Pittsburgh wants to host the world's largest wedding vow renewal ceremony and the homos are invited!  On February 10, 2008, 700 couples will participate in the world record setting event.  Including gay couples.  According to event organizers, the Guiness folks will accept any US or International marriage certificate. 

It costs $30 per couple to participate. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the ceremony is at 7:30 p.m. The secular ceremony will be performed by Mayor Luke Ravenstahl.

The Guinness world record for a group vow renewal is 272, set Sept. 16 in Sydney, Australia. To qualify, each couple must present a copy of their valid wedding certificate, which will be kept by Guinness officials.

Participating couples will receive a champagne and cake reception, gift bags and the chance to win prizes.

Yes, you read that right.  Mayor Ravenstahl is going to remarry upwards of 700 people.  Including gay couples.  Only a few months after he went on the record as opposing both gay marriage and gay civil unions in a televised WQED debate.. 

How the heck do you go from opposing any legalization of gay relationships to welcoming us to the MacDaddy of wedding ceremonies? 

You might recall there was a big secret meeting between Luke and LGBTQ leaders on election eve.  Do you think they were picking out china patterns?  Maybe deciding on a floral arrangement?  I can't tell you because the silence from our "leadership" has been deafening. 

Do you think they'll be going to the chapel?  More importantly, do I have to buy them a gift or has Luke taken care of that? 

Interesting to note that the ceremony has been secularized.  Do you think there was a flap about including individuals who are in marital relationships without the benefit of a legal wedding certificate?  Gay or non-gay alike. 

Does one homophobic Mayor trump a whole flock of homophobic religious chaps?