Ashford and Simpson to headline Anniversary Celebration Concert

Los Angeles, CA (January 11, 2007) - Five years and five casinos later, Don H. Barden, the first and only African American to own a casino in America’s gaming capital - Las Vegas, is gearing up for his annual anniversary celebration to commemorate five years of successful ownership of the Fitzgeralds Casino Hotel.

The four-day weekend taking place February 22-25, 2007, will consist of several festivities including an education celebration for local elementary students featuring an outstanding youth panel of history makers and achievers, a press conference, a star-studded meet and greet reception, Don H. Barden Achievement Awards, a Gospel Brunch, the Taste and Sounds of Soul featuring local and national entertainment performing on the Fremont Street stage, along with showcasing African American restaurants in Las Vegas, which has attracted nearly 30,000 attendees. Every year celebrities participate in various activities throughout the celebration.

The legendary songwriting and performing duo Ashford and Simpson, known for their chart topping hits “Solid” and “Don’t Cost you Nothing” will headline the anniversary concert. The award-winning songwriters are also known for penning hits such as Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” as well as “You’re All I Need to Get By."

Fitzgeralds anniversary has attracted several celebrity guests in the past four years such as; Smokey Robinson, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Nancy Wilson, The Whispers, Howard Hewett, as well as actors and actresses; Loretta Devine, Jenifer Lewis, Glynn Turman, Michael Beach, Kim Fields, Anna Maria Horsford, Richard Roundtree and many more.

The Detroit native Chairman and CEO of Barden Companies, Inc. purchased Fitzgeralds Casinos in Tunica, Mississippi; Blackhawk, Colorado; and Las Vegas, Nevada in December 2001.  He also owns Majestic Star Casino and purchased Trump Casino Hotel in December 2005 presently known as Majestic Star Casino II both located in Gary, Indiana. 

Fitzgeralds Casino Hotel located in downtown Las Vegas on the world famous Fremont Street Experience features 638 rooms and offers a variety of dining options including Limericks Steakhouse, Molly’s Buffet, Shamrock Café, McDonald’s and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts. The casino features slots, table games, sportsbook, keno lounge, two bars, live entertainment and space for meetings.

For details regarding the celebration call 800-274-5825 or visit www.fitzgeralds.com.