This evening Shaun, myself and Abby headed down to Port Hueneme and attended a dedication ceremony for the 20th Anniversary of the Ray D. Prueter Library. For those who did not know, my grandfather, Ray Prueter, was the mayor of Port Hueneme for twelve years during the 1960’s and 70’s. When the new Port Hueneme Library was built in 1989 they dedicated it and named it after my grandfather, who was very passtionate about education and loved to read. It seems like so long ago, but I remember being at the opening and dedication ceremony, therefore it only seemed right to be there for the deciation again, 20 years later and to represent the Prueter family.

Dama Hanks, one of my grandparents closest friends and my honorary grandmother had the opportunity to be there as well. She was joined by her daughter, Dama Lou whom I have known since birth. It was wonderful to see them both and share this special moment with them. Dama was able to get up and read a a letter from my grandmother, who could not attend and I am so very thankful she did that. The loss of my grandfather in 2007 seemed to hit me hard at that moment and I knew I would not be able to speak.

The current Mayor of Port Hueneme giving a certificate of acknowledgment to the current library staff. Most of these ladies have been at the library since it first opened its doors in 1989.

Abby was a great little listener and stole the show at times! I mean, its not surprising right? She is the cutest thing out there, right? Well she is in our eyes, but I guess that is just parental bias. The night was very special and I had the opportunity to talk with many people who are friends of my grandparents or people whose lives they had touched. It was wonderful to meet so many people who knew my grandfather or knew of him and that his name and the hard work he did for the community still lives on and is remembered. It really touches my heart.