Good morning, Worcester.

Worcester businesses are installing AI systems to cut costs as high housing prices make it hard to attract and keep workers.

Some shops use chatbots and inventory software while others are testing blockchain payment systems to boost efficiency.

A national insurance report by Allstate shows that Worcester, Boston + Springfield are among the five riskiest cities for drivers due to a high chance of collisions.

Drivers in these cities may face more accidents than in other areas.

Worcester Public Library won the John Cotton Dana Library Public Relations Award on July 8—earning a $10,000 grant—and also received the PressReader International Marketing Award in May for its March Meowness campaign that began in 2024.

The campaign invites patrons to post photos of their cats to have overdue fines and lost item fees waived.

Massachusetts schools did not receive $108 million in funds that were meant to support summer, after school, mental health and other programs after a federal review stopped the grant awards on July 1.

Governor Healey warned that school districts may need to lay off staff—changes that will hurt students and communities.

The state Senate advanced a bill on July 8 to ban student cell phone use in public schools from the first bell to the last — with exceptions for students with disabilities, emergencies and other specific needs — and districts must adopt policies by the start of the 2026 to 27 school year. The measure now awaits review in the House.

A local radio panel debated Mayor Petty and Councilor Mero-Carlson’s plan to offer tax incentives that keep rents below market—panelists questioned if the move was timed as a feel-good election tool.

They also discussed pool closures at Crompton Park and whether Worcester still holds clout on Beacon Hill, with social media reports suggesting Councilor Moe Bergman could run for mayor.

Nashoba Valley Winery—Massachusetts' oldest running winery, established in 1978 in Bolton—offers outdoor seating, tastings, winery tours and live music concerts this summer, with food service ending at 4 p.m. while its tasting shop stays open an extra half hour each day.

Visitors can enjoy a drink or meal at this historic venue during summer events.

The Futures League will stage a Home Run Derby at Fitton Field on July 21 starting at 6:30 p.m., featuring a craft beer festival at 5 p.m. plus a fireworks show after; on July 22, Worcester will host an All-Star Game at Polar Park beginning at 7:30 p.m. after a seven-inning American Legion game at 4 p.m.

Alex Hernandez & Kike Sax Live

6:30 PM — Garage Lounge 158 — Ticketed event — Experience an evening of vibrant music with Alex Hernandez and Kike Sax.

Hot Night in the City

Dusk till late — Worcester Center For Crafts — Free entry — Experience vibrant craft creation with live music, food trucks, and hands-on demonstrations.

Berry Fest 2025

11 AM-4 PM — Hollis Hills Farm — Free entry — Experience two weekends of berry picking, live music, and local vendors.

Lucius Concert

7 PM — Tree House Brewing Company — Ticket prices vary — Experience Grammy-nominated indie-pop band Lucius in an engaging live performance showcasing their new album.

Out To Lunch Festival & Market

11 AM - 3 PM — Worcester Common — Free entry — Enjoy live music, local food, and artists at this vibrant summer festival.

Yachtley Crew Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Indian Ranch — General Admission — Enjoy an evening with the nation’s #1 Yacht Rock Band in a picturesque setting.

Berry Festival at Hollis Hills Farm

11 AM-4 PM — Hollis Hills Farm — Free entry — Delight in berry picking, ice cream, and local vendors for a fruity family experience.

Jake Owen Concert with Uncle Kracker

1-2:30 p.m. — Indian Ranch — Tickets available — Experience country hits under the sun with Jake Owen and Uncle Kracker.

Lukas Nelson Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Tickets available — Experience the soulful sounds of GRAMMY Award-winning artist Lukas Nelson in an intimate setting.

Flipturn Concert

7 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Resale tickets available — Experience the indie rock vibes of flipturn as they perform tracks from their new album.