The Nashville Chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) recently held their annual Picnic and Membership Drive. The successful event was hosted at the home of newlyweds John and LaTisha Smith of John Smith Marketing. Guests were treated to a sumptuous full service meal in a home that could rival some from the HGTV (House Garden Television) channel showcased homes.

NABJ officers Jason Kyle Luntz, Hayley Mason, Leland Statom, and Kenisha Rhone were all present. An announcement was made that Nashville NABJ election for new qualifying officers will be held in September.

Introductions were made, and there were general updates including a cornucopia of NABJ business, including: the upcoming National NABJ Convention for media industry working professionals and associates; news about the group’s social media pages and accounts; local and national dues; and grant writers needed. Fundraising points and ideas were also presented and discussed. All local working professionals and associates are encouraged to update their existing membership fees or pay their categorical fee to join nationally or the Nashville chapter.

The costs for membership are $30 for full member (full-time journalists); $25 for associate member (public relations/media-related professionals, professors, and other professionals who want to affiliate with the chapter); and $20 for student members (full-time students).

The Nashville NABJ accepts the following forms of payment: cash (in person only); check made payable to Nashville NABJ; or online via PayPal. Dues are good from January to December. Any dues paid after November 15 carry over to the following year.

President Luntz spoke about the upcoming panel and seminar from the group’s ‘Now What?’ series. It will be the ‘I Have a Smart Phone, Now What?’ panel. He and several members of the group spoke about how a cell phone APP can be useful and how they have changed lives in positive and productive ways. The series is open to NABJ members and this segment will address the pros and cons of both Android and I-Phone usage.

Vice President Mason shared information and updates on the benefits of both local and national memberships and the upcoming National NABJ Convention. This year both the (National) NABJ has teamed with the NAHJ (National Associate of Hispanic Journalist) at the August 3-7 Convention. For additional information about Nashville or the National Association of Black Journalist, visit: www.nashvillenabj.com and www.nabj.org