🍦Teacher of the Year finalists

TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Annapolis. And now, a haiku about the most unique month.

Farewell Feb'ary
If you’re ever a bad month
At least you are short

In today’s Naptown Scoop:

• Shades of the Bay sold

• Antique appraisal roadshow

• County Council meeting

Let’s get to it.

— Lauren Burke Meyer, Dylan Roche, Duffy Perkins, & Ryan Sneddon

A MESSAGE FROM MORABITO FAMILY DENTAL

Promote Great Hygiene on Tooth Fairy Day

Help your kids build healthy hygiene habits that will last a lifetime this National Tooth Fairy Day, Friday, February. 28. At Morabito Family Dental, our friendly, expert team has worked with hundreds of kids to develop the tools they need to smile their best. With convenient appointments from 7 AM–8 PM & on Saturdays, you can see us without having to miss school. We offer $0 cleanings for most insured patients—so you don’t even have to spend the money you found under your pillow. There are also great in-house coverage options for uninsured patients.

Schedule today! We offer online booking. You can also call us at 443-603-9000. Morabito Family Dental is proud to care for the smiles of our Annapolis neighbors. We look forward to your visit!

THE DIGEST

The biggest stories we covered this week

💻 Anne Arundel County is facing a “cyber incident of external origin.” It appears to be a cyberattack, possibly ransomware. Public information is limited but County Executive Pittman released a statement on Wednesday.

🐶 We launched our third annual Mutt Madness contest to great fanfare. All 64 spots filled up in a day. Voting starts Monday. May the cutest pup win. And of course, thanks to the Official Veterinarian of Naptown Scoop, Western Shore Veterinary Hospital for sponsoring this adorable contest.

🛩️ An 18-year-old pilot crash landed a plane near Beverly Triton Nature Park after losing power during a training flight. The pilot was ok but did go to the hospital with minor injuries.

Most clicked stories of the week 🏆

Monday: Alleged cyberattack on Anne Arundel County 💻
Tuesday: Why does a hospital need a fundraiser? 🏥 
Wednesday: Mutt Madness 🐶 
Thursday: Annapolis Restaurant Week: Pearl Annapolis 🦪 

Foodie Friday 🍽️

Annapolis Restaurant Week (ARW) doesn’t naturally spawn “healthy” thoughts. Luckily, we love a challenge — scouring the menus to find something nutritious and delicious.

🇬🇷 Paul’s Homewood Café: While off the typical DTA beaten path, Paul’s cozy atmosphere — along with its menu of Greek specialties and traditional American favorites — draws loyal patrons back time and again. Off their lunch menu, get these two courses for $22.95.

• First Course: Greek Spreads (tzatziki, hummus, cucumber rounds, and pita)

• Main Course: Faroe Island Salmon over Greek Salad

🐟 🍚 Main & Market: From their lunch menu, $19.95 gets you an entrée and an award-winning cupcake because we believe in everything in moderation (including moderation).

• Ahi Tuna Bowl: sesame pan-seared ahi tuna over jasmine rice with cucumbers, carrots, seaweed salad, sliced avocado, and spicy mayo

Peruse all ARW menu options and grab your meals by March 2. Then act like a millennial and tag us in your social media food shots! 📸

Six Finalists Announced for 2025 AACPS Teacher of the Year

Gold stars are in order for Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ 6 Teacher of the Year finalists:

🌟 Laura Palermo, Kindergarten, Benfield Elementary (Hi, Lauren’s neighbor! 👋)
🌟 Jacqueline Sanderson, English Language Development, Belle Grove Elementary
🌟 Khalifah J. Carter, AVID, Meade Middle
🌟 Sarah DelSignore, Music, Northeast High
🌟 Cecilia Miga, World Language, Annapolis High
🌟 Catie Russo, Art, Broadneck High

The Education Foundation of AACPS will honor nominees at the 39th Annual Excellence in Education Awards on April 25, where the 2025 Teacher of the Year and 2024–2025 Principal of the Year will be announced. The AACPS Teacher of the Year advances to the Maryland State Teacher of the Year competition.

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Blast from the Past

William McNasby Sr. founded the McNasby Oyster Company on Compromise Street in 1886. By 1919, it had moved to Eastport in a building many of us know and love. Anyone know it? I won’t spoil it yet.

McNasby’s closed down in 1986 and the building was sold. Three years later, the City of Annapolis bought it to prevent it from turning into waterfront condos. Twelve years (and more than a few failed businesses) later, the Annapolis Maritime Museum leased it for the next fifty years.

The above photo was taken between 1930 and 1940. At peak capacity, shuckers could stack shells three stories tall in two days. The shells were often sold to the city for roads and building materials.

LOCAL BUSINESS

Shades of the Bay reopens under new ownership 🕶

Well, that was a transition that seemed smoother than a pair of photochromatic lenses! The sunglass shop Shades of the Bay on Main Street announced it was closing at the end of last year, following the retirement of founder and owner Linda Mann. But then Linda sold her business to Sunglass City, a business name you might recognize if you frequent the boardwalk in OCMD. Under the new ownership, Shades of the Bay is keeping its name, and will expand its product selection. ($)

New Severna Park Boutique Offers Upscale Comfort

There’s a certain skill to looking comfortable and put together, as we’re all learning in the Zoom meeting era. Luckily, Wish List Boutique understands this well, and brings together a collection of pieces that will make you feel beautiful and cozy at the same time. From sunny florals to luxurious cowls, relaxed-fit denim and oversized cashmere sweaters, you’ll love Lisa Dickstein’s store, and the way it makes you look. Come to Wish List Boutique’s ribbon cutting ceremony on March 4 from 5 to 6:30 PM to meet Lisa and get inspired for a new wardrobe. 537 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Suite G, Severna Park.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just the things you need to know. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

SPONSORED BY WESTERN SHORE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

New Puppy? Here’s what you need to know

We just got a new puppy. Her name’s Sadie :)

And with great cuteness comes great responsibility. Vaccines, medicines, regular check-ups. All of it requires a trusted veterinarian like Western Shore Veterinary Hospital.

Then you have to find the right food. Something your puppy enjoys, doesn’t upset their tummy, and is easy to get.

And finally, plan for training early. Behavioral issues are one of the main reasons dogs end up in shelters, so building a foundation of good habits now is key.

Still intimidated? Western Shore Veterinary Hospital is happy to guide new puppy owners on their exciting journey.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Tickets on Sale for Children’s Theatre of Annapolis Battle of the Bands

It’s a long way to the top if you want to rock and roll. Luckily, the Children’s Theatre of Annapolis offers talented musicians a way to break into the local scene with its debut Battle of the Bands, a great evening of music, food trucks, and more for the whole family. Local bands will showcase their talents in 15-minute sets, going round for round before one is crowned The Greatest Rock Band of All Time. Bold claim but we like it. This is a great evening that will draw a large crowd, so get your tickets now. CTA has also extended their submission deadline until EOD Friday, so get your clips in and get ready to rock. March 29, 4–10 PM, 1661 Bay Head Road, Annapolis.

7th Annual Michelle Obama Awards 👏

Grace. Strength. Resilience. Empowering others. These are just a few words that describe former First Lady Michelle Obama and the 14 remarkable women being honored at the 7th annual 2025 Michelle Obama Awards on Monday, March 3 (6–8 PM). Part of Women's History Month, this event recognizes ladies who’ve profoundly influenced their communities through leadership, mentorship, and education while embodying those very traits.

Have a read about the honorees and RSVP to the free Maryland Hall event (801 Chase Street, Annapolis, MD 21401). Questions? Email [email protected] or call 410-222-1785.

Eastport Appraisal Roadshow 🖼

Ready to play a round of “Is it junk or is it a priceless antique?” 🤔 The Eastport Civic Association is bringing back its Appraisal Roadshow Community Fundraiser for a third year on March 29 at the Eastport Democratic Club. There will be two shows this year: 10 AM–11 AM or 1 PM–2 PM. Bring your art, jewelry, collectibles, and other knickknacks for assessment from expert appraiser Todd Peenstra. Cost for appraisal is $15 per item, and you can bring as many items as you’d like.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just the things you need to know. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

CIVIL NEWS

⚖️ County Council Meeting

The County Council will meet on Monday at 7 PM at the Arundel Center (44 Calvert Street, Annapolis) with an agenda to discuss development requirements, the Region 9 Plan, the supplementary appropriation and transfer of funds within the Board of Education, and more. See the full agenda and sign up to give testimony if compelled. Note that this meeting will not be live-streamed through the county website (because of the ongoing “cyber incident”), but you can catch it on TV.

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WEATHER

Friday

52 🌡️ 45 | 🌤️ | 4% | 💨 W 16 mph (14 knots)

Saturday

56 🌡️ 23 | 💨 | 2% | 💨 W 21 mph (18 knots)

Sunday

37 🌡️ 23 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 NNW 11 mph (10 knots)

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 39ºF
Temperature readings taken from the mouth of the Severn River the night before publication

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

49 West | Luke Borchelt, Nathan Bess & Gage Rhodes | 7:30–10:30 PM
Annapolis Smokehouse & Tavern | Moran Tripp Band | 8:30 PM
Blackwall Hitch | Dana B | 4–7 PM
Blackwall Hitch | Timmie Metz Band | 9–12 PM
Brian Boru | Nate and Jim | 7–10 PM
The Choptank | Hunter Rich | 8 PM
Galway Bay | The Hyland Brothers | 7–10 PM
Killarney House | Peter James | 7:30–10:30 PM
The Lodge | Levi Stephens | 8–11 PM
Market House | Local Songwriters Showcase | 8–11:30 PM
Middleton Tavern | 3 Of A Kind | 6–9 PM
Old Stein | Doug Segree | 7–10 PM
Pirates Cove | Pete Best | 7:30–10:30 PM
Rams Head On Stage | Peter, Brendan & Jim Mayer | 8 PM | Tickets
Rams Head Roadhouse | Boroy | 8 PM
Reynolds Tavern | TBA | 7 PM
Romilo’s Restaurant and Bar | Crush | 7 PM

Saturday

49 West | Solid Sender Trio & Friends | 7:30–10:30 PM
Blackwall Hitch | Ashley & Brett | 9 PM
Brian Boru | Lost and Found | 7–10 PM
The Choptank | Jamie Kaye | 8 PM
Dark Horse | Mr VCR Duo | 9 PM
Galway Bay | Sam O'Hare | 7–10 PM
Great Frogs | Carly Winter | 12:30–3:30 PM
Killarney House | Poehemia | 7:30–10:30 PM
Market House | Shamrock Stroll | 12–6 PM
Market House | Adam Forbes | 8:30–11:30 PM
Middleton Tavern | Michael McHenry Tribe | 10 PM
Pirates Cove | Ginger & The Protest | 7:30–10:30 PM
Rams Head Roadhouse | Noble Black | 9 PM
Reynolds Tavern | TBA | 7 PM
Romilo’s Restaurant and Bar | Rebound | 7 PM

Sunday

49 West | Gary Wright & Leah Weiss | 4–6 PM
Brian Boru | Finbar's Flight | 4–7 PM
Galway Bay | Doug Segree | 4–8 PM
Great Frogs | Alexander Peters | 12:30–3:30 PM
Market House | Casey McConville | 5–7 PM
Pirates Cove | Dave Tieff | 3–6 PM
Rams Head On Stage | Chatham Rabbits & East Nash Grass | 7:30 PM | Tickets

NAVY SPORTS

Upcoming games

Baseball (2-5)

2/28 vs. Sacred Heart | 4 PM
3/1 vs. Sacred Heart | 1 PM
3/2 vs. Sacred Heart | 1 PM

Women's Basketball (17-10)
3/1 @ Loyola | 12 PM

Men's Basketball (12-18)
3/1 vs. Loyola, MD | 4 PM

Women's Lacrosse (4-1)
3/2 vs High Point | 12 PM

Men's Lacrosse (3-1)
3/1 vs. Boston University | 12 PM

Men's Rugby (11-1)
3/1 @ No. 14 Penn State | 1 PM

Women's Soccer (9-10-2)
3/2 vs. George Mason | 3 PM

Men's Soccer (4-8-4)
2/28 vs. Delaware | 7 PM

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THANKS!

Thanks for reading Naptown Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with the fastest oyster shucker you know.