OC Winterfest of Lights pioneer retires after 37 years

The man responsible for much of Ocean City's parks, special events and the Winterfest of Lights is retiring.

After 37 years as parks superintendent for the Town of Ocean City, Calvin Ginnavan will retire on April 30. Ginnavan began his career with the Recreation and Parks Department on April 30, 1980.

Ginnavan was recognized for his career at an April 25 work session of the mayor and town council. The council chamber was packed with family, friends and well-wishers.

Parks Director Susan Petito described his career in glowing terms, emphasizing his drive and his genuine care for all of his projects. She said he was instrumental in creating the Ocean City parks system as it exists today and shepherded the project that won Ocean City a Tree City USA designation. She said he was a pioneer in the Winterfest of Lights program and largely responsible for its success and longevity.

“This is a bittersweet moment,” Petito said. “Cal has been a leader, not only in our department but throughout the town. To say that he will be missed is an understatement.”

RELATED:  Behind the scenes at Winterfest of Lights

Among his numerous accolades, Ginnavan is most proud of his involvement in developing and redeveloping several parks in Ocean City, said Ocean City Communications Manager Jessica Waters in a press release. Ginnavan also helped develop the fields at Northside Park and the course at Eagles Landing. It was Ginnavan who suggested using rubber mulch in landscaping areas, now found in most park areas throughout the resort, Waters said.

But that career started almost by chance.

"Thirty-seven years ago, we took a leap of faith and moved to Ocean City," said Ginnavan's wife, Carol. "I was pregnant with Bryan, and you did not have a full-time job."

She said their family business sustained them part-time for over a month, when a letter came from Jerry Groves, then director of Recreation and Parks, offering him an interview.

"Thirty-seven years have gone by so quick, it seems like yesterday I was interviewed and took the job," Ginnavan said at the ceremony. " The mayor and city council have made this job so easy."

Ginnavan cited his long-time friendships with Mayor Rick Meehan and members of the council.

"All of this wouldn't have been possible without the best employees I've ever had," Ginnavan said. "Though the years it's been just a fantastic job. Thank you so much."

Meehan presented Ginnavan with a proclamation.

"This is from the mayor and city council, the citizens of Ocean City, and it's certainly representative of everyone in this room," Meehan said.

The document thanked Ginnavan for his integral leadership role, his professionalism and skill that helped create the town's modern green spaces and gained the town national recognition, and insuring the success of numerous projects and events.

"Calvin has maintained the highest standard of public service, provided valuable guidance and encouragement to staff, colleagues, property owners, visitors and the community," Meehan said.

Before moving to Ocean City, Ginnavan worked various construction jobs and has continued to work in his family business. During retirement, he plans to spend time with his family and hopes to travel the United States with his wife, Waters said.

“It has been a pleasure working for the Town of Ocean City,” Ginnavan said. “I will certainly miss you all.”