The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) announced today that it was the recipient of a Large Strategic Software grant from Microsoft to support the infrastructure of the organization. This grant, valued at more than $300,000, will allow GLAAD, the nation's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, to bring enhanced services to its staff and constituents while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

GOProud, a registered 527, officially launched at a press conference in the National Republican Club of Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. "GOProud is launching to fill a void that exists," said Jimmy LaSalvia, Executive Director of the organization and a member of the Board.

Stonewall Library & Archives (SLA), the largest independent circulating library of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) materials in the US, sets a national course with the opening of its new facility in downtown Fort Lauderdale's ArtServe library building. The official opening is set for Thursday, April 23 at 11am with a variety of elected officials on hand. Proclamations will be presented to SLA from both the City of Fort Lauderdale and Broward County. Photo opportunities and tours of the facility will be available.

The first step in the social network marketing process is to develop your primary "Touch Points", including a Facebook Business/Fan page and Twitter account (see diagram above and our accompanying story for more information on this).

The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, today praised the Washington State House of Representatives for passing the Domestic Partnership Expansion bill on a 62-35 vote. This follows a positive vote of 30-18 in the state Senate several weeks ago. The bill will provide registered domestic partners with access to the rights and responsibilities granted to spouses under state law.

Metro Weekly, Washington's acclaimed gay and lesbian newsmagazine, the winners of the first annual Metro Weekly Next Generation Awards were announced in a cover story profiling four of the Washington area's best and brightest young GLBT leaders. Each will be presented with their Next Generation Award at an evening reception on April 16, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Palette Restaurant and Bar at The Madison at 15th and M Streets NW, Washington, DC.

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April 27-May 3, 2009 Equality Forum

April 29-30, 2009 The Gay & Lesbian Market Symposium

May 28-30, 2009 2009 NGLCC National Business & Leadership Conference: Out For Business, Seattle

October 6-9, 2009 Out and Equal Workplace Summit

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