At the LWVGB Holiday Luncheon at The Club on December 12, 2009, Carol Nunnelley spoke to League members and guests on "The Future of the Fourth Estate". Nunnelley is a journalism trainer and author. She is currently writing a biography of retired Alabama Supreme Court Associate Justice Janie Shores, the first woman to serve on that court.

Following this presentation on the future of journalism, she lead a spirited discussion. Nunnelley covered the recent changes and closing of papers but spoke of the Internet, blogs and investigative reporting that is still getting done. The League knows that a strong democracy depends on good journalism, and she spoke to the importance of fact checking and reporting of information. While commentary can give insight she also talked about how it must also be accurate. Nunnelley went on to share some changes being made by some news organizations with print and on-line access.