Riverbank Mayor Rachel Hernandez and members of the City Council offered special recognition to a longtime resident on the occasion of his 95th birthday at last week’s regular meeting.
Edward Jones, better known as “Fast Eddy” around the community, was the grateful recipient of the well wishes at the April 8 session.
Mayor Hernandez and the council presented a certificate to Jones, citing his “lifetime of dedication, perseverance, and excellence. Your unwavering spirit, kindness, and the positive impact you’ve had on everyone around you is truly inspiring.”
Born in Waltham, Massachusetts, Jones later moved to San Francisco as a young boy.
He enlisted with the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea in January 1951, where he worked with generators before his honorable discharge in 1963. Working for a trucking company eventually brought him to Riverbank.
“Fast Eddy” Jones retired at the age of 74 and originally stayed active by repairing scooters. He now volunteers with American Veterans First and enjoys gardening in his spare time.
“On this milestone birthday, we celebrate not only your years but the incredible legacy you have built over them,” the certificate from the council noted. “May your days continue to be filled with health, joy, and the admiration of those fortunate to know you.”
Recognition was also provided by the council for National Library Week at its April 8 meeting. That was during the actual weeklong observance, April 6 through 12.
Council members noted that the local branch of the Stanislaus County Library offers a range of services for the community, whether it is in person or online. They pointed out that online services provided include eBooks, eMagazines, downloadable audio books, online language instruction, and research databases, helpful in achieving success in all stages of life.
“The library is a learning and community hub, supporting literacy, lifelong learning, equity, diversity, and inclusivity,” officials noted.
Ironically, the local branch is in need of infrastructure improvements, forcing a temporary closure, with the closure approved earlier this month by the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors. The work is anticipated to be completed by September.
National Library Week is an observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. The council joined in to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. National Library Week also highlights the valuable role librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.
The certificate of recognition was presented to librarian Vicky Holt.
