3 ways Maryland’s biohealth industry is booming in 2019

Anchored by institutions like NIH, FDA, and Johns Hopkins University, it’s no surprise that the Maryland area is consistently recognized among the leading U.S. bio clusters. With some of the industry’s most notable companies opening or expanding in Maryland over the past year, momentum continues to grow for the region as a leading bio hub. 

Here are three ways the Maryland biohealth industry is booming in 2019. 
 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/3-ways-marylands-biohealth-industry-booming-2019/

Michigan Friday: Hat Tip To Juwan

I think it was clear to everyone that watched the press conference how Juwan Howard feels about being the Michigan head coach.   Now its time to get to work, fill out your staff, and figure out a way to fill those 3 lost spots on the roster.

• Seems the buzz on Mike Miller and Phil Martelli has died down a bit, I'm guessing both guys are considering the offers. 

• 6 Football kickoff times were announced yesterday:

MTSU - 7:30 Night Game on BTN

Army - Noon Fox 

@Wisconsin - Noon Fox 

Iowa - Noon TBD

@Illinois - TBD ESPN

ND - TBD - ESPN/ABC 

@Maryland - Noon TBD 

OSU - Noon Fox 

Don't love starting the season at night against Middle Tennessee but we are probably going to need to get used to more night games.   Wouldn't be surprised if ND was at night as well.   I do like the noon kickoffs! 

• If he only listened to his mom's advice and went to Michigan!  Malik McDowell owes the Seattle Seahawks $800K after he got drafted, signed, and then got hurt ridding a 4 wheeler.   He got cut a year later and is now being sued by the Seahawks for that money.  He is currently out of football and looking for a try-out.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-friday-hat-tip-to-juwan.html

Michigan Thursday: Welcomes Home Juwan

Today around noon, Michigan will welcome back Fab 5 member Juwan Howard as its basketball coach.  It's an historic and exciting day for Juwan, his family, and for Michigan fans.   I hope he has a long career in Ann Arbor with many championships.

News has been breaking on possible assistant coaching candidates.  Since it's a bit confusing, we will use the below to help.

Reports are that Michigan and Juwan have hired Mike Miller as an assistant coach.

The above picture is of Mike Miller who played with Juwan and LeBron and now is an assistant coach on Penny Hardway's Memphis program.  This is who I assumed was the guy they were talking about.   I was wrong!  It's not him.  

It's actually this guy, one of the top G-League coaches who also was the head coach at Texas State and Eastern Illinois.   One of his current players is Zak Irvin.  

Now reports are that Michigan has offered an assistant coaching role to Phil Martelli who has been an assistant or head coach of St. Joseph since 1985.  Yes, 1985.   He was a head coach from 1995 - 2019.   He has not made a decision on the offer yet.  Phil looks like Steve Ballmer's dad:

Unfortunately,  DeAndre Haynes from Coach B's staff has not been retained.  

So that is it.  We don't know if Phil will take the job.  He has a ton of experience but is 64 and might rather have a head coaching job.   Either way, Juwan is bringing in a ton of college experience to level set any of his non-college coaching experience.  On a side note, I wonder if Phil is considering purchasing a gas station and calling it Phil Mart?

Today is a good day for Michigan Basketball!

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-thursday-welcomes-home-juwan.html

Support Maryland nurseries when landscaping this spring

With more than 300 farms producing ornamentals across the state, the Maryland Department of Agriculture encourages consumers to support local Maryland nurseries when landscaping their properties this spring.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/support-maryland-nurseries-when-landscaping-spring/

Wolverine Wednesday: Yak Expected To Head To Texas

Michigan's Basketball staff is starting to come together under Juwan Howard.   The bad news is, reports are that Luke Yaklich is going to accept an offer by Shaka Smart and head to Texas as their DC.  The good news is, Saddi Washington is expected to stay on staff.

Many fans were hoping Luke would stay, but Juwan is a defensive head coach and their skills sets may overlap.   Luke has a senior in high school (next year) so this can't be an easy decision for he and his family.   Its not completely done, but if it happens, we wish him the best of luck in Austin.   This will also allow Juwan to add some of his own coaching staff which could be a long term benefit as well.

Juwan will be announced at a press conference tomorrow at 11:50,  it will be streamed on Mgoblue.

• Ed Cooley said it was very hard to turn down Michigan.  Let me be the first to say, Thank you Ed for doing that!  I still question if he had an offer.  

• Jaevin Cumberland the Oakland transfer is reportedly down to Michigan and Cincinnati.  His cousin Jarron has decided not to enter the NBA Draft and head back to UC.   Which seems to point to Jaevin leaning heavy towards the Bearcats, who also have a new head coach.   

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/wolverine-wednesday-yak-expected-to.html

Michigan Tuesday: A Huge Win on The Recruiting Trail

The state of Michigan has two very high profile recruits in the 2020 class and pretty much every service has them 1 or 2 in the state.  5 star OG Justin Rogers picked UK last week and on Friday 4 star DE Braiden McGregor from Port Huron picked the Wolverines.

McGregor is considered the top player on the Wolverines board.   He is rated the #27th player in the nation on 24/7 and #3 DE in the nation.   He had offers from all the big time programs including Alabama, Clemson, Florida, LSU, Miami, Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State, Ohio State and Oregon.  With all those offers, still many considered it a Michigan - ND battle.  Even the insiders were considering it close to a 50/50 decision on Friday when he announced.

Well, the joke was on the insiders as Braiden had already committed to the Wolverines on a recent trip to Ann Arbor and Friday's announcement was just a formality.  This is a huge win for new D-line coach Shaun Nua and Sherrone Moore who has been recruiting Braiden for over a year.  Mostly with the loss of Greg Mattison who was expected to be his coach in Ann Arbor.  

This is the 9th player in the 2020 class and Michigan is really starting to find some momentum in this class.  Hill-Green and Zak Zinter recently committed and now Braiden McGregor.   The next guy to keep an eye on is WR AJ Henning who seems to be favoring the Wolverines.  

• Michigan Baseball lost in the Big Ten final but did make the NCAA Baseball Tournament as a 3 seed. 

• I still don't see a time for Juwan Howard's introductory press conference.  Its expected early this week.  Speaking of Juwan, Cole Bajema has reconfirmed his (2019) commitment and S&C Coach Jon Sanderson is staying on. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-tuesday-huge-win-on-recruiting.html

Michigan Friday: 1 New Commit -1 Announcement and Luke's Intentions

Michigan landed Baltimore (MD) St. Frances Academy 2020 four-star linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green yesterday.  He is from Biff Poggi's school where it seems Jimmy wants to sign his entire team as this is the 3rd commit from his school for the 2020 class. (OT-Mazzccua and LB Savage)

Green-Hill is a 4 star to 24/7 but a three star in the composite.   He is 6'1 230 pounds and projects to a OLB at the next level.   His offer list included the likes of Duke, BC, Nebraska, Pitt, Syracuse, WVU, and Wisconsin.  His lead recruiter is Don Brown, who continues to do well on the East Coast.  

Nikhai is very high on Michigan's overseas trips: “I think it’s something every school should do. School and sports take a toll on student athletes, and these trips are amazing refreshers for both the players and the coaches to take a step back from their 24/7 football schedules," he said at the time. "In conclusion, the international traveling Michigan’s football team does shows that they are about more than football. They help players expand their horizons and give them lifetime memories."

Welcome!

• The Michigan Staff is also waiting for Braiden McGregor's decision today at 7:00 PM.  The talented instate DE is reportedly down to a Michigan - ND decision.  Its too close to call at this point, but many insiders are picking a decision for the good guys.   McGregor's is at the top of the Wolverines 2020 board and would be very nice addition to the class.   Per 24/7 Composite, he is a 4 star and the 27th player in the nation (#3 DE). 

• There have been false reports on social media that Luke Yaklich has already made a decision to leave U of M and not join Howard's staff.   Luke has led Michigan's defense the last two years which as been nationally recognized.   Luke's wife went on twitter to shoot down any rumor that a decision has been made.    Reports are that he as an opportunity at Texas and hopefully one to stay in Ann Arbor as well. 

It's been a crazy two weeks, enjoy the holiday the weekend! 


from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-friday-1-new-commit-1.html

Michigan Thursday: Welcome Home Big Man

I owe Warde Manuel an apology.  From the outside looking in, it looked like Warde was taking his sweet time to find a new head coach.   That he wasn't contacting the top candidates and was looking to hire his friends.

None of that was true, he did contact (through the search firm) the top coaches and ended up with the right choice Juwan Howard.   My only feedback is, this probably could have been done this time last week.   After the UCLA opening, it was pretty clear which coaches where willing to move and which ones weren't.  He was also able to get a new contract and a raise for his friend (even though he gave the Michigan fan base a minor heart attack for about 24 hours).

Don't let perfect be the enemy of good.  There is never a perfect candidate when you have a surprise opening in May.  Coach B was exactly what this program needed, he didn't cheat and built a basketball power when the signature football program was struggling.   This opening left a huge hole to fill and I personally felt the program was at a cross roads.   I don't feel like that today.

Today, I couldn't be happier at the choice to bring Juwan Howard home to coach the Wolverines.  This guy has paid his dues in the NBA and has learned from the best.   He of course is a Michigan Grad but he is also qualified for this position and I believe will do a great job on and off the court.

Jalen is all over TV saying the Fab 5 is united again and will do nothing but support the program and each other.  That is great as the Fab 5 was maybe the most important time of the program, but to me that is secondary.  Juwan's job will be to recruit, develop, and win basketball games.   That is a tough job now, with everyone looking to get to the NBA sooner then maybe they should be.

I'm excited about this hire and think it was 100% the right choice.

Juwan's top priority now is:

• Keep or hire a new staff.  Michigan fans would love to keep Luke and Saddi.  But is that in the cards?
• Try to save Jalen Wilson (who was named after Jalen Rose) and get him to re-commit/re-sign with the Wolverines. 
• Add a graduate transfer: I believe Cumberland the shooting guard from Oakland still hasn't committed anywhere 
• Add any new late recruits to next years class - Franz Wagner?

Michigan has filled one hole with getting Juwan locked up, now has to figure out how to replace 3 starters to the NBA Draft.   Keeping Luke and Saddi would seem the best way to continue that momentum.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-thursday-welcome-home-big-man.html

Breaking News: Done Deal - Juwan Howard is the New Basketball Coach

Per reports Michigan Man Juwan Howard has accepted in principal a 5 year contract to be Michigan's new Basketball Coach replacing John Beilein.

Press conference is expected late this week or after the holiday weekend.

Mixed reports on Luke and Saddi, the hopes are that they will stay but Luke will have an opportunity at Texas.  Seems Saddi and Juwan know each other from basketball circles.

More details to follow as they become available.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/breaking-news-done-deal-juwan-howard-is.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Just Waiting For The Ink to Dry

Tuesday was a roller coaster ride.  I went to bed on Monday night thinking that Ed Cooley was in the mix and could have even been offered the job.   Then it became clear on Tuesday afternoon, Ed was using the Michigan interview to get a raise and an extension at Providence.  

Then  a few hours later a Miami Heat web site, breaks the Juwan Howard to Michigan news.   The problem was, none of the Michigan insiders could confirm the information.

Bleacher Report picks up the story from the Heat Fan web site and then DWade and LeBron tweets support for Howard.   Talk about an endorsement, from NBA royalty.   That is big time right there. (mostly when we know LeBron is a Buckeye fan)

Rivals Chris Balas is now reporting that the deal is basically done.  Since we haven't seen it from Sam or even ESPN's Wojo, I'm excited but still a little apprehensive that nothing seems official yet.  Chris is also saying that Michigan is expected to give Luke Yaklich a big raise to stay and not go to Texas.   Which would be a big win for the program.

Let's hope this gets done today and then I will owe Warde an apology.

• This is a strange one to me, but Ben St-Juste has transferred to Minnesota.  Michigan put him on medical scholarship, which means he can stay enrolled but can't play football again at Michigan.  Ben graduated and now can grad transfer with 3 years to play.   Not sure why Michigan would put a talented CB in a position of need on a medical if he really wasn't seriously hurt. 

• Iggy announced he was staying in the draft, which was always going to happen and probably didn't need an announcement.  What's interesting is Jordan Poole didn't scrimmage during the combine and most insiders believe that didn't help his draft ranking.    Matthews did scrimmage and was considered one of the top defenders at the entire combine, so he might have helped himself. 

• Allen Trieu thinks McGregor decision comes down to a Michigan - ND battle on 7:00PM Friday. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/wolverine-wednesday-just-waiting-for.html

Update: Cooley Out - Juwan Up Next

Ed Cooley, took a meeting with his buddy Warde and turned that into a raise and extension.   Thank you Ed for understanding your situation and congratulations on our new money.   If I were you, I would send the kid that broke the news you were accepting the Michigan job for $6M a nice little commission check.  

One bad situation avoided above!

Now, the edge of the internet is saying that Juwan has accepted an offer.   This also is not verified and Michigan insiders are saying the job has not been offered or accepted by anyone.  

More to come.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/update-cooley-out-juwan-up-next.html

Memo To Warde

Memorandum

To: Warde Manuel, Michigan AD
From: Bob, Big House Blog

Topic: Important Week

Warde, as you know this is the most important week of your Michigan Athletic Director career.  You have made a few good decisions in hiring coaches of other sports, but you also have a number of questionable decisions in football and now basketball.   The contract with ND for the home and home was clearly 100% in favor of ND and you paid Arkansas millions not to play them.    I also thought I made it clear that playing Army wasn't a good idea this year and that you should consider looking at other options.   You did not.  

Let's not focus on those bad decision, lets put those in the past and focus on the current situation.  You knew Coach Beilein was interviewing with the Cavs and you still decided to go on the Africa trip with the football team.  Not a great look.   You also didn't have a buyout clause in Coach B's contract, allowing him to walk for free.   That right there is a fire-able offense. The basketball program in a few weeks has lost 3 starters to the NBA's second round,  it's head coach to one of the worst teams in the NBA, and its top rated recruit.   Things are not good right now.

It's been over a week since Coach B left and now your getting around to interviewing candidates.   You "reportedly" have interviewed both assistant coaches and Ed Cooley from Providence.   I know Ed is your buddy and friends with the Search Firm you hired, but that is just a lazy choice.   There was even a report from a Providence guy that you have already offered the job to Ed, which better not be true.   He is one of the worst offensive coaches in college basketball and not ready for the Michigan job.  He is a Tommy Amaker or a Brady Hoke type of hire.   He is 1-5 in the NCAA Tournament and his coaching background is at Fairfield and Providence.

Today is a big day.  You are going to interview a highly regarded Michigan Man Juwan Howard of the Miami Heat.  I know he doesn't have any head coaching experience but he has learned from Erik Spoelstra and Pat Riley.   He is inline for an NBA head coaching job and supported by many of the former high profile Wolverines in basketball and football.   I see this as the only decision.    Maybe you even could keep Luke and Saddi on staff.

In closing Warde, its very important "to read the room" on making this decision.   Cooley is not going to be a popular hire and Juwan will be.   We know there is some risk in hiring Juwan, like him learning on the job and so on.  His ceiling or upside is greater then any of the other guys you have been talking to.   Cooley is at his ceiling and we know what type of coach he is, one that should stay at Providence.  This week is going to define your entire career at Michigan.   Don't forget why you have your job, because your a Michigan man, go hire another one.



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/memo-to-warde.html

Maryland Food Bank celebrates 40 years

It takes more than food to end hunger—which is why the Maryland Food Bank is working harder than ever to make sure its Maryland residents don’t go to bed hungry.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-food-bank-celebrates-40-years/

Meet the Marylanders: Adam Finds the State Perfectly Positioned

After living in New Jersey, Indiana, California and Montana, Adam Hamlin moved to Maryland to pursue a Master’s Degree from a top-rated Computer Science program at the University of Maryland. After graduation, the software engineer stayed in the area to pursue a career with Immuta, a data management company located in College Park.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/meet-marylanders-adam-finds-state-perfectly-positioned/

Michigan Monday: Some Recruiting Updates

• Many consider instate DE Braiden McGregor #1 on the Wolverines 2020 prospect board.  Michigan is fighting against the likes to Clemson, ND, and others in his recruitment.   Braiden will announce his decision on Friday of this week.  

• Former Michigan Basketball Signee Jalen Wilson is visiting North Carolina and the Tar Heels are considered the favorite to land the former Wolverine.

• Speaking of recruiting, I haven't been impressed with Warde's velocity in replacing Coach B.  He will interview Juwan Howard on Tuesday.    The Timberwolves have hired their interim coach Ryan Saunders so if Howard wants to coach in college, this should be a deal that gets done.  

• Inside reports are that DPJ's health is improving and he is back doing light workouts and tracking well for being ready for Fall Camp. 

• 5 Star instate OG Justin Rodgers announces his decision this morning/early afternoon.   Don't hold your breathe on this one, many expect a UK or LSU decision.   Some have predicated this commitment won't stick and there is a high probability that he will change his mind prior to December.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-monday-some-recruiting-updates.html

Michigan Friday: Gets a Big Offensive Lineman

Michigan Football received a mountain of a commitment in offensive lineman Zak Zinter from Massachusetts.  He is 6'6 and 300 pounds and plays guard or right offensive tackle.   He is rated as a 4 star prospect in 2020 and #21 OT in the nation to 24/7.

His offer list is a great mix of academics and football powers including: ND, Harvard, Princeton, Auburn, BC, Miami, Florida, Duke, Ohio State, Penn State and others.

Per 24/7: “Michigan had everything I was looking for (in a football program), and on top of that it has great academics,” said Zinter, who is the No. 21 offensive tackle in the industry-generated 247Sports Composite. “It has a top-rated business school. It has big-time football, a strong brotherhood and a coach I know who can develop me as a player so I know I can get to that next level.”

As Zinter neared a decision, his discussions with Harbaugh became more frequent recently. The same took place with offensive line coach Ed Warinner.

“We talked numerous times and I started to build a very strong relationship with (Harbaugh). I am very fond of him,” Zinter said. “With (Warinner), we talk multiple times a week, I’ve been there and watched practice and been to their camp. I love the way he coaches. He is an excellent coach who I know can develop me.”

Welcome Big Man!

• News came out that Shaka Smart is interviewing Luke Yaklich for his staff at Texas.   There are reports Michigan is interested in Shaka but he carries over a $12M buyout and there is no way U of M would be picking up that cost.   UT hasn't been great under Smart and there is some thinking that the University would lower that buyout or even let him walk.   For those supporting the Smart to Michigan hire wouldn't mind seeing him coach with Yaklich.  It seems UT is thinking the same way.  

• There is also news that Juwan Howard will get an interview for the Michigan job.   I say hire him, keep Luke and Saddi and try to keep the recruiting class together.   I love Howard's upside and Jalen supports it.   

• Warde shouldn't negotiate the new coach's contract.   He reportedly didn't have a buyout clause when he extended Coach B after the Pistons interest last summer.   This and the ND situation makes me believe Michigan's AD needs to take a few classes at the Ross Business School.   If Warde doesn't come through this hire with flying colors, I'm expecting him to be on the hot seat.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-friday-gets-big-offensive.html

Michigan Thursday: It's Starting To Come Undone

Michigan Basketball program has gone from the Final 4 to Sweet 16 to now with a future in doubt.   The Wolverines don't currently have a head coach, losing 3 players with eligibility to the NBA's second round, and now losing recruits.  

Jalen Wilson has asked to be let out of his Michigan LOI.  Can't blame the kid, he doesn't know who he will be playing for.  

This is why all the pressure is on Warde.  He has to make a good and quick decision.  This can't be a 2 month process, he needs to move with lighting speed and get the right coach to Ann Arbor or next year and the years to come will start crumbling. 

WOTS:

• Michigan looking at Shaka Smart at Texas (Yikes!)
• That Billy Donovan said "No thanks"
• For me its more and more looking like it has to be Juwan Howard.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-thursday-its-starting-to-come.html

Maryland Commerce launches database of military and federal STEM programs

The Maryland Department of Commerce has announced the launch of STEMConnect, an interactive database of educational, internship, and apprenticeship opportunities in federal agencies and military installations throughout Maryland.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-commerce-launches-database-military-and-federal-stem-programs/

Wolverine Wednesday: Few Options At Best

Sam Webb is saying that Billy Donovan at this point is not on a list for Michigan candidates.  Which concerns me.   Not sure why you wouldn't go after a coach that has won 2 national championships and a tour in the NBA.  I know his recruiting tactics at one point where questioned, but nothing ever came of it.   How he doesn't even get a look or call is concerning to me.

An Mgoblog insider, is saying that Greg Marshall is getting a solid look.  If you remember, he was a hot name a couple years ago after a few long runs in the NCAA Tournament at Wichita State.   Greg is a good coach but has never had a big time job and his personality is the opposite of Coach B's.

I know its only been two days, but if Michigan can't land a grand slam hire (which is not expected), then Juwan Howard should be the guy.   The Timberwolves are interviewing him for a head coaching position.   He has a huge upside and could possibly keep the staff and the recruiting class together.   Yes, if he is successful he could jump to the NBA in a few years, but that seems like a good problem to have.

I don't have any patience for a mid-major head coach from a Bradley, Loyola, or any other place.  We have seen too many coaches melt under the big lights in Ann Arbor.  We need a coach that can go head to head with Izzo 2-3 games a year.  I don't believe many of those coaches are up for that task.   Nobody needs another Brady Hoke or Brian Ellerbee situation here.

That's really important isn't it?  We wanted Harbaugh because we thought he could go head to head with Urban Meyer (which hasn't been the case).  Coach B clearly could coach against Izzo and that is what we need.   A ton of guys can coach or even recruit, we need a top guy that can go into East Lansing and get a W.   If we have that coach, then the Big Ten Titles and NCAA Tournaments will follow.

• Former Michigan CB Myles Sims has transferred to Georgia Tech.  

• Former Michigan OL who left the team during the season and is now with Cincinnati, James Hudson had his NCAA waiver for immediate participation denied.  He said he had depression but never reported it while at Michigan.   

• Coach B takes his first L as the Cavs coach as Cleveland loses the Lottery last night and gets the #5 pick in the draft.   As you know, its a 3 person draft.   Now Coach B could have a shot at drafting Jarett Culver from Texas Tech and the guy that ended his run at Michigan. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/wolverine-wednesday-few-options-at-best.html

Humdinger Productions shines a light on the event planning industry

During the 2008 recession, Kacy and Alexis Jenkins made a bold move that most people would have called crazy—the newly-engaged couple quit their jobs and launched an event agency in Crofton, Md. Only in their twenties at the time, the pair capitalized on their work experience at a small music venue management company to grow their new business into what is now known as Humdinger Productions, a full-service event design, fabrication, and production company. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/humdinger-productions-shines-light-event-planning-industry/

Michigan Tuesday: Ok Warde Your Up

Warde Manual will now be tested.  In three years, "Uncle Phil" hasn't had to make too many major decisions outside hiring a hockey head coach.   We know he completely screwed up the ND negotiation which will haunt this program through this season.    Aren't we all looking forward to a week 3 bye?

We also know these decisions can ruin an athletic director, see "Sailboat Bill" if you question that last sentence.  I can say I'm not 100% confident in Warde's ability to get a major coaching talent to Ann Arbor.   For example, the coach can't have any black eye's in his past and needs  head coaching experience.

That is a very shallow pool of candidates.

Reports are that Warde has been keeping a list of candidates after the Pistons flirted with Coach B last year.   Which is exactly what he should be saying.   They also hired a search firm, which is really the only way to reach out to head coaches without reaching out to head coaches.

If your wondering, an internal hire of Saddi Washington or Luke Yakich is not expected at this point.  Though both could stay on with a new head coach.  If worse comes to worse, I would expect Michigan to lean towards Luke due to his defensive skills over Saddi who led the team in Europe last summer and when Coach B got thrown out of a game.

This is going to be a difficult process for Warde.  The college coaching carousal has stopped and maybe his best shot is getting an NBA guy that is tired of coaching in the league.  Billy Donovan's name has come up and he would be a home run hire if he is tired of OKC and losing in the first round.    A lot has to happen for that to become a realit.

Good coaches like Chris Mack just left their jobs (Xavier to Louisville last year) and most likely not available.   Guys like Mark Few, Brad Stevens, and Jay Wright are not expected to leave their jobs for the Wolverines.   I think Juwan Howard would be a great "family" hire, but he has never been a head coach, never recruited, and we don't know if he wants to coach in college.   Jerry Stackhouse just got hired by Vandy and would have been another local former NBA prospect.

The timing of this hire is not good and Michigan needs some special things to happen and happen quickly to make this a home run.   Warde has the deck stacked against him and we will see what he has up his sleeve.   I wouldn't hold my breathe.    I also hope Jimmy keeps quiet about his brother-in-law Tom Crean who is now coaching Georgia.

Couple of other things...………..

-I don't believe that Coach B couldn't live with Harbaugh coaching football.   That is crazy talk and I don't believe has anything to do with him leaving.

-I think he was the most honest coach in college basketball and when he sees players getting paid $10K a month, he knows college basketball is a mess and not fair for a honest coach.

-I also believe his heart surgery scared him a bit and had one more mountain to climb at 66.

-Losing 3 starters to the NBA's second round also worried him and made his job that much tougher every year.



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-tuesday-ok-warde-your-up.html

Chesapeake Bay blue crab population increases 60 percent

Governor Larry Hogan, chairman of the Chesapeake Executive Council, announced that the results of the 2019 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey showed that the Bay-wide blue crab population increased 60 percent from last year, to an estimated total population of 594 million crabs.  
 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/chesapeake-bay-blue-crab-population-increases-60-percent/

Breaking News: Coach B To The Cleveland CAVS

Jacobsmedia

My plan was to talk about Michigan getting a QB commit from the #2 QB and #19th player in the 2021 class.   I wasn't expecting to talk about Coach Beilein leaving Michigan for the NBA.

John is supposedly telling the Wolverines right now.

The question has to be, why?  NBA coaches are hired to be fired.

I'm also sure John knows that.  After last years flirtation with the Pistons, I guess I shouldn't be as surprised as I am.

We haven't heard the reasons from John's mouth yet, which I'm sure is coming.  But if I had to guess....

• John feels like the NBA is the last hurdle in his career. 
• After his heart surgery, maybe he considered some things that was missing in his life/career.  
• Cavs assistant GM played for Coach B at WVU
• Dan Gilbert owner of the Cavs is of course a Sparty, but is clearly familiar with John and his coaching ability.  
• The Cavs on Tuesday have a decent shot Zion. 

I'm still in shock and not sure what Michigan does next.  John is 66 and this is his last stand for sure.  I wish him nothing but the best but still in shock as he takes over one of the worst NBA teams. 

This is 100% my list for Michigan's next head coach:

1. Juwan Howard, assistant coach of the Miami Heat.   He interviewed for the Lakers head coach and is clearly ready for the next step. 

2. LaVall Jordan, head coach of the Butler and of course from the Coach B coaching tree.  He hasn't had a ton of success being a head coach to this point. 

3. Luke Yaklich, is of course already on staff and has designed this great defense.  

Those are the top 3 guys off the top of my head.  It will be interesting to see where this goes from here and at this point, maybe they just make Yaklich the interim coach and give him a year to prove himself.  

Finding player solutions for next year, has just taken a major hit and now probably won't happen. 

Wasn't expecting this on a Monday.    

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/breaking-news-coach-b-to-cleveland-cavs.html

Maryland leads delegation to BIO 2019

Maryland Commerce is leading a delegation of 20 biohealth and life sciences companies, educational institutions, federal agencies, and city and county economic development offices to the 2019 BIO International Convention in Philadelphia next month. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-leads-delegation-bio-2019/

Michigan Friday: News and Notes

• Justin Rodgers took a call from Saban and now Alabama is in his top 6.  Going to be a wild 10 days prior to him announcing.  

• 2021 Top QB JJ McCarthy has studied and models his game after Shea Patterson. 

• Oakland Grad Transfer Jaevin Cumberland visited A2 and Coach B for 3 days this week.  Purdue and Oregon are also interested in the talented 6'3 shooting guard who averaged 17 point per game last season.   We expect to hear a decision soon. 

• Former OSU QB coach Zach Smith was arrested yesterday after trying to pick his kids up from school. 

• The team is back from South Africa and everyone seemed to have loved the trip. 

• Zach Gentry signed his rookie deal with the Steelers. 

• Michigan made the cut for Indiana 2020 SDE Deontae Craig.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-friday-news-and-notes.html

Michigan Thursday: Justin Rogers Update

Freep

The State of Michigan currently has the #1 Guard in the country in Justin Rogers from Oak Park.  He is a 4 or 5 star on every service.  As you know,  Justin hasn't been very high on the Wolverines even though the Wolverines would be the closest location for family and friends to watch his games.  

Michigan has been making some progress in his recruitment and yesterday he announced a top 5 of LSU, Georgia Kentucky, Tennessee, and Michigan.  Getting in his top 5 is an improvement for the Wolverines and Coach Ed Warinner.  The issue is, Justin is now planning on announcing on May 20th and it seems Kentucky of all programs is the leader in the clubhouse.

Justin is 6'3 and 311 Pounds.  

Rivals: Rogers is the #10 player in the nation and #1 Guard, #1 in Michigan 

24/7: 4 star #44 in the player  and #2 guard , #2 in Michigan 

ESPN: 4 Star - 91st player in the country and #9 guard, #2 in Michigan 

24/7 Composite has him #30 and #1 guard in the country. 

Justin has offers from pretty much everyone including Alabama and Clemson.  It also seems Michigan replaced Ohio State in his top 5.  

This would be a great get for Michigan but it seems like his heart is out of state.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-thursday-justin-rogers-update.html

Wolverine Wednesday: New Portal Guy

Touch The Banner

Can you lose a guy, you already lost?

That is the question for CB and Michigan graduate Ben St.-Juste a former 4 star CB that Michigan Football officially retired from football, is now in the transfer portal.  Ben tweeted out when he graduated last week that his retirement from football wasn't his decision.  

Ben missed all of last season due to a hamstring injury and one that the Michigan doctors must of thought would not heal appropriately.    What other reason would Jimmy and Don Brown push a position of need out of the program?  Ben had a very high ceiling and should have been competing for a starting role this spring.  

There was a similar situation a few years ago, when Michigan wanted Ondre Pipkins to take a medical redshirt due to multiple concussions, he declined and transferred to Texas Tech for a year.  Ondre had a nice year at Tech with 32 tackles and 5 for a loss.   If you remember, Brady Hoke declined a commitment from Joey Bosa because they had Pipkins committed.    Glory Days! 

This has happened before and I wonder what the condition of Juste's hamstring truly is.  

• OSU's QB Matt Baldwin is transferring to TCU

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/wolverine-wednesday-new-portal-guy.html

10 state resources for Maryland small businesses

Maryland has more than 575,000 small businesses, which employ 1.1 million people, according to the SBA. The Department of Commerce, along with other state agencies, are always looking at ways to support and grow small business through innovative programs. In celebration of National Small Business Week, here are 10 state resources that small business should have on their radar.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/10-state-resources-maryland-small-businesses/

Michigan Tueday: Wolverine News and Notes

Watching twitter and seeing all the fun the team is having in South Africa is just amazing.  This is the Michigan Difference at work.  Freshman QB Cade McNamara thanked Michigan Football for one of the best days of his life.

We're wrapping up our final day in Cape Town, and it's been a fun one.

Our morning began on Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the World!#UbuntuBlue 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/WCADgDEJFx

— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) May 6, 2019

These kids should be in high school still.  Going to prom and graduating.

• Sam Webb says Michigan is looking good for 4 star RB Blake Corum 

• Scot Loeffler is clearly trying to build a mini-Michigan at Bowling Green.  He recently lost Jim Herrmann off his staff to the NFL and has replaced him with former Wolverine Jim Morrison.  If Michigan fans need a MAC team to root for, it could be BGSU.  

• Former PSU QB Tommy Stevens will visit Kentucky.   

• Coach B needs to rework his options for next year and one of those options could be Oakland grad transfer Jaevin Cumberland, who is planning a U of M visit.

• 2020 4-star Miami CB Henry Gray will be visiting soon.

• 2020 4 star OLB from Maryland Mitchell Melton will use one of his official visits to Ann Arbor.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-tueday-wolverine-news-and-notes.html

Michigan Monday: Didn't Make The Trip

It seems Tarik Black and DPJ didn't make the trip to South Africa, which seems a bit strange.   We know DPJ is healing a groin injury but Black participated through Spring Ball.  At this point, I don't think there is anything to read into this, but its a bit strange.  

Brandon Peters on Friday graduated from Michigan and also put his name in the Transfer Portal.   Which we all knew he was going to do as he is currently #4 on the QB depth chart.   Peters showed flashes on good QB play, but also showed some bad and mostly in the Outback Bowl Scrimmage, where Michigan laid down against a poor South Carolina team.   Purdue is still the expected destination.

Since we are playing, whose on the trip?:  Brandon parents told him to have fun in Africa.   Which also seems a bit strange.  

Former Michigan CB Ben St. Juste announced on Twitter that he graduated from Michigan in 2.5 years.  Which is quite an accomplishment.   He also said, that his medical retirement was not his decision and he will have an announcement this week.  In that same post, he also said he was accepted to U of M's Kinesiology graduate program.   So if he is going to continue to play football, he won't be attending U of M.

Losing Ben was a big blow as many had high hopes for him in Michigan's secondary.

• There seems to be some trending for instate 4 star DE Braiden McGregor to ND.   

• ESPN and Fox are expected to televise the XFL, which should help getting through its first year. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-monday-didnt-make-trip.html

Celebrate Mother’s Day the Maryland way

With Mother’s Day less than a week away, it’s time to finish up your shopping and gift wrapping. Here are a few tips and ideas to make mom feel extra special this Sunday, May 12.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/celebrate-mothers-day-maryland-way/

State leads delegation to security exhibition in Mexico City

The Maryland Department of Commerce is leading a delegation of Maryland companies this week to Expo Seguridad, the largest exhibition of security products and solutions in Latin America. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/state-leads-delegation-security-exhibition-mexico-city/

Michigan Friday: A Couple Recruiting Nuggets

• Justin Pierce the grad transfer from William and Mary picked UNC over Michigan Basketball yesterday.   The new options for the next season are getting pretty sparse at the moment.  Mgoblog hints that Bones Hyland might need a Prep year for reasons kids need to go to Prep school. 

• Michigan now has the Crystal Ball lead for 2020 4 star Safety Jordan Morant.  Who visited a number of weeks ago.  Jordan is rated the #1 safety in this class.

• Michigan continues to look good for 2021 #2 Rated QB JJ McCarthy.  OSU took a commit from the #5 QB in the class. 

• Coach Gattis has offered 2020 3 star Athlete from MA Eamonn Dennis 

• Michigan is doing work in NJ and 4 star athlete RJ Moten is trending hard towards the Wolverines lately. 

• Sporting News has Army ranked #17 after the Spring.  This game worries me.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-friday-couple-recruiting.html

May is Apprenticeship Career Pathways Month

Governor Larry Hogan has proclaimed May as Apprenticeship Career Pathways Month in Maryland. The month-long observance raises awareness of apprenticeship programs and the opportunities they provide to workers and employers in increasing skills and strengthening the workforce.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/may-apprenticeship-career-pathways-month/

Michigan Thursday: Off To Africa

The Michigan Football team is off to Africa today.  What a great opportunity and I hope they have a great trip.  

With Michigan Basketball losing 3 players to the NBA Draft, Coach B has some work to do on building his team for next season.  

The 3 players that seem to be the best candidates are:

• Grad transfer Justin Pierce who announces today at Noon.   The buzz sounds like its UNC over Michigan . 
• Wagner - Mo's brother who just had a visit from Coach B and is deciding if he will stay in Germany and play pro ball or come to Ann Arbor. 
• Hyland a combo guard, that Coach B also watched recently at an Under Armour event.  Need to get him on campus. 

I hope Michigan lands all 3 but I will take 2 out of the 3 names above. 

• Jimmy King is the new head coach of Michigan's ABA team  Good luck to him!  

• Juwan Howard interviewed for the Lakers head coaching job, but is not expected to be a finalist.   Which is probably good for his long term success in coaching. 

• UCLA Football is proud that Tom Brady is working out on their practice field, getting ready for the season.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/michigan-thursday-off-to-africa.html

Wolverine Wednesday: WR Recruiting at Michigan Now

Fellow blogger Mgobrew has a solid article up on the changes to Michigan's WR recruiting under new OC Josh Gattis.   Coach has some characteristics he likes in WR's and is not going to settle.

Case in point:  Local WR's are committing to other programs:  Rashawn Williams to Indiana, Devell Washington to WVU, and former commit from Ohio Kalil Branham was asked to "keep looking".

It seems Coach Gattis loves size and speed for the outside position and if you're a slot WR you better be super fast.   Can't wait to see this offense in action this season.  I expect that Giles Jackson could play a nice role in the offense if he can pick up the play book.  Mike Sainristil clearly has the jump on him being in Ann Arbor for spring ball.

Michigan has a great QB and WR room for the first time in a long time.  I hope we have an elite running game and offensive line to match.

• Indiana is going to sell beer at home football games next year.  This is long overdue. 

• All the Wolverines that declared for the NBA Draft did receive an NBA Combine invite, which will give all 3 the opportunity to rise on some draft boards. 

• Sam Webb is keeping his crystal ball for Michigan on the Wolverines top 2020 recruit DE Braiden McGregor who visited A2 again this past weekend.

• Michigan makes the top 5 for 4 star OT Andrew Raym with OU, Georgia, LSU, and Texas A&M

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/05/wolverine-wednesday-wr-recruiting-at.html