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🍦The Joy of Cookies 🍪

🍦The Joy of Cookies 🍪

Military Bowl, Foodie Friday: Easy foodie gift ideas, Holiday Spirit tour

Naptown Scoop
December 20, 2024

TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Annapolis. This is Naptown Scoop. And this is the final Scoop of 2024. Thanks for another amazing year. Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Blessed Kwanzaa, and a Healthy New Year. We’ll see you in 2025.

In today’s Naptown Scoop:

Military Bowl 🏈
Foodie Friday: Easy foodie gift ideas edition 🍷
Holiday Spirit Tour 🌲

Let’s get to it.

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

We wrote a book. . . kinda

After the tasty drama of the Great Naptown Bake Off, many of you begged to see all the cookie recipes, not just our three faves. Ask and you shall receive. We’ve compiled 37 recipes into an e-book, The Joy of Cookies. As you can tell from the cover, we’re no book publishing company. But the cookies are tasty and proceeds from the sales (sadly we must charge something) support the Anne Arundel County Food Bank. Get yours here.

Last-Minute Gifts? We’ve Got You Covered! 🎁

The countdown to Christmas is on, but don’t panic — Annapolis Mall is your go-to for last-minute holiday shopping. With stores like Apple, Lululemon, The North Face, Crate & Barrel, and more, you’ll find perfect gifts for everyone on your list.

Need inspiration? Stop by The Container Store for clever stocking stuffers, or check out H&M for stylish finds that wow without breaking the bank.

While you’re here, let the Holiday Elves add a little cheer as they surprise shoppers throughout the mall. And if wrapping isn’t your strong suit, visit the Wrapped in Purpose Gift Wrap Station — they’ll have your gifts looking festive in no time, with proceeds supporting a great cause.

Don’t stress the clock — Annapolis Mall has everything you need to shop, wrap, and celebrate.

🎄Procrastinators rejoice! The perfect gifts are waiting for you.

THE DIGEST

Major Stories 📰

Our Journal entries brought “Extra! Extra! Read all about it!” vibes this week. Miss stories? A quick summary:

🎄Wassail through Colonial Annapolis: How did people celebrate the holiday season in historic Annapolis during colonial days? From the parties, greenery, to all things pyro—take a walk back in time.

🚤 And the EYC Lights Parade Winners are . . . In case you missed the 42nd annual tradition, or if you just want to relive the boats in their decked-out glory, see the winners.

🚂 Homestead’s Model Train Conductor: Like a Santa pic, HG’s model train displays are a holiday staple. What goes into them? A lot. Read our interview with Joe Hartline, the man behind the displays.

Top clicks of the week 🏆

Monday: And the EYC Lights Parade Winners Are…
Tuesday: 🐟 Seasalt
Wednesday: Christmas in Colonial Annapolis 🎄
Thursday: ⛴️Jolly Express Cruise

Stink, stank, stunk . . . And residents are concerned

This stinks — literally. Annapolis residents raised concerns over worsening odors (similar to rotten eggs) from the 87-year-old Annapolis Water Reclamation Facility. Anne Arundel Public Works recently outlined plans for odor control, including monitoring and improvements. But, construction won’t finish until 2027–2028, frustrating residents who report health and property impacts. Public Works is hiring an industrial hygienist to assess health impacts. ($)

What happened with Annapolis Hope?

In our final Scoop of the year, we’re happy to finally announce that we (and by that we mean you) raised the money needed to keep the Mireles family in their home after losing their breadwinner in the June 2023 shooting. Whether you contributed $5 or $50,000 (yes, someone really did), please take pride in knowing you helped a local family through a terrible tragedy.

Stories with ($) require a third-party subscription.

Where were we Wednesday? 📸

ANSWER:

Luxe is the word that comes to mind when we think of the decor at Tuscan Prime Italian Chophouse & Dolce Bar — which is where the photo of this magical, sparkly tree was taken.

Thanks for playing and congrats to @ttitgemeyer, @kelly_valette, and @cafewlechemd for being the first 3 to answer correctly. 🎉

Tag @NaptownScoop to get your photos in the Scoop!

Did you know 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size?

Discover the perfect fit with a complimentary, expert bra fitting at our boutique at 152 Main St. in the heart of Annapolis! Enjoy a personalized shopping experience in a warm, inviting space. We offer a curated collection of luxurious yet affordable brands, including UGG and PJ Salvage, along with exclusive pieces you won’t find in department stores. Every woman deserves to feel confident and beautiful—visit us today and find the perfect fit that’s all about you!

LOCAL BUSINESS

Anne Arundel County at a glance: December 2024 Report 📊

Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC) just released its Dec. 2024 report and here’s how our county measures up:

Unemployment Rate: 2.7% in Oct. 2024 (2.0% in Oct. 2023)
- Note: The Oct. 2024 U.S. unemployment rate was 4.1% (3.8% in Oct. 2023)
Home Sales in Nov. 2024:
- Avg Sold Price: $561,322 ($588,556 in Nov. 2023)
- Total Units Sold: 559 (541 in Nov. 2023)

Here’s the full picture with charts, graphs, and all.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Foodie Friday 🍦🦀🍹

It’s the final countdown for holiday shopping, and since the way to the heart is through the stomach, here are easy gifts to get and savor.

🍷Garten’s Wine Club: Here’s a bold way to discover new, natural, and organic wines from around the world. Choose your delivery schedule and pick up a personalized box at the restaurant. Sign up and see the other perks that come with a membership!

🍰 Sweet Hearts Patisserie: Up your sugar-cookie game with French macaroons, Bûche De Noël, and more! Open Tuesday/Wednesday/Saturday, including Christmas Eve, 8 AM to 4 PM, and Thursday/Friday, 8 AM–6 PM. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Order online or call 410-263-6513.

🇮🇪 Galway Bay Irish Restaurant and Pub: Their hand-crafted Irish Egg Nog is distilled in Ireland — so you know it’s legit. Grab a bottle from the restaurant. Also available at Brian Boru or Killarney House locations. Slainte!

Yuletide Traditions at the Paca House 🕯

You may have learned in our article earlier this week that in Colonial times, Christmas wasn’t a one-day thing — Dec. 25 was actually the first day of Christmas, which continued for 12 nights. So why not keep the festivities going (and learning more about Colonial Annapolis while you’re at it!) by taking a festive tour of the William Paca House Dec. 27–29 at 11AM each day. During this candlelit tour, you’ll learn about 18th-century Annapolis holiday traditions and how the Paca household prepared for their holiday guests. Register.

Military Bowl 🏈

Things aren’t so quiet around Annapolis between Christmas and New Year’s. Celebrate the Military Bowl on Dec. 28 with a parade featuring the Budweiser Clydesdales starting at 2 PM at City Dock and heading all the way to Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

Looking to get the party started a little earlier? On Military Bowl Eve, Dec. 27, the Clydesdales will be on West Street from 3–5 PM and there’s a pub crawl through downtown Annapolis from 5–8 PM. More details.

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.

EXTRA SPRINKLES

A Message from 84 Lumber

As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to tackle clutter! Discover practical tips and tools from 84 Lumber to declutter and organize every room in your home. From multi-functional and clever storage solutions, we are here to help with strategies in maximizing space in the kitchen, living room, and bedroom. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to an organized sanctuary! Start your journey to a tidier home this year by visiting your nearest 84 Lumber store!*

Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from your Friends at Blue Heron Property Services

From our family to yours, Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year! We’re so grateful to be part of this Naptown Scoop community and for the trust you’ve placed in us to wash your homes. Here’s to a joyful, peaceful, and bright 2025 – may your year be as clear and full of light as a freshly cleaned window!*

*indicates sponsored advertising content.

WEATHER

Friday

40 🌡️ 32 | 🌧️ | 59% | 💨 NNE 8 mph (7 knots)

Saturday

36 🌡️ 22 | ☀️ | 3% | 💨 NNW 20 mph (17 knots)

Sunday

28 🌡️ 19 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 N 9 mph (8 knots)

Monday

31 🌡️ 26 | 🌤️ | 2% | 💨 E 4 mph (3 knots)

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 43ºF
Temperature readings taken from the mouth of the Severn River the night before publication

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Wednesday - 12/25 🎄

Reynolds Tavern | TBA | 7 PM

Thursday - 12/26

Friday - 12/27

Saturday - 12/28

Sunday - 12/29

Monday - 12/30

Tuesday - 12/31

The Point | Kavoossi | 5–8 PM
Pirates Cove | Lost & Found | 8:30 PM

Wednesday - 1/1

NAVY SPORTS

🎙 LISTEN: Basking in the afterglow of a great Navy football victory ⚓

On this week’s episode of the Anchors Aweigh podcast, hosts Bill Wagner and Pete Medhurst discuss quarterback Blake Horvath and nose guard Landon Robinson, who were heroes in Navy’s defeat of Army last weekend. Plus, Mike James of The Mid Report joins Bill to break down the big game, and basketball head coach Ed DeChellis gives a midseason report. Listen.

Past results

Women's Basketball (8-3)
12/19 vs. Delaware | W 79-69

Upcoming games

Men's Basketball (3-8)
12/21 @ Coppin State | 1 PM
12/29 @ William & Mary | 1 PM

Football (9-3)
12/27 vs. Oklahoma | Noon

Stories with ($) require a third-party subscription.

THANKS!

Thanks for reading Naptown Scoop this year. We appreciate each and every one of you.

🍦The Joy of Cookies 🍪

Military Bowl, Foodie Friday: Easy foodie gift ideas, Holiday Spirit tour

TOGETHER WITH

We wrote a book. . . kinda

SPONSORED BY ANNAPOLIS MALL

Last-Minute Gifts? We’ve Got You Covered! 🎁

THE DIGEST

Major Stories 📰

Top clicks of the week 🏆

Stink, stank, stunk . . . And residents are concerned

What happened with Annapolis Hope?

Where were we Wednesday? 📸

SPONSORED BY LACE SILHOUETTES LINGERIE

Did you know 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size?

LOCAL BUSINESS

Anne Arundel County at a glance: December 2024 Report 📊

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Foodie Friday 🍦🦀🍹

Yuletide Traditions at the Paca House 🕯

Military Bowl 🏈

EXTRA SPRINKLES

A Message from 84 Lumber

Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from your Friends at Blue Heron Property Services

WEATHER

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Wednesday - 12/25 🎄

Thursday - 12/26

Friday - 12/27

Saturday - 12/28

Sunday - 12/29

Monday - 12/30

Tuesday - 12/31

Wednesday - 1/1

NAVY SPORTS

🎙 LISTEN: Basking in the afterglow of a great Navy football victory ⚓

Past results

Upcoming games

THANKS!