Judge hears case of targeted students; The Stitch gets new funding; Antiques Roadshow

Summary

Georgia Today Podcast Summary
Episode: Judge hears case of targeted students; The Stitch gets new funding; Antiques Roadshow
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Host: Peter Biello | Georgia Public Broadcasting

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1. Federal Judge Reviews Deportation Case of International Students

Overview:
A pivotal case is unfolding in Atlanta as a federal judge deliberates on the fate of dozens of international students targeted for deportation under policies implemented by the Trump administration. These students, who have been stripped of their immigration status, are currently seeking protection while their lawsuit against the Department of Justice progresses.

Key Insights:
Chase McGhee from GPB News provides an in-depth look into the situation, highlighting the personal stories of those affected.

Notable Quotes:

• Chase McGhee [01:16]: "Jane Doe number one is one of 133 anonymous plaintiffs. She moved to the United States from Columbia for a chance at a better education in an American high school. Today, she's a student athlete at Kennesaw State University."
• Brittany Poynter [01:30]: "Being able to play a sport that I love and while getting an education, I'm really blessed by that opportunity."
• Brittany Poynter [01:49]: "I think they're trying to scare people. I think that's what they're doing. I think they're just trying to scare people into leaving."

Conclusion:
Jane Doe number one, representing many in her position, remains in Georgia, hoping for a favorable outcome that allows her to continue her studies and athletic pursuits without the looming threat of deportation.

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2. The Stitch Project Secures Additional Funding for Atlanta Green Space

Overview:
Atlanta's ambitious initiative to create a pedestrian-friendly green space over parts of Interstates 75 and 85, known as The Stitch, has received a significant financial boost from the Atlanta City Council. This funding is pivotal for advancing the project towards completion.

Key Insights:
Amanda Andrews from GPB News reports on the financial and infrastructural developments supporting The Stitch.

Notable Quotes:

• Amanda Andrews [02:20]: "Money collected will go towards park management and infrastructure maintenance when the project is complete."
• Peter Biello [02:39]: "Consultant teams are hard at work translating those renderings and those vision images into construction documentation that will allow us to go out and bid the project for construction."
• Amanda Andrews [02:53]: "Construction is expected to begin in late 2026."

Conclusion:
With the approval of a new property tax within the project's vicinity and the anticipation of City Council's master plan endorsement by June, The Stitch is on a clear path toward transforming downtown Atlanta into a more connected and green urban environment.

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3. Georgia Secretary of State Advocates for Afghan Christian Refugees

Overview:
Georgia's Secretary of State, Brad Raffensperger, has taken proactive steps to protect Afghan Christian refugees facing potential deportation. In a formal letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Raffensperger underscores the severe risks these refugees face if returned to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

Key Insights:

• Georgia hosts over 2,000 Afghan refugees, primarily in the metro Atlanta area.
• A recent Trump administration decision to revoke parole status has heightened fears of deportation among these communities.
• The letter emphasizes the imminent threat of prosecution and death awaiting the refugees if they are sent back.

Conclusion:
Secretary Raffensperger's intervention highlights the ongoing struggle to safeguard vulnerable populations amidst shifting federal immigration policies, emphasizing Georgia's commitment to protecting its Afghan Christian refugee community.

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4. SPLC Reports on Persistent Confederate Symbols Across the U.S.

Overview:
The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has released the fourth edition of their "Whose Heritage Project," a comprehensive report tracking the removal and retention of Confederate monuments nationwide. The latest findings reveal that over 2,000 Confederate symbols, including statues, public buildings, and military bases, still exist across the United States, with Georgia being a notable presence.

Key Insights:

• Margaret Hwang, SPLC President & CEO [04:08]: "Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's move to revert the U.S. army's Fort Moore back to its original name, Fort Benning, is an insult that's really, I think."
• Tonya Moseley [04:25]: "Has been harmful, especially to the families who fought to rename these bases of people who had served there who really supported the decision to rename them, and especially to the families of Fort Moore families who supported that name change as well."

Conclusion:
The SPLC's report underscores the enduring presence of Confederate symbols in public spaces, sparking ongoing debates about their place in modern America and the implications of their removal or retention.

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5. FBI Reports Surge in Cybercrime Complaints in Georgia

Overview:
The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center has reported a substantial increase in cybercrime complaints within Georgia over the past year. With over 19,000 complaints from the state alone, Georgia residents have accounted for nearly 2% of the nation's total 900,000 complaints, leading to potential financial losses estimated at $420 million.

Key Insights:

• Top Reported Cybercrimes Nationwide:
  1. Phishing and spoofing
  2. Extortion
  3. Personal data breaches

Conclusion:
The significant rise in cybercrime incidents in Georgia highlights the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and public awareness to protect individuals and businesses from digital threats.

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6. Georgia Megachurch Pastor Calls for Target Boycott

Overview:
Reverend Jamal Bryant, a prominent pastor of a Georgia megachurch, has initiated a nationwide 40-day fast against Target Corporation. His call for a full boycott stems from Target's perceived failure to uphold diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles, particularly following the company's announcement in January to phase out certain DEI initiatives.

Key Insights:

• Reverend Jamal Bryant [07:14]: "Target has not met all of the initiative's demands. Those include restoring its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion principles."
• Target's Response [07:28]: "Target announced yesterday it is committed to creating a welcoming environment for its workers, customers and suppliers."

Conclusion:
The clash between Reverend Bryant and Target underscores the broader societal tensions surrounding corporate DEI commitments, raising questions about the sincerity and longevity of such initiatives in major retail chains.

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7. Spelman College Unveils New $96 Million Arts Building

Overview:
Spelman College celebrated the grand opening of the Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation in the Arts, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation in various artistic disciplines.

Key Insights:

• Facilities Include:
  • Innovation lab
  • Digital media and gaming labs
  • Flexible classrooms and event spaces
• Supported Programs: Dance, documentary filmmaking, photography, theater, and music.

Conclusion:
The new arts building represents a significant investment in the creative arts at Spelman College, providing students with cutting-edge resources to explore and develop their artistic talents.

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8. Columbus Public Pools to Reopen After Eight-Year Hiatus

Overview:
After being closed for eight years, all public pools in Columbus are slated to reopen this summer. The reopening marks a significant effort to enhance community recreational facilities, though challenges remain in staffing with lifeguards.

Key Insights:

• Staffing Needs: The city requires 125 lifeguards but currently has less than half that number.
• Incentives Offered:
  • Raised aquatic staff pay to $16 an hour
  • Free lifeguard certification for applicants willing to work in Columbus
• Community Engagement: Councilmember Toya Tucker plans to host a block party at Shirley Winston Pool on May 31 to celebrate the reopening.

Conclusion:
Columbus's initiative to reopen its public pools brings joy to the community, though addressing the lifeguard shortage is essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of these recreational spaces.

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9. Antiques Roadshow Announces Savannah Tap-In for 30th Anniversary Season

Overview:
The beloved PBS program, Antiques Roadshow, is set to make its Savannah debut as part of its 30th anniversary season. The show will film at the Georgia State Railroad Museum, attracting hundreds of antique enthusiasts eager to have their treasures appraised on camera.

Key Insights:

• Event Details:
  • Location: Georgia State Railroad Museum, downtown Savannah
  • Date: Upcoming Tuesday
  • Significance: First stop of Antiques Roadshow's five-city Cross Country Tour this year
• Featured Stories: Brittany Poynter will bring an autograph from Elvis Presley, obtained by her parents at a Memphis hotel 70 years ago.

Notable Quotes:

• Brittany Poynter [07:39]: "They were just standing there in the lobby of the Peabody and Elvis and his entourage comes sweeping in. So Elvis went over to my mother and asked if he could kiss her on the cheek and she said no, but I'd like your autograph."
• Benjamin Payne [08:17]: "Episodes produced from the Savannah taping of Antiques Roadshow will air nationwide next year."

Conclusion:
Antiques Roadshow's Savannah event not only celebrates the show's milestone but also provides a unique platform for Savannah residents to showcase their historical and personal artifacts, enriching the cultural tapestry of the community.

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10. Additional Segment: Tim Livingston Analyzes High-Profile Legal Cases

Overview:
In an additional segment, Tim Livingston delves into the complexities of high-profile legal cases, drawing parallels between past and present judicial outcomes.

Key Insights:

• Case Discussions:
  • Ray Lewis and associated charges relating to a post-Super Bowl 34 incident.
  • Comparisons to O.J. Simpson's trial, highlighting the potential pitfalls of high-stakes legal proceedings.
• Notable Quotes:
  • Peter Biello [09:14]: "Is that big cases make for big mistakes."
  • Peter Biello [09:48]: "Simpson."
  • Tim Livingston [09:59]: "They know what happened. They know exactly what happened."

Conclusion:
Tim Livingston's analysis underscores the recurring challenges in ensuring justice in high-profile cases, emphasizing the need for thorough and unbiased legal processes to prevent miscarriages of justice.

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Final Thoughts

Peter Biello wraps up the episode by emphasizing GPB News' commitment to delivering comprehensive and engaging reporting. He encourages listeners to stay connected through GPB's website and by subscribing to the podcast for the latest updates. Additionally, Biello invites the community to contribute story ideas, reinforcing GPB's role as a vital news source for Georgia residents.

Notable Segment:

• Peter Biello [08:26]: "We know you have a lot of choices when it comes to news sources. Thanks for choosing Georgia Today."

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Stay Informed:
To keep up with the latest stories and in-depth reporting from GPB News, visit the Georgia Today website and subscribe to the podcast on your preferred platform. For suggestions or to share story ideas, email the team at [e-mail].

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This summary aims to encapsulate the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented in the April 24, 2025, episode of Georgia Today, providing a comprehensive overview for those who have not listened to the podcast.

Transcript

[Chase McGhee]

DBHDD is warning all Georgians that half of all opioid deaths happen at home when people take an Oxy or a perc with a glass of alcohol for stress or to sleep. Learn more about protecting families from opioid [e-mail].

[Peter Biello]

Welcome to Georgia Today. This podcast features the latest reports from the GPB news team. On today's episode, a federal judge hears the case of dozens of international students targeted for deportation by the Trump administration. A proposed green space over parts of the interstate in Atlanta finds a new source of funding and the popular PBS program Antiques Roadshow heads to Savannah.

[Brittany Poynter]

So Elvis went over to my mother and asked if he could kiss her on the cheek and she said no, but I'd like your autograph.

[Peter Biello]

Today is Thursday, April 24th. Hi, I'm Peter Biello and this is Georgia Today. A federal judge in Atlanta is considering whether international students stripped of their immigration status will be protected while their lawsuit against the Department of Justice continues. GPB's Chase McGhee has more.

[Chase McGhee]

Jane Doe number one is one of 133 anonymous plaintiffs. She moved to the United States from Columbia for a chance at a better education in an American high school. Today, she's a student athlete at Kennesaw State University.

[Brittany Poynter]

Being able to play a sport that I love and while getting an education, I'm really blessed by that opportunity.

[Chase McGhee]

She says a former romantic partner tried to have her charged with drug possession to get back at her, but the case was dismissed. Still, that charge likely led to federal officials suspending her international student status.

[Brittany Poynter]

I think they're trying to scare people. I think that's what they're doing. I think they're just trying to scare people into leaving.

[Chase McGhee]

Jane Doe number one says for now she is staying in Georgia. For GPB news, I'm Chase McGee.

[Peter Biello]

An Atlanta project that would build a pedestrian friendly green space over Parts of Interstate 75 and 85 received additional funding from Atlanta City Council this week. GPB's Amanda Andrews reports on the latest efforts to reconnect parts of downtown Atlanta.

[Amanda Andrews]

City Council created a new property tax in the half mile radius surrounding the future site of the Stitch project. Money collected will go towards park management and infrastructure maintenance when the project is complete. Jennifer Ball works with Central Atlanta Progress. She says they're expecting the Stitch master plan to be approved by City Council in June.

[Peter Biello]

Consultant teams are hard at work translating those renderings and those vision images into construction documentation that will allow us to go out and bid the project for construction.

[Amanda Andrews]

Construction is expected to begin in late 2026. For GPB news, I'm Amanda Andrews.

[Peter Biello]

Georgia's secretary of state is asking the Trump administration to hear the asylum claims of Afghan Christian refugees before sending them back to Afghanistan. In a letter to U.S. secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger says the refugees face prosecution and death in the Taliban controlled country. Georgia is home to more than 2,000 Afghan refugees, many of whom live in the metro Atlanta area. It's unclear how many are at risk of deportation because of a recent Trump administration decision to revoke their parole status. The Southern Poverty Law center has launched the fourth edition of their Whose Heritage Project, which tracks the removal of Confederate monuments across the country. The latest report finds More than 2,000 Confederate symbols still stand across the US including statues, public buildings and military bases. That includes in Georgia. Margaret Hwang, president and CEO of the SPLC, called Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's move to revert the U.S. army's Fort Moore back to its original name, Fort Benning, quote, an insult that's really, I think.

[Tonya Moseley]

Has been harmful, especially to the families who fought to rename these bases of people who had served there who really supported the decision to rename them, and especially to the families of Fort Moore families who supported that name change as well.

[Peter Biello]

Earlier this month, the army officially restored the name Fort Benning to the training post in Georgia, only this time to honor an 18 year old corporal who fought in World War I rather than a Confederate general. The FBI says its Internet Crime Complaint center received more than 19,000 complaints in Georgia last year. In a report released this week, the agency says Those were among 900,000 complaints nationwide. All told, the Georgia complaints racked up potential losses of $420 million. The top three cybercrimes reported nationally were phishing and spoofing, extortion and personal data breaches. The pastor of a Georgia megachurch who led a nationwide 40 day fast against Target stores is now calling for a full Target boycott. The Reverend Jamal Bryant said this week that the retailer has not met all of the initiative's demands. Those include restoring its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion principles. Target announced in January that it would phase out some DEI initiatives. Target said yesterday it is committed to creating a welcoming environment for its workers, customers and suppliers. Spelman College is celebrating the grand opening today of a new arts building. The $96 million Mary Schmidt Campbell center for Innovation in the Arts will serve as the home for programs in dance, documentary, filmmaking, photography, theater and music. It features an innovation lab, digital media and gaming labs, as well as flexible classroom and event spaces. All public pools in Columbus are set to reopen this summer for the first time in eight years. However, the city says those pools need lifeguards. The city needs 125 lifeguards total and has less than half that. The city has raised aquatic staff pay to $16 an hour and is offering free lifeguard certification as long as applicants commit to working in Columbus. Councilmember Toya Tucker says she's planning a community block party at Shirley Winston Pool on May 31 to celebrate its long awaited reopen.

[Tonya Moseley]

This is Tonya Moseley, co host of Fresh Air. You'll see your favorite actors, directors and 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]

Atlanta based Norfolk Southern's first quarter profits included another boost from insurance payments related to its disastrous 2023 derailment in eastern Ohio. The railroad has received close to a billion dollars in insurance payments to date to help cover the roughly $2 billion it has spent since the East Palestine derailment. In addition, the company hauled more freight, which contributed to a $750 million profit. Antiques Roadshow will be traveling to Savannah next week as the popular PBS program begins production on its 30th anniversary season. GPB's Benjamin Payne has more professional appraisers.

[Benjamin Payne]

Will set up shop at the Georgia State Railroad Museum in downtown Savannah for a full day of filming on Tuesday. It'll mark the first stop of Antiques Roadshow's five city Cross Country Tour this year. The sold out event is expected to draw hundreds of folks from the Hostess City and beyond eager to have their heirlooms appraised on camera. Among the attendees, Brittany Poynter of Columbia, South Carolina. She'll be bringing an autograph that her parents got from the King of Rock and Roll at a hotel in Memphis some 70 years ago.

[Brittany Poynter]

They were just standing there in the lobby of the Peabody and Elvis and his entourage comes sweeping in. So Elvis went over to my mother and asked if he could kiss her on the cheek and she said no, but I'd like your autograph.

[Benjamin Payne]

Episodes produced from the Savannah taping of Antiques Roadshow will air nationwide next year. For GB News, I'm Benjamin Payne in Savannah.

[Peter Biello]

Tickets to the event are sold out and will not be available at the door, but the Savannah taping isn't the only way fans can catch a glimpse into Antiques Roadshow. GPB will be producing behind the scenes specials for both radio and tv. We know you have a lot of choices when it comes to news sources. Thanks for choosing Georgia Today. Among the ways you can enjoy GPB reporters work is our website. Check out the [e-mail] news and subscribing to this podcast is the thing to do if you want to stay on top of the news. And if there's something you think we should cover, email us about it. The address is Georgia todaypb.org I'm Peter Biello. We'll see you tomorrow.

[Tim Livingston]

Kickoff for Super Bowl 34 the Titans Rams 2000 Super bowl 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, and two friends are charged with murder. The nation's eyes were glued to their televisions. The trial concluded and the verdicts came back not guilty. What you can learn from all this.

[Peter Biello]

Is that big cases make for big mistakes.

[Tim Livingston]

Look what happened to O.J.

[Peter Biello]

Simpson.

[Tim Livingston]

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?

[Chase McGhee]

They know what happened. 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.