Q: If King Edward VIII abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, who had been divorced twice, should Prince Charles do the same since his wife, Camilla Parker Bowles, has also been divorced? What is England’s stance on monarchs marrying divorced women?
—Kate Bryant, Norcross
A: England's stance on divorce is changing, Rodney Cook, founding trustee of the Prince of Wales's Foundation for Architecture and president of the Atlanta-based National Monuments Foundation, told Q&A on the News. Three of the Queen's four children have divorced, as well as her sister Princess Margaret. Each has been divorced once, having been married to British subjects. The Duchess of Cornwall and her ancestors have had a long association with the British Royal family and the Prince of Wales. "He loves her, she is growing on the British public and the Prince will never abdicate," Cook wrote in an email. Wallis Simpson was twice divorced and American at a time in British history when both were considered inappropriate by palace courtiers and the government to be married to the King of England, he added.
Q: The Georgia House voted 172-1 in April to approve the assisted living bill. Which legislator voted “no” and why?
—Betty Sieczkowski, Lawrenceville
A: The legislator who cast the sole "no" vote was Rep. Bobby Franklin (R-Marietta). The bill, which creates a first-ever "assisted living" designation in state law, was signed by Gov. Nathan Deal in early May. The legislation will help seniors remain in assisted living facilities instead of being forced into nursing homes when they need assistance moving around or taking medications. Franklin did not return phone calls or e-mails.
Lori Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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