Georgia Today Podcast Summary
Release Date: July 18, 2025
Episode: 'Good Trouble Day' Protests Across Georgia; Clinical Trial to Address HIV; Flood Terms

Host: Orlando Montoya
Producer: Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB)
Description: Georgia Today is the daily podcast from GPB News delivering compelling stories and in-depth reporting on topics that matter to Georgians. In this episode, host Orlando Montoya covers the nationwide protests in Georgia honoring John Lewis, a groundbreaking clinical trial addressing the state's high HIV rates, and essential information on flood terminology to enhance public safety.

1. 'Good Trouble Day' Protests Honor John Lewis and Advocate Against Trump Policies

The episode opens with Orlando Montoya highlighting the significant protests that took place across Georgia against President Donald Trump's policies. These demonstrations were part of a national Day of Action titled "Good Trouble Lives On," paying homage to the legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis.

Key Highlights:

• Protest Objectives: The protests primarily targeted Trump's policies on mass deportations, Medicaid cuts, and reductions to safety net programs affecting the impoverished.
• Event in Atlanta: GPB's Sarah Kallis reports from Atlanta, where hundreds marched down Auburn Avenue. The march concluded with a rally featuring Andrea Young, Executive Director of ACLU Georgia.

Notable Quote:

"John Lewis took that torch over the Edmund Pettus Bridge. We are still carrying that torch until our multiracial democracy is what he envisioned it to be."
— Andrea Young, ACLU Georgia Executive Director [01:53]

• Significance of the Date: The demonstration also commemorated the five-year anniversary of John Lewis's passing, reinforcing his enduring impact on civil rights and social justice movements.
• Wider Participation: Events weren't confined to Atlanta alone; other metropolitan areas and southeastern Georgia cities also held their own gatherings, showcasing widespread support and solidarity.

Additional Insights:

• Andrea Young's Remarks:

"I'm unhappy with the Republican stance on things. The current administration has alienated our allies, has turned the clock back the United States years and years and years. And I don't know how long it's going to take to get that momentum back."
— Andrea Young [02:24]

This statement underscores the protesters' frustration with the administration's direction and their commitment to revitalizing progressive momentum in the country.

2. Innovative Clinical Trial Aims to Combat Georgia's High HIV Rates

Georgia faces one of the highest HIV rates in the United States, prompting significant public health initiatives. Orlando Montoya delves into a pioneering clinical trial designed to address this critical issue.

Key Highlights:

• Overview of the Trial: The clinical trial introduces a novel Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication administered once every six months, aiming to provide a more convenient and effective prevention method against HIV.
• Target Population: The study focuses on high-risk groups, particularly young Black individuals and members of the LGBTQ+ community, including gay, bisexual, transgender, and non-binary individuals.

Notable Quotes:

"Georgia has the highest rates of HIV in the country."
— Sarah Kalis [08:45]

"Our work at the three sites in Atlanta contributed significantly to the trial by enrolling the population at highest risk of for HIV, namely young Black populations."
— Valeria Cantos Lucio, Primary Investigator [09:13]

Additional Insights:

• Impact of the Trial: By targeting the populations most affected by HIV, the trial aims to significantly reduce new infections and provide a scalable model for other regions facing similar challenges.
• Geographical Focus: Early Clayton, DeKalb, and Fulton counties, known for their high rates of new HIV diagnoses, are the primary areas of focus for this initiative.

Conclusion: This clinical trial represents a critical step forward in Georgia's fight against HIV, offering hope through innovative medical solutions and targeted community engagement.

3. Understanding Flood Terminology to Enhance Public Safety

In light of recent severe weather events, including last year's Hurricanes Debbie and Helene, Orlando Montoya emphasizes the importance of understanding flood-related terms to ensure public safety during emergencies.

Key Highlights:

• Types of Flooding: The discussion covers flash flooding, river flooding, and coastal flooding, each posing unique risks and requiring specific preparedness measures.
• Educational Resources: Jennifer Klein, Coastal Hazard Specialist with the Department of Natural Resources in Brunswick, directs listeners to GPB’s website (coastalgadnr.org) for a comprehensive list of flood terms.

Notable Quotes:

"Flash flood, it's potentially life-threatening. It's usually water going into a typically dry area. For instance, on the coast, it's those roads. Our roads are typically dry. And when you have a quick downpour of rain, that creates flash flooding because the water can't move fast enough and we don't want people to drive through that."
— Jennifer Klein [03:31]

"If you get something along those lines, it's really just emphasizing the need to stay indoors from where a lot of this is happening."
— Jennifer Klein [05:07]

Detailed Explanations:

• Flood Watches vs. Warnings:

  • Flood Watch: Issued when conditions are favorable for flooding to occur.
  • Flash Flood Warning: Indicates that flooding is imminent or already occurring.
  • Flash Flood Emergency: A more severe warning signaling life-threatening conditions and the need for immediate action.

• Actionable Advice:

  • Stay Indoors: During a flash flood warning or emergency, if you are at home, remain inside until all warnings have been lifted.
  • Driving Precautions: If caught driving during a flash flood warning, continue to your destination safely instead of pulling over. Avoid driving through flooded roads, as even shallow water can be hazardous.

Additional Insights:

• Terminology Clarification:

"We encourage people to use 'higher than high tide flooding' rather than 'king tide,' which is a non-scientific term."
— Jennifer Klein [05:41]

This clarification helps ensure consistent communication among professionals and the public, reducing confusion during emergency situations.

• Personal Accounts: Orlando Montoya shares his personal experience with flooding risks in Atlanta, emphasizing that severe flooding can occur inland, not just on the coasts.

• Community Preparedness: Jennifer Klein stresses the importance of family discussions about flood-prone areas, understanding warning systems, and knowing evacuation routes to enhance community resilience against flooding events.

Conclusion: Understanding flood terminology and appropriate responses is crucial for public safety. GPB encourages all listeners to familiarize themselves with these terms and to stay informed through reliable resources like coastalgadnr.org.

Final Remarks: In this episode, Georgia Today effectively addresses pressing issues affecting Georgia residents, from political protests honoring civil rights legacies to innovative health initiatives and essential safety information on natural disasters. Host Orlando Montoya, along with insightful contributions from reporters and experts, provides a comprehensive overview of topics that are vital for the well-being and informed citizenship of Georgians.

For more detailed reports and updates, listeners are encouraged to visit GPB News or subscribe to the Georgia Today podcast.