Community Corner
Martinez Man of the Year — Roy Jeans
The first in our series of 2011 People of the Year.
Roy Jeans was thrilled and a little surprised to learn he’d been chosen Man of the Year as part of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce’s 2011 Citizen of the Year Awards.
“I first thought it was because of my driving skills,” said Jeans. “I’ve been a safe driver for 40 years. Then they told me this was for something else, so I think I have a little time to ponder that.”
“It’s a nice honor,” said Jeans, owner and operator of Armando’s. “It’s well-deserved, I can say that.”
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Cynthia Murdough, CEO of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce, said that Jeans was nominated not only for making Armando’s the city’s premier venue for live music, but for all he does for the community.
A Martinez native and a frequent presence at community events, Jeans often hosts benefits and donates his time to local causes. Most recently, he served as emcee for the April 9 benefit for Enchanted Hills/Lighthouse for the Blind at the Shell Oil Clubhouse.
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The awards, which were announced Tuesday, are granted by a group of Martinez service organizations that includes the Martinez Rotary, Martinez Historical Society, Kiwanis and Main Street Martinez, said Murdough.
Jeans’ award was unanimous, noted Murdough, who quoted from a number of letters from members of the organizations in support of his nomination. “They say he’s brought great live music to our community and really made this a destination for music lovers,” she said. “He also grew up in Martinez and his feeling for this town is legendary.”
Jeans will pick up his award at the Citizen of the Year dinner on April 29 at the Martinez Event Center, 524 Main St. Reservations are available by calling 925-228-2345.
