Court victory for targeted students; Pope Francis dies; Healthy Start expansion

Summary

Georgia Today Podcast Summary Release Date: April 21, 2025

Hosted by Peter Biello, Georgia Today from Georgia Public Broadcasting delivers comprehensive coverage of the most pressing issues and stories affecting Georgians. In this episode, Peter Biello navigates through significant topics including a court victory for international students, the passing of Pope Francis, the expansion of the Healthy Start program, political developments, economic updates, and a notable sports controversy.

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1. Court Victory for International Students

Timestamp: [00:41] - [02:04]

A landmark legal decision has emerged for international students across Georgia whose visas were recently canceled by the federal government. Grant Blankenship of GPB News reports that these students successfully obtained a protective order in Georgia's Northern District Court, set to expire in two weeks.

Key Points:

• Legal Action: Students from various states, including Georgia, filed a lawsuit after the Department of Homeland Security removed their records from the tracking database.
• Protection Order: Federal Judge Victoria Calvert issued the protective order, citing the likelihood that higher courts may later determine the visa cancellations were unlawful.
• Impact: Judge Calvert emphasized the potential irreparable harm to students' lives and the importance of the public's interest in ensuring government adherence to the law.

Notable Quote:

“We have lost a much loved and respected spiritual father...” – Archbishop Gregory Hartmeyer on the passing of Pope Francis. (Note: This quote is related to the next section)

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2. Political Landscape: Jason Estevez Announces 2026 Gubernatorial Run

Timestamp: [02:04] - [02:47]

Georgia Democrat Jason Estevez has officially entered the race for governor in the 2026 elections. At 41 years old, Estevez brings his background as a state senator, lawyer, and business owner to his campaign.

Key Points:

• Campaign Focus: Estevez aims to lower the cost of living, particularly housing costs, expand healthcare, restore abortion rights, and increase funding for schools.
• Opponents: With incumbent Governor Brian Kemp ineligible for re-election, the race includes former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms (Democrat), Republican Attorney General Chris Carr, and Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, who is expected to announce his bid soon.

Notable Quote:

“Never did I think that a 9 to 0 Supreme Court ruling would be treated as if it were nothing. Our democracy, our sanity and our humanity hang in the balance. It's a messed up moment.” – Senator Raphael Warnock reflecting on recent political developments.

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3. Passing of Pope Francis: Community Reactions

Timestamp: [02:47] - [03:27]

The global Catholic community mourns the passing of Pope Francis at age 88. GPB's Chase McGee covers the heartfelt responses from local leaders.

Key Points:

• Archbishop Gregory Hartmeyer’s Statement: Highlights Pope Francis's dedication to spirituality, taking his papal name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi to define his papacy.
• Diocese of Savannah: Directed followers to the Vatican's page for funeral arrangements, expressing prayers for eternal rest.
• Significance of Timing: Archbishop Hartmeyer noted the providential timing of Pope Francis's passing within the Easter octave.

Notable Quote:

“It's about building trust with that mom all the way around, from the case management to the hands on part. So hopefully this is going to be something that's going to take off like fire.” – Carol Banton, discussing the Healthy Start program (Note: This quote connects to the next section)

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4. Raphael Warnock’s Easter Sermon and Democratic Concerns

Timestamp: [03:27] - [04:08]

Senator Raphael Warnock delivered a poignant Easter sermon, addressing the fragile state of American democracy.

Key Points:

• Themes: Warnock connected resurrection and hope to current political instability.
• Call to Action: Emphasized the importance of civic engagement and collective movement to uphold democratic values.
• Recent Supreme Court Ruling: Warnock referenced a unanimous Supreme Court decision mandating the Trump administration to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported to El Salvador unjustly.

Notable Quote:

“Never did I think that a 9 to 0 Supreme Court ruling would be treated as if it were nothing. Our democracy, our sanity and our humanity hang in the balance. It's a messed up moment.” – Senator Raphael Warnock

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5. Expansion of the Healthy Start Program in South Georgia

Timestamp: [04:08] - [05:32]

The Healthy Start initiative, aimed at supporting new mothers and their babies during their first year, is set to expand in ten South Georgia counties.

Key Points:

• Funding Boost: South Georgia Healthy Start receives an additional $2 million from the United Health Foundation to incorporate doulas into their support staff.
• Role of Doulas: These professionals assist women before and during childbirth, fostering trust and providing hands-on support.
• Community Impact: Over 1,000 families across Appling to Jefferson County are enrolled, benefiting from case managers and improved maternal health outcomes.
• Sustainability: The program's federal funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration has been renewed for another five years.

Notable Quote:

“It's about building trust with that mom all the way around, from the case management to the hands on part. So hopefully this is going to be something that's going to take off like fire.” – Carol Banton

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6. Savannah's New Online Sales Tax Survey

Timestamp: [05:32] - [06:19]

Officials in Savannah have launched an online survey to gather public input on the allocation of future sales tax revenue, pending voter approval.

Key Points:

• Survey Details: Residents and nonresidents can rank their preferences across six categories, including parks, public safety, and transportation.
• Tax Proposal: A proposed 1% sales tax in Chatham County aims to fund capital improvements such as stormwater management, drainage systems, and new fire trucks.
• Public Engagement: The survey is accessible on the city’s website until mid-May, with Mayor Van Johnson advocating for a positive vote in the upcoming election.
• Economic Relevance: Raphael Warnock highlighted the pervasive impact of such projects on daily life, emphasizing their importance.

Notable Quote:

“I guarantee you that you have come across, use, utilized, been impacted by one of these projects in your daily life and you probably didn't even know it.” – Senator Raphael Warnock

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7. Economic Update: Unemployment and Job Growth in Georgia

Timestamp: [06:31] - [08:13]

Georgia's economy shows resilience with stable unemployment rates and job growth in key sectors, alongside significant corporate investments and infrastructural developments.

Key Points:

• Unemployment Rate: Held steady at 3.6% last month.
• Job Growth: Increased by 6,900 positions, primarily in healthcare and social assistance sectors, while transportation and warehousing saw declines.
• Corporate Investment: Google has pledged $300,000 to Atlanta’s Weatherize ATL program, enhancing energy efficiency and providing workforce training.
• Local Business Expansion: Caribou Coffee plans to open eight new Georgia locations, marking a significant return to the state since its initial 1995 launch.
• Aviation Safety Concerns: A Delta Airlines plane caught fire in Orlando, sparking broader anxieties over recent aviation incidents nationwide.

Notable Quote:

“Savannah's sales tax survey is open to residents and nonresidents alike and can be filled out on the city's website through mid May.” – Benjamin Payne

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8. Sports Spotlight: Ronald Acuna Jr. Criticizes Braves Manager

Timestamp: [08:46] - [09:43]

Braves star Ronald Acuna Jr. took to social media to voice criticism of his team’s manager, Brian Snitker, following a controversial play.

Key Points:

• Incident Overview: During a game against the Twins, Braves player Jared Kelnick was thrown out at second base after a misunderstood play. Unlike Acuna's similar past mistake, Kelnick remained in the game, prompting Acuna to criticize the managerial inconsistency.
• Manager’s Response: Brian Snitker addressed the incident by explaining the unique circumstances and assured that a discussion took place to resolve the issue.
• Team Performance: The Braves are currently struggling, with the regular lineup underperforming and the team holding an 8-13 record, one of the worst in the National League.

Notable Quote:

“I don't look for him to not do because he plays with his hair on fire all the time and he's laying out and I didn't know it till I saw this morning. I went in and I looked at it when I got here and then and I had a discussion with him and we got it squared away.” – Brian Snitker, Braves Manager

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Conclusion

This episode of Georgia Today offers a comprehensive look at critical developments affecting the state, from legal victories and political campaigns to community health initiatives and economic trends. Peter Biello and his team provide in-depth reporting and insightful analysis, ensuring listeners are well-informed on the topics that matter most to Georgia residents.

For more detailed stories and updates, visit Georgia Today and subscribe to the podcast to stay informed on the latest news.

Transcript

[DBHDD Representative]

DBHDD is reminding Georgians that the 988 lifeline can help those worried about opioid and stimulant misuse. The three digit number is free and confidential. Help is available 24. 7 more [e-mail].

[Peter Biello]

Welcome to Georgia Today. Here we feature the latest reports from the GPB news team. On today's episode, a victory in court for Georgia International students who had their visas canceled. Georgians react to the passing of Pope Francis and 10 counties will soon benefit from an expansion of the federally funded Healthy Start program.

[Carol Banton]

It's about building trust with that mom all the way around from the case management to the hands on part. So hopefully this is going to be something that's going to take off like fire.

[Peter Biello]

Today is Monday, April 21st. I'm Peter Biello and and this is Georgia Today. Scores of university students on international student visas cancelled by the federal government have chalked up their first court victory with a protective order expiring in two weeks. GPB's Grant Blankenship has more 133 international.

[Grant Blankenship]

Students from around the country, including Georgia, sued when they lost their ability to study. When the Department of Homeland Security pulled their records from the government database tracking international students last week, they sought a restraining order restoring their visas in Georgia's Northern District Court against Attorney General Pam Bondi and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Federal Judge Victoria Calvert granted the protection because of what she says is the likelihood a higher court will eventually find the visa cancellations broke the law and because the students lives would be, quote, irreparably harmed in the meantime with no way to study or work. Calvert also cited the public's interest in seeing the federal government follow the law. For GPB News, I'm Grant Blankenship.

[Peter Biello]

Georgia Democrat Jason Estevez says he's running for governor in 2026. The 41 year old state senator is a lawyer and business owner. Estevez says he will seek to lower the cost of living, including housing costs. He also wants to expand health care, restore abortion rights and increase school funding. Incumbent Republican Governor Brian Kemp can't seek re election. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has said she plans to run as a Democrat. Republican Attorney General Chris Carr announced his bid last year and Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones is expected to announce soon. Pope Francis died today at the age of 88. GPB's Chase McGee reports on local reaction to his passing.

[DBHDD Representative]

In a statement from the Archdiocese in Atlanta, Archbishop Gregory Hartmeyer says, we have lost a much loved and respected spiritual father who took the name Francis in order of my own spiritual father, St. Francis of Assisi, to define his papacy. Archbishop Hartmeyer calls it providential that Pope Francis would pass within the Easter octave, the eight day period of remembrance following Easter Sunday. The Diocese of Savannah posted a message online directing followers to the Vatican's page for funeral arrangements, adding eternal rest grant unto him. For GPB news, I'm Chase McGee.

[Peter Biello]

Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock used his Easter sermon to reflect on the uncertainty facing American democracy. Warnock serves as senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. In his sermon, he connected the themes of resurrection and hope to what he described as a fragile moment in the country's civic life.

[Raphael Warnock]

Never did I think that a 9 to 0 Supreme Court ruling would be treated as if it were nothing. Our democracy, our sanity and our humanity hang in the balance. It's a messed up moment.

[Peter Biello]

The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the Trump administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was wrongly deported to El Salvador. Warnock urged his congregation to act because there is power in movement. Healthy Start programs aim to give new moms and their babies support during their first year together. The the largely federally funded initiative links families with case managers who can help monitor their health and look out for their needs. 10 South Georgia counties will soon benefit from a wider breadth of support. GPB Sophie Gradas explains.

[Sophie Gradas]

South Georgia Healthy Start, serving a cluster of counties in southeast Georgia, will use a recent infusion of $2 million from the United Health foundation to add doulas to its support staff. Doulas help women before and during birth. Carol Banton is a longtime case manager and is training to become a doula herself.

[Carol Banton]

It's about building trust with that mom all the way around, from the case management to the hands on part. So hopefully this is going to be something that's going to take off like fire.

[Sophie Gradas]

There's evidence that doulas can help mitigate infant and maternal deaths. Over 1,000 moms, kids and dads are enrolled in South Georgia Healthy Start from Appling to Jefferson County. The program is one of a few in Georgia whose funding from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration was renewed for another five years last fall. For GPB News, I'm Sophie Gradis.

[Peter Biello]

Officials in Savannah have launched a new online survey for input on how future sales tax dollars should be spent in the hostess city, GBB's Benjamin Payne reports.

[Benjamin Payne]

The survey asks people to rank their preferences among six buckets of parks, public safety and transportation, among other categories. The revenue would come from a proposed 1% sales tax levied in Savannah's Chatham county, but it first needs to get approved by voters later this year. It would be the 8th edition of the county's penny sales tax to fund capital improvement, things like stormwater, drainage systems and new fire trucks. Speaking at a press conference, Savannah Mayor Van Johnson urged Chatham residents to vote yes in November.

[Raphael Warnock]

I guarantee you that you have come across, use, utilized, been impacted by one of these projects in your daily life and you probably didn't even know it.

[Benjamin Payne]

Savannah's sales tax survey is open to residents and nonresidents alike and can be filled out on the city's website through mid May. For GPP news, I'm Benjamin Payne in Savannah.

[Peter Biello]

Georgia's unemployment rate held steady at 3.6% last month, and the number of jobs rose by 6,900. The sectors with the most growth were healthcare and social assistance, while transportation and warehousing lost jobs last month. Google has given the city of Atlanta $300,000 to boost the city's Weatherize ATL program. That initiative helps fund energy efficiency and healthy home upgrades to single family owner occupied homes in neighborhoods with high energy bills. Mayor Andre Dickens says the funding will help expand home energy efficiency improvements and workforce training opportunities for Atlanta residents. The nonprofit Partners in Action for Healthy Living has been selected as the on the ground team to implement the funding. And Caribou Coffee says it plans to open eight new locations in Georgia. The cafe chain first opened in Georgia in 1995. New locations in development include Griffin, Athens, Woodstock, Smyrna, Lawrenceville, Snellville, Augusta and Covington. All are scheduled to open this summer. A Delta Airlines airplane caught fire today before it was scheduled to leave Orlando, Florida, for Atlanta Airport Officials had no report of any injuries. All nearly 300 people were evacuated. A recent spate of aviation disasters and close calls in the US has stoked fears about air travel on the ground. Accidents included a plane that crashed and flipped over upon landing in Toronto and a Japan Airlines plane that clipped a parked Delta plane while it was taxiing at the Seattle airport. Atlanta based Delta says maintenance teams will look into the cause of today's fire.

[Tanya Moseley]

This is Tanya Moseley, co host of Fresh Air. You'll see your favorite actors, directors, comedians on late night TV shows or YouTube. But what you get with Fresh Air is a deep dive. Spend some quality time with people like Billie Eilish, Questlove, Ariana Grande, Stephen Colbert and so many more. We ask questions you won't hear asked anywhere else. Listen to the Fresh Air podcast From NPR and WHYY.

[Peter Biello]

Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. Went to social media to criticize his own team's manager. It started with a swing by Jared Kelnick, who was trotting to first Saturday night when the ball he thought was a homer actually stayed in the park. Kelnick then began to run hard but was thrown out at second base. Kelnick remained in the game, but in 2019, Acuna did the same thing, jogging to first as what he thought was a home run settled into the park. Acuna got a single, but manager Brian Snitger benched him for his lack of hustle. That Kelnick didn't receive the same treatment prompted Acuna to post on X if it were me, they would take me out of the game. Speaking after yesterday's 62 win over the Twins, Snitker said, every situation is different, so he handled Kelnick differently.

[Brian Snitker]

I don't look for him to not do because he plays with his hair on fire all the time and he's laying out and I didn't know it till I saw this morning. I went in and I looked at it when I got here and then and I had a discussion with him and we got it squared away.

[Peter Biello]

Acuna's social media comment was removed after about an hour, and the comments come as the Braves struggle to get out of the basement. All of the Braves regular starting lineup, with the exception of Marcel ozuna, are hitting below.300, and the team's 8 and 13 record is among the worst in the National League. You are now all caught up on Georgia News. Thanks for listening to Georgia Today. Our reporters are working on stories for tomorrow morning and tomorrow afternoon. You can find all [e-mail] news when they're ready, and you can also find them here on Georgia Today. Make sure you subscribe so you won't miss a thing and send your feedback to georgiatodaypb.org I'm Peter Biello. We'll see you tomorrow.

[Tim Livingston]

Kickoff For Super Bowl 34 the Titans Rams 2000 Super Bowl an instant classic. Hours after the game, two men were stabbed in the street. Accused of being in the middle, the greatest linebacker in NFL history, Ray Lewis.

[Raphael Warnock]

And two friends are charged with murder.

[Tim Livingston]

The nation's eyes were glad to their televisions. The trial concluded and the verdicts came back not guilty.

[Brian Snitker]

What you can learn from all this is that big cases make for big mistakes.

[Tim Livingston]

Look what happened to O.J. simpson and look what happened in Ray Lewis. Lewis went on to have a Hall of fame career. But questions around that night in Atlanta still remain. So where do you think they're hiding?

[Carol Banton]

They know what happened.

[DBHDD Representative]

They know exactly what happened.

[Tim Livingston]

After 20 years, it's time to get to the bottom line. Truth. From Tenderfoot tv, I'm Tim Livingston, and this is the Raven. Listen for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.