Annapolis

Annapolis – October 31, 2026 -- Race for Life Rescue, a nonprofit that flies at-risk dogs and cats out of overcrowded shelters and disaster zones, completed its 200th mission on Oct. 14, carrying 112 animals from Louisiana to the Northeast. The milestone comes four years after its first flight. The group has since flown more than 12,000 animals and worked with shelters in more than 30 states.

Through Dec. 31, founder Jim DeFrancesco is matching every donation to the organization.

The first flight carried hurricane relief supplies

On Oct. 2, 2022, the group flew its first mission, taking relief supplies from Nashville, Tennessee, to Naples, Florida, after Hurricane Ian. The plane came back with nearly 40 displaced cats bound for adoption.

Annapolis – October 15, 2026 -- Maryland residents can now register interest, with no deposit required, in plug-in solar systems that PowerStead Energy is developing to generate electricity at home without a rooftop construction project.

PowerStead plans a guided setup process

The company wants getting started with solar to feel like setting up a useful home product. Its planned process covers equipment selection, placement guidance, site and outlet screening, mounting instructions, help with required utility notification, and support after setup.

Co-founder Jim Rice said the goal is more energy independence for everyday consumers, including people who haven't had a practical way to bring solar into their homes.

Annapolis, Md. – September 24, 2026 -- The fifth annual Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival runs across two weekends, November 6-15, 2026, spreading performances, lectures and art exhibitions across eight venues in five neighborhoods in Eastport and Annapolis, Maryland. Most events are free or carry modest admission, and reservations are strongly advised through instantseats.com. Free onsite parking is available at all but two venues.

The 2026 theme traces music from Indigenous roots to modern hip-hop-infused jazz.

Billed as "New World Music: Centuries of Sound," the festival's programming spans Indigenous traditions, colonial-era music, the history of slavery and indenture in Maryland, and the evolution of jazz into contemporary forms.