Good morning, Worcester.

BBB warns families that scammers use sudden bank withdrawals and unexpected behavior changes to financially exploit older residents (warning signs include missing funds and unusual influence from new acquaintances) and urges them to start conversations and report any suspicious activity.

Worcester honored 24 longtime local businesses with its first Legacy Business Award, recognizing establishments that have shaped neighborhoods by providing jobs & services for decades.

An award ceremony for the honorees will be held later this summer.

The Downtown Worcester BID is launching summer events on Worcester Common starting tomorrow, with Out to Lunch set for ten Wednesdays from June 24 and a new roller-skating series beginning June 26.

Free activities include soccer watch parties, live music, local food, and a farmers market for friends and families.

Jacob Rucker, a private equity analyst with Rucker Investments, explained his views on family and finance and why the firm keeps choosing Worcester during a Q&A with WBJ.

Westborough police officer Ashlyn Mercier was crowned Miss Massachusetts at the statewide competition held June 19-20 at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester; she will compete in the national Miss America pageant in West Palm Beach in September.

In April, 1,513 new businesses filed incorporation paperwork with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, and 243 companies are now headquartered in Central Massachusetts with several in Worcester spurring local economic growth.

The Career and Leadership Conference for Purpose-Driven Young Professionals returns to Worcester this Friday at Creative Hub Worcester from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., hosted by Visions Internships to help young professionals navigate career challenges with breakout sessions, panel discussions, and a networking social beginning at 4:45 p.m.

WPI hosted three weekends of robotics competitions this spring as over 5,000 students, mentors, and industry leaders gathered on campus for BattleCry on May 29–30 and June 6–7 and for WAFFLE on June 11–14 — showcasing hands-on STEM learning and a strong global partnership with FIRST.

UMass Chan researchers found that BNST activity (a key stress region) during abstinence predicts which subjects will persist in heavy drinking and relapse, using animal models that mirror varied human alcohol patterns.

Their work may guide personalized therapeutics for those with alcohol use disorder.

Local realtor Diane Casey Luong explains that the Homes for Heroes program rewards teachers, nurses, police and EMS personnel when buying, selling or refinancing a home — she has helped 114 local heroes earn over $305,000 back since joining in 2020 and she hosts community events to promote the initiative.

Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles Steinberg detailed plans for enhancing the Polar Park fan experience during a recent team road trip—he outlined a 109-page blueprint that includes a Worcester Welcome Wagon and concourse improvements to ease crowding—and said these plans will strengthen fan-staff connections.

Worcester Railers are now an affiliate of the St. Louis Blues for the 2026-27 season — announced at the Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center — and the team will work with the Blues and the Springfield Thunderbirds to develop players through the 2030-31 season.

Kittie Live Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Palladium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the powerful sound of Kittie as they rock the stage with fan favorites and new songs.

Ash & Eric: ValleyCAST Free Summer Concert Series

5-9 p.m. — Open Sky Alternatives' Whitin Mill — Free entry — Enjoy a live performance by Ash & Eric, bringing gritty tunes from Worcester's heart.

Comedy Night with Tony V

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Samuel Slater's Restaurant — Tickets required — Experience a night of laughter with comedy legend Tony V and special guest Emily Ruskowski.

Toledo Mud Hens vs. Worcester Red Sox

4:05-8:05 p.m. — Polar Park — Ticket pricing varies — Experience an exciting minor league baseball showdown with local flair.

Jewish Heritage Day at the WooSox

1:05 – 2:05 PM — Polar Park — Tickets from $17 — Celebrate Jewish culture while enjoying a thrilling match between the Worcester Red Sox and Toledo Mud Hens.

Milford's Independence Day Fireworks Celebration

8 p.m. — Plains Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with live music, food vendors, and a stunning fireworks finale.

Worcester Fourth of July Fireworks

9:30 PM — East Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display and community festivities.

WooSox Town Takeover Night

6:45-9:45 p.m. — Polar Park — Every ticket purchased supports a local organization — Experience Shrewsbury’s Town Takeover while cheering on the WooSox.

Summer Event Series: Insect Day

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — EcoTarium — Admission included — Celebrate Insect Day with hands-on activities, educational programs, and encounters with local caterpillar species.

Nashua Silver Knights vs. Worcester Bravehearts

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Fitton Field — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup featuring local teams in a vibrant community atmosphere.