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A state House study committee looking at whether Georgia’s colleges and universities should remain on the semester system or go back to the quarter system held its final meeting of the off-session Monday – hearing from several experts and stakeholders. Created by House Resolution 1384, the committee is tasked with looking at respective advantages and disadvantages of semesters and quarters and whether the anticipated benefits of converting to the semester system have been realized. 

Colleges and universities that are part of the University System of Georgia (USG) have operated on the semester system rather than the quarter system since 1999, and schools in the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) changed to the semester system in 2011. Lawmakers now want to know if those changes have been beneficial.  

The study committee will have the opportunity to submit their findings into proposed legislation during the 2025 legislative session. 

Among the presenters Monday was Matt Cardoza, Director of External Affairs for the Georgia Department of Education. Cardoza pointed out the biggest challenges a possible switch to quarter semesters would mean for the state DOE – mainly dealing with the state’s dual enrollment program. The challenges include: flexibility with K-12 being on the semester system, course completion possibly impacted, availability of courses, and the financial impact on dual enrollment.  

“This change could possibly impact tuition caused by requiring more hours, and this could result in a potential increase in the state’s financial obligations,” Cardoza said. “We would also have to look at the possibility of allowed dual enrollment hours running out too soon.” 

The committee also heard from Cody Allen, Senior Policy Officer for the Council of State Governments. He reported that three state university systems were on quarter systems: the University of California system (8 of 10 colleges or universities are on quarter system); Oregon, which recently disbanded the statewide university system; and Washington. 

Representatives from Georgia Military College, which hosted the meeting, also gave a presentation to lawmakers on their model – they are on a quarter system. 

Rep. Shaw Blackmon, R-Bonaire, serves as Chair. Other members include Rep. Ginny Ehrhart, R-Marietta, Rep. Mike Cheokas, R-Americus, Rep. Chuck Martin, R-Alpharetta, and Rep. Stacey Evans, D-Atlanta. 

The resolution that created the committee says, “because the conversion from the quarter system to the semester system has resulted in longer terms with more classes and fewer graduation cycles, some question whether semesters are the better option for students or for workforce development, a study would be beneficial.” 

 

With more than 5,000 participants representing 96 global markets, the 2024 SelectUSA Investment Summit was an opportune moment for Georgia to demonstrate why it has been the No. 1 state for business for over a decade to companies entering the U.S.

Why Global Businesses Are Flocking to Georgia

Georgia is a global gateway for business, landing more than 8,100 new jobs and $5.9 billion in investments from international companies expanding or locating in the U.S. market this past fiscal year.

Here’s why:

• Global Reach: Georgia has built a robust international presence over the past 50 years, now covering more than 12 global markets. Markets where Georgia maintains business development and trade representation accounted for 29% of total new jobs and investments in fiscal year 2024.

• Trade Powerhouse: The state’s international trade value surpassed $186.3 billion across 223 countries and territories, ranking Georgia seventh in the U.S.

• Diverse Investment: Over the past decade, companies from more than 40 countries have invested in Georgia, and over 70 international governments have a presence here.

• Cultural Diversity: Approximately 10% of Georgia’s population is foreign-born. Gwinnett County, part of the metro Atlanta area, ranks among the Top 10 most diverse counties in the U.S.

In fiscal year 2024, Georgia solidified its position as a global gateway for business, landing more than 8,100 new jobs and $5.9 billion in investments from international companies. Markets where Georgia maintains representation in business and trade accounted for 29% of total new jobs and investments last fiscal year.

 

Strategic Location and Business-Friendly Environment

Georgia’s strategic location and logistical advantages further enhance its business appeal:

• Unmatched Logistics: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the Port of Savannah, and the Port of Brunswick provide critical access to global markets.

• Pro-Business Environment: Georgia’s low corporate tax rate and cooperative state government create a supportive environment for business growth.

• International Partnerships: With over 50 years of continuous representation in international markets, Georgia remains committed to long-term partnerships and connectivity that drive business opportunities.

Hear why these five manufacturers selected Georgia to grow.

 

The Sum of Its Parts

Georgia’s diverse economic landscape, from e-mobility and aerospace to food processing and agribusiness, underscores its position as a premier destination for business expansion. The state’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and supportive business environment make it an ideal choice for companies looking to grow and innovate.

Georgia’s blend of established industries, skilled workforce and top training programs, and strategic investments in site development and infrastructure offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses seeking to thrive in today’s competitive global market.

The Georgia Department of Economic Development also contributes to the quality of life for Georgians through:

• Supporting existing industries.

• Empowering vibrant arts and cultural communities.

• Encouraging tourism to Georgia’s diverse destinations.

Explore how the intersection of business and leisure match up to attract visitors and support prosperity for Georgia’s communities.

Today, Priceline announced the release of their 2025 trend report with proprietary travel data to support eight movement-making trends and destinations we can expect to shape the travel industry next year and beyond.

Priceline coupled its proprietary traveler data with a custom U.S.-based survey of adult travelers to inform next year’s trends, revealing a landscape where travelers are balancing economic uncertainty with an unwavering passion for exploration. The desire to travel remains steadfast, and while previous years have been about revenge travel, 2025 will usher in a new era of intentional travel. Savvy adventurers will seek more meaningful journeys that foster connections and align with their passions, all while continuing to leverage smart savings strategies to make their travel dreams a reality. 

“In 2025, we’re seeing a new breed of cost-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on the quality of their experience, and instead are finding creative ways to maximize their travel investments,” said Lesley Klein, SVP, Strategy and Brand Marketing. “Our data shows a trend toward domestic exploration and smaller-town destinations which goes beyond savings to include seeking authentic connections and feeling like a ‘local’ wherever they go.”

As travelers chart their course for 2025, they will revel in discovering their perfect Awayborhood or enjoy a retro trip to classic small-town Americana when Townsizing. They’ll marvel at the natural wonders that can be found locally when Star Trekking within North America. Making connections will remain a top priority with travelers Flocking to meet new friends and spark romances on trips. The increased popularity of racquet sports and run clubs will inspire vacationers to pursue their passions by Holding Court and literally Running the World. Younger generations will no longer wait for retirement, testing the waters with micro-retirements and second acts fueled by Gap Days. Moms will seize the day and take a well-deserved respite from the stressors of parenthood turning getaways into GetHerWays. These emerging trends signal a transformative shift in how consumers are thinking about travel – from simple escapism to purposeful journeys that enrich travelers’ lives and deepen their connections to both people and the places they’ll visit in the year ahead.

Priceline’s 2025 Travel Trends:
Awayborhoods: Young travelers are living like locals, choosing the authentic vibes and activities of neighborhoods over the prepackaged charm of tourist-filled hotspots. With 69% of consumers stating they’ll focus more on domestic travel in 2025, 37% also believe that the neighborhood they stay in impacts their vacation experience. As a result, a desire for down-to-earth realism will inspire travelers to explore smaller radius Awayborhoods within big cities.

Priceline compiled the top 10 Hottest Awayborhoods travelers plan to visit in 2025:

• French Quarter, New Orleans, LA

• Capitol Riverfront, Washington, DC

• Wynwood, Miami, FL

• North End, Boston, MA

• Mission District, San Francisco, CA

• Ybor City, Tampa, FL

• Silver Lake, Los Angeles, CA

• South Congress, Austin, TX

• Pearl District, Portland, OR

• Rino Art District, Denver, CO

Flocking: Gen Z, the most digitally connected generation in history, is now seeking escape from the online world. Raised on social media and smartphone apps, this generation finds itself unexpectedly disillusioned by the superficiality of online connections and dating apps longing for more meaningful engagement and authentic, in-person interactions. In response to this digital fatigue, younger travelers are using their passion for travel as an avenue for forging real-life connections. Gen Z will harness travel as a powerful social ice breaker, with 74% saying they are more likely to have researched the best travel destinations to meet new people. In 2025, Gen Z will be Flocking to destinations bright with communal spaces and in-person activities as ways to find companionship and deep connections with new people. Over 20% of Gen Z travelers believe hotel bars and cruises are a great way to do just that. They are also twice as likely as other travelers to be interested in a vacation romance, and 2.8x more likely to believe traveling is the new dating app.

Star Trekking: Following the 2024 total solar eclipse, interest in astronomy and celestial events remains at an all-time high with younger travelers Star Trekking to destinations that provide optimal stargazing opportunities. One in four Gen Zers is interested in traveling for celestial events, and they’re 51% more likely than the average traveler to be interested in a hotel that offers celestial, astrology, or space-themed excursions.

Priceline identified trending destinations where travelers can expect great views of the Northern Lights – all locally within North America – in the year to come:

• Whitehorse, YT, Canada

• Fairbanks, AK

• Mackinaw City, MI

• Medora, ND

• Bayfield, WI

• Yellowknife, NT, Canada

• Bar Harbor, ME

Holding Court: Tennis and pickleball are becoming mainstays at parks, themed bars, and activity centers; however, racket sports aren’t just a weekend activity, they’re travel inspiration. As young travelers build their itineraries they will target resort destinations that allow them to engage in physical activities, with Millennials Holding Court, stating they are 80% more likely to plan a vacation around playing tennis and 87% more likely to plan one around playing pickleball. Even if they don’t pack their rackets, tennis remains a big draw for Millennials, who are 73% more likely than the average traveler to attend a tennis tournament while traveling for leisure in 2025.

Gap Days: In 2025, travelers are testing out retirement, if only for a little while, booking trips to explore new passions, try new careers, and learn life-changing skills. With economic pressures in mind, travelers are realizing it doesn’t take a full 365 days to get the benefits of a gap year. Instead, they’ll experiment with Gap Days and shorter escapes to destinations that offer opportunities to try out new passions while staying open to the life-altering discoveries micro-retirements can provide. Young travelers, specifically Gen Z,  say they are more likely to learn a new skill while on vacation and will look to leverage those skills into life changes.

The top 10 destination jobs Gen Z is dreaming about in 2025:

• Candle making in Hong Kong, China

• Knitting in Oslo, Norway

• Shoe making in São Paulo, Brazil

• Pineapple farming in Bacolod, Philippines

• Wool farming in Geelong, Australia

• Baking in Paris, France

• Basket weaving in Bolgatanga, Ghana

• Making olive oil in Jaén, Spain

• Making pottery in Dharamkot, India

• Embroidering in Tenango del Valle, Mexico

Running the World: With local run clubs exploding in popularity, Gen Z and Millennial travelers are expected to seek out clubs as a means of exploration when they travel. 79% of Gen Z and Millennial travelers say they’re more likely to attend a local running club’s event while on vacation and 65% are more likely to say that running a race is a great way to explore a new city. With 42% of Gen Z and Millennial travelers saying they’re more likely to book a hotel near a park or running trail in order to stay active while they’re on vacation, expect travelers to pound the pavement in cities around the world.

Townsizing: Americans are seeking simplicity and will travel to find it. In the coming year, expect travelers to opt for quaint, comfy respites in America’s small towns. The trend toward small towns offers different benefits for different generations. While Boomers are most likely to feel that small towns are more relaxing, Gen Z is Townsizing as a way to indulge in the charming, quaint moments depicted in their most comforting movies. They’re 89% more likely than average travelers to seek out a vacation that offers a “Nancy Meyers lifestyle” and 67% more likely to see a vacation as an opportunity to live out their small-town fantasies.

• Three Rivers, CA
• Panguitch, UT
• Bretton Woods, NH
• South Yarmouth, MA
• Ouray, CO
• Old Saybrook, CT
• North Wildwood, NJ
• Carmel Valley, CA
• Gorham, NH
• Forks, WA

GetHerAway: Parenting has more baggage than ever. Moms deserve a break from the managerial, cognitive, and emotional load they bear and they’ll finally get it by prioritizing time away for self-care and comforting amenities. Those with kids under 18 are 2.8x more likely than average travelers to say they need a vacation to escape the mental exhaustion of being a parent and are likely to seek out vacation spots that offer in-room spa services, art classes, and rage rooms. Yet the thing 72% of moms say they’re most excited about is extra sleep.

Priceline’s complete ‘Where to Next?’ 2025 Travel Trends report can be viewed here.

 

As hurricanes become more severe and dangerous, Lockheed Martin in Marietta will play a role in improving research for forecasts by building more advanced “hurricane hunter” aircraft.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has tapped Lockheed Martin to build C-130J Super Hercules aircraft that will be specially-equipped as hurricane hunters to fly straight into storms with specialized instruments to gather data.

Read More at The Atlanta Journal COnstitution.

How to Build your Travel Staff’s Creative Powers

Unlocking the Power of Creativity As a travel business owner you’re not really paying for marketing execution anymore.  AI and marketing software are responding to that need. The real weakness or gap is with creativity and imagination in your marketing and promotion. More focus needs to be placed on developing the creative powers that will make…

The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) is pleased to welcome Carol Tomé, Chief Executive Officer of UPS, to the GHS Board of Curators. Ms. Tomé was elected to an initial three-year term at the 185th Annual Meeting of the Board of Curators held at GHS headquarters in Savannah on June 13, 2024.

“Nonprofit organizations are only as good as the people who lead them,” said Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society. “That’s why the Georgia Historical Society is blessed to have someone like Carol Tomé on its Board of Curators. As the CEO of one of the top corporations in the world, Carol brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and influence to our leadership team, positioning GHS for success as we begin implementation of our new strategic plan.”

Carol Tomé is the Chief Executive Officer of UPS. Before joining UPS, Tomé served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Home Depot, Inc., one of the world’s largest retailers. She joined the company in 1995 as Vice President and Treasurer. Tomé began her career as a commercial lender with United Bank of Denver (now Wells Fargo) and then spent several years as Director of Banking for Johns-Mansville Corporation. Prior to joining The Home Depot, Tomé was Vice President and Treasurer of Riverwood International Corporation. Tomé serves as board member for Verizon Communications, Inc., on the board of councilors for the Carter Center, and is a board trustee for Grady Memorial Hospital Corporation and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. She is also a member of The Committee of 200, The Buckhead Coalition, and The Business Council. Ms. Tomé was inducted as a Georgia Trustee in 2024. She will begin her GHS Board term in January 2025.

The current GHS Board of Curators, also elected earlier this year at the 2024 annual meeting, began service on July 1. Officers of the Board include David Abney, Chair; Clyde C. Tuggle, Vice-Chair; Reed Dulany III, Secretary; and Larry D. Thompson, Treasurer. The officers serve alongside fellow Curators Dr. W. Todd Groce, GHS President and CEO, Kevin S. Blair, Frank S. Blake, James H. Blanchard (ex-officio), Stephanie V. Blank, Ellen B. Bolch, Mark Burns, Dan T. Cathy, Kimberly S. Greene, Venessa Harrison, Jeff Kole, John F. McMullan (ex-officio), Dr. William T. Moore (ex-officio), Sam Nunn (honorary), Beatriz R. Perez, and H. Jerome Russell.

For more information on the Board of Curators of the Georgia Historical Society, please contact Kelly Williams at kelly@createaruckus.com or by phone at 512.826.6219.

The Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA) has announced this year’s finalists and honorees for the 2024 Georgia Restaurant Association Crystal of Excellence (GRACE) Awards. All finalists are peer-nominated, ensuring the most deserving in the industry are recognized. Winners are chosen by the GRACE Academy, which is comprised of former GRACE honorees, current and former GRA Board Members, and GRA Advisory Board Members.

Alan and Cindy LeBlanc (pictured below), founders of Brewed to Serve Restaurant Group, will receive this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award. The couple owns and operates Max Lager’s Woodfired Grill & Brewery, Bold Monk Brewing Co., and White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails.  

The LeBlancs opened their first restaurant—Max Lager’s Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery—in 1995, establishing what is currently the oldest brewpub in Georgia. Since then, they have transformed previously vacant spaces into vibrant places where hospitality thrives. Between their three restaurants and breweries, they have employed thousands of people. 

“I cannot think of two more deserving individuals than Alan and Cindy LeBlanc,” states Stephanie Fischer, President/CEO of the GRA. “Most people don’t realize the role that they have played in collaborating with state and local leaders to advocate for Georgia’s restaurants. They also played a part in revitalizing downtown Atlanta as a dining destination. The Georgia Restaurant Association would not be where it is today without their unwavering support and dedication to hospitality.” 

Alan has been in the restaurant business since he was a teenager, working as a cook in his parents’ inn in Maine. His love for hospitality led him to study at Cornell University’s renowned School of Hotel Administration. After spending some time in real estate, he returned to restaurants with new expertise. Cindy was a CFO for an international real estate development company before jumping into entrepreneurship. Both were drawn to the industry because of their heart for service. 

Their longevity can be attributed to their commitment to servant leadership and supporting people in need. The restaurants have participated in supporting numerous community causes, such as the Gateway Center, Open Hand Atlanta, Catholic World Missions, and Compassion Kitchen. 

The GRACE Awards Gala, an inclusive event honoring those who have made outstanding contributions to Georgia’s restaurant industry, will take place at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024. At the event, winners will be announced for Restaurateur of the Year, Restaurateur Rookie of the Year, Industry Partner of the Year, Hospitality Hero of the Year, Restaurant Manager of the Year, Restaurant Employee of the Year, the GRA Hall of Fame and the Georgia on My Mind People’s Choice Awards. The GRACE Lifetime Achievement and Chairman’s award winners also will be honored. 

“In an industry that has faced significant challenges—particularly in recent years—the GRACE Awards serves as a testament to the perseverance and creativity of Georgia’s hospitality professionals,” says Fischer. “I’m so proud of this year’s nominees: their heart shines through as they represent diverse spaces of community and connection. This is an evening of celebration and reflection, as the awards recognize both success and the hard work and dedication required to thrive in this dynamic field.” 

2024 GRACE AWARDS FINALISTS + HONOREES

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREES

• Alan & Cindy LeBlanc, Founders, Brewed to Serve Restaurant Group

RESTAURATEUR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

• Goldbergs Group, Bradley Saxe

• K5 Hospitality, Ayman Kamel

• Painted Hospitality, Justin Amick & William Stallworth

• Amp Up1 Hospitality (Your 3^rd Spot), Josh Rossmeisl

RESTAURATEUR ROOKIE OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

• Cubanos ATL, Ozzy Llanes, Jr.

• Flour + Time Bakery, Michael & Leah Bajalia

• Mad Dads Philly’s Authentic Cheesesteaks & Hoagies, Chef Tony & Pamela Sharpe

• Omakase Table + Ryokou, Leonard Yu 

INDUSTRY PARTNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

• DASH Hospitality Group, David Abes

• Fulton County Schools (Culinary Arts Programs at Alpharetta High School, Fulton Schools College & Career Academy, Riverwood International Charter School and Tri-Cities High School), Dustin Davis-Austin

• Lexicon Strategies (#86TheStigma Campaign), Brian Tolleson

• TSC Associates, Thomas Hallford

HOSPITALITY HERO OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

• Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant, Maria Fundora

• Electric Hospitality, Michael Lennox

• Rally Point Grille, Carrie Roeger

• Zunzi’s + Zunzibar, Chris Smith 

RESTAURANT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

• Jace Reeder, Fenders Diner and Fenders Alley 

RESTAURANT EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

• Key Evans, Red Beard Restaurants (Gunshow + Nàdair) 

People’s Choice Award Honorees + Hall of Fame Inductees will be announced live at the Georgia Aquarium on Dec. 9, 2024. To learn more about the GRACE Awards or to sponsor and purchase tickets, visit garestaurants.org/GRACE.

As many as 347,000 vehicles have been flood-damaged so far by the 2024 hurricane season, CARFAX estimates. Hurricane Milton added as many as 120,000 vehicles in Florida, on top of the 138,000 vehicles deluged by Hurricane Helene across several states. Up to 89,000 vehicles were hit with water damage from smaller storms during the summer. Now, thousands of these vehicles may already be put up for sale, cleaned up by potential scammers to be sold nearby, or thousands of miles away from the original incident to unsuspecting buyers.

This is the most destructive year for hurricanes and storms in the U.S. since Hurricane Ian swamped as many as 358,000 vehicles across several states back in 2022, according to CARFAX estimates. Water damage can cause costly mechanical and electrical issues and even pose risks to health and safety.

Consumers looking to purchase a used car who want to avoid flood-damaged vehicles should do three things:       

1. Use the free CARFAX Flood Check^® tool at carfax.com/flood.

2. Inspect the car, looking for these seven signs of flooding:

   • • Damp carpets

     • A musty odor inside, sometimes covered up with a strong air-freshener

     • Upholstery or carpeting that may be loose, new, stained or mismatched

     • Rust around doors, under the dash, on pedals or in hood and trunk latches

     • Mud or silt in the glove compartment or under the seats

     • Brittle wires under the dashboard

     • Fog or moisture in interior lights, exterior lights or on the instrument panel

3. And have a trusted mechanic inspect the car and take it for a test drive.

Editor’s note: Interviews with a CARFAX expert are available anytime. Please contact Em Nguyen at emnguyen@carfax.com.

 

Eight more Georgia Big Lots locations will be closing their doors in the near future.

The bargain retail chain will soon close stores in Augusta, Cartersville, Douglasville, Duluth, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Snellville and Union City.

Read More at Savannah Now.