Local News
Adaejah Hodge Chooses The University of Georgia
BVI Track star Adaejah Hodge has officially chosen the University of Georgia as her collegiate home, opting for the red and black over powerhouse programs such as Texas, Stanford, LSU, and Southern California.
During the live video announcement last night, November 23, Hodge shared the exciting news that she has chosen to join the prestigious Georgia Bulldogs.
Hodge expressed deep appreciation for those who have played pivotal roles in her journey. “I would like to say thank you for all of you who are here right now. First, I would like to thank God for having me here, a blessing to the talent and the ability to serve,” she shared with sincerity.
A significant part of Hodge’s gratitude went to her mother, recognising the multiple roles she plays in her life. “I would like to thank my mom because she’s the reason I’m here in this position right now. She wears many hats. She’s my mom, she’s sometimes my coat, my physiotherapist, my nutritionist. So she’s been in my back pocket the whole time,” Hodge expressed, highlighting the profound influence her mother has had on her journey.
Reflecting on her early days in track and field, Hodge fondly remembered her introduction to the sport in preschool under the guidance of Miss Frederick. “Back when I was in preschool, when I was five years old, she basically just took me under her wing and taught me everything about track. So I just really had fun with it,” she shared, showcasing the roots of her passion for athletics.
The pivotal decision to come to the States for the first time and pursue her athletic dreams was also acknowledged, with Hodge expressing gratitude to her coaches and support system. She specifically thanked Coach Jones, who has been a guiding force since she was just eight years old. “Coach Jones, he’s been there for me since I was eight years old, 15, 16 years old,” she said, underscoring the enduring support that has shaped her journey.
The live video took a creative turn as Hodge unveiled a unique reveal, representing her college choices with labeled boxes. “As you can see, we have four boxes. This one represents Georgia. This one represents Texas. This represents USC, and this one represents LSU,” she explained before sharing the moment of truth.
What adds to the intrigue of this announcement is the timing. Hodge’s commitment to the Bulldogs aligns with the recent signing of St. Croix’s own Michelle Smith. The duo’s decision to join forces at the University of Georgia hints at the program’s ability to attract and retain top talent from diverse backgrounds.
The University of Georgia’s women’s sports program is undoubtedly on the rise, and the addition of Adaejah Hodge and Michelle Smith further solidifies the Bulldogs’ status as a force in collegiate athletics.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).
The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.
Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”
Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.
Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”
The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.
As the festive season brings increased consumer activity, the British Virgin Islands Bank Association (BVIBA) has issued a stern reminder to merchants across the territory regarding compliance with card transaction policies.
The association warns that imposing minimum spending requirements or charging additional fees for card payments is not only against their merchant agreements but also violates regulations established by major payment networks, VISA and Mastercard.
The advisory, issued on Wednesday, December 18, warns that merchants engaging in these practices are in breach of their contractual obligations with their respective financial institutions. “We request that all merchants immediately cease these practices to ensure compliance,” the statement read.
The BVIBA comprises several prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited, CIBC Caribbean, FirstBank PR, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) Limited, and VP Bank (BVI) Limited.
For inquiries or guidance on compliance, the BVIBA advises merchants to contact their respective banks promptly.
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation
BVI Bank Association Warns Merchants Against Card Transaction Violations
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