There is a new Postmaster in town, her name is Stella Reyes and she is honored to take on the position at the Riverbank Post Office. In the Postmaster of Riverbank Installation ceremony held on Friday, June 1 Reyes was administered the Oath of Office by Manager Post Office Operations (MPOO) Sal Cardinal with friends, family and co-workers in attendance.

The weather was warm but there was nice breeze as guests arrived at the ceremony. There were city officials including Mayor Richard O’Brien and Vice Mayor Darlene Barber Martinez on hand as well as Riverbank Chamber of Commerce Directors, Pete Douma and Bill Robinson.

The Postmaster for Salida, Angelica Gallardo, was the master of ceremonies who introduced Boy Scouts of America Riverbank Troop #1100 that presented the colors, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, and the National Anthem.

Harry Centeno, Postmaster in Stockton, gave the invocation. There were flowers, balloons and decorated tables as well as food, beverages, and dessert for guests to enjoy.

Paulette Roberson and Mary Banda with the Riverbank Museum and the Riverbank Historical Society shared some history regarding the Post Office and former Riverbank Postmasters. Roberson explained that the current location of the Post Office was dedicated and opened in 1985 which was larger and had 300 post office boxes added. She commented that she was the Post Office’s “number one customer” in both Escalon and Riverbank by sending handwritten letters and cards for any occasion.

Cardinal stated that he had the privilege of promoting Reyes and after knowing her and working with her for several years, knew that she would be a perfect fit as the Postmaster.

He administered the Oath of Office and presented her with a framed official letter for her office. Afterwards Reyes thanked all her mentors, her husband of 37 years, children and the carriers.

“I would not be able to do anything without the carriers,” stated Reyes. “With that being said, they eat first.”

Several family members including her two sisters and brother gave a heartfelt speech and hugs. Others also stepped up to share some stories, show their support and best wishes as Reyes takes on her new assignment.

“I love my job,” expressed Reyes. “I love the people I work with. The Riverbank Post Office and their employees are the best employees I have ever worked with. I have worked in several post offices. Everybody here is amazing.”

Reyes had not thought about being a supervisor or a postmaster in the 34 years that she has worked for the Post Office. The path to becoming a Postmaster began with her accepting a supervisor’s position. The day it was offered to her she had been attacked by a dog while carrying the mail, so the move was not a very hard decision for her to make.

In late 2015, she transferred to the Riverbank Post Office and after a few months, she became the Officer in Charge in 2016. A couple of years later when she had the opportunity to be the Postmaster, she bid on it and was awarded the position. She has come a long way from carrying mail. Now she is in charge of 20 employees with three rural routes and six city routes.

“It was a long road, 34 years was a long road but it was worth it,” added Reyes. “I am blessed. I put God first, my family and my job in that order.”