Good morning, Worcester.

Peters & Sowyrda has merged with a Marlborough law firm to form Peters, Mitrakas & LaForce; the new firm formed with no financial exchange.

The merger signals a strategic move in the local legal sector.

Central Massachusetts cannabis business owners are focusing on reforms beyond state CCC issues (which have made headlines) as they plan to push for regulatory changes to support local growth.

WPI announced its commencement speakers with will.i.am set to address undergraduates on Friday, May 15 at 2 p.m. and Lisa Barton scheduled to speak to graduates on Thursday, May 14 at 5 p.m. (both events will be held at the DCU Center in Worcester).

Bird songs filled this spring as local birder John Shea led a walk at Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary on Apr.

16, noting that males sang to attract mates while residents spotted robins, blue jays and woodpeckers — residents can look forward to an increase in migratory birds next month.

On April 17, the state DEP fined Oxford Transfer Station LLC $20,208 at 200 Leicester St for failing to control dust and odors and to report disruptions promptly; the company said it has taken corrective actions and will install a misting system.

UMass Memorial unveiled its new space-themed pediatric surgery unit on Thursday, April 16 at the Children's Medical Center, made possible by a $150,000 donation from the Dunkin' Joy in Childhood Foundation.

The unit uses space decor to help kids feel safe during surgery.

UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester experienced the largest drop in NIH funding among local research institutions between fiscal years 2024 and 2025 after a year of funding uncertainty.

A Worcester-based developer plans to tear down a former auto repair shop at 625 Franklin St to build 29 market-rate apartment units with one-bedroom and studio layouts (pending review by the Zoning Board of Appeals on April 27).

United Way of Central Massachusetts is planning a Worcester half marathon for early 2027 (pending board approval in May) that will start and finish at Polar Park while organizers work with the Worcester Red Sox to set a race date and expect about 2,500 runners.

Adirondack Thunder at Worcester Railers

11:05 a.m. — Worcester Railers HC — Check for ticket prices — Watch thrilling ECHL action as the Railers face off against the Thunder.

Des Rocs Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Palladium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the gritty, infectious rock sound of New York City singer-songwriter Des Rocs.

Dog Man - The Musical

6-9 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Tickets available — Enjoy a delightful theatrical experience with Dog Man brought to life in this exciting musical.

Bat Out of Hell

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket info available — Experience the iconic rock musical inspired by Jim Steinman's music.

Jay Webb Concert

7-11 p.m. — Palladium — Cost TBD — Country artist Jay Webb delivers heartfelt songs reflecting his Southern roots.

2026 Latin American Business Expo

12-4 p.m. — DCU Center — Free entry — Explore a vibrant fusion of business, culture, and opportunities at the Latin American Business Expo.

Worcester Princess Day

10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — AC Hotel Worcester — Ticket required — Experience a magical day with princesses featuring photos, songs, crafts, and games.

PCB EAST Conference & Exhibition

April 28 - May 1 — DCU Center — Registration details to be confirmed — A key event for the electronics industry featuring networking, presentations, and exhibits from top companies.

Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band Concert

8-11 p.m. — Off The Rails — $ — Experience an energetic performance by the three-time BMA nominees.

Scranton Wilkes Barre RailRiders vs. Worcester Red Sox

6:05-7:05 p.m. — Polar Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting Minor League Baseball action as the RailRiders take on the Red Sox.