January 2nd, 2015 by WCBC Radio
WCBC’s 12 Most Compelling for 2014
Jake Shade – 21 year old was playing basketball for Allegany High School four years ago. This year, Shade became the youngest Allegany County Commissioner in history, as the top vote getting in the Republican Primary and the General Election.
Seth Bernard – Young political newcomer arrives on the scene with a big splash, advancing in the primary election for Cumberland City Council and winning a seat in the General Election.
Mike McKay – After four years as President of the Allegany County Commission, McKay defeated Ray Givens in the Republican Primary in the race to replace LeRoy Myers as District 1C Delegate in June, and edged Democrat Nick Scarpelli in the General Election.
Jason Buckel – The local attorney entered the year as a decided underdog to longtime incumbent Kevin Kelly, but made his case for change over several months, and rode the Republican wave in November. Buckel deftly responded to a late personal attack in the campaign, and won by double digits.
Haley House – An inspiration to children and adults everywhere, Haley fought a brave fight against cancer that united the community in prayer and financial support for her family. Her battle brought the attention of Duck Dynasty and Dancing With The Stars finalist Sadie Robertson.
Todd Appel – Through the long history of Fort Hill Football, it would be tough to come up with a more impressive achievement than back to back Maryland 1A titles. Coach Appel guided the Sentinels to back to back undefeated seasons as well. Coach Appel has been praised for his guidance on and off the field.
Barb Buehl – Allegany County Tourism continues to rack up impressive numbers, while the ubiquitous director racks up a resume of success across the board from raising Alpacas to opening a new business on the Downtown Cumberland Mall.
Michael Joy – A successful developer both locally and in the metropolitan area, Joy has maybe his biggest challenge in trying to resurrect the Footer Dye Works building into a multi use facility. Plans that include retail use and apartments are said to be progressing, but more money may be needed.
Al Feldstein – Mountain Maryland’s secret weapon stepped down at the end of 2014 as the state Appalachian Regional Commission Program Manager and long time employee of the Department of State Planning. Feldstein plans on moving his efforts in local history to the internet after several great books.
LeRoy & Nicole Myers – This couple combines governing experience at the state, county and municipal levels, with former Delegate LeRoy Myers now a Washington County Commissioner, and Nicole continuing her service on Cumberland City Council. The pair married this fall.
Matt & Kelly Alloway – The couple has been a dynamo in Allegany County since settling here several years ago, helping in the community in a variety of pursuits, and also becoming a part of the business community.
Rich & Georgene McKenzie – Landis Office Supply celebrated 50 years in business this year, and this couple, along with Jeff and Todd McKenzie, remains a driving force and a superb example of entrepreneurship in an area where many businesses have struggled over the past century.
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