Hello and welcome to the Athens News podcast, I’m Melissa Carter. Some Athens students are being praised as heroes for saving a family from drowning. Plus, UGA’s QB has a new ride, and it’s got people talking. But first…Here are your top stories brought to you by Drake Realty.
Athens News
Jose Ibarra, the man accused of the murder of 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley, is seeking a speedy trial.
Ibarra's defense team has requested a jury trial and emphasized that he is not waiving his rights.
They have also demanded all evidence and documents related to the case be turned over to them.
Laken Riley was killed during her morning run on February 22nd.
Her body was discovered in a wooded area near Lake Herrick and UGA's intramural fields.
Ibarra, originally from Venezuela and living in Athens, faces a multitude of charges, including malice murder and kidnapping.
This from Fox 5.
Athens News
Athens-Clarke County has secured a major win with an $800,000 federal grant, earmarked for enhancing transportation infrastructure.
Georgia's senators announced this significant investment, part of a statewide initiative totaling over $210 million.
The grant aims to boost safety and connectivity along Hawthorne Avenue, Oglethorpe Avenue, and Alps Road.
The funding is part of the USDOT Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods program.
While vehicular traffic won't increase along the designated routes, strategies for efficient traffic movement will be explored.
This from the Athens-Banner Herald.
Athens News
During last week’s work session meeting at City Hall, the mayor and commission revealed plans from the Housing and Community Development Department (HCD), focusing on affordable housing initiatives, community programs, and homelessness services.
Additionally, a new project concept for ongoing Traffic Safety developments was introduced.
Mayor Kelly Girtz announced changes to the schedule, with all work sessions now set for noon on the second Tuesday of each month at the Athens-Clarke County Planning Department.
Starting April 2nd, these monthly sessions will provide a platform for crucial discussions.
This from the Red & Black.
Social Media
From the Athens-Banner Herald’s Facebook page:
Georgia football QB Carson Beck got a new Lamborghini: 'It’s just a car at the end of the day.’
Charlie Powell
As long as he doesn't develop a drinking problem like Stetson B, I’m okay with it.
April Williamson
And this is the reason that someone with mental issues don't talk about it and is thought to be something else.
Tanner Fouche
Why do we care what car he drives?
Justin Ingham
College players get paid these days, he bought a car. BFD
Daniel Martinez
What's next?
UGA News
Five University of Georgia students are being hailed as heroes by the Burke County Sheriff's Office, after a daring rescue in Sardis.
Jane McArdle, Mary McCollum, Eleanor Cart, Clarke Jones, and Kaitlyn Iannace sprang into action when they witnessed a vehicle plunge into a creek on Ellison Bridge Road.
Without hesitation, they leaped into the water and saved the driver and two children from the sinking vehicle.
The sheriff's office praised their quick thinking and bravery, calling them 'heroes' and expressing gratitude for their presence in the right place at the right time.
Sardis, where the incident occurred, is located just an hour south of Augusta.
This from the Athens-Banner Herald.
UGA Sports
From ESPN and the Red & Black:
In the SEC basketball tournament over the weekend, UGA’s men’s team lost to Florida in the 2nd round, 85-80.
Georgia softball claimed victories over Miami (Ohio), Jacksonville State and Furman to sweep its five games in the Bulldog Classic at Jack Turner Stadium.
Athens News
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department is gearing up for vehicle checkpoints today, aiming to enhance road safety.
In response to an 11% rise in Driving Under the Influence arrests last year, Sergeant Vincent Schill emphasizes the importance of removing unsafe drivers and educating the public.
While the specific locations remain undisclosed for officer safety, detailed information will follow via media releases and social media posts.
Officers will distribute educational materials, including local statistics, to raise awareness about the significance of these checkpoints and their impact on community safety.
This from the Red & Black.
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