Georgia Today Podcast | January 16, 2026

Host: Orlando Montoya (GPB)
Episode Topics: KSU basketball gambling scandal, Medicaid funding concerns and strategy, Clarke County Jail art program, Atlanta World Cup prep, and more

Episode Overview

This episode provides an in-depth look at several major Georgia news stories, including the unsealing of an indictment naming a Kennesaw State basketball player in a national game-rigging scheme, ongoing research into replacing federal Medicaid dollars, preparations for the 2026 legislative session, a pivotal vote on Atlanta’s homelessness partnerships, World Cup compliance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, major fines for health insurers, the return of the Dogwood Festival, and a unique art program for incarcerated individuals at Clarke County Jail.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. KSU Player Named in National Gambling Ring ([00:41])

• Story Summary:
  Federal prosecutors have indicted 39 college basketball players—including standout Kennesaw State guard Simeon Cottle—in an alleged scheme to rig games for gambling payouts.

  • The ring began with pro games in China, later recruiting US college players.
  • An estimated 30 NCAA games were affected over two seasons.
  • Simeon Cottle has been suspended indefinitely by Kennesaw State.

• Notable Insight:
  The scandal impacts not only individual careers but also raises broader concerns about the integrity of college sports in Georgia and beyond.

2. The 2026 Georgia Legislative Session & Budget Focus ([01:07])

• Session Recap:
  The opening week was mostly ceremonial: calendar approvals and Governor Brian Kemp’s State of the State address.
  • Passage of a bill invalidating Savannah’s gun lock ordinance.
• Upcoming Week ([02:03]):
  • Next week is dedicated to the state budget ("budget week"), with agencies presenting funding goals.
  • “The budget, of course, is the only mandated goal during the session.” – Pamela Kirkland ([02:16])
  • Lawmakers Spotlight podcast returns Jan 26.

3. Researching Replacement of Lost Federal Medicaid Funds ([02:26])

Reporter: Ellen Eldredge

• Why It Matters:
  Federal Medicaid cuts loom, threatening coverage for 2.2 million Georgians and funding 40% of births statewide.
• Georgia Health Initiative's Role:
  • Research is focused on educating stakeholders and nonprofits about Medicaid’s vital role.
  • Cindy Delphin, VP of Policy, emphasizes:

    "There will be much for our state policymakers to think through as they reflect on our health, the state of our health care system and helping to make sure that people in Georgia have the coverage that they need." ([03:14])

• Insight:
  The research is framed both as an urgent policy tool and as a resource for the public to understand healthcare access.

4. Tension over Atlanta’s Homeless Support Partnerships ([03:43])

• Background:
  Atlanta’s rapid housing project is underway, aiming to complete 100 permanent supportive units, with a 2019 deal obligating the city to construction funding and Fulton County to support services over 30 years.
  • In December, Fulton County said it lacks funds for its share, causing public criticism.
• Quote:
  Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens:

  “We are standing here today saying do what you say you’re gonna do, and for the next 30 years you’re supposed to put up at a minimum, $4.8 million. You can’t walk back from that.” ([04:22])

• Upcoming Vote:
  Fulton County Commissioners to set 2026 budget on Jan 21.

5. Mercedes-Benz Stadium Prepares for FIFA World Cup ([04:57])

Reporter: Amanda Andrews

• Preparations:
  • All non-FIFA corporate logos (approx. 2,000) must be covered/removed for FIFA compliance, a process starting May 25.
  • Special challenge: the iconic Mercedes-Benz emblem integrated in stadium’s roof “pillows.”
  • Adam Fullerton (Stadium VP):

    “There’s a really, really nice Mercedes Benz emblem that’s built into those pillows... So we’ve gotta go out on those pillows and actually cover up the emblem.” ([05:20])

• Event Timeline:
  First World Cup game in Atlanta on June 15.

6. State Issues Fines for Mental Health Coverage Violations ([05:48])

• Details:
  Georgia’s Insurance Commissioner John King levies nearly $25M in fines against 22 health insurers for failing to comply with state mental health parity laws.
  • Parity law requires equal treatment of mental health/substance disorders and physical health.

7. Dogwood Festival Saved After Budget Crisis ([06:20])

• Update:
  Atlanta’s Dogwood Festival—one of the oldest, largest fine arts festivals—was nearly canceled due to a budget shortfall but will proceed April 10-12, 2026, with a new sponsor and a small entrance fee.

8. Clarke County Jail Art Program Showcased ([07:02])

Reporter: Emma Auer

• “Creative Tracks” Program:
  • Began a year ago, with three cohorts of incarcerated people creating and sharing art.
  • Exhibit: January 22, Linden House Arts Center, Athens ([07:40])
  • Educator Kristin Bach:

    “A lot of my students don’t consider themselves as active artists, so I really try to break down the boundaries of what art making can be.” ([00:31] and [07:30]) “We really wanted to inform our community that a lot of these incarcerated individuals, this might be the first time that they have been seen or heard. We want our community to know that they’re doing a ton of hard work to try to better their lives and make a new chapter moving forward.” ([07:54])

• Reentry Success:
  Creative Tracks participants are also in a reentry program for community-based classes and reintegration support.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Medicaid’s Challenge:
  “There will be much for our state policymakers to think through...” —Cindy Delphin ([03:14])

• Mayor Dickens on County’s Funding Obligation:
  “You can’t walk back from that.” —Andre Dickens ([04:22])

• Art Breaks Down Barriers:
  “I really try to break down the boundaries of what art making can be.” —Kristin Bach ([07:30])

• First Time Being Seen or Heard:
  “This might be the first time that they have been seen or heard.” —Kristin Bach ([07:54])

• FIFA Logo Removal Challenge:
  “We’ve gotta go out on those pillows and actually cover up the emblem.” —Adam Fullerton ([05:20])

Timeline of Key Segments

| Timestamp | Segment | |-----------|-----------------------------------------------| | 00:41 | KSU basketball player indicted in gambling ring| | 01:07 | Georgia General Assembly update | | 02:26 | Medicaid research and policy | | 03:43 | Atlanta housing project & Fulton funding debate| | 04:57 | World Cup stadium preparations | | 05:48 | Mental health coverage fines | | 06:20 | Dogwood Festival update | | 07:02 | Clarke County Jail art program |

Conclusion

This episode offers a concise yet comprehensive round-up of crucial developments shaping Georgia’s public life, from sports integrity and legislative budgeting to healthcare access and the humanizing power of art in incarceration. The Georgia Today podcast remains a valuable source for understanding statewide issues and community initiatives as they unfold.