South Baltimore Now!

Inside Klik Solutions: From Local Start-Up to Tech Titan

In this episode of the South Baltimore Now! podcast, hosts Nate and Kevin chat with Kenny Kulesz of Klik Solutions, a South Baltimore-based IT firm that recently earned a spot on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list. The three discuss the company's journey from its roots as Federal Hill Solutions; its various office locations in Baltimore, Kiev, Amsterdam, Miami, and Austin; and its focus on community involvement and support for Ukraine. Kulesz highlights the importance of understanding client needs, providing tailored IT solutions, and the company's considerable growth thanks to its innovative services and strong local and global presence.
 
Tune in to learn about Klik Solutions' commitment to making a positive impact in the tech world and their local community.
 
00:00 Introduction to South Baltimore Now Podcast
00:15 Meet Kenny Kulesz of Klik Solutions
00:18 Klik Solutions: A South Baltimore Success Story
00:38 The Journey and Challenges of Klik Solutions
02:54 Exploring Klik's Global Presence
05:26 Community Impact and Local Sponsorships
07:15 Klik's Commitment to Ukraine
10:39 Making the Inc. 5000 List
15:37 Supporting Small Businesses with IT Solutions
19:20 Fun and Networking Events
24:15 Baltimore as an Underrated Tech City
27:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
 
Kilk.solutions: Fast Growing MSSP with a Global Footprint
https://klik.solutions/
In just 90 days, Klik will have your business onboarded and your IT fully operational, with a tailored engineering structure, built and optimized to meet your specific business requirements. 
 
Help Support the Children of Ukraine!
https://hopechildrenua.org/
Global Organization Group Ukraine Aid has partnered with Klik Solutions in a new project called Hope—Children of Ukraine. The goal of the project is to assist Ukrainian children from underprivileged families in learning English in a nurturing and enriching environment.
 
Klik.solutions Picnic: Please Join us! Sept 21st 12-4pm
1000 Key Hwy E, Baltimore, MD 21230
https://klik.solutions/klik-solutions-picnic/?utm_source=Kenny&utm_medium=referral+&utm_campaign=Picnic+&utm_id=picnic
 
Sponsored by: The Nevermore Haunt
The old Kaufman’s Store (previously Isaac Benesch and Sons) remained vacant until 2015 when it was acquired by Engineered Fear Productions (that’s us!) in order to bring you The Nevermore Haunt. While our immediate goals are focused on running a successful event here each October we hope that in the future we can be a part of bringing vitality back to this beautiful historic property and community.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! https://thenevermorehaunt.com/

The Legacy and Future of St. Mary's Star of the Sea in South Baltimore

Host Nate Carper visits St. Mary's Star of the Sea, a historic Catholic church in South Baltimore, which is set to close in November after 148 years. He discusses the church's rich history and vibrant community impact with Father Kevin Ewing, the pastor, and Deacon Steve Sarnecki.
The conversation includes the church's significant past, upcoming plans for memorializing the building, and integrating parishioners into other local churches. The discussion also highlights initiatives like community interviews and upcoming events such as the Mass of Thanksgiving and Oktoberfest. The episode emphasizes the church's ongoing mission despite the physical closure. 
Links of Interest:
Tribute Wall 
https://www.charleslstevensfuneralhome.com/obituaries/St-Mary-Star-Of-The-Sea-Catholic-Church/#!/TributeWall 
Recorded Memories
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0A4CA9AC2BA5FD0-50478809-memories#/
 
 
00:00 Introduction to St. Mary's Star of the Sea
00:36 Meet Father Kevin and Deacon Steve 01:00 The Legacy and Closure of St. Mary's
02:18 Community Impact and Future Plans
05:49 Preserving Memories and Initiatives
09:52 Personal Stories and Reflections
14:02 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
16:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Revitalizing Federal Hill: A Conversation with Taylor Schwartz on Community and Business Rebranding

In this episode of the South Baltimore podcast, hosts Nate Carper and Kevin sit down with Taylor Schwartz, the director of Federal Hill Main Street, at their Federal Hill office. Taylor discusses the recent extensive rebranding of Federal Hill Main Street, which includes a new logo, colors, and a user-friendly website.
Taylor explains the role of the organization in supporting local businesses, maintaining neighborhood charm, and organizing events. She also highlights the unique walkable nature of Federal Hill and the diverse community it serves.
Additionally, Taylor shares insights into the collaborative efforts between various Baltimore Main Streets and Federal Hill's initiatives to address community needs such as safety and economic vitality.
Lastly, she touches on the positive impact of increased attendance at Orioles games on local businesses.
00:00 Welcome to South Baltimore Podcast
00:18 Introducing Taylor and Federal Hill Main Street
01:08 Federal Hill Main Street Rebranding
02:14 New Website Features and Community Impact
05:06 Understanding Federal Hill Main Street's Role
07:03 Why Federal Hill is the Place to Be
11:17 Supporting Local Businesses and Safety Initiatives
17:02 Taylor's Journey and Passion for Nonprofits
19:40 Impact of Orioles' Success on Local Businesses
21:04 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Youth Soccer League Enters Its 20th Season

On this episode of the South Baltimore Now! podcast, Kevin Lynch interviews outgoing South Baltimore Youth Soccer League (SBYSL) Vice President Cindy Curley and new President Matt Schudtz. SBYSL will start its 20th season this fall at Latrobe Park in Locust Point. Curley talks about the founding of the league, its growth to 600 young athletes, success stories over the years, and the partnerships needed to run a soccer league. Schudtz talks about his love for soccer, his goals for the organization moving forward, how to handle the growth, the new futsal program, a budding middle school rivalry, and opportunities for local athletes to play for club teams.
2024 fall registration will begin in the coming days. There are opportunities for players age 3 and up, volunteers are needed for coaching, and SBYSL is always looking for sponsors.
Website: https://www.sbysl.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057123084222

Mayoral Candidate Thiru Vignarajah Discusses Bold Ideas for Baltimore

In this episode of the South Baltimore Now! podcast, Kevin Lynch interviews Baltimore mayoral candidate Thiru Vignarajah.
During the interview, Vignarajah shares insights into his background, including his education at Yale and Harvard Law; his career as a federal and city prosecutor; and his vision for the city of Baltimore. He discusses his plans to address Baltimore's crime, educational shortcomings, and economic challenges. Vignarajah also talks about the importance of reinvigorating business in Baltimore, proposing substantial reforms in permitting, taxes, and police recruitment.
 
https://www.thiruformayor.com/ 
 
https://www.southbmore.com/ 
 
00:00 Welcome to South Baltimore: A Special Political Episode
00:21 The Political Podcast Scene in South Baltimore
01:50 Thiru Vignarajah's Candidacy for Mayor: Background and Vision
09:02 Addressing Baltimore's Crime: Thiru Vignarajah's Comprehensive Plan
14:07 Revitalizing Business and Development in Baltimore
27:44 Big Picture Ideas for Baltimore's Future
31:51 Environmental Initiatives and Closing Remarks

Spring Updates and Highlights from South Baltimore

This episode takes listeners on a journey through South Baltimore's vibrant community life as hosts Nate and Kevin discuss enjoying the spring weather, upcoming neighborhood events, and local sports updates. They give special shoutouts to new sponsors and local businesses, including Don Tigre for its fantastic tacos and happy hour, M8 Beer for its Australian beers and game day specials, and Sparkling Charms for its pediatric dentistry services. Additionally, the hosts cover the local breakfast and brunch boom featuring new restaurants and bakeries enhancing the area's culinary scene. The episode takes a more serious turn as it addresses the Archdiocese of Baltimore's plans to consolidate church facilities, impacting the South Baltimore community. Lastly, the Movement Team's efforts to improve relations between Digital Harbor High School students and the Federal Hill community are highlighted. The episode concludes with a call to listeners for a photo challenge to engage the community further, offering a chance to win gift cards to local restaurants.
Photo Challenge: Email photos of local places and see if our audience can guess where you are! carpercreative@outlook.com
Deadline for submission is May 15th 2024. We will pick 15-20 top photos and each photographer/owner of the photo will be entered into a chance to win a few restaurant gift cards from a local business here in the neighborhood. In your email, please share where you took the picture ( in case you stump us too lol)
. 
00:00 Welcome to South Baltimore: A Vibrant Community Update00:12 Celebrating Spring and Local Favorites00:40 Shoutouts to New Sponsors and Local Hotspots03:06 Spotlight on South Baltimore's Business Scene06:15 Addressing the Church Consolidation Plan09:01 Community Initiatives and High School Engagement10:59 Upcoming Events and Weekend Fun in Baltimore12:17 Engaging with the Audience: A Photo Challenge13:50 Closing Remarks and Appreciation

Spotlight on Gene's Greens: A Farm-to-Doorstep Story in South Baltimore

 
In this episode of the South Baltimore Now podcast, guest host Jennifer Walker joins to discuss life and local businesses in South Baltimore. Jennifer, a freelance writer and podcast host, shares her connection to Baltimore and her experiences exploring local attractions with her family.
The episode features an in-depth interview with Gene from Gene's Greens, a farm in Westminster, Maryland, known for its unique home delivery CSA model. Gene shares his journey from childhood gardening to running his own farm, focusing on flowers, vegetables, and supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
The discussion delves into the challenges and rewards of the CSA model, the increasing popularity of home deliveries, and the importance of local support for sustainability and community well-being. Gene also highlights upcoming opportunities for the South Baltimore community to engage with his business at local farmers' markets and through online ordering.
00:00 Welcome to South Baltimore Now Podcast with Special Guest Jennifer Walker00:52 Getting to Know Jennifer: Life and Interests in South Baltimore02:08 Jennifer's Professional Journey: Freelance Writing and Podcast Hosting03:44 Introducing Gene from Gene's Greens: A Unique CSA Model05:22 Gene's Farming Background and the Evolution of Gene's Greens08:20 The Daily Grind: A Farmer's Life and Challenges11:44 Expanding Horizons: Gene's Greens Home Delivery and Market Presence16:18 Gene's Environmental Initiatives and Future Plans

Insight into District 11 with Councilperson Eric Costello

Insight into District 11 with Councilperson Eric Costello
In this episode of the South Baltimore Now podcast, Kevin Lynch interviews incumbent Councilperson Eric Costello about the upcoming primary elections in Maryland on May 14th, focusing on his reelection bid for District 11. The discussion covers Costello's background, his journey to South Baltimore, achievements and experiences as a councilperson, his views on public service, and addressing community issues such as education, crime, and supporting small businesses. Specific topics include the improvement projects within the district, Costello's stance on public safety in collaboration with local and state officials, and his commitment to fostering a safer, more vibrant community. The conversation also highlights the importance of voter participation in the local elections and offers insights into the electoral process.
00:00 Welcome to South Baltimore Now Podcast00:16 Introducing Councilman Eric Costello01:07 Eric Costello's Journey to South Baltimore01:48 Life and Work in South Baltimore: A Councilman's Perspective02:44 From Community Leader to City Council04:45 The Day-to-Day of a Baltimore City Council Member08:58 Addressing Education and Community Projects10:54 The Challenges and Rewards of Local Politics20:13 Tackling Crime and Public Safety in South Baltimore24:09 Supporting Small Businesses and Development Projects28:46 Voting in the Upcoming Primary Elections31:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Vote

Talking with Zac Blanchard, District 11 Council Member Candidate

Talking with Zac Blanchard, District 11 Council Member Candidate
 
On this episode of the South Baltimore Now! Podcast, Kevin Lynch talks with Zac Blanchard, a candidate for the District 11 Council seat. Blanchard is a Federal Hill resident, a graduate of the Naval Academy, President of the Federal Hill Neighborhood Association, a board member of Federal Hill Main Street, and an assistant football coach at Digital Harbor High School. Kevin asks Zac about his background, what he loves about South Baltimore, and topics such as crime, small business, development, and the future of Digital Harbor High School.
Incumbent Councilman Eric Costello, who is running for reelection, will be featured on an upcoming episode.
The Primary is on May 14th. Register to vote here: https://elections.maryland.gov/voter_registration/

How the National Federation of the Blind is Changing Lives

What does it mean to be blind in the 21st century? How can technology and community help people with low vision and blindness live the life they want? In this episode, Nate Carper talks to Mark Riccobono, the President of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the oldest and largest organization led by blind people in the United States.
🎙️They discuss...
The vision and values of NFB and how it advocates for the rights and opportunities of blind people
The history and significance of the NFB headquarters in South Baltimore
The impact of technology, such as the iPhone and AI, on the accessibility and independence of blind people, and the barriers that still exist
The importance of local involvement and support for improving the accessibility and livability of neighborhoods for blind people
 
This episode is full of inspiring stories and insights from a leader who is making a difference in the lives of millions of blind people.
 
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Location sound recording provided by @nomono