tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79997710465970867562023-11-15T11:57:31.000-05:00Blue Ridge Rainbow CeremoniesBlue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-58198298355272074462016-06-24T17:28:00.005-04:002016-06-24T17:28:34.594-04:00Our Grief has not subsided, but we remain devoted to our Mission<table bgcolor="#FFFFFF" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="BlockMargin" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="background-color: rgb(255 , 255 , 255); display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<strong>A Very Personal Note from Thomas Wade Clegg III</strong></div>
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Your notes, calls, e-mails and gifts in memory of Rev. Elisheva Clegg, who died in the UVA Medical Center on April 6, have been so meaningful to me and our four children, plus Sam McLawhorn and those who have supported our charitable activities over the last eight years. Please know that in due course I will make contact and respond to your comments and wishes. <br />
<br />
<img align="left" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/232b1c96-58df-4ea4-be7d-7cfb69d2c12c.jpg?a=1125043770500" height="429" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.341" vspace="5" width="250" /> Our personal life as ordained Interfaith Ministers, although separate from the IHS public charity, was used as a supportive branch for funds for the charity. Elisheva was so enthused each time we wrote and performed a wedding, but especially for the last six years when we allowed couples to participate with charitable giving as a part of their fee. <br />
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<strong>So Much Has Changed and Will Take Time to Adjust</strong><br />
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Emotionally, I found myself forgetting simple things and just needing to withdraw for short periods. I know we are behind in writing e-mails and posting blog notes, but that negligence on my part will change. The emails and blog postings may be shorter, but this next month we will provide more details on those who have been helping. <br />
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<strong>So Many Have Asked: What happened on April 5-6 that led to Elisheva's death?</strong><br />
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I can only tell you that Elisheva did NOT die from cancers in both her lungs. She was working through a well-planned program with the UVA Cancer Center Lung Specialists, beginning at the first of the year. I have every confidence that the Lung Cancer Center was in route to a complete and fruitful result had Elisheva lived for the removal of the cancer from her right lung which was scheduled for April 7. She died the day before her final operation.<br />
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<strong>April 5th beginning at about 5:30 PM was a nightmare in slow motion</strong><br />
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Elisheva walked to our upstairs bedroom, following a long conversation of planning for the remainder of the summer. She called me to come upstairs. She was having intense pain in her back and chest and needed assistance. The ambulance arrived shortly thereafter and we were in UVA Hospital ER within the hour. She remained in ER for at least 6 hours <br />
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<strong>From slow nightmare to panic alarm</strong> <br />
<br />
<img align="right" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/4f01d3bb-a88b-4985-be26-02649c6f6031.jpg?a=1125043770500" height="333" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.342" vspace="5" width="250" /> During the transition process from her ER rolling bed to the room bed, Elisheva experienced further distress and a code was sounded. The room filled with a multitude, all working feverously for almost twenty minutes until a heartbeat was noted. Twenty minutes is a long time. <br />
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<strong>The next move was down the hall to ICU</strong><br />
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More hours passed. The description of exploratory intrusion to find the source of the internal bleeding will not be related. The exploratory was necessary if the bleeding was to be stopped, but the cumulative efforts ended at 0944 hours. <br />
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<strong>The death certificate reads</strong><br />
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Elisheva C. Clegg died of cardiac arrest, hemorrhage, chest wall trauma. Other significant conditions: PEA arrest from unknown cause, CPR resulting in chest wall trauma. Now you know what happened as concisely as I can offer.<br />
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<strong>Some final thoughts</strong><br />
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I got through the funeral that Sunday, but I do not remember who was there. Elisheva was there in a lovely wooden coffin which my daughters selected for cremation. I only had one wish and that was to have all four of my very adult children and their children hear from so many friends what generosity she provided with her life. She loved so deeply and offered such kindness. There was never a day when she did not say to me, one of the following several times: "I love you so much." " Do you know how much I love you?" " Let's do 20 more years, OK?" And I said, "Twenty years plus one!" And she would kiss me.<br />
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-64160868941658415652016-04-14T05:32:00.000-04:002016-04-14T05:32:01.146-04:00Reverend Elisheva C. Clegg Has Passed Away<table bgcolor="#FFFFFF" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="BlockMargin" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="background-color: rgb(255 , 255 , 255); display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; text-align: left;">Reverend Elisheva C. Clegg passed away unexpectedly in Charlottesville, VA on April 6, 2016 at the age of 72.<br />
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<img align="left" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/71163821-4405-4974-a752-e3dc0456302c.jpg?a=1124342601302" height="347" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.340" vspace="5" width="250" /> Elisheva is survived by her husband of 43 years, Thomas Wade Clegg III; her children, Ari Jolly and her husband John Jolly of Jacksonville, FL; Yalda Clegg and her husband Scott York of Alexandria, VA; Kristine Bechtel and her husband Todd Bechtel of Charlotte, NC; Wade Clegg IV and his wife Jolene Clegg of Los Angeles, CA, and sister in law Judith Clegg of Tupelo, MS. She was also the loving grandmother of Chandler and Jack Jolly, Zachary and Joshua Bechtel and Arthur and Elsa Clegg.<br />
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Elisheva C. Clegg was born on January 22, 1944 in Kaiserslautern, Germany and was a war baby survivor of WWII. She met and married her soulmate Thomas Wade Clegg III on June, 25, 1972 while he was stationed with the US Air Force serving at Ramstein AFB in Germany. The entire family moved to the United States when Wade completed active duty with the US Air Force in 1974.<br />
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Elisheva was compassionate and found her calling in counseling and helping others in times of need. She received a master's degree in pastoral counseling and became an ordained interfaith minister. She also attended the UVA medical center chaplaincy program. <br />
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She was a kind, generous, witty, dedicated individual to all who had the privilege of meeting her. She was extremely passionate about helping those who were unable to help themselves in times of crisis. It was this need that led her, Wade and co-founder Sam McLawhorn to create the nonprofit charity Interfaith Humanitarian Sanctum (IHS). IHS is an independent, non-religious, ALL volunteer, nonprofit, 501(c)3 public charity. IHS assists long distance families who are underfunded with lodging and food and other critical needs including items such a providing new infant car seats for UVA's pediatric clinics.<br />
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A celebration of Elisheva's life is scheduled for this <strong>Sunday, April 10th beginning at 2:30 pm</strong> at <a href="https://graceandglorypalmyra.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(0 , 0 , 255); font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Grace and Glory Lutheran Church</a> located at 683 Thomas Jefferson Pwky VA-53 (Palmyra) VA 22963 (434-589-2217). <br />
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In lieu of flowers, please consider Elisheva's efforts in raising funds for her charity, IHS at <a href="http://www.interfaithhumanitariansanctum.org/donate.php" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(0 , 0 , 255); font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">http://www.interfaithhumanitariansanctum.org/donate.php</a> or mail to:<br />
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IHS</div>
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PO Box 163</div>
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Palmyra, VA 22963<br />
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-63489994140028576382016-02-03T22:59:00.000-05:002016-02-03T23:29:51.155-05:00Every Virginian Should Have The Right to Marry!<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="BlockMargin" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px;"><tbody>
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<strong>Email to Senator McEachin, Senator 9th District, Commonwealth of Virginia:</strong><br />
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On Mon, Feb 1, 2016 at 7:11 PM, <elishevanumber7@earthlink.net wrote:<br />
Reverend Thomas Wade Clegg III<br />
Mail Box 105, 265 Turkeysag Trl, Suite 102<br />
Palmyra, VA 22963<br />
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February 1, 2016<br />
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Sen. McEachin:<br />
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<img align="left" alt="Rainbow bright color flag with intertwined rings" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/edb43d04-1c8f-4a78-8eea-f979ecbb88e9.jpg?a=1123674443592" height="150" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.100" vspace="5" width="200" />I am writing to ask that you vote against SB 40 when it comes for a vote before the Senate Courts of Justice Committee.<br />
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This bill would allow all clerks and deputy clerks in the commonwealth to refuse to issue a marriage license to any couple if the clerk objects to the marriage based on "personal, ethical, moral, or religious grounds."<br />
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That means government officials could deny the right to marry to couples if the clerk doesn't like their sexuality, skin color, political affiliation or for any other reason. This is just wrong.<br />
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Fundamental reasons why SB 40 should be defeated are:</div>
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<li>- Freedom of religion does not mean freedom to discriminate</li>
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<li>- No law authorizes or requires an accommodation of religious beliefs that burden others.</li>
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<li>- SB 40 would deny Virginians the fundamental right to marry.</li>
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<li>- Allowing couples to get licenses elsewhere does not save this bill.</li>
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I hope I can count on you to do the right thing for Virginia and your district and vote against this awful, discriminatory bill.<br />
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Thank you.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
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Thomas Wade Clegg III</div>
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<strong>RESPONSE FROM SENATOR McEACHIN</strong>
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<img align="right" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/872579c2-a3a2-4cc7-9615-275e5bb2aba7.jpg?a=1123674443592" height="165" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.336" vspace="5" width="250" /> From: Senator Donald McEachin [mailto:district09@senate.virginia.gov] </div>
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Sent: Monday, February 01, 2016 8:49 PM</div>
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To: elishevanumber7@earthlink.net</div>
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Subject: Re: Every Virginian should have the right to marry!<br />
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Dear Mr. Clegg,<br />
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Thanks for writing me about sb 40. Please know I share your concern. I do not believe we should be legalizing bigotry or prejudice. I believe all Virginians deserve equal opportunity, justice and fairness. <br />
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Thanks for your advocacy on this important subject.<br />
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Take care,</div>
<div style="margin-left: 30px;">
A. Donald McEachin</div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-10680084300640454232015-10-22T20:22:00.002-04:002015-10-22T20:23:50.000-04:00When Family Participation is Really Special<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="BlockMargin" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;">
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On October 10, 2015 the late afternoon weather was perfect at <a href="http://earlymountain.com/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Early Mountain Vineyards</a> in Madison, Virginia for the wedding of Emily James and Johannes Harkema. There were a lot of Europeans at this gathering. The Harkema family flew in from the Netherlands.<br />
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Family and friends are often asked to participate in a ceremony. Sometimes a talented friend or sibling will be asked to sing. Sometimes a family will have multiple musicians, and form a band for this one-time special occasion. Most certainly, readers will be found to give diversity to the ceremony.<br />
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On this day among the participants was Poet David L. James, Professor of English from the <a href="https://www.oaklandcc.edu/campuses/or.aspx" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Orchard Ridge Campus, Oakland Community College</a> in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Dr. James is Emily's uncle. He wrote and delivered a special poem entitled "Our Hope."<br />
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With the permission of Professor James, and for the first time in print for public enjoyment, please find the very personal words written for Emily James on the occasion of her marriage to Johannes Harkema.<br />
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<b>OUR HOPE </b><i>for Emily and J.J., Oct. 10, 2015</i></div>
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<i>it's easy to see</i></div>
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<i>the love in your eyes, in your faces.</i></div>
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<i>we can even feel</i></div>
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<i>the love in your hearts, beating</i></div>
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<i>just under the skin.</i></div>
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<i>but it's the love six, ten, seventeen,</i></div>
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<i>twenty-nine years from this very day-</i></div>
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<i>like a well-worn pair of shoes,</i></div>
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<i>like your favorite ripped ball cap,</i></div>
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<i>like that shirt you will never throw out,</i></div>
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<i>thin and frayed, stained down the front,</i></div>
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<i>it's that kind of love</i></div>
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<i>we hope for.</i></div>
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<i>love that won't let go in any storm,</i></div>
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<i>that sits up with you late at night </i></div>
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<i>when you're sick,</i></div>
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<i>a love that forgives and understands</i></div>
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<i>and steers you back when you lose your bearings</i></div>
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<i>and drift away.</i></div>
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<i>it's a love that plants itself</i></div>
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<i>in your heart</i></div>
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<i>and branches through the blood stream,</i></div>
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<i>like ivy wrapping around the ribs</i></div>
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<i>and hip bone, down the arms and legs </i></div>
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<i>until you can't imagine a world</i></div>
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<i>without each other, </i></div>
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<i>without his hand around your waist, </i></div>
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<i>without her laughter in your ears,</i></div>
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<i>that's the love we want for you,</i></div>
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<i>a love that lifts you</i></div>
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<i>into the sky like it's normal,</i></div>
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<i>like it happens all the time,</i></div>
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<i>and when you look ahead, all you can ever see</i></div>
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<i>is the future smiling in the distance,</i></div>
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<i>waving for you</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><i>to follow.</i></span> </div>
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David James </div>
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<br /></div>
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Sincerely ... Reverend Elisheva <br />
<br /></div>
Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-56406798598432381812015-09-02T00:13:00.000-04:002015-09-02T00:13:52.411-04:00The Marriage License - A Couple's Responsibility<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="BlockMargin" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;">
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Even though my e-mail attachments to inquiries fully explain how we work and make many helpful suggestions, sometimes over the course of every year, someone will not read these critical items for accomplishment. One item which is sometimes skipped over, and wrongfully ASSUMED, is that the minister will obtain a marriage license for the couple. As most will recognize, this is not a logical assumption. The marriage license must be purchased by the couple and presented to the minister or officiant at the ceremony. <br />
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<b>The Rules and Fees are different in each state</b> <br />
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<img align="left" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/59695bcc-cab7-44d0-bfbd-29e34371e07d.jpg?a=1122104092569" height="200" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.311" vspace="5" width="200" /> Virginia is our prime area for performing weddings, although we do travel into adjacent states.</div>
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We are still asked to come to parts of West Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Most North Carolina requests are simply too far for travel. Also there will be extra costs for the minister's lodging. There are Interfaith Ministers in many major metro areas of that state. However, each state and the District of Columbia have an easily accessed Clerk of the Court with a Marriage Bureau. I mention these areas specifically, for I am registered and approved for performing legal weddings in these states and in DC, as well as many other locations. <br />
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<b>Allow me to speak about Virginia in general, then call a local Clerk for the details</b> <br />
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In every county in Virginia is a Clerk of the Court. In the Clerk's Office is a Marriage Bureau, or similar name. Each office can be accessed by phone or on-line website. Information is fully spelled out on these websites, but if anything is not absolutely clear, pick up that phone and call and take notes. If needed, the couple can visit the Clerk's Office for clarification. <br />
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<img align="right" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/153a81d1-824c-41fe-906e-45936379827e.jpg?a=1122104092569" height="166" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.312" vspace="5" width="250" /> Most licenses are about $30-$35, but can be higher. The license is good for a period of sixty (60) days, which means that you do not want to make a purchase until you have a solid date for the actual ceremony. You do not want the license to expire before a legal wedding can be performed. If it does, you will have to purchase another license. My suggestion is to purchase the license from 7-14 days before the ceremony. <br />
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In Virginia the license is provided to the minister or officiant by the couple, on or just before the wedding date. The minister will retain the license, complete and sign it (no witnesses are required), and mail it directly to the Clerk within days of the wedding. The couple is given information by the Clerk's Office at the time of purchase regarding cost for original copies (only a few dollars per copy) and where to send a request for copies. The couple needs to keep this information for any future need for copies of the marriage license. <br />
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In Virginia a couple can purchase the marriage license at any Clerk's office and use it immediately at any location within the state. A license is only good in the state where it is obtained. There are waiting periods and other restrictions in other states, but once you have the license in Virginia, you are not restricted for immediate pursuit of being wed. The state of Maryland has some restrictions such as a waiting period of 48 hours from purchase until hosting a ceremony, and the license in Maryland is only good within the county where the license was purchased. This makes Virginia less problematic for late purchases, but a couple's planning should not be allowed to wait until the last week day before a ceremony. Don't be surprised when a government office is closed for a holiday. If you do wait, problems can arise, and a legal wedding may be delayed. Just sharing. <br />
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<b>A Final Note of Importance ... I do not marry couples inside courthouses</b><br />
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<img align="left" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/b5c5e529-4c93-4efe-a27a-6c9d442bde38.jpg?a=1122104092569" height="300" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.313" vspace="5" width="200" /> A couple may think that ministers will marry them in a courthouse or the Clerk's Office. I do not perform weddings in courthouses. On the marriage license form is a block which I must mark as a "religious" ceremony, and religious ceremonies are not performed in courthouses. I do perform "non-religious" ceremonies, but that is not the same as a "civil" ceremony performed inside a courthouse setting. Many Clerk's offices do not have arrangements for marrying a couple in their facility, while others may be able to schedule a couple for an Officer of the Court to perform a short civil ceremony. Use your time wisely to get the details needed for planning.<br />
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Sincerely ... Reverend Elisheva <br />
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-15718741941643019342015-06-18T12:56:00.000-04:002015-06-18T12:56:08.171-04:00A Most Pleasant Place for a Most Intimate Wedding<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="BlockMargin" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<img align="left" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/b205de15-e14c-42a5-be68-8ab04980c41c.jpg?a=1121398545731" height="140" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.297" vspace="5" width="250" /> Over the last ten years we have been asked if we perform "elopement" size weddings. What that generally means is just a couple alone or perhaps a few friends or family members (usually six or less) accompanying the couple. So - YES ... we do perform very small weddings at homes or farms, and under large shade trees at one favorite public location mostly on week days away from the crowded venues geared to weekend events. The location is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pleasant-Grove-Community-Park-Fluvanna-County-Virginia/188966917827796" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Pleasant Grove Park</a>, located along Thomas Jefferson Parkway (Highway 53) just 12 miles from Mr. Jefferson's home of Monticello, between Charlottesville and Palmyra, Virginia.</div>
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<b>A Magnificent change has taken place over the last few years at Pleasant Grove</b></div>
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<img align="right" border="0" src="http://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/5e3e7cf0-889b-4fef-b196-f5749b7f1c9e.jpg?a=1121398545731" height="140" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.298" vspace="5" width="250" /> The large 800 acre park now has something for everyone, but one dynamic transformation has been the renovation of the 1854 <a href="http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~katy/haden/b2963.html" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">William Douglas Haden</a> House, which had been empty for years. The Haden House is now a Visitor's Center and Museum, and offices are open daily Monday-Friday. The House Museum hours are open for four hours on Saturday and Sunday. There is a restroom building next to the parking lot at the rear of Haden House open during business hours, and many locations under the large shade trees for reserving time for a wedding. There is even the opportunity during normal business hours to use the small reading room upstairs in the House, if inclement weather intrudes for an outside ceremony. </div>
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<b>Your best bet for details is to call Malinda Payne Monday-Friday at (434) 589-2016</b> </div>
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Again, here is the link for more information about <a href="http://fluvannacounty.org/services/parks-and-recreation" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Fluvanna County's Pleasant Grove Park</a>. When mapquesting the location, the address is 1736 Thomas Jefferson Parkway (Highway 53), Palmyra, VA 22963. What will be a truly pleasant surprise is how reasonable the fees are for reserving space and equipment for weddings and family gatherings. As time allows, check out Fluvanna County's latest and greatest addition for creating memories. THEN - give us a call or send an e-mail and let's plan your wedding in this lovely country setting. </div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-32296471625483421522015-01-14T21:09:00.000-05:002015-01-14T21:09:13.415-05:00Central Florida's First Same-Sex Marriage<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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The following article was received from U.S. Representative Alan Grayson's most recent involvement to secure equality in the State of Florida. Alan Grayson represents the 9th District of Florida. It was so appealing that I wanted everyone to have a chance to read what wonderful work he is doing for the LGBTQ community. Representative Grayson continues to be a champion and supporter of equality for all. Enjoy .... T. Wade Clegg III </div>
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<strong>Following decades of forceful advocacy and exhaustive legal battles, marriage equality finally arrived in the State of Florida this week</strong>. <br />
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<em> <img align="left" border="0" height="188" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.284" src="https://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/b4dc410c-8edd-454a-921f-7eddccfd6da2.jpg?a=1119753418100" vspace="5" width="250" /> Pursuant to an equal protection court ruling that went into effect at the end of the day on Jan. 5, I persuaded the Osceola County Commission to direct the <a href="http://www.osceolaclerk.com/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Osceola Clerk of the Court </a>to open his doors at 12:01 a.m. on Jan. 6, and license the first same-sex marriages in the history of Central Florida . When desperate right-wing groups urged prosecution - yes, prosecution - of Court Clerks who carried out their Constitutional duties, I obtained a commitment from our local prosecutor that no such prosecutions would take place. And then, at 12:01 a.m. on Jan. 6, I joined the first couple, my friend <a href="http://cherylforosceola.com/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb</a> and her partner of 22 years, as their ring-bearer. As we waited for the clock to strike 12, I made a brief speech that night, and I'd like to share it with you. Feel free to share it with whomever you love - no matter what gender they may be.</em><br />
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<img align="right" border="0" height="125" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.286" src="https://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/e6bf9c89-2ef8-4878-9644-7c5e74fcced6.jpg?a=1119753418100" vspace="5" width="250" /> "We're here tonight for one of the most special of all special occasions. Going back through all of human history, we know that when a couple comes together, it's not just a celebration for them, but at a celebration for the entire community. Tonight we celebrate equality for all. It's bringing people together so that they can be joined in matrimony, and witness two, becoming one. For the first time in Central Florida, that applies to everyone, each one of us. <br />
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One of the greatest blessings that any elected official could ever possibly give to his constituents is equality. Justice, peace, and equality. Tonight, a friend of a friend texted me, and said that she wasn't going to get married here tonight. But she's glad that she has the right to do that now. And there are a lot of people tonight who are going to get married, and a lot of other people who are joined now, in equal protection under the law. They are no longer second-class citizens, but first-class citizens, like everyone else. Tonight we see the fulfillment of the real American dream. <br />
<br />
<strong> <img align="left" border="0" height="175" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.285" src="https://files.ctctcdn.com/91d690be001/2afbf4b5-238b-405a-8f56-1c35cc9c9757.jpg?a=1119753418100" vspace="5" width="250" /> The real American dream is not a house, a job, or a 401(k) plan.</strong> <br />
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The real American Dream is to be all that you can be, no matter what you look like; no matter where you're from; no matter what language you speak; and tonight, no matter whom you love.<br />
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<strong>Everyone is equal tonight.</strong> <br />
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Everyone is equal in the eyes of the law, and all of us can achieve that sanctity in their relationship, that up until tonight has been limited only to some. Starting tonight, it is now open to all. <br />
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This is a special time, and we want to recognize the fact that special people have made this a special time. In fact, it took courage to bring us here tonight. I don't think that anyone could have reasonably expected that running for the position of Clerk of the Court would drop one into the maelstrom that we've seen during the past few weeks. <a href="http://www.osceola.org/people/Armando-R-RamArez.stml" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Armando Ramirez</a> is a man of courage, a former police officer in New York City, chosen by fate or destiny to be the Clerk of Court and stand here with courage tonight, to carry out these functions. <br />
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I want to thank the <a href="http://www.osceola.org/about-osceola-county/bcc/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Osceola County Commissioners</a>. I asked them if they would make this possible tonight. They rose to the occasion. They asked the Clerk of Court to open the offices at midnight, to give our people the earliest opportunity to make this happen, the earliest anywhere in the state. <br />
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<img align="right" border="0" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/149.jpg?a=1119753418100" height="187" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.149" vspace="5" width="250" /> Equality under the law starts here in Osceola County tonight, and that is something we can all be proud of.<br />
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I also want to thank <a href="http://sao9.net/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">State Attorney Jeff Ashton</a>. When the clouds of litigation started to gather last week, I asked the State Attorney to state clearly that there would be no adverse legal consequences for this man [the Clerk of Courts] to carry out his constitutional duties, and to honor his oath of office, to uphold the constitution, not only of Florida, but the Constitution of the United States. State Attorney Ashton rose to the occasion, and confirmed that. And that's helped to make this evening possible, without conflict. <br />
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I know that there are some people who see it otherwise. And I ask them: Who are you to judge? The Pope himself asked that question a few weeks ago: "Who am I to judge?" It's a good question for all of us. <br />
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I would say to those who cherish equality, "tonight is your night." I would say to those who don't cherish equality, who have reservations about this, I would say to them this: "Sometimes the best principle of public policy is for everyone to tend their own garden, and stop judging others."<br />
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So tonight is a night for everyone to celebrate an enormous accomplishment, an accomplishment for the ages. <br />
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It's an accomplishment that in some respects echoes the accomplishments of our parents and grandparents, from the civil rights movements in the 50s, 60s and 70s. <br />
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Tonight, we not only get to see the mountain, we get to be . . . on top of the mountain. <br />
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Justice, </div>
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Rep. Alan Grayson"</div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-44929817306806781312014-04-19T22:48:00.000-04:002014-04-19T22:48:48.302-04:00You Say Your Commitment is Forever?<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" valign="top"><strong>Then why the procrastination? Get married!</strong><br />
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<img align="left" alt="grooms-wedding-topper.jpg" border="0" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/259.jpg?a=1117133894742" height="303" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.259" vspace="5" width="250" /> Early last year I received a wedding inquiry from a couple in Virginia who were vague in their request for performing a Virginia wedding. The inquiry had come directly to me, not through the "contact me info" which is accessed on the <a href="http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">home page of my LGBT</a> website. It turned out that the couple was seeking a minister to preform a "commitment" in front of a large audience in an exceptionally lovely setting: however, they were tip-toeing around the fact that they were a same-sex female couple. Had they reached my LGBT website first, they would have known immediately how receptive I am in seeking to accommodate same-sex weddings. In fact when a minister is an ordained Interfaith Minister, rest assured of that person's openness to a complete discussion regarding same-sex and opposite-sex weddings. <br />
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<strong>Not knowing anything about the couple ... I assumed a need to relate details for consideration</strong><br />
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The inquiry was begun by e-mail, and I responded by e-mail. I explained that beginning in March 2010, when Washington, D.C. became the closest location for a legal same-sex wedding that I had decided not to perform any more commitments, except under special circumstances. I further explained that too much blood, sweat and tears had been devoted to bringing legality into play, and with the opportunity so close in the District of Columbia, we had decided to work with couples to perform their legal wedding in DC, and then with pleasure create a ceremony called a commitment to share with family in Virginia at the location and date chosen.<br />
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<strong>I was surprised by the response</strong> <br />
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<img align="right" alt="two-moms-baby.jpg" border="0" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/260.jpg?a=1117133894742" height="166" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.260" vspace="5" width="250" /> The couple indicated that they were not really interested in a "legal" wedding at that time, and would wait until Virginia allowed a same-sex opportunity. I was surprised, especially now that a same-sex couple is afforded so many federal opportunities, not the least being accepted in the tax code when legally married. I also expressed my very real concern regarding how fickle the political winds can change in this country, and Virginia has a way of seeking to cause extreme blow-back and delay. My final thoughts were the following: If this commitment is real and love exists, make the relationship legal. Jump through a few more hoops and obtain a license either in DC or Maryland. Protect yourselves to the extent possible and begin securing your future for each other now. <br />
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<strong>I added several other thoughts, but I did stress the following</strong> <br />
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<img align="left" border="0" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/149.jpg?a=1117133894742" height="187" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.149" vspace="5" width="250" /> I said that I still had a sense that conservative backlash can be potent, causing delays with all kinds of obstacles, but the one thing which they will find that cannot be overcome is the reality that within a few years there will be a million strong same-sex legally married couples.<br />
I invited their consideration to become a part of that strength and be openly proud. I concluded with the idea that a same-sex couple may even have to consider moving to a gay-friendly state in order to gain further protections, especially if they decide to raise children.
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"Sometimes you can never go home again; sometimes you may not want to go back, except for visits. Sometimes home is found by moving forward, knowing that your journey now has an absolute support system to share the adventure."</blockquote>
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Blessings ... Reverend Elisheva<br />
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-39415161024551433192014-01-18T16:04:00.000-05:002014-01-18T16:04:32.068-05:00A Poem for All Seasons Every Day<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">On page 10 from "Poems that Touch the Heart,"<br />Compiled by A.L. Alexander, first published in April 1941 <br />is this memorable lesson. Yes - it is directed from a man<br />who is determined to relate for all listeners a reminder of<br />the importance of giving voice to his loved one. This message<br />rings just as loud for all relationships. Simply substitute <br />a few pronouns and make it apply to the him in your life.</span><br />
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<strong>Tell Her So </strong> <br />
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Amid the cares of married strife</div>
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In spite of toil and business life</div>
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If you value your dear wife -</div>
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Tell her so!<br />
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When days are dark and deeply blue</div>
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She has her troubles, same as you</div>
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Show her that your love is true</div>
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Tell her so!<br />
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Don't act as if she's past her prime</div>
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As tho' to please her were a crime</div>
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If ever you loved her, now's the time -</div>
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Tell her so!<br />
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She'll return for each caress</div>
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A hundred fold of tenderness,</div>
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Hearts like hers were made to bless;</div>
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Tell her so!<br />
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You are hers and hers alone;</div>
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Well you know she's all your own;</div>
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Don't wait to carve it on a stone -</div>
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Tell her so!<br />
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Never let her heart grow cold</div>
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Richer beauties will unfold</div>
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She is worth her weight in gold</div>
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Tell her so!</div>
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AUTHOR UNKNOWN<br />
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If we had one more thing to say, do not delay another day.</div>
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<em>Happy New Year ... Elisheva and T. Wade</em></div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-5839227602707637682013-11-27T20:28:00.002-05:002013-11-27T20:50:27.512-05:00Maryland is Now a Terrific Option <b>Same-Sex Marriage opportunity expanded this past year</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We experienced another opportune location for same-sex marriages, especially couples from Virginia and West Virginia looking for alternatives. Most recently we met a couple from West Virginia in Frederick, Maryland. Initially, they had planned on arranging their ceremony in Washington, DC, but it just so happened that the government shutdown was causing a lot of concerns. It was just the two of them, no other attendees, and they wanted a personalized wedding, versus a short civil ceremony at the Courthouse. There was considerable flexibility for rearrangement, and most hotels in Frederick tend to be less costly than in DC and certainly have more vacancies in the middle of the week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>We love to travel to Washington, D.C. ... but Maryland has some advantages</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For same-sex couples who are forced to travel to these two locations from all states south, Maryland has less waiting time with processing a license. One must wait 48 hours in Maryland, whether being married by an Officer of the Court, or a qualified minister away from the Court. In DC the minimum waiting time is 3 working days for the Clerk to process the license after application, and then have a ceremony performed by a minister away from the Court. However, if a couple wishes to be married by an <a href="http://www.dccourts.gov/internet/public/aud_marriage/main.jsf" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Officer of the DC Court</a>, that requires a bit more planning. The minimum waiting time from application to return for pickup of the license is ten (10) days, and also have an appointment for a civil ceremony at the Courthouse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Whatever is offered next is worth knowing early, but always call the Clerk for late info</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The <a href="https://frederickcountymd.gov/index.aspx?nid=2027" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Circuit Court for Frederick County</a> is located at 100 West Patrick Street, Frederick, Maryland 21701. Their hours are 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Monday-Friday. We went along with the couple to return their completed license the next morning after an intimate wedding ceremony at the hotel the night before. This was the first time that we had stayed over at a wedding location and personally provided the license, but the couple had a deadline for obtaining a military identification for one partner, so we were happy to delay one night and accompany them to the Clerk's office so they could quickly obtain stamped copies before returning home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> <img align="right" border="0" height="367" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.225" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/225.jpg?a=1115626005464" vspace="5" width="250" /> More things to know regarding Marriage Licenses in Frederick, Maryland</b></span></div>
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<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> $75.00 CASH ONLY (Non-refundable) - No Checks or Credit Cards </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> You must wait 48 hours before you can be married. </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> After the 48 hours has passed, the license is valid for 6 months. </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> License must be used in Frederick County only. Note: If you obtain a license in another Maryland County, then you must have the ceremony in that county. </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Only one party (partner) must be present to apply. </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">When you apply in person the Clerk's Office requires the following info for both parties </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Full names </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Current Physical Address </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Ages </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> State or Country of birth (if born outside of the U.S.) </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Marital Status - If there have been previous marriages, please supply the month, day, year, county and state of how EACH AND EVERY ONE ended, whether by divorce or death. </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Social Security numbers are mandatory; however, they will not be public record. </li>
<li style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> And finally - if a couple wants a Civil Ceremony, those are performed between the hours of 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Monday - Friday. The ceremony fee is $25.00 payable by cash only. No appointments are taken. There are a number of helpful staff members in the Clerk's Office, but we were served by "Bonnie," just in case you need a contact. The phone number is (301) 600-1964.</li>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> When we enjoy a hotel, we let it be known</b></span></div>
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<img align="left" border="0" height="131" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.224" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/224.png?a=1115626005464" style="cursor: move;" vspace="5" width="250" /><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The wedding for the aforementioned couple was performed in their hotel suite at the<a href="http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/maryland/hilton-garden-inn-frederick-IADFRGI/index.html" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on"> Hilton Garden Inn</a>, 7226 Corporate Court, Frederick, Maryland 21703. There was adequate room for another half dozen guests, had that been needed; however, this hotel with a nice restaurant and helpful staff, has many expandable first floor meeting rooms which are used for larger weddings with receptions. We talked to Cathy Vargo, Catering & Sales, who was delighted to learn of the wedding, and suggested that interested parties should call or e-mail her for assistance in the future. E-mail </span><a href="mailto:cathy.vargo@hilton.com" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">cathy.vargo@hilton.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">. Phone (240) 566-1504. We think you will enjoy the visit to this lodging facility with family and friends, or just as a couple. Frederick, Maryland may just be the town to start your married life!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Blessings ... Reverends Elisheva and T. Wade Clegg III </span></div>
Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-1885341927542586262013-09-23T14:04:00.003-04:002013-09-23T14:04:46.783-04:00News Worth Knowing - an Article from Reuters<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">By Amanda Becker</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 8.5pt;">Wed Sep 18, 2013 7:13pm EDT</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 15.0pt;">(Reuters) - The Department of Labor on Wednesday said same-sex couples in legal marriages can participate in employee benefit plans, even if the state they live in does not recognize gay marriage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Same-sex spouses, regardless of where they live, can now participate in the private retirement and healthcare plans overseen by the department's Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA), the department said in a release.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">The move comes after the U.S. Supreme Court's June decision in United States v. Windsor, which extended federal benefits to those in same-sex marriages.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Labor Secretary Thomas Perez called the ruling a "historic step forward" and said the department would work to implement it in a way providing "maximum protection" for American workers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">"By providing greater clarity on how the Supreme Court's decision affects one of the laws we enforce, we are contributing to greater equality and greater protection for America's working families," EBSA Assistant Secretary Phyllis Borzi said.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">EBSA oversees 701,000 private retirement plans and 2.3 million health plans, according to the department.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Perez said in an August email sent to department employees that the agency had begun to prepare its response to the Supreme Court ruling. One of its first determinations was that same-sex couples would be covered by the Family Medical Leave Act.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">But at that point, Perez did not say whether it would apply to same-sex couples who were legally married in one jurisdiction but who were currently residing in jurisdictions where their marriages were not recognized.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Gay rights advocates hailed the department's decision to adopt a "state of celebration" rule, which recognizes all legally married couples regardless of location, in determining eligible benefit plan participants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">"We urge Secretary Perez and the Labor Department to push for full legal equality, and re-write the Family Medical Leave Act regulations to adopt these same 'state of celebration' rules so that all married couples - no matter where they live - can have job protections," said Tico Almeida, founder and president of Freedom to Work, a gay rights group, in a statement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">(Editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Ken Wills)</span></div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-29819559062397551212013-08-18T14:30:00.000-04:002013-08-18T14:30:03.198-04:002nd Annual Charlotttesville Pride Festival<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>Saturday, September 14, 2013</b></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"> <b>11-7 p.m. Lee Park</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 155%;"><b>Visit <a href="http://www.cvillepride.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">CvillePride.org</a> for complete contact info</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 155%;"><strong>Good Works and Cville Pride go Hand in Hand</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <img align="left" border="0" height="148" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.170" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/170.jpg?a=1114480046435" vspace="5" width="300" /> Reverend Elisheva Clegg, ordained Interfaith Minister and Pastoral Counselor, MA, and a frequent traveler to Washington DC to perform same-sex marriages for LGBT couples, will once again be sharing a tent with Interfaith Humanitarian Sanctum (IHS), the ALL volunteer, non-profit, no stock, non-religious, 501(c)3 public charity which she was instrumental in founding in 2008. Let's be clear: NO ONE IS PAID at the charity. Interfaith Humanitarian Sanctum has a Gold Seal rating on <b><a href="http://www.guidestar.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Guidestar</a></b> as meeting the highest standards for transparency. The charity is also a member of the <a href="http://www.thecne.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Center for Nonprofit Excellence</a> (CNE) in Charlottesville. </span></div>
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<b> <img align="right" border="0" height="374" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.171" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/171.jpg?a=1114480046435" vspace="5" width="500" /> </b></div>
<b> A Same-Sex couple can never say there was no one to talk to in Charlottesville!</b>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rev. Elisheva has been a consistent advocate for human rights, and especially equality issues for the LGBT community. She and her husband have been supportive members of the <b><a href="http://www.hrc.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Human Rights Campaign</a> (HRC)</b> for many years. She also offers counseling sessions ( what she calls "tabletop discussions with coffee and pastries") in Charlottesville for couples considering a legal marriage in DC, from which all counseling fees can go directly to the IHS charity.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Rev. Elisheva's objectives are clearly about communion, not conversion</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When asked about any confusion with being under the same tent with the non-religious charity which was solely originated as another safety net for the indigent patients and caregivers who travel for hundreds of miles to be served at the UVA Medical Center, the former overnight UVA volunteer chaplain said, </span></div>
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"All of my ministerial fees, especially for weddings, allow for a sizable portion to be donated by couples to the IHS charity. My married couples and their families continue to assist in funding this worthy effort over the years. One needs eternal friends to assist in such a critically needed charity."</blockquote>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>A Final Point of Clarification regarding Rev. Elisheva and the public charity </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In a recent fund-raising event, a man questioned Rev. Elisheva about the name of the public charity being called "Interfaith," which lead him to believe it was a religious organization. She responded that it was indeed her background as a child born in war-torn Germany and her interfaith ministry which stimulated a desire to promote good works where most needed She also said that perhaps it would have been more appropriate to have named it <em>"Any Faith and None"</em> or just '<em>Humanitarian Sanctum</em>' or some such designation; but, ' Interfaith' is a philosophy of total inclusion, which is dedicated to building bridges ... and it just felt right!" She also emphasized that IHS is being supported by a real diversity of churches (Unitarian Universalists, Catholic, Baptist, Lutheran, Jewish, Mormon, etc.), all recognizing that the sole objective of IHS is to serve the physical needs of the least able among us. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> So - now you know! Come celebrate inclusion with us... September 14<sup>th</sup>!</span></div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-15455409581741376822013-07-13T18:16:00.001-04:002013-07-13T18:16:12.774-04:00Treated Equally by Their Government - Not in Virginia!<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<em><strong>"It would be nice if, for once, the Old Dominion didn't have to be dragged into the future kicking and screaming."</strong></em></div>
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<img align="left" border="0" height="132" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.163" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/163.jpg?a=1114139609434" vspace="5" width="267" /> That line above caught our attention in an e-mail from <a href="http://www.equalityvirginia.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Equality Virginia</a>. Then it lead us to the full article below. We asked Barton Hinkle, writer for the <em>Richmond Times Dispatch</em>, for permission to introduce it to our blog readers. He said yes.<br />
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We performed one of the first same-sex marriages just days after approval in Washington, D.C. And we will continue to drive up to the nation's Capitol, presently the closest zone of equality for same-sex marriage. However, it will be such a pleasure when the opportunity comes to Virginia , and those bumper stickers can reflect for everyone that "Virginia is for Lovers."<br />
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Blessings ... Revs. Elisheva and T. Wade Clegg III<br />
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<strong>Hinkle: Repeal the marriage amendment</strong><br />
<blockquote>
A. Barton Hinkle <a href="mailto:bhinkle@timesdispatch.com" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">bhinkle@timesdispatch.com</a> Sunday, June 30, 2013 12:00 am <br />
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 30px;">
Last week's twin Supreme Court rulings on gay marriage have left final disposition of the question to the states. So now would be a good time for Virginia and the 30 others with constitutional amendments banning same-sex unions to start repealing them.<br />
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Even the most strident social conservatives generally do not dispute the principle animating the drive for same-sex marriage: the "fundamental right of all people," as the Cato Institute put it during litigation over DOMA and California's Proposition 8, "to be treated equally by their government." Governments must not discriminate "based solely on differences that are irrelevant to legitimate governmental objectives."<br />
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But there is no compelling governmental reason to deny gay couples equal marriage rights or the benefits that attend them. Government's elemental duty consists of protecting individual rights from aggression. Same-sex marriages imperil nobody's rights. They harm no one. Hence opponents have conjured up other rationales.<br />
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<div style="margin-left: 30px;">
We are told, for instance, that marriage equality somehow threatens "the institution of marriage." This is akin to arguing that letting gay couples open bank accounts threatens the institution of banking. It not only does not follow, it is counterintuitive.<br />
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Voluminous evidence suggests other social forces have eroded traditional marriage while gay marriage has left it unscathed. Marriage's worst declines occurred in the 1960s and 1970s - long before gay marriage arrived on the scene. And where gay marriage has been legalized, other marriages have not suffered. Massachusetts approved gay marriage a decade ago. Marriage rates there shot up shortly afterward as gay couples wed, and have remained steady since.<br />
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<div style="margin-left: 30px;">
What's more, in states that have legalized gay marriage, divorce rates have been lower, on average, than before legalization. They also have been lower than the national average. Nationwide, marriage rates are higher among those who tend to support gay marriage - well-to-do college graduates - than among cohorts that support gay marriage less.<br />
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<div style="margin-left: 30px;">
This shouldn't come as a big surprise. Time and again, social conservatives confronted with imminent progress have predicted dire consequences that never came to pass.<br />
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Women's suffrage was condemned as an "exceedingly dangerous" experiment that would destroy chivalry, defy God's will, violate biological law, and require "a radical change in human nature of which the world has never given the faintest sign." Women gained the vote - and yet somehow, Western civilization abides.<br />
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Opponents of integrating the armed forces similarly denounced the notion as an "experiment" that would "cripple our national defense" and "result in ultimate defeat." It didn't. Foes of integrating the schools warned that doing so would ruin "the amicable relations between the white and Negro races," bring "unending violence and strife," and destroy public education. It didn't. Critics of repealing "don't ask, don't tell" warned that letting homosexuals serve openly in the military would threaten "unit cohesion," "break the all-volunteer force," etc. It didn't.<br />
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Perhaps because of this record, the dwindling cadre that opposes gay marriage is falling back on less empirical arguments: Marriage is for procreation; polygamy's a-comin'; the Bible condemns homosexuality. (True. It also decrees, in Deuteronomy 22:13-21, that a bride who is not a virgin "shall be brought to the door of her father's house and there the men of her town shall stone her to death." Maybe we should look elsewhere for legislative guidance.)<br />
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As the case against gay marriage has grown weaker, public support for it has grown stronger. Seven years ago, 57 percent of voters approved Virginia's ban on same-sex marriage. Today, 56 percent of Virginians think gay marriage should be legal.<br />
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That is bad news for Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican candidate for governor, who remains staunchly opposed to gay marriage in particular and to homosexuality in general, which he considers "intrinsically wrong." It might be better news for Cuccinelli's Democratic opponent, Terry McAuliffe - if McAuliffe had any discernible principles, or courage to match them. McAuliffe gave tepid, pro-forma applause to last week's Supreme Court decisions but refuses to say whether Virginia should repeal its gay marriage ban.<br />
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That leaves only Robert Sarvis, the Libertarian candidate, who notes Virginia's sordid history in matters marital: Not until 1967, in the case of Richard and Mildred Loving, was Virginia's ban on interracial marriage overturned. "If it weren't for the courage of the Lovings," Sarvis says, "I might not have been able to marry the woman I love. But today, Virginia still isn't for all lovers. That's why I want to honor the Loving legacy and lead the fight now, in this election, to recognize same-sex marriage in Virginia."<br />
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The clear trajectory of the issue indicates that same-sex marriage eventually will come to pass, in Virginia and the rest of the country, just as women's suffrage, school desegregation, interracial marriage and all the rest did. It would be nice if, for once, the Old Dominion didn't have to be dragged into the future kicking and screaming.<br />
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<a href="mailto:bhinkle@timesdispatch.com" linktype="2" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">bhinkle@timesdispatch.com</a><strong><br /></strong></div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-49163980307360996622013-07-04T11:23:00.000-04:002013-07-04T11:23:02.695-04:00It's Worth Reading Again!<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" valign="top"><strong>It's Worth Reading Again!</strong> <br />
<br />
I asked the ACLU if I could reprint their article received June 26, 2013. It is below, just in case you did not see it, and need to retain access to their site. It is important to retain accurate information and read actual cases, and one important source in this fight for equality is the ACLU. <a href="http://www.acluva.org/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">http://www.acluva.org</a> <br />
<br />
<strong>Stay involved ... the fight is not over</strong><br />
<br />
We do not assume that everyone knows that the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) are leaders in this on-going movement. We urge you and yours to stay actively involved. <br />
<br />
Rev. T. Wade and I have been active supporters and visited Congress with HRC supporters when seeking to repeal Don 't Ask Don't Tell (DADT), among other critical topics. Since that ridiculous law was ended, so much work has been accomplished to bring us to to the high Court's decisions of June 26. <br />
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Stay Vigilant! Be ALL that you can be, but BE who you are!<strong><br /></strong><br />
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Much love ... Reverend Elisheva<br />
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<strong>Major U.S. Supreme Court</strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><strong>Victories for Marriage Equality!</strong></span><br />
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<img align="left" border="0" height="225" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.162" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/162.png?a=1113966390601" vspace="5" width="300" /> Today, the ACLU of Virginia, along with thousands of allies and LGBT community members around the United States, celebrates a monumental victory in the fight for the <a href="https://acluva.org/13380/aclu-of-virginia-celebrates-scotus-ruling-in-favor-of-federal-recognition-of-all-legal-marriages/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">freedom to marry</a>. In a 5-4 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court made a historical decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional, recognizing that there is no valid reason for the federal government to treat legally married LGBT couples any differently because of their sexual orientation.<br />
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The Court ruling came in Windsor v. U.S., an ACLU lawsuit filed on behalf of Edie Windsor, a widowed lesbian who, after the death of her spouse Thea Spyer, was required to pay over $360,000 in federal estate taxes -- taxes she would not have owed if she were married to a man. <br />
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In the second LGBT rights case decided today, the Court ruled that proponents of Prop 8, a California referendum that overturned the freedom to marry in that state, did not have legal standing to challenge a federal court decision that <a href="https://acluva.org/13389/aclu-celebrates-victory-for-freedom-to-marry-in-california-commits-to-obtain-same-freedom-for-virginians/" linktype="1" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Prop 8</a> was invalid and unconstitutional. The Supreme Court decision has the effect of restoring the freedom to marry for Californians. The result is that one-third of Americans now live in jurisdictions in which the freedom to marry is equally available to LGBT and straight couples.<br />
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What does this all mean for Virginia? First, the federal government will now treat all Virginians legally married in other states the same regardless of sexual orientation. That means the 1,100 federal benefits tied to marriage will become available to legally married Virginians regardless of the fact that Virginia doesn't recognize their marriages. As an example, the Secretary of Defense issued this statement today concerning actions the Defense Department will take that will affect members of the military and their spouses stationed here:<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">"The Department of Defense welcomes the Supreme Court's decision today on the Defense of Marriage Act. The department will immediately begin the process of implementing the Supreme Court's decision in consultation with the Department of Justice and other executive branch agencies. The Department of Defense intends to make the same benefits available to all military spouses -- regardless of sexual orientation -- as soon as possible. That is now the law and it is the right thing to do."</span><br />
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Second, while we celebrate the freedom to marry now accorded our friends in California and the 12 other jurisdictions that recognize same-sex marriage, the discrimination written into Virginia's constitution in 2006 (which prohibits any governmental recognition of any relationships other than marriage between a man and a woman) remains unaffected by today's decisions.<br />
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That is why the ACLU of Virginia is recommitting itself to ensuring that the freedom to marry can be enjoyed equally by all Virginians. While we moved closer to that goal today, in Virginia it remains a goal to be achieved rather than a reality to be celebrated. We look forward to working with you in this important effort. </div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-23765088831451586772013-03-01T11:38:00.001-05:002013-03-01T11:38:44.963-05:00Let's Talk Weather!<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" valign="top"><strong>More specifically ... Let's address the landscape for having a marvelous escape</strong><br />
<br />
As wedding ministers who travel frequently, the opportunities to experience every month of the year allows us a multitude of experiences. It also allows for making suggestions to couples, which may mean some extra planning. No - I am not talking about changing dates, since booking of a venue most likely has already been secured by deposit for a favored location. I am speaking of making plans to secure the best possible outcome for the ceremony. <br />
<br />
<strong>Large or small weddings require the same attention to attendees</strong><br />
<br />
<img align="left" border="0" height="187" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.149" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/149.jpg" vspace="5" width="250" /> There is considerable flexibility for small weddings, but no less attention is required for even a few special guests. They all come to enjoy, listen intently and remember your special day. It does not have to be a perfect setting or perfect weather; it does require adaptability for comfort. If indeed there is a need to quickly move inside, has that move been reviewed and planned with adequate staff to take chairs, decorations, and equipment inside? How long will such a change take? Is there a planned cut-off time for making the move, and no procrastination? If a small venue or home wedding, let friends know that they may be recruited for extra duties as the situation dictates. <br />
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<strong>There are better months for planning for outdoor weddings ... so pre-planning is best</strong><br />
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When scouting venues, talk to location managers or locals, and listen carefully. As said, we always look at the location on an inquiry form, plus the date, time of day, and size of audience. These factors are all important in early planning, especially for an outdoor ceremony. The very first response to most couples, especially when hosting a large to medium size audience is to make sure that an alternative plan is absolutely in place for moving inside quickly and efficiently. Yes - it's wonderful to be out in a park or on a beach, until a storm arrives and everyone is forced to either run or sit in total discomfort for a twenty minute ceremony. This can be an adventure for many young people, but rest assured that elderly people with health concerns will not be so enchanted by nature's unexpected turn. <br />
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<strong>Check the forecast beginning days in advance, and discuss deadlines for movement inside</strong><br />
<br />
<img align="right" border="0" height="187" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.148" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs164/1103454891289/img/148.jpg" vspace="5" width="250" /> There are months which can be bone-chillingly cold. And there are months when the heat will melt the candles. Both conditions affect the comfort of guests, and that can be very disappointing. Friends and family have generally traveled for a day of comfortable surroundings. Thirty minutes outside with a wind chill of thirty-five degrees and no covering can make for a very long ceremony. The same is true when the temperature is one hundred degrees at 3 PM on the lawn of a golf club. The formal wear begins to be most burdensome.<br />
<br />
<strong>Unexpected cool weather is generally the most disruptive... although heat can be dangerous</strong><br />
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Cold and wet attire, wind chill, and sitting still and listening for 20-30 minutes is not enjoyable. Do not expect the best voice from a minister or reader, and especially for singers and musicians when the conditions are so challenging. Sunrise weddings may work for an elopement for ten minutes, but quite frankly even ministers tend to pass on some challenges. <br />
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<strong>When a minister speaks of situations from hundreds of ceremonies ... LISTEN!</strong><br />
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<img align="left" border="0" height="166" hspace="5" src="https://imgssl.constantcontact.com/ui/stock2/young-male-couple.jpg" vspace="5" width="250" /> As much as a couple can be determined to make it work, the first concern must be the guests and female members of a wedding party with naked shoulders shivering in the wind. May -September are the most popular months, but when it's hot, heat stroke can occur. Standing members can become faint. Most ceremonies can be situated outside at the time of day when shade will fall on the audience, or a tent may be erected to provide some cover. However, the heat may not be diminished very much, and guests should be provided water abundantly. When direct sun is a concern, then guests should be allowed to stay in the shade until the last minute and then told to take their places in an open seating arrangement. They must NEVER be allowed to sit and boil while the wedding party is running late for entry. <br />
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<strong>A possibility often neglected</strong><br />
<br />
Venues in the cooler months should not be overlooked. Take the group inside a cozy hotel or B&B for a wonderful environment. Most venues will be less apt to be filled, and may even offer special price considerations. Most ministers are delighted to receive inquiries during the winter months. Of course there may be a need for caution for those months when snows can arrive, such as January-March. This can diminish travel by air and auto, but generally not for more than a day. Also, many friends and family may actually be more readily available for attendance and able to leave working obligations in the early part of the year. Just sharing.<br />
<br />
Remember - whenever and wherever the ceremony takes place, it will be the most important ceremony in your lives. However, there is wisdom in close scrutiny and early planning. Also - the couple who plans together will enjoy the process so much more. Planning a wedding is a part of marriage. <br />
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<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Much love ... Reverend Elisheva</div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-34972289984680691312012-09-09T14:16:00.004-04:002012-09-09T14:16:52.681-04:00Charlottesville's First-Ever Pride Festival<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<em><strong>The Pride Festival will be held September 15th (next Saturday) from 2-6 pm at Lee Park in downtown Charlottesville. Lee Park is next to the Downtown Mall and the Central Library. Lee Park is on East Market Street. Parking on street and Market Street Garage.</strong></em></div>
<br />
<img align="left" alt="C'ville Pride Official Logo" border="0" height="238" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.121" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/121.jpg" vspace="5" width="250" /><strong>Notes from Amy Sarah Marshall, C'ville Pride President</strong><br />
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We're super-excited by the overwhelming response we've received from the community. I had originally wanted to have an event like this to draw people out of the woodwork - or closet - where many people in this area stay. I'm delighted that my dream is actually coming true. So many folks have told me that they just keep to themselves and don't get involved in anything having to do with the LGBT community, but they are thrilled to have this opportunity to connect with others. Over 630 people on Facebook alone have said they are attending the festival.<br />
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<strong>Area businesses will sponsor & attend as vendors</strong> <br />
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I guess you just don't know until the question is asked whether a business or organization supports equality and LGBT rights or not. I think many of us - including myself - just don't ask the question. We "pass" as straight, stay under the radar, constantly questioning or wondering if we'd be accepted or rejected by others based on our sexual orientation. It's a pretty safe way to exist, but it's also a weighty burden to carry.<br />
<br />
<strong>
<table align="right" class="imgCaptionTable" style="margin-bottom: 20px; margin-top: 20px; text-align: center; width: 250px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="imgCaptionImg" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" width="250"><img alt="C'ville Pride Board Members" border="0" height="167" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.122" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/122.jpg" width="250" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="imgCaptionText" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">Lisa, Amy Sarah, Buck & Julie</td></tr>
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Festival will provide fun lots of fun</strong><br />
<br />
We will have poetry, drag performances, music, performance art in the main tent. Dave Norris, former Charlottesville mayor, will host. We'll also be joined by the lady arm wrestlers, the Derby Dames, face painters, jewelry crafters, nail and hair salon professionals, food vendors, and more. The kids' area will feature a bouncy castle and crafts and bubbles. The spiritual community will be represented by churches and Buddhist organizations. Non-profits representing healthcare, politics, and community activism will offer information on available resources. A special wedding vendor table will list LGBT-friendly services.<br />
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<strong>But most of all ...</strong> <br />
<br />
The LGBTQ community will get the chance to find each other and get support for being themselves from straight allies and supporters. We as a whole community will get a chance to celebrate and stand up for equality for all of us. <br />
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<strong>Love ... Amy Sarah Marshall</strong><br />
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<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Comment from Reverend Elisheva Clegg, ordained Interfaith Minister</strong></div>
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This is a wonderful opportunity for everyone who receives this e-mail newsletter and lives in Virginia, Maryland and DC area to drive down to Charlottesville for a terrific day of sharing. We will have a table at the Festival with handouts to let the LGBT community know how we promote and support marriage in Washington, D.C. as the closest zone of equality for same-sex marriages. The Festival is perfectly located next to the Historic Mall with restaurants and shops for an extended evening of enjoyment after the events in Lee Park. Why not spend the weekend?<br />
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For more information go to <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001JdZlDvNwFU5WVpeomSndDFZybKurmr7-iYlXdqRh8fJDXNzH12qD_K_vNOEj59Fs4shxjNAVYV9gW6WGa4VQzqL4kdBaV3qxSb3LVnjlK6ZD4sf24D1qFQ==" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">www.cvillepride.org</a> <br />
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Blessings ... Reverend Elisheva </td></tr>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-83377859686804540552012-08-24T14:39:00.001-04:002012-08-24T14:39:06.638-04:00I'll Write ... You Read ... then it's meeting time<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<strong>Some important thoughts for a Couple to place on their "To Do" List</strong></div>
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And with any luck the time will come when we can sit across a table, sipping coffee and savoring a bit of cheesecake. And we will exchange that most precious commodity: intimate conversation filled with high expectations, new friends discussing plans for their wedding.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<img align="left" alt="Reverend T. Wade & Elisheva Clegg Walking Together" border="0" height="450" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.116" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/116.jpg" vspace="5" width="300" /> Talk of hopes and dreams and the excitement of the journey can turn an hour into two. Many couples simply need to get that sense of comfort with a minister. It's important to hear of concerns, especially to know if their selection of a minister is someone who can bring their ceremony to family and friends in a manner which reflects their wishes. It's important to learn of sensitivities within and between families. It's important to learn of rituals preferred, especially when it is an interfaith wedding. A personal meeting is that opportunity to become comfortable with the person who is performing the most important ceremony in the life of a couple. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<strong>Captain Kirk reminded us of an important gift</strong></div>
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<br /></div>
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We were watching a documentary this past evening entitled "Captains." William Shatner, the actor of note from many roles, but especially Star Trek, allowed us to listen to an entertaining couple of hours sharing conversations with all of the Star Trek Captains over the years, and some of the notable cast members so many of us remember. Then at the very end, as the credits were scrolling by, the final thank you came up and stopped. Shatner wrote several comments, and then offered: <em>"These friends allowed me such a marvelous gift ... their time."</em></div>
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That is exactly what we hope to enjoy with each couple: their time ... as time is allowed.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<strong>So many couples ask, "Can we meet?"</strong></div>
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Of course we can meet, and that should be a part of your planning. However, I live near Charlottesville, Virginia and a meeting generally entails a full day, at least for those who live in Virginia, Maryland and the DC area. Many couples who plan ahead will take a weekend day and drive to Charlottesville, often staying for one night, enjoying the delights of this historic town, and meeting with us for a discussion. If a couple needs directions or ideas for a hotel accessible for visiting <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001Te27QGfgz4dleUt-Ny2hZdV665eImiAT4nej6ATMfrmACfqAUfJSdyGXn0IgmmqWSB5sN7ZFNaHsGGjawbHk_HGdWTJ3-k_6vRb0kmBA4m2DMXOsDzeOBA==" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Monticello</a>, <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001Te27QGfgz4chc7JwqPgPbzMm_MaDRBmIdflS6SnCmtoTtTDcdsLiKZXDjw2j8KHkJ1DXYWclTIvTGMRH3BTHBQnARAEbhJAF6oX5y3QsWDd-k0qSbS5ic4JOzdvg6SUX" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Carter Mountain</a>, <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001Te27QGfgz4eKg_BDoGBmQ1d0j04M6XJrykXVopSjxehuKAcKsNwrDN_gtFwjU6YUFAgD1P6E9d4MSAfj3WHWLqJQZoVip61IIcuDQ9iA7pAZzBdkrAqXOw==" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">University of Virginia</a>, etc, please ask. </div>
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<strong>Not all couples can make that trip to Charlottesville </strong></div>
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Keep in mind that only about half of all couples actually are close enough for meeting with ease. Many couples have waited too late for planning a meeting. Many live in other states, and will fly into their ceremony location just before the ceremony. As much as we would like to have that face to face talk months in advance, and become familiar before a ceremony, sometimes it is just not possible. Then, a bit more time is spent with e-mail exchanges, and the importance of my questionnaire to learn of hopes and dreams and other matters of the heart become so very prominent in order to write for text and tone. Sometimes in the course of exchanges, a phone call might allow for a more open dialogue to settle a matter quickly.</div>
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<strong>What happens when family members wish to attend that first meeting?</strong></div>
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<img align="right" alt="The Reverends Clegg - T. Wade & Elisheva" border="0" height="350" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.114" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/114.jpg" vspace="5" width="250" /> There have been many meetings over the years when a mother, or both mothers have arrived with the couple. There have been occasions when a couple brought their separate children with them. The list of combinations can be interesting. The question is usually asked: <em>Is it OK for them to come with us? And the answer is: Certainly!</em></div>
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However, at some point after general introductions, I will ask the couple to join me for a private conversation at a separate table, and Rev. T. Wade will occupy the rest of the family with the most interesting conversation one can imagine. He can speak football fluently. There must be private time with the couple.</div>
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I have noticed on occasion when mothers are in attendance, there is a tendency on their part to want to know exactly how I will be handling the ceremony. It is at that point, but usually before it is asked, that I offer something like, "Please understand that I do not write a wedding until I have received completed questionnaires from a couple. I then draft the ceremony for their review and their review only. The wedding is therefore always approved by a couple in advance based on their request. I do insist that no one, except the couple, is to hear the script before it is delivered in a wedding. I do this rather deliberately, since a personal wedding must be that of a couple, and exposing it to friends and family lead to exchanges which may put pressure on a couple to make changes. That must never happen, since the ceremony becomes the wishes of others. And I am here to fulfill the wishes of the couple." </div>
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Perhaps this might be considered a gentle reminder that <strong>YOUR WEDDING IS YOUR DREAM DAY</strong>.</div>
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Just sharing.</div>
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Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-30383215075114691992012-06-14T08:20:00.000-04:002012-06-14T08:20:34.716-04:00Sharing Thoughts with the LGBT Community ... But Not That Often!<table style="margin-bottom:6px;display: table;" border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7"><tr><td style="color:#000000;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;text-align: left;" valign="top" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left">
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><strong>A Personal note to the LGBT community from Revs. T. Wade and Elisheva Clegg</strong></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img style="text-align: left;" height="280" vspace="5" border="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.105" hspace="5" width="200" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/105.jpg" align="left"> We cannot be accused of overwhelming recipients with blog postings accessed from our website at <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); text-decoration: underline;" track="on" shape="rect" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001Pxez6aLl9SfoVB4h-7JlE4XOFLkeQZslgkeK4FacLZzcfCFFwcYiQnEYIFqsAOweYbNgvXiUZwtwyT7543mS6vI9e5g9TsVaaNV7T64IrDPKojRsK_eCw_lpmg3Cd2Ur" linktype="1" target="_blank">http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.org</a> . The articles are initially sent to readers on our e-mail list, and immediately placed on the blog site. Therefore, the e-mail is more than just an announcement of the blog posting; it's an immediate read of the item and has a "<strong>forward e-mail</strong>." The hope is that these less than intrusive mailings will be well received, versus daily bombardment by political parties, and that you will send on to other friends.</img></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br /><strong>Speaking of less than intrusive</strong></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />The last previous three e-mails and blog entries were April 21, 2012 (before this e-mail), January 14, 2012, and October 24, 2011. That's about one e-mail every 2-3 months. The topics are easily reviewed as to diversity by clicking the blog site and scrolling back. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />The October 2011 article emphasized an important link for LGBT Military Members. Like all articles in the LGBT blog, there is always something to share from each article with friends. The heterosexual community can be casual about their status as Americans, but not the LGBT community. Take a moment and learn.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />The January 2012 posting remained the only entry for three months. Blenheim Farm and Vineyards in Charlottesville, Virginia area, although a popular wine-tasting stop for years, had just decided to open the farm for weddings last season. It deserved attention as a possible location for review for same-sex couples to host a large family gathering following a legal marriage in Washington, D.C. Although we have never performed a wedding at the site, it is indeed a lovely location. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />The April 2012 posting was strictly of interest for couples planning ahead. Details regarding wedding licenses, along with ideas of fees and other considerations, were the sole focus of that article. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br /><strong>The next planned logistical e-mail/blog concerns adequately hearing a ceremony</strong></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />"<strong>Sound</strong>" will be the next topic of conversation, unless another important item needs to be addressed more readily. Past experiences with medium to large weddings, which neglected to enhance hearing for the audiences, have proven so disappointing. Not for the minister, the couple and the people seated on the front row, but for everyone else! </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />Sound must not be left as optional for the most important ceremony in the life of a couple. We will offer ideas, and specific professionals scattered around Virginia and hopefully in DC. If you have experienced a Sound Professional/ DJ from an event or a wedding, then please send us an e-mail with their contact information and a comment. We would love to provide that information in our next in depth posting. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br /><strong>The question we often ask ourselves: Are we writing a newsletter or a blog?</strong></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />Quite frankly, our postings are probably more newsletter oriented. We may give extended attention to one topic, or list several items of interest. A concerted effort is made to pick a topic and offer in depth information with links for a reader. At the core, a blog and a newsletter is simply a Web page. Each communication format can contain text, images, and formatting styles.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />It would be nice if readers would actively ask more questions about topics regarding weddings, so that a tailored answer could be addressed. After all, one objective is to offer pertinent information which can serve couples planning a wedding. But remember, we are Interfaith ministers, and weddings are only part of what we do. Some postings will reach beyond planning a wedding. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br /><strong>A Final Note </strong></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />It is true that our focus as Interfaith Ministers is tailored to personalization of weddings, and we travel considerable distances when proper planning is allowed. One or both of us is approved in all states and the District of Columbia. Couples are asked to read our website(s) and click on testimonials for a true sense of how we are received. In addition, for almost four years our dedication has been aimed at our totally independent, non-religious, all volunteer, 501(c)3 public charity, which is <strong><em><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); text-decoration: underline;" track="on" shape="rect" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001Pxez6aLl9SdPJhqk41MlHFHvyQUDo3prYBqqiRGDUp0TdmEUWJ5QBEZP_2TLoUzF5e1Hdson5ivhRYON7f_AJTcGV-3_mCBxq904bmwbRTa4I8Qe6aCKoLFtYY4f8AI5d96nuMJapWk=" linktype="1" target="_blank">Interfaith Humanitarian Sanctum, Inc</a>.</em></strong> </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br />From all wedding fees a portion is allowed for support of this charity for temporary assistance for the indigent population who comes from all over Virginia to be served by the UVA Medical Center. A couple can provide a direct donation for a tax deduction, or we as ministers will direct our income from fees as needed to sustain this worthy objective. In essence, our ministerial roles are an integral part for sustaining our charitable organization, so when you receive e-mails from both entities, please know that our hearts and minds are ONE. Your wedding, if a couple seeking a wedding minister, will make a difference in the lives of the least able among us as they struggle with the most tragic of circumstances. </p>
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<table style="margin-bottom:6px;display: table;" border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK10"><tr><td style="color:#000000;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;text-align: left;" valign="top" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left"><span>Blessings ... US ... Revs. Elisheva and T. Wade Clegg </span></td></tr></table>Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-64525867606596714862012-04-21T23:24:00.001-04:002012-04-21T23:24:18.563-04:00A Vital Document for a Legal LGBT Wedding<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="display: table; margin-bottom: 6px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" valign="top"><strong>Some Helpful Tips for Couples as they decide where to obtain a marriage license</strong><br />
<br />
<img align="left" alt="Rainbow bright color flag with intertwined rings" border="0" height="187" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.100" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/100.jpg" style="text-align: left;" vspace="5" width="250" />Presently, the most opportune location for me to perform a same-sex marriage is Washington, D.C. I know there is considerable anticipation that Maryland will open the door for legal ceremonies, but that has not taken place to date. There are states where you can travel, but the District of Columbia is the only feasible distance for me to respond to a wedding minister request. I live in the Charlottesville, Virginia area and make many trips to Northern Virginia and the District for same-sex and opposite-sex weddings. <br />
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<strong>Some General Advice</strong><br />
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Always call the Washington, D.C. Clerk of the Superior Court Marriage Bureau and get details, if it's not already on their website. If you are traveling from a considerable distance, double check what documents you need and have them secured for the trip. My last same-sex wedding in Washington, D.C. was January 7, 2012 and the couple indicated that the fee was $45.00.<br />
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<strong>Do you know how long the license is valid from date of purchase?</strong><br />
<br />
<img align="right" alt="Lesbian couple with marriage license" border="0" height="166" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.101" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/101.jpg" style="text-align: right;" vspace="5" width="250" />In the District once a couple applies at the Clerk's Office for a license, processing time is generally three (3) days. Therefore, if one is being married by someone who is registered to marry you who is <strong>not</strong> an officer of the court, but a registered minister such as myself, then you will be able to pick up the license <strong>after</strong> the three days and be married anywhere in the City at any location of your choice. However, since many couples will be coming to the District FIRST for making application, and then returning home, the question is: How long is the license valid once it is ready for pickup. That is the really good part for consideration. The license has no deadline for use. You can plan to return anytime and retrieve the license in conjunction with a date in the future for a wedding plan. Of course planning must include your return to pick up the license on a week day during operating hours. Most weddings are planned on weekends for convenience of guests, so it behooves a couple to arrive a day or two before a weekend to make sure they obtain the license, which must be provided to the minister before the ceremony. I invite you to view our blog which is accessed from the home page of the website at <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EoZaa4id9Lm4wV_qcCN79nvI2JqgRfstOEGiIp9vCafmeYN-Tg8EgztZhHr0VV1J4PivVjmA4o592zzssp4wThhSzUJTorvgr5fJy4yAZyXSLIy2UYaMO0yvKETpHyqb" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.org</a>. Here is a link to an <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EoZaa4id9Ln_s6TYK1SSxwEJn316zrcMWl1E8z0-iIXL51Q07pT5DYmgPqEhsN-rRdwqRNZ-6VOKDrjr2vl6OLfZejzRJabvGViKVWTu29RNAzhiZEDzZW9BPuFl1iovXIQqzb3bqBFj2M3ZSmz3Jp_kMC41bPEV9Fn2dQxdimqnb7gJGENY2gRvdDBnxIvpKR4ViI3I9RzJLKgl1lzTBw==" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">older post from March 20, 2010</a> for some other notes regarding same-sex weddings. That blog entry was entered when same-sex weddings were just approved, and may have some notes for your consideration. <br />
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<strong>Know exactly where you must be married with the license you have purchased</strong><br />
<br />
<img align="left" alt="Rainbow flag with couple symbols" border="0" height="250" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.99" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/99.jpg" style="text-align: left;" vspace="5" width="250" />This is really important! You must be married within the District. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to scout the area for a location while visiting the District during the application phase of your exploration. My last same-sex marriage was performed before a rather large guest list who traveled mostly from Atlanta, Georgia. The location was the <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EoZaa4id9LlsNzUzVg-GhlGO2QPchtp6sFFTVYtb8mDaA923zxRoCQdnDOlIl98xmdHc9vtes86s-SHKy3vS4UeTulKiJR7q2mkYrRWdz6REdq5pP4PD8PqKcuTCG23D1MW9N_H7UCwrQtekx-UD5HQbjFqVfzhSNbJEdF6T1AAMkd4flSJ7ubOfltQMOmvJA3tvji1IbfU5vfcUOEJt1g==" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Mandarin Oriental Hotel</a>, 1330 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20034. It is a large lovely hotel with many restaurants and large rooms for all size ceremonies. My next same-sex wedding in June is a smaller outdoor event at the <strong><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EoZaa4id9LkCaej4c_N_-tuD1DFgCgmHy4wDSrFOcUwvxOz9IkD3W5jYxMt5xIKrB-M85fYQuZ3epvtjhVUFT7IL3atMFV19Qc1pgmb7Ehs=" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Intown Uptown Inn</a></strong>, 4907 14th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20011. <br />
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During 2010 same-sex weddings were performed on riverboats, boarding from both the Alexandria, Virginia side of the Potomac River and the DC side of the river. <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EoZaa4id9LnyDnD1N9WEs-vzukC5MS2lkEtgwgV1bFatds-WjN13csfHq4Xp7BxASh2mkzb2aUYYkfNSu-UBc1ItmvHImqViZHA93Czdq9292w0oHMvcpVzl6xJqL7Wg" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">The Potomac Riverboat Company</a> is located at 205 The Strand, Alexandria, VA 23139, Phone (703) 684-0580. What's interesting about the Alexandria departure is that you are considered in the District as soon as the riverboat leaves the dock, which places a same-sex couple inside the city limits for the marriage. On the District side of the river is <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EoZaa4id9Ln2yitZFMeiPMI0PB3rj-PYBV6dyomHgy6S9dgxR-Cpe4_v1lMpN3VBzsy-stB2otzfwqIGhPe-lFZWnSDMxN-w1zXTEsSfSomkN7vHXZpASUQ_qCz7bvfw4d1YU_mmhyKhEKGvzsoIL7iW_Rf3wjHw" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">Entertainment Cruises</a>, Gangplank Marina, 600 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024, Phone (866) 404-8439. <br />
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<strong>What are the responsibilities of a minister performing a legal marriage?</strong><br />
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A couple must present their license to the minister for review prior to the ceremony. The license requires only one signature: the minister. The license has three copies. The minister signs the license, providing a copy for the couple to retain, keeps one copy, and mails a copy to the Clerk of the Court within a week of the ceremony. The signing of the license following a ceremony makes for a very personal photograph with the minister and couple. <br />
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<strong>Are ministers performing legal marriages required to register in the District of Columbia?</strong><br />
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It is acceptable to ask a minister regarding proper registration for performing a wedding in the District of Columbia. Reverend Elisheva Clegg is registered with the Clerk in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, 500 Indiana Avenue N. W., Washington, D.C. 20001. Their phone is (202) 879-4865. A properly registered minister will be on file with the Office of the Clerk. <br />
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<strong>Final Comments</strong><br />
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This information is tailored for same-sex couples who are seeking assistance for a private personalized wedding at a location selected by a couple by an approved wedding minister who is properly registered in the District of Columbia. If a couple is seeking a civil ceremony performed by an officer of the court, then contact the Clerk for details for length of time for processing a license, and how to arrange for a civil ceremony inside the Courthouse. Many same-sex couples will obtain a civil ceremony, and at some time in the very near future arrange for a ceremony away from DC to celebrate their legal wedding before a large gathering of family and friends. Therefore, my website blog may feature vineyards or manor houses, etc., perhaps in Virginia and Maryland , for these extended events to take place. I am always prepared to assist with the follow-up ceremony, but only <strong>after</strong> a legal ceremony in DC. I tell couples that the day of the commitment ceremony is over. When there is an opportunity for a legal wedding, even in isolated pockets of equality in the United States, the time to take advantage must be seized.<br />
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Blessings ... Reverend Elisheva</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-49143376645780813102012-01-14T16:52:00.001-05:002012-01-14T16:52:22.558-05:00Blenheim Farm & Vineyards - A Spendid Place to have a Wedding!<table style="margin-bottom:6px;display: table;" border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7"><tr><td style="color:#000000;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;text-align: left;" valign="top" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left"><br />
<table class="imgCaptionTable" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" width="210" align="left"><tr><td class="imgCaptionImg" style="text-align: center;" width="210" rowspan="1" colspan="1"><img height="225" vspace="5" border="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.80" hspace="5" width="150" alt="Blenheim Vineyards & Mountains" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/80.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="imgCaptionText" style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1">Splendid Opportunity for a Wedding!</td></tr></table>This past Monday, January 9th, we were invited to visit a truly marvelous vineyard in Albemarle County along Carter Mountain Road. It was rainy and cold, probably the least likely time of the year for a wedding. However, once on the farm and inside several of the farm's 1800's style buildings, one could immediately sense all the possibilities for small-medium size weddings inside those cozy buildings. And it is easy to visualize the outside lawn area in spring, summer and fall with views over the vineyard. <br /><br />When reviewing all of the marvelous locations for a wedding, couples now have another stunning setting near Charlottesville, Virginia from which to choose. The <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); text-decoration: underline;" track="on" shape="rect" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zi8sqvdab&et=1109078555076&s=442&e=001g2PickSX5iBoSW063o7KIGwM_u5LZL7TRVXDEm0JnCDZq_da8gX0XMIGLGzen5fmDtjise8KkVHvhUcAABxB2_int8w4HVvqE05kyA1qhm-m6k3hcz_n__23K90hpnmd" linktype="1" target="_blank">Blenheim Farm</a> has several buildings for selection to accommodate various audience sizes for a wedding. There is the Main House, the Library and the <br />
<table class="imgCaptionTable" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" width="160" align="right"><tr><td class="imgCaptionImg" style="text-align: center;" width="160" rowspan="1" colspan="1"><img style="text-align: right;" height="225" vspace="5" border="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.77" hspace="5" width="150" alt="Blenheim Vineyards Chapel" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/77.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="imgCaptionText" style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1">Chapel can host 20 - 25 guests</td></tr></table>Historic Chapel. Outside on the lawn are a number of possible wedding sites near large trees. Of course there is also the opportunity to rent the entire farm for events up to 200 people. <br /><br />The Blenheim Farm and Vineyards is located at 31 Blenheim Road. The first objective driving from Charlottesville is to head out toward Monticello on Highway 53. Keep driving past Monticello to the Thomas Jefferson Vineyards. Just past their entrance on Highway 53 is James Monroe Parkway. Go south 4.8 miles down the James Monroe Parkway after leaving Highway 53. You will pass Ashlawn Highland (home of President James Monroe) on the right. James Monroe Parkway becomes Carter Mountain Road at about 2.6 miles. Turn onto Blenheim Road at the new Trump Vineyard Tasting Room sign. Drive 0.6 miles to the Blenheim entrance on the left side of the road.<br /> <br /><table class="imgCaptionTable" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" width="110" align="left"><tr><td class="imgCaptionImg" style="text-align: center;" width="110" rowspan="1" colspan="1"><img height="99" vspace="5" border="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.81" hspace="5" width="150" alt="Blenheim Library Exterior" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/81.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="imgCaptionText" style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1">Historic Library</td></tr></table>Just reading the directions should give a rather good impression of the magnificent area which is wine-growing country unequalled in Virginia. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table class="imgCaptionTable" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" width="160" align="right"><tr><td class="imgCaptionImg" style="text-align: center;" width="160" rowspan="1" colspan="1"><img height="112" vspace="5" border="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.79" hspace="5" width="150" alt="Blenheim Outdoor Table Setting" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/79.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="imgCaptionText" style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1">Who says you can't dine outdoors?</td></tr></table>Many of you reading this description and the Blenheim Farm website will be interested to know of the possibilities for business and family gatherings, in addition to weddings. Call or e-mail Kathy Del Rosso, Director of Sales and Marketing, a marvelous tour guide for planning an event. Her e-mail is <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); text-decoration: underline;" shape="rect" href="mailto:kathy@blenheimvineyards.com?" linktype="2" target="_blank">kathy@blenheimvineyards.com</a> or call her cell phone at (434) 962-4241.<br /><br /></td></tr></table>Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-89800452207982791592011-10-24T10:46:00.003-04:002011-10-24T10:47:21.347-04:00A Personal Note to LGBT Military Members<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK7" style="margin-bottom: 6px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" valign="top"><strong>From Reverend Thomas Wade Clegg III, ordained Interfaith Minister</strong><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><strong> Major, USAFR Retired</strong></div> <br />
DADT has been officially repealed. Gay and lesbian service members may now serve openly. The Department of Defense has issued guidance for service members available at <a href="http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2010/0610_dadt/" linktype="link" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2010/0610_dadt/</a>. <br />
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<img align="left" alt="Rainbow colors behind soldier" border="0" height="168" hspace="5" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.40" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs080/1103454891289/img/40.jpg?a=1108278324908" style="text-align: left;" vspace="5" width="225" />The repeal has the force of law, passed by Congress and signed by the President. Active military should now feel comfortable to serve openly. That being said, obviously same-sex couples that have contacted us must make a personal decision with which they're comfortable. DADT repeal, of course, doesn't require them to come out. <br />
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If you encounter any specific issues, you may want to reach out to the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, which provides direct legal services to members of the military. I also suggest (make that URGE) you to read SLDN's excellent guide on LGBT military service after repeal. It's available at <a href="http://sldn.3cdn.net/5d4dd958a62981cff8_v5m6bw1gx.pdf" linktype="link" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" track="on">http://sldn.3cdn.net/5d4dd958a62981cff8_v5m6bw1gx.pdf</a>. <br />
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Press on ... your country needs you.<br />
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Blessings ... Rev. T. Wade</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-47133871901279227572011-09-05T17:00:00.002-04:002011-09-05T17:00:33.941-04:00A Romantic Checklist to Cherish ....Over the years I have asked and received such insightful personal notes from so many of you who needed to share the "little" things that continue to make your relationship a marvelous journey. Those cumulative little things are such a BIG part of making the journey enjoyable. Sometimes I may take a few of these notes and add some remarks; however, when someone else writes a very good summary for consideration, I will ask to extend its exposure.<br />
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The following article by Dustin M. Wax originally appeared at Stepcase Lifehack, located at <a style="text-align: left; color: rgb(0, 0, 204) !important; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-decoration: underline !important;" href="http://www.lifehack.org/" shape="rect" _mce_href="http://www.lifehack.org" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="text-align: left; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: #0000cc; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.lifehack.org/</a>. I asked Dustin if we could post it again, and he kindly said yes. It's not just a list; it's a concise checklist which all good pilots should read every time he or she senses the need to fly higher. In this case it's that checklist for securing a continuously smooth and vibrant relationship. Enjoy!<br />
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<p style="text-align: center; font-size: 12pt; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="center" _mce_style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>10 Keys to a Successful Romantic Relationship</strong></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"></p>In romantic relationships, as with so much else, it's the little things that count. Just as a mis-spoken word or cold look can throw a couple into a weeks-long feud, small and seemingly insignificant gestures can help keep a relationship on track. A little gift, an off-hand compliment, a moment of physical contact can vastly strengthen a relationship. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"></p>According to psychologists Nathaniel Branden and Robert Sternberg, who have both researched and written about the challenges of romantic relationships, these little displays of interest and affection can be more important than all the "active listening" and trust games in the world. Their research has suggested 10 keys to keeping both partners content, satisfied, and happy with each other. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"></p><ol><li><strong><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;">Tell your partner you love them</span>. </strong> Although it's true that actions speak louder than words, words often speak more <em>clearly</em> than actions. Take a moment every now and then to verbalize your feelings for your partner. A simple "I love you" or "You mean the world to me" can go a long way towards making your significant other feel wanted, cared for, and secure in your relationship.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Show some affection.</strong></span> Small acts of physical intimacy - the hand on the small of the back as you brush by in the hallway, your arm around their shoulder on the sofa, your hand on their thigh when seated side-by-side, holding hands while walking down the street - give your partner a warm feeling and convey the love and affection you feel for them. The littlest touch can be as important, or even more important, than the longest night of sexual intimacy.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Show appreciation for your partner.</strong></span> Let your partner know on a regular basis what it is that you like most about them - what you admire, what makes you proud, what their strengths are in your eyes. Building a romantic relationship isn't just about the initial bonding - it's about encouraging and supporting each other's growth over the course of your lives. Help your partner achieve his or her potential by constantly building them up.<br />
</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Share yourself.</strong></span> Don't keep your likes and dislikes, dreams and fears, achievements and mistakes, or anything else to yourself. If it's important to you, share it with your partner. More than that, be sure to share <em>more</em> with your partner than you do with anyone else. While there is certainly a need for some personal space in even the closest relationship, give as much of yourself and your time as you can bear to your partner.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Be there for your partner.</strong></span> Be there for your partner. It's obvious what you need to do when your partner faces a major life challenge like the loss of a job or the death of a loved one. But it's just as important to be supportive when your partner faces life's little challenges, too - an argument at work, a rough commute, a misplaced check. Don't let yourself be a doormat, and definitely don't stand for physical or verbal abuse, but thicken your skin a little and be the voice of calm and reason when chaos strikes. Listen to what's bothering them and offer whatever help - even if it's just sympathy - you can.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Give gifts.</strong></span> Take advantages of opportunities to give material tokens of your love. Just the right book picked up at the bookstore, a special dessert, a piece of jewelry or clothing you noticed at the store - anything small or large that tells them you were thinking of them. Leave a love note for them, or send them an SMS at work to "I love you" - again, the little reminder that they're always on your mind will help your partner feel better about themselves and secure in your relationship.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Respond gracefully to your partner's demands and shortcomings.</strong></span> A big killer of relationships is unreasonable expectations. Unless you married a robot, your partner comes preloaded with a whole range of human failures and foibles. <em>These are features, not bugs!</em> Learn to recognize and appreciate your partner's quirks for what they are: an essential part of who they are as people. Since our weaknesses are often at the core of our deepest insecurities, make sure you don't pick on or otherwise go out of your way to highlight your partner's flaws.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Make "alone time" a priority.</strong></span> No matter how busy both of your lives are, make sure you commit at least an evening every week or two to be alone together. Have new experiences, share your stories, and just generally enjoy each others company.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Take nothing for granted.</strong></span> Cultivate a daily sense of gratitude for your partner and the thousands of little blessings he or she has brought into your life. Remember that, if you're happy in your relationship, your partner is doing a thousand little things for you every day to make your relationship work (as, hopefully you are for them). Never take that for granted - a relationship is work of the highest order, and the second you stop, it starts to slide away.<br />
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</li><li><span _mce_ style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Strive for equality.</strong></span> Make sure you follow the Golden Rule in your relationship: do unto your partner as you would have done unto you. Strive for a fair division of household duties and other tasks, and don't expect or demand special considerations you'd be unwilling to offer in return.</li></ol>Blessings .... Reverend Elisheva Clegg<br />
Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-51808343024123843232011-05-30T16:45:00.000-04:002011-05-30T16:45:48.561-04:00An Opportunity to Reflect and Project for Memorial WeekendSometimes we do hesitate between blog entries, perhaps too long. The last entry of "Stop, Look and Listen" was one of those articles which needs to just linger there and allow for you to read it again, and perhaps again, and gather in the substance. However, it is time to press along with more thoughts.<br />
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Many blog entries are meant to answer direct questions from the "soon to be married," or "the just got married," or from "parents wondering what is the best route for planning." Those may or may not interest every recipient, whereas the "Stop, Look, and Listen" entry of February 4, 2011(when it was published in the <a href="http://www.virginiaweddings.blogspot.com/">www.virginiaweddings.blogspot.com</a> blog site) has merit for everyone. In fact it was written to remind ME to self-reflect, and allow you to share.<br />
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So - forgive us if we don't provide a stimulating read each time to interest every one, but over the course of time, we hope our efforts will be considered as personal notes between friends. Perhaps something said will apply as you advise friends, family, children and grandchildren. <strong>Remember</strong> - this cycle of life is continuous, and the older you get, the more that YOU are the keeper of lessons to be shared. We hope in some small way to offer a few pertinent ideas, while sharing the thoughts of very real people who have graced our lives.<br />
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<strong>Memorial Weekend ...</strong><br />
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It's Saturday afternoon as I write, just prior to driving over to our Community Garden plots in Palmyra along Route 53, which is Jefferson Parkway. It's just a 2-lane highway which is the same road which Mr. Jefferson used to travel from Monticello to Richmond and on to Washington. His travel took days, whereas our frequent trips to Richmond and DC only takes 1-2 hours. I suspect that Mr. Jefferson would have really appreciated a paved road in his days along Route 53.<br />
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I've been writing to individual friends about coming to visit, and enticing them with thoughts of cherry-picking, peach donuts, cold apple cider, and picnics out in a local orchard. We will do almost anything to attract friends and OUR children to come and visit. It is especially lovely today with so much growth occurring . So - I enclosed the websites of two lovely locations to instigate that desire to leave home for a day or two and join us in our garden or perhaps more appealing gardens in the Charlottesville area. After all, our own garden requires getting "deeply" involved.<br />
Living on Highway 53 near Monticello already has its appeal, but meeting in locations where you can pick fruit already in season and lay back in the grass ...well ...that is appealing, so we pull out the stops with vivid descriptions.<br />
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Open the two websites in this paragraph which Mrs. Chiles sends me every few weeks. You will see why we enjoy sharing our location and opportunities. Check out <a href="http://www.cartermountainorchard.com/">www.CarterMountainOrchard.com</a> and <a href="http://www.springvalleyorchard.com/">www.SpringValleyOrchard.com</a>. Carter Mountain is the highest point and is the nearest to us, and provides marvelous views of our area. A site worth seeing!<br />
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<strong><em>Back to my more emotional thoughts for this weekend</em></strong><br />
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All of this sweet growth around me does not deter my sadness regarding the devastating path which nature has dealt in Tuscaloosa, Joplin, and so many smaller places. My days as a child riding my bike through the Forest Lake area of Tuscaloosa keeps flooding back in my fondest memories, for it is one of those areas so destroyed that the landscape is only left to memories. <br />
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As I sit in a place of calmness today, the reality is that nature and its whims can bring a stop to life as we know it. It is why I tend to squeeze Elisheva more as life continues, and send out frequent notes to entice family gatherings, even if right there in their own homes. <br />
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I also remember those who have served and are serving in military and civilian roles, and those who have died or received terrible injuries. Whether by the winds of war or weather, the losses bring such a sense of finality.<br />
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I awoke this morning with my window open and a cool breeze delaying my ability to move. My sleep was shattered by two small birds carrying on so loudly as they spoke to each other about their day. I started laughing as I listened, aroused by the sounds and feel of nature coming into my day... another wonderful opportunity. Initially, I wanted to shout "Shut up!" but instead my only thought was, "Thank you!"<br />
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I took several deep breaths and remembered those who were anticipating this same joy I was feeling, but are with us no more. The joy of their being, my appreciation of their being, and my appreciation for my being can be overwhelming at times. I know that you know the feelings of which I speak.<br />
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Take a moment to review all that is given, and all that we can give, and move into your day, and those to come, with giving more and sharing more. It will lead to healing of others ... and healing of self.<br />
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Love ... Rev. T. Wade Clegg IIIBlue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-72236985108621507992011-04-30T17:32:00.000-04:002011-04-30T17:32:33.468-04:00Best Time to Secure Yourselves is Always NOW!<table style="margin-bottom:6px;display: table;" border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK14"><tr><td style="color:#000000;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;text-align: left;" valign="top" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left"><br />Over the years of responding to LGBT couples, first requesting commitments, and now marriage, I have always added a critical paragraph to remind every couple to locate a gay friendly attorney in your area and secure yourselves with proper documents. <strong>THAT NECESSITY HAS NOT CHANGED!<br /><br /></strong>Therefore, I was delighted to receive a highly informative e-mail letter from Tom Sullivan, Director of the <a style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zi8sqvdab&et=1105348868801&s=-1&e=001soOaU8YtyTiPZDNQEWOzmdXY6M_Q6quvuu079y_Ssr9-BNv11RIhkCg76QMdcz4ONDkYBacXgjveHGVZlhB7dvJQV9yTd3rfoCWglrdn32c=" shape="rect" linktype="link" target="_blank">Human Rights Campaign</a> (HRC) Family Project. Many recipients of HRC information will have read Tom's letter, and his continuing concern not only to have proper documents, but to have immediate access to those documents in emergency situations.<br /> <br />Tom briefly related the number of horror stories he's heard. Stories of loved ones barred from hospital rooms. A man who had to drive for hours to retrieve healthcare directives as his partner lay in the hospital after a brain injury. The pain of discrimination at the worst possible moment. <br /><br />Tom's immediate appeal to everyone was to give consideration to HRC's partnership with <strong>Docubank</strong> for a special annual rate. Please click on the link below:<br /><br /> The link is <a style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zi8sqvdab&et=1105348868801&s=-1&e=001soOaU8YtyThE7azGHqx2lmxFNKQilhYfoKKrN0Tj9B5cwsC21QKJAEs02ukXuj_OwPTwJG3RGzbhwFAr7GP2Q4DyWg255MEqxwufsMlUP8Pacx3vY_vvRM89WO5AhGgNKSsxfQUhXBrkNjkQCF76Evn56E0gH1mvntwRZCWinhtM0jhjorSuVg==" shape="rect" linktype="link" target="_blank">http://www.hrcbackstory.org/2011/04/protecting-your-healthcare-rights/</a><br /><br />This service stores electronic copies of all legal documents you might need in a medical emergency, and provides a card to carry with you at all times for immediate access by hospital staff by fax or a secure webpage.<br /> <br />I asked Tom for the link to this important affiliation, and found a host of vital in depth items surrounding this announcement. On the page entitled HRC Back Story, please click on the hyperlink <strong>legal documents to protect your family.</strong> You must first make a deliberate effort to secure and complete these documents. They are so critical to your future. <strong>THEN</strong> - once completed, those documents can be securely stored and accessed in case of an emergency.<br /><br />Please take a moment, access this link, read about the Docubank offering, and use this extended article to link to the many surrounding articles for updates on critical LGBT issues.<br /> <br />There is no time for skirting these important happenings in route to full equality. Stay informed ... and stay secure. <br /></td></tr></table>Blue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999771046597086756.post-88417758968309844522011-02-08T17:25:00.001-05:002011-02-08T18:21:32.384-05:00Regarding Future Requests for Commitments<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>A Personal note from Rev. Elisheva Clegg</b></div><br />
This blog is being placed for all to read, but it is dedicated to all same-sex couples who are planning a commitment in the years ahead. I am hopeful that all who have allowed our participation in their commitments, and all I have married in DC, will openly encourage other same-sex couples to consider legal marriage versus a commitment ceremony.<br />
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For every same-sex couple who has requested information for a commitment since March 2010, we have forwarded guidance which is most of the information which follows in this blog entry. I have urged couples to turn their attention to a legal marriage certificate, which is open to them in Washington, D.C.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>It's time to perform weddings, not commitments</b></div><br />
I am now announcing that we have one more commitment scheduled in September this year. This was arranged many months ago; however, it will be the last commitment we will perform.<br />
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Our general range for assisting has been in a four state area, namely Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia and North Carolina. None of these states presently accept a legal wedding license from Washington, D.C., but it is the closest location for this wonderful opportunity for a same-sex couple.<br />
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There has been a strong wind blowing for full equality in this country, but I am not always confident that some locations are secured. There are political forces which have come to power which are determined to deny equality, and would if given the chance, take away the progress which has been made. Therefore, it behooves every same-sex couple to forego a commitment in those states where legal marriage is not accepted, and stand before their partner, with families and friends, and have their life-time commitment legally recognized in the Capitol City of the United States of America.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>There is something special happening in The District of Columbia</b></div><br />
As I often say in DC same-sex weddings, the shutters are now open in the nation's most revered city, and the light of freedom is flooding in. This opportunity is not to be ignored. I am now urging same-sex couples to review their plans, take the time for planning, budget for travel and time, and aim for a credential which is so meaningful in their life journey.<br />
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I am registered to marry in the District of Columbia for all marriages. DC is the closest opportunity for obtaining a legal marriage for same-sex couples for those states mentioned above. However, I have performed DC weddings this past year for couples from Texas, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland and Virginia. There is a definite appeal to all couples to come to the seat of government, the federal city, and register a legal lifetime commitment.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Same sex couples need to understand and plan...this is meant for you!</b></div><br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></div>First, visit <a href="http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.blogspot.com/" linktype="link" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on">http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.blogspot.com</a> and <b>read the August 11, 2010 blog entry</b>. Then scroll back to <b>March 20 and March 12 entries</b>. These items need your attention for thoughts about a same-sex wedding.<br />
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You have probably read the website at: <a href="http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.org/" linktype="link" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on">http://www.blueridgerainbowceremonies.org</a> but not the blog entries as described above. They were especially written for couples who live away from DC. Please read the other blog entries also as time allows.<br />
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This note is to encourage a plan to obtain that legal status which will have merit if you decide to move to a state where gay marriage legality in DC is accepted, which also includes New York, which does not actually have same-sex marriages. Then there is the case pending in MA, which may change for same-sex couples to have access to those same advantages under federal law afforded to opposite-sex marriages. There is much happening, and the time for YOU to take advantage of this marvelous shift in society is now.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>When a minister may be your best choice for performing the wedding</b></div><br />
Since March 2010 we have married six couples in DC. Two weddings were on riverboats, one in a hotel, one in a park, one in a home, and a student center. Two were large weddings, one a dozen friends, and others just a few people. When a couple wants the freedom to pick a comfortable setting, away from the courthouse for any size audience, and on the day and time of their own choice, then that opportunity is open through the services of a minister registered with the DC Clerk's Office.<br />
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When I marry someone in DC, they will have visited and applied for the license, and then returned at anytime later, which can be many months, and picked up the license and stayed for a few days which allowed for planning for a wedding date in conjunction with retrieving the license. This has worked well for most couples with proper planning, and some flexibility for the two trips to DC, of course the second trip generally with the wedding date also.<br />
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Couples within three to four hundred miles may consider planning a 2-day trip by car for visiting the clerk's office for making an <i><b>application</b></i>. You could drive up on a Sunday, spend the night near the city, and apply in DC at the Clerk's Office on early Monday and return home. Just an idea, but always call their office (see the link in one of the blog entries) to make sure they are open and not one of their off days or holidays.<br />
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Couples who live at considerable distances with the means to consider a short vacation in the Capitol City may wish to come for the week. Our last wedding was performed in The <a href="http://www.ishdc.org/" linktype="link" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on">International Student House</a> in January 2011. The couple arrived on a Sunday, applied for their license on Monday, picked up their license on Thursday, were married before close family and friends from Atlanta on Saturday and returned to Georgia on Sunday. It was a full week of sharing the sites in the District and northern Virginia.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>You do have that courthouse option in the District</b></div><br />
There is the option of marrying at the <a href="http://www.dccourts.gov/dccourts/superior/family/marriage.jsp" linktype="link" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on">DC clerk's office</a>, but most couples cannot plan to stay from the time of application for the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><i><b>ten days minimum</b></i></span> until a court date can be set in the courthouse for an officer of the court to marry you. In addition, it is a short civil ceremony and with limited numbers able to attend at a very specific time. It is certainly reasonably priced, but generally only convenient to those who live in or near the City of Washington. I encourage exploration with the clerk's office. This may be the route for you.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Ministerial options for a personalized ceremony are many</b></div><br />
Please know that my objective is to <i><b>personalize</b></i> a wedding in every case. This is accomplished through exchanges and answering my questionnaires individually so that I know hopes and dreams. The <i><b>core theme</b></i> is always the love of two people. Upon completion of the short form on my website, I will send my detailed attachment for further decision-making.<br />
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Week day weddings are Monday-Thursday. Weekend day weddings are Friday-Sunday. They are classified this way, since week days provide more openings for availability, and because spring, summer and early fall weekends are often booked. The fee is slightly higher and kept stable for the last two years. Until I know details for projecting to a couple, I do not generalize, but give very specific details for further decision-making.<br />
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The only difference in cost has been when a couple requests our presence the day before for a rehearsal or meeting, which entails a hotel room for one night. Then - the hotel room near or in the city is reserved and paid for by the couple, and this is not a part of the fee. Please note that a portion of every fee is allowed to be donated to our non-religious public charity which is a tax deductible opportunity.<br />
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<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Young gay couples so often have no idea where to start</b></div><br />
We receive inquiries weekly from young couples who ask if they can marry legally in their state. Most of these couples are from North Carolina. These are young people who have been closed off from contact with large more progressive groups. Perhaps they are living in a strict religious family where there is no one to have open communication. Once there is maturity and loving connection with a partner, exploration begins. There is an excitement of learning what doors have been opened, and each generation is learning for the first time.<br />
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Once a couple has that legal marriage license, they can return home and plan a reception for family and friends who could not attend the ceremony in DC. It is important to host a reception or dinner to celebrate your marriage. Display the license at the gathering and involve others in this special celebration.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Join the groups which have credible information for equality efforts</b></div><br />
I invite any young couple to carefully review this blog and the references offered. I am asking others to point those couples to this blog entry for exposure. It is also imperative that gay couples become members of the <a href="http://www.hrc.org/" linktype="link" shape="rect" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" track="on">Human Rights Campaign</a> (HRC). No single organization has made a bigger difference in the fight for equality than HRC. Every person with an HRC membership is kept informed. Do not neglect this affiliation.<br />
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When a gay couple returns home with their marriage license, it is imperative to arrange a meeting with an experienced, gay-friendly attorney in their own community. That license will establish the degree of seriousness and commitment of the couple. Some day it will make a difference, as the numbers grow, to bring total equality to all states. Meanwhile, a gay couple must move to have all necessary documents properly documented and filed for their own self-protection. This is not a casual directive; it is an absolute imperative.<br />
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That's it for now. I hope this has assisted. Planning a wedding is a part of marriage. Yes, in most cases the planning for a same-sex marriage is a bit more cumbersome for the long distance couple, but it is a journey which warrants taking time and making it happen.<br />
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Blessings ... Rev. ElishevaBlue Ridge Rainbow Ceremonieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15750626017444661837noreply@blogger.com0