By Kay Olin

It is only the first week of January and I am already looking forward to one of my favorite weekends all year: judging the Gracie Awards in Washington, DC! What a rich weekend spent with over 75 professionals reviewing such extraordinary programming by, for and about women. Being able to watch the impressive work of women all around the country (and the world!) is truly a treat. Throughout the 48 hours spent judging, there are plenty of cookies, laughs and yes, tears spent on George Washington University's campus while reviewing all the phenomenal entrants. Each judge comes away feeling so proud of the quality of the Gracies and what it means to have touched so many with your contribution.....whether it be though judging or being an entrant!

This all leads up to the 37th Annual Gracie Awards, which will again be held in LA again this May. This event offers all the glitz, glamour, stars and excitement of Hollywood, while also making a meaningful statement about women and their contributions to media today. The Gracies are coveted by the winners and a Gracie statue is truly the best recognition and celebration of the contribution of women to our industry and to the world around us.

Lucky for you, the Gracies entry deadline has been extended through January 13! So join us....be a judge, be an entrant and definitely come help us celebrate the Gracie winners this May in LA!

Kay Olin is the President of Local Focus Radio and serves as Chair-Elect on the Alliance for Women in Media board of directors.