GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 3/24 – Published Friday 3/22
From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal Inc.
Today is Sunday, March 24th, and Happy 58th Birthday to wrestler The Undertaker.
***03.24.24 – BIRTHDAY – UNDERTAKER***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty
We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
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Story 1: Student Stabbed at Sprayberry, Suspect in Custody
A student at Sprayberry High School was stabbed by another student on campus, leading to a code red lockdown. The victim received treatment for their injuries, but details were not disclosed. The suspect is in custody, and the campus is secure with a heightened police presence. The incident prompted a swift response from law enforcement and school officials. Sprayberry Principal Sara Fetterman assured parents of prioritizing student and staff safety and stated that the suspect will face legal and disciplinary consequences.
Story 2: Alabama Jury Finds Man Not Guilty Of Killing Two Rome Sisters
Devin Lashawn Watts, accused in the killing of two Rome sisters, was acquitted of capital murder by an Alabama jury. He remains in custody pending resolution of other charges in Floyd County. Prosecutors alleged the sisters were killed over a missing wallet. While Watts was implicated in the shooting of one sister, his attorney questioned the reliability of evidence and witness testimony, suggesting other possible perpetrators. Despite efforts to link Watts to the killings, the jury found insufficient evidence for conviction. The case may still be prosecuted in Floyd County.
Story 3: Police Arrest Fourth Suspect in Feb. 1 McEachern Shooting
A 17-year-old, Dequaven Markell Ricks, was arrested as the fourth suspect in the Feb. 1 shooting at McEachern High School's parking lot, charged with carrying a gun in a school safety zone, loitering, and possession of a pistol by a minor. Ricks allegedly brought out a gun after a school fight, resulting in two former students being shot. This incident prompted a lockdown at the school. Jean Germain and Scott Foor were previously arrested for their involvement, facing charges including aggravated assault and possessing a weapon on school property. Ricks posted bail and was released after a day in custody.
We’ll be right back.
Break: WHEELER – HENRY CO SHERIFFS OFFICE
Story 4: School voucher bill heads to governor’s desk after Georgia Senate overcomes years of failure
Republican Sen. Greg Dolezal celebrated the passage of a bill expanding Georgia's school voucher program, after years of unsuccessful attempts. The bill allows families to use $6,500 of state funding to attend private schools or homeschool. Critics questioned whether this amount would suffice for private school tuition. The legislation aims to prioritize vouchers for low-income families and hold private schools accountable for academic performance. If signed into law, the program would start in 2025 with an annual budget of $141 million. Democrats criticized the bill, calling it insufficient and discriminatory. However, conservative groups praised the expansion of educational opportunities.
Story 5: Rivian plant in limbo has locals cheering, leaders jeering
Rivian's decision to halt construction on its Georgia megafactory has sparked celebration among local opposition groups while putting state leaders under scrutiny. Governor Brian Kemp expressed disappointment but affirmed the deal is not over. Rivian has until 2030 to fulfill its commitments to invest $5 billion and create 7,500 jobs, or face penalties. State leaders faced questioning from a Senate subcommittee over the $1.5 billion incentive deal. While state officials spent millions on the project, Rivian's indefinite delay has raised doubts about its completion. However, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe affirmed the company's commitment to Georgia despite the delay.
We’ll be right back.
Break: INGLES 9 – CHERRY BLOSSOM
Story 6: Georgia Senate sends state income tax cut to governor
The Georgia Senate has passed an election-year tax cut bill, advancing it to Governor Brian Kemp's desk for approval. Proposed by Kemp, the legislation accelerates a state income tax reduction, lowering the rate from 5.49% to 5.39%, saving taxpayers around $1.1 billion this year. Sen. Bo Hatchett, Kemp's Senate floor leader, emphasized the bill's aim to manage the budget conservatively and provide relief to taxpayers. While the bill received unanimous support in the Georgia House, 12 Democratic senators opposed it in the Senate, with 40 senators backing the measure.
Story 7: Walmart now carries a high demand item it's never stocked before
Walmart is now selling the 13-inch MacBook Air with M1 chip, marking its first-ever partnership with Apple to officially offer Macs. Priced at $699, it's the entry-level configuration with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage in three colors. This move comes after Apple discontinued the model, introducing new MacBook Air versions. Walmart aims to provide premium brands at lower prices, aligning with its mission. While the M1 MacBook Air is currently available online, it will soon hit select stores. The retailer's executive vice president expressed excitement about offering Apple products and hinted at potential future additions to their lineup. Further details on product availability and potential discounts on other Mac models remain unclear.
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