GLAAD allows gay
media for 2008 awards

LGBT media are now eligible to receive awards from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. After announcing the dates for the group's 19th Annual Media Awards in spring 2008, GLAAD president Neil Giuliano also said that the rules would change to allow gay media outlets to participate.

"With the expansion of cable channels and niche programming, LGBT-created and -consumed media is more readily available than ever before," Giuliano said in a statement. "Our board has decided to incorporate LGBT media submissions into the existing competitive categories. We welcome the opportunity for LGBT media to submit their journalism and programming for consideration."

The four ceremonies, which award media for LGBT coverage, will take place in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and for a Spanish-language event, Hollywood, Fla.

The ceremonies are scheduled to take place at the following venues:

New York-- Marriott Marquis on Monday, March 17, 2008;

Los Angeles--Kodak Theatre on Saturday, April 26;

San Francisco--San Francisco Marriott on Saturday, May 10;

Hollywood, Fla.--Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Saturday, April 12. (The Advocate)