These 22 companies are vying for Maryland Incubator Company of the Year Awards

Twenty-two finalists have been selected for the Maryland Incubator Company of the Year Awards.

bwtech@UMBC leads the incubator list with eight tenant companies up for awards. Previous winners includeEmerging Technology Centers-based SocialToaster, Spark’s Avhana Health and Maryland Center for Entrepreneurship’s Milestone Sports.

The 2016 winners will be announced Tuesday, June 21 at the American Visionary Art Museum.

 

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

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from http://baltimoretech.org/news/these-22-companies-are-vying-for-maryland-incubator-company-of-the-year-awards/

Betamore Courses Will Soon Be Available Online

The latest connection made at Betamore is designed to benefit people looking to gain startup knowledge outside its walls. Betamore is set to begin testing an online platform for its education offerings in June.

The nonprofit startup hub is working with resident incubator member eThinkEducation on the Betamore Online Academy.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Betamore Courses Will Soon Be Available Online appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/betamore-courses-will-soon-be-available-online/

Michigan Tuesday: In-State Prospect is Announcing This Week

As expected there wasn't much of anything coming out of Schembechler Hall this holiday weekend. So hearing one of the State's top prospect is going to announce his decision is definitely news worthy.  
4 Star St. Joseph's SDE Corey Malone-Hatcher is going to announce his decision on Thursday at 3:30.  It's expected to be a Michigan-ND battle for this talented 6'3 246 pound pass rusher.

His offer list is an impressive one and includes the likes of Alabama, Iowa, Louisville, MSU, Minnesota, Nebraska, OSU, Oklahoma, ND, Tennessee, Wisconsin and UCLA. 

Rivals ranks him #13 SDE nationally and 7th player in the state of Michigan.

• Michigan made the top 6 for 4 Star Vegas DT Greg Rogers.  The others include OU, USC, Colorado, UCLA and Arizona State.

• Michigan also made the top 12 for 4 star Alabama DE Ryan Johnson.

• Michigan is making strides with 5 star CA CB Darnay Holmes, he is good friends with 2016 Michigan commit David Long.  Holmes is expected to visit Michigan this fall.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-tuesday-in-state-prospect-is.html

Creating Innovators and Leaders in Maryland

Michigan Friday: Thinks Out Loud On Baylor

Winning in college football is important.  As Michigan fans we had gotten comfortable with our 10+ wins a year and a New Years Day Bowl.   Many including myself thought if we put in a innovative coach and recruit a few more athletes we would be playing for National Championships. 

Well, we know that didn't work out and Michigan has been digging itself out of a deep hole of dysfunction.   That hole now seems behind us and were finally moving in the right direction.  

What if you don't have that tradition and support? 
What if your trying to build a winning program at a school not known for winning?
Do you cut corners? 
Do you get wealthy supporters to help the cause with $10K hand shakes? 
Do you play kids who get in trouble?  
Do you even try to intervene in a police matter and "convince" people not to press charges?  
Do you cover up that there is a sexual assault problem on your team?

Have we really gotten to that place?  Places like Baylor and Ole Miss have struggled to put a winner on the field for decades.   It's hard to compete with the likes of Oklahoma, Texas, Alabama, LSU and Florida when it comes to recruiting.   So how do they build a winner?

They take chances and sometimes even make un-believable decisions to keep guys on the team that have done un-speakable things.   Baylor's case is more Penn State then Ole Miss.   When Ole Miss started to reel in 5 stars in a class 3/4 years ago, all the whispers started.    They even pulled 5 star WR Laquon Treadwell from Michigan who quickly posted a photo of himself with a ton of cash on social media.   When you think about it, paying kids to come to your school is not even in the same universe as what happened at Baylor. 

I wasn't shocked that Jim Harbaugh's new friend Art Briles was fired yesterday.    Jim and Art seemingly became new friends as Art spoke at Michigan's coaching clinic recently.  Michigan and Baylor had also agreed to do a joint Satellite Camp together.   I'm guessing that camp is now in doubt.

Art had to go and will probably receive a "show" clause from the NCAA.    He might even be looking at criminal charges.   What he is accused of doing for winning football games, should make you sick.  

How did we get here?  Winning football games is not worth it.  I don't care how much money your program is making or how much the head coach is making.    There is a way to do the right thing and still have a good football program.   Why risk everything to put a criminal on the field?  Or even worse, try to cover up those criminal charges by intimidating a victim.   I guess these guys didn't learn anything from the Penn State situation. 

For a long time, I thought concussions were the biggest risk to the sport we love, I'm starting to think these "cover-up" coaches will take down college football just as fast.

 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-friday-thinks-out-loud-on.html

Michigan Thursday: NJ Paramus Camp Is Blowing Up

This come from our favorite media outlet (freep alert) but it sounds like the Paramus Satellite Camp is really attracting a ton of kids:

Paramus president James Vail announced today that the Next Level Elite Camp on June 8 has had to cap registration at 600 kids. The original allotment of 400 filled up in just eight days.

It quickly expanded to 450 campers with the planned use of fields, lawns, the school gym, tennis courts, and chalk talk in classrooms. Plans for represented colleges moved from seven or eight to 37, plus one NFL head coach, the Baltimore Ravens' John Harbaugh.

But with Jim Harbaugh, when it becomes a competition, it's never enough. Now the Paramus camp is up to 600 participants from 200 schools and also will utilize the Bergen Community College fields across the street. There will be 80 college coaches from 40 teams in 10 states and Washington, D.C.

• The OSU/Rutgers camp that conflicts with the above Paramus camp will have Brian Billick.   Current vs. former Raven coaching camp stand off!

• Rivals is reporting that Jimmy and Staff will be holding 50 camps in the month of June.   Get that jet fueled up.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-thursday-nj-paramus-camp-is.html

18 Maryland Companies Receive ExportMD Grants

Eighteen small and mid-sized Maryland companies have been awarded ExportMD grants to help promote their products and services in the global marketplace. Applications are accepted on a bi-monthly basis and the next application deadline is June 1, 2016. Eligibility requirements can be found on the Commerce website.

This round of companies include S&M Engineering, LLC (Anne Arundel County); Pixelligent Technologies (Baltimore City); AsTec Metalworks, Murray Corporation, SUN Automation Group, and White Swan (Baltimore County); Land Sea Air Autonomy and Land Sea Air Manufacturing (Carroll County); Planar Monolithics Industries, Inc. and WGS Systems, LLC (Frederick County); SURVICE Engineering Company (Harford County); Climate Decision, Results Scorecard, LLC, and Temple Allen Industries (Montgomery County); FasTech Inc. and Quality Technology, Inc. (Prince George’s County); Aviation Systems Engineering Company (St. Mary’s County); and Delaware Elevator (Wicomico County).

Quality Technology, Inc., an IT solutions firm in Largo, recently traveled to Dubai with assistance from the ExportMD program. The company noted that the trip was an educational experience for its entire team.

“The ExportMD program provided Quality Technology with immediate international connections that we would not have experienced otherwise,” said Dr. Judy Dubose, Quality Technology, Inc.’s director of global marketing. “As a result, we are reassessing our capabilities with a more defined focus. It was a great experience.”

In July, Maryland Commerce will lead a delegation of companies to the Farnborough International Airshow, one of the world’s premier aviation and space industry events. Aviation Systems Engineering Company (ASEC) is among the companies attending and plans to extend their services and training options to a variety of international customers.

“The ExportMD grant enables ASEC to develop sophisticated marketing materials, initiate capture efforts, and establish international relationships that will be reinforced by our attendance at the Farnborough Air Show,” said Fred Kuehl, ASEC’s director of business development. “This program is a critical component in expanding our international footprint.”

“The ExportMD program is one of our most successful tools for connecting Maryland businesses with new partners around the world and helping them to create jobs and increase revenues,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I encourage all Maryland companies that are considering doing business internationally to learn more about the funding and guidance offered by the ExportMD program.”

Learn more.

The post 18 Maryland Companies Receive ExportMD Grants appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/18-maryland-companies-receive-exportmd-grants/

Wolverine Wednesday: Drake Johnson Forklift Accident Details Released

The Detroit News got the police report from the Drake Johnson forklift accident.   To quote Jimmy: “I can tell you this, it would have killed a lesser man, but he is blue twisted steel, very flexible and amazing,”

According to the police report, the driver of the forklift / utility vehicle, Matt Johnson, said he was “moving a large cabinet and was traveling with the cabinet about eye level. He stopped at the large garage door and a co-worker opened the door for him.”

In the report, Matt Johnson said he drove into the building “and felt a bump, stating he thought he ran over a starting block, when he saw Drake Johnson, a student-athlete, roll from under the forklift. And M. Johnson realized he had ran over Drake Johnson who was sitting on the track floor stretching.”

Drake Johnson was examined at the scene by an athletic trainer, then examined by a University of Michigan doctor at Schembechler Hall, the football building, and then was transported to the U-M Hospital emergency room by athletic staff.

Drake seems to be fine and ran track this Spring.   He even mentioned that he feels his legs are stronger from running track.  This is un-believable and I'm very happy he wasn't seriously injured.   He has had more than his fair share of injuries as a Wolverine (2 ACL's). 

• James "Biggie" Ross will sign a free agent contract with the Chargers.

• After his visit last weekend, VA WDE Luiji Vilain will make his final decision next month between Michigan, Virginia Tech, and USC.   I mention this to you in a low "silent" voice.   :)

• Future Michigan QB Dylan McCaffrey hasn't done any interviews after committing to Michigan.  Here is a quick one after his Elite 11/Opening camp in Oakland this past weekend.

• Michigan just offered a name you may recognize:  Robert Porcher IV a 2017 DE from Orlando.  Yes, he is the son of former Detroit Lions pass rusher Robert Porcher.  

• Instate DB Ambry Thomas got offered by UCLA yesterday

• Speaking of UCLA, they are the latest University to leave Adidas.  They are going to Under Armour.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/wolverine-wednesday-drake-johnson.html

Allegany County kicks off summer with tourism attractions

Guest feature: Caitlin Squires works with the Allegany County Department of Tourism. Follow Mountain Maryland on Facebook and Twitter.

For most, the summertime season kicks off on Memorial Day weekend – school is over, the sun is out, and good times are ready to be had by all.

Near the Potomac River at the base of the Appalachian Mountains, a quaint town in Allegany County will be celebrating the summer holiday with the music that made the mountain chain famous. For Cumberland, Memorial Day weekend means a whole lot of sun, a whole lot of music, and a whole lot of Del.

For nine years, DelFest has been the area’s premier music festival, calling the Allegany County Fairgrounds home. Del McCoury, the esteemed musician of bluegrass fame, founded the event in 2008 and has made appearances with The Del McCoury Band every year since. The four-day event hosts nearly 40 acts with various levels of renown – Steve Martin (yes, the Father of the Bride) and The Steep Canyon Rangers, Old Crow Medicine Show, The Avett Brothers, Trey Anastasio (of the rock band, Phish), the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and the Sam Bush Band have all been part of the lineup. Even come-ups like our local band, Grand Ole Ditch, have performed on the stages of DelFest. The festival will kick off its ninth year on May 26.

Aside from the music festival in May, Allegany County will celebrate art and entertainment infused with history from June 11-12. Cumberland’s Heritage Days Festival once again will bring together local craftsmen, artisans, and delicious food vendors for a weekend celebration of the city. This year, the event will be preceded by the Whiskey Rebellion – a two-day celebration of Cumberland’s involvement in the historic event that ended with George Washington’s militia subduing unrest in the wake of a whiskey tax levied in 1791. The Allegany Museum will host the first night of the Rebellion, which will gather boutique whiskey breweries and industry heavyweight Maker’s Mark for a night of tasting. The second day will be held at the Canal Place festival grounds and will offer the rebellious attendees a chance to sample beers from Old German and numerous microbreweries.

As the summer winds to an end and fall comes into full swing, Allegany County continues the excitement. The Fireball Run Adventurally, a life-sized trivial pursuit game filmed and produced by a crew from Orlando, rolls into Cumberland on September 26. Teams will visit numerous locations in Cumberland and Frostburg to complete their missions before moving on to the next state. Our county is excited to host such an amazing production – one that will boost tourism and benefit our local businesses. Everyone from our community and the region is invited to help us welcome the Fireball team into town and see them off at the starting line on September 27!

The post Allegany County kicks off summer with tourism attractions appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/allegany-county-kicks-off-summer-tourism-attractions/

Michigan Tuesday: Wolverines Making Progress with Ambry Thomas

The State of Michigan has some solid prospects in the class of 2017 and one of the most talented is 4 star CB Ambry Thomas from Detroit King.   Thomas visited Ann Arbor again this past weekend with his cousin Jaylen Kelly-Powell.  

“The visit was good,” Thomas told The Michigan Insider. “I got to sit and talk to the coaches. I talked with like the whole defensive staff. They asked me what I was I waiting on (laughter).”

“I’m taking my time with this process, so I still got to weigh my options and make sure I pick the school right for me,” said Thomas.

Thomas is ranked the #77 player in the nation and #9 CB by Scouts.  Michigan off course would love to get commits from Thomas and Kelly-Powell. 

• Speaking of JKP he received an offer from Illinois yesterday.

• Michigan will host Virginia Tech for the Big Ten/ACC Challenge

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-tuesday-wolverines-making.html

Immunomix: A game-changer in allergy vaccines

Michigan Monday: Another Future Wolverine Heading To The Opening

Michigan is having another strong recruiting class and many guys are heading to Nike's Opening this summer.   If you don't know, the Opening is a Nike event made for the elite football prospects high school seniors (and some juniors).  Nike does regional combines/camps to identify the invitees and brings them on the Nike's campus in July to learn from some football legends, train, and play in a 7 on 7 tournament. 

The latest future Wolverine to get an invite to the Opening and Elite 11 is 5 star QB Dylan McCaffrey.  He got an invite at the Oakland Nike event this past weekend.   He is the 5th Wolverine commit heading to Oregon this summer.   The others include:

• A.J. Dillon
• Josh Ross
• Benjamin St-Juste
• O'Maury Samuels
• Dylan McCaffrey

Of course other prospects attending the Opening include: WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, OG Jordan Reid,  TE Matt Dotson, CB Ambry Thomas, and CB Jaylen Kelly-Powell.

• Sam Webb got a gut feeling from a recruit on campus this weekend.   Which means someone has silently committed.

• One of those visitors was Alexandria (Va.) Episcopal 4-star DE Luiji Vilain who know has Michigan in his top 3.  Love the name!

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-monday-another-future.html

Calvert County Launches Economic Development Website

Guest feature: Linda Vassallo is the director of the Calvert County Department of Economic Development. Follow along with Calvert County on Facebook.

Calvert County is a great place to do business, and that message will reach a larger audience with the debut of a new dedicated economic development website at Ecalvert.com.

The dynamic, mobile-friendly website features content tailored to local businesspersons, entrepreneurs, site selectors, prospective businesses and individuals interested in the county’s business climate. It is a one-stop portal designed to help grow existing county businesses and attract new companies.

With this interactive economic development website, we created a virtual library of resources and links for two distinct audiences. For our local businesses, we offer a host of information on county business services, assistance through local, state and federal agencies, and tools for those looking to expand. For prospective businesses, we have tailored content to meet their needs, including available property listings, demographics, relocation incentives and more.

At Ecalvert.com, current county businesses will find comprehensive business resource guides, information on how to become a government vendor, licensing guidelines, expansion incentives, resources for nonprofits and more. The site offers free online services such as employment listings and a searchable database of all county businesses.

Ecalvert.com also features a robust business attraction component designed to reach decision makers exploring business expansion and relocation. The site’s Relocation Guide includes Calvert Prospector, an interactive property listing and mapping tool that allows users to search for available commercial buildings and sites as well as generate site-specific demographic and business analysis reports.

The Community Profile section at Ecalvert.com details the county’s unique characteristics. Finally, a series of business profiles highlights – in the words of business owners – the benefits of doing business in Calvert County.

Learn more on our website, or contact us at 410-535-4583 and info@ecalvert.com.

The post Calvert County Launches Economic Development Website appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/calvert-county-launches-economic-development-website/

Michigan Friday: Jimmy Can See The Future

I heard someone say that a good college coach can see a high school RB and know he will be effective at the next level. A great college coach can look at a high school RB and see an All American linebacker.  

To me this is a perfect way to describe Jim Harbaugh.  I also believe this is why he wants to spend most of his summer vacation looking at every HS prospect in the nation.    We have seen a ton of positions changes under Jimmy including - 4 star QB Zach Gentry's move to TE.    Something you might have missed is the Benjamin St-Juste story.   BSJ was an under the radar Canadian CBthat committed to the Wolverines out of nowhere last summer.   He re-classified to the 2017 class so he could get his international documents and Canadian transcripts in order.   He wasn't ranked by any of the services and when they got around to it, they gave him a 2 or low 3 star ranking.      BSJ just lit up one of the Nike Opening Regional events and now has an invite to Finals.    Let's watch him quickly rise to a 4 star CB in this class.

• Some good news on five-star Cass Tech WR Donovan Peoples-Jones recruitment.   He has been shadowing some Dr.'s at the U of M Hospital.   That is a great sign he is really thinking about coming to A2.

• VA WDE Luigi Vilain has a great name and is expected to visit this weekend.

• OH SDE James Hudson is also expected in and just de-committed from UK.

• You might recognize this last name:  Michigan is recruiting Jacksonville 2018 WR Will Mallory who is 6-5 and 200 pounds. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-friday-jimmy-can-see-future.html

Baltimore has a new site for searching restaurant inspection reports

Baltimore city took another step forward in the effort to make restaurant inspections more widely available to the public this week.

The city’s health department launched a new web portal where citizens can search inspection reports. The inspection reports, which show whether eateries are clean and why they received violations, are available from the beginning of 2016 to the present. Anything before this year will require a public records request.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Baltimore has a new site for searching restaurant inspection reports appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/baltimore-has-a-new-site-for-searching-restaurant-inspection-reports/

Here are 5 ways Allovue is trying to make its staff more diverse

When people hear that Allovue CEO Jess Gartner hired me to focus on hiring and diversity at the company, some seem surprised to learn that it made her list of priorities so soon.

For reference, we’re a team of 22 people working from seven states, with our new headquarters slated for Remington this summer. These encounters have made me think about the “right time” to prioritize diversity and inclusion and whether it could even be possible to focus on these things too early.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

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from http://baltimoretech.org/news/here-are-5-ways-allovue-is-trying-to-make-its-staff-more-diverse/

Why this national STEM conference matters for Baltimore

An index that tracks students entering the STEM fields was released this week, highlighting the fact that a lot of technical jobs are being filled by foreign workers.

The U.S. News & World Report STEM Index is the latest in a series of studies on the issue, which in part underscores the fact that a big reason for the unfilled jobs is a lack of diversity. But it’s resonating particularly loudly in Baltimore this week, as the national media outlet is holding its STEM Solutions conference at the Hilton Baltimore. It follows last week’s big impact investing confab, the Mission Investors Exchange.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Why this national STEM conference matters for Baltimore appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/why-this-national-stem-conference-matters-for-baltimore/

Frito-Lay Plans Expansion, 140 New Jobs

Governor Larry Hogan and the Maryland Department of Commerce are supporting the expansion of Frito-Lay’s manufacturing and distribution center in Aberdeen, which is slated to boost the company’s Harford County workforce.

The Plano, Texas-based convenient foods business unit of PepsiCo, Frito-Lay is investing $122 million to construct a new 165,000 square-foot automated distribution center, upgrade its wastewater treatment system, and install two more manufacturing lines. As part of the expansion, the company plans to add 140 employees to its current Aberdeen workforce. Frito-Lay has been operating in Aberdeen since 1994 and has undergone several expansions over the past two decades.

“It is a tremendous win for the state and for Harford County that Frito-Lay is continuing to grow its presence in Maryland,” said Governor Hogan. “This expansion and the jobs being created underscores our administration’s promise to make Maryland more business friendly and create new opportunities for our citizens.”

To assist with the expansion, the Maryland Department of Commerce has approved a $1 million conditional grant through the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF). The company is also eligible for a number of state and local tax credits. Additionally, the Harford County Office of Economic Development is providing up to $100,000 in workforce technical training grants over the next eight years to assist with enhancing employee skills. The county is also providing assistance with permitting approvals.

“Harford County is pleased to be home to Frito-Lay’s long-term investment in quality product generation and to the qualified workforce that supports the continued growth of this company which is vested in our community,” said Harford County Executive Barry Glassman. “Frito-Lay is not only a national household brand but a local workforce icon here in Harford County.”

“We are proud that an industry leader like Frito-Lay is continuing to invest in Maryland,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “With access to one-third of the U.S. population within an overnight drive, Maryland is an ideal partner in the global supply chain. We look forward to continuing to work with Frito-Lay to make their facility here even more efficient and effective.”

“Frito-Lay is a valued member of the business community in Aberdeen,” said Aberdeen Mayor Patrick L. McGrady. “We are pleased to see their continued investment in the City of Aberdeen and look forward to more great years of good-paying jobs, solid community activity from the employees, and impressive operations at their state-of-the-art facility.”

The post Frito-Lay Plans Expansion, 140 New Jobs appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/frito-lay-plans-expansion-140-new-jobs/

Light City Baltimore is going to be longer next year

Light City Baltimore drew more than 400,000 people to Baltimore in its inaugural seven-day run this past March and April, a number expected to grow in year two as the event will be extended two days to nine nights, including a second weekend.

The Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts announced Wednesday the 2017 version of Light City will take place March 31 through April 8, incorporating two Friday and Saturday nights into the event that ran from a Monday to Sunday in its first year.

Read more at Baltimore Business Journal

The post Light City Baltimore is going to be longer next year appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/light-city-baltimore-is-going-to-be-longer-next-year/

Allovue, Sisu Global Health among startups to win TEDCO awards

Baltimore’s Allovue and Sisu Global Health Inc. were among the companies that took top honors at the Maryland Technology Development Corp.’s annual awards recognizing innovation and corporate excellence.

Jess Gartner, the founder and CEO of education technology startup Allovue won TEDCO’s entrepreneurship award. Allovue raised in December a $5.1 million Series A round and has been growing quickly since.

Read more at Baltimore Business Journal

The post Allovue, Sisu Global Health among startups to win TEDCO awards appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/allovue-sisu-global-health-among-startups-to-win-tedco-awards/

Inside a firm that’s providing local manufacturing for startups

Sisu Global Health is looking to create a blood transfusion device that has an impact in areas that lack medical facilities around the globe. But when it comes to design and manufacturing of their device, called the hemafuse, CEO Carolyn Yarina said keeping it local has allowed the process to move along faster than it would with an out-of-town — or overseas — firm.

Harbor Design and Manufacturing has been that local source for Sisu, and a number of other local companies.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Inside a firm that’s providing local manufacturing for startups appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/inside-a-firm-thats-providing-local-manufacturing-for-startups/

This Baltimore studio filmed a virtual reality jailbreak for Discovery

A Hampden-based studio is moving into virtual reality, and the latest example is a collaboration with a TV network that’s looking to put the viewer inside TV shows.

Digital Cave Media handled filming on a virtual reality feature that’s a companion to the Discovery show, “I (Almost) Got Away With It.” The feature, called “Jailbreak,” is a five-minute look at the prison escape of Peter Gibbs.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post This Baltimore studio filmed a virtual reality jailbreak for Discovery appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/this-baltimore-studio-filmed-a-virtual-reality-jailbreak-for-discovery/

Michigan Thursday: Rutgers Believes They Are Now A Big Michigan Rival

When you have the most wins in college football history everyone is your rival.  Michigan is used to teams playing a bit harder the week the Wolverines come to town.  

Michigan's latest rival seems to be Rutgers who seems very un-happy with the Wolverines of late.   They did hire an OSU assistant to be their head coach.  So he has the rivalry already built in. 

Let's look a bit deeper at these hurt feelings and why Rutgers is so mad at the Wolverines: 

• Michigan is a brand name college football program and has a long storied history.   Rutgers likes to say they are they're "The Birthplace of College Football" for having hosted the first-ever intercollegiate football game on Nov. 6, 1869.

• Michigan tried to hire their famous coach, Greg Schiano when they were wining games in the Big East.  Greg said, yes to Michigan, then no, and if you believe the reports he tried to say Yes again, but Sailboat Bill wasn't having it.   He left for the NFL a few years later and is now an assistant coach for Ohio State.

• Michigan has been pulling some of the nation's top players out of Rutgers backyard in NJ.   It started with Peppers and this past year with Gary.  

• Rutgers did win the first match-up as Big Ten teams against Michigan when the program was on fire under Hoke.  So that gave them some confidence.   Michigan won 49-16 this past season.

• The Big Ten saved Rutgers athletic department from serious debt.   Rutgers is making money off of the Big Ten's history and accomplishments.   With Michigan as one of those storied Big Ten programs, Rutgers has a little bit of jealously.

• Jim Harbaugh is in tight with one of NJ's top high schools in Paramus Catholic High School.  He hired their former head coach and is even doing the graduation commencement speech.

• Jimmy is running a satellite camp at Paramus this summer,  Rutgers and OSU are doing a competing camp on the same day.

• Rutgers is now going to "stripe the stadium" when Michigan comes in for a night game this fall.   Meaning they will have people wear Red in certain sections and Black in others.  

I tip my hat to Rutgers as they are trying to re-build their program that still many people wonder out load how they got into the Big Ten.   They also won a game when Michigan was lost for a few years.    With that said, Michigan is on the rise and Rutgers is trying to be.   

Good luck with this strategy, usually you don't want to poke the bear. 


from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-thursday-rutgers-believes-they.html

AT&T Invests More Than $500 Million Over 3-Year Period to Enhance Local Networks in Maryland

At AT&T, we invested more than $500 million in our Maryland wireless and wired networks during 2013-2015, and made 339 wireless network upgrades during that time. These investments drive a wide range of upgrades to reliability, coverage, speed and overall performance for residents and businesses. They also enhance critical services that support public safety and first responders.

In 2015, AT&T made multiple wireless network upgrades in Maryland. We added new cell site upgrades, which included enhancements in Germantown, College Park and Catonsville, in addition to a new LTE cell tower in Severn.

Notable Maryland network enhancements in 2015 included:

• LTE Cell Site Upgrade in Germantown
• LTE Cell Site Upgrade in College Park
• LTE Cell Site Upgrade in Catonsville
• LTE Cell Tower Upgrade in Severn

“We’re committed to providing our customers fast, reliable, highly secure connectivity. We want them to be able to access the Internet at any moment, from almost any device and anywhere,” said Denis Dunn, President of AT&T Maryland. “Our continued investment in Maryland brings a host of new, innovative opportunities for residents and businesses.”

In 2016, for the second year in a row, FORTUNE magazine recognized AT&T as the Most Admired Telecommunications Company in the world. We also placed #48 among the Top 50 World’s Most Admired companies. This is our third year in a row on the Top 50 list – AT&T is the only communications company on the list. We ranked #1 in all 9 attributes. This included innovation, financial soundness and quality of products/services. FORTUNE’s Most Admired Companies lists are among the most highly respected indicators of corporate performance and reputation.

To learn more about our coverage in Maryland or anywhere in the U.S., visit the AT&T Coverage Viewer. For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit the AT&T network news page.

 

The post AT&T Invests More Than $500 Million Over 3-Year Period to Enhance Local Networks in Maryland appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/att-invests-more-than-500-million-over-3-year-period-to-enhance-local-networks-in-maryland/

Secretary Gill: Preakness is upon us

And, they’re off! The 141st Preakness Stakes is upon us and I could not be more excited about showing off Maryland’s outstanding quality of life and our thriving horse industry. The Preakness is not only a great opportunity to showcase Maryland’s assets to a global audience, but also a significant economic generator for the state and city of Baltimore.

A study done by Maryland Commerce shows that Preakness 2015 drew a record crowd of 131,680 to watch American Pharoah race to victory at Pimlico Race Course. Visitors to Preakness and Preakness Celebration, which is a series of events leading up to the big race, generated $10.6 million in spending.

When you factor in both direct and indirect economic impacts, total Preakness-related expenditures swelled to $33.6 million. The nearly week-long celebration also supported 482 full-time equivalent jobs, $12.9 million in salaries and $2.2 million in state and local taxes.

I’m betting it’s going to be another great Preakness Race and I can’t wait to have the spotlight once again shine on Maryland!

-Mike

The post Secretary Gill: Preakness is upon us appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/secretary-gill-preakness-is-upon-us/

Wolverine Wednesday: Quick Bullets

• Former Wolverine and NFL veteran, Jon Runyan has been named the NFL vice president of policy and rules administration.  Congrats Jon!

• Chris Spielman is leaving ESPN for Fox.  He will be doing college and NFL.

• Michigan junior offensive lineman Mason Cole is on the watch list for the Rimington Award, which goes to the top center in the country.   That is a bit funny since he hasn't played center yet but is a quality offensive lineman and a two year starter.

• Michigan has made the top 10 for five-star OT Jedrick Wills

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/wolverine-wednesday-quick-bullets.html

Chesapeake Innovation Center has a new startup competition

The Chesapeake Innovation Center is offering half a year of free help for startups in a new competition.

The CIC Challenge, which is funded through a Maryland Department of Commerce grant, is offering a chance for selected companies to receive six months in the Anne Arundel County incubator.

CIC Executive Director Michael Tentnowski called it a scholarship program for startups. Along with potentially including office space, the membership includes access to programs, mentors and advisors, as well as networking opportunities through both CIC and the Chesapeake Regional Tech Council. A pitch event is also planned.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Chesapeake Innovation Center has a new startup competition appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/chesapeake-innovation-center-has-a-new-startup-competition/

Michigan Tuesday: LeVert's Injury

Caris's mystery injury has now been exposed.  Per UMhoops:

LeVert revealed to the media for the first time that he suffered a Jones fracture, the same injury that plagued Kevin Durant. LeVert is still a month away from being able to participate in on-court work and probably won’t be able to play full court until July. That isn’t an ideal time frame given that the NBA Draft on June 23rd is just over a month away.

LeVert first revealed his the specifics of his injury in a feature story with Yahoo! on his interactions with Kevin Durant.

“It’s been a grueling process since the surgery, staying stress-free, eating well and getting the right amount of sleep,” LeVert told The Vertical. “We have looked at X-rays, and everything has looked up to date. All the doctors are really encouraged by what they see. I heard all of the first-round projections from last year, but right now, I can just speak well in interviews and show myself in X-rays.

• Michigan vs. Hawaii will kickoff at noon on ESPN.  Love the noon start!

• Ricky Dole is transferring to Florida Gulf Coast.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-tuesday-leverts-injury.html

Michigan Monday: A Couple Recruiting Bullets

• Welcome to the Opening.  These (hopefully) instate future Wolverines made the Openings final at the Chicago regional this past weekend: Josh Ross and Jaylen Kelly-Powell.

• Speaking of Jaylen Kelly-Powell, he also visited Wisconsin this weekend.

• 5 star WR DP-J visited Ann Arbor again this past weekend.   Please visit every weekend!  

• Four-star CA C Brett Neilon, has a top 3 schools of Michigan, USC, and Washington

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-monday-couple-recruiting.html

Maryland Launches Global Consulting Program

The Maryland Department of Commerce and University of Maryland Robert H. Smith School of Business have launched the Maryland Global Consulting Program to provide global consulting expertise to small Maryland companies.

Smith students, both graduates and undergraduates, will provide the consulting services through the school’s Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), a Title VI center funded in part by the U.S. Department of Education. Student teams will be supported by Smith faculty and international trade and investment experts at Maryland Commerce. The consulting engagements will identify new or expand existing international strategies for client companies and work to solve international business challenges.

“International growth in trade and investments is one of the great areas of opportunity for Maryland companies and our economy as a whole. Our cutting-edge technologies and products and highly-skilled workforce give Maryland the ability to play and compete on the world stage,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “I could not be happier to forge this new partnership with the Smith School and bring together the bright and talented Smith students with faculty members and Commerce experts to give Maryland companies a leg up on their competition around the world.”

“The Smith School is well positioned to contribute to the growth of the Maryland economy. Our student talent has a strong track record of working with global and local companies engaged in international trade to solve the challenges they face,” said Alex Triantis, dean of the Robert H. Smith School of Business. “I am excited to be entering into this partnership with Maryland Commerce that will not only bring growth to our region, but also provide our students with real-world opportunities to practice their skills and contribute to the success of local companies.”

The Maryland Global Consulting Program will address a range of issues for clients, including those in general strategy, marketing, finance, supply chain and logistics, and data analytics. Teams of five to six students, advised by Smith faculty and Commerce subject matter experts, will spend 14 weeks tackling the projects. MBA teams will provide 400 hours of consulting services and honors undergraduate teams will provide 200 hours. Participating companies will pay a flat fee of $2,000 for MBA teams and $1,000 for undergraduate teams to support the program.

Applications to the program will be accepted on an annual basis and are due to the Maryland Department of Commerce by June 15. Interested companies will meet with Commerce staff detailed to the international region in which the consulting project will focus. For the contact information of the appropriate staffer, contact Linda Reibert at linda.reibert@maryland.gov or 410-767-0685.

Read more.

The post Maryland Launches Global Consulting Program appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/maryland-launches-global-consulting-program/

The Foundery at City Garage is ready to debut. Here’s what you need to know.

The Foundery will officially open the doors of its new 19,000-square-foot space to entrepreneurs, artists and small businesses June 14.

The Foundery, located inside City Garage in Port Covington, will hold open houses 4-8 p.m. May 16 through May 20 to show off the 19,000-square-foot space, which is stocked with woodworking, metal and bench tools, plus industrial grade manufacturing equipment.

The facility previously was a stand-alone makerspace with limited hours and classes, operating out of a 2,000-square-foot space on Central Avenue near Little Italy. In October, the Foundery announced it would become part of City Garage, the bus depot turned into an innovation hub by Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank’s personal investment arm, Sagamore Ventures. City Garage is at 101 W. Dickman St.

Read more at Baltimore Business Journal

The post The Foundery at City Garage is ready to debut. Here’s what you need to know. appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/the-foundery-at-city-garage-is-ready-to-debut-heres-what-you-need-to-know/

How fiber broadband factors into this Maryland town’s future

Fiber upgrades gave Chattanooga speed and made Kansas City smarter, but there’s no need to get on a plane to find an example of how faster internet could transform a local community.

A little less than an hour up the road, the town of Westminster and Canadian company Ting are installing a gigabit fiber network.

Officials in the Carroll County town of less than 20,000 decided to build their own fiber network after dissatisfaction with the usual options of Comcast, Verizon, satellite, etc.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post How fiber broadband factors into this Maryland town’s future appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/how-fiber-broadband-factors-into-this-maryland-towns-future/

Charm City Circulator is live on Google Maps

Earlier this year, Central Maryland Regional Transit wrapped up work to bring the feed for the Charm City Circulator to Google Maps.

Over the last week, the free bus that’s available in part of Baltimore started appearing as a transit option in the ubiquitous mapping service.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Charm City Circulator is live on Google Maps appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/charm-city-circulator-is-live-on-google-maps/

Here’s a couple ways Johns Hopkins researchers are using 3D imaging and robotics

Johns Hopkins researchers made headlines in scholarly journals this month.

Here’s a look at the work:

Personalized Virtual Heart

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Here’s a couple ways Johns Hopkins researchers are using 3D imaging and robotics appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/heres-a-couple-ways-johns-hopkins-researchers-are-using-3d-imaging-and-robotics/

Healthcare Interactive raises $3.4 million more

Healthcare Interactive tacked on a few extra million dollars to its latest funding round.

The Glenwood-based company announced $3.4 million in additional funding. It’s a tack-on to the health planning company’s $8 million Series A announced in 2014.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Healthcare Interactive raises $3.4 million more appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/healthcare-interactive-raises-3-4-million-more/

MICA-backed effort aims to bring mini golf to Station North

The coming summer serves as yet another reminder that Baltimore city is lacking mini golf. By next year, a pair of Station North orgs wants to fill that hole.

MICA and the Station North Arts and Entertainment District are teaming up to create a mini golf course at four sites in the neighborhood. The temporary eight-hole course will be an art installation, but it’ll also be a course that you can play real-life putt-putt.

The effort received a $35,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts for the design. It’s a step toward bringing the project to fruition, but officials are seeking additional funding.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

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from http://baltimoretech.org/news/mica-backed-effort-aims-to-bring-mini-golf-to-station-north/

How impact investing is changing philanthropy

Impact investing can lead to new strategies for entrepreneurs and mission-driven businesses. That means room for new people to receive investment.

“It cannot just be about the elites. It really has to include everyone,” said Case Foundation President Jean Case, echoing a core belief that’s reflected both in the foundation’s work and the message of her husband, AOL cofounderSteve Case. She made the remarks during a panel of foundation presidents at the Mission Investors Exchangeconference this week in Baltimore.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post How impact investing is changing philanthropy appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/how-impact-investing-is-changing-philanthropy/

How Digital Harbor Foundation’s FabSLAM tackled environmental issues

The toxic unfurling of environmental issues around Baltimore was the source material for students competing in the Digital Harbor Foundation’s FabSLAM competition this spring.

Consider the top three prizewinners in the six-week digital fabrication competition:

• To address the Chesapeake Bay’s dwindling oyster population, Team Digital Oyster Foundation created a wetland using 3D printing.
• Team Home Grown hatched plans to turn abandoned houses into scenes of new growth for plants, complete with solar panels and irrigation.
• Storm drains that feed polluted water into the harbor get a filter courtesy of Team Amasek.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post How Digital Harbor Foundation’s FabSLAM tackled environmental issues appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/how-digital-harbor-foundations-fabslam-tackled-environmental-issues/

Can IBM’s Watson help humans find hackers?

Hackers are making increasingly bigger headlines, so experts are looking to harness all the brain power they can get to stop attacks. At UMBC, researchers are planning to tackle the question of how that brain could come from a computer.

The university is partnering with IBM Research to create a new lab for cybersecurity that focuses on harnessing cognitive computing to ferret out attacks. The Accelerated Cognitive Cybersecurity Lab is set to be housed in the university’s College of Engineering and Information Technology, and is slated to open in the fall.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Can IBM’s Watson help humans find hackers? appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/can-ibms-watson-help-humans-find-hackers/

Emerging Technology Centers names new assistant director

Emerging Technology Centers has a pair of new positions, with familiar faces filling the roles.

Jacqueline Albright was named Assistant Director of the Baltimore Development Corporation-backed incubator. In addition to taking on more leadership in her third year with the company, she also recently received four certifications as part of the International Business Innovation Association’s Incubation Management training program. Albright will continue to manage ETC’s day-to-day coworking, accelerator and incubator programs, and also work on strategic initiatives.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Emerging Technology Centers names new assistant director appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/emerging-technology-centers-names-new-assistant-director/

Cecil County to host Business Appreciation Week

Guest feature: Jason Zang is the economic development coordinator at the Cecil County Office of Economic Development. Follow Cecil County OED on Facebook and Twitter.

The Cecil County Office of Economic Development (OED) will host Business Appreciation Week from May 23-27 to celebrate our 1,900+ businesses in the community. Throughout the week, OED representatives will accompany County Executive Tari Moore as she visits businesses of all sizes from various industry sectors, learning about each unique operation and what impacts their bottom line.

In addition to conducting visits, the week’s programming includes several special events. On Thursday, May 26 at the Elkton Central Library, OED will host a workshop dedicated to assisting small businesses reach new markets. Secretary Jimmy Rhee of the Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs and Jessica Reynolds of the Maryland Department of Commerce‘s Office of International Investment and Trade will deliver presentations that discuss how small businesses can expand into domestic and foreign markets and do business with government entities. The day will conclude with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Lee’s Landing, with their new boardwalk concept to follow.

On Friday, May 27 from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., OED will host an open house. The public is welcome to meet our staff and learn about available programs, new developments, and additional news on the horizon. Light refreshments will be provided.

To schedule a visit during Business Appreciation Week or to register for the workshop and/or open house, please contact Terri Springel at 410.996.6292 or tspringel@ccgov.org.

The post Cecil County to host Business Appreciation Week appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/cecil-county-to-host-business-appreciation-week/

Michigan Friday: Dicky V Honoring Chad Tough Tonight

Dick Vitale is hosting his annual gala tonight and will be looking to raise $2.5M for cancer research.  He is honoring two children that lost their life recently and one of those two is our own Chad Carr.    Jimmy and his wife will be accompanied by Lloyd at tonight's gala.  

"You know what frustrates me? I work 24-7 on this, sending letters, leaving messages and texts, anything to get the word out," he said. "Yet some of the big football schools could call for a fundraiser for a practice facility or locker room and they would get $15 million easily. All I want is $2.5 million for kids, sick kids."

If your interested in donating here is Dicky's Gala web site.  

• Mgoblog has a quick interview with one of the greatest Michigan Wolverines ever, Charles Woodson.   He is doing a tour for his new wines.  

• Cass Tech 2017 DB Jaylen Kelly-Powell rated his recent visit to Michigan a 10 out of 10

• Michigan coaches were out to see 2017 WR Nico Collins yesterday.

• Tim Drevno visited 2017 4 star FLOL and Alabama commit, Alex Leatherwood on Thursday.  Leatherwood is a great football name.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-friday-dicky-v-honoring-chad.html

Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey Hits Shelves Today

The Sagamore Spirit team calls its new rye whiskey “a timeless American whiskey as pure as the Sagamore streams.” After several years of aging, the public can now try the whiskey that uses limestone-filtered water from the streams of Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank’s 530-acre Sagamore Farm.

Today, Sagamore Spirit celebrates “Rye Day,” or the day its rye whiskey hits the shelves in local bars and liquor stores. Sagamore Spirit will also introduce its product at next weekend’s Black-Eyed Susan Day and the Preakness Stakes, as the exclusive rye whiskey of Preakness weekend.

Distilling Whiskey, Instilling Pride
Maryland is no stranger to rye whiskey production, and as co-founder Bill McDermond said in a video interview with the Baltimore Sun, rye is “quintessentially Maryland.” From its local spring water to its 83 proof (a nod to Interstate 83 that connects Sagamore Farm to the future distillery in South Baltimore), to the Maryland-themed drink recipes on its website, state pride shines through in everything Sagamore Spirit does.

The company’s executives also want Marylanders to have pride in their product. In an article last summer, Plank – who also co-founded the company – told Baltimore Magazine: “It’s important to have a whiskey that’s local and authentic and real. It’s something that can make our city and our state proud.”

McDermond echoed this sentiment with the Baltimore Sun, saying “We set out to make a product that all of Maryland would be proud of, and we mean that.”

Next Up: A Baltimore Distillery for Sagamore Spirit
Last fall, Sagamore Spirit executives, along with Plank, and Governor Larry Hogan broke ground on the company’s 5-acre whiskey distillery in Port Covington. The distillery – scheduled to open later this year – will feature a distillery building, processing center, Sagamore Farm water tower, as well as a two-story restaurant and event space. Sagamore Spirit expects to welcome more than 100,000 visitors annually at its retail and visitor center for daily tours and tastings.

Sagamore Spirit’s launch and forthcoming distillery opening is a sign that great things are on the horizon for this Maryland company. It’s also a reminder that Port Covington redevelopment continues to progress.

And since it’s Rye Day, let’s toast to that… Maryland Mule, anyone?

The post Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey Hits Shelves Today appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/sagamore-spirit-rye-whiskey-hits-shelves-today/

Michigan Thursday: The State of Alabama Really Doesn't Like Jimmy And His Camps

Alabama really wants to keep Jimmy out of it's state.

A bylaw passed April 12 by the Alabama High School Athletic Association allows its member football coaches to only participate in camps involving their players on the weeks of June 27, July 4, July 11 and July 25.

Student-athletes can attend camps prior to those dates as individuals, and at their own expense.

"We're not going to have it," Patriots coach Kevin Rose said. "To have that many kids, 500 kids, they need 12 high school coaches to help work the camp. And since that's no longer legal, they won't be coming to Bob Jones.

Michigan had planned to do a camp at Bob Jones.  Michigan will be in Alabama on 6/7 doing a joint camp with South Alabama.   This should free up Jimmy to do the 49 other states and every country in the world

• It seems true freshman Dylan now Kekoa (he prefers to be called by his middle name now) Crawford will wear #1.   The countdown to a Braylon meltdown begins in 3...2...1....

• David Long will wear #22

• Rashan Gary will sport #3

The Adidas Michigan clearance is beginning.   MDen has all it's Adidas gear 50% off.    Buy now to save or wait for the Michigan Jordan stuff this summer.  



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-thursday-state-of-alabama.html

Maryland Creates BRAC Advisory Group

The Maryland Military Installation Council (MMIC) has formed a BRAC Advisory Group that will focus on threats and opportunities associated with uncertainties in the defense budget, as well as the probability of future Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) actions. Commerce Secretary Mike Gill, who chairs the MMIC, authorized the group and named 12 founding members.

“Military commands in our state are crucial to homeland security, chemical and biological research, cybersecurity, aerospace, and aviation,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “The installations also contribute more than $57 billion to Maryland’s economy. In anticipation of future BRAC initiatives, Maryland is shoring up its defense of military installations throughout the state. The BRAC Advisory Group is the first of many steps to address the challenges and opportunities of pending DoD actions and ensure that Maryland retains its prominent role in the defense of the nation.”

“Community partnerships played key roles in supporting and protecting our military installations in the 2005 BRAC initiative and other actions that brought new responsibilities and more than 100,000 jobs to Maryland,” said Secretary Gill. “The new BRAC Advisory Group will interact with the communities surrounding our bases, working toward the common goal of ensuring that the defense organizations – and the more than 400,000 Marylanders working for and associated with the DoD – remain here in Maryland.”

Chaired by BGen. Mike Hayes, USMC (Ret.), managing director of the Office of Military and Federal Affairs in the state’s Commerce Department, the BRAC Advisory Group comprises elected officials, retired general officers, retired senior executive service officials, and regional defense experts:

• Col. John C. Astle, USMC (Ret.), Maryland State Senator
• BGen. Sean Casey, MDNG, Assistant Adjutant General-Joint and Director of the Joint Staff, Maryland National Guard
• BGen. Dean Ertwine, USA (Ret.), Assistant Director, Office of Military and Federal Affairs
• James R. Estepp, Director of Operations, Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable, Andrews Business & Community Alliance
• Dr. Frazier Glenn, former Principal Assistant for Research and Technology of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, Fort Detrick; former SES
• Jennifer McGraw, former Strategic Communications, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division
• Michael Parker, President, Northeast Maryland Technology Council; former SES
• George R. Schlossberg, Partner, Kutak Rock LLP; Chair of the firm’s Federal Practice and National Security Law Group; and General Counsel to the Association of Defense Communities
• Sally Young Jameson, Maryland State Delegate
• Deon Viergutz, Vice President of Cyber Solutions, Lockheed Martin, and former President, Fort Meade Alliance

With the mission of protecting Maryland’s military installations, the BRAC Advisory Group will advocate for the bases and commands, act as conduits for information and resources, and serve as liaisons between Maryland’s congressional delegation, the Maryland General Assembly, and the state’s military alliances.

“Maryland emerged from the 2005 BRAC round as a major winner thanks to unprecedented collaboration between all levels of government and the private industry,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger. “The responsibilities of Maryland’s installations will continue to grow – intelligence and cybersecurity at Fort Meade, research and development at Aberdeen Proving Ground, and medical care and research at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I applaud the Maryland Military Installation Council for forming this advisory council so that we can ensure our investments and hard work over the last decade keep our state at the forefront of our nation’s security.”

Learn more.

The post Maryland Creates BRAC Advisory Group appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/maryland-creates-brac-advisory-group/

Veteran-owned firm plans expansion in Prince George’s

Bourn Environmental, a small construction firm that provides environmental restoration services, has received a $50,000 loan from the Maryland Department of Commerce.

The loan, made through the state’s Military Personnel and Veteran-Owned Small Business No-Interest Loan Program, will assist Bourn Environmental with operational costs including equipment purchases and improvements to its offices. The company anticipates hiring 15 employees over the next two years.

“This loan will enable Bourn Environmental to grow and continue our work in ecological construction and habitat management in Maryland,” said Christopher Perry, founder of Bourn Environmental and U.S. Army veteran. “As one of the few veteran-owned businesses performing stormwater management, stream restoration, wetland enhancement and shoreline stabilization for public and private entities, we are very grateful to the state for this helpful program.”

Located in Mitchellville in Prince George’s County, Bourn Environmental also provides consulting and advocacy and focuses on projects in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and surrounding areas. The company was founded in 2014 by Perry, who served for more than five years in the United States Army.

“Maryland is committed to working with our veterans and military families to help them take the next step to success, whether it’s starting or expanding a business or buying a home,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Through this program, we have been able to assist dozens of veterans with building their businesses and creating new jobs.”

“Helping our veterans achieve success is critical to our state’s economic vitality,” said Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “We look forward to working with more veteran-owned companies like Bourn Environmental to help them expand, add new customers and grow jobs.”

Read more.

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from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/veteran-owned-firm-plans-expansion-prince-georges/

UMBC partners with IBM Research for cybersecurity lab

Two-hundred days: that’s how long it takes, on average, for a company to realize someone has hacked into its system and is slowly siphoning data.

As cyber attacks become more difficult to detect, University of Maryland, Baltimore County and IBM Research are teaming up to establish a cybersecurity lab that will develop technology to help analysts identify problems faster. The Accelerated Cognitive Cybersecurity Laboratory will be housed within the university’s College of Engineering and Information Technology and is expected to open this fall.

Read more at Baltimore Business Journal

The post UMBC partners with IBM Research for cybersecurity lab appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/umbc-partners-with-ibm-research-for-cybersecurity-lab/

This Brooklyn access org just launched IT training courses in West Baltimore

Long championed by advocates like Lance Lucas, tech training for the city’s underserved residents has gotten a boost in the last year as civic leaders honed in on the structural issues behind the riots that followed Freddie Gray’sfuneral. Taking the view that viable career options are one of the surest paths from poverty and noting the gap between open IT jobs and workers to fill them, workforce training and expanding tech access are key priorities of OneBaltimore.

Heading into the summer, New York-based NPower is set to add to the available resources. The nonprofit has been active in efforts to expand tech access in Brooklyn.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post This Brooklyn access org just launched IT training courses in West Baltimore appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/this-brooklyn-access-org-just-launched-it-training-courses-in-west-baltimore/

Wolverine Wednesday: Jimmy to Hold Satellite Camp on The Moon

The man doesn't sleep and loves to work non-stop.  I believe one of the reasons it didn't work out for him in the NFL was, there wasn't enough to do everyday.   In college football there is always some offensive lineman to recruit or something for the head football coach to do.   It's a perfect fit for Jimmy.   When the NCAA killed the satellite camps, they pretty much took a month of work off of Jimmy's schedule.    Now, that those camps are back, Jimmy couldn't be happier.   He is even doing a few two camps a day, that are not even in the same state!   Yes, I'm sure private aviation is very nice! 

Now Jimmy is taking his show outside the continental US.   Per Sam Webb, Jimmy is now going to do camps in Samoa, Hawaii, and Australia.  He really is putting the "satellite" in satellite camps.   My only fear is he is going to have a hard time finding new assistant coaches down the line, when they learn their summer vacation is working 7 days a week doing camps.

Jimmy is also doing a camp at Paramus Catholic in NJ.  Which has made the local media and the coaches at Rutgers not very happy.   In response,  Rutgers is teaming up with Ohio State to have a camp within a few miles of Paramus on the same day.   Chris Ash the new head coach at Rutgers came from Urban's staff last year.

• Homecoming against Illinois and Lovie Smith will kick at 3:30.

• Michigan is the current leader for 4 star Alabama WR Nico Collins, he is 6'5 and 195 pounds.  Yes, please.

• Texas 2017 5 Star outside linebacker Baron Browning will visit on June 21st

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/wolverine-wednesday-jimmy-to-hold.html

Allegany County welcomes seven storefronts in two years

Guest feature: Caitlin Squires works with the Allegany County Department of Tourism. Follow along on Facebook.

For the past two years, the quiet rural towns of Mountain Maryland have heard the sound of progress – or construction equipment – clanging and breaking ground along the streets near National Highway.

Since 2014, seven new businesses have been added to the LaVale cityscape. These businesses have brought their products and services to the area, allowing residents to now shop without even leaving town. The stores also bring excitement to the surrounding community and provide hope for future development.

To grab a bite to eat at Buffalo Wild Wings or Cracker Barrel used to be an excursion for Allegany residents, who traveled for miles to satisfy their cravings. Now, these destinations are conveniently located right down the road.

Allegany County has plenty of options for shopping trips, too. Winchester Court is a modern shopping center, similar to the larger towns to the east and west (we’re looking at you, Hagerstown and Morgantown). Aspen Dental, Mattress Warehouse, PetSmart, and Aldi have brought big-city names to small-town consumers. U.S. Cellular, a longstanding staple of communications in the area, is enjoying a fresh façade in the marketplace.

Some may think that the businesses Allegany County has added to its resumé are old news – but for an area that has been long starved of economic improvement, that old news may just be the best news.

The post Allegany County welcomes seven storefronts in two years appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/allegany-county-welcomes-seven-storefronts-two-years/

Michigan Tuesday: Trying To Fill The Holes

The Michigan Basketball roster now has two holes to fill next season.  They would probably like to sign a late 2016 riser and bank the other one.   If a graduate transfer falls into their lap that wouldn't be much of a problem either.  

A guy that could fill one of those spots is 2016 wing Harold Baruti who holds offers from SMU and  a few other small schools.  He is starting to get interest from bigger programs with similar problems as the Wolverines.   Harold is 6'6 200 pounds and could fill the GR3 role in Coach B's offense.  He took an official last weekend but didn't get offered as it seems he has some work to do in the classroom still.

• Speaking of Michigan Basketball, they have signed a home and home with UCLA.  The Wolverines will head to LA next season and then the return trip will be in 2017 or 18.

• ESPN continues to remove talent.  The latest to go is famous Buckeye Chris Carter and Ray Lewis, there are rumors that Trent Dilfer could be next.   Chris and Ray are rumored to be replaced by Randy Moss and we already know Charles Woodson will be joining ESPN's NFL staff as well. Sean McDonough will now do play by play for MNF and will replace A2 resident Mike Tirico.

• ESPN has Michigan ranked #3 and Phil Steele has them ranked #7 is the early (we don't have anything better to do) College Football Polls.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/05/michigan-tuesday-trying-to-fill-holes.html

Improving Economic Diversification in Defense: Seeking Contractor Input

Maryland is home to 17 military installations that support more than 400,000 jobs and generate over $57 billion in total output. In fact, Maryland is among the top five U.S. states for defense spending. This spending impacts every region of the state.

However, with uncertainty of the defense budget, there are challenges facing the defense industry. In effort to get a clear picture of how Maryland businesses could be affected by difficult fiscal times, the Maryland Department of Commerce partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to map the state’s defense supply chain. To better understand the current situation and work toward vital economic diversification efforts, we developed a survey, in collaboration with Towson University’s Regional Economic Studies Institute.

The survey is open through June 15 and can be accessed here. In addition to completing the survey, companies can further help the initiative by uploading a list of suppliers to identify more companies in the defense industry in Maryland. All information provided will be protected and confidential. Survey feedback from defense contractors will provide a clear picture into the dynamics of defense contracting and the impact of the defense budget on the community, and will help keep Maryland’s economy agile and adaptive.

This survey is one of many statewide activities that will help the state identify where diversification efforts should be targeted. Any questions related to the survey should be directed to John Stovall, Defense Industry Outreach Coordinator at john.stovall@maryland.gov.

Learn more.

The post Improving Economic Diversification in Defense: Seeking Contractor Input appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/05/improving-economic-diversification-defense-seeking-contractor-input/

Check out the hardware at the makerspace in City Garage

City Garage has been increasingly filling up with startups, events and even rye whiskey. In the coming weeks, the makerspace in the Port Covington spot is getting set to open to the public.

Marking a move to a space that’s 10 times the size of its first spot on Central Avenue, The Foundery is set to officially open on June 14.

Soft-launch events are set to start popping up on the week of May 16, said cofounder Jason Hardebeck.

Read more at Technical.ly Baltimore

The post Check out the hardware at the makerspace in City Garage appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/check-out-the-hardware-at-the-makerspace-in-city-garage/

Social Leagues moves offices to City Garage

Social Leagues, Baltimore’s adult social sports league company, has moved its offices from Betamore to City Garage.

Known locally as Baltimore Social, Social Leagues is graduating from Betamore and plans to expand its staff in Baltimore and nationally at the new facility. The company also plans to increase its staff at BmoreKid Sports, a nonprofit that offers free sports leagues to youth in underserved communities founded by Social Leagues CEO Giovanni Marcantoni.

“We’re extremely grateful to the team at Betamore, without whom we couldn’t have grown so fast,” said Marcantoni in a statement. “This move aligns the Social Leagues and Plank Industries brands, through which we believe we can achieve the goal of providing a free play experience for a child for each adult who plays in one of our leagues.”

Read more at The Daily Record

The post Social Leagues moves offices to City Garage appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/social-leagues-moves-offices-to-city-garage/

Johns Hopkins Studies Robot Surgeons

Robots can do everything–except, perhaps, respond to subtleties and delicate, quickly-changing situations.

That, at least, is why robot surgery has taken longer to expand into the world of soft tissue surgery than other areas of medicine. Performing surgery on parts of the body like the small intestine or blood vessels has traditionally been quite tricky, because they tend to be less rigid and more slippery than, say, bones. But researchers at Johns Hopkins have been developing methods to use robots for precise, automated soft tissue surgery.

Read more at Baltimore Fishbowl

The post Johns Hopkins Studies Robot Surgeons appeared first on Baltimore Tech.

from http://baltimoretech.org/news/johns-hopkins-studies-robot-surgeons/