🍦Where to take pics with the Easter Bunny

TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Annapolis. Who did a rain dance right before the weekend. I’d like to have a word with you.

In today’s Naptown Scoop:

• Wilma Lee and the Woodwinds set sail

• Two new restaurants

• Which city employee makes the most moolah?

Let’s get to it.

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

SPONSORED BY COMPASS STUDIO TILE & FLOORING

Step Into Spring Style With Fresh New Floors

Want to refresh your home this spring? Start with the most important surface you’ve got – the floors. Think about it.

Floors are everywhere. They take a beating every day. And design-wise, floors set the tone for the whole room.

Compass Studio Tile & Flooring has styles for everyone – from airy stone to sleek porcelain, to trendy textures and vibrant patterns. Whether you’re daydreaming a bold upgrade or a subtle refresh, Compass has designers ready to help with every space and budget.

And with a newly expanded showroom, complimentary consultations, and custom order options, Compass makes it easy to bring your spring vision to life. Visit the showroom or call today.

Compass Studio Tile & Flooring
302 Harry S Truman Pkwy, Suites A-C
Annapolis, MD 21401

410-224-0700 Tile
410-268-4848 Flooring

THE DIGEST

Annapolis Physicist and Philanthropist James Earl Dies

Annapolis has lost a true legend: physicist, artist, and philanthropist James Earl passed on March 23rd from respiratory failure. He was 92.

Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Earl received his bachelor’s degree and PhD from MIT before becoming a professor at the University of Maryland. Always intellectually curious, he later received degrees in art and computer science. When Dr. Earl retired, he and his wife, Sylvia, became passionate philanthropists, establishing the Helena Foundation, which donated over $43 million to various charities over the last 20 years. From artistic organizations like the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and Maryland Hall, to conservation groups like the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Watershed Stewards Academy, the Helena Foundation was a critical backbone of local nonprofit support.

Read more about James Earl’s incredible life and extensive impact. ($)

What City of Annapolis employee makes the most? 💰

If you had to guess the highest-paid person in Annapolis City government, who would it be? Anyone guess a police lieutenant? Didn’t think so. But Annapolis PD Lieutenant Joseph Mann made $219k+ last year thanks to $72k in sweet, sweet overtime. In fact, police and fire workers made up many of the top 10 highest-paid city workers in 2024. Staff shortages in these departments mean many professionals work overtime hours.

The only three people on the list who weren’t police or fire workers? City Manager Michael Mallinoff, Director of Finance Joanna Dickerson, and Economic Development Manager Stephen Rice. ($)

New judge assigned to Edgewood Road mass shooting retrial

The retrial of Charles Robert Smith, accused of killing three in a neighborhood off Edgewood road two summers ago, has a new judge. Judge J. Michael Wachs has recused himself from the bench for various reasons, with Judge Mark Crooks taking over when the retrial commences. Smith is accused of shooting six neighbors, three fatally, following a dispute over a parking spot. He faces 18 felony charges, including first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, and hate crimes. Jury selection begins in September. ($)

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@NAPTOWNSCOOP

📸 Bill Wilson in the Friends of Annapolis Facebook group | 📍Main Street in 1893 and 2025

Tag @NaptownScoop to get your photos in the Scoop!

LOCAL BUSINESS

Vivi’s Chicken ‘N Mac opens in Edgewater 🍗

If a restaurant says it’s “redefining comfort food,” you might think that’s just them being cheesy. But that’s exactly what Vivi’s is doing. Their motto is “Be Cheesy,” and their Instagram is full of pics of pasta and chicken sandwiches smothered in gooey goodness. The locally owned fast-casual restaurant just opened in Edgewater at 3059 Solomons Island Road, with plans to open in Arnold at 1272 Bay Dale Drive later this spring. Sounds like it would be a pretty fowl choice to not stop by and see what they have to offer.

House of Umami is Now Open 🍲🍙

Hey dumplings — Festival at Riva has a new (and yummy) tenant! House of Umami, known for its Asian-inspired cuisines like Dumplings and Ramen, just opened at 2329 Forest Dr. Suite A in Annapolis. Don’t sleep on their Potstickers or Spring Rolls either. Especially for $6 each. The kids’ menu also looks intriguing and edamame is always a hit with little ones. Scroll the rest of their menu for other favorites and new recipes to try!

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 YATES INSURANCE

Two Generations Protecting Your Business

At Yates Insurance Agency, business insurance isn’t just a policy — it’s a partnership.

For 35 years, the family-owned, independent agency has helped Annapolis businesses protect what they’ve built. With two generations — Rodney Yates Sr. and Rodney Yates Jr. — leading the way, Yates offers personalized service, smart solutions, and access to top carriers. No call centers. No corporate red tape. Just real people here in Edgewater, ready to help when you need it most.

Looking for an insurance partner who actually knows your name? Visit the Yates Insurance Agency at 3294 Solomons Island Road or call 410-956-7360.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Today’s featured event. . .

Boats, beers, and new boating gear? Yes, please. The Bay Bridge Boat Show is back in Grasonville at a brand new marina with 250+ boats, food trucks, demo rides, a pool bar, and complimentary seminars. Turn it into a full day with 8 nearby restaurants, a nature park, and 4 hotels. April 11–13 at Safe Harbor Narrows Point.

Weekend Preview

We’re two weeks into our shorter previews. So . . . whatcha think?

FRIDAY 11TH
⚓️🥁 Naval Academy Formal Parade, USNA - Mids march from Bancroft Hall to Worden Field with the Band and Drum & Bugle Corps, starting at 4 PM.

SATURDAY 12TH
🏎️ ⛳️🕊️⛵️🍳☕️ X-Golf Annapolis Cars & Golfing, Annapolis - Fill your morning with cool cars, great coffee, and unbeatable golf perks. 8 AM.

Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade, DTA - Steps off at 12 PM sharp at the Amos Garrett Blvd and West St intersection. Concludes at People’s Park with a festival from 1–4 PM. Get the scoop on parking and road closures.

Annapolis Sail & Sell, Annapolis - Stop by the Maritime Flea Market for deals on nautical gear and even boats from 9 AM to 2 PM. Got items to sell? See details.

Spring market at Wildberry, Crownsville - Savor hot breakfast and coffee then visit dozens of other local small businesses. Free admission. 9 AM to noon.

ALL WEEKEND 🎪
Cirque de Paris, Annapolis Mall - The 90-minute show under the big top includes aerialists, jugglers, tightwire dancers, and magic. Get tickets for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.

Where to Get Pics with the Easter Bunny 🐰 📸

Hop to it! These are the ✌️ best places to snap a picture with the Easter Bunny before he bounces out of town.

The Bunny Cove at Annapolis Mall: Visit this magical photo experience next to Crate & Barrel now through April 19. Book online to skip the line, get complimentary digital gifts, and make lasting memories! Make your reservation.

Homestead Gardens (all locations): You might need a rabbit’s foot for luck, but Homestead Gardens is offering complimentary photos with the Easter Bunny on Sunday, April 13 from 12–3 PM. No RSVP needed. Photos are first-come, first-served, so arrive early. Remember to BYO camera!

🥕 Don’t forget to say, “CARROTS!” instead of “Cheese.”

It’s Sailing Season (finally!)

APRIL 12: It’s Sailing Season
The Skipjack Wilma Lee, operated by the Annapolis Maritime Museum, opens for business on Friday. Board this 47-foot all-wood oyster dredger for Wednesday night racing, history cruises, romantic sunset cruises, and more.

The Schooner(s) Woodwind allow you to participate or sit back and relax as much as you prefer on their two 74-foot schooners. Enjoy everything from sunset cruises to team-building exercises, or (better yet) sign up as crew for one of the many Bay races they participate in.

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.

WEATHER

Thursday

54 🌡️ 45 | ☁️ | 24% | SE 14 mph (12 knots)

Friday

51 🌡️ 43 | 🌧️ | 94% | 💨 ENE 15 mph (13 knots)

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 52ºF
Temperature readings taken from the mouth of the Severn River the night before publication

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Thursday

49 West | The Annapolis RoundUp | 7:30–10 PM
Brian Boru | Ray Wroten | 6:30–9:30 PM
Cafe Mezzanotte | The Ahmed Warshanna Trio | 6–9 PM
Dark Horse | The Thoms Cats | 9 PM
Killarney House | Aaron Hawkins | 6–9 PM
Pirates Cove | Jason Bishop | 6–9 PM
The Point | Dan Haas | 5–8 PM
Rams Head On Stage | Martin Barre | 8 PM | Tickets
Rams Head Tavern | Emily & Chris | 4:30 PM

Friday

49 West | Jeff Muller & Friends | 7:30–10:30 PM
Annapolis Smokehouse & Tavern | Timmie Metz Band | 8:30 PM
Blackwall Hitch | Dana B | 4–7 PM
Blackwall Hitch | Rick & The Revolving Doors | 9–12 PM
Brian Boru | Aidan and Bryan | 7–10 PM
The Choptank | Kieran Lally | 8 PM
Coconut Joe’s | Zach James | 5–8 PM
Killarney House | Pete Best | 7:30–10:30 PM
The Lodge | Brandt Dunn | 8–11 PM
Market Space | David Peacock | 6–9 PM
Middleton Tavern | Soul Cries | 10 PM
Old Stein | Shawn Owen | 7–10 PM
Pirates Cove | Kurt Gibbons | 7:30–10:30 PM
Rams Head On Stage | Mindy Smith w/ Carly Winter | 8 PM | Tickets
Rams Head Roadhouse | Boroy | 8 PM
Rams Head Tavern | Chris Sacks | 10 PM
Romilo’s Restaurant and Bar | Shiftwork | 7 PM

NAVY SPORTS

Past results

Baseball (18-16)
4/9 vs. Mount St. Mary's | L 11–1

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THANKS!

Thanks for reading Naptown Scoop today. If you found something interesting, please share it with someone who always says, “I’m in,” no matter the plan.