After more than two years of preparations, the Grand Soleil Casino Resort — Natchez was licensed as a casino operator by the Mississippi Gaming Commission.

“This license is a major accomplishment for our project and allows us to stay within our timelines allowing for a 4th quarter 2008 casino opening. Our plans are to bring a modern facility to Natchez that will complement the historical treasures found here,” said Bill Bayba, president of Big River Enterprises, a developing partner for the Grand Soleil.

Another partner in the development of the Grand Soleil is the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin.

Victoria Doud, president of the tribe, stated, “We are excited to be a partner in this, our second casino resort development, and we are looking forward to a successful partnership and future in the beautiful historic city of Natchez.”

The tribe is the first Native American group to receive a suitability license from the Mississippi Gaming Commission.