Across the state, cities have begun to welcome same-sex couples taking advantage of the recent California Supreme Court ruling that “the fundamental right to marry” is not limited to a man/woman couple, and Long Beach is no exception as ceremonies began this week.
“It’s about time!” yelled out one guest as a judge pronounced Rod Quines and Haans Offermanns married in a ceremony alongside two other couples at The Center on 4th Street last night. Julie Maunders and Tamera Elliot were also married, as were Phillip Brown and Michael MacArthur in front of about 20 guests who cheered after every vow.
The couples exchanged rings one by one, then were all introduced together to cheering and applause, immediately turning to hug and congratulate the other couples in a touching moment of celebration.
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor
