Seattle

Soldier from Mexico becomes U.S. citizen

A Mexican who joined the U.S. Army and fought in Iraq after buying a fake green card for $50 passed a civics and history test Wednesday, clearing the way for him to become an American citizen.

Pfc. Juan Escalante, 19, took the citizenship oath during an afternoon ceremony.

The Army normally requires that any illegal immigrants who get caught be discharged. Once discharged, they may be deported.

But the military helped Escalante pursue citizenship, arguing that he was a valuable soldier who would do the country more good as a citizen than as a deported immigrant.

However, immigration authorities are still planning to deport his parents. Escalante’s attorney said he will appeal that decision.

Boston

Harvard approves student sex magazine

Harvard University has approved a student magazine about sex that will feature art, sex advice and fiction — as well as photographs of undressed Harvard undergraduates.

“We are aware of the fact that some segments of the population would find the contents distasteful,” said Associate Dean Judith H. Kidd, a member of the 14-person board that approves all student organizations. “However, the committee considered this to be an issue of freedom of speech.”

The committee, made up of faculty, staff and students, approved “H Bomb” magazine Tuesday with a 12-0 vote, with two abstentions. The vote lets the magazine’s publishers apply for funding but does not guarantee money; when it would be published is uncertain.