Mayor Annise Parker and Kathy Hubbard
Houston Mayor Annise Parker and longtime partner Kathy Hubbard are now married – at least in the eyes of 18 states, including California, where the couple formally exchanged vows Thursday in a sunset ceremony in Palm Springs.
“This is a very happy day for us,” Parker said in a news release issued from her office. “We have had to wait a very long time to formalize our commitment to each other. Kathy has been by my side for more than two decades, helping to raise a family, nurture my political career and all of the other ups and down and life events that come with a committed relationship. She is the love of my life and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life married to her.”
The wedding included family and friends, including the mayor’s mother and Hubbard’s sister, according the mayor’s press office. The Rev. Paul Fromberg, a family friend from San Francisco, presided. Two other close friends from Houston, Judge Steve Kirkland and Mark Parthie, were attendants and formal witnesses. Parker and Hubbard chose Jan. 16 for their wedding because it marks the 23rd anniversary of the start of their lives together, her office said.
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The mayor had vowed not to marry until it was legal in Texas, then softened her stance. By state law, her marriage is not recognized as valid in Texas.
You can see the press release, which is the source of that adorable photo, here. As the Chron story notes, we first got wind of this just after Christmas. I’m delighted for them both and wish them all the very best. And in case you’re wondering, the press release notes that Hubbard has “other insurance options available to her”, so she will not enroll in health insurance via the city’s updated policy on employee benefits. Congratulations and mazel tov, you two.
UPDATE: PDiddie reminds me that Texas Leftist heard about this before the rest of us did. The updated Chron story reminds us that Harris County GOP Chair Jared Woodfill is a nasty, bitter, small-minded person, who if the experience in Utah is any indication is likely to be out of touch with most Texans in short order. Hair Balls has more.
Life is short. No matter where you stand on same sex marriage everyone should wish that people find piece and fulfillment in life. I for one cannot imagine life without my wife Rhonda. As a Christian my wish is that all people would accept Jesus as their Lord and savior. As a Christian I do not need to tell you how to lead your life my mission is to spread the word and the rest is between you and God. I wish Mayor Parker as much happiness in life with her mate as I have had with mine.