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Summary | Patient Reviews | Credentials | Locations & Availability | Accepted Insurance |
Patient Reviews ?
Overall Rating:
Total Ratings3 |
Total Reviews1 |
I went to this location several months ago after fracturing my foot on a Friday night. I was X rayed, given a boot and crutches and told to see an Orthopedist ASAP. I asked if everything was covered by my co pay and was told repeatedly that it was. I had a pair of crutches at home and certainly didn't need to pay for any more. I was told I had a fracture where weight must not be placed my foot. Again, I asked REPEATEDLY if everything was covered. When I went to the Orthopedist the next Monday, I was told that I had been completely misdiagnosed, that all I needed to do was wear the boot, continue normal activities and my foot would heal, no need for crutches. A couple of weeks later I received a bill from CareNow for over $200! I can see maybe $20 or $30, but $200?? When I ask if something is covered and you don't know, say, "I DON'T KNOW'! I feel I was completely a victim of fraud! And they didn't even read the X rays correctly! These people are masters of RIP OFF!


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OFFICIAL VIDEO PREMIERE: Race You To The Bottom
Check out the video premiere for Race You To The Bottom!
The video and a behind the scenes look at the video shoot is now premiering on Noisecreep.com!
Click the video below to check it out and let the guys know what you think!

subset: commoncrawl


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Dear Readers: Blount Today to close
IN EFFECT UNTIL MAR 12, 11:00 p.m.
issued for NW Blount, Knox, Anderson, Blount Smoky Mountains
IN EFFECT UNTIL MAR 13, 4:00 a.m.
issued for Blount Smoky Mountains
Photo by Brandon Shinn
The Blount County Middle School Basketball Tournament girls all-tournament team includes, from left, Haley Talbot (Union Grove), Kayla Newman (Alcoa; player of the year), Bethany Massey (Heritage), Tara Shields (Alcoa), Emily Herron (Union Grove), Leila Bangash (Maryville) and Leah Thomas (Heritage; inset). Alcoa's Dyron Bledsoe was named coach of the year.
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Check out the happenings around Blount County in Community News
See what our community columnists have to say
This week's area high school sports plus much more
See what Robin McDaniel is cooking up in this week's In The Kitchen
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OpenCongress Blog
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Change Congress
March 21, 2008 - by Donny ShawWith more congressional seats open in 2008 than at any time in the past decade, Larry Lessig has begun assembling a nation-wide, bi-partisan "wiki army" to help fill those seats with candidates who are serious about ending corruption.
On Thursday, Lessig officially launched his ""http://change-congress.org/">Change Congress" movement, which calls on congressional candidates to announce their support for any combination of four fundamental planks of reform: a promise not to take money from lobbyists or PACs, a vote to permanently ban earmarks in the congressional appropriations process, support for the public financing of campaigns and a commitment to making Congress more transparent.
The Change Congress movement is essentially collaborative — an undertaking designed to harness both the broad support for fundamental reform and the participatory nature of the Internet. Here's how it will work:
>Once a candidate or Member selects the planks he or she supports, the site will give the candidate code to embed that pledge on the campaign website. Citizens too will be able to take a similar pledge, promising to support candidates who match their own vision of reform. When they do, they will be linked back to reform organizations that support each plank.
>But the real contribution of citizens will reach far beyond simply making a pledge. Beginning in April, we will launch a second stage to the site: in a Wikipedia-inspired manner, wiki-workers will track the reform-related positions of candidates who have not yet taken a pledge. If a candidate, for example, has endorsed Public Campaign's bill for public financing, we will record that fact on our site. The same with a pledge to forgo money from PACS or lobbyists, or any of the other planks in the Change Congress pledge. And once this wiki-army has tracked the positions of all Members of Congress, we will display a map of reform, circa 2008…
>What this map will reveal, we believe, is something that not many now actually realize: that the support for fundamental reform is broad and deep. That recognition in turn will encourage more to see both the need for reform, and the opportunity that this election gives us to achieve it. Apathy is driven by the feeling that nothing can be done. This Change Congress map will demonstrate that in fact, something substantial can be done. Now.
>Finally, the third stage of Change Congress will provide financial support to reform candidates. Following the model of Emily's List, we will recruit contributors to support Change Congress candidates, both Republican and Democratic, who make reform a central platform of their campaign. Individuals will be asked, for example, to contribute $10/month to five Change Congress candidates. That support will make it easier for those candidates to spread the message of reform, and to define at least one central part of their candidacy to be about reform.
Lessig officially launched his movement yesterday during a lecture at the National Press Club as part of Sunshine Week. You can watch an archived webcast of the event here.
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I say that…
Voting is still powerful. No, Voting Is Revolutionary!
We have a vast majority of the population that knows that the federal government is doing a very bad job.
The lesser of two evils, doesn't matter anyway, is on every one's lips.
But it can matter.
The congress and senate have one of the lowest approval ratings in history.
We vote them out. Everyone of them.
The unregistered, disenchanted, disenfranchised voter is the majority.
If we all just don't vote for the incumbent someone else will win.
Most of us can then vote our conscience (that candidate that didn't win the party vote or a third party) and send a very strong message.
That is a term limit.
New fresh feet, encumbered by 12, 24, 36 or more years in office. Breaking what has become the way of doing things.
Long standing relationships with Lobbyists, Committees, Organizations, Unions, Corporations, Etc.
There shouldn't be special drawing rights on our congressmen and senators time, energy, pork, favors, minds and votes.
Long tenure leads to justifying policies, acts, expenditures, policies, treaties, orders, organizations, decisions and laws. Not being able to say this has been a complete failure and remove or reverse the law, policy, act or dissolve the organization, expenditure. There is a build-up of plaque and bad legislation left to do harm while the symptom that is created becomes the new problem to be solved.
And find an open and honest way to make sausage.
Vote now.
Vote out the Incumbent I agree that TERM LIMITS should be a basic plank of any congressional reform plan.
We keep hearing about CHANGE in the Presidential campaigns. Considering that the extreme my party first over the good of the nation mentality in Congress must change in order for there to be real change – no President can do this alone. It also appears that the me first and I have my hand out mentality among many, not all, members of Congress requires the "Change Congress" approach and the four planks. It is unfortunate that a candidate only has to adopt a minimum of one plank – three should be the requirement.
Term limits exist now. Senators are six years and Representatives are two years, we can and should vote them out of office. I am curious as to why the Democrats in the House would need a different plank.


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Category: Romance Description: Millionaire Simon Pearce's bride-to-be left him standing at the altar and wedding planner Megan Ashton was dumbfounded when she was asked to fill in. Literally. Be Simon's bride. For a year. For business reasons only. Her shock soon gave way to reason: eBook Publisher: Harlequin/Silhouette Desire, eBookwise Release Date: November 2009
28 Reader Ratings: Great Good OK Poor Available eBook Formats [Secure - What's this?]: OEBFF Format (IMP) [392 KB] GEOGRAPHIC RESTRICTIONS: Available to customers in: US, NZ, SG, TW, ER, GQ, LS, MG, MW, SD, SN, HM, MN, GD, JM, LT, SI, BY, FO, TR, PS, BM, AS, IO, SB, FK, SR, AF, FJ, CA, ES, PR, PH, BF, EG, KE, NG, RE, BV, TF, GE, KP, MV, PK, TL, BQ, HT, KN, CZ, CH, GI, IS, RS, SJ, BH, MH, NU, BO, AD, AL, AE, GF, MX, FR, IT, BE, CF, DZ, EH, GN, MA, MZ, SO, TD, TG, BT, KG, NP, VN, IM, AW, BB, CW, EE, LU, VA, IQ, QA, KI, PF, TK, AR, PE, AM, NI, KR, VI, UM, KM, MR, NA, NE, TN, TZ, KH, TJ, GG, LC, CY, FI, GR, HR, MD, JO, KW, OM, SY, YE, CC, FM, GT, MY, CD, CG, GA, ZA, ZM, ZW, MM, DM, GP, TT, VG, DK, HU, IE, LV, PT, SE, MC, ME, NO, IL, LB, GL, CK, GU, NR, PG, CL, GY, BL, BZ, DE, CN, BJ, CM, CV, GM, SH, UG, HK, UZ, GS, PN, SX, AT, AX, BG, MT, RO, BA, LI, MK, RU, PM, CX, PW, VU, CO, SV, UY, AU, BR, JP, BI, BW, CI, SL, BD, BN, ID, IN, LA, MO, TH, TM, MS, BS, CU, DO, MQ, TC, VC, PL, SM, UA, SA, TO, WF, HN, PY, NL, DJ, ET, GH, GW, LY, ML, MU, RW, ST, SZ, AZ, KZ, KY, MF, SK, JE, IR, MP, NC, NF, TV, WS, CR, EC, PA, VE, LK, AG, AI What's this?


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1790-1890 Federal Population Censuses - Catalog of NARA Microfilm
From the National Archives & Records Administration.
1790-1890 Federal Population Censuses Catalog of NARA Microfilm - Online Version
From the National Archives & Records Administration.
Sample picture of the form.
Ancestry.com Wiki - 1880 U.S. Census
This article originally appeared in "Census Records" by Loretto Dennis Szucs and Matthew Wright in The Source: A Guidebook to American Genealogy. This wiki is a free service of Ancestry.com.
Ancestry.com Wiki - Comparison of Census Information, 1790-1940
This wiki is a free service of Ancestry.com.
1880 Census Images Located with the 1880 LDS CDs
This site contains links to articles by Michael John Neill on how to effectively use and search the 1880 Census transcription from the Family History Library.
1880 Online Strategies: Part I
This article is part I in a series on using the online 1880 census indexes at FamilySearch and Ancestry. Specific examples are discussed along with when each interface is the best one to use.
1880 Online Strategies: Part II
This follow-up discusses some search techniques for the online 1880 census, focusing on locality problems (Germany in particular) and family structure searches.
An 1880 Female Head of Household
This article discusses an 1880 census entry where the wife is enumerated as the head of household instead of the husband (who is enumerated last!).
Clues in Census Records, 1850-1930
From the National Archives & Records Administration.
FamilySearch - Family History Library Catalog
From the FamilySearch web site, an online catalog to the holdings of the LDS Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Also search by locality.
United States » U.S. Census » 1880 U.S. Federal Census 1 June 1880 » General Resources
21 Links


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Mission Advancement
We are the church that shares a living, daring confidence in God's grace, and we are bold in sharing the many stories of how God's grace and work in the world are changing lives and communities. We are equally bold in seeking the support and participation of people -- young and old alike -- in drawing together our resources to enable ministries and efforts that serve and love our neighbor in Jesus Christ's name throughout the world.Mission Advancement shares the ELCA's message of God's love with a broad and diverse audience across all media, and directs efforts for support of the ELCA's work through major gifts, appeals and planned giving. Its work communicates consistently the distinctive identity and mission of the ELCA, empowers people to share the story of God's redeeming love in the world, and encourages members to engage in and financially support the work of this church both in and beyond their congregations.
The five teams and functions of Mission Advancement are:
- Constituent Support
Responds to inquiries for information, resources and assistance. - ELCA Foundation
Sustains, grows and strengthens ministries of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, congregations, agencies and institutions through personal gift planning, financial education and investment management services. - The Lutheran magazine
Nurtures awareness of Christ's presence in our lives and the world, shares stories of God's people living their faith, connects us with the global Christian community, provides an open forum for discussion and challenges us to bring God's grace and care to all. - The Little Christian
- The Little Lutheran
- The Lutheran magazine
- TheLutheran.org
- Marketing Communications Provides marketing, public relations and digital media in order to communicate stories of faith in action, ELCA news, open forums, and opportunities for participating in the mission of the ELCA.
- Direct mail appeals, newsletters and mailings
- Web
- Video
- Social Media
- Publications
- Mission Funding
Encourages and develops support for God's mission and ministry through congregations, synods and churchwide ministries.- ELCA Fund for Leaders
- ELCA Global Church
- ELCA Malaria Campaign
- ELCA New Congregations
- ELCA Vision for Mission
- ELCA World Hunger
- Lutheran Disaster Response
- Mission Support


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New Frontier: Developing Outcome Measures for Pre-dementia Trials
Administration shared his viewpoint and answered questions about the new guidance. Listen to the Webinar
Sort By:
Administration shared his viewpoint and answered questions about the new guidance. Listen to the Webinar
between AD pathology and microglial dysfunction. Alzforum held a Webinar on Thursday, 23 May 2013,
β-blocker drugs used in humans. Alzforum held a Webinar in which Dennis Selkoe, Brigham and Women's
On 4 April 2013, the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative biostatistics core held the first session of its two-part online training course on using ADNI data. Led by Danielle Harvey of the University of California, Davis, the session gave a br
Our Webinar on 17 June 2013 covered the latest research and future directions on blood-based biomarkers discussed at a recent Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation/Alzheimer's Association conference.
Iadecola C. Neuron. 2013 Nov 20;80(4):844-66. View the full Webinar: See Costantino Iadecola's
Have a topic idea for a webinar? We would love to hear it. Send an email to webinars [at] alzforum [dot] org.


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this summer replaced my old pressure tank with a new bladder tank - am very happy with the smaller size but have one question on how to winterize it. Have been draining the system for the winter for 20 years with no issues despite leaving property with no heat and 20 below temperatures. One concern I now have is how to handle the bladder in the tank when I drain the system - should I release the air pressure after draining the system or leave it with the 38 lbs of pressure?
Leave the air in the tank. The air will actually push the water out so the tank won't freeze. You just need to make sure all the pipe is drained.


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Mega Copper Sealant - 3 Oz. Tube
Heat resistant up to 700ºF. Hi-temp sealant is used to replace cork, rubber, silicone, felt and other cut gaskets to form a leak-proof seal. Resists oil, grease, water, antifreeze mixture and transmission fluid. More flexible than conventional gaskets, it can be used on water pumps, exhaust manifolds, valve covers, timing gear covers, transmission pans, water neck outlets or any place a high-performance gasket is needed. |
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The best music and talk stations
Playlists for any mood or activity
Custom radio by artist or song
New & classic episodes on demand
Experimental pop outfit Moonshake was led by Dave Callahan, the onetime frontman of the C-86 group the Wolfhounds; after several years away from the music scene, he resurfaced in early 1991, placing an ad in Melody Maker calling for bandmates. Among those who responded were vocalist Margaret Fiedler, bassist John Frenett and drummer Michael Rother, and within just four days of their formation, Moonshake -- so named after a track on Can's Future Days LP -- entered the studio to record their debut EP First for Creation Records. After jumping to the Too Pure label, the group resurfaced later in 1992 with the Secondhand Clothes EP, followed shortly by the Beautiful Pigeon; the full-length Eva Luna -- a brilliant collision of breakbeats and guitar noise drawing influence from disparate sources ranging from dub to krautrock to hip-hop -- brought their prolific year to a close. After the 1993 EP Big Good Angel EP, Fiedler -- who shared vocal and songwriting duties with Callahan -- and Frenett quit to form Laika; adding new bassist Matt Brewer and saxophonist Raymond M. Dickaty, Moonshake recorded 1995's The Sound Your Eyes Can Follow, a radical departure from previous efforts which almost completely eliminated guitars in favor of a vast palette of samples. After 1996's Dirty & Divine, Callahan relocated from London to New York, a move which hastened Moonshake's mid-1997 break-up. ~ Jason Ankeny
Moonshake Remixes
Dirty & Divine
Big Good Angel
The Sound Your Eyes Can Follow
Secondhand Clothes
Eva Luna


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Disney Infinity: Villains 3-IGPs Pack Games
Bring even more fun to Disney Infinity with this triple pack of vile villains – Davy Jones, Randy and Syndrome.
Delivery & Returns
How long will it take to arrive?
Please check the stock availability notice on your item when placing your order. This item is: In stock | Usually dispatched within 24 hours
Please remember to add postal time (3-5 working days) to obtain a complete estimate of delivery to your door.
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You will receive an email to confirm when your item has been sent.
You can also check the status of your order and individual items by accessing My Account details and following the prompts.
Please allow 10 working days from dispatch of your order before notifying us of any late deliveries.
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If I'm not completely happy with my item?
Please see our returns policy.
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Anthony Logistics Shave Cream
Join the Conversation
Have a question or a tip to share?
If you'd like to hear more about how this product worked (or didn't) for people with hair like yours, take advantage of our network of experts and customers by posting a question. Or, if you've used the product and want to post a tip or advice, go for it.
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Anthony Logistics Pre-Shave Oil
Anthony Logistics Pre-Shave Oil protects skin prior to shaving and is a must-have for men who are prone to razor burn and ingrown hairs.
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Anthony Logistics After Shave Balm
Anthony Logistics After Shave Balm is a greaseless emulsion of natural plant extracts that instantly soothes skin after shaving.
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Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser
Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser is a 3-in-1 face wash that deep cleans without stripping skin.
New Price: $21.00


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Free tax preparation on MauiMarch 8, 2012Maui Federal Credit Union is helping low- to moderate-income families file taxes free of charge. Maui FCU will prepare taxes by appointment on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from now to April 14.... No comments posted for this article.
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Good one! Share your favorites and earn zulily credit. see detailsconnect
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Continue without personalization?
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Drowsy darlings will love buttoning up for bedtime in these playfully patterned pajamas. Crafted from cuddly-soft flannel and boasting roomy silhouettes, they're perfect for hittin' the hay in style and comfort.
We offer such amazing discounts because we don't house any inventory after our sales end and therefore cannot process returns. However, we want you to be delighted and would never expect you to pay for a damaged or defective product. Please contact us if you run into any problems and we will be sure to make it right.


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1.) Next time you're playing a game on your mobile phone, your nose could be rewarded. Pop Secret has partnered with a marketing company to create a mobile phone attachment for the game Poptopia, the Pop Dongle. It looks like a cartoon popped kernel and when you swipe butter character within the game it produces a spritz of popcorn scent. The more you play the game, which requires you to pop as many popcorn kernels as you can, the more Pop Dongle emits the delicious smell of freshly popped popcorn.
2.) While we're still not certain of the health benefits of organic food, the same cannot be said of organic milk. New research of almost 400 samples of both kinds of milk found that the organic stuff, from cows grazed in grassy pastures, was richer in heart-healthy fatty acids than milk from corn-fed cows. The lead researcher with the study says "All milk is healthy and good for people," but organic milk has a better balance of omega-3 fatty acids versus omega-6, which has been linked to heart disease when it is too high in the balance. The study was largely funded by an organic dairy cooperative but experts say the data appears credible, according to the New York Times.
3.) Only one band in history has played a concert on all seven continents. This past Sunday, Metallica played an hour long 10 song set for an audience of about 120 scientists and contest winners inside a protective dome on Antarctica. Because of the "fragile environment", the music couldn't be amplified in the traditional sense. Instead, amplifiers were enclosed in isolation cabinets, and the crowd had to listen though headphones. The group Fall Out Boy had attempted to be the first act to perform in Antarctica back in 2006, but they had to cancel it because of "uncooperative weather."


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Liquid nitrogen is a chemical that is super cold, about -200 degrees Celsius.
Liquid nitrogen will instantly freeze anything it touches. It is used to kill cells that make up diseased or cancerous tissue. Tissue that has been frozen dries out and falls off.
Habif TP. Dermatologic surgical procedures. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 27.
Last reviewed 10/14/2012 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.
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A replacement word for "fucked". Normally used to describe a person being plowed with an abnormally large penis with the a lot of force.
by a random king
January 22, 2011
guy 1:"What did she say when you asked her out?"
guy 2:"no"
guy 1:"trucked!"
guy 2:"no"
guy 1:"trucked!"
by thenameisjes
December 28, 2008
When, on a two lane highway, one 18 wheeler decides to pass a fellow truck. This results in you getting stuck behind a slow moving vehicle that takes forever to get back in the right lane
That cement mixing truck just put on his turn signal to get into our lane--better hurry up and pass him or we'll be trucked.
by mr.maddog
April 02, 2011
To be so exhausted you feel as though you have been hit by, or run over by, a large truck.
Man I worked three shifts back-to-back, I feel so totally trucked.
by Sweet Jane
May 18, 2010
So ugly you cant help but think trucking accident.
Guy1: Holy Jesus, did you see the lady at the checkout?
Guy2: She was totally Trucked
Guy1: Double fucking fendered
Guy2: She was totally Trucked
Guy1: Double fucking fendered
by Steve Greene
March 02, 2006


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In-Game Photos From the Whitman's Sampler Mile High Classic
Inside Lacrosse Staff - 4/28/2012
It was a great day in Denver, as the Pioneers hosted the Whitman's® Sampler® Mile High Classic at Sports Authority Field.
There were 12,282 on hand to witness Denver upset Duke, as the Pioneers try to make their case for the postseason.
Also, Virginia held off Penn, and a high school match between Kent Denver and St. Louis Country Day started the day off. Check out all the action from photographer Ross Prohaska. Use the arrow at the bottom right of the gallery to scroll through.


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Bergen, is located on the southwest coast of Norway, at the North Sea. It is the second biggest city in Norway, but has the charm and atmosphere of a small town. The city was elected European City of Culture in 2000.
Surrounded by seven mountains, Bergen is the perfect place to go rambling, hiking and mountain biking. Don't forget to take a tour on the Unriken643 Panoramic, a cable car that takes you to the highest hill of Bergen. Enjoy a great panoramic view from the summit. If you prefer the boat, than you should definitely take a boat trip to explore the fjords. Rafting or rather ferryboat, it's up to you to choose how you want to discover the fjords.
Besides outdoor activities, the city has of course a lot more to offer. The cultural heritage of the city can be found in many great sights and museums. Discover for instance, the architectural style at the Old Bergen Museum, the history of the city at the Alvøen Country Mansion and the Bergen Aquarium. Last but not least, Bergen offers great outgoing possibilities with festivals, events and concerts.
› More flight promotions


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[JURIST] Iran's Guardian Council [Wikipedia backgrounder] approved a law Saturday that calls on the government to develop nuclear technology to enrich uranium, which could be used to create atomic weapons. The Iranian Parliament [official website] passed the bill earlier this month [JURIST report], which then went to the council for approval. The European Union has threatened to take Iran to the UN Security Council [official website] for not freezing its nuclear development, while Tehran refuses to give up enrichment activities but guarantees its program will not be used to build weapons. AP has more.
[JURIST] French territories cast their votes on the EU constitution [text] Saturday with the "No" campaign leading in the polls. One survey on Friday indicated a narrowing of the majority's lead in opposing the charter, offering hope to President Jacques Chirac [official website in French] who has been leading the "Yes" campaign [JURIST report]. Another survey, however, showed an increase in "No" supporters. The French territories voting on Saturday are French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. Mainland France will vote Sunday. In the meantime, opposition in the Netherlands remains strong [JURIST report] in advance of its own EU constitutional referendum on Wednesday. Reuters has more.
JURIST offers a news ticker and preformatted headline boxes updated in real time. Get the code.
Feedroll provides free Paper Chase news boxes with headlines or digests precisely tailored to your website's look and feel, with content updated every 15 minutes. Customize and get the code.


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Web Seminar Straight Talk on DCS Migration (MAVR)
The last day to register online was 29 January 2013.
Date: January 29th, 2013 Download the Webinar Recording DescriptionDistributed Control System (DCS) migration is a highly challenging undertaking. You need to take the right approach, but what's right isn't always clear. That's why MAVERICK Technologies and ISA are hosting a free webinar featuring a panel of top DCS experts. In just 90 minutes, you'll tap into more than 87 years of DCS experience. These are real engineers, and they'll discuss real migrations and real results. There's no hidden sales agenda. We just want you to know the truth about DCS migration — and how you can avoid the mistakes others have made. The webinar will include:
Don't miss this chance to hear straight talk on DCS migration! The PanelJohn F. BoydTechnology Leader, Rockwell Automation John Boyd joined MAVERICK Technologies, LLC as a Business Development Manager in 2010 and in 2011 took the position of Technology Leader – Rockwell Automation. John intends to place MAVERICK Technologies at the forefront of Rockwell Automation's platform development in expertise, quality, and efficiency. John expects to do this by reducing the cost of software development through implementing modular programming standards, reuse strategies, quality control and most importantly training. John brings with him 31 years of knowledge in the management, design, and integration of control systems related to process automation. His experience includes Project Management, Software Engineering, Instrumentation Specification, installation and commissioning of Complex Control Systems. John continues to enhance the value of automation to MAVERICK's customers in the Food and Beverage, Manufacturing, Mining/Mineral, Utility/Power, Water and Wastewater industries. John was a Naval Nuclear Propulsion Supervisor and Operator. After excelling in this field, he was appointed as a staff instructor for the Naval Training Propulsion Unit for four years. John founded two System Integration companies in the Northwest before returning to California. He holds multiple certifications in the Rockwell Automation arena, Schneider Automation, Intellution and Microsoft Technologies and is also a member of the International Society of Automation (ISA). Chad HarperDirector of Technology, MAVERICK Technologies Chad Harper serves as the leader of MAVERICK's Technology Group, which is a group of subject matter experts within the organization. They provide content for training programs, reuse strategies, and ensure quality on projects on those platforms. He previously served as the operations manager for MAVERICK's Automation Solutions — South Region, working out of the Baton Rouge, La., office. He joined MAVERICK in 2007 as an APC engineer when the company acquired C. F. Picou Associates, where he had worked for 11 years. Chad earned his Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering (BSChE) at the University of Arkansas. He is also a certified Project Manager Professional (PMP) and Certified Automation Professional® (CAP®). "A 'maverick' is someone who is willing to go against the majority when it's the right thing to do," says Chad. "We embrace that ideal at MAVERICK. Our entrepreneurial spirit and platform independence make us a truly unique company. We do everything we can to recruit people who are not only extremely skilled at what they do, but who are also 'maverick' thinkers." Chad's favorite MAVERICK project involved implementing advanced controls on an acetylene compressor. The solution prevented two major unit shutdowns in the first two days of implementation, which paid for the project in two days. When he isn't working on client projects, Chad and his wife, Michelle, enjoy competitive beach volleyball and spending time with their three kids. Nicholas P. Sands, CAP, PEManufacturing Technology Fellow, DuPont Protection Technologies Nick Sands is currently a Manufacturing Technology Fellow working for DuPont's Kevlar®, Nomex®, and Tyvek® businesses and the Global Alarm Management Leader for DuPont. In his 22 years with DuPont, he has been a business process control leader, site process control leader, process control consultant, and plant control engineer in several different businesses. He has worked on or led the development of several corporate standards and best practices in the areas of automation competency, safety instrumented systems, alarm management, and process safety. Nick is an ISA (International Society of Automation) Fellow, served as ISA vice president of Professional Development, Co-chair of Standards & Practices committee 18 working on Alarm Management, and a volunteer in the development of the Certified Automation Professional program. He is also secretary of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) committee working on the alarm management standard IEC62682. He has written many articles and papers on alarm management, safety instrumented systems, and professional development. Nick is a Certified Automation Professional and a licensed engineer in the state of Delaware. His path to instrumentation and control started when he earned his BS in Chemical Engineering from Virginia Tech. When not working or reading, Nick and Ruth run a recreational sled dog team. nicholas.p.sands@ dupont.com Matt SigmonDirector, DCS Next, MAVERICK Technologies Matt Sigmon directs MAVERICK Technologies' DCS Next initiative, which helps manufacturers leverage DCS migration as an opportunity for significant advancement. In this role, Matt manages operations as well as client relationships to ensure that MAVERICK utilizes the full range of operational consulting services to deliver the best possible solutions. Specifically, Matt is responsible for developing the work process, staffing models and client relationships with their business development managers. He also oversees all DCS migration projects and programs. Matt joined MAVERICK in 2005 when the company acquired General Electric Automation Services (GEAS), where he had worked since 1997. At MAVERICK, he has served as regional manager, engineering manager, project manager and engineer. Most recently, Matt was director of sales operations, which required him to manage a geographically and technically diverse team of specialists who delivered estimates and proposals for hundreds of new opportunities each year. Matt earned his Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering (BSChE) at Clemson University. "Our clients are always giving us new problems to solve, so that keeps the work interesting," says Matt. "Anyone who wants a challenging career in a fast-paced team environment will thrive at MAVERICK." His favorite project was working on a parallel train for a large global energy company. Outside of work, Matt enjoys traveling, reading and serving others. His faith and family are most important in his life. |


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Situated one mile from the Las Vegas Strip, this hotel offers free shuttle services to McCarran International Airport. It features an outdoor pool.
At Silver Sevens Hotel & Casino, each room includes a 42-flat-screen cable TV with pay-per-view movies. Coffee facilities are also provided.
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General | 24 hour front desk, ATM on-site, Air-conditioned, Bar/Lounge, Cable or satellite TV, Coffee shop, Cribs available, Express check out, Gift shop, Hot tub, Laundry facilities, Non-smoking rooms available, Parking, Pool (outdoor), Restaurant, Room service, Safe, Storage available, Wheelchair accessible | ||
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Southwestern Gorp Recipe
Ghosts, goblins and skeletons can't keep their hands out of this popular snack mix, reports field editor Renae Moncur of Burley, Idaho. It features crunchy popcorn and pumpkin seeds and has a zesty taco flavor.
- 1 package (3.3 ounces) butter-flavored microwave popcorn, popped
- 1 cup salted pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup corn chips
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon taco sauce
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- In a large bowl, combine the popcorn, pumpkin seeds and corn chips. Combine the butter and taco sauce and seasoning; drizzle over popcorn mixture and toss to coat.
- Transfer to an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 275° for 10 minutes, stirring once. Serve warm, or cool before storing in an airtight container. Yield: 3 quarts.
Originally published as Goblin Gorp in Taste of Home
October/November 2007, p17
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text:
Status of same-sex marriage
The status of same-sex marriage changes frequently as legislation and legal action takes place around the world. Summarized in this article are the current trends and consensus of political authorities and religions throughout the world.
- 1 Civil recognition
- 1.1 Africa
- 1.2 Asia
- 1.3 Europe
- 1.4 North America
- 1.4.1 Canada
- 1.4.2 Costa Rica
- 1.4.3 Mexico
- 1.4.4 United States
- 184.108.40.206 Federal recognition
- 126.96.36.199 Legal recognition of same-sex unions without marriage
- 22.214.171.124 States with constitutional or statutory bans on same-sex marriage or union recognition
- 184.108.40.206 Coquille
- 18.104.22.168 Cherokee
- 184.108.40.206 Cheyenne and Arapaho
- 126.96.36.199 Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians
- 220.127.116.11 Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians
- 188.8.131.52 Saint Ysabel Tribe
- 1.5 Oceania
- 1.6 South America
- 2 Religious recognition
- 3 See also
- 4 References
Civil recognition[edit]
The Netherlands was the first country to legalize same-sex marriages, with the first marriages performed in the Amsterdam city hall on 1 April 2001. Since then, same-sex marriages have been performed legally by Belgium (2003), Spain (2005), Canada (2003 - in some provinces; 2005 - nationally), South Africa (2006), Norway (2009), Sweden (2009), Portugal (2010), Iceland (2010), Argentina (2010), Denmark (2012), Brazil (2013), France (2013), Uruguay (2013), New Zealand (2013), and the United Kingdom (eff. 2014, England and Wales only).
In the United States, same-sex marriages are performed in its federal district, the District of Columbia (2010), and in eighteen states: Massachusetts (2004), Connecticut (2008), Iowa (2009), Vermont (2009), New Hampshire (2010), New York (2011), Washington (2012), Maine (2012), Maryland (2013), California (briefly in 2008, then in 2013), Delaware (2013), Minnesota (2013), Rhode Island (2013), New Jersey (2013), Hawaii (2013), New Mexico (2013), Utah (2013), and Illinois (eff. June 1, 2014). A 2013 Supreme Court ruling requires the federal government to recognize same-sex marriages performed by states that allow same-sex marriage.
In Mexico, same-sex marriages are performed in Mexico City (2010)[1] and Quintana Roo (2012), but same-sex marriages are legally recognized throughout the country.
Same-sex marriage has been legalized only in South Africa.
South Africa[edit]
In December 2005, in the case of Minister of Home Affairs v Fourie, the Constitutional Court of South Africa ruled unanimously that it was unconstitutional to prevent same-sex couples from marrying when marriage was permitted for opposite-sex couples, and gave Parliament one year to "correct the defect" in the law. If Parliament did not act, words would be "read in" to the Marriage Act to allow same-sex marriages. In November 2006 Parliament passed the Civil Union Act, under which same-sex and opposite-sex couples may contract unions. A union under the Civil Union Act may, at the choice of the spouses, be called either a marriage or a civil partnership; whichever name is chosen, the legal effect is identical to that of a traditional marriage under the Marriage Act.
No country in Asia currently performs same-sex marriages, although there have been several legislative initiatives over the past years. Israel is the only country in Asia to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere.
Cambodian law prohibits same-sex marriage.[2]
Then King of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanouk, announced in 2004 that he supports legislation extending marriage rights to same-sex couples. However, since his proclamation no effort has been made to legislate for them.
In an exceptional case, a marriage between a lesbian couple was legally and religiously solemnized in 1995 in Kandal Province.[3]
Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized. Article 2 of the Marriage Law declares "one husband and one wife" as one of the principles guiding marriages. The principle, first codified in 1950, was intended to outlaw polygamy, but is now also interpreted to disallow same-sex marriages. Many other articles of the same law also assumes the marriage is a heterosexual union.
Before 1997, same-sex couples found in sexual activity were prosecuted under a provision in the penal code against "hooliganism" or "indecency" (Chinese: 流氓罪). The provision was repealed in 1997.
The National People's Congress, legislature of the People's Republic of China (PRC), proposed legislation allowing same-sex marriages in 2003. During the course of the debate, the proposal failed to garner the 30 votes needed for a placement on the agenda. Li Yinhe has made numerous proposals to the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference to allow same-sex marriages, but none has succeeded.
Hong Kong and Macau[edit]
Same sex marriage is not legal in Hong Kong nor Macau. In Hong Kong changes to the Domestic Violence Law in 2009 may pave the way for future changes.[4]
Marriages in Israel are performed under the authority of the religious authorities to which the couple belong. For Jewish couples the responsible religious authority is the orthodox Chief Rabbinate of Israel. The Rabbinate does not permit same-sex marriages. However, on 21 November 2006 the Supreme Court of Israel ruled that five same-sex Israeli couples who had married in Canada were entitled to have their marriages registered in Israel.[5]
Article 24 of the Japanese constitution states that "Marriage shall be based only on the mutual consent of both sexes and it shall be maintained through mutual cooperation with the equal rights of husband and wife as a basis." The purpose of the clause was to counter previous feudal arrangement where the father or husband was legally recognized as the head of the household. However, the new constitution had the unintended consequence of defining the marriage as union of "both sexes", i.e. man and woman.[citation needed] However, on 27 March 2009, it was reported that Japan has given the green light for its nationals to marry same-sex foreign partners in countries where same-sex marriage is legal, a justice ministry official said.[6] Japan does not allow same-sex marriages domestically and has so far also refused to issue a key document required for citizens to wed overseas if the applicant's intended spouse was of the same gender. Under the change, the justice ministry has told local authorities to issue the key certificate—which states a person is single and of legal age—for those who want to enter same-sex marriages.
Nepal's highest court, in November 2008, issued final judgment on matters related to LGBT rights. Based on its ruling, the government will introduce a same-sex marriage bill.[7][8] Same-sex marriage and protection for sexual minorities will be included in the new Nepalese constitution currently being drafted.[9][10]
However, as of June 2013, the Nepalese constitution talks have failed[11] and any legislation will have to wait until a constitution is approved after the election.
The New People's Army of the Philippines conducted the country's first same-sex marriage in 2005. However it was not recognized by the government. Within the government there has been some debate on the issue of same-sex unions. The Roman Catholic Church stands in fierce opposition to any such unions. But since 1991 the Metropolitan Community Church Philippines has been conducting Same Sex Holy Unions in the Philippines. As of 2010, the issue of same-sex marriage is not "under consideration" in the Philippines. The only thing under consideration is a possible ban on same-sex marriage, including refusal to recognize marriages performed overseas. political parties such as the Gabriela Women's Partylist are actively lobbying and advocating for lesbian and gay rights and to insist that society not discriminate on the basis of sexual preference.[12]
South Korea[edit]
On 30 July 2004, the Democratic Labor Party of South Korea filed a formal complaint against the Incheon District Court's decision to refuse recognition of same-sex marriages. The complaint was filed on the grounds that the decision is unconstitutional, because neither the Constitution nor civil law define marriage as being between a man and a woman (the only mentioned requisite is age of majority) and that the Constitution explicitly forbids discrimination "pertaining to all political, economic, social, or cultural aspects of life of an individual." The Committee also claimed that refusal to recognize same-sex marriages constitutes discrimination based on sexual orientation and a refusal to provide equal protection under the law.[13]
In 2003, the government of the Taiwan, led by the Presidential office, proposed legislation granting marriages to same-sex couples under the Human Rights Basic Law. However, it has not proceeded. The country does not have any form of same-sex unions.[14]
Same-sex civil marriages are legally recognized nationwide in the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Portugal, Iceland, Denmark, France and the United Kingdom (England and Wales only, in effect from 2014). In a number of other European countries, same-sex civil unions give similar rights to marriage.
A poll conducted by EOS Gallup Europe in 2003 found that 57 percent of the population in the then 15-member European Union support same-sex marriage. The support among the member states who joined in 2004 is lower (around 28 percent), meaning that 53 percent of citizens in the 25-member EU support legalizing same-sex marriage.[15]
Albania's government announced its intention to propose a bill allowing same-sex marriage in 2009. However, the bill had not been presented.[16]
On 1 June 2003, Belgium became the second country in the world to legally recognise same-sex marriage.
Czech Republic[edit]
On 15 March 2006, the parliament of the Czech Republic voted to override a presidential veto and allow same-sex partnerships to be recognised by law, effective 1 July 2006, granting registered couples inheritance and health care rights similar to married couples. The legislation did not grant adoption rights. The parliament had previously rejected similar legislation four times.[17][18]
On 15 June 2012, Denmark became the eleventh country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage.
Since 1999, same-sex civil union (PACS) is allowed and legal in France. In June 2011, an Ifop poll found that 63% of respondents were in favour of same-sex marriage.[19] France legalized same-sex marriage on April 23, 2013.[20] The bill was checked in the Constitutional Court of France on May 17, 2013 and signed by the French President on May 18, 2013.
In Germany there is a legal recognition of same-sex couples. Registered life partnerships (Eingetragene Lebenspartnerschaft) (effectively, a form of civil union) have been instituted since 2001, giving same-sex couples most of the rights and obligations of marriage. In 2004, this act was amended to include adoption rights (stepchild adoption only) and to reform previously cumbersome dissolution procedures with regard to division of property and alimony. Attempts to give equal rights to registered partners or to legalize same-sex marriage have generally been blocked by the CDU/CSU, the main party in government since 2005. All other main parties (SPD, The Greens, The Left and FDP) support full LGBT equality. The Federal Constitutional Court of Germany has however issued various rulings in favor of equal rights for same-sex registered partners (such as joint tax filing benefits), requiring the governing coalition to change the law.
Greek law on civil marriage does not explicitly specify that the couple should be a female and a male. In spring 2008, the Minister of Justice announced that a bill was to be introduced to Parliament in order to regulate civil partnerships, but refused to include provisions for same-sex couples in the bill. On 3 June 2008 the mayor of Tilos Island performed two same-sex civil weddings, one of a female and one of a male couple. This created a flurry of reactions, both positive and negative. The chief prosecutor of the Supreme Court declared that the weddings have no basis in law and initiated judicial action against the mayor, the Minister of Justice concurring. Many clerics declared their opposition, but the spokesman of the Primate of the Church of Greece said that people who marry "outside the church ... can do what they want". Most opposition parties declared their support both for same-sex civil marriage or partnership and for the mayor's actions. The newlyweds pursued the matter in the European Court of Human Rights after unsuccessful attempts to get vindicated in the Greek courts. The case now awaits for a decision.
Unregistered cohabitation has been recognized since 1996. It applies to any couple living together in an economic and sexual relationship (common-law marriage), including same-sex couples. No official registration is required. The law gives some specified rights and benefits to two persons living together. These rights and benefits are not automatically given – they must be applied for to the social department of the local government in each case. An amendment was made to the Civil Code: "Partners – if not stipulated otherwise by law – are two people living in an emotional and economic community in the same household without being married." Widow-pension is possible, partners cannot be heirs by law (without the need for a will), but can be designated as testamentary heirs.
The Hungarian Parliament on 21 April 2009 passed legislation by a vote of 199–159, called the Registered Partnership Act 2009 which allows same-sex couples to register their relationships so they can access the same rights, benefits and entitlements as opposite-sex couples (except for the right to marriage, adoption, IVF, surrogacy, taking a surname or become the legal guardian of their partner's child). The legislation does not allow opposite-sex couples to register their relationships (out of fear that there might be duplication under the law). The law came into force on 1 July 2009.[21] Since January 1, 2012 the Hungarian Constitution bans same-sex marriage.
On 11 June 2010, a law was passed to make same-sex marriage legal in Iceland. The law took effect on 27 June 2010.[22]
The Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010 was first debated in Dáil Éireann on 3 December 2009. It passed in Dáil Éireann without a vote on 1 July 2010 due to all parties supporting the bill. The bill passed in Seanad Éireann on 8 July 2010 with a vote of 48–4. It was signed by the President of Ireland on 19 July 2010.
The law took effect on 1 January 2011.[23] It grants many rights to same-sex couples through civil partnerships but does not recognise both civil partners as the guardians of a child being raised by the couple. Irish law allows married couples and individuals to apply to adopt and allows gay couples to foster. The Act also gives new protections to cohabitating couples, both same-sex and opposite-sex. The Irish Government's forward programme for 2011 to 2016 includes plans to legalise same sex marriage.[24]
In December 2005, the Latvian Parliament passed a constitutional amendment defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman. President Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga signed the amendment shortly afterward.
The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriages on 1 April 2001. The possibility exists in its European territory as well as the Caribbean Netherlands (Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba) while those marriages can be registered in Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
Same-sex marriage is legally performed in Norway. The Norwegian government proposed a gender-neutral marriage law on 14 March 2008, that would give same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexuals, including church weddings, adoption and assisted pregnancies. On 29 May 2008, the Associated Press reported that two Norwegian Opposition parties came out in favor of the new bill, assuring the bill's passage when the vote was held on 11 June. Prior to this, there were some disagreements with members of the three-party governing coalition on whether the bill had enough votes to pass. With this, it became almost certain that the bill would pass.[25]
The first hearings and the vote were held, and passed, on 11 June 2008. 84 votes for and 41 against. This also specified that when a woman who is married to another woman becomes pregnant through artificial insemination, the partner would have all the rights of parenthood "from the moment of conception" - the law became effective from 1 January 2009.[26]
Norway was also the second country to legalize registered partnerships, doing so in 1993. Since 1 January 2009, all registered partnerships[citation needed] from 1993–2008 were upon request by the couples upgraded to marriage status.
On March 2001, the Socialist government of then Prime Minister António Guterres introduced legislation that would extend to same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples living in a de facto union for more than two years.
Same-sex marriage became a source of debate in February 2006 when a lesbian couple was denied a marriage license. They took their case to court alleging violation of the 1976 constitution which prohibits discrimination based on one's sexual orientation. Prime Minister José Sócrates of the Socialist Party was reelected on September 2009 and included same-sex marriage in his party's program. A bill recognizing same-sex marriage was proposed by the government and approved by parliament on 8 January 2010.[27] However, Portugal's parliament rejected alternative proposals that included a provision to allow homosexual couples to adopt as a couple (single homosexuals can legally adopt).[28] Although personally against it, the Portuguese President ratified the bill on 17 May 2010. The law became effective on 5 June 2010, after publication in the official gazette, on 31 May. The first marriage was celebrated on 7 June 2010 between Teresa Pires and Helena Paixão, the same lesbian couple that was denied a marriage licence in 2006.
In July 2006, Slovenia became the first former Yugoslav country to introduce domestic partnerships nationwide.[29] In December 2009 the Slovenian government approved a new Family Code, which includes same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption. The bill has been sent to Parliament to vote on the matter.
Spain became the third country in the world (after the Netherlands and Belgium) to legalize same-sex marriage. After being elected in June 2004, Spanish prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero restated his pre-election pledge to push for legalization of same-sex marriage.[30] On 1 October 2004, the Spanish Government approved a bill to legalize same-sex marriage, including adoption rights. The bill received full parliamentary approval on 30 June 2005 and passed into law on 2 July, becoming fully legal on 3 July. Polls suggest that 62% to 66% of Spain supports same-sex marriage.[31]
Following a bill introduced jointly by six of the seven parties in the Riksdag, a gender-neutral marriage law was adopted on 1 April 2009.[32] It came into force on 1 May, replacing the old legislation on registered partnerships.[33] On 22 October, the assembly of the Church of Sweden (which is no longer officially the national church but whose assent was needed for the new practice to work smoothly within its ranks) voted strongly in favor of giving its blessing.[34]
United Kingdom[edit]
On 18 November 2004 the United Kingdom Parliament passed the Civil Partnership Act, which came into force in December 2005 and allows same-sex couples in England and Wales to register their partnership. The government stressed during the passage of the bill that it is not same-sex marriage, and some same-sex rights activists have criticized the act for not using the terminology of marriage. However, the rights and duties of partners under this legislation are exactly the same as for married couples. An amendment proposing similar rights for family members living together was rejected. The press widely referred to these unions as "gay marriage." [35] During and following the 2010 election, all parties stated they were in favor of allowing same-sex marriage in the UK.[36][37] Following a public consultation, as of 2013 a bill allowing same-sex marriage in England and Wales, and also providing an exemption for conducting of same-sex marriage ceremonies for religious bodies whose doctrines oppose such relationships, passed its second reading on 5 February 2013 in a 400–175 vote. The bill passed its third reading in the House of Lords on 15 July 2013[38] and the Commons accepted all of the Lords' amendments on the following day, with Royal Assent granted on 17 July 2013.
In Scotland, which is a separate legal jurisdiction, the devolved Scottish Parliament also introduced Civil Partnerships, and performed also a consultation on the issue of same-sex marriage. On 25 July 2012 the Scottish Government announced it would bring forward legislation to legalise both civil and religious same-sex marriage in Scotland. The Government reiterated its intention to ensure that no religious group or individual member of the clergy would be forced to conduct such ceremonies; it also stated its intention to work with Westminster to make necessary changes to the Equality Act to ensure that this would be guaranteed.[39][40] No legislative plans have currently been announced for a similar law in Northern Ireland.
On 4 February 2014, Scotland passed Marriage and Civil Partnership Bill 105 to 18 legalizing same-sex marriage.
North America[edit]
In Canada between 2003 and 2005, court rulings in Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Yukon ruled the prohibition of same-sex marriage to be contrary to the Charter of Rights, thus legalizing it in those jurisdictions (which covered 90% of the population). In response to these rulings, the governing Liberal party minority government introduced legislation to allow same-sex couples to marry. On 20 July 2005, the Canadian Parliament passed the Civil Marriage Act, defining marriage nationwide as "the lawful union of two persons to the exclusion of all others." This was challenged on 7 December 2006 by a motion tabled by the newly elected Conservative party, asking the government to introduce amendments to the Marriage Act to restrict marriage to opposite-sex couples; it was defeated in the House of Commons by a vote of 175 to 123.
Canada does not have a residency requirement for marriage; consequently, many foreign couples have gone to Canada to marry, regardless of whether that marriage will be recognized in their home country. In fact, in some cases, a Canadian marriage has provided the basis for a challenge to the laws of another country, with cases in Ireland and Israel. Notably, the plaintiff in the United States v. Windsor, which challenged the Defense of Marriage Act wed her wife in Ontario.
As of 11 November 2004, the Canadian federal government's immigration department, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), considers same-sex marriages performed in Canada valid for the purposes of sponsoring a spouse to immigrate.[41] Canadian immigration authorities previously considered long-term, same-sex relationships to be equivalent to similar heterosexual relationships as grounds for sponsorship.[citation needed]
Costa Rica[edit]
In 2006, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5–2 decision that it was not required by the constitution to recognize same-sex couples in family law.[42] Legal recognition of same-sex unions has been considered by the Legislative Assembly.[43]
On 9 November 2006, Mexico City's unicameral Legislative Assembly passed and approved (43–17) a bill legalizing same-sex civil unions, under the name Ley de Sociedades de Convivencia (Law for Co-existence Partnerships), which became effective in 16 March 2007.[44] The law recognizes property and inheritance rights to same-sex couples. On 11 January 2007, the northern state of Coahuila, which borders Texas, passed a similar bill (20–13), under the name Pacto Civil de Solidaridad (Civil Pact of Solidarity).[45] Unlike Mexico City's law, once same-sex couples have registered in Coahuila, the state protects their rights no matter where they live in the country.[45] Twenty days after the law had passed, the country's first same-sex civil union took place in Saltillo, Coahuila.[46]
On 21 December 2009, Mexico City's Legislative Assembly legalized (39–20) same-sex marriages and adoption by same-sex couples.[47] Eight days later, the law was enacted and became effective in March 2010.[48]
On 28 November 2011, the first two same-sex marriages occurred in Quintana Roo after discovering that Quintana Roo's Civil Code did not explicitly prohibit same-sex marriage,[49] but these marriages were later annulled by the governor of Quintana Roo in April 2012.[50] In May 2012, the Secretary of State of Quintana Roo reversed the annulments and allowed for future same-sex marriages to be performed in the state.[51]
On April 30, 2013, a male same-sex couple asked the Civil Registrar of Chihuahua to marry. The Civil Registar rejected because the State Constitution defines marriage as the union of a man and a woman. On May 7, 2013, the couple appealed the decision of the Civil Registar and on August 19, judge, José Juan Múzquiz Gómez, of the Tenth District Court of the Chihuahua State recognized that they have the right to marry. The Civil Registar had up to September 3 to appeal the decision.[52] The government of the state did not appeal the decision and allowed the deadline to pass. On September 4, 2013, Chihuahua became the third state in Mexico to allow same-sex couples to marry.[53]
In January 2010, in the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora, a same-sex marriage bill has been proposed.[54] In southeastern Tabasco, the state's largest political parties, the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) and the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD), have announced their support for same-sex marriage in the 2010 agenda.[55] In the western state of Michoacán, the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) has announced it will propose bills concerning civil unions, same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples in 2010.[56] In neighboring Colima, governor Mario Anguiano Moreno has agreed to discuss the legalization of civil unions and adoption by same-sex couples.[57]
United States[edit]
Wikinews has related news: Interview with gay marriage movement founder Evan Wolfson |
Marriage laws in the United States are governed by the fifty U.S. states and the District of Columbia. Consequently, recognition of same-sex marriages differs from state to state. As of November 2013, roughly one third of Americans live in jurisdictions that recognize and perform same-sex marriages.
Seventeen U.S. states and the District of Columbia (Washington D.C.) now perform legal same-sex marriages: Massachusetts (2004), Connecticut (2008), Iowa (2009), Vermont (2009), New Hampshire (2010), Washington D.C. (2010), New York (2011), Washington (2012), Maine (2012), Maryland (2013), California (briefly in 2008, then in 2013), Delaware (2013), Minnesota (2013), Rhode Island (2013), New Jersey (2013), Hawaii (2013), and New Mexico (2013). Utah briefly performed same-sex marriages in 2013 after a court ruling, but a stay was issued by the US Supreme Court pending appeal. Same-sex marriage in Illinois will become legal on June 1, 2014.
In 2005, California became the first state to pass a bill authorizing same-sex marriages without a court order, but this bill was vetoed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. In 2008, the Supreme Court of California overturned a law banning same-sex marriages that had been passed by a voter initiative in 2000 (Proposition 22).[58] The legal effect of the court ruling was curtailed by another voter initiative called Proposition 8 later that year.[59] Proposition 8 was upheld by the California Supreme Court in 2009, holding that same-sex couples have all the rights of heterosexual couples, except the right to the "designation" of marriage.[60] But the court also ruled that marriages performed after its 2008 decision and before the passage of Proposition 8 remained legally valid. Attempts to overturn Proposition 8 by another voter initiative immediately followed the court's ruling.
The case was eventually appealed to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. On 7 February 2012, in a 2–1 decision, the court affirmed Judge Walker's decision declaring the Proposition 8 ban on same-sex marriage to be unconstitutional (see Prop 8 Ruling).[61] The panel continued a stay on the ruling, however, barring any marriages from taking place pending further appeals.[62] The case was granted review Supreme Court certiorari as Hollingsworth v. Perry, and was decided on March 26, 2013. That decision rejected an attempt to nullify a California Supreme Court decision allowing gay marriage. As a result, gay marriage is now legal in California.
Federal recognition[edit]
Although marriage laws are the province of state law in the U.S., after the Hawaii State Supreme Court became the first U.S. state supreme court to rule that the denial of marriage to same-sex couples was discriminatory in 1993, the U.S. Congress passed the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996. (Hawaii passed a constitutional amendment in 1998 that allowed the legislature to overturn the court's 1993 decision.)
Section 3 of DOMA defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and its purpose was to enable states to deny recognition of same-sex marriages performed in other states.[63] Under DOMA, same-sex couples who married in states that granted legal marriages were denied federal rights that attached to marriage.
On 26 June 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court declared Section 3 of DOMA to be unconstitutional in United States v. Windsor. The court said that the provision was "a deprivation of the equal liberty of persons that is protected by the Fifth Amendment."[64] With this ruling the federal government must recognize same-sex marriages performed by states that allow same-sex marriage and affects several federal rights, including enabling a U.S. citizen to petition a same-sex spouse for immigration.[65]
The Court in the United States v. Windsor case did not, however, address the constitutionality of DOMA Section 2, which allows a state to deny recognition of a same-sex marriages granted in other states. Legal observers predict the constitutionality of Section 2 will come under scrutiny next.
Legal recognition of same-sex unions without marriage[edit]
Several other states offer alternative legal certifications that recognize same-sex relationships. Before states enacted these laws, U.S. cities began offering recognition of these unions. These laws bestow marriage-like rights to these couples, and are referred to as civil unions, domestic partnerships, or reciprocal beneficiaries depending on the state. The extent to which these unions resemble marriage varies by state and several states have enhanced the rights afforded to them over time. The U.S. jurisdictions that use these forms of same-sex union recognition instead of marriage are: Oregon (2008), Colorado (2009), Wisconsin (2009), and Nevada (2009).
States with constitutional or statutory bans on same-sex marriage or union recognition[edit]
Constitutional amendments in 29 states explicitly bar the recognition of same-sex marriages,[66] and 18 of these states prohibit the legal recognition of any same-sex union. Another 4 states (namely Indiana, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Wyoming) have legal statutes that define "marriage" as a union of two persons of the opposite sex.
An attempt to ban same-sex marriages and any other legal recognition of same-sex couples in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico failed in 2008. Puerto Rico already banned same-sex marriage by statute.[67]
In 2008, the Native American Coquille Nation passed a law recognizing same-sex marriage; it is believed to be the first tribal nation to do so.[68] Although the Oregon voters approved an amendment to the Oregon Constitution in 2004 to prohibit such marriages, the Coquille are not bound by the Oregon Constitution, because they are a federally recognized sovereign nation.[69]
After a Cherokee lesbian couple applied for a marriage license, the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council unanimously approved a Constitutional amendment in 2004 defining marriage as between one man and one woman. The couple appealed to the judicial court on grounds that their union predated the amendment, and on 22 December 2005 the Judicial Appeals Tribunal of the Cherokee Nation dismissed an injunction against the lesbian couple filed by members of the Tribal Council to stop the marriage.[70] The couple would still need to file the marriage certificate for the marriage to become legal.
Cheyenne and Arapaho[edit]
The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes granted a marriage license to a same-sex couple, both of American Indian descent, on October 10, 2013 in Oklahoma.[71] There was no preceding government announcement or official act.
Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians[edit]
The tribe of Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians in Michigan legalized marriage for same-sex couples in March 2013.[72]
Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians[edit]
The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians announced recognition for same-sex marriages in March, 2013. They issued their first such marriage certificate to a male couple on June 20, 2013.[73]
Saint Ysabel Tribe[edit]
On June 24, 2013, the Saint Ysabel Tribe announced their recognition of same-sex marriage, becoming the first tribe in California to do so.[74]
Since August 2004, same-sex marriage became banned under an amended federal law Marriage Act 1961 (Amendment) Act 2004 so that neither a foreign same-sex marriage can be performed or recognised in the Commonwealth Marriage Act 1961. This effectively banned same-sex marriage in Australia. The law, which prior to 2004, had not defined marriage specifically, appropriated marriage as the "voluntary union of one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others." In 1874 under the Hyde vs. Hyde case marriage was defined in the common law as a "voluntary union of one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others." Neither Civil partnerships nor civil unions are recognised by the Commonwealth Government, either. The Federal Opposition, namely the Australian Labor Party under the leadership of Mark Latham, joined with the Government to support the ban, amid strong objection from the Australian Democrats and The Greens. It was passed on 13 August 2004 as effective from the day of assent. In June 2009, polling showed that 60 percent of Australians support same-gender marriage (Galaxy).
The states and territories of New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory have civil partnerships or relationship registration schemes that are available for all couples. These state-level registered relationships are recognised on both the state and Commonwealth Government levels. Local governments such as Sydney, Melbourne and Yarra also provide relationship registers for symbolic recognition, but these do not provide any legal rights. Furthermore, all states and the Commonwealth Government provide recognition to same-sex couples (and unmarried opposite-sex couples) as "de facto" couples, providing them with most of the rights of married couples.
However, in 2011, Labor voted 218 to 184 in favor of same-sex marriage on a conscience vote. If passed, it would legalise same sex marriage in Australia.[75] Following this, the bill was voted against by the Opposition and therefore same-sex marriage remains banned in Australia.[citation needed]
On 26 March 2013, Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama expressed opposition to the idea of same-sex marriage. Answering a question raised by a caller on a radio talk-back programme, he stated that same-sex marriage "will not be allowed because it is against religious beliefs".[76][77]
New Zealand[edit]
Originally, in New Zealand, civil unions, which impart all of the same rights and privileges as marriage, (except for adoption) are allowed. The Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Bill, a member's bill sponsored by openly lesbian Labour MP Louisa Wall that would legalise same sex marriage was passed by Parliament on 17 April 2013, 77 votes to 44.[78] The bill received Royal Assent from the Governor-General on 19 April and took effect on 19 August 2013.[79]
Samoa is a deeply conservative Christian nation.[80] Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi in 2012 reportedly "scoffed" at the idea of same-sex marriage being adopted in Samoa, and indicated that he would not support it.[81] He reiterated this position, on explicitly religious grounds, in March 2013.[82]
South America[edit]
Same-sex marriage is possible in Argentina since 2010, Brazil (2013) and Uruguay (2013).
On 22 July 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalise same-sex marriage. The law also allows same-sex couples to adopt.[83] And in many jurisdictions, including the city of Buenos Aires, it is also legal for non-residents and tourists.[84]
On 25 October 2011, Brazil's Supreme Court of Justice ruled that two women can enter into civil marriage under the current law, thus overturning the decision of two lower court's ruling against the women.[85] Following this ruling, a growing number of courts of Brazilian states, such as the most populous state of São Paulo, implemented directives which allowed for same-sex civil marriages in the same manner as other marriages.
Same-sex couples can currently have registered partnerships and full rights to adopt children in all states, and same-sex marriages based on court orders have occurred in several states in individual cases.
On May 14, 2013, Brazil's National Justice Council (CNJ) ruled in favor of recognizing same-sex marriage nationwide.[86]
The Colombian Constitutional Court ruled in February 2007 that same-sex couples are entitled to the same inheritance rights as heterosexuals in common-law marriages. This ruling made Colombia the first South American nation to legally recognize gay couples. In January 2009, the Court ruled that same-sex couples must be extended all of the rights offered to cohabitating heterosexual couples.[87] On July 26, 2011, the Court ordered the Congress to pass the legislation giving same-sex couples similar rights to marriage in two years (by June 20, 2013). If such a law is not passed until then, same-sex couples will be granted these rights automatically.[88][89]
The 2008 new constitution made Ecuador the first country in South America where same sex civil union couples are legally recognized as a family and share all the same rights of married heterosexual couples (except for adoption).[citation needed]
Uruguay became the first country in South America to allow civil unions (for both opposite sex and same-sex couples) in a national platform on 1 January 2008.
Children can be adopted by same-sex couples since 2009.[90][91] A same-sex marriage bill passed in the Chamber of Deputies in December 2012,[92][93] as well as in the Senate in April 2013 but with minor amendments. The amended bill was approved by the Chamber of Deputies in a 71–21 vote on April 10 and then on May 3, 2013 got the signature from the President.[94] The law took effect on August 5, 2013.[95]
Religious recognition[edit]
The religious status of same-sex marriage has been changing since the late 20th century and varies greatly. Reformed traditions in mainly Protestant (Liberal Christian denominations and Unitarian churches) and Reformed Jewish societies tend to be more receptive to the idea than orthodox or conservative ones, but many others, particularly some Protestant churches are deeply divided over the issue.
Many religious institutions that do recognize same-sex marriage avoid using the terms "marriages" or "weddings", and instead call them "blessings" or "unions." How and to what degree these institution embrace the idea varies, often by congregation. These institutions have recognized same-sex marriage or encourage it in their congregations in some fashion, either simply as marriage or some kind blessing or union:
The following denominations accept same-sex unions to some degree:
- Anglican
- The Anglican Diocese of New Westminster in British Columbia (which includes Greater Vancouver) decided to allow the blessing of same-sex unions in 2002. In response bishops from Africa, Asia and Latin America representing more than one-third of the Anglican Communion cut their relations with the diocese.
- As of June 2011, 8 of the 29 Dioceses have the discretion to bless same-gender civil marriages in consultation with the bishop.
- The Episcopal Church (United States) blesses same-sex unions[96]
- British Quakers, some American Quaker meetings (see Homosexuality and Quakerism).
- The Old Catholic Church of Germany blesses same sex unions
- Lutheran (Europe)
- In the Netherlands and Switzerland the reformed church allows blessings of married same-sex couples.
- The Danish Church of Argentina marries same-sex couples.
- In Germany some Lutheran and reformed churches in the EKD permit their priests blessings of same-sex couples.
- On 22 October 2009, the governing board of the (Lutheran) Church of Sweden voted 176–62[97] in favour of allowing its priests to wed same-sex couples in new gender-neutral church ceremonies, including the use of the term marriage.[34][98] Same-sex marriages in the church will be available starting 1 November 2009.[99]
- Metropolitan Community Church perform same-sex marriages,
- United Church of Canada variously bless same-sex unions or allow same-sex marriages in the church—several Canadian religious groups joined in an interfaith coalition in support of equal marriage rights, and issued a joint statement: http://www.religious-coalition.org/
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (2009) – During its 2009 Churchwide Assembly the ELCA passed a resolution by a vote of 619-402 reading "Resolved, that the ELCA commit itself to finding ways to allow congregations that choose to do so to recognize, support and hold publicly accountable lifelong, monogamous, same-gender relationships."[100]
- United Church of Christ (2005) – the specifics of the resolution did not change any church's religious marriage policies, but urged UCC congregations to advocate for civil marriage equality. In keeping with the polity of that denomination, doctrinal matters like wedding policies remain under the authority of each local congregation.
- Union for Reform Judaism (Reform Judaism)
- Jewish Reconstructionist Federation (Reconstructionist Judaism) – Left up to the individual rabbi.[101]
Rabbis will also perform blessings of same sex relationships where one partner is Jewish and the other is not so long as a (legal) Civil Partnership is in force for the couple.
- Unitarian Universalist
- Neo-Pagan
- Japanese Buddhism – although there is no same-sex marriage in Japan itself, authorities in Buddhist sects based in Japan recognise Buddhist same-sex unions performed elsewhere.
- Ethical Society
- Religious humanism
- Eckankar
- Raëlism
Debated or divided[edit]
In many religious traditions, the adherents are deeply divided over the issue, often alongside other contentious issues, such as having women in leadership positions or legalizing abortions. The institutions within the following traditions are either debating the issue or have policies that vary according to congregation:
- Baptists, other than the Southern Baptist Convention
- Lutherans, ELCA
- Presbyterians - PC(USA), not the more conservative PCA, OPC, ARP, EPC and others
- Individual interpretation
Not recognized[edit]
The religious traditions or institutions that do not recognize same-sex marriage tend to view homosexuality as immoral. These traditions or institutions do not recognize same-sex unions in any form or in any congregation:
- Pentecostal
- Roman Catholic Church—On 3 June 2003, the Congregation for the Faith issued a document concerning marital rights to same sex couples.[102] It reaffirmed traditional Catholic teaching that regards homosexual acts as being intrinsically disordered because they cannot result in children. The international organisation We are Church states that it is "committed to change the Church's official and theological approach to homosexual people".[103]
- Eastern Orthodox Church
- Oriental Orthodoxy
- Southern Baptists
- Latter-day Saints[104]
- Evangelical Free Church
- Numerous non-denominational churches
See also[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Same-sex marriage. |
- LGBT adoption
- Blessing of same-sex unions in Christian churches
- Marriage, unions and partnerships by country
- Religion and sexuality
- Same-sex controversy in the U.S. Census 2000
- Same-sex marriage
- Societal attitudes toward homosexuality
- Timeline of same-sex marriage
- Uniting American Families Act
- Marriage privatization
- Divorce of same-sex couples – legal aspects, divorce rates
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Thomas Richards is the Director of Communication & Public Liaison at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). In this position, he coordinates a comprehensive effort to inform the public of the President's and the Director's goals, plans, and activities through various media outlets; provides the American citizenry, Federal agency customers, and pertinent stakeholders with accurate information to aid in their planning and decision-making process; and plans and coordinates the publication and production of all audio/visual, digital, and other materials generated from OPM offices and develops briefing materials for Congress, the Director, and other OPM officials for various briefings and events
Prior to his current assignment he served as Deputy Director of Congressional and Legislative Affairs (CLA). In this position, Mr. Richards advocated for the legislative and policy priorities of the Director and the Administration. He was responsible for educating, responding to, interacting with, and advising Congress on Federal Government management, employee pay and benefits, and related policies within OPM's purview.
In the 109th and part of the 110th Congresses, Mr. Richards served as Professional Staff for Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI) on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia. The Subcommittee has jurisdiction over government-wide management issues, Federal employee policies, and the municipal affairs of the District of Columbia (DC).
Prior to working in the Senate, Mr. Richards served in a number of roles at the Federal Managers Association (FMA), a membership based advocacy association representing executives, managers, and supervisors in the Federal Government, most recently as Executive Director. He joined FMA from the legislative staff of Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), where he advanced appropriations and authorization priorities. Mr. Richards also worked at the New Democrat Network as a Special Assistant to the President.
Mr. Richards holds a Bachelor degree in Social Science and Philosophy from James Madison University.
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