Canada
Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada Grants Former Competitive Cheerleader Wish to Be a Celebrity VIP, in Partnership with Resorts World Las Vegas and Venafi
Marissa, a 12-year-old former competitive cheerleader, received her wish to be a celebrity VIP thanks to Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada. In partnership with Resorts World Las Vegas and Venafi, Marissa was surprised with a true red-carpet experience hosted at the newest resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in over a decade.
A natural born leader, Marissa dedicated her life to competitive cheerleading and staying active whenever she could. Since being diagnosed with Gorham-Stout disease, or “vanishing bone disease,” last year, Marissa’s days at the gym were reduced to zero as she immediately entered treatment for her illness. Because her condition forces her to be homebound, Marissa has wanted nothing more than to disconnect from reality and feel on top of the world again.
Marissa eagerly looked forward to stepping into the glamorous life of a celebrity. Her wish began with a send-off by Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada employees at The Wishing Place, where she was surprised with private car service in one of the signature “Resorts World Red” Rolls-Royce Phantoms. Accompanied by her mom and best friend, Marissa was whisked away to the luxurious resort and greeted with a red-carpet arrival, complete with a welcome message shown on the resort’s 100,000-square-foot LED screen.
After settling into her luxe hotel suite located in the renowned Crockfords Las Vegas, Marissa set off on a four-day VIP guest experience. Her itinerary included a full day of pampering at AWANA Spa & Wellness, private shopping experience at Twila True Fine Jewelry & Watches, and an exclusive celebrity model photo shoot on property.
“Getting to witness a child receive his or her wish is always heartwarming, and Marissa’s wish was no exception,” said Scott Rosenzweig, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada. “We are so thankful for our partners at Resorts World Las Vegas and Venafi for their efforts in making Marissa’s wish to be a celebrity VIP possible.”
“As we planned Marissa’s wish, it was important that we put our heart into every action and interaction,” said Lori Calderon, Executive Director of Community Engagement at Resorts World Las Vegas. “We feel honored to have been a small part of Marissa’s story, and she will always be part of the Resorts World Las Vegas family.”
“We’re so appreciative of Make-A-Wish, Resorts World Las Vegas and Venafi for making this all happen for Marissa—it means the world to us,” said Marissa’s mom, Tonia. “This experience was just amazing. I never thought any of this could happen.”
Marissa’s wish experience gave her the strength she needed to heal and hope for a brighter future. For more information about Make-A-Wish® Southern Nevada, please visit wish.org/snv.
Ben Clemes
High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario

High Roller Technologies, operator of the premium online casino brands High Roller and Fruta, announced the submission of its Internet Gaming Operator license application in Ontario, Canada, targeting the launch of its flagship brand HighRoller.com in the second half of 2025.
“The submission of our licensing application to access Ontario’s regulated online gambling market is an important milestone in our Company’s journey. Once our application is approved, we anticipate that we will have the opportunity to launch our online casino product into the market later this year,” said Ben Clemes, Chief Executive Officer at High Roller.
Ontario is one of the largest regulated online gambling markets in the world as measured by gross gaming revenue. In 2024, regulated online gambling operators within the province generated approximately $2.3B in gross gaming revenue, and growth continues to be recorded in the first half of 2025. Recently, the province of Alberta passed enabling legislation to establish a regulatory framework for online gambling. Once available, the Company also intends to pursue licensure in Alberta to expand its regulated market footprint in Canada.
“Ontario is missing an elegant brand like High Roller. We’re excited to roll out the red carpet for our new customers, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our tremendous product,” said Clemes.
The post High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Canada
IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto

The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has released the program for its upcoming annual conference, to be held in Toronto from 20-23 October.
With the theme ‘Resilient regulation: Exploring what works, why and what’s next’, the event brings together global regulators and thought leaders to examine how regulatory frameworks can evolve to meet today’s challenges.
The four-day program explores timely issues, including the rise of AI and behavioural analytics, the impact of converging technologies, cross-border collaboration and the continued push to strengthen responsible gambling policies.
IAGR President Ben Haden said the program offers a strong preview of the content and conversations delegates can expect in Toronto.
‘This year’s program showcases the breadth and complexity of the challenges facing gambling regulators worldwide, from protecting player wellbeing to tackling illegal markets and understanding new technologies,’ Haden said.
‘I encourage regulators, researchers and policy professionals from around the world to join us in Toronto. The conference is a space to learn, share experience, challenge assumptions and shape the future of effective, collaborative regulation.’
Confirmed speakers and panellists include:
- Andrew Rhodes, CEO, Gambling Commission, Great Britain
- Anders Dorph, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
- Dr Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, Canada
- Mark Vander Linden, Director of Research and Responsible Gaming and Carrie Torrisi, Chief of Sports Wagering Division, Massachusetts Gaming Commission, United States
- Bashir Are, CEO, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Nigeria
- Teo Chun Ching, Chief Executive, Gambling Regulatory Authority, Singapore
- Ladipo Abiose Akolade, Founder, GamblePause Initiative Africa, Nigeria
- Rasmus Kjaergaard, CEO, Mindway AI, Denmark
- Tracy Parker, Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insights, Responsible Gambling Council, Canada
- Pedro Romero, Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships, BetBlocker, Gibraltar
- Sonia Wasowska, Head of Supervision, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, United Arab Emirates
- Steven Blackburn, Partner, Ashurst Risk Advisory, Australia
The event will be held at The Westin Harbour Castle on Toronto’s waterfront.
The post IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Alberta Gaming
Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership

Home field advantage has a new name, as the Edmonton Elks announced that Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is now the home of the Elks.
The field naming rights are part of a broader multi-year agreement between Play Alberta and the EE, making Play Alberta the official sports betting partner of the Club.
“We couldn’t be more excited to expand our partnership with Play Alberta. This partnership is about more than just putting a name on the field – it’s about building something meaningful for our fans and our community. Play Alberta is an Alberta-based organization that shares our values and our commitment to giving back. Together, we’re creating new ways for fans to connect with our team and experience the game day atmosphere in a whole new way,” said Elks President and CEO Chris Morris.
The expanded relationship between the Elks and Play Alberta will allow the game day experience to continue to grow. Fans can look forward to unique activations and promotions around the stadium, including the chance to win game tickets and memorabilia.
“Since Play Alberta’s launch five years ago, our team has made it a priority to connect with the communities where our players live and work. We are very excited to join the Edmonton Elks on the field on game days during upcoming CFL seasons. Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium allows us to partner with the Elks and showcase two brands built for Albertans in a historic Edmonton location,” said Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Chief Executive Officer Kandice Machado.
The Elks open their 76th season on Saturday, June 7 in Vancouver when they take on the B.C. Lions. Edmonton’s home opener at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is slated for Thursday, June 19 against the Montreal Alouettes.
The post Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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