Linda Gonzalez and her husband Michael established Gallery One as a cornerstone of the Petaluma art scene over 20 years ago.

It’s tough to loose a loved one this time of year.  Just 2 days ago, on Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009, the Petaluma arts community lost our matriarch, Linda Gonzalez, to cancer.  She demonstrated great courage and poise through her battle.

I remember the first Petaluma Downtown Association marketing meeting that I went to over 6 years ago, Linda was in charge.    She had a fun loving way about her leadership style & was always “in the know” about things happening downtown.

As I’ve watched the growth of the arts community downtown, Linda has consistently been a stabilizing force.  She was someone the gallery owners and artists relied on for guidance and opportunity.

I’ve always been an early riser on Christmas morning. I eagerly anticipate the time to enjoy family, exchange gifts and reflect on the love and joy in my life.  Today, I found myself awake thinking about how grateful I am to have had Linda as a friend and how much I’ll miss her.

As we celebrate, bringing 2009 to a close, I ask that you include a toast to the wonderful life and influence of Linda Gonzalez. Though she will physically not be with us moving forward, you can be sure that her spirit and love for art will live on through the Petaluma arts community.