INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE
Aug/Sept 2011 www.i95business.com
The Reputation Keepers Rob Weinhold and Fallston Group
INFLUENCER INTEGRITY IDEAS INFORMATION INSIDE KEVIN SMALL HELPING HOW TO TECHNOLOGY AVON WOUNDED GET HIRED BREAKING PROTECTION SOLDIERS BARRIERS
I95 BUSINESS Reaching key decision makers in the Fast Lane.
SPECIAL SECTION EDUCATION &
WORKFORCE
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WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 3 INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE CONNECTING people, ideas and business in Maryland's strategic www.i95business.com NORTHEAST Corridor. inside
22 feature story The Reputation Keepers Cover: Rob Weinhold and Fallston Group. Rob Weinhold and Fallston Group (Left to right) Gina Brelesky, Crisis management is key to Rob Weinhold, and Joseph DeFeo. business survival 22 Photo by J. Thomas Photography
DEPARTMENTS SPECIAL SECTION
12 influencer education & workforce Kevin Small 26 If You Build It, A Big Influence in Bel Air Who Will Come 14 information technology 12 Stemming the Tide of STEM Apathy The Road Less Traveled A Woman’s Path in IT 30 Building a New Workforce Community Colleges Lead the Way 16 integrity APG Military Ball Benefits Fisher House BRAC Relocated Volunteers Raise Thousands 16 18 imagination Tasting the Future Entrepreneur Believes Organic Drink is the Better Way 20 innovation Visual Nation 30 A Local Firm Makes National Impact on Defense 20 34 ideas How to Get Hired The Insider’s Perspective 36 inside 36 Ordinary Building, Extraordinary Company Gas Mask Leaders Uncovered in Belcamp 38 intersection 14 Dramatically Changing the I-95 Landscape 40 The Boulevard at Box Hill 46 inspiration inbox Poster Child of Economic Recovery Business news The Family Business Behind the from around the region “Small Business Survival Summit” 38
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INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE
PUBLISHER’S NOTE www.i95business.com
I began doing business in Harford and Cecil counties over 10 years ago as a small business owner. Following a successful career as an advertising executive with The Baltimore Sun, I launched a sales and marketing company providing marketing, consulting and custom publishing, and also launched an original magazine for newcomers. To ensure my success, I joined all the relevant business associations and chambers. While the paper has yellowed on those now ancient projects, they provided my first glimpse into the business circles of the day. It would be accurate to say that if you weren’t connected to the “old boy network” in both counties, and in some cases that meant literally, your efforts to develop a new business model might be constrained. Well, times have changed, haven’t they! The “old boys” are still doing lots of business, but there are now lots of “new boys and girls” on the scene. The demographics of business meetings and events have changed, and for the better. There’s a new dynamic and even the old boys find that they may not know everyone in the room. And they are excited about that. New businesses and the people who run them are everywhere. That’s where I95 BUSINESS comes to life. With this new B2B venture, we will bring lively stories about successful people and businesses in Maryland’s third largest economic development region, the corridor between White Marsh and Delaware. The economic viability of this larger region is built on the premise, “if you build it, they will come.” The APG BRAC birthed the Chesapeake Science and Security Corridor – the engine for a larger regional economic development boom. And, if you have any doubt about this, just look at Box Hill, Riverside, Aberdeen, the Greater White Marsh area and Perryville. So, now is the time to celebrate the businesses that are part of both the existing and new economy. We will provide original stories in print bi-monthly, with additional web exclusive content. We will push out through social media (Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn) and eNewsletters, but you need to subscribe and sign-on so that you’re connected. I95Business.com will build as our content grows. Each of our stories will include a comments section, allowing for online conversations. You can view, email and save our printed publication as a digital edition, and we will post frequent updates with new stories, videos, blogs, events and business news. We have a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to providing a great publication, dynamic networking events, business-leads support and analysis of regional businesses. This premier issue is being delivered by mail to 6,500 C-level and management executives, owners, HR, finance, accounting, engineering, education, healthcare, real estate and sales professionals – to name a few. And, pushed out to over 5,000 emails. We know our list of subscribers will grow pretty quickly, as we offer free subscriptions through early next year. You can subscribe at i95business.com. I have been encouraged by many business leaders in the community to launch I95 BUSINESS, including David Craig, Jim Richardson and Vanessa Milio. If your business is looking to establish, expand or maintain you business presence, we hope that you will support us in this venture. Corporate branding and personal marketing are important in this new dynamic. We can’t all know everyone, and using a targeted B2B that reaches decision makers through print, web and new media is a very effective way to communicate your brand. Advertise your core services, new services or locations, a statement of purpose or reinforce your brand in a competitive marketplace. Connect with me to find out how we can CONNECT YOU to the greater business community.
Vicki Franz President, CEO / Stone House Publications 410-584-9960 / [email protected]
Stone House Publications Mason-Dixon ARRIVE has been published monthly for over seven years, now with two dedicated editions – one serving Harford County, the other serving the York Road Corridor in Baltimore County. Often referred to as “Southern Living for right here!” by our readers, each edition provides nearly twice the reach of any magazine where they are distributed, with a total circulation of 80,000 copies per month. To find out more about MD ARRIVE and ARRIVING Home, our newcomers guide, visit mdarrive.com.
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR www.i95business.com
Inaugural. Inception. Initial. Introductory. August/September 2011 Vol. 1, Number 1 Intelligent words. Worthy words. Words that could easily find their rightful place in a professionally PUBLISHER written business magazine like this. Words that are Vicki K. Franz synonyms cleverly playing on our magazine’s “I” EXECUTIVE EDITOR theme. But, not a single one that adequately or Gregory J. Alexander enthusiastically declares, “Hallelujah! Our first issue EDITOR is out!” Stacey A. Rebbert It has been several months since we started ASSISTANT EDITOR massaging the concept of I95 BUSINESS – building Cynthia Nutwell a team, making interview appointments, attending CONTRIBUTING WRITER networking functions, writing and assembling the Kathy Mignini Walsh content. With nothing to show for my effort, my family was starting to question STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER whether I was making up the new magazine and my role as editor, but I swore to Cynthia Nutwell them it was real. Now it is. SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Vicki Franz, owner of Stone House Publications, had an idea that quickly Cindy Jacobson gained momentum and is spilling out in all its glory throughout these pages – the DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Northeast region of Maryland needs a business magazine that tells its story. For Anne Simmons years, Franz was seeing and hearing about the expected explosion of economic ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE development due to BRAC at Aberdeen Proving Ground. She knew that the Andy Denault “simmer” was about to “boil.” DESIGN While the impact of BRAC received an occasional story, there were many Sequel Design, Inc. powerful stories left out of mainstream publications. How were existing businesses ART DIRECTOR positioning themselves to handle the influx and capitalize on the regional Kathleen Minacapelli expansion? What about the business communities currently located and thriving throughout Harford, Baltimore and Cecil counties? There are great stories that I95 Business is published need to be told. six times a year by: You will immediately discover that I95 BUSINESS is not a “business as usual” Stone House Publications, an business magazine. We are not reporting breaking news, but we will take you into independent, locally owned business the fast lane and connect you with the people that are making this region an that also publishes Mason-Dixon exciting place to do business. ARRIVE and ARRIVING Home In INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, you will meet Robin Remines, a woman Newcomers Guide. who has witnessed the evolution of room-sized computers to her more powerful Copyright 2011 Kemper Franz and portable iPad. INFLUENCER will connect you to someone who can get things Marketing Inc. All rights reserved. done, and Kevin Small is the guy to know in Bel Air. Reproduction of any portion of this INSIDE will take you beyond the thresholds of buildings you might pass every publication without written permission day and provide a glimpse of what’s really going on behind those walls, like the from the Publisher is forbidden. While life-saving defense work inside Avon Protection in Belcamp. From fields to parking great care has been taken to publish accurate and reliable information, lots, INTERSECTION will cover commercial real estate and its impact on the Publisher assumes no responsibility for local economy. omissions and/or errors. Printed in USA. You’ll get to hear experts in their field answer questions on key business issues in IDEAS and be inspired by companies flourishing in this challenging economy Stone House Publications in IMAGINATION and INNOVATION. 1242 Paper Mill Road Our feature stories and special sections will provide INSIGHT – Rob Weinhold Cockeysville, MD 21030 and Fallston Group and Building a New Workforce portray how businesses and 410-584-9960 organizations in Northeast Maryland are diversifying beyond small-town needs to Fax: 410-584-9166 ready themselves for the inevitable rebranding of the region. Email: [email protected] We hope you enjoy this premier issue and the launch of our robust website, i95business.com. While we have planned our next few issues, we want your input www.i95business.com and story ideas. Be sure to add I95 BUSINESS to your press release list and forward information on new executive hires and new business formations. We’re facebook.com/i95business very excited about this venture and look forward to hearing from you. twitter.com/i95business Stacey Rebbert, Editor • [email protected] linkedin.com/company/i95-business
8 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE Savings @ Work
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CONNECT +DUIRUG&RXQW\ &HFLO&RXQW\ Claudia Holman /L]/HRQL0RQWL facebook.com/i95business 410-272-4000, x3570 410-272-4000, x3571 FKROPDQ#DSJIFXFRP OOHRQLPRQWL#DSJIFXFRP twitter.com/i95business linkedin.com/company/i95-business
INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE
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WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 9 INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE
www.i95business.com
CONNECTING people, ideas and business in Maryland’s strategic NORTHEAST Corridor.
Announcing the launch of , a business-to-business magazine dedicated to connecting successful people, ideas, and entrepreneurship in Maryland’s strategic Northeast Corridor. Our focus will connect Harford Co., Baltimore Co.’s Eastside Corridor and Cecil Co. This is one of the fastest and most exciting economic growth areas in the region.
I95 BUSINESS connects people doing business, publishing bi-monthly, with monthly updates online. Go to I95BUSINESS.com and request a FREE subscription in print or through email. Next Issue: October 2011 Press-Worthy Releases: September 9 Advertising Deadline: September 23 Release Date: October 10, 2011
UPCOMING SPECIAL SECTIONS | DEADLINES PRO-File your business in these special sections. Half and quarter Oct/Nov Small Business and Finance.....Sept 23 page formats available. Dec/Jan Women in Business...... Nov 11 For information contact us at Feb/March Health and Wellness...... Jan 14 [email protected] or April/May Real Estate...... March 4 410-584-9960.
CONTACT US ADVERTISING SALES PROFESSIONALS 410-584-9960 If you are driven by success, and would like to be a part of our team, send your STORYIDEAS, PRESSRELEASES: [email protected] qualifications to Vicki Franz, Publisher, SUBSCRIPTIONREQUEST: www.i95business.com [email protected]. ADVERTISING RATES: [email protected]
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Hundreds of workplaces and thousands of employees from Harford and Baltimore counties give hope to our living by neighbors by living united.living United Way of Central Maryland focuses on supporting people’s basic needs, helping them achieve high-quality, self-sufficient lives.
Join us in thanking those who supported United Way’s 2010 campaign. For a full list of workplaces involved, please visit www.uwcm.org/2010cag ampaignp g . Give Hope. Live United. Learn how to get your workplace involved with United Way at www.uwcmm.org/workplaceg p .
GIVE. ADVOCATE.ADVOCAATE.TE. VOLUNTEER. LIVE UNITEDUNITEDLIVE TM
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 11 INFLUENCER
Kevin Small – A Big Influence in Bel Air BY STACEY A. REBBERT
Frederick Ward Associates where he stayed for over 17 years. Frederick Ward Associates started in Bel Air in 1955 and evolved from a simple civil engineering company to a full service and sophisti- cated design and technical firm with landscape architecture, environmental planning and GPS surveying specialties. When Small joined FWA in 1993, he was assigned project responsibilities with specific concentration in green design, school facilities and development feasibility analysis. As a planning coordinator at FWA, Small led projects for developers by examining building codes for compliance, consulting with traffic engineers and environmental architects, and preparing impact testimony for zoning and develop- ment hearings. His tenure at FWA was punctuated with volunteer work on the Design Committee for the Bel Air Downtown Alliance where he worked closely with Scott Walker and the Town of Bel Air. Small also graduated from the Harford Leadership Academy, a program J. THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY J. THOMAS held annually and supported by the Kevin Small, director of planning for the Town of Bel Air, aims to create a more vibrant Harford Community College and the downtown area that combines residential, commercial and artistic initiatives. Harford County Chamber of Commerce for over 20 years. This proximity to the Tucked away in a nondescript building director of planning) left a great roadmap private-public relationship of Bel Air and behind the pond and pool at Bynum Run for me to get started with, so I’ll concen- its supporting organizations exposed Park are the offices of the Town of Bel trate on those projects first. My own Small to the intricacies and opportunities Air’s Department of Planning and space will have to wait,” says Small. that working for the Town of Bel Air Community Development and its newly Small began his career after earning his would hold. appointed director of planning, Kevin degree in landscape architecture from “Bel Air’s master plan carries the town Small. Small’s office is as unadorned as Kansas State University in 1987. Following into 2015, and there are several unfinished the building’s exterior with furniture and a career move of an admired professor, he projects that I want to see to fruition,” supplies left behind from his predecessor took up residency in Maryland and Small says. “Once I’m comfortable that who worked for the town for 26 years. employment with Land Design Research, they are progressing as planned, I will As he clears away maps and drawings to a premier landscape architecture and start developing my own.” sit at the conference table, Small wonders planning company started by former Bel Air gives the impression that it is aloud if he would rearrange the space he employees of The Rouse Company fait accompli. There is seemingly nowhere now occupies after he has settled into his responsible for the famous planned to build and little to no available land to new position. community of Columbia. annex. However, planning and architec- “Since I just started, I won’t be Learning from some of the best ture design does not just include new changing much of anything for awhile – planners and designers in the industry development. It also encompasses retro including the office. Carol (Deibel, former aptly prepared Small for his next job at fitting, redevelopment and improvement.
12 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Sandler Training
Finding Power in Reinforcement SM
McDonell Consulting and Develop- ment, Inc. is an award-winning sales and management training company based in Harford County that is uniquely qualified to help all businesses, on local, regional and Bel Air may only encompass 2.9 square gardens, developing small parks like we national levels, to identify and miles of land, but it contains seven public did at the Armory, porous pavers, implement successful sales tactics parks, all of the county government green roofs, LED lighting, and even the from prospecting, to closing the sale offices, the only enclosed mall, the Upper addition of bike racks around town to and customer retention. Chesapeake Medical Center campus and encourage bike riding instead of driving. nearly 11,000 residents within its borders. All these things work together to make How Can Your Team Generate As a student of architecture and Bel Air a better place to live and visit.” More Ongoing Business design, Small has seen the shift from The Town of Bel Air also earned its densely populated cities to isolated certification as a Maryland Arts & FOCUS on the message neighborhoods in the suburbs, back to Entertainment District in December UNDERSTAND what is said the desire for a more vibrant town center. 2010, one of 18 in Maryland. This Don’t Get DISTRACTED Enclosed malls and remote strip centers designation of being a “hub of culture are making way for “Main Streets” and and creativity” allows the town to acquire and LISTEN mixed use collaborations. grant money to help in developing art Become PERSONALLY absorbed “Our residents Get INVOLVED! want businesses, entertainment and homes to be in the “I would love to see the Ma & Pa same area. They Trail connect and be complete. want a pedestrian and bike-friendly I’m optimistic that we will find a street design where way to make that happen” sidewalks connect. They understand that parking is essential to attracting and cultural programs. people to shopping districts. They just “One of the first projects we’re want to be assured that these work and working on,” Small said, “is to add exist in harmony,” Small states. more art in public spaces. Since Bel Air SANDLER Bel Air’s received its “Main Street” residents expressed an interest in more designation from the State of Maryland bike racks, we’re looking at the RULE8 in 2001. This designation reflects Bel Air’s possibility of combining those two WHEN PROSPECTING See the commitment to its downtown in the desires into one – bike racks that are GO FOR THE Video for areas of improving economy and functional and artful.” Sandler APPOINTMENT Rule 8 at promotion, improving and maintaining Many of Small’s future projects may www.mcdonell.sandler.com appearance and image, rehabilitating be already planned, but he’s been at the historic structures, and investing in long job long enough to set some personal For a Complimentary term planning. In 2008, the Maryland’s goals himself. Main Street program added, “Clean, “I would love to see the Ma & Pa Executive Briefing Safe, and Green” to its criteria, Trail connect and be complete. I’m Contact: something that Small says was already optimistic that we will find a way to Chris McDonell part of Bel Air’s plan. make that happen. I also want to work “Although most construction in with Joann Blewett [Executive Director McDonell Consulting & Bel Air is complete, there are plenty of of Harford Habit for Humanity] to bring Development, Inc. opportunities to retro-fit for a greener a Habitat house project to Bel Air. environmental impact and sustainability: Bel Air is a wonderful place to live and 410-420-7277 Better storm water management to raise a family. I would be proud in www.mcdonell.sandler.com mitigate damage to the Chesapeake Bay, helping give that opportunity to the planting of additional trees and someone who deserves it.” I95
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 13 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY The Road LessTraveled A Woman's Path in IT
BY STACEY A. REBBERT
For a woman whose career is grounded in the binary code – the black and white language of computer science – the numbers don’t lie. Robin Remines is clearly in the minority. “I’m very creative. I may not create “I don’t know why there aren’t more girls Returning to APG, Remines went to artwork or poetry, but I create solutions,” and women taking math and science work for the U.S. Ballistics Research Lab says Robin Remines. classes in school and choosing computer (now called Army Research Lab). She was science and information technology as a part of an Advanced Computer Science as a civilian employee working for the career path,” she says. “The computer is Team whose sole mission was to think. Chemical Demilitarization Command at embedded in every aspect of our lives. Innovate. Dream about why and what if. the Edgewood location of APG where Women need to be part of the services, Mike Muuss, famous for authoring the mustard gas disposal was front and center. the products and the solutions if they popular freeware language PING that She and her team were tasked with want their needs met appropriately.” would become a standard part of UNIX, finding IT solutions to improve commu- Aberdeen High School can claim this was her team leader. nications between the scientists involved techie as an alumnae long before it hosted “With no boundaries, the mind can do in the project. The military laid over 600 the prestigious magnet school program amazing things. No idea was off limits or miles of communications cable from the and became the Science and Mathematics considered irrelevant. If we thought it was Johnston Atoll, a facility built to destroy Academy in 2004. College was not an cool, our job was to figure out how to the dangerous material in the North expectation of Remines’s parents, so build the systems to make it happen. Pacific Ocean, to a U.S. military base in conversations about campus visits and Some days, the most intelligent thing out Hawaii, yet the scientists were only majors never circulated the dinner table. of my mouth was ‘wow,’” she adds with sending and receiving faxes. Her team “It’s not that college was discouraged or a smile. developed additional ways to transfer prohibited. It just never came up,” she Remines was also a witness to the data and increase speed of communica- remembers. Still, Remines was a good evolution of the computer working on a tions within the constraints of the student and easily got a job at the nearby team that administered the first genera- existing cable. Aberdeen Proving Ground. Boring key tions of UNIX, as well as the Army’s first “That’s where I developed an interest punch work filled her day and the less two supercomputers, Cray 1 and Cray 2. in project management from a scientific than stimulating GS2 pay grade did little Remines sweeps her arm around as she perspective. Time. Resources. Money. It’s to fill her paycheck. She noticed that the makes the comment that those computers all ones and zeros. What you get out of work at her grade level was being filled entire rooms … quite a contrast to the project is a direct result of what you contracted out while much more interest- the new iPad 2 she used to check her put in. Anything less just doesn’t add up,” ing work, and higher pay, surrounded her. emails during the conversation. “I’ve says Remines. She eventually quit her job to attend lived during such an amazing time for As her career progressed, Remines Towson State University (now Towson technology. Of course, I guess every found herself surrounded by more men University) where she earned a bachelor scientist says that,” Remines chuckles. and no female mentors. She also discov- of science degree in computer science. Remines continued her career on base ered that she was going deaf during this 58 25 11 37 18
Percent of Percent of Percent of Percent of Percent of professional professional corporate officer 1985 Computer 2009 Computer occupations in the computing occupations positions at Science undergraduate and Information 2009 U.S. workforce in the 2009 Fortune 500 technology degree recipients Sciences undergraduate held by women U.S. workforce companies held who were women degree recipients who held by women by women were women
14 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM time as a result of nerve deterioration, and thinking creatively. She left the credit eventually choosing the Cochlear implant union and is now a national Business as her own backup system to save her Continuity Consultant for Ongoing hearing. “While working on base, the Operations, a continuity and recovery science community valued my mind, so solutions provider with corporate offices I was never treated differently because I in Hagerstown, Md. “Until now, I’ve spent was a woman. APG had a robust diversity my entire life and career along the I-95 program and embraced it. I was a woman corridor. There is so much happening in a predominately-male field, had two there – especially in the information pregnancies and went deaf. If they wanted technology field,” she remarks. The a reason to treat me differently, I was the consultant role is a departure from her tri-fecta,” she adds. previous positions, but it allows Remines Remines went on to earn a masters to focus on an area that she has grown degree from Johns Hopkins University in increasingly adept in over the years – technical project management and business continuity planning – making became the vice president of information sure that a company won’t suffer from technology at a leading credit union service interruptions and that any event is headquartered in Edgewood in Harford mitigated for minimal impact. She is able to work remotely from her home in Aberdeen and travels “If we thought it was cool, our job the country giving was to figure out how to build the workshops and doing tabletop exercises to systems to make it happen.” help companies uncover their County. In her 13-year tenure there, she is vulnerabilities and create solutions to credited with leading several large initia- fix them before a disaster happens. tives, including moving the credit union Remines says, “Maybe young girls from a transactional mentality to a don’t follow the technology sciences networking strategy, introducing VOIP because, in general terms, people don’t (voice over internet protocol), ushering think techies and geeks are creative. I the company through preparedness and disagree with that completely. I’m very training for the Y2K scare, and moving an creative. I may not create artwork or entire system to a new operational build- poetry, but I create solutions.” ing and mainframe without downtime. For more information on careers and As her management position involved women in IT, visit the National Center for increasing administrative tasks, Remines Women and Information Technology at felt she was becoming too removed from NCWjustaIT.org. Contact Robin Remines the work – the fun of finding solutions at Ongoing Operations, 877-552-7892. I95
Sources: Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2009 (Occupational Category: 15–1000); 2008 Catalyst Census of Women Corporate Officers and Top Earners of the Fortune 500; Includes new and replacement jobs and assumes current undergraduate degree (CIP 11) production levels persist; College Board AP Program Summary Report, 2010 (Calculus AB & BC, Computer Science A); Intel ISEF finalist breakdown by gender, 2010 (unpublished); National Center of Educational Statistics (NCES), 2009 (CIP 11); 2008–2009 CRA Taulbee survey (Computer Science); The American Freshman: Forty Year Trends, 1966-2006, The American Freshman: National Norms Fall 2009, Higher Education Research Institute (HERI). 79 1.4 29
Percent decline Million Percent of those in the number of computer specialist jobs that first-year undergraduate job openings could be filled women interested expected in the by U.S. in majoring in U.S. by 2018 computing Computer Science graduates by 2018 between 2000 and 2009
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 15 INTEGRITY
APG Military Ball Benefits Fisher House BRAC Relocated Volunteers Raise Thousands
BY CYNTHIA NUTWELL
The Support Our Heroes Military Ball reached Aberdeen Proving Jim Costigan, Support Our Heroes Ground with high expectations of financial support for severely committee member, salutes the wounded soldiers and their families. The mission was considered men and women in uniform and thanks them for their sacrifices a tremendous success with approximately $300,000 raised for the during his opening remarks at the charity, Fisher House Foundation, Inc. 7th annual Military Ball.
auction chair explains. “[The soldiers and families] deserve all of the help that we can give them, and some of them are really hurt.” Why Fisher House? With the motto, “A Family’s Love is Good Medicine,” Fisher House provides comfortable temporary lodging for families during a wounded warrior’s rehabilitation or extended medical care. Located at Andrews Air Force Base, Bethesda and Walter Reed, these facilities allow families to stay together while a soldier receives long-term treatment. A third Fisher House is planned for construction in Washington, D.C.’s VA Medical Center. BRAC Affected Volunteers Step Up to the Plate It’s no wonder that a group of well- connected volunteers could pull off such a successful event. Most of the An evening in the courtyard under the team brought prior experience to the (L-R) Master of tents at the C4SIR Campus, Support Our fundraising effort since six previous Ceremonies Bob Support Our Heroes events were held at Fasulo presents a Heroes Ball was attended by business check for $300,000 professionals, the military and politicians Ft. Monmouth, N.J. Hoping to build on on behalf of the alike. The military ball brought a host of the enthusiasm generated from such Support Our BRAC relocated volunteers, as they were previous events, a group of volunteers Heroes Military Ball donation to challenged to raise awareness and funds spearheaded the fundraising endeavor in Fisher House’s for Fisher House. their new APG location. Kit Roache, Derek Donovan. “I appreciate the role of soldiers, and I founding committee member, explains think we should do everything we can for that most volunteers either work for the them,” Cheryl Davis, Support Our Heroes government directly or work for
16 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM contractors and contribute their time and outside the Gate in for a very emotional efforts generously. and patriotic evening. We proposed toasts “For me, it’s from the heart,” Roache to the President, the nation and the armed says. “We don’t want soldiers coming back services,” he says. “There’s a table set to be forgotten.” symbolically for fallen comrades who cannot be with us and it’s the last toast Helping Severely Wounded Soldiers before we eat.” Since the focus of Fisher House is on The Support Our Heroes ball enter- severely wounded service members and tainment included the 82nd Airbourne, their families, the program actually who sang several a cappella numbers. provides a home away from home so that “In the beginning we had a band,” Carnes the service member and their families can reminisces. “For the past two years, we How to Get Involved recuperate together. have been very fortunate to have the 82nd Support Our Heroes raises funds The small group of dedicated volun- All American Chorus come up from year-round for Fisher House teers has raised over $1.1 million to date Fort Bragg, N.C.” and business donations for the Fisher House Foundation. The are encouraged. On-going funds have assisted in the building of a Highly Rated Charity opportunities exist for brand new handicap accessible home for The charity sent Derek Donovan, vice sponsorships, program ads SSGT Mike Minard, who lost both legs in president of communications for Fisher and silent auction donations Iraq. The Support Our Heroes committee House, to attend this year’s event and for future charity events. was also successful in getting Minard a job accept the donations. Fisher House If you are interested in with the government. Foundation is a four-star ranked charity, learning more information about Support Our Heroes or Edward Carnes, chairman of the according to Charity Navigator. With low Fisher House Foundation, visit Support Our Heroes Ball and vice operating costs and 96 percent of revenue support-our-heroes.com president of USfalcon, visited the Fisher going to help military families, Fisher or fisherhouse.org. House located at Walter Reed and says House is a favorably regarded charity. I95 that he “was immediately impacted by the soldiers” he met at the military hospital. Carnes is retired LTC U.S. Army and recalls that the first wounded soldier he met looked exactly like his youngest son. Members of the 82nd Airbourne When the soldier’s mother commented entertain a sold-out that without the Fisher House, she could crowd with singing, not afford to stay in a hotel with her son, marching and laughter Carnes knew that a fundraiser could help during a patriotic the family. Fisher House gave the mother evening under a tent at APG. a free room, a rental car and frequent flyer miles. Carnes says that Support Our Heroes also rallied around a young soldier from Staten Island, N.Y., Brendan Marrocco, who lost both arms and both legs in Afghanistan and very recently, another soldier in need, CPL Colin Pascik, who also lost both legs. Celebrating Military Traditions The Support Our Heroes Ball brought the community together for an event that celebrated military traditions. A wounded soldier attended the ball to show people the benefits of the efforts. Jim Costigan, site manager for General Dynamics C4 Systems and retired Army officer, explains that this fundraiser “brought those people
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 17 IMAGINATION
Tasting the Future
Entrepreneur Believes Organic Drink is the Better Way
BY STACEY A. REBBERT “Selling healthy to make buying healthy affordable for everyone.” It’s the mission of serial entrepreneur and owner of the LIV ORGANIC brand, Bill Cook, and he takes it very seriously.
“We have to get our children started being discussed more frequently in the how it did not increase his glucose levels – drinking healthy and off these chemical food circles he was traveling in. Certain an important indicator for diabetics. He laden and artificially enhanced soft drinks health issues – including the increasing explained that the virtual dearth in great and sports drinks,” he adds. “We live in a number of children with diabetes and tasting drinks without artificial sweeten- global society. If our kids are to have any obesity – were getting media attention. ers made LIV ORGANIC a natural for the chance of competing in it, we have to Food contamination concerns were diabetic community. Cook recognized the make sure we feed their brain with the popping up around foreign imports. opportunity and is close to sealing a deal best foods we can. ” And, Dince was ready to sell. that would feature the LIV ORGANIC Cook imagined LIV product line on dLife.com, a premiere LIV ORGANIC is the ONLY ORGANIC as the next website and health company that Under Armour – the little concentrates on and promotes the 24/7 USDA Certified sports drink brand that could! He envi- challenges of managing diabetes. With on the market. sioned it not only as the over 1.2 million registered users and drink it is now, but also as 24 million Americans currently LIV ORGANIC is a not so new sports the healthy lifestyle it could represent. diagnosed with diabetes, drink that is poised to take the beverage Cook says, “LIV ORGANIC is really living the market potential world by storm. Cook bought the brand organically. It’s about making better and health impact and the product from its creator, Nancy choices about what we consume and is enormous. Dince, after it had lapsed into a state of how we live. It extends beyond the LIV slow growth with no future plan. ORGANIC drinks.” “I became aware of the product five to After purchasing the brand, he imme- six years ago, and just tucked it away in diately sought out the USDA Organic Entrepreneur my mind. I was traveling to Germany and Certification. This stringent certification and owner of LIV ORGANIC Paris for the big food shows [as part of his process guarantees that the products that brand, food distribution and exporting business] display the label have met the criteria of Bill Cook and was noticing the trend and growth of the United States Department of Agricul- organic products being introduced. They ture’s National Organic Program. This were gaining favor internationally, and I certification is meant to assure consumers knew that eventually they would here in that the product they purchased – in this the United States as well.” case, LIV ORGANIC drinks – were Two years ago, Cook purchased all the produced and processed with more than inventory Dince had in stock and began 95 percent organically grown ingredients to funnel it out through his food distribu- and processing aids. LIV ORGANIC is the tion channels to gauge its reception. He only USDA Certified sports drink on handed out every last bottle of the Citrus the market. Passion, Lemon, Orange and Berry One of Cook’s test markets was a flavored sports drink and the reaction was friend who was not only a medical doctor, consistent: “Tastes great!” “Refreshing!” but also a diabetic. He had tasted some of “No after taste.” the samples Cook distributed and wanted The stars began to align for Cook and to purchase more. He was thrilled with his new interest. He was noticing phrases the great taste of the sugar-free product, like lactose intolerance and gluten-free but more importantly, he was impressed
18 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM “My goal really isn’t about buying or starting businesses. I want to help people,” says Bill Cook, owner of LIV ORGANIC.
“LIV ORGANIC is naturally sweetened eligible for the extra funding provided with organic agave nectar, which has a under the act. It is a great incentive for low glycemic index. It’s also gluten-free the school and a perfect opening line for and certified kosher. It’s the perfect drink Cook’s sales pitch. “If you get the kids, for everyone – from people who want to you get the parents. Then everyone is drink and eat more healthfully, to active reaching for the healthier option,” he exercisers and child athletes who need an points out. electrolyte replenishment but none of the Why the interest in the healthy added chemical enhancers found in the lifestyle? Cook grew up with asthma and products on the market today,” says Cook. knew firsthand the toll that a weakened Introducing a new beverage in a immune system could have on everyday competitive industry is tough enough for life. In his long career in the food retail the large corporations like Coca-Cola and industry, he also observed a lot of Pepsi, much less a small distributer head- energetic, young people come to work at quartered in Selbyville, Del. Cook would the stores as cashiers and clerks who later need an imaginative way to break through grew up into very unhealthy adults. He the noise and the advertising budgets of wants to help put a stop to that trend. the bigger, louder players in the sports And, for Cook, that’s not just sweet drink arena. His idea? Go directly to the talk. He has already added a social kids where they spend the majority of component to LIV ORGANIC, as he does their day – school. In 2010, he introduced with most of his other businesses and LIV ORGANIC into the vending investments. With LIV ORGANIC, a machines in the Montgomery County, portion of the purchase price of every Md., school system and has plans to go 12-ounce bottle sold will be set aside in a after them all one by one. foundation that will support diabetes With the enactment of the Obama charities, children’s charities and athletic administration’s “2009 Child Nutrition programs to keep kids active. Reauthorization Act,” school systems “My goal really isn’t about buying could see an increase of 15 percent in or starting businesses. I want to help federal funding when they take steps to people,” he says. “I invest in people.” improve the nutritional offerings at their Learn more about LIV ORGANIC schools. Offering plain water and Drinks, ingredients, flavors, nutritionally sound alternatives like LIV purchasing and distribution, at ORGANIC is one step that makes a school LIV-ORGANIC.com. I95
3 Smart Things About LIV ORGANIC
1. No High Fructose 2. Sweetened with Agave 3. Made with Brown Corn Syrup Flavored and Nectar Agave has become Rice Syrup Utilizes rice sweetened naturally with popular with nutritionists and syrup (odorless and no artificial colors, dyes or physicians because it is not colorless) to restore the sweeteners. High fructose highly processed, and it has a carbohydrates the corn syrup is a key ingredient lower glycemic index than body loses during in soda and most processed most other sugars. This exertion. foods and has been means it is broken down by implicated in the national the body more slowly than obesity and health crisis. other sweeteners.
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 19 INNOVATION Visual Nation: A local firm makes national impact on defense
BY KATHY WALSH
WHAT DOES 3-D technology have to federal agencies and companies to specific type of combat ship designed to do with the Department of Homeland predict the impact of decisions prior to carry out the mission, the Navy had to Security? As it turns out, more than you implementing potentially costly new request an engineering design change might think. While for years certain procedures and systems. from two of its largest contractors to industries have used video game-type For instance, RTR provides modeling modify the ship so that it could applications in lieu of more costly and simulation services to the U.S. Navy accommodate the additional manpower. training options, the same technology is and Marine Corps to allow them to better For DHS, RTR staff have been to being applied today on a larger scale to manage their fleet of aircraft. RTR’s nearly every port of entry to collect data simulate operational situations for various government departments. And at the forefront of it all is Harford A visualization of an airport passenger in a simulation model allows County-based technical service firm RTR RTR to test the impact of a 10-print fingerprint reader on the wait time for an arriving passenger inspection. Technologies, which provides modeling and simulation that allow clients to make better decisions regarding complex resource, operational and infrastructure requirements before implementing costly changes. Formed in 2003 by partners Reed Rippin, Randy Rippin and Earl Thies, privately-owned RTR has skyrocketed from a $30,000 business started in the owners’ basements to a multi-million dollar firm with 40 employees and three offices. Headquartered on Hospitality Way in Aberdeen, RTR has satellite offices in Arlington, Va., and Lexington Park, Md., that provide support to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and to the U.S. Navy, respectively. In addition to modeling and simulation, RTR offers consulting and analysis services and employs a number of subject matter experts on border operations and aircraft maintenance. modeling and simulation helps them to produce U.S. Border models. These determine what parts to stock, which models evaluate how facility size, Operations Research: A Primer parts to take when they deploy, how to number of lanes, a new security Before we look at how the latest technol- schedule repair and maintenance and protocol or staffing levels impact ogy has impacted this field, it’s helpful to more. For example, should aircraft be operations, allowing DHS to reengineer understand exactly what modeling and inspected every 12 flight hours or is the process for speed, security and an simulation are and why they are needed. every 36 hours sufficient? improved overall experience. For instance, In short, a model is a representation of RTR’s models also are used to evaluate what is the ramification of opening or a system or process, while simulation and develop ship specifications. After an closing a queue line or increasing or involves running that representation over RTR model showed that more people decreasing staff? Workforce analysis time to predict what will happen. This were required to meet a mission’s models developed by RTR have been modeling and simulation allows operational needs than could fit on the used to obtain funding from Congress
20 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM A border pedestrian inspection facility was altered to improve throughput, security and the overall inspection experience.
to increase staffing at all U.S. ports of graphics tools allow us to show results in entry after the models showed that 3-D that most people can easily grasp vs. doubling staff would reduce wait times presenting in a spreadsheet format only Break free and improve security, since overworked understandable to people with a officers were shown to be less attentive. background in Operations Research.” These visual presentations allow of doing Changing Technology government officials or Congressional According to RTR Senior Developer oversight personnel to actually “see” the business Roy Gibson, while RTR staff have impact on vehicles and people at a port of provided this type of modeling and entry and show the impact of changing a with banks. simulation support for more than 20 variable, i.e. queuing arrangements, in years, the technology they use is virtually real time. unrecognizable from that of the late 1980s. Thanks to a much broader existing Looking Forward Take back control and get the software base and improved user inter- So what does a company on the cutting rates, services and attention faces, it takes far fewer people and is edge of technology see as the future of much less costly today to build and design modeling and simulation? According to you need, for about half of software used in modeling. “We used to RTR President Randy Rippin, the future what the big banks charge. have to fight for time on a mainframe,” of their industry is leveraging mobile says Gibson. “We could maybe get a devices such as smart phones and tablets Small business couple of hours at night. What you can to allow for onsite analysis, a secure accomplish in 20 minutes today used to upload of results to the “cloud” and the banking that just take a couple of weeks.” presentation of that information to makes sense. The end result of this improved tech- management as a high-resolution nology lies both in cost benefit and the visualization. Refreshing, isn’t it? ability to answer previously unanswerable As far as advice for other area business questions. Gibson says, “It used to be that owners looking to break into government you could model 10 squadrons of aircraft work, Rippin says, “The government does at a time. Now you can do 200 or more a lot to help small businesses. Look for and compare how they use supplies and projects that have a small business set- people in order to see the consequences aside or reach out to larger companies to of making an operational change.” explore sub-contracting opportunities. Perhaps the flashiest technological It can be challenging to break in to, but advancement lies in the use of new once you get in the door, the relationships secumd.org/business visualization tools, derived from the same can last for years.” graphics programs that run today’s video To find out more about RTR’s services 410-487-7766 games. According to RTR Technical or career opportunities, visit the 866-242-7216 Director Scott Chaney, “The latest company’s website at rtr-tech.com. I95
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 21
FEATURE (Left to right) Gina Brelesky, Rob Weinhold, Joseph DeFeo
The Reputation Keepers Rob Weinhold and Fallston Group
BY STACEY A. REBBERT
ears ago, Warren Buffet warned, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” Today, Facebook, Twitter, TMZ and a 24/7 news cycle have shortened Ythat descent to less than two minutes.
22 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Why Plan for a Crisis? >> Maintain business continuity >> Protect brand equity >> Sustain profitability
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Tiger Woods. The Tylenol undergraduate and master’s degree in marketing, Weinhold tampering and the Toyota recall. A patient shooting at Johns sees it merely as a logical progression of events that got him Hopkins Hospital and medical misconduct at St. Joseph where he is today. “At Ripken, I was a trusted advisor Medical Center. Enron and BP. Every day we hear of another handling all the aspects of the Ripken family’s core amateur news story that threatens the reputation of a brand that took business,” he states. “Marketing. Business development. years to build. The speed at which the story travels renders Customer experience. Operations. Everything. My team the truthfulness and accuracy of the claim practically had the good fortune of leading the business to profitability irrelevant. The damage is done. within the first year and ultimately grew revenues by Enter Rob Weinhold, the principal founder and leader 700 percent during the nearly seven years I was there. of Fallston Group, LLC. Actually, if you take Buffett’s warning I worked shoulder to shoulder with Cal and Bill [Ripken] to heart, Weinhold and Fallston Group would have been part to really understand their vision for the company and what of your strategic plan before anything actually happened. we needed to do collectively to get there." Weinhold and Fallston Group consider themselves A defining moment for Weinhold came after expertly “reputation keepers.” Working with companies and handling a tragic incident involving a young player at one of individuals before, during and after a situation, their job their baseball venues in South Carolina. He remembers Cal is to make sure you or your company’s brand – your commenting on how well he handled a crisis – coming in, reputation – is protected. seeing through all the tragedy and emotion, assessing and then taking control of the situation – and at all times with Rob Weinhold compassion. Weinhold admits to always having the entrepre- Rob Weinhold presents a formidable image himself. His neurial itch but not being able to focus it fully. Cal’s J. THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY J. THOMAS shaven head and large frame make it easy to picture him as comment helped him continue to realize that he had real the police officer he once was. An early career as a sworn talent and skill in handling these tough situations. “I had to Baltimore City Police Officer proved an appropriate figure out if I liked handling adversity and crisis enough to training ground for this level headed crisis manager. do it full time,” he says. “Then I had to figure out if it could “Diffusing volatile situations and experiencing the reactions make money by developing a sound business model for it.” of normal people under abnormal circumstances, really The answers he found led him to form Fallston Group. taught me how to approach matters in a non-emotional and methodical way to get the job done,” he admits. Fallston Group Leaving the ranks, but not the organization, Weinhold The group, led by Weinhold, includes executive team held the post of director of public affairs for the Baltimore members Joseph DeFeo, Gina Brelesky and Frank Barile. City Police for nearly seven years. As the calm voice Together, they deliver the expertise in Fallston Group’s four delivering the facts, he gave thousands of interviews to the main concentration areas: Crisis and Issue Management, public and media, always telling the story with discretion. Strategic Communications and Media, Safety and Security, He went on in his public career to hold other prestigious and Resiliency Training. Other subject matter experts (SMEs) appointments as the chief of staff for the U.S. Department are called in to tailor the crisis team to match the needs of the of Justice and as an executive within the Governor’s Office client’s situation. Already, Weinhold has served his clients of Crime Control and Prevention. with SMEs in human resources and organization After years in the public sector, Weinhold took a job as development; communications and media relations; quality vice president of Amateur Baseball for Ripken Baseball, assurance and safety in food and pharmaceutical manufac- working for Cal Ripken, Jr. Some might see this as a major turing; cyber security and surveillance; and accounting and departure from what he knew, but, with both an financial fraud to complete their team. This approach keeps
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 23
FEATURE
the strategy at the highest level while adding layered expert a company – finding out what keeps the CEO up at night. knowledge to address the nuances of each situation. “This Claims of sexual harassment? Product integrity? Social media model allows us to be very flexible. We’re not industry attack? Employee relations issues? Fallston Group performs specific,” emphasizes Weinhold. “We bring together the audit with the executive team and key decision makers to independent professionals to work as one highly skilled uncover five to 10 potential issues. Weinhold smiles and adds, team for the client.” “As you can guess, with a little imagination, there are limit- He adds, “We’re most effective when companies consider less scenarios. We guide the participants to think in terms of us an extension of their C-level management team. We are probability instead of possibility.” discreet, loyal and trustworthy. We have no motive to take From the list of potential issues, Fallston Group will help over your position or your company when you’re at your the client’s assigned team identify the top three. These are most vulnerable. When your brand survives the incident, used as the foundation to write the crisis communication we’ve been successful.” plan, develop the training and then execute the plan with the rest of the company’s employees. “Once this is completed, the company will be able to refer to the plan as a guide to offset unusual circum- stances if they should occur,” Weinhold points out. Weinhold emphasizes the training they conduct using tabletop exercises and simulations. “Training is crucial,” says Weinhold. “You don’t get buy-in for the plan unless there is confidence and ownership in the plan. And, you don’t instill confidence unless key personnel experience the plan in action and develop their corporate muscle
J. THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY J. THOMAS memory through extensive Weinhold’s cool demeanor and ability to take control of a situation allows clients to survive a crisis. training. You can actually see the ‘aha moment’ when someone around the table Anatomy of a Crisis gets it and the confidence As any of the media storm examples above can prove, once a has seeped in. We know then that we’ve developed an story is out, so is business as usual. Weinhold and Fallston advocate for the company and brand.” Group help businesses prepare for a crisis with prevention The training also includes media training and simulations strategies and training tactics; navigate a crisis for optimal for the CEO, the company spokesperson and other company outcome through consultancy or hands-on involvement; and personnel. “I’ve seen the most impressive company represen- recover from a crisis with an emphasis on resiliency leader- tatives become ineffective when surrounded by media at the ship and employee well-being. Their objective is first and podium,” explains Weinhold. “We train our clients to foremost to assist companies in preventing an incident. message develop and deliver the information that journalists However, if their involvement is after the fact, then they work need to tell their stories. Reporters want the what, why, who to mitigate the damage. Weinhold says, “Our goal is to turn and when, but they also want the reaction of the CEO. We short-term adversity into long-term advantage.” practice using a real microphone and camera with lights so Weinhold points out that the first step in crisis manage- that our clients are fully prepared for how it feels. We ment and communication is to perform a crisis audit within relentlessly question and train.”
24 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Keys to Managing a Situation >> Display a high degree of transparency >> Have empathy >> Maintain integrity >> Take responsibility
Further down the crisis continuum, Weinhold and his mission is often convincing the CEO that how they team can help a company and its employees through the react – proactively vs. reactively – will determine how they healing process and recovery. Sitting on his desk is a copy of are positioned in the news. Weinhold stresses that the the book, “The Secrets of Resilient Leadership: When Failure decisions they make today will be judged by many for years is Not an Option,” by Dr. George S. Everly, Jr. The book and to come. A high degree of thoughtful transparency is one of its lessons are the basis of the Resiliency Sciences Institute, the first strategies he tries to implement. International at UMBC Training Centers led by Dr. Everly. Another challenge Weinhold faces is getting companies to Impressed by the book, Weinhold contributed to the course take social media and its impact seriously. Many companies, development and completed the certification process, leading he observes, believe that a Facebook page or website blog is to his appointment to core faculty status in the fall of 2010. social media in a nutshell. He wants them to address social Dr. Everly has become one of Fallston Group’s SMEs. “Our media strategically as well. “This is where some of the first business begins with the crisis audit and ends with recovery,” signs of a smoldering issue will show up,” states Weinhold. he adds. “Remember, our goal is to not only manage the “Like negative comments on someone’s Facebook page or short-term problem effectively, but also to turn it into an bad reviews on a consumer discussion board. And with social advantage in the long-term. A company really has to go media and the Internet, it’s the story that doesn't stay local through every step of the crisis – including resiliency and and never goes away,” referencing the days when front page recovery – to fully survive and thrive from it.” news warranted less ink as it got pushed further back in the paper before disappearing into archives. With today’s search Challenges engines and the phenomenon of re-posting, re-Tweeting and Crisis management. Brand equity. Stakeholder security. These re-blogging, a story never dies. “If you don’t tell your story, are phrases that don’t lend themselves to a 30-second elevator someone else will – and it may not be the story you want pitch, making Weinhold’s business development efforts a told,” he says. little harder than most. Furthermore, even in the wake of Which brings us back to Warren Buffett’s quote and about 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, debilitating winter storms in 2010 doing things differently to protect the company’s reputation. and most recently the tornado epidemic sweeping through Proactive and strategic planning before a crisis is the best way the Midwest, 57 percent of small businesses and 47 percent of to prevent one. In today’s business climate, no company can medium-size businesses still don’t have a basic disaster plan afford to be unprepared. Weinhold adds, “Our past and for their computers or networking systems, according to current clients are our best marketing engine. CEOs talk to “Symantec 2011 SMB (Small to Medium Size Business) each other, and our clients see the value in the services we Disaster Preparedness Survey.” If businesses aren’t preparing provide them – we will over deliver. CEOs refer to us as their for a physical shutdown or service interruption, imagine the CRO – Chief Reputation Officer.” I95 challenge Weinhold faces convincing them they need a communications strategy as well. “It’s easier when I can Fallston Group, LLC speak directly to the CEO since they are the ‘keeper of the brand,’” he says. Adding, “Our strategic skill set resonates 323 Williams Street with chief executives.” Suite C Even when he has the CEO’s ear, however, it does not Bel Air, MD mean smooth sailing. By his estimation, companies under 410-420-2001 communicate by a factor of 10. Their apprehension, he concludes, is really a result of not having the plan and FallstonGroup.com confidence in the message they want to convey. His first
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SPECIAL SECTION If You Build It, Stemming the tide of STEM apathy
BY STACEY A. REBBERT
(science, technology, engineering and mathematics) has experts scrambling for ways to fill the pipeline and increase interest in related careers. Representatives from APG, the Harford and Cecil County Public School Systems, science organizations and businesses have joined forces to improve the situation along the I-95 corridor with hopes that graduates in the very near future will be able to work in their own backyard. Here’s a look at what some of the agencies and businesses are doing. Harford Community College A Harford County fixture for over 54 years, Harford Community College (HCC) contributes to building the STEM foundation with school day and summer ECBC professionals conduct CSI: Edgewood during eCYBERMISSION 2010 programs for students, development and training he Base Realignment And Closure (BRAC) of opportunities for teachers, and its own dedicated academic 2005 to Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) is division to the STEM subjects. Additionally, through its nearing its full implementation date in September. workforce development efforts, it offers advanced training Just under 60 new companies have joined the APG programs for private, public and government organizations to community in and around Harford County in maintain the education levels of their current workforce. Tsupport of BRAC, while others like SAIC and AVON Protection As a teaching institution, HCC focuses on making learning have expanded their footprint. Millions of square feet of office fun and interesting with innovative programs. This summer, space have risen in newly constructed business parks around the college is among just 20 other after school and summer the county. Additionally, nearly $1 billion dollars of programs in the country piloting two new Engineering construction created three million square feet of office, research Adventures (EA) camps designed by the Engineering is and lab space just on Post. However, with Gary Martin, Elementary (EiE) team from Boston’s Museum of Science. executive deputy to the commanding general, U.S. Army Students in grades 1 through 5 will meet real engineers, solve a Research, Development and Engineering Command, reporting real-world engineering problem and take home-related trade that there are currently 1,000 vacancies on Post and 45 percent books to extend their interest – and learning – at home. of the APG workforce is eligible for retirement within five years, “We want children in Harford County to discover firsthand one wonders: “It’s been built, but who will come?” how exciting engineering can be, particularly in view of the The dearth of applicants for jobs in the STEM disciplines multitude of opportunities they will have for engineering
26 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM EDUCATION & WORKFORCE WhoWillCome?
careers right in this community,” explains Marlene Lieb, and engineers as well as college faculty. We created the STEM associate vice president of continuing education and training Teaching Academy in response to the strong demand for local, for HCC. meaningful STEM professional development opportunities.” Partnering with Harford County Public Schools and local In addition to its offerings on campus, HCC saw an businesses, HCC hosts selected 8th graders from around the opportunity with BRAC to create something that would address county at its annual “TNT – Technology Needs Teens” the unique skill set requirements of today’s military and the event each spring. The event showcases presentations and defense contractors that serve them. Just inside the gate on demonstrations in exothermicity, robotics and physics with Aberdeen Proving Ground, HCC opened the Performance business support from defense contractors like SAIC, Smiths Training Center, a state-of-art computer lab and classroom Detection and Raytheon. offering information technology certification programs as well HCC offers a complete selection of STEM-related certificates as soft skill courses in project management, leadership and team and associate degree programs in biology, environmental tech- building. This convenient location and the customization nology, physics, horticulture and chemistry to name a few. First offered by HCC allows personnel already here and in jobs to get offered in the summer of 2009 and returning each year due to the training they need to keep up with advances in their fields its success is HCC’s STEM Scholars Step Up Program. Open to and remain competitive. students in a declared STEM major the summer before they For more information on all the programs offered through start school, the goal of the program is to ensure student success Harford Community College visit Harford.edu. with better preparation in research skills, laboratory skills and problem solving. “The students who enroll in this program enjoy working with other ECBC scientists providing support at Joppatowne High School’s HSEP Summer Career Camp. STEM majors in a relaxed and fun setting and learning more about STEM careers,” says Deborah Wrobel, dean of STEM Division at HCC. “The aspect of the program they like most each year is meeting scientists and engineers from the community. All of the STEM Scholars emerge with stronger math and problem solving skills. We look forward to working with them each summer.” Area teachers in the STEM disciplines can participate in HCC’s STEM Teaching Academy, a collaboration among HCC, APG’s science and engineering labs, and the Senior Science Society. Tuition free for all K-12 educators, the intensive weeklong workshop also counts toward the teacher’s continuing education requirement. Wrobel adds, “This summer we are offering three tracks: Engineering, Biology/Chemistry, and Earth/Environmental Science. The K-12 educators will have an opportunity to work with local scientists
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SPECIAL SECTION
Northeastern Maryland Technology Council counter-defense goals, ECBC’s outreach program goes beyond public relations and community goodwill. So serious is their The Northeastern Maryland Technology Council (NMTC) is a commitment to support and shape a strong STEM workforce local technology association that connects members to decision that they have signed partnership agreements with both makers in industry, government, technology and academics Harford and Cecil County Public Schools outlining expecta- across Pennsylvania, Delaware, Northeastern Maryland and tions. Dedicated ECBC employees who are passionate about Greater Baltimore. One of NMTC’s four focus areas is their mission and who volunteer their time and expertise “championing STEM education in grades K-12.” NMTC, led by execute the Center’s outreach programs to excite students and Executive Director John Casner, is co-sponsoring the STEM teachers throughout the region. Summit, a series of facilitated meetings with representation “Thanks to the Center’s talented scientists and engineers from the member groups. APG, represented by Gary Martin who continuously strive to make a difference in the community, from RDECOM, is the other co-sponsor. Together, with over we have been able to successfully address local STEM needs,” 100 confirmed participants, they are discussing strategies, says Mary Doak, the Center’s community and educational inventorying resources and encouraging collaboration for outreach program manager. “Furthermore, we have very close STEM activities in the region. relationships with educators and administrators in our commu- Initial meetings have been successful in identifying gaps nity and have made it a priority to listen to their voices.” and opportunities that have enabled the group to form four Earlier this year, ECBC scientists provided hands on subgroups that will develop a plan for its particular area of activities and exhibits at STEM Night held at Youth Benefit emphasis – students, teachers, STEM content and strategic Elementary School in Harford County. Along with fellow communications. Three meetings have convened so far. scientists from U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL), they Visit the NMTC website NMTC.org for information on built mini robots, conducted experiments and provided a peek upcoming events. into the world of science for over 600 students and parents in Communications-Electronics Research, attendance. Youth Benefit plans to hold the event annually and Development & Engineering Center hopes it serves as a model to other area schools. (CERDEC) In Cecil County, ECBC offered physics, biology and Relocating to APG from Fort Monmouth as part of BRAC, chemistry high school teachers the opportunity to participate CERDEC serves as the Army’s information technology and in a workshop exploring the integration of smart sensor tech- integrated systems research, development and engineering nology into the classroom. The goal was to help the teachers center. Although new to the area, their outreach office immedi- learn to take traditional science lessons and turn them into ately focused on promoting STEM activities. This summer, as problem solving exercises that will captivate and motivate the they did last year, CERDEC will present its Math and Science students. Three ECBC engineers worked with 10 teachers over Summer Camp designed to enhance the interest in science, the three-day workshop. math, engineering and technology for students in grades 5 In addition to mentoring students and judging science through 10. CERDEC personnel volunteer as presenters and projects at Aberdeen High School’s Science and Math Academy judges at the Maryland Junior Science and Humanities and Joppatowne High School’s Homeland Security and Emer- Symposium, part of the Innovative STEM Conference held at gency Preparedness Program, ECBC representatives participate Morgan State University each year. They also act as “cyber in NMTC’s STEM Summit, lead teacher tours and visits at the guides” and judges on the CERDEC/RDECOM sponsored base labs, and speak to classrooms and assemblies on request. eCYBERMISSION program, a free, web-based science, ECBC recently won the prestigious Governor’s Service Award technology, engineering and math competition for students for their volunteer service to the community last year. In 2010, in grades 6 through 9. ECBC participated in nearly 80 educational outreach events For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CERDEC. engaging 6,000 students and 650 teachers from the area. Doak adds, “Collectively, we aim to inspire, attract and develop a Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) strong future STEM workforce to deliver innovative solutions Located in the Edgewood area of APG, The U.S. Army for the nation’s current and future challenges.” Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) is the country’s Visit ecbc.army.mil/outreach/index.html for more information premier facility for research and development of non-medical about ECBC’s outreach efforts statewide. chemical and biological defense. It routinely hires scientists with specialties in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics and APG microbiology, and engineers with concentrations in electrical, Maj. Gen. Nick Justice, APG senior commander, along with electronic, mechanical, computer, industrial and chemical other APG representatives, are doing their part to improve this studies. Given the importance of a highly trained and skilled critical situation. Justice met with the Maryland Higher scientific workforce to maintain their defense and Education Commission, Governor’s Subcommittee on BRAC,
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and St. John Properties in March to discuss how the state can federal involvement in establishing a cohesive approach to the support the educational requirements that will sustain the STEM issue to include a new agency, billions of dollars in APG’s workforce. Justice also met with Sen. Barbara Mikulski’s federal funding, and a special focus on underrepresented office in April and relayed the same concerns. Justice and other groups like girls, African-Americans and Hispanics. high-ranking personnel from APG are part of the STEM Will this be enough to maintain the critical missions of Summit as a co-sponsor, as well as supporting the outreach homeland security, military defense, medical advancements, efforts within their own military organizations like CERDEC and technological innovation going forward? Time will tell. I95 and ECBC. To sustain higher education in STEM, APG has signed agreements with several universities and schools Cecil County School Bohemian Manor physics teacher including the University of Delaware and Morgan State Andrew Borzok (left) and ECBC engineer Daniel Wise University for research activities. (right) explore the Piezo effect and construct a molecular Visit army.mil and search “APG STEM” for more stories model of PVDF polymer. about supported STEM initiatives. Businesses Raytheon, SAIC, Survice Engineering and Sabre Systems are just a few of the defense contractors who understand the need to engage and educate the new workforce through STEM programs. Whether a summer camp, a plant tour, teacher development workshop, competition or grant, these companies and others like them are pouring a lot of energy, time and money into ensuring that the talent and skill will be there when it’s needed. Raytheon Company (raytheon.com) is a principal sponsor of the annual and prestigious MATHCOUNTS competition, America’s only nationwide enrichment, club and competition program that motivates and rewards middle school students for math achievement. More than 100,000 students in more than 6,000 schools register annually to compete. Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC, saic.com) partnered with Harford County Public Library to fund the “Science is Fun!” LEAP kits (Learn, Explore and Play) Only about a third of and programs at their Edgewood Branch. With SAIC’s contri- bachelor’s degrees earned bution, HCPL was able to expand the program from 30 to 150 in the United States are children and adults each month. SAIC also chairs, co-chairs, in a STEM field vs. sponsors and volunteers with vital associations and committees approximately 53 percent throughout the state including the Army Alliance and the in China and 63 percent Northeastern Tech Council of Maryland. in Japan. More than Sabre Systems (sabresystems.com) added STEM initiatives to half of the science and its strategic plan using a three-pronged approach of supporting engineering graduate K-12 programs locally, actively participating in discussions with students in U.S. universities federal, state and local agencies and by continually training and are from outside the developing its current workforce in the changing technology. SURVICE Engineering (survice.com) donated $25,000 in United States. scholarship funds in support of Harford Community College’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) students Source: National Science Board. (2010). as well as supporting their new STEM facility. Science and Engineering Indicators: 2010. The STEM dilemma and the race to solve it reaches far Arlington, VA: National Science Foundation. nsf.gov/statistics/seind10/start.htm. beyond this region. The President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology released a report in September 2010 outlining the issues and potential remedies regarding the STEM crisis. President Obama publicly supported the results and is pushing for its implementation. The report calls for significant
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SPECIAL SECTION Building a New
Workforce
Community Maryland’s first community college was at APG has presented a window of established in Hagerstown in 1946 serving a opportunity that our local community Colleges population ready to focus on rebuilding after colleges are eager to leverage and an Lead the the trauma of World War II. Soon after, obligation they are preparing to fulfill. Way President Truman’s 1947 Commission on No longer considered a “junior” college or Higher Education called for universal access stepchild to a four-year college or university, to higher education for all American citizens community colleges are gaining the respect B Y through the creation of state systems they deserve by producing qualified and S T A C E Y A . of community colleges. Since that skilled graduates ready for immediate proclamation, Maryland has founded 16 employment or transfer. With degree REBBERT community colleges throughout the state. concentrations ranging from traditional According to recent report by the subjects like business, accounting and National Skills Coalition, a 3,200-member sociology to more specialty studies like organization that advocates for public policies that invest in employee education agricultural, equestrian and food sciences, and workforce training, Maryland employers community colleges often fill the gaps left will need to fill more than 434,000 “middle- from larger universities dedicated to a skill” jobs between now and 2016. The particular field of study. organization defines middle-skill jobs as Three community colleges in Maryland those that require more than a high school considered “local” to our I-95 corridor are diploma, but less than a four-year college within a driving distance range of five miles degree – for example, insurance claims to less than 40 from central Harford County. adjusters, computer support specialists Each presents a unique choice to its students and healthcare technicians. with articulation agreements and special Additionally, the goal of creating a programs designed to meet the needs and technology hub in Harford County along the demand for a skilled, prepared and with the needs of highly skilled professionals global workforce.
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Harford Community College Maryland to complete his or her B.S. in nursing, while taking the required courses at the HEAT In addition to responding to the evolving needs center in Aberdeen. By eliminating the barrier of In 2020, “the of the residents of heavily rural Harford County travel and lost time, students have more with programs like agricultural business, opportunity to finish their courses or go back and community college surveying technology, land surveying, and earn an advanced degree while still working. will be the center horticulture, HCC has been actively developing within its service programs in conjunction with local employers Cecil College region for work- and the defense community to ensure a workforce force development, ready for their needs. Degree options centered on The main campus of Cecil County’s community full partners with the STEM subjects, nursing and allied health, college, Cecil College, is located less than 30 miles State and local education, and computer sciences are a few of the from Harford County in North East with satellite economic buildings in Elkton and Bainbridge. Easily accessi- most popular programs for students. To facilitate development ble via I-95 or Route 40, Cecil College has a their transfer to a four-year institution, HCC has agencies and with articulation agreements in place with several variety of associate degrees, certificate programs, other providers of schools, including Johns Hopkins University licensure courses and workforce development education and Management & Leadership, Salisbury University, programs to ensure they are meeting their Morgan State University, UMUC, University of community’s needs and the needs of their local training as Baltimore and Towson University. economic development. required by the An extremely innovative endeavor of HCC is Some of the unique programs that Cecil community.” their effort to bring the four-year institution to College offers local students include fire science SOURCE: Maryland Harford County. Through the Higher Education technology, equine studies and yacht design. Association of Community & Conference Center at HEAT, located in Perhaps their most distinctive program is the Colleges “Approaching 2020: Aberdeen, HCC coordinates academic programs Mid-Atlantic Transportation & Logistics A Vision for Maryland’s Community Colleges.” with local colleges and universities to provide Institute (MATLI). expanded access to baccalaureate and advanced MATLI is set up to help students prepare degrees to students in northeastern Maryland. for skilled jobs in the transportation and logistics For instance, an HCC nursing graduate could industry, the second-fastest growing employment enroll directly with the College of Notre Dame of sector in the United States thanks to the
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Maryland employers will need to fill more than 434,000 “middle-skill” jobs between now and 2016.
expanding global economies. Students graduating biotechnology. Designed primarily for from the MATLI program will be ready for non-degree seeking students, this program will careers in supply chain management, also assist individuals switching careers or those warehousing, materials handling, and import/ already in the field seeking advancement. export operations to name a few areas. Graduates will be prepared for careers in the Cecil College also offers a new aviation health sciences, including basic and program through MATLI. Offered in partnership pharmaceutical research, production and Demand for with the Community College of Baltimore manufacturing, and quality assurance. Middle-Skill Jobs County–Catonsville Campus, students can receive CCBC-Essex features a computer science is Strong, Will one of three certificates or degrees in aviation degree for students who wish to continue their Remain Strong management, aviation flight or air traffic control. studies at a four-year institution. They currently in Maryland Most of the classes are taken at the Cecil College have transfer agreements in place with Towson campus or Cecil County Airport for added University, Johns Hopkins University, Stevenson Maryland Jobs by convenience. University, University of Baltimore, University of Skill Level, 2008 Students studying business logistics or supply Maryland, Baltimore County, and the University chain management through MATLI can transfer of Maryland, University College. Graduates will High- to the University of Delaware their last two years find work in high demand sectors such as Skill, Middle- under an articulation agreement created with computer science, computer information sciences 35% Skill, input from Aberdeen Proving Ground to ready or information systems management. 45% the local workforce. Unique to the schools mentioned here is the Low- Skill, For more information on Cecil College CCBC-Essex program in world languages. The 20% visit cecil.edu. global economy and defense industry have created an enormous need for employees fluent in Maryland Jobs by languages other than English. CCBC-Essex offers Skill Level, 2018 College of Baltimore degrees in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, County-Essex Campus Italian, Japanese, Latin, Russian and Spanish. High- For more information on the Community Skill, Middle- The Community College of Baltimore (CCBC) 37% Skill, has campuses located in Catonsville, Dundalk College of Baltimore County, visit ccbcmd.edu. 43% and Essex. Residents of Harford or Cecil County Low- Skill, would find the Essex campus located off The Higher Education and 20% Route 40 and the Baltimore Beltway to be the Conference Center @ HEAT most accessible. SOURCE: Maryland Addressing the needs for middle skill The Higher Education and Conference Center @ Department of Labor, employees and highly skilled employees HEAT in Harford County, Maryland, is a unique Licensing, and Regulation simultaneously, CCBC–Essex offers an solution to the absence of a degree granting engineering degree and engineering technology university in northeastern Maryland. Conve- degree. The engineering technology curricula is niently located right off I-95, the state-of-the-art not calculus based; graduating students work in facility offers baccalaureate and graduate the engineering field but under the direction of programs in support of the specific educational an engineer. Graduates of the calculus based needs of the region. engineering degree program will transfer to The University of Maryland University College finish a four-year degree or other advanced recently joined the growing list of institutions degree elsewhere. offering programs at HECC@HEAT. Another program designed for students “UMUC is proud to offer on-site instruction looking for employment after two years is the at the Higher Education and Conference Center certificate or A.A.S. degree program in @ HEAT in Aberdeen for students in cybersecu-
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rity and human resource management,” says UMUC President Susan C. Aldridge. “This repre- Some of the programs currently sents a perfect opportunity for UMUC to further available at HECC@HEAT. its mission of providing access to quality education for adults, and we look forward to joining other fine institutions at HEAT in serving the education needs of Harford County residents and helping manage the increased demand associated with the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) initiative.” The courses UMUC offers at the HECC@HEAT lead to B.S. degrees in cybersecurity and human resource management. The major in cybersecurity prepares graduates to be leaders in the protection of data assets. The human resource management major provides 21st-century skills and knowledge of human resource functions, including human The College of Notre Dame of Maryland resource planning; recruitment, selection, place- • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Business: Management Concentration ment and orientation of employees; training and • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Nursing career development; labor relations; management • Master of Arts (M.A.) in Leadership and Management of performance appraisal, compensation and • Master of Science (M.S.) in Nursing benefit programs; and development of personnel policies and procedures. Johns Hopkins University - School of Arts & Sciences • Master of Science (M.S.) in Biotechnology Harford Community College coordinates the academic programs and maintains the facility. Johns Hopkins University - School of Engineering Partnering institutions provide the faculty, establish • Engineering for Professionals the requirements of their individual programs, and set their own tuition rates. Students enroll directly Johns Hopkins University - School of Education with the partnering institutions, which collect all • Police Executive Leadership Program (B.S. and M.S.) tuition and fees and confer all degrees. Towson University Training is also offered at the Higher Education • Master of Science (M.S.) in Instructional Technology and Conference Center for businesses, industries • Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Information Technology and local governments through the Continuing • Master of Science (M.S.) and Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Education and Training Division at Harford in Supply Chain Management Community College. • Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Project, Program and For more information on Harford Community Portfolio Management College visit harford.edu or heatcentermaryland.com. • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Business Administration (Management Concentration)
Morgan State University • Doctor of Education (Ed.D) – Community College Leadership
University of Maryland College Park • Graduate Certificate in Engineering • Master of Engineering (M.Eng.)
University of Maryland University College • B.S Cyber Security • B.S. in Human Resources
University of Phoenix • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Information Technology • Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) in Technology Management
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How to Get Hired
The Insider’s Perspective Jason Frett Maele Hargett Renee McNally Recruiter, SAIC Recruiter, President, BY CYNTHIA NUTWELL Professionals For HR Solutions NonProfits
Recruiters and human resources professionals are the experts in Innovative Resumes how to get a job in corporate and non-profit America. Resumes continue to reach recruiters via email, web and mail delivery. The newest Applying relatively new tactics such Industry Trends in Recruiting as Skype and LinkedIn for employee format is the video resume. McNally Without a doubt, companies are leaning searches, today’s hiring pros use social mentions that video resumes “can be on technology to recruit. With social media and search Google for information dangerous for employers to use because media increasingly being used for of discrimination laws.” on candidates. More common approaches recruiting, the web is a powerful tool for The formatting of resumes has not of Craigslist and web classifieds for job both jobseekers and recruiters. SAIC’s changed much, according to our panel of postings also are employed. And, just how Frett characterizes job posting on social experts. Frett explains that the electronic do these tools assist the hiring experts? media as “how great companies promote process of applying allows candidates to We’re up to the task of uncovering the job opportunities.” apply to more positions in less time. tips, tricks and strategies used by the pros. Another trend in recruiting is the “This also means companies receive To find out more, I95 BUSINESS use of short videos and blogs as a means more resumes for each position,” he says. spoke with two recruiters and one HR for employers to broadcast their open “It is more important than ever to realize professional for the scoop on how positions. This low or no-cost option that resumes need to be concise and well jobseekers, as well as those currently is a trend that assists companies and written to provide employers a snapshot employed, can get hired. non-profits in their branding and of your skills.” Maele Hargett, an account manager market awareness. Recruiters and HR employees also for Professionals For NonProfits, explains “[Social media] helps employers see screen resumes with software to pull out that she uses Skype since 80 percent of her our successful placements and hire us, keywords and run background checks. position is phone and computer based. and candidates see who we are working The importance of reference checks and Skype also has allowed her to take on with and jobs that are available to them,” accurate information on resumes is key. international searches. Hargett says. Jason Frett is a SAIC corporate Resume Formatting recruiter located in Abingdon and recruits Advice for Jobseekers “We have a [resume] database of not only for the Harford County location Recruiters and HR execs are quick to thousands of pre-screened candidates but also handles nationwide employee give advice to jobseekers. HR Solution’s where we can put in keywords a client is searches. Frett explains that social media McNally recommends, “connecting with looking for and pull up a list of possibly is used “to leverage online presence, as many people as you can!” She also ideal matches,” Hargett explains. company branding and reach out to encourages candidates to be careful about Job hunters are tasked with writing a potential job seekers.” what is posted on the Internet. “A lot of resume that will be read by hiring Renee McNally is president of HR employers will Google candidates to see authorities. How to stand out in a crowd Solutions and offers a variety of human if they can gather any more info,” of resumes? Frett recommends that the resource consulting and outsourcing McNally asserts. resumes be concise and well written, solutions for small businesses. McNally’s Frett encourages candidates to with current skills highlighted. company helps to minimize risk, save “be proactive, follow-through with job “Realizing the high volume of resumes money and eliminate the headaches of applications,” along with making those a busy HR or staffing professional managing employees. crucial post-interview contacts. receives, it is essential that you don’t
34 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM provide an easy reason to screen yourself positions, including specific technical looking for employees to fill multiple out by doing one of the following: Having positions,” he says. “There are more roles. These companies are looking for a a resume with typographical errors; not opportunities in the mid-level technical “Jack/Jill of all trades” who can offer including dates or including incorrect and scientific.” multiple skills to smaller organizations. dates for your employment history; and Hargett says, “In the Baltimore area, including personal quotes that have been Why Work History May Not Matter specifically the types of organizations plagiarized,” Frett advises. The issue of work history on resumes is have been health or education related debatable. McNally’s says that tenure does with the job titles related to development: Tips to Land Any Level Job matter because employers don't like to see directors of development, major gift The key to landing any job, from entry job hoppers and gaps in resumes. “It’s officers, etc.” Hargett has some executive level to mid-level management to execu- always easier to get a job if you have a assistant positions as well but maintains tive level may not be that elusive. job,” she says. “At the same time though, that fundraising is a big priority [in the Companies are searching for qualified there have been so many lay offs, that nonprofit world], and these tend to be the employees on a daily, hourly basis. employers are more understanding of most popular jobs. Hargett explains that her staffing agency those who don't have jobs.” Large corporations such as SAIC are is hired to search for the right people. Frett’s corporate perspective is that recruiting for a variety of positions and “When I have a C-Level position, work history gaps are not uncommon talents. Frett says, “We have current and I have people in mind that we have met and not viewed as a problem. He views ongoing requirements that support areas with previously, and I begin with our stability and consistency in progression of cyber security, national security, energy, database,” she reveals. “It is the same for of career as well as duration in assign- environment, critical infrastructure and every level … with high-level searches I ments as highly important. “It is more health, ranging from entry level through have a hot list of people with certain skill important that candidates accurately and more experienced professionals.” Job sets in certain income brackets.” effectively communicate past positions openings can be viewed on the web at At SAIC, Frett recruits for all levels and timelines,” he offers. saic.com/career. Designed to be intuitive of positions in his Abingdon building, to enable easy navigation for job seekers, everything from interns to management Who is Hiring? SAIC updates the website real-time as level. “We have science and engineering Small and mid-sized businesses are openings are approved. I95
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DavidDavidR. R.C Craig,raig,County CountyEx Executiveecutivutive JamesC C..Ric Richardson,hardson,Dir Directorectoroof of www.harfordbusiness.orgwwww.harf..harfordbusiness.org EconomicDe Developmentvvelelopment 1.888.I95.SITE1.888.I95.SITE
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INSIDE Ordinary Building, Extraordinary Company Gas Mask Leaders Uncovered in Belcamp
BY CYNTHIA NUTWELL
Avon Beige colored cinder block walls Protection camouflage Avon Protection’s exterior. Beyond the building’s Number of Employees: 23 buzzer entry is a Facility Size: 16,000 sq. ft. small reception desk Years in Business: 4 years in Harford Co. and a welcoming 23 years in the U.S. interior reception Don’t let the Annual Production: 200,000 gas masks area with signage that reads, “Protecting the nondescript Contract 10 year Value: $1/2 billion façade fool Protectors.” Scores of you – life-saving Contract Yearly Value: $80 million Avon’s personal defense work is Length of contract: 10 years protection gas masks going on inside. are displayed in glass boxes. Welcome to Gary Dunn: Avon Protection, the Vice President of Sales and largest respiratory Marketing for Avon Protection. product manufac- turer in the U.S. From the outside, Avon Protection looks like any ordinary office building. From ment and manufacture of specialist and within, it’s obvious that the company general personal respiratory protection. housed in Riverside Corporate Center When asked about the location of in Belcamp is home to something Avon Protection offices in Harford extraordinary: mission critical defense County, Gary Dunn, vice president of contract work. sales and marketing and manager of the Founded in 1875 as parent company Belcamp office, describes the company as Avon Rubber, the Harford County facility “ideally placed” due to the ability to reach operates as home to sales, marketing, a potential customer base and the research and development, IT, and congressional base in Washington, D.C. contracts. In 2000, Avon was awarded the “We find living and working in this Joint Service General Purpose Mask community to be very good,” Dunn says. (JSPGM) contract by the U.S. Department “It’s an exciting and vibrant place for of Defense (DoD), and is now a leading people to work and live.” solution provider in the design, develop- Dunn reasoned that the company
PROTECTINGTHEPROTECTORS
36 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Follow The Signs To Success. in Harford County Maryland appeals to all sorts of people and offers a HPK is one of the Baltimore area's top much broader scope in terms of employ- ten largest law firms. With an office ment options. From customer service to located in downtown Bel Air, our attorneys sales and product development, the company plans to fill mid- to senior-level can help guide you through many positions. Hoping to double the current legal issues including: staff of 23 in the next few years, Dunn • Government Contracts • Corporate says opportunities include research • Tax • Real Estate and product development, program • Employment • Land Use management, sales team and customer • Business service, as well as marketing, contracts [ ] management, and design engineering for North America. PUT HPK’S SMART ATTORNEYS TO WORK FOR YOU. “We’re keen to set up an intern program with an engineering-based college,” Dunn adds. 410.893.0100 The gas masks are physically manufac- 800.276.0806 tured in Cadillac, Mich., and the global headquarters of Avon Protection is hpklegal.com located in Melksham, England. These
protective masks are developed to counter Authorized by Michael E. Leaf, Esq. threats on battlefield, the war on terror and peacekeeping operations. Avon also outfits law enforcement agencies, firefighters and first responders with gas masks. Over 2 million masks are fielded to Special Operations, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy Explosive Ordinance Disposal, SEE. U.S. Air Force Fire & Rescue, the U.K. Ministry of Defense and other allied military forces. I95 THINK.
CREATE.
Avon was awarded the Joint Service General Purpose Mask contract by the U.S. Department of Defense.
SEQUEL DESIGN ASSOCIATES
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For more information, visit www.avon-protection.com. 410.893.9800 ext. 14 SEQUELDESIGN.COM [email protected]
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INTERSECTION Dramatically Changing the I-95 Landscape The Boulevard at Box Hill
B Y T H O M A S L . F I D L E R , J R . Senior Vice President/Principal MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services, LLC
Perched on a hilltop with a dominant and commanding view of its surroundings, The Boulevard at Box Hill will be Harford County’s premier retail and shopping destination. The Boulevard at Box Hill will be the heart and soul of this rapidly growing region. Its location, less than a quarter mile from I-95, can easily serve the entire Harford County community as well as southern Cecil County and North- eastern Baltimore County. Furthermore, it is a short drive from Downtown Bel Air, Abingdon and Aberdeen Proving Ground, which will benefit from the creation of thousands of new jobs and new families moving into the area as a result of the Federal Government’s “Base Realignment and Closure Act” (BRAC). This influx is also expected to increase the average Harford County family income, which is currently $83,900. The Boulevard at Box Hill will not be just another suburban shopping center. With over 400,000 square feet of premium retail space and another 50,000 square feet of restaurants, ranging from casual fare to specialty dining, it is sure to of shoppers. However, the street’s early 2003 as part of the development become the social hub of the area. It has overriding feature is its strong pedestrian vision by Ward Development Group, the been designed to respect the small town orientation. Sidewalks are designed to be property owner. Members of the Ward atmosphere typical of Harford County wide enough to promote casual strolling Family and company executives sought to and incorporate an open-air plaza, which and window-shopping. Also, carefully develop a long-term asset for the residents will be the center of constant activity, placed landscaping, street lamps and lively of Harford County, yet provide a different atmosphere from other retail develop- Opening on September 18, retailers including ments in the region. The goal was to create a “shopping experience” and not Wegmans Food Market, Joe’s Crab Shack Bar, Panera Bread simply provide for the everyday shopping Café and PNC Bank will entice shoppers. trip. Following the successful rezoning of this particular parcel during Harford swirling with energy and motion. Leading banners along the Boulevard will add to County’s comprehensive rezoning, and to the plaza will be a tree-lined boulevard the festive atmosphere. Shaded patio sets, the successful inclusion of mixed use to reflect the “Main Street” feel, which awnings and outdoor cafes will allow retail centers in the zoning code, the will showcase an eclectic mix of value and relief from the elements, yet provide a vision would take hold and plans were put specialty retailers. Two-way traffic and chance to engage in our favorite pastime into motion for Phase I. In the subsequent on-street parking will introduce an urban of “people watching.” years, Wegmans Food Markets was component for the ease and convenience Planning for this project started in actively trying to identify the right
38 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM opportunity for its market position traffic with workers who will take and substantial capital investment in advantage of the restaurants, grocery and the local market. After nearly three years specialty shops. When complete, the of discussions, Ward Development Group center will contain up to 450,000 square interesting was able to secure Wegmans’ commit- feet of gross leasable area and nearly ment to join the tenant roster for the 2,000 parking spaces. Boulevard at Box Hill, and Complementing Wegmans Food facts Market in the Phase I opening will be Joe’s Crab Shack Bar and Grill, Panera Bread Café and PNC Bank, all of which will be located along Emmorton Road. Priding itself on a family friendly environment of good food and good friends, Joe’s Crab Shack will offer a variety of amenities including an outdoor The retaining wall that children’s area adjoining the family was constructed to create seating area and a happy hour inviting the Wegmans site reaches bar area with specialty drinks (Southern 45 feet in height at its peak. Eventually, special Spiked Tea, Category 5 Hurricane and the ivy plantings will take Mason Jar Margarita). Specialty menu over and transform the items include the Get Stuffed Snapper, masonry block into a Tilapia, Sunset Salmon, Snow Crab and “living wall.” Dungeness Crab, served in their signature steal bucket or steam pot. Increasing its market presence, Panera Bread will construct a larger facility, expanding both the interior and outdoor seating area. Known for its fresh artisan breads, pastries, specialty soups and sandwiches, Panera will further complement the Nearly 240,000 cubic expansive menu offerings for the yards of earth were Boulevard at Box Hill. moved over a nine-month Currently, planning and permitting period to construct are underway for a two-level retail Phase I. A nearly 40-foot PHOTOGRAPHY BY CYNTHIA NUTWELL BY CYNTHIA PHOTOGRAPHY building located to the north of hill was relocated. development plans would soon be Wegmans, which will consist of underway. approximately 28,000 square feet of Opening on Sept. 18, The Boulevard premier retail space. Discussions are at Box Hill will be anchored by a 135,000- underway with several, unique and square-foot Wegmans Food Market, eclectic retailers to occupy this building. which will draw a steady flow of daily Exterior designs and large, public areas of customers from a radius of 20-plus miles. this site signify the tone and feel for the In addition, discussions are ongoing with upcoming lifestyle component of the When complete, the entire retail project national department stores to anchor the Boulevard at Box Hill. Announcements should create nearly 900 center’s lifestyle component. An are expected in early September on the jobs, and at market value additional 88,000 square feet of final tenant mix to join the project. An of nearly $65,000,000, multi-level office buildings will also be announcement on the second anchor is should create a real estate built to complement the 200,000 square planned for this fall. tax basis of approximately feet of existing space existing in the Box The Boulevard at Box Hill will surely $6,000,000 over the first Hill Corporate Center. The first of several become a major retail shopping 10 years of full operation. office buildings recently commenced destination and a vibrant town center for construction along Box Hill South a growing community – truly the “heart Parkway, and is expected to open in early and soul” of Interstate activity. I95 2012. This is sure to bolster weekday
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 39 inbox inbox Press- Submit press-worthy Business Briefs to [email protected]. Office Project Near Ripken Bel Air Law Firm Opens Worthy Stadium Underway Virginia Office Hunt Valley developer J. Joseph Credit broke ground in April on a News 24-acre, four-building business park near Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen. Credit, head of Sherwood Partners LLC, aims to Business Briefs build up to 500,000 square feet about of new office space at Fieldside Commons to attract businesses People & Companies and contractors relocating to Aberdeen due to BRAC. who are Michael H. Daney, resident partner in the Bel Air office of Godwin, INNOVATIVE, Erlandson, MacLaughlin, Vernon Yerman Witman Gaines & and Daney, LLC, announces the Conklin Realty Opens New IMAGINATIVE, opening of their Virginia office in Bel Air Office Fairfax. “A Virginia office will allow Yerman Witman Gaines and USING NEW my firm to better serve our clients Conklin Realty, LLC, the residential in the Mid-Atlantic region” says IDEAS, real estate brokerage division of Daney. “Since establishing the firm The Strata Group, opened a new three years ago in Ellicott City, we full-service location within INFLUENCING, have opened satellite offices in Greenbrier Shopping Center in D.C., Frederick and Bel Air to Bel Air. In April, the company support our clients’ needs in this IMPACTING opened a new interactive informa- region. We have doubled in size BUSINESS tion center within Harford Mall. since the firm was founded three “Expanding our office and years ago” says Daney. “We attracting experienced and anticipate hiring two additional successful Realtors to the Yerman attorneys in the next few months.” Witman Gaines and Conklin Daney, a resident of Darlington, Submit your press-worthy brokerage is our identified strategy is AV rated, which means he has story and photo to to increase our presence in the achieved the highest level of skill [email protected] Harford County region,” says and integrity in the Maryland legal William (Billy) Yerman, CEO of The community. Godwin, Erlandson, INSIGHT INTO THE FAST LANE Strata Group. “Due to a number of MacLaughlin, Vernon and Daney, emerging national and local trends, LLC is a corporate defense firm www.i95business.com we are extremely bullish about this serving clients in the areas of area and are investing significant Employment Law, OSHA/ MOSH, It's no longer resources to achieve additional Workers’ Compensation, Liability business as usual. market share. The influx of new issues, Products Liability, Regula- residents into Harford County tory issues, and Civil Litigation. continues at a strong and healthy pace.” 410-584-9960 [email protected]
40 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Submit press-worthy Business Briefs to [email protected].
Habitat for Humanity Merger Habitat for Humanity of Cecil County and Harford Habitat for Humanity have merged. The new affiliate name is Habitat for Humanity Susquehanna. While the ([SHFWWKH%HVW name has changed, their mission %X\V«««/RFDWLRQ«««6HUYLFH«««6HOHFWLRQ to partner with families and the community to build and repair homes remains the same. The new affiliate is enthusiastic to combine %R\OH«%XLFN«*0&«7UXFN resources and cultivate new ©(PPRUWRQ©5RDG relationships in both Harford and $ELQJGRQ©0'©© Cecil counties. Since 1993, the two 0LQXWHV©IURP©,õ ©([LW©% affiliates had served more than õ õ©+DUIRUG 150 families by building 62 homes õõ©%DOWLPRUH and repairing 127. “We will partner with more ZZZ%R\OH%XLFN*0&FRP communities, build and repair more homes and ultimately serve more families through this merger,” says Executive Director Joann Blewett. The public is invited to join the staff, Board, partner family and volunteers of Habitat for Humanity Susquehanna in celebrating its first home dedication of the newly merged affiliate on Sept. 9, 10am, at 23 Cherry Lane in Elkton.
Maykrantz Named President of St. John Properties Edward A. St. John has appointed Lawrence F. Maykrantz, 52, to the position of president of the Baltimore-based St. John Properties. St. John has transitioned to chairman of the board of the firm. Rose Zappa-J pp Jehnert Nicole Lindt Formerly senior vice president cellll # 443-465 -7311 cell # 410-215-0737 and chief financial officer, [email protected] [email protected] Maykrantz has been with St. John Properties since 1982 and is responsible for project financing, tax planning and accounting WWW.YWGCREALTY.COMWWW.YWGCREALREALLTYTY.COM functions.
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 41 Strong Photography inbox Stories People Care About Advertising That Is Relevant And Useful Submit press-worthy Business Briefs to [email protected].
MAGAZINE ADVERTISING WORKS In his new position, Maykrantz government on community issues will oversee all day-to-day func- including programs for at-risk tions of St. John Properties, with youth, affordable housing, specific responsibilities including homeless issues, and projects all phases of development, asset serving the disabled and elderly.
management, marketing, leasing “Each new member is a and financial operations. recognized leader in the community and brings a unique skill set that will complement our Library Foundation Announces current board and its endeavors,” New Board Members says Foundation Director The Harford Amber C. Shrodes. County Public Library (HCPL) Foundation is Elizabeth Jones New Vice pleased to President, Business announce the Development Continental Title Group, a addition of full-service commercial and Timothy J. residential title company, has Capurso (top), announced the promotion of Pamela J. Ruff Elizabeth L. (Liz) Jones to vice (middle) and president of business development. Elizabeth She was formerly Settlement S. Hendrix Attorney for the Baltimore region (bottom) to the for Continental Title and works Foundation’s from the company’s offices at Board of McHenry Row in Baltimore City. Directors. In her new role, Jones will home of the Fantastically Fabulous Dog walkers Capurso is a develop and execute strategies TM 10-year resident designed to attract new business home & pet-sitting / dog-walking of Harford County opportunities to the company, as and currently well as assisting with transactional works as a partner in the litigation work involving the commercial and division of the law firm of Gordon, residential real estate industries. Feinblatt, Rothman, Hoffberger & Hollander, LLC in Baltimore. Ruff 443.655.5882 has served as executive director Telford Aviation Heads of the Maryland Economic To The GATE Development Association (MEDA) Telford Aviation, Inc., a division of since 2002, a statewide member- ACC Holding, Inc., has executed a ship organization of over 500 lease with St. John Properties, Inc. public and private sector members. for 11,160 square feet of space at Hendrix currently serves as the The Government and Technology director for the Department of Enterprise (The GATE) project, a Community Services, working with 416-acre business community agencies within and outside of within Aberdeen Proving Ground.
42 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM CHECK IT OUTUOITKCCHE TU inbox @ HarfordH ra@ ffoo Cr Countynuod ttyy PPublic Lilbu Library!arbic arryy! Submit press-worthy Business Briefs to [email protected]. eavhWe afffffoorrdd ebla ME EE T I T I I N GGN The Milwaukee-based company will TAPE Announces Grand consolidate program management, Opening in Belcamp RO OO M M SP A C ECAPE ! training and technical staff to the Up to 4 hours: $100 APG location. 4-8 hours: $120 Telford Aviation, Inc. (TAI) 8 hours or more: $140 specializes in supporting For mor e information,, deployment of government C4ISR contact any branch or go to Programs with Contractor HCPLonline.orCPL g/ Logistics Support (CLS), Aircraft meetingrooms Non-pr Maintenance, Primary Mission ofit rates are available Equipment (PME) Maintenance, Contractor Flight Operations and TAPE, LLC, recently opened an PME training. “TAI is an innovative office in Belcamp. Last year, the aerospace company concentrating company was awarded as a prime our efforts with C4ISR Programs contractor for a $400 million U.S. for the Department of Defense,” Army research and development says Matthew Frei, director of contract at APG by the Army government programs. Research Laboratory to develop Telford Aviation will occupy and support new concepts for 6165 Guardian Gateway, a application of advanced technology 51,120-square-foot R&D/office/flex for Special Operations Forces, building. The LEED Silver-designed Combatant Commanders, and building features a high-efficiency the Intelligence community. HVAC system, high performance “We are pleased to have the windows, sustainable lavatory opportunity to provide our small fixtures, a white thermoplastic business acumen and innovation to polyolefin (TPO) roofing system, our APG clients,” says Dr. William significant open space and G. Lese, TAPE senior vice president wetland/forest preserves, drought- of strategic solutions. At the tolerant landscaping, and low VOC Belcamp location, TAPE, supported (volatile organic compounds) by a team of subcontractors, is one paints, carpets and adhesives. of seven companies awarded prime Additionally, the building will contracts for ARL’s five-year, satisfy federal anti-terrorism/force indefinite delivery/indefinite protection standards providing quantity program. The company Telford with the opportunity to supports this ARL focus, to sublease/license space to their counteract and defeat the growing federal customers. worldwide terrorist threat, by the “Telford Aviation represents the timely application of advanced latest company servicing the technologies. defense industry that recognized the significant advantages of a presence within the gates of Harford County Chamber Of Aberdeen Proving Ground,” Commerce Elects New Officers explains Lawrence F. Maykrantz, Harford County Chamber of president of St. John Properties. Commerce elected the following
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 43 Submit press-worthy Business Briefs to The Region’s ‘Go To’ Business Organization [email protected]. Baltimore area executives rely on one private-public sector membership organization to connect them to corporate, civic, and political leaders, to stay informed, and to be involved in shaping policies that affect business... the Greater Baltimore Committee. Visit us at www.gbc.org officers for the 2011-12 year: Chair, To join the GBC, contact Liz Pettegill Steven L. Wiseman, CPA, vice at 410-727-2820/[email protected] president, Wiseman Associates; Chair elect, Robin Sommer, owner, Images of Sommer; Vice Chair, Administration, Brenda Morrison, vice president for marketing, development and community relations, Harford Community College; Vice Chair, Finance, Paul Balsamo, CPA, president, Balsamo, Stewart, Lutters & Ruth, P.A.; and Past chair, Eric McLauchlin, partner, Shaffer, McLauchlin & Stover, LLC.
APGFCU Names Keith C. O’Neil, Jr. New Senior Vice President, Find even more online! Information Technology www.i95business.com CONNECTING people, ideas and businesses in the NORTHEAST Corridor. Original Stories | webXclusive Stories | Subscribe Digital Edition | News | Blogs | Events | Videos
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IT ' SNOLONGERBUSINESSASUSUAL . Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union [APGFCU], Harford and Cecil counties’ largest credit union, is proud to announce that Keith C. O’Neil, Jr. has joined the credit union’s management team as senior vice president, information technology. O’Neil brings over 14 years of progressive technical and management expertise to APGFCU. As a key member of the executive management team, he will help lead the credit union’s information technology (IT) efforts 410-584-9960 | [email protected] to provide world-class member
44 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Your Local Lender Mortgage, Re , or Home Equity
Call Joyce Casey inbox 1-800-225-2555, x 5555 [email protected] Submit press-worthy Business Briefs to [email protected]. APGFCU.com service and drive innovation. available for Harford County Public He will also be responsible for School educators. The awards can developing and implementing a be utilized by educators for contin- Federally insured by NCUA strategic technology plan to enable uing education classes in a STEM growth consistent with the credit field or new classroom equipment union’s mission. for students. Grant recipients also %1.14+0)$11-5 to CATARACTS can utilize AFCEA mentors to learn Eyecare for the entire family how to incorporate STEM – Pediatric Ophthalmology New Bridal Boutique to Science, Technology, Engineering Open in Parkville and Math – disciplines in the Lasik & Cataract Surgery Building on the success of its classroom in a real world manner. Retina Specialist Harford County store, bridal Cosmetic Services General Eye Health Exams boutique Amanda Ritchey Bridal New Patients and Beauty announced today plans McCrone Promotes 24 Hour Emergency Care Welcome to open a second location in Michael Burcham Havre de Grace Bel Air Elkton 410-939-6477 443-643-4500 410-620-3600 Baltimore County. Slated to open McCrone, Inc. has named Michael onsite optical center onsite optical center in late summer, Amanda Ritchey Burcham, a local land surveyor and www.visionexperts.com Bridal and Beauty of Baltimore will branch manager of the company’s be located at 1905 East Joppa Road, Elkton office, as president of the conveniently located just off of company. Burcham is a board I-695 near Perring Parkway. The member of the Cecil County Puzzled by marketing? 5,400-square-foot boutique will Chamber of Commerce and a feature bridal attire for the bride member of the Homebuilders and groom as well as an extensive Association of Maryland. *IG3AW collection of social occasion, CAN HELP mother-of-the-bride and groom and bridal party dresses. Safe Harbors Travel Group “We are thrilled to be opening Moves to Bel Air our new boutique in Baltimore,” Safe Harbors has purchased the says Amanda Ritchey, owner of building located at 126 S. Main
Amanda Ritchey Bridal and Beauty. Street, in Bel Air. Safe Harbors, one s WWWJIGSAWMARKETINGSOLUTIONSCOM “Between the rapid growth of our of the largest travel companies in Fallston store and the high level of Maryland with $35 million in annual interest from Baltimore-area sales with 24 employees, has been # $% customers, we felt this was the in business 26 years and has three & ' ( ) right time to expand in order specific divisions: Corporate Travel , to better serve our valued Management, Humanitarian Travel *+,- customers.” and Ministry Travel. I95 " STEM Awards for Harford County Educators ! The Armed Forces Communications , ./ .01 #), ./ .01 #) and Electronics Association- Aberdeen, Maryland Chapter, has launched a series of STEM grants
WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 45
INSPIRATION Poster Child of Economic Recovery The family business behind the “Small Business Survival Summit”
To think that a small family-owned business would Dr. Benjamin S. Carson will deliver the keynote address at the Maryland spearhead a project as ambitious as the Small Business Children’s Alliance benefit gala. Dr. Carson is a full professor of Survival Summit is unfathomable – especially during neurosurgery, oncology, plastic surgery these tough economic times. and pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and he has directed pediatric neurosurgery at the Johns That said, there really was no choice, but also the course of a nation. Hopkins Children’s Center for over a according to Patrick Chambers, It’s a good thing they’ve found help. quarter of a century. president and founder of WebIXI (IXI), The Summit would not have seen The breakout session agenda is equally a three-man website design and develop- the light of day without harnessing the impressive. Successful entrepreneurs, ment firm in Churchville, Md. “We hear it energies of many small businesses, large business leaders and industry experts all the time. Small businesses are the corporations, non-profit organizations from throughout the country are driving force of the economy, yet they and government agencies within the gathering to present and interact on continue to struggle, stagnate and fail. community. The list of participants and issues specifically related to individual Small business can’t afford to ride this organizational support is quite lengthy – and business development. out. If we, as small business owners, don’t and it’s growing every day. Their collec- Educational workshops and panel own this, if we don’t actually lead the tive efforts have developed a program that discussions will be capped off with an economic recovery, there may not be is second to none. Entrepreneurial Legends Panel one,” Chambers says. “IXI put the Small Business Survival Summit together simply because somebody had to do it.” SEPTEMBER So the Chambers family – sons PJ, 7-9, 2011 27, and Steven, 22, both partners in the BALTIMORE business – set out to make a statement CONVENTION as much as create an event. All while CENTER continuing to run their 16-year-old boutique website development and search engine optimization firm. The Small Business Survival Summit, discussion. There will be ample “As small businesses, we’ve had held at the Baltimore Convention Center, networking opportunities on the Exhibit enough. Declaring ourselves – ‘Too Sept. 7-9, is a three-day event designed Hall Floor, including a happy hour and Small to Fail,’ – we’re taking a stand, to encourage, motivate and train small speed networking sessions. The Summit creating a program that will empower business owners to re-evaluate and refine even incorporates local eateries into the attendees to think outside the box and their business practices, identify available agenda with the “Taste of Baltimore” position their organizations to succeed. resources and align themselves with campaign, spilling attendees into the local On a grander scale, through their own organizations in their community for economy with discounts toward their success, attendees will help lead our mutually beneficial relationships. lunch at participating restaurants. These nation down the road to recovery.” The agenda is ambitious and are just some of the highlights of this This message is resonating throughout continues to be expanded. exciting event designed to provide the country and the enthusiasm is Former New York City Mayor participants takeaways that they can spreading. This surge is based on the and TIME 2001 Person of the Year immediately use within their businesses. understanding of a simple truth: Only the Rudy Giuliani will speak on Thursday, The Small Business Survival Summit is resurgence of small business will turn our just three days before the 10th anniversary Sept. 7-9, at the Baltimore Convention economy around. Summit participants of 9/11. Giuliani will speak on the topic Center. For more information, visit understand their role in not only of “Principled Leadership: In the Face smallbusinesssurvivalsummit.com. I95 changing the course of their businesses, of Change and Crisis.”
46 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM Women in Business
They They They They Organize Contribute Lead Inspire
DECEMBER A special section highlighting the contributions of women in key positions. Who are the women leaders in your company? Feature them in our December Issue.
PRO-Files Formatted to include photo, name, title, company logo, and description of contributions. Half Page Profile: $875 Quarter Page Profile: $525
Women In Business are invited to a special networking lunch in January, hosted by I95 BUSINESS.
UPCOMING SPECIAL SECTIONS & DEADLINES Oct/Nov Small Business and Finance September 23 Dec/Jan Women in Business November 11 Feb/March Health and Wellness January 14 April/May Real Estate March 4
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WWW.I95BUSINESS.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 47 Workforce development is good for business. We can help you achieve your goals.
Investing in your employees is essential to develop, For over 50 years, our clients have partnered with us maintain and expand your business. Harford Community for training in the following areas: College, centrally located to serve the entire I-95 business t$POTUSVDUJPO .BOVGBDUVSJOH*OEVTUSZ corridor, provides quality workforce development that is t)FBMUIDBSF)VNBO4FSWJDFT convenient, competitively priced and responsive to the t*OGPSNBUJPO5FDIOPMPHZ unique needs of business, government and industry. t1SPGFTTJPOBM .BOBHFNFOU-FBEFSTIJQ t1SPKFDU.BOBHFNFOU
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