I now pronounce you domestic partners _ NYC couples can have official city ceremonies
Gelixa Ortiz (Gel-EEKS'-uh Or-TEEZ') and Elizabeth Rivera waited years for the chance to formally join their lives and declare their union in front of their loved ones.
On Friday, they had their moment. They were one of New York City's first couples to have an official domestic partner ceremony.
New York City has allowed couples to register as domestic partners since 1993. But it wasn't until this week that it began offering couples the option of a ceremony at the clerk's office. It's the same as the city offers married couples.
The ceremony does not carry with it any additional legal benefits. Gay marriage still is not legal in New York state.
Copyright 2010 AP News
