Local News
Lakers Waive Two-Way Player D’Moi Hodge in Roster Shake-Up
The Los Angeles Lakers have decided to part ways with two-way guard D’Moi Hodge and two-way forward Alex Fudge. The announcement comes as part of the team’s strategic roster adjustments ahead of the looming deadline for two-way contracts to become guaranteed this Sunday.
Hodge, who joined the Lakers as an undrafted free agent this past summer, exhibited notable skills during the Summer League, particularly showcasing his 3-and-D abilities. Despite limited playing time in seven regular-season games for the Lakers, averaging 1.0 points in 3.6 minutes, the British Virgin Islands native made significant contributions to the South Bay Lakers in the G League, averaging 11.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.4 steals in 22.6 minutes over 16 games.
Similarly, Fudge, who initially signed up for the Lakers during the Summer League after going undrafted out of Florida, secured a two-way contract in July. While his on-court appearances for the Lakers were limited to four games with an average of 1.0 points in 3.6 minutes, Fudge displayed versatility in the G League, averaging 8.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 1.6 blocks in 18.7 minutes over 10 games with South Bay.
In light of these roster changes, the Lakers have opened up two two-way roster spots to potentially bring in new talent. One such addition is wing player Dylan Windler, who caught the Lakers’ attention with an impressive performance for the Westchester Knicks in the G League, scoring 23 points and securing a remarkable 33 rebounds.
With the unexpected waiving of Hodge, the Lakers now have another two-way spot available, providing flexibility for potential signings or waiting for other opportunities. Additionally, the team has an open standard roster spot with only 14 active players, making room for possible 10-day contract signings this week.
Notably, Colin Castleton remains the one two-way player retained by the Lakers, given his outstanding season with South Bay, where he is averaging 18.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.6 blocks while shooting an impressive 60.1% from the field in 12 G League games.
The departure of Hodge and Fudge opens the possibility for other teams to claim them if they have available two-way spots. However, should they go unclaimed and hit free agency, there remains a chance that both players may choose to stay within the Lakers organisation, continuing their developmental journey with the South Bay Lakers in the G League for the remainder of the season.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
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