Amazon HQ2 – Projected Impact in Maryland

Amazon’s second headquarters project (HQ2) would contribute $17 billion per year in additional activity to Maryland’s economy and $7.7 billion in annual wages when fully operational, according to a new economic impact study commissioned by the Maryland Department of Commerce and Montgomery County.

Furthermore, the project would support 101,000 total jobs and would produce $280 million in additional county tax receipts each year and $483 million in annual state tax receipts according to the analysis, which was conducted by Baltimore-based Sage Policy Group, Inc.

“Amazon’s HQ2 is the greatest economic development opportunity in a generation, and this study confirms just how transformative this project could be for Maryland,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “From the construction phase, to when the headquarters is fully operational, Maryland would reap unprecedented benefits. We are fully committed to bringing this project home, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with Montgomery County to show Amazon that Maryland is truly Open for Business.”

Montgomery County is one of 20 finalists Amazon is considering to be the home of its second headquarters. The company plans to invest $5 billion in the project, which will ultimately create 50,000 new direct, high-paying jobs.

READ MORE.

The post Amazon HQ2 – Projected Impact in Maryland appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/amazon-hq2-projected-impact-in-maryland/

Wolverine Wednesday: Shea's Appeal and New Michigan Jordan Release Date

Michigan has officially filed the paperwork for Shea Patterson to become immediately eligible.   Many insiders believe this to be a done deal, I'm hopeful but know that the NCAA could make any decision here. 


The NCAA cleared all the players on the basketball FBI list in a matter of days to protect the NCAA Tournament.  My hope is this doesn't take more then a month for a decision.




Nike and Jordan will release their next Michigan shoe on 3/9.  It's the Jordan 32.












Retail is $160 and I don't see any Michigan markings on the shoe.  Meaning if these are the released version, the only way to tell they're "Michigan" special edition is by color only.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/wolverine-wednesday-sheas-appeal-and.html

Michigan Tuesday: McElwain's One Year Contact

• Jim McElwain's contract is for $300,00 for one year as the WR coach and will increase if he is named the OC.   He also gets a bowl bonus. 

• Michigan continues to offer a ton of players in the 2019 class.   Yesterday, was DB offer day as 9 new offers for DB's has gone out the last few days.

• 4 Star TE Tight end Luke Deal will take an official visit to Ann Arbor and South Bend.  Sounds like a good deal to me!

• Moe Wagner has a 16 year old brother 6-8 Franz who can play.   I wonder if he will follow his brother to Ann Arbor in a couple of years.   Moe was also named to second team All Big Ten Team.  

• Michigan Basketball is now #15 in the AP Poll.

• RR has filed a counter suit alleged that his ex-employee and her attorney tried to extort him to pay several million dollars or they would go public with sexual-harassment claims.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-tuesday-mcelwains-one-year.html

Michigan Monday: Michigan Basketball Is Like a Fine Wine

pinterest

They get better with age.   NCAA basketball has been Pig Pen dirty for a long time and Michigan's recruiting has suffered because of it.   Coach B doesn't cheat and his peers say he is not only clean but squeaky clean.  If you're allowed to practice for 60 minutes,  coach practices for 59 minutes and 59 seconds. 


When you can't recruit the top talent you have to be able to find diamonds in the rough like Trey Burke, GR3 Tim Hardaway Jr., etc.   It has worked out well for Coach B and his teams are usually considerable better in February then they were in March.    Two years ago he also looked at his staff and himself and decided his strength was not coaching defense.   He went out the last two years and hired the equivalent of a football defensive coordinator and Michigan's defense continues to improve because he understood his own weakness.  Yes, Coach B has had some bad losses over the years and a few bad years, but he is the perfect coach for Michigan and we are lucky to have him. 


Michigan's last 3 games of the year were going to be tough wins.  OSU was a top 10 team and then on the road for Penn State and Maryland (both bubble teams).  Michigan went 3-0 and blew out Maryland on Saturday.   MAAR is playing so well right he now that he is making a run at becoming an NBA player. 


Basketball season is so much better when Michigan is competitive and an NCAA team.  They are the 5th seed in the Big Ten tournament and will play Thursday afternoon at MSG.


-----


Here is Michigan's Spring Schedule:





The time for a the Spring Game is TBD.

• Ed Warinner hasn't been officially announced at the OL Coach but his twitter bio says he is.

 

• I wouldn't hold your breathe on Calvin Anderson heading to Ann Arbor now that Tim Drevno has resigned.   Ed and Jimmy will have to convince him that Michigan is in a better place and Ed is a better OL coach now. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-monday-michigan-basketball-is.html

Q&A with Maryland manufacturer Phelps Industrial Products

The Maryland-grown company Phelps Industrial Products has been serving the global market since 1945.

From their new location in Laurel, the manufacturer of industrial gaskets, compression packing, and fluid sealing devices has a team of experts with the talent to craft a custom product for a vast range of industries. Through die, laser, waterjet, knife cutting, and hand-cut services, Phelps has been successful in producing innovative designs for everything from water treatment, power and utility, petrochemical, marine, refining, to the pharmaceutical industry.

We sat down with Phelps CEO Gina Lehman to discuss their new expansion and the future of this 21st century manufacturer.

Tell us a little about the history of Phelps.
Phelps was started in 1945, and stayed in the family for two generations. We have grown based on our exemplary customer service. We strive really hard to cater to our customers’ fluid sealing needs.

What are some examples of the gaskets and other products Phelps makes and where are they applicable?
Gaskets and rubber products have a very wide range of mission-critical applications in Refining, Oil & Gas Production, Petrochemical Manufacturing, Power Plants, etc. Gaskets are used in all kinds of fluid sealing applications such as waste water treatment, NEMA Boxes, Electronics, and much more.

What do you attribute to the company’s success?
First and foremost our team – our employees strive hard to provide the best-in-class service to our customers. Secondly, our customers truly recognize this attribute of Phelps which can be seen in the public feedback available on Google Reviews.

Tell us about the new location.
We are moving to a bigger, more spacious facility. We are buying brand new machines, training our employees, adding new employees to supercharge our technical capabilities, expand our geographical reach, and further enhance our customer service.

Why Maryland?
Maryland provides an ideal location with access to the defense industry, manufacturing industry, coastal/shipping industry, and pharmaceutical industry. There’s a manufacturing-friendly environment here that we’ve taken advantage of.

What does the future hold for Phelps?
We aspire to grow our customerbase domestically and globally by growing our team, adopting cutting-edge digital technologies, and expanding our products. We also seek ISO Quality approvals to become more appealing to newer customers. We hope to gain more acceptance and recognition by government contractors like Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, BAE Systems and the like. It has been a challenge to gain access and entry into these organizations despite our capabilities and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certifications. The federal government has set-asides for MBE businesses, but making the appropriate contacts and landing those contracts is an uphill battle.

For more information about Phelps Industrial Products visit phelpsgaskets.com.

The post Q&A with Maryland manufacturer Phelps Industrial Products appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/qa-maryland-manufacturer-phelps-industrial-products/

Who is Ed Warinner?

yahoo.com

Prior to coming to Ann Arbor, Ed was the offensive line and running game coordinator for the Minnesota Golden Gophers.  Before Minnesota he held a number of titles at Ohio State including OC,TE and offensive line coach.


Here is a write up from Ohio State's web site from a few years ago talking about Ed and what type of offensive line coach he is:

Behind Warinner's offensive line that has produced five NFL players in the last three seasons, including three rookie starters in 2014 -- Corey Linsley for Green Bay; Jack Mewhort with Indianapolis; and Andrew Norwell at Carolina -- the Buckeyes have ranked in the Top 10 nationally in rushing three years with a national ranking of 11th in the fourth.
Expect the number of Warinner's offensive linemen to make an NFL roster to grow to six this year as 2015 Big Ten offensive lineman of the year and consensus All-American Taylor Decker will be an early pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.


Warinner represents the sixth offensive coordinator to work under Meyer and the previous five have all become head coaches, including Tom Herman, now the University of Houston coach.
Warinner's coaching career includes coordinator positions for three record-setting Kansas Jayhawks teams, including the 2007 unit that averaged 479.8 yards and 42.8 points per game. He also has two seasons as offensive coordinator experience at Army.


Warinner was named the 2014 FootballScoop offensive line coach of the year. He is the first coach to earn offensive line coach of the year honors from FootballScoop twice and he joins a short list of three other coaches -- Mark Helfrich, Kliff Kingsbury and Philip Montgomery -- to be named a FootballScoop positional coach of the year twice. He also won the award in 2012.


Warinner's honors also include being named a 2014 Rivals.com Top 25 recruiter. In 2012, Rivals.com named Warinner one of the Top 20 "hottest assistant coaches" in the nation and prior to coming to Ohio State in 2011, he was a finalist for the FootballScoop offensive line coach of the year.
Warinner has coached at eight different schools: Akron, Michigan State, Army, Air Force, Kansas, Illinois, Notre Dame and now Ohio State. In addition to his 11 years in coordinator positions, he has spent 19 of the past 24 seasons coaching the offensive line.


"I've always strived to coach in positions where I have a lot of responsibility," Warinner has said. "Serving as a coordinator goes beyond just coaching what my guys are doing. It is a thought process of attacking and moving the ball, and strategies and reading plays. There is a big picture as a coordinator that I am into and really enjoy, and it's a position from where I think I can make a significant contribution to the success of a team."


Ed Warinner Coaching Experience
2017        Run Game Coordinator/OL              Minnesota

2016	Offensive Coordinator/TE	Ohio State
2015	Offensive Coordinator/OL	Ohio State
2012-14	Co-Offensive Coordinator/OL	Ohio State
2011	OL/Run Game Coordinator	Notre Dame
2010	Offensive Line	Notre Dame
2009	Assoc. Head Co./OC/QB	Kansas
2007-08	Offensive Coordinator/QB	Kansas
2005-06	OL/Run Game Coordinator	Illinois
2004	OL/Run Game Coordinator	Kansas
2003	Offensive Line	Kansas
2000-02	Offensive Line	Air Force Academy
1998-99	Offensive Coord/QB	Army
1992-97	Offensive Line	Army
1991	Defensive Line	Army
1988-90	Executive Asst./Recruiting	Army
1987	Centers/Guards	Army
1985-86	LB/Secondary	Michigan State
1984	Running Backs	Akron

Ed Warinner Quick Facts
Hometown: Strasburg, Ohio
High School: Strasburg-Franklin
Alma Mater: Mount Union, 1984
Master's Degree: Akron, 1985
Year in Coaching: 33rd (Fifth year at Ohio State)
Wife: Mary Beth
Children: Daughters Madisyn and Merideth, and a son, Edward

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/who-is-ed-warinner.html

Vision Technologies plans 100 new jobs in Maryland

Vision Technologies, Inc., a national and global systems integrator, is relocating its headquarters in Anne Arundel County and adding 100 new full-time jobs over the next five years to its local workforce. The company, located in Glen Burnie, is currently searching for a new facility in the county. Vision Technologies employs 247 workers in the county with more than 500 full-time employees nationally.

“We appreciate all of the support we have received from the Maryland Department of Commerce and Anne Arundel County as we continue to grow. Anne Arundel County has been a great place to start and grow our company and we are proud of what we have achieved,” said John Shetrone, president and CEO of Vision Technologies. “The support from Maryland Commerce has been proactive and effective in providing funding and support for our expansion. We look forward to the future, our continued growth, and being a great example of success here in Maryland.”

Vision Technologies offers an array of IP centric technologies to include AV, wireless, cyber and physical security, and network infrastructures. Vision currently has three offices throughout the country with annual revenues exceeding $120 million. The company was named one of the Top 50 Systems Integrators for 2017 by Systems Contractor News and has been recognized as one of INC. 5000’s fastest growing companies for eight consecutive years.

“Our administration is proud to support Vision Technologies as they move to a new location in Anne Arundel County and add 100 jobs to their growing workforce,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “More and more high-tech companies like Vision Technologies are expanding in Maryland, which is a testament to our talented workforce and our focus on advancing our innovation economy.”

READ MORE.

The post Vision Technologies plans 100 new jobs in Maryland appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/vision-technologies-plans-100-new-jobs-in-maryland/

Michigan Friday: There Are Some Rumors Floating Around

One of the things I love about the internet is that you can be on the ground floor of something that might happen.  A great example was that Brian at Mgoblog was the first to report Lloyd Carr was retiring.  He had that information days before the Detroit papers or even ESPN.  The Internet of course can also produce lies and reckless speculation.  


This information right now is just message board material but it might be something or nothing. 

• Fact - Zach Drevno, Tim Drevno's son has committed to Vandy (I believe as a walk-on) as a long snapper.  Zach is a member of the 2018 recruiting class.

• Speculation is that Tim will follow Zach to Vandy and will have a role on Derek Mason's staff.  -Just a rumor at this point.

• Michigan insider, Sam Webb has speculated that there are more staff changes to come. 

Is this something or nothing?  Hard to tell at this point but we should see soon.   BTW: Drevno leaving for Vandy wouldn't help with Michigan's recruitment of Rice OT transfer Calvin Anderson.

• This FBI/Yahoo/SI Basketball Investigation is going to continue to find out information.  The latest report includes MSU star Miles Bridges.

• Steve Lorenz at 24/7 is saying that Michigan has 38 offers out in the state of Georgia for the 2019 class.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-friday-there-are-some-rumors.html

Michigan Thursday: Some Good News!

Michigan Basketball continued it's great play late in the year as they went on the road and beat a solid Penn State team that is probably on the wrong side of the NCAA bubble right now.  If early in the season star Charles Matthews can re-find his game, Michigan is going to be a difficult out in the Big Ten and NCAA Tournament.   Chuck was scoreless last night.  Robinson went for 19 and Wagner had 18 points last night. 


The biggest difference I can see is in the Wolverines defense, which has gotten a ton better from early in the year.  I love how John's teams always seem to be much better as the year goes on.   That is a sign of a very good coaching staff.


Michigan's final game of the regular season is another road game at Maryland on Saturday at noon.


Hello Big Trente Jones a 2019 4 star Offensive Tackle!


Michigan has huge needs on the offensive line and that need was lessened a bit last night as Georgia OT Trente Jones committed to the Wolverines after a un-official visit last weekend.  Trente is 6'6 and over 280 pounds and had offers from a number of SEC and ACC schools like:  Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, Louisville, and others. 


Many insiders believed this was a Michigan - Florida battle and is the first recruiting win in Ann Arbor for new coach Al Washington.  24/7 ranks Trente as the 333 player in the country and 36th OT in the 2019 class.  Trente is also a former teammate of current Wolverine RB Kurt Taylor.  


Michigan will need to continue to recruit the offensive and defensive lines in the 2019 class.   Keeping these guys committed as you know will be a big challenge prior to December.  Trente is the 5th commit in a class that is expected to be in the mid-20's.

All glory to God 🙏🏾〽️#GoBlue@therealkwat pic.twitter.com/oq0vAEJ14B

— T R E N T E J O N E S🥀 (@trentejones01) February 21, 2018

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-thursday-some-good-news.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Deep Thoughts

So the question of the day is.........


Was it really a National Championship game if the record books shows only one team played but didn't win?


That is really strange isn't it.   Michigan Basketball had a great run in the 2013 NCAA Basketball Tournament and ended up in the finals against Louisville.   Of course the Cardinals won the game after a really bad foul call on a clean block by Trey Burke.  It was a great run and the closet Coach B has gotten to a National Championship. 


The issue is that Louisville was hiring hookers and dancers to help with recruiting.   That news leaked out and Rick Pitino of course didn't know anything about it.  He must have been tending to his bats or sleeping during the day during that time of the year. 


Of course later, the FBI names Rick in having Adidas pay his recruits to come to Louisville and is quickly fired.


The net is that Louisville has been cheating and possibly committing Federal crimes.  The NCAA has now taken away a bunch of wins from Louisville's program including the 2013 championship.   Which means the record book will show that Michigan was in the national game and there was no winner.   A classic no win situation. 

• Since the waterfall of bad news doesn't seen to stop this off season, here is another piece of information for you.   It seems 2019 4 star DE commit Stephen Herron Jr. is now strongly considering committing to Stanford.

• Michigan plays Penn State tonight on the road.  7:00 BTN.

• Commit Nolan Rumler got invited to the UA All American Game.   

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/wolverine-wednesday-deep-thoughts.html

Baltimore’s P-TECH partnerships help lead students to success

A new way of teaching high school students may be the answer to filling future STEM positions around the state.

The P-TECH program – or Pathways in Technology Early College High School – helps train high school students for the growing science, technology, engineering, and math industries where the demand for highly-trained workers has led to a nationwide “skills gap.” Here in Maryland, Baltimore’s Carver Vocational Technical High School and Paul Laurence Dunbar High School have adopted the P-TECH model as a way to prepare students for the city’s growing need for workers with postsecondary training and skills.

P-TECH was developed and launched in New York City with collaboration between the city’s Department of Education, College of Technology, and global tech company IBM. Opened in 2011, the inaugural P-TECH school recently completed its first full six-year curriculum – achieving a graduation rate more than four times the U.S. on-time average for all community college students. Many of the graduates are pursuing four-year degrees, working at IBM, or both. Those in new jobs have roles ranging from digital design to data analytics.

Locally, the P-TECH students take college courses throughout the school year and over the summer at Baltimore City Community College. Once completed, the students will have earned both their high school diploma and an associate’s degree in technology. Along the way, each will have benefited from one-on-one mentoring, paid internships, and workplace learning to prepare them for industry.

IBM is partnering with Carver to prepare students for degrees and careers in information technology. “The kids are pumped and very focused,” said Don Fenhagen, Senior Location Executive for IBM Baltimore and Central Maryland. “Our focus is showing them that technology is everywhere, no matter what business you look at. Whether it’s the Ravens, Under Armour, NASA, DHS, or a global or local tech company, it’s there.”

Last fall, the Carver students visited Under Armour’s headquarters and manufacturing and innovation lab, for a first-hand look at how a global company uses technology on a daily basis. From the company’s Make You Famous wall to the #WeWill campaign, much of Under Armour’s well-known marketing techniques are technology-based.

Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill also joined the day trip and observed the students’ excitement to learn.

“The kids were thrilled to visit a company like Under Armour. You could see the desire to succeed written on their faces,” said Secretary Mike Gill. “We want to make sure the next generation is ready for the ever-changing workforce in Maryland, and P-TECH is an excellent way to do that.”

The model is currently in 90 schools across the country and – when at full capacity – will serve more than 20,000 students. By the end of this year, P-TECH will be in 100 schools around the world, with an expansion in Maryland.

“Our children in Baltimore have a great opportunity to be on the forefront of industry and technology,” said IBM’s Fenhagen. “The proximity to the great technology jobs in Maryland and D.C., coupled with the opportunities being offered to our students, have the potential to not only change our students lives and position them for the future, but also help further build Baltimore into a leading edge tech hub fueled by students that come out of programs like P-TECH.”

“The jobs of the future will not look as they look today,” Fenhagen continued. “Jobs in areas like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence will require new and advanced skills. We’re working to provide young people with opportunities to obtain those skills through P-TECH and partnerships with our local community colleges like BCCC and CCBC.”

IBM has pledged to invest $1 billion in training and development programs in the U.S. over the next few years, as well as hiring up to 25,000 people through the year 2020. For more information go to https://www-03.ibm.com/press/us/en/pressrelease/51863.wss

The post Baltimore’s P-TECH partnerships help lead students to success appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/baltimores-p-tech-partnerships-help-lead-students-to-success/

Michigan Tuesday: How Are 4 Offensive Coordinators Going To Work Together?

Quick question to the Big House Blog Fan base:  Why do you think most of Bill Belichick's coordinators fail when they get head coaching jobs?  The easy answer is: They can't take Tom Brady with them.    


The reason, I believe they fail most of the time, is because they are not brining Bill with them.  Yes, they are getting his process and his defensive plays, but those teams are buying a downgrade from the real thing.   Do you think the Detroit Lions brass, had this conversation?  Has New England's defense gotten better this year because of Matt Patricia or is it because of Bill Belichick?  Indy just hired Frank Reich the former OC for the Super Champs Philadelphia Eagles, does any of us really think that was Frank's offense or head coach Doug Pederson?


That is what makes hiring coaches so difficult.  How about one close to home.   Jim Harbaugh was a Michigan great and NFL Star.  Had any of you heard of John Harbaugh before he got the Baltimore job?  I sure hadn't.  He was the special teams and DB coach for the Eagles before getting the head coaching gig with the Ravens. 


Hiring coaches is more of an Art then a Science.  Jimmy 's view on the offense side of the ball is to get as many offensive coordinator minds as he can get.   That can either turn into beautiful music or a pot of stew that nobody wants to eat.   I think we all agree we got the stew last year. So what happens now?   The plan didn't work out and now you have a ton of high profile coaches on staff that are getting paid big bucks.  


The dream of Pep and Drevno getting new jobs is now dead.   They are not leaving their big pay check or their contract   They also want to try to amend for the disaster that was last year.    So we now need to start looking at what these guys roles should be for next season. 


The final decision will be Jimmy's of course but lets see what we have to work with:


Staff:

• Former OSU and Minnesota OC Ed Warriner.  His job will not include on field coaching duties and will probably be in charge of prepping for future opponents. etc.   1 OC

On Field Coaches:

• Former Stanford, Indy Colts, and Cleveland Browns OC Pep Hamilton.  He was Michigan's Pass Game Coordinator last year, a unit that grossly under preformed.  2 OC
• Former Stanford, USC, and 49'ers offensive line coach Tim Drevno.   He has been the OC at Michigan and his offensive line unit has not preformed well since he as been in Ann Arbor.  3 OC
• Former Alabama OC and former Colorado State and Florida head coach Jim McElwain.  His last job was an offensive nightmare at Florida.  4 OC
• Jay Harbaugh, Jim's son has coached TE's, RB's, and special teams in Ann Arbor. 

That is a lot of cooks in the kitchen on the offensive side of the ball.  If you count Jimmy, that is 5 people with strong experience and voices trying to call plays and put game plans together.   (of course Ed will not be able to call plays).


So Jimmy has some figuring out to do.  There are too many voices in the room right now and he is going to need to find a way to split up some roles. 


Rumored changes:

• Drevno offensive line coach
• Pep QB coach
• McElwain WR coach
• Jay probably stays at RB and Special Teams. 

Who is going to get the OC title seems to be up for grabs.   I think Jimmy is considering McElwain for that job but it also could easily be Pep or Tim.     It's clear that Michigan does need a full time QB and WR coach and just can't have staff members fill those roles.  I also would love a full time offensive line coach as that unit has under preformed for 10+ years now. 


We will see if this is a good fit or just a bunch of offensive minds with a ton of experience that can't effectively run Jimmy's system.  




from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-tuesday-how-are-4-offensive.html

Michigan Monday: Great Weekend For "Other" Michigan Sports

We spend 95% of our time on this blog talking football and quite frankly it's been getting a bit depressing of late.  So today  (which I hope is a holiday for most of you), let's highlight a great weekend for some other U of M sports:

• The Swim Team won the Big Ten Championship this weekend!
• The Hockey Team sweep the #1 Ranked ND Fighting Irish this past weekend
• The Michigan Basketball Team beat #8 Ohio State at Crisler on Senior Day. 

-----


Ok, that didn't last long.  Back to football news.  

• The Shark lover reportedly started work on Sunday.  He is expected to only have the WR title not the OC role. 

• Michigan had a number of 4 star guys in for a visit this weekend including:

-2019 Savannah (GA) Islands LB Kalen Deloach
-2019 Grand Rapids (MI) East Kentwood DT Mazi Smith
-2020 Oak Park (MI) OG Justin Rogers
-2019 Loganville (GA) Grayson OT Trente Jones
-2019 Zeeland (MI) East DE Adam Berghorst
-2019 Paw Paw (MI) OL Karsen Barnhart


Most of this group with all the football coaches was at the OSU game.  The Shark Lover was not in attendance and hasn't been officially announced yet.


from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-monday-great-weekend-for-other.html

FeBREWary Highlights Maryland’s Range of Craft Breweries

Guest feature: Lindsay Renner is the public relations writer for the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. Follow along with DHCD on Facebook and Twitter.

Many of Maryland’s craft brewers are located in Main Street Maryland communities, which affords those seeking to take a trip to sample some of Maryland’s best brews even more to explore.

Main Street Maryland communities, as designated by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, have central business districts with plenty for visitors to see and do. Some communities, such as Frederick, are home to multiple breweries in close proximity to restaurants, retail, galleries and more. The department has also supported craft breweries outside of Main Street Maryland towns, including Union Craft Brewing in Baltimore City.

In Mount Airy, a Main Street Maryland community located in Frederick County, Red Shedman Farm Brewery occupies the same 250 acres of sprawling farmland as its sister company, Linganore Winecellars, which has been one of Maryland’s largest wine producers since the 1970s. Established in October of 2014, the brewery is owned by Victor Aellen, son of the owners of Linganore, making the two businesses a family affair.

As a small-but-growing operation, the Red Shedman team handles all aspects of the business themselves, including distribution. As such, their products are currently not sold outside of Maryland, and the furthest south their beers and ciders can be found is in Bowie in Prince George’s County. The team recently acquired their own canning line, which Jenkins said will be a boost for their production capacity.

In warmer months and on weekends, the farm is often abuzz with activity. Visitors travel to sample the beers, wines, and ciders produced on the grounds while often taking in live music or enjoying a festival, such as their annual Bluegrass, Brew and BBQ Festival in April. This year’s festival, Jenkins said, is shaping up to feature 30 different breweries, as well as four local barbecue vendors and four bluegrass bands.

According to Jenkins, one of the best parts of being in business there is being a member of Frederick County’s business community. “We help each other out whenever we can,” Jenkins said. “There have been times when we’re brewing, and we’re, say, a bag short on grain. We can go to other brewers — who are theoretically our competition — and they’ll help us out. There’s a lot of love and support out here.”

Read more and find a full list of breweries located in Main Street Maryland communities.

The post FeBREWary Highlights Maryland’s Range of Craft Breweries appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/febrewary-highlights-marylands-range-of-craft-breweries/

Michigan Friday: A Quick Look At The New Recruiting Rules

I was looking at some recruiting news and saw a tweet from a 2019 kid that said he was going to take an official visit to Ann Arbor in April.   My first reaction, was what?  Then I remembered with the new early NSD and the new 10th assistant coach, that there are some other new rules like earlier official visits.  


Since I wanted to find out the new information, I thought you might be interested as well:

• A new period for official visits that on begins April 1 of the junior year and ends the Sunday before the last Wednesday in June of that year. Official visits can’t occur in conjunction with a prospect’s participation in a school’s camp or clinic.   This is a big change and will save prospect money as most players were taking un-official visits during this time.   In the past, you had to be in your senior year to take an official visit.   Great new rule. 

• It prevents Football Bowl Subdivision schools from hiring people close to a prospective student-athlete for a two-year period before and after the student’s anticipated and actual enrollment at the school. This provision was adopted in men’s basketball in 2010.   This is the Chris Partridge rule.   :-(

• It limits the time for Football Bowl Subdivision coaches to participate in camps and clinics to 10 days in June and July and requires that the camps take place on a school’s campus or in facilities regularly used by the school for practice or competition. Staff members with football-specific responsibilities are subject to the same restrictions. The Football Championship Subdivision can conduct and participate in camps during the months of June and July.  This is the Harbaugh Satellite camp rule.  :-(

• It allows coaches employed at a camp or clinic to have recruiting conversations with prospects participating in camps and clinics and requires educational sessions at all camps and clinics detailing initial eligibility standards, gambling rules, agent rules and drug regulations.  Seems like a good rule.

• Football Bowl Subdivision schools are limited to signing 25 prospective and current student-athletes to a first-time financial aid agreement or a National Letter of Intent. Exceptions exclude current student-athletes who have been enrolled full-time at the school for at least two years and prospective or current student-athletes who suffer an incapacitating injury.  Does this rule now stop over signing?  Or is there still ways a team could sign 35 players in a class?

These seem like good rules.  I like the official visit rule the best as kids were going out of pocket (if they could) to see these schools during the spring/summer.   It's also hard for kids to take visiting during the season as they are playing games on Friday night and then trying to get to a game the next afternoon. 




from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-friday-quick-look-at-new.html

Michigan Thursday: Looks Like McElwain Is The Guy

Sam Webb and 24/7 are reporting that sources have confirmed former Florida head coach and Alabama OC Jim McElwain is expected to take a role on Jimmy's staff as it's final assistant.   This is the role that Dan Enos had a cup of coffee in before heading to Alabama, where it seemed he wanted to be all along.  


If you read this blog, you know where I stand on this hire.  I don't see much reason to bring Jim in at this point as his program at Florida had very similar issues to what Michigan has right now.   With that said, he does have a nice coaching resume and is over qualified for the role. 


What might be more interesting then the hire is what is projected to be his role in the offense.   Insiders are saying the McElwain will be taking over the OC and WR coaching role.   With Drevno being demoted to OL coach and Pep to QB coach.   Now the question remains, do you pay your OL and QB coach a $1M a year?  They both have contracts, so I guess the answer is Yes.


I have been a big supporter of Jimmy and his off season actions.  I love the European trips, the satellite camps, IMG spring breaks, and Signing of the Stars.    I just don't get this off season at all.  I don't get what seemed to be a de-prioritization of the 2018 class,  I don't understand what is going on with his coaching staff and his recent hires.  Not to mention a completely poor performance in the Outback Bowl and the questionable status of players like RB Kareem Walker and WR Grant Perry. 


The one coach Jimmy has been able to beat, he hires after his time at Florida goes down in flames.  At this point, its hard to tell if Jimmy is a coaching genius or a desperate coach looking for a Hail Mary.   To say the least, I'm very concerned at where this is heading.  Yes, those fears are a bit pre-mature but there seems to be more questions then answers at this point.  


With all of that said, Jimmy can erase any doubt with an eligible Shea Patterson and a double digit win season next year. 

• Michigan Basketball got its win against Iowa last night.   They host #8 OSU on Sunday and then hit the road for two final games before the Big 10 Tournament in NYC.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-thursday-looks-like-mcelwain.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Michigan Takes on Iowa Tonight

The Michigan Basketball team plays Iowa tonight at Crisler.  It's an early 6:30 tip and will be on BTN.  The 20 win Wolverines are favored by 11 in the game and looking to continue it's NCAA resume.   Tonight is a must win for the Wolverines as they host OSU on Sunday and then go on the road to finish the season against Penn State and Maryland.   Those 3 games are winnable but we know the Wolverines sometimes struggle on the road. 

• West Bloomfield (MI) 2019 4-star LB Lance Dixon and 2019 3-star WR Tre Mosley are visiting Ann Arbor on Thursday.

• Calvin Anderson will be visiting Oklahoma this weekend and then will make a decision between Michigan, OU, Texas, and Auburn. 

• Michigan has offered 2019 Walled Lake (Mich.) Western QB Sam Johnson

• Jimmy said on his podcast that he expects Ryan Hayes to be a OT at Michigan.  That being an athletic TE in high school should only help prepare him to be an OT.

• Michigan again lead the nation in football attendance with an average of over 111,000 people at the Big House.

Happy Valentines Day!





from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/wolverine-wednesday-michigan-takes-on.html

Celebrate Black History Month in Maryland

This month we celebrate Black History Month. All across the nation, Americans from every background are pausing to reflect on the courage, bravery and sheer tenacity of Black activists throughout history. Ranging from the writings of W.E.B. DuBois to Martin Luther King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, American history has no shortage of Black culture woven in the pages of its history book.

Here in Maryland, some of history’s strongest activists have deep roots in the state. Harriet Tubman, for instance, was born into slavery near Cambridge in Dorchester County. In 1849, she escaped to the north but returned to her home state multiple times over the next decade to help many families reach freedom. Frederick Douglass, born in Talbot County, escaped from slavery by catching a north-bound train out of Baltimore and went on to become one of the most well-known abolitionists and writers ever.

With these and other prominent historical figures, Maryland offers a variety of family-friendly exhibits and educational experiences in celebration of African American culture in February and all year round. Here are a few ideas to try this month.

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center
Located on the Eastern Shore, the newly opened Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center welcomed 100,000 guests over the past year. Tubman – who played an instrumental role in not only American history, but Maryland history – is recognized for her heroism in the Underground Railroad. Visitors are able to immerse themselves in the landscape Tubman and others would have experienced in order to escape to freedom. The center hosts educational programs on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am – 5pm.

The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum
Located ten minutes from the Inner Harbor, the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum houses more than 100 life-size figures of esteemed African Americans. The exhibits are displayed with sound effects for historical accuracy and lead visitors on a journey through time from the Middle Passage to the election of President Barack Obama. Wax figures of outstanding Marylanders such as Billie Holiday and Bea Gaddy stand as positive representations of extraordinary Blacks in American history.

Frederick Douglass Bicentennial
In honor of Frederick Douglass’ 200th birthday, the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum in Baltimore will host a book fair on February 24 from 12 – 4pm. Authors, publishers and spoken word performers will have the chance to showcase their work during this event, which is free and open to the public.

In addition, Frederick Douglass’ new wax figure – which will be housed at the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum – is set to be unveiled at the maritime park on February 17 from 12 – 4pm. Read more.

The Reginald F. Lewis Museum
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum – a celebration of Maryland’s African American community – has an outstanding set of exhibits on display this month. Reginald F. Lewis, a Baltimore native, owned a venture capital firm and was recognized by Forbes one of the 400 richest men in America in 1992. During his lifetime, he donated more than $10 million to non-profits and gave a $5 million grant to fund the museum in his name.

Special exhibitions on display this month include Intimate Portraits of Iconic African Americans and Freedom: Emancipation Quilted and Stitched.

Find even more ways to celebrate Black History Month here.

The post Celebrate Black History Month in Maryland appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/celebrate-black-history-month-maryland/

Michigan Tuesday: An Early Look at 2019 Recruiting

It seems Jimmy and staff started to prioritize the 2019 class back in the middle of the 2018 recruiting cycle.   Not sure what the thinking was but Michigan fans are expecting a top 5 class and the Wolverines are off to a great start. 

 

Current Commits:
5 Star DE or OT Chris Hinton - Rated #14 in the Country by 24/7
4 Star OG Nolan Rumler - Rated #63 in the country and from Akron, Oho
4 Star DE Stephen Herron Jr. - Rated #69 and is from Louisville
3 Star LB Charles Thomas, from IMG

 

As you can see Michigan already has committed players ranked higher then the entire 2018 class.  They are also strongly in on the following:

• #1 Ranked RB Quavaris Crouch
• 6'7 and 325 pound OT Xavier Truss
• Teammates at Belleville High School:  5 Star OL Devontae Dobbs and 4 star MSU Commit DB Julian Barnett.  Michigan has some ground to make up with both guys but it seems a strong push lately has gotten the talented duo's attention.
• Maryland OT William Harrod
• IL OT Trevor Keegan

and many more....................

 

Michigan has changed recruiting strategies for 2019 and will go back to coaches being in charge of a certain area or state.   They have also blasted out a ton of offers, so expect their board to be pretty much in flux.  A large class over 25 players is expected.    Both lines will also be a priority as they were a big miss in the 2018 class.

• Michigan of course continues to recruit Rice Grad Transfer OT Calvin Anderson .   Calvin visited Auburn last weekend and has put them in his top group with Michigan and Texas.  Calvin continues to enjoy the recruiting process and probably is still a month or so away from making a decision.   He did say that this is a business decision and a 7 month commitment to get him to the NFL.  So leaving Texas is a possibility as he wants to pick the best program that will continue to develop his skills and get him in the NFL Draft.  

• Nebraska has already sold out their Spring Game.  Lots of excitement for Scott Frost and being  able to install a new offense in 14 practices. 

• ESPN brought out their first look at the NBA Mock Draft, Wagner was not listed in the first round.

• Michigan lost a recruiting staff member in coordinator Cooper Petagna who is headed to Washington.

• Another name has appeared for the 10th coaching position in former Jets OC and Harbaugh assistant coach John Morton.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-tuesday-early-look-at-2019.html

Michigan Monday: More Rumors About McElwain

There continues to be more buzz around Jim McElwain being hired by Jimmy as the 10th/WR coach. There was one report that even suggested he was going to call plays.   I am  and will remain 100% against this hire.   I get that he is over qualified for the role, that he was a great offensive mind at Alabama (who isn't?) and did a nice job at Colorado State with our old friend Dee Hart.   I get it. 


His offense at Florida was terrible and the only thing that kept him in that role was a great defense and a down SEC division.  He had historic QB troubles and was a complete disaster at the end.   Remember when he said he got a death threat from a fan and later it was found that he made it up?  He also isn't a big fan of Jimmy's see the below GIF of ESPN asking him for one word to describe Jim Harbaugh. 

So, Coach McElwain, any thoughts on Jim Harbaugh? https://t.co/kIXkkdbV5D pic.twitter.com/2scuYCHpUF

— Ace Anbender (@AceAnbender) August 11, 2016

At least Michigan is surrounded by fresh water lakes.  I also wouldn't have him recruit South Florida, just in case he wants to do some deep sea fishing.

• Michigan Basketball got a win in Wisconsin yesterday.  The Badgers are last in the Big Ten this year but the Kohl Center has been a house of horrors for the Wolverines in the past.   They were up by 22 in the first half and won by 11.  This was the programs 20th win on the year.

• It's time to start focusing on the 2019 class, which seems like the coaches have been doing for about 12 months now.   We will start looking at some targets and review some of the commits already in the boat as the week goes on.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-monday-more-rumors-about.html

Michigan Friday: Good News on Grant

Grant Newsome spoke to the Detroit News yesterday at Mott Children's Hospital and it says he feels like he could play right now and has been doing winter conditioning with the team.  Chase, Grant, and Don Brown were at Mott to deliver the check for the funds that were raised prior to the bowl game.  

“It’s up to the doctors at this point,” Newsome said. “I feel confident that I could play right now and I could contribute to this team, but ultimately, it’s up to the doctors. Obviously, they’re going to make the decision that’s in my best interests and I’m going to respect that because obviously certain things are bigger than football.

“I feel like I’m in a good place in my recovery, and we’ll see what they say, if it’s clearance now or it’s clearance we want you to wait a little bit or if it’s we want you to retire. It’s really up to them, but I have the utmost faith in them and their decision.”

If Grant can comeback and play, that would be great news for the offensive line and a great motivator for that unit.

• The next candidate rumored to have been interviewed for the 10th coaching position is former Michigan assistant and LSU OC Cam Cameron.  I like this hire much better then the Shark Lover.  Cam was also the OC for the Baltimore Ravens.

• Jimmy on new Utah DB grad transfer Casey Hughes on whether he will play safety or corner:  “Another thing to be determined," Harbaugh said. "He has the ability to be a corner. Also has the ability – by what compiles our best secondary – to be a nickel or safety. He's got the ability to play all three of those, and we'll determine that when he gets here. Coverage ability plus tackling ability. He's made quite a few tackles and he's a strong tackler.”

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-friday-good-news-on-grant.html

Michigan Thursday: Harbaugh At A Cross Roads

Things have not been going well for Jimmy and Michigan's program lately. Things we thought we knew about Jimmy have not really materialized as Michigan head coach.  For example:

• Perception was that Jimmy was one of the best developer of QB's.  He hasn't been successful doing that at Michigan yet and has relied on 3 QB transfers from other programs.
• Michigan would win its rivalry games - Jimmy has yet to beat OSU and has one win over MSU.
• Michigan's power run offense would attract top level offensive lineman - that unit has under preformed and the 2018 class has two tackles and one could end up as a TE.
• With his NFL experience, recruits would flock to the Ann Arbor to be prepped by the former Super Bowl coach.  I would give him a push on this one, his other classes have been pretty good, the 2018 was a bit disappointing. 
• Jimmy's offense and play calling would be an advantage - In his presser he said, they were self-auditing their offensive strategy.   The last two years have been very disappointing on that side of the ball.

With his top choice at QB TBD if he can even play this year and the toughest schedule in the nation.   Jimmy and staff have their work cut out for them this off season.  


Don't get me wrong, things are not on fire like they were with Rich Rod or Hoke but Jimmy is starting to question his offensive approach and making some good moves like hiring Ed Warinner  former OSU and Minnesota OC as an offensive analyst.  Jimmy couldn't stop talking about Ed at his presser yesterday.


He also has to hire a 10th coach to replace Enos and I hope he makes a good hire for that role.  I'm strongly against the hire of shark lover Jim McElwain.   His offense was terrible at Florida and he couldn't develop QB's either. 


I do tip my hit to Jimmy hiring Warinner and University of San Diego OC Tanner Engstrand.  Those guys will bring some new ideas and approaches to the offensive side of the ball.  Time to make some changes and right now that doesn't seem to be letting go Drevno or Pep.   Jimmy also mentioned he was having interviews on NSD for the 10th assistant role. 


I know we can all be prisoners of the moment, but for Michigan to strike out on offensive lineman or defensive linemen between the signing days is very disappointing and just continuing the narrative of Michigan Football losing the off season.


-------


How did Michigan finish in ranking for the 2018 class?


24/7: #21
Rivals: #25
ESPN: #20


This is one of the lowest ranked classes for Michigan since the Hoke - RR transition year. 




from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-thursday-harbaugh-at-cross.html

Maryland leads delegation to Singapore Air Show

Maryland Commerce is overseas this week leading a delegation of companies to the Singapore Air Show, the largest aerospace and defense event in Asia. Held February 6-11, this is the first time Commerce has exhibited at the global trade show, promoting the state’s aerospace assets and unparalleled workforce.

The six local companies joining us in the Maryland booth include:

• Newton, LLC, a satellite engineering services small business in Hyattsville
• TCOM, a Columbia-headquartered company focused on airborne surveillance
• Maven Engineering Corporation, a woman-owned company manufacturing aircraft and locomotive parts in Rockville
• WGS Systems, an award-winning Frederick business specializing in tactical management systems
• Phelps Industrial Products, a global manufacturer and distributor of specialty gaskets out of Elkridge
• BAON Enterprises, an Annapolis-based company with more than 30 years of experience in defense and technology

As the continent’s largest airshow, the exhibition brings together the leaders in the aerospace and defense industry, as well as government and military officials, every two years. In 2016, the show hosted more than 1,000 companies from 48 countries and regions, as well as 48,000 visitors.

“The show is excellent. We have already developed six new opportunities and we have been invited to participate in a startup incubator in Singapore,” said Scott Gornall, owner and vice president of sales at BAON Enterprises.

“We are very excited about the opportunities and access to the Asia market that we, as a small company, would not normally have,” said Jodi Sokol, director of business development for TCOM.

Maryland Commerce helps small and mid-sized companies offset the costs of traveling and marketing at international trade shows by providing ExportMD grants. To learn more about the ExportMD program and eligibility requirements, visit our website.

Stay up to date with the latest international news from Maryland Commerce on Twitter with the hashtag #mdGlobal.

The post Maryland leads delegation to Singapore Air Show appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/maryland-leads-delegation-singapore-air-show/

Welcome To National Signing Day

Potential Drama: Otis Reese to Michigan or Georgia - Nicholas Petit-Frere is trending to OSU.  I don't have any faith that he is heading to Ann Arbor.  So hopefully he doesn't pick Columbus.


Expected to Sign: Ronnie Bell, Vincent Gray, and Mike Barrett


News: There were reports that Shark Lover Jim McElwain was in Ann Arbor yesterday to meet with Jimmy to discuss an assistant coaching role.  Don't love this move if it happens.  Also, Jimmy is expected to hire University of San Diego offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand as an offensive analyst.  Rather see him get the assistant role for some young blood and a new approach.


Not happening this year: Signing of the Stars


Let's hope a couple things go Michigan's way today. 





from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/welcome-to-national-signing-day.html

Michigan Tuesday: A Day Before NSD

Things seem very quiet on the recruiting trail right now for the 2018 class.  The coaches and recruiting services are very focused on 2019 and it's almost a surprise the National Signing Day is tomorrow.   Can Michigan flip a DT or OT?  I wouldn't hold my breathe.   This has been a strange year all around.   Biggest drama is Otis Reese and what he is planning.  Hail Mary is a commitment from Nicholas Petit-Frere.  Let's hope Jimmy has a surprise up his sleeve.

• James Ross III is back in Ann Arbor and will join Jimmy's staff, I believe as an analyst.

• Rumor is saying that OSU DC Greg Schiano might back fill Matt Patricia as the Patriots DC.

• Sounds like this might be the next public Michigan Jordan release:

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-tuesday-day-before-nsd.html

Michigan Monday: Michigan vs. Michigan Super Bowl Crime

Yahoo Sports

Last night in the Super Bowl the difference in the game was a Brandon Graham strip sack of Tom Brady.   That play stopped the New England offense and with a field goal pushed the lead to 8 with less then a minute and no timeouts.  Game over.   That play sort of reminds me of the time Charles Woodson stripped sacked Tom Brady in the snow but it was ruled an incomplete pass.   That call went the Patriots way, the one last night didn't.  Congratulations to the Eagles and Brandon Graham, he deserves to be a Champion after some of the poor Michigan teams he was on.

• Hutchinson and Law didn't get into the Hall of Fame with the latest vote.

• I felt this might be coming.  QB Kevin Doyle de-commits this weekend.   His recruitment had gone completely silent and I wondered if he would be part of the class weeks ago.   The word on the street is that Michigan wanted him to take a prep year and he said, "No thanks".   It will be interesting to see where he signs on Wednesday.  

• Lose one get one - Instate QB Max Wittwer has accepted a PWO to play at Michigan next season.  Max was committed to Air Force and had other scholarship offers to EMU and other smaller schools.  A solid commitment here.

• Michigan has also accepted a Gray Shirt commitment from instate kicker Jake Moody.   That means he will have to pay his own way for a year and then Michigan will provide him a scholarship for the rest of his time in Ann Arbor.

NSD is two days away and there seems to be no buzz on Michigan signing anymore players to the 2018 class.   Right now the only drama is whether Otis Reese stays in the class or goes to Georgia. 


Including Otis, here is the rest of the 2018 class that are still un-signed in the early period:

• WR Ronnie Bell is expected to sign
• CB Vincent Gray is expected to sign
• Athlete Michael Barrett is expected to sign

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-monday-michigan-vs-michigan.html

Maryland kicks off FeBREWary

Governor Larry Hogan has officially announced the celebration of Maryland Craft Beer Lovers Month. The kickoff, which was held last week, is the first of several across Maryland that will host special brew-themed events, launch new beers, and offer unique culinary pairings. FeBREWary is held annually as a partnership between the Brewers Association of Maryland and the Maryland Office of Tourism, a division of the Maryland Department of Commerce.

“Pint by pint, craft beers continue to benefit Maryland through economic impact and vitality,” said Governor Hogan. “In 2016, Maryland craft brewers generated more than $637 million in economic output and supported more than 6,500 jobs. FeBREWary is a way for us to raise a glass to Maryland brewers by celebrating this growing industry and encouraging visitors and residents alike to experience the breweries, ale houses, and brew pubs across the state.”

Beer lovers can get their fill at multiple events during the month-long celebration. On February 16, the Love Thy Beer: Winter Warmer Showcase competition offers a chance to chat with beer experts while enjoying seasonal ales at the Silver Spring Civic Center. On February 24, the Chesapeake Brewing Company in Annapolis holds the Cupid’s Curse Tap Takeover and Ocean City has the Shore Craft Beer Fest: Love on Tap.

Those looking to hit the road in search for a new brew can find a complete map of Maryland’s breweries, from the 1812 Brewery in Cumberland, to the new Guinness Open Gate Brewery and Barrel House in Halethorpe, to Ruddy Duck Brewery in Solomons.

Visitors are encouraged to share their FeBREWary experiences on social media using the hashtag #MDfeBREWary.

The post Maryland kicks off FeBREWary appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2018/02/maryland-kicks-off-febrewary/

Michigan Friday: Roy is Back and The Ole Miss Transfers Make Thier Case

Roy Roundtree is back in Ann Arbor as a Graduate Assistant.  He of course will focus on the Wide Receivers.    We will see if/when Jimmy adds another coach to his coaching staff that might focus on that position group on the field. 

• The Ole Miss transfers are stating their case to the NCAA.  No new news here, just a little more coverage as the process begins. 

• 2018 RB Tariq Reid has been offered a preferred walk-on spot.

• Insider Sam Webb believes that Tim Drevno and Pep will continue to be on staff, even with the potential huge offensive line misses in this class. 

For a few days before NSD and the final official visit weekend, things sure are quiet around this program right now.   Not getting more offensive and defensive lineman in the class in my opinion is a huge miss that will hurt this program in a couple of years. 






from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-friday-roy-is-back-and-ole.html

Michigan Thursday: Full Court Press on Calvin

SI.com

Who is Calvin Anderson?

Calvin is a 6'5 300 pound Offensive Tackle from Rice.   His hometown is Austin, Texas.

-He has been honorable mention in C-USA the last two seasons.   He started all 12 games last season and has played the prior two seasons as well.
-He was a DT out of high school and was a member of the national society of high school scholars.
-His father played football at Army and his grandfather played professional tennis.
-His major at Rice is Mathematical Economic Analysis (which just thinking about makes my head hurt)
-Special Talent: He can solve a Rubik's cube behind his back. 


He is also a graduate transfer and looking at both Michigan at Texas to play his final year and maybe make a play for the NFL Draft next year.


Calvin might be the only way Tim Drevno's saves his job at Michigan.   We have been talking about how the off season has not gone well for the Wolverines.   Tim is no exception as he continues to have misses on the recruiting trail and already apologized to his current offensive lineman for not coaching them well enough last season.   Not to mention that Michigan had one of the worst offenses in the country last year.   This was the guy a couple years ago that was going to be the next head coach from the Harbaugh tree and now seems to be fighting to keep his $1M salary and not being demoted or fired.

Coach Drevno has visited Calvin a number of times and was even there yesterday.   Full court press time!



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/02/michigan-thursday-full-court-press-on.html