Minneapolis mayor promotes gay marriage in ad campaign

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The mayor of Minneapolis is hitting the road to promote the state’s new gay marriage law.

Mayor R.T. Rybak is hoping to generate tourism revenue by inviting same-sex couples from other states to wed in Minneapolis. Rybak travels to Chicago this week to launch an ad campaign. He also plans visits to Madison and Milwaukee, Wis., and Denver, Colo.

The mayor says he hopes people in Illinois will get the same rights gay couples do in Minnesota, but until then, Rybak says Minneapolis is more than happy to have their business. Illinois lawmakers are expected to consider a same-sex marriage law this fall.

Minnesota Public Radio News says the Minneapolis Convention and Visitors Association is co-sponsor of Rybak’s “Marry in Minneapolis” campaign. It’s offering free wedding planning services.