Donna and I are very grateful for the support we have received from our community, in particular Petaluma residents, for our business and our relationship. When we moved to Sonoma County at the end of 2000, we weren’t sure how our neighbors and our community would respond to us. We moved to Petaluma from San Francisco, one of the world’s most gay friendly places. We have found, over the last 10 years that Petaluma and Sonoma County are absolutely wonderful for the LGBT community. This week Sonoma County has received some venomous attacks regarding the lawsuit filed by Clay Greene . The case is a gut wrenching case that really has no winners. It is a case that will be tried in court. It is a case that needs to be heard. A case from which lessons will be learned and actions will be taken.
On a personal note, I can say that Sonoma County is a wonderful place for the LGBT community. When Donna and I decided to get married prior to the fateful election day in 2008, we expected to have a few friends and colleagues at our sides. As the word spread throughout Petaluma, we had people stopping by wondering if they could participate. By wedding day, we hit the capacity of the Women’s Club at 299. I’d like to share some pictures from the wedding that make my eyes tear up in pride, yes pride of community and friendship. Pictures that make me so very grateful for our friends and community. An experience that can help show the true Sonoma County that we love. Take a look, give me a call. I ask all not to judge Sonoma County without all the information.
Standing room only with Mayor Pam Torliatt in the foreground at the Postenrieder/Hinshaw wedding in Petaluma 2008
Donna & Linda toasting with Donna's Mom, Judy at the wedding
Argus Courier Publisher and Editor at the Postenrieder/Hinshaw 2008 Wedding
Motown Star Chris Clark singing at the Postenrieder/Hinshaw wedding on November 1st, 2008
Linda with USNA Classmate Mara Matthis & husband Mike traveled from Florida to the 2008 wedding
Susan, President of the Petaluma Museum and Marie, Executive Director of the Petaluma Downtown Association at the Postenrieder/Hinshaw wedding in 2008
If you want to know about Sonoma County, call me… call the president and CEO of the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau, Ken Fischang who is celebrating his 18th anniversary with his partner this weekend. Call the the owners of Joe Hamer salon (Best of the San Francisco Bay Area) and ask for Tom to see how the county accepts the gay community, visit Cowgirl Creamery in Petaluma to understand that the farmers embrace the gay cheese makers. There is so much more to Sonoma County than this one isolated case of heart wrenching sadness.
I know how beautiful and accepting Sonoma County is, you just need to call me to help get your questions answered. 707-773-3393.
