Over 300 couples renewed their vows Sunday at a packed memorial gardens for the second annual Celebration of Marriage, 50 Years or More.
The celebration paid tribute to the act of marriage, and gave special honor to those who have been married for over 50 years.
Master of ceremonies for the event was Bob Eubanks, who is best known as the host of the television show The Newlywed game, which aired from the late 1960’s to the mid 1970’s.
“God bless all these couples who have been married for over 50 years,” Eubanks said.
“To the same people by the way, a lot of people have been married for over 50 years, but with different mates.”
Eubanks explained that with divorce rates being what they are today, it is important to celebrate staying together.
“I read a quote the other day by George Carlin, he says ‘it doesn’t take a village to raise a child, it takes two parents,’ I thought that was a good saying,” he said.
“I think it is so vitally important in relationships that we take care of each other.”
According to Eubanks, his place in the celebration was to have fun with the couples.
“I travel around the country giving speeches and playing games with people,” he said.
“It is really difficult to explain to your children that you play games with people and give them prizes for a living.”
The idea for the Celebration of Marriage was created by Tim Salidas. Salidas started the Celebration of Marriage in 2005, for the sole reason of doing something nice for the community. He funded the first celebration by selling a truck and trailer he had won in the Big Brother’s Dream Draw.
“Tim is a very giving human being to this community,” Eubanks explained.
“I hope the community appreciates him, because he does give a lot to it.”
Alvin and Norma Moyer, a North Bay couple who have been married for 58 years, explained Salidas’ idea makes a wonderful event.
“I think this is something we will remember forever,” Alvin Moyer said.
The Moyer’s offered some advice to newlywed couples;
“Take each day as it comes, and have some common interest with your spouse.”
Alvin Moyer explained he believes love, forgiveness and sharing are the key ingredients to a good marriage.
“I think you have to be aware of the other person’s faults, and be able to forgive them,” Norma Moyer added.
“Also enjoy each others company, and try to do as much together as you possibly can.”
