hen two of Las Vegas' leading gaming companies opened the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in June of 1996, they set about the daunting task of making sure the resort lived up to the elegance and excitement of its namesake.
   Based on public response to the popular resort, their mission has been accomplished.
   The resort was designed to offer the ambiance of the French Riviera, and has done just that.
   The Monte Carlo features turn-of-the-century architecture and vintage decor, water falls, a wave pool, health spa, lighted tennis courts and a popular brew pub.
   The 3,024-room, $344 million resort ranks as America's 10th-largest hotel.  It was developed by Mandalay Resort Group and Mirage Resorts, Inc. on land once occupied by the legendary Dunes Hotel-Casino.
   The star attraction at the resort is Master Magician Lance Burton, who was signed to an unprecedented 13-year contract when the hotel opened.  The 1,200-seat victorian-style Lance Burton Theatre has been the setting for various Burton television specials.