Maryland has more than 350 biotech companies and Frederick is a growing hub for research, home to nearly 40 biotech firms.

Economic development is targeting this low-impact, high-potential area; our educators are gearing to train the next generation of workers for what is anticipated to be a booming sector.

In this section of Progress: 2008, we wanted to see who and what was behind some of the exciting research of the county's booming biotech.

We asked ourselves, who are the people that are making this happen?

So in this section you'll hear about some of the newest companies and most innovative firms in Frederick County. It's truly a measure of entrepreneurial spirit.

Some, like FiberCell Systems Inc., operate out of a home. Others, like Veracity Biotechnology LLC, found support within the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, a high-tech business incubator.

Others have been successful for years: SAIC-Frederick , in Fort Detrick, for example, is performing cutting edge work every day to combat the scourge of AIDS and cancer. DynPort, a decade old, has developed one of the most comprehensive biodefense portfolios in the world.

Even one of our most established medical providers is in on the biotech act -- in a manner of speaking. Frederick Memorial Hospital this year unveiled its prenatal care center dedicated to the original act of biotechnology, child birth.

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for this week. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.