Lambertville, NJ mayor to be the first to perform Civil Unions in New Jersey

[LynneSin]

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/16399566.htm

First union in the state? Try here

By Rita Giordano
Inquirer Staff Writer

LAMBERTVILLE, N.J. - When David Del Vecchio, the mayor of this quaint little Delaware River town, announced the other day that he plans to be the first New Jersey mayor to perform a civil-union ceremony, nary a soul around these parts batted an eye. If anything, he was preaching to the converted.

In ultra-gay-friendly Lambertville, a Hunterdon County tourist town of antiques shops, restaurants and Victorian homes just across the bridge from New Hope, folks of all sexual preferences say they welcome civil unions, signed into law by Gov. Corzine on Dec. 21.

The law goes into effect Feb. 19, meaning people can apply for their civil-union licenses. Then there's a 72-hour wait. The first unions are expected Feb. 22 or 23.

Lambertville, though, is looking for a way around all that. "Unless we're told we can't do it on the 19th, we're going to do it on the 19th," Del Vecchio said.

Del Vecchio, president of the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, said his vow to be first was meant as a message to his fellow mayors - a few of whom have made noises about refusing to perform the ceremonies.

It wasn't intended for the folks who live or work in Lambertville, a city so gender-preference-integrated that the subject seems to barely need to be brought up.

Already, one local lesbian couple have told Del Vecchio that they want to enter Lambertville's first civil union - whenever it is - and others are joining the queue. "We're getting calls all the time," said Del Vecchio, who is not gay.

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I actually wasn't shocked by this town wanting to be first. I've been to New Hope PA/Lambertville NJ (they're right across the river from each other) and both towns are very GBLT-friendly. BTW, Lambertville Station is a great place to have your reception, for anyone planning on going to Lambertville for their union; although, there are some kick ass bars I use to hang out in over the river in New Hope

[Sugarcoated]

1. Lambertville is one of my favorite places in the world

I just love that little town and the road down the Delaware. Just beautiful. Good to hear they're stepping up that way.

[dicknbush]

2. Was Apple Jacks on your List of Kick ass bars??

ustg wonering. I haven't been there for years but my youth was much enjoyed in that region.

[LynneSin]

3. I use to go to Havanas alot and there was some dive bar with great live music

which the name escapes me

[KCS72000]

4. John & peter's

also home of Johnny's Dance Band I think,
long time ago. The club is still there.


Hi Lynne.

K.C.

[provis99]

5. civil unions are a compromise, wimp-out policy like dont ask dont tell

just legalize gay marriage already, so I can watch the fundies crap their collective pants.

[LynneSin]

6. It's not the best policy but it's a step forward

Civil rights didn't happen overnight.