Aug. 15, 2025
SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT - On Thursday, more than two dozen lawmakers from the Pennsylvania House, Senate and United States Congress came to the Little League World Series (LLWS) to participate in a roundtable discussion and take in a few games. The event was a collaboration between Little League International and Rep. Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union), whose district is host to the LLWS.
Held at the newly constructed South Williamsport Borough building, located just a short distance from the Little League complex, the bipartisan roundtable provided an opportunity for lawmakers representing districts across the Commonwealth, as well as Taiwanese Ambassador Tom Chih-Chiang Lee, to learn about the series and the economic impact the two-week long tournament has on the region.
“It’s estimated the LLWS brings in around $40 million, along with tens thousands of visitors to North Central Pennsylvania,” Flick said.
Ten members of the House Tourism, Recreation and Economic Development Committee, including House Majority Chairwoman Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery), were in attendance.
Seated on the panel were Flick; President and CEO of Little League International Patrick Wilson; Lycoming County Commissioner Mark Mussina; Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter; Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber President and CEO Jason Fink; Taiwanese Ambassador Tom Chih-Chiang Lee; and U.S. Congressman Dan Meuser.
Many of the representatives in attendance said the Little League World Series was a "bucket list" event and finally making it to the complex was a long time coming.
"This was a fantastic opportunity to continue building relationships that benefit tourism in the North Central Pennsylvania region, showing members of the House Tourism, Recreation and Economic Development Committee the scope of the tournament's impact on the region," Flick said. "From promoting the globally known sporting event, to offering our visitors samples from local businesses and industry, every time we can bring a sizable delegation to the region, we increase opportunity."
Flick also noted international connections forged through the LLWS can extend far beyond baseball, opening doors for partnerships and global economic growth.
"We are growing a relationship with Taiwan,” Flick said. “Taiwan currently only imports about 10% of its liquified natural gas (LNG) from the U.S., most of it from Alaska. We have the potential to significantly increase that share, with Pennsylvania and Lycoming County, in particular, well positioned to help meet Taiwan’s growing energy needs.”
Teamwork between South Williamsport Borough, Little League International, River Valley Transit Authority and the 83rd District legislative office made the event possible.
Flick, who has been involved with Little League Baseball for the past 50 years in some capacity- as a player in his youth, and a coach, volunteer, and a team uncle - noted how baseball can also be the common denominator in fostering relationships that lead to better, more productive conversations in government.
"Our region is rich with outdoor recreation opportunities as the gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds," Flick said. “We are steeped in history, plentiful in natural resources, and have a strong business economy, including small businesses. Baseball contributes to the economy and culture, and in this case, served as the perfect platform for expanded discussion and exposure."
 |
| Panel members participating in the legislative roundtable from left to right include Dan Meuser, U.S. Congressman, PA-09 ; Ambassador Tom Chih-Chiang Lee, Director-General, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, Head of UN Affairs Task Force; Derek Slaughter, Mayor of Williamsport, Rep. Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union); Patrick Wilson, President/CEO Little League International; Mark Mussina, Lycoming County Commissioner; Jason Fink, President/CEO Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce. |
 |
| Legislators and panel members pose before a sign recognizing HR227, a House Resolution recognizing Little League World Series Week from Aug. 17 to Aug. 23, 2025. The resolution, introduced by Rep. Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union), passed 201-1 in the House on June 9, 2025. |
 |
| Members of the House Tourism and Economic Development Committee. Back row Left to right: Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock (D-Berks); Rep. Tim Twardzik (R-Schuylkill); Rep. Tim Brennan (D-Bucks); Rep. Bud Cook (R-Greene/Washington). Front row left to right: Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks); Representative Jill Cooper (R- Westmoreland); Majority Chairwoman Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery); Representative Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union) |
 |
| Rep. Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union) talks with Congressman Dan Meuser and James May, Regional Director to Meuser on the grounds of the Little League complex. |
 |
| Lawmakers were invited to stay and watch baseball action throughout the day. |
Representative Jamie Flick
83rd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andrew Forgotch
717.772.9905
aforgotch@pahousegop.com
RepFlick.com