December 31st, 2025 by WCBC Radio

Just as there are memorable stories throughout the year, there are also people who leave their mark on the community. 2025 was no exception. This week, WCBC introduces you to the 12 Most Compelling People of the Year, and reflects on their good – or bad – effects on the area…

ED MULLANEY – If ever there was a man about town, it is Ed Mullaney. For years, he has been the driving force in numerous projects throughout the city from planting flowers to raising funds for a new town clock. Mullaney heads the “Let’s Beautify Cumberland!” group, dedicated to reinvigorating civic pride in Cumberland with projects including the Veteran’s Memorial along South Centre Street. He is also an active property owner and developer, encouraging economic development within the city’s retail sector.

ADAM PATTERSON – Allegany County’s Director of Public Works has not had what people would call an enviable year. Since May’s flood event in the Georges Creek area, Patterson has worked tirelessly to manage a number of projects to get the area’s infrastructure back on its feet, despite having no federal or state financial help to date. So far, Patterson’s department, in addition to juggling the county’s numerous other ongoing construction and transportation projects, is managing over $7 million dollars in flood damage costs.

JODI EIRICH – A love for animals has grown into a second career for Jodi Eirich. The Frostburg State professor has added Animal Shelter Director to her titles, taking over that role at the Allegany County Animal Shelter earlier this year. Eirich had been a long-term volunteer at the shelter, frequently highlighting animals available for adoption on social media. When troubles hit the Animal Shelter Foundation, Eirich briefly left the position but graciously decided to help the animals and the county by coming back to work on a contractual basis.