Last week, the Irish police, also known as Gardaí, confirmed it renewed its appeal for information related to the mysterious and unexpected disappearance of a 41-year-old poker player dating back to 2019. The recent request reignited the efforts in resolving the missing person’s case that involved Jon Jonsson, a poker player from Iceland who disappeared on February 9, 2019. The poker player was last seen around 11 AM on that day in Whitehall.

The latest request for the Gardaí comes after anonymous correspondence was received regarding the case. The Irish police urged the authors of the correspondence to disclose more details. “The Garda investigation team are appealing to the author(s) of those correspondences to make direct contact with them,” reads a statement released by garda disclosed by the Irish Independent. The police authorities added: “Any contact will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.”

In February 2019, Jonsson, who was 41 at the time, checked into the Bonnington Hotel in Dublin. The Icelandic poker player arrived on February 9, ahead of a poker tournament he was expecting to participate in. Jonsson had planned a 10-day vacation for himself and his fiancée. Yet, on the same day he arrived at Bonnington Hotel, he walked out and was never seen again.

According to a report released by The Irish Mirror, Gardaí are now considering that the 41-year-old poker player may have been killed somewhere in Dublin Park. Citing sources, the publication suggests that Jonsson may have been murdered after losing a significant amount of money while playing poker in Dublin. Reportedly, the poker player arranged a meeting in the park that turned into a violent encounter and ultimately resulted in his death. Still, it’s important to mention that garda is yet to officially confirm if this version is correct.

Gardaí Searches Areas in Santry Park

After receiving the anonymous communication last week, this week, the Irish police initiated a search in a section of Santry Park. The aforementioned area was secured by law enforcement while K9 and underwater units investigating the surroundings were dispatched.

The location where garda is currently searching is approximately 2 miles from the Bonnington Hotel where Jonsson was last seen alive on February 9, 2019. The result of the latest search is yet to be confirmed.

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Blondel Cluff, held the role of a chair of the National Lottery Community Fund for two years until her early resignation dating back to last summer. As a result, Paul Sweeney was appointed to the role of interim chair on August 1, 2023, for a 1-year contract or until a permanent chair is appointed, whichever is sooner.

Now, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) initiated the search for a new National Lottery Community Fund chair earlier this week. Details regarding the job position were released publicly by the DCMS. January 10 marked the opening date for applications with the deadline for submission of applications set for February 7, 2024, at 11:59 PM. The first interviews are expected to start on April 17, 2024, but the DCMS confirmed that the aforementioned timelines may be subject to change.

The search for a permanent chair of the National Lottery Community Fund comes after recently it launched its new strategy, “It starts with community,” setting a number of objectives through 2030. Under the new strategy, the Fund anticipates distributing some £4 billion ($5.1 billion) of funding by 2030. This funding will provide vital support for different community projects. Throughout 2023, the Fund made nearly 14,000 grants, representing one grand for every 7 minutes.

The Vacant Role Represents an Incredible Opportunity

The new chair of the Fund is expected to have a deep understanding of the charity and community sectors. According to the criteria for the role, the successful candidate must have “a track record of strategic leadership in civil society, public service, or business,” along with pristine interpersonal and communication skills. Additionally, the preferred candidate for the chair role should demonstrate commitment to the Fund’s mission, among other relevant requirements.

“This is an incredible opportunity to Chair a high-profile UK public body that places social connections and community activities at the heart of creating healthier, happier lives and a flourishing society,“

reads the description of the role released by the DCMS

The remuneration listed for the Fund’s chair position is £40,000 annually in exchange for two working days per week. The term of the contract is listed as four years which is not uncommon considering that the former chair was appointed in February 2021 for a contract that was expected to run through February 2025.

Earlier this week, Brigid Simmonds, the chair of the Betting and Gaming Council, confirmed her plans to exit the organization. Simmonds confirmed she will step down effective from April 20, 2024. The vacant role will be filled by Michael Dugher, who will step in as the new chair of the BGC, effective from April 21, 2023.

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The OLG’s Request for Pre-Qualification (RFPQ) will see interested parties submit their initial bids to bring innovation and growth to the iconic property. The casino is one of the most popular in Ontario and contributes substantially to the local economy, so choosing a future operator a vital decision that cannot be rushed. 

Only Experienced and Reputable Companies Can Apply

Featuring over 100,000 square feet of gaming space, 2,300 slot machines, 85 gaming tables, and sports betting options, the Windsor casino has established itself as one of the region’s premiere gambling destinations, providing jobs and generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. The current operator, Caesars Entertainment, has performed adequately at managing the property, but their contract ends in 2025, necessitating the recent RFPQ.

The OLG noted that it would only accept proposals from companies experienced with managing a large gaming resort. Such a requirement immediately narrows down available options to a few high-profile operators. Caesars Entertainment can also participate in the selection process and retain its operating rights. OLG president and CEO Duncan Hannay was excited to begin the process and ensure Ontario’s lasting reputation as a leading casino destination.

Selecting a highly qualified service provider… will ensure the long-term competitiveness of the site while continuing to generate economic benefits for the local community.

Duncan Hannay, OLG president, and CEO

Companies that meet the OLG’s strict requirements will then have to submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) elaborating on their plans for the resort. The ideal operator will have the experience, resources, and vision necessary to operate the property successfully and maximize revenue for the province. Finding the perfect candidate can be difficult and time-consuming, so the OLG started the selection process with over a year to spare.

The Venue Is a Vital Part of the Local Economy

Selecting a new operator will impact more than just the casino. The city of Windsor receives roughly $10 million in payments each year, and the venue is a valuable source of employment. The casino’s proximity to the US border encourages tourism and bolsters surrounding businesses, making it a vital part of the local economy.

The company that wins the lucrative license will oversee the casino’s day-to-day operations, but the OLG retains its overall control over gaming in Windsor. Caesars appears to have an advantage due to its familiarity with the casino but other big players will try their best to offer a better proposition and take over the lucrative property. Ultimately, it will be up to the OLG to make the right choice.

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