BOBKIN m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-08-09 published
Arnold and Sharon BOBKIN and Arthur RUBINOFF are thilled to announce the engagement of their daughter, Mandy to Merrick, son of Herb and Betty FRIEBERG.

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BOCCIA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-09-11 published
BOCCIA, Armand and Numisia -- Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary September 11, 2003. Thanks Mom and Dad, Nonna and Nonno For all your love and caring Love Joe, Robert, Louise, Jamie, Kristy and Christopher

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BODALY m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-03-11 published
BODALY, Stan and Betty - 60th Anniversary
Goderich, Ontario
Married March 16th, 1946
Congratulations and Luv from your 4 daughters, their spouses, 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

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BODALY m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-07-08 published
BODALY, Cathy and Kevin - 30 Years
July 10th, 1976-2006
Hope you have many more happy years together. We love you. Rebecca, Jennifer, Ryan and Ella, Heather, Ryan and Caleb, Mom and Dad Sprague.

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BOER m@ca.on.grey_county.artemesia.flesherton.the_flesherton_advance 2007-05-30 published
BOER / COOK -- Buck and Doe
Buck and Doe for Jamie BOER and Cindy COOK
Saturday June 2, 2007 Markdale Area 8 p.m.
$7/pp in advance, $10pp at the door.
Page 2

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BOERSMA m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-08-30 published
DE GROOT BOERSMA / LAPRISE
Monica and Daniel, together with their parents Fred and the late Nellie DE GROOT BOERSMA of London and Judith and Sylvia LAPRISE of Grande Pointe are pleased to announce the forthcoming marriage wich will take place September 20th, at the First Christian Reformed Church in London.

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BOGAERT m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2008-04-19 published
BOGAERT, Theo and Irene - 50th Wedding Anniversary
Theo and Irene BOGAERT and their family invite you to help celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Saturday April 26, 2008 at 7: 30 p.m. at The Watford Centennial Hall. Best Wishes only please.

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BOGART m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-02-14 published
Engagement - BAXTER / BOGART
Mr. and Mrs. Brian BAXTER and Mrs. Ruth CHUTE, would like to announce the engagement of Cindy BAXTER and Tim BOGART.
The wedding is to take place, June 14, 2003. We wish you all the happiness you deserve.
Love Mom and Dad.

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BOLAND m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-05-24 published
Wedding Announcement - Lindsay BUTLER and Joe BOLAND
Married in Edmonton, Alberta on January 3, 2003.
Their families join together to wish the couple happiness and success in their future lives together.
We Love You!!

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BOLES m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-03-18 published
BOLES / VARLEY -- Engagement

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BOLEY m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-05-17 published
Happy 50th Anniversary Henry and Joyce BOLEY
The family of Henry and Joyce would like to invite you to an Open House Sunday, May 25th, from 1-3 p.m. at the Baldoon Golf Club, 7018 Dufferin Ave., Wallaceburg.
Best wishes only please.

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BOLSTER m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-01-01 published
JONES / BOLSTER
Mr. and Mrs. Michael JONES are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Kristen Marie to Shane BOLSTER, son of Greg BOLSTER and Maureen EVANS.
A 2005 wedding is planned.

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BOLT m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-02-11 published
BOLT, Henri and Frances - 50th Anniversary
Congratulations on 50 Golden Years
Love your sister, Ellen

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BOLTON m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-02-19 published
BOLTON, Fred and Betty - Happy 50th Anniversary
Congratulations!!!
February 19, 2005
Love from your family.

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BOLTON m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-04-22 published
BOLTON / KOPCIC -- Engagement
Edwin and Michele BOLTON, along with Dzafer and Jasminka KOPCIC, are pleased to announce the forthcoming marriage of their children Amanda and Jazz. A ceremony in Canada will be celebrated in June 2007.

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BOLTON m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-10-14 published
BOLTON / TUSTIN -- Forthcoming Marriage
It is with great pleasure that Connie BOLTON, daughter of Fred BOLTON and the late Janice BOLTON, and Derek TUSTIN, the son of Vera CHURCH and step-son to Robert CHURCH announce their forthcoming marrige on Saturday, October 28, 2006 in Claremont. May they have a lifetime of happiness together.

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BOLTON m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2005-12-17 published
Pamela Kaur SINGH and Darren Graham Henry STOKES -- Match
By Judith TENENBAUM, Saturday,▼ December▼ 17, 2005, Page M5
Pamela SINGH and Darren STOKES met in Charlottetown, so it isn't surprising that this quote from Anne Shirley, in Anne of Avonlea, seems so prophetic: "Romance may not come into one's life with pomp and blare... perhaps it crept to one's side like an old friend."
In May 1999, the two were attending Show Canada, the annual Canadian motion picture industry convention, and film was their common parlance. She was there to accept awards for excellence as a Cineplex▼ theatre manager. He was representing his employer, MIJO Corp., a distributor of video, audio and print media.
When invited by a former employer to join some colleagues for cocktails, he eased in beside Ms. SINGH. "We clicked from the get-go. He was funny, charming and smart," says Ms. SINGH, who found herself sharing every unscheduled moment at the convention with Mr. STOKES, joking around and taking in island attractions like Green Gables.
Appropriately, it was Confederation Bridge that brought the duo together. Her reluctance to descend a rocky slope at the edge of the bridge drew a challenge from Mr. STOKES. "I was a phobia queen, afraid of heights, dogs, the dark, bugs and water," she confesses. "I said, 'I can't!' Darren said, 'You can!' He grabbed my hand, I got to the bottom, and was screaming, ecstatic, hugged him and said thank you." Back in Toronto, on a first date at Just Desserts, they exchanged photos, reminisced and considered the prospect of future nocturnal meetings, since Ms. SINGH worked most nights until 2 a.m.
Despite▼ the awkward schedule, Mr. STOKES, a hopeless romantic under his macho façade, could not resist -- coming to meet Ms. SINGH for late-night coffee dates. Likewise, on her single day off, she would get up after three hours of sleep and meet him for breakfast.
Over▼ the next couple of years, Mr. STOKES helped Ms. SINGH grapple with her demons: He converted her to snorkelling, tempered her fear of dogs and the dark and introduced her to squash. "Darren has been extremely supportive of my career and work ethic... and showed me there is more to life than work," she asserts.
But Mr. STOKES is quick to return the compliments. Ms. SINGH "has a wealth of knowledge," he says. "She meticulously plans events and it's great to sit on the sidelines and watch."
On December 18, 2004, he booked a corner table at Thornhill's Octagon Restaurant. Recuperating from her company Christmas party and the stress of just beginning her holiday shopping, Ms. SINGH felt bedraggled. As they toasted his imminent promotion, she wasn't prepared for what came next: "Sweetheart, I love you," he said, holding out a blue box. She didn't need to ask what was inside.
The wedding took place outdoors on September 10 at the Richmond Hill▼ Country▼ Club,▼ with pastor Dale BOLTON officiating. The ceremony melded the bride's Hindu and Sikh traditions, including the lighting of a deeya [clay pot] in tribute to Lord Ganesh, with the groom's Anglican background.
Today, Ms. SINGH, 31, is a senior consultant with the GCI Group▼ and Mr. STOKES, 30, is a vice-president at MIJO Corp.▼ And,▼ according to their friend Jason BORK, they're the perfect Toronto couple: "Each from different cultural backgrounds, they are social butterflies, love Toronto, and most importantly love and are dedicated to each other."

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BOMMEL m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-08-23 published
VAN BOMMEL / CHWIECKO
Joe and Joey VAN BOMMEL and Chester and Krystyna CHWIECKO are pleased to announce the marriage of their children Jennifer and Mark. The wedding took place at St. George Catholic Church on May 31, 2003.
Your family and Friends wish you the very best.

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BONA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-10-04 published
BONA / SOKOLSKY -- Tamara and Bruce KOFFLER, Victor BONA, Aviva and Mel SOKOLSKY are very happy to announce the engagement of their children Nicole BONA and Matthew SOKOLSKY. Proud▼ Grandmothers▼ Susan SERMER and Mussia WEREK share the happiness with brothers Mark, Jamie and Hillel.

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BONA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-10-11 published
BONA / SOKOLSKY -- Tamara and Bruce KOFFLER, Victor BONA, Aviva and Mel SOKOLSKY are very happy to announce the engagement of their children Nicole BONA and Matthew SOKOLSKY. Proud▲ Grandmothers▲ Susan SERMER and Mussia WEREK share the happiness with brothers Mark, Jamie and Hillel.

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BONASIA m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-04-12 published
25th Anniversary, Renato and Rita BONASIA
April 15, 1978 -2003
Today Our Love Is Greater Than Yesterday,
Less Than Tomorrow!
Love your children Joseph, Francesca, Cristina, Renata and David. Congratulations from Mom and Dad; Joanne, Alfonso, Joseph and Domenic.

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BOND m@ca.on.grey_county.artemesia.flesherton.the_flesherton_advance 2007-08-15 published
SEELEY / SINGH
We would like to thank everyone who helped make our wedding day a huge success. Thanks to our families and Friends for their love and generosity, and for all their help in making the day so memorable. A special thanks goes to James and Mary Elizabeth BOND for providing their beautiful property for our pictures, to the girls at the bar, Joanne and Sue, for making sure everyone was well taken care of, and to Daryl GORDAN for the amazing fireworks display. Thank you to Rick CLEMAS for chauffering our guests home safely, to Peggy LUXTON and Carol BEATTY for their musical accompaniment, and to Peggy-Sue and April from Weddings 101 for making the tent look more beautiful than we could have ever imagined. We would also like to send a huge thank you to Neil SEELEY, for designing the most beautiful invitations we have ever seen and for taking all of the fabulous pictures that we will treasure forever. And finally to Gary and RuthAnn VANALSTINE, for their hospitality and for providing the perfect setting for our wedding, we couldn't have done it without their help and hard work. Thank you all.
- Vicki and Craig.
Page 3

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BOND m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2008-06-14 published
BOND / GRAY/GREY -- August Wedding
Todd BOND and Jen GRAY/GREY
Dave and Eleanor BOND want to wish our son Todd and Jen all the luck and happiness on their special day. Love from our family and all of Jen's family.

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BONELLO m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-07-12 published
ARNOLD / BONELLO
Mr. and Mrs. Don ARNOLD are so happy to announce the forthcoming marriage of their daughter Sarah Lynne to Carl Peter BONELLO, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles BONELLO. The wedding will take place at the Elm Hurst Inn, Ingersoll, Ontario August 16, 2003 at 3: 00pm.

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BONIA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2005-12-24 published
Mark Andrew SYKES and Marlene Marie Alicia BONIA -- Match
By Judith TENENBAUM, Saturday,▲▼ December▲▼ 24, 2005, Page M4
A focus on algebra and isosceles triangles shifted to a more personal dimension when Marlene BONIA and Mark SYKES met in a Grade 10 math class in 1998. "I noticed him because of his English accent and because he was fresh in the country," she recalls.
A year and a half later, Friendship and casual dating had evolved into a relationship reminiscent of those bobby-sox teen flicks of the Sixties. Soon, love would trump logic when the teenagers sealed their future with a secret engagement.
"We realized we had similar goals and beliefs," Ms. BONIA explains. "Mark said he wanted to get married, but our parents wouldn't understand -- we were too young -- and he gave me a gold band with a tiny row of little diamonds."
They would ensconce the secret in their hearts and minds for almost four years. "It was something between an engagement and a promise ring -- an equal commitment," says Mr. SYKES, who was raised near Bristol, England. "I know people who have found somebody they really love, but they say they are too young, have too much to do, and let them go. Down the line, they've grown up and realized it's a big mistake."
Initially, the shy Mr. SYKES had been intimidated by Ms. BONIA's home life, which bristled with inquisitive and energized siblings and extended family. But after nearly two years, he started coming around. "I loved her family and their taking me in," he says.
In June, 2003, Mr. SYKES was a year from graduating in civil engineering at Humber College and gaining full-time employment with Shaheen and Peaker Ltd. when he decided to propose. "I think Mark won us over when he invited my husband Jim and I for coffee and asked our permission," says Ms. BONIA's mother, Laura. "We were pleased it would be a long engagement and they would both finish school first."
Thus, up in cottage country, Mr. SYKES, now 24, chose a picturesque spot and made the engagement official. "I was really nervous but happy it was final -- our Friends and family would know we had made a commitment and were getting married."
Family describe them adoring and quietly devoted. "She does everything for me; we're soul mates and best Friends," Mr. SYKES says.
"He's the most giving person I ever met. Caring, thoughtful and always two steps ahead of me to make sure I'm looked after," says Ms. BONIA, now 23, an English graduate from York University and a strategic assistant for Krcmar Surveyors Ltd.
Determined to pay for their own wedding, the couple enthusiastically and successfully scrimped and saved for the elegant affair Ms. BONIA had long envisioned. Thrift became their byword. "We both lived with our parents through university and college saving every penny for the wedding, and we didn't go away or even out for dinner," Ms. BONIA says.
The stately Graydon Hall Manor in Don Mills, a century-old mansion with 11 fireplaces and expansive stone terrace, would house the ceremony and reception.
On September 10, bridesmaids entered its chapel to strains of Bach on violin and harp. Then, Pachelbel's Canon in D announced the bride in a Maggie Sottero satin-and-lace creation, and Rev. Tina GABRIEL performed the nuptials.
The newlyweds, who reside in Aurora, have laid out an ambitious agenda: "Homeownership in five years, children in seven, and lots of travel," says the new Mrs. SYKES.

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BONIFACE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-09-15 published
BONIFACE, Jim And Gwen - Happy 55th Anniversary
Love your family who are blessed to have you as their parents/grandparents.

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BONNELL m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2006-04-08 published
Sherri Elizabeth BURCH and Lee John BONNELL -- Match:
By Judith TENENBAUM, Page M6
Seated beside a platonic lady friend on a flight to Mexico in February, 2005, Lee BONNELL focused on a beguiling Sherri BURCH, sitting nearby, "talking up a storm" with her girlfriend.
"Lee's radar was always on the alert for the damsel of his dreams. I knew he was on a mission after checking out Sherri on the plane," the friend recounts.
After they settled into their Huatulco resort, she continues, "he sprang into action, helping himself to a seat at her breakfast table," and hovering around her at the pool. "His persistence drew curious reactions from guests who had seen Lee and me together. They were scouting for scandal," she surmises.
Soon, the twosomes became a foursome, as they took in tourist events, discovered a mutual Friendship and expounded on life. "We had a great time. It was open and relaxed, and we talked about everything," Mr. BONNELL enthuses. Upon their departure, a week later, he and Ms. BURCH glowed, moonstruck, their approaches to life seemingly a tailored fit. Each owned a century home, hers in Fergus, his in West Toronto, and they shared a love of antiques, tennis and dogs. Ms. BURCH, however, was still "cautiously optimistic. There was obviously an attraction, but when you get home, it's different," she explains.
The next weekend, however, when Mr. BONNELL drove to Fergus to cook dinner for his new friend, he was certain, the moment he saw her, that his ardour hadn't paled. "The resort thing was the real deal. I just looked at Sherri and knew it was still there.
"I was going to impress her by cooking lamb, but I burnt it silly," laughs the account manager at M-qube, who, along with his culinary aspirations, has a master's of engineering and an M.B.A. from the University of Toronto.
Ms. BURCH, 36, a University of Guelph graduate and owner of Sage Benefit Solutions, fared better with her cheesecake, until half of it disappeared. The "usual suspects" included his dog, her two dogs, a drop-in dog and three cats. The comic aspects of the dinner notwithstanding, love flourished.
"Lee is the kindest person I know. When we were first together, I had the red-pencil mentality, looking for something to be wrong. There was no way he could be this fantastic," Ms. BURCH recalls.
Over the following several months, it became obvious the couple's next trip would be down the aisle. Late summer, they visited his family in Edmonton, and on September 1, 2005, after a perfunctory gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain, they tore off to Canmore, where they swooped, by helicopter, into backcountry -- along with a guide. Midway through a three-hour trek, they paused for a gourmet lunch, and on cue the guide took a hike on his own. Then Mr. BONNELL, now 44, produced a Tiffany box he had stashed with his extra socks. "Sherri said yes, we toasted and kissed."
Their search for a century home mutually convenient to their work seemed to be over when they found a Georgetown classic. Other bidders jumped into the pool, but by midnight they were the only ones still afloat. His home sold in a week, hers in a day, and despite a drunk driver crashing into the side of Ms. BURCH's place before closing, everything turned out well.
Almost a year to the day they met, on the evening of February 25, 2006, in the candlelit music room of Hart House at the University of Toronto, Ms. BURCH's young nieces, Hanna and Claire WILES, walked her down the aisle; Mr. BONNELL's nieces, Rhiannon and Kristjaan BONNELL- DAVIES, played Pachelbel's Canon in D on violins as the register was signed before officiant Lawrence BERNSTEIN. A string trio took over as 105 guests mingled at a cocktail reception in the Gallery Grill.
Mrs. BONNELL, who is on the board of directors of Groves Memorial Community Hospital Foundation in Fergus and also sits on the board of an agency dealing with street youth in Kitchener, reflects, "I always say I lead a blessed life -- especially having met Lee, who loves and cares for me."

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BONNER m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-07-15 published
BONNER / WHITWORTH -- Marriage Announcement
Bill and Avril BONNER wish to announce the marriage of their daughter Margaret to Doctor Steve WHITWORTH, son of Shirley Franks and the late Bryan WHITWORTH. The wedding took place in Gibalter on June 12, 2006. We wish them well in their new life in Brussels, Belgium. From Mom, Dad, sisters Angela, Susan, Valerie and Rosemary and all the family.

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BONNER m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-12-09 published
BONNER, Bill and Hilda - Happy 30th Anniversary
December 11, 2006 Love all the Kids and the Grandkids. "The goal in marriage is not to think alike, but to think together."

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BONNER m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2008-03-15 published
READ / WITT -- Forthcoming Marriage
Brent and Judi BONNER are pleased to announce the forthcoming marriage of their daughter, Diana WITT to Michael READ, son of Frank and Brenda READ of Princeton, Ontario. The wedding will take place on June 21, 2008 at Saint Paul's Anglican Church in London, Ontario.

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BONNEY m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-12-11 published
BONNEY, Martha and Ron -- On your 60th Anniversary Congratulations, from your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Love always.

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BONNIE m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-06-26 published
Happy 60th Anniversary Len and Marg (BONNIE) NORDBY June 26, 1943 Congratulations With much love - Lynda, Tanya, John, Cheryl, Ashley, Sarah, Sandra and Sheena.

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BONTJE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-06-17 published
BONTJE, Mike and Connie - Happy 25th Anniversary
June 20, '81 - June 20, '06
Congratulations Mom and Dad from Erica, Micaela, Katelyn, Leah and Lauren.

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BOOMEN m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-09-27 published
VAN DEN BOOMEN, Tonny and Gerry - 50th Wedding Anniversary
In honour of their Golden Wedding Anniversary, the children and grandchildren of Tonny and Gerry invite family, Friends and neighbours to an Open House, Sun., October 5th, 2: 00-4:30pm, Parish Hall, All Saints Church, 124 Front St. E., Strathroy. Best wishes only please.

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BOOMHOWER m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-06-11 published
BRILLINGER / BOOMHOWER
Stag and Doe - Bonnie BRILLINGER and Ken BOOMHOWER (aka Woody)
Friday June 17th at 8 p.m. Elephant and Castle Pub and Restaurant (in the Galleria Mall). 355 Wellington Rd, London

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BOON m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-03-23 published
BOON, Graham and Betty - 50th Wedding Anniversary
March 24, 1956-2006
Help Graham and Betty celebrate their 50th at a reception being held at Forest City National Golf Course, March 25, 1-3: 30 p.m., 16540 Robins Hill Road, London. Best Wishes only.

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BOONE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-11-12 published
BOONE / HARRIS
Finally!!! Gillian, Adam, Saxon and Madison are pleased to announce that their dad (Geoff HARRIS) and their mom (Lisa BOONE) are finally tying the knot! Congratulations and best wishes from all of your family. picture complements of Gillian HARRIS

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BOONE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2008-05-24 published
BOONE, Joan and Jim - 50th Wedding Anniversary
May 24, 2008 Congratulations Joan and Jim BOONE With much love from Tom and Renee, Charlie and Erica, Peter and Amy, and all the grandkids.

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BOOST m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-06-25 published
BOOST / MUTCH -- Forthcoming Marriage
Dale and Patricia BOOST together with Douglas and Catherine MUTCH are pleased to announce the forthcoming marriage of their children Erin and Stuart.
The wedding will take place in July in London.

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BOOT m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-01-14 published
LAWRENCE / BOOT -- Engagement
Wayne and Rose LAWRENCE of London are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Kerry LAWRENCE to Jonathan BOOT, son of John and Betty BOOT of Sarnia. Marriage to take place in Sarnia on November 18, 2006.

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BOOT m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-01-14 published
LAWRENCE / BOOT -- Engagement
Wayne and Rose LAWRENCE of London are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Kerry LAWRENCE to Jonathan BOOT, son of John and Betty BOOT of Sarnia. Marriage to take place in Sarnia on November 18, 2006.

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BOOY m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-09-24 published
BOOY, Marinus and Marie - Celebrating 50 Years
October 1, 2005 With thanks to God, the family of Marinus and Marie Booy invite family and Friends to an Open House on October 1, 2005 from 2-4 p.m. at the Aylmer C.R.C., corner of South Street & Caverly Road, Aylmer, Ontario. Best Wishes only.

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BORDE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-01-21 published
NUNES / McKENZIE
Natasha NUNES, daughter of Brenda BORDE- ALI and the late Michael NUNES and Brett McKENZIE, son of Esther and Dave McKENZIE were united in marriage on August 20, 2005 in Oakville, Ontario. After a honeymoon in the Canary Islands, the newlyweds took up residence in London, Ontario. Their families wish them love, health and happiness in their future together.

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BORDE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-01-21 published
NUNES / McKENZIE
Natasha NUNES, daughter of Brenda BORDE- ALI and the late Michael NUNES and Brett McKENZIE, son of Esther and Dave McKENZIE were united in marriage on August 20, 2005 in Oakville, Ontario. After a honeymoon in the Canary Islands, the newlyweds took up residence in London, Ontario. Their families wish them love, health and happiness in their future together.

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BORDIERI m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-11-01 published
NAGY / BORDIERI -- Mr. and Mrs. John NAGY announce the engagement of their daughter, Elizabeth Katalina, to Frank V. BORDIERI, son of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent BORDIERI. The wedding will take place in October 2004.

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BOREAN m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-02-22 published
BOREAN / McMILLAN -- Mr. Luciano (Lou) BOREAN of Mississauga, Ontario is proud and delighted to announce the engagement of his daughter, Tanya, to Scott McMILLAN, son of Bob and Kerry McMILLAN of Auckland, New Zealand. Tanya is also the daughter of the late Brenda BOREAN and sister to Sarah. The BOREAN family and Friends wish them both a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. A wedding is planned for late August, 2003 in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Congratulatory wishes can be emailed to: tanya-scott@sympatico.ca

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BORGES m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-05-24 published
BORGES -- Lilly and Bobby ''Finally Married'' Saturday, May 24, 2003. We would like to thank our parents, family, Friends and co-workers for sharing our special day with us. -- Love, Lilly and Bobby

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BORGES m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-06-07 published
Mr. and Mrs. Jack DOLBY, Toronto, Ontario, wish to announce the engagement of their daughter, Brenda Janine to Edward, son of Mr. and Mrs. Duarte BORGES, Scarboro, Ontario. The wedding will be held October 11th, 2003.

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BORK m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2005-12-17 published
Pamela Kaur SINGH and Darren Graham Henry STOKES -- Match
By Judith TENENBAUM, Saturday,▲▼ December▲ 17, 2005, Page M5
Pamela SINGH and Darren STOKES met in Charlottetown, so it isn't surprising that this quote from Anne Shirley, in Anne of Avonlea, seems so prophetic: "Romance may not come into one's life with pomp and blare... perhaps it crept to one's side like an old friend."
In May 1999, the two were attending Show Canada, the annual Canadian motion picture industry convention, and film was their common parlance. She was there to accept awards for excellence as a Cineplex▲ theatre manager. He was representing his employer, MIJO Corp., a distributor of video, audio and print media.
When invited by a former employer to join some colleagues for cocktails, he eased in beside Ms. SINGH. "We clicked from the get-go. He was funny, charming and smart," says Ms. SINGH, who found herself sharing every unscheduled moment at the convention with Mr. STOKES, joking around and taking in island attractions like Green Gables.
Appropriately, it was Confederation Bridge that brought the duo together. Her reluctance to descend a rocky slope at the edge of the bridge drew a challenge from Mr. STOKES. "I was a phobia queen, afraid of heights, dogs, the dark, bugs and water," she confesses. "I said, 'I can't!' Darren said, 'You can!' He grabbed my hand, I got to the bottom, and was screaming, ecstatic, hugged him and said thank you." Back in Toronto, on a first date at Just Desserts, they exchanged photos, reminisced and considered the prospect of future nocturnal meetings, since Ms. SINGH worked most nights until 2 a.m.
Despite▲ the awkward schedule, Mr. STOKES, a hopeless romantic under his macho façade, could not resist -- coming to meet Ms. SINGH for late-night coffee dates. Likewise, on her single day off, she would get up after three hours of sleep and meet him for breakfast.
Over▲ the next couple of years, Mr. STOKES helped Ms. SINGH grapple with her demons: He converted her to snorkelling, tempered her fear of dogs and the dark and introduced her to squash. "Darren has been extremely supportive of my career and work ethic... and showed me there is more to life than work," she asserts.
But Mr. STOKES is quick to return the compliments. Ms. SINGH "has a wealth of knowledge," he says. "She meticulously plans events and it's great to sit on the sidelines and watch."
On December 18, 2004, he booked a corner table at Thornhill's Octagon Restaurant. Recuperating from her company Christmas party and the stress of just beginning her holiday shopping, Ms. SINGH felt bedraggled. As they toasted his imminent promotion, she wasn't prepared for what came next: "Sweetheart, I love you," he said, holding out a blue box. She didn't need to ask what was inside.
The wedding took place outdoors on September 10 at the Richmond Hill▲ Country▲ Club,▲ with pastor Dale BOLTON officiating. The ceremony melded the bride's Hindu and Sikh traditions, including the lighting of a deeya [clay pot] in tribute to Lord Ganesh, with the groom's Anglican background.
Today, Ms. SINGH, 31, is a senior consultant with the GCI Group▲ and Mr. STOKES, 30, is a vice-president at MIJO Corp.▲ And,▲ according to their friend Jason BORK, they're the perfect Toronto couple: "Each from different cultural backgrounds, they are social butterflies, love Toronto, and most importantly love and are dedicated to each other."

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BORN m@ca.on.grey_county.artemesia.flesherton.the_flesherton_advance 2007-09-26 published
60th Anniversary Celebrated
Friends and neighbours attended an open house last Thursday on the occasion of Andy and Trudy WILHELM's 60th wedding anniversary. Trudy's sister and brother-in-law, Inge and Klaus BORN, are assisting with the cutting of the cake.
Page 7

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BORROWS m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-05-03 published
Ken and Cheryl BORROWS, 25th Wedding Anniversary
May 6 1978 - May 6, 2003
Love Mike and Jeff

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BORST m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-09-20 published
BORST / WEINREB -- Ian and Judy BORST are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter Melanie, to Lorne WEINREB, son of Sonia. A March wedding is planned.

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BOS m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-06-28 published
50th Anniversary - BOS
With gratitude to God. The family of Ralph and Jacoba BOS (nee PLUG) congratulate them on 50 years of marriage. Friends and family are invited to an Open House Saturday, July 5 from 2-4: 30 pm at the Providence United Reformed Church, Second Street, Strathroy.
With love from your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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BOTHAM m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-08-02 published
60th Anniversary, Wes and Vera BOTHAM
Aug. 10, 1943 - 2003.
An Open House will be held on August 10, 2003, 1-4pm. in Dufferin Hall at the Masonic Temple, 453 Dufferin Ave. Best Wishes only.

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BOTHWELL m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-09-13 published
BOTHWELL / KUBARAKOS
Georgina KUBARAKOS and Ruth and Fred BOTHWELL are delighted to announce the marriage of Kathy BOTHWELL and Peter KUBARAKOS on July 6, 2003 in Spartia, Greece.
Family and Friends shared this blessed occasion.
A Celebration honoring their marriage was held at Elsie Perrin Estate in London on August 17.
Love and best wishes Kathy and Peter.

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BOTHWELL m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-12-03 published
MacKENZIE / BOTHWELL -- Marriage Announcement
Michelle Rae MacKENZIE and Christopher David Paul BOTHWELL were united in marriage November 22nd, 2005, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, amongst family and Friends. Following their honeymoon a reception will be held at Bellamere Winery. Congratulations and best wishes.

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BOTTE m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2006-01-07 published
Giulia FRISINA and John PREINER -- Match:
By Judith TENENBAUM, Saturday,▲ January 7, 2006, Page M4
John PREINER may have stumbled and fumbled in his ardent pursuit, but he eventually swept Giulia FRISINA off her feet. Fortunately, she says, "A big part of John's personality is that he is persistent."
They had met at Roxy Blu, the now-defunct club on Brant Street, in April, 2003, when Dr. PREINER coaxed a phone number from a starchy Ms. FRISINA, memorized it and called the next day to invite her to a party he was having. She and her girlfriends arrived at his Beaches home to what seemed like pandemonium. "I didn't see him because the entire city was at his party," she recalls with a laugh.
Hearing that Ms. FRISINA was ready to drive off after 10 minutes, Dr. PREINER, a urologist, dashed at breakneck speed to intercept her. "She had obviously gone out of her way to come, and I had invited her because I was interested," he says. "It turned out we had been in the same circle for years, at the same events, but never actually met."
Yet, barely registering a blip of interest, she left.
His call shortly thereafter, inquiring what she was doing that evening, received the cool response that she and Friends would be cheering the Leafs at Il Gato Nero on College Street. With verbal swagger, he countered that he had a date with his ex-girlfriend, but he breezed in later with yet another girl and 12 Friends in tow. "He was trying to get to know me better, but we were amongst 20 people, it was really awkward, and I was not impressed," recalls Ms. FRISINA. Should he call again, she decided, "I was going to give him the boot."
His next call, however, changed her feelings; he offered to come down and meet her one-on-one for a coffee. When, on the way, he was forced to cancel and return to his Newmarket hospital for an emergency, she empathized, and gave him the chance to make it up on the next date: a 12-hour tour of College Street bistros that began well and "got better from there."
Three months after meeting, the pair, both generous of spirit, talked of marriage. "It wasn't like butterflies or lights going off -- we just felt at ease, and comfortable," says Dr. PREINER, now 36, adding that they share similar values, including the importance of Friends.
On Christmas Eve, 2004, he was summoned to perform an emergency operation and she insisted on accompanying him. She waited for him at the hospital until 2 a.m. "That really meant a lot," says Dr. PREINER, "that someone would care that much and go out of their way."
Similarly, he has been a wellspring of support through the early travails of her owning and publishing Dining Out Magazine. Ms. FRISINA, now 30, says: "I respected him more and more for the person he was, the way he thought, the values he had. I could just be myself."
The engagement six months later was hardly candlelight and roses. Tired of his commute, Dr. PREINER was finalizing the purchase of a Don Mills home when he sensed some uneasiness on Ms. FRISINA's part. So he made a proposal that sounded like an apology. "I spoke to your dad, talked to a diamond merchant, I bought a ring and was going to propose when I took possession, but don't want you to think I bought a house to have you move in."
Father Gregory BOTTE wed the couple on September 17 at St. Francis' Church, where both of their fathers had been altar boys. Afterward, the celebrants marched in a procession through Little Italy to lunch at Trattoria Giancarlo.
For Dr. PREINER, the highlight of their reception at Copper Creek Golf Club in Kleinberg was their first dance: a Strauss waltz, a tradition that honoured his Austrian heritage. After four months of lessons marked by contusions, near spills and the instructor's suggestion that they should consider an alternative, the dauntless pair whirled to perfection, and the dancing sizzled until 2: 30 a.m.

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BOUCHER m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2006-03-18 published
DOUGLAS/DOUGLASS / BOUCHER -- Engagement
The families of Samantha DOUGLAS/DOUGLASS and Jason BOUCHER are pleased to announce their engagement. Wedding will take place in September 2006.

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BOUDREAUX m@ca.on.manitoulin.howland.little_current.manitoulin_expositor 2004-09-22 published
Leo BEBONANG of M'Chigeeng and Katherine L. BOUDREAUX of Richville (Saginaw) Michigan are pleased to announce their marriage.
It took place at the Church of Sacred Heart in Caro, Michigan on September 11, 2004

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BOULIANNE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-08-16 published
BOULIANNE, George▼ and Bea - Happy 50th Anniversary
With love from your whole family.

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BOULIANNE m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2003-08-23 published
BOULIANNE, George▲ and Bea - Happy 50th Anniversary
August 15. 2003
With love from your whole family.

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BOULTON m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-05-14 published
KEELEY, Jill▼ {BOULTON} and Roger - Happy 50th Anniversary
May 17, 1965
Congratulations on 50 years of sharing life's ups and downs (thankfully mainly "ups") with your gang of beauties - 5 kids and 7 grandkids.
Much love from twin brother Jack, big sister Ann and our families.

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BOULTON m@ca.on.middlesex_county.london.london_free_press 2005-05-14 published
KEELEY, Jill▲ (BOULTON) and Roger - Happy 50th Anniversary
May 17, 1965
Congratulations on 50 years of sharing life's ups and downs (thankfully mainly "ups") with your gang of beauties - 5 kids and 7 grandkids.
Much love from twin brother Jack, big sister Ann and our families.

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BOURASSA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2003-06-11 published
Gay marriage is legalized
Ontario appeal court rewrites law, says couples must be given licences
Activists are ecstatic, Ottawa faces tight deadline to decide on appeal
KLEIN rejects ruling, says he'll invoke notwithstanding clause in Alberta
By Kirk MAKIN Justice Reporter; With reports from Mark HUME in Kelowna, and Canadian Press Wednesday, June 11, 2003 - Page A1
The exclusion of gays from the institution of marriage is illogical, offensive and unjustifiable, the Ontario Court of Appeal said yesterday in a historic judgment that makes same-sex marriages legal for the first time in Canada.
The ruling took effect immediately in Ontario -- two gay men were married yesterday in a Toronto court -- increasing the pressure on the federal government to consider legislation on same-sex unions or go to the Supreme Court. A decision on the latter option must be made by June 30.
Alberta Premier Ralph KLEIN boosted the stakes further, saying his province is not about to recognize same-sex marriages as legal, and will invoke the notwithstanding clause of the Constitution to override any court ruling recognizing a right to such marriages.
"If there is any move to sanctify and legalize same-sex marriages, we will use the notwithstanding clause, period, end of story," Mr. KLEIN said at the Western Premiers Conference in Kelowna, B.C.
The Ontario court methodically dismantled every argument made before it in support of heterosexual-only marriages. It refused even to permit a grace period for Ontario to bring its laws into conformity with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Courts in British Columbia and Quebec have also struck down marriage laws, but gave the governments time to rewrite their legislation.
The Ontario judges said denying same-sex marriage is tantamount to declaring homosexuals a lesser order of being, helping to perpetuate an impression that gays and lesbians are incapable of forming loving relationships.
"A purpose that demeans the dignity of same-sex couples is contrary to the values of a free and democratic society and cannot be pressing and substantial," said Chief Justice Roy McMURTRY, Mr. Justice James MacPHERSON and Madam Justice Eileen GILLESE.
"Same-sex couples are capable of forming long, lasting, loving and intimate relationships. A law that prohibits same-sex couples from marrying does not accord with the needs, capacities and circumstances of same-sex couples."
The judges ordered Toronto's city clerk and the provincial registrar-general to issue and accept marriage licences for two couples married under the Christian tradition of publication of banns in 2001 -- Joe VARNELL and Kevin BOURASSA; and Elaine and Anne VAUTOUR -- making them the first gay marriages in the country.
Henceforth, the court ordered the definition of marriage in Ontario to be "the voluntary union for life of two persons to the exclusion of all others."
The ruling was the culmination of decades of strategic prodding by gay couples, associations and legal activists. All were ecstatic yesterday over the strength of the Ontario ruling.
"This is why people come to Canada," said Michael LESHNER, who married his partner, Michael STARK, within hours of the ruling. "They marvel at our values. We have sent an unmistakable message that love can conquer all."
"It's a momentous day," said Kyle RAE, a gay Toronto city councillor. "It is a great day for equality in Canada."
A lawyer for the couples, Martha McCARTHY, predicted many more marriages in the days ahead, while the federal government ponders a possible appeal. "The more marriages we get, the more inevitable this is," she said in an interview. "The time to be right is ripe, as Martin Luther KING would say."
Courts in Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec have now overturned marriage laws. But the rulings in British Columbia and Quebec did not take effect immediately because they allowed governments until mid-2004 to redraft the laws.
A final clash is now possible before a Supreme Court of Canada bench that has steadily established a reputation for defending gay rights. The federal government has only until June 30 to decide whether to appeal the British Columbia ruling. The Liberal government is also expecting a report this week from a parliamentary committee examining same-sex marriage.
Prime Minister Jean CHRÉTIEN said yesterday Justice Minister Martin CAUCHON is looking at the judgment along with the other rulings, and said it is too early to know whether it will be appealed.
Mr. CAUCHON said Ottawa recognizes it must move quickly toward a "national solution" to the same-sex debate.
"We see the direction that the courts are taking now," Mr. CAUCHON said after a cabinet meeting. "I'm asking for a little bit of time to look at the decision and to come back with a statement."
The Ontario Court of Appeal was not in a mood for patience, and it was not willing to run the risk that provincial legislators would devise wording to circumvent their ruling.
"A temporary suspension allows a state of affairs that has been found to violate standards embodied in the Charter to persist for a time despite the violation," the court said.
It also pointed out that were it simply to render the entire law invalid, gay people would be vulnerable to the wrath of heterosexuals who found themselves temporarily denied the benefits of marriage.
The decision rested on the constitutional right to equality and emphasized the "dignity" of individuals.
Launched by eight same-sex couples, the litigation had targeted a common-law definition of marriage as a union between "one man and one woman." The couples won their challenge in Ontario's Divisional Court, but it, too, suspended its ruling for two years.
Yesterday, the Court of Appeal specifically rejected arguments that procreation is an integral pillar of marriage.
"Same-sex couples can choose to have children through adoption, surrogacy and donor insemination," the judges reasoned. "Importantly, procreation and child-rearing are not the only purposes of marriage, or the only reason why couples choose to marry. The opposite-sex requirement in marriage is not rationally connected to the encouragement of procreation and child-rearing."
They said government lawyers offered mere speculation instead of proof to show why the exclusion of same-sex marriages was a valid social objective -- and that the definition of marriage was far from a minimal infringement.
What Canadian think about gay issues
The Ontario Court of Appeal ruled yesterday that the right to marry should be extended to same-sex couples.
Recent surveys have produced the following results:
Do you support or oppose gay marriage?
Support Oppose
Males (18-34) 61.2% 33.9%
Females (18-34) 69.2% 22.2%
If the Supreme Court of Canada said that the federal government had to give gays and lesbians the right to be married, do you think that the government should or should not use its power to overrule the court's decision?
Should Should not
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees equal rights for women and ethnic and religious minorities and other groups. In your opinion, should the Charter also guarantee rights for gays and lesbians?
Yes No
Note: Graphic does not include respondents who did not know or who refused to answer.
source: Centre For Research And Information On Canada

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BOURASSA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.globe_and_mail 2003-06-11 published
Same-sex married couples rejoice
Ruling recognizes union of couples married in 2001; others rush to wed
By Estanislao OZIEWICZ Wednesday, June 11, 2003 - Page A4
Toronto -- For Kevin BOURASSA, 45, and Joe VARNELL, 33, becoming Canada's first same-sex married couple is bittersweet, even as advocates call their union a world first.
"Gee, I wish my mom could have seen this," Mr. VARNELL said. "Because of what the court did in Ontario today no mother will ever again not be able to dance at her son's wedding. That's a wonderful thing."
With his "lawfully wedded husband" at his side, Mr. VARNELL said they planned to celebrate by going home, popping a bottle of champagne and cuddling with their cat.
"If you forgive me, I never want to see any of you in my living room again," he said.
The pioneering couple, who were wed on January 14, 2001, and other same-sex couples seeking to be married in civil ceremonies were speaking at a news conference after a historic Ontario Court of Appeal ruling that they have a constitutional right to marriage.
"Canada gets the gold medal for same-sex marriage around the world," said Trent MORRIS, lawyer for the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto.
"I would like to congratulate them for being the first same-sex couple married not only in Canada but, as Mr. MORRIS indicated, the first same-sex couple in the world," said Cynthia PETERSON, lawyer for Equality for Gays And Lesbians Everywhere, a national advocacy organization for gays and lesbians.
The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize marriage for gays and lesbians on April 1, 2001. This year, Belgium became the second country to open marriage to same-sex couples. Unlike its northern neighbour, Belgium did not allow such couples to adopt children.
Mr. VARNELL, an e-commerce consultant, and Mr. BOURASSA, a former bank manager who is now a full-time advocate for marriage equality, were wed at the Metropolitan Community Church before the Dutch law was changed, using an ancient -- and legally valid -- Christian tradition of publication of banns, which amount to a notice of intent to marry. This allowed them to avoid having to get a marriage licence issued by the city.
The hitch, however, has been that whether a marriage in Ontario is preceded by civil licence or by banns, it has to be registered by the province's registrar-general.
Yesterday's court ruling not only ordered the City of Toronto to issue licences to same-sex couples but also told the province to register same-sex marriages. The city complied immediately, and by late yesterday morning had issued licences to several couples, including Ontario Crown attorney Michael LESHNER, 55, who a few hours later married his partner of two decades, Michael STARK, 45, in front of Mr. Justice John HAMILTON of the Ontario Superior Court.
"This is first and foremost a Canadian love story," said Mr. LESHNER, who has been a thorn in the side of the Ontario government for years.
"This is why people come to Canada, because they marvel at our values, and we've sent an unmistakable message that love can conquer all, the love of two good men can defeat everything.... It [homophobia] is dead legally as of today."
The joy and optimism of homosexual groups was tempered by the Ontario government's reluctance to embrace the ruling immediately without reservation.
Attorney-General Norman STERLING told the legislature that he was waiting to hear whether the federal government would appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. Although municipalities and provinces administer marriages, the federal government is responsible for defining marriage.
"We will, of course, follow what the court says in the decision and follow that to the letter of the law," Mr. STERLING said.
Among those celebrating yesterday were Joyce BARNETT and Alison KEMPER, who also picked up their marriage licences at Toronto City Hall and will marry in July, 2004. The women, both of whom are ordained in the Anglican Church, have been together since Their two children were delighted. "I knew that nobody could say I didn't have a family," said Robbie, 11, who was born to Ms. KEMPER. " Canada has finally figured out it's unfair to deny this to anybody."
His sister Hannah, 17, said she has grown up to find that she is heterosexual. She said she is indebted to her parents for bringing her up "where it's okay to be what you want to be."
The court ruling did not sit well with some religious organizations, including the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada.
Evangelical Fellowship of Canada president Bruce CELEMENGER said the court has fundamentally redefined marriage.
"It is not an appropriate use of the Charter to redefine pre-existing social, cultural and religious institutions," he said.

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BOURASSA m@ca.on.york_county.toronto.toronto_star 2003-06-11 published
Gay couple married after ruling
Couple celebrates end of 20-year fight
Judges rewrite definition of marriage
Tracey TYLER and Tracy HUFFMAN Staff Reporters
Two gay men said "I do" yesterday, after Ontario's highest court said "they can."
Crown Attorney Michael LESHNER and his long-time partner Michael STARK were married by Mr. Justice John HAMILTON in a hastily arranged ceremony in the jury waiting room of a Toronto courthouse, as a crowd that included everyone from judges to janitors looked on.
Just hours before, the Ontario Court of Appeal rewrote the definition of marriage to include same-sex couples, saying denying gays and lesbians the ability to marry offends their dignity, discriminates on the basis of sexual orientation and violates their equality rights under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
A unanimous three-judge panel, made up of Chief Justice Roy McMURTRY and justices James MacPHERSON and Eileen GILLESE, then took the issue further than any other court in the world.
Gay and lesbian marriage became legal in Ontario, effective immediately.
"Michael LESHNER, will you please repeat after me," said HAMILTON, as he began the short, civil ceremony. "I do solemnly declare that I do not know of any lawful impediment why I may not be joined in matrimony to Michael Clifford STARK."
Both men repeated the declaration before pledging their vows.
"I Michael, take you Michael, to be my lawful wedded spouse," said LESHNER. "To have and to hold, from this day forward, whatever circumstances or experiences life may hold for us."
HAMILTON, an Ontario Superior Court judge, asked both men to place rings on each other's fingers, then made it official.
"By the power vested in me by the Marriage Act, I pronounce you Michael, and you Michael -- affectionately known as 'the Michaels' -- to be lawfully wedded spouses."
"You are now married," said HAMILTON, who later said it was "an honour" to perform the ceremony.
LESHNER, 55, and STARK, 45, kissed and popped champagne.
Speaking to reporters, LESHNER said he regards the court's judgment as, "Day One for millions of gays and lesbians around the world" and the culmination of a personal 20-year battle to end "legally sanctioned homophobia."
"I wanted to put a stake through that sucker," he said.
His 90-year-old mother, Ethel, who beamed and sang in her wheelchair, drew her satisfaction on a smaller scale.
"I feel wonderful, if he does. And I'm sure he does -- take a look at his face," she said.
"I can't 'rah, rah, rah.' I'm not the type of person to do that," she said. "I'm just happy my son is happy -- I know he's getting a nice guy."
While LESHNER and STARK are believed to be the first gay couple to wed after same-sex marriage became legal yesterday, they may not be the first gay Ontario couple to be legally married. That distinction appears to fall to two same-sex couples who were married in a double ceremony at Toronto's Metropolitan Community Church in January, 2001.
The appeal court ordered the province to register marriage certificates issued to those couples, Kevin BOURASSA and Joe VARNELL and Elaine and Anne VAUTOUR. The judges also ordered the clerk of the City of Toronto to issue marriage licences to LESHNER and STARK and six other couples whose licence applications were held in abeyance pending a ruling by the courts. The province and the city told the judges during a hearing in April that they would abide by whatever the appeal court decided.
Less clear is where the federal government stands.
Justice Minister Martin CAUCHON told reporters yesterday he believes Members of Parliament should have a say in the debate about same-sex marriage, but the government also sees where courts across the country are heading on the issue.
The British Columbia Court of Appeal and a Quebec Superior Court judge have also ruled the common law definition of marriage violates the Charter's equality provisions, but didn't go as far as Ontario in immediately extending marriage to same-sex couples, preferring instead to give Parliament until July, 2004 to change the law.
The Ontario Court of Appeal said there's no need to wait: Changing the definition of marriage, effective immediately, won't create any public harm.
Federal justice department spokesperson Dorette POLLARD said the government has until September 9 to decide whether to seek leave to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court of Canada.
In the meantime, the government does not have the option of seeking a court injunction to stop same-sex marriages from taking place, she said.
If a further appeal to the Supreme Court is in the cards, it could return to the Court of Appeal to ask for a stay of yesterday's ruling, effectively putting it in suspension, POLLARD said.
She was unable to say how that would affect same-sex marriages that have already taken place.
Opponents of same-sex marriage, however, had no difficulty expressing an opinion on yesterday's decision.
By reformulating the definition of marriage, the appeal court ignored "centuries of precedent" and rendered "ordinary Canadians' views irrelevant," said Derek ROGUSKY, a vice-president of Focus on the Family, whose interests were represented by The Association for Marriage and the Family in Ontario, an intervenor in the case.
In its decision yesterday, written not by one judge in particular but collectively as "the court," the appeal panel changed the definition of marriage from being "the voluntary union for life of one man and one woman," to "the voluntary union for life of two persons to the exclusion of all others."
A person's sense of dignity and self worth can only be enhanced by the recognition that society gives to marriage and denying people in same-sex relationships access to that most basic of institutions violates their dignity, the court said.
"The ability to marry, and to thereby participate in this fundamental societal institution, is something that most Canadians take for granted. Same-sex couples do not; they are denied access to this institution simply on the basis of their sexual orientation."
Preventing same-sex couples from marrying perpetuates the view that they are not capable of forming loving and lasting relationships and not worthy of the same respect and recognition as heterosexual couples, the court added.
It was ruling on an appeal from an Ontario Divisional Court decision last year. The Divisional Court said the common law definition of marriage as an exclusively heterosexual union was unconstitutional, but decided 2-1 to leave it up to Parliament to rewrite the law by July, 2004.
The dissenting judge in that case, Mr. Justice Harry LAFORME, who would have changed the definition immediately, attended yesterday's ceremony.
In its 60-page decision yesterday, the judges systematically disposed of Ottawa's arguments for preserving marriage as a heterosexual domain, saying they were filled with irrelevancies, stereotypes and "circular reasoning."
The government argued that marriage has always been understood as a special kind of monogamous institution that brings the sexes together for the purposes of procreating, raising children and companionship.
That isn't something that lawmakers dreamed up; it predates the law, the government said.
Who invented the concept of marriage doesn't matter, the court said; What does is how gays and lesbians fare under a legal regime that excludes them from the institution.
The government was avoiding the main issue by arguing that marriage "just is" heterosexual and benefits society as a whole, the court said.
"The couples are not seeking to abolish the institution of marriage," wrote the judges. "They are seeking access to it."
With files from Mary GORDON

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