The United Auto Workers union launched simultaneous strikes at three factories owned by General Motors, Ford and Chrysler parent Stellantis on Friday. The walkouts halt production of the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, along with other vehicles. Will the strike against the “Big 3” send local car dealers scrambling to find inventory?  WCBC spoke with Fred Timbrook, CEO of Timbrook Automotive and he tells WCBC that if the strike is short-term, dealers should do okay… However, if the strike stretches beyond what economists predict, some parts could become scarce and it could further affect inventory levels…

News that Mohammed Choudhury would not be seeking a second term as Maryland’s State School Superintendent comes on the heels of Maryland’s chief executive not giving him a ringing endorsement to continue in the position.  Governor Wes Moore took questions at a town hall broadcast on Maryland Public Television where Moore said he has made clear what he expects from a Superintendent… The Governor also said that he wants those appointed to the State School Board to work in an atmosphere of accountability, transparency, and partnership…

Frostburg State University’s fundraising campaign has topped its initial $25 million goal.  Started in 2016, the campaign has been raising funds for annual initiatives, regional partnerships, educational development and scholarships.  One of the projects being funded through the campaign is the Challenger Center – a unique learning experience for middle and high school students that originated with family members of NASA’s Challenger crew.  Vice President for University Advancement, John Short, says the center will encourage students to pursue STEM-based careers with a one-of-a-kind experience…

The Maryland Department of Health announced that an adult living in the Eastern Shore region has tested positive for West Nile virus – the first confirmed human case of the virus in Maryland this year.  The patient is recovering from the infection.  The disease affects the nervous system, and up to 80% of people who are infected will not display any signs of illness. However, those who have underlying health conditions could become seriously ill.  Dr. Bobbi Pritt from the Mayo Clinic says there is a specific type of mosquito that transmits the virus… Dr. Pritt suggests that removing the…

Cumberland’s Historic Preservation Plan will be a comprehensive one – taking in property preservation, rehabilitation, economic development, and heritage tourism.  The draft plan was presented to residents this past week at the Allegany Museum where a final call for input was given. Josh Bloom of the Lakota Group that has built the plan says that oftentimes the designation of historic districts can be misleading… Bloom says that National Register districts have advantages that assist their preservation…

On Saturday, September 16, 2023 at approximately 10:49 PM, an officer of the Cumberland Police Department responded to I-68 Westbound at Beall Street for a disabled vehicle.  The officer located the vehicle and contacted the operator who was identified as Michael Hafer.  Hafer consented to a search of his vehicle and was found to be in possession of suspected crack cocaine and suspected fentanyl.  Hafer resisted arrest and attempted to pull away from officers.  After a brief struggle, officers were able to take Hafer into custody.  Hafer was transported to police headquarters and later to Central Booking.  He was later…

On Saturday, September 16, 2023 at approximately 3:55 PM, an officer of the Cumberland Police Department observed a female subject walking across the train tracks in the area of Queen City Drive where there were posted “No Trespassing” signs.  The officer contacted the female and identified her as Lisa Brooke.  Brooke was issued a criminal citation and released pending trial. ARRESTED:  Lisa Renae Brooke               AGE:  58               Cumberland, MD CHARGES:  Trespassing: Posted Property  

On Saturday, September 16, 2023, the Cumberland Police Department served a bench warrant on Amber Adams.  The warrant was issued as the result of Adams failing to comply with an order of the court.  She was originally charged with Robbery, Extortion: Value less than $1000, Disturb Peace/Disorderly, Malicious Destruction of Property less than $1000, Assault-2nd Degree, and Con-Theft: $100 to under $1500.  Adams was arrested and transported to Central Booking.  She was later seen by a District Court Commissioner and remanded to the Allegany County Detention Center without bond. ARRESTED:  Amber Elizabeth Adams      AGE:  32          Cumberland, MD    

On Saturday, September 16, 2023, the Cumberland Police Department served a criminal summons on Jared Robertson.  The summons was issued as the result of an incident that occurred on September 11, 2023.  On this date at approximately 6:17 PM, officers of the Cumberland Police Department responded to the area of Greene Street at S. Johnson Street for a hit and run.  Officers contacted the victim who reported that he was riding his scooter down Greene Street when he was struck by a vehicle, causing him to fall off his scooter.  The vehicle then left the scene.  A suspect was developed…

Frostburg State Football team remained undefeated after taking care of West Liberty in their home opener, defeating the Hilltoppers 37-7 on Saturday afternoon. Frostburg received the ball first, with senior Graham Walker completing three passes down the stretch, leading to a four yard rush up the middle by redshirt freshman Owen Doyle that would put the Bobcats on the board on their first drive. Senior Dayne Koontz started his day off strong, knocking the extra point through the uprights for an early 7-0 FSU lead less than five minutes into the game. FSU's defense came ready to play in their…