ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Monday, July 15, 1996 TAG: 9607150050
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-6 EDITION: METRO
DID YOU know Giles County is the marrying capital of Virginia? The county issues so many marriage licenses (the most per capita in the state), and so many quickie weddings are performed there, that it gives new meaning to ``Virginia is for Lovers.''
Giles' reputation as a hitching post is mostly due to West Virginia residents who cross the border to join in matrimony. It's less hassle than in their home state.
West Virginia requires blood tests; wants proof of divorce or death of a former spouse if the bride, groom or both have been previously married; and puts up other barriers.
West Virginia does not permit anyone under the age of 15 to marry. Virginia isn't so fussy about minimum age. West Virginia also requires a three-day waiting period after obtaining a license. As the National Rifle Association says, that can be a real nuisance when time is of the essence.
Of course, a cooling-off period might save a lot of newlyweds some trouble. The county clerk reports more than one case of out-of-state couples marrying there on Friday and calling Monday to ask whether the county could issue a quickie annulment. (The answer: It can't.)
Is Giles missing a terrific tourism-development opportunity? We're thinking resorts with heart-shaped bathtubs for two, mirrored ceilings, private dining au naturel, Elizabeth Taylor's showing up for Wedding No. 9 ...
LENGTH: Short : 34 linesby CNB