The SC Pride Movement, a gay advocacy group, will foot the $5,000 bill for the "South Carolina is so gay" ads in London after the state refused to pay up, saying that participation in the campaign wasn't properly authorized and that tax dollars shouldn't go to a group promoting any particular social or political agenda. The controversy eventually led to the resignation of the mid-level official who approved it.

From The Associated Press:

SC Pride Movement President Ryan Wilson said his group wants to restore the state's good name after the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department refused to pay.

...

Wilson said the organization hopes to pay the bill before September, when thousands of gays and lesbians gather for the annual state pride rally.

"South Carolina has sent a message to the world, that a signed contract from any state agency could be nullified if someone says, 'Oops, we made a mistake in signing this contract,' " said SC Pride board member Bruce Converse.

From The State:

South Carolina Pride said it will seek private donations to pay the cost of the campaign, which included posters in London subway stations proclaiming “South Carolina is so gay.”

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“We wanted to clear the air and do the right thing and pay off the debt,” Wilson said. “Our hope is that our community can step in ... take the high road and do the right thing.”

The fundraising campaign will be linked to S.C. Pride’s Sept. 20 Columbia parade and festival, featuring entertainer RuPaul.

If you'd like to donate, just visit S.C. Pride's Web site.