping, bridges, fountains and waterfalls with a combined swimming space of more than 27,000 square feet including a gently flowing river pool, which is the city's longest ride of its kind at 1,000 feet long. The 147,000 square foot of sunbathing space can accommodate 2,500 sunbathers. The Grand Pool area also has private cabanas, cocktail service and a poolside restaurant the Cabana Grille.

The Spa Complex is 30,000 square feet area featuring saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, relaxation lounges, more than 30 treatment rooms and two 1,100 square foot private VIP Spa Suites. The fitness center showcases state-of-the-art virtual reality climbers and bikes, treadmills, cross-trainers, free-weights and computerized circuit-training equipment. The Spa also offers a variety of facials, aromatherapy treatments, and stress relief services. Traditional massage, Shiatsu massage, AHA facials, parafango with exfoliation, milk-and-honey body treatment, foot massage, scalp treatments, exfoliations, skin care treatments, body scrubs and seaweed body treatments are also offered.

On July 1, 1999 the $9 million, 5,345 square foot Lion Habitat opened with a variety of lions including Goldie Metro, and Baby Lion, a direct descendent of MGM Studios' famous signature marquee lion, Metro. Guests can be encircled in a 3,000 square foot queuing area surrounded by lions at any time via a see-through, walk-way tunnel that runs through the Habitat, allowing lions to prowl above and below. At any given time there may be up to five lions in the habitat.

Our lion habitat is a continuation of our $575 million enhancement program for the property. We think of it as our birthright - representing both MGM Grand Hotel/Casino and our sister-company, MGM movie Studios. Our guests will be surrounded by MGM Grand's icon - the lion. We've literally created a surround-sound experience for our guests." - Bill Hornbuckle, President/COO

Veteran animal trainer/owner Keith Evans oversees, trains, feeds, and nurtures the lions. With more than 30 years of wildlife training experience, Evans has worked with every type of animal in the world. Today Evans cares for 22 cats comprising of 18 lions, three tigers, and two snow leopards at his eight and one-half acre Las Vegas home which he affectionally calls "The Cat House." Some of his own lions can be seen at the habitat.

Evans has been associated with the MGM Grand since the 1980s, arranging the live displays and photos of lions. Evans' animals has been seen on such shows as Fantasy Island, The Tonight Show, and national TV ads for Uniroyal; in live shows including Doug Henning's magic Tours in the late 1970s, Walt Disney CES, Clark County School, Spellbound Stage Shows in Las Vegas from 1991 to 1996, and they appeared on the May, 1999 Donny & Marie Show. His animals also headlined with such personalities as Alan King, Bill Cosby and Rodney Dangerfield.

"Lions are my everyday life. They require much respect and trust. You can feel the power of the lion, just by by looking at it. My goal as a trainer is to continue training exotic animals to ensure that the public is educated on the needs and requirements of animals in wild habitats. This habitat is 10 years ahead of anything I have ever seen. Our goal is to educate the millions of guests who visit Las Vegas as well as show a new, adventurous element at the MGM Grand." - Keith Evans

The lion habitat is adorned with stone, indigenous trees and foliage in a state of art showcase, featuring four separate waterfalls, overhangs, a pond and Acacia trees. The habitat will be encased with skylights and walls reaching heights of 35 feet to provide maximum viewing. Admission is free for all visitors.

Just in case you were wondering about the real stars of the Lion Habitat in 1999 they were:

In 1999, my daughter and son-in-law went to Vegas and saw the Lion Habitat. They were amazed at not only on how it was designed, but also how well the humans related to the lions. They were absolutely stunned and in awe of this Habitat.

The following scans were donated by Heidi and Emiliano Palustre

On January 15, 1999, the $45 million EFX premiered with its new star Tommy Tune. EFX had been tailored to showcase Tune's myriad strengths. Once again, the part was offered to Rick Springfield but Springfield said the timing wasn't right.

The show takes its name from the stage and film industries in which EFX stands for "special effects" that give a production its magical punch.

"Everyone dreams and I've lived my life in constant pursuit of my dreams, including the one to headline in a big Las Vegas spectacle. So appearing in 'EFX' is actually a dream come true for me. I'm very, very excited." - Tommy Tune

In EFX, Tune played himself on a journey through the world of EFX. The opening consists of Tune and his signature top hat rising from the stage to greet the audience. In other scenes, Tune performed a melodic strangely exotic tap number with each step echoing throughout the theatre. EFX introduced audiences to worlds beyond reality - including realms inhabited by the great wizard Merlin; the legendary circus showman P.T. Barnum; the grand illusionist Harry Houdini; and the famous time-travelling author H.G. Wells.

EFX had many notable costume designers connected with the show including Pete Menefee who designed all of Tune's costumes. He has also created costumes for Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Sammy Davis, Jr., Mikhail Baryshnikov, Shirley MacLaine, Juliet Prowse and Liza Minnelli; Andy Edwards who designed the costumes for all of the lead principals as well as the cast's costumes for the "Finale". He has also created costumes for the theatre productions of Fever Pitch, The Reduced Shakespeare Company, The Sydmonton Festival for Andrew Lloyd-Weber, Side by Side, S'Wonderful S'Marvelous, Kit and the Widow and the United Kingdom tour of The Musical of Andrew Lloyd Weber; the original custom designer, Theoni V. Aldredge, holds the record as the most utilized costume designer in Broadway productions in the history of the New York Theatre. She has worked for theatre productions such as A Chorus Line, Dreamgirls, La Cage aux Follies, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Annie, Barnum, and 42nd Street. Her film credits include Network, The Rose, Moonstruck, Addams Family Values, and the Great Gatsby.

Other EFX notables are award-winning writer/producer and musical director Bill Wray, who has worked with Diana Ross and Zachary Richard; Executive Producer Richard Sturm, who has attracted talent such as Phil Collins, Bette Midler, Elton John, Bee Gees and Rolling Stones to the MGM; and EFX Master James Earl Jones, who was also the voice of King Mufasa in The Lion King and Darth Vader in the Star Wars movies.

One of the unique forms of entertainment is for couples getting married. They are offered a traditional wedding mentioned above or one of the following:

• Marriage on the 250 foot SkyScreamer - The bride and groom will profess their love before descending into a 100 foot free-fall dive soaring through the air at speeds up to 70mph.

• Marriage in Studio 54 - The Disco King and Queen for the night will be surrounded by lights, disco balls, and Studio 54 dancers with the hippest moves from the '70s. As the music grooves, the couple exchange their wedding vows with the ceremony being displayed on video screen throughout the nightclub. When the couple is presented, confetti cannons go off and the couple spend the night in their own private second story VIP reception overlooking the main dance floor.

• Marriage at EFX - The couple will be married on the set of EFX with a mystical waterfall will bring life the magic of love with Merlin presiding at the minister. Trees and flowers will blossom as the couple is united on stage with enchanting nymphs and sprites guiding their way. Before the vows, the minister will fight off the objections of a fire-breathing dragon.

From October 7 or 8, 1999 until October 10, 1999, MGM had the honor of hosting an auction that was held on behalf of Elvis Presley (EPE) Enterprises. Previews were held on September 28, 1999. Approximately 2,000 items from Graceland's archives were featured in the sale. Not a single item was removed from displays at Graceland in Memphis. The bidding took place live at the MGM Grand, but bidders worldwide participated via the internet. The entire auction was presented on Interactive Collector. Additionally, this sale made history as the first entire auction webcast live on the internet.

Items included not only actual Elvis-owned garments, automobiles, furniture and other "physical" objects plus extremely rare memorabilia, but also many significant documents to Elvis' career.

The proceeds of this auction established a building fund for the creation of Presley Place, a transitional housing development in Memphis. EPE will designate a major portion of the auction proceeds for its philanthropic entity, the Elvis Presley Charitable foundation, through which the Presley Place development was funded. Presley Place will provide homeless families up to one year of rent-free housing, child day care, job training and counseling, financial guidance and other tools to help them break the cycle of poverty and gain self-esteem.

In 1999, Grand Theatre showcased EFX starring Tommy Tune. Hollywood Theatre showcased '99 Billboard Music Awards, Carrot Top, Rodney Dangerfield, Tom Jones, Philip Kirkorov, Jay Leno, Jackie Mason, n'Sync, Wayne Newton, Osmond Christmas Show, Penn and Teller, and Randy Travis. The Grand Garden showcased Cher/Cyndi Lauper/Wild Orchid, and Fifth Annual Grand Slam For Children.

When Kerkorian opened his International Hotel (Las Vegas Hilton) in 1969, his opening starred Barbra Streisand. She appeared again to open the Grand Arena at this MGM. Now she brought in the year 2000 by appearing on New Year's Eve. This performance was Streisand's first since the conclusion of her 1994 six city tour. Marvin Hamlisch conducted the concert. Tickets were $500, $750, and $800, which included party favors (scalping occurred with rumors stating that some tickets went for as high as $2,500 each - this could not be confirmed).

Also on New Years Even, EFX appeared at 10:15pm, in the Grand Theatre. Tickets were $78.50 and $99, which included a split of champagne and party favors. The World's Ultimate Dance Party was staged at 9:00pm in Studio 54. Tickets were $150 and $200.

Hollywood Theatre brought in the New Year with "Millennium 20000 Rodney Dangerfield." This included a room package for $3,799, with three nights deluxe accommodations in the Grand Tower and two tickets to the 10:30pm show with unlimited champagne or unlimited cocktails. Room

On March 6, 2000, it was announced that Mirage Resorts was sold to Kirk Kerkorian/MGM Grand for $4.4 billion in cash. The assets ranged from Mirage's $1.60 billion Bellagio resort to the MGM Grand, the national's largest hotel. MGM also assumes $2 billion in Mirage debt. MGM executives agreed to the current deal after the stock market closed on March 3, 2000, and intensive negotiations continued through the weekend on details. The transaction was approved by Mirage stockholders and was expected to close by the end of the year.

Steve Wynn, visionary of the Mirage, owned 23 million shares of Mirage stock or 12% of the company. The deal will bring him $483 million.

It is expected the new company will retain the MGM name. The combined companies include 14 properties. Mirage owns the Bellagio, Boardwalk, Mirage, Treasure Island and Golden Nugget resorts in Las Vegas; the Beau Rivage in Biloxi in Mississippi, and the Golden Nugget in Laughlin, Nevada. The company also owns half interest in the Monte Carlo hotel-casino on the Strip.

This purchase now lifts MGM Grand's debt load to more than $7.5 billion.

It was announced that MGM Grand planned to open "Mansion Casino," a new 8,000-square-foot high-end gaming area, by Memorial Day weekend.

Construction on the $10 million project, located near the entrance to the high-end Mansions at MGM Grand Villas, began in January, 2000. Some of the new space came from the MGM Grand's sports book, which is also being remodeled as part of the Mansion Casino project.

The project is designed to make it more convenient for guests at the Mansions to access the high-end gaming area, and will assist the casino in its efforts to capture more of the high rollers' market. The casino will include 20 table games, including the MGM Grand's baccarat tables. The MGM Grand's current high-end baccarat area will be converted to high-end slots.

In 2000, MGM had a role in Ready to Rumble.

On April 26, 2000, MGM celebrated the grand opening of the company's new satellite registration/hotel check-in center at the McCarran International Airport. This is the first of its kind opened by a hotel company at any United States airport.

Guests of the MGM Grand as well as New York New York Hotel could check-in/register and receive their room keys while they wait for their luggage at the new 500-square-foot facility located in the south baggage claim area near the exit from the C and D gates. Hours of operation are 10:00am to midnight daily.

"This new service is part of our company's ongoing commitment to guest satisfaction. We are excited to be the first to offer this new innovative service, and we believe the convenience for our guests is unparalleled." - William Hornbuckle, President and COO for MGM

"At McCarran International Airport, we take pride in being a leader in passenger service and convenience. As the 10th busiest airport in North America, we're pleased that this type of unique facility has opened at McCarran, offering out passenger yet another service they won't find elsewhere." - Randall H. Walker, Clark County Department of Aviation Director

Other services at the airport registration facility include restaurant reservations and the opportunity to purchase show tickets for either MGM Grand shows or New York New York events and shows. MGM is also offering luggage transfer and shuttle service from the airport to MGM Grand and New York New York for an additional charge.

Separately, the hotel-casino reopened its main sports book on May 5, 2000, the day of the Kentucky Derby. The revamped book have twice as many TV screens, private television sets and specialized booths for its customers.

On June 1, 2000, MGM Grand and Silicon Gaming introduced a new game in a 3,500 square foot area called Family Feud.

In August 2000, David Lobos stayed at the MGM and took a great picture of the Marina's hallway joining the MGM hallway. The older resort is happy to still be there joining with her younger sister.

"I was in town celebrating my 40th birthday and my best friend, who now lives in Vegas, gifted me with EFX tickets. We went to the show and had a great time. We found out at the show that Rick would be doing a record signing at the Virgin Records Super Store in The Forum Shops the next after noon. Who could say no! We stood in line and finally got in to see him. He is another idol of mine form a teen years and it was a pleasure to meet him too." - Carol Knoll

In October of 2000, it was reported that Tommy Tune received a raise bringing his weekly paycheck to $100,000. His dressing room was also renovated to accommodate his 6'6 frame and decorated all in white.

In 2000, the Grand Garden Arena showcased American Motorcyclist Association 2000 THQ U.S. Open (10/14-15), 2000 Billboard Music Awards (12/5), Marc Anthony, Bad Religion, Blink 182, Sara Brightman (10/22), Jimmy Buffet (9/29), Jackie Chan (12/23), Fenix, GooGosh (12/24), Grease starring Cindy Williams & Eddie Mekka, William Joppy v. Hacine Cherifi (9/16), NHL Hockey LA Kings v. Colorado Avalanche (9/30), Nsync (11/24-25), Pearl Jam (10/22), Professional Rodeo, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, THO Supercross (10/14-15), Tina Turner (11/18), Roger Waters, and WCW (10/29).

The Hollywood Theatre showcased Louis Anderson, Shirley Bassey (2/3-9), Carrot Top (9/7-19), David Copperfield's Unknown Dimension (8/27-30), Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Rodney Dangerfield (8/31-9/6), Four Kings featuring Lloyd Price, Ben E. King, Jerry Butler, and Gene Chandler, The Judds, Shaolin Monks (9/20-28), Penn & Teller (11/15), and Britney Spears.

The Grand Theatre showcased EFX (indefinitely), and Cabaret starring Miss America 1998 Kate Shindle (8/30-9/3).

Cabaret Theatre showcased Rita Rudner (thru 11/30).

In January of 2001, Transport Workers Union of America lost unionizing the table games dealers voting 542-189 to reject the union.

"Tonight dealers at the MGM Grand reaffirmed that the best way for them to secure this future is to work closely with our management team." - Bill Hornbuckle, MGM President

On January 30, 2001, EFX replaced Tommy Tune with Rick Springfield. Springfield signed a one year contract for the show.

"We've tightened the show up a lot. It's got a lot of new music, great choreography and a new story line. And there's stunts, I love stunts." - Rick Springfield

In February, 2001, Grand Adventures closed down and it has now been renamed The Park at MGM Grand, which will be available only for group business and specials events with 50 or more people. General admission tickets are no more.

Three rides will be retained by the Park - the Sky Screamer swing, the Lightning Bolt roller coaster, and the Parisian Taxi bumper car ride. The 950 seat amphitheatre which housed the pirate show and the two 700 seat theaters used to shoot TV shows will also be kept. All other rides either have been or will be liquidated.

Other features of the park include "team building sites" aimed at corproate buisness, including rock-climing walls and obstacle courses.

The park closed in September of 2000, usually re-opened in April and ran throughout the summer. Now the park will operate year-round. It typically employed about 1000 high school and college students during the summer months. Year-round employees of the park were transferred to other positions at the resort.

Grand Adventures had stiff competition with Circus Circus' Adventuredome, and the roller-coasters at her sister New York New York, and Stratosphere.

The West Coast has some energy problems. In recognizing this, in 2001, MGM budgeted $39 million for power costs this year compared with last year's $33 million, an 18% increase, and those rates may go higher. In assisting with he energy problem, MGM recently put compact fluorescent bulbs that use 214 watts in each of its guest rooms and suites. The old incandescent and fluorescent bulbs used 560 watts.

At the resort, 6,000 light bulbs are used to create an eye-popping, $75 million spectacle in EFX Alive.

MGM was a winner in the 2001 What's On Visitor's Choice Awards for the following: Best Seafood with Emeril's, Best Themed with Rainforst Cafe, and Best Variety in Gambling Games.

This is a picture of the program I received on July 26, 2001. If you wish to read about my experiences and opinions on this trip, please click here.

On August 1, 2001, Springfield suffered a broken arm when he fell while performing in EFX. In one of the last scenes of the second show, Springfield was on a 20-foot high beam that lowered him to the stage when he fell 10 to 15 feet as the audience watched. Understudy Sal Salangsang filled in for Springfield for the rest of the week.

On September 14, 2001, at 12:30pm all MGM Mirage properties observed a mandatory one-minute moment of silence in observance of the national day of remembrance in honor of the victims of the terrorist strikes in New York and Washington on September 11, 2001. All activity in public areas, including casinos, came to a halt at Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mirage, Treasure Island, New York-New York, and Golden Nugget.

"We believe this is the most profound statement we can make, to stop everything. At 12:30 we will stop all activity in all public areas and observe a moment of silence in honor of those who have died or have been hurt, and in honor of those who have been working so hard to find survivors." - Alan Feldman, MGM Mirage Spokesman

Mirage began its marquee observances on the night of September 11th, when it displayed "God Bless America" on the MGM Grand sign. That message was displayed on the marquees at other MGM MIRAGE Strip properties.

In late 2001, MGM opened two restaurants, Nobhill, a collaboration with San Francisco's acclaimed chef Michael Mina, and Pearl, a Modern Chinese restaurant with Western flair designed by the internationally-renowned Tony Chi.

Proclaiming Dec. 12 as Sinatra Day, Mayor Oscar Goodman gave Tina Sinatra a key to the city, and she gave International Game Technology her blessing to use the image of her famous father, Frank, on a new celebrity slot machine. In ceremonies during Goodman's weekly press conference, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority released a tribute CD to Frank Sinatra and announced a free Frank Sinatra Jr. concert on December 11, 2001 at the MGM Grand. Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt and County Commissioner Mary Kincaid-Chauncey also made proclamations on behalf of the governor's office and Clark County, respectively. Sinatra would have celebrated his 86th birthday on Dec. 12.

"He's the icon that symbolizes Las Vegas. I can't think of it any other way. Without him, Las Vegas would not be what it is today." - Mayor Oscar Goodman

"Your father put Las Vegas on the world map. Prior to that, we had dude ranches, dusty towns with cowboys and one-story buildings." - Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt to Tina Sinatra

"I have all his records but they're played on a record player." - County Com. Mary Kincaid-Chauncey

For her part, Tina said she decided to help with the campaign because she wanted to make her dad "part of the healing process" after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

"It's clear that's what he would have done. Dad would have done whatever was needed." - Tina Sinatra

The Sinatra slot machine will be IGT's 17th themed machine in Nevada. Sinatra will join Elvis Presley, Regis Philbin, the Addams Family and the "I Dream of Jeannie" celebrity machines. The machine will sing snippets of four songs : "My Way," "Fly Me to the Moon," "I've Got You Under My Skin" and "My Kind of Town."

"But when it's in jackpot mode it will continue to play, and when Frank sings to you, that mean something. It means money." - Jane Vozzi, Director of MegaJackpots for IGT

MGM stated that the effects of September 11th reflected a substantial decline. All the MGM Mirage hotels on the Strip averaged an unprecedented low 64% occupany level from the 11th to the 30th. This reduction also resulted in lower casino, food and every, entertainment and retail revenues. Business strengthened through the rest of the year and by the end of 2001, occupancy levels had returned to normal. Room rates also improved but were not yet back to normal. To respond to the decline the Nevada MGM Mirage resorts had to lay off 6,4000 employees total, and an additional 315 were laid off or terminated at Beau Rivage in Biloxi.

In 2001, EFX Theatre showcased EFX Alive starring Rick Springfield.

The Grand Garden showcased 2001 THQ U.S. Open (10/12-14), Aerosmith (8/18), Alternative Sports World Cup (8/5), Backstreet Boys (3/8, 10/19), Bon Jovi (4/21), Aaron Carter (6/22), PRCA Copenhagen ProRodeo Tour (6/14-16), ESPN's ESPY Awards (2/12), Janet Jackson (10/5-6), Billy Joel & Elton John (2/17), Madonna (9/1-2), Queens of Comedy (5/19), PRCA, Copenhagen Cup Finale of the Wrangle ProRodeo Troup (6/14-16), and 2001 THQ U.S. Open (10/12-14).

The Hollywood Theatre showcased Aerosmith (8/18), Paul Anka (6/21-7/4, 7/26-8/8, 10/2, 11/1-7), George Carlin (3/8-21, 4/12-25, 5/17-30, 7/5-18, 10/4-17), Carrot Top (5/10-16, 5/31-6/8, 11/29-12/23), David Copperfield (thru 3/7 & 4/11), Rodney Dangerfield (7/19-25), Tom Jones (4/26-5/9, 6/9-19, 10/18-31), Madonna (9/1-2), Jackie Mason (1/11-17), The Monkees (3/29), and Sade (7/27).

The Cabaret Theatre showcased Floyd "Pretty Boy" Mayweather v. Diego "Chico" Corrales (1/20).

La Femme Theatre showcased Le Femme.

In March of 2002, MGM has reported disappointment with her Pearl restaurant. The menu featured delicate dim sum as lo mai fan, sticky rice, chicken and mushroom wrapped in a lotus leaf, fresh fish stamed with ginger and green onions, sauteed abalone, shark-fin soup, and Peking duck. Apparently, the food is too Chinese for American tastes, and yet Americanized enough to put off the Asian high rollers.

On April 10, 2002, Michael Crawford, settled his lawsuit against the MGM Grand hotel-casino. According to court records, the terms of the settlement, which has yet to be signed by all parties, are confidential.

Crawford left the show in August 1996 because of a hip injury that required surgery in December 1996. He learned then that the injuries suffered while working on "EFX" were extensive and required a hip replacement, according to court documents.

Crawford, who parlayed his stardom in Broadway's "Phantom of the Opera" into a $150,000-a-week role in the "EFX" production, sued the resort in January 1998. Because the injuries were alleged to have occurred well before Crawford left the show, attorneys for the MGM Grand argued during a court hearing in 1999 that he missed the two-year deadline for filing legal action by six months. Crawford's lawyers countered that the eventual hip replacement surgery was caused by "repetitive trauma" suffered over performances.

In May 2002 - Casino operators reached contract agreements with the union representing waitresses and housekeepers, virtually eliminating the prospect of a strike. The latest agreements between the Culinary Workers Union and the casinos were reached with Mandalay Resort Group, MGM Mirage, Park Place, Aztar Corp., and Harrah's. The new agreements cover about three-quarters of the 40,000 cooks, waitresses and housekeepers the union represents in Las Vegas. Under the new tentative contracts, workers will receive anaverage of $3.24 in increased hourly wages and benefits over the new contract's five-year life. Much of that will go to pay for higher health insurance costs, which workers will continue to receive free of charge.

In June of 2002, I had the pleasure of seeing EFX again. This is the updated program. For my comments on the show and my experiences, please click here.

In 2002, EFX Theatre showcased All star Comedy Roast II starring Shaquille O'Neal (6/28); EFX Alive starring Rick Springfield; Drew Carey's Improv All Stars (2/3); Jay Leno (5/30-6/1); and Super Bowl Party (2/3).

Hollywood Theatre showcased Paul Anka (2/21-3/5, 4/18-23, 7/29-8/6), George Carlin (thru 2/6, 3/7-20, 5/23-6/5, 7/4-19); Carrot Top (4/11-17, 6/20-7/3), David Copperfield (3/21-4/3, 5/16-22), Rodney Dangerfield (4/4-10), Dennis DeYoung (4/18-24), Engelbert Humperdinck (7/18-28); Tom Jones (2/7-20, 4/25-5/7, 6/6-19); Jackie Mason (8/8-14); Sinatra Sings Sinatra starring Frank Sinatra, Jr.

Grand Garden showcased Marco Antonio Barrera v. Erik Morales (3/2); Blink/Green Day (4/23), Brooks & Dunn's Neon Circus & Wild West Show w/Dwight Yoakum/Gary Allan/Trick Pony/Chris Cagle (5/10); Jimmy Buffett (5/25-26); Cher (8/9-10); Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (3/29), VH1 Divas Las Vegas with Mary J. Blige/Cher/Celine Dion (5/23); Floyd Pretty Boy Mayweather v. Jose Luis Castilo (4/20), Paul McCartney (4/5-6), *NSYNC (3/15); and Tito Ortiz v. Vitor Belfort (3/22).

Studio 54 will be showcasing Warp Brothers (2/19). Entertainment Dome/Show Bar Lounge & the Hollywood Brown Derby will be showcasing Frank Sinatra impressionist Bobby Barrett.

La Femme Theatre showcased Le Femme.

In 2003, Hollywood Theatre will be showcasing David Copperfield (thru 5/21); Paul Anka (6/5-11); David Copperfield (6/12-25); Carrot Top (6/26-7/9).

La Femme Theatre will be showcasing La Femme (dark Tuesdays).

MGM Grand Garden will be showcasing VH1 Divas Duets featuring Queen Latifah/Mary J. Blige/Chaka Khan/Jewel; Yanni (5/25); Pearl Jam w/special guest Idlewild (6/6); PRCA Summer Finals Rodeo (6/12-14); Justin Timberlake/Christina Aguilera (6/21); Fleetwood Mac (7/5); Dixie Chicks w/Michelle Brand (7/26-27); Oscar De La Hoya v. Shane Mosley (boxing) (9/13); Maxxis U.S. Open motorcycle racing (10/10-12).

Showbar Lounge will be showcasing Shane Stephens (dark Tuesdays and Mondays).

Tabu will be showcasing live entertainment.