Colusa County Superintendent of Schools Chuck Wayman led a Peace Pole Rededication Ceremony on September 25 at the Education Village in Williams, bringing together students, staff and community members to reflect on a message of peace, service and remembrance. The Peace Pole, which bears the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in several languages, was originally dedicated at the Education Village on September 21, 2017, in recognition of the International Day of Peace. Recently, the Peace Pole was relocated from the Education Village courtyard to the front lawn, making it more visible and allowing more members of the community to experience its message. The ceremony included a presentation of colors by the Williams Jr. Sr. High School Cadet Corps and the Colusa VFW Post 2441 led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance. The ceremony also honored the service and sacrifice of Private First Class Rueben “Boy” Lopez, Infantry, U.S. Army, and Desert Storm veteran E-4 Specialist Bradley J. West, whose names are featured on the Peace Pole. Their recognition served as an opportunity to remember the generations of service members who have helped protect the peace and freedoms enjoyed today.

 

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to view a student art show featuring artwork created by students from the Williams Children’s Center, Williams Preschool Learning Center, S. William Abel Academy, and Coastal Buttes Academy. Many thanks to Gloria Estrada, Barbara Hankins, and Bob Kirkman in the planning of this event.