Columbia, MD 21046

410-964-7507

Fax: 410-964-7741

Web Site: http://www.alliedsignal.com/aerospace

Revenue: $14.5 billion Fortune 75 company

Fiscal Year: December 31

Total Assets: $13.7 billion

Stockholders’ Equity: Shareholders’ equity $4.4 billion

Return on Stockholders’ Equity: Average shareholder’s equity 27.5% for 1997.

Stock: ALD or AldSgnl

Chairman: Lawrence A. Bossidy

Employees worldwide: 80,000

Local Employees: 900

ATSC President: Ivan Stern

Description: AlliedSignal Technical Services Corporation (ATSC) is an industry leader in providing technical and management services to customers worldwide in the commercial and government sectors. ATSC is a wholly owned subsidiary of AlliedSignal Incorporated which provides aerospace and automotive products, chemicals, fibers, plastics and advanced materials.

Developments: AlliedSignal Technical Services is the world’s leading organization at satellite flight control and telemetry data processing, having been involved in the operation of some 700 satellites since 1958, more than any other company.

The company provides flight control and data management of NASA’s constellation of some two dozen near-earth orbiting satellites. It helps maintain the Air Force Satellite Control Network.

As the commercial satellite industry experiences unprecedented worldwide growth, with some 1,300 satellites scheduled for launch in the next eight years¾ a more than 400% increase¾ AlliedSignal plans to extend its legacy. DataLynx, an AlliedSignal satellite command, control and communications network was recently announced to provide flight control and data management for customers with satellite services needs.

It has also begun the CORE training program to prepare a new generation of satellite flight controllers for the huge anticipated future growth.

Among a broad set of technical and management services, AlliedSignal Technical Services maintains electronics systems aboard the ships of the U.S. Navy’s fleet. It keeps the U.S. Marines’ fleet of Maritime Prepositioning Forces ships ready for action at a moment’s notice in the event of a national emergency.

AlliedSignal Technical Services is the 1998 recipient of NASA’s George M. Low Award, the space agency’s highest honor for quality, excellence and productivity.

9705 Patuxent Woods Drive

Columbia MD 21046

Web Site: http://www.arbitron.com

Founded: 1949

Fiscal Year: Jan-Dec

Revenue: $165.3 million

President: Steve Morris

Employees: 596 F/T; 236 P/T

Local Employees: 417 F/T; 236 P/T

Description: The Arbitron Company is an international media and marketing research firm providing information services to broadcasters, advertisers and advertising agencies in the United States and Europe. The company's marketing and business units are supported by a world-renowned research and technology organization located in Columbia, Maryland.

The company markets local radio audience measurement services; local market consumer measurement services for radio stations, TV stations, cable systems, agencies and advertisers; applications software; and research services for the new media.

Developments: The Arbitron Research and Technology Center is the survey research brain trust of the Arbitron Company. Located in a new facility in Columbia, Maryland, the unit is the repository of the company's 46 years of experience collecting, processing and reporting information on how consumers spend their time with the media and how they spend their dollars with local retailers.

Arbitron is credited with many of the media research innovations of the past five decades including personal diaries, electronic meters, survey sampling techniques, and new definitions and descriptors of the radio and television audience.

Today, Arbitron is developing new devices for tracking consumer radio, television and cable usage including: a personal, portable meter designed to track TV viewing and radio listening in and out of the home; a PC based radio listening log; and systems to manage and compile audience information from tomorrow's interactive television and cable services.

The center is rapidly expanding its capabilities to create PC applications that access the

vast survey databases and allow clients to build fully customized information solutions

based on Arbitron data along with proprietary and third party databases.

9115 Whiskey Bottom Road

Suite I

Laurel, MD 20723

301-497-0477

Founded: 1980

President: Eugene B. Silverman

Employees: 16

Description: ARD Environmental, Inc. was founded to integrate technology and people to solve a wide range of environmental remediation problems. Focusing on the design of process solutions and the fabrication of proprietary equipment, ARD responds to the environmental remediation needs of utilities, the petrochemical industry, and a broad cross-section of process manufacturing industries.

Developments: ARD has been extremely busy this year, completing several contracts at Commercial Nuclear stations to include Big Rock Point, Vogtle, and Limerick. Most notably, ARD was awarded a blanket contract at ComEd in which individual ComEd stations are able to take advantage of ARD’s newest and most advanced tank cleaning equipment and field service support expertise. Additionally, ARD was awarded a contract to clean accumulated sediments from a 4.3 acre basin at the Westinghouse Savannah River Site. This basin cleaning operation will be completed using ARD’s SCAVENGER® XT1000 System.

5401 Twin Knolls Road, Suite 12

Columbia, MD 21045-3257

410-730-2000

Web Site: axlindata.com

Founded: 1991

Fiscal Year: Dec. 31

President: Mark Maxwell

Employees: 8 + 7 contractual

Major Clients – Howard County: RWD Technologies, Corman Construction

Description: Axlin Data Systems is an authorized dealer for Timberline Software, is a top ten dealer worldwide, and their largest mid-Atlantic dealer. Timberline is an international supplier of estimating and project cost accounting software for the construction and property management industries. Axlin Data Systems serves over 200 companies throughout the mid-Atlantic region.

Developments: Timberline Software is the leader in estimating and accounting software for the construction and property management industries. A true 32-bit system, Timberline software designed for Windows 95 and NT. As a Top Ten Timberline Dealer in the world, Axlin Data Systems has experienced steady growth over the last few years. To fuel this continued growth and expansion, Axlin has increased their personnel. In addition to hiring more Timberline Certified Consultants, they have hired new salespeople specializing in a particular market segment. For example, their property management software sales associate has over 15 years of financial management experience in the property management industry, as was a Timberline software user for over 7 years. The newest estimating sales associate recently joined Axlin from a large general contracting firm in the area, where he was vice president as well as a Timberline software user.

Axlin Data Systems has also just hired a senior network engineer. There was an increased demand among their client base for an in-house resource knowledgeable in Novell, Microsoft NT Server, Citrix WinFrame and programming.

5550 Sterrett Place, Suite 216

Columbia, MD 21044

410-997-7778

Fax: 410-997-7669

E-mail: bcs@clark.net

Web Site: http://www.clark.net/pub/bcs

Founded: 1989

President: Kenneth W. Boras

Description: BCS, Incorporated is a small business providing consulting and technical support services, applied to domestic and international markets. BCS specializes in analysis of advanced industrial technologies, energy market research, database design and development, program assessments and strategic planning. BCS clients include federal and state government agencies, national laboratories, trade associations and private industry.

Developments: BCS works closely with the U.S. Department of Energy, recently having been awarded contracts with its Office of Utility Technologies (OUT) and Office of Industrial Technologies (OIT). Highlights include: The development of searchable databases for the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Treasury, and the California Energy Commission as well as energy related trade organizations; The development of strategic plans for international trade organizations and federal R&D planners; and the identification of energy technology/product and service market opportunities worldwide for energy industry representatives, trade organizations, and federal agencies.

To provide exemplary service to its clients, BCS makes use of the latest computer-aided software tools and communication technologies to provide high quality graphical support for reports and brochure development as well as multimedia productions and presentations.

8970 Rt. 108 - Suite D

Columbia, Maryland 21045

410-964-0236

E-mail: biotectran@aol.com

Founded: 1992

Fiscal Year: December 31

Revenue: $19,465

Loss: $172.029

Loss per Share: 14 cents

Dividend: None

Stockholders' Equity: ($103,164)

Stock: Privately Held

Assets: $135,303

Chairman: Robert Fennell

President: Peter Sottong

Employees: Six

Local Employees: Four

Description: Biotechnology Transfer, Inc. develops and markets tests and reagents for clinical and research laboratories. The Company has developed and patented a breakthrough methodology for performing immune function assessment, the LumineticsTM Assay for T Cell Activation, for use in AIDS monitoring, transplantation, infectious disease diagnosis and other applications.

Developments: Studies are now underway to demonstrate utility of the LumineticsTM assay for monitoring immune function data in HIV positive patients. These studies are being conducted in conjunction with noted AIDS researchers at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC and Cornell Medical Center in New York city. Additional funding sources are being sought to support manufacturing scale up and marketing efforts to begin later this year.

The Company is currently generating revenues from the use of the LumineticsTM test kit in research applications, particularly in the evaluation of certain vaccines of military importance in the Joint Vaccine Acquisition Program (JVAP) for DynPort, Inc., a major DoD contractor involved in the development of biological warefare vaccines.

8950 Old Annapolis Road

Suite 236

Columbia, MD 21045

410-730-0077

Founded: 1993

Fiscal Year: December 31

Chairman: Robert L. Wallace

President: Robert L. Wallace (CEO)

Employees: 5

Description: The BiTH Group, based in Columbia, Maryland was incorporated in 1993 by Robert L. Wallace. The company arose in response to the need for organizations to develop and maintain competitive advantage in their respective fields through the use of information technology and training.

BiTH Group provides clients with technical expertise and competencies, and the management and training needs to fully maximize the use of this new technology.

Developments: The BiTH Group Inc. has had a prosperous and productive year. This year we have been able to provide our clients (partners) with the expertise to move from their current environment to their new desired environment with increased productivity, focus, and a competitive advantage.

Last year, The BiTH Group was awarded and recently completed, a contract from the City of Baltimore to develop the Strategic Information Technology Plan for the City of Baltimore. This plan establishes the framework by which the City will build its information technology infrastructure in order to meet the needs of its emerging knowledge workers.

We have also bee tasked with developing the Strategic Plan for the Design, Development and Implementation of The City of Baltimore’s Web Infrastructure.

On the training side, we have completed a year of training for Booz Allen Hamilton. This training consisted of several client specific training sessions being developed and delivered. As a result we have been contracted to expand and continue our training efforts with Booz Allen Hamilton.

The BiTH Group Inc. has been able to provide clients with the best possible levels of service, integrity, and expertise to assist them in their business. We have fostered great relationships with our clients and look forward to nurturing those relationships while establishing new ones.

9104 Guilford Road

Columbia, MD 21046

Web Site: http://www.byk-gardner.com

Founded: 1924

Fiscal Year: January-January

Revenue: $30 million

Major Clients: 3M Company, Sherwin-Williams, PPG, General Motors, BMW, Kodak, and DuPont

General Manager: Mike Gogoel

Local Employees: 42

Total Employees: 150

Description: BYK-Gardner is a world-wide leader in color appearance, physical testing instrumentation, and software for the paint and plastics markets.

5550 Sterrett Place

Suite 302

Columbia, MD 21044

410-740-5590

Fax: 410-740-5422

Founded: 1974

Fiscal:Calendar

Revenue: $1mm

Profit:Yes, confidential

Equity:100% Charles A. Durakis, Jr.

Stock:private

Chairman: Charles A. Durakis, Sr.

President: Charles A. Durakis, Jr.

Employees: 5-10

Local Employees: 4

Description: C. A. Durakis Associates is a retainer executive search firm with a high technology specialty practice. The firm's practice is national in scope and currently includes four executive recruiters based in three U. S. offices: Cambridge, MA, Columbia, MD and Westport, CT. Major local clients include Sylvan Learning, Fidelity & Deposit, First Maryland Bancorp, Black & Decker, Gannett, MCI and more.

Developments:1998 was a year of growth and change for C. A. Durakis Associates. A move to larger office space will provide needed room for additional personnel. The Internet has proven to be a venue for great opportunity in executive search and the company has formulated an aggressive strategy to capitalize on the potential of the world wide web with its own website. In addition an aggressive direct marketing campaign was implemented and is currently underway. The company is a member of the High Technology Council of MD, recently joined the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, and is looking forward to expanding its local network.

5033 Lake Circle W.

Columbia MD. 21044

410-964-0052

Founded: 1995

President: James Mease

Description: C & J Computer Consulting Inc. provide services to businesses that take advantage of computers and computer networks. C & J installs computer networks, performs upgrades and troubleshoots existing hardware and software. We also design custom applications.

Development: C & J Computers has experienced a great deal of growth in the past year. We anticipate our growth to continue for years to come, do to our in-depth understanding of a small business owners concerns and need for technical assistance.

We are in a field that is saturated with many different ideas and technologies that change day to day. Keeping up with this fast paced industry is next to impossible for a business owner not specializing in the field. Many owners are either overwhelmed or not sure what will benefit their company. This is where C & J steps in and helps them make the best decision, then implements it.

11301 Springfield Road

Laurel, MD 20708

Founded: 1927

600 undergraduate student population

200 graduate student population

70% of the population is 25 years and older

Evening and weekend classes available

Student/Teacher ratio 18/1

Six state of the art laboratories

President: William G. Troxler

Description: Bachelors of Science Degrees: Engineering - Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering. Engineering Technology: Electronics Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, Telecommunications Engineering Technology.

Information Technology: Management of Telecommunications Systems, Management of Information Systems, Software and Internet Applications. Accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges, Engineering Technology accredited by TAC/ABET, Electrical Engineering accredited by EAC/ABET.

Development: Capitol College is on target in fulfilling their commitment to serving the needs of industry by meeting their demands for qualified graduates. This year Capitol has adapted to the changing world in which we live. The newest B.S. degree at Capitol, Software and Internet Applications is now attainable on-line. As well, Capitols Graduate programs, Management of Information and Telecommunications systems and Systems Management are also offered on-line. This fall Capitol is offering Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer courses (MCSE) for credit. The MCSE courses will soon be available over the Internet.

6330 Howard Lane

Elkridge, MD 21046

410-796-0040

Web Site: http://www.cavc.com

Founded: Jan. 1, 1974

Fiscal Year: Calendar

Revenue: Confidential

Equity: 100% Todd Combs

Chairman: Todd Combs

President: Todd Combs

Sales Director: Todd R. Werling

Employees: 14

Description: Chesapeake Audio/Video Communications (CAVC) provides audio and video production services in addition to CD-ROM publishing and replication. Other services rendered are duplication, packaging, and fulfillment. Major clients include, Fossil Consulting Services, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, International Paper, American Society of Association Executives, and National Association of Home Builders.

Developments: Chesapeake Audio/Video Communications kicked off the new year by opening a new multi-media department. This exciting addition allows the company to offer CD-ROM publishing and replication services. Also, CAVC expanded its fully digital audio production studio to include Compact Disc duplication. The company is excited to offer these new services and foresees many multi-media projects this year.

In March, CAVC was contracted by the Environmental Protection Agency to provide bulk video duplication services throughout the year.

Most recent events include a signed contract with HUGHES Network Systems, a Hughes Electronics Company, to produce an orientation video which will be utilized to recruit college graduates.

Chesapeake Audio/Video Communications is a proud member of both the Washington Convention and Visitors Association and the Baltimore Convention and Visitors Association. The company’s president, Todd Combs, is also a founding member of the International Society of Communication Specialists.

4725 Dorsey Hall Drive, A-205

Ellicott City, MD 21042

410-461-3015

Founded: 1988

Fiscal Year: Dec. 31

President: Judy Clayton

Employees: 4

Description: Clayton Computer Services, Inc. provides software development services to medium/large corporations in the Baltimore/Washington corridor. Areas of specialty include the development of Internet-based and Windows-based systems.

3215 Corporate Court

Ellicott City, MD 21042

410-461-5430

Web Site: http://www.connext.net

Founded: 1996

Financials: Privately held

Major Clients: Howard County Chamber of Commerce, Maryland SPCA, Doorguard Systems, Consumer Credit Counseling Service, many others

President: Russell D. Hewitt

Description: The Columbia Connextion is the area’s leading provider of web site development and hosting solutions, specializing in affordable all-in-one packages for small business. They also offer extremely reliable corporate and residential Internet access.

Developments: The past year has been very successful for The Columbia Connextion--growth has been rapid, both in their customer base and in their technology acquisitions. By the end of 1997 the company had reached profitability.

The Columbia Connextion has been successful due partly to their investments in capital equipment to ensure Internet access speed, reliability, and availability. Also key has been an unusually high level of technical support provided by the company, which helps differentiate them from their national competitors.

In September the company introduced their all-inclusive Web Programs, which allow a business to purchase web design, web hosting, domain name registration, Internet access and web site publicity in a complete, integrated, low-cost package. These programs have been very popular with their clients, many of whom are not well versed in the technical aspects of web site development but who nonetheless would like to use these powerful tools to promote their products and services.

6171 Columbia Crossing

Columbia, MD 21045

410-953-8100

Web Site: http://www.compusa.com

Founded: 1984

Fiscal Year: July 1

Revenue: $4,610.1 million (FY97)

Net Income per Share: $0.99 (FY97)

Major Clients: Prudential, Cigna, Social Security Administration

Stockholders’ Equity: $428 million (FY97)

Stock: CPU (NYSE)

Assets: $1,124.6 million

Chairman: James Halpin

Employees: 17,000

Local Employees: 84

Description: CompUSA’s "total solutions" strategy is the driving force behind the company’s success in the computer industry. Founded in 1984, CompUSA is now one of the leading retailers and resellers of computers and related products and services in the U.S. The Columbia store is the 165^th Computer Superstore in the country.

CompUSA provides solutions in Corporate Sales, Training, Technical Services, Government Sales, Education Sales, Retail Sales and Mail Order Sales.

Developments: It is CompUSA’s goal to become the nation’s premier provider of business and personal computer-related products and services. Recently, CompUSA added Business Centers to select Computer Superstores such as the Columbia one. The Columbia Business Center bridges the gap between the corporate and retail worlds, catering to small businesses by offering products such as professional desktop computer lines, servers, network printers, networking products and business-oriented software.

The Technology Training Division operates 500 classrooms across the nation and offers convenient on-site training, pre-training skills assessments, customized classes, volume discounts, room rentals and training memberships.

10632 Little Patuxent Parkway

Suite 112

Columbia, MD 21044

410-740-5582

Founded: 1984

Fiscal Year: December 31

Revenue: $1M

President: Caroline A. Sherman

Employees: 5

Description: The major emphases of the company include: Educating our clients in all aspects of computer hardware, software and networking issues, enabling them to make the best business decisions possible. Providing productivity tools for individuals, workgroups, and enterprise organizations. Providing communication connectivity through local and wide area network including Wireless, ISDN and HDSL WAN access.

Development: Computer Solutions GSD, Inc. (CSGSD), was founded as the Software School to provide customized Personal Computer training for professionals and administrators. Initial clients included the Social Security Administration and Bowie State College. As the company grew, the direction changed from training to solving business problems through the integration of hardware, software, and networking. The company's name was changed in 1989 to reflect these changes. Today, CSGSD supports over 700 clients ranging from single user professional offices to 63,000 user enterprise applications.

CSGSD is a certified Lotus Notes Business Partner that provides business process or technology consulting as well as custom application development.

CSGSD has received awards and recognition for excellence in service and support. CSGSD also received wide media recognition of their instrumental contribution for the setup and support of the 500 node enterprise network for the 1993 Presidential Inaugural Committee. In less than five weeks, the system grew at a rate of 100 nodes a week. With the introduction of repeaters and bridges, work groups were linked to divisions and, finally, a fully networked, enterprise system of 500 nodes.

In recognition for Outstanding Contributions to Equal Business Opportunity, CSGSD was nominated as Outstanding Woman Owned Business in 1998.

4715-C Sellman Road

Beltsville, MD 20705-2571

301-931-3525

Fax: 301-931-8343

Contact: Raj Divakar

Web Site: http://www.CyberTechInc.com

Founded: 1989

Fiscal Year: Dec. 31

Description: CyberTech Training & Development, a division of Beta Data, Inc., offers a full range of training services including applications training, technical training, development training, internet training, customized training solutions, and technical seminars. CyberTech's business is one built on quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

Developments: CyberTech Training & Development has been providing training services in the VA, MD, D.C. Metropolitan area for the past 9 years. They provide training on desktop applications such as Word, WordPerfect, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) training, Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) training, Web Developer Certification Training, and Technical Power Seminars. The company will be opening a new training center in the heart of Bethesda (near the Bethesda Metro) at the end of this summer to accommodate its' growing training business. The new location will have state of the art training facilities to accommodate all of their clients training needs.

CyberTech Training & Development is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Provider and in the processes of becoming a Microsoft Authorized Technical Education Center (ATEC), Sylvan Authorized Prometric Testing Center (APTC), and a Prosoft Internet Certification Affiliate Location.

CyberTech Training & Development provides quality training that's a cut above the competition. Their Technical Trainers are subject-matter experts with hands-on experience. When they are not teaching, the Technical Trainers work with the Solutions Development Team practicing what they teach, because the management at CyberTech strongly believes quality training comes from experience.

7773 Blueberry Hill Lane

Ellicott City, MD 21043

Web Site: http://www.cybernetworkers.com

Founded: 1996

Owners: Kenneth and Connie Mazur

Description: CyberVillage Networkers provides Internet marketing and Electronic Commerce services to businesses and organizations. Web site services include design, maintenance, hosting, database connectivity, and customized interactive programming.

Developments: CyberVillage Networkers is now celebrating its 3rd year of business operating in the Baltimore region. Previous to 1996, the owners had been developing Intranet sites for Lockheed Martin and Internet sites for Net Source. In May 1996, they founded CyberVillage Networkers.

The company's client base is steadily expanding, particularly in the states of Texas and Maryland. Newest clients include Nova Magnetics Incorporated, a Texas based designer and manufacturer of inductors and transformers, and OldTocks.com, a Baltimore based seller of high quality antiques and unique restorations. OldTocks' primary storefront is the Internet. The site was developed in June 1998 and generated sales within two weeks of being online.

7130 Minstrel Way

Columbia, MD 21045

1-800-833-3137

410-381-3113

Fax: 410-381-3114

Web Site: http://www.daktoaimaging.com

Founded: 1989

Fiscal Year: June 30

Chairman: Sandeep Goel

President: Sandeep Goel

Employees: 50

Major Clients: Guardian, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ, State of Ohio

Description: By providing complete end-to-end solutions for automated document processing, dakota imaging, inc. increases its customers’ productivity by 100-600% and reduces manual data entry costs by 50-75%. Large volume capability, open architecture, comprehensive support, and rapid installation make dakota the choice for document imaging.

Developments: Committed to providing innovative, end-to-end business solutions, dakota imaging, inc. provides its customers with quality, ready-to-use business offerings for automated data capture and document processing. Since 1989, dakota has built a solid reputation for increasing data quality and reducing costs with such customers as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Guardian and the State of Ohio. Known for being a cutting edge organization, dakota has merged technologies such as expert systems into its products and offered its customers creative options such as remote processing, co-sourcing and outsourcing, and professional services. Recently, dakota signed an exclusive distribution agreement with TiS, Top Image Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: TISAF, TISWF). The agreement grants dakota sole North American distribution rights to TiS’ Windows NT document processing product, which recently won several coveted industry awards. Dakota is also business partners with such large organizations as IBM, Kodak, and Arthur Anderson.

10270 Old Columbia Road

Columbia, MD 21046-1751

410-290-5114

Web Site: http://www.diehlgraphsoft.com

Established: 1985

Fiscal year end: May 31

Revenue: $5,077,570

Profit: $3,651,693

Stock: DIEG

CEO/Chairman: Richard Diehl

Employees: 60

Clients include: AT&T Bell Labs, General Dynamics, Rockwell International, Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Hitachi America Ltd.

Description: Columbia, Maryland -based Diehl Graphsoft Inc., is a leading international software developer for MacIntosh and Windows-based operating systems. The company’s flagship product, MiniCAD, is an internationally-acclaimed, 2D/3Dcomputer-aided design software marketed in more than 80 countries and more than 14 languages.

Development: Fiscal 1998 saw the company post record sales – logging a 17% increase during the first quarter alone , rising to $2.1 million, up from last year’s first quarter sales figure of $1.7 million. Additionally, this year, the company bolstered its already strong product line and marked its entre into the business products arena with the development and launch of Revision Master, an innovative document management software.

For the nine month period ended February 28, 1998 the company posted an 8% increase in revenues to $5.1 million. Over the same period, gross profit percentage fell from 76.7% in 1997 to 71.9 in 1998. The decrease was due to an increase in ammortization of software development and licensing costs. The company solidified its position among the leading CAD softwares by taking first place in the 1997/98 CAD Shootout, an international competition pitting the world’s leading CAD softwares in head-to head competition. Further, Diehl Graphsoft continues to post positive activity in international markets. In September, the company launched a marketing partnership with Sheffield UK-based LightWork Design, the leading supplier of rendering engines for 3D design applications. That deal allowed MiniCAD users easy download of trail versions of LightWorks photo-realistic rendering. Also the company broadened its international distribution base across the 80-plus countries in which it is marketed.

8580 Dorsey Run Road

Jessup, MD 21042

301 498-0200

Web Site: http://www.digidata.com

Founded: 1960

Ownership: Privately held

President: Dr. Tomlinson G. Rauscher

Description: Headquartered at its 75-acre site in Jessup, Digi-Data Corporation has been providing computer mass storage solutions to the market for over 35 years. Since establishing itself as a leader in disk array technology in 1992, Digi-Data has delivered thousands of RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) controllers to customers worldwide.

Developments: Following the untimely death of its founder Richard VanLunen, in August 1996, Digi-Data Corporation appointed Dr. Tomlinson Rauscher from Xerox Corporation to the positions of President and CEO in April 1997. During the past year, Digi-Data has introduced several new products to take a leadership position in the high performance RAID systems market.

The first of these new products was the Z-9150, the fastest Ultra SCSI RAID controller available on the market today. At the Fall COMDEX show, held last November in Las Vegas, Digi-Data announced and demonstrated the Z-9250, the first Ultra 2 SCSI RAID controller. The Z-9250 sustains data transfer speeds over 50 megabytes per second when transferring data to and from an array of disks. At the Spring COMDEX show, held in April in Chicago, Digi-Data announced and demonstrated the Z-9500 RAID Controller. Providing data transfer speeds up to 100 MB/second, the Z-9500 is the first Fibre Channel RAID 3 controller on the market.

Featuring several advanced technological design features, Digi-Data RAID controllers have made substantial inroads into high performance computer systems environments. The products have enabled customers with application areas like video editing, digital prepress, database management, ISP, and file servers to obtain performance heretofore unobtainable.

10741 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, MD 21044

410-997-3351

Web Site: http://www.dpilink.com

Founded: 1978 as Columbia Type & Art. Incorporated in 1990. Added trade name of Digital Prepress Imaging (DPI) in 1995.

Typical Annual Revenues: $400,000

Assets: $250,000

President: Carl David Aron

Employees: 6

Description: Digital Prepress Imaging is a full service prepress shop, providing a complete line of services for designers, graphic artists, ad agencies, desktop publishers, printers, and in-house graphics departments. From drum scanning and digital color proofs to high-resolution trapped film and contract proofing. DPI will soon offerweb hosting, as well as CGI scripting and other technical support.

Developments: The prepress section of DPI's revenues continues to be strong. They service a growing number of small to medium-sized printers who wish to offer prepress service to their clients, but find the investment in equipment, people, and skills too high. Short-run color printing on their Xerox Majestic color laser printer, for such clients as the Rouse Co., has also been a driving force for DPI. Color laser printing can be an economical choice for jobs which do not have the volume to justify the setup costs of full-color offset printing.

Recognizing that the world-wide-web represents new and fertile ground, DPI is exploring ways to leverage their skills and experience with computers and graphics in this new field. Skills, knowledge and equipment gained while establishing DPI's web site and FTP server have been put to further use in starting a service aimed at the new needs of it's current print design clients, who are getting more and more requests to design for the web.

Currently, DPI acts as the print designer's technical "back-shop", transforming their digital creations into press-ready film. They will soon be providing a parallel service for web designers by providing a digital "place" to host the web sites, and taking care of all the technical interactions necessary to today's interactive web sites.

6679-P Santa Barbara Road

Elkridge, MD 21075

410-579-4508

Fax: 410-579-8412

E-mail: dsr@dsr-inc.com

Web Site: http://www.catalog.com/dsr

Founded: 1981

Fiscal Year: December 31

'97Revenue: $9.9 million

President: Sally Smith

Vice-President: Steve Smith

Employees: Full-time: 20, part-time: 5

Description: DSR's main business is TOSHIBA laptop sales and service and exporting computers. DSR is one of the largest Toshiba repair shops in the USA, having repaired over 27,000 and consistently receives high ratings from Toshiba on customer satisfaction feedback. DSR stocks over $300,000 in spare parts, including hard-to-come-by parts for older models. DSR is also an authorized repair/service center for Texas Instruments and Compaq portable computers.

10320 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, MD 21044

301-854-0010

Web Site: http://www.easetech.com

Founded: 1993

Fiscal Year: June 30

Revenue: Privately Held

Stock: Privately Held

President: Charles J. Bubeck (CEO)

Employees: 50

Local Employees: 25

Description: Ease Technologies is a technology consulting firm that partners with organizations to create innovative, multiplatform computing solutions. These award winning services include network and integration consulting, software development and project management services for corporate, government and education customers.

Developments: The company has experienced rapid growth and was honored by The Maryland High Technology Council as the fourth fastest growing high tech firm in the region in 1997 and placed ninth on the 1998Washingotn Technology Fast Fifty with a revenue growth rate of over 6,700%. The company is also a finalist in the 1998 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year(r) award program and won the ComputerWorld Apple Enterprise Award for a trading floor solution for Baltimore-based Alex. Brown in 1995.

Ease is also the developer of the TRIAD Financial System(tm), a Windows NT-based transaction server currently installed at over forty of the nations largest investment banks and licensed and marketed world-wide by a leading financial services vendor. The company also provides software development and technical support services for such leading Wall Street firms such as Morgan Stanley, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette, and BT Alex. Brown.

In addition to strategic alliances with regional corporate and government clients, Ease has partnerships with several regional county school systems, providing systems integration and planning services to help facilitate better use of classroom technology and networking. The firm is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Provider and has alliances with major vendors such as Apple Computer, 3Com and others.

9693 Gwynn Park Dr.

Ellicott City, MD 21042

410-465-7487

Fax: 410-313-9040

Founded: 1978

Fiscal Year: Dec 31

President & Owner: Ralph D. Helwig

Description: Economic Strategies was established in 1978 to assist businesses and entrepreneurs in all stages of startups and expansions, with special emphasis on marketing and financing strategies, marketing research, assistance with business plans, venture capital development, and the management advice so critical to the growth stages of a business.

Developments: In addition to the business development / strategic planning services that have been provided, ESL has formed a new service for individuals and small businesses. One of the biggest challenges facing many new and expanding companies is the "computer decision". Whatever decision is made concerning the acquisition of a computer system, it seems to be obsolete by the time it leaves the store. To help others avoid that experience - ESL has established a new service: "Reality-Check for Computers!" Service Options include: Define Needs - what type of work do you intend to do? What is your budget? What is your level of experience? What are the minimum system configurations that will accomplish your current (and future) needs? [ESL will help answer these - and other - questions, and establish a comfort level that the system you desire is the one you need.] Find the System - knowing what you want and finding it are different challenges. Selecting a computer system is a trade-off between local, mail-order, large and small suppliers. Each has advantages and disadvantages depending upon your budget, sophistication, and service. ESL provides the essential sounding board and advice necessary to feeling comfortable about the computer purchase decision.

7104-C Minstrel Way

Columbia, MD 21045

Web Site: http://www.nxtcomputers.com

Founded: 1998

Fiscal Year: December 31

Stockholders Equity: $72,3000

Assets: $105,000

President: Holger R. Kjeldsen

Employees: 5

Description: ELRIC Assoc., Inc. provides computer related products and services to both local residents and small business’ in the area. Further, ELRIC’s provides medical claims billing and networking services.

Developments: ELRIC opened its’ first retail store in the Owen Brown South section of Columbia in May 1998. The store is the epitome of the neighborhood computer store handling all of their customers computer needs from software to hardware. Services include consignments, upgrades, repairs, networking configuration and administration, software – both new and used, and customizing systems to meet individual customers needs.

They cater to the small business as well as family and individual needs. In addition, they do training in basic computer repair and maintenance and give our students a basic course in Windows operating systems as well. Other training curriculums are coming available as well.

7138 Columbia Gateway Drive

Columbia, MD 21046

Web Site: http://www.evi-inc.com

Founded: 1983

Fiscal Year: Operates on a calendar year

Major Clients: Federal government agencies

President: Peter Horowitz

Employees: 70

Description: EVI focuses on wireless data communications, multichip modules (MCM), embedded systems design, acoustic signal processing, and high-speed optoelectronics. Since 1983, they meet their clients' specialized requirements for quick reaction designs, rapid prototyping, and integrated manufacturing. EVI received the Howard County Chamber of Commerce's 1997 Business of the Year Award.

Developments: EVI is located in the Gateway Industrial Park in Columbia, MD. Their 70 person staff is housed in a 38,000-sqft facility encompassing laboratories for microwave, RF, antenna, audio, ultrasonics, and optics development and four clean rooms (Class 100 to 10,000). On site they have an RF anechoic chamber (VHF to 10 GHz), a shield room, a thick film MCM manufacturing area, a hermetic and plastic packaging facility, a photolithographic facility, and a machine and sheet metal shops. EVI also maintains several secure areas for customer projects.

EVI has a reputation for quickly producing innovative answers to difficult technical challenges. They recently applied their talent in microwave design to the challenges posed by high-speed optoelectronics, focusing on free-space optical communications systems, fiber-optic communications, and remote sensing.

EVI has developed several other unique products. A phase locked loop (PLL) synthesizer that makes up a key part of a miniaturized high-speed transmitter is a recent success. The engineers used in-house printing facilities to create the substrates for the module and ensure maximum quality control. A base station for a transceiver developed at EVI also reflects the many disciplines mastered by the company's designers. This system combines microwave, analog, embedded control and software design.

10810 Guilford Road

Annapolis Junction, MD 20701

1-800-878-2940

Fax: 301-206-2950

E-Mail: mike@fbcdb.com

Web Site: http://www.fbcinc.com

President: Michael O’Neill

Founded: 1976

Employees: 25

Description: The Federal Business Council ("FBC) has been the industry leader in Federal On-Site Technology Expositions since 1976. We provide a wide variety of show sites with various technological requirements.

Developments: Conducting more than 250 events per year, FBC gives a comprehensive forum to directly market products and services to federal agencies and DoD locations across the country. With show management offices in California, Colorado and Maryland, there are show managers assigned to sites in virtually all areas of the country who assess the requirements of each location. Additionally, FBC's 10 professional show managers work closely with sponsors within each federal location that is served. The marketing department is headquartered in Maryland with satellite offices in Colorado and California. FBC is currently holding IT expos in 36 states and is looking to expand to other locations both nationally and internationally.

Additionally, the Federal Small Business Technology Council ("FSBTC") is a non-profit organization that specializes in producing and managing on-site technology events for various governmental agencies specializing in shows for disadvantaged, minority and women owned businesses.

7130 Columbia Gateway Drive

Columbia, MD 21046

410-290-1300

Web Site: http://www.fluordanielgti.com

Founded: 1976

Fiscal Year: October 31

Revenue: $190 million

Earnings: $755,000

Earnings per Share: 9 cents

Dividend: None

Stockholder’s Equity: $83 million

Stock: FDGT (Nasdaq)

Assets: $103 million

Chairman: Ronald G. Peterson

President: Walter C. Barber

Employees: 1,200

Local Employees: 30

Description: Fluor Daniel GTI is a global environmental services company providing customers with solutions to impacted soil, water and air. Through the worldwide capabilities of its majority shareholder, Fluor Daniel Inc., they deliver a complete range of environmental engineering and construction services to industry and government,

Developments: Fiscal 1997 marked a milestone as the first full year operating as Fluor Daniel GTI, a company formed in May 1996 by merging Groundwater Technology, Inc. (GTI) with elements of the environmental businesses of Fluor Daniel, Inc. During this period, Fluor Daniel GTI made progress, both globally and locally, in integrating the company into alliance relationships held by Fluor Daniel. For example, in May 1997, the company became an integral part of an alliance led by Fluor Daniel’s Petrochemicals operating company. This alliance will enable the company to assist a major producer and marketer of specialty chemicals in modernizing more than 20 manufacturing facilities worldwide. The combination of Fluor Daniel’s industry-specific process knowledge and Fluor Daniel GTI’s remediation expertise created the synergy necessary to win the contract.

On August 20, 1997, Fluor Daniel GTI achieved an especially rewarding milestone, completing one full year, or more than 2.5 million hours, without an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) lost-time injury. The company’s goal remains to be the world’s safest supplier of environmental services. At this writing, Fluor Daniel GTI extended that record to more than 600 days and 4 million hours.

In the year ahead, the company plans to continue to develop long-term relationships with customers, reduce costs and increase their focus on project execution.

10480 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, MD 21044

410-997-0213

Web Site: http://www.fwdj.com

Founded: 1995

President: Jayne G. Bourke (CEO)

Employees: 7

Local Employees: 4

Description: FWD&J, Incorporated provides Internet/Intranet site development, design and engineering services; Internet application development; electronic commerce and credit card processing; legacy

integration, online database and catalog development, Internet security implementation. Other services include Internet research and marketing services, Internet policy development and strategic planning, and training.

Developments: This was a year marked by geographic, client base and revenue expansion for FWD&J, Incorporated. The firm also added services and staff to meet the growing demand for electronic commerce. Notable new clients included several federal agencies and national companies, primarily involved in medical and trade publishing, distance learning and testing services, and digital goods marketing. FWD&J, Incorporated also won several national and international awards for excellence in Internet communications during the past year. The firm has offices in Columbia, Maryland, and Orlando, Florida.

10100 Old Columbia Road

Columbia, MD 21046

410-312-5100

Web Site: http://www.gtsduratek.com

Founded: 1982

Fiscal Year: December 31

Revenue: 137 million

Loss: $281,039

Loss Per Share: 14 cents (* includes charges on project discussed below)

Dividend: None

Stockholders’ Equity: $56.4 million

Stock: DRTK (Nasdaq)

Assets: $132.0 million

Chairman: Daniel A. D’Aniello

President: Robert E. Prince (CEO)

Employees: 1300 Total - 700 Full Time - 600 Temporary

Local Employees: 90

Description: GTS Duratek provides services and implements proprietary technologies to protect people and the environment from the effects of radiation and other hazards. Major areas include: radioactive/hazardous waste stabilization, volume reduction, separation, and recycling; extensive radioactive waste management; transportation; and radiological engineering services.

Developments: GTS Duratek tripled the revenue base of the Company in 1997 with the completion of an acquisition of The Scientific Ecology Group (SEG) from Westinghouse. Through the acquisition, the Company added the capabilities of the largest commercial low-level radioactive waste processing facility in the U.S., which is now called the Bear Creek Operations facility. The Company also gained significant additional capabilities for performing key field activities related to the decommissioning of commercial nuclear power plants.

In April 1997, the Company experienced problems with its vitrification facility in Aiken, South Carolina, causing it to shut down operations while repairs were made. GTS Duratek replaced the melter box at this facility and returned to radioactive operations in December 1997. The Company took a total of $7.2 million* in charges related to this contract. As a result, the stock price temporarily went down to $4.87. The stock rebounded throughout the year and closed the year at $13.50.

GTS Duratek was awarded various contracts for decontamination and decommissioning services for the commercial nuclear power plant industry. Examples: a characterization for the Maine Yankee Nuclear Power Plant (valued at $2 million) to assist in the development of the plan to be used for the actual decommissioning which commences in 1998, and (2) a $3 million contract to support initial efforts at the Rancho Seco Nuclear Generating Station.

14700 Sweitzer Lane

Laurel, MD 20707-5905

301-470-2111 or 410-880-0100

Founded: 1938

Fiscal Year: July 31

Revenue: $11.5M

President: Richard W. Hayman

Vice President: J. Alan Hayman

Local Employees: 60

Description: Hayman Systems, originally founded in 1938 as a cash register service company, has grown to become one of the largest point-of-sale firms in the United States. With thousands of active sites concentrated in the Washington, DC/Baltimore region, the company provides a complete array of products and services for the hospitality and retail marketplace.

Developments: In 1995, the company created a new division called Hayman Services that specializes in systems integration, networks, hardware maintenance and the Internet. The large menu of computer services enables Hayman Services to create a fully integrated system for any business.

Hayman Systems remains ahead of the constant changes in the computer industry with its commitment to new technologies and the company is often recognized for achievements based on growth, and on providing excellent customer service, technical support and integrated solutions to its client base.

Hayman Systems represents leading suppliers in the industry and provides support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to its customers. Some prominent customers include Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Four Seasons Hotel, Vie de France, Oriole Park at Camden Yards, BWI and Dulles Airports, the U.S. Senate Restaurants, Guest Services, Popeyes, Planet Hollywood and TGIFriday’s.

10901 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, MD 21044

410-772-480

Web Site: http://www.howardcc.edu

Founded: Authorized in 1966, first classes in 1970

Fiscal year: June 30

Budget: $28.8 million

Chairman: David Rakes

President: Dr. Mary Ellen Duncan

Employees: 350 full-time and part-time budgeted (not including adjunct instructors)

Description: HCC provides a full range of academic programs, specialized job training, courses for upgrading employee skills, and courses for professional development and personal enrichment. In addition, HCC is home to professional theater, a dance company, art gallery, and other contributions to quality of life.

Developments: Over the past year, HCC solidified its reputation as "one of Maryland's most technologically advanced campuses" (Baltimore Sun) in several ways: HCC's Business Training Center received a $202,418 state grant to establish the new Mid-Maryland Advanced Technology Center, offering customized training in the area of information technology. The ATC expanded the Business Training Center's portfolio of training programs in computers, management and advanced technology. The college received the prestigious Bellwether Award from the Institute of Higher Education at the University of Florida, which honors outstanding programs leading community colleges into the 21st century. The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) called HCC's distance learning program "one of the best" and spotlighted it as a model for the nation. Dr. Mary Ellen Duncan, president of a SUNY campus noted for her technology leadership, was named president of HCC.

9150 Rumsey Road

Suite A8

Columbia, MD 21045

410-730-2222

877-717-1590

Fax: 410-964-8488

E-mail: intsec@erols.com

Founded: 1990

Fiscal Year: December 31

President & CEO: John F. Hunt

Description: ISI is a full service commercial security company specializing in the sales, design, installation and servicing of closed circuit TV systems, access control, electronic imaging and badging, health care security and customized nurse call and paging systems.

Developments: Over the last 12-14 months, ISI has been developing systems to integrate into hospital, nursing home and assisted living facilities. This is a niche market with a high demand for the type of specialized security systems they are experienced in designing and installing. These systems include, but are not limited to, infant abduction protection systems, alzheimers and dementia wanderer systems, wireless nurse call and phone patch systems and a wide array of technology for retrofitting assisted living units. All this is in addition to providing mainstream security services such as closed circuit cameras, parking lot security, access control and more to banks, retail clients, hotels and offices.

National contracts with companies such as Ericsson Radio and Cellular Phones and Trak Auto mean they are available to work in markets throughout the country.

Because ICI understands that quick response to a problem is essential, they concentrate on providing the fastest possible response to service calls. ISI technicians are highly trained and qualified professionals and make many major repairs at the site, eliminating long periods of downtime and lowering maintenance costs.

8945 Guilford Road, Suite 120

Columbia, MD 20146

301-596-2888

Founded: July 14, 1988

Fiscal Year: December 31

President: Mr. Patrice Cappelaere

Employees: 52

Description: ICS, a software engineering company, specializes in the implementation of real-time autonomous command and control systems. ICS customizes the Spacecraft Command Language (SCL) core product to meet specific customer needs. Core businesses include engineering services and product development. Customers include the Naval Research Laboratory, the Applied Physics Laboratory, the Johns Hopkins University, and Lockheed Martin.

ICS is an integral contributor to the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) engineering team for flight and ground systems. ICS delivered the integrated mission operations control center for the mission managed by the Johns Hopkins University. Delivery of the flight software and test system for the FUSE telescope is in the final stages at the Applied Physics Laboratory. Launch scheduled for February 1999.

7937 Red Barn Way

Elkridge, Maryland 21075

410-799-9283

Fax: 410-799-9633

E-Mail: ask@IMarketingSolutions.com

Web Site: http://IMarketingSolutions.com

Founded: 1997

Fiscal Year: December 31

Loss: $12M

Assets: $50M

Sole Proprietor: Odin Wortman

Employees: 4

Description: Internet Marketing Solutions (IMS) helps businesses use the web to improve their profitability. IMS uses a strategic approach to evaluate market position, identify and analyze target customers and improve competitive position. IMS designs custom web sites to yield benefits far exceeding costs. IMS staff are experts in strategic planning, consumer analysis, and sales and promotion.

Developments: Recognizing the need for a strategic approach to the web, Internet Marketing Solutions was founded in 1997. In 1998 IMS became an authorized RapidSite dealer, allowing premium, yet affordable Web hosting. IMS now offers products such as Intranets, e-commerce, on-line discussion rooms, distributed newsletters, and sophisticated calendaring systems.

Some of Internet Marketing Solutions clients include Chesapeake Telephone Systems, Diversity Training Group, nxtComputers and The Child Health Foundation. IMS has obtained most of it’s clients through Howard County Chamber of Commerce sponsored events and referrals from satisfied clients.

Most recently, Internet Marketing Solutions was chosen to participate in the Howard County Chamber of Commerce’s Direct Benefits Program.

Gateway Corporate Park

6740 Alexander Bell Drive

Columbia, MD 21046

410-290-1777

Columbia Center Founding: 1974

Number of Enrollments Annually: 5,000+

Dean, School of Continuing Studies: Stanley C. Gabor

Director, Columbia Center: Michelle B. Glassburn

Number of Faculty / Staff On-site: Approx. 60

Description: Johns Hopkins Columbia Center offers part-time evening and weekend graduate certificate and degree programs in business and education, and undergraduate programs in business and technology. Also offered are non-credit technology programs including C++ programming and a webmaster certificate.

Developments: Johns Hopkins will launch its Bachelor’s degree program in business with an information systems major in Fall 1998 at the Columbia Center. The degree is tailored to working professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects in the information systems field.

Designed according to the national standards developed jointly by the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), the Association for Information Systems (AIS), and the Data Processing Management Association (DPMA), the program enables students to learn to simplify, audit, and manage information processes and to avoid and solve systems problems. Building on prior experience, courses provide a knowledge base that equips business professionals to design information systems that support occupational activities at the individual, team, and organization levels. Students benefit from the latest and most effective computer and telecommunications technologies and develop strategies for adjusting to rapidly changing technological environments.

Key benefits of the program: An interdisciplinary approach that features a strong foundation in the principles of business, information technology, social science, and the humanities; An emphasis on building superior communication skills and sound analytical reasoning; Small classes that encourage a supportive, interactive learning environment. Students study as members of highly motivated groups or "cohorts," sharing professional knowledge and experience through a team approach to problem-solving;

11100 Johns Hopkins Road

Laurel, MD 20723-6099

443-778-6000

Founded: 1942

Fiscal Year: September 30

Revenue: $400 million

Director: Gary L. Smith

Employees: 2800

Description: The general purpose of the Johns Hopkins University can be stated as public service through education, research, and the application of knowledge to human affairs. As part of the University, the Applied Physics Laboratory shares this purpose through the development and application of science and technology for the enhancement of the security of the United States of America and for the solution of problems of national and global significance.

Developments: There is a very broad spectrum of activities at APL. On the one hand, APL conducts basic research, both experimental and theoretical, in areas such as information science, physical oceanography, and space science. On the other, APL staff goes to sea or moves into the field to test and evaluate new concepts, techniques and systems.

JHU/APL has developed a comprehensive understanding of most aspects of missile, radar, sonar, space, and submarine detection technology, and the characteristics and limitations unique to the environment in which these systems and techniques must function. The technical staff of APL includes specialists in the various scientific and engineering disciplines embodied in all these diverse areas, as well as systems engineers who can direct teams engaged in the development of complex systems. A principal strength of the Laboratory is its ability to merge the knowledge of technology with the knowledge of operational requirements.

As an example of recent activities the Laboratory has done some innovative work in extremely high resolution mass spectrometry, a powerful tool to detect and identify chemical and biological substances. JHU/APL is developing a tiny, powerful mass spectrometer in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions and the University of Maryland Baltimore County. The miniature mass spectrometer, which will fit in a package the size of a shoebox, will be a portable "universal sensor" for analyzing solids, liquids, or gases in the field.

10632 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, MD

800-301-0110

Founded: June 1970

Fiscal Year: Dec. 31

Revenue: 98.5 million

Earnings per Share: .21

Stockholder’s Equity: 26.3 million

Stock: JUDG [Nasdaq]

Assets: 31.9 million

Chairman: Martin Judge, Jr.

President: Rick Furlano

Local Employees: 20

Employees: 473

Description: The Judge Group services the Information Technology and engineering needs of its clients through the following four complementary units: Contract Placement provides IT and engineering personnel on a contract basis; Permanent Placement provides IT and engineering personnel on a permanent basis; Information Management Services: provides document management, document conversion, computer networking, imaging, workflow and related consulting services: IT Training: provides standard and customized IT training on established and emerging software applications.

Developments: It was a year of expansion for the Judge Group. New offices were opened in Metro Washington DC, New England, New York, and Florida. Through a series of acquisitions Judge also expanded its operations into the Mid-West, Southwest, California and over seas to England. Additionally, the Judge Group has 1. acquired Berkeley Computer Training, a regional training organization that provides training to corporate, governmental and individual clients on a wide range of software and network applications for both Windows PC and Macintosh platforms; and 2. opened its fully digital audio and video production facility.

Judge has expanded its services to include Microsoft certified training, Optika, FileNet, Watermark, Lotus Notes, multimedia services, web page design, web page hosting, business process redesign, document & workflow management services, imaging solutions, Year 2000 compliance, LAN & WAN services, system intigrations for IBM, Compaq, Hewlett Packard, SUN workstations and on a contract basis provides information technology, engineering and professional consultants

Columbia, MD 21044

410-997-4700

E-mail: Keycmpt@aol.com

Founded: 1993

Fiscal year: March 31

Privately Held Company

Description: The Computer Clinic specializes in sales and service of computer software, services, equipment and equipment repair. We specialize in business management software that seamlessly integrates the inventory and/or the service management of a company to a complete accounting system. We also provide on going services and training as well as support for Novell Networks, Windows 95, Windows NT, and SCO UNIX. Also provided are complete installation, training, hardware repair and support for the software systems.

Developments: Columbia based KSC exclusive distributor, for the Baltimore region, of SouthWare Innovations Business Software announced the release of Revision 6.3 of the Excellence Series this month. SouthWare is known for its reliable software that runs on DOS, UNIX, Windows, Windows 95, and networks such as Novell and Lantastic. The software is designed to meet the needs of business requiring general accounting software as well as specific requirements of companies needing software for wholesale distribution, mail order sales, retail sales, equipment service management, job cost, and contact management.

Along with the new revision, SouthWare's President James Clemens reminds us that SouthWare was the first accounting software developer to release a fully compatible solution to be compliate with the year 2000 and beyond. This new date format was implemented with a coversion process in release 5. SouthWare users have already used next century dates for situations such as service contracts and warranties.

6480 Dobbin Road

Columbia, MD 21045

410-740-0081

Founded: 1985

Fiscal Year: Oct. 31

Revenue (YTD): $3.9 million

Loss (YTD): $6.8 million

Loss per share (YTD): $0.49

Stockholders’ equity (YTD): $44.9 million

Stock: MATK (NASDAQ)

Assets: $44.9 million

Chairman and CEO: Henry "Pete" Linsert, Jr.

Employees: 120

Local employees: 75

Description: Martek Biosciences Corporation develops, manufactures and sells products from microalgae. The Company’s products include: (1) specialty, edible oils for infant formula, nutritional supplements and foods which play a central role in the development of the eyes and central nervous system; (2) high value reagents to visualize molecular interactions for drug discovery and development and; (3) new, powerful fluorescent markers for diagnostics, rapid, miniaturized screening, and gene and protein detection.

Developments: Martek has realized a number of important developments that have impacted several areas of the Company. The following is a brief summary of the most noteworthy events:

Martek’s lead product area continues to be its nutritional products. Martek’s oils used in infant formula are now being sold in over 30 countries representing more than triple the amount as one year ago. New published studies point to the importance and benefits of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) for infants and adults including improved academic outcomes and better intelligence, and possible protection against noninsulin diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. Additional studies are expected.

Martek’s fluorescent marker technology was introduced this year as well. Now being sold through Intergen® Company, this technology provides a number of benefits for a wide array of applications over existing products.

Martek’s stable isotope group continues to increase sales, further establishing itself as world leader in the sale of research tools.

Finally, the Company’s Reconnaissance Probe Technology is being examined by SmithKline Beecham Corporation (SB) through a research collaboration agreement. SB is using the technology to "map" the binding-sites where drugs interact with receptor-sites proteins of key interest to SB’s research program.

10240 Old Columbia Road

Columbia, Maryland 21046

410-309-6830

Founded: 1969

Fiscal Year: July 31

Revenue: $46 million*

Profit: 2.9 million*

Dividend: None

Stockholders’ Equity: 13.6

Return on Equity: 21%*

Stock: (Nasdaq) MTEC

Assets: 48.4

Chairman, President and CEO:James H. Miller

Employees: 286

*Latest 12 month: excluding non-recurring charges

Description: Meridian Medical Technologies provides technology solutions for medicine in early intervention home healthcare and emergency medical technologies. The company is a worldwide leader in the development of auto-injector and needle free drug delivery systems and develops and manufactures emerging products for the cardiopulmonary care market.

Development: Meridian Medical Technologies is a new medical device company formed November 1996 through the merger of publicly traded Survival Technology, Inc., and privately held Brunswick Biomedical Corporation. Meridian is organized into three business – Drug Delivery Systems, STI Government Systems and Cardiopulmonary Systems. Drug Delivery Systems provide auto-injectors, needle-free injectors, sterile manufacturing and R&D to commercial customers. STI Government systems provide auto-injectors to US and NATO allied countries for the self-administration of nerve gas antidotes. Cardiopulmonary Systems develops and markets medical devices for non-invasive cardiopulmonary diagnosis and emergency care, developing a new product, PRIME ECGÔ cardiac analysis system, an 80-lead ECG device. PRIME promises to provide more rapid and accurate detection of heart attacks than any current modality. The company has a dominant market share in the self-administration of epinephrine against allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock), is the sole source supplier of auto-injectors to the US DoD, and has a 75% share of the worldwide military auto-injector market.

9140 Guilford Road

Suite O

Columbia, MD 21046

310-725-2775

Web Site: http://www.microcosm.com

Founded: 1993

Fiscal Year: Dec. 31

Revenue: $2.1M

President: Wayne E. Moore, Ph.D.

Employees: 10 full time, 6 part time

Local Employees: 15

Major Clients: Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, USDA, Vanderbilt University, Yale University, Applied Physics Laboratory, Department of Defense, National Institutes of Health, and many more.

Description: Microcosm, Inc. is rapidly becoming the nation’s premier micro-imaging company. Our growing staff of experts develops and applies new imaging methods in support of semiconductor and bio-medical research and industrial applications. We have a proven experience base of custom micro-imaging solutions serving both the private and government sectors.

Developments: In 1998 Microcosm, Inc. added facilities that enable extremely high resolution imaging of semiconductor and biological samples. Microcosm is completing construction of the nation's most advanced photonics imaging laboratory. Our Photonics Imaging Center, led by Dr. Henryk Malak, has the expertise and facilities for: multi-photon time resolved imaging; time-resolved linear and non-linear spectroscopy; single and multi-photon confocal microscopy; fluorescence lifetime studies; high resolution phase contrast x-ray microscopy; time resolved 100 ps single photon imaging; cryogenic UV enhanced CCD Imaging; and confocal microscopy. We have both hardware and software design and support capabilities and have captured most of the Washington/Baltimore confocal microscope service business. Our laboratories, scientists and engineers are available to assist researchers in the materials and biomedical sciences. In addition our software development group specializes in custom control and image processing solutions for system applications. Please see our ad in this issue.

6925K Oakland Mills Road

Columbia, MD 21045

410-381-9727

Fax: 410-381-9724

Web Site: MITGROUP.COM

Founded: 1988

Fiscal Year: December 31

Revenue: 1.5 Million

President: Michael L. Mellott

Employees: 11

Description: MIT Group is a Systems Integrator delivering high quality Networking systems, including Microsoft & Novel solutions, Lan/Wan connectivity and Computer Telephony integration. Our services include: Network Design & Consulting, Unified Messaging, Intranet/Integration and Training and Technical Support. They are a Microsoft Solution Provider, Novell Platinum Reseller and Callware Elite Reseller.

10260 Old Columbia Rd.

Columbia, MD 21406-1707

Corporate Headquarters: Huntsville, Alabama

Web Site: http://www.cb.nichols.com and www.nichols.com

Founded: 1976

Fiscal Year: 31 August

Revenue: 379,695,000

Net Income: $12,447,000

Earnings per share: .04

Stockholders Equity: 144,393,00

Stock: NRES (nasdaq)

Assets: 206,155,000

Chairman: Chris Horgen

President: Mike Mruz

Employees: 3000

Local Employees: 150

Description: With 33 offices and 3,000 employees throughout the U.S.,Nichols designs, develops and deploys critical information technology systems in Government, Intelligence, and Commercial sectors. In the Baltimore/Washington area, Nichols has the resources to support the full life-cycle of systems development from business process reengineering (BPR) to systems engineering to hardware/software integration to complex web-based application development.

Development: Nichols expanded its presence in the Baltimore/Washington region this year by purchasing Mnemonic Systems, Inc. and intends on aquiring Welkin Associates, LTD. Most notably in the Columbia Office, the Systems and Intelligence Programs Business Unit; was on the winning team for the Deiscon II contract. The business unit also continued to grow existing business within the Intelligence Community. The commercial arm of the Columbia Office, the Enterprise Solutions Business Unit, was awarded a contract with Auto Auction Services Corporation (AASC) to develop and Industry-wide web site. Also, the Security Services Practice formed a strategic alliance with DIGEX, and Intermedia Communications Company, as their national security solution integrator.

9001 Manordale Lane

Ellicott City, MD 21042

410 465-1078

Fax: 410 750-9577

E-mail: norriseo@clark.net

Founded: 1993

Fiscal year: Dec 31

Financial Results: N/A

Ownership: Privately held by individual investors

President: Victor J. Norris, Jr.

Employees: 25, part-time

Description: Norris Electro Optical Systems Corp. is developing high technology electro optical systems that see through fog. The products complement existing precision aircraft landing systems. The same equipment can also be used for airport taxing and ground surveillance; local navigation of ships; performance of helicopter missions such as Emergency Medical Services, Search and Rescue, and off-shore air taxi operations; and defense functions.

Developments: Norris EO Systems successfully completed dynamic ground tests that were structured by the FAA and the U. S. Air Force. These tests demonstrated that this system meets the performance ranges desired by the aviation Industry for fog penetration. Effort is currently directed toward preparing for flight tests - the initial step in a FAA certification process that ultimately leads to approval for operational use on commercial aircraft.

Norris EO Systems is maintaining a strong technical and marketing presence in the aviation community. Mr. Norris has been an invited presenter at several technical conferences including those of the NASA Langley Research Center Aerospace Safety Initiative, Society of Automotive Engineers-Aerospace subcommittees, Federal Aviation Administration/Arizona State University, and the Airport Illumination Engineering Society. Norris EO has also briefed government regulatory bodies on the technical and economic implementation of the system. Additionally, several technical articles have been prepared and published for the international aviation industry press.

Norris EO has successfully completed a study contract for NASA-Dryden Flight Research Center on the feasibility of installing the system on a NASA test aircraft.

U. S. Patent No. 5,719,567, System for Enhancing Navigation and Surveillance in Low Visibility, was awarded to Mr. Norris for the invention of this system.

8455 Baltimore National Pike, Suite B

Ellicott City, MD 21043

410-418-5944

Web Site: http://www.northstar.ideola.com

Founded: 1997

Fiscal Year: Dec 31

Revenue: $1.75 million

President: Robert F. Jones (CEO)

Employees: 17

Local Employees: 15

Description: Northstar, a privately-held computer consulting company, develops custom software packages and recruits IT employees for corporate and government clients. Its consultant roster includes programmer/analysts, developers, DBAs, network engineers, Web developers, security experts, YR2000 programmers, MCSEs, etc. Major clients include healthcare, transportation, IT and telecommunications companies, and the Defense Department.

Developments: During the first half of 1998, Northstar secured long-term contracts from several major clients, and entered into teaming arrangements with strategic partners to extend its consulting capabilities.

The company is profitable, and is currently investing in the next stage of its growth plan, including installation of a state-of-the-art LAN and electronic database and expanding its recruiting staff.

Northstar's principal is an active member of the National Association of Computer Consultant Businesses (NACCB) and the Maryland High Technology Council.

Corporate Headquarters and Pharmaceutical Division

8320 Guilford Road, Suite C

Columbia, MD 21046

301-854-3900

Fax: 301-854-3900

Biologics Division: Rockville, MD

Founded: 1995

Fiscal Year: December 31

Loss: ($833,599) net loss after expenses

Loss Per Share: (.07)

Stock: NOX (AMEX)

Assets: 412,118,733

Chairman: Ronald H. Walker

President & CEO: Richard F. Maradie

Employees: 19

Description: Novavax, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical drug delivery company engaged in the research and development of human pharmaceutical products. The Company (using its proprietary lipid vesicle encapsulation technologies including Novasome® lipid vesicle encapsulation and micellar nanoparticles) is applying it's platform technology to the development of orally and topically delivered therapeutic products for humans.

Development: Novavax has begun its transformation from a research and development enterprise to an integrated operating company.

In the past 12 months, three experimental products have entered human clinical trials, two private placements were completed, active partnering discussions with several domestic and international pharmaceutical companies are in progress, and they have recruited a team of experienced healthcare executives to manage all key functional areas of their expanded organization.

In order to leverage the company’s technology assets, Novavax recently reorganized the company into two operating divisions, the Pharmaceutical Division and the Biologic Division.

Pharmaceuticals: Novavax’s pharmaceutical strategy is to create differentiated drug products for large and growing markets. While all drug development work is inherently risky, they seek to mitigate risk. This is why two of the three current product candidates and the related pharmaceutical product development activity is devoted to reformulating existing drugs – not the discovery of new chemical entities. Moreover, the company recognizes that there are commercial and patient compliance advantages inherent to products that deliver drugs topically.

Biologics: This division develops surface-active lipid structures that have biological activity designed to either inactivate viruses or kill bacteria and spores on contact. The products utilizing these technologies range from oral drugs to vaccine adjuvants and anti-infectives.

5575 Sterrett Place, Suite 300

Columbia, MD 21044

410-964-1200

Web Site: http://www.onsitetechnologies.com

Founded: 1995

Fiscal Year: December 31

Ownership: Privately Held Company

President/CEO: Evelyn Quinton

Employees: 150

Description: OnSite Technologies is a professional Information Technology Services firm that is committed to building partnerships which exceed the expectations of their clients. OnSite consistently provides highly qualified IT professionals on an interim or consulting basis to augment the IT staffs of clients and, where appropriate, to outsource their IT functions in a cost effective, customer-focused manner.

Developments: The theme that sets OnSite Technologies apart is its dedication to providing superior customer service. Evelyn Quinton, OnSite President/CEO states that, "Excellent customer service is a strategic business decision, not just a feel good philosophy." Contract Services, OnSite’s original focus, provides a wide range of technical services including Help Desk and Desktop Support services, Network Administrators and LAN Engineers.

Due to its success, in 1997 OnSite proudly announced the addition of 2 new divisions. Help Desk Management (HDMS) addresses all aspects of Help Desk support. This can include an Effectiveness Review leading to recommendations, which may include software selection and process definition, implementation and monitoring.

Shore Studios, the second new addition of 1997, provides Web Solutions. This concept marries solid marketing techniques with web technology to provide website design, implementation and consultation that meets the needs of its clients.

In 1998, 2 more divisions were created. The Education Advancement group provides technical training, allowing OnSite’s engineers to keep pace with the newest technologies, as well as training that is client-based. This may encompass similar technical training, or something tailored to the client’s needs.

OnSite’s most recent addition is the Project Management Business Unit (PMBU).

9515 Gerwig Lane, Suite #114

Columbia, MD 21046

800-321-3366

Founded: 1993

Fiscal Year: Dec 31

Revenue: $15 million

Assets: confidential

Chairman: confidential

President: Keith S. Dalton

Employees: 35

Major Clients: CompUSA Nationally, Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University and Hospital, and Commercial and Government Resellers.

Description: Opal is a 15-year-old computer manufacturer that specializes in rapid deployment of custom-built computers, with most orders filled in 72 hours. The company is committed to building and selling the best personal computers, and guaranteeing high-performance, excellent service and timely delivery.

Developments: Opal Technologies has been manufacturing complete computer solutions for PC Workstations and File Servers, and offering a full suite of peripheral products and services for 15 successful years. Over the past 18 months, the physical plant has doubled in size, giving Opal the capability of manufacturing 15,000 quality-built PC’s and Servers per month. And Opal’s long history of quality and reliability has resulted in a less than 1-% failure rate.

Opal’s dedication to building quality computer systems and providing excellent service has resulted in greater name recognition for their product. Traditionally, most of Opal’s systems have been built for Federal, State, and Local Governments. But over the past 3 years, Opal has expanded into the corporate end-user environment as well. Opal has also been building more computer systems for local Universities, Colleges, and Hospitals, and has begun supplying computers and network solutions for the Archdiocese of Baltimore and various private schools. Opal’s excellent reputation has also brought another unique opportunity to their door - other system integrators in the Baltimore/Washington area are now contracting with Opal to build their overflow.

Opal Technologies is delivering what you need, when you need it.

9101 Guilford Rd.

Columbia, MD 21046

Web Site: http://www.outreachtech.com

Founded: 1995

Fiscal Year: Aug 1 to July 31

Clients: Beta testing phase to end July 1, 1998

Employees: 30

Local Employees: 15

Description: OutReach Technologies®, a division of Communication Systems Technologies, Inc. (CSTI), based in Columbia MD., is the leader in integrated, easy-to-use telephone and PC conferencing. The CONFERease® family of conferencing products reduces operating costs and improves workgroup productivity by combining teleconference management, real-time PC conferencing, and high quality audio communications for serious business users.

Developments: In July 1997, OutReach Technologies announced CONFERease 100 PC Conferencing

software which provides PC conferencing in parallel with a standard teleconference. It's acceptance by the industry paved the way for the final development and introduction of CONFERease 900 which ships this month, after a successful Beta trial. A variety of types of organizations around the U.S., tested CONFERease for training, financial reporting, software development, vendor presentations, and for executive meetings to reduce unnecessary travel. CONFERease 900 brings teleconferencing and real-time document sharing together on an NT server platform. Users easily point-and-click to control, schedule, and manage the conference from their desks using tools they depend on - their phones and their PCs.

CONFERease is the essential add-on to Microsoft NetMeeting®. It provides phone and PC integration, a robust NT server platform, advance scheduling, improved security, conference moderator controls, and enterprise scalability. CONFERease® uses standard web browsers and connects through

corporate LANs, the Internet, or direct dial-up. Telephone communication uses existing POTS technology and PSTN networks to deliver a high quality audio conferencing session.

3273 Pine Orchard Lane

Ellicott City, Maryland 21043

410-461-7404

Web Site: http://www.Paragon-Md.Com

Founded: 1989

Fiscal Year: December 31

Revenue: $1.2M

President: Shirley D. Collier

Employees: 16

Description: Celebrating its 10^th anniversary, Paragon Computer Services, Inc. is a computer consulting and systems integration firm based in Ellicott City, Maryland. Paragon assists growing businesses to use technology to achieve their mission by providing technology plan development, business software implementation, systems installation and integration, training and Year 2000 planning, assessment and remediation.

Developments: Paragon’s technical team designs and implements computer solutions for businesses in various industries including real estate, distribution, manufacturing, health care, banking, construction and nonprofit organizations. In a highly personal, user-focused manner, Novell and Microsoft certified consultants install local and wide area networks, implement the latest in communications and Internet technologies, and integrate software applications to provide business and accounting solutions.

In addition, Paragon’s Y2000 and BeyondÔ program assists clients to address the Year 2000 problem as both a business and a technology issue. The approach includes internal assessment, analysis, project management, remediation and testing services for PC and client-server platforms. In addition, the external assessment process assists businesses to evaluate and mitigate risk associated with Year 2000 compliance of customers, suppliers, banks, insurance companies and business partners.

6851 Oak Hall Lane, Suite 120

Columbia, MD 21045

Fiscal Year: Dec. 31