Good morning, Worcester.

In Rutland, the committee for the Fourth of July celebration faces a funding gap as it has only $15,000 to cover $55,000 in costs by May 1—organizers plan a townwide yard sale on April 26 and are seeking donations and sponsorships to help meet rising expenses for fireworks, police, and fire overtime. The event will begin on June 28 with a bonfire and band concert and continue with community activities through July 3.

On April 8, three WPI student entrepreneurs showcased innovative tech ideas at the WooTank Intercollegiate Showdown where investors awarded QuickEst $1,500 and DryPro Equipment $1,250 — the event featured teams from eight companies across four schools and offered new solutions for landscaping estimates and drying athletic gear.

American Airlines will begin daily nonstop flights from Worcester Regional Airport to Philadelphia International Airport on July 5 to replace trips to John F.

Kennedy International Airport. Travelers can still reach New York City via Delta’s daily flights to LaGuardia Airport (announced by Massport).

Two WPI students from China learned on April 9 that their study visas were revoked and have filed a class-action suit in New Hampshire to restore visas for over 100 international students.

The suit claims the revocations harm their education and future finances—lawyers say the measure lacks a clear explanation.

On April 23rd, a Facebook video led some to claim an alligator was in Indian Lake, but police said the animal was a common muskrat and no calls were made to animal control—reminding residents that alligators are not native here.

On Radio Roundtable, Worcester host Hank Stolz and panelists discussed the proposal for colleges to donate a voluntary 0.5% of operating revenue to support city services and infrastructure.

Local officials also began a community-driven search for a new school superintendent after Rachel Monárrez stepped down.

On Radio Roundtable, panelists discussed a voluntary 0.5% endowment fund proposal that would have Worcester colleges donate part of their revenue to support city services—local leaders also examined concerns about the upcoming municipal election and the search for a new Public Schools superintendent as Rachel Monárrez steps down. Officials plan a community-driven process to choose her successor.

Gardner High's new head football coach, Adam DeBartolo, once knew nothing about football but fell in love with the sport after joining a team in high school; he built his skills as an assistant in Vermont and now looks to lead the Wildcats on Watkins Field this fall—focusing on strong player relationships—and help win games. He plans to start full duties in early September with a home opener against Quabbin.

The Awesome 80’s Prom featuring Debbie Gibson

7 PM – 2 AM — Mechanics Hall — $45+ — Experience a monumental throwback party with live music and special guest Debbie Gibson!

Toledo Mud Hens at Worcester Red Sox

4:05-8:05 p.m. — Polar Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting showdown between the Toledo Mud Hens and Worcester Red Sox.

Through the Listening Glass

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Museum of Worcester — Cost info not provided — Escape with the ethereal, other-worldly sound of the Glass Armonica.

Judy Collins Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the stunning voice of Grammy award-winner Judy Collins as she performs timeless folk classics.

Lunch & Learn: HR Essentials for Startups

12:00 – 1:30 PM — WorcLab Incubator & Coworking space — Free — Gain essential HR insights tailored for startups in an interactive session.

Northeast Section IFT Food Industry Expo

Various times — DCU Center — Entry ticket fees apply — Check out the latest innovations in the food industry at this major expo.

CoComelon: Sing-A-Long

4-6 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience a lively Broadway-style production featuring favorite sing-along songs from CoComelon.

Conservatory Spring Reflection 2025

1-2:30 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Free entry — Celebrate the beauty of spring in an engaging performance reflecting nature's renewal.

Nekrogoblikon Concert

6-10 p.m. — Palladium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique sound of Nekrogoblikon as they bring their high-energy performance to Worcester.

Monthly Craft, Color, and Chat

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Morse Institute Library — Free entry — Enjoy crafts and connect with an accepting community for socializing and support.