THE BYLINE- APRIL 2024 ISSUE

April is the month of blossoming and resurgence. It’s also the month to celebrate arts, culture & creativity. Entering a new quarter of the year brings much needed reflection and motivation to us as we continue to carry out the goals we’ve set for ourselves. Journalism is so broad of a field that creativity, authenticity and alignment are the biggest factors in navigating your niche. Measuring success by their own meter, this issue highlights three professionals who have used their journalistic talents in creative ways to excel in a league of their own.  

Celebrate Arts, Culture & Creativity in Atlanta

• Atlanta Dogwood Festival April 12-14th at Piedmont Park
• Atlanta Film Festival begins April 25th
• Inman Park Festival April 27-28th

Enjoy exhibits from local museums and galleries such as The High Museum, Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA), The Atlanta History Center, The APEX Museum, ZuCot Gallery, Trap Music Museum, The King Center, Black Art in America, Spelman College Museum of Fine Art & Clark Atlanta Art Museum.

Announcements

• Our next meeting is April 13th at noon at WSB-TV Studios. We can’t wait to see you there!
• Congratulations to the iN Contact team for producing their first show for 2024!
• Thank you to everyone who attended the memorial service for the late Mr. James Washington. Read about his legacy & impact here.
• NABJ Upcoming Events:
  • April 12-13th: NABJ Region 3 Conference, Tulsa, OK
  • April 20th: NABJ Emerging Journalists Media Institute & Investigative Reporting Summit, New York, NY
  • July 31st – Aug 4th: NABJ National Convention, Chicago, IL

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How Ashley Drayton is Paving Her Own Path

By: Dante Miller

When journalists start their careers, it can be difficult for some to find their niche, especially for those who want to avoid the ‘news’ path. But Ashley Drayton knew from a young age what outlets and beats she wanted to work with; magazines and fashion. Instead of waiting for a path to open, she created her own. 

“I was collecting magazines as a child. I read them all the time. I had dreams of being in Teen Vogue. So I already had this childhood attachment to magazines.” 

Because of her attachment, Drayton continuously wondered how she could create magazine publications for her alma mater, Georgia State University, as a student. 

“Georgia State actually did not have a magazine. I was on Twitter, and this page called ‘Her Campus’ popped up on my feed. I was like, ‘Oh, look at this cute pink organization!’ I went to the website and saw ‘Start your own chapter,’ and it started from there. It launched in 2015 and is still a very prevalent organization today. That was my first experience writing for a magazine,” said Drayton. 

After starting ‘Her Campus’ for Georgia State, Drayton’s experience continued to grow, from working with another digital magazine to starting her blog for a time. In 2020, Drayton found herself scrolling through the internet and found a page that piqued her interest. She ran across CNK’s (Chicks n’ Kicks) Instagram page. CNK is a woman-owned digital publication that discusses women in the sneaker industry, which is very male-dominated. 

“I loved that these two women, Channing and Cassidy, have this platform and are using it to tell stories about women who work in the industry.” Despite not having prior experience writing about sneakers, Drayton wanted to jump out of her comfort zone and see what opportunities would follow–and it paid off. 

Since 2021, Drayton has been a freelance writer and editor for CNKDaily.com. In addition to her writing, she is also an assistant manager for Kate Spade New York. 

She says juggling everything can be a lot, but scheduling and open communication are necessary. 

“I write everything down and have everything on my phone, like reminders and deadlines. If I say I am showing up, I make sure that I have the time to and will show up. Sometimes, that means I bring my computer to work to do stuff on my break.”

Drayton said everyone’s path is different and has their own timeline. She encourages people to pave their path if that road is initially closed, whether you’re freelancing, creating a website, or writing a blog.  

“Keep your experience up, so when the time comes when someone asks for your stuff, you’re ready. I’m at a point where my writing is about to pivot into brand writing. I’m trying to combine retail and writing and venture into the copywriting route. As far as a career goes, that’s something I’m interested in, and I don’t think I would have known that if I didn’t work in retail.”

Drayton is still paving her path by combining her interests & expertise into one. She says that this chapter in her career will definitely start from the bottom up, but she looks forward to what her future holds. To follow her writing journey, check out her portfolio here.

Garrett Brown on What Versatility in the Industry Looks Like

By: Da’Zhane Johnson

At a young age, Garrett Brown became an NBA fan and followed the Atlanta Hawks closely. The hobby of watching the sport helped him decide on a career path in media. Today, Brown works as a content manager, mediacaster and on-air podcast host of his show, while managing his day job at Delta Airlines. 

“I’ve always loved watching basketball and the Atlanta Hawks. Now, I am able to cover them every week, which is cool. Like anything there have been some challenges to get to this place, but it’s just a part of the journey.” said Brown. 

The Georgia native spends his weeks managing four different media roles. Two of them are social media management roles. Although these roles require a sacrifice of time, Brown believes his work will cultivate a bigger job for himself. Brown also highlights his hard work and goal-driven mindset can lead to the longevity of his career. 

“When creating ‘TheGB3Show,’ there were challenges, but it was something I wanted to do.I had to put in many hours, but it happened exactly how I envisioned it. Working with my co-host has also taught me a lot,” he said. 

Brown’s development of multiple skill sets reflects how competitive the media industry is today. He shared how outside of content creation for social media, he’s learned producing, writing and sound engineering. When asked about the next chapter of his career, Brown explained he will become more versatile as an on-air talent. 

“I want to do more work with engineering,” he started. “I’m really looking to expand my podcast and role as a mediacaster. Hopefully as more people continue to tune in, I can stream more and more.”

Although versatility is significant, managing multiple skills and roles can be challenging. Nonetheless, Brown stated with time management and organization, anyone can grasp success.  Brown mentioned how he takes time to plan his weeks in advance so that his schedule goes completely smoothly. The key, he highlights, is to not procrastinate at all. 

“If you can, do it early. The earlier the better. You don’t want everything to pile up, so it’s better to get stuff out of the way, he said. “I will block out time just to plan my weeks or game days.” 

Today, it is common to see people in the media tackle various skills. Brown still wants to emphasize the significance of mastering the basic skills as a foundation. Skills like writing, reading and studying the industry are all significant building blocks for undertaking new talents. 

Brown explained further, “Writing, reading and studying the industry will help anyone become more versatile. Writing is especially big at any job. Keeping those skills intact will allow everything else to flow smoother and keep opportunities coming your way.” 

Overall, versatility comes with time and dedication. Brown hopes his peers can continue moving forward in their journeys, without stressing too much about mastering multiple skills. 

To keep up with Brown, follow him on Instagram @iam.gb_ or X @therealgb__

Ebonee Bailey Proves Diverse Interests Can Lead to a Fulfilling Career

By: Aaleah McConnell

If you ever felt stifled by the thought of choosing a single career, then snag a page from the textbook of this Dekalb County teacher, who manages to educate by day and create by night.

Ebonee Bailey is an interrelated co-teacher for the Dekalb County School District and creative director for an Atlanta-based collective called Creatives After Dark. At 27-years-old, Bailey sits at the helm of her classroom from Monday to Friday, providing unique lesson plans and accommodations for children with special needs. 

When school lets out, Bailey spends the evenings coordinating and conducting artist interviews, brainstorming themes for Creatives After Dark events, and designing marketing materials. Not to mention, the occasional freelance article she takes on for various music publications such as Flurry, an Afrocentric media platform that produces a biannual online magazine. 

Bailey, like many people, considers herself a multipotentialite. These individuals take up an interest in various intellectual and creative disciplines but rarely develop their expertise in more than one area of interest. So the question of which career to settle on presents a challenge for many in this group. For it often means sacrificing one passion over another. Or, having to carve out a new path that consolidates each interest into one, hopefully, lucrative career. 

Though Bailey says she loves teaching and appreciates “the acquisition of knowledge,” as she continues down two different career paths, she is no stranger to the anxiety-inducing, tug-and-pull of pursuing multiple creative endeavors. 

In sticking with the artistic theme, Bailey compares her multifaceted nature to the color orange,  because while some may settle for living in the dull, predictable gray – Bailey thrives in the bold, orange glow of her whimsical life. 

“You don’t know what to expect when you get orange, and I feel the same about myself,” Bailey said. “I could be doing my hair, I could be talking to my friends. I could be doing anything and [an idea] will pop up. Once I get that idea, I fixate on it.” 

But Bailey said her roles have quite a bit of overlap. As a fourth-generation educator, Bailey emphasizes educating Black artists, writers and musicians about the culture of mass media as they carve out their own space in Atlanta’s creative scene. 

And Bailey understands that the issue of not knowing how to balance multiple passions has roots in the classroom, she said just as her students need to see their culture represented in the curriculum to achieve academic success, professional artists need to see themselves reflected in the different creative mediums in which they aspire to excel. 

“Getting into this [field], you realize a lot of people are not media trained at all, they just start doing music because it’s something that they love to do,” Bailey said. “The beautiful thing is I’m teaching artists marketing and public relations.” 

“Through Creatives After Dark, I’m building a platform where Black women (and all Black people) are allowed to express themselves professionally,” Bailey said. “Creatives After Dark shines a spotlight on our people in a way that teaches our community to love ourselves, just the way we are.”

Establishing a seat at the proverbial table for Black artists is a goal Bailey clings to with all her might. Though Bailey remains adaptable and open to her synchronistic instincts, she believes focus is key to any creative routine. 

That requires a strong ability to concentrate and manage time wisely on self-guided projects, which is challenging for those who jump from interest to interest. Therefore, Bailey suggests planning a few small tasks to complete each day.  

“I focus on getting three things done every day. It doesn’t matter what those three things are. It’s just, every single day, something different from what I did yesterday,” Bailey said.

Bailey adds that, with structure and self-confidence, multi-talented people inevitably find their glow.

To stay up-to-date with Creatives After Dark, visit their website: creativesafterdark.us, and follow them on Instagram @creativesafterdark. Connect with Ebonee Bailey on Instagram @theefinestebonee. 

This issue of The Byline was edited by Mya Grant, Vice President of Print for the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ), and Mandisa Johnson, Chair of The Byline. 

THE BYLINE – MARCH 2024 ISSUE

Happy Women’s History Month! During the month of March, we shed light on the incredible contributions made by women and look forward to all the accomplishments to celebrate. In this issue of The Byline, we featured three amazing women in different areas of journalism. It’s also worth to note that all articles were written and edited by Black women writers. Throughout history, women have faced many trials and tribulations to get to where we are in society now and we’re still not done. Let’s continue to celebrate, support and protect women this month and beyond!

Announcements:

• The Byline is looking for an Editor/Chair! Please contact Mya at myagrant3716@gmail.com for inquiries and more information.
• Our next chapter meeting is March 9th at noon at WSB-TV Studios. We have an exciting Women’s History Month panel prepared! Come out, network & hear from some of the most influential Black women journalists.
• NABJ Upcoming Events:
  • March 23rd: NABJ Arts & Entertainment Media Institute, Los Angeles, CA
  • April 12-13th: NABJ Region 3 Conference, Tulsa, OK
  • April 20th: NABJ Emerging Journalists Media Institute & Investigative Reporting Summit, New York, NY
  • July 31st – Aug 4th: NABJ National Convention, Chicago, IL

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Madeline Thigpen Talks About Highlighting All Voices

By: Dante Miller

When you’re a Black woman who covers criminal justice, it can be a unique experience. Madeline Thigpen often found herself being the only Black woman while covering her stories and finding the ‘joys’ in her beat can be difficult. 

Thigpen has been Capital B’s criminal justice reporter since August 2022. Balanced reporting is important to her when covering a story—especially stories or people other media outlets might overlook.

“There’s a lot of messed up things happening with the criminal justice system,” said Thigpen. “But there’s also a lot of people doing the work to improve the criminal justice system.” 

A couple of those people doing the work include KaCey Venning, co-founder and executive director of HEY! (Helping Empower Youth), and Justin Ballenger, Morehouse professor and advocate for positive behavioral intervention and support. Thigpen spoke to them for her article “Inside One Black Mom’s Fight Against Expulsion in Fulton County,” a story about the expulsion of Zaire Byrd, who received a long-term suspension after getting into a fight even though he didn’t have a prior disciplinary record.

Before joining Capital B, the New Jersey native worked as an education reporter for The Atlanta Voice through Report for America. Her experience with both beats gave Thigpen a different perspective on how intertwined the education system and the criminal justice systems are.

When covering education and criminal justice, Thigpen looks at the bigger picture. She wants to report the socioeconomic reasons why a student is acting out in class or why an individual might commit a crime. She actively avoids being the reporter who parachutes in and out when covering a story once the article is submitted.

For about a year, Thigpen has been reporting on the infamous development of the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, also known as Cop City. She has touched on this with her interviews with NPR’s Morning Edition and All Things Considered. 

The development sparked controversy because of its location in one of Atlanta’s ‘Four Lungs’ in the Weelaunee Forest area. Surrounding residents in the predominantly Black community also feel that this will cause further excessive policing. Additionally, much of the land included in the development plans were a part of the abandoned Old Atlanta Prison Farm.

Even though the coverage of Cop City has gained national attention, Thigpen says at the end of the day, it’s a local story. 

“It’s important for local outlets like Capital B and others to be committed to covering everything,” said Thigpen. “Because many stories wouldn’t be public knowledge if it weren’t for local reporters.”

Thigpen also stressed the importance of being a Black woman who works in local journalism. 

“For so long, we have heard only one or two types of voices,” said Thigpen. “All of our voices are important.”

One of the things Thigpen enjoys about working with outlets like Capital B is that she can highlight Black voices.  

 “What I like about being a reporter and writer is that I demystify some of these things for our readers,” said Thigpen. “Capital B is committed to finding and highlighting black voices, especially for black readers.”

Although her hard news stories attribute to her reputation, highlighting stories like Black women who are fire chiefs are considered a win in her book, too. 

Read more of Thigpen’s stories here or keep up with her journey on X (formerly known as Twitter.)

Atlanta Nonprofit Leader is Reframing Narratives One Teen at a Time

By Aaleah McConnell

As Executive Director of VOX ATL, Charaun Cash is not only brainstorming ways to amplify the voices of Atlanta’s youth, but is also reframing what a person in power looks like. This Women’s History Month, we acknowledge Cash for leading the noble mission at VOX ATL, a nonprofit based in Atlanta, spearheaded by a cohort of teens ranging from ages 13 to 19. 

Cash proves that a high-powered executive can be anyone, from anywhere, and can even come packaged as a go-getting Black woman with a cause. The nonprofit, which celebrated its 30th year of operation in 2023, was built on the notion that teens are often misrepresented – being portrayed as aloof and uncaring about the issues impacting their world. So, as executive director of the teen-led organization, Cash is making sure that the next generation of decision-makers have the opportunity to publish multimedia work subverting these narratives.

Cash grew up in Jefferson Township right outside of Dayton, Ohio, where she graduated from a high school class of only 35 people. Growing up in such a tight-knit community provided a wealth of matriarchal figures who inspired her to help others and create change. 

“It takes a village,” said Cash. “I wouldn’t be here without my village of women who have poured into me and have continued to pour into me. They’re the reason I am who I am.”

And now, she is leading a village of young journalists of her own. 

“Honestly, teens already have their voice,” said Cash. “It’s just a matter of them harnessing its power.”

In addition to leading the news organization and raising funds to sustain operation, Cash also works hands-on with the nonprofit’s after-school program. There, she gets the opportunity to mentor teens one-on-one and see them grow as multimedia journalists. Cash says everyday brings with it a new set of challenges but as a first-time executive director, she is happy to take on the responsibility. 

“At Vox, they’ve learned how to harness the power of their voice and make it much louder,” said Cash. “We’re just here as a conduit. For me, that is the most fulfilling aspect of the work that we do.”

But being that it is Women’s History Month, Cash believes it is important to shine a light on the challenges that may come with accepting a leadership position. Cash admits that signing on for the role was nerve racking at first, especially with changes going on in her life as a wife and a mother. 

“I was very nervous about how I would be impacting my family,” said Cash. “Like the cautionary tale of a woman choosing a career over her family and being resented for it.” 

Though she jokes now that the only barrier keeping her from putting VOX ATL on the map as the city’s preferred source of news for teens, by teens, is not being able to duplicate herself. Cash is grateful to have a mother and a husband who provide a support system that helps her lean into the demands of the job without fear or judgment. 

“It’s not that I’m neglecting my family, because I choose to pursue my career,” said Cash. “It’s that I’m helping my family because I choose to pursue my career.”

Cash believes that women should be uplifted by their achievements and accomplishments, no matter how big. Inspiring the next generation is a huge honor and responsibility but nonetheless, rewarding. Cash says she is grateful that she didn’t let fear get in her way and encourages others to step outside of their comfort zones. 

To keep up with what Cash is doing with VOX ATL or become a volunteer on the team, visit VOXATL.org

The Glo-Getter of Paid Media

By: Radhiya Alston

Showing up every day as the best version of yourself is what Candii Woodson-Witchard lives by. As the Media Director of AT&T/Cricket Wireless and Founder of Miss Packlight, her journey has been a perfect example of tapping into your potential and investing in yourself. 

Woodson-Witchard’s journey began during her undergrad at Furman University majoring in communication studies. She envisioned herself working in public relations, sports marketing or radio and interned at multiple marketing firms and radio stations to help with narrowing down a pathway. 

“I thought this would help me lock down what direction I was going to go in,” said Woodson-Witchard. 

After completing her bachelor’s degree program at Furman, Woodson-Witchard went on to earn her master’s degree from Mercer University with a concentration in marketing. At this time, Woodson-Witchard was also working as a marketing intern for the Atlanta Braves before entering her career in radio sales, but she was starting to realize that she needed to make some shifts. 

“Radio was kind of a dying medium,” said Woodson-Witchard. “I knew it was time to make a change.”

Woodson-Witchard decided to shift into digital sales and looked towards media advertisement as her next step. In 2007, she started building her portfolio to pitch to paid media agencies and the rest is history. Since then, she’s had the opportunity to work with brands like Verizon Wireless, Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin Donuts and Georgia-Pacific, helping these brands grow their consumerism through paid advertisements. 

Her career path and experiences were things she didn’t think existed but her background in communications and business helped prepare for it, along with the network she’s developed over the years.

Since 2019, Woodson-Witchard has been the Media Director for AT&T/Cricket Wireless, where she’s responsible for the media planning of the company. She recalls the time she saw the position open and how one of her previous boss and mentor helped and encouraged Woodson-Witchard to apply. 

“It was such a full circle moment,” said Woodson-Witchard. “Going from having her as a boss to now having her as a client.”

Outside of being a media director, Woodson-Witchard is the proud founder of Miss Packlight, a supportive space that empowers women in all aspects of life. The organization started as a blog in 2010 and has grown into a successful community since 2018. 

“I created Miss Packlight to create that space to get real and not present ourselves as if everything is all awesome,” said Woodson-Witchard. 

Miss Packlight’s mission is for women to learn to live in their light, shine in their light and go towards that light. Woodson-Witchard’s goal with Miss Packlight is to create a tight knit community and hold a space for women to feel safe about being vulnerable and showing up as their authentic selves. There’s more in store as Woodson-Witchard is currently working on a new project, a space focused on the wellness and wellbeing of Black women and women of color, She Packlight. 

To follow Woodson-Witchard’s journey and keep up with Miss Packlight, visit her website or follow her on Instagram. 

This issue of The Byline was edited by Mya Grant, Vice President of Print for the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ)

THE BYLINE – JANUARY 2023 ISSUE

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

A Letter from the President

Craig Allen Brown, AABJ President

AABJ Members,

Let me start by wishing everyone a healthy, happy, and productive 2023!

I’m proud of the strides that the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ) made in 2022. After a catastrophic pandemic decimated life as we knew it, we were able to begin having face-to-face meetings for the first time in over two years. One of our more successful and engaging events of 2022 was a brunch that allowed us to partner with the National Association of Black Journalists’ (NABJ) executive board, which was attended by NABJ Executive Director Drew Berry, Vice President of Broadcast Ken Lemon, Vice President of Digital Amir Vera and Secretary Madison Carter.

AABJ also partnered with the NABJ executive board last October to celebrate NABJ President Dorothy Tucker’s 40^th anniversary as a journalism professional.

AABJ’s Emmy-award winning television show, “iN Contact,” was able to reconnect with AIB Studios, and resume using the network’s studios to create engaging content about pivotal topics such as homelessness, breast cancer awareness, health concerns for Black men and professional development for journalists.

We were also able to continue an endeavor that I am particularly proud of, the mentoring and professional development of our student members. Several professional AABJ members volunteered to serve as mentors to students at Clark Atlanta University and Georgia State University. AABJ was also able to send four AABJ/NABJ students to the NABJ Annual Conference in Las Vegas; these students all spoke of the experience as being “rewarding and fulfilling.”

However, as rewarding as 2022 was, I am even more excited about what 2023 will be for our chapter.

2023 will see AABJ host at least one membership meeting and one social event monthly, at a minimum. These social events will include mixers with other professional journalism organizations, such as the Online News Association, the Atlanta Press Club and the Society of Professional Journalists. We have scheduled an AABJ barbecue, a brunch and an Atlanta Falcons football game. We will wrap the year up with AABJ’s awards ceremony in December.

We will also have a host of panels and speakers come and share their expertise with our members. These events include photography and writing workshops, a Black history program, and our annual Black Male Media Project. We will also sponsor AAJB/NABJ students to attend the Region III Convention in Jackson, Mississippi, as well as the NABJ Convention in Birmingham, Alabama.

We will take deliberate actions to reconnect with those Atlanta-area businesses that have proudly served as sponsors and/or partners with AABJ, to further empower our organization. We will also foster relationships with Atlanta’s powerful and plentiful media organizations, to provide opportunities for employment for our members. Further, we will also create opportunities to celebrate the founders and trailblazers who worked so diligently to ensure that Black people in Atlanta and throughout the world always have a voice.

This is an organization that I am immensely proud of, and this board will work even harder in our final year to provide the networking opportunities, professional development opportunities and sense of family that all of you deserve.

Craig Allen Brown

President, Atlanta Association of Black Journalists

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101 Websites to help Journalists and Writers

By Stan Washington

People don’t realize how difficult good writing is until they decide to do it. Becoming really good at the craft of storytelling whether it’s through print or video is more of a long journey than a destination. Even after you win a few awards there is always room for improvement.

Every year Writer’s Digest, the leading publication to help writers of all genres – mainly print – publishes  their Yearbook which features great advice for writers and the very useful section: “101 Best Websites For Writers”.

The 2023 issue is out on the stands now. I picked up my copy at Barnes & Noble or you can order directly from www.writersdigest.com.

This year’s issue also features an article titled “100 Magazine Markets for Writers” which is a must have for freelancers. But to be successfully published with any magazine you must study back issues to see what type of articles they are running and you must get to know their target audience.

Being a successful freelance magazine writer is tough. Magazine editors are a tough sell. Also be prepared to write about subjects that may not interest you. For instance, you may not care for fishing at all – you love knitting. But Field & Stream magazine is offering a nice check for an 1100 word article. Expand your opportunities.

In addition to the websites, there is a very important article that all writers need titled: “How Much Should I Charge?” This chart lists every possible assignment a writer can receive from copywriting/editing to business plans to press releases to ghost writing a book.

So if you are having trouble with the dreaded writer’s block or how to turn your news article into an award-winning screenplay to writing your first book, this guide is one of the best resources out there.

The issue is broken down to several categories but for the sake of brevity I’m only going to give a sample of a few genres with journalism being the primary one.

FundsForWriters.com

There is money out there from nonprofit organizations itching to give you money. You can find a number of them represented at the NABJ Expo & Job Fair each year. You can also find leads through Writer’s Digest and other magazines geared towards writers. Or you can sign up for this free weekly newsletter for a list of 24-30 paying opportunities.

U.S. Copyright Office – Copyright.gov

Writers protect your work! This is the place where you learn the basics of copyright law, research copyright records and to register your creative work.

Freelancers Union – freelancersunion.org

Of the creative community is there any other group more abused than freelancers? The focus of this organization is the health and safety of all freelancers, contractors and entrepreneurs. The union offers access to insurance benefits and resources for legal and financial information. Membership is free.

All Freelance Writing – allfreelancewriting.com

Business writer and author Jennifer Mattern has operated this site for more than a decade. The site focuses on business writing for freelancers who are interested in working in this area.

Nieman Storyboard – NiemanStoryboard.org

Get feedback on your pitch for a compelling article. There are 11 categories designed to help you improve your techniques to make it a successful article.

Quill – QuillMag.com

This quarterly magazine has been a staple for writers and editors for nearly 100 years. Find insightful articles by industry leaders and veteran writers. But you don’t have to wait for three months to get the next issue, there are plenty of articles online.

Substack.com – Substack.com

This is Substack’s first appearance on this list. Created in 2017, the online platform provides writers to be paid directly by readers for their work.

The Editing Podcast –  LouiseHarnbyProofreader.com/podcast.html

This podcast and three others are making their debut on the list. Hosted by fiction editor Louise Harnby and Denise Howe the host offers needed advice for those writers looking for an editor but are not sure what to look for. The episodes range from what to expect from your editor to advice on grammar and punctuation and a lot more.

This issue of the Byline was edited by Tianna Faulkner, AAJB VP of Print.

THE BYLINE-SEPTEMBER 2022 ISSUE

STUDENTS WORKING TOWARDS CAREER SUCCESS IN JOURNALISM

From the Classroom to the Workroom: Alexis Grace Defies the Odds

By

Mya Grant

Opportunities can be limited for millions of journalism students when they first graduate from college. Figuring out which markets are the best to work, inexperience, and heavy competition can all deter students entering the workforce, but Alexis Grace defied those odds.

For Alexis Grace, her journey to becoming a digital media analyst for Cox Media is more than extraordinary. Receiving her undergraduate degree in journalism from Clark Atlanta University and her master’s degree in mass communications from Agnes Scott College, Grace used her time in school to prepare for her career through internships and mentorships. She credits former editor-in-chief of The Atlanta Voice, the late Marshall Latimore, as being a mentor to her.

“He really helped shape me into the journalist I was meant to be before he passed,” said Grace.

Through her first internship with CNN, she gained a sense of her purpose and what she wanted to do with a journalism degree.

“I believe my passion for media stems from service,” said Grace.  “And making sure that those who don’t have access to the right news or the right materials to watch the news have the options to get access in the best ways possible.”

A huge part of her roles throughout her career have centered around accessibility — a focus point in most companies and products today. This was one of the first lessons she learned during her graduate program at Agnes Scott College, user experience and accessibility through website creation exercises. Also, carrying over what she was learning in her graduate program and combining it with the digital media work she was doing at The Atlanta Voice helped shape her skills which became transferable and attractive.

While most students are seeking jobs after graduation, Grace’s opportunity came directly to her. A Cox Media Group recruiter reached out to her through LinkedIn, reviewed her page and offered Grace a position right before she graduated.

“If anyone who is reading this does not have a LinkedIn account and it’s not up to date, I highly recommend updating your LinkedIn profile and check your messages often,” said Grace.

Like many Atlanta natives, Grace didn’t want to move away from the city to start her career. The connections she’s made, (as a student and after graduating from college) and experience she’s gained in Atlanta made her career progression easier. Grace says transitioning from a smaller team at The Atlanta Voice to a larger team at Cox Media Group is taking some getting used to but she’s confident in her role.

“It is a huge adjustment, something I’m still trying to get used to,” said Grace. “But I do know that all of the things that I did at The Atlanta Voice —having my hands in so many different things and programs— was all transferable for me to work in a corporate environment. So, I understand everyone’s position at Cox Media much more because I at one point had to do that position.”

Mya Grant is a senior journalism student at Georgia State University.

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THE 2022 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK JOURNALISTS (NABJ) CONVENTION RECAP:

THREE JOURNALISM STUDENTS TALK ABOUT THEIR NABJ EXPERIENCE

A Renewed Hope and Confidence to Pursue My Passions

By

Alexia Clark

Alexia Clark, a rising senior at Georgia State University studying Media Entrepreneurship with a concentration in Journalism, was able to go to the 2022 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) national convention. This year’s NABJ convention and career fair was hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada from August 3rd through August 7th. A real opportunity of a lifetime, Clark received the chance to network with journalists from different broadcasts, newspapers, and magazines. It also featured options for graduating students, upcoming internships, and job opportunities.

Following her arrival, Clark and other students were advised to check in, and although the time difference was a lot, they were able to change and catch a late afternoon workshop on the first day of the conference. Every workshop she visited felt powerful and impactful. Overall, she was extremely grateful to be in the room with such influential powerhouses in the media. For example, the opening ceremony was championed by Kimberly Godwin, Florida A&M University Alumna, and president of ABC News. She gave a speech that highlighted her work of being a voice and paving the way for Black journalists and media personnel.

“Through social investments and collaborations, Disney is empowering youth to pursue their dreams and build their skills to become who they imagined they could be,” said Godwin during her speech.

August 4th, the conference was in full swing. Clark started her day by attending the NBC Universal Student Networking Breakfast. After breakfast was finished, she headed to participate in workshops throughout the day. One of her favorite workshops for that day was the Community Engagement Journalism workshop. The student is inspired by highlighting issues within her respective communities and solutions. The workshop engaged her passions and gave her tools to further connect with the local community that she serves.

Beforehand, she made sure to bring copies of her resume so that she could effectively network with possible recruiters and other professionals. As this was her first NABJ experience, the career fair was a bit overwhelming. She never thought she would be in the rooms she stood in during that week.

Clark is a low-income student born in Fort Myers, Florida and raised in a small town, Arcadia, Florida. She is one of the first in her family to attend a university and has faced a multitude of obstacles along her way. Clark originally started at Florida A&M University and attended for two years until financial hardships caused her to withdraw to save up funds to cover her remaining tuition. With the help of a guided mentor, tenacity, and dedication, she landed a job at AT&T and was quickly promoted, which allowed her to relocate to Atlanta, GA. One year after her relocation, she suffered in a car accident which made her unable to work. She then decided to transfer and continue her education at Georgia State University under the guidance of her longtime mentor, Ashley Coone. Coone guided Clark on the next steps she would need to take to transfer as well as provided her with a scholarship to cover her books for her first semester back.

Nonetheless, her dedication landed her this opportunity to travel to a new city and connect with like-minded professionals. In continuation, at her first round of going through the career fair, she noticed the chatter and bustling conversation of students and young professionals aspiring to land their next role. The first booth that caught her attention was the E.W. Scripps Company. After a brief conversation with a recruiter, she was invited to attend their evening reception which featured Omarion. Connections were also made with notable publications such as the Dallas Morning News, Hearst Corporation and CNN. Although she felt overwhelmed the duration of the time she was there, everyone she spoke to greeted her with warmth and a commitment to aid her in the next steps of her career.

“I went to the career fair out of curiosity and was extremely nervous. The more people I talked to, the more they let me know how impressed they were with my resume and work. I now have a clear goal for my future and career,” said Clark.

The week was packed with workshops, galas, and receptions back-to-back. Clark learned valuable techniques to add to her toolkit as a young media professional, made valuable connections and had a lot of fun. With unrelenting determination, passion and focus, Clark has taken one little step at a time to meet her goals. She looks forward to attending the NABJ national convention in Birmingham, Alabama in 2023, where the gears in her head will continue turning to further develop professionally and personally.

She thanks the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ) and AABJ President Craig Allen Brown for the platform which allowed her to embark on this journey. With lots of determination, Clark hopes to make a name for herself in this industry by working hard and becoming well-rounded.

“Seeing people like me achieve in their field makes my dream seem closer and closer. I have renewed hope and confidence for continuing to pursue my passions,” said Clark.

Alexia Clark is a senior journalism student at Georgia State University.

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Set Myself Up For Success

By

India Rice

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) 2022 Convention in Las Vegas was my first convention and definitely an experience of a lifetime! The convention not only made me realize the type of journalist I want to be, but also showed me the immense pride in being a Black journalist.

Prior to my arrival, I had no idea that I would be attending. Two weeks before the convention, the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ) President Craig Allen Brown notified Clark Atlanta University’s NABJ Chapter GroupMe of the AABJ grant. This was my chance to try really hard to attend the conference that so many people had vouched for. I always knew that my attendance would be beneficial; however, I did not have the means to fund my trip. After applying for the grant, Mr. Brown notified me that I was one of four student grantees to attend. This was the beginning of a journey that I will forever hold dear to my heart.

Upon arrival at the convention, I could already sense that something amazing was in the air. The mere thought of being amongst other like-minded journalists and peers brought me immense joy. I had always heard glorious stories of what the convention did for my mentors like Jacque Reid, and my professors Jolene Butt’s Freeman, Summer Jackson Cole, and Christopher Daniel. Witnessing this conference in real time allowed me to really see what the world of journalism could offer.

On the very first day I had a great welcome at the open ceremony. This set the tone for what the rest of the convention would look like and the opportunities I would be presented with. This was the celebration of being in person for the first time, and for celebrating all that NABJ and NAHJ meant to the communities they serve. Here, I was home.

Aside from the joy the conference provided me, the number of opportunities were just as abundant. I met thriving journalist Tiffany Cross, and even previous mentors like Mike Hill. I was even able to interview with companies such as Entertainment Tonight and ABC, which led me to connect with future employers and gain career advice. I was also able to interview Olympian Sanya Richards-Ross, and gain content for my reel. The convention taught me that my Blackness was welcomed in journalistic spaces, and that I can be a representative of the narratives of Black and Brown people everywhere.

This year’s convention is something that I am forever grateful for. I learned so much about how I can improve, set myself up for success, and how voices like mine are needed in this world. I am grateful to AABJ and Craig Allen Brown for sponsoring my trip, allowing me to see a world outside of my own.

India Rice is a junior journalism student at Clark Atlanta University.

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My 2022 NABJ Convention Experience

By

Tammia Jacobs

My experience at the 2022 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Convention is surely an unforgettable experience that I will cherish for years to come. Notably, the summer of 2022 began as an ordinary one, in which I spent most of my days working and trying to save money to go back to school in the fall.

This was the summer of my junior year, so I prioritized searching for internships in the Atlanta area, and by the grace of God, I was granted the opportunity to become a freelance writer for the Atlanta Voice, in which Craig Allen Brown, President of the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (AABJ), formerly served as the managing editor.

In a divine series of events, I filled out an application for the AABJ Grant that was awarding students the lifetime opportunity to take a trip to the NABJ Convention which was being held in Las Vegas Nevada.

Admittedly, my anxiety almost got the best of me as I convinced myself that I wasn’t ready to take this step in my career and told myself that I was just a student, and I would apply next year.

As the pieces began to fall into place, I finally gained the courage to take the leap and before I knew it, I was on a flight to Vegas with three other journalism students who eased my anxiety with reassuring words and support.

Saying that the convention was overwhelming is quite an understatement. Everyday there were panels to attend, people to network with, attractions to see, long walks to take, amazing food and so much more.

One of my most memorable experiences at the convention is when I sat in on a journalistic panel discussing the coverage of a mass shooting in which Lester Holt was a surprise guest. It was incredible.

It was definitely exciting to network and take advantage of the opportunity to speak with so many of my inspirations within the field. I was able to speak with women like Tiffany Cross and Claudia Cruz. It was also exciting to visit the NBC Universal brunch with other student journalists and gain internships.

A very popular part of the convention was the career fair, where I was able to get interviews with the E.D. Scripps Company, Yahoo and Disney. Although I am still a student, they were practical interviewing experiences and many of the companies offered great advice and contact information.

In my personal time I visited the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace, ate at Nobu and the strip, and got 10-dollar tattoos in downtown Vegas with two of the journalists that I came with. Downtown Vegas was so beautiful. It looked a lot like California, and my favorite store there would be Buffalo Exchange.

Overall, my experience at NABJ was informative, inspirational, and unforgettable. I am very thankful to AABJ for the opportunity to grow professionally and allow students, like myself, the opportunity to gain practical experience in the field. I cannot wait for next year’s convention.

Tammia Jacobs is a junior journalism student at Alabama State University.

This issue of the Byline was edited by AABJ VP of Print Tianna Faulkner and The Byline Chair Natalie Mendenhall.

THE BYLINE-AUGUST 2022 ISSUE

UNPACKING IT ALL:  HOW BLACK JOURNALISTS CAN COVER RACE AND EQUALITY

By Natalie Mendenhall

“When I was a younger journalist, there was always this whole thing about not becoming the story. You have to disconnect yourself from the story.” 

That’s the message Nicquel Terry Ellis remembers hearing from her early days as a journalism student at Michigan State University. But fast forward a few years and now times have changed for the Senior Writer of Race and Equality at CNN.

Ellis says a major shift in how newsrooms cover race came in the summer of unrest following the police killing of George Floyd in 2020. As the country wrestled with the injustice of its past, many editors were left with the question, “How do we handle bias?” Ellis said during that time, and even now, she finds it difficult not to insert her perspective into stories when covering communities of color. “We know that these are going to be stories that are impacting people who look like us. People who we identify with, our families, our friends, our neighbors, our children, are impacted by what’s happening in the country. It’s, hard to [not] feel connected to these issues.”

Thus, when CNN created its Race and Equality department two years ago, she saw it as a chance to be a voice for her community. The award-winning journalist has covered in-depth- topics such as COVID in communities of color, Black maternal health, and even how Black voters flipped Georgia.

But with those weighty topics also comes the need to unplug. Ellis says when she’s not working on the weekend, she tries to soak in all the love from her infant daughter and husband. “When weekends come, I don’t have to work normally so I can unplug.  Saturday, I’m not going to watch the news… I’m going to spend time with my daughter and my husband. We’re going to go to the park, we’ll get dinner, ice cream, and we’re going to play because I just need that.”

And Ellis says a support system goes beyond having her family and friends. She adds you also need professional connections and mentors. “Get a mentor, find someone who you admire or someone who is willing to help you. Someone who has reached a point in their career that you want to hit.” 

Finally, when asked if she had advice for journalist students, Ellis said networking with other journalists is important. The2022 NABJ convention in Las Vegas is a good place to start. Ellis also recommends students apply for the NABJ Student Projects at future conventions. “I would definitely highly recommend black student journalists look into that program through NABJ because they do sponsor your entire trip. You basically go, you work for the convention, reporting stories about the convention, and they have it for both digital and broadcast.” 

Follow Nicquel Terry Ellis on Twitter: @NTerryEllis.

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FOUR FESTIVALS TO ENJOY IN ATLANTA BEFORE SUMMER ENDS

By Tianna Faulkner

Atlanta Black Restaurant Week, August 5-14, 2022

Celebrate the flavors of African American, African, and Caribbean cuisine during Black Restaurant Week. Black Restaurant Week is a ten-day showcase celebrating the best in culinary arts. Dine at one of the participating restaurants offering weekly specials.

Founded in 2016 by Warren Luckett, Falayn Ferrell, and Derek Robinson, Black Restaurant Week® is dedicated to celebrating the flavors of African American, African, and Caribbean cuisine nationwide. Through a series of events and promotional campaigns, Black Restaurant Week’s culinary initiatives help introduce culinary businesses and culinary professionals to the community.

Our innovative approach to a restaurant week includes highlighting other aspects of culinary businesses including catering services, food trucks, and culinary products. This helps stimulates the local economy and presents full access to the Black culinary industry which is a key ingredient to the American culture.

For more information about Black Restaurant Week Atlanta, visit Black Restaurant Week Atlanta.

Taste of Atlanta “Food That Rocks” in Sandy Springs-August 19-20, 2022

Dine at Restaurants in Sandy Springs. A tasting event like no other, celebrating Sandy Springs Restaurants, Food, Wine, Beer & Cocktail Tastings, plus Chef Demonstrations during the day and Live Music at night

Taste of Atlanta is committed to building greater awareness and support for the chefs, their restaurants and staff who work tirelessly to provide us with delicious food and drink experiences that we cherish. Taste Around Town events, which include events in Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Midtown, and Chamblee, will explore cool communities and discover established and new neighborhood favorites. Enjoy signature bites from favorite chefs and top-rated restaurants along with wine, beer & cocktail tastings, chef demonstrations during the day and live music at night. For more information, visit Taste of Atlanta.

Piedmont Park Arts Festival-August 20-21, 2022

The Piedmont Park Arts Festival is a visual arts and crafts event held annually in downtown Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. This two-day festival of the arts is centered around a large artists’ market and family-friendly events.

Over 250 artists and vendors present a variety of mediums and crafts at the Piedmont Park Arts Festival, from photographers and painters to leather workers, jewelry makers, glass blowers, and sculptors. Along with artisan demonstrations, the festival also offers food trucks and beverages, performances and shows, and a children’s play area and activities. Admission to the festival is free, and funds raised are donated to an area charity or fundraiser.

The Piedmont Park Summer Arts Festival is presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, for people of all ages, customs, and interests. The Midtown community of Piedmont Park is considered to be home to one of the largest and most enthusiastic art buying communities in metro Atlanta. The Piedmont Park Summer Arts and craft festival brings back the tradition to Atlanta’s arts community. Visit Piedmont Park Arts Festival for more information.

BronzeLens Film Festival-August 23-28, 2022

The BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is a non-profit organization, founded in 2009, that is dedicated to bringing national and worldwide attention to Atlanta as a center for film and film production for people of color. The mission of the BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is two fold: to promote Atlanta as the new film mecca for people of color; and to showcase films and provide networking opportunities that will develop the next generation of filmmakers.

Over the last twelve years, BronzeLens has promoted the work of independent filmmakers of color from Atlanta, the Southeast region, the nation and the world. The growth is rooted in the high standards, in participation by leading Hollywood professionals (including partners like WarnerMedia, Turner, HBO, Universal Films, BET, VH1, Panavision, and ARRAY (an indie film releasing platform founded by BronzeLens honoree/Selma director Ava DuVernay) and in success stories derived from relationships started at BronzeLens. Visit Bronzelens Festival for more information.

This issue of the Byline was edited by Tianna Faulkner, AABJ VP of Print.

THE BYLINE-JUNE 2022 ISSUE

The Historical Connection of Juneteenth in Georgia

By Da’Zhane Johnson

Georgia declared Juneteenth a state holiday 11 years ago, and the celebrations are only getting stronger. 

Juneteenth became a national holiday last year in 2021. The date, June 19th,  historically symbolizes when Union soldiers enforced the Emancipation Proclamation in 1865 in Galveston, Texas, allowing enslaved people to become free. 

But even 100 years before the national holiday, Georgia held its own celebrations to end slavery. In Upson County, Freedom Day was celebrated on May 29th, 1921, that’s the day its residents learned about the Emancipation Proclamation. People even traveled to the county to join the celebration. 

“The Central of Georgia Railway ran four special coaches for colored people for this occasion, three from Macon and one from Atlanta,” wrote Rev. James McGill in his book, “The First One Hundred Years of Upson County Negro History.” Hosea Williams and Ralph David Abernathy were speakers at the gathering.

Still, Juneteenth becoming a national holiday was a milestone for many Black activists and historians. Nonetheless, a new goal for approving it as a paid holiday is being argued. There is hope that Juneteenth will be held with the same importance as the Fourth of July or Memorial Day.  

This year Georgia’s legislature approved House Bill 1335. The bill granted Juneteenth as a paid state holiday. In the U.S., only 18 states recognize Juneteenth as a paid holiday. 

Officially, Georgia law allows for 12 public holidays to permit state office closures. Gov. Brian Kemp hinted at changing the law for 2022, rather than halt another holiday’s observance.

The Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival DBA Juneteenth Atlanta are members of the National Juneteenth Observation Foundation (NJOF) and have been for ten years. The organization hosted its tenth honorarium this year. 

Juneteenth Atlanta is a weekend-long event with a parade, music festival, a film review, vendors and more. The event was held at Centennial Olympic Park and had free admission. 

Despite the heat, thousands of people gathered in downtown Atlanta to participate in the event. The event embodied different pieces of Black culture, including marching bands and handmade clothing. 

Other celebrations across the state’s capital are conducted by the Atlanta History Center, Uptown Comedy Corner and National Center for Civil and Human Rights. But Juneteenth is not just a day for celebration. Many Black Americans hope the holiday pushes forward conversations about economic justice and reparations. 

Cy Richardson with the National Urban League stated, “The Black homeownership rate today is about 42%, which is the same rate it was in roughly 1968. So, it gives you a sense of how we’ve gone two steps forward and one step back.”

An effort by the Black homeownership collaborative observed Juneteenth with an event to discuss generating funds for new Black homeowners by 2030. 

The group utilized the holiday to highlight the lack of affordable housing homebuyers face. The collaborative set a goal to earn $3 million for the issue. 

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said, “We want to see families increase their income so they can have more homeownership and we also want to see banks lean into this opportunity.” 

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“Being the Best Dad Beats Being the Best Reporter in Town” 

By Natalie Mendenhall

Legendary Atlanta reporter Maynard Eaton says he owes his journalism career to his father, Jack Eaton. Maynard recalls when he was growing up, his father would take him on his paper route on Sunday. That’s when the papers were the heaviest and hardest to throw across lawns in Newark. But before young Eaton could buckle up, his father would quiz him about the contents of the Sunday edition. “So he said, If I’m going to take you around your route, you ought to know what’s in that paper. so I had to make sure I knew what the news was to tell him while he was driving me.” Eight Emmys later, Eaton still calls that his first reporting job. 

That’s just one of the many examples of strong Black Fathers that Eaton has seen over the years. He says in general Black Fathers get a bad shake in the media. He says he’s seen many examples of, “Black fathers who do show up at ballgames, graduations, church.” 

But for the father of four and stepfather, his own journey into parenthood came as he began pursuing a career as a television reporter. “Early on, I was not very good at it because I was pioneering as the only black person at certain stations in Miami particularly and in Atlanta subsequently.” Eaton says he tried his best to parent long distance with his eldest two children, but ultimately he had to mend those relationships after his children grew up. “We closed the gap. But, if I have any regrets. I wish I had been as good a dad as I was a reporter early on.” Now he encourages younger journalists to find that work-life balance. “Being a father counts much more than being. The best reporter in town.”

Outside of his own biological children and stepchildren, Eaton says he’s been able to mentor several of his students. “I’ve been able to teach this discussion for over well over a decade at Clark Atlanta University.” Eaton says mentorship is his calling card in journalism and that he loves to see the next generation carry on the torch. 

Now he offers one piece of advice for students considering a career in journalism and even longtime veterans— stay true to your calling. “Stay true to your craft, to the mission of journalism. It’s not partisan. It’s not political…seek the truth in your life and in your writing.” 

This issue of the Byline was edited by Tianna Faulkner, AABJ VP of Print and Natalie Mendenhall, Byline Chair.

THE BYLINE MAY 2022 ISSUE

Mental Health Expert Talks How Georgia Residents Can 

Maintain Their Mental Health During COVID-19

By Da’Zhane Johnson

Being isolated for almost two years caused significant problems in society and we see that in data.” That’s Abdul Henderson’s take on the pandemic. Henderson is the executive director at Mental Health America of Georgia. He says Georgia still has room for growth when it comes to dealing with mental health. And the data backs that up, non-profit Mental Health America (MHA) says, Georgia’s overall ranking is 31 out of the 50 states and Washington D.C. The report ranks the states around adults and accounts for those with any mental illness, serious thoughts of suicide, mental health access, etc. The start of the pandemic left thousands of residents out of work and uncertainty left many to develop unwarranted thoughts.

“A lot of people lost jobs and a lot of people lost housing, which are two main components of social deterrence of mental health,” said Henderson. 

And that combination of factors caused people across The Peach State to reach out for help. On June 20, 2020, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities highlighted the state’s Crisis and Access Hotline received 800 calls. That’s double the amount received the previous year. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported an average of 650 calls between July 26 and Aug. 25 during the same year. Communities of color suffered a disproportionate impact from the pandemic. Primarily, economic vulnerability has led to these communities being uninsured, therefore, reducing health care access. There is also a stigma surrounding mental health. For example, in the Black community mental health illnesses are seen as weaknesses instead of serious health concerns.  

“In communities of color specifically, we have to recognize it’s okay to not be okay and seek out treatment,” Henderson pointed out. 

But the silver lining of the pandemic was that mental health resources became more accessible digitally. The digital health industry saw an overall increase in profits and start-ups. In the first half of 2021, the industry made $15 billion, according to Mercom Capital Group. 

“The use of technology is important in creating access, especially in low-income and rural communities,” Henderson stated. “As long as the company has a licensed professional on the other end that is talking to a client, I feel confident that the platform is credible.” 

Georgia’s approach to mental health advanced last month too after Gov. Brian Kemp signed the Mental Health Parity Act (HB 1013). This bill implemented a plan that prompts insurers to treat mental health coverage the same as physical health coverage. 

Henderson commented, “This bill lays the foundation because it addresses parity, workforce needs and children’s behavioral health. We believe that it will improve our national ranking in terms of providing more access.”

If you or someone you know wants more mental health resources, you can visit the Mental Health of America of Georgia website to learn more about advocacy and programs. For more information or to reach the COVID-19 Emotional Support Line from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., call 866-399-8938. The Georgia Crisis and Access Line is available 24 hours a day, call 800-715-4225. 

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CBS 46 Anchor Trayce Hutchins Talks Balancing Motherhood and Career

By Ariyana Griffin 

“Make sure this is what you want to do. Like a lot of industries, this one is based on you being a commodity for a business.” That’s Trayce Hutchins advice on balancing motherhood and a career in broadcast media.

Hutchins is an evening anchor for CBS 46 news Atlanta. She has worked in the media industry for nearly two decades. Hutchins has covered everything from hurricanes in Fort Myers, FL to events and heat waves in Phoenix, AZ, to breaking news in Atlanta, GA.  During this time, she has balanced being an active mother while still pursuing her career.

“It’s not always easy. Sometimes you have to set boundaries and priorities in terms of what you try to accomplish day to day,” the news anchor said. 

Hutchins is grateful that her current role allows her to prioritize “mommy-daughter time” with her daughter, which now often involves binge-watching television shows in the evening. But that wasn’t always the case. When her daughter was younger, Hutchins said she had to pick up and move to different cities to follow new opportunities. 

“When my daughter was younger, we moved a lot. For my career, it’s generally every three years I have a new contract. Every two to three years I would move for another opportunity. The biggest sacrifice at that time was not planting roots, because that’s not what the career path called for at the time.” 

However, moving to Atlanta allowed Hutchins a more stable life and her daughter was able to matriculate through her academic career in the same city. Hutchins advice to mothers is for moms to have a strong village. She emphasized how important it is to have a support system while being a mother in this field because journalists are often away from home and family.