Good morning, Worcester.

WPI researchers led by Dr. Nitin Sanket (using ultrasound sensors to mimic bat echolocation) tested drones in dark, smoky, and snowy conditions, and they plan to use the low-cost technology to help first responders search dangerous areas in Worcester.

Roxanne Armbruster joins Worcester Polytechnic Institute as vice president of talent and chief human resources officer.

Appointed after a national search, she will start on May 18 and lead a 19-member HR team, succeeding Lauren Turner.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute researchers are studying bats (their flight patterns and wing structure) to develop innovative technology that mimics nature's design and could boost engineering techniques.

Anna Maria College in Paxton announced it will cease academic offerings at the end of this spring and close entirely at year end due to ongoing financial and enrollment challenges.

The college secured transfer agreements with area institutions + is helping students find new paths forward.

Worcester man Aramis Arias won a $1 million lottery prize when he bought a scratch ticket at Edgemere Mini Mart (734 Grafton St) on April 23 and plans to buy a house using his winnings; he chose a cash payout of $650,000 before taxes while the store earns a $10,000 bonus.

Three Worcester organizations received tax credits as part of a $12.8 million round — supporting housing development and community investments yesterday.

Main South CDC and Worcester Community Housing Resources Inc. each received $100,000 while Worcester Common Ground was awarded $75,000.

Worcester is considering rezoning 160 acres near the AbbVie Bioresearch Center to allow new business uses instead of manufacturing, which officials say could spur further development in the area.

WPI researcher Kristen Billiar was awarded $1,278,213 for a four-year study to explore how high blood pressure, inflammation and sticky cholesterol lead to heart valve disease as part of a $15 million multicenter project funded by the American Heart Association.

The research will aim to identify targets for possible treatments.

Curtis Apartments demolition began on April 23 in Great Brook Valley as part of phase two of a redevelopment plan that will raze 114 apartments (bringing 157 affordable units) for relocated tenants; work is set to last 18-24 months.

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.

Dance Theatre of Harlem Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating ballet performance featuring imaginative choreography and diverse music.

Kreator Live Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — Palladium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary metal band Kreator and their evolving sound live on stage.

Wage War Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Palladium — Ticket prices vary — Experience Wage War's dynamic blend of heavy technicality and memorable melodies live.