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• Among the 150 cities analyzed, apartments in Atlanta are renters’ second most saved searched listings — an important step before signing a lease. 

• High demand, fewer options: Available apartments increased by a mere 1% compared to the same six-month period in 2023, offering renters the same limited options as they faced one year ago.

High home prices and limited housing options are making renting the preferred choice for many aspiring homeowners. So, because the rental season is getting hotter and apartment hunters are on the prowl, we did a mid-year check-in to see which cities had received the most attention from renters in the first half of 2024.

Minneapolis reigns supreme as the most in-demand city in the last six months, after attracting the highest online engagement on RentCafe.com and claiming the top spot for five out of six months.

Hot on its heels is Overland Park, KS, followed by Atlanta — both consistently making appearances on the podium between January and June. Notably, Overland Park briefly edged out Minneapolis for the top spot in April, while Atlanta emerged as the top market to watch in 2024 after attracting the highest number of online engagements on RentCafe.com in 2023.

At the same time, the West leads as the most popular region for renters seeking options that match their needs and lifestyles. Specifically, the West boasts 10 entries in the top 30 most-coveted cities for renters. Namely, cities like Tacoma, WA (#7); North Las Vegas, NV (#14); Sacramento, CA (#16); Peoria, AZ (#19); and Denver (#26) have maintained their increased renter appeal throughout the first half of the year.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson announced today that Georgia’s June unemployment rate was 3.3, up one-tenth from a revised 3.2 percent in May. The unemployment rate was eight-tenths lower than the national unemployment rate. 

“School’s out, and Georgia is thriving like never before,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “Our students infuse our workforce with new talent and energy each summer. While this may temporarily increase seasonal unemployment, the fresh skills and enthusiasm these young workers bring to the local economy are key to cultivating an economy that’s built to last.” 

Jobs were up by 8,900 (0.2%) over the month and up by 64,200 (1.3%) over the year to 4,979,800, an all-time high.

The sectors with the most over-the-month job gains included Health Care and Social Assistance, 3,200; Transportation and Warehousing, 3,000; State Government, 1,800; Wholesale Trade, 1,400; and Retail Trade, 1,400.

Jobs were down in Administrative and Support Services, -1,700; Local Government, -1,300; and Non-Durable Goods Manufacturing, -1,000. 

Jobs were at an all-time high in Private Education and Health Services, 685,200, and Leisure and Hospitality, 528,100.

The sectors with the most over-the-year job gains included Health Care and Social Assistance, 23,400; Accommodation and Food Services, 13,900; Local Government, 13,300; Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, 9,000; and Durable Goods Manufacturing, 6,000. 

Jobs were down in Administrative and Support Services, -14,700; Information, which includes Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries, -9,500; and Transportation and Warehousing, -8,000.

The labor force was up by 15,502 to 5,391,294, an all-time high, and has increased by almost 48,000 over the past three months. The labor force was up by 81,242 over the past 12 months. The labor force participation rate was up from 61.6 percent to 61.7 percent.

The number of employed was up by 8,493 to 5,214,373, an all-time high, and was up by 74,279 over the past 12 months. The employment-to-population ratio held at 59.7 percent.

The number of unemployed increased by 7,009 to 176,291 and was up by 6,963 over the past 12 months. 

Initial claims were up by 1,833 (9%) over the month to 21,867 in June.  Initial claims were down by 1,610 (-7%) over the year.

User Intent for Content Strategy

The Rise of User Intent Insights There’s been a surge in interest in this topic of user intent in the last 5 years. Search engine optimizers want to understand keyword usage and what content to create. But user intent touches on all aspects of marketing and business strategy. Brand managers too want a keen understanding…

Big Picture Thinking for Business Leaders

The Magic of Big Picture Thinking CEO’s, entrepreneurs, CMOs, CIO’s and small business owners are the master controllers of companies — the core of the spirit of their business. They bring their optimism and strong understanding of the big picture to map the way forward, making the company infinitely adaptable, and achieving the firm’s goals….

BrandsMart USA, a leading retailer in appliances, electronics, furniture, housewares, and more, is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest store located at 840 Ernest W. Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw, GA 30144, conveniently located at Cobb Place Shopping Center.

The grand opening event promises to be a celebration of technology, innovation, and unbeatable deals. With its commitment to offering the latest products at the lowest prices, BrandsMart USA aims to become the go-to destination for consumers in Kennesaw and the surrounding areas.

“We are thrilled to bring BrandsMart USA to the vibrant community of Kennesaw,” said Steve Olsen, President at BrandsMart USA. “Our new store will provide customers with an unparalleled shopping experience, featuring a wide selection of top-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and exceptional customer service.”

The Kennesaw store will showcase BrandsMart USA’s extensive range of products, including:

Appliances: Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or laundry room, BrandsMart USA has everything you need, from refrigerators and ovens to washers and dryers.

Electronics: From big screen TVs to cutting-edge smartphones and laptops, to state-of-the-art home audio systems, BrandsMart USA offers the latest technology from leading brands.

Furniture: Transform your living space with stylish and comfortable furniture options, including sofas, recliners, dining sets, and more.

Back-To-School: The store is opening just in time for parents to save on a huge selection of name brand laptops, tablets, electronics and accessories for the new school year.

To celebrate the grand opening, BrandsMart USA will be offering exclusive deals and promotions on a wide range of products. Customers can expect to find incredible discounts, special financing options, and exciting giveaways throughout the opening weekend. BrandsMart USA also has easy in-store and delivery options, and even delivers on Saturdays.

Sharon Mason, Cobb County Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, said, “The Cobb Chamber is thrilled to support BrandsMart U.S.A. with the opening of their newest location in Kennesaw at Cobb Place Shopping Center. BrandsMart U.S.A.’s incredible selection of products, sleek and modern new store design, and strong civic partnerships will be a great addition to our community and local economy.”

The grand opening festivities will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:40AM on Saturday, July 20^th. Customers can enjoy refreshments and a fun interactive shopping experience. Upon entry, the first 150 guests will receive a $50 BrandsMart USA gift card to use at their convenience. In addition, a free gift with purchase will be available while supplies last.

“We invite the community to join us in celebrating this milestone event,” added Store Manager Chris Rullier. “Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, home chef, furniture aficionado, or just looking for a great deal there’s something for everyone at BrandsMart USA.”

This marks BrandsMart USA’s second new store opening in Georgia within a year, following the launch of a location in Augusta in October 2023. The team is enthusiastic about the opportunities for further growth ahead.

For more information about the grand opening event and ongoing promotions, visit www.brandsmartusa.com or follow BrandsMart USA on social media.

 A nuclear reactor at Plant Vogtle that operators shut down last week is back in service and sending power to the electric grid, Georgia Power officials reported Wednesday.

Unit 3 at the nuclear plant south of Augusta, which went into full commercial operation last summer, was taken offline July 8 because of a problem with a valve on one of its three main pumps.

Despite the shutdown, Unit 3 has operated at full power more than 96% of the time since it went into service last July 31. By comparison, the average capacity factor for the U.S. nuclear fleet was 93% last year, according to Georgia Power officials.

Unit 3 and its companion – Unit 4, which went into full commercial operation in April – are the first new nuclear reactors built in the United States since the late 1980s.

The project was delayed by seven years, plagued by a series of cost overruns that drove up the final price tag to about $35 billion, more than twice the original estimate of $14 billion.

Opponents of the nuclear expansion at Plant Vogtle urged the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) in vain to cancel the project and instead step up the state’s commitment to expanding renewable energy options.

The PSC voted last August to cap the costs Georgia Power would be allowed to pass on to customers at nearly $7.6 billion, with shareholders picking up the rest.

Georgia Power was a 45% partner in the Vogtle expansion, working with Oglethorpe Power, the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG) and Dalton Utilities.

Capitol Beat is a nonprofit news service operated by the Georgia Press Educational Foundation that provides coverage of state government to newspapers throughout Georgia. For more information visit capitol-beat.org.

The campus at 4810 Stonewall Tell Road in Union City will span some 2.1 million square feet — larger than the Mall of Georgia, planning documents made public Tuesday show. It will also rank among the largest data center projects in the Southeast as measured by energy use, a news release from the project’s development team said.

Read More At: The Atlantic Journal-Constitution

The University of Georgia has unveiled the 40 Under 40 Class of 2024, a group of young alumni that includes a deputy national intelligence officer, a senior entertainment writer for Variety, an AI innovator at Microsoft, and more.

The 40 Under 40 program celebrates the personal, professional and philanthropic achievements of successful UGA graduates under the age of 40. The honorees will be recognized during the 14th annual 40 Under 40 Awards Luncheon on campus in September.

“Our previous 40 Under 40 honorees include some of our most accomplished and dynamic young alumni, and this year’s class is no different,” said Adam Roell, UGA’s executive director of alumni relations. “When you talk to these Bulldogs and learn about their achievements, their aspirations, and how important UGA was to both, you gain a deep appreciation for how our university shapes tomorrow’s leaders.”

The 40 Under 40 Class of 2024, including graduation year(s) from UGA, city, title and employer, are:

• Jeremy Adams (BBA ’07) Atlanta; senior managing director, Jones Lang LaSalle

• Katharine M. Bleau (BS ’13, BS ’13) Arlington, Virginia; attorney-advisor, U.S. Department of the Interior

• Matt Bradley (DVM ’18) Johns Creek; owner and medical director, ModernVet

• Tamara Branch (BBA ’09, JD ’12) Tifton; vice president of legal, Tift Regional Health System

• Leanna Brown (AB ’10, MIP ’12) Atlanta; vice president of business climate, Metro Atlanta Chamber

• Jack Bush (BSME ’20) Atlanta; systems engineer, ELDP, Lockheed Martin Corporation

• Rodd Cargill (BBA ’10) Johns Creek; senior territory manager, Johnson and Johnson

• Chris Chammoun (BSA ’08) Tifton; executive director, American Peanut Shellers Association, and president, The Peanut Institute

• Brittany S. Chitwood (BBA ’14, MACC ’15) Atlanta; assistant director of climate change and sustainability services, EY

• Antavious Coates (BSFCS ’09, MS ’11) Atlanta; executive director for NFL player marketing, CAA Football

• Candler Cook (BBA ’11, MBA ’18) Atlanta; senior vice president, US Strategic Capital

• Ella Dorsey (BS ’13) Atlanta; meteorologist, Atlanta News First

• William Ferrand (BBA ’15) Atlanta; senior manager, risk and compliance, Protiviti

• Peyton Claire Fraser (BS ’14, BSED ’14) Smyrna; senior technical program manager, Microsoft

• Zain Hasan (BS ’09) Parkland, Florida; co-founder and CEO, Risk Transfer Advisory Group

• Bo Hatchett (JD ’17) Cornelia; Georgia state senator and attorney, McDonald & Cody, LLC

• Alex Hill (BBA ’10) Atlanta; director of investing, Icarus Alternative Investments

• Angelique Jackson (ABJ ’12) Los Angeles; senior entertainment writer, Variety

• Cameron Keen (AB ’18, AB ’18, JD ’21) Atlanta; attorney, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton, LLP

• Kristina Stafford Kelly (ABJ ’08) Suwanee; vice president of communications, UP Entertainment

• Audrey A. Lewis (AB ’07, ABJ ’09, JD ’10) Marietta; attorney, Gregory, Doyle, Calhoun & Rogers, LLC

• Mindy Lipsitz (BS ’08) Bend, Oregon; physician, ultrasound administrator, St. Charles Medical Center

• Garrett Mack (BSFR ’09, MFR ’11) Atlanta; director, portfolio management, Forest Investment Associates

• Hailey Hebebrand Morelli (BSCE ’17) Sandy Springs; senior consultant, FTI Consulting

• Amber Kay Morgan (AB ’17, AB ’17) Washington, D.C.; special assistant to the national security advisor, White House National Security Council

• Gibril Njie (MPH ’11, DRPH ’21) Dulles, Virginia; lead health scientist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Loree Anne Paradise (ABJ ’11) Atlanta; chief of staff, Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Georgia

• Christopher Perlera (AB ’07) Chamblee; founder and principal, Critical Point Consulting

• Jessica J. Pittard (BBA ’11) Ball Ground; president, BDI DataLynk

• Isobel Mills Prescott (BFA ’12) Atlanta; owner and sole designer, ISOBEL

• Thomas C. Presley (BBA ’08, MACC ’09) Marietta; regional managing partner, wealth advisor, Corient

• Fadi Rammo (BSHP ’10) Baltimore; vice president, MedStar Health

• Camir Ricketts (BS ’15) Brooklyn, New York; bioinformatics scientist, NVIDIA, and founder, MindsOf Initiative

• Eric L. Roden (AB ’09, JD ’12) Charleston, South Carolina; partner, Roden Law

• Katie Seay (BSFCS ’09) Manhattan, Kansas; president and director of wealth management, The Trust Company

• Jessica Simmons (AB ’10) Atlanta; deputy CIO, Georgia Technology Authority, and executive director, Georgia Broadband Program

• Kevin Steele (AB ’17, AB ’17) Alexandria, Virginia; deputy national intelligence officer, Directorate of National Intelligence

• Naveed Tharwani (PHARMD ’11) Chamblee; CEO, SynerGrx

• Juanita Traughber (ABJ ’08, AB ’08) Nashville, Tennessee; director of marketing and communications, University School of Nashville

• Tiffany Woods (BSES ’08, MS ’11) Atlanta; senior director, National Wildlife Federation

Hundreds of nominations for 40 Under 40 were received from February to March. Honorees must have attended UGA and uphold the three pillars of the Arch: wisdom, justice and moderation. Additional criteria and more information on this year’s honorees are available on the UGA Alumni website.

“Every one of our honorees is a fantastic representative of our alma mater,” said Roell. “We are so proud of their accomplishments and will be pleased to welcome them back to Athens to celebrate them this fall.”

The Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) recently announced that more than $3.5 million in competitive grant funding will be distributed to recipients across the state through its Bridge, Project, and Arts Education Program grants. A total of 324 grants were awarded during GCA’s initial disbursements for fiscal year 2025. Among the recipients, the cities of Chamblee, Savannah, and Toccoa, along with the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority, each received an $8,000 grant.

Chamblee

The City of Chamblee was awarded a grant for its Chalk Walk and Artist Market, featuring professional and amateur chalk artists creating live art on public sidewalks. The event includes an open community chalk art space, a juried selection of over 45 vendors offering fiber arts, jewelry, crafts, painting, and more, along with food, beverages, and family-friendly lawn games. With 1,000 attendees in 2023, the city aims to double attendance to 2,000 through increased marketing and word of mouth, enhancing the event with more vendors, artists, and performers.

Savannah

The City of Savannah received a grant for Beyond Sight 2024, an art program at the Savannah Cultural Arts Center designed for neurodivergent individuals, those who are blind or have low vision, and wheelchair users. Building on its 2023 debut, the program features an eight-week exhibition of tactile and audio artworks, guided tours, workshops, an opening reception, and an artists’ panel discussion. A new advisory panel of five individuals with disabilities will participate in events and provide feedback to improve accessibility.

Toccoa

The City of Toccoa has received a grant for Season 8 of Night at the Ritz, scheduled from September 2024 to May 2025. This series, featuring at least one unique event each month, continues the tradition of providing quality entertainment at an affordable price. The Historic Ritz Theatre, a 448-seat venue built in 1939 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is currently hosting Season 7, which is on track to reach 2,000 attendees across nine shows. With the grant, staff will build on this momentum, aiming to boost attendance and enhance the event experience in Season 8.

Downtown Statesboro Development Authority

The Downtown Statesboro Development Authority was awarded a grant for the “Statesboro Festival of the Arts,” a juried fine arts festival scheduled for March 21-23, 2025. This event, held at The Market at Visit Statesboro, aims to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive arts community, promoting appreciation for both traditional and contemporary artistic expressions while positively impacting the local economy. With an expected attendance of 3,000 people, this festival promises to be a significant cultural event for Statesboro and its surrounding communities.

A bipartisan group of former elected leaders are joining forces to fight election lies that erode public confidence in the nation’s electoral system.

The Democracy Defense Project, launched Tuesday, is led by former Govs. Nathan Deal and Roy Barnes, former U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., and former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin.

“For far too long, politicians, pundits, and activists have worked overtime to sow distrust in America’s electoral process,” said Deal, a Republican. “We refuse to sit on the sidelines while the bedrock of this great nation is eroded away by misinformation and dangerous political agendas. Our goal is to restore confidence in the electoral process that makes this country exceptional.”

“Trust in the electoral system and commitment to a peaceful transition of power are vital to the future success of our republic,” added Barnes, a Democrat. “While it may be politically advantageous to undermine America’s core values, it’s a harmful damaging game with lasting consequences.”

Georgia is ground zero for election lies. A Fulton County grand jury indicted former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants last summer on charges of participating in a conspiracy to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.

Trump continues to claim that he carried Georgia four years ago when, in reality, Democrat Joe Biden received more votes and, thus, won the Peach State’s 16 electoral votes.

The Democracy Defense Project is being launched in the same week that Trump and Biden will appear at CNN’s Atlanta studios for the first of two scheduled debates ahead of the 2024 election.

The Georgia effort is part of a national push for election integrity focusing on battleground states where challenges to the November election results may arise. The organization will use earned and paid media to raise awareness of efforts to subvert elections across the country.

Capitol Beat is a nonprofit news service operated by the Georgia Press Educational Foundation that provides coverage of state government to newspapers throughout Georgia. For more information visit capitol-beat.org.