News: Iraq Escalation, Nebraska Gay Rights, Mark Indelicato

· The White House admits Iraq is embroiled in civil war and is "quietly on track to nearly double the number of combat troops in Iraq" by Christmas. When additional support troops are included in this second troop “surge,” the total number of U.S. troops in Iraq could increase from 162,000 now to more than 200,000—a record high number—by the end of the year."

· Food and Drug Administration rules gay men are still banned from giving blood. The restrictions leave "in place—for now—a 1983 prohibition meant to prevent the spread of HIV through transfusions." Last year, the Red Cross and the international blood association called on the FDA to reverse the ban.

· For the 14th year in a row, the Nebraska legislature defeats attempts to add sexuality to the categories protected under the state's anti-discrimination law. The Senate voted 24-15 to kill the most recent bill. Two Republicans led the attack. Sen. Tony Fulton (R-Lincoln) declared the bill could lead to protections for pedophiles and transvestites.

· Out.com chats up Ugly Betty's Mark Indelicato, who says he loves show tunes as much as his character Justin: "My recent favorite musical has to be Wicked. I really love all the music. And all of the Disney Broadway shows I love—Beauty & The Beast, The Lion King. I'm definitely into show tunes. I mean—I'm an actor and a singer! How could you not?"

· Hillary Clinton campaign hires gay marketing strategist.

· Outed anti-gay congressman exposed, critics' website is mysteriously shut down.

Comments

[derrick]

That little boy is the cutest thing ever. His character is wonderful.

[tbag]

I love him too. LOL they are so trying to insinuate things about that boy but oh well he's a lot braver than I was at that age.

[Mark Norris]

I would love to have a son like that. So special and talented.

[Derrick from Philly]

It's funny, on Keith's blog I debated with other posters concerning how young one can realize they are gay. They protested about other folks labelling a child "gay"--which I agree with. I was referring to those of us who knew we were "special" very very early. But the character on Ugly Betty is supposed to be about 14, I believe. I'm glad they wrote him into the script, and I love the way his mother and FATHER accept him the way he is (on the show). BTW, the guy who plays Justin's father is a sexy Papi, or have I just gone Latino crazy over the last couple of years. Maybe I'm just longing to have Manny Ramirez pet me...I wonder if he'll pet bald heads.