🍦What's a MESStival?

TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Annapolis. This is Naptown Scoop, the local newsletter that’s always looking on the bright side. 😎 

In today’s Naptown Scoop:

• 5 Things to do at the Annapolis Sailboat Show 🍹 ⛵️ 

• Countdown to Annapolis Songwriters Festival 🎸

• Design Annapolis Blues merch 💙 ⚽️ 🧣 

Let’s get to it.

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

5 Things to do at the Sailboat Show . . . Besides buy a boat 🍹⛵

The Annapolis Boat Shows will be here before we know it! The powerboats motor in Oct 3–6, and sailboats glide up Oct 10–14. In case you’ve never been to the boat shows, or don’t know what else to do while you’re there . . . here are a few fun ideas for you!

1. Drink a painkiller. It’s bittersweet – not the drink . . . but rather the fact that this will be the last boat show season with Pusser’s holding down one of the best party spots on the dock. So be sure to treat yourself to one more of these creamy, nutty concoctions that pack a punch. What level will you get? ✋

2. Holiday photos: I don’t wanna be that guy that starts talking about the holidays way too early. BUT just think how nice the family photo on your holiday card could be with the quintessential Annapolis backdrop of all those sailboats? 🎅

3. Scavenger Hunt for kids: EWE Spirit Foundation wants the kids to have fun looking around too! Visit their booth at Land spot 19A to find out more about this fun scavenger hunt that involves prizes (and we know prizes = happy kids!) 🏆

4. Try Sailing with the First Sail Workshop: First-time sailors can learn the basics and experience the joy of sailing in a 45-minute classroom session followed by 90 minutes on the water with the American Sailing Association. ⛵

5. Learn something new: Did you know the Sailboat Show is chock full of learning opportunities? The seminars sound fascinating, even for non-boaters. Check these out: Celestial Navigation, The Last Days of the Schooner America, Becoming an Avid Fisherwoman, and Around the World in 800 days. 📚

SPONSORED BY DARLING CHARTERS

Thanks for 2 great years! Sincerely, Darling Charters

What a journey. When we splashed Darling Charters 2 years ago, we expected all our clients to be visitors. Lucky for us, locals have embraced us just as warmly.

And guess what, our favorite cruising season is now! There's nothing like fall in Annapolis – mild temperatures, visiting yachts from all over the world, and of course . . . the Annapolis Boat Shows. And if it gets a little chilly, we have cashmere blankets on board.

Our 2025 calendar is open now and we still have some dates in 2024. Blue Angels for 2025 and 2026 are booked but practice day 2025 is still available.

We're so excited for another year of unforgettable cruising around Annapolis. Check us out at darlingcharters.com or call 667-225-7184 to book!

Thanks again. Sincerely, Captain Alexandra Clary

THE DIGEST

Annapolis Economic Vibrancy Initiative (EVI) 🎨

Last week, the Annapolis Arts District (AAD) unveiled an Economic Vibrancy Initiative (EVI) to boost the city's arts economy. At a networking event with city officials, AAD outlined plans to support artists, create jobs, attract new businesses, and grow Annapolis’ commercial tax base. The initiative also aims to revitalize West Street and expand the Arts District. AAD’s EVI Committee will develop a strategic plan and seek additional grants to fuel the initiative's success.

Extra Yard for Teachers 🌟🏈

Teachers, it’s time to score big! The College Football Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers empowers teachers through resources, recognition, recruitment, and professional development. To date, they’ve given $80 million in support of education.

Through the initiative, the Military Bowl is awarding grants to deserving public school teachers for use in their classrooms and for their students. Preference goes to veterans, military families, and those serving military communities. Nominate a special teacher in your life by September 30. Selected teachers will be honored at the Military Bowl on December 28 at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

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

@NAPTOWNSCOOP

📸 @victoriahilemanphoto | 📍City Dock

Tag @NaptownScoop to get your photos in the Scoop!

SPONSORED BY LAWN DOCTOR ANNAPOLIS

Enjoy your yard year-round

As summer fades into fall and you shift from vacations to back-to-school and holiday planning, maintaining your lawn is probably the last thing on your mind. Why not leave it to the experts? Fall is the best time to start a Lawn Doctor Annual Lawn Care Program, setting the stage for a lush, green yard that brings Spring envy. Programs include Fertilization and Weed Control, Aeration and Seeding, Mosquito Control, Tick Control, and Perimeter Pest Control. Contact Lawn Doctor today to get a quote. 

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Theater Tuesday 🎭

It’s September, and that means a few local theater companies are coming back from summer hiatus. ICYMI, we’ve got the outlook on the 2024-2025 theater season around Annapolis (for when you’re planning ahead). Here’s what you can catch this weekend:

Colonial Players presents Tiny Beautiful Things
This adaptation of a bestselling book is based on a true story about an advice columnist who taps into her life experiences to answer the hard questions. Showtimes through September 28.

Compass Rose Theater presents Intimate Apparel
Style and social commentary come together in this romantic story about Esther, a Black seamstress in 1905 NYC who sews clothes for the elites and the marginalized alike. It opens this Friday and runs through October 6.

Park Books Author Event: Stephanie Verni 📚 ⚾️ ✍️

Local author Stephanie Verni (and writer Lauren’s neighbor!) released her ninth book about matters of the heart. Her book, The Ones Closest to You, taps into Stephanie’s life working in baseball with the O’s and journalism. On Thursday, September 12, 7–8:30 PM, Park Books will host Stephanie in their Community Space (above the bookstore). We recommend getting a Book Ticket, which includes a signed copy and seat at the event. You can also get a free Seat Ticket for a plus-one. Congrats Stephanie! We can’t wait to read your latest book! 👏

St. Anne’s School MESStival

Pack your wet wipes, parents! MESStival is coming up this Saturday 9–10:30 AM at St. Anne’s School. It’s an event all about encouraging messy play — an important part of sensory development and a key component of St. Anne’s Reggio-inspired Program for Young Children. Educators will be leading hands-on activities that can best be described as slimy, bubbly, gooey, artsy, and (most importantly) FUN. You don’t even have to be the one worried about cleaning up! The event is free, but don’t forget to register.

Pickle for Pilots coming up this weekend 🏓

Pickle for Pilots is getting so close to reaching their $20K goal for the Gregory S. Winton, Esq. Scholarship! So if you want to be part of this effort to empower a next generation of pilots in achieving their dream, donate or get tickets to attend the pickleball tournament this Saturday 10 AM–5 PM at Safe Harbor Annapolis (519 Chester Ave). Registration is full for players, but by attending, you’ll still have a chance to watch the tournament, play corn hole and other games, and enjoy music, food, and drinks.

Countdown to Annapolis Songwriters Festival 🎸

We can’t believe we’re just a few days away from the Annapolis Songwriters Festival opening on Thursday! This four-day event brings big names and emerging artists to venues all around Annapolis, from lively bars to cozy theaters. Did you get tickets yet? We at the Scoop keep talking about the songwriters we’re excited to see, and here’s what each of us has been saying:

🎶 Ryan — Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors
🎶 Chelsea — Citizen Cope! Also looking forward to some fave local ladies — Laura Brino, Angie Miller, Carly Winter, and Meg Murray!
🎶 Mike — Songwriters on the Severn cruise (July Moon, The Heels & Luke Borchelt)
🎶 Lauren — Ray Weaver – looking forward to seeing this Denmark resident return to his hometown area
🎶 Dylan — Jeanette Lynn

How about you? Which songwriter in the lineup has you excited for festival? With so much talent, it can be tough to choose!

Maryland Seafood Festival

We’re so excited for this for so many reasons. First, it’s right on the beach at Sandy Point State Park. How could the seafood not taste good? Second, some of our Scoop faves are gonna be there. Like Dock Street and their award-winning crabcakes. And third, we hear the VIP section has some incredible bathrooms (because we own ‘em. Check out Royal Flush). Anyhow, it all goes down September 14 & 15 at Sandy Point State Park. Get your tickets!

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

Bleak to Brilliant

Bathrooms can be hidden gems behind closed doors in your home or they can be a jumpscare waiting on the other side of the wall. They may have showstopping tiles or cabinets that look like they’re from the 19th century. You never know exactly what you might see before you open the door. Start planning your next bathroom remodel with Blue Star Paint & Property and take your bathroom from bleak to brilliant! Contact them to set up an estimate.*

*indicates sponsored advertising content.

NAPTOWN SCOOP WEATHER IS POWERED BY. . .

Tuesday

79 🌡️ 62 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 NE 7 mph (6 knots)

Wednesday

80 🌡️ 61 | ☀️ | 6% | 💨 E 6 mph (5 knots)

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 75ºF
Temperature readings taken from the mouth of the Severn River the night before publication

Tuesday

49 West | Unified Jazz Ensemble | 7–9:30 PM
Brian Boru | Ray Weaver | 6–9 PM
The Point | Kavoossi | 5–8 PM
Rams Head Tavern | Victoria & Steve | All Day

Wednesday

49 West | Pam & Paula Classical Duo | 5–7 PM
Brian Boru | Larry Lay | 6–9 PM
Galway Bay | Irish Trad Music Session | 8 PM
Killarney House | Jason Bishop | 6–10 PM
Pirates Cove | Loose Change | 6–9 PM
The Point | Soren Mattson | 5–8 PM
Rams Head On Stage | Veronica Swift w/ Alicia Walter | 7:30 PM | Tickets
Reynolds Tavern | TBA | 7 PM
Severna Park Taphouse | Open Mic Night | 7 PM
Stan & Joe’s Saloon | Kevin Koa | 9 PM

SPORTS

Upcoming Navy games & matches

Women's Golf
9/10–11 @ Folds of Honor Collegiate

Men's Golf
9/10–11 @ Folds of Honor Collegiate

Men's Soccer (1-2-2)
9/10 vs George Washington | 7 PM

Design the next Annapolis Blues scarf ⚽️🧣

You’ve got a love for soccer, but how about an eye for design? When you snag season tickets to the Annapolis Blues, you’re eligible to submit a design for the scarf that will be part of next year’s commemorative swag. Designs are due by Saturday, so don’t wait! Get more info when you order tickets.

More good news on gear – Annapolis Blues is having a 50% off sale on merch when you visit their Waterfront Sale on Saturday (9/14) from 11–2pm @ 222 Severn Ave, Annapolis

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

THANKS!

Thanks for reading Naptown Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with someone who has Annapolis Songwriter Festival tickets.