Well, when I first read the news I have to admit I was quite upset.  The thought of people being trapped in a burning building just was too horrific of a thought.  Considering the 87 people that lost their lives in the 1980 MGM Grand fire, it was all too much to relive!  Once I realized that it was mostly contained to the roof area I felt a whole lot better and then found myself reminiscing about the last time I was at the Monte as I like to call it.  My wife and I met up with some friends and joined them at the pool area and relaxed while floating down the lazy river.  We then went out for drinks and a bite to eat and then of course a little gaming action!  What struck me about the hotel was how clean it was and how it smelt like it was just built (we were last there in 2002).  The floor-plan and the overall atmosphere really appealed to me.  I thoroughly enjoy architecture and let me tell you the Monte Carlo's main entrance off the strip I think is one of the best anywhere in Vegas.  So here's to the happy memories of past at the Monte and the relief of knowing that no one died in the fire there yesterday.