Welcome to the new Internet Home of AABJ.

We are proud to launch the new AABJ website, which features a host of new items to help you stay in touch with the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists.

But first we must take note of two recent losses that affect two of our Pioneer Journalists. On Monday, September 9, 2007, George Lottier died of a heart attack. He is the husband of Pat Lottier, the owner of the Atlanta Tribune, who was named a Pioneer Journalist in 2001. George and Pat made up a powerful team that created a wonderful magazine and career opportunities for many aspiring journalists. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy, an adoring family, and hundreds of friends throughout the community.

Another of our Pioneers, Stan Washington, suffered the loss of his younger brother Keith, after a long illness. Keith was an Atlanta native and was well known in his community for his caring spirit. We ask that you keep both Pat and Stan in your prayers.

Both losses remind us that tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us, that we must make every day count in our chosen field of journalism.

AABJ recently celebrated another milestone with the 28th Pioneer Black Journalists awards on October 6th. The program was a smashing success; it was a sellout and we were able to give out nearly 10,000 dollars in scholarships to deserving students.

At the ceremony, we took the time to honor and recognize the work of local journalists who are making a difference in the Atlanta community. We salute all of the finalists in the Awards competition, for doing stories that go beyond the headlines to examine issues in a diverse and objective way.

We also hope you will congratulate our 2007 Pioneer Black Journalist, Angela Robinson and our Volunteer of the year, Deborah Simon. Both of these ladies are deserving recipients of the honor, for their dedication to AABJ and their service to our members.  

Ray Metoyer                                                                                                                                             AABJ President