Dying girl vs. casino regulations

Big & Rich canceled over little fanA 4-year-old girl, whose name and illness were not disclosed, had wanted to see the show. But casino officials said they could not allow her into the venue.

In a joint news release from the casino and the band, Steve Lengel, executive director of operations, said, "While we are sympathetic to the request from the young fan, we are held accountable to the requirements that prevent anyone under the age of 21 from entering our facility at any time."

In the same release, John Rich is quoted as saying the band felt it could not perform under the conditions.

"I was trying to uphold the life wish of a terminally ill 4-year-old girl," the release quoted Rich as saying. "I was unwilling to bend on my position that the young lady should be allowed to attend our show. I apologize sincerely to the fans that didn't get to see the show."