Marriage Equality Begins Tomorrow and Kingston is Ready.

Photo credit: Paul Joffe
By Rebecca Martin

Tomorrow is a big day for New Yorkers – and Kingston is ready in support.

Celebration Chapel, created by Kingston resident Paul Joffe is a restored 150 year old church with a pipe organ and bell  – and access to a beautiful park overlooking the Hudson River.   Paul’s vision to officiate gay weddings was a long time coming. He bought the property in the early 2000’s with that solely in mind.

The Clerks office in Kingston will be available to issue marriage licenses tomorrow (Sunday), the first day same sex marriage will be legal in New York State.  Clerk hours will be 9am – noon.  No appointment necessary.  Contact Arlene Rion at 845/334-3915.  Kingston City Hall  420 Broadway, Kingston.    Marriage licenses are $40 (24-hour waiting period, identification required. Both individuals must be present and both must bring, birth certificate (hospital birth certificates and photo copies are not acceptable), photo identification, social security number, and all divorce papers and death certificates from each marriage if applicable.  Call for additional information and requirements.)

A Brooklyn native, Paul is also the founder of AFTER THE PRESS , a project that follows up on the mass media news narratives. Currently, he lives in Kingston, NY with his wife Ingrid.  He is a good friend and beloved by many.