David Matthews Named Manzanita Citizen of the Year

David Matthews was named Manzanita’s Citizen of the Year at the June 5 meeting of the city council.

Matthews moved to Manzanita in the early 1990s. He’s been a builder and a real estate broker. He and his wife, Dellanne McGregor, met at Short Sand Beach. Both surfers and outdoors people, they have been married for over 30 years.

Announcing the honor, Mayor Kathryn Stock said his strong concern for the environment kept Matthews “active and visible coordinating many annual clean-up efforts – particularly along our beach.”

In response to the honor, Matthews said of his wide public involvement, “There is no ‘them’ in a small community — just us.” He continued, “I encourage everyone to get involved.”

Stock also cited Matthews’ nearly 20-year involvement with local-non-profit the Eugene Schmuck Foundation which sponsors the annual Manzanita Open golf tournament. “The foundation has raised over 1.8 million dollars to support local food banks, senior meal programs, student scholarships, and other worthy local causes,” she said.

Manzanita’s Citizen of the Year is selected annually by a committee of previous honorees, and serves as Grand Marshal of the annual Fourth of July parade.