Marcus and Atsuko Get Married!

On a beautiful September day at the Peace Pagoda in Grafton New York two remarkable young people had not one but two wedding ceremonies.

A gathering of Buddist Brothers and Sisters performed the first ceremony inside the crowded Temple while friends and relatives looked on.



After a brief intermission allowing the couple to change from the traditional Japanese garb they were wearing, another ceremony, this time based on Native American tradition, was held outside in the center of a huge circle of friends and relatives. Dennis Banks a good friend of both Marcus and Atsuko performed the ceremony.

These ceremonies marked the union of Marcus Atkinson and Atsuko Nogawa. An estimated crowd of 200 attended this most important occassion with an outpouring of love and friendship so well deserved by two of the greatest peace makers on earth.

There was a third ceremony of sorts. After the second ceremony was over Marcus and Atsuko then presented gifts to all those in attendence!

After the gift giving was completed a feast was begun. The bride and groom then cut the cake, much to Billie's delight. Atsuko tossed her flowers over her head and a blushing Jules made the big catch.

A party then started with music and entertainment provided by many ot their friends who were in attendence. A grand and glorious time was had by all!