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Norman Benjamin Saunders, 23, Clinches Double Medals at Jiu-Jitsu CON, Las Vegas

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(Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 6, 2023) – The world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu witnessed another stellar performance from 23-year-old Norman Benjamin Saunders, fondly known as Benjamin or Norm, as he seized two bronze medals at the renowned Jiu-Jitsu CON held from August 31st to September 2nd at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Representing the Turks and Caicos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Saunders’ expertise was on full display in both the Gi and No Gi competitions of the Blue Belt Adult Middleweight Division. His resilience and skills led him to three victories in the Gi competition, all through submission. In the No Gi competition, he repeated his brilliance with three wins: one by submission, another by points, and one following his opponent’s disqualification. Notably, in both categories, Saunders’ sole defeat was dealt by a distinguished adversary, who occupies the 9th global rank in the Blue Belt Adult Middleweight Division, as recognized by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).

Following this remarkable showing, Saunders has advanced his position, now proudly standing at the 20th rank globally in the Blue Belt Adult Middleweight Division by the IBJJF.

Reflecting on his time in Las Vegas, Saunders conveyed, “I stepped into Jiu-Jitsu CON with the intention to improve my global ranking, and I’m proud to have achieved that. Although I was bested by an exceptional competitor, the entire experience was enlightening. My focus is now directed towards the Toronto International Open IBJFF Jiu-Jitsu Championship on September 16th. The strides I’ve made in this sport are a testament to Coach Alex Yablong, the academy, my dedicated teammates, and the unwavering support from my family and friends.”

Saunders’ journey continues to unfold, with September marking the commencement of his studies at the Liverpool Law School, University of Liverpool. This strategic move to Liverpool positions him advantageously closer to numerous elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions in Europe, offering Saunders invaluable experiences against the best in the sport, which he believes will be instrumental in his ascent in the global rankings.

His mentor, Coach Alex Yablong, remarked, ” Witnessing Norm’s unwavering dedication and subsequent growth in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu reaffirm the potential we’ve always seen in him. His recent triumphs prove that his success isn’t coincidental but a product of sheer hard work and the right guidance. I’d like to take this moment to invite more individuals to be a part of our family at the Turks and Caicos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Together, we can shape and celebrate many more success stories.”

Lastly, Saunders emphasized the essentiality of sponsorships in elevating his game, stating “Every step I take in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just for me; it’s for the Turks and Caicos Islands. By actively seeking sponsorships and brand partnerships, I aim to compete more frequently, further enhancing my skills and experience. My goal is to shine a spotlight on our nation, proving that our small islands can produce world-class talent. Together, we can elevate Turks and Caicos in the world of athletics.”

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Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Takes Platinum Sponsor Role at Premier Hotel Investment Summit  

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Turks and Caicos, May 23, 2026 – Invest Turks and Caicos Islands took center stage at one of the region’s most influential hospitality investment gatherings this spring, serving as a Platinum Sponsor at ALIS CALA 2026 in Coral Gables, Florida.

Held April 28 to 30 at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel, the conference brought together more than 600 tourism, hotel and investment leaders from over 35 countries focused on the future of hospitality investment in the Caribbean and Latin America.

ALIS CALA — short for the Americas Lodging Investment Summit Caribbean and Latin America — is widely regarded as the region’s premier deal-driven hospitality investment conference. The platform emerged from the merger of the long-running Caribbean Hotel & Resort Investment Summit (CHRIS) and Hotel Opportunities Latin America (HOLA), creating what organizers describe as a high-level space where investors, developers, lenders, hotel brands and government leaders connect around major regional projects and opportunities.

The event is known for attracting senior decision-makers, with roughly one in three delegates holding titles such as Chairman, CEO, President, Owner or Principal.

Invest Turks and Caicos said its participation focused heavily on showcasing investment opportunities across the territory, particularly in the Family Islands.

CEO Angela Musgrove delivered a presentation highlighting development opportunities in the Turks and Caicos Islands to what the agency described as a full room of attendees and strong stakeholder interest.

In a statement following the conference, Invest Turks and Caicos said discussions centered on tourism expansion, sustainable development and long-term investment partnerships designed to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a leading investment destination in the region.

The agency added that it looks forward to continuing conversations started at ALIS CALA and building new partnerships with investors, developers and strategic stakeholders interested in growth opportunities throughout the islands.

The conference itself focused heavily on capital access, hotel development pipelines, mixed-use tourism projects and investment confidence throughout the Caribbean basin — sectors where Turks and Caicos continues to attract increasing international attention.

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Bahamas News

From Hollywood to Parliament

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The Rick Fox Political Timeline

 

“Are You Thinking About Politics?”

Fox publicly acknowledged growing calls for him to enter Bahamian politics, saying he had been hearing from women, youth, business owners and everyday Bahamians who were “ready for something different.”

October 19, 2025

“Then Jump, Man.”

Fox revealed a conversation with NBA legend Michael Jordan, who encouraged him to enter politics after asking whether he believed he could help young Bahamians.

November 24, 2025

“The Bahamas Must Be First”

Fox officially announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election, promising transparency, affordability, opportunity and a modern Bahamian economy.

February 4, 2026

“Officially Picked”

The Free National Movement formally ratified Fox as its candidate for Garden Hills, instantly making him one of the most talked-about figures in the election cycle.

March 20, 2026

“From Courtside to Campaign Stage”

Fox mounted the national campaign stage for the first time at the FNM’s major campaign launch at Baha Mar Resort in Nassau.

March 30, 2026

“I’m Giving The Salary Back”

Fox announced he would not take a parliamentary salary if elected, saying the funds should instead go back into helping the people of Garden Hills.

April 14, 2026

“Nomination Eve Goes Viral”

A heated confrontation involving Fox and PLP supporters outside the Parliamentary Registration Department exploded across social media after video captured the tense exchange.

April 16, 2026

“Pick Rick” Officially Launches

Nomination Day cemented Fox’s candidacy and formally launched the now-famous “Pick Rick” campaign branding.

April 19, 2026

“Vote and Win”

Jamiah Burrows won a vehicle through Fox’s civic participation challenge, part of a campaign effort encouraging voter engagement and turnout.

April 20, 2026

“The Wealthiest Candidate”

Financial disclosures revealed Fox as the wealthiest candidate in the 2026 election cycle, with reported assets exceeding $469 million, ending speculation about his financial standing.

April 25, 2026

“The Garden Hills Blueprint”

Fox unveiled detailed policy graphics outlining plans for:

  • youth development,
  • healthcare access,
  • infrastructure upgrades,
  • environmental restoration,
  • entrepreneurship,
  • and a proposed $10 million investment fund for Garden Hills.

May 4, 2026

“The Numbers Don’t Lie”

Fox’s campaign highlighted more than:

  • 20 community clean-ups,
  • 16 streets and locations served,
  • and 13 solar lights installed across Garden Hills during the campaign.

May 6, 2026

“Shaq Steps In”

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal publicly endorsed Fox, helping elevate international attention surrounding the campaign.

May 8, 2026

“Buju Backs Rick”

Jamaican reggae icon Buju Banton threw his support behind Fox ahead of Election Day.

May 10, 2026

“Vanessa Williams Endorses”

Fox’s former wife, actress and singer Vanessa Williams publicly endorsed his campaign.

May 11, 2026

“Magic Joins the Campaign”

NBA icon Magic Johnson became the latest major celebrity to endorse Fox just one day before Bahamians went to the polls.

May 12, 2026

“Election Day”

Fox contested the Garden Hills constituency seat against PLP incumbent Mario Bowleg in one of the country’s most closely watched races.

May 13, 2026

“Grace in Defeat”

Fox publicly conceded the race and congratulated Bowleg on his victory in Garden Hills.

May 18, 2026

“We Pick Rick”

Despite losing at the polls, Fox officially entered Parliament after being appointed to the Senate by the FNM — with the party itself declaring:

“We Pick Rick.”

The appointment made Fox one of the most internationally recognized figures ever to serve in the Bahamian Senate.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

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Multi-Agency Enforcement Action Conducted in Lower Bight

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in coordination with the Planning Department and key partner agencies, conducted a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, May 7, 2026, in the Lower Bight area in Providenciales. The exercise resulted in the complete removal of a total of eight (8) unauthorized structures and all associated debris from a privately-owned parcel of land.

The operation was led by the Planning Department, with coordination by the ISU and support from the TCI Border Force, the Crown Land Unit, and Pelican Energy.  Security for the exercise was provided by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. All agencies worked collaboratively to ensure the exercise was carried out in a safe, orderly, and controlled manner.

The enforcement action followed a structured and lawful process in accordance with the Physical Planning regulatory framework of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Section 45 Enforcement Notices were first issued on the affected parcel in December 2024, identifying unauthorized structures erected without the requisite approvals. This was followed by the issuance of Warning Notices on April 16, 2026, which advised occupants that they were in breach of planning and land use regulations and provided notice that demolition activities would proceed following the prescribed compliance period. Despite these notices and the time afforded for compliance, the unauthorized structures remained in place.

This exercise represents part of an ongoing commitment to ensuring that development within the Turks and Caicos Islands is lawful, safe, and aligned with national standards.

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