“It’s very humbling.”
That was District of Taylor Mayor Fred Jarvis’ reaction upon receiving the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal on Monday Afternoon.
After being nominated by a member of the Taylor community, Prince George-Peace River MP Bob Zimmer chose Jarvis as one of the 30 recipients in this riding to get a medal.
“A humble man of integrity, I think that says it all about Fred,” said Zimmer after the ceremony.
Jarvis was chosen for the award on behalf of the District of Taylor for his contributions to the community.
Jarvis said the fact that he’s going to receive this award still had not sunken in prior to the ceremony.
“It’s overwhelming,” he said.
He also said that receiving this award comes with a lot of anticipation.
“I don’t really know how I’ll take it at the time but it’s the sort of thing that really puts butterflies in your stomach,” noted Jarvis.
Along with Zimmer, Senator Richard Neufeld and Peace River North MLA Pat Pimm all took a few minutes to speak highly of the Taylor mayor, echoing Zimmer’s sentiments.
Also thanked by the Peace Region politicians was Jarvis’ wife, Judy, for “keeping him in line” over their 44-and-a-half year marriage.
“It’s quite a surprise, I know it’s a great honour for Fred, as well as for his family to be here, he’s put in a lot of work over the years and it’s just fabulous that he was able to receive this award,” said Judy.
When asked about his years as mayor Jarvis explained that while it’s hasn’t always been easy it’s been a great education and experience.
“It’s made such a change in what my life has been because of it,” said Jarvis.
Zimmer explained that Fred Jarvis has been someone who’s made a positive difference in the town of Taylor.
“Fred Jarvis is a good man who has done a lot of good for the community and region throughout his years as mayor. He is more than deserving of this honor and I have no doubt that he will continue to work hard for the residents of Taylor,” he said.
According to Jarvis, having the opportunity to be the mayor of Taylor for so many years has given him to chance to really try and bring positive things to the town.
“You never plan on winning them all, but if you can make a difference for your people and for your community, then it’s a great feeling,” explained Jarvis.
While Jarvis said he feels that he’s been able to make a difference, he credits the people around him as inspirations that help him keep going and continue to make that difference.
“I’ve got so many other people around… that really help to bring you out of this slumps and get you going,” he said.
