Ellen Pontac and Shelly Bailes are the epitome of marriage equality activists. Long-time Davis residents, their history in activism is legendary, including a civil rights ordinance, Gay Pride recognition, pressing for gay marriage legitimacy and a host of awards. When you meet these two women, you are immediately aware of the strength and compassion they carry, along with a perseverance that clearly isn’t going to diminish anytime soon. It all started back in Long Island.

Ellen-"We met in New York on a blind date. At the time, we both happened to be getting a divorce." Heterosexual?

Shelly-"That was 35 years ago, and that’s the kind of divorce you got."

E-"I had a friend whose son went to school with my daughter. They were in kindergarten. She was married but she had a lesbian lover. She asked if I wanted to go out with them one night. I was just kind of going out with the girls."

S-"I had a very good friend who said, ’Hey do you want to go out on a double date.’ She was the lesbian lover. We met, and I pursued Ellen for a long time."