Good morning, Worcester.

James Barbato returned to his Grammont Road home on Wednesday and found his missing 20-pound tortoise Isabel waiting on his front step—trained dogs and community flyers helped in the effort.

He said Isabel appears healthy and will receive extra care after her unexpected adventure.

On Tuesday, the Bee Zee gas station (177 SW Cutoff) sold a winning $1 million instant lottery ticket in the 200X game, with trustee Larisa Freyman of Flying Spirit Trust II opting for a one-time payment of $650,000 while the store receives $10,000.

Auxilium and MBI have partnered to invest $1M in four local medical device startups, combining Auxilium's resources and downtown space with MBI's life sciences network to support founders.

The first joint effort between these startup forces signals a boost for Worcester's innovation community.

Allie Catlin, co-owner of Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon, was elected chair of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce board for the 2026 to 2027 term during its annual meeting on June 11 (replacing Tony Fields).

She will support local companies with her small business expertise.

Voice actor Jen Antkowiak appeared on Voice of Business with Hank Stolz on Radio Worcester today to discuss the impact of AI on the voiceover industry and share her journey from theater to founding Soundshine Productions.

The Out to Lunch festival kicked off yesterday on Worcester Common with food trucks, artisan tents and nonprofit booths and will continue every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Aug.

26, drawing an eager crowd + offering live music, fresh produce and local vendor flair.

The Silverbacks will perform at the Marine Corps League at 181 Lake Ave on June 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. The band, led by local icons Cliff Goodwin and Mike Lynch, will deliver dynamic R&B rock music for local fans.

A panel on Radio Roundtable examined Worcester’s rapid economic growth and ongoing issues with potholes and trash collection—calling for improved constituent service and more large events to boost tourism.

The discussion focused on translating financial gains into everyday improvements for residents.

Patriots QB coach Ashton Grant visited Fitchburg High at Crocker Field on June 24 to help coach Mike Pucko rebuild the team.

He held a 50-minute Q&A (covering topics like nutrition and training) and shared his story (emphasizing hard work) to boost a winning culture.

Tuesday – Leominster edged North County 4-3 with Coco earning the win in an American Legion game, while other local matchups ended with key plays.

Wednesday – the baseball slate features North County at Milford at 5 p.m. and other contests across the region.

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.

Perreoland Live Show

8-11 p.m. — Palladium — Tickets start at $90 — Experience an unforgettable live performance from Perreoland in Worcester.

The Warped Tour Band Tribute

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Off The Rails — $ — Experience a night of nostalgia with tributes to Green Day and Blink 182.