Vink, Gies to marry

Tony Gies and Barbara Hatch Vink

 

VOORHEESVILLE — The late Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Hatch are rejoicing in heaven at the news of the engagement of their daughter Barbara Hatch Vink to her longtime paramour, Tony Gies, son of the late Milton and Eunice Gies, all formerly of Voorheesville.

Although the couple has shared residency without benefit of wedlock for most of the last 35 years, it was only recently that Mr. Gies broke down and bought the diamond. They have decided, finally, to be formally united at an outdoor ceremony performed in the summer of 2014 at the home of the bride’s sister in Voorheesville, weather permitting.  If the weather does not permit, the whole thing may be cancelled.  

In attendance will be their beloved dog and cat, Elijah and Moses, who would rather be cramped in back of a van for many hours of traveling than be left at home.  Sadly, the bride’s late mother who regularly expressed dismay that there was no reason for a man to buy a cow if he was getting free milk and who would be elated that her daughter will be no longer living in sin, will be there only in spirit.  

Ms. Vink and Mr. Gies have four children and 10 grandchildren between them, none together and none planned.  Although they have been friends since high school, their romantic life was derailed by multiple previous marriages, which will remain undiscussed except to point out that one of them has had more than the other.

Ms. Vink, an artist and writer, retired in 2012 after 23 years as the public information officer at the Voorheesville Public Library. She coordinated the Every Other Thursday Night Poets for over 20 years and was crowned the first Poet Laureate of Smith’s Tavern.

Mr. Gies, a model car collector and NASCAR fan, retired from Security Supply in Glenmont. He is a past commander of the Voorheesville American Legion Post 1493 and was instrumental in the organization of the Village Centennial Parade.

The couple is currently residing at 12 Meadowlark Circle in Ellenton, Fla., with Eli and Mo amidst a variety of dangerous Florida wildlife.  The honeymoon is long since over.

****

Editor’s note: This announcement was submitted by Barbara Vink, who commented, “Yes, it is supposed to be irreverent.”

 

The Altamont Enterprise is focused on hyper-local, high-quality journalism. We produce free election guides, curate readers' opinion pieces, and engage with important local issues. Subscriptions open full access to our work and make it possible.