(This post was originally published at GLAAD Blog.)

Editor's note: San Diego Gay & Lesbian News kicked off a program at the start of 2011 to inspire community members to give back to the charities and nonprofit organizations that help those most in need. Each month, SDGLN will feature one of the 12 organizations we have chosen to spotlight this year through a series of articles highlighting the history, needs and success stories of the organization.

Our dear friend and colleague, David Kato, was brutally murdered on Wednesday, the 26th of January 2011. David was the advocacy officer of Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG) and a longtime leading activist for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) human rights.

The condolences and offers of support from the global community have been tremendous. On behalf of David’s family, colleagues and friends, we thank all of you.

SHREVEPORT, La. -- Police say 52-year-old John Skaggs was hospitalized after he was attacked at the Sandbar nightclub in downtown Shreveport.

"He's going to have some pretty serious reconstructive surgery, broken jaw, and broken bone that holds his eye socket," said Tim Huck, the manager and owner of the Sandbar.

Security personnel at the Sandbar held the alleged attacker, William Payne, until police arrived.

Payne was arrested and charged with attempted second degree murder and the commission of a hate crime.